Travel Gifts They Didn't Know They Needed
Looking for a travel gift that's a little different?
I've rounded up some clever, practical and occasionally unexpected travel gifts that your favorite traveler will actually use and appreciate. Whether they're hiking the Camino, exploring a new city, cycling through the countryside, paddling a quiet river or hopping on a plane to somewhere new, these finds make traveling a little easier and more enjoyable.
Best of all, most cost less than $30, and everything is under $60.
From ingenious little travel accessories to handy problem-solvers you probably didn't know existed, there's something here for every kind of adventurer. Happy gifting - and be sure to treat yourself to a couple of gifts, too!
In Case You Need It: The Little Things That Save the Day
Let's begin with the gifts that nobody thinks they need until the precise moment they desperately need them.
Travel First-Aid Kit
Because blisters, scrapes, and minor mishaps don't check your itinerary. This compact kit helps you handle life's little travel emergencies without searching for a pharmacy in an unfamiliar town. Under $10
Travel Wound Irrigation Syringe
A tiny tool with a surprisingly useful purpose: rinsing wounds and cleaning out grit when adventure gets a little too adventurous. Add this to the First Aid Kit above. It weighs practically nothing and costs around $5.
Merino Wool Compression Socks
Give tired legs some extra support on long flights, train rides, and road trips. Helps prevent thrombosis. Merino wool keeps you warm, even when wet. A thoughtful gift for anyone who spends hours traveling between destinations. About $30 for merino wool socks (much less expensive if not).
Paracord Carabiner
A versatile little multitasker for clipping, securing, and organizing gear. Once you start carrying one, you'll wonder how you traveled without it. The handy paracord is terrific as a clothesline and so much more! Under $15
Block the Bad Guys: Travel Safety
Next, let's talk about personal safety and blocking the bad guys...
Personal Safety Alarm - 3 pack
Small enough to carry anywhere, this easy-to-use alarm offers an extra layer of reassurance for solo travelers and nighttime explorers. Keep one in your pocket or purse - and in your hand whenever you feel like you might be in a dicey situation. About $15
Portable Travel Door Lock
Add an extra layer of security to compatible doors (inward swing) in hotels and other accommodations. A compact gift for travelers who appreciate a little extra peace of mind. Great for AirBnB's, etc. About $15
6 in 1 Privacy Protector
Checks your lodging for hidden cameras, mics, radio frequencies (RF can steal your credit and debit card info), and GPS! Also includes an alarm and LED light! With battery, it weighs under 4 oz and cost less than $20. A great gift gift for the security-conscious explorer.
Ultra Thin Wallet Tracker (iOS)
Misplaced your wallet again? Pickpocketed? This tracker can help you locate it before a minor inconvenience becomes a vacation disaster. It's a 4 pack, so you can slip one in your pack, pad case and luggage, too! Under $40
RFID-Blocking Wallet
Keep travel cards organized in a compact wallet designed to help block unauthorized RFID scanning - this is where the bad guys can scan your credit card chip without you even knowing it! Under $20
Faraday Pouch to block RFID of your Electronics
Like the RFID blocking wallet, these affordable pouches can hold your wallet, phone, car fob and/or tablet to keep the bad guys from stealing your data or credit cards. It can block all types of signals: WiFi, Bluetooth, RFID, GPS, cell phone jammers, including car key signals, SMS, and NFC. Depending on the size, they run $15-$20
On the Road: Comfort and Convenience
Now we get to some of my favorite travel gifts: the little things that make a long journey feel considerably less like an endurance event.
Luggage Travel Cup Holder for Suitcase
Keep your water bottle and coffee cup handy without sacrificing precious hand space. Holds your phone and passport, too! A clever accessory for navigating airports, train stations, and busy streets. Under $15
Collapsible Water Bottle
Hydrate on the go without giving up valuable packing space. It folds down when empty, making it ideal for travelers who like to pack light. BPA free food safe silicone. 21 ounce and choice of color. Under $15
Airplane/Train/Bus Foot Hammock
Give your feet a little vacation of their own. This compact accessory can make long flights and rides more comfortable. Slips over your tray table. Adjustable. Under $15
Inflatable Seat Cushion
A portable comfort upgrade for long journeys, outdoor concerts, and anywhere you'd appreciate a little extra cushioning. Expands to 2" thick foam and collapses into the included small pouch. Under $25
Pocket Blanket for Two+
Perfect for impromptu picnics, festivals and concerts, and relaxing outdoors. Fold it up, tuck it away, and you're ready for your next adventure. Waterproof and measures 63" x 44". Folds into the attached pocket. Under $40
Rechargeable Headlamp
Keep your hands free and your path illuminated. A must-have for early morning hikes, evening walks, camping, and unexpected power outages. When sharing a room with others, it allows to to move about without waking them. Always keep one in your pack! Under $15
16L/20L Foldable Daypack
A lightweight extra bag that disappears into your luggage until you need it. Ideal for day hikes, sightseeing, and carrying home those irresistible souvenirs. Great for when you don't need your main pack. Under $30
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Waterproof Phone, Card & Key Pouch
Safely take pics underwater! Help protect your phone from splashes, sand, and unexpected rain. A useful companion for snorkeling, kayaking, beach days, and other water-adjacent adventures. Choice of colors. Under $15
SPF 50+ Sun Umbrella
Your portable patch of shade for sunny city walks, hot hiking trails, and outdoor sightseeing. Vented for air circulation. Sometimes the smartest travel gear is wonderfully simple. Of course, it works for rain, too. Get the backpack clips (below), too! Choice of colors. Under $30
Backpack (Day Pack) Umbrella Clips
Two clips securely hold your umbrella for hands free walking and hiking! Easy on and off. Secures to your pack's side strap. Great for sun or rain protection! Under $20
HEROClip Heavy Duty Clip and Caribiner Combo
You'll want one of these for your own pack - so many uses! Aircraft grade aluminum combines a carabiner, rotating gear clip and hook to hang and organize gear almost anywhere. Choice of colors and four sizes available. Under $30
The Best Part?
Most of these gifts cost less than $20, making it easy to surprise your favorite traveler without overspending.
You could create an outstanding Christmas Stocking for the adventurous traveler in your life!
Just be warned: browsing this list may result in a few additions to your own packing list!
Tinggly – Experience Gifts for Travelers Who Have Everything
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