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A handpicked selection of the best travel gifts for her — chosen by a frequent flyer and expert traveler. Read through the 2021 holiday gift guide to find essential travel gear, gift cards, packing cubes, coffee table books, top-of-the-line luggage and more at all different price points. Shop all holiday gift guides here!
Whether you’re looking for travel gifts for your best friend, sister, girlfriend, mom or daughter, I promise you’ll find just what you’re looking for in this holiday gift guide. This list of 40+ travel gifts for her features every travel essential I never leave home without — plus a ton of travel accessories that are on my own wishlist, too.
From the top-rated noise-canceling headphones to the best road trip duffel out there, these unique travel gifts are sure to make any traveler happy. In this holiday gift guide, you’ll find travel gifts for her under $20, under $50 and under $100. And if you’re looking for a big, splurge-worthy gift, I’ve included luxury gifts for women travelers, too.
First, let’s start off with my top 5 favorite gifts for women who travel, including the Pakt coffee travel kit, the best travel sneakers and the new Kindle paperwhite.
Table of Contents
Top 5 Favorite Travel Gifts for Women Who Travel
1. Pakt bag
The Pakt One is my personal favorite road trip bag, but it can be used for every kind of trip. This versatile duffel has a zip-around, dual-compartment design that allows it to be packed like a suitcase. The Pakt team takes its bag designs very seriously: The Pakt One has been perfected through 5+ years and hundreds of thousands of miles of global travel testing.
The bag comes in three colors, including the Navy (pictured here), black and grey. The material is very durable and can withstand long-haul flights and weekend getaways alike. I love that there are compartments that are big enough for shoes so that you don’t need to pack them with the rest of your clothing. It’s carry-on approved, so you can ditch the wheels and bring this versatile travel duffel instead.
DISCOUNT: Use code “CARLA5” for an extra 5% off their holiday sale.
Buy it here: Paktbags.com, $275
2. Allbirds travel sneakers
Allbirds is my go-to travel sneaker brand. The women’s Tree Runners are breathable, flexible and beyond comfortable for long-haul trips. This shoe literally conforms to the movement of your feet. It’s like wearing a sock but in sneaker form. They come in a variety of colors and can be just as easily worn on a day-to-day basis.
The best part? They’re machine washable. Go ahead and gift the white pair, worry-free.
Buy it here: allbirds.com, $98
3. Airbnb gift card
Airbnb provides unique stays all around the world. More and more travelers are opting for unconventional stays like treehouses, beachfront bungalows and A-frame cabins found on Airbnb. Many Airbnb homes are located in nature, giving guests the chance to disconnect during their vacation. Airbnbs are also a great option for a staycation. Every city now has its fair share of cool homes that guests can rent for a weekend. An Airbnb gift card is one of the travel gifts for her on this list.
Buy it here: amazon.com, starting at $25.
4. The Pakt coffee kit
Friends don’t let friends drink bad coffee while traveling. The Pakt Coffee Kit allows you to make barista-quality coffee on the go. Yes, your travel-and-coffee-loving friend can now brew her own cup of coffee at her hotel, Airbnb, van, or even at home at a work desk.
The travel coffee kit comes with:
- Electric kettle and dual voltage power base heats water to 205 °F
- 12 oz double-walled stainless steel travel mug and lid
- Coffee grounds container
- Collapsible stainless steel dripper that packs down to half its size
- 5 gram coffee ground scooper
- Stainless steel mesh reusable filter
It’s compact, durable and carry-on friendly. I just received one myself and can’t wait to try it out on future trips!
DISCOUNT: Use code “CARLA5” for an extra 5% off their holiday sale!
Buy it here: Paktbags.com, $189
5. Kindle Paperwhite
Save room in your luggage with the Kindle Paperwhite. Now, your friend can bring as many books as she pleases, without having to worry about her bag being overweight. You can download tons of books within the sleek new Kindle Paperwhite and have up to 10 weeks of battery life. The glare-free display lets you read at night, on a plane or in bright sunlight. It’s also waterproof, making it perfect for tropical beach vacations.
Ever since buying myself a Kindle, I’ve been able to discover many new books that I wouldn’t have had the space to bring with me on vacation. I wish I would’ve purchased one sooner!
Buy it here: amazon.com, $139.99
More Holiday Gift Guides:
— 40+ Road Trip Gift Ideas
— Unique Gift Ideas for Digital Nomads
— Your Complete Pandemic-Friendly Gift Guide
— Best Camera Equipment for Travel Bloggers
Travel Gifts for Her Under $20
RFID-blocking travel wallet
This minimalistic travel wallet can hold up to 16 credit cards and more in two zippered pockets. The wallet’s RFID-blocking technology keeps your identity and credit card information safe while you’re traveling. It comes in tons of different colors — and at under $20, it’s one of the best-valued gifts for women who travel.
Buy it here: amazon.com, $14.99
Travel journal
Journaling is one of the best ways to stay present while traveling. This beautiful leather-bound journal has 160 pages good for writing, drawing and scrapbooking during an adventure.
Buy it here: amazon.com, $9.99
Kitsch travel container set
This stylish travel container set makes it easy to bring your own shampoo and skincare on vacation. I always fill three pouches with my shampoo, conditioner and body lotion.
Buy it here: amazon.com, $14.99
Dry bag
This dry bag keeps all camera equipment dry during tropical vacations or trips to rainy destinations. Bring it on boat trips, snorkeling, hiking in a rainforest, waterfall chasing and more.
Buy it here: amazon.com, $19.99
LifeStraw water filter
This portable water filter removes bacteria and parasites from unfiltered water. It’s perfect for your outdoor-loving friends who enjoy hiking and camping on their trips. Ensure they always have access to clean and safe drinking water with this gift.
Buy it here: amazon.com, $17
Travel jewelry box organizer
This velvet jewelry box organizer will help her keep her rings, necklaces and earrings safe while traveling. This compact jewelry case has room has room to hold multiple pieces yet it’s small enough to fit in your carry-on luggage or in a small bag.
Buy it here: amazon.com, $17.99
» Pair this gift with the Gorjana compass necklace!
Travel yoga mat
A travel gift for your favorite yogi: This travel yoga mat folds into a tiny square, making it easy to bring on every travel adventure.
Buy it here: amazon.com, $19.99
Mophie external battery charger
Mophie has been my go-to brand for external battery chargers for the past few years. I love how sleek this particular style is and the fact that it comes in different colors. This is something I would never go on a trip without.
Buy it here: amazon.com, $18
Hidden pocket scrunchies
These zippered scrunchies make it easy to keep important documents, money, and jewelry safe while traveling abroad. Just pack it all into the velvet scrunchie, and tie it around your hair or keep it on your wrist for safekeeping.
Buy it here: amazon.com, $9.99
Vaccination card holder
Here’s a pandemic-friendly gift that’ll definitely come in handy on future international flights. This vaccine card protector can keep vaccine cards safe for years to come.
Buy it here: amazon.com, $7.98
Travel Gifts for Her Under $50
Tile bluetooth tracker
When you throw this Bluetooth tracker into your luggage, you’ll always know where it is. Your Tile connects to a mobile app so that you can always locate your belongings while traveling.
Buy it here: amazon.com, $34.99
eBags packing cubes
Say goodbye to messy packing. This set of packing cubes can help even the most unorganized traveler keep things neat and tidy. We love grouping smaller items like underwear or accessories in the smaller bags while packing jeans and dresses in the larger ones. They really help maximize the space in your luggage — it’s a perfect travel gift for over-packers!
Buy it here: amazon.com, $49.99
Travel coffee table book
The perfect coffee table book for travel lovers, featuring 1,000 trip ideas around the world. This travel book is full of bucket-list-worthy experiences, including museums, adventure travel, natural wonders, monuments, and culinary delights.
Buy it here: amazon.com, $21
Worldwide travel adapter
Every traveler needs a good travel adapter. I’ve used this particular adapter from OREI all over the world, including in Europe, South America, and Southeast Asia.
Buy it here: amazon.com, $24.99
Travel cocktail kit
This fun TSA-compliant cocktail kit comes with all the necessary ingredients to make a gin & tonic on the go. It’s perfectly portioned to pair with airplane or hotel mini-bar spirits, coaster and travel-sized bar spoon included. It’s an especially great gift idea for birthday getaways or bachelorette trips.
Buy it here: amazon.com, $22.95
Pocket blanket
This is one of my all-time favorite travel picks. The pocket blanket is a foldable waterproof “blanket” that makes it easy to picnic, nap or enjoy the scenery anywhere, any time. It folds up into a tiny square and can be easily packed in a carry-on or purse.
Buy it here: amazon.com, $35.99
Joby travel tripod
The Joby travel tripod can be set up anywhere — from a moving boat to a tree branch. The legs are moveable and can be wrapped around poles or secured around uneven surfaces. It’s discreet, easy to carry and quick to set up. It’s ideal for the solo traveler who’s always on the go but still wants to snap that perfect photo.
Buy it here: amazon.com, $45
Hydro Flask water bottle
Hydro Flask’s insulated water bottles keep the coldest drinks icy cold and hot drinks piping hot for hours. It’s ideal for long road trips, hikes, camping trips and anything outdoors.
Buy it here: amazon.com, $35
Mini travel steam iron
Real friends don’t let friends wear wrinkled clothes on vacation! I can imagine this mini steam iron coming in handy all the time, especially on holiday or family trips. It heats up. injust 15 seconds and has three temperature settings that work for all fabric types. It comes with a travel bag and plastic measuring for added convenience and protection while traveling.
Buy it here: amazon.com, $21.35
Trtl travel pillow
Named the best travel pillow for “secret support” by Travel + Leisure, the Trtl is the secret to a great night’s sleep on long-haul flights. The scarf-like Trtl pillow wraps around your neck to provide it with the upright support it needs as you sleep on an airplane.
Buy it here: amazon.com, $29.99
BaByliss Travel hair dryer
The BaBylissPRO is a lightweight travel dryer that helps hair dry faster with less frizz. It has dual voltage and two heat/speed settings. Plus, the folding handle makes it easy to pack in your luggage or carry in your handbag.
Buy it here: amazon.com, $34.99
Silk pillow case
A silk pillowcase ensures you get a luxurious night of sleep wherever you are. There’s also the added benefit that silk doesn’t absorb moisture from your face and body, preventing your skin from drying out. It’s easy to pack and will quickly become a travel essential. If you feel like splurging a little, there’s an even more luxurious option from Slip.
Buy it here: amazon.com, $23.99
Google Chromecast
Stream your favorite Netflix shows and more from your phone, tablet or laptop browser directly to a hotel TV, no remote needed. The Google Chromecast is easy to set up: Just plug it in, connect to Wi-Fi, and start streaming to turn your TV into a smart TV. It works with almost any TV that has an HDMI port.
Buy it here: amazon.com, $25
Travel Gifts for Her Under $100
Rumpl adventure travel blanket
Rumpl’s Original Puffy blanket is a perfect gift for anyone who loves camping and hiking. It’s a high-quality packable and warm blanket that you can take just about anywhere. It’s water, odor and stain-resistant, making it ideal for outdoor adventures. If it does get dirty, though, no worries: It can be machine-washed.
Buy it here: amazon.com, $74
Silk sleep mask
The perfect gift or stocking stuffer to pair with the silk pillowcase above. A sleep mask is a travel essential for long flights and hotel stays.
Buy it here: amazon.com, $50
Columbia Arcadia rain jacket
The best travel rain jacket on the market: Not only is it completely waterproof, but it also packs into its own pocket. The Arcadia jacket folds into a little pouch that makes it easy to stow away in your luggage or handbag.
Buy it here: amazon.com, $59.99
Atlas Coffee Club subscription
This is an awesome coffee subscription program where you receive freshly roasted coffee from a different part of the world every month. Atlas Coffee Club curates micro-lot coffees from places like Tanzania, Kenya, Colombia and beyond. It sends a fresh new batch with flavor notes, a postcard and brewing tips right to your door. It’s such a unique gift to give someone who aches to travel the world but may not be traveling as often as they once did. now she can travel through coffee.
Buy it here: atlascoffeeclub.com, starting at $50
Gorjana compass necklace
This delicate compass necklace is the perfect gift for anyone who loves to travel. It can be worn as a statement piece or layered with other gold necklaces for a chic, modern look.
Buy it here: amazon.com, $60
Fujifilm instant camera
Instant cameras are so fun! Capture unfiltered travel memories on the go with this cute Fujifilm camera that’s compact enough to fit in a purse. These instant cameras let travelers freeze their favorite travel moments and keep them with them forever.
Buy it here: amazon.com, starting at $54
Columbia hiking boots
Every adventure traveler needs a sturdy pair of waterproof hiking boots. These Columbia best-sellers come in several colors and sport an Omni-GRIP rubber outsole that provides a strong grip across a wide variety of terrain.
Buy it here: amazon.com, $89.95
Luxury Travel Gifts for Women
Bose noise cancelling headphones
Rated the best noise-canceling headphones for frequent flyers by the New York Times, these Bose gems are proven to drown out airplane engines. You can adjust the level of the active noise cancellation on a scale from 0 to 10 so that you can still have a sense of your surroundings. Plus, they are lightweight enough to feel comfortable on your head for hours during long-haul flights.
Buy it here: amazon.com, $379
GoPro HERO9
GoPro cameras are made for adventure travel. They’re compact, durable and now waterproof. The GoPro Hero 9 shoots 5K video and captures crisp photos. It only weighs a pound, making it a great lightweight alternative to other travel cameras.
Buy it here: amazon.com, $349.99
The Claremont camera bag by Lo & Sons
This is probably the most fashion-forward camera purse on the market. The Claremont bag by Lo & Sons is specifically designed specifically to fit and protect a DSLR camera. The leather crossbody bag is the perfect camera accessory for style and fashion-conscious photographers.
Buy it here: loandsons.com, $368
Monos carry-on luggage
I find Monos luggage design to be so sleek and modern. I know a lot of people go for Away luggage but I’ve been eyeing a Monos bag for some time now — especially in this Terracota color. I am sure that most travelers would love to receive a carry-on as beautiful as this one. It sports a tough outer shell, an ultra-sturdy telescopic handle, TSA-approved lock, quiet wheels and vegan leather details. Monos gives travelers 100 days to try out the bag, and if they don’t love it, they can send it back.
Buy it here: monos.com, $250
Cuyana leather travel case set
Cuyana’s bestselling leather travel case set will help her keep all her skincare and beauty essentials in one place. The handmade set is stylish yet functional, with enough space to store makeup, jewelry, and other small accessories.
Buy it here: cuyana.com, $120
Mirrorless travel camera
The Sony a7iii is the best camera for travel blogging in my opinion. It’s compact, lightweight, inconspicuous, fast, and takes crisp photos. It’s my go-to camera recommendation for serious travel photographers looking to upgrade from their beginner DSLRs.
Buy it here: amazon.com, $1,998
Vanguard carbon fiber travel tripod
I can vouch for this travel tripod as I’ve used it on all of my trips. It’s lightweight yet durable, with a multi-action ball head that has three independent knobs for lock, pan and friction control. You can also extend each leg individually to make it stand upright on uneven surfaces. And it weighs less than 3 pounds!
Buy it here: amazon.com, $179
Longchamp Le Pliage Backpack
A versatile and very durable backpack that’s stylish for day-to-day use on vacation. You can fit a lot more than you’d imagine in the Longchamp Le Pliage backpack — trust me, I’ve tested its limits around the world. The backpack is effortlessly stylish, like all of Longchamp’s designs. Plus, it’s easy to clean and folds up into a tiny square that’s easy to pack (in other words, perfect for travel).
Buy it here: nordstrom.com, $125
So, which gift did you decide on buying? Share your favorite in the comments below!
More gift ideas:
— Best Road Trip Gift Ideas
— How To Pack For a Road Trip
— Unique Gift Ideas for Digital Nomads
— Your Complete Pandemic-Friendly Gift Guide
— Best Camera Equipment for Travel Bloggers
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