An Ultimate Christmas List for the Traveler!

A Christmas list for the traveler! Christmas shopping is my least favorite part of the holiday season. The stress of trying to choose a gift people will like plus the cost just muddles the magic of the season. However, I do like to see people’s faces when I get the gift right! So, here is a list of items I use and love or wish that I had! These include:

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Electronic Travel Essentials

I don’t travel with a large amount of electronics. Typically, I just travel with enough to keep my phone/camera charged and keep me entertained during down time 🙃

Power Banks

1. Portable Power Bank
   • Every single traveler needs one of these. Taking photos and navigating around cities sucks the battery life out of a phone. When you may depend on your phone to get back to your hotel, it is ESSENTIAL to have a power bank in case your phone dies. I recommend getting one that holds a few charges (some only can charge your phone once and then have to be recharged).
2. Solar Power Bank
   • These are also super helpful for outdoor/camping enthusiasts when charging capabilities are scarce. For these situations, I recommend a power bank that is solar-powered so there is an increased chance of the power bank lasting through the trip. 

Flight Music & Movie Essentials

• Airpods and Airfly
  • If you have ever used airplane headphones, you know how uncomfortable they are. Your traveler is going to love having another set of headphones! The Airpod Pros are great for people who prefer smaller, in-the-ear headphones.
  • If you opt to get earphones, I recommend getting an AirFly also. This handy device inserts into the airplane auxiliary and connects to any wireless headphones via bluetooth. 
• Headphones
  • I’ve recently converted to over the ear headphones due to longer lasting battery and, most importantly, having two friends lose one of their airpods on the airplane!
  • I have the Studio Beats Pro, which are expensive, but keep your eyes peeled. I have seem them for as low as $200 on Amazon, though discounted to $275 is more common.

Whatever headphones you choose, I recommend noise cancelling for travelers. They mute out crying babies and unwanted conversations on airplanes!

Tracker Tags

1. Apple Airtags
   • If you’ve ever had lost luggage, listen up. Stick one of these in each of your pieces of luggage, even the ones you THINK you are carrying-on, because sometimes you are forced to check at the gate.
   • If your luggage gets lost, these can help track which destination they got stuck in and can get your luggage back faster.
2. Galaxy SmartTag
   • For those stubborn travelers that won’t switch to Apple (😜), there are some options for Android users as well. I can’t vouch for how well this brand works compared to the Apple Airtag, but it should help locate lost luggage like the airtag!

Kindle

Universal Plug Adapater

• If you have a well-seasoned traveler, they probably already have one of these. However, if you have someone that is just getting started on international travel, THEY NEED ONE OF THESE.
• The one linked below is universal (you can find European only ones if you prefer) and has ports to charge multiple items at once. RECOMMEND getting one that can take all plugs as well as USB and USBC for charging multiple things at once. 

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Packing Essentials for the Traveler

As someone who usually travels with carry-on only, packing light, organized and with the right items is essential! And whether your traveler carries with carry-on only or checked luggage, being organized will help a lot! 

Carry-on Personal Items

My secret to being able to travel with a carry-on suitcase only is to have a good “person item” bag that can hold toiletries, electronics, etc. I bought this one a few trips back, and as long as it isn’t completely overstuffed, it fits under the airplane seats and has made my carry-on packing life easier! 

Amazon Bag: I’ve been using a pretty cheap amazon “personal item” backpack for about three years now. I love that it has a laptop zip on the back and a “liquids-safe” zip in the front. The bottom also has a zipper made to separate a pair of shoes from the items inside if you wish to use it as your only carry-on. 

• I would say the biggest downfall is that it opens vertically instead of horizontally like a suitcase.

Cotopaxi: If you are looking to splurge a little more, Cotopaxi has one of the best functional backpacks. it opens up horizontally and has two separate compartments more like a suitcase (shown below).

Carry-on Suitcases

I’ve had the same carry-on suitcase since 2017 and it has survived countless countries and cobblestones, until just recently when the expandable zipper broke.

For a carry-on suitcase I definitely recommend getting one with an expandable zipper and get one with double-wheels.

• My old carry-on had 4 single wheels and my moms has 4 double wheels. Comparing the two, the double wheels definitely are smoother and easier to push. 

There are cheap carry-ons out there, but you typically get what you pay for.

Linked below is:

• Samsonite: This is a reasonably priced carry-on that is still sturdy and well-made; Samsonite tends to be a reliable brand!
• Away: Also, if you are willing to spend more, Away is a great carry-on option that has a VERY good lifetime warranty (they will fix or replace for any damage to the suite case!). 

Travel Organization Bags

Toiletry and Cosmetic Bags

As a carry-on only traveler, I don’t take a lot of cosmetics or a large cosmetic bag that hangs on the back of the door. I keep toiletries (toothbrush, razor, Q-tips, makeup wipes, etc) in one small bag and place my non-liquid makeup (liquids go in a ziploc in case they bust) in another small bag for easier access.

Whichever bag you choose, I recommend getting bags that aren’t hardshell (they don’t compress well into carry-ons) and to keep them relatively small and flat or compressible for easier packability.

Shoe Bags

Shoe bags are so helpful! (and so affordable). It is a game changer to have a bag to put your sandy or dusty shoes in. I recommend getting a set of several, for multiple shoes but also they make great dirty laundry bags too!

Packing Compression Cubes

In full transparency, I haven’t gotten behind the packing cubes. For some reason, I can’t seem to fit as much in my suitcase and I have a hard time finding my stuff. But I know a LOT of people who swear by compression cubes; the kicker is that you need COMPRESSION cubes and not just packing cubes. Linked below:

• An affordable and highly-ranked set of packing cubes based upon Amazon reviews. 

• The Cotopaxi set that goes with the backpack above!

Reusable Ziploc Bags

Staying organized helps a ton when traveling. I use these (and a couple bigger ones) on most trips to keep from losing things deep into my carry-ons. I use typically have one bag for jewelry, one for electronics, one for liquids, one for medicine, etc so I don’t have a bunch of loose items in the bottom of my personal item and so I can find what I need easier when on the airplane. 

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Travel Clothing That can be used regularly

Obviously people have their own clothing style and preferences. So, I’m not going to go full fashion-fluencer on you, but these are items that I have been able to use on several trips and have been functional, yet not hideous 🙂

Jackets

Rain Jacket:

• This light rain jacket has been the most versatile one I’ve owned. It is sometimes hard to find a rain jacket that doesn’t look like a 90’s windbreak but that also does its job.
• The waterproof trench liked below went well with my spring outfits in Greece as well as my fall outfits in Amsterdam! Also, affordable!

Pea Coat:

• A camel colored or any neutral peacoat is a coat that can also be used in multiple seasons and multiple destinations. I have one VERY similar to the one linked below.

Warm Parka:

• Whether going to Colorado to ski or to Europe for Christmas markets, a long, below-the-knee parka is a game-changer for staying warm!

Travel Day Sets

Matching sets are the new and improved travel outfit, especially for those going on a long-haul, overnight flight!

I also recommend compression socks for long-haul flights!

Weatherproof Shoes

I’ve also had a hard time finding waterproof boots that are lightweight and not hideous.

• For a traveler, lightweight boots are SO helpful. I wore the ones linked below walking through Amsterdam with no blisters. Not a lot of arch support, but a relatively comfortable shoe for a rain boot!
  • Amazon also has an insulated version of these, because these are NOT warm shoes.
• Dr. Martin boots are also a good option to keep feet warm and dry. The downfall to these, is that they can be heavy which doesn’t bode well for days of tons of walking.
• For the cold, snowy trips, Vans has a boot that is warm, waterproof and not completely hideous like some of the other winter boots. I have my eye on these!

Sneakers

Comfort is key. I tried to go the “cute platform” route and regretted it. My most comfortable, yet not sporty-looking, sneakers have been New Balances and a NOT platform Nike.

1. New Balance Classic Sneakers
   • Classic New Balance sneakers are lightweight and one of the most comfortable shoes I have walked in.
2. Leather White Sneaker
   • I have used a white Nike leather shoe as well as Adidas and both have been great for travel. My mom has also used the OnCloud white leather shoes and loved those while we walked miles in NYC and Greece.
3. Converse
   • Converse can be a comfortable travel option, if you get the thick soles. My friend walked miles in them in Europe and had no complaints.

Travel Sandals

Sturdy Sandals:

• Every traveler could use a dependable, sturdy sandal! Any trip that requires hiking, stairs, rainy conditions, etc will need a sandal that can withstand rough terrain as well as rain. My favorite sturdy sandal is the Teva Hurricane XLT2!

Comfortable Sandals:

• Another SUPER useful sandal, is a comfortable sandal that you can last miles in that is still pretty water-friendly. Again, Teva has great options that are cute, comfortable and hold up to the beach or weather!
• The second Tevas are a leather version, which makes them less water-appropriate, but they are super cute and highly rated for comfort!

Cute Dinner Sandal:

• The last travel sandal staple, is a comfortable sandal that can be worn to dinner. It doesn’t necessarily need to. be good enough to walk miles in, but still comfortable to walk to dinner in and still look cute! The sandal linked below is a great option!

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Christmas list for the traveler and Photographer

You can spend a million dollars on photography accessories. The options are endless and the price can go through the roof on some items. Here are some items in different price ranges that are useful for travel photography. 

Camera bags

I’ve went through a few camera bags trying to find the best one for traveling. I have one camera backpack that just doesn’t work with traveling carry-on only. Good for road-trips only. I’ve also invested in a cute camera shoulder bag. It works for day-to-day photography, but isn’t good for travel photography.

• Small Black Backpack
  • The best option for me to carry my camera when traveling is a small backpack that I can put inside my carry-ons and pull out when I get to my destination.
  • The first one linked below worked well! I loved that I could switch it to a shoulder bag for easier access to my camera. But know that if you have a larger lens, you won’t fit much more than the camera in the bag. It fits my camera and my 24-70mm lens with MINIMAL other things. Not good for someone with multiple lenses.
• Brown shoulder bag
  • Good for day-to-day photography, local photography or for road-trip travels. Not easy to carry with backpacks and carry-on suitcases, so I never take this one on my trips that require flying.
• Backpack
  • If you have a hiker or anyone who travels with multiple lenses, a backpack is the best option. Below I have linked one better suited for a hiker and one that would be great for more of a travel photographer with multiple lenses.

Camera Accessories

One thing about phtoragraphy, is that it is expensive. Between bags, tripods and not to mention the actual camera, things add up quickly. Here are a few things that most travel photorgraphers would love to have!

Photo Management

External Hard drive

If your traveler tends to take a lot of photos, chances are they could use somewhere to store those! An external hard drive is a great option for photo storage without fear of losing your photos. 

• 2 TB hard drives can hold a ton of storage (hundreds of thousands of iphone photos or tens of thousands of RAW higher resolution photos). 
• This Lacie hard drive is water resistance, shock/drop resistance and comes in a mini version and is HIGHLY rated!

Camera Card Adapter

This is one of my most-used accessories I didn’t know I needed. When on a trip, this is the easiest way to get my photos from my camera to my phone to upload. Highly recommend!

• The one linked is compatible with Iphone, USBC and USB. This versatility makes it adaptable with most phones as well as with Macbooks (which do not have SD card slots anymore). 

Camera Protection

Neoprene Sleeve

This is soley for camera protection on travel days. Since I don’t tend to carry an actual camera bag and put my camera in my carry-on backpack, I slip my camera and lens into the neoprene sleeve so it is protected no matter which bag I put it into. This really gives you more flexibility with bag options for carrying a camera!

• It is able to fit a mirrorless camera and 24-70mm lens. Any lens larger than this may not fit. 

Camera Lens Rain Covers

Something I wish I had a little earlier when I couldn’t take photos of a beautiful castle because it rained the whole time.

• Below is an affordable option that has great arms sleeves and clear backing so you can still see the camera screen. I’ve had a couple that aren’t as functional as this one.

Camera Backpack Clip

If you have a hiking travel photographer friend, this clip is amazing! Rather than have your camera dangling on a strap, it can clip directly to a backpack strap for better security and easy access!

Waterproof Phone Casing

This phone casing is compatible with IPhone as well as Samsung and has adjustable blocks inside to fit different sized phones (fits most phone sizes). It is submersible up to 50 ft, good for snorkeling, underwater photos or taking photos in the rain!

Tripod

There are loads of tripods out there. The problem with tripods are that they are bulky and can be heavy and, from experience, a pain to carry.

• So if you purchase a a cheap, bulky, heavy tripod, the likelihood of your traveler using the tripod is pretty slim (if they shoot with a DLSR or mirrorless camera; Iphone photography can definitely use a smaller, cheaper tripod!)

Linked below:

• The highest rated, more affordable option on Amazon
• I’ve also linked the “gold standard” tripods made specifically for travel and hiking.
  • They are expensive. But Peak Design has really done a great job of minimizing weight, compacting the space it takes up and perfecting the easy of getting the tripod open making it way more likely to actually be used (I haven’t actually allowed myself to spend this much on a tripod yet, though 😅). There is an aluminum option and then a lighter weight carbon fiber option. 

Cameras

If you are really wanting to spend money on your traveler, you can get them a camera 😅😃 The price on a camera varies WIDELY. It really depends on what your travelers photography goals are. 

I’ve also linked the camera I use. I bought the Sony Alpha 7III a few years ago and used the sock lens up until about a month ago. I used it to learn the camera, learn more about photography and then upgraded the lens when I decided I wanted to get a little more serious with the photography. 

1. Canon EOS R10
   • If they are wanting to get started in photography, a good starter camera is the Canon EOS R10. I started with the Canon Rebel Ti which was a DSLR camera. Since then, technology has progressed and mirrorless cameras are typically more crisp. 
   • The Canon EOS R100 is a good starter mirrorless camera for someone who wants to begin photography. If you want to spend less, the Canon EOS R100 is a cheaper version.
2. Sony ZV-1F
   • If your traveler is more into “vlogging” than photography, a digital camera is a better option.
   • The Sony ZV-1F digital camera is a good starting camera for blogging. It is compact (good for travel) and has a wide angle lens and wind-blocker on the mic making it a great option for vlogging.
3. Sony Alpha 7III
   • This is the camera I shoot with. Sony’s are great, crisp cameras, but they also tend to be more expensive. In good news, Sony has since come out with the Alpha 7Iv (linked below), so the 7aIII is cheaper (and still a great camera).
4. Another good option for an adventuring traveler is a GoPro!

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Christmas List for the Traveler, Subscription Style!

Travel subscriptions can be the gift that keep giving for a traveler! Whether they save your traveler money or make traveling easier for them, here are a few well-rated subscriptions for the traveler!

TSA Pre-Check or Global Entry

Any frequent traveler will thank you big if you pay for them to get Global Entry! The cost is about $120 and lasts for 5 years. TSA Pre-check is for domestic travel only and Global Entry includes TSA pre-check, therefore I recommend getting the Clobal Entry!

• To schedule an appointment, you have to have quite a bit of information about your traveler (height, weight, previous names, etc), so you may not be able apply FOR them, but you can definitely supply the funds. 

• For more information on Global Entry, click here!

“Going” Subscription

“Going” (used to be Scott’s Cheap Flights) offers subscriptions to be alerted when “mistake fare” happen. They offer a “premium” membership for $50/year that shares Economy finds and an “elite” membership that offers business and first class alerts. 

• I upgraded from the free version, and I love it! I get frequent notifications sent to my phone when cheap flights are found and it saves so much time and searching!

Babbel Subsriction

If you have a traveler who would like to learn a new language, a subscription to Babbel would be great! It is a step up from the free version of Duolingo and does a better job of creating carry-over with a new language!

They usually have black Friday deals as well.

• Purchase a subscription here!

Subscription to Priority Pass

Any traveler who would like to spend their long layovers in a lounge with some refreshments and peace and quiet, the Priority Pass could be the perfect subscription. They offer three different subscription levels, with differences in prices to enter the lounge and how many free entrances are available. 

Try the World

A cute subscription I’ve come across recently is called “Try the World.” It is a subscription that sends snacks from all over the world each month!

• Purchase a subscription here!

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Travel Experiences to Gift!

This one is my favorite categories! The items above will definitely add to the travel experience, but if you are really looking for a practical or fun “traveler” gift, these are some great options!

VRBO Weekend Getaway or AirBNB Gift Card

A weekend getaway is always good for the soul. Jump on VRBO and book a surprise get away for your traveler!

• Or, if you aren’t sure where your traveler would like to go, snag a gift card and let your traveler decide where they would like to get away to! 

• Along the same lines, Hotels.com offers gift cards to purchase on Amazon!

“Get Your Guide” Activity!

A GREAT GIFT for any traveler. Get Your Guide has LOADS of activities to choose from in domestic and international cities.

If you know your traveler is headed somewhere soon and know what kind of activities they like, book them an activity to do here!

• Or, if you don’t want to book the wrong thing, simply grab a gift card and let them book their own excursions. Either way, a Get Your Guide gift is a great option!

Airline Gift Card

Flights aren’t cheap, but they’re necessary. A flight gift card can help decrease the cost for your traveler! Southwest Airlines offers gift cards on Amazon, or Delta, United and American Airlines can be purchased on their respective websites. 

Photography Class

Obviously, this isn’t for every traveler, but if your traveler also likes photography, this can be a unique and fun gift idea! The classes can be booked through a local college or art institute or there are several options online: Travel Photography Course, Master Class and Skill Share are a few options for online photography courses.

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A Christmas List for the Traveler REcap!

This is a rather long list, yet not even a fully comprehensive list of gifts for your traveler! As you shop for them (whether for Christmas, birthday, whatever) know that anything that makes their travels easier, cheaper or more fun will always go over well! 

If you are a traveler and have received a gift that you’ve loved (as a traveler), please drop it in the comments below! I’m always looking for new gift ideas 🙌🏼

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