Shopping for gifts for someone who spoils themselves by traveling the world can feel like an endless struggle. But even seasoned travelers can appreciate a thoughtful gift, especially one that makes traveling a little easier (or more luxurious).
When buying for travelers, think functionality, purpose, and compactness. The goal is to give them something they’ll actually bring with them, so avoid anything bulky, overly niche, or gimmicky.
These are the best gifts for travelers, which are all things I’d personally love to receive (and actually use!), plus a few popular “travel gifts” that sound good in theory but usually end up collecting dust.
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Best Gifts for Travelers
1. Apple AirTag
Perfect Gift Under $30!
Apple AirTags are one of those things you didn’t know you needed until you need them. I’ve seen so many people benefit from these when an airline loses their luggage.
Give one (or a set) and save someone a lot of stress. They’re tiny, affordable, and honestly just smart to have. Toss one in your checked bag, backpack, or even attach it to a camera or wallet and track it straight from your phone.
2. Mina Bae Emmy
My all-time favorite travel bag!
I know this is marketed as a diaper bag and I originally bought one for that purpose… But after one week of using it, I had to get another to use as my travel personal item.
Because it’s a diaper bag, there are many pockets, including insulated ones, a key strap, and overall perfect as a travel personal bag.
3. Priority Pass Annual Membership
Perfect for frequent flyers !
A Priority Pass membership grants lounge access in airports around the world, which means free snacks, drinks, showers, Wi-Fi, comfy chairs, and a quiet place.
I cannot overstate how much this changes the travel experience. Once you get a taste of lounge life… there’s no going back.
4. Apple AirPods 4
Quality, noise-cancelling headphones that Literally helps you understand the local language.
I don’t have these (yet), but they are definitely on my Christmas list!!
The 2025 model includes live translation for certain languages, directly into your ear. Need I say more?
5. Universal Yums
Gift a global snack tour from home
Universal Yums is PERFECT for someone who easily gets the travel bug.
They are a subscription service that delivers you treats from a different country every month. You get chips, sweets, chocolates, and little fact booklets about the region.
You can send a one-time, individual box or a buy a 3, 6, or 12 month subscription as a gift.
I’ve been a subscriber for a couple months now, and my favorite box was one from Turkey!
6. Perfume Minis
Giving each destination a signature scent makes the memory of it last even longer.
One of my favorite travel rituals is buying a new (travel sized) perfume for every trip.
I absolutely love being reminded of my trip to Paris when I spray on my Diptyque’s Eau Rose or my trip to Aruba when I wear my Ouai St. Barts.
7. Monos Hybrid Carry-On Luggage
A gift they’ll surely use everytime
Buying luggage as a gift can be hit or miss. But the Monos Hybrid carry on? Worth it.
The Hybrid Carry-On is lightweight, durable, and gorgeous.
I did a full review [read it here], and after testing multiple brands, this one is a winner.
8. Kindle Paperwhite
Perfect for readers who can’t (or won’t) pack books.
The Kindle Paperwhite is lightweight, backlit, and has a battery that literally lasts weeks.
If you want to go the extra mile, gift a Kindle Unlimited subscription too 🙂 It’s the gift that lasts all year.
9. Oura Ring
Perfect for travelers who prioritize good sleep and overall health!
Such a big purchase for a small item but it’s worth it. You can stay on top of your sleep, fitness, and more with this smart ring. The Oura Ring tracks your sleep quality, heart rate variability, stress levels, and more.
Especially helpful on those days you think you’re fine… but your body says otherwise.
10. Book an Experience
Perfect for the traveler who already “has everything.” This one never fails.
Whether it’s abroad or a local in their own city, experiences stay with people longer than objects.
Use platforms like GetYourGuide or Viator to book excursions in advance, or give a gift card so they can choose something that fits their trip schedule.
Gifts to Rethink:
1. Camera
Yes, a camera can make for a great gift, but people often prefer specific features and settings that aren’t universal. Avoid buying one unless you know it’s the exact one they want.
2. Gimmicky Travel Gadgets
Those viral “must-have” travel gadgets? Usually not must-haves. Bulky neck pillows, portable footrests, and travel blankets sound convenient but often just take up space.
3. Travel Journals
Aesthetically pleasing, yes. Practical for everyone? Not really. Not every traveler documents their trips the same way and most notebooks end up forgotten at the bottom of a backpack.
4. Decorative Passport Covers
They’re SO cute. I have one too.
But I learned the hard way that they’re useless and a hassle taking out and putting in when you go through customs. Don’t waste your money.
5. A Plane Ticket
I know, it sounds like the ultimate travel gift. But it’s risky.
Unless it’s a very flexible voucher or something they asked for specifically, you might be unintentionally locking them into a trip they can’t take (or don’t want to plan). Flights are just one piece; hotels, transportation, PTO, and budgeting are all now their responsibility.
It’s generous, but often ends up being a burden disguised as a gift.
Lauryn Dunning
Hello! I'm Lauryn. While serving in the U.S Navy, I spent nearly every four-day weekend traveling somewhere new. Those quick trips inspired 96 Hours, a blog dedicated to turning short getaways into big adventures.
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