So you want to get that special traveller in your life the perfect travel gift but you don’t quite know where to begin? Well, I have good news for you: travellers are very easy people to please!
It’s true, being on the road has taught us to take it easy, be flexible, and carry few possessions, so when we get practical travel gifts – especially the kind we can bring on a trip! – we’re happy. The best gifts for travellers are those we will use; things like packing cubes, a day pack, or even a camera to capture memories.
So with that in mind, here’s a look at some useful gifts for travellers to consider, as well as a few fun ones to bring the spirit of travel into the home:

101 Gifts for Travellers

Travel Gifts $0-10
Sudoku Workbook – To keep you crunching numbers while you wait for your bus, train or plane.
Toothbrush Holder – So your toothbrush can also travel in style and not get bent bristles.
Laundry Bag – Travel-sized laundry bag with a world map design.
Colouring Books for Adults – To help you relax if you’re a nervous flyer.
Sleeping Mask – Silk sleeping mask to catch some zzz’s on the plane.
Foldable Flip Flops – Easy to pack flip flops for the beach or the hostel shower.
Luchador Bottle Opener – Because you can never find an opener when you need one, and this one makes for a great icebreaker.
Flashlight – Small travel torchlight in case you need to pack your suitcase at night without waking your dorm buddies.
Luggage Tag – Playful luggage tags to help you spot your bags on the carousel.
Dry Shampoo – Spray in shampoo for days when washing your hair isn’t an option.
Buff – Hide messy hair, use it as a headband, wear it as a scarf, and more. This has 12 styles in 1.
Luggage Lock – To keep your belongings safe and secure.
Aquapac Waterproof iPhone Case – Keep your iPhone dry when you’re out on the water.
Laundry Clothesline – Comes with attached pegs so you can hang your clothes to dry wherever you are.
Tiger Balm – Because this stuff treats aches, pains, and colds.
Nail Polish Remover Pads – So you can still change up your nails.
Movies that inspire wanderlust – My personal favourites are Lost in Translation, Tracks, and The Motorcycle Diaries.
Playing Cards – A fun way to pass time on a travel day.
Headphone Splitter – So you can share movies and music with friends.
Selfie Stick – We love to hate it, but it makes for great group and solo shots.
Travel Spice Kit – For the travelling gourmand who likes to cook even on holiday.
Bra Holder – So your bras don’t get crushed and bent.

Travel Gifts $10-25
Quick Dry Microfiber Towel – Fast drying towel that’s perfect for travelling in hot climates.
4-in-1 Adapter – Colour coded adapter to keep you connected in 150 countries.
Grid-It Electronics Organizer – To organize all those electronics you bring along.
Travel-sized Nail Kit – For manicures on the road.
Lokai Bracelet – A reminder to stay grounded. It contains elements from the highest point on Earth (water from Mount Everest) and the lowest point on Earth (mud from the Dead Sea).
Luggage Scale – To make sure your luggage isn’t over the weight limit before you reach the airport.
Travel Watercolour Set – For the travelling artist.
Power Bar – For when you need to charge several electronics at once.
Solid Shampoo – So you don’t have to worry about leaky shampoo bottles in your backpack.
Dry Bag – To keep your electronics dry on kayaking, rafting, or beach outings.
Compression Socks – Ideal for those long-haul flights.
Tripod – Lightweight tripod that won’t break your back or the bank.
Collapsible food containers – For packing those picnic lunches on the road.
Headlamp – LED headlamp to help you find your way in the dark.
Throw Pillows – From airport codes to wanderlust filled quotes.
Travel Journal – Moleskin journal for travellers making notes and observations.
Lonely Planet’s The World – A travel guide to the planet in case you’re not sure where you want to go.
Memory Card – To hold all your travel memories.
Sarong – Because it’s versatile and can go from beach coverup to blanket.
Wet Wipes – When showers aren’t an option.
Travel-sized shampoo bottles – Only take what you need!
Reading Light – So you don’t keep everyone in the hostel dorm awake.
Portable Speaker – So you can rock out to your favourite tunes.
Coffee Mug with Airport Code – To make your morning coffee at home extra special.
Collapsable Water Bottle – So they won’t make you throw your drink away at the airport.
Backpack Raincover – For those torrential monsoon downpours, but also to protect your bag as it goes down airport conveyor belts.
Compression Sack – Helps compress clothes and create more space in your backpack.
Compass – A professional compass for adventurers who like to stray off the path.
Thermal Underwear – For trips to wintry destinations.
Travel Tote – Travel inspired tote bag for a day of sightseeing.
Summer Hat – Fun straw brim fedora for warm climates.

Travel Gifts $25-50
Gorillapod – More flexible than a tripod for all those hard to get shots.
Packing Cubes – To help keep your clothes organized while you travel.
Toiletry Kit – So you’re not fumbling for your toiletries in the hotel bathroom or the hostel shower.
Travel Quote Phone Case – “I haven’t been everywhere but it’s on my list” phone case.
Airport Code T-shirt – Show off your hometown’s airport code wherever you go.
Warm Fleece Jacket – For cool climates or icy bus rides with too much AC!
Scratch Off Map – Map where you can scratch off the countries you’ve travelled to.
Computer Sleeve with World Map – Colourful world map so you can dream of travel wherever you go.
Trekking Poles – For the avid outdoorsman planning to do some trekking.
Makeup Bag – “Jet lag made me do it” make up bag.
Sleeping Bag – Ultra-compactable mummy sleeping bag for campers.
Travel J Pillow – To help you find a cozy spot even on the most uncomfortable of places.
Hiking Boots – In case you’re hitting up the Inca Trail or the Annapurna Circuit.
World Puzzle – A 4000 piece puzzle that forms the world. Knowing your geography helps!
External Hard Drive – To back up your files while you travel.
Yoga Pants – For stretch and comfort on long travel days.
World Map Necklace – So you can carry your love for travel around your neck.
Day Pack – Light pack to carry your essentials for a day out exploring a new city.
Cork Globe – To showcase where you’ve been.
Canvas Shoes – Comfy Toms that easily slip on and off.
Travel Magazine Subscription – National Geographic, Lonely Planet, AFAR, and more.
Throw Blanket – World map throw blanket for the home.
Inflatable Wine Bag – So you don’t have to wrap your wine in sweaters and hope it arrives intact.
Pacsafe Adjustable Cable Lock – So you can secure several items in one go.

Travel Gifts $50-100
Kindle Paperwhite – So that books don’t weigh down your pack.
Backpack Safety Mesh – To keep your belongings safe while you travel.
Silk Travel Sheet – In case you don’t trust the sheets in your hostel dorm.
RayBan Sunglasses – Clubmaster sunnies for when you hit the road.
Fun Shower Curtain – A shower curtain with airport codes to inspire your next adventure.
Fujifilm Instax MINI 7s – Because mini polaroids are a fun way to capture your memories.
ENO Hammock – For lazy naps wherever you go.
Lomography Diana F+ – For those who like to get experimental with their film photography.

Travel Gifts $100-200
Heys Carry-on – Carry-on luggage with a fun travel theme.
Waterproof Fujifilm Camera – For those beach and poolside shots where you don’t want your DSLR camera to get ruined.
Leather Weekender Bag – For a city escape in style.
Rosetta Stone – Language course that will help you learn German, Spanish, Japanese, or any other language you desire.
Globe Bar – Yes, this is a 16th-century imitation globe that holds your booze in style.
iPad Mini – So you can still stay connected but you don’t have to carry a laptop.

Travel Gifts $200-500
Osprey Wheeled Backpack – You can wheel it or wear it as a backpack. Read on to see why it’s the best bag for travel.
Triclimate Jacket – Bring on the wind, rain, and snow.
ONA Bag – Handcrafted leather bag that fits a camera, lenses, and laptop.
Noise-cancelling Headphones – Noise-Cancelling headphones by BOSE so you won’t hear a peep, except for your music.

Travel Gifts $500+
GoPro HERO 5 Starter Bundle – The most advanced GoPro yet and it comes with the ultimate camera kit.
Canon Powershot G7 X mark ii – Top of the line versatile camera ideal for photos and video.
Panasonic GH5 – For the videographer looking to up their game.
DJI Mavic 2 Pro – One of the latest and bestest drones out there.
AirBnB Gift Card – Give the gift of travel anywhere in the world.
Flight – A round-trip flight to a dream destination.
So there you have it, 101 gifts for travellers for that special someone in your life. Most are practical gifts that you can use while you travel, but there area few splurges and few fun ones for the home thrown in there as well. Happy shopping and happy travels!

How to Choose the Perfect Travel Gift (Bundles, Experiences & Wrapping!
You’ve got 101 great ideas to play with. Now let’s turn them into the right gift for your type of traveler. Below is a super-practical add-on to help you narrow the options, pair items that belong together, and sprinkle in clever touches that make a present feel personal, useful, and suitcase-ready.

The 3-Minute Gift Picker (A Quick Decision Guide)
Ask three questions and you’ll nail it:
- What trip (or trips) are they planning next?
Desert? Andes? Island hopping? Work trips? The destination hints at climate, terrain, and airline rules. - How do they travel?
Minimalist carry-on only? Content creator? Hostel hopper? Family road-tripper? Comfort seeker? - What’s their constraint right now?
Luggage weight, bad back, noisy flights, constant charging, disorganized cables, fear of long bus rides—your gift can solve that pain.
Then match the answer to a category: comfort (sleep/temperature), organization (packing/tech), safety (locks/covers), power (adapters/banks), and memories (photo/video/journal). Voilà, you’ve got direction.

Curated Gift Bundles (By Budget)
Mix-and-match from the main list to build a themed present. Add a handwritten note with “how to use it” for bonus thoughtfulness.
Under $25: Stocking-Size, Flight-Saving
- Red-Eye Lifesaver
Sleeping mask + compression socks + wet wipes
Why it works: better rest, less swelling, quick refresh before passport control. - Hostel Hero
Microfiber towel + luggage lock + headlamp
Why it works: showers, lockers, late-night dorm etiquette—covered. - Rain & Shine Mini Kit
Dry bag + Buff + travel-size sunscreen
Why it works: protects phone/camera in surprise downpours; Buff handles hair, sun, wind. - Cable Tamer
Grid-It organizer + nail clippers (bonus: remove SIMs!)
Why it works: no more snakes in the daypack.
$25–$50: Everyday Upgrades
- Carry-On Tetris Master
Packing cubes + compression sack
Why it works: separates clean/dirty and shrinks bulky layers when it matters most. - Work-From-Anywhere Lite
Power bar + universal 4-in-1 adapter
Why it works: one outlet becomes many; color-coded adapter means fewer wrong plugs. - Sunset Picnics Kit
Collapsible containers + collapsible water bottle + sarong
Why it works: saves cash on meals; sarong = tablecloth/blanket/towel. - Trail-Ready Daypack Refresh
Lightweight tripod + headlamp + compass
Why it works: golden-hour photos, safe trail exits, and quick bearings.
$50–$100: “You’ll Use This Constantly”
- Sleep Anywhere System
Travel J Pillow + warm fleece + microfiber towel (as blanket)
Why it works: buses, trains, airports—comfort on demand. - Security & Peace-of-Mind
Pacsafe cable lock + backpack safety mesh
Why it works: protects gear on night buses and in dorm closets. - Creator Starter Set
Gorillapod + large memory card + microfiber cleaning kit
Why it works: stable video, storage for days, clean glass = sharp shots. - Hammock + Headspace
ENO hammock + reading light
Why it works: instant lounge anywhere, from jungle cabins to hostel courtyards.
$100–$200: Thoughtful Tech & Travel Staples
- Library in a Pocket
Kindle Paperwhite + travel journal
Why it works: ebooks for buses, a place to catch details that don’t fit on a phone. - Weekend Escapes, Sorted
Leather weekender + packing cubes
Why it works: easy-grab bag that still stays organized. - Pool-Proof Memories
Waterproof Fujifilm camera + dry bag
Why it works: stress-free beach, boat, and waterfall shots. - Learn the Lingo
Language course (digital code) + airport-code mug of their target city
Why it works: practical and motivating.
$200+ Splurges: Big Smiles, Long Use
- Ultimate Carry-On Combo
Osprey wheeled backpack + luggage scale
Why it works: roll or wear; never pay surprise fees again. - Noise-Canceling Sanctuary
Bose-style headphones + eye mask
Why it works: turns chaos into calm on flights and in dorms. - Creator Level-Up
Canon G7 X mk ii (or similar) + big memory card
Why it works: vlogging photos and video in one tiny unit. - Experience Credit
AirBnB or airline gift card
Why it works: you’re literally gifting them the next adventure.

Experience & Digital Gifts (Clutter-Free, Trip-Boosting)
Sometimes the best gift doesn’t take up any luggage space.
- Flight or Accommodation Credit (airline or stay platforms)
A flexible top-up toward the big costs. - Airport Lounge Day Pass
Food, Wi-Fi, and showers between long-haul legs—bliss. - Fast-Track Program Fee (where eligible)
TSA PreCheck / Global Entry / NEXUS equivalents can transform airport days. - City Passes & Tours
Hop-on hop-off, museum bundles, food tours, street-art walks, bike rentals. - eSIM or Mobile Data Credit
Keep them connected without kiosk stress on arrival. - Language/App Subscriptions
Babbel/Duolingo-style premium, offline map apps, meditation for jet lag, travel workout apps. - Cloud Storage or Photo Book Voucher
Backups while away; a printed album to make after. - Travel Insurance Contribution
Not glamorous, wildly appreciated—especially for big trips/treks.
How to present digital gifts nicely: print a simple “boarding pass” style certificate with code/instructions and tuck it into a travel journal or passport holder.

Gifts by Traveler Type (Match to Their Style)
- Backpacker
Packing cubes, microfiber towel, cable lock, compression sack, Buff. - Weekend City-Hopper
Leather weekender, tote or day pack, portable speaker, phone case, scratch map. - Outdoor Trekker
Warm fleece, trekking poles, headlamp, dry bag, compression socks. - Photographer/Vlogger
Gorillapod, memory card, cleaning kit, waterproof action camera, external drive. - Digital Nomad
Power bar, universal adapter, laptop sleeve, noise-canceling headphones, Kindle. - Beach Lover
Waterproof camera, sarong, collapsible bottle, sunscreen kit, foldable flip-flops. - Road-Tripper
Portable speaker, throw blanket, puzzle or card deck for rainy nights, cork globe pin set for planning. - Family Traveler
Compression cubes (one color per person), collapsible containers, microfiber towels, power strip. - First-Time Traveler
Universal adapter, luggage tag, travel journal, microfiber towel, small headlamp.

Travel Gift 101 FAQ (12 Quick Q&As)
1) I don’t know where they’re going next. What’s a no-fail gift?
Go universal and lightweight. A 4-in-1 universal adapter, packing cubes, or an Airline/AirBnB gift card works for every itinerary and travel style. If you want something a bit cozier, a microfiber towel or compression socks fits any trip without taking much space.
2) What are the best under-$25 gifts that actually get used?
Think “tiny, daily, durable.” Top picks: sleep mask, Buff, microfiber towel, grid-style cable organizer, dry bag (2–5L), wet wipes, luggage tag, and a collapsible water bottle. These live in a daypack and get pulled out constantly, which is the hallmark of a great budget gift.
3) Are experience or digital gifts better than physical ones?
Often, yes—they add zero weight and deliver big impact. Great options include flight or accommodation credit, airport lounge passes, city passes/tours, eSIM/data credit, language app subscriptions, or cloud storage for photo backups. Print a simple “boarding pass” style certificate and tuck it into a travel journal for a personal touch.
4) How do I send a gift to someone already on the road?
Use digital delivery when possible (gift cards, passes, eSIMs). For physical items, email the hotel to “Hold for Guest [Name], Arriving [Date]” and add this wording to the shipping label; confirm the guest’s booking matches the name. Locker pickups, local post offices (poste restante), or a friend’s address also work—just share tracking and pickup ID instructions.
5) Any airline restrictions I should consider before I buy?
Indeed—avoid gifts that can’t fly. Lithium power banks must go carry-on only; fuel canisters/stoves, many aerosols, knives, and large liquids are restricted in carry-on. If you’re gifting tech, include a note: “Power bank in carry-on, please!” When in doubt, choose digital or ship to their home.
6) What should I buy for a carry-on-only minimalist?
Choose multipurpose and ultralight: a Buff (scarf/hat/eye mask), sarong (towel/blanket/picnic cloth), packing cubes, universal adapter, and solid shampoo/conditioner bars. If you want to splurge, noise-canceling headphones deliver huge comfort with minimal bulk.
7) How do I make my gift more sustainable?
Pick durable over disposable, solid toiletries over liquids, and multipurpose items (sarong, dry bag, packing cubes). Look for artisan/fair-trade accessories and experience gifts that support local guides. Bonus points for reusable wrap (wrap with a sarong or pack inside a packing cube).
8) What’s a good gift for a content creator or traveler who films?
Think accessory upgrades: a Gorillapod, large memory card, lens/camera cleaning kit, dry bag for boat days, or a portable SSD for backups. For audio-forward creators, earbuds with a mic or a compact USB mic (if they travel with a laptop) are practical wins.
9) How can I personalize a practical gift without adding bulk?
Monogram a luggage tag or passport cover, add a handwritten map note (circle a meaningful café or route), make a Spotify “Boarding Beats” playlist, or tuck “Open When…” envelopes (sleep, rain, homesick) with tea, a quote, or a tiny comfort. Small touches turn useful gear into their gear.
10) I need something today. What are great last-minute gifts?
Go instant: Airline/AirBnB gift card, airport lounge pass, language app subscription, city tour voucher, eSIM/data credit, or a Kindle preloaded with one travel classic and one destination guide. Pair the printout with a travel journal and you’re done.
11) How do I pick sizes/specs without ruining the surprise?
For apparel, peek at a similar item they already wear. For tech, avoid model-specific accessories unless you’re sure—choose universal (USB-C power bank, generic cleaning kit, large SD card). If you must guess, include a gift receipt or make it an accessory bundle that fits any device.
12) Any clever, reusable wrapping ideas for travelers?
Yep! Wrap with an old map and twine; use a packing cube as the gift bag; “wrap” inside a dry bag; or try furoshiki with a scarf/sarong. Swap paper gift tags for a luggage tag with your note inside—stylish, practical, waste-free.
Do you have any other gifts for travellers on your wishlist?
This post does contain affiliate links, which means that if you buy something through them, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps me keep this blog running!

I love this list! A waterproof phone case is a must when traveling!
Thanks Courtney! Glad you liked some of the ideas on the list.
Love the shower curtain with airport codes!
Me too! I’m torn between the one with the airport codes and the one that looks like an airplane lavatory.
Absolutely nailed the Christmas List again.
Last year I forwarded your post to my family and said anything on there. Got the packing cubes, world map laundry bag and perfume sticks (all been game changers!)
Will be doing the same this year – thanks!!
Meg
Thanks Meg! I’m glad last year’s list came in handy. It’s so nice getting gifts that you can actually use on the road!
Excellent gift ideas. I want to gift a Selfie Stick to my travel friend Shivya Nath. Thanks for the ideas.
Selfie sticks are quite the trend these days. 😉 I saw them in every European city I visited this summer.
Exactly! But my friend is an Indian.
Lots of gems in this list Audrey! Have sent you a twitter message about possibly including my brand of travel kitchenware gems for consideration for next years list – or addition to this years? 🙂
This is a great list. I’m still a dinosaur lugging my books from pillar to post. A Kindle may be beckoning!
I love my travel tubes! I never have to worry about finding travel size since I just refill and go. Plus, I don’t have to buy crappy travel sized shampoos that just dry my hair out since I can refill my tubes with my regular products. Definitely a must for any traveler!
The Kindle Paperwhite looks like an amazing gift for travellers.
Great roundup Audrey!
wow, great gifts for trekking. I think helmet raincoat jackets is missing in your store pics. I like your camera.
Awesome gift ideas for travelers, you may include GPS kits for hiking into the list under $200-300 category.