The best gifts for travelers: 20 unique and useful ideas

gift ideas for a traveler

What can you get as a gift for a friend who LOVES to travel? The list below has lots of ideas for what to give as a gift for a traveler to bring on their trips, or to have at home while they dream of their next adventure! Whether it be a Christmas gift for a traveler, or a birthday present for a traveler, there is something for every occasion. Feel free to treat yourself too! 😛

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1. Scratch Map or Pin Map

So these are addictive – it’s like a game. How many can I scratch off (or pin)!? It’s so fun. It’s also great decor, and makes for a conversation piece if you have anyone visiting.

2. A globe

Another similar gift could be a globe (who doesn’t love a globe!). It’s a great addition to a work desk, in a home library or bedroom. They look so academic and classy. They can put almost anywhere in their home or office and longingly stare at it while dreaming of where to go next.

3. Wooden map of the world

These wooden maps are more expensive than a scratch or pin map but are SO stunning and a piece of art. They come in different sizes and styles that can fit a wider range of budgets.

4. Travel Journal

A travel journal can be a great way to plan or document a trip, and is also a great way to avoid feeling lonely while traveling. A travel-themed journal can also be used as a daily planner, or to take notes during school. There are so many different styles to choose from as well: covers with inspiring travel quotes, world travel, specific locations. So many options for the traveler in your life!

5. Gift card (or personalized item) from Vistaprint

Making a personalized photo book, calendar, a poster, a puzzle (or even a travel journal!) is an excellent way to personalize a gift for travelers, and a great memento of their favourite trip! The options are almost endless on Vistaprint. If you can’t decide what to get them, then give a Vistaprint giftcard so they can choose themselves!

Visit their site here to see what they offer.

6. A foot hammock

If your travel-loving friend doesn’t already have a foot hammock, then you NEED to get them one! It makes long-haul flying SO much more comfortable.

7. A portable charger

External chargers can come in handy while traveling abroad, or even at home. What is worse than a dead cell phone (which contains Google maps, hotel reservations, boarding passes, etc.) while traveling? Nothing, that’s what.

8. Packing cubes

This is another life-changing travel item to help organize everything. They are seriously the best.

9. Cash money!

So this might sound like it’s not very personal. But trust me, if someone is always traveling it means they’re always saving for their next trip. A traveler is ALWAYS in need of some good ol’ cash to put towards their next trip!

A great way to personalize a cash gift is to give them money in the currency for where they are traveling to next, with a suggestion for what they can do with it.

For example: put 20 Euros (if they are traveling to Europe) in a card with a local restaurant or museum suggestion and say that coffee and the entrance fee is on you!

10. Kindle

It saves space and can store tons of books. Perfect for the traveler that loves to read! It’s perfect for the plane ride, and winding down at the end of the day.

11. Fold up backpack

This backpack is so versatile! Going on a day trip and only need to bring a few items? This bag is for you. Going on a hike? This bag is for you. It’s small and foldable so it doesn’t take up a lot of space.

12. Fanny Pack

These are also great items to buy as a gift for a traveler. Small and versatile, a fanny pack while traveling with dogs or with children since it keeps your hands free, and your phone and wallet within easy reach.

13. Hair scrunchies with hidden pockets

These hair scrunchies aren’t just any hair item – They have secret zippered pockets in them! These are great for hiding money, and even a photocopy of your passport. It helps keep any extra money safe just in case your wallet gets stolen.

14. Infinity Scarf with hidden pockets

If you want even more hidden storage on your body, then adding a scarf to the mix will do the trick! The scarf can hold bigger items like credit cards or even your phone. Just don’t take your scarf off and forget it on the back of a chair!

15. Camera

This is more of an expensive gift, but taking pictures is a big part of traveling! A nice camera, or accessories for their camera, makes a great gift for a traveler. Accessories ideas for their camera could be SD cards, batteries, or a new lens (find out what type of camera they already have to find a compatible lens for it).

The camera linked below is the type of camera I travel with (Canon M50). It is small and light so it doesn’t take up too much room in my purse. It’s also easy to use for beginners and has different lens options to upgrade to in the future.

16. Selfie stick or tripod

Help your travel-loving friend capture gorgeous pictures of themselves with the help of a selfie stick or tripod. Or a selfie-stick tripod combo.

17. A hat with a built-in headlamp

These hats are so useful for any hikers, and travelers going to colder destinations. Not only do they keep you warm, but they also provide light for when it gets dark in the early evenings!

18. A Yeti

These travel mugs are incredible – they keep your drinks ice-cold (or piping hot) for hours and hours. Perfect for a friend who loves going on road trips!

19. Personal Security Door Alarm/Lock

Another great gift for a traveler is to keep them safe while they are away with these portable locks!

20. A staycation/experience in their local area

A traveler always loves the opportunity for an adventure, so why not gift them an experience in their local area? This can be for anything and can fit any budget. Some ideas are:

  • A giftcard for a new restaurant with a nice atmosphere for them to try.
  • A day pass for a spa, an escape room, or rock-climbing, etc.
  • A voucher for a one-night stay in a hotel so that they can go on a staycation.
  • Tickets for a play or concert.
  • Anything new and fun to try out will be a great gift for a traveler.

Do you have anything that you would recommend getting as a gift for a traveler in your life? Or, if you love to travel yourself, what would you want to get as a gift for Christmas or your birthday? Let me know in the comments below!


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