16 Best Gifts Our Travel Writers Have Ever Received

“Fracture believes that moments are meant to be celebrated and stories should be shared. Isn’t that what life is all about? A glass photo print from Fracture is the perfect gift for a traveler to showcase and commemorate their adventures. Available in several sizes, these high-quality prints can be displayed on a desk, mantle, or hung as wall art. At these super affordable prices, you can easily take care of your Christmas list (and maybe treat yourself too)!” — Allison Weston

Editor’s Note: Right now, TravelAwaits readers can save an additional 20% on their purchases with code: TRAVEL20!

“Durable and waterproof, this well-designed, fun-colored bag is the best new carry-on. Like a backpack but better, it zips open similar to a suitcase so you can easily pack for a weekend trip or plane getaway and see all your belongings. TSA-approved. Inside find fun prints, too. The bag exudes happiness. The comfortable straps make it easy to carry. I used it on a 3-day trip via plane to the California Russian River Valley from L.A.” — Melissa Curtin

“Silk long underwear is a must for any trip that is not tropical. It takes up very little room in a suitcase, doubles as pajamas, dries overnight, and adds that extra layer and amazing warmness with no extra bulk.” — Carol Stigger

“I can’t travel without my best-ever rain jacket! Whether I’m in New York City or the Arizona mountains, this packable, lightweight rain jacket always makes the trip with me. It’s well-made, has plenty of pockets, a hood, and a sturdy zipper. It’s a little big so I can layer underneath. The drawstring waist makes it fashionable, and it’s long so I wear it with leggings all the time. I like the olive green color that goes with everything, but it does come in a ton of other colors.” — SJ Morgensen

“Receiving a pair of Classic Blundstone Boots was my best travel gift ever! I wear them on all of my trips and find them comfortable from morning till night, indoors and outside. They feel nice and light, and yet are rugged enough for walking and hiking even in the rain or snow. I couldn’t think of a better gift for an active traveler who wants to look stylish and be practical. I now want them in other colors as well.” — Judi Cohen

“I like to travel with a carry-on only. Flipping Bling turns one pair of flip-flops into many pairs of elegant footwear. From jetway to the boardwalk to upscale restaurants and even to a wedding, Flipping Bling has lightened my load! Not for cold weather trips or hiking.” — Carol Stigger

“Do you have an eco-friendly friend or family member who adores the earth and Texas? You can’t go wrong with gift-giving something that someone on your list will love and actually use many times over. This stainless steel Texas tumbler with laser etched design of Texas will keep coffee or cocoa hot and wine chilled. Plus, ditch the straws because this tumbler comes with not one but two stainless steel straws and a straw cleaner. For a price point of $24 bucks, you might want to grab two — one as a gift and the other for you. Comes in several colors.” — Kim Croisant

“The Silicone Phone Lanyard Holder is ideal for travelers and people on the go. I love it because it allows me to keep my phone handy without holding it in my hand. No more laying it down and walking away, et cetera. The extra strong lightweight silicone used in the phone holder provides a secure carrying solution to prevent drops. The lanyard goes around your neck so when you are taking photos on a ledge or in a boat, et cetera, you don’t have to worry about dropping the phone.

“I like this particular model because it stretches to fit just about any size phone and is very lightweight. The rotating finger ring doubles as a stand for your phone, so less equipment to take with you when traveling. The web design also provides a convenient credit card, cash, and ID holder. It would make a great stocking stuffer for the traveler in your life. I received my phone lanyard as a gift, and I love it. Will be using it during future travels as well as when I go hiking, to conferences, and just about everywhere.” — Robin O’Neal Smith

“I received this gift, and it is now a staple on every trip I take. Who knew hand sanitizer could be such a great gift? I love the delicate Citrus Grove scent. This tiny bottle packs 500 sprays, and it comes out as a moisturizing mist. Usually on trips my hands get so dried out from frequent washing and drying gel hand sanitizers. Not so with Touchland. It moisturizes without being drippy or drying.” — Peggy Cleveland