Wondering what to get your favorite travel enthusiast? Whether they’ve resumed flying overseas, taken to hiking and road-tripping or are finding creative ways to fuel their passion as they use this time to reflect and prepare, we’re here with travel gifts ideas that'll ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey.
From innovative tech to keep them entertained and connected to stylish clothing and accessories to keep them warm and collected (no last-minute ironing!), read on for a roundup of sure-to-please travel gifts for everyone on your list.
Equipment and gear | Clothing and accessories for women | Clothing and accessories for men | Grooming and hygiene | | Tech and entertainment | Unique gifts
Best equipment & gear travel gifts
BeeVines Sleep Mask
If your sister or mother-in-law like to get some shut eye on overnight flights, they will surely appreciate these silk face masks that help reduce puffy eyes. These comfortable masks come in 10 unique colors and feature an adjustable buckle strap to fit a variety of face shapes.
Bentgo Glass Snack Container
Snacking on-the-go just got a little bit easier with this snack container from Bentgo. It includes a silicone seal lid, ensuring that food and sauces won’t spill, as well as two compartments on the inside so that food doesn’t mix. “It’s a really thick glass so I’m not worried about it breaking when I send it with my daughter for her school lunches,” said one reviewer.
Bagsmart Electronic Organizer
Give them the gift of never having to misplace their phone or laptop charger again with this savvy organizer from Bagsmart, which has dedicated compartments for keeping all of their cords and plugs in check. Bonus points if you equip it with an international power adapter!
Bagail Packing Cubes
Help them stay sorted with this top-rated set of luggage cubes. It’s equipped with eight sealable solutions for all of their organizing needs (including cosmetic and shoe bags) and comes in over a dozen different colors for various packing personalities.
Yeti 10 oz. Mug
If they’re a super commuter, this mug ensures that their morning cup of joe is still warm when they get to the office. The interior is lined with a double-wall, vacuum-insulated stainless steel, which helps to trap warmth and even cold temperatures.
It’s available in ten colors as well as three size options, depending on how much caffeine they need to get them started on the right foot.
LE LED Camping Lantern
For nights when the campfire light isn't strong enough or you want to take a nighttime hike, this LED lantern lasts up to 12 hours on batteries. With that amount of life, it can even be trusted to last during power outages. This lantern also has four different modes, including warm light, flashing light and daylight settings.
L.L. Bean Boat and Tote Bag
Although this was voted the best beach bag during Shop TODAY's 2023 Travel Gear Awards, writer Emma Stessman utilizes it as a multipurpose bag, taking it to work and the park as well. "It holds a surprising amount of stuff," she says, noting that the material is "sturdy" and the design is "classic," meaning it'll never go out of style.
Wacaco Minipresso Portable Espresso Machine
Fill their cup with this fancy portable espresso machine. It has racked up over 5,000 verified ratings on Amazon from reviewers who rely on it to get their caffeine fix on the fly.
Babybjörn Baby Carrier Mini
Give them a lift with this beloved carrier from Babybjörn, which will allow them to keep their baby close while navigating every day away. The breathable and secure design comes with three fabric options — 3D mesh, 3D jersey and cotton — and a full palette of shades and patterns (including new light beige and playful leopard print).
Fjällräven Abisko Hike Foldsack
"This backpack works just as well for getting through the airport as it does for a seven mile hike — I used it for both!" boasts associate partnerships editor Lauren Witonsky. "The foldable top can be rolled up or down depending on how much space you need, and I like that there’s a zipper at the top to keep everything secured. The padding kept my back and shoulders comfortable all day, and I like that you can clip at the waist and chest for extra support. Plus, there are both inner and outer pockets for organization so you’re not stuck rummaging around when going through security or out on the trails."
Calpak Luka Duffel
Keep calm and travel on with this adorable duffel from Calpak that comes in over 20 fun shades. This spacious bag features nine pockets designed to include all your packing essentials, from your fleece leggings to your hiking boots.
“I love this bag. It is such a great bag to take to work and I love the color. It fits my laptop, and I also can’t wait to use it for overnight travel. I’m obsessed and there are so many pockets and great storage!” said one verified reviewer.
Delta Children Clutch Travel Stroller
When this stroller folds down, it is smaller than a standard grocery bag, making it carry-on eligible. Its features include a sun visor, perfect for warmer destinations, a storage basket underneath the seat, ideal for amusement park days and its durable seat can hold infants up to 50 lbs.
Reviewers love this stroller because it’s “practical,” “sturdy” and “lightweight.”
Dagne Dover Indi Diaper Backpack
For the traveling parent, consider this bestselling backpack from Dagne Dover, which has a near-perfect rating for offering convenience (including easy-access wipes and clip-on stroller attachments) without compromising style. While we wouldn’t be surprised to see this bag get use beyond their diaper bag days, the brand also offers a range of regular backpacks.
Slumberpod with Mini Fan
This tent-like cover is a must for families traveling with littles. This makes it easy for newborns, infants and toddlers alike to still participate in nap time, even if it's still light outside. The blackout fabric blocks 95% of light, and even includes pouches for fans and baby monitors.
Plus, when nap time is over, it packs into a carrying case that makes it easy to store in a suitcase or pack into a carry-on bag.
Away F.A.R Convertible Backpack 45L
Associate editor Sierra Hoeger’s roommate was searching for a durable bag to use as a carry-on and fell in love with this convertible backpack from Away. This polyester bag has dual interior and exterior compression systems that are designed to help you pack more in for your international or domestic travels. This trendy backpack also features removable padded straps and is available in three fun colors: black, green and mustard.
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack
For long weekends or quick trips, this Allpa 35-liter travel backpack has enough compartments, pouches and pockets to fit everything you could possibly need. You can wear it as a traditional backpack, or carry it like a duffel bag. When you open up the main zipper compartment, it folds open like a suitcase, with two spots for shoes, clothes or accessories. Plus, there's also a place to store your laptop and adjustable and removable waist straps.
Yeti Hopper Flip 12 Soft Cooler
When it comes to keeping your stash cold, Yeti is about as cool as it gets, hailed by campers, beach-goers and well beyond for the brand’s durable, insulated designs and chilling effects. Start their collection with this easy-to-carry Hopper, which is roomy enough for up to 12 cans and puncture-proof for proper snack protection.
Away The Carry-On
Stessman takes the Away carry-on with her everywhere she travels. It's "truly one of the best gifts I’ve ever received. I travel pretty much exclusively with just a carry-on, and I can fit so much in this!" she says. This lightweight luggage features 360-degree wheels, laundry bag and underside grab handle to lift more easily.
Best clothing & accessories for travel for women
Quince Wide Leg Fleece Pant
Just because you’re traveling doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice either comfort or style. Have both with these wide leg fleece pants from Quince, that were named the Best Budget Travel Pant during Shop TODAY’s 2023 Travel Gear Awards. “The material is soft, gentle to the touch and very breathable,” says SEO writer Jannely Espinal. “It’s a great piece to wear for traveling as it features pockets and a wide silhouette that allows flexibility to move around.”
Quince Leather Jewelry Travel Case
Don’t fiddle with plastic baggies or worry about your necklaces tangling together in your cosmetics bag with a travel jewelry case. This leather option from Quince includes spots for bracelets, earrings, rings and necklaces, with clasps and hooks to keep them separated and tangle-free. “I love it, very pretty gadget but it is a must have for any trip,” one reviewer said.
Eddie Bauer Resolution Long Sleeve
This long sleeve tee offers SPF 50 protection and is made from recyclable materials, comes in nine various colors and is stretchy, meaning it won’t cling uncomfortably on your skin. In addition, the moisture-absorbing fabric dries quickly, making it easier to wear when kayaking, fishing or any other water activities. One reviewer described it as “a light, good coverage layer for summer evenings, very comfortable under a sweater in the fall and winter.”
Birkenstock EVA Sandal
Taking home the ranks for Best Splurge Sandal during Shop TODAY’s 2023 Travel Gear Awards, these Birkenstocks are notably more affordable than their classic cork pairs. Made with EVA plastic, this version of the well-loved sandal still molds to your feet, are easy to clean and still slide on and off with ease.
Quince Cashmere Crew Neck Sweater
Make sure they always have something to wear with a versatile cashmere crew neck. Quince has managed to make the once luxury a necessity by offering flattering, well-made designs at an unbeatable price point (available in a range of colors and fits for men and women). Unsure about sizing? Opt for a cashmere wrap or scarf instead.
Calpak Luka Belt Bag
Keep their hands free and essentials near with this padded belt bag from Calpak, which is sporty enough for working up a sweat yet stylish enough for brunch. There’s a range of shades, along with a coordinating duffel and backpack for life’s bigger adventures.
Patagonia Baggies 5" Short
With a 5" inseam, they'll be covered and comfortable in these nylon waterproof shorts that promise to wick away sweat and moisture. Whether they're on the lake or hiking the trails, thanks to the adjustable waistband, these shorts are perfect for moving around in.
According to reviewers, the "fit is excellent" and they're "super comfy."
Gorjana Compass Coin Necklace
Appeal to their inner compass with this travel-themed (and layerable!) coin necklace from Gorjana, which comes in silver and gold and will serve as the perfect companion piece to all of their wardrobe staples. The brand also offers plated necklaces that can be customized with their most frequented coordinates.
Rothy's The Flat
Rothy’s has made a name for itself by offering stylish, comfortable shoes with a small physical and environmental footprint. This flat (which has racked up over 25,000 reviews) comes in over 15 shades and can fit in a tote or backpack for a quick shoe change (just toss them in the wash when they get dirty).
Spanx AirEssentials Long Sleeve Wide Leg Jumpsuit
Senior partnerships editor Francesca Cocchi Zabloudil described this outfit best, calling it "equal parts flattering, stylish and comfortable." It took home the award for best one-and-done outfit during the Shop TODAY 2024 Travel Gear Awards, made with the brand's own "light-as-air" fabric.
Cocchi Zabloudil likened the feel of this fabric to "if you took your comfiest pair of sweatpants and used that same material to create a onesie," before adding "then added flattering details like a cinched waist and a V-neck zipper, and you’ll get this jumpsuit."
Best clothing & accessories for travel for men
Parachute Cloud Cotton Robe
Ensure they have a five-star experience (regardless of where they’re staying) with a comfy robe from Parachute. This one features the brand’s ever-popular, easily packable cloud weave and is made of premium 100% long-staple Turkish cotton for unwinding after a shower or long day.
Lululemon Men's Cityverse Sneaker
Available in four different colors and a wide range of sizes (including half sizes), these sneakers were described as "stylish" and "comfortable" by editor Evan Siegel, who also notes they're an ideal choice for long days spent walking.
While their design is no different compared to other sneakers, its the materials that help it stand out, with a cushion that molds to your feet and a rubber bottom that helps you remain secure.
Best grooming & hygiene travel gifts
Tatcha Mini Dewy Skin Mist
"I have a couple of items from Tatcha’s travel-sized collection, but their Dewy Skin Mist was a skin saver when I went to Denver and the high altitude sucked all of the moisture out of my body," says SEO senior editor Jess Bender. "Keep in mind, that trip happened about three years ago and there’s still product left in its micro bottle. All you need is one or two spritzes and you’ll be glowing as if you’re properly hydrated."
Revlon Salon One-Step Hair Dryer
Save them time and money at the salon with this multitasking tool from Revlon, which goes on triple duty as a blow dryer, brush and styler in one and won’t take up too much room in their carry-on.
Cotopaxi Nido Accessory Bag
Spacious, durable and fun — what more could you want in a toiletry pouch? Perfect for long weekends or weeks-long trips, this travel accessory bag took home the toiletry category during Shop TODAY’s 2023 Travel Gear Awards. Earning high praise from senior social media editor Kate McCarthy, who is “now obsessed with this,” she also loves it because it’s easy to clean thanks to the nylon fabric.
KUSSHI Neoprene Train Case Makeup Bag
"I got this from its launch event a few months ago and used it on a trip to California," says associate editor, Kamari Stewart. "I opted for the small size because I don’t usually travel with much makeup and try to keep my bags as light as possible. This case blew me away! It fit so much. In addition to my makeup essentials, I was also able to fit like three different hair products in there: a brush, a comb and some other small odds and ends."
Béis The Cosmetic Case
If you're like editor Vivien Moon and typically pack your toiletries in plastic baggies out of fear of spills and leaks, upgrade to this cosmetic case that the brand calls "spill-proof" thanks to its water-resistant pockets.
"I love how well it fits all my beauty essentials for my trips (skin care and makeup) but I will note that it isn’t as lightweight as other items on the market I’m sure," Moon says. "Despite the cons of the item, I still prefer it because of its sturdy shape, the side handles and the design that lets me pack a lot and keep it organized."
Cadence The Flex System
Keep liquids intact and well within the TSA limits thanks to these customizable magnetic capsules that hold everything from cleansers to conditioners.
Build your set on the site, choosing between three different sizes (.56, 1.32 and 2.75 ounces) and up to 18 different labeled capsules. They easily click together so all of your liquids are in one place, should you need to take them out when going through security.
Royce Full Travel Grooming Kit
Because you truly never know when you'll need it, this grooming kit includes nail clippers, scissors, a razor, corkscrew, lint brush and all of the necessities like a toothbrush, comb and tweezers, it's safe to say that this kit has it all. Available in five different colors including red and burgundy, travelers will never be seen without this pack.
Best tech & entertainment travel gifts
Would You Rather Campfire Edition
Create comedic conversation around the campfire with this quirky question game, sure to get a laugh out of even the most stubborn of travelers.
Taegila Portable Charger
Commerce editor Amanda Fama is a huge fan of this iPhone portable charger as it is tiny enough to fit in her purse and is great for long travel days. This rechargeable power bank features built in cable, LCD display and LED lights, plus has over 3,500 verified five-star reviews on Amazon.
Apple AirTag
Earning the award for Best Tech for Checked Bags, this Shop TODAY Travel Gear Awards winner was well-loved by those who didn't want to start their vacation off on a sour note. Commerce art director Andrew Ward slipped this into his backpack during a travel day and noted that the "location accuracy is great."
Twelve South AirFly SE Bluetooth Transmitter
Connect wireless headphones "seamlessly" to in-flight entertainment with this Bluetooth transmitter, which took home the award for In-Flight Must-Have, during Shop Today's 2023 Travel Gear Awards. According to Cocchi Zabloudil, this product is great for "people who have trouble with the Bluetooth pairing process across products from different brands."
MOFT Snap Stand Power Set
Earning the title for the Best Charger for On-The-Go during Shop TODAY's 2023 Travel Gear Awards, this portable accessory charges your phone while it's standing upright, meaning you can stream movies at the airport while your phone is charging, minus the long cables and need for an outlet.
Best unique travel gifts
The Landmark Project Explore Colorado Long Sleeve Tee
These long-sleeved tees beat out the ones you see at souvenir shops, serving as the perfect memento of their vacation or place they love to visit most.
From Colorado to Texas, Utah and Wyoming, each shirt is soft to the touch and features state landmarks, trailheads and other notable destinations.
Hydro Flask National Park Foundation 32 oz. Water Bottle
If they're a fan of the great outdoors, give their collection of water bottles an update with one that features their favorite national park. Choose between Yellowstone, Zion and Yosemite, each version promising to keep iced drinks cold for up to 24 hours and hot drinks warm for up to 12.
Personalized Flag
If they’re known to frequent a certain winter or summer getaway, help them show off their family pride with a custom flag. Designs are geared toward a range of settings — from campgrounds to lake houses — so you’ll be sure to find one that suits their personal retreat.
The Travel Keepsake Library
The wander-luster in your life will appreciate this travel keepsake library that allows them to store all of their acquired souvenirs in one place. Each vault includes two caddies and drawers, along with protective files and labels to best organize your vacation treasures.
Airbnb Gift Card
Whether they need accommodations at their destination or are in need of a fun activity to do once they get there, an Airbnb gift card can be a great help. Plus, once they add the funds to their Airbnb account, they’ll never expire.
Don’t forget to check out Shop TODAY’s other gift guides to find the perfect present for everyone on your list no matter their interests, including tech lovers, the foodie, the one who can recite every rom-com, golfers and more.
