25 Unique Gifts for Travelers 2024

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When you’ve got close friends or relatives who are on the road a lot, it can make finding the perfect Christmas or birthday gift even more of a challenge. The ideal travel present must be thoughtful and useful, yet lightweight and small enough to fit into an empty cranny in a carry-on.

Let’s be honest: While traveling the world can be awesome and enlightening, it’s not always easy to be on the road. Sometimes the comforts of home are a welcome break. A thoughtful gift for a travel lover—or even yourself—can make any trip feel like a vacation.

We’ve picked the most unique gifts for travelers, whether it’s for someone about to embark on a new adventure, a colleague at work, or a friend who travels at every opportunity. Some are perfect for a practical-minded minimalist, while others are geeky gift ideas that are a bit of a treat.

We’ve been frequent travelers since 2009 and trust us: Every one of these items would be a welcome addition to our carry-on suitcases.

The best unique gifts for travelers

Have a look at these creative and unusual travel gifts. Then check out our Amazon shop for more travel accessories.

1. Tinggly experience vouchers

travel gift certificate

Gift cards are always a favorite when it comes to receiving gifts. They allow you to give something they actually use, which in our book makes it a thoughtful present. Tinggly has one of the best travel gift ideas we’ve come across.

The company has collected thousands of unique adventures and experiences and grouped them into various themed collections, such as Time Together, Dream Wedding, Euro Trip, Happy Birthday, and even things like World’s Best Helicopter Flights. Each collection features literally hundreds of activities that your loved one can choose from, all over the world.

  • Gift vouchers begin at $79. It’s a great idea for the person who has everything.

2. Kindle e-reader

Kindle ebook reader, Sun hat, sunglasses and blanket

Kindle e-readers are another indispensable gadget for the traveler. We resisted them for years because we enjoy the feel of holding an actual book. But then we ended up in Indonesia and couldn’t find a single bookstore that carried books in English.

E-readers have a lot of advantages, not the least of which is that you’re effectively carrying around a small library on a device that’s lighter than a paperback. Another big plus is that you can read them without turning on a light.

3. Name a star

Unique travel gift: Have a star named after the recipient. Certificate, map and plaque

Travelers crave experiences that leave a lasting mark. Unique star naming offers a chance to leave a mark on the universe itself! Gift your friend the power to christen a celestial body, their name etched into the very fabric of the cosmos.

This isn’t just a star, it’s a reminder that their journey is part of something epic, a cosmic adventure etched in the heavens. Choose from various packages, including supernovas, lunar or Martian landmarks, printed gift boxes, and even a brass plaque engraved with their star’s name. For each order they receive, they donate a portion of the proceeds to support astronomy research and education. 

Best of all, it’s carbon neutral, making it a feel-good choice for eco-conscious travelers.

4. Scratch the World Travel Map

man scratching off a country on the scratch the world travel map

This scratch off map of the world is a unique way for your favorite adventurer to record their journeys. It works exactly like a scratch card – scratch off the gold coating over visited countries to reveal the huge world map underneath.

This is the top selling scratch-off map on Amazon. It is printed onto high quality silk art paper with a gloss coating, and comes rolled in a tube for safe delivery, so it arrives ready to frame.

5. Mini speaker

Fingers holding a waterproof mini speaker

Mini speakers make a great gift for travelers, because there are occasions where you want to watch a video with someone or set the mood with music. The problem is that you can’t share it with headphones, and most phone speakers produce a pretty tinny sound.

Mini speakers are small and their batteries last a good long time. A lot of them are nice and robust and can be USB charged. All of these qualities are essential for travel gifts, wouldn’t you agree?

6. Packing cubes

Four images showing ways to use packing cubes, which make useful travel gifts

One of our favorite traveler gift ideas is both super useful and no-brainer simple: packing cubes. Never heard of them? Basically, these little guys keep your things neatly organized, no matter how much you rummage through your suitcase or backpack. They’re the easiest way we know to separate undies from shirts, clean from dirty clothes, and so on.

Aside from keeping things organized, they are a lifesaver if airport security decides to search your luggage. When we had to open our luggage for airport security, all we had to do was remove our cubes so they could examine the suspicious-looking tripod. It took seconds to repack everything, and we made our flight in time.

What better gift to give someone than easy organization, right? Such a great invention! They come in a multi-size set, the stitching is solid, the mesh doesn’t break, and the zippers slide easily. All of this makes it easy to compress clothing into a smaller area. The only thing about this travel gift idea is that you need to give it to them before they start packing. But trust us, they’ll thank you.

7. iOttie car charger

phone in a car

For those who rent cars while traveling, the iOttie Wireless Car Charger is a fantastic gift choice. It offers multiple installation options with a CD slot connector and an Air Vent Bracket for versatile placement in any vehicle.

This charger also boasts wireless fast charging capabilities with Qi-certified technology, providing a 7.5W charge for iPhones and 10W for Android devices, eliminating the need for tangled cables. Its wireless charging works with Qi-compatible devices and cases up to 6mm thick.

What sets it apart is the patented Easy One Touch Mechanism, allowing users to mount or remove their phones in seconds with a simple one-handed motion. The mount’s arms automatically secure the device, ensuring a safe and hassle-free driving experience.

8. Visa e-gift card

hand holding a Visa gift card

Traveling can be an exciting adventure, but it also comes with its fair share of expenses. This is where the e gift card Visa comes into play as an excellent gift for travelers. It gives them the freedom to cover various travel-related costs such as flights, accommodations, or even a nice meal in a foreign city. The versatility of this gift ensures that it will be appreciated and put to good use.

One of the biggest advantages of an e gift card visa is its digital nature. Traditional gift cards require mailing, and this can be inconvenient for someone who’s already overseas. Here, the e-gift card is delivered via email, eliminating the need for physical delivery. This makes it a practical choice for friends or family who love to travel.

These gift cards are available in increments from $25 up to $200, allowing you to choose the perfect present that fits your budget. The lucky person can spend the gift card however they like, whether it’s for airfare, lodging, or essential travel items.

You can purchase Visa e-gift cards online from retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, and many others.

9. Water resistant hanging travel toiletry kit

green hanging travel toiletry kit

When it comes to organization, few things beat the feeling of having your toiletries arranged neatly while travelling. This handy toiletry bag has a hook for hanging, as well as multiple pockets and spaces that are perfect for keeping bathroom necessities in one organized space.

The bag is made from high-quality nylon, making it durable and water-resistant. It also comes with a removable, TSA approved clear zip bag, meaning it can easily go through airport security with shampoos and other bathroom liquids.

Available in eight colors, including both blue and brown camo, these bags are great for men and women and make a stylish and useful gift.

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10. Personal Mini Humidifier

womaon sleeping in a bed. Bedside table holds a mini humidifier

The Fancii Cool Mist Personal Mini Humidifier is a cute little humidifier that fits into the palm of your hand. All that is needed is a standard water bottle in order to turn this compact device into a fully functional humidifier. We love that idea – breathing dry air can cause no end of discomfort!

The humidifier runs both on battery and USB power. It also has a timer, so set it for 2, 4, 6 or 8 hours while sleeping, and it will automatically switch off when the timer finishes. It also has a smart shut off function when the water runs out.

11. Bluetooth selfie remote shutter

cell phone screen showing people jumping into the air

Do you know a family or instagrammer who needs a thoughtful gift? Help them take the perfect selfies with this Bluetooth selfie remote. The remote enables users to take selfies from up to 30 feet away. No more awkward, elbows obstructing, picturesque views.

It works well on most Android and Apple devices, cell phones, iPads and tablets. Only iPhone users can benefit from high-quality video recording features, though. It’s also battery operated and can be attached to the wrist or as a keyring, making it easy to carry around.

When buying the remote, one will receive the device, along with 2 batteries, a comfy wrist strap and detailed instructions with illustrations on how to use it, all together in a stylish gift box – ready to be handed over as a present.

12. Cell Phone Camera Lens Kit

before & after of flowers and a travel scene. Images also show how to use the lenses

Especially when you’re travel vlogging, it’s hard to resist the urge to indulge your inner photographer when traveling to new and exciting locations. This mobile camera lens kit helps make holiday and travel photos look even more amazing.

This useful travel gift includes 9 lenses — fisheye, wide-angle, macro, and more — all made of five layers of cinema quality glass. It all also comes in a handy case, keeping the items together and safe.

The lenses work on most mobile phones, regardless of whether they have single, dual or triple cameras. Just align the lens with the phone’s main camera lens, and then attach with the clamp. That’s all it takes to make your phone act like a professional camera.

13. Carry On Cocktail Kit Travel Pack

3 carry on cocktail kits

Imagine being able to craft unique cocktails – mid-flight. This gift allows for just that. The cocktail kit travel pack holds ingredients for three traditional cocktails; all that’s missing is spirits from the airline’s beverage cart. Best of all, all ingredients are TSA approved.

This will not only keep hands busy during long flights, but also allow passengers to enjoy a well-made cocktail in the sky. The pack contains three tins, each holding ingredients for one of the following cocktails (other cocktail flavors are also available):

  1. Old Fashioned
  2. Moscow Mule
  3. Gin & Tonic

The standard pack also includes a bar spoon, linen coaster, recipe card and suitable syrup flavor. Choose from a variety of different recipe, color, and bag options.

14. Moleskine Travel Passions Journal

Moleskine travel journal

A fantastic gift for any globetrotter who is serious about planning new adventures, Moleskine’s travel journal is more than just a place to jot down thoughts and ideas.

We’ve written a Review of the Moleskine Travel Journal based on our own experience. We think it makes for a magnificent travel-related gift.

The stunning journal has great resource guides that have world time zones, international weather and climate info, as well as weights and measurement equivalents and conversions. It also includes information on the following:

  • International currency
  • Capitals
  • Languages and religions
  • Passport and customs information
  • A directory of foreign embassies in the U.S.

Moleskine offers journals for a variety of interests ― baby? recipes? wedding? wine? ― so there’s something for everyone on your gift list.

15. Collapsible pocket-sized travel water bottle

Collapsible pocket-sized travel water bottle makes a good gift for RVers and campers

Anyone who makes long journeys is sure to need as much space as possible. That’s why finding gifts that are foldable and collapsible is so cool.

This water bottle is made from food-grade silicone and is 100% BPA free. The silicone helps make it collapsible, so it can be used and then packed away into small spaces. When folded, the bottle is just 1-inch in height and weighs a mere 6 oz.

Watertight seals throughout the bottle ensure that there are no leaks, and it can be cleaned both by hand and in a dishwasher. This is a great item to have handy in bags during travels, it saves travelers the hassle of buying water from shops, hotels and airports.

16. Foldable electric kettle

travel foldable electric kettle

As long as we’re talking about collapsible gear … if you have a traveler friend known to pack ‘everything but the kitchen sink’, this is a brilliant buy. It’s an electric kettle, made from strong food-grade silicone, that can be folded down to be no bigger than a coin purse.

The kettle has a cord, so it needs to be plugged in. As long as there is an electrical plug point, it’s easy to boil water for tea, coffee, 2-minute noodles, soups, whatever. This is great for those who are spending a night in a hostel, or self-catering camping unit.

The kettle makes two full cups of hot water, so it works perfectly for solo and couple travelers alike. And it pairs well with the next gift.

17. Bodum Travel Coffee Press

Bodum stainless steel travel press

We’ll confess to being serious about a good cup o’ joe – you might even call us coffee snobs. If you know someone who appreciates a good cup of tea or coffee as much as we do, this guarantees they won’t be caught short with packets of instant in their hotel room.

The stainless-steel press acts as a press and a mug in one. All that is needed, is to place ground coffee or tea with hot water into the press, then press down slowly as you would with a French press.

This is not just any coffee press, though. The coffee or tea can be drunk straight from the press through the mouthpiece. The non-slip silicone grip comes in many colors and protects hands from the hot steel.

18. Anti-theft waterproof travel backpack

travel backpack

Although backpacks are an essential item for everyone, this specific backpack is has a lot of unique features that are especially good for travelers.

This waterproof backpack is built for laptops. It has a built-in combination lock, that deters thieves from accessing its contents. There is also a USB interface that lets you conveniently charge your electronic devices even while your power bank is in the bag.

There’s even a headphone interface, so you can listen to music while the phone is stored safely inside the bag.

19. Travel scarf

woman hiding a passport in a travel scarf. Perfect travel gifts for women

Ditch the fanny pack — a travel scarf is the perfect way to look like a local instead of a tourist.

Sure, this scarf is fashionable and lightweight, but that’s not why we think it makes such a great gift. There’s an inconspicuous compartment that’s big enough for important valuables such as cellphones, pocket cameras, money and even passports. Plus, there are loops designed to hide the compartment, which doubles the safety of the scarf.

Made from quality materials, these scarves come in 12 colors, go well with any outfit, and keep valuables close by. The light polyester materials ensure that the scarf is comfy enough for all-day wearing.

20. Airplane footrest

illustration of a woman in a plane seat using an airplane footrest

Anyone going on long plane rides will surely agree that their legs are the first to suffer. That’s why you can’t go wrong with giving this travel footrest as a gift to any traveler.

The footrest hangs from the arms of the tray table, which creates a hammock-like resting place for tired feet. The memory foam creates a cushioned feel every time the footrest is used. This helps to prevent back pain, leg stiffness and swelling, not to mention general crankiness from cramped legs on a long flight.

It also comes in a handy drawstring bag that is small enough to fit into a carry-on bag.

21. Denali Outdoor Compact Pocket Blanket

Hand holding a sack that holds a compact pocket blanket. Background: blanket and stakes

Days at the beach, picnics in gardens and even camping in tents are all made better with a compact blanket from Denali. The blanket folds up and fits into a bag the size of one’s hand, making it compact enough to take along even when backpacking.

This is one of the best gifts for beach lovers, families, and survivalists. Waterproof, sand proof and puncture resistant, this blanket is fantastic for sitting on beach sand, rocky surfaces and even wet grass. It can also be used as a make-do shelter in unexpected rain conditions while hiking.

The blanket has four corner pockets to weight the blanket with sand. It also comes with four metal stakes and attached corner loops to keep it in place. Use the attached corner loops to attach paracord to use as a shelter or rainfly; use the attached zipper pocket to hold keys, glasses or phone.

22. Book: How to Pack: Travel Smart for Any Trip

woman pointing to the How to Pack book

Not only is this hardcover book full of useful information on how best to pack when traveling, but it also has a brilliantly designed cover. Hitha Palepu is a former consultant and has traveled over 500,000 cumulative miles around the world. She penned How To Pack to help other travelers get the most out of their suitcase space.

The book covers:

  • Power Pieces vs. Fantasy Pieces: How clothing earns its place in your suitcase
  • The Accessory Math Secret: The precise formula for all you need to finish off your outfits
  • Folding versus Rolling: What’s right for which items
  • Globetrotter Gorgeous: Editing your beauty routine while still looking great
  • The Packing Timeline: How to avoid “I’m forgetting something” syndrome
  • Pack Perfect Lists: Samples and blanks for any kind of trip

The book is more than just a simple read on packing for a holiday, it’s a guide on the best way to pack – wherever you are headed. Reader’s learn everything from the right clothes to pack to what beauty products to take with you.

23. Book: I Was Here: A Travel Journal for the Curious Minded

I was here travel journal

Travelers of all ages will love this journal, which is also a trip planner and a travel notebook. Colorfully illustrated and full of helpful guides – this will turn any trip into an adventure. You can add your own creativity as well as thrive from the journal’s creative prompts.

The journal has space to include itinerary notes, helpful tips learned and contact details for all the people met along the way. It also includes resources of time zones, weather, and other international information.

Available in both diary and hardcover versions, the notebook was designed by a San Francisco-based artist, Kate Pocrass. Each page gives excitement and unique ways to enjoy new destinations.

ⓘ PRO TIP: Check out our Amazon shop for more travel gift ideas.

24. Portable Clothes Washing Bag

Traveling and living out of a suitcase can have its challenges, especially when you only travel with a carry-on. The challenge of having fewer clothes means you must deal with dirty laundry while you’re traveling. If you know a traveler who likes to go off the beaten track, chances are they’ll have a hard time finding a laundromat when they need one.

The Scrubba portable washing bag allows them to wash their clothes on the go. It weighs less than 145g and folds up small enough to fit into a pocket. A flexible washboard inside the bag help to scrub clothes clean.

To use the Scrubba, just place dirty clothes inside the bag, fill it with water, and add some detergent. Rub the bag to scrub the clothes inside, then drain the bag and hang the clothes out to dry. Perfect for camping, as well as backpacking.

25. Lonely Planet Book: The Travel Atlas

cover of The Travel Atlas, a Lonely Planet travel book

Lonely Planet’s extensive mapping experience, unrivalled destination insight and knowledge all come together in this helpful Travel Atlas. With large maps and insightful information about each destination, this atlas is ideal for planning the perfect trip.

Subtitled “The Ultimate Atlas for Globetrotters,” the atlas includes themed itineraries ranging from 2 days to 2 weeks. There are also top sights and activities, available for all the top locations. The Atlas can be used to plan tourist-attraction holidays, but also trips that lead through less visited areas.

The hardcover version makes a fantastic coffee table book to leaf through for travel ideas, while the Kindle edition is a wonderful read on the road.

ⓘ PRO TIP: Looking for an inexpensive stocking stuffer or token gift? I’ve been consistently impressed by the lip balms from Cap’n Coconut. Natural ingredients provide effective SPF 30 sun protection and hydration, and there are 6 flavors to choose from. I use the Citrus Sherbert flavor. It’s like a Creamsicle for my lips, but without any calories.

Hopefully now you have a much better idea of what to buy for the travel-loving people in your life. From practical to quirky, you should have no problem finding the ultimate birthday, Christmas, or bon voyage gift.

Happy shopping and safe travels!

Gifts for Travel Lovers text overlay. with background of Eiffel Tower, golden circles, and a bit of pine

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Written by Linda

Linda is multilingual and has been to over 50 countries. Her insatiable love of travel, cuisine, and foreign languages inspired her to create As We Saw It, where she documents her trips, shares practical itineraries, and offers insider tips. She’s passionate about helping fellow travelers save time, money, and hassle, and loves to discover new places to explore.

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