16 Best Gifts Our Travel Writers Have Ever Received

“It’s a dream of every traveler to go carry-on only. But it’s those pesky lotions and potions that thwart our efforts. I might be compelled to use the fancy hotel shower gel, but I draw the line at shampoo and conditioner — I need to bring my own. And that’s why HumanGear GoToobs were a game changer. These squishy, refillable bottles have been en route with me since I bought them as a gift, to myself, at the Denver airport. I’ve since purchased several sets for friends who were squeezing conditioner into empty vitamin bottles. And at 3.4 ounces or 100 ml, they meet international carry-on regs. Yeah GoToobs!” — Shel Zolkewich

“FLIGHTFŪD The Travel Water Bottle and the FLIGHTFŪD Flight Elixir make the perfect gift for jet setters. For long flights, bring this lightweight travel bottle along with the Flight Elixir, which is a natural travel aid for those that fly a lot, such as TravelAwaits readers. Mix this up with water and drink a packet before you leave and once every 4 hours during your flight. The megadose of travel-supporting ingredients is formulated to help reduce travel bloat, support circulation, replenish hydration, prevent jet lag, and much more.” — Peggy Cleveland

“I spend my traveling life on the harry edge of luggage weight. I always pack my suitcase to the limit. I am an over-packer — I like to have clothing options when I travel! I received a digital luggage scale as a Christmas gift in 2021, and it changed my travel packing. Sure, weighing your suitcase at home is not too difficult, however, anywhere else it’s simply guesswork. I am not a big fan of opening up my checked bag at the ticket counter trying to hit the weight limit and piling on layers of clothes that then need to be dealt with in my flight’s economy-size seat. With the portable luggage scale, I know before I leave the hotel if I need to repack and shift some gear into my extra carry-on bag. I love getting to the counter knowing my bag is not over the weight limit — one less thing to stress about.” — Sandi Barrett

“Wet, stinky, and sandy clothes can be the signs of a good time, but they’re also the nemesis of tidy packing. That’s why I never travel without a wet bag or two. When we vacationed in Asbury Park on the Jersey shore this summer, I took a brand new STNKY Bag and our family’s tried-and-true Kanga Care 3D Dimensional Seam Sealed Wet Bags (which come in multiple sizes and adorable prints, hang well, and open wide thanks to the unique ’round’ design). If you’re buying for a traveler who loves things smart and streamlined, I recommend the STNKY Bags, which have a techie vibe and look very cool. Everyone else (kids included) needs their own Kanga Care bag.

Pro Tip: “Get in the habit of putting your wet swimsuit or trunks in a wet bag and hanging it to try when you get home (or home away from home). Swimsuit dryers are known to wreak havoc on swimwear fabric, and it will get you out of the habit of reaching for the single-use plastic bags provided by some clubs and resorts.” — Linsey Stevens

“If you are a wine lover, the VinGardeValise by FlyWithWine will change your life. This high-quality suitcase has dense foam inserts that surround your wine in a safe, cozy space. My days of wine bottles rolling around in the backseat are over and no more checking a case of wine and hoping it makes it home.” — Peggy Cleveland

“I love this wallet because it keeps all the essentials in one place. It’s great for holding passports, your phone, and currency. It’s lightweight and makes a great gift to help the traveler in your life keep their essentials organized. I know I need that because I am always digging for my documents or currency and this wallet helps to store them in one place.” — Jeanine Consoli

“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

“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 love my travel yoga mat that I bought as a present for myself. It is way more compact than a roll-up mat so it fits in my suitcase, no problem. I am much more likely to keep up with my daily yoga practice when I have a yoga mat with me. This mat comes in several different designs and is perfect for the yogi on your list!” — Laura Ray