The Best Editor-Recommended Gifts for Travelers

Traveling is one of life’s great joys—and challenges. Between long layovers, language barriers, and wildly different climates, the right gear can make the difference between a smooth journey and a stressful one. Luckily, that also means there’s no shortage of great gift ideas for the wandering wayfarer in your life. All told, I traveled to seven countries in 2025—from safaris in Kenya to bike tours in Kyrgyzstan—and have curated this list of globe-trotting essentials I swear by. I've personally chucked all of these items into my luggage—things that make packing easier, flights more comfortable, and time on the road a little more organized (and stylish). From thoughtful stocking stuffers to splurge-worthy upgrades, these gifts are sure to delight any frequent flyer or first-time passport stamper. And if your traveler also camps, hikes, or backpacks, be sure to check out our other holiday guides tailored to every type of adventurer.
 

A Passport Holder With iOS Tracking ($60)

Passport covers may seem gimmicky—and some are—but the Satechi Vegan-Leather FindAll Cover offers something truly unique. It has an integrated tracking chip compatible with Find My on iOS devices. I accidentally left my passport on a seat when changing gates at an airport recently, and I immediately got a "passport left behind" notification on my phone—a lifesaver. I've been stashing all my travel essentials in this for several flights recently, and I honestly won't be turning back. Despite its slim design, the cover stashes passports, immunization records, and other important documents, and also has secure RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) protection. If you're carrying credit or debit cards, an RFID protector prevents criminals from exploiting unauthorized contactless scanning. RFID scanning is not considered a major threat, but it's still a good safety measure to use an RFID cover. Tack on the sleek, vegan leather finish, and this is one heck of a handy travel companion. 
See the Satechi Vegan-Leather FindAll Cover
 

The Ultimate Carry-On For Photographers ($599)

It only takes one taxing international flight to underscore the importance of a premium carry-on. I used to scoff at expensive luggage while bopping around airports... until I started seriously filling up my passport. Since then, I've indulged in a few luxuries—the Peak Design Roller Pro being a favorite. The Roller Pro introduces some unique innovations catered to traveling creatives; however, dedicated photographers will find this carry-on most attractive. The Roller Pro is designed to integrate seamlessly with Peak Design's XL Camera Cube, which features "FlexFold" dividers for impeccable lens and camera protection (including full telephoto lenses). As a photographer myself, this is the headliner. Other notable details include a quick-access pocket for a laptop, wallet, or headphones, a "drawbridge" style main compartment access for maximum visibility and ease of packing, and a plethora of smaller internal pouches for organizing essentials and tech. A buttery smooth 4-wheeled chassis effortlessly glides across terminals, a razor-slim carbon fiber trolley handle keeps things compact, and endless thoughtful internal features make this a true joy to travel with. For a selection of some of my other favorite rolling luggage, check out my round-up of the best wheeled duffel bags. 
See the Peak Design Roller Pro
 

Compact 3-in-1 Charging For All The Tech ($100)

Tired of fishing around for three different cables in your unorganized bag when you collapse at the end of a long day on the road? It's sometimes the final straw for me. I transitioned to charging trees a while ago on my travels, and the Satechi OntheGo 3-in-1 Charger has become my favorite. I hate cord spaghetti, and this solves that issue for three of my most vital electronics: iPhone, AirPods, and Apple Watch. Its light (5.1 oz.), compact size, lighting-fast Qi2 15W charging, and streamlined silhouette make it a shoo-in for my travel tech loadout. Unlike some other bulky trees I've thrown in my pack, this one folds up into a tight, thin package that easily fits in my hand and disappears in my laptop bag. This is one of my favorite, affordable, practical gifts to wrap up for my traveling companions. They'll use it way more than they suspect. 
See the Satechi OntheGo 3-in-1 Charger
 

The Coziest Travel Pillow ($55)

Sleeping on planes is downright miserable. Especially when you frequently fly cattle class, like yours truly. I've never been a fan of standard travel neck pillows, because they're never as supportive as I want, and I often have neck pain at the end of the flight. Enter the Trtl Travel Neck Pillow. This is so far the best solution I've found for snagging some "Zs" on long flights. Structural but flexible support holds your head in a comfortable, ergonomic position, minimizing bobbing during turbulence, and the face fabric is next-level soft. It's also lightweight and packable (with a stuff sack), making it easy for me to stow it in my personal item. While this is a boon for long flights, I'll also break this bad boy out for brutal road trips. If you can get past the fact that it looks like you just got out of the hospital from a motorcycle crash (my partner above somehow makes it look cute), this "pillow" will quickly become one of your favorite travel companions. 
See the Trtl Travel Neck Pillow
 

A Slim, Stylish Travel Water Bottle ($65)

The Memobottle A6 Stainless Steel Bottle is one of those rare travel essentials that’s both functional and beautiful. Crafted from durable stainless steel with a refined satin powder-coat finish, it feels sleek and premium in hand—more like a design piece than a typical water bottle. The A6’s ingenious, paper-flat profile slides effortlessly into a purse, laptop sleeve, or personal item, making it stellar for travelers who hate bulky bottles hogging space. Despite its compact footprint, it still holds a generous 500 milliliters of water—enough to keep you hydrated between flights or city strolls. Plus, it’s built tough enough to handle both boiling and freezing temps, so whether you’re sipping tea mid-flight or icy water on a hike, the A6 is up for the adventure. For other unique travel bottles, check out our round-up of the best water bottles for hiking. 
See the Memobottle A6 Stainless Steel Bottle
 

An Ultralight Travel Towel ($35)

I love spontaneous mid-trip dips in the lake... but who has space for a full-blown beach towel in their globetrotting kit? Enter the sleek, streamlined, and surprisingly functional Matador Nanodry Packable Travel Towel. Weighing just 5.6 ounces and measuring 52 x 24 inches, this ultralight polyester towel is far and above my favorite piece of kit for ultralight trips that require any water adventures. It soaks up moisture fast, then dries in no time—perfect for mid-trip lake dips, hostel showers, or impromptu beach stops. The Nanodry also comes tucked inside a sleek, ventilated silicone case with a carabiner, so you can clip it to the outside of your bag to dry while you’re on the move. It’s light, efficient, and packs down to the size of a t-shirt, making it an easy “why didn’t I always travel with this?” addition to any carry-on or adventure kit. 
See the Matador Nanodry Packable Travel Towel
 

A Tasty Snack For Travel Cravings ($19)

Long travel days call for snacks that are both tasty and filling—and Solely Organic Fruit Jerky nails it. Made entirely from organic fruit with no added sugar, preservatives, or concentrates, these strips are essential companions for road trips, flights, and trail breaks. Each Mango Fruit Jerky strip contains one whole mango, offering a naturally refreshing hit of sweetness that actually fills you up despite its slim, packable size. Also, the packaging splays open easily, allowing you to hold the plastic without getting your fingers sticky. Unlike some other fruit jerky—or just plain dried fruit—I’ve tried, these don’t dry my mouth out or have a weird, powdery texture. They truly are "moist" (as much as I hate that word), and feel as close to eating actual condensed fruit as any trail snack I've tasted. Solely also advocates for sustainable business practices by using nearly 100% of a farm’s yield—including “ugly” fruit—and has helped convert thousands of acres of family-owned farmland to organic production. Available in many flavors, this is my favorite grab-and-go snack to toss in my carry-on or daypack when I need real fuel on the move. 
See the Solely Organic Fruit Jerky
 

The Best Tiny Travel Shaver ($80) & Beard Tamer ($100)

I'll often be on the road for months, and the beard can get... well, a tad dirtbag-ish. When traveling with my wife or strolling around quaint foreign cities, I like to look a bit more civilized. Manscaped has been my saving grace—particularly their compact Handyman Travel Shaver, and endlessly customizable Beard Hedger. Both of these pack down small (especially the 4.5 X 2.4-inch Handyman—left photo above) and let me keep the beard at bay. If I'm rocking a clean shave, the Handyman is thankfully all I need—the long hair leveler tackles long stubble, and a foil shaver rounds it out with a smooth finish. My beard requires more maintenance, but the Beard Hedger features a spiffy adjustable guard with 20 different lengths (ranging from 0.5 mm to 10 mm), selected with a zoom wheel on top. This is a game-changer for paring down bulk, since I don't have to carry a variety of different guards in my shave kit, or worry about losing them mid-trip. Also, cheaper brands I've used while traveling always tend to turn on by themselves in my bag and are dead by the time I arrive at my destination. The "on" switch of Manscaped's models has given me zero headaches in this regard. Finally, suppose I'm really trying to stay well-groomed. In that case, Manscaped offers a handy compact full-body grooming travel kit ($190) that includes The Lawn Mower 5.0 Ultra (the best, safest body-hair trimmer in my opinion) and the Handyman. A true win-win. For the bearded globe-trotter in your life, these are stellar gifts. 
See the Handman Travel Shaver  See the Handyman Beard Hedger
 

A Packable Solution For Soap And Shampoo ($38)

For travelers who count every ounce, the Matador FlatPak Toiletry Bottles are a simple, affordable upgrade to traditional plastic containers for stashing shampoo, body wash, and other liquids on the road. Built with welded Cordura nylon, they’re incredibly strong yet remain light enough to slip easily into any toiletry kit (0.4 oz. each). Each bottle holds 3 fluid ounces—TSA-approved for hassle-free airport security—and features a large fill opening for simple refills and cleaning. The flip cap makes dispensing quick and mess-free, while the snap loop lets you hang them from hooks or shower bars when you’re on the move. You can even jot down contents on the write-in panel to stay organized, and the different bottle colors make it simple to tell shampoo from body wash. Flexible and durable, they conform to your bag without cracking or leaking under pressure—though I still toss mine in a plastic bag if I’m checking luggage, just in case. After traveling internationally with several friends who swear by these, I finally picked up a set and am convinced—this is one of the cheapest but most practical travel gifts you can give that your pond-hopping friends will actually put to use. They are also available as individual packs ($14) if you aren't looking for the whole enchilada.
See the Matador FlatPak Toiletry Bottles
 

A Sleek And Stylish Travel Toiletry Bag ($60)

Keeping your grooming essentials organized on the road is no small feat, but the Nomatic Toiletry Bag 2.0 makes it simple. Built from burly, water-resistant materials with smooth zippers, it keeps your toiletries protected and your bag leak-free through long travel days. Inside, smart organization and see-through pockets make it easy to spot what you need at a glance, while a dedicated toothbrush sleeve keeps things dry and separated. The optional hanging strap is my personal favorite touch for hotel bathrooms or road trip setups, helping you save counter space and stay tidy, but I can remove it so it doesn't snag on other items in my bag (an issue I've had with other travel kits). With its sleek, slim, and stylish silhouette, this toiletry bag blends form and function in a way few others do—a true upgrade for travelers who like their essentials streamlined and ready to roll. 
See the Nomatic Toiletry Bag 2.0
 

The Rolls-Royce of Travel Backpacks ($300)

You aren't ready for this premium piece of travel luggage. I love everything from Peak Design, but they really pulled out all the stops with their flagship Travel Backpack. I've been rocking the 45L version. This thing is built like a tank but wears like a tailored jacket. The rugged, weatherproof shell is made from 100% recycled 400D nylon Versa Shell fabric with a burly 900D waterproof bottom liner. While I wish it were lighter (and cheaper), it's ready for everything from airport chaos to surprise downpours while dashing across town. Inside, a high-visibility grey lining keeps gear easy to spot, while a generous padded laptop sleeve, massive main compartment, and layers of interior pockets make organization feel effortless. For photographers, it seamlessly integrates with Peak Design’s Camera Cubes (as with the PD Roller Pro above) for custom camera and lens protection. The pack also adapts brilliantly to different trips: it collapses down to 35 liters for minimalist day travel, expands to 45 liters for extended hauls, and still meets international carry-on requirements. Quick-access pockets and tuck-away straps add even more versatility, letting it convert from backpack to duffel in seconds. It’s the rare pack that truly does it all—durable, adaptable, and built for a lifetime of travel. For a deeper dive into other great models, check out our full round-up of the best travel backpacks out there. 
See the Peak Design Travel Backpack
 

A Retro, Stylish Travel Camera ($1,060)

The Nikon Zfc is one of those cameras that makes you fall back in love with travel photography. From snapping photos of wildlife on safari to capturing the streets of Barcelona, I've taken this camera all over the world and can't recommend it enough. While the retro silhouette is what gets me stoked about the Zfc, it boasts fine technical chops for beautifully capturing life on the road. I’ve toted it through airports, in bustling markets, and even on chill backpacking trips, and it nails the balance between nostalgic charm and modern capability. Built around Nikon’s 20.9MP sensor (the same as the Z50II), it delivers crisp, vibrant images and snappy autofocus in a lightweight, refined package. The tactile dials for ISO, shutter speed, and exposure make shooting feel refreshingly hands-on with a vintage feel, while features like 4K video and a responsive touchscreen keep things modern. Stylish, compact, and just plain fun to shoot with, the Zfc is the perfect travel companion for those who want pro-quality images without hauling a bulky DSLR around the world. For a deeper dive into my favorite travel cameras, check out my full round-up. 
See the Nikon Zfc Travel Camera
 

Premium Earplugs to Drown Out Airplane Chatter ($25)

Whether you’re trying to sleep through a red-eye flight, block out city noise, or just carve out a little peace and quiet on the road, the Loop Quiet 2 Earplugs are a game-changer. Delivering 24 decibels of noise reduction, these premium plugs create a blissful bubble of calm anywhere—on planes, in hostels, or in bustling cafés. The new ultra-comfy design uses flexible, soft-touch silicone for all-day (and night) wear, while multiple ear tip sizes ensure a perfectly snug fit, even for smaller ears. Also, they don't look horribly awkward on me when bopping around airports. They’re reusable, easy to clean, and come with a sleek compact carry case to keep them secure between uses. They also aren't as bulky as AirPods, and I barely feel them when resting on a pillow or leaning against the plane wall in a window seat (and they don't fall out easily). Certified for hearing protection and built to last, the Loop Quiet 2s are a small but mighty travel essential for anyone who values silence on the go. 
See the Loop Quiet 2 Earplugs
 

Makeup Made Mobile ($95)

It's important to note that I don't wear makeup, and don't know how to discuss it properly. But, if the constant ravings from my wife when we're on the road mean anything, ladies can rest assured that the Subtl "Ready Set Go" Stak is the ultimate compact travel makeup kit. She absolutely loves this packable ensemble. Based on her opinion (and the lack of time I'm allotted to get ready in the bathroom), this allows you to truly prepare for the day without weighing you down or taking up bulk in your toiletry kit. It has everything you need for effortless touch-ups: a 4-piece mini brush set, shine control powder, original lip balm, lip and cheek tint in Terracotta Tour Guide, and a concealer in your chosen shade. Each piece twists together in a sleek, stackable design that takes up virtually no space and won't come apart during the bumps of travel. It's perfect for quick refreshes between flights or sightseeing days. The mini brushes are thoughtfully sized for precision and pair seamlessly with the included products, making it easy to polish your look anywhere, anytime. Simple, elegant, and TSA-friendly, the Subtl Stak is proof you don’t have to sacrifice your routine to travel beautifully. You can also snag a variety of other (cheaper) mix-and-match Staks to suit your look and travel needs. 
See the Subtl "Ready Set Go" Stak
 

Waterproof, Functional Packing Cubes ($30-$55)

If you’re tired of rummaging through chaotic backpacks, the Sea to Summit Hydraulic Packing Cubes are about to become your new favorite travel organizers. Built for adventure, these cubes use TPU-laminated 70D ripstop nylon for a lightweight yet ultra-durable shell that shrugs off dirt, dust, and moisture. The PU-coated zippers and welded seams offer true water resistance and IP6X-certified dust protection—so your gear stays clean and dry no matter what the road throws your way. Despite this durable protection, they are light and packable. A translucent TPU window panel makes it easy to see exactly what’s inside without unpacking, while welded Hypalon grab handles make them easy to carry, pull, or lash down in transit. While I'm always packing these for international trips, I've also taken to using them on backcountry backpacking and even bikepacking trips. They serve as great organizers and are an added level of protection to a waterproof pack cover or liner. The small volume is my go-to for toiletries and electronics on any trip where harsh weather may be an issue. 
See the Sea to Summit Hydraulic Packing Cubes
 

Bright Bag Tags ($5)

While some luggage may be unique and flashy on its own, if you travel with generic-looking suitcases, you know it can be a pain when collecting your checked bags from the luggage carousel. My simple solution? Bright yellow Travelambo Luggage Tags. This flashy add-on can ease a lot of confusion when it comes to collecting a handful of checked bags after long flights. Being able to identify your luggage as it comes down the carousel can save headaches and precious time. These tags feature a two-sided info card to write your contact and shipping info in case your bags get lost in transit, and are made of high-quality PU leather. This is one of my favorite simple stocking stuffers for the serial travelers in my life. For a bump in quality and functionality, I've been loving the premium Satechi Vegan-Leather FindAll Luggage Tag ($45). From the same brand as the passport holder above, this sophisticated tag includes a contact info card and is equipped with Find My technology to easily locate your bags in case they get lost (or simply ensure your luggage makes it into the belly of the plane). This is a travel essential in my book. 
See the Travelambo Luggage Tag  See the Satechi FindAll Luggage Tag
 

Ultralight Utensil Set For The Road ($20)

Single-use plastic cutlery is officially a thing of the past (or at least it could be)—especially with the To-Go Ware Reusable Bamboo Travel Utensil Set in your pack. To-Go Ware is trying to think sustainably. The lightweight, compact kit includes a fork, spoon, knife, and chopsticks made from bamboo, a fast-growing plant that doesn't require pesticides and uses very little water to cultivate. They're neatly stored in a carrying case made from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic bottles. A built-in carry loop and carabiner make it easy to clip onto your daypack, lunch bag, or travel tote, so you’re always ready for an impromptu picnic or airport meal. Durable and packable, this set is the perfect companion for travelers who don't want to throw away 100 plastic utensils along the way. I've been using it in my pack for casual hikes near home, and multi-day trips alike. 
See the To-Go Ware Reusable Bamboo Travel Utensil Set
 

International Charging On The Go ($70)

Say goodbye to tangled cords and clunky adapters—the Statik SmartCharge is the ultimate all-in-one charging solution for global travelers. Packing a powerful 10,000 mAh battery, it holds enough juice to recharge AirPods up to 12 times, an iPhone 15 twice, or even an iPad Air once. Nothing to sneeze at. Built-in USB-C and Lightning cables (though these are becoming obsolete) mean you’ll never dig through your bag for the right cord again, while extra USB-C and USB-A ports let you charge multiple devices at once. Three interchangeable travel adapters are included, allowing you to plug in across 200+ countries with ease. Despite all that functionality, it’s compact and light enough (9.5 oz.) to slip into a jacket pocket or small daypack—perfect for long flights, road trips, or international adventures. 
See the Statik SmartCharge 
 

A Stellar, Smaller Global Travel Adapter ($36)

Confused at that alien, two-holed outlet when you arrive at your hostel in Spain? Forget about it. The Matador Global Travel Adapter has your back. Slimmer and more packable than the adapter/power bank combo above, this adapter works in over 170 countries and territories, making it ideal for international adventures. It can charge and power up to six devices simultaneously, including a high-capacity USB-C PD35 port for fast-charging smartphones and larger electronics. With six outputs—two USB-C ports, three USB-A ports, and one multicountry AC plug—smart charging automatically detects the correct voltage for each device, ensuring safe and efficient power delivery. Each unit is rated at 35 watts and individually tested for quality. At just 5.8 ounces, it’s lightweight, pocketable, and easily adapts to different countries' outlet types by sliding out the appropriate prongs via push tabs on the side. It even has global region names listed above each tab... for those of us who get truly confused. Matador really holds your hand here. It's my catch-all adapter that lives in my tech kit permanently, knowing I can take it essentially anywhere in the world and snag a charge. Plus, it doesn't hurt that it comes in a swanky orange color. 
See the Matador Global Travel Adapter
 

A Headphone Adapter For Plane Audio Jacks ($40)

Now here's something I had never thought of before, until I recently saw a passenger next to me watching Lord of the Rings with their own AirPods. I was flabbergasted... and jealous. LOTR can only be fully appreciated with great audio. It’s time to retire those flimsy in-flight headphones for good—the Twelve South AirFly lets you connect your favorite wireless earbuds to any 3.5mm audio jack. This sleek little transmitter delivers over 20 hours of battery life on a single charge and can even be used while charging via USB-C, so you’ll never miss a beat mid-flight. Pairing is fast and effortless, with intuitive onboard volume controls and a handy battery life indicator to keep you in the know. Lightweight and pocket-sized, the AirFly brings high-quality wireless freedom to the outdated headphone jacks of the world. This makes an awesome, unique stocking stuffer that I'm sure your travel partner hasn't heard of before (or maybe I just live under a rock). 
See the Twelve South AirFly Headphone Adapter
 

Mount Your Phone On The Plane In Style ($25)

The Lisen Phone Holder is a unique tool for travelers who want hands-free viewing in cramped spaces, such as airplane tray tables, desks, or even luggage handles. Designed for MagSafe, it securely clamps iPhones with MagSafe cases with a dual-spring grip, keeping your device locked in place even during turbulence. Vibration-tested for over eight hours and certified stable at 30,000 feet, it’s reliable and convenient. Android users can attach the included metal ring to a flat case for compatibility. The 360° flexible rotation lets you dial in the perfect angle for movies, video calls, or recording vlogs, while the compact, snap-on design makes setup effortless—just clip it on in a second. It can also double as a mini mounted selfie stick. It’s definitely a fun trinket to have for long flights and an easy, affordable stocking stuffer. 
See the Lisen Phone Holder
 

A Stylish Travel Fanny Pack ($30) & RFID Wallet ($30)

Everyone needs a good fanny pack and wallet combo when trotting around the world. Bonus points if the wallet is RFID-protected (like the passport holder above) to prevent sneaky transactions. For the traveler who values simplicity, style, and function, this combo from Thread Wallets is hard to beat. The Thread Wallets Small Fanny Pack is compact and capable—it’s spacious enough to hold your phone, wallet, and keys without feeling bulky or overbuilt. The nylon body and polyester liner stand up to everyday wear, while the branded jacquard strap and durable plastic buckle add both comfort and flair. Worn crossbody or around the waist, it’s a sleek, understated bag that looks as good strolling through airports as it does on beach walks. A back-slide-in pocket fits an iPhone perfectly, and the thoughtful design keeps things organized yet effortless. Pair it with the Thread Wallets RFID-Protected Wallet, crafted from genuine leather and sized to slip neatly inside the fanny. With six card slots, a secure zippered compartment, RFID protection for peace of mind, and even a loop for Chapstick, it’s a minimalist’s dream. Together, they’re a stylish, sleek duo built for modern travel. 
See the Thread Wallets Small Fanny Pack  See the Thread Wallets RFID-Protected Wallet
 

Peace of Mind For Adventurous Travelers ($80/year)

Do your travels often take you off the beaten path? Or maybe you just want to hedge against unforeseen injuries on the road. A comprehensive SOS subscription may be in order. $80 per year for just that? Sign me up... which I have. For the past several international adventures, I've paired my SOS device (a Garmin inReach Mini 2 in my case) with Overwatch X Rescue (OxR). It's not travel insurance, and isn't associated with Garmin, Spot, or other subscription-based messengers. Instead, it is a separate plan that works in conjunction with most devices connected via SOS. Many rescue coverage plans come with strings attached: reimbursement-based payouts, coverage limits, and months of waiting for repayment. Plus, they’re often limited to users in the U.S. and Canada. OxR takes a different approach. Rather than functioning like insurance, it’s a fully-funded international rescue service that guarantees coverage upfront. No claims, no delays, no surprise bills. For $80 a year, OxR offers true peace of mind with one of the most comprehensive safety nets in the industry. I love the simplicity and peace of mind it offers on even casual romps around the globe. I most recently snagged a subscription for a month-long rugged bikepacking tour across Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, and haven't looked at other plans since. Don't have a device yet? Check out our round-up of the best satellite messengers to pick one up. 
See the Overwatch X Rescue Plan