Is it just me, or is opening a stocking the best part of Christmas day? I love the mix of silly and useful gifts that Santa slips inside.
As a frequent traveler, I’m always hoping to get gifts in my stocking that I can use for upcoming trips.
Sure, you could go with the usual items, but why not add travel-themed gifts to their Christmas stocking instead?
If you need a few ideas, keep reading for my guide to the best stocking stuffers for travelers.
Treat your loved one to a little bling with a travel-themed piece of jewelry, like this compass and map necklace.
It comes with a manifestation card to bring the good vibes and future travels flowing in.
For charm bracelet wearers, a new charm is a perfect stocking stuffer. I love the travel tag charms from Jet Set Candy.
This option is customizable, which would be great for milestone travels, like a graduation trip, honeymoon, first solo trip, etc.
No matter how one travels, you'll always be susceptable to dry skin, eyes, and lips from traveling. A hydrating lip balm is essential - even better if it has SPF!
My go-to lip balm is SunBum's CocoBalm, especially the banana cream flavor. It keeps my lips nice and moist without leaving a white cast.
My eyes always get super dry when flying, so I travel with an arsenal of remedies to help out.
The Sunnies self-heating steam eye mask are great after a flight. Just open the package and place over your eyes - that's it!
The self-heating action is very relaxing, so I like to use them before I go to sleep if I'm on an overnight flight.
Another option for helping with dry skin from traveling are sheet masks!
I like the Tony Moly Aloe mask for both after a flight, as well as after a day at the beach or out in the sun.
The avocado mask is also great for rehydrating dry skin.
Keep germs at bay with some nice smelling and moisturizing hand sanitizer spray.
Most hand sanitizers cause a rash for me, but this is one of few brands that doesn't!
So if you have sensitive skin, I recommend trying this brand to see if it'll work for you.
Hand cream is another item I always have with me when I'm traveling to ensure my hands don't get overly dry from being on a plane.
This hand cream from Sol de Janeiro has a lovely tropical smell, just like the famous Sol de Janeiro body spray, that isn't too overpowering.
Dry shampoo is one of my secret beauty weapons!
I use it to extend the life of freshly-washed hair, which also helps shorten the amount of time it takes to get ready in the morning since I don't have to wash my hair every day.
It's also great on off-grid adventures like hiking and camping, where you might not have access to a shower or only access to a cold one.
My go-to is Amika, but there are several others that I think are worth a purchase. You can learn more in my guide to dry shampoo for travel.
I swear by Body Glide's Foot Glide for preventing blisters.
While good-fitting shoes and socks go a long way, sometimes the weather can make even the best pairing cause blisters.
I learned this the hard way recently when I forgot my Foot Glide at home.
The heat and humidity combined with lots of walking caused my fave pair of sneakers and moisture-wicking socks to still allow a few blisters to pop up.
So if you walk a lot when on vacation or go hiking, I highly recommend using this product as a preventative measure against blisters.
Another option to help you relax while traveling are aromatherapy essential oils in a travel-friendly roll-on container.
Just swipe on your wrists or inside of your elbow and you're good to go!
UpNature has several different essential oil blends to help with a variety of concerns, so if anxiety or stress isn't an issue, they might have an option for something else, like headaches or PMS.
If you don't have room for more liquids in your carry-on, but like the idea of aromatherapy on-the-go, try the Moxē aromatherapy inhaler sticks.
I have a few of these, such as the peace stick, and it really does help when I'm stressed or want to relax on a plane but can't get comfortable.
Perfume lovers probably can't travel without their beloved scent.
For this type of person, an atomizer is a perfect stocking stuffer so they don't have to take up space with the full bottle.
I prefer using an electric toothbrush over manual because my teeth just feel more clean afterward.
After getting tired of using a manual toothbrush, especially on longer trips, I had to hunt down a new electric toothbrush that I could take with me.
And I found the perfect match with the Quip Electric Toothbrush!
You get up to 3 months use on a charge, plus it has a timer to ensure you are brushing your teeth long enough!
Keep your travel toothbrush clean and protected with a steripod toothbrush cover. Unlike traditional toothbrush covers, the steripod will fit nearly all toothbrushes since it just covers the head.
Reusable, travel-sized toiletry containers are an easy and quick way to bulk up a Christmas stocking while still gifting something useful.
They are also a great way to encourage travelers to avoid purchasing single-use, mini-sized toiletries.
I'm currently using the flat travel containers from Kitsch.
These 3 ounce containers are great because they won't take up extra space if they aren't completely full, leaving more room for fun makeup and skincare if your makeup bag.
Ditch the Ziploc bag and go with something more durable and a bit more environmentally friendly with this reusable TSA-approved toiletry bag. I've had mine for years of frequent travel and it's held up great!
An eye mask for sleeping with a contoured eyeshade will ensure restful sleep, as the raised eyeshade allows for uninterrupted REM sleep.
I swear by this exact eye mask from Bucky and have used it for nearly 10 years now!
For stressed or anxious travelers, a magnesium supplement can help you remain calm.
Plus, this drink powder contains electrolytes to help stave off or improve dehydration.
The single-use packaging makes them travel-friendly, too.
NOTE: Always consult with your doctor before adding a supplement to your regimen.
Many places don't give out straws anymore - or if they do, they only have paper straws that disintegrate in practically minutes.
A reusable straw is a great item to carry if you prefer or need them so you don't get caught without one or have to use those icky paper straws.
If you are going to drink while flying, you may as well make it a good cocktail!
The Cocktail Box Co. makes a variety of classic cocktail mixer boxes that you can take with you on the plane (or camping!).
Just ask for a mini bottle of whatever liquor is needed once you're on the plane and you're all good to go to make your fave drink.
A stainless steel water bottle will take up a heck of a lot of space in a stocking, but you always have the option of stuffing the bottle with goodies, too!
Currently I'm using the Takeya 24 oz. bottle when traveling. It has a handy loop that can be used for carrying or hooking on to a bag with a carabiner.
Best of all, it keeps the temperature exactly how you like it - icy cold or toasty warm - all day!
If your travel lover prefers small earbuds instead of over-the-ear headphones, AirPod Pros are a great option.
They are noise cancelling, but small enough to take on the go.
If you're worried about connecting to the in-flight entertainment system when flying, keep scrolling because I have a great solution for that!
I got an AirFly Pro in my stocking last year and never travel without it!
Essentially what this gadget does is connect wireless headphones or ear buds to the in-flight entertainment system.
So instead of plugging in headphones, you just plug this in and it uses bluetooth to make the connection.
This particular model can connect up to 2 pairs, but there is a slightly cheaper version for single connection, too.
I love the little Flex Flap cell phone holder for traveling! It's completely flat, so it barely takes up any space.
But it can be bent into different configurations to hold your phone so you can watch your favorite shows, movies, and YouTube videos on the go.
Apple AirTags have only been around for a few years, but they are already a must-have travel accessory.
Add one to your luggage, purse, or wallet to track your bags.
You can even get wristbands and necklaces for kids, which is great when traveling somewhere crowded, like a theme park.
If you’re looking for a more substantial gift to add to a Christmas stocking, consider a SIMO Solis portable WiFi device.
The newest version of this tiny device doubles as portable wifi and a power bank. I never travel outside the US without mine!
NOTE: SIMO was previously called SkyRoam.
Speaking of power banks, if you don't need a portable WiFi device, you could get a standalone portable charger instead.
This is perfect for charging your phone on the go.
The iWalk charger is tiny, lightweight, and depending on the model, can recharge your phone more than 1 time!
I never travel without mine.
Every international traveler needs a converter and adapter kit.
So if your fave traveler doesn't have one, this is perfect for the stocking!
I know you must be thinking this is weird - but Duck Tape is seriously a multi-purpose tool that every traveler should have in their suitcase.
It can be used for a variety of issues - tape up a pair of glasses, hold together a suitcase, patch a tear in a car seat, remove lint in a pinch, and so on.
I learned this trip from my grandmother, who insisted I always have it with me - and she was right. It has definitely come in handy several times!
TIP: Duck Tape is sold in a variety of colors and patterns, so if you're hesistant because of how dull and boring it looks, you could always opt for a fun color or print!
A travel sewing kit is invaluable as a must-pack item and will fit perfectly in a stocking.
It'll help with fixing buttons, adding a hem, patching up a small tear, and so on.
I've even used the scissors to cut moleskin when I had a blister recently!
A mini first aid kit is another must-have item for travelers.
You can buy a premade kit, like the one linked below, or make your own with a small pouch and essentials, like band aids, Tylenol, gauze, Immodium, and so on.
Gift cards
Gift cards are no-brainer stocking stuffers for travelers - or everyone, really!
Travel isn't always cheap, especially if you're still learning about travel hacking and traveling on budget.
So slip a gift card to AirBNB, Disney, or a favorite airline into their Christmas stocking this year.
Or an Apple or Google Play gift card can be used for mobile app subscriptions like App in the Air, as well as games, movies, and music for entertainment.
A wet bag is great for stashing wet swimsuits, sweaty gym clothes, or dirty clothes so that they don't mess up anything else in your usual bag or suitcase.
The Bumkins bag was originally created with babies in mind, but they come in a variety of sizes, making them also very useful for travelers and others on-the-go.
I feel like a Christmas stocking always needs something a little silly and fun, such as a Mad Libs word game. It's also perfect for entertainment while traveling, since it's compact and simple.
This small box of conversation starters is perfect for long-haul travel, such as road trips and international flights. BONUS: It's also great for bonding with your family and friends.
Playing cards are perfect for travel because you can using them for a variety of games, not just one, which means hours upon hours of entertainment.
Slip a travel guide into their Christmas stocking for an upcoming trip or for their bucket list destination. Gift cards for Kindle books are also a great idea!
I love the slanguage language learning books and am currently using the Japanese one to learn from slang before a trip to Japan!
Another idea are pocket-sized travel guides for an upcoming destination.
If your loved one doesn’t have a trip planned next year yet, check out this list of travel books by women for a few book ideas.
If you’ve been reading my blog for a while, you know that I have a bit of a sweet tooth. Also, don’t the best Christmas stockings always have a piece of candy or 2?
Instead of picking up generic chocolates with Christmas wrappers on them, go with something from a recent travel destination instead!
For example, green tea flavored Kit Kat bars from Japan, TimTams from Australia, or Cadbury Crunchie bars from the UK.
Not only will their sweet tooth be satisfied, but it will help spark happy memories of past travels while enjoying their candy.
Keep your personal information safe from identity thiefs and your bag light with a slim RFID-blocking wallet.
A passport cover is great for protecting your passport book, as well as making it easy to spot. I love this option that you can color in as you visit each country.
Travel passport wallets help keep everything in one place - cards, currency, receipts, boarding passes, passport, etc.
No more digging through your personal item or carry-on for important items!
LifeStraw is a great stocking stuffer for outdoorsy and adventure travelers.
If they ever get stuck somewhere, they can use the LifeStraw to drink water while it filters out any bad stuff in the water.
Add an extra layer of security and protection with this portable lock for hotel rooms. I never travel alone without mine!
Luggage scales are super helpful for chronic overpackers to help avoid extra luggage fees.
I always weigh my suitcase before I go to the airport to ensure any checked baggage isn't over the airline's weight limit.
I also bring it with me to re-weigh it before I return home, especially if I've added souvenirs to my suitcase!
A reusable bag is another must-have item that I always travel with. It's also eco-friendly!
Use it to bag up groceries or stash souvenirs if your suitcase is too full.
Compression socks might be totally vanilla options for a stocking. However, they are a super useful item for travelers.
Not only do compression socks help blood circulate in your legs to help prevent blood clots, they also help prevent or reduce puffiness and swelling.
As someone with a blood clotting disorder, I highly recommend them - especially for long haul flights.
NOTE: If you have any health conditions, please consult with a doctor as to whether you should be using these, as well as the type.
Travel journals are another great option for literary-minded travelers, especially those embarking on long-term travel.
Journals encourage travelers to record travel memories, which will be a ton of fun to go through for years and years after the trip is long done.
For a few ideas on which ones to get, check out my post on my favorite travel journals.
Protect your luggage from theft with a TSA approved lock. You'll have peace of mind while your bag is out of your eyesight, but the TSA can still access it if it's selected for additional screening.
Start a new tradition by adding a travel-themed Christmas ornament to everyone's stocking each year.
Choose a destination that your loved one visited earlier in the year or one they are looking forward to in the year to come.
A generic travel-themed ornament, such as a plane or suitcase, would be a cute stocking stuffer, too.
Before you know it, they’ll have enough ornaments to decorate an entire travel-themed Christmas tree!
What are your favorite stocking stuffers for travelers?
Let me know in the comments below what Santa will be filling the stockings with this year!
Before you go, if you need larger Christmas gift ideas, check out these posts:
About the author
Meg Frost is a Boston-based travel blogger that helps people embrace technology to make vacation planning and traveling wicked easy, affordable, and fun.
She holds an M.A. in Journalism from Northeastern University and B.S. in Communication & American Studies from University of Miami.
This post was originally published on November 17, 2016. It was last updated on October 27, 2023.
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