35 best travel gift ideas that they’ll actually use (and love)

After visiting 40 countries (and counting!), I’ve learned the hard way what’s actually worth packing—and what just ends up collecting dust. That’s why I rounded up a mix of the best travel gifts I genuinely recommend, whether you’re shopping for a frequent flyer, a first-time adventurer, or even treating yourself before your next getaway.

We’re talking clever items that make a red-eye a little more bearable, my personal go-tos from years of traveling, plus dozens of cool travel gifts and luxury travel gifts that fellow travelers swear by. These aren’t just trendy gadgets—they’re tried-and-true essentials (or, in this case, unique gifts for travel lovers) that make every journey smoother, smarter, and more enjoyable.

Whether you’re shopping for travel gifts for women who can somehow fit a week’s worth of outfits into a carry-on, travel gifts for men who think cargo pants are haute couture, or a foolproof gift card, we’ve got you covered—because nothing says “I care” like letting someone plan their own travel adventure, even on a budget.

Buckle up, put your tray tables in their upright position, and let’s embark on this journey through the turbulent skies of gifts for travelers.

What are the best gifts for travelers?

Best for the sleepy traveler: trtl Travel Pillow

Give your jet-setting friend the gift of comfort with the Trtl Travel Pillow. This ingenious neck support will help them arrive at their destination well-rested and ready to explore. It’s the perfect present for frequent flyers who struggle to sleep on planes.

---

Best for long-haul sleepy travelers: JefDiee Inflatable Travel Pillow

Look, there are times when you just need a quick nap and times when you need serious sleep. If you’ve ever taken a red-eye to Europe, you know exactly how crucial it is to get some shuteye before you land in London, Paris, Rome, or wherever else your itinerary may be taking you.

I picked up this inflatable travel pillow ahead of a seven-hour flight to Edinburgh last summer, and yes—I may have endured a little embarrassment blowing it up in economy—but it was 100% worth it. After a couple of melatonin gummies, I was honestly zonked from takeoff to touchdown, and I landed feeling surprisingly refreshed and ready to explore.

---

Best for the cozy traveler: Bombas Gripper Slipper

Traveling with slippers isn’t for everyone—but if you’re the type to toss in fuzzy socks and a candle or two to make every place feel like home, the Bombas Gripper Slippers are worth it. They pack down easily, feel ridiculously comfy, and are perfect for lounging in a hotel room or padding around an Airbnb.

---

Best for the city traveler: lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L

The belt bag that broke the Internet in 2020 is still a staple in my carry-on—and honestly, in my everyday life too. Sleek, versatile, and made from nylon (so stains are minimal), it’s perfect for urban explorers navigating the streets of Manhattan, Paris, Bangkok, or anywhere in between. Its compact design keeps essentials close at hand while leaving your arms free for sightseeing or shopping, and multiple pockets make it easy to stay organized on the go.

---

---

Best for the podcast-lover: Apple AirPods (3rd Generation)

Whether you’re listening to podcasts or Taylor Swift’s “The Life of a Showgirl” on repeat, the Apple AirPods (3rd Gen) are a must for any traveler. They have noise cancellation (great for the turbulence), are sweat and water-resistant, and are equipped with a lightning charge of up to 30 hours.

---

Best traveler who travels in style: Alo Hazy Mock Neck Pullover

For this fashionista traveler who chooses comfort over style during her travels, you can’t go wrong with this ultra-comfy mock neck pullover from Alo. It’s my go-to for the airport, working out and beyond.

---

Best for the skincare-obsessed traveler: grace & stella Under-Eye Patches

These under-eye patches are a must-have for beauty-conscious travelers looking to combat jet lag and fatigue. Infused with collagen and other nourishing ingredients, they help reduce puffiness and dark circles, ensuring a refreshed appearance even after long journeys.

---

Best for the traveler who loves being entertained: Apple iPad mini (A17 Pro)

I’m someone who always downloads my favorite shows and movies before a trip, so having my mini iPad fully charged on a long flight, train, or car ride is non-negotiable. Its small size makes it easy to slip into any bag, and it fits perfectly on a plane tray table—ideal for binge-watching without feeling cramped.

---

Best for the corporate traveler: TUMI Garment Bag Tri-Fold Carry-On

This foldable garment bag is essential for business travelers who need to keep their suits and formal wear wrinkle-free. Its compact design allows for easy packing in carry-on luggage, while multiple compartments provide organized storage for accessories and shoes.

---

For the relaxed traveler: Spanx Air Essentials Half-Zip and Spanx Air Essentials Wide Leg Pant

When it comes to the best travel outfits, Spanx is where I stay brand loyal. Spanx’s Air Essentials collection offers breathable, wrinkle-free, lightweight fabrics that just can’t be beat. This set features a half-zip and wide-leg pant that feels like pajamas but looks polished enough for the airport or a casual dinner.

---

Best for the carry-on traveler: Away The Bigger Carry-On Flex

Ideal for travelers who prefer to skip the drama of baggage claim, the Away Bigger Carry-On Flex is perfect in every way, but as a traveler who owns a small fleet of Away suitcases, I may be biased. The expandable suitcase provides ample space for your belongings while remaining flight-compliant. Made with a polycarbonate hard shell and an interior compression system, it has 360-degree spinner wheels, a hidden laundry bag and even a TSA-approved lock for security. Whether you’re jetting across the world or only have a 2-hour flight, this carry-on suitcase will not disappoint in the functionality or style department.

---

Best for the traveler who needs help with circulation: Comrad Compression Socks

Show your care for a traveler’s well-being with Comrad Compression Socks. These socks will keep their legs feeling fresh during long flights or road trips. It’s a thoughtful gift for health-conscious wanderers or those prone to swelling during travel.

---

Best for the movie-loving traveler: Perilogics Airplane Phone Holder Mount

Enhance your favorite traveler’s in-flight entertainment with this clever phone holder. It’s a game-changer for movie buffs and binge-watchers who want to enjoy hands-free viewing on cramped airplane trays.

---

Best for the traveler who hates the plastic earbuds: AirFly Pro 2

For the traveler who doesn’t want to sacrifice their Bluetooth connection, consider gifting them the AirFly Pro 2 so they don’t have to.

---

Best for the caffeinated traveler: Wacaco Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker

Delight your coffee-loving globetrotter with this portable espresso maker. They’ll never have to suffer through bad hotel coffee again, making it a perfect gift for those who can’t start their day without a quality caffeine fix.

---

Best for the hydrated traveler: HydroJug Traveler 32 oz Water Bottle

If they love their Stanley but don’t want it to leak in their carry-on, consider the HydroJug Traveler instead. This leak-resistant water bottle comes with an ambidextrous lid, a circular flip straw and a comfortable grip handle to ensure filling up your tumbler at the airport happens with ease.

---

Best for the hydrated *International* traveler: Larq Self-Cleaning Water Bottle

On the other hand, if you’re venturing to areas with questionable water quality, the Larq Self-Cleaning Water Bottle may be worth the investment. It uses non-toxic mercury-free UV-C LED technology to sanitize water and clean the inner surfaces of the bottle by neutralizing bacteria such as E. coli. The best part? It works at the touch of a button and self-cleans by intelligently activating every 2 hours to keep your bottle fresh and stink-free.

---

Best for the organized (or not so organized) traveler: Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate and Reveal Packing Cubes Set

Help the traveler in your life stay organized by keeping their suitcase tidy with this clever packing cube set. It’s a practical gift for neat freaks or those embarking on longer trips where laundry management becomes crucial.

---

Best for the nostalgic traveler: Scratch-Off World Map Poster

Inspire wanderlust and celebrate past adventures with this interactive world map. It’s a perfect gift for travel enthusiasts who love to plan future trips and reminisce about past journeys.

---

Best for the photography traveler: Peak Design Camera Clip

Equip your photography-loving traveler with this handy camera clip. It’s an excellent gift for those who want to capture every moment of their travels without the neck strain of a traditional camera strap.

---

Best for the traveler with lots of stuff: Baggu Medium Nylon Crescent Bag

For the traveler who likes to carry it all, the Baggu Medium Nylon Crescent Bag is a game-changer. Lightweight yet roomy, it fits all your essentials without weighing you down. The crescent shape sits comfortably across your body, making it perfect for sightseeing, airport hopping, or navigating busy city streets.

---

Best for the security-minded traveler: Zero Grid Infinity Scarf with Hidden Pockets

Provide peace of mind to your security-conscious traveler with this stylish scarf featuring hidden pockets. It’s a thoughtful gift for those exploring bustling cities or areas known for pickpockets.

---

Best for the bookworm traveler: Kindle Paperwhite

Treat your bookworm traveler to a lightweight library with the Kindle Paperwhite. It’s an ideal gift for avid readers who want to enjoy their favorite books without exceeding luggage weight limits.

---

Best for the adventurous traveler: Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack

Equip your adventure-seeking friend with this rugged, versatile travel pack from Cotopaxi. It’s perfect for those who love off-the-beaten-path travel or frequently embark on outdoor expeditions. Equipped with 42 liters of space and plenty of zipper pockets for ideal organization, take this to Patagonia, Japan and beyond.

---

Best for the foodie traveler: Portable Picnic Basket and Table

Elevate your foodie friend’s travel experiences with this clever picnic set. It’s an excellent gift for those who love to dine al fresco in scenic locations during their travels.

---

Best for the outdoorsy traveler: LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle

Ensure your outdoors-y traveler stays safely hydrated with this filter bottle. It’s an essential gift for hikers, campers, or those exploring regions with limited access to clean water.

---

Best for the light-sleeping traveler: Loop Quiet Ear Plugs

Give the gift of peace and quiet with these premium Loop Quiet earplugs. They’re perfect for the light sleepers who are looking to catch a few shuteye on their next flight.

---

Best for the gadget-loving traveler: Cocoon GRID-IT! Organizer

Help your tech-savvy traveler keep their gadgets in order with this versatile organizer. It’s an ideal gift for those who carry multiple devices and want to avoid a tangled mess in their bag.

---

Best for the traveler who doesn’t like getting out of their seat: Cotopaxi Nido Accessory Bag-CADA Dia

As someone who likes to be fully prepped for any in-flight need, this bag has become essential to my travels. The Cotopaxi Nido consists of three compartments that keep me organized: one for cleanliness items (like Clorox wipes, hand sanitizer), the middle for my mini iPad and Kindle, and the last for cords, adaptors, AirPods, and other tech. It’s truly a game-changer if you don’t want to be rummaging through your carry-on.

---

Best for the efficient traveler: TRIPPED Travel Gear Compression Packing Cubes

Help your traveler friend pack more efficiently with these space-saving packing cubes. They’re perfect for those who like to maximize their luggage capacity or tend to overpack.

---

Best for the traveler whose phone is always dying: Sabani Portable Charger 35000mAh Power Bank

While admittedly more of a stocking stuffer, this portable charger has been a game-changer during my travels

---

Best for the language-learning traveler: Rosetta Stone Lifetime Subscription

Empower your language-loving traveler to communicate confidently abroad with this comprehensive language learning program. It’s an invaluable gift for those who love to immerse themselves in local cultures.

---

Best for the cocktail-loving traveler: LEGACY 10-Piece Bar Tool Roll-up Kit

Treat your cocktail enthusiast to this portable bar set, allowing them to mix their favorite drinks anywhere. It’s a fun gift for those who enjoy a well-crafted beverage, whether they’re camping or lounging in a hotel room.

---

Best for travelers who lose circulation: Basic Concepts Airplane Footrest

The foot hammock is ideal for any traveler who struggles to get some sleep while crammed in economy. The footrest features straps that hook around the tray table in front of you and turn into a mini foot hammock. It also packs flat to fold easily into your carry-on.

---

Best for travelers who need a skincare pick-me-up: Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask

Lots of travel can leave skin stressed, tired and thirsty. To help your giftee combat this, they can use the Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask as a nightly treatment after travel, a daytime moisturizer or even an in-flight skin saver. The fragrance-free formula helps nourish, hydrate and calm the skin with niacinamide, glycerin, hyaluronic acid and antioxidants — leaving a renewed and radiant complexion.

---

Best for travelers who prioritize style and security: Quince Nappa Leather RFID Blocking Passport Holder

This sleek passport holder combines premium Nappa leather with RFID-blocking technology, making it ideal for fashion-conscious travelers who want to protect their personal information while looking sophisticated.

---

Best for travelers who seek authentic experiences: Anthony Bourdain World Travel: An Irreverent Guide

This guidebook is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to explore destinations through the eyes of the late travel documentarian, chef and author, Anthony Bourdain – discovering hidden gems and local favorites around the world.

---

Best for travelers who desire hygiene with a touch of luxury: Noshinku Spice Refillable Pocket Hand Sanitizer 3-Pack

These pocket-sized, refillable hand sanitizers are ideal for travelers who want to stay germ-free on the go without compromising on scent or skincare, featuring moisturizing ingredients and sophisticated fragrances.

---

Best for travelers who need organization: CalPak Luka 17-inch Laptop Backpack

This is the item in my travel wardrobe that I call my “Mary Poppins backpack” since it fits an insane amount of items – from days-worth of clothing to a laptop and multiple tablets to pounds of toiletries and beyond.

---

Best for every traveler: JetBlue Vacations

For the loved one who can’t stop planning trips, get them the ultimate gift — a JetBlue Vacations package — that includes great deals on flights and hotels.

---

Hunting for a headline-worthy haul? Keep shopping with Post Wanted.

---

For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America’s go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance. We’re not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products, and consult experts on any topics we aren’t already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we’re known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.

---