Unique Travel Gifts for Travel Lovers
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Unique Travel Gift Ideas For Gifts They’ll Actually Use!
Looking for the perfect gift for the traveler in your life? Sick Girl Travels is here to help. Whether you’re looking for gifts for disabled travelers, gifts for business travelers, luxury travel gifts, travel gifts for kids, or travel-themed gifts for travelers stuck at home, this gift guide is for you.
After logging half a million miles flying around the world and trying all sorts of products aimed at making the travel experience easier, more luxurious, more restful, or more fun and enjoyable, I’m here to share my personal picks for the top gifts for travelers. Of course, these personal picks are backed up by tons of glowing customer reviews, so you know you’re getting a quality product that the traveler in your life will actually use. Pro tip: nobody really wants packing cubes for Christmas.
These are gifts actual human beings might actually use and dare I say, they’ll enjoy doing so. Yes, these unique gifts for travelers are sure to make you a holiday hero.
If you can’t find the perfect gift for the traveler in your life from the list below, it probably doesn’t exist.
The Sick Girl Travels Annual Travel Gift Guide
Best Luxury Travel Gifts
Our list begins with luxury travel gifts. Perfect for the gift giver who’s looking to splurge on that special someone. These are gifts travelers love to brag about and frequently end up on travel gift guides published in the swanky magazines one might find in an endodontist’s waiting room.
The DJI Mavic Pro Drone:
My mom used to say, “traveling is a luxury.” So is the DJI Mavic Pro. The DJI Mavic Pro drone is the drone I use for all the areal videos on this site. It’s easy to use, easy to land, and provides top-quality images. This particular version comes with all the trimmings and 2 extra batteries. Making It perfect for giving any traveler ample time to capture gorgeous videos of all of nature’s wonders.
For a sample of what the DJ Mavic Pro can do, check out my videos of the Big Sur coastline, The Big Island of Hawaii, and the buffalo of Green Bay, Wisconsin.
Looking for a smaller version? Try the DJI Mavic Mini
2. Apple Macbook Air Laptop:
You can’t talk about the best laptops for travelers without mentioning the Macbook Air. Available in gold, space grey, or silver, this super-light laptop is powerful enough for all your on-the-go work needs. It has an 18-hour battery life, superfast memory, and a stunning retina display. Best of all, it’s only 2.8 lbs, so it’s easy to slip into a backpack or purse.
As someone who suffers from chronic back pain, traveling light is a must. This lightweight laptop fits neatly in my backpack and accompanies me on every trip. In my opinion, the Macbook Air is the best laptop for travelers who want the power but not the extra pounds. It’s the one travel item I cannot do without.
3. Frye Logan Travel Case:
There was a time where I would stuff my toiletries into whatever free cloth case was handed out during Clinique’s bonus time. But now I’m an adult who demands the finer things in life, or at least in an interior zipped pocket to keep my contact lens case from getting lost somewhere beneath my bevy of wrinkle creams and dark spot serums.
Every traveler needs a quality toiletry bag. Whether they’re camping, yachting, or flying home for Christmas. The Frye Logan Travel Case provides excellent quality while being sturdy enough to take a beating without showing much wear and tear.
4. TUMI Suitcase:
My first TUMI suitcase was a gift from my boyfriend. I squealed with joy upon unwrapping that gorgeous bag. I even strutted through the airport like I was jetting off to Rome, even if I was just flying coach to Newark.
My second Tumi bag was a beautiful black hard shell I purchased with airline miles. That thing has literally flown around the word with me three separate times. It’s the luggage that takes a beating and keeps on going. If you’re looking to gift that special someone a high quality bag with a fashionable look, look no further than TUMI.
5. The Larq Self Cleaning Water Bottle:
Full disclosure, the LARQ self-cleaning insulated water bottle is not something I own. But it is on my personal wish list this year. Its UV-C LED light eliminates 99.9 percent of bio-contaminants, turning on every 2 hours to make sure every germ is zapped. Its double insulation keeps the drink inside cool and refreshing. What more can you ask for? Besides vodka.
Travel Gifts For Couples
These travel lover gifts are perfect for the jet-setting couple in your life. Or for the couple whose only priority pass is to Space Mountain. We’re not judging.
Framed National Geographic Push Pin World Map:
Let the world travelers in your life track their travels with this beautifully framed National Geographic world map. I was gifted one of these maps several years ago. In fact, it’s sitting above my desk as I type this. This push pin map is a wonderful reminder of the many trips my fiance and I have taken together. We’re also able to track our solo trips with the color-coded push-pins (included). For shoppers looking for personalized travel gifts, you can even add a message or monogram to your map order. Fancy!
2. High Capacity Power Bank:
This high-capacity charger has saved me on more than one occasion. “Do you have a charger?” is the constant refrain of every traveling couple.
Couples can share this powerful little device as it provides a ton of power in one tiny package. It can hold up to 4 USB cords at the same time, allowing users to charge their devices at lightning-fast speeds. It fully charges an iPhone 13 five times over before needed to recharge. It also features a built-in LED flashlight. So when they’re not charging their devices, they can terrify neighboring campers by placing the light under their chins.
3. Unique or Unusual Luggage Tags:
Every traveler knows it can be a nightmare trying to spot your luggage at baggage claim. A bright ribbon helps, but a fancy luggage tag pulls double duty carrying vital information and acting as a beacon in a sea of black Samsonite. The fun tags above come in Mr. & Mr., Mrs. & Mrs., and Mr. & Mrs. packs.
4. Travel Books:
If you can’t give them the gift of travel, the next best thing is to inspire it. Mike and Anne Howard of HoneyTrek.com take readers on a journey through the most romantic destinations on every continent. It’s perfect for travelers looking for honeymoon inspiration or those looking to plan that special anniversary trip.
5. Two Person Tent:
Camping can be a romantic couples activity. The sound of the wind rustling through the trees, the smell of the campfire, the stars twinkling above you, the desperate need to cling to the person next to you for any semblance of warmth… Ah yes, camping. It’s in tents.
If you’re looking to inspire outdoor adventures, check out the Coleman Sundome tent. It’s a light and sturdy all-season tent that’s as much of a camping staple as marshmallows and ghost stories.
Travel Gifts for People with Disabilities
A Folding Cane:
Sick Girl Travels is all about inclusivity and accessibility. These unique gifts are things I’ve found that help make travel easier and less stressful by addressing the specific needs of travelers with chronic pain or disabilities.
The Vaunn Easy Grip is a high-quality adjustable folding cane. It’s also a must-have item for anyone who needs an assistive device, but who also appreciates being able to quickly stow that device while flying. I love that this cane fits nicely in the side compartment of my backpack but springs into action when I need it. (Both to provide support while walking and to terrify unsuspecting pickpockets.)
2. Fashionable Compression Socks:
Pro travel tip: Compression socks are recommended for anyone on long flights, but if you have poor circulation, or are prone to edema, they’re a must. And they don’t need to look like some medical-grade nightmare. These cute compression socks from Sockwell come in a variety of stylish patterns turning a medical necessity into a chic, fashionable gift.
3. Delux Wheelchair Bag
Having quick, easy access to everything you need is imperative as a disabled traveler. I can’t stand having to lug multiple bags with my medications and other necessary items. This convenient storage bag attaches to most wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and rollators, making it the perfect utility player. The ISSYAUTO wheelchair backpack features a padded sponge lining, that easily holds a laptop, books, or oxygen cylinder.
4. Travel Neck Pillow with Heat and Massage:
Long trips in a car, train, or plane can destroy the neck and back. This travel neck pillow is an honest to God three in one miracle worker, supporting the neck and providing cordless heat and massage for those aching vertebrae. There’s nothing that even comes close in the travel pillow game. In fact, I may gift myself another one of these sweet neck pillows as mine are constantly being taken by family and friends.
5. Custom Engraved Medical Bracelets:
Medical jewelry doesn’t have to be ugly. (I’m already in pain, don’t make me look at some ugly silicone and steel monstrosity.)
This rose gold custom engraved bracelet will help your loved one stay safe and stylish. Just make sure you know their info before you commit to having it etched.
Gifts For Beach Vacation
These are gift ideas for the traveler who loves relaxing on a warm sandy beach. Whether they like to snorkel, kayak, or simply lounge in the sun, these gifts are sure to make them smile.
Snorkel Mask and Flipper Set:
Pre COVID-19 I never thought twice about renting snorkel gear. Which is pretty weird considering how I balk at renting bowling shoes. But I digress. For travelers who love to snorkel, having your own gear is imperative. I’ve been to several islands since the pandemic hit and renting gear was not even an option. This mask and flipper set offers panoramic views, packs easily, and comes with its own carrying case.
2. The Best Cooler Ever:
When it comes to coolers, there is nothing better than a Yeti. It’s 100% leakproof, holds up to 12 cans, plus ice, and it’s sturdy enough to take a beating and last for years. It’s the perfect gift for someone who loves trips to the beach, fishing on the lake, or weekends camping. I love every Yeti product ever and I’m sure your loved ones will as well.
3. GoPro Hero 10:
Every traveler needs a GoPro. It’s the perfect compact camera for capturing undersea adventures. But with a wide variety of mounts and add ons, this easy-to-use pocket-sized camera can go from sea to land, all the way to skydiving! If you’re looking for a gift they’ll use every time they travel, this is it. Just be ready to get hours of vacation footage in return.
4. Surf Shoes:
I never understood the value of surf shoes until I visited Hawaii and had my feet torn up by lava rocks. Now I own a pair of these. They fit nicely in a carry on and keep your feet safe and comfy.
5. Waterproof Kindle:
The Kindle Paperwhite is the perfect gift for beach lovers and travelers in general. It’s easily viewed even in direct sunlight, and best of all, it’s waterproof! Say goodbye to those paperback romance novels and say hello to your own personal beach-safe library.
Gifts For Business Travelers
These are gift ideas for travelers who sell things, buy things or process things as a career. Sometimes they sell things bought or processed, or buy things sold or processed, or process things sold, bought, or processed, or repair things sold, bought, or processed. But they probably don’t run a blog where they rip off Lloyd Dobler quotes from the 1989 classic, “Say Anything.”
Probably.
The Perfect Travel Toothbrush
I’ve been a Sonicare user for almost twenty years. It’s the gold standard of toothbrushes. This sleek little number is perfect for the frequent traveler who values oral hygiene. Or at least likes to avoid halitosis. They come in a variety of colors with prices that fit any budget.
2. Mobile Router
If there’s anything I’ve learned by watching over 100 hours of Bravo’s “Below Deck”, it’s that people who conduct important business need a reliable wifi connection. Whether the one on your list is day trading penny stocks or selling beachfront real estate, the Netgear Nighthawk will keep them connected when it matters most, which is all the time apparently.
3. Noise Cancelling Headphones:
Anyone who’s even been on an airplane knows the value of noise-canceling headphones. But these Bose headphones are leaps and bounds above the rest. They even feature a built-in microphone for ultra-clear calls. These headphones are so soft I could sleep in them… and frequently do.
4. A Portable Microphone:
The best travel items are light, portable, but work as well or better than their regular-sized counterparts. Tula mics fit that bill. They’re perfect for everyone from travel bloggers to high-powered executives, offering clear, crisp audio in a tiny, stylish package.
5. Windproof Travel Umbrella:
Repel’s Windproof Travel Umbrella is the best umbrella I’ve ever owned. Sadly, it was stolen on a trip to London. So if you’re reading this and looking for something to get me this holiday season, go ahead and click the link above. Please and thank you.
Best Travel Gifts for Kids
While I’m no child expert, I have it on good authority that there are some great travel toys for babies and kids.
Travel Journal:
Ask anyone who went anywhere as a kid what it was like and they’ll probably tell you they don’t remember. A Lonely Planet travel journal is a great way for kids to capture those memories. Or at least give them something to perform as an adult at the Mortified Live show.
2. Road Trip Games:
This road trip kit is an updated version of a game I had as a kid. The main update appears to be adding rounded edges instead of sharp corners. Of course, I also used to play this game while rolling around the back of a seatless conversion van.
It was the late 80s. Child safety hadn’t been invented yet.
3. Light up Headphones:
These super cool wireless headphones ensure whatever Tic Toc, Youtube, or Twitch is being listened to remains between a kid and their device. Parents and other passengers will thank you for this lovely gift.
4. Amazon Fire HD Tablet:
Again, I don’t have kids, but I’ve certainly been seated next to a whole lot of them on planes. The secret to happy travel with children seems to be to keep them as busy as humanly possible. Enter the tablet.
5. Twistable Crayons:
No sharpener? No problem. These twistable crayons are perfect for hours of doodling without the mess of grinding down wax shavings. One caveat, I don’t recommend them for flying. I recently sat next to a little girl on a flight from LA to Chicago who was busily drawing me every animal in the zoo until dropping her pencil case and watching 49 of these twistables roll down to the back of the plane. She promptly started crying to her mom and I was off to dig out my number 3 from best “gifts for business travelers.”
Useful Travel Gifts for Everyone
When in doubt, send a gift card your loved one can use for future travel. An Orbitz Gift Card or Travelocity Gift Card is appreciated by almost anyone. If you want to get more specific, try visiting an airline website. The only thing a traveler loves more than a DJI Mavic Pro Drone is more travel.
Happy gift giving!
From,
Sick Girl Travels
