60+ Fun & Useful Gifts for Travel Lovers

This small but mighty accessory keeps your suitcase organized, which is crucial if you're changing locations multiple times during a trip.

This set from TRIPPED Travel Gear has a built-in compression feature that will help you fit more into your suitcase, as well.

It’s inevitable that a traveler will have a wet swimsuit or sweaty clothes to pack at some point along their travels. Keep wet clothes separated from dry, clean clothes in a waterproof wet bag.

The Bumkins waterproof wet bag was initially made for dirty diapers or clothes, but it works just as well for travelers' needs, too! Plus it's pretty affordable!

A brightly colored luggage tag will make luggage easy to spot on the checked baggage carousel. They also make great stocking stuffers!

I got this exact set for my mom's stocking (and she did the same for mine) recently and it's held up well despite going on many trips since!

A makeup case or toiletry kit is great for organization and space-saving in a suitcase or carry-on.

I have this makeup train case from Amazon and love how it's adjustable so I can always fit what I need according to each trip.

If you're not familiar with TSA rules, you can only bring a small amount of liquids through security at an airport.

All items must be in containers that are 3.4 ounces or smaller and everything must fit within a single, clear quart-sized bag.

Sure, you could reuse a Ziploc quart bag, but they’ll get grungy after a while.

Instead, get a reusable one in a fun color. Pair with some travel-sized bottles and other small travel accessories and you have a practical and affordable gift.

These flat travel-sized pouches for shampoo, conditioner, and so on, are a great for carry-on only trips where you have to keep all liquids under 3.4 oz.

Plus, as you use up the product inside, the pouch will flatten up, taking up less space and weight in your bag.

A packing list notepad is a fun idea for frequent travelers, so that they don’t forget anything.

I'm a big fan of Knock Knock notepads, like their Pack This! option, which also comes in a Roadtrip version.

One of the keys to making it through TSA without stress is staying organized.

If you don’t know where half the stuff that you have to take out of your bag is, you’re really the one to blame for a miserable airport security experience.

OK, maybe only half the blame.

If your loved one isn’t blessed enough to have Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, make sure your loved one has a super organized carry on bag.

Look for something with a separate laptop pocket and a separate pocket for your liquids quart bag.

This option from MATEIN is specifically made for travel and opens like a suitcase, plus it has tons of pockets and compartments to help you organize everything you need for a quick trip.

I nearly panicked when I couldn’t find my luggage scale before I went to France last year. I rely on that sucker more than I realized!

In order to keep my luggage in check, I always weigh it before leaving the house.

Not only does this make me less anxious about getting checked in, but it also tells me about how much room I have weight-wise for souvenirs.

I also bring my luggage scale when I'm traveling so I can re-weight my luggage before I return home.

A travel neck pillow is essential for sleeping on a plane, train, or long car ride.

I recommend springing for a travel pillow made with memory foam and flat back for next level comfort.

Cabeau has some great options that fit the bill. I have the older version of this model and have used it for more than 5 years now and it still looks brand new.

It's relatively easy to compress and fluffs up quickly when taken out of the compression bag for use.

An eye mask for sleeping is essential for catching zzz's on a plane.

You want one with a 3-D dome-like contour around the eyes to allow for undisturbed REM cycles. This translates to better quality, well-rested sleep.

A shawl or blanket scarf can double as a warm layer for cold weather or a cozy blanket for comfort while traveling.

Plus, as the picture suggests, it's great for formal events when you need to keep your upper half warm, but don't want to wear your regular day coat.

One of my go-to gifts is a Mad Libs notepad in a theme that the recipient will appreciate.

I mean, who wouldn't love this Golden Girls Mad Libs game? (I got this one for my sister and she loved it!)

Mad Libs is also perfect for travel because it's small and lightweight. Plus you just need a pen or pencil to write with to have a go.

For other travel game ideas, check out my post about travel games for adults.

For a super swanky and super helpful gift, noise-cancelling headphones or ear buds are perfect because they block out load plane engines and other surrounding noise.

I recommend the Beats Studio Pro or Studio 3 models. I don't recommend the Solo 3 model because it's not as great at noise-cancelling, especially on airplanes.

For the traveler interested in photography, why not help them get a basic photography kit together?

GoPro cameras are super durable, portable, and easy to use – making them perfect for travel photography.

In addition to a camera, a few essentials I recommend are:

1. Memory card: Extra memory cards are always a good thing to have on hand when taking photos. Make sure you know what type of card to get as not all cards are compatible with every camera.
2. Extra battery: An extra battery is always a good idea, so you never miss a picture due to a dead camera ever again.
3. Travel tripod: A portable, lightweight tripod that folds up small is key for travel photographers.

For more ideas, check out my posts about cool GoPro accessories and custom photo gift ideas.

The DJI Osmo Mobile 6 is made for use with smartphones and includes 3-axis stabilizing to eliminate camera shake while creating videos.

It can also act as a tripod and comes with object tracking for easy solo filming.

If your travel lover is looking to up their photography or videography game, a camera drone is an excellent gift.

DJI is the leader in creating travel-friendly, reliable, and affordable drones that capture stunning aerial footage.

For tips on picking out the perfect drone, check out my Drone Buyer's Guide.

Fujifilm Instax cameras are this generation’s Polaroid camera.

Instax cameras are a fun way to take tiny instant photos to share with friends.

These cameras always come in a variety of fun colors, like lavender, rose, sky blue, and sage green.

Don’t forget to add extra film!

If you need a reliable wifi connection while traveling and don’t want to pony up the high fees, get a SIMO Solis portable wifi device.

The SIMO Solis works in over 100 countries and about $10 per day (less if you buy access in bulk).

I’ve used my SIMO hotspot in Australia, Bali, France, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, and beyond and have always had a reliable connection - and was even able to share with friends.

NOTE: SIMO is previously known as SkyRoam.

Keep track of time, activity, text messages, and more with an Apple Watch.

This awesome piece of travel tech would be a great travel accessory for the tech geek in your life.

To learn more about how an Apple Watch is beneficial for travelers, check out my Apple Watch guide.

A power bank is a must-have for long days on the go.

No more iPhone dying while touring a new city because you’ve been taking too many pictures and Instagram stories.

Just plug your phone into the power bank to charge up and off you go.

I love the iWalk chargers because it doesn't require a cord, is super lightweight, and depending on the model, can recharge my phone more than once before it needs to be recharged itself.

Luggage is getting cooler and cooler these days!

Aside from the fun colors and prints on the market, manufacturers are also adding fun technology like portable chargers, built-in luggage tracking, and more.

This option from LUGGEX has a built-in port for a portable charger. Since you supply the charger, you'll be able to easily swap it in and out and use the brand you prefer.

Did you ever get one of those standard issue laptop bags with your corporate laptop?

Yeah. Me too. They suck. They’re heavy and the strap always digs into my shoulder.

A laptop sleeve will protect the laptop and allow you to use your preferred bag instead. It's a great option for those of you that like to switch out your bag regularly.

Turn an iPad or smartphone into a laptop with the simple addition of a bluetooth keyboard. This is how I keep up with my blog while traveling!

The foldable keyboard from iClever is super lightweight, plus the keys will be protected when folded up. It also comes with a small stand for smartphones.

A portable, durable hard drive is essential for any digital nomad so that they can back up their laptop.

I've been using the LaCie rugged external drives for over a decade now and it's never failed me!

If packing space is a concern, a subscription to a cloud drive would be a great idea too.

If your digital nomad has a creative or web-based business, chances are high that they use Adobe Creative Cloud.

Help with their expenses by purchasing a few months or even a year subscription to their favorite program or suite.

This personal assistant gadget is more than just a gimmick.

Use the Amazon Echo or Pop to order items for your upcoming trip, track a flight, check the weather, and more.

This might seem like an extraneous item, especially for minimalists. But trust me when I say: this item is a game changer.

Stop fighting for plug space and get a portable power strip so that you can keep all your gadgets charged while on the go.

This option from UPWADE can power up to 6 devices, plus it's bright lime green cord will help ensure it doesn't get left behind when packing up at the end of a trip.

For new travelers, a travel adapter and converter is a thoughtful and practical gift that will help them stay connected while traveling.

A first aid kit is often the last thing people think to pack when traveling.

It doesn’t have to be a big box full of supplies.

A small, portable kit should be fine for most travelers, though hikers and outdoors travelers might want something more specialized.

Hydration is important for your health, but it’s especially important when traveling because dehydration can be a player in developing blood clots.

I love the Takeya stainless steel water bottle and carry it with me whenever I'm traveling.

Whether I'm drinking ice water or hot coffee, it always keeps the temperature just right.

Plus it has a handy loop that makes it easy to carry or hook onto something.

Lastly, the cap is actually attached, so it won't get lost or misplaced.

Compression socks help prevent swelling and blood clots in your legs while flying.

I am even more at risk due to a blood clotting disorder that I have and I swear by these Sockwell compression socks for long flights.

Aside from doing their job, they are actually comfortable and come in a variety of fun colors.

NOTE: If you have a blood clotting disorder or risk, it's best to talk to your doctor about what's best for you when it comes to compression socks.

Gift a subscription to an online workout program or portable exercise equipment, like this resistance band set from Black Mountain.

I have this exact set and usually bring 1-2 bands and handles when traveling for for than a few nights.

I also love the Peloton app for workout classes and fitness tracking. It can be used without Peloton-branded equipment!

Travel scarves are another dual-purpose item that I love.

They can serve as a light layer for Fall and Spring days, an accessory to brighten up an otherwise boring outfit, and hide your passport and other important items.

Contrary to popular belief, you CAN put a lock on your luggage in the US.

The lock just has to be a TSA-approved lock so that it can be opened by TSA if your bag is selected for additional inspection.

Along with the travel lock, a travel safe is another handy item that will help keep valuables safe.

If there isn’t a safe in your hotel room, keep your valuables in here and chain it to something that can’t move, like a locked down table leg.

In addition, this anti-theft bag from LOCTOTE is cut-proof and includes RFID-blocking technology to keep sensitive documents from identity theft.

Keep essential travel documents and items, like your passport, all in a single wallet.

For a better buy, look for a travel wallet with built-in RFID protection that can help protect you against identity theft, like this option from P.travel.

Delayed luggage is the pits. I always pack an extra outfit in my carry on just in case this happens, but sometimes it takes more than a day to get your luggage back.

Why? Because airport employees have to track down your luggage in a sea of luggage that all looks the same.

Add an Apple AirTag to your luggage and you’ll know where it is at all times. Your iPhone will even send you alerts when it's nearby or is out of your range.

One time my brother and I went on a cruise and our luggage didn't arrive on the belt as expected.

We had no idea if it was back home, in Atlanta where we had a layover, or just hadn't been loaded properly.

An AirTag would have resolved that anxiety and we could have tracked it to know when to head to the airport to pick it up sooner than we would have gotten a phone call.

Keep your jewelry safe and organized while traveling with a portable jewelry case.

I love this macaron-like velvet box from Benevolence LA. Not only is it the perfect size, but the violet color is just stunning!

A charm bracelet or collection of bangles are a great way to wear travel memories on the daily.

If your loved one already has a collection started, find out what their preferred brand is and buy a charm or bracelet to add to it.

Personally I like the charms from Jet Set Candy, which include luggage tags and travel objects (they even have a Toblerone charm!). They also have travel themed necklaces.

Celebrate wanderlust with a piece of jewelry that includes a compass or map.

Pretty much any traveler will appreciate a necklace, ring, or bracelet like this!

Wine Hero bags will protect all that wine you’re planning to bring home for me in your suitcase, right?

I always bring a few with me when traveling somewhere that I know I’ll want to bring home a bottle or 2!

Fancy a drink? Make it a good one with a portable cocktail kit.

These adorable kits include special ingredients for classic cocktails, like a margarita or mojito.

If you’re going to have a drink while up in the air, you better make it a good one!

For long-term travelers, a travel journal or travel journal app to record memories on the go is a sweet, sentimental gift.

They’ll appreciate it most years down the road when they want to reminisce or perhaps write a travel memoir!

Nomadic Matt wrote the best guide out there on budget travel.

If someone has a love for travel, but doesn’t know where to start when it comes to traveling on a dime, Matt's book is one of the best gifts you can get them.

I love the hilarious Slanguage book series that teaches foreign language slang for English speakers with super simple drawings and pronunciations. I have the Japanese one!

Looking to connect in a new way while traveling?

Use the Anywhere Travel Guide cards for prompts and ideas on how to explore a new destination.

What better way to inspire your next trip than pouring over a travel book?

There are countless options out there, but lately I'm obsessing over Lonely Planet's The Travel Book.

The photography is stunning, plus there are stats, maps, and lists to help you decide where to go, when to do so, and what to do.

Adult coloring books have exploded over the past 2 years.

The trend doesn’t seem to be slowing down any time soon.

Coloring is a great activity to help ease stress and anxiety, like about-to-get-on-a-plane-for-12-hours anxiety.

Lonely Planet’s Ultimate Travel Book has been transformed into one amazing coloring book.

Forget the overdone scratch-off maps!

A scratch-off bucket list is a fun twist on those maps by tracking adventurous experiences instead.

The poster includes 100 things to do in a lifetime, like skydiving, starting a business, taking a hot air balloon ride, and much more.

Another fun way to show off where your loved one has been or is planning to go is with a cork globe.

Add a set of fun plane or globe shaped pins and you’ve got the perfect gift.

Decorate their home with a vintage travel ad or 2 featuring their favorite destination(s).

Still not sure what to get? You can't go wrong with a gift card for somewhere the recipient frequents.

I recommend Amazon, Apple, or Google Play so that it can be used for new apps, music, books, movies, or games to stay occupied on a long plane or car ride.