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Finding the best gifts for travelers can be tough—that person likely just wants airplane tickets, and those are a liiiiiittle out of most folks’ price range. While we’d love to surprise our friends and family with, say, an all-inclusive trip to Hawaii or a two-week Eurotrip, it’s a pipe dream. The next best thing? A travel-friendly gift (think stylish weekender bags, hoodies made for 10-hour flights, and comfortable shoes for endless sightseeing) to accompany them on their next sojourn, wherever that may be.
You’ll find on this list there’s a traveler-approved gift for just about everyone (all of which are far less expensive than a pre-paid vacation).
Luggage and bags
Beis, The Weekender Bag — $98.00
Wanderlusters will love this trendy weekend bag from Beis, the luggage company founded by Shay Mitchell. It has everything you want out of a good getaway bag, plus a seperate, zip-off shoe compartment on the bottom, as well as a zipper pocket that turns into a trolley sleeve on longer jaunts.
Peak Design, Travel Line Backpack 45L — $300.00
Durable and gear-friendly, this hardy backpack has ample room for storing just about anything. The main zip allows for easy access and visibility, while the expansion zip makes way for more room when things get cramped. It’s weatherproof, comfortable to carry, and loaded with internal and external pockets for maximizing storage.
Travelpro, Platinum Elite Hardside Expandable Spinner — $370.00
If you avoid checking in luggage at all costs, this carry-on will be your new favorite companion. At 21 inches, it’s designed to fit in most domestic overhead compartments, and also expands for those trips when you do a little too much souvenir shopping. It has a lightweight, polycarbonate hard shell with aluminum corner guards for extra durability, and interior zippered panels for organization. It also has external USB-A and C ports, a TSA-approved lock, and spinner wheels to help get you from destination to destination with ease.
Cotopaxi, Allpa 42L Travel Pack — $219.00
Every good backpacker needs, well, a good backpack. Luckily, Cotopaxi has just the one. This new model features an extra-large suitcase style that’s ideal for long (or short) trips around the world. Spaciousness aside, it’s also crafted with a TPU-coated shell, making it weather-resistant when the rain clouds come in.
Just Fred, Destination Dog Tote — $245.00
This tote is perfect for the friends and family who can’t leave their furry companions at home. It’s TSA-approved as a carry-on, giving Fido (or Kitty) all the room they need to stay safe and secure mid-flight. There’s also a magnetic mesh cover for when they want their beauty rest, and a built-in doggy bag dispenser.
Calpak, Terra 40L Carry-On Luggage — $385.00
This bag was made for the friends and family who seem to be always on the road. (Er, in the air.) With a hefty 40L capacity, it fits just about everything, neatly and seamlessly at that. Albeit it large, it’s still small enough to be considered a carry-on item and fits into overhead compartments. Its crown jewel, however, is the material—It’s made from 27 plastic water bottles, making it a sustainable option no traveler can resist.
Herschel, Sutton Duffel — $70.00
Give the gift of a good weekender bag without breaking the bank with this durable duffel by Herschel. It’s made from hardy and versatile, making it ideal enough for hotel stays and camping excursions alike. And it’s easy to carry—there’s two top-carrying handles and a shoulder strap, so you can change how you lug it along easily.
Small accessories and toiletries
Mark & Graham, Travel Jewelry Case — $50.00
Tangled necklaces and runaway earrings fit perfectly in this pebbled leather jewelry case that fits snug in any luggage. One side features slotted storage for rings and earrings, while the other has hooks and a pouch for necklaces and bracelets. Gift it as is or personalize it with a custom monogram.
Troubador, Sling Compact Leather Vegan — $95.00
Hands-free, baby—That’s the life we want to lead. And this stylish sling bag allows us to do just that, keeping our essential items close wherever we roam. Its roomy interior fits everything you need when you’re away for the day, like ID, passport, AirPods, lip balm, and more. The contoured shoulder straps are a game-changer, too, hugging to your body close to even out the weight distribution and feel like nothing’s there.
Filson, Travel Pack — $65.00
Filson products are notoriously tough, and this dopp kit is no different. It’s crafted from lightweight, tear-resistant nylon with a bottom that’s reinforced with water-repellent rugged twill. There are leather zipper pulls, a grab handle, and two interior stow pockets, too.
Harry's Essentials, Travel Shaving Kit — $30.00
If your husband, dad, or brother just can’t seem to ever remember his shaving kit, then this is the gift for him. Packed in a convenient dopp kit, it includes TSA-approved shave gel, a razor with a rubber handle, and a razor cover to protect the blades. With this kit, they’ll never have to make a last-minute stop at the pharmacy again.
Cadence, Travel Containers (Pack of 6) — $76.00
These magnetic containers are perfect for storing a long weekend’s worth of vitamins, jewelry, skin care products—you name it. Each container is made from leakproof, airtight recycled ocean plastic that easily stores whatever it is you want to bring on your weekend getaway. Especially if you’re tight on space, they’re a game-changer for packing.
Oribe, #OribeObsessed Hair Set — $49.00
This kit is perfect for beauty buffs who can’t bring their entire shower and hair-care routine on every getaway. It includes travel-friendly sizes of Oribe’s dry texturing spray, and Gold Lust Repair & Restore shampoo and conditioner.
Steamery, Cirrus 3 Iron Steamer — $180.00
Looking for the gift for the friend who’s always at a wedding or some other fancy event? This chic steamer-iron hybrid from Steamery Stockholm is sure bet. Depending on how it’s used, users can create a steamed or pressed look in minutes (bye bye, suitcase-inspired wrinkles). Plus, it’s lightweight and compact, making it easy to throw in a weekender or overnight bag.
Comfortable travel clothes
Athleta, Farallon Jogger — $98.00
Available sizes: XXS-3XL
Comfort and style aren’t mutually exclusive. Enter, these travel-ready joggers that feel as good as they look. Their lightweight organic cotton feels dreamy in planes, trains, and automobiles alike, as does the elastic waistband and tapered ankles.
Kizik, Lima Sneaker — $109.00
Available sizes: 6-13, in half sizes and two widths.
Remember what we said about being hands-free? Double-down on convenience going through security with these hands-free shoes that don’t require any tugging or untying whatsoever. They’re built with a springy heel cage that allows you to step right into them, even when they’re tied. Yep—they’re that easy. TSA will love you.
lululemon, At Ease Hoodie — $148.00
Available sizes: XS-XXL
For chilly plane rides and winter road trips where the temps will drop, gift this double knit hoodie so he’s warm wherever it goes. Though toasty, it features four-way stretch that’s as breathable as it is flexible, so it won’t get stiff or stuffy. Ideal for travelers or anyone who just wants a good, snuggly sweatshirt.
Comrad, Knee High Compression Socks — $28.00
Nothing’s worse than stepping off the plane with swollen ankles. That’s why you should gift these knee-high compression socks from Comrad, which can help prevent swelling and stiffness on and off the plane. They’re also moisture-wicking and are antimicrobial to keep your feet feeling cool and smelling fresh throughout the whole travel day.
Keen, Mosey Derby Shoe — $120.00
Available sizes: 5-11, in half sizes.
Long days of travel can lead to some not-so-great smelling sneakers once you reach your final destination. Unless you’re wearing these comfy kicks from Keen, that is. They’re made from a recycled wool blend that’s naturally anti-microbial and odor-resistant, so no matter how sweaty things might get, they won’t get smelly. But even better, they’re comfortable and go with everything, making them ideal capsule shoe to pack along when you’re short on space.
Gifts for in-flight relaxation
OstrichPillow, Eye Mask — $45.00
Give frequent fliers a restful flight with this ergonomic eye mask from Ostrichpillow. While other sleep masks are flat, this one is 3D, designed with the contours of the face in-mind. The result? Total comfort that doesn’t slip while actually blocking out light.
Ursa Major, Going Places Lip Balm — $14.00
Lip Balm that’s going places when you’re going places. Ursa Major’s kisser-quenching balm is blended with hydrating cupuacu butter, jojoba oil, shea butter, and whole bunch of other goodies for maximum hydration. A great stocking stuffer for anyone who likes to travel or otherwise.
Trtl, Travel Pillow — $50.00
The Trtle travel pillow is beloved by travelers across all methods of transportation for its unmatched support and comfort in even the most uncomfortable situations. Unlike traditional neck pillows, this one wraps around your neck to support your head against windows or car seats, keeping you upright and in-place so you can actually get some rest.
The Honest Company, Hand Sanitizer Spray — $10.00
Travel is fun, but it is germy. Keep your hands clean and sanitized with this four pack of sanitizer spray, which will kill 99.9% of germs and bacteria. It’s made of aloe and other botanical extracts so your hands will get moisturized, too. You can also get sanitizing wipes.
Sony, Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones — $398.00
Enjoy some peace and quiet (or your favorite tunes or movie) with these wireless noise-cancelling headphones. They’re lightweight with comfy leather ear pads, and have up to a 30-hour battery life to get you through any long travel day. You can also make hands-free calls.
Sonos, Roam Travel Speaker — $179.00
Or, crank up the jams when you’re away from home with the ultra-portable Sonos Roam, the chicest speaker you’ll ever own. This packable speaker packs a punch despite it’s size, allowing you to stream anywhere you get a signal via Bluetooth connection. Pop it in your carry-on, your camping pack, or in your car’s cup-holder, and enjoy crystal clear audio wherever you roam (pun intended.)
Gifts for backpackers
Sea to Summit, Pro Hammock Set — $90.00
Between campsites or hostels, backpackers can set up this portable hammock just about anywhere. It’s crafted from ripstop nylon, meaning it’s ultra-durable in the elements and built to withstand wear-and-tear. After setting it up, it can be packed down into a compression bag that fits neatly in backpacks without taking up too much space.
Larq, PureVis — $99.00
Give the gift of pure water in 60 seconds. The Larq water bottle uses unique UV technology to clean water almost instantly, so no matter where your friends or family roam, they can drink worry-free.
Garmin, inReach Messenger — $300.00
Whether you’re planning on going off the grid yourself or shopping for someone who frequently does, this Garmin satellite communicator is a must. It’s powered by a global Iridium satellite network when’re out of cellular range, allows for two-way and group messaging, has location sharing and interactive SOS alerts, and has an extra-long battery life (up to 28 days of battery).
Jack Wolfskin, Go Hike Jacket — $200.00
Available sizes: XS-XXL
Whether they’re backpacking through Europe or on a Thru-Hike of the Appalachian trail, a durable raincoat is a no-brainer, like this lightweight coat from Jack Wolfskin. It’s made entirely of recycled materials (!) and features a Texapore Pro shell fabric that’s waterproof and wind-resistant—everything you need when the weather gets wonky. When it’s on, it’s super protective, but when it’s off, it can also be shoved into your pack without weighing you down. A win-win overall.
Vssl, Adventure Essentials Survival Kit — $145.00
Everything an outdoorsman could want in case of emergencies comes neatly packed in Vssl’s aptly-named vessel. Think: trail markers, waterproof matches, a first-aid kit, fishing tackle, water purification tablets, and more, all packed in a sleek, aluminum container that’s easy to stow.
TSL Outdoors, Tour Alu 5 Trekking Poles — $99.00
Thru-hikes and long backpacking excursions call for a packable trekking pole that won’t weigh you down. The Alu 5 fits the bill, constructed to handle the toughest of trails without taking up a ton of space when they’re not in use. That’s thanks to the folding design, which quickly collapses each pole to a mere 16.5-inches long, making them easy to clip on to carabiners who shove in a pack. Who said you can’t get the best of both worlds?
Gifts for road-trippers
Letterfolk, Road Trip Passport — $10.00
Have those friends who are always on the road? Give them this road trip passport from Letterfolk, which allows them to log their memories as they drive from place-to-place. Plus, there are prompts for bucket lists, games, and checklists, too.
Rumpl, NanoLoft® Flame Blanket — $129.00
Rumpl blankets are the definition of toasty, minus the bulk. They’re filled with recycled insulation that mimics down, so it’s extra warm and totally portable. The new Flames are the brand’s fire-resistant blankets that are safe and spark-friendly around the campfire on your next car camping excursion. Expect all the plush- and packable-ness as the traditional Rumpl, just with flame-resistance, as well as a hands-free cape clip for when you want to move around the campsite and stay warm.
Lyomo, Travel Coffee Maker — $86.00
Car camping excursions and extra-long road trips call for a cup of coffee (or 5…). This portable coffee maker plugs into your car’s lighter plug, allowing you to make hot cups of Joe wherever you go. Coffee not included.
Yeti, Rambler 25 Oz. Travel Mug With Lid — $38.00
Speaking of coffee, this tumbler keeps beverages hot and cold for hours, on and off the road. It’s designed to fit snug in a car’s cupholder, with an elevated handle and tapered bottom for easy storage. Bonus: It now comes with a straw, making it extra versatile for sipping on smoothies and iced espresso drinks alike. Choose from a rainbow of colors, but our pick is the pretty Nordic Purple that’s perfect in any season.
Travel gift boxes
Camp Life, Crate Outdoor Essentials — $45.00
For your hikers, mountain bikers, and campers this outdoor-themed box makes a thoughtful gift. Each box is stacked with outdoor goodies like apparel, gear, snacks, and tools. Give a subscription for 3, 6, or 12 months.
Parks Project, Take Me To A National Park Gift Box — $98.00
If you can’t gift a full vacation, a vacation in a box is the next best thing. Parks Project creates a National Park themed box featuring a journal, playing cards, enamel mug, candle, and a National Parks of The USA checklist postcard. It may even give you inspiration to plan your next outdoor adventure.
Try The World Box — $50.00
For food-loving friends, the Try The World box makes an excellent gift. Plans come in 1, 3, 6, and 12-month subscriptions, promising a stack of themed foods, snacks, and ingredients from a different part of the world each time.
Atlas, Coffee Club — $70.00
Similarly, Atlas Coffee Club gives the gift of coffees from around the globe to its subscribers. Gifts start at $70 for 3-month subscriptions and include gourmet coffee from a different destination, a postcard from where its from, and barista-worthy tips on how to brew it best.
Cratejoy, Explore Local Box — $45.00
Who says you have to travel across the world to experience new things? The Explore Local box focuses on American cities, giving recipients snacks, gifts, and goodies from a different U.S. city each month. All of the products are locally-sourced from businesses and artisans in the designated city, so it doubles a small-business booster, too.
Memorable travel gifts
Hotels.com, Gift Card
For jetsetters, a hotels.com gift card will let them book a stay at thousands of hotels across the world. It’s perfect for a planned or impromptu trip, and you may even convince your friend to take you along, too.
Uncommon Goods, Scratch Map — $26.00
Keep track of all the countries you’ve been to, and brighten up an empty wall with this fun, scratch map. After each country visited, you can scratch off the country with a coin and reveal pops of color. The more places you visit, the more colorful the map.
Clever Fox, Travel Journal — $20.00
For people who like to plan with pen and paper, this travel journal will keep you prepared and organized. Inside, you’ll find pages for your budget, packing list and checklist, a calendar, a map, places to jot down notes and memorable moments, and more.
Uncommon Goods, Travel Stub Diary — $15.00
This travel stub diary will turn your everyday things into a memento— postcards, ticket stubs, maps, brochures, photos, and more. It’s a great way to store all those random things you gather from a trip into one place, so you can look at them in the future.
GoPro, HERO11 — $450.00
Capture all your best adventures on the road with a GoPro. This handy little camera has 4K resolution and HyperSmooth stabilization, so all your action videos come out in high def and high quality. It’s waterproof and mountable, so it’s ready to go wherever you go.
Editor’s note: While we’re recommending gifts for men and women, this is purely based on what readers are searching for on Google and the keywords they’re using. No matter how you identify, you should be shopping for what you like (and for what others like as well)!
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