Black Friday is here, so there’s no one to tell you it’s too early for Christmas shopping anymore! And if you’re shopping for your favorite traveler, you have certainly come to the right place. Travelers are both easy and hard to shop for–we’re generally happy that you thought of us, but we don’t really need a lot of conventional “stuff.” (Please don’t give us anything that sits around for show!) Not to worry, your ultimate gift guide for travelers is here!

Scratch Off Map

Steve and I have a couple of these, and they are so fun! Whether your favorite traveler is on a mission to visit every state or check off as many countries as possible, this is not only a fun way to keep track, it’s also a conversation starter! Spring for a nice frame and help them find a place to hang it in their home. They’ll love you for it!

More here: The Best Gifts for Travelers from Around the World

Cork Globe

This is such a fun alternative to a traditional map or globe! A cork globe can be marked with push pins, like the first one below, but then I also just found this other one that you color in with a marker! Or why not use the colored markers AND use push pins?! I’m already excited about these, can you tell? Most travelers are not “stuff people,” but believe me when I say if they’re going to appreciate “stuff,” it will be one of these!

Even better, these are sold on Amazon, but they come from a small business!

Luggage

We all need it, and unfortunately, the kind that lasts is actually really expensive! The traveler in your life would love it if you’d gift us some quality luggage. You may want to ask if they prefer a roll-aboard, backpack, or other kind of luggage, and if they like to check a bag or go carry-on only, but it’s okay if you spoil the surprise–they will be grateful!. Here are the best brands for each option:

Read on: The Best Gifts Using Your Travel Photos

Packing Cubes

These are a total game-changer. Not only can you fit more into your luggage, it’s also blessedly well-organized! I can’t believe I was resistant for so long. Now, I never travel without them, and neither should your favorite traveler! Here are best packing cubes out there:

More here: My Top 10 Packing Hacks

Hip Bag

I was also a late adopter on the hip bag trend, but not anymore! There’s really something nice about having a few essentials right at your finger tips, especially when you’re crammed in a tiny economy class airplane seat. I usually keep my earbuds, chapstick, external charger, and a snack (or two) in mine for travel, and I use it as a purse when I’m out and about. Here are a couple of favorites:

See also: The Best Gifts Around the World for Travelers

Backpack

Are we sensing a theme here? While we don’t need a lot of stuff, we do need something reliable where we can put the things we do actually need! The right backpack can be a day bag, personal item, carry-on, and beyond. What makes a good one? Storage, padding, lightness, and ruggedness. Here are some of my favorite options–tried and true by myself and my traveler husband, too!

Read more: The Best Bags for Travel

Scarf

Never underestimate the versatility of a scarf. The right one can be a scarf, blanket, towel, or even a top if you’re in a pinch! They’re not just for winter anymore. Here are some favorite options:

Read on: The Top 5 Ways to Wear a Pashmina Scarf

Travel Mug + Instant Coffee or Tea

This is my personal secret weapon for long travel days. Let’s face it: Those tiny cups of coffee they offer inflight just do not cut it. I bring my own travel mug (always go for leak-proof), and any time I’ve asked the flight attendant was happy to fill it with hot water (they have instant hot water on airplanes) or coffee. Personally, I prefer to bring my own instant coffee as well, because airplane coffee is, shall we say, not of the highest quality. Here are my picks!

More here: The Traveler’s Guide to Coffee Around the World

Travel Journal

Travelers have a lot of experiences, and often it helps to write them down. We spend a lot of time on planes, trains, buses, boats, etc., and it’s nice to be able to take that time and reflect on the trip so far. I started journaling during my first-ever trip abroad, and I cherish those notebooks! Here are some beautiful, special options that the traveler in your life may not think to get for themselves.

Read on: The Best Gifts for Eco-Friendly Travelers

Homesick Candles

Whether they’re homesick or not, your traveler will love these! They come in custom scents for your traveler’s favorite (or home) state, city, or country. Personally, Hawaii holds a special place in my heart, so I got one for my husband and me when we had to miss our annual trip there in 2020. It really did make me happy! Which one would you choose?

More here: American-made Gifts for Travelers

The Lost and Found Series

Keep reading: The Best Gifts for Travelers Who Love to Give Back

Support the Blog!

Did you know that Amazon is the #1 way my small business makes money? Believe it or not, it’s true! Any time you use this link to shop on Amazon (bookmark it if you like!), I make a commission. This is the primary way I can keep my blog ad-free and subscription-free.

Want more gifting ideas? Check out my dedicated Shop Page for all my gifting guides!

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