retirement travel gift basket

Gift Guide Society

34 Perfect Retirement Gifts For Travelers (My 2023 Favorites)

On the hunt for the perfect retirement gifts for travelers in your life? Here are 34 of my favorite thoughtful gift ideas that are guaranteed to delight any retired adventurer.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission for purchases made at no additional cost to you.

Retirement is an exciting milestone in life that marks the beginning of a new chapter. For those who love to travel, retirement presents the perfect opportunity to explore the world and create new memories.

If you know someone who is retiring and loves to travel, finding the perfect travel gift can be a bit of a challenge. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 34 best retirement travel gifts that are perfect specifically for retirees.

From practical items to sentimental keepsakes, there’s something for every type of traveler on this list. So whether you’re looking for a gift for a retiring friend, family member, or colleague, we’ve got you covered with our top picks for the best retirement travel gifts.

Let’s check out the best retirement gifts for travelers!

RETIREMENT GIFTS FOR TRAVELERS

1. secret pocket infinity scarf.

Introducing Thea, the infinity scarf with a secret zipper pocket, made in the USA. This travel scarf expertly combines fashion and safety thanks to its unique design. Stash your phone, passport, cash, credit cards, sunglasses, and more in your infinity scarf. A perfect gift for your favorite fashionable retiree.

2. Travel Journal

These travel journals are the perfect gift for those who love to explore. Available in three beautiful colors, each travel journal is made with a quality linen cloth hardcover and contains 110 pages to capture all of your recipient’s adventures and memories. This travel journal is a gift your beloved retiree will cherish for a lifetime.

3. Hardside Luggage

This hard side carry-on luggage is a lightweight suitcase perfect for retirees who love to travel. This suitcase features double spinner wheels, an expandable design, and a recessed TSA combination lock to ensure their belongings stay safe and secure. Choose from a variety of fun colors and multiple sizes to fit their needs perfectly.

RELATED: 29 Thoughtful Retirement Gifts For Mom

4. Packable Rain Jacket

Looking for a lightweight and packable rain jacket for your retiree traveler? Check out this packable rain jacket, available in various colors, designed specifically to keep them dry and protected in the rain. Bringing along a lightweight rain jacket will ensure they never get caught soaked from an unexpected storm or passing shower while out on an adventure. It also comes in this women’s style .

5. Collapsible Water Bottle

This collapsible water bottle is a must-have for any avid traveler. Made from 100% food-grade silicone and free of harmful chemicals, this BPA-free bottle is durable, leakproof, and portable. Its patented twist cap doubles as a spout cover, making it easy to stay hydrated on-the-go without using plastic water bottles or worrying about spills. 

6. Canon DSLR Camera

Help them capture their adventures with this incredible DSLR camera that is great for beginners! Not only are the photos crisp and clear, but this camera also records full HD videos with ease. With a high-quality optical viewfinder and the option to turn it into a webcam, this camera is perfect for capturing all their travel memories during their retirement escapades.

7. Digital Photo Frame

Looking for an item your loved one can enjoy at home? Consider this digital photo frame, a 10-inch WiFi digital picture frame that allows you to email photos from anywhere. With an easy setup and no app or subscription required, this frame is delightfully easy to use and fun to enjoy. It’s a great way to keep cherished memories close and make your loved one smile by helping them enjoy all of their favorite traveling photos in one place.

8. Hanging Toiletry Bag

This toiletry bag is a practical gift for travelers. The water-resistant polyester material and sturdy stitching ensure durability, while the transparent interior offers a convenient view of the contents inside. The toiletry bag itself also features a 360-degree swivel hook for versatile hanging options, making it a convenient and easy-to-carry option for staying in a hotel room, cruise ship, or home rental.

9. Passport Holder Wallet

This RFID-blocking passport holder is a wonderful product for any frequent traveler. Made from high-quality synthetic leather, it features a classic design and a clasp closure to keep important documents secure.

10. Kindle Paperwhite

This Kindle Paperwhite signature edition is the ultimate e-reader for avid bookworms and retired travelers who are always on the go. With its 6.8″ display, wireless charging, and auto-adjusting front light, this device offers a comfortable and customizable reading experience, no matter the day or the location.

11. Travel-Sized Sun Care

This travel-sized sun care set is the perfect sun care pack for any retiree hitting the road. This basic pack includes moisturizing sunscreen lotion, sunscreen lip balm, and hydrating cool down lotion with broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection, all in a reef-friendly formula. With a 30 SPF, this pack is great for those with normal skin types and comes with a refreshing coconut scent.

RELATED: 43 Best Gifts for Pool Owners

12. Packing Cubes

These packing cubes are the perfect solution for organized travel. With 8 separate sets in various sizes and colors, you can easily separate your clothes, shoes, toiletries, and accessories. Made with premium nylon fabric, these cubes are lightweight and durable, protecting your clothes from wrinkles and stains. The smooth double-way zipper ensures enough space and easy access, and the top panel allows you to easily identify what’s inside.

13. Ticket Stub Keepsake Book

This classy ticket stub diary is the perfect travel retirement gift for those who love to keep memories of their trips. It organizes and stores ticket stubs and other paper keepsakes in a compact and visually pleasing photo book. The hidden wire bound allows for easy flipping of pages while keeping the tickets secure with the elastic band.

14. Colorful Luggage Tags

These luggage tags, available in various colors, are a must-have travel gift for any retiree on the go. With the privacy cover ID label and stainless-steel loop, you can easily attach and remove the tags from your luggage or bags. The cover protects personal information and easily stays secured in place thanks to the handy magnets.

15. Noise Cancelling Headphones

These noise cancelling headphones provide the perfect mix of high-quality sound and long wear comfort, making them an ideal gift for any traveler and retirees in general. With Bluetooth connectivity and a range of up to 30 feet, users can enjoy high-quality audio and personalized sound with adjustable listening modes.

16. Cable Organizer

This travel cable organizer is a perfect retirement gift for the tech-savvy traveler. Made of high-quality waterproof material, it has a double-layer design with enough space to store all of their cords, chargers, and miscellaneous electronics.

17. 50 States, 5,000 Ideas Book

This illustrated travel guide is the perfect retirement gift for any traveler. “50 States, 5,000 Ideas” features the best travel experiences in each state, ranging from well-known landmarks to hidden gems. Plus, it features beautiful photography of each location.

18. Luggage Cup Holder

Looking for a thoughtful gift that will make traveling easier? Consider this luggage cup holder. This convenient accessory holds two drinks and fits onto the handles of most roll-on suitcases. With multiple pockets for storing small items, it’s the perfect hands-free solution for busy travelers.

19. Push Pin World Map

Looking for gift ideas for a fun, personalized retirement gift for a world traveler? Look no further than this push pin world map. Handmade in Minnesota with a premium wood frame, this map is the perfect way for retired travelers to document past travels and dream destinations and showcase them to friends and family.

20. Crossbody Bag

Looking for the perfect retirement gift for a traveler? This crossbody bag with 4-zipper pockets is a great option. With its four compartments, including one that can fit a standard water bottle, passport, and other essentials, it’s perfect for activities like hiking, cycling, and traveling, no matter what destination.

21. National Parks Scratch Off Poster

Celebrate life, their love for nature, and the journey forward toward a life of exploration with this scratch off national parks poster, the perfect retirement gift for travelers. This vibrant and fun scratch-off map showcases the beauty of America’s nature, from Acadia to Zion, making it an ideal travel map accessory for RV enthusiasts, retirees and hikers alike.

22. Travel Blanket Pillow

Stay cozy on your travels with this travel blanket pillow. This 2-in-1 blanket and pillow combo is made with ultra-soft micro plush fabric that will keep you warm and comfortable. Perfect for flights, road trips, camping, and more, this perfect travel companion blanket also features a hand luggage sleeve and backpack clip for easy transport.

23. Fire TV Stick

This fire TV stick is a perfect gift for retirees who love to travel just as much as they love binge-watching their favorite shows. With this HD streaming device, they can watch their favorite shows, movies, and live TV without cable or satellite while staying at hotels and home rentals. The Alexa voice remote includes TV controls, and they can access tons of free movies and TV episodes from popular apps.

24. Portable Tripod

Help them capture all of the special moments from their travels with this portable tripod and selfie stick combo device. It is compatible with a wide range of smartphones and features a sturdy build for reliable and easy use.

25. Travel Gifts Jewelry Case

This compact and stylish jewelry organizer is a must-have for any retired traveler. The soft exterior material with quilted cotton provides a supple touch, and its 5 separate sections make it easy to store rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and more. Its compact size and lightweight design make it perfect for trips, and it also makes a great gift for friends or family members.

26. Travel Challenges Card Deck

If they need some help expanding their horizons and being spontaneous, this gift is for them. The travel challenges card deck is the perfect way to experience new things in a fun and unique way. This compact deck of cards is a perfect companion for travelers who want to make the most of their time. With 50 cards containing unique challenges, they’ll be pushed outside of their comfort zone and encouraged to interact with the local community.

27. Travel Slippers

These lightweight and comfortable slippers are the perfect travel retirement gift for anyone who values comfort. With a soft upper made of ultra-light stretch fabric and a moisture-wicking velvet lining, their feet will stay cozy and warm all day. These unisex slippers are perfect for wearing in a hotel or on a plane, making them one of the best retirement gift ideas for an adventurous traveler.

28. Portable Charger

This portable charger is a must-have for any traveler. The charger offers plenty of battery capacity to quickly charge devices. It’s one of the slimmest and lightest portable chargers on the market, making it easy to carry in their pocket or bag. Plus, it works with a wide variety of devices making it perfect for gifting.

29. Sleep Mask with Travel Pouch

This cotton sleep eye mask is one of the gifts they need! The mask blocks out light, making it perfect for sleeping or resting on planes, trains, or buses. The patented design effectively blocks light from the nose area, while the soft cotton triangle wing design prevents the mask from moving. They’ll be thrilled to have this on all of their future long haul flights.

30. Universal Travel Adapter

This universal travel adapter is a must-have for any world traveler. With 4 different built-in plugs, it covers over 150 countries, including Europe, UK, US, China, Australia, and more. It also features 3 USB-C and 2 USB-A ports to charge your devices, as well as a universal AC outlet. This adapter is designed for safety, portability, and convenience thanks to its compact design that is easy to fit in any suitcase or travel bag.

31. Fitness Smartwatch

This fitness smartwatch is the perfect gift for a traveling family member looking to stay healthy and active on the go. It features useful basics like time and date as well as step count, heart rate, and even sleep tracking. It’s a wonderful gift not only for travel but for everyday life, too!

32. The Bucket List Book

This travel book is the ultimate guide for adventure seekers. Organized by longitude and latitude, you’ll find recommendations for museums, sports, natural wonders, and more. Filled with stunning photos and insider tips, this product is suitable for both experienced travelers and those who prefer to explore the world from the comfort of their own homes. A great gift for retirees looking for some epic experiences.

33. Vintage Travel Puzzle

This 1,000-piece puzzle features vibrant vintage-style travel artwork with stunning visuals and unique details. It’s the perfect opportunity to relive fond memories of past family vacations or gather inspiration for their next globe-trotting adventure. Hit the ski slopes of Chile, witness the breathtaking cherry blossoms of Tokyo, and bask in the warm sunshine of Monte Carlo as you piece together this vibrant, entertaining, and exhilarating puzzle.

34. Waterproof Binoculars

These compact binoculars are perfect for the avid traveler, with a fully waterproof and fog-proof construction that can withstand up to 30 minutes underwater. They feature multi-coated lenses, providing a crystal clear view wherever they go. Lightweight and portable, these binoculars are perfect for bringing along on strenuous hikes or spending a day bird-watching on the beach.

Other Posts You May Like:

• 38 Perfect Gifts for Piano Players (And Music Enthusiasts)
• 31 Thoughtful Gifts For New Beginnings
• 31 Rad Retirement Gifts For Dad He’ll Love In His Golden Years

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Travel Gift Baskets

  Send them packing with the perfect travel gift basket!

Whether traveling for business or pleasure, our travel gift baskets make a great gift for any traveler!  We’ve put together a variety of travel gift collections and creatively package them in a useful travel bag or keepsake box for cards, souvenirs, and more!  Our travel gift baskets are especially popular for retirement, anniversary, or birthday gifts.

Flight Ready Travel Gift Basket for Men

World Travel Gift Basket for Women

You're the Man Travel Gift Set

Pamper Me Spa Gift Set

Beach Spa Gift Set

World of Thanks Gourmet Gift Basket

Travel gift baskets at thoughtful presence.

Travel gifts are perfect the perfect indulgent gift for any traveler on your gift list. Send them on their way in style! At Thoughtful Presence, we offer travel gifts to celebrate the occasion. While these gifts are perfect for Birthdays, Retirements, and of course Traveling, we also know that just a stay at home vacation is also worth celebrating with these gift collections. Show how much you care with a unique Travel gift! You are sure to ship the perfect lasting memory for the recipient.

Don’t see exactly the gift you are thinking of? Check out these other gift basket collections or call us to build a custom Travel gift basket for you.

• Spa Gift Baskets
• Chicago Gift Baskets
• Gourmet Gift Baskets
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• Or find Gifts by Occasion or Gifts by Recipient

Even though we concentrate on the most unique Travel gift baskets, we also offer other unique Travel gifts as well.

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Or call Thoughtful Presence at 847-967-7055 to discuss our custom designed Travel gift baskets and gifts. Give a gift that won’t be forgotten!

60+ Creative Travel Gift Basket Ideas For Any Occasion

Not everyone has the time or energy to hunt down individual gifts and painstakingly arrange them into a picture-perfect travel gift basket. That’s why we’ve got you covered with a mix of premade travel basket ideas that you can order online with just a few clicks. As well as homemade ideas for travel gift baskets where we simply give you the idea, but you can score the gifts and baskets yourself, allowing you to unleash your inner gift-giving Picasso right at home.

So, whether you’re looking to surprise your wanderlust mom or dad, send off a friend on their globetrotting adventure after graduation, or simply need a Christmas gift basket for a travel-obsessed soul, this comprehensive list will inspire and delight.

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Save these travel gift baskets

Don’t forget to save these travel basket ideas on Pinterest for the next gifting occasion.

Destinations – Premade travel gift baskets

All right, let’s start with the first category; baskets by destinations.

Whether your recipient is obsessed with Europe, Australia, Asia, or The US, you can find premade travel basket ideas for just about any destination (a city, a state, or a country).

And the best part?

If you can’t find the destination your recipient loves in the list below, you simply make it yourself (check out the homemade section to help you out), or check out my three favorite travel gift basket sites and use the search bar. There were simply too many amazing options online, that I had to make a selection.

So if you’re looking for a specific destination, head over to the following sites

#1 British gift basket

Includes a selection of 12 of Britain’s finest foods, from cheese to tea, and fudge. There is something to satisfy every England and UK lover. (Shop basket at iGourmet )

#2 French gift basket

This is the perfect travel gift basket for people who are obsessed with France, or at least French food. It includes 12 French items such as cheese, fig jam, and mustard. (Shop basket at iGourmet )

#3 Spanish gift basket

Do you need a basket for someone who loves Spanish tapas? Then this is the basket you need, filled with 10 typical tapas dishes and a recipe this is every Spanish food-lover dream. (Shop basket at iGourmet )

#4 Italian gift basket

If you’re up for a surprise, Cratejoy’s Taste of Italy basket is the perfect option. It includes hard-to-find sweet and savory items from Italy, and each month they curate a box with new items. It’s actually a subscription plan, but you can also sign up for a 1-time basket. You won’t know exactly what items will be in the basket then, but you can bet that they are all delicious (I mean, they’re sourced from Italy after all). (Shop basket at Cratejoy )

#5 Greek gift basket

For anyone who is obsessed with Greek cuisine, the Greek travel gift basket is perfect. Just like the Italian one, the basket includes different Greek items each month. But what you will know upfront is that each item is healthy, organic, and all-natural. And from Greece, of course. (Shop basket at Cratejoy )

#6 German gift basket

This collection of 8 typical pantry items from Germany will transport your recipient straight back to the land of sausages (even though the basket doesn’t contain any sausage). (Shop basket at iGourmet )

#7 Scandinavian gift basket

With 10 delicious items from Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Denmark, the Scandinavian gift basket will make the recipient feel like they’re back in the north and the lands of hygge, fika, and happiness. (Shop basket at iGourmet )

#8 Japan basket

The Japan crate includes 18-20 pieces of unique candy and snacks from Japan. It’s a monthly subscription box (but you can also order a one-time box), which means that the candy will change every month. So the exact candies will be a surprise for both the recipient and you. (Shop basket at Cratejoy )

#9 Mexico basket

This Mexican basket contains 15-25 different sweets and snacks from Mexico. The content varies every month, but all items will be sourced from Mexico. (Shop basket at Cratejoy )

#10 Israel gift basket

Let the recipient discover the Holy Land with a basket filled with artisanal food, crafts, and content from Israel. (Shop basket at Cratejoy )

#11 Canadian beauty basket

Do you need travel basket ideas for someone who loves beauty products and Canada? Then this is the basket you need. It contains 5-8 full-sized beauty products from Canadian brands all over the country. (Shop basket at Cratejoy )

#12 Korean beauty basket

K-beauty is known around the world. So if you want to award the recipient with fresh and shiny skin like the Koreans, then this Korean beauty basket is perfect. (Shop basket at Cratejoy )

#13 Seoul basket

For more Korean-themed gift baskets, this Seoulbox is perfect. It includes snacks, drinks, and K-beauty products from various brands located in Seoul. (Shop basket at Cratejoy )

#14 Paris gift basket

For the Francophile who is obsessed with Paris, this is the gift basket you need. Filled with cute Eiffel Tower-related items for their home, they can travel from the comfort of home. (Shop basket at Etsy )

#15 Tokyo gift basket

Whether you opt for the monthly subscription or just the one-time travel gift basket from Tokyo, this gift will satisfy all Japan and Tokyo loves, with snacks from local shops. (Shop basket at Cratejoy )

#16 Atlanta gift basket

Get your peaches from Georgia with this Atlanta gift basket. It contains cookies, candles, peanuts, coco cola, and more typical Atlanta and Georgia items. (Shop basket at Etsy )

#17 New York State basket

This travel gift basket contains all the beauty New York State has to offer. From local NYC brands to upstate New York cheese, there is something from across the state in this basket. (Shop basket at iGourmet )

#18 California basket

This collection of 9 items from California’s artisan food producers makes a great travel gift basket for anyone who loves the Golden State. (Shop basket at iGourmet )

#19 Louisiana basket

Louisiana is known for its delicious food, and that’s all collected in this Cajun gift basket which contains 7+ new items from Louisiana every month. (Shop basket at Cratejoy )

#20 Florida gift basket

Bring a piece of the Sunshine State into their homes, with a gift basket from Florida. Each box contains various Florida wildflower honey items, such as body lotion, a candle, and honey. (Shop basket at Etsy )

SEE ALSO: Best Florida-inspired gifts→

#21 Maine basket

The last gift basket by destination is from Maine. It includes a personalized message and  7-10 unique hand-selected items from Maine that vary every month. (Shop basket at Cratejoy )

Destinations – Homemade gift baskets ideas

#22  homemade ideas for travel gift baskets by destinations.

You can literally make a gift basket for any country, state, or city yourself. All you need to do is to find items related to that country and you’re all set.

For more help with homemade gift baskets, check out this comprehensive guide on how to make gift baskets.

To make your basket look prettier, you can add decorations in the color of the flag of the country too. For example, by buying fillers (such as crinkle paper shreds in the colors of the flag), add an actual flag of the country, or paint the basket.

Gifts to include

Below I’ve made a list of items you can add to your homemade gift basket. Of course, make sure they’re related to the destination you picked.

And if you’re wondering where to buy these items, check out some of my favorite websites when it comes to buying unique gifts.

• Pantry items
• Kitchen utensils
• Travel guide
• Interesting book
• Language course
• Water bottle
• Beauty products
• Passport cover
• Luggage tag
• More Apparel

Foodies – Premade travel gift baskets

#23 asian snack basket.

Do you know a foodie who loves trying unique food from around the world? Then a basket filled with unusual Asian snacks is perfect! Every month, they’ll include 20 new snacks, sweets, drinks, and whatnot from any country in Asia, so it’s always a surprise for you and the receiver. (Shop basket at Cratejoy )

#24 International cheese basket

For cheese lovers, this basket with cheese from four different continents is heaven. It contains Gouda from Europe, Cheddar from Oceania, Argentine Reggianito from South America, and Atlanta Blue from North America. (Shop basket at iGourmet )

#25 Scandinavian baking basket

Help the recipient embrace the fika and hygge lifestyle with a Scandinavian gift basket that includes everything they need to make delicious cardamom buns at home and bring the sweet smell and taste of Scandinavia into their house. (Shop basket at Etsy )

#26 Paella basket

Ditch those standard baskets, and use the actual pan as your basket with the paella gift! It comes with a pan, a recipe, and all the ingredients to make a pot of paella at home (apart from the fresh ingredients). (Shop basket at Amazon )

#27 Whiskey-lover crate

Surprise your favorite whiskey drinker with a whiskey box that contains everything they need to take their whiskey drinking to the next level, from a personalized decanter to a whiskey-tasting journal. (Shop basket at Man Crates)

#28 International chocolate basket

This chocolate gift basket contains nothing but the best chocolate bars from five different countries around the world; Spain, Belgium, Switzerland, France, and the USA, which makes it by far the best option for chocolate lovers. (Shop basket at iGourmet )

#29 International spices

Do you know someone who loves to experiment in the kitchen? Then this is the perfect travel basket idea for you; a set with six different spices from different countries in the world (Egypt, Mexico, Argentina, Japan, India, Italy). (Shop basket at Etsy )

#30 Hot sauces from around the world

This suitcase basket filled with hot sauces from around the world is the perfect idea for people who love spicy food and who love to experiment. (Shop basket at Walmart )

#31 European cookies baskets

This gift basket is every sweet tooth’s dream; a selection of the best European cookies combined in one cute iGourmet tote bag. (Shop basket at iGourmet )

#32 Avocado gift box

For the avocado and guacamole lover in your life, this is the ultimate gift box. It includes fresh and ready-to-eat avocados, lemons, honey, seasoning, and delicious fresh bagels to create the best avo on bagel toast at home. (Shop basket at Gourmet Gift Basket )

#33 Pizza-lover gift basket

This gift basket is perfect for pizza lovers who a ready to try their own pizza-making skills at home. It comes with a dough mixture that only needs water and oil, spices, and various online recipes the recipient can use. (Shop basket at Etsy )

#34 Mochi ice cream basket

Do you need gift basket ideas for people who love Japan and ice cream? Look no further! Head over to Uncommon Goods and go for this box to help them make their own Japanese mochi ice cream. (Shop basket at Uncommon Goods )

#35 Taco gift baskets

The taco and queso gift basket does not only come with vegetarian taco seasoning and sauces but also with a cute and colorful basket to turn your gift into a true fiesta. (Shop basket at Gourmet Gift Basket )

#36 International coffee basket

Even though this is technically not a gift basket, I still added it to the list. Why? Because all you need to do is buy a cute basket, add some rustic-colored fillers, and place these 16 different coffee bean bags from around the world in the basket, and you’re all set. (Shop basket at Bean Box )

Foodies – Homemade gift basket ideas

The good thing about food-inspired baskets is that you can basically recreate any of the premade baskets at home. Simply find a type of food the recipient loves, and then find those from around the world.

Or go for a typical food from a country the recipient loves, and make a basket that contains everything they need to make that food at home. Below you’ll find a few of those ideas for inspiration. But honestly, the options are endless.

#37 Crepe lover gift basket

What you need:

• Cute basket
• A crepe maker
• Ingredients to make crepes
• Toppings for crepes
• A crepe recipe book

#38 Belgium waffle lover basket

• Waffle maker
• Ingredients for Belgium waffles
• Toppings for waffles
• Recipe book

#39 Pasta lover gift basket

• Colander (to serve as a basket)
• Pasta maker
• Pasta dough ingredients
• Italian pasta cookbook
• Ingredients for one pasta dish

#40 Homemade gift basket idea for alcohol drinkers

• A cute basket
• Mini bottles of their favorite drink (eg, different international beers, wines, whiskey, gin, rum)
• Serving glasses

#41 Homemade gift basket idea for cocktail drinkers

• Cocktail shaker
• International cocktail book
• Ingredients for 1 or 2 cocktails from that book

#42 Homemade gift basket idea for tea lovers

• Bag of international tea leaves
• Cute mug or travel mug
• International cookies
• Infuses with travel-themed hangers
• Teaspoon with a travel theme

General – Premade travel gift basket

#43 happy glamper gift basket.

For people who love the outdoors, but who also love luxury, this glamping gift basket is what you need. Every three months, the curators will come up with new items to fill the basket that will make the life of outdoor lovers more comfortable and luxurious. (Shop basket at Cratejoy )

#44 Campers gift basket

This is the ultimate gift basket for campers. Each box contains essential items for camping lovers, such as camp lights, dry bags, camping games, and energy snacks, so that your favorite camper can enjoy a basket full of goodies. (Shop basket at Cratejoy )

#45 Gift basket for beach bums

Help your favorite beach bum enjoy a beachy day, every day (even when they’re not at the beach) with this cute beach basket. It includes a candle, keychain, water bottle, bag, and more. (Shop basket at Etsy )

#46 Gift basket for bookworms

Do you know a traveler who also loves to read? Then this basket filled with amazing travel-themed books that every jet-setter will love is the perfect idea for you. You can choose from various price ranges, which will include a varied amount of books to read. And each basket comes with tea, bookmarks, postcards, and other keepsakes. (Shop basket at Cratejoy )

#47 Outdoor survival crate

This survival ammo basket is another great option for campers and outdoor lovers. It includes everything they need to survive in the wild. From snacks to tools such as knives and survival blankets as well as a survival guide, so even if they don’t have any survival skills yet, they can learn everything with this basket. (Shop basket at Man Crates )

#48 Ttravel basket idea for kids and teens

Get kids and teens excited to explore the world with a gift basket that features a different country each month and that teaches them fun facts about it. the basket is completely catered toward kids and teens, so the facts are understandable and relatable for them. (Shop basket at Cratejoy )

#49 Travel through music basket

The last premade travel basket idea is a truly unique one for music lovers. It’s a basket that features local artists from around the world. Because they change the country and artists with each box, it’s always a surprise for you and the recipient. But each time it includes a travel guide, Spotify playlist, keychain, postcards from that specific destination as well as music-related travel gifts such as speakers or headphones. (Shop basket at Cratejoy )

General- Homemade gift basket ideas

Always remember, that for each of the travel basket ideas I shared above, you can always curate one yourself. Simply pick similar items that match your recipient, buy a cute basket, and add some fillers, and your homemade gift basket is done.

If you need more inspiration for what kind of gifts you can buy for each type of recipient have a look at my list of homemade ideas for travel gift baskets.

#50 Homemade gift basket ideas for book lovers

• Travel-themed books (either inspirational guides, travel memoirs, or travel stories)

Or for the reader with an e-reader

• Gift card for a Kindle subscription
• E-reader cover
• Card with a sweet message

#51 Homemade gift basket ideas for beauty queens and kings

• Makeup bag (as a basket)
• Travel-sized beauty products
• Travel-sized manicure set
• Sleeping mask

#52 Travel-safe homemade gift basket ideas

• Anti-theft bag (as a basket)
• Personal Alarm
• Extra hotel door lock
• GPS trackers
• Or any of these travel safety gifts
• Card with sweet ‘ travel safe message ‘

#53 Road-tripping gift basket

• Road trip guide book
• Gas gift card
• Hand sanitizer
• Travel pillow

#54 Couple’s or wedding-themed homemade ideas for travel gift baskets

• Matching eye masks
• Matching passport covers
• Matching travel mugs
• Matching luggage tags
• Matching keychain
• Any of these travel gifts for couples
• Or these wedding travel gifts

#55 Techy traveler homemade gift basket ideas

• Tech bag organizer (as a basket)
• Headphone splitter
• Sleeping mask with built-in headphones
• Travel adaptor
• Gift card for a tech company
• Any other tech travel gadgets

Occasion – Homemade gift basket ideas

Unfortunately, you can’t find any premade travel basket ideas online for specific occasions such as Christmas, Easter, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and more.

But don’t worry.

It’s actually really easy to make an event-themed gift basket yourself. Yes, really. Even if you’re not one of the creative types. I’ve got your back.

There are two super simple ways in which you can curate a travel gift basket for a special occasion.

• Through decoration
• Through international products

The first method is by far the easiest. You simply buy regular travel gifts and baskets (as you would for any gift basket). And then just decorate the basket in the theme of the occasion.

So let’s say you’re making a travel-themed Easter basket, you simply add Easter grass as a filler, Easter eggs for decoration, and a Happy Easter card to finish it off.

For Christmas, same story. Simply buy Christmas-themed fillings, and a Christmas card, and then add Christmas ornament such as Christmas balls, tinsels, and pinecones.

The second method requires a bit more creativity, but luckily I’ve helped you out with that one too. So let’s have a look at all the fun homemade ideas for travel gift baskets by occasion.

#56 Travel-themed Easter basket through decoration

• Backpack, dry bag, or makeup bag as a basket
• Easter grass as filler
• Easter eggs as a garnish
• Happy Easter card with a sweet message
• Travel guides
• Globe-themed accessories
• Travel-sized game
• Or other general gifts ideas from these 50+ travel gifts

#57 Travel-themed Easter basket with international treats

• Easter-themed basket
• Pizzelle from Italy
• Tsoureki bread from Greece
• Babka from Poland
• Easter eggs
• A felt toy of an English hot cross bun

#58 Travel-themed Christmas basket through decoration

• Christmas-themed filler
• Christmas ornament
• Happy Holidays card with a sweet or funny Christmas message
• One major travel gift such as an e-reader, a portable speaker, or headphones (this could be a more expensive gift as the centerpiece of your basket)
• Or more travel-themed gifts

#59 Travel-themed Christmas basket through international treats

• Christmas-themed basket
• Swedish gnomes ornament
• International holiday baking cookbook
• Kolaczky cookies from Poland

#60 Housewarming gift basket for travelers

• Cute travel-themed basket (e.g. this world map storage basket )
• Happy new home card
• Serving plates
• World map posters
• Or any of these housewarming travel gifts

#61 Graduation gift basket with a travel theme

• Backpack, toiletry bag, travel pouch, or any practical bag for travelers as a basket
• Congratulations card with a sweet or funny graduation message
• Graduation cap for decoration (or as the basket)
• Travel mug for graduates
• Journal for graduates
• Any of these travel graduation gifts

#62 Mother’s Day travel basket idea

• Travel-themed baskets, such as this world map storage basket
• Happy Mother’s Day card with a sweet or funny message for mom
• Serving tray
• Photo frame
• Any of these travel housewarming gifts
• Cable organizer bag
• Travel journal
• Or any of these Mother’s Day travel gifts

#63 Father’s Day travel gift basket idea

• Happy Father’s Day card with a sweet or funny message for dad
• Swiss army knife
• International coffee beans
• Or any of these travel gifts for dads

#64 Retirement travel gift basket

• Happy retirement card with a sweet or funny farewell message
• Travel mug for retirees
• Journal for retirees
• Any of these travel retirement gifts

Save these travel basket ideas

Did you save these premade and homemade ideas for travel gift baskets on Pinterest yet?

Final notes on travel basket ideas

Alright, I hope that this mix of premade as well as homemade ideas for travel gift baskets inspired you to make the ultimate basket for your friend, mom, dad, or any other recipient!

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The 51 Best Retirement Travel Gifts

When the retiree has travel plans in retirement, then the best retirement gift for him or her is a travel gift. It can make their travel experience in retirement better and more enjoyable.

And because I’m a full-time traveler, I’ve tested many travel products over the years and listed the 51 Best Retirement Travel Gifts for you in this article. So you can find the perfect retirement travel gift for the retiree.

You can choose to go for one travel gift or create a travel gift basket with multiple retirement travel gifts to give by yourself or as a collective gift together with friends, family, or co-workers.

Just a heads up, this post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Purchases you make through these links may earn us a small commission,  at no extra cost to you .

1) Travel Daypack

A high-quality daypack is a must-have travel essential. And The North Face Backpack is one of the best and versatile backpacks out there. It’s our go-to backpack all the time, so we can recommend it without any hesitation. You can even choose between different colors to see what fits the retiree style best.

A good backpack, or daypack as what they also call it, is what every traveler needs. No matter what the retiree’s travel plans are: making a cruise, road tripping through states or flying overseas for adventures in Europa, Asia or other destinations. It can be used for any travel adventure in retirement. And that’s why it’s a great retirement travel gift that the retiree can use for many years to come.

2) Travel Hammock

This lightweight travel hammock from the brand La Siesta is one of our favorite travel items. We recommend it to every traveler! It’s a great retirement travel gift. Retirement is also the time to sit, back, relax, and enjoy the view and with a travel hammock, it can’t get any more comfortable.

It’s made of ultra-light parachute silk material and can fit two persons. It weighs only 1.9 pounds, and it fits in a small portable bag that fits in every travel bag. It consists of 2 polyester ropes (each rope is 3 m long) and 2 extremely lightweight hooks so that the retiree can hang this hammock up almost anywhere: the beach, by the lake, in the forest, campsite, or home.

3) Hardshell Suitcase

A high-quality suitcase is what the retiree might need for his or her travel plans in retirement, so it can be a great gift for you to give. And this Samsonite Suitcase with hardshell and spinner wheels gets great reviews from thousands of customers worldwide.

When you purchase a suitcase you want it to be spacious, easily maneuverable, and strong enough to bear up to many travel trips for years to come and this suitcase is doing it. It’s the ideal check-in luggage for longer trips, but you can also choose a 2-piece set, 3-piece set or the carry-version of this Samsonite suitcase. Depending on what kind of trips the retiree is planning in retirement.

4) Duffle bag

When the retiree has more adventurous travel plans then I can highly recommend this duffel bag from The North Face . We have purchased this duffle bag a couple of years ago and traveled through Europe, Asia, and Africa for years and it’s still going strong. It’s made of thick, rugged, and water-resistant material that is durable and well built. The zippers are chunky with good pulls and very strong.

The side handles can be used to carry the duffel on the side with one hand and the backpack straps make it easy to tote on your back. So it’s a very versatile and lightweight travel bag that the retiree can use for any travel adventure in retirement .

5) Go Pro Camera

You can give the retiree the gift to capture all the moments on his or her travel adventures by giving this Go Pro Hero 8 camera . A lot of people think that the GoPro camera is only used for those into action sports, but that isn’t true. We use it for so many different occasions when we are traveling. We have different cameras with us but we experience that we use our Go Pro Camera most often. And it’s awesome that you use it in and outside the water.

The GoPro Hero 7 & 8 has a built-in stabilizer (earlier versions don’t!) that produces very smooth and high-quality images and videos. And the GoPro cameras are very easy-to-use and small so it can fit in any day pack or bag. This gift can be the most favorite travel gift you can give the retiree that they can use for everything on their travel adventure.

6) Polaroid Camera

We also travel with a Polaroid camera and have experienced so many fun interactions because of the polaroid camera. The retiree can use it to capture any occasion in retirement; grandchildren, hobbies, and travel trips of course. And this is a brand new camera with an old skool approach, where the photos you make instantly get printed. It’s the most authentic way of capturing beautiful travel moments in retirement. And is an awesome retirement gift.

7) Scratch Off World Map

An awesome way to keep track of all the travel adventures in retirement is this Scratch Off World Map , where the retiree can scratch off all the individual US states and countries he or she traveled to so far. It’s an extra-large world (24×36 inches) map with clear lettering, lively colors, and the official national flags of all 196 sovereign countries. It’s a great retirement travel gift that will definitely motivate the retiree to explore more.

8) Packing Cubes

The packing cubes from Eagle Creek are a must-have for every traveler. Being organized makes traveling far more enjoyable and less frustrating. And with this travel gift, the retiree can organize his or her luggage better using different (size) packing cubes to store all their clothing, sweaters, pants, underwear, socks, etc. The retiree is more organized and can carry more while using less space.

9) Inflatable Lounger

Another great retirement travel gift is this inflatable lounger from Wekapo . No pump needed, just whisk it through the air to inflate and you have a comfortable lounger to use anywhere while traveling: in the backyard, at the beach, camping, festival, or picnic.

10) Travel Pillow

A travel pillow is another must-have for travelers . Whether the retiree is flying internationally or will travel in an RV, bus, or other vehicles in retirement; a travel pillow is what you need on the road to sleep more comfortably. And this travel pillow set from MLVOC  contains a travel neck pillow made from 100% memory foam, 3D Contoured Eye Masks, Earplugs, and a Luxury Bag. The cover of the pillow is breathable and machine washable.

Perhaps, maybe not the fanciest retirement travel gift out there, but for sure the most practical and appreciated travel gift for retirement . And it’s an unmissable item when you’re creating a travel gift basket with must-have essentials.

11) Hanging Toiletry Bag

A hanging toiletry bag is a very practical travel gift that a retiree will love once he or she has experienced using it. Nothing get’s wet and messy anymore, so there is more time to enjoy the trip. No mess, no stress.

This compact toiletry bay from BOACAY is rated as number 1 by travelers. It’s waterproof, washing resistant, and features a foam layer for additional bottle protection. The design maximized the storage while the metal hook makes it easy to hang up anywhere. And you can choose between different colors to see what fits the retiree style best.

12) Stainless Steel Travel Water Bottle

A stainless steel travel bottle will keep a cold drink cold and a warm drink warm for many hours and therefore it’s a great retirement travel gift. And using a stainless steel travel bottle is both practical but also good for the environment because the retiree doesn’t have to use plastic (water) bottles anymore.

The Hydro Cell stainless steel water bottle is double-walled and vacuum-sealed where cold liquids stay cold for 24 hours, and hot liquids will stay piping hot for up to 8 hours.

13) Funny Retired Travel Mug

Make a bit of fun with the retiree by giving this 14 oz. funny travel mug for retirement with the text: “Retired. I’ve worked my whole life for this mug”. It’s a great travel gift for a retiree who is road tripping his or her way through retirement.

14) Bouncing Water Ball

A retiree who loves to spend time in the water will love this bouncin g water ball as a travel gift. It bounces over the water and can be used in lakes, pools, and oceans. It’s fun for everyone!

15) Outdoor Microfiber Towel Set

A microfiber towel is a lightweight and fast-drying small towe l that can be used for travel, hiking, work-outs, camping, etc. It’s great because it’s small si it fits in every bag and dries very fast. A great travel item to have on the road for emergencies or to use as your regular towel. This microfiber towel set from Bearz (two-pack) is super absorbent, very soft, and easy to fold, store, carry, and clean.

16) Sand Free Beach Blanket

Many people love the beach, but not so much the sand on their towel or blanket. But this Sand Free Beach Blanket makes going to the beach sand-free and less annoying. It’s a great travel gift when the retiree has many travel plans for beach destinations. But it’s also great to use for camping, picnics, and hiking.

It’s a huge blanket (9′ x 10′) that can fit up to 7 adults. It only weighs 16oz. and the integrated sack makes it so easy to store the blanket and carry it around the world. And it’s from strong, durable, water repellent, and breathable 100% parachute nylon and anti-heat material, so the retiree can enjoy this gift for many years.  

17) Travel Cable Organizer Bag

Give the retiree a Travel Cable Organizer Bag so he or she can store all cables, chargers, SD cards, and other electronic accessories safely in one bag. This bag from Bagsmart is lightweight and has a durable hard case and made of heavy-duty, durable, and water repellent nylon.

18) Portable Bluetooth Speaker

This portable Bluetooth speaker from JBL is one of the best out there and is a great retirement travel gift that the retiree can use for listening to music while traveling, camping, hiking, or sitting in his or her backyard. The retiree can connect two smartphones or tablets to the speaker wirelessly.

The speaker produces a high-quality and powerful stereo sound and has a built-in 3000mAh rechargeable li-ion battery that supports up to 12 hours of playtime. And the retiree doesn’t have to worry about rain or spills because you can even submerge this speaker in water.

19) Kindle E-reader

Sometimes no better travel gift is the gift of unlimited reading while traveling and being retired. And that’s why a Kindle E-reader and a  Kindle Membership is a great retirement travel gift. While traveling the retiree can travel to other worlds by reading the thousands of books that are available.

The Oasis Kindle E-reader is waterproof and has an adjustable warm light to shift screen shade from white to amber. It read like real paper because of the latest e-ink technology and it works with Audible so the retiree can pair the e-reader with Bluetooth headphones or speakers to switch seamlessly between reading and listening.

20) Travel Powerbank

Another travel must-have is a power bank to charge your electronic devices. And the Anker Powerbank is one of the smallest and lightest power banks out there. It provides more than 5 charges of a smartphone or 2,5 charges of a tablet and you can charge two devices at the same time.

21) Bestselling Travel Book: 50 States 5000 Ideas

When the retiree has plans to road trips through US states then this book 50 States, 5000 Ideas from National Geographic is an excellent travel retirement gift. It’s a rich illustrated book that gives the reader ideas and inspiration on where to go, what to do, what to see, and when to see it. The book shares detailed travel information on national parks, beaches, hotels, Civil War battlefields, dude ranches, out-of-the-way museums, and more.

22) Noise-canceling Headphones

A noise-canceling headphone can be the most valuable travel gift you can give the retiree. When traveling in planes and vehicles you experience a lot of ambient sounds or white noise that can make you tired. And with a noise-canceling headphone, you can listen to high-quality sound music but also actively cancel out the noise. Which makes traveling more comfortable and a lot less exhausting.

This noise-canceling headphone from Sony is the world’s best noise-canceling headphone out there. It’s proven to be the industry leader when it comes to noise cancelation. And comes in a case for easy carry-on while traveling.

23) Inflatable Kayak

An inflatable kayak is an awesome travel gift for a retiree who loves to be out on the water and explore what nature has to offer. The retiree can store it in their RV or truck while they hit the road. And inflate it whenever he or she sees water and likes to explore it more.

This inflatable kayak from Intex is super tough, lightweight, and highly resistant to damage from abrasion, impact, and sunlight. It’s a two-person kayak with adjustable seats and the kayak can also be used for fishing. It comes with two paddles, a hi-output pump, a pressure gauge, and a carry bag.

24) Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

Stand Up Paddle Boarding has become a popular hobby amongst many retirees over the years. It’s easy to do, it’s relaxing and a great exercise while being on the water. And because it’s inflatable the retiree can take it anywhere he or she wants to go.

This Inflatable Stand Up Paddleboard Set includes a Stand-Up Paddle Board, adjustable paddle, pump, ISUP Travel Backpack, leash, and waterproof bag. And is great for all skill levels and conditions (maximum capacity is up to 300 lbs).

25) Floating Waterproof Dry Bag

A retiree who loves to be outdoors and doing watersports while traveling will love getting this Floating Waterproof Dry Bag from Earth Pak as a retirement gift. It keeps travel gear dry while kayaking, rafting, boating, hiking, camping, etc. And it comes with a waterproof phone case. Also, the bags are meant to last for years and provide waterproof protection for even the roughest users.

26) Travel Journal

A great travel gift is a travel journal so the retiree can write about all his or her adventures. And it helps to organize the retiree’s thoughts and collect their impressions of a place and the things they wish to remember—the destinations, hotels, restaurants, and people all in one place.

And this leather handmade travel journal is handmade and filled with 300 pages of tick cream paper. You can even add a matching bookmark to your retirement gift. Also, by purchasing this travel journal you help families in Africa as the company donates part of their profits to Afrinspire charity.

27) 3D Wood World Map Wall Art

This 3D Wood World Map is a piece of wall art every traveler will love having in their home. It comes in different sizes (M, L, XL, XXL) and is handmade of birch plywood, and you can have it customized and engraved to the retiree’s liking. An overall great travel gift that for sure will fuel the retiree’s wanderlust for many more adventures in their retirement.

28) Travel Adapter

Every traveler needs a travel adapter. So, International Travel Adapter is a great travel gift to add to your retirement gift or travel gift basket. It works in over 200 countries and allows you to charge 5 devices at the same time. It also identifies the ideal USB current and voltage to allow an effective simultaneous charging of your Smartphones, Tablets, Bluetooth Speakers, Headset separately.

29) Leatherman Multitool

A Leatherman Multitool is a very practical travel gift that the retiree can also use at home. It’s an overall handy tool to have with you on the road or within your home garage. It’s a real powerhouse tool in a portable size and comes with 25 years of warranty. It’s made of stainless steel with replaceable wire cutters and scissors.

30) Monocular Telescope For Spotting Wildlife

With this High Power Prism Monocular , the retiree can see 12X closer with a clear and bright image. And it hat comes with a quick smartphone holder. It’s a waterproof, dust-proof, and shockproof design that makes it usable to withstand the toughest weather conditions. It’s a perfect travel gift to watch wildlife and scenery, from up close while traveling, hiking, or camping.

31) Portable Gas Grill

A retiree who likes to go camping or road tripping with this RV will probably love getting a Portable Gas Grill to keep on Chillin and Grillin on the road. It’s compact, weighs only 17 lbs, and has foldaway legs. And it has a 145-square-inch grilling area which means it cooks 8 burgers, 8 steaks, 6 to 10 chicken breasts, or 4 pounds of fish. You can even add a personalized grill toolset to your retirement gift.

32) Travel Wallet

This minimalist Leather Travel Wallet from Travelambo is a very slim and convenient wallet for traveling. The retiree can carry only the things he or she really needs in his backpack, front or back pocket. A great wallet for every sort of traveler and a great travel gift to add to your retirement gift (basket). And you can choose between all sorts of colors to see what fits the retiree’s style best.

33) Fitbit Watch

A (gold) watch is the most traditional retirement gift out there. And you can give a traditional gift but in a more modern way: A Fitbit Watch that tracks activity and health. Which can also be a great travel gift to give the retiree. It connects to everyday apps so the retiree can also be up-to-date with the local weather, etc.

34) Digital Picture Frame

This Digital Picture Frame  is such a fun travel gift to give. The retiree can use it to display his or her favorite travel photos, but also the whole family can connect to this device from anywhere in the world to share their photos instantly. This way the retiree can stay connected with his or her family members in a fun and interactive way, without using Social Media. And from anywhere around the world.

35) Carry on Cocktail Kit

This Carry On Cocktail Kit is a fun travel gift to give the retiree. He or she can make their (favorite) cocktail while flying. Each kit contains the TSA compliant tools and ingredients to make 2 Margarita cocktails and 2 Moscow Mules mid-flight, a Gin & Tonic, or the classic Champagne Cocktail. The alcohol is not included, but everything else is taken care of. And the only thing the retiree needs to do is to ask the flight attended for the spirits from the airline beverage cart.

36) Passport Holder

Another fun way to support someone’s travel plans in retirement is to give a nice passport holder. Every time the retiree needs his or her passport they will be reminded of this great travel gift. And this passport holder is engraved with “Adventure Begins” . It’s made of vegan leather, so environmentally friendly!

37) Book: The Bucket List

Retirement is the perfect time to create and live out your bucket list. And a retiree with travel plans can get extra inspired and motivated when he or she receives this inspiring book:  The Bucket List with 1000 big and small adventures . It will definitely fuel their wanderlust even more.

It’s filled with an around-the-world, a continent-by-continent listing of unique things to do from bird-watching in Kenya, driving through clouds in Sri Lanka to ketching a sunset behind an architectural monument.

38) Book: Destinations Of A LifeTime

Another great book to give a passionate traveler is Destinations Of A Life Time . The book takes the reader on a photographic tour of 225 of the world’s most spectacular destinations. It gives the reader tangible ideas for the next trip and it’s loaded with practical travel information for each location from when to go, where to eat, where to stay, and what to do to ensure the most enriching and authentic travel experience anyone can have.

39) Book: 100 Parks, 5000 Ideas

A retiree who has plans to travel to a lot of (National) Parks in retirement will love getting this book: 100 Parks, 5000 Ideas as a retirement gift. It’s from National Geographic experts, and it’s filled with helpful travel tips and beautiful photography. The book showcases the best experiences, both obvious and unexpected, in the top national, state, and city parks throughout North America.

40) Ultra Lightweight Packable Backpack

This Lightweight Packable Backpack is an excellent gift for every traveler. Perfect for day-to-day while traveling, hiking, camping, or going to the beach. The retiree can fold into a compact sandwich size pocket and get out whenever he or she needs an extra backpack. It’s made with High-Quality water and tear-resistant nylon material and has 20L of storage space.

41) TSA Luggage Combination Lock

Another travel must-have is a TSA Luggage Combination Lock and preferably multiple so you can look at your check-in luggage, carry-on luggage, and backpacks safely while traveling. We use it to lock our luggage while traveling but also when we leave it in our hotel room and we use it to lock our backpack while we wander around a busy city. That way we don’t have to worry about pickpocketing. This lockset is a great addition to a retirement travel gift basket.

42) World Coffee Tour Gift Set from Bean Box

A retiree will feel especially retired when they can finally enjoy their cup of coffee in the morning without having to rush to work. And you can send the retiree on a world coffee tour in retirement with this World Coffee Tour Gift Set . It’s filled with 16 gourmet coffees from the world’s top micro-lots. You can choose between the ground coffee gift set or the whole bean coffee gift set.

43) Portable French Press Coffee Maker

This Portable French Press Coffee Maker is everything a coffee-loving traveler needs in retirement. It’s an All-in-One brewer and insulated travel mug and made from high-quality FDA approved material. Also, it has a fine micron stainless steel mesh filter which can be reused over and over again and is, therefore, a cost saver and environmentally friendly.

44) Emergency Survival Kit

This Emergency Survival Kit is a great item to put in a retirement travel gift basket. You hope the retiree doesn’t need it, but it’s very handy to have it while traveling or hiking at more remote destinations. The kit includes a tactical folding knife, wire saw, flashlight, tactical defense pen, fire starter, compass, emergency blanket, folding pliers, whistle, saber card, bottle clip, carabiner, 6 pcs fishing tools, and 14 in 1 medical kit.

45) Water (sport) Shoes

Water shoes are also a must-have travel item and they can be a great item within your retirement travel gift basket. These Water Shoes from Simari are for men and women and are made of 92% polyester and comfortable fabric. They’re ultra-breathable, lightweight, and made from stretch Lycra material which has higher wearability and dries quickly. Perfect for hiking, swimming, or doing water sports in retirement.

46) Lifestraw Personal Water Filter

This travel gift can be a lifesaver. When the retiree has travel plans to remote destinations then this award-winning Lifestraw Personal Water Filter can be an excellent retirement travel gift. It’s a must-carry tool for emergencies when hiking, camping, or traveling. It filters up to 1000 liters of contaminated water without iodine, chlorine, or other chemicals and it does not require batteries.

47) Headlamp

This Headlamp is more than just a headlamp. This is a reliable, water-resistant, and rechargeable headlamp with 3 super bright LED lights, a total of 6000 lumens! It has a high-quality 1500mAh Lithium polymer battery and the lifetime of the LED lights is over 100,000 hours, which means that the retiree should never need to change them. This travel gift can be a great addition to a retirement gift with multiple travel items.

48) Portable Blender

Great news for a traveling retiree who loves to make smoothies and shakes. This Portable Blender charges via USB so they can bring it on any sort of travel trip. It’s strong enough to crush ice cubes, frozen fruits, and seeds. A great travel retirement gift for someone who loves to stay healthy while traveling.

49) The Adventure Begins Mug

Retirement is where the real adventure begins, especially when the retiree is also going traveling. And these travel mugs with the text: “The Adventure Begins” are more applicable than any other gift out there. It’s a set of two and can be perfectly used for camping, hiking backpacking, and outdoor activities.

50) Travel Beer Bottle & Can Cooler

Is the retiree also a great beer-lover? Then this Travel Beer Bottle & Can Cooler is the ultimate travel gift. It chills beer bottles as well as beer and soda cans and has a built-in beer bottle opener. It is everything the retiree needs to enjoy their beer on their travel trip. It’s available in Black or Silver.

51) Travel Boardgames Set

Add a travel game set with 12 board games, Travel Rummikub , or Travel Yahtzee National Parks Edition to your retirement gift to make the fun complete.

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• What To Say Instead Of Happy Retirement? 95 Alternatives
• How To Celebrate Someone’s Retirement
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Kirsten Veldman

Since 2017, my husband and I have been location-independent retirees. With hundreds of articles written, I'm passionate about helping other retirees!

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15 Retirement Gifts For the Traveler In Your Life

By Paris Wilson

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Retirement. Whether it’s a distant goal or only a countdown away, it's something we all look forward to when the time comes. One of the most exciting aspects of retirement is the much-welcomed lifestyle change when more leisure time is up for grabs. Many retirees look to fill that time with travel . What traveling entails, though, is a unique experience for each retiree. For some it means traveling to see family and friends more, finally getting a chance to spend an extended amount of time on a certain continent, or  completely up and moving to a new place for a fresh start.  

No matter the case, we’ve listed retirement gift ideas for wherever this new phase of life might be leading your loved one. For retirees who are just starting to travel, we have our tried and true essentials that we feel would suit them best as they embark on this new adventure. For the more well-traveled folks, we’ve featured upgrades to their current travel gear checklist. From luggage to comfy travel sets to golf clubs, here are 15 gift ideas for the retired travelers in your life. 

Retirees who are new to travel 

A reliable, chic piece of luggage will carry you through even the most stressful of airport treks. The Away Carry-On has proven to be tried and true with its durable polycarbonate hard shell. The lightweight suitcase has 360 wheels that will make gliding through the airport or city streets easy and can carry up to nine outfits. For a retiree that is just getting their start in traveling, this piece is a great first leap.

A  good pair of walking shoes will take you far, but a great pair of walking shoes will take you everywhere. The Wool Runners from Allbirds have been a  Traveler team favorite for years, and it's not surprising with its super lightweight design, fun colors options, and easy cleaning maintenance (throw them in the wash when you get home and they’ll come out good as new.) 

All the bases have been covered with this one. It is part of a series of books detailing more than enough travel plans for a lifetime, from national parks to dude ranches. Find what travel experts see as the best well known and unknown excursions across America.

The ideal gift for those who don’t know where they want to go: gift cards . They have a bad reputation as being an “easy” gift, but an Airbnb gift card brings a sense of optimism and wanderlust to the recipient. Plus, what’s better than one less thing to worry about on the travel checklist?

Well-traveled retirees

An essential for the  Traveler team, upgrade your over the ear headphones to the sleek, noise-canceling option from  Apple . The second generation AirPod Pros incorporate new spatial audio to bring you a more immersive listening experience. Whether it's a loud flight or busy train, rest assured you’ll be able to catch some z’s to the soundtrack of your choosing. 

A purse will only weigh you down when exploring—enjoy a stylish alternative that secures your essentials. This belt bag includes two magnetic plates for a secure closure, a main compartment for the must-haves like sunglasses or your phone, two additional pockets, and a card slot. With plenty of thoughtful features in mind, users will be surprised by the versatility that accompanies it. The adjustable and detachable strap gives you the option to style it across the body, over the shoulder, around your waist, or as a clutch.

A pillow, socks, eye mask, and blanket all made out of 100 percent cashmere brings a little comforts to long treks across the globe. Consider stowing it away in your personal item for your next long flight or your car for your next lengthy road trip. 

An essential for those looking to travel light, the bolo bag can hold the things you need easy access to, like  a passport or a phone. It can be worn around the neck, as a crossbody, around the waist, or as a mini backpack, allowing you to stay hands-free on the go.

Retirees looking to go golfing

Finding the right Iron to improve your golf game can be tricky, but with the customizable Iron set from  TaylorMade , which allows you to choose the length, grip brand, and shaft material, you’ll be able to iron out all the discrepancies, so you can aim for a perfect game.

For the days when you find yourself golfing alone, you’ll have a dependable bag by your side. This five-pound bag  includes an insulated water bottle pocket, seven additional pockets, and a towel ring. It also has customizable features with more than 10 color combinations and embroidery options. 

Although made from premium AAA Cabretta leather, the gloves feel like a second layer of skin. Offered in a wide range of colors,  you can express your own personal style while still adhering to USGA guidelines.

A good golf game might start with the swing but let’s not forget about the need for a strong foundation. Stay limber in this sleek design that offers comfort for your soles with two high-density EVA footbeds.

Retirees looking to go camping

One of the most memorable parts of camping is spending the night around the bonfire—the only downside is the smell of smoke that lingers on your clothes for days to come. The  Solo Stove bonfire is engineered to minimize the smoke while also eliminating the ash and charcoal, making for an easier cleanup.

The Tungsten one-person tent opens up the possibilities for solo travel . Made with a shorter folded pole length, the tent is more compact and makes transporting easy, especially for those planning their next bike packing or kayak trip.

Durable, sensitive, and lightweight are the traits you want in your next rod, and  St. Croix Rods has got you covered. Made from premium quality SCII carbon construction, the rod’s strength will aid in your success on the water. Not to mention the premium grade cork that helps to maintain a strong grip for any fish that dares to take a bite from your line. 

The vintage aesthetic isn't the only charming thing about the  Coleman Steel-belted portable cooler . The 54-quart cooler can keep ice cold for up to four days and has rust resistant steel hardware that will last through many camping trips. Plus, the lid can withstand 250 pounds (in case you use it as a seat or need to stack luggage on top of it).

50 Perfect Retirement Gifts That Retirees Actually Love

What’s a better excuse for a party than a retirement? We can’t think of anything!

And what are some great, thoughtful retirement gifts for the well-deserved man or woman of the hour to celebrate their years of hard work?

Well, that can leave  anyone  stumped for ideas.

You don’t want anything too boring or generic, but you also don’t want to get something that’s too far fetched. It can’t be something that they already have, and you certainly want to avoid the cheap imported junk (while still keeping within a reasonable gift budget).

Sounds impossible, right?

No worries. We’ve done the legwork for you. All you need to do is scroll and click, and you’ll have the perfect retirement gift for your friend, family member, or coworker in no time!

Our website is supported by our users. We sometimes earn a commission when you click through the affiliate links on our website. See our privacy policy & disclosures for more information.

10 Best Retirement Gifts

• Retirement Gifts for Women

Retirement Gifts for Men

More unique retirement gifts.

• Retirement Gifts by Profession

Retirement Gift FAQS

We’ll start out with the ten all-around best retirement gift ideas.

Further down we’ll feature thoughtful gifts for women, men, teachers, dentists, military service members, and much more.

1. Places to Go Retirement Book

If they hope to spend their golden years exploring the USA, this is the gift for them!

Now that they actually have some time on their hands (a novel idea) and are opening a new chapter of their life, inspire them with this  amazing book filled 5000 ideas  (nope, that is NOT a typo. Really. Five thousand!).

All 50 states are covered so they’ll never be at a loss for where to go on their new adventures, what to see, what to eat, and where to lay their heads.

Whether it’s a go-to destination for an afternoon that barely crosses their border, or a full American road trip summer, this is sure to be a hit and will be used for years to come.

2. Retro Digital Camera

Speaking of new adventures, they’ll need a way to document their experiences! That’s why  this retro-styled digital camera  would make the perfect gift for your favorite retiree.

Just the thing to take along on a beautiful nature hike, or to capture those sweet moments with the grandkiddos. 

3. On To the Next Chapter

For the book lover in your life, this  clever and punny bookmark  is a great gift that will make them smile.

No more dog-eared pages (gasp) with this leather place-holder. You could even pair it with a great read, or the 50 States book described up above!

More gifts for book lovers (and haters):

• 21 Best Librarian Gifts for Book Lovers and Bibliothecaries
• I Hate Reading Books: 10 Books for Book Haters

4. Experience Gift

Nothing screams “I’m retired” like being able to take an unexpected trip at the drop of a hat, an experience from The Giftory would make the perfect getaway.

If you aren’t familiar with The Giftory, it allows you to choose from nearly 1,500 unique gift experiences to give to your loved one, be it a hot air balloon ride over scenic Nevada, taking a cooking class from an Italian Masterchef, or hiking through scenic national parks.

A great way to give them a jumpstart on their new life of adventure.

5. The Difference You Made Floral Box

This sturdy but  pretty flower box  will bring the recent retiree smiles for years to come. It has timeless appeal, a farmhouse chic look, and a sweet, personalized message from you.

Pair it with some freshly cut flowers and you have the perfect farewell gift for your friend or coworker!

6. “Congratulations” Harry & David Box

A fantastic upgrade on your traditional retirement gifts, this gift basket is on a whole new level. Not mention that giving someone deliciously savory snacks and sweet treats will never not be a good idea.

This gift basket of directors favorites from Harry & David features the best of the best of their delectable treats and goodies, all beautifully packaged and ready for gifting.

Such an excellent way to celebrate their decades of hard work.

7. Luggage Set

Did someone say “newfound freedom?” We’re sure someone did!

They’ll definitely be using some of that free time for traveling, so it’s the perfect time to spoil them with a great luggage set like this one.

It’s certain they’ll get many, many miles out of this great idea.

8. The Best is Yet to Come Personalized Cutting Board

It’s so true, isn’t it? Adventure is out there, and they finally have some down-time to find it!

Maybe they’ll finally have time to pursue cooking like they’ve always wanted to, or open that food truck on the beach they’re always talking about.

Or maybe their dream doesn’t have anything to do with food at all? In any case, everyone needs a cutting board at some point, so  this is a good retirement gift  that will certainly be put to use!

Either way, remind them that they have so much ahead of them with this bamboo cutting board, completely personalized by you. It’s a sweet and practical (not to mention useful) gift that hits all the right notes.

Related: Happy Retirement Wishes & Quotes for Coworkers

9. Personalized Bobblehead Retirement Gift

A top pick of funny retirement gifts, they’ll love this  personalized bobble head  that looks just like them. Even if they no longer have a work desk to display it on!

No matter, this adorable figurine will look hilarious on their bookshelf, nightstand, or windowsill, and it’s sure to get a lot of smiles and chuckles from all who see it.

10. Commissioned Fine Art Portrait

What  an elegant gift  for someone you really love! Take a much loved photograph and turn it into a stunning work of original art on canvas.

They’ll be blown away by your thoughtfulness and treasure this beautiful, customized gift for a long, long time.

Best Retirement Gifts for Women

Finding and giving the greatest retirement gift means knowing your audience.

Does she love to be outdoors, gardening and soaking up the sunshine? Or does she prefer to be inside, curling up with a good book and a steaming cup of tea?

No matter her preference, we’ve got some great gifts to help her on her way to living her best life.

11. Retirement Blanket

She finally has time to curl up on the couch and chill! Maybe even take naps? 

Have her do so in comfort with this  pretty and cozy blanket.

No cold toes here… She’s going to love how you personalize it and will use it every chilly day.

12. Gardening Tools

For the outdoorsy girl or the lady who loves nothing more than tending to her garden, this fantastic set of gardening tools will last and last and last.

Everything she needs to plant, till, weed, and upkeep her gardens and beds all while being conveniently contained in a handy organizer bag. 

13. Relaxing “Take Care” Package

After years of working, she can finally relax with  a care package  that is filled with all the right stuff!

Whether it’s a soothing bath she craves, a delightfully aromatic candle, or maybe just a good cuppa tea, she’ll find her perfect match for more than just one night of relaxation.

14. Under New Management

That’s right: grandkids are the boss now! This charming and sentimental mug is sure to see a lot of use during the next few years.

15. Coloring Book

When was the last time she sat down and colored a picture? Thirty, forty, fifty years ago? Well now that she’s retiring, she’ll have ample time for  The Book That Takes Its Time !

Coloring books are a perfect way to spend a cozy, quiet afternoon at home, occupy time on the airplane, or even pass the time as she waits to pick up those grandkiddos from school!

16. “Happy Retirement” Necklace

Especially great for the working gal who had to dress down for her job (like nurses, doctors, gym employees, etc.), this pretty necklace will make her feel like a million bucks.

It will match all of her outfits and is sure to be her go-to accessory.

17. Shearling Slippers

One of my personal favorites on this list of great retirement gift ideas, she’s sure to spend plenty of time in these shearling slippers .

One of the great things about being retired is that if you don’t want to leave the house, you don’t have to!

These fabulous, natural shearling slippers will keep her feet warm and toasty as she shuffles about the house enjoying her newfound freedom.

18. Smells Like It’s Not Your Problem…

This fabulous candle will definitely get lots of use. Like, every time she wakes up and thinks “Wow, I don’t have to solve anyone’s issues but my own today!”

Made from natural coconut and soy wax, she can light it and bask in its sweet, soothing scent as often as she wants.

19. I’m Done

This adorable and funny fork is sure to have a place of honor at the retirement party!

Truer words have never been spoken than these, we’re sure. It’s clever and cute and we think she’ll get a kick out of it.

20. Gourmet Cooking Courses

Has she always loved experimenting in the kitchen, but was sadly deprived of that due to her career?

Well, make up for that lost time with a gourmet cooking course ! You can choose from all different types of courses to find one that suits her best, and she’ll be reaping the benefits (and maybe you will, too) in no time! 

The man, the myth, the legend…has retired.

His years of experience and wisdom have now been passed down to his juniors, and it’s time for him to take a well-earned fishing trip, camping adventure, sports outing, or heck, just spend some time on the couch watching old westerns and football.

He’s earned it! He’s also earned himself a stellar retirement gift, so we’re here to help.

21. Handcrafted Personalized “Gone Fishing” Retirement Plaque

Fifty years in the making, he can now put up the sign he always wished wasn’t false advertising!

This witty hand-crafted plaque is made even better by the customizing. It’s going to be a hit with him, not only upon unwrapping, but for years to come!

Related: Fishing Retirement Gifts for the O-Fish-Ally Retired

22. Retired Personalized Tumbler

These vacuumed sealed, stainless steel tumblers  come in multiple colors and are personalized so they will never be accidentally taken by someone else.

Sure, he doesn’t need to pack coffee into work every day anymore, but how about an icy beverage when he’s out fishing or  hiking , or some piping hot tea when he’s bird watching? 

23. Pickle Ball Set

A round of Pickle Ball, anyone? Pickle Ball is taking the sports world by storm at the moment, and we can’t have him missing out on any of the action! 

This set includes everything he needs to kill it on the court.

Related: 21 Best Golf Gifts for the Golfer Who Has Everything

24. My Life Story…

Now that he’s officially entered his retirement years, he can finally sit down and write that great American novel.

But before he gets started, how about working on his memoirs? With this beautifully bound volume , he can jot down his life story thus far for future generations or just for posterity’s sake!

So much to write down, and hey, so much time to write it in.

25. Custom NYT Front Page Puzzle

Retirement is a major milestone, which means he deserves a majorly cool gift to celebrate!

This New York Times front page puzzle is definitely in that ballpark, and we think it would make a super cool gift idea.

Have it customized with the front page event of your choice so it reflects his hobbies, interests, or even the day he was born!

26. History By Mail Subscription

If he’s a history buff, then look no further.

The History by Mail subscription is an almost magical experience where he can traces of history in his mailbox each and every month that include exact (and extremely convincing) replicas of historic documents, letters, memorabilia, and more.

He’ll be transported back in time with each and every arrival.

27. Beer Subscription

Sure, you could just bring a six-pack to his retirement party , but doesn’t he deserve more? Like, a bunch of brewskies more? He’ll love this subscription package , and if you’re lucky, he’ll share.

Interest? Check out our review!

28. Custom Whiskey Glass

Time for him to start shuffling around in his silk housecoat and leather slippers like his inner Cary Grant. What better way to complete the ensemble than with  this great whiskey glass ?

It definitely will make him laugh and earn a spot of honor in the cupboard right next to the his favorite Scotch.

29. Personalized Retirement Bottle Opener

How many times have you lost your tiny bottle opener in the bottomless junk drawer of doom? No more searching while your frosty beverage gets warm (ick).

Give the retiree this amazing personalized handcrafted bottle opener !

This gift is made to order in Oregon and custom engraved with their name and date of retirement. It will look stunning in their dining room, front porch, or man cave.

And they won’t have to resign themselves to a life of screw-top caps ever again.

30. “I Am Retired… Bring Me the Remote” Socks

Encourage him to put his feet up, and while they’re up, encase them in these great socks ! They’re not just funny, they’re warm and soft too. A real win-win for the retiree!

Here are some more really creative and unique retirement gift ideas.

If you want something even uniquer, funner, and creativer (yes, those are all real words), consider some of our gag gift ideas .

31. Plant a Tree in Their Honor

What’s more meaningful than a tree planted in someone’s honor ? Not much, quite frankly!

With this retirement gift, the retiree has a tree planted in their name in a much-needed area of our national forests. They get a lovely certificate, GPS coordinates, and photos of where the tree (or grove of trees, you can choose either) has been planted.

For the gift recipient that already seems to have everything, or is just particularly hard to shop for, or loves this beautiful earth like no other, this is a sweet gift that really gives back.

32. I Worked My Whole Life for This Retirement T-Shirt

Give the gift of a good laugh and then make them comfy with this  cozy and amusing tee . It’s funny because it’s true, right?

They’ll find themselves reaching for this shirt over and over again, and their fellow retirees will definitely be jealous.

Just don’t let them pair it with Bermuda shorts, black knee high socks, a fanny pack, and sandals, okay?

33. Thyme Retirement Box

Nothing is yummier than some freshly cut herbs , whether the smell or the look or the taste!

They’ll appreciate the delightful thyme first, and keep the box for years after the blooms are gone (or eaten).

34. “Old Age” Vintage Wood Bar Sign

Who are you calling old?! They’re simply well-aged, after all, and this plaque cements that truth.

It looks vintage but is actually brand new and ready for a long life, hanging above a wine bar or liquor cabinet.

35. Official Retirement Papers — Gag Gift

They finally don’t have to rush the toilet time because they never have to go to work again! Make them laugh with this funny retirement gift of “official” papers.

36. I Can Wine All I Want… I’m Retired

That’s right! They aren’t answering to nobody, no how! So fill it to the brim with their favorite vino and watch them light up like a Christmas tree. If anyone has earned a bottomless glass , it’s them!

37. Keep Them Young Bicycle

This cruiser bicycle is adorable and ever so useful! She’s going to love leisurely biking around town on a sunny day, instead of being constantly stuck in that awful work commute each day.

We think she’ll get a basket and some handlebar streamers in no time.

38. Nostalgic Candy from the Decade They Entered the Workforce

Give them a bit of nostalgia with candy from the year they started their career. They’ll love remembering with their tastebuds and sharing them too.

39. Retirement Wine Bottle Labels

These labels are clever and cute and will make any bottle of wine just that much more special.

You know what wine goes good with? Parties! Send them away into retirement by hosting a going away party !

40. Retired, Ask Someone Else Funny Business Cards

Oh, you KNOW he is going to be passing these out all day long! And his friends will want some too. Too bad! These are just for him, the Retired King.

41. Teaching Old Dog’s New Tricks

With all this new found time, boredom can come easily those fresh in retirement. Help them fill their time with a new hobby .

What’s something they’ve been missing all these years, or have always wanted to try? Whether it’s some art supplies, a ballet class, or a new pair of roller skates, the sky is the limit!

Best Gifts for…

Retired teachers: #retiredteacherlife tote.

How relaxing must it be to be a (finally) retired teacher?

They will love this tote and will want to use it for everything: from the farmer’s market, to the library, to the grocery store.

Retired Police Officers: Personalized Retirement Sign

Commemorate their amazing achievement with the police force with this great looking sign .

Totally customized with their names and dates served, this will be given the spot of honor in no time.

Retired Doctors: Vintage Physician Sign

Perfect for the doctor who is retiring, this colorful and personalized plaque has a vintage look but is 100% modern.

It has enough colors to fit in with any décor and looks timeless with its witty words and charming shape.

Related: The 13 Best Retirement Gifts for Doctors

Retired Nurses: Vintage Nurse Practitioner Sign

This “vintage” nurse practitioner sign will be the bell of the ball at her retirement bash. It’s lovely colors and well-worn look will cheer up her wall, and the personalization makes it extra special.

Retired Lawyers: See You Later Litigator

If this doesn’t earn a chuckle, they might be a lost cause.

While technically intended for whiskey, this funny glass will serve up any beverage of their choice with a smile.

Related: 21 Gift Ideas for Lawyers, Attorneys, & Law Students

Retired Dentists: The Dental Times

Personalized with your dentist’s feats of accomplishments, they are going to be gobsmacked with this amazing poster . Read all about it!

Also consider: Classy Retirement Gifts for Dentists

Retired Military Service Member: Personalized American Flag Sign

This shop creates beautiful personalized signs for each of the 5 branches of the military. Simply choose which one, and supply them with your retiree’s information.

The result is a stunning work of art that will last a lifetime.

Retired Co-Workers: Signed Coworker Retirement Gift

This is can also be a DIY gift to make it more personal. They may get a little misty-eyed seeing the handwriting of each beloved coworker , but we think that’s a perk!

Related: 11 Retirement Gifts for Co-Workers

Retired Fishing Enthusiast: O’Fish’Ally Retired Fishing Lure

Perfect for the fisher in your life, this lure is personalized and clever. They’ll love the sentiment and the look of this gift.

Retired Bird Lover: Personalized Bird Feeder

Bird watching and feeding is the perfect activity for the new retiree! They’ll love seeing their name displayed almost as much as seeing the birds get their tummies full.

So you may be asking, “What’s a good retirement gift?” How much you should spend on retirement gifts? How about if there are certain types of gifts that would be acceptable for your uncle but not necessarily your boss? Well, you’ve come to the right spot!

We’re here with answers to some frequently asked questions concerning retirement gifts.

What is an appropriate gift for a retirement party?

Good question! This depends greatly on the environment in your particular office.

If you work in a straight-laced law office and one of your firm’s founders is retiring, you’re going to want to shoot for something more distinguished or polished.

Perhaps an elegant set of brandy glasses with their initials? Or a nice, hardback copy of their favorite novel or biography?

If you work in a super chill, free-spirited graphic design office where you cut up with your coworkers all day long, then maybe go for something more relaxed like a funny t-shirt or a gift that caters to their interests or hobbies?

At the end of the day, a lot of it comes down to common sense and your gift recipient. What do think they would receive the most enjoyment from? Trust your instincts.

Gifts for retirees who have everything?

Ahhhh yes, the challenge individuals! They come in all shapes and sizes are equally difficult to shop for. In these instances, experiences make great gifts .

Sign them up for a cooking class, feed their hobbies with some new tools or equipment, take them on a camping trip, or give them a gift card or certificate to their favorite restaurant.

They may have too much stuff , but there’s no such thing as too many good memories.

How much should I spend on a retirement gift?

That can depend on a few factors.

How close are you to the retiree? Did you just meet them two weeks ago? Or is it your Uncle Freddy who you’ve known your whole life and who mentored you into the family business?

Generally speaking, the average to spend on someone’s retirement gift is between $20-$80. Don’t overextend yourself, though. There are plenty of wonderful gift ideas out there for every budget.

Sometimes offices will also pool funds from employees to go in on one big gift, so be sure to check with your coworkers to see what the plan is!

What is a customary retirement gift?

If you want to go super traditional with your retirement gift, there several options to choose from. The first one that comes to mind is a nice mantle clock, pocket watch, or wristwatch.

Timepieces became token retirement gifts as they represent the time dedicated to the company, as well as the free time the retiree gets to look forward to.

Other classic gifts include an engraved ring, and elegant fountain pen, and fine spirits.

Now that you’ve found the perfect retirement gift, next up is to plan the retirement party!

Here’s how .

Read Next: Retirement Messages for Your Boss

Melyssa Williams

Melyssa Williams has been writing since she could hold a pen (or a quill, as she was an odd little duck). Sadly, she was born to two loving parents who fed her broccoli, taught her manners, and raised her with...

... read more

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• Gifts for grown-ups

The 23 Best Retirement Gifts

By Dorie Chevlen and Mari Uyehara

After someone has spent years in the workforce, the transition to retirement is usually filled with joy as well as a bit of uncertainty. For many retirees, it’s a time to see the world and their grandchildren, to work on home projects, and to devote more energy to their hobbies (or learn new ones). With that in mind, we’ve gathered our favorite retirement gifts to facilitate adventure, travel, and curiosity. These gifts will also help your loved one make the most of this new chapter, with plenty of fun along the way.

Outdoor bucket list

Enno Vatti National Parks Scratch-Off Poster

From Acadia to Zion, this handsome poster of the United States’s 63 national parks lets adventurers scratch off each locale they’ve visited.

Buying Options

Enno Vatti’s 16-by-20-inch National Parks Scratch-Off Poster reveals 63 vintage-style illustrations of the most epic natural wonders: the pink-tinged cliffs of the Grand Canyon, the verdant palms of American Samoa, and shadowy cacti in Saguaro, among them. (The National Park Service covers 425 sites—including monuments and memorials—as well as parks like Yosemite and the Grand Teton, which are contained in this poster.) For a winning pairing, give the poster alongside a National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass .

The great outdoors

National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass

Not all federal recreational sites have fees. But 109 of the top ones do, and outdoor enthusiasts who are 62 and older will appreciate this pass, which waives the $10 to $20 charges for a lifetime.

If your loved one has always dreamed of seeing the Grand Canyon or has long dreamed of watching a geyser erupt at Yellowstone, give them a National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass . With it, they can freely enter the 109 federal recreational sites that charge a daily entrance fee—usually between $10 and $20—and they can bring up to three guests with them. Most parks have accessibility considerations in place , too, so your loved one can find an experience that’s just right for them. When you present your retiree with their pass, take things a step further and help them download the free National Park Service app, one of our favorite apps for getting the most out of a park trip . This way, they’ll be ready for their trip with interactive maps, self-guided tours, lists of amenities, and more.

Best trekking poles

Montem Ultra Strong Trekking Poles

These basic poles have an excellent grip and easy-to-use adjustments.

With age comes wisdom—and lived-in knees. Sturdy, steadying hiking poles are a wise choice for retirees with a penchant for hiking (and for everyone else, too, frankly), and they’re especially useful on pebbly, leafy descents. The Montem Ultra Strong Trekking Poles —our top pick in the category—are made of lightweight aluminum (which can handle plenty of dings), and the EVA foam grips won’t chafe hands (as rubber ones do). Most trekking poles don’t come with rubber baskets and tips, but these poles do (so the recipient won’t have to do any additional shopping). Your favorite recent retiree will be able to immediately hit the trails, with more balance and stability—and less wear and tear on their joints.

No-effort cocktails

St. Agrestis Negroni

These Brooklyn-made Negronis bring deep herbal and floral notes to the typical blend of bitter and sweet.

Your beloved new retiree may now have more time to mix up cocktails, but they may also prefer to just drink them instead. Our testers tried 50 pre-made cocktails , and the boozy, bitter St. Agrestis Negroni was one of their favorites. The slightly herbaceous and earthy cocktail balances the company’s Campari-like Inferno Bitter Aperitivo with a Torino-style vermouth (a regional style of the sweet fortified wine), along with Greenhook Gin. All your giftee has to do is pop and pour, and if they’re feeling fancy they can drop in an orange twist. After all, retirement is about doing less work, not more.

Putting practice

SKLZ Accelerator Pro Indoor Putting Green

This 9-foot, roll-out green, with a continuous ball return, provides year-round putting practice at home.

For golfers looking to crush fellow retirees on the links—or just to improve their stats—this Indoor Putting Green makes practicing between golf-course visits a breeze, especially for those living in cooler climes. The 9-foot-long green has a continuous, automatic ball return, so the golf-loving retiree can endlessly work on their putt while also honing accuracy, alignment, and form. If the recipient doesn't have the space (or an amenable spouse) to leave it out between sessions, the green itself can be rolled up and stored in a closet, which is exactly what staff writer Rachel Cericola’s family does. Her husband and son have had a lot of fun with a similar version for three years and counting.

Hit the road

The Most Scenic Drives in America: 120 Spectacular Road Trips

One part inspirational photo essay, one part indispensable route map, this guidebook is a go-to resource for current and aspiring road warriors.

Lushly photographed and expertly researched, The Most Scenic Drives in America is ideal for new retirees ready to cruise into the non-proverbial sunset. The one drawback to the book is that it was last updated in 2012. We found the routes and primary attractions to be unchanged, however, and as a source of inspiration for amazing drives, this guide is best in class. (Your gift recipient should of course do their own research for specifics like park and museum hours.) For each suggested destination, the book provides a predicted mileage, historical context, and un-touristy pit stops. This is an indispensable guide for almost anyone who hopes to see more of all 50 states, including Hawaii and Alaska. Don’t be discouraged if it initially lands on your favorite retiree’s coffee table—it will soon be dog-eared and sun-bleached in their passenger seat.

Superior shovel

Pedigree Stainless Digging Spade With Treads

This sharp-edged steel and ash spade has a sturdy foot tread and a lifetime warranty.

May be out of stock

Supervising editor Hannah Morrill first heard of the Pedigree Stainless Digging Spade With Treads mid-pandemic, on British gardening legend Monty Don’s Gardeners’ World. That spring, she gave one to her partner, and it has since become the most-used tool in the shed. (No surprise that Don won’t even let his friends touch it .) Though the carbon-steel edge is sharp enough for splitting unruly perennials or chopping tough roots, the spade is also sturdy enough for digging big holes and planting trees. Most importantly, the forged spade comes with a 25-year warranty, and if the handle gets left in the rain, your loved one can easily replace it .

Point and shoot

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

Our top mirrorless camera pick has a vast lens selection, built-in stabilization, and excellent autofocus, making it easy to capture great images anywhere.

For a latent photo buff yearning to be reawakened in retirement, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV , our top-pick mirrorless camera , would be an excellent creative motivator. A quick primer for non-photographers: Mirrorless cameras yield better images and provide more functionality than smartphone cameras, but they aren’t quite as complex as DSLRs. This Olympus model offers excellent autofocus and stellar stabilization, and due to its handy size, it won’t be too clunky for your loved one to lug around on scenic hikes. If your gift recipient is relatively tech-savvy, they’ll also appreciate using the Wi-Fi functionality to transfer images to a phone for easy, instant sharing. Because this Olympus camera represents a substantial investment, it’s a great option for siblings or grandchildren looking to go in on a big group gift.

Columbia Bora Bora Booney II Hat

This hat offers UPF 50 fabric, a 3-inch brim, and a sweatband, so it’s a terrific option for hiking. It wrinkles when packed, but it’s one of the most breathable hats we tested.

Yes, this hat is unassuming. And yes, it’s also essential, especially for an outdoor enthusiast (kayaker, beachgoer, forager) whose profession kept them indoors for the better part of the past few decades. The Columbia Bora Bora Booney II Hat is the also-great pick in our guide to sun hats for hikers , but its inoffensive silhouette and supreme functionality make it a slam dunk for most people. Due to the particularly generous band of mesh, this hat is pleasantly breathable, and its wide, firm brim stands up to powerful rays. There are two size toggles—along the crown and at the chin—so you needn’t know the recipient’s head size to nail a great fit. Intrepid travelers will also appreciate its excellent packability.

Perfect palette

Kuretake Gansai Tambi Watercolors

With their unparalleled opacity, pigment, and gloss, these watercolors are the best we’ve found for all manner of amateur artists.

Painting requires patience and perspective, so it’s a wonderful pursuit to take up in one’s later years. And for artists of all skill levels, the 36-color Kuretake Gansai Tambi Watercolors set is one of the best we’ve tested. Made by a 115-year-old sumi-ink manufacturer in Nara, Japan, the paints are neither as sheer as traditional watercolors nor as thick as gouache. As a result, they’re easy and satisfying to work with. The opacity, pigment, and gloss are so impressive that these paints work well even on dark paper. Complete the gift with Strathmore Watercolor Postcards and some Pentel Aquash Brush pens .

The write stuff

Pelikan Classic M205 Fountain Pen

Only a traditional fountain pen can provide such a satisfying feel. Though it isn’t cheap, it is more affordable than luxury pens with similar functionality.

A nice fountain pen might be less practical than a ballpoint, but it’s far more enjoyable to wield. Wirecutter director of photography Michael Hession has been building a fountain pen collection for about five years, and he recommends the handsome Pelikan Classic M205 for journaling, sketching, and note-taking. “The feel is perfect,” he said. “It’s smooth with a hint of scratchy feedback—a good thing in my book.” Remember to include a bottle of ink because the pen uses a piston filling system and arrives empty.

A sparkly vase

Irregular Crystal Vase

This sturdy, if somewhat diminutive, lead-crystal vase elevates a single stem with a twinkly and prismatic silhouette.

By now, your retiree probably has a handle on their decor style, but the MoMA Design Store Irregular Crystal Vase brings a celebratory shine to any space, and it’s sure to become an unexpected conversation piece your loved one will treasure. This prismatic piece is made with lead-crystal glass that reflects and refracts light, so it picks up the colors around it—the recipient can experiment with placing it near colorful books or plants. Though the vase fits in the palm of one’s hand (it’s merely 3 inches tall), it’s sturdy and just the right size to liven up a desk, an end table, or a windowsill with a single bloom.

Luggage for future adventures

Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Carry-On Spinner

Our top-pick carry-on suitcase offers the right balance of size, value, and durability. The rugged nylon siding isn’t particularly sleek, but it hides scuffs and scratches better than hard-shell models.

If your retiree plans on traveling, give them a suitcase that will protect their belongings and look nice doing so. The Travelpro Platinum Elite 21″ Expandable Spinner is Wirecutter’s top pick for carry-on luggage , and it easily holds two weeks’ worth of clothes in its well-organized compartments. This suitcase has a height-adjustable handle and magnetic locking wheels, which together make it easier to maneuver than other models. And it comes with a lifetime warranty against airline damage, so it’ll surely see your favorite retiree through years of adventure.

Alvarez Regent Series RU22C

The RU22C concert uke produces a big, full, satisfying sound, plays easily, and is a comfortable size.

Now that your favorite music-minded retiree has time to focus on a hobby, they might delight in receiving a ukulele, since these instruments are relatively inexpensive and largely considered one of the easiest to learn. While testing several with a panel of students and instructors , we determined that the Alvarez Regent Series RU22C is the best choice for new learners. It produces a clear and full sound and is comfortable to hold. And it looks far more expensive than it is, thanks to the careful workmanship and smoothly finished frets.

Lifetime learning

MasterClass

This ever-growing collection of digestible lessons—led by industry-spanning celebrity talent—is as edifying as it is entertaining.

For retirees who are eager to master a new skill, a subscription to MasterClass gives them access to nearly 200 virtual courses taught by experts in their fields—everything from Indian cooking with Madhur Jaffrey to ballet with Misty Copeland. Billy Collins’s poetry course is a favorite of associate staff writer Ellen Airhart; other staffers have enjoyed Yotam Ottolenghi’s Middle Eastern cooking class. If you’re lucky, your gift recipient may even share what they learn throughout the course. (Ottolenghi’s garlic confit is delicious and packs up nicely to go!) MasterClass offers only one subscription plan (an annual plan), setting a rather high bar for entry; receiving this as a gift lowers the bar for curious learners.

Breadwinner

Challenger Bread Pan

Though a bread-specific Dutch oven isn’t strictly necessary, this hefty lidded pan offers extra features for seasoned bakers, and it reliably produces beautiful loaves.

The Challenger Bread Pan is one of our favorite tools for baking enthusiasts . Unlike a Dutch oven (a multipurpose tool that bakers often use), the Challenger pan was designed specifically with baking in mind, and it’s sure to be a hit with any bread baker who wants to up their game. This pan is made of thicker iron than you find with most Dutch ovens, so it’s better at absorbing and retaining heat. And the rectangular (rather than circular) cavity can accommodate complexly shaped loaves, such as batards, demi baguettes, and boules. As Wirecutter supervising editor Ben Keough said, “If you’re hunting for a gift that will impress a bread-obsessed friend, the Challenger delivers.”

Feed the birds

Droll Yankees 18-inch Onyx Mixed Seed Tube Bird Feeder

Our favorite bird feeder is sturdy and easy to clean. We should note, though, that the large perches accommodate bigger—and sometimes less welcome—species like grackles and blue jays.

What gardener wouldn’t like some winged company? Help your favorite retiree beckon birds with the best-built feeder we’ve tested , the Droll Yankees 18-inch Onyx Mixed Seed Tube Bird Feeder . Capable of holding many different feed types (such as cracked corn and sunflower seeds), it can help your retiree target which species they’d like to have visiting. And the tough metal components are secure enough that if the feeder ends up being frequented by squirrels, it still won’t break (though it comes with a lifetime guarantee, just in case).

Coffee by the month

Atlas Coffee Club

Through monthly or bimonthly subscriptions, this coffee-delivery service offers beans from around the world, working with regional farms to fine-tune the brews.

Use code WCMOMS24, new subscribers only

Whether your recently retired loved one is feeling lost without the office Keurig or just bored with their usual bean routine, a subscription to a coffee delivery service makes a fine treat. One of our favorites, Atlas Coffee Club , can expose them to beans they’re unlikely to encounter at the grocery store, since it sources from farms across the globe. Each delivery also comes with a postcard featuring interesting tidbits about that country’s coffee industry, so your retiree can learn as they brew.

Superb cinema on demand

The Criterion Channel

True film aficionados will appreciate this ever-changing assembly of the world’s top hard-to-stream flicks.

The cinephile on your list deserves to be watching titles worthy of their newfound free time. A subscription to The Criterion Channel provides access to many of the most highly lauded films ever made. The streaming service’s collection spans over 100 years of filmmaking history, and it offers far more variety than a film aficionado could ever find on Netflix or Hulu. Criterion curates its content with flair, with groupings of films organized by guests—such as Guillermo del Toro and Mira Nair—as well as by creative themes, like “bad vacations” and “glorious food.”

A sweet watering can

Qilebi Watering Can

Our budget-pick watering can holds up to half a gallon of water, so it’s excellent for gardens large or small. Plus, the removable rose accessory expands the watering options.

If your recently retired loved one has a green thumb, give them a pretty vessel for watering. The Qilebi Watering Can is one of our favorite watering cans from testing . With a half-gallon capacity and a removable pouring spout, it works both for indoor plants and outdoor gardens. The watering can has a simple design that’s cute yet unfussy, should your gift recipient choose to put it on display. And it comes in five cool colors, including mint and pastel pink.

A superior tablet

Apple iPad (9th generation)

With a large screen, a fast-enough processor, and Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard support, the 9th-gen iPad offers the features that most tablet users need.

If your retiree left behind their computer along with their job, they may be in need of a new device for browsing emails and doing some late-night shopping. We’ve been testing tablets for years, and we’ve concluded that the Apple iPad is still the best tablet out there. The 9th-generation iPad offers an unbeatable selection of apps, stellar hardware quality, long battery life, and unrivaled customer support. And though it isn’t the most up-to-date iPad available, its price and performance make it ideal for the retiree who doesn’t need the increased storage or slightly better camera of the pricier models.

Rise and shine

Philips SmartSleep Wake-Up Light HF3520

Our top-pick sunrise alarm has a more-realistic red-tinted simulated sunrise and sunset than others we tested. It also offers excellent standard features, such as a second alarm and power backup.

When your retiree doesn’t have early-morning meetings to rush off to, they might relish a more-relaxing wake-up device. The Philips SmartSleep Wake-Up Light HF3520 is our favorite sunrise alarm clock , and it mimics the real thing: To gently wake someone, the light gradually grows in intensity, from a muted red glow to the bright white brilliance of a summer day. If they need a little more commotion, they can also select an FM radio station or any of five mellow sounds, such as tweeting birds or lapping waves.

DIY dessert

Cuisinart ICE-21

Our favorite ice cream maker reliably churns out rich ice cream, but the frozen-insert mechanism requires a little extra planning.

If your favorite retiree likes experimenting in the kitchen—or if they simply have a sweet tooth—an at-home ice cream maker makes an excellent gift. Of the seven models we’ve tested, the Cuisinart ICE-21 is our favorite. It makes consistently smooth and delicious ice cream, and the process is simple and straightforward: Just attach the frozen insert into the base, pour in the ingredients, and press the start button. In about 20 minutes, this machine makes a smooth, soft-serve-consistency ice cream (pop that in the freezer for a traditional scoop). Soon your leisure-time-loving recipient will be enjoying their frozen treat (and, hopefully, sharing it with you).

A robe all their own

Restoration Hardware Luxury Plush Long Robe

The most sumptuous robe we tested was softer than anything else, and it was also one of the warmest we wore. Some of our staffers have had it for years, so we know it lasts.

For plodding around in the morning, with no rush to put on real clothes, nothing says “I am my own boss” better than a cozy robe. Of the 39 models we tried during testing , the Restoration Hardware Luxury Plush Long Robe stood out as the most sumptuous of all. Its thick, smooth pile is similar in texture to a stuffed animal. And for us, it has stayed warm and soft, even after 10 years of wear. To make this an extra-special gift, consider adding an embroidered monogram (currently an additional $15).

We love finding gifts that are unusual, thoughtful, and well vetted. See even more gift ideas we recommend .

This article was edited by Hannah Morrill and Jennifer Hunter.

Meet your guides

Dorie Chevlen

Dorie Chevlen is a staff writer from Youngstown, Ohio, now living in Los Angeles. She has worked as a copy editor, fact checker, and sandwich maker, but this is probably her favorite gig. Beyond her Wirecutter work, Dorie writes screenplays and contributes frequently to other sections of The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The LA Review of Books, and Slate, among others. She has been called—both flatteringly and not—“a lot.”

Mari Uyehara

Mari Uyehara is a staff writer for Wirecutter’s gifts team. She was previously an editor at GQ, Saveur, and Vice, and she won a 2019 James Beard Award for her column on American cooking in Taste. The daughter of a potter, she has long been a believer in the power of a well-made thing.

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• After 40 hours of testing on trails, streets, beaches, and more, we’re determined that the Montem Ultra Strong Trekking Poles are the best for nearly everyone. The Best Trekking Poles  
• We tried several ready-to-drink classic cocktails— margaritas, Moscow mules, and Negronis—to find the best ones for summer sipping. The Best Canned Negroni, Margarita, and Moscow Mule  
• After testing dozens of cameras over the years, we can say that the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is the best mirrorless camera for most people. The Best Mirrorless Camera  
• After research and 200 hours of field-testing, we’re convinced the Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure Hat is the best sun hat for most people. The Best Sun Hat for Hikers  
• After 10 years of airport dashes and overhead-compartment stashes, the Travelpro Platinum Elite is still the suitcase we want to carry. The Best Carry-On Luggage  
• The Kala Satin Mahogany is our favorite starter uke for beginners. It sounds good, is easy to play, and comes in concert and soprano sizes. The Best Ukulele for Beginners  

Further reading

The 38 Best Gifts for Grandparents

by Samantha Schoech

From life-upgrade gadgets to creative ways to display family photos, the best gifts for grandparents are here.

The 30 Best Valentine’s Day Gifts for Kids

by Ellen Lee, Caitlin Giddings, and Wirecutter Staff

Whether you’re looking for one special gift or a project to complete together, we’ve gathered ideas to help spread the love this Valentine’s Day.

The Best High Chairs

by Jenni Gritters and Erica Pearson

Our favorite high chair is one-fifth the price of competitors—and it’s far easier to clean and use.

Amazon’s Echo Show Makes It Easy to Keep Family Together While Social Distancing

by Jackie Reeve

Smart displays like the Echo Show can be great for helping separated and distant family members feel close.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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My website uses cookies so that I can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to my website and helping me to understand which sections of Mind The Travel you find most interesting and useful.

You can adjust all of your cookie settings by navigating the tabs on the left hand side.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that I can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, I will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit my website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.