Gifts for a Travel Lover

Tried and true essentials from someone who loves to travel and spend money

There are about a million gift guides out there on the internet. And what can be considered a travel “essential” varies wildly from traveler to traveler. But in the spirit of giving, I wanted to share the staples that come with me on every flight (with a few noted exceptions) that also happen to make great gifts. Happy shopping!

Luggage

Carry-On

Switching to a hard-sided carry-on changed everything for me. Maybe it’s an illusion, but I swear you can fit more into a clam-shell-style suitcase—and your stuff is better protected during turbulent flights.

I’ve had a Calpak carry-on for a few years and absolutely love it. Sadly, my exact case is no longer sold, but this one is very close and 20% off this week.

Packing Cubes

Another lifechanging travel essential. These compression packing cubes are amazing. You can fit so much and the zipper never gets caught while you’re compressing them. If you are shopping for a carry-on-only traveler, they are a must-have.

But if you’re in the market for something a little more fun, I’ve had my eye on these cute printed cubes from Baggu.

Travel Backpack

My trusty travel backpack is old and missing a zipper pull, so I unfortunately can’t share the link with you. However, I bought this backpack for both my fiancé and my dad for international trips. It can zip all the way open like a suitcase and has a waterproof pocket, a laptop pocket, and about a million other pockets. And with the built-in compression straps, you can overpack and still fit it under your seat.

Toiletry bag

I’ve used this clear toiletry bag more times than I can count. It fits a ton, but still passes TSA and international standards (in my experience). I love that you can zip it closed and it’s easy to clean if one of your bottles spills.

In-Flight Essentials

Reusable Water Bottle

I feel like I’ve tried every trending water bottle on the market, but when it comes to travel, classic is best. The 17 oz Swell is the perfect size for most travel bags and it won’t shoot water everywhere like straw bottles do under cabin pressure.

Travel Outfit

A comfy matching set is my go-to travel outfit. It’s still comfortable and effortless, but it looks a little bit more put together. Getting dressed before a 5 am flight has never been easier.

Give this set to your favorite traveler. It’s 40% off for Black Friday!

Tech

Battery Pack

A theme of this newsletter—my battery pack is old and no longer sold. But! That’s how you know these travel essentials are worth it. They all have lasted me years and countless flights.

The closest I can find from the same brand is this 2-pack for $29.99. Seems like a great stocking stuffer to me!

Wireless Headphones

My Liberty 2 wireless earbuds from Soundcore have lasted me years. They still have enough battery life to last on long-haul flights and they’ve survived rain storms, running phases, and endless podcasts.

I’m sure the latest iteration is even better.

eReader

After 10+ years, I moved on from my beloved Nook to a Kobo Clara BW last year. So far, it’s been great! eReaders really are the most convenient (and lightest) way to read on trips.

The black & white version isn’t on sale this week, but the new Libra Colour edition is.

Travel Sets

This is the perfect time of year to stock up on travel-size products for yourself or your favorite carry-on traveler.

I love the Supergoop sunscreen set, Fresh skincare kit, and Glossier You travel set (the original is my all-time favorite perfume).

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What travel gifts do you have your eye on this holiday season? Any essentials I need to add to my arsenal? Let me know in the comments!