Finding the perfect gift for the traveler in your life isn’t easy. How do you find something small, lightweight, and packable that they can actually use? Fortunately, travelers tend to value experiences over material things. The key to finding the perfect travel gift is choosing something practical and functional. To make your shopping less stressful, here are some of the most useful travel gifts to make any trip go much smoother.
Don’t be scammed into getting a gift that seems cool in theory, but will be of no use during travel. There are so many things on the market that seem like a good idea, but are actually just a waste of money. Click here to read about travel gifts you should not waste your money on.
I’ve bought everything on this list with my own money and only recommend things I’ve personally used and loved. However, this post does contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. You won’t pay a higher price, and I never accept money for reviews.
Useful Travel Gifts: Safety
Nothing is more thoughtful than showing you care about someone’s safety. The less they need to focus on safety, the more they can focus on having a great time. These items offer peace of mind for both you and your loved one.
Samsung Bluetooth Tracker
Bluetooth trackers are definitely a game-changer when it comes to travel. Especially for someone like me who travels with just a carry-on and lives in constant fear of being asked to check it. Having one of these in your checked luggage gives you peace of mind knowing whether or not it’s with you, or if you’ll need to plan accordingly. It’s one of the pricier items on the list (about 74 USD) , but definitely one of the most useful. You can also stick one in your wallet, just in case. Here’s the airtags for you Apple people!
Travel Door Stop Alarm
These would make a great practical stocking stuffer for the solo traveler in your life. Fortunately, the only experience I’ve had with this alarm is accidentally setting it off when I forgot to pack it away before leaving my hotel. It’s loud af and would definitely alert you if anyone was trying to enter your room. It’s super light-weight and works on any inner-pull door.
Personal Safety Alarm
This a great gift for a solo travelers, or anyone in your life that spends a lot of time alone. It’s lightweight, attaches to any keychain, and is very easy to use in case of an emergency. It’s incredibly loud and would definitely attract attention out in public. My only critique is that I’ve accidently set it off while searching for my keys in my bag, but that might actually be a useful feature in case of an emergency. Just make sure the top pin is secured at all times!
Lightweight Power Bank
As someone who travels without a camera, this is an item I never travel without. This power bank is light-weight and fits comfortably in even the smallest belt bag. It can charge my Samsung from almost dead to a full charge at least twice. I really like that it tells you how much battery life it has left, so you know when it’s time to charge it.
I’ve used a few power banks, and this one is definitely my favorite. I prefer it to the ones with the built in cords. Those don’t charge your phone as fast, and they tend to overheat. This may not be the trendiest power bank, but it’s one of the most functional I’ve used. Whichever you decide to go with, a power bank is one of the most useful travel gifts you can give!
Wrist Zipper Pouch
Another great stocking stuffer for the traveler in your life. I originally thought this was a gimmicky item that I wouldn’t get much use out of, but I actually use them pretty often, even when I’m not travelling. They are perfect for your cash, a credit card, and your keys. I prefer these to a money belt, because it’s much less conspicuous to get your cash out when you’re ready. I’m also a pretty anxious person, so I’m always checking to make sure I have my cash and card on me. With these, I can just feel my wrist, instead of digging through my bag.
I’ve used these when I’m traveling through crowded markets and on public transport… basically anywhere chances of getting pickpocketed are higher. But in my everyday life I use them for going on walks or working out outside. These secret pocket scrunchies also do the same thing, but I’m way more likely to misplace them.
Useful Travel Gifts: Sentimental
Travel gifts can serve a practical purpose, but sometimes the most special ones are those that evoke emotion and remind travelers of their most cherished memories. Here are some gift ideas that will remind travelers of the places they’ve been, the people they’ve met, and the experiences that have shaped their lives.
World Map with Pins
This map has unfortunately increased in price since I purchased it, and is one of the most expensive items on this list (about 130 USD). That being said, I do still think it’s worth the price. It’s beautiful, and looks elegant in any space you decide to hang it. It comes with supplies for mounting and a good amount of pins. It’s quite big, and takes up a lot of wall space, which also makes it a great housewarming gift. My only critique is that some of the countries are really small, making them hard to pin (which is why I haven’t added all mine yet).
Zink Photo Printer
This is one of my favorite travel gift ideas! It’s a pocket-sized printer that let’s you print photos on sticker paper. It’s the modern day polaroid, except it prints pictures from your smartphone, so you get to choose the best shot. It’s also a bit pricey (about 100 USD including 50 sheets of photo paper). But the amount of use I’ve got out of mine made it completely worth the price. I’ve printed out so many pictures for my travel journal and even as mementos for friends I’ve met during my travels.
The best part is that since it’s a zink printer (zink= zero ink), you never have to purchase ink for it. You just need to buy more paper when you run out.
Travel Journal
This is a great inexpensive gift idea, but can be one of the most useful for the sentimental traveler. A journal gives them the space to document all of the most special moments during their trip. I particularly love and use this one from Paperage. It’s affordable and durable… almost on par with Moleskine quality. The paper is really thick and doesn’t bleed through. I also love that it has a folder in the back. As a travel hoarder, I used it to stick my entry tickets, receipts, and other scraps that I want to save. I’ve gone through two of them already, can’t wait to start my third!
A Good Book
One of my favorite travel gifts to give is a book that can easily be packed in a carry-on. Any traveler will tell you that travel days are long, and sometimes without reliable internet access. Having some old-fashioned print media is a good idea for entertainment, or even just as a conversation starter. These are some of my favorite books to gift.
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Choosing the perfect travel gift is about finding a balance between practicality and thoughtfulness. Whether it’s a sentimental keepsake, or something functional to pack with you, the right gift can enhance any travel experience. Be sure to check out my other posts for recommendations and tips to make every adventure unforgettable!
