{"id":148897,"date":"2025-11-05T09:00:48","date_gmt":"2025-11-05T14:00:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.nomadicmatt.com\/?p=148897"},"modified":"2025-11-19T03:01:06","modified_gmt":"2025-11-19T08:01:06","slug":"best-travel-gifts","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.nomadicmatt.com\/travel-blogs\/best-travel-gifts\/","title":{"rendered":"My Top Gifts for Travelers for the Holidays"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"A<\/p>\n

Travelers can be a fickle group of people to buy gifts for. We’re constantly coming and going, we usually don’t carry a lot of stuff with us, and no two travelers are alike. Finding the perfect gift for the traveler in your life can be tricky.<\/p>\n

While a plane ticket is never a bad idea (I’m a window seat in case anyone is thinking of getting me one), I’ve put together this ultimate gift guide for travelers as there’s a lot of great travel gear out there these days that helps people travel cheaper and better.<\/p>\n

Even me, the gear-adverse traveler, likes a lot of this stuff!<\/p>\n

This is stuff I actually think is super useful. No nonsense. No fluff. Just the best gifts for intrepid travelers and globetrotting nomads.<\/p>\n

1. A Travel Lock<\/h3>\n

\"Master<\/a>This simple item is one of the most important for the budget traveler. Since many hostels have lockers, backpackers need to have their own travel lock<\/a> when they’re on the road. While you can usually rent them at hostels, those prices add up after a while. I never leave home without a lock because I know it will come in handy.<\/p>\n

Buy now on Amazon!<\/a><\/center>
\n <\/p>\n

2. Loop Earplugs<\/h3>\n

\"travel<\/a>Anyone who has ever stayed in a hostel knows that a quality pair of earplugs<\/a> is a necessity. From chronic snorers to late-night drinkers to copulating couples in creaking bunks, hostels are known for their less-than-quiet accommodation. I suggest investing in good earplugs and not just the cheap foam ones. Not only will they help you sleep, but they’re great for bus trips and flights as well as wearing as you explore louder, more hectic cities.<\/p>\n

Buy now on Amazon!<\/a><\/center>
\n <\/p>\n

3. Travel Adapter<\/h3>\n

\"travel<\/a>Nothing is more tedious than arriving at a new destination only to realize you can’t charge your devices because the electrical outlets are different. That’s why you’ll need a travel adapter<\/a>. They’re a simple accessory. There’s a million out there but this is one I use as it covers every region of the world and comes with USB ports too. It’s cheap, easy to use, and lightweight. Everything you need in an adapter.<\/p>\n

Buy now on Amazon!<\/a><\/center>
\n <\/p>\n

4. Zbiotics Pre-Alcohol<\/h3>\n

\"Nomadic
\nZbiotics Pre-Alcohol<\/a> is a pre-drink probiotic that helps you really avoid those rough mornings after drinking. A friend of mine introduced it into our friend group over a year ago and I’ve been hooked ever since. It really does work. I take it with me whenever I travel and have gotten other friends, fellow travel writers, and even a tour guide in Peru onto it. It will make your next mornings bright and it helps me ensure that I’m not feeling too bad to do stuff the next day. I love this product. It works. If you or a traveler on your gift list drinks, take it. You can save 10% off with the code NOMADICMATT.<\/p>\n

Buy now on Zbiotics!<\/a><\/center>
\n <\/p>\n

5. Scratch Travel Maps from Landmass<\/h3>\n

\"travel<\/a>Scratch maps<\/a> are a fun way to keep track of your past travels while helping you stay inspired as you plan your future trips. You simply scratch off the parts of the world you’ve been. Simple. Easy. Landmass<\/em> is my favorite company that makes these, though there are plenty of other companies that make them now so you can find them in all sorts of sizes and colors.<\/p>\n

Buy now on Amazon!<\/a><\/center>
\n <\/p>\n

6. Passport Holder<\/h3>\n

\"A<\/a>A passport holder<\/a> is a must-have for any avid traveler. Not only does it protect your passport from wear and tear, it makes your travels much more convenient. Most passport holders have slots for your travel credit cards as well as any cash you have, making it a safe and convenient way to keep your valuables secure while you travel. While there are tons of expensive and fancy passport holders out there, a simple one will get the job done and save you money in the process (money you can spend on more travels!).<\/p>\n

Buy now on Amazon!<\/a><\/center>
\n <\/p>\n

7. Hand-drawn Food Maps<\/h3>\n

\"hand<\/a>These are unique, hand-drawn typographic maps<\/a> of food from Legal Nomads<\/a> and artist Ella Frances Sanders. They make a thoughtful gift for anyone who loves to eat and travel (and who doesn’t!). They come in a variety of sizes too! Jodi’s maps are the best! (Use code NOMADICMATT to save 10%)<\/p>\n

Buy now at Legal Nomads!<\/a><\/center>
\n <\/p>\n

8. How to Travel the World on $75 A Day (and Other Travel Books!)<\/h3>\n

\"$50<\/a>Want to travel more for less? Pick up a copy of my New York Times<\/em> bestselling guide to budget travel and never overpay for travel again! With this book, you\u2019ll get an easy-to-follow step-by-step guide to planning a trip on a budget. And, with super detailed sections to regions around the globe, you\u2019ll be able to navigate every region around the world like a pro! This book takes all the knowledge from this website and puts it all into one place with even more details and resources! And it\u2019s not just for long-term travelers either. The tactics and strategies you\u2019ll learn apply to a trip of any length of time!<\/p>\n

Buy now on Amazon!<\/a><\/center> <\/p>\n

Buy now on Bookshop!<\/a><\/center>
\n 
\nFor more travel book suggestions, you can check out my list of recommended reading on Amazon<\/a> and Bookshop<\/a> (I have hundreds of book suggestions there!).
\n <\/p>\n

9. Celiac Travel Cards<\/h3>\n

\"Legal<\/a>My friend Jodi from Legal Nomads created these helpful travel cards<\/a> for anyone traveling with Celiac disease. They are in-depth resources that communicate your concerns to restaurant staff in a way that allows anyone traveling with the disease to have a worry-free meal. If you or someone you love has Celiac disease, these travel cards are a useful resource! (Use code NOMADICMATT for 10% off!)<\/p>\n

Buy now at Legal Nomads!<\/a><\/center>
\n <\/p>\n

10. Dry Shampoo<\/h3>\n

\"Lush's<\/a>
\nDry shampoo<\/a> is a convenient liquid-free alternative to regular shampoo. It’s a useful minimalist solution for budget travelers who travel carry-on only and an eco-friendly choice as well. Natural dry shampoos absorb the grease and oil in your hair, keeping it clean while you’re on the road \u2014 and with minimal effort too. It works for all types of hair and hair lengths as well so you don’t need to shave your head or do anything drastic either.<\/p>\n

Buy now at Lush!<\/a><\/center>
\n <\/p>\n

11. Packing Cubes<\/h3>\n

\"travel<\/a>Packing cubes<\/a> are an awesome tool to help you stay organized while you travel. Whether you’re a budget backpacker or traveling with half a dozen suitcases, packing cubes will keep you organized as you travel the world. They come in a variety of sizes, allowing you to store items big and small. If you know a traveler who needs a hand staying organized, this is the gift for them!<\/p>\n

Buy now on Amazon!<\/a><\/center>
\n <\/p>\n

12. HostelPass<\/h3>\n

\"The<\/a>For the traveler heading to Europe, consider gifting a HostelPass<\/a>. This discount card offers over 130 discounts to hostels in 40 cities throughout 15 countries in Europe. With HostelPass, travelers can save up to 40% on accommodation. It’s the discount card I wish existed when I first started backpacking around Europe and it’s perfect for budget travelers planning a trip around the continent.<\/p>\n

Buy now at HostelPass!<\/a><\/center>
\n <\/p>\n

13. Trip Chaser<\/h3>\n

\"The<\/a>
\nIn this fun travel game, you have to prove who\u2019s the most travel-savvy by buying, bartering, and gambling your way to various destinations. Just like actual travel, expect both stumbling blocks and enriching experiences along the way. You’ll rely on the luck of drawing a good event card, or proactively buying travel insurance to save you from the unexpected! It’s a family-friendly game for 2-6 players and perfect for everyone who loves to travel!<\/p>\n

Buy now on Amazon!<\/a><\/center>
\n <\/p>\n

14. DryFox Quick Dry Travel Towel<\/h3>\n

\"sea<\/a>Unless you’re only staying at hotels or using Airbnb, you’re going to need to bring a towel when you travel. Having a lightweight, quick-drying towel makes a huge difference when you’re on the road since regular towels are too bulky and heavy (and they take a long time to dry). Get a travel towel<\/a> for your next trip so you can travel light. They’re a compact, quick-drying solution that every backpacker needs.<\/p>\n

(Use code “nomadicmatt” for 15% off your purchase!)<\/p>\n

Buy now at DryFoxCo!<\/a><\/center>
\n <\/p>\n

15. Menstrual Cup<\/h3>\n

\"A<\/a>Menstrual cups<\/a> are reusable, eco-friendly feminine hygiene products. While I can’t speak to their effectiveness personally, tons of female travelers I know are huge fans. It can be a hassle trying to find the products you need while abroad, making this a simple, effective, and affordable addition to your toiletry kit.<\/p>\n

Buy now on Amazon!<\/a><\/center>
\n <\/p>\n

16. Trtl Travel Pillow<\/h3>\n

\"a<\/a>Travel pillows<\/a> are perfect for those long-haul flights, delayed buses, and airport naps. Every traveler needs to have a travel pillow on hand to maximize that downtime and time in transit, and Trtl pillows are the best on the market. They help prevent jet lag and make even the longest, most uncomfortable trip a little more bearable.<\/p>\n

Buy now on Amazon!<\/a><\/center>
\n <\/p>\n

17. Travel Headlamp<\/h3>\n

\"travel<\/a>This is a handy tool for both backpackers and anyone looking to do any hiking or camping. In a hostel, a headlamp<\/a> is helpful if you need to check in or out but don’t want to disturb your fellow travelers. For outdoorsy folks, they’re useful for hiking, setting up camp in the dark, and for emergencies.<\/p>\n

Buy now on Amazon!<\/a><\/center>
\n <\/p>\n

18. External Battery<\/h3>\n

\"A<\/a>These days, we all travel with numerous electronic devices like phones and tablets. It can be hard to keep them all charged. An external battery<\/a> solves that problem. Two high-output USB ports make this external battery incredibly convenient, and it can charge most phones up to 6 times in one go!<\/p>\n

Buy now on Amazon!<\/a><\/center>
\n <\/p>\n

19. LifeStraw<\/h3>\n

\"lifestraw<\/a>Environmentally, pollution from single-use plastics is something every traveler has witnessed. And, monetarily, when you’re traveling, continuously buying water gets expensive. Do your part to help the planet by traveling with a reusable filter. LifeStraw<\/a> is an awesome brand with a built-in water filter. The filters last 5 years so you save money on changing them too.<\/p>\n

Buy now on Lifestraw!<\/a><\/center>
\n <\/p>\n

20. Travel Backpack<\/h3>\n

\"REI<\/a>If you’ve got a budget traveler on your holiday list, a travel backpack<\/a> is the gift that keeps on giving. A well-made bag will last for years and through dozens of adventures. Having a reliable travel backpack is one of the most important items for a traveler.<\/p>\n

My favorite bag is the Flash 55<\/a> from REI but other companies that make high-quality bags include Osprey, Nomatic, and MEC (for Canadians).<\/p>\n

For a smaller day bag, check out the Flash 22<\/a>. Or if you prefer a bag with wheels, check out the Farpoint 36<\/a>.<\/p>\n

For more backpack suggestions, check out my ultimate guide finding the right backpack<\/a> for more options!
\n <\/p>\n

21. Travel Clothing from Unbound Merino<\/h3>\n

\"Unbound<\/a>These travel clothes are some of the most versatile on the market. Made from merino wool, Unbound<\/a> offers clothing that can be worn daily for weeks (and months!) without getting smelly. They are perfect for the traveler who wants to pack lighter. I really love the material, they’re comfortable, they hardly ever need a wash, and they last forever!<\/p>\n

Buy now at Unbound!<\/a><\/center>
\n <\/p>\n

22. MacBook Air<\/h3>\n

\"MacBook<\/a>This is my favorite travel computer<\/a>. It’s light, it’s powerful enough for regular use, and the battery life lasts a long time. While an iPad might be another potential travel choice, I find the Air much more versatile \u2014 especially with their new M4 chip. You can just do a lot more with it. When I’m on the road, this is the laptop I travel with.<\/p>\n

Buy now on Amazon!<\/a><\/center>
\n 
\nFor a non-Apple phone with an equally awesome camera, check out the Google Pixel<\/a>. It has an excellent camera!
\n <\/p>\n

23. Noise-Canceling Headphones<\/h3>\n

\"Bose<\/a>These are ideal for those long flights or bus trips as they block out background noise so you can read, work, or sleep without being disturbed. The wireless Bose QuietComfort 45<\/a> headphones are fan favorites and my go-to brand. They are comfortable, rechargeable, and do an amazing job at removing background noise. If you’re on a budget, consider the QuietComfort 25<\/a> instead.<\/p>\n

Buy now on Amazon!<\/a><\/center>
\n <\/p>\n

24. Kindle<\/h3>\n

\"A<\/a>While I personally prefer to read physical books, I can’t argue against the convenience and simplicity of the Kindle<\/a>. Hauling around physical books is a pain if you’re traveling often. With a Kindle, you can pack over 1,000 books into a single device and many versions can also use apps and access the internet. It’s a wonderful gift for the avid reader.<\/p>\n

Buy now on Amazon!<\/a><\/center>
\n <\/p>\n

25. GoPro Hero 12<\/h3>\n

\"A<\/a>Every traveler needs a camera, and few are as versatile and durable as the GoPro<\/a>. They’re incredible for photos and video no matter the climate. They’re waterproof and are perfect for both everyday city exploring as well as more extreme and adventurous activities. They’re just awesome. If the Hero 12 is too pricey, grab the 10 or 11. They’re almost as good and a bit cheaper!<\/p>\n

Buy now on Amazon!<\/a><\/center>
***<\/center>Whether you’re searching for the perfect holiday gift for a traveler in your life or just looking for some inspiration for yourself, this list will help you find an awesome gift. No matter your budget, there is something here for you to help you level up your travels or the travels of a loved one.<\/p>\n
\n

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks<\/h4>\n

Book Your Flight<\/strong>
\nFind a cheap flight by using Skyscanner<\/a>. It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned. <\/p>\n

Book Your Accommodation<\/strong>
\nYou can book your hostel with Hostelworld<\/a>. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com<\/a> as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels. <\/p>\n

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance<\/strong>
\nTravel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:<\/p>\n