This is a post about gift ideas for travel lovers. Originally posted on 21 November 2024. Updated on 18 September 2025.
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I don’t know about you but I have serious mixed feelings about Christmas. I love having the time off, being cosy and occasionally spend it making an extra buck by dogsitting. However, the shopping part is super overwhelming! Usually I have my best gift ideas out of the blue, forget to write them down and end up with only last minute boring ideas. In the end, I always ALWAYS second guess my purchases relentlessly. I just really dislike giving random things that’ll just end up as clutter just for the sake of giving. I like gifts that either are going to be super useful, make them laugh or something that’s unique to/for them.
I’m pretty sure the best gift you can give a traveller is an actual trip but, if that’s just a bit a lot out of your budget, keep scrolling to see how else you can actually contribute to their next adventure. You’d be surprise with some of these options!
Whether you’re searching for gifts for someone traveling abroad, travel gift ideas for him or the best travel gifts for her this guide will help you choose presents that delight and inspire wanderlust.
Gift Ideas for Travel Lovers
Quick Guide to the Best Travel Gifts
Most useful gifts: Packing cubes, universal travel adapter, portable power bank, approved hand luggage backpack
Unique travel gifts: Scratch-off world map, portable espresso maker, collapsible water bottle, mini photo printer with travel journal
Experience gifts: Hotels.com or Airbnb gift card, GetYourGuide or Lastminute experience cards, FlightGift flight voucher
Useful Travel Gifts for People Who Like to Travel
Packing Cubes
Packing cubes help travellers organise clothing and maximise suitcase space. Choose a high-quality set with multiple sizes and colours.
Universal Travel Adapter with USB Ports
Every international traveller needs a reliable travel adapter. The best models combine UK, EU, US and AU plugs with USB A and USB C ports so they can charge everything at once.
Portable Power Bank
A portable charger keeps phones alive for navigation, translation and photos. Look for a model with high capacity but slim enough to fit in a day bag.
Approved Hand Luggage Backpack
Airlines have tightened cabin bag restrictions so an approved hand luggage backpack is a stress-saver. Look for one designed to fit Ryanair and EasyJet dimensions with a laptop sleeve and expandable capacity.
Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Noise-cancelling headphones are essential for flights, buses and co-working spaces. Over-ear models provide the best isolation but high-quality earbuds are more portable. Impress them by also getting the
Collapsible Water Bottle
A collapsible bottle saves space in luggage and can be refilled after airport security. It’s a small but thoughtful travel essential gift. Not to mention super useful!
Portable Espresso Maker
Coffee lovers can enjoy a fresh brew anywhere. These small espresso machines are perfect for campers, long train journeys and early starts.
Travel Blanket and Pillow Set
A compact travel blanket with a matching pillow transforms long-haul flights, bus rides or train journeys. Look for one that packs into its own pouch and can double as lumbar support.
Travel Journal
A travel journal is a timeless gift idea and a great way to keep memories, scribble last minute plans and keep mementos from a trip all in one place.
Mini Photo Printer
Pair the travel journal with a mini Bluetooth photo printer so they can instantly add photos to their pages. I finally got myself an HP Sprocket and it’s one of my favourite journalling items! I had my eye on the Polaroid one as it’s so pretty and iconic but the paper is more expensive so this HP one made more sense to me.
Scratch-Off World Map or Travel Poster
A classic gift for world travellers. Choose a high-quality scratch map or a personalised travel print marking their favourite countries.
Luggage Tags and Passport Holder Sets
Stylish passport holders and luggage tags make airport life more fun and help travellers spot their bags quickly. Choose leather for a luxury feel or quirky designs for personality. I’ve had my Waldo Pancake set for over a decade now! Sadly, they don’t make them anymore.
Travel-Sized Toiletry Set
A TSA-approved toiletry set means they can bring their favourite products in their carry-on without last-minute airport shopping.
Portable Luggage Scale
This guy has helped me countless times, especially when it’s time to go back home. A small digital scale lets travellers weigh their bags before heading to the airport and avoid expensive overweight fees.
RFID Blocking Wallet or Passport Holder
An RFID-blocking travel wallet protects passports and cards from electronic theft. Look for one with multiple compartments and a slim design.
Compact Travel Steamer
Wrinkles happen when you pack light. A mini handheld travel steamer is a lifesaver for keeping clothes looking sharp without having to find an iron at the hotel. Although I’d say this is a pretty specific gift only useful to a few people.
International eSIM or Data Gift Card
Instead of buying a SIM card at every destination you can give an eSIM or a prepaid global data gift card. Services like Airalo let travellers download an eSIM instantly and stay connected as soon as they land.
Packable Rain Jacket
A waterproof jacket that folds into its own pouch is perfect for unpredictable weather and takes almost no space in a backpack or suitcase. Great if you’re coming to explore the British outdoors!
Lightweight Travel Towel
Microfibre towels dry quickly and roll up small making them a favourite for hostels, camping or beach trips.
Portable Door Lock or Safety Alarm
Perfect for solo travellers. A portable door lock is a small device that slips into any hotel or hostel door adding an extra layer of security.
Foldable Backpack or Daypack
A foldable day backpack weighs almost nothing yet unfolds into a full-sized bag for day trips, grocery runs or hikes.
Annual Travel Insurance Gift Voucher
Some insurers now offer gift vouchers or allow you to prepay a policy. This is a high-value, practical present for someone with multiple trips planned.
Experience Gift Ideas for Travel Lovers
Experience and Tour Gift Cards
GetYourGuide and Viator sell gift cards for city tours, cooking classes, skip-the-line attraction tickets and adventure activities worldwide.
Hotels.com or Airbnb Gift Cards
Help them cover accommodation on their next trip. These can be sent digitally or physically and are perfect for both planners and spontaneous travellers.
Flight Vouchers
Platforms like FlightGift let you give a flight credit redeemable with hundreds of airlines.
City Passes and Attraction Cards
If your traveller has a trip planned buy them a city pass like the Amsterdam Pass or Berlin Welcome Card which includes public transport and entry to top attractions.
Language Learning Subscriptions
A subscription to Duolingo Super or Babbel is a great pre-trip gift especially for long-term travellers.
For the Armchair Traveler
Coffee Table Travel Books
For stunning photography and travel inspiration. Books like Lonely Planet’s Ultimate Travel List or National Geographic Destinations of a Lifetime are SO gorgeous! I’ve got several on my list like this DK Unforgettable Journeys or this Lonely Planet Off Beat.
Streaming Subscription for Travel Show
Documentaries and series that explore cultures and destinations. Plus a giant library of entertainment they can peruse during long flights and train rides.
Travel-Themed Candle or Diffuser
For armchair travellers or for bringing the scent of a favourite place home. Think Mediterranean citrus, alpine pine or Balinese frangipani. It goes well with a book! *hint hint*
Tips for Choosing the Best Travel Gift
Think about how your traveller actually travels. A backpacker will appreciate lightweight and multi-purpose items while a city-break traveller may prefer stylish luggage and curated experiences. Practical gifts tend to win because they get used on every trip. Combine a small gadget with an experience gift card to create a thoughtful bundle.
Final Thoughts on Gift Ideas for Travel Lovers
Finding gifts for travel lovers does not have to be stressful. The best travel gifts for her or travel gift ideas for him combine practicality and a touch of wanderlust. Whether you choose experience gift cards, useful travel gifts, or unique travel gifts like portable espresso makers or scratch-off maps your present will become part of their next adventure. Bookmark this traveller gift guide and come back for seasonal updates to stay inspired.
This was a post about gift ideas for travel lovers.
