As the holiday season approaches, it’s the perfect time to consider thoughtful gifts for those who enjoy exploring new horizons. Whether it’s for your sibling, parent, or best friend, gifts that resonate with their love for travel will undoubtedly be cherished.
After thorough research and drawing from our extensive experience of both receiving and giving numerous gifts tailored for travel enthusiasts, we’ve curated a list of unique gift ideas that will delight any globetrotter.
#1 Drone
A drone is a great gift for travelers because it lets them take amazing aerial photos and videos of their trips. It’s easy to carry and use, making it perfect for capturing special moments from a unique angle. Plus, for those who like to share their adventures, a drone adds a cool twist to their travel stories. It’s a practical and fun tool that can bring a new level of excitement to any journey.
For a traveler, a lightweight and foldable drone is ideal. Look for one that’s easy to pack and doesn’t take up much space in a backpack. A drone with a good camera quality, preferably with 4K video capabilities, will ensure crisp and clear images. Also, consider a drone with a decent battery life to allow for longer flying times. Features like GPS and automatic return-to-home are handy for easy navigation and safety. A user-friendly interface, perhaps with a companion app for easy control and editing, would also be a big plus for travelers who might not be tech-savvy.
#2 Duex Plus Portable Second Screen for Laptop
The Duex Plus portable monitor is great for travelers who work on the go. It’s light at 1.3 lbs (0.59 kg) and suits 13-14 inch laptops. Its adaptability shines in various places, from coffee shops to airport lounges, ensuring you stay productive.
Key features include an auto-rotating display and eye-care mode for comfortable use. It’s easy to set up with a USB-C cable and works with devices like macOS, Windows, and more.
Based on my experience, the Duex Plus significantly enhances my travel productivity. Its ease of use, lightweight design, and seamless connectivity make it ideal for handling various tasks and spreadsheets on the go. This makes it an ideal Christmas gift for anyone who cherishes both efficiency and adventure.
#3 Action Camera
An action camera is a great gift for anyone who loves adventure. These cameras are tough, waterproof, and can take high-quality videos and photos, even in rough conditions.
They’re perfect for travelers who like to capture their outdoor adventures. When picking an action camera, look for one that can take clear, stable videos, has a wide-angle lens for big shots, and can easily connect to other devices to share pictures and videos. Features like 4K video quality and slow-motion can add extra fun to travel videos. They’re also small and easy to attach to things like helmets or bikes, making them really handy for active travelers.
#4 Phone/Passport Travel Cover
A stylish and practical phone or passport cover is not only a useful accessory for keeping important items secure but also serves as a constant reminder of thoughtful friendship, making it a perfect gift for those frequently on the move.
When choosing a cover, opt for one that is durable and water-resistant to withstand the rigors of travel. Look for features like RFID blocking to protect personal information, and consider designs that reflect the traveler’s personality or destinations they love. A cover with additional pockets can also be handy for organizing cards and tickets. This kind of thoughtful, personalized cover is more than just a gift; it’s a useful companion in every journey.
#5 TokyoTreat Christmas Snack Box
The TokyoTreat Christmas Snack Box is a great gift for foodie travelers who like to try new things. This box is full of snacks that give a taste of a Japanese Christmas, offering a mix of unique flavors.
In the box, you’ll find treats like strawberry chocolate cake kitkats, truffle & rock salt chips, and festive gummies and corn snacks. The box is small, colorful, and nicely packaged. It is such a fun way to experience a Japanese Christmas and share new snack experiences while traveling!
#6 Japanese Snack Box by Sakuraco
Another great Christmas food idea for those who love to travel is the Sakuraco Box. It comes with 20+ real Japanese snacks and candies, giving a taste of Japan’s culture. These snacks are made by local experts and offer a piece of Japan’s history.
The box also includes Japanese teas like matcha and hojicha for a nice tea time. This is a cozy way for travelers to remember the feel of Japan.
Each month, the Sakuraco Box has different themes, showing off various Japanese snacks and the country’s seasons. It’s a fun gift for travelers who like trying new things. The box also has items like ceramics and chopsticks from Japan, which are great for travelers who enjoy cultural items.
#7 Personalised Video
An affordable and personal gift idea is a homemade video. It’s a bit of work, but it’s worth it because it really makes an impact on those who love to travel. You can ask family and friends to send in clips with good wishes and memories.
This is a great way to make travelers feel connected to home and loved ones, no matter where they are. Once upon a time, Cez made a video like this for my birthday, getting messages from our friends and travel bloggers. It was so special and emotional, I watch it every year on my birthday. You can create a similar heartfelt gift for your traveling friends, giving them something they can cherish and look back on.
#8 Travel Laptop
A lightweight, high-performance laptop is essential for travelers working on-the-go. Ideal travel laptops should be under 4 pounds (about 1.8 kilograms) and have a battery life of at least 8 hours. The MacBook Air, starting around $999, is a popular choice, known for its weight under 3 pounds (about 1.36 kilograms) and up to 12-hour battery life.
Other notable options include the Dell XPS 13 and the Lenovo ThinkPad series. The Dell XPS 13, with a starting price around $900, is compact and well-built, while the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon, starting at around $1,000, is praised for its keyboard and durability.
When purchasing this gift, consider warranty and customer support, especially international services.
#9 Flight Ticket
You can totally shock your loved ones by giving them a flight ticket Christmas gift. It’s a gateway to new experiences and destinations, ideal for those with a passion for exploration.
To find the best flight deal as a gift, start by considering the recipient’s travel preferences, such as favorite destinations or dream locations. Use flight comparison websites like Skyscanner, Kayak, or Google Flights to compare prices and find the best deals. These platforms allow you to set alerts for price drops, ensuring you get the most value for your money. Consider flexibility in your ticket choice, such as open-dated tickets or vouchers from airlines, which can be particularly thoughtful, giving the recipient the freedom to choose their travel dates. Budget airlines can offer great deals for short-haul flights, while for long-haul journeys, look for promotions or off-season discounts from major carriers.
Remember, the cost of a flight ticket varies widely depending on the destination, time of booking, and travel dates. A short domestic flight might cost as little as $50 to $100, whereas international flights can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars. If you’re not sure about specific dates or destinations, airline gift cards are a versatile option, allowing the recipient to apply the value towards a flight of their choice.
#10 Travel Insurance
Gifting travel insurance is a thoughtful way to ensure a traveler’s safety and well-being. When selecting a plan from companies like WorldNomads, known for their flexible and affordable options, consider the traveler’s destination and activities. Coverage should include medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and emergency evacuation, with prices typically ranging from 4% to 10% of the trip’s total cost.
Ensure the policy covers the entire trip duration. You can easily purchase it online, with the option to personalize the insurance certificate for the traveler. Also, include a brief guide on how to use the insurance, such as emergency contact numbers and claim process instructions.
This gift provides peace of mind for both the traveler and their loved ones, offering protection and security during their travels. It’s a practical and caring gift that shows thoughtfulness for their adventures!
#11 Travel Diary
A travel diary is more than just a notebook; it’s a repository of memories and experiences. Look for diaries with durable covers and quality paper, possibly with added features like pockets for mementos.
Prices can range from $10 to $30, depending on the quality and design. They can be bought at bookstores or online, making them a convenient and thoughtful gift for any traveler.
#12 Power Bank
A high-capacity power bank is a practical gift for travelers to keep their devices charged. Opt for one with at least 10,000mAh capacity, typically priced between $20 to $50. Features like multiple charging ports allow charging various devices simultaneously, and fast-charging capabilities save time.
Look for durable models with LED indicators to display remaining charge, and consider size and weight for easy portability. Additional features like built-in cables or wireless charging can enhance convenience.
#13 Travel Backpack
Gifting a travel backpack is a fantastic idea for Christmas, especially for those who love to explore new places. The right backpack can be a traveler’s best companion, offering both functionality and comfort.
When choosing a backpack, look for one that is lightweight yet durable, and able to withstand the rigors of travel. A capacity of around 30 to 50 liters is usually ideal for most travelers, providing enough space for essentials without being too bulky. Adjustable straps and a padded back are important for comfort, especially when carrying the backpack for extended periods. Look for backpacks with multiple compartments and pockets for easy organization, and water-resistant material is a plus for outdoor adventures. Brands like Osprey and North Face offer great options, known for their quality and ergonomic designs. These backpacks are available in outdoor gear shops or online, with a range of prices typically between $100 to $200, depending on the features and brand.
#14 Sports Watch
Gifting a sports watch to an active traveler is an excellent idea. Key features to consider are GPS for route tracking, heart rate monitoring for fitness tracking, and water resistance for durability. Brands like Garmin and Fitbit are popular choices, offering a range of models with varying functionalities.
Prioritize long battery life and additional features like altitude meters or contactless payments based on the traveler’s needs. Prices for these watches vary, starting around $100 and going over $500 for advanced models.
#15 Packing Cubes
Packing cubes transform how travelers pack. Sets typically cost between $20 and $50 and come in various sizes to fit different luggage types. Look for durable materials and consider cubes with different colors for easy organization.
They can be found in luggage stores or online and are a great gift for anyone who values organization.
These 15 gift ideas have been chosen with travelers in mind, to make their trips better and more memorable. From useful items like a sturdy travel laptop to thoughtful ones like a travel diary, each gift is perfect for enhancing the experiences of anyone who loves to explore.
Do you have any other Christmas gift ideas for travelers?
