21 Wanderlust-y, On-The-Go Gifts For Your Favorite Traveler
(That they'll actually want.)
weheartit What do travel enthusiasts love? Well, travel actually. They love to travel. But the second thing they love is anything travel-related.
Take any old knick knack and slap a vintage map on it and travel fans will go crazy over it. Seriously, I’m a passionate wanderluster and if it has a map, I’ll throw down some serious cash.
While travelers will love to decorate their notebooks, suitcases, cars, homes (if they even have one) with jet-set goods, they also dig useful travel gifts too. An item will score extra points if it works for both function AND design. A minimalist backpack with a compass decal? Sign me up!
So, if you have a vagabond in your family or friend group, and you want to get a head start on Christmas gifts, this guide of the best gifts for travelers will show you the way. Stock them up on useful travel tools for their inevitable next trip or serve them up some serious inspiration (as if they need any more) to get their travel plans kickstarted.
Oh, and be careful with that credit card because some of these items are so fantastic that you might want to buy them for yourself.
1. Eyerusalem Passport Wallet
A damaged passport could keep you from traveling to other countries. Seriously, pages that got wet or ripped could leave you with a passport that isn’t any good. Don’t get yourself stuck in another country because your passport is looking shabby. This passport wallet will keep it safe and make it look cute.
(Livefashionable, $35)
2. On The Go Coffee Press
Traveling can be hard work which means that a good ol’ cup of coffee is needed. When you can’t find any cute cafes, and the coffee in your hotel room is not up to par, you can use this press. Have craft coffee every morning whether you’re in an AirBnb, a tent, or a motel.
(Uncommon Goods, $35)
3. Inspiring Luggage Tag
Stay inspired while keeping track of your bag (because the biggest killer of travel inspo is lost luggage). Every seasoned traveler is familiar with this quote, so why not make it a part of your journey? It will keep you going!
(Etsy, $17)
4. Game Night in a Can
There is a TON of downtime in traveling. So, why not whip out your game in a can while you wait for your train/plane/automobile? It will help you pass the time and is also small enough to throw in your carry-on. Oh, and if you whip this out of your purse while you’re checking out a new bar or hostel, you’ll make friends pretty darn fast.
(Uncommon Goods, $25)
5. Worldly Coffee Subscription
Sometimes, travelers can’t travel. Even when they’re in between trips, the wanderlust is probably still eating away at them from the inside out. This is why they need a little bit of the world delivered to them in the mail. Atlas Coffee Club will send a pouch of caffeinated culture to all travel lovers who could really use a taste of the world.
(Atlas Coffee Club, $14)
6. Anti-theft Backpack
Travelers have to constantly watch their backs while in high-traffic tourist destinations. Pit pockets are everywhere, and they are looking to take advantage of tourists. While you can get a money belt, which is worn under the clothes, this anti-theft backpack is WAY more comfortable and stylish.
(Uncommon Goods, $95)
7. Double Camping Hammock
Travelers tend to love the great outdoors. If you plan on exploring the national parks of the world, you might want a hammock to help you relax while you read your guidebook. Make it a double if you happen to be traveling with your partner or your pet of choice!
(Amazon, $99)
8. Margarita Carry-on Cocktail Kit
Why blow your travel budget on the airline’s overpriced cocktails? Instead, stuff this cocktail kit into your carry-on and dive into some margaritas before you even land in Mexico. It could be a great way for you to flirt with that cute guy next to you.
(Uncommon Goods, $24)
9. Slip Eye mask
This isn't just any ole' eye mask guys. Your eyes are in for a silky treat as it's made from 100% of the stuff. Literally, the entire thing is full of lovely silk; from the band to the padding inside. It's kind of like a hug for your eyes while you're trying to get some sleep on the plane. Plus, you'll look totally fabulous while wearing it.
10. National Parks Explorer Map
If you LOVE national parks this map is the perfect decoration for your house or camper van (for those of you living that van life). You can mark off the ones you’ve been to while you dream about your plans to visit the others.
(Uncommon Goods, $55-$105)
11. Try The World Subscription Box
If you want to send your wanderlusty friend some travel treats, this box is a must. It’s full of gourmet food, snacks, and drinks from around the world. Not only will your friend get a tasty treat, but they will become one cultured snacker. Oh, and maybe you can get them to share with you too.
(Try The World, $39)
12. Cork Globe
It’s a globe but one that lets you mark off the countries you’ve been to. A globe like this is a trendy decoration that also shows off what a jet-setter you are. Impress your house guests while keeping track of where you’ve been.
(Uncommon Goods, $48-$124)
13. Homesick Clothing
Even if you’re an avid traveler, you probably have a soft spot for your home town. Grab yourself a t-shirt or sweatshirt that sports your state so that you can feel more connected to home. Also, wearing one of these tops may help you find your tribe while you’re traveling abroad.
(Homesick Clothing, $28-$45)
14. Travel Diffuser Aromatherapy
Travel can be stressful, but with this aromatherapy kit, you can stay calm no matter where you are. It’s small enough to fit in your carry-on and can be a lifesaver during turbulence or while dealing with intense culture shock.
(Uncommon Goods, $30)
15. Defend Our Parklands Shirt
Outdoor enthusiasts will love these shirts. They’re cute, are great for hiking, and support a great cause. Every time a top is purchased, some of the proceeds go to helping out parks around the country. It’s a way to make the world more beautiful.
(Parks Project, $34-$40)
16. Travel Cooking Essentials Kit
This thing is an absolute lifesaver for travelers. Cook at your campsite, in your hotel room, or at your AirBnb with these cooking tools that can fit in your carry-on. You’ll always be prepared to whip up a meal no matter where you are.
(Uncommon Goods, $35-$50)
17. Timbrefone Acoustic Phone Amp
Music makes everything better. This is small and lightweight, making it a perfect addition to your luggage. Just plug in your phone and turn any travel situation into a party. This is yet another way to make new friends while staying at a hostel or hanging in the park.
(Uncommon Goods, $100)
19. Coola Mineral Sunscreen
If you’re traveling, it’s likely that you’re outdoors, A LOT. So, protect yourself with some cruelty-free sunscreen. What’s even better than protecting your skin from the sun? Doing it in a healthy, organic, and environmentally-friendly way. This sunblock will keep you safe with its health-conscious formula.
(COOLA, $36)
19. Luna-Go Compact Facial Brush
Travel can leave you feeling and looking pretty rough. Beauty routines fly out the window when you have sites to visit and new food to eat. But this is exactly why this compact facial brush is the perfect addition to your carry-on. It will stimulate your skin cells and work some anti-aging magic on your cute face.
(Foreo, $99)
20. Dagne Dover Carry-All and Backpack
Despite your carry-on or your suitcase, you'll need a rockin' day bag for when you're on the go. Whether you are carrying a book to a Parisian cafe, sunblock and a towel to a beach in Australia, or a bottle of wine to watch the sunset in Croatia, a cute bag will help you out. These bags are not only super-sturdy but sophisticated and classy too!
21. The Swan Dive Swimsuit
No matter where you're traveling, there's a good chance that you'll have an opportunity to hit the water. If you're trying to pack light, having one solid bathing suit will help you with your efforts. This one-piece is sexy but conservative enough for most cultures. It's made for movement so you can surf in Bali, lounge in a chalet hot tub, or paddle board on a Colorado lake.
(Go Summer Salt, $95)
Want to travel but don't think you have the funds? Watch the TED Talk below for advice on how to travel when you don't have much money:
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Shannon Ullman has the spirit of a vagabond, which has led her on adventures all over the world. She's taught English in Asia, lived out of a van in New Zealand, road tripped all over the US, and backpacked through Europe. Follow her blog to read all about her adventures.
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