travel theme gift basket

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.

In This Post:

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!

You May Also Like

© 2024 The best travel gifts

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Just as most sites nowadays, The Best Travel Gifts uses affiliate links. Meaning that we will earn a commission each time you purchase something from a site we link to. Of course, this is at no extra cost to you. But it's a great way for us to keep this website going for more awesome gifts!

Travels With Casey

Life and Leisure with Casey Adams

21 Best Ideas for a Travel Gift Basket

Do you have a travel enthusiast in your life and want to help make their next trip extra special? A travel-themed gift basket is a perfect way to help them prepare for their upcoming adventure.

It’s easy to create a fun travel-themed basket. Whether flying across the world or driving across the country, a well-curated gift basket will make a trip more enjoyable. The recipient will surely thank you for the thoughtful gift you have designed to make their travel experience the best yet.

Here are the 21 best ideas for a travel gift basket:

Idea #1: Travel Pillow

Sleeping is never easy on a plane. A travel pillow is a must-have on a long flight. You can get a stuffed one or an inflatable one that can pack up small when not in use. Travel pillows make great additions to any gift baskets Canada .

Idea #2: Compression socks

Idea #3: luggage tags, idea #4: toiletry bag, idea #5: eye mask.

Travelling can be tiring. An eye mask can help people get much-needed shut-eye on a flight by providing a dark environment.

Idea #6: Kindle & Handheld Reader

Lots of people love reading, but books are bulky items to pack. A handheld reader is an ideal way to give the gift of many books in a tiny package.

Idea #7: Collapsible Water bottle

Staying hydrated while travelling is so important. A collapsible water bottle is an ideal gift because you can fill it after going through security.

Idea #8: Wireless Earbuds

The cords on a standard pair of earbuds get in the way and are prone to breaking. Wireless earbuds are sure to make a flight more enjoyable. Bonus points for noise cancelling!

Idea #9: Paper Roadmap

A road trip is often the adventure of a lifetime. Here are some ways to help make it more fun, safe, and clean. As reliable as technology is, there’s always a chance of a dead battery or a place with no cell reception. Help prevent the road trip from taking a wrong turn with a paper map.

Idea #10: Picnic style basket or Cooler

Road trip snacks bought along the way will quickly add up in expense. A basket or cooler will allow the road-tripper to pack ahead of time. You can even fill the rest of your gifts into it.

Idea #11: Quick Dry Travel Towel

Regular towels take up a lot of space. A travel towel made of microfiber will roll up small and dry quickly after use.

Idea #12: Gift Card for Audiobooks

That long road trip is the perfect time to listen to a new audiobook or an old favourite.

Idea #13: Road Assistance Kit

No one expects car trouble, but if it happens, then at least you can make sure the adventurers are prepared.

Idea #14: Travel surge protector

A power bar is an excellent addition to a gift basket if a road trip is long enough to include stops overnight in a hotel or motel. You can even buy one that has USB ports.

Idea #15: Notebook and pens

Help your friend or loved one preserve all the memories they are making on their trip by including a beautiful notebook.

Idea #16: Favourite Snacks

All parents dread the inevitable chorus of “are we there yet?” from the back seat. Here are some ways to help keep the kids busy on a long trip. The parents and kids will both thank you for these. Prepackaged on-the-go snacks so the kids aren’t constantly complaining they are hungry.

Idea #17: Magnetic Drawing board

Draw and erase repeatedly without needing to go through a reem of paper. Also, bonus, it’s mess-free!

Idea #18: Magnetic Travel Board Games

These games are a fun and easy way to pass the time. The magnets ensure that pieces don’t get lost all over the car.

Idea #19: Kids Camera & Disposable Camera

Kids love taking pictures, and their own camera is a perfect way to help keep them occupied.

Idea #20: Puzzle Books

The best thing about a puzzle book is that it will never run out of batteries. There are many kinds to choose from, such as word search, crossword, and sudoku. Pick their favourite or get one of each.

Idea #21: Book of ideas

Remember all the games we played when we were kids on road trips before the age of handheld technology? The alphabet game, eye spy, etc. Write them down with quick instructions to help the kids from being bored.

You may also like...

6 potential places to borrow money with bad credit.

How to Get Emergency Travel Funds Quickly

How to Sneak Alcohol Into a Concert

How to Satisfy a Man In Bed

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Products
• Gift Guides

The 58 Best Gifts for Travel Lovers in 2024

Peruse these practical and thoughtful gift ideas for every traveler on your list.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / David Hattan

Shopping for your travel-loving friends and family can be tricky — after all, you’ll want to ensure you’re picking up something practical, but you also don’t want to gift them something they already have. It’s also worth considering that frequent travelers, especially digital nomads, tend to live a more minimalist life. This means practical gear will reign supreme over more frivolous items.

You’ll also want to take into account the kind of travel your favorite globetrotters or influencers are into. City explorers or luxury-leaning travelers, for example, probably won’t want the same gear as someone who spends their PTO hiking and trekking through the wilderness.

The following options were hand-picked by our team to suit every type of traveler and vacationer on your list. We’ve extensively researched (or personally tested) all of the following gifts to ensure your purchase will make a thoughtful and genuinely practical addition to your loved one’s travels. Here are the best gifts travelers will love — for all budgets and needs.

Solo Re:Define Backpack

You can’t go wrong with a new travel backpack, and the Solo Re:Define Backpack earns our top pick as the absolute best laptop backpack in the game. It’s lightweight and stylish while still roomy enough to hold the essentials whether your gift recipient plans to use it as a carry-on bag or as a city bag while exploring a new town. It also has a built-in USB port and headphone jack for ease of use.

Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow

The gift of a good night’s sleep on a red eye isn’t exactly something you can wrap in a bow and place underneath the tree — but the Cabeau TNE S3 Travel Pillow makes it possible. This is the best travel pillow in our book; it’s designed to attach to any headrest which helps keep the user’s head from dropping or moving around when sleeping. The air-like cushion is also super comfortable and cozy without being too hot.

Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner

If your giftee is on the go a lot, chances are they could use new carry-on luggage . The Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner is our top pick when it comes to long-lasting and practical carry-on luggage. It’s aesthetically pleasing but also incredibly durable and is able to withstand packed travel schedules thanks to the polycarbonate design.

Away Travel The Compression Socks

Compression socks might not seem like the most exciting holiday gift at first glance — but trust us when we say that once your loved ones start flying with the compression socks from Away, they won’t want to go back. These are the best compression socks we’ve found not just because they’re stylish but also because they work well (see: help prevent swelling and discomfort) without being too tight.

Paravel Passport Case

If your favorite travelers don’t already have a high-quality passport cover, you might want to consider the Paravel Cabana Passport Case. The elegant leather case is our highest rated passport case and can even be personalized with a hand-painted monogram or custom graphic to add another layer of elegance. We also like that this option has an abundance of pockets and card slots to make organization easier.

Stanley Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler

The Stanley Quencher has become everyone’s favorite emotional support bottle over the past few months — and it’s easy to see why. This aesthetically pleasing cup fits up to 64 ounces of their favorite beverage and promises to keep their drink ice cold for hours. It’s also available in a ton of fun colorways and patterns.

Boka Fresh on the Go

The Boka Fresh on the Go set was made for travelers who avoid checking a bag at all costs. It includes everything they’ll need to maintain good oral hygiene while on the go, but the toothpaste is TSA-approved and the mouthwash — this is the best part — comes in the form of chewable tablets so it won’t even count toward their liquid quota.

T-core Power Bank

The T-core Power Bank makes a great stocking stuffer — look how tiny it is! — for travelers who are constantly in search of a power outlet to juice up their devices. The compact 10,000mAh portable power bank is small enough to fit in your pocket and can fully charge a new iPhone 2.9 times with one charge.

Jamaica Vibes

Jamaica Vibes is the latest in the Assouline coffee table book family — and possibly one of the most fun options to date. The stunning visual-first book will allow travelers to reminisce about any time spent in Jamaica (or dream about future trips) while the cover and spine of the book will add a dose of elegant and trendy style to coffee tables and bookshelves.

Contiki Tour

You can’t go wrong with the gift of travel itself, and if you’re looking for a big-ticket experience gift for a younger traveler in your life, look no further than a Contiki tour. The pre-packaged trips will take them all over the world with like-minded young people and range from exploring the Garden Route in South Africa to road-tripping through the Balkans.

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

Sure, a travel adapter might not immediately come off as the most exciting gift. But any traveler will tell you just how valuable a reliable one really is. The Epicka Universal Travel Adapter is the best travel adapter in our book; it works in more than 150 countries and it’s super compact and easy to pack thanks to the modular design. Plus, you can always pair it with a flashier item like a travel-themed phone case .

L'Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream

Luxury hand cream is a great gift for anyone, but particularly for the frequent flyer. The L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream is very lightly scented (which is great for the plane), but it’s also incredibly moisturizing and rich in texture. It’ll serve as the hydration and comfort MVP during long, dry flights.

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 16GB

Being a traveler and a voracious reader can be tricky — you likely don’t want to go bookless on the go, but who wants to lug several books from city to city just to make sure they’ve got reading material? Certainly not us, and that’s why the Kindle Paperwhite has become a non-negotiable. The ultra-lightweight device can store thousands of books in one spot and you can even download new content while traveling — so avid readers will never run out of material (or worry about going over the carry-on weight limit with books).

Mise 店 Udon Gift Set

Traveling to Japan changes you; once you’ve visited, you’ll want to return again and again. That’s why the Mise 店 Shoshi Watanabe Udon Gift Set is a major win for anyone who has traveled to (and fallen in love) with the country. The bundle includes everything your gift recipient will need to cook delicious udon at home, all of which has been sourced directly from Japan.

Lavazza Espresso Italiano

If they’re constantly posting throwbacks to their summer vacation in Italy, give them the gift of an Italian morning at home. The Lavazza Espresso Italiano tastes just like those shots of espresso you can guzzle at every corner cafe in Rome. Bonus points if you pick up a set of espresso cups to really set the mood.

SereneLife Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

 Amazon

The SereneLife Stand-up Paddle Board is an excellent option for anyone who wants to bring the spirit of resort life home. We tested out a variety of inflatable paddle boards and our team agrees that this is the best board on the market thanks to the lightweight, portable design and impressive stability in the water.

Jabra Elite 8 True Wireless Earbuds

It doesn’t matter if your gift recipient is a city or a wilderness traveler: everyone can use a reliable pair of earbuds to take on the road. The Jabra Elite 10 True Wireless Earbuds offer the same high-quality sound and design as much more expensive options, but the under-the-radar headphones come with a much more digestible price tag.

LARQ Bottle PureVis

The Larq Self-cleaning Water Bottle is a true game changer for all kinds of travelers. The smart bottle uses UV technology to not just disinfect itself but also to purify the water you’re drinking. This means the jetsetter you’re shopping for will be able to comfortably drink from most water sources without worrying about getting sick.

Tommy Bahama Backpack Beach Chair

The Tommy Bahama Backpack Beach Chair is simply the best beach chair around — and it makes a great gift for road-trippers and camping enthusiasts alike. It’s super easy to transport thanks to the folding backpack design and is surprisingly comfortable due to the adjustable head pillow and elongated seat. We also like that the frame is rust-proof, meaning it’s perfect for using at the beach or in the rain.

Gonex Compression Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are a game changer for efficient and organized packing, and the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes are our top pick for best packing cubes . The ultra-soft, lightweight ripstop nylon design simplifies packing and compresses everything from T-shirts and sweaters to socks and underwear, taking up way less space in a suitcase and making it easy to find specific garments without having to unpack completely.

Raytix RFID Money Belt

Travelers who take organization — and safety — seriously will particularly appreciate the Raytix RFID Money Belt. Our number one pick for the best money belt , this practical pouch is super comfortable to wear and is also large enough to hold things like earbuds, transit tickets, and other small travel accessories they may want to keep close by. It’s also available in a huge variety of fun colorways to suit every style

Intelligent Change Inc. The Five Minute Journal

Sometimes, it can be hard to live in the moment and absorb all the magic that is travel — but a gratitude journal can help ensure your globetrotter stays centered on the go. The Five Minute Journal takes, as advertised, just five minutes of a traveler’s time, but jotting down their thoughts for those few minutes will help them remember and appreciate the most exciting parts of their day while traveling or at home.

The Alchemist

This famous fable by Paulo Coelho is an excellent gift for travelers (and aspiring travelers) of all ages. The Alchemist is one of those books that we’ve read time and time again when searching for inspiration. It’s a quick but impactful read that’ll inspire anyone to continue to work toward their goals and find their own Personal Legend.

Andobil Car Phone Holder Mount

The best car phone holder mount in our book is the Andobil Car Phone Holder Mount, and it’ll make a great gift for roadtrippers and car commuters. It’s super easy to install and, once set up, is incredibly stable and easy to use while on the go. There’s also space to plug in a charger so drivers won’t have to mess around with their phone just to get some juice.

Puffer Hug 418 Scarf

Think of the Puffer Hug 418 Scarf as a stylish and equally practical alternative to the fishing vest. Hear us out: this cozy accessory serves as a regular scarf but also has tons of pockets for things like a smartphone or passport. It’s great for wearing to the airport when you need to have documents at the ready but is equally sensible for wearing to explore a new city.

Slip Silk Skinny Scrunchies

The Slip Pure Silk 4-pack Skinny Scrunchies is a fail-safe gift for anyone with long hair. The silk design is gentle on the hair and is designed to not pull or cause breakage, even with regular use. We also really like the elegant patterns and colors of the scrunchies, which can easily double as cute arm candy among a stack of bracelets.

Vinarmour Travel Wine Carrier

Wine-loving travelers will flip for the Vinarmour Travel Wine Carrier. This stunning carrier is designed to transport a bottle of wine without any risk of breakage. It features sufficient padding to keep the bottle safe while in transit, but it’s also made from leak-proof material — so even if the bottle was already damaged and cracks while in cargo, it won’t spill on the rest of your luggage.

Smithsonian White Mineral Globe Paperweight

Smithsonian

The Smithsonian White Mineral Globe Paperweight makes for a stunning addition to a coffee table or desk. The hand-polished globe is crafted from a stunning combination of two kinds of green jade, lilac lepidolite, red stone, marble, and abalone, and it’s designed to pay tribute to the National Gem and Mineral Collection — one of the largest collections of its kind.

The Harmonist Travel Coffret

The Harmonist

The Harmonist Travel Coffret is a game-changer when it comes to feeling fresh and relaxed in transit. The set of three heavily-concentrated perfumes were designed to foster a sense of calmness and relaxation thanks to the various notes, including patchouli, pomelo, Bulgarian rose, and vanilla. It also comes with a striking travel case to keep the vials safe in transit.

Spirit Daughter Malachite Palm Stone

Spirit Daughter

If you’ve got a nervous traveler on your list (or someone who could use a little extra protection), consider the gift of a Malachite Palm Stone. Malachite is believed to ward off danger and fight off illness which makes it a great healing crystal for any traveler to keep in their carry-on or toiletry kit while traversing the globe.

Twelve South AirFly Pro

The Twelve South AirFly Pro is such an easy way to upgrade the economy experience. This handy little device allows travelers to use their own Bluetooth headphones or earbuds with the inflight entertainment system rather than having to use the sub-par freebies provided by the airline. The AirFly is super easy to use as well — all you have to do is plug it into the headphone jack on the plane and pair it with your headphones.

Tumi Leather Jewelry Case

The Tumi Leather Jewelry Case is a game changer for anyone who typically travels with their jewelry loose in their carry-on or cosmetic bag. The beautiful leather accessory is striking in its own right, but the interior makes it incredibly easy to keep all jewelry and accessories properly stowed and organized on the go. The suede interior is also super soft and won’t scratch or scuff delicate pieces.

Four Seasons Velvet Slippers

Four Seasons

There’s something inherently luxurious about slipping into a pair of hotel slippers upon check in — and the Four Seasons Velvet Slippers amplify that feeling and bring it home. These stunning slippers are made in Italy from sleek velvet and cotton with the Four Seasons logo embroidered on the top. The elastic back and rubber sole make them appropriate for both indoor and outdoor use.

Apple AirTag

Don’t let your loved one get stuck with lost luggage sans AirTag. This tiny gadget offers major peace of mind for anyone who has to check a bag (and it’s worth throwing one in a carry-on, too — just in case a gate check situation arises). The AirTag is no bigger than a quarter and pairs with iPhones to easily track and monitor the location of gear at all times — and it has actually helped people get their suitcases back faster.

Nurse Jamie Super Cryo Mini Massaging Orb

The Nurse Jamie Super Cryo Mini Massaging Orb is a frequent flyer’s best friend. The device works to increase localized circulation and reduce surface-level inflammation in the skin. It stays cool for up to six hours at a time which should be more than enough to get jetsetters through a red eye to Europe. The stainless steel device can also be used hot for a soothing under-eye treatment.

Birdie Personal Safety Alarm

Here’s one for the solo female travelers on your list. The She's Birdie Personal Safety Alarm is designed to fit incognito in her handbag or pocket — but if she finds herself in any kind of trouble, it’s easy to grab and sound the alarm to draw attention and deter an attack. All she has to do is pull off the top tab to activate the 130-decibel siren and flashing strobe light.

Dagne Dover Tech Organizer

Dagne Dover

Nobody thinks they need a tech organizer while traveling, but when you take into account all the cables and adapters required to make international travel smooth, having a specific spot to keep everything untangled is major. The Dagne Dover Arlo Tech Organizer is small enough to pop into a carry-on but has plenty of interior space to store everything a traveler needs.

Lindsay Albanese Toptote Leather Hat Holder

Traveling with a cute hat seems like a great idea, but in practice it can be a bit of a pain. The Lindsay Albanese Toptote Leather Hat Holder allows travelers to bring along a wide-brim hat without having to wear it the entire commute or risking it getting crushed in a suitcase. The clip attaches to the brim of a hat and the built-in carabiner lets you pop it onto a handbag or carry-on for a hands-free solution.

Diptyque Travel Cleansing & Moisturizing Set

This cleansing and moisturizing set will be a welcome addition to any routine whether at home or on the go. The decadent set includes both rinse-free and regular hand wash as well as a moisturizing hand lotion — all of which smell just like your favorite luxury hotel bath products. We also like that this option comes with a cute carrying case that makes it easy to store the items in a handbag or carry-on.

Tangle Teezer Compact Styler Detangling Hairbrush

This detangling hairbrush is a must-have addition to any cosmetic bag thanks to its compact design and convenient top cover. The brush combats knots and tangles without damaging the hair, but it’s truly the streamlined design that makes it so great for travel; your giftee won’t have to worry about squishing the bristles or getting anything stuck in the brush. Plus, the shiny holographic-inspired finish is very pretty to look at.

Baimei Jade Roller & Gua Sha Facial Tools

You’ve probably already heard about the wonders of a jade roller, but the gua sha is just as efficient. This set of two gives travelers everything they’ll need to depuff after long flights or nights out. Note that this set is also available in amethyst and rose quartz, should your favorite traveler prefer a different hue.

Tinggly Bucketlist Experience Collection

If you prefer to gift experiences over physical items but aren’t sure where or when your recipient’s next trip is, consider a Tinggly Bucketlist Experience Collection. The gift package allows them to choose from hundreds of different experiences to partake in around the world, from sandboarding in Abu Dhabi to a food tour of Istanbul.

Vasco V4 Language Translator Device

World travelers always have a few favorite travel products they swear by. For traveling abroad, the Vasco V4 Language Translator Device makes the experience so much easier — not just on the traveler but on the locals as well. This genius device provides instant voice translation in 108 languages and comes with free lifetime internet to ensure it’ll always be functional anywhere in the world. The instant translations mean your traveling pal can have real-time conversations with people across the globe, even if there’s no common spoken language.

Pokoloko Harem Towel

The Pokoloko Harem Towel is handcrafted using 100 percent Turkish cotton by artisans in Turkey — and it’s the perfect beach bag essential. It’s very lightweight and rolls down much smaller than the average towel. However, it’s also incredibly absorbent and quick-drying, so travelers can pop it back into their beach bag at the end of the day without worrying about lugging home a soggy towel.

Ugg Franca Hooded Travel Cardigan

The Ugg Franca Hooded Travel Cardigan was designed with travelers in mind. It’s ultra-cozy and comfortable, but it’s also incredibly easy to fold up and pack away when not in use. We love that it’s fitted like a structured cardigan so you can get away with wearing it from the plane and right into the city if you’re so inclined.

Fellow Carter Everywhere Mug

If your giftee is still traveling the world using disposable coffee cups, it’s time they’ve upgraded. The Fellow Carter Everywhere Travel Mug is a super chic reusable coffee cup that is particularly great for travel, as it has a leak-proof seal that prevents the cup from spilling everywhere when tossed into a carry-on. It also keeps beverages hot for up to 12 hours (and cold for up to 24), so travelers won’t have to deal with lukewarm coffee or water on even the longest travel days.

Vacation Luxury Shine Duo

You can’t go wrong with a selection of sun care products, especially if the traveler on your list tends to prefer warm-weather destinations. The Vacation Luxury Shine Duo offers a cheeky, oil-based take on sunscreen with high-quality ingredients and retro packaging that’ll keep beachgoers protected from the sun without actually smelling like sunscreen.

Babelio Mini Sound Machine

Light sleepers might struggle to fall asleep in a hotel, but the Babelio Mini Sound Machine makes it a whole lot easier. The tiny sound machine won’t take up any space in a carry-on, but the powerful white noise will be more than enough to lull your loved one to sleep, whether they’re in a noisy hostel or a too-quiet luxury suite.

lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L

It’s called the Everywhere Belt Bag for a reason! This Lululemon staple has quickly become a cult classic for travelers (it has quite literally been everywhere this year). The adjustable belt bag is super convenient for everything from hiking to exploring cities hands-free, and the durable nylon material means you won’t have to worry about potential spillage or getting stuck in the rain (it’ll wipe clean with a bit of water).

Longchamp Le Pliage Filet Mesh Bag

Regular travelers know the importance of throwing a decent-sized tote into their luggage. After all, you never know when you’ll need the extra bit of space while on the road. The Longchamp Le Pliage Filet L Mesh Bag offers a sophisticated take on the humble mesh tote complete with a snap closure and both a top handle and shoulder strap for added versatility.

Conair Travel Garment Dual Voltage Steamer

The Conair Power Steam Handheld Travel Garment Steamer makes looking and feeling put together on the road a snap. The compact steamer is small enough to slip into a carry-on bag and pull out as needed while traveling. It boasts a 35-second heat-up time so the traveler in your life can power away wrinkles and creases in no time at all.

Sidney Sleep Mini Travel Size Neck Pillow

Sometimes you just need the comfort of your own pillow to get a good night’s sleep, and this mini travel pillow will do just the trick. The travel-sized memory foam pillow is great for using on planes or camping trips, and the compact size means it can easily slip into a bag for easy carrying when not in use. Consider adding a cozy travel blanket to complete the set.

YETI Roadie 24 Cooler

The Yeti Roadie 24 Hard Cooler will be well received by the road trip warriors and beach bums on your list. Not only is it super aesthetically pleasing, but it can also actually fit an incredible amount in such a compact space — we’re talking up to 33 cans, 26 pounds of ice, and even full-sized bottles of wine.

Loop Quiet Ear Plugs

You don’t quite realize how high-quality the Loop Quiet earplugs are until you really need them. The surprisingly stylish earplugs were designed to be comfortable while sleeping and will serve as a major blessing the next time your gift recipient has been put in a hotel room next to a crying baby or bachelorette party.

Native Union Universal Sling

The Native Union Universal Sling is designed to pop onto smartphones like a phone case — but it comes with a built-in strap that allows travelers to wear their phone like a crossbody bag or around their neck like a lanyard. It’s available in a variety of colorways and is made from recycled material for a more sustainable approach. It’s perfect for travel as it’s more secure than throwing a phone in a pocket or bag as well.

Hotel Lobby Candle City Collection Trio

Hotel Lobby Candle

There’s something inherently luxurious about slipping into a pair of hotel slippers upon check in — and the Four Seasons Velvet Slippers amplify that feeling and bring it home. These stunning slippers are made in Italy from cozy velvet and cotton with the Four Seasons logo embroidered on the top. The elastic back and rubber sole make them appropriate for both indoor and outdoor use.

Conscious Coconut Coconut Oil Travel Ready Tube

Conscious Coconut

Frequent flyers and dry skin just go together, unfortunately — which is why it’s so essential to have heavy moisturizer on hand at all times. The Conscious Coconut Coconut Oil Travel Ready Tube is pretty much the best way to carry around ultra-moisturizing coconut oil without getting it everywhere. It’s pure but packaged in a convenient tube that makes application much easier than that of your standard coconut oil jar.

Metáfora Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Portugalia Marketplace

If you’re shopping for a frequent flyer who doubles as an excellent home cook, you’ll want to consider Metáfora Extra Virgin Olive Oil. This high-quality olive oil is imported directly from Portugal and offers a surprisingly spicy flavor, which makes it great for cooking Mediterranean dishes or simply serving with fresh bread and cheeses.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Kaitlyn McInnis is a lifestyle editor-turned-freelance travel writer for T+L. She started her career as a gift guide editor and has a long-standing passion for helping others find the absolute best gifts (at great prices) for everyone in their life.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week. 

Ash in The Wild

Where Every Journey Begins with a Spark of Discovery

Travel Themed Gift Basket: The Perfect Present For Wanderlust Souls

Exploring the World, One Gift at a Time

Are you searching for a unique and thoughtful gift for someone who loves to travel? Look no further than a travel themed gift basket! Packed with goodies and essentials for globetrotters, this gift is sure to bring joy and excitement to anyone with a case of wanderlust. Whether it’s for a birthday, anniversary, or just because, a travel themed gift basket is the perfect present to inspire and support their adventures.

What to Include in a Travel Themed Gift Basket

When creating a travel themed gift basket, it’s important to consider the recipient’s travel preferences and needs. Here are some ideas to get you started:

1. Travel-sized Toiletries: Help your loved one stay fresh and clean on their journeys with mini bottles of shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and other toiletries.

2. Travel Adapter: A universal travel adapter is a must-have for any traveler. Include one in the gift basket to ensure your loved one can charge their electronic devices no matter where they are in the world.

3. Travel Journal: Encourage your loved one to document their travel experiences with a beautiful travel journal. They can jot down their memories, thoughts, and even create their own travel guide.

4. Luggage Tags: Help your loved one spot their luggage easily with personalized luggage tags. Choose ones that are durable and unique to add a personal touch.

5. Travel Guidebooks: Include guidebooks of popular travel destinations or off-the-beaten-path locations to inspire your loved one’s next adventure.

6. Travel Pillow: Help your loved one get some much-needed rest during long flights or bus rides with a comfortable travel pillow.

7. Snacks and Treats: Pack the gift basket with travel-friendly snacks such as energy bars, dried fruits, and nuts. These will come in handy during long layovers or when exploring new places.

8. Travel-themed Decor: Add a touch of wanderlust to their home with travel-themed decor items like a world map poster, globe, or travel-inspired artwork.

9. Travel-inspired Books: Fuel their wanderlust with books about travel, adventure, and different cultures. Choose titles that will transport them to far-off places even when they’re not on the road.

10. Travel Accessories: Include practical and stylish travel accessories such as a collapsible water bottle, a compact travel umbrella, or a versatile travel backpack.

Wrapping It Up

A travel themed gift basket is a thoughtful and practical gift that will surely delight any travel enthusiast. Get creative with the items you include and tailor them to the recipient’s preferences. Whether they’re a frequent flyer or just starting their travel journey, this gift will inspire and support their wanderlust. So go ahead, put together a travel themed gift basket, and watch their eyes light up with excitement and gratitude!

Your cart is empty

Click below to start your collection!

EASY RETURNS | Free shipping on ORDERS $50+

We offer a deluxe matte box for Wanderchains as well as a silky blue pouch for Travel Tokens. Both come inside of a navy blue gift bag for a beautiful presentation. ✨

*Gift Packaging is only available for Tokens and Token Holders

*Wanderchain sold separately

Add a Monogram to the Back +$12

Personalize Back of the Token? +$6

Add Date to Token Back? +$5

Edit Monogram

Edit personalization.

We don’t have that token but you can make your own with our Custom Tokens!

10+ Clever Travel Basket Gift Ideas

When it comes to showing appreciation or expressing love, gift-giving is a time-honored tradition. And when the person you're shopping for loves to travel , it's important to find the perfect present, one that strikes a balance between meaningful, unique, and useful. 

Sometimes the best gift idea is one that actually combines several things  — like, perhaps,  a travel basket full of goodies and other essentials for those who love traveling often (or even do it out of necessity, like flight attendants ).

Do you need some inspiration for putting together the right travel basket? Consider these thoughtful travel basket gift ideas!

14 Travel Basket Gift Ideas You’ll Love

Show how much you care about your globetrotting loved one with these travel basket gift ideas. 

1. The Wander Club Travel Tokens

One of the joys of traveling is collecting keepsakes, or  souvenirs , from past trips so you can look back and have those memories.

Travel tokens from The Wander Club  are a fun, unique way to keep a record of and display the places someone has traveled to. These collectible tokens are made of high-quality stainless steel and feature the name of different destinations, ranging from national and state parks to countries and landmarks. 

Plus, each token is customizable with an engraving , so you can add a date or initials. Any jet-setting pal will appreciate this, so it's one of the best travel basket gift ideas!

2. The Wander Club Token Holder

Collecting travel tokens is even better when you have a customizable token holder  to hold and display them. After all, what's the point of souvenirs that just sit on a shelf or in a drawer, never being seen?

Choose a unique, handcrafted Wanderchain that you can attach to a keyring to organize and display travel tokens. They come available in various colors and designs, but each is handmade for an extra level of uniqueness.

If, alternatively, you’re looking for a conversation piece, buy a chain necklace so you can wear your “travel history” in style.

Pro gift-giving tip: Split rings can only hold up to 40 tokens, whereas the necklaces can accommodate many more tokens.

3. Packable Blanket

Keep the cold at bay on a road trip or during a long flight with a packable travel blanket. They pack up small, often into a carry case that's smaller than a backpack, but open to a nice large size. Some even roll up into a tube shape to fit conveniently around your neck as a rest. 

4. Compression Packing Cubes

One of our go-to travel basket gift ideas is packing cubes. They k eep your clothes organized while eliminating unnecessary bulk, allowing you to fit way more into your luggage. 

5. Passport Cover

For your pals who love to travel internationally, a passport cover is one of the best travel basket gift ideas. Not only is it small and affordable, it also adds a personal touch to the entire gift, especially if you add the recipient’s name.

6. Luggage Scale

Discovering that a suitcase or bag is too heavy at the airport can be very inconvenient — and very expensive . Avoid that with a handheld luggage scale that features a digital display and can measure up to 110 pounds. Its small size also makes it extremely gift-able, perfect for one of your travel basket gift ideas!

7. Reusable Water Bottle

A reusable water bottle should be at the top of your list of travel basket gift ideas. It has many benefits, including being sustainable and eco-friendly and saving money by not having to buy single-use bottles. 

For extra brownie points, add a personal water purifier to the basket!

8. Airplane Necklace

A fun necklace with an airplane-shaped pendant makes a statement simply yet elegantly. Many options come in your choice of gold, rose gold, or silver, so there's a style for everyone.

9. Hanging Toiletry Bag

If you're looking for a super practical gift that will go with its recipient on every trip from here on out, this is it. Hanging toiletry bags are some of the best travel basket gift ideas because they provide a getting-ready station virtually anywhere and organize hygiene items. 

10. Travel Jewelry Organizer

This is one of those travel items you don't realize you need until you've traveled with it. A simple yet wildly helpful jewelry case designed for travel (typically padded and very small) can keep your  earrings, necklaces, rings, and more safe during travel. To make it an even better travel basket gift idea, add a monogram or name for a personal touch.

11. Travel Scrapbook

Often the best vacations are shared experiences between loved ones. Whether you get a DIY kit or a ready-made scrapbook, they're highly customizable and meaningful, making it one of the best travel basket gift ideas. 

12. Keepsake Container

People love collecting things like beach sand, pine cones, seashells, and leaves on their travels, so one of the best travel basket gift ideas is a jar or other container to keep them all organized. 

13. Scratch Map

We love this travel gift idea because of the customization and fun it offers! Who wouldn't enjoy scratching off the different places they've visited, whether that be national parks, countries, or US states? Many also come protectively rolled up in a tube, so they're extra giftable.

14. Soft Cooler Bag

We have a serious appreciation for those who travel on a budget, and a soft cooler is a great way to do that. Investing in a high-quality cooler bag lets you stock up on some basic groceries when you get to a destination, allowing you to skip eating out so often. Plus, soft bag-style coolers are packable!

Leave a comment

The Wander Club

We are a charitable online shop for travel lovers! We help keep your favorite memories alive with engraved tokens and handcrafted token holders. For every order placed, we provide a meal to a child in need. ❤️

Recent Articles

• 12 Van Life Must Haves for a Smooth Road Trip
• 7 Best National Parks to Visit in March
• 7 Stunning Warm Places to Visit in January
• 10 Unique Outdoor Winter Sports to Try
• 9 Gifts for Travel Lovers: Budget Edition
• 7 Best States to Visit in Winter for Every Type of Adventurer
• 30 Best Wanderlust Quotes to Inspire You
• 10 Awesome Outdoorsy Stocking Stuffers
• 6 Best National Parks to Visit in February
• 15 Awesome Gift Ideas for Sports Lovers
• Translation missing: en.accessibility.refresh_page

jaleh michelle

travel, life, etc

The Ultimate Travel Gift Guide: 40+ Unique Travel Gifts (That People Actually Want!)

November 8, 2020

If you’re short on time and low on travel gift ideas, this post is going to save your life this year! I’ve spent the past three years traveling full-time, so I’ve got a prettty good sense of what gifts travelers actually want – and which will just end up collecting dust in a box somewhere.

Whether you’re looking for gifts for friends going travelling, something sweet for your special someone, or making a last-ditch effort to shop for that random person who has everything — I GOT YOU. This giant list of unique travel gifts & ideas will have something that’ll pique your interest, I promise.

( PS : This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission, at no additional cost to you. I’m also a participant in the Amazon Associates program, and earn commissions on any qualifying purchases made through this site)

Table of Contents

Unique Travel Gifts $50 and Under

You definitely don’t have to break the bank to find good travel gifts! So many of my favorites are under $50 and would make great travel stocking stuffers, or nice going-away gifts for friends going travelling. I tried to include a good mix of fun travel gifts and practical travel gifts in this list.

I own and use many of these already, and most of the others are sitting in my various carts for future trips. Real-Life Traveler Approved™.

Enjoy the Wood Wooden World Travel Maps & City Maps, $50+!

My TOP unique travel gift idea this year!! It’s one of the best ways I’ve found to commemorate my travels and keep all my travel memories alive 🙂 These handmade wooden world travel maps can be customised with flag pushpins for all the places you or your loved one have visited. They make an incredible accent piece for any home.

I am also stoked on this brand because of their focus on sustainability and their small-scale manufacturing. Most importantly – they’re based in Ukraine. Their manufacturing centre was completely destroyed and they’re currently trying to offload their existing inventory and rebuild. Every purchase helps them do so. The maps are extremely high quality and just a really lovely, thoughtful travel gift. I’m obsessed and couldn’t recommend these more highly as a gift for people who like to travel.

Click here to check out all the Enjoy the Wood wooden travel maps , or make a donation through their site to support Ukraine. Use code JALEH10 for 10% off 🙂

  iPhone/Android Tripod, $19.99

For anyone who loves taking photos — this portable phone tripod is a must! The flexible arms can wrap around railings, furniture, or other objects to create the perfect angle for a photo. This will definitely help to up anyone’s Instagram game, especially solo travelers who struggle to get good shots.

Custom Travel Theme Metal Pins, $1-50

Looking for meaningful but inexpensive travel gifts? I’m currently  obsessed with these jewelry-quality custom metal pins. These are PERFECT gifts for travel lovers and offer endless style options for anyone who wants to add a little personality to their travel outfits.

These travel gift accessories easily upgrade a whole look, whether popped onto a hat, jacket, or backpack! The pins are fully customizable with unique elements like name, destinations, or travel quotes. They make a fantastic custom travel gift for this year.

 Shop & check out the best custom metal pins manufacturer here ! There’s a 40% bulk discount right now, so it’s a great time to pick up a few gifts for friends who travel!

Journeys of a Lifetime: 500 of the World’s Greatest Trips ($40)

If you’re looking for a gift for adventure lovers or wanderlusters missing international travel, this is it!!! This incredible book from National Geographic is devoted to travel inspiration around the world and features their typical (stunning) full-color photography, plus in-depth explanations for each destination. There’s something here for everyone.

This is such a thoughtful travel gift and would make an amazing gift idea for someone who misses traveling. Guarantee they’ll be thanking you for the inspiration for their next trip.

Click here to take a look inside the book and pick up a copy! 

Chromecast, $35

If you want bang for your buck, this is the option for what to gift someone who loves travelling. Most hotel rooms and even some in homestays/hostels have TVs, but they can be pretty much worthless in certain countries. I have watched more hours of TV in languages I don’t speak than I could count lol. Chromecast solves that problem, allowing you to stream Netflix/anything from your browser directly to your TV. It’s a LIFESAVER.

Check out reviews and click here to purchase!

Airplane Pendant Necklace, $49.99

The PERFECT travel gift for her this year — this gorgeous pendant necklace features a plane and a globe, in classic sterling silver dotted with cubic zirconia. Cute, stylish, and tarnish-free, it’s one of the most unique and functional gifts for the traveling woman! This is probably one of my favorite pieces on this travel gift guide – it’s SO cute in person, too.  

Check out reviews and purchase here! 

Vaccine Card Holder

Is this a little sad? Yes, lol. But in current times, will it come UNBELIEVABLY IN HANDY for your favorite traveler? Yes, lol. This is a super basic, durable, clear plastic card holder to protect your card – literally one of THE best 2021 travel gift ideas. My card is not encased in one of these bad boys, and only 3 months and 5 countries later it is completely BATTERED. I would definitely recommend this as a travel stocking stuffer this year or including it as one of your travel gift basket ideas!

Click here to view prices and purchase a vaccine card holder. 

Margarita Travel Kit!

For anyone (me, lol) who loves getting a little tipsy during their flights but craves a PROPER cocktail, this is a BRILLIANT affordable travel gift idea!! The kit comes sans tequila but contains everything else your fave traveler (or you) needs to make a marg in-flight. And it’s TSA-approved. Yes. YESSS!! Seriously such a fun travel gift. I’m picking these up for my friends this year.

Airbnb Gift Card, $50

If nothing else, give the gift of free travel! There’s a whole world of unbelievable Airbnbs out there. And I don’t know any traveler who wouldn’t jump at a few nights of free accommodation in a cosy house or laid-back beach bungalow.

Please note Airbnb gift cards are currently redeemable to USA ACCOUNT HOLDERS ONLY.

Check out here to purchase an Airbnb gift card!

  Stainless Steel Water Bottle, $21.95

A stainless steel bottle is great for travelers and the environment – win-win. This is a GREAT practical travel gift that most people never get around to buying for themselves. This one has tons of color & size options and it’s top-rated.

  Packing Cubes, $21.63

These are an organizational godsend and probably my favorite travel item I own. They make packing an absolute breeze because they compress to save space and help organize your items. They’re an absolute game-changer. Buy these as gifts for someone going travelling and I guarantee they will use them on every single trip.

  Clip-On Phone Camera Lens, $28.99

Another great gift for travel photographers! This clip-on lens attaches to the phone to allow a wider frame and higher quality shots – and it’s compatible with iPhone, Samsung, and Google phones. The macro lens also allows for close-up detail shots. These are SO much fun to shoot with and make a really fun travel gift.

  Travel Adapter, $9.99

Boring, yes, but necessary. A good travel adapter will always be appreciated, and most travelers just opt for the cheapest version when shopping for themselves. Pick up a compact but multi-functional one with extra USB ports to charge devices, and you’ll get some SERIOUS brownie points.

Portable Phone Charger

This is another must-have that will get a ton of use. There’s nothing worse than your phone running out of juice in middle-of-nowhere, Uzbekistan (I can tell you from experience). Go for a slim, lightweight version to make sure your favorite traveler can always keep it on-hand, just in case!

  Memory Foam Neck Pillow

This is the single best travel gift I could recommend if you’re looking for value. If you know any travelers who don’t have a neck pillow, get them one. Immediately . It will change their life and make flights so much more comfortable & restful. I’ve been using this wraparound pillow for 2+ years and refuse to travel without it, but the one pictured is better-rated and offers a bit more support.

  Foot Hammock 

If you know someone who struggles to sleep on flights, get them a foot hammock!! They hang off the tray table and allow you to elevate your feet, creating a much more comfortable resting position. I MacGyver myself a hammock with a sweatshirt or blanket, but would definitely appreciate a legit version. Elevating my feet has completely cured my plane insomnia and saved my life on long flights.

  Travel Towel 

A lightweight, quick-drying travel towel is a godsend for any long-term traveler. This is one of those things people often don’t realize they need until they’ve already left.

  Pushpin World Map / Scratch Off World Map  

My mom got me the scratch off version for Christmas last year and it was one of my best travel themed gifts! It’s so satisfying scratching off new countries, and it makes a cute conversation piece in my room. One of my best friends has the pushpin version which I love too. These are definitely awesome gifts for any avid traveler.

  Collapsible Mug

Perfect gifts for environmentally conscious travelers. I use mine for everything, from coffees to hostel water refills. It’s super compact and lightweight and fits easily in my bag, it’s cute af, and I love that I’m not contributing to creating plastic waste (especially in developing countries where that plastic is likely going to end up in the ocean).

Around the World Spice Set

This is the perfect gift for world travelers – especially in 2020, where lots of us are stuck at home unexpectedly and unable to travel 🙁 You can gift a little taste of feeling abroad with a round-the-world spice set featuring blends from Morocco, Jamaica, and Thailand, among others! It’s a super unique travel gift idea and one I’d love to get myself.

Click here to check out reviews and purchase! 

Waterproof Phone Case

Pretty much every traveler I know has destroyed their phone at least once due to an accident, flood, or falling into a lake (last example being me). Save your traveler friends the hassle and gift them a STURDY waterproof phone case to protect their electronics, so that they too don’t end up abroad with a fried phone. Again, a great practical travel gift that a lot of people won’t bother picking up for themselves, but will literally KISS you for gifting them when they get home. 

Click here to check out phone cases!

Extension Cable, $15.19

Another “boring” but unbelievably useful travel gift. For some reason, many countries like to put their power ports in completely incomprehensible positions – and it is NOT A VIBE. I never thought to bring one but would have KILLED for one the past 8 months in Vietnam as I’ve navigated housing with the literal dumbest wiring imaginable. Your traveler might go “wtf” when they open this one, but I PROMISE they will use it on one of their trips and bless you for saving them from a really common inconvenience.

This one also has USB ports and is super compact for travel. I just bought one and am looking forward to trying it out on my next trip!

Click here to check out reviews and purchase!

Unique Travel Gift Ideas Under $200

If you’re looking for super useful travel gift ideas for the travelers in your life, here are some solid mid-range options.

KnackPack Medium, $195

I cannot & will not stop raving about this backpack lol. The KnackPack is a first-of-its kind multifunctional luggage and is by FAR the best travel backpack I’ve ever used. It’s an AMAZING practical travel gift idea. It has a ton of unique and thoughtful features for travelers looking for something sleek and functional. My medium pack is TSA-approved as a carry on but fits literally an INSANE amount of stuff in it. 

Amongst other features, it packs like a suitcase, and has a ton of additional pockets, making storage super easy. It also has a side water bottle pocket, comfy padding on the back, and a trolley sleeve for easy stacking on my roller bag. I genuinely cannot recommend this bag more highly.  They’ve thought of EVERYTHING and I truly couldn’t recommend this more highly as a unique travel gift this year!! It’s a game-changer.

Click here to check out color options and reviews for the Medium KnackPack , or here to check out their full range of sizes .

  Kindle Paperwhite E-Reader, $129.99

Books and travel are… not compatible. When you’ve got limited space in your bag, it’s really not practical to lug around more than a book or two (if that). And that SUCKS if you love to read. If you know a bookworm who loves to travel, get them an e-reader and they will love you forever. Curling up in bed or passing a long train ride with all your favorite books at your fingertips… that’s priceless. I would love  to get one of these… are you reading this, Mom? 😉

Check out reviews and prices here!

SplayTray, $55

This nifty invention by a friend of mine is a patented-design carry bag that expands out into a fullsize tray. It’s SO HANDY. The sides are magnetised so once you want access to all your makeup, art supplies, etc at once, you just pop the sides and everything is laid out – no more rummaging through your bag for what you’re looking for. It comes in small/medium versions and a ton of different color options!!!

  Nanopresso Machine, $64.90

For the caffeine-addicted traveler. I had no idea a “nanopresso” was a thing until recently, but it looks AMAZING. Basically it’s a teeny-tiny portable machine that brews coffee! Just add coffee grounds and water. I was a bit skeptical of the functionality, but the reviews are actually solid – so this one is a safe bet for coffee lovers! Grab the NS adapter to make it Nespresso-pod compatible!

  Fujifilm InstaX Polaroid Camera, $72

Especially in the age of ultra-curated social media, there’s something really special about real  snapshots. Your fave traveler will have a blast snapping pics with one of these, and they’ll come home with a stack of absolutely priceless photos. My favorite travel photos are consistently the grainy, garbage quality late-night snaps on friends’ Polaroids – those are always the real moments, and the ones I most want to remember!

Check out reviews, colors, and prices here!

Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker

There’s something about speakers that makes everything more fun – whether you’re laying on a beach in Thailand, enjoying a beer in Germany, or hiking in Switzerland. This one is waterproof, compact, and the sound quality is amazing! My flatmates have this exact model and it’s survived countless trips to Bondi Beach.

 Mobile Wifi Hotspot 

For anyone who lives online, a mobile hotspot is a must have travel gift! This little contraption creates a mobile wifi network, so your favorite traveler can stay connected, even in the middle of nowhere. This is great for people who travel frequently because I guarantee they are sick of weak wi-fi and dropped connection.

Priority Pass Membership, currently 40% off at just $55 (normally $99!)

Priority Pass is an exclusive service that grants members discounted access to hundreds of airport lounges around the world. Especially between long-haul international flights, it makes a huge difference to be able to relax, take a shower, and squeeze in a (complimentary!) gin & tonic. Whoever you pick this one up for will LOVE you.

Check out pricing and membership tiers here!

Unique & Useful Travel Gift Ideas $200 and Over AKA Presents For People You REALLY Love

Kidding, I know you can’t put a price tag on love 😉 But if you’ve got a bit higher budget, here are some mid-range to luxury travel gift ideas that your giftee would DIE to have, but probably won’t splurge on themselves.

Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones, $199.99 (on sale from $299.99!!))

An absolute game-changer on flights, and probably one of the greatest investment items for a frequent traveler. You don’t realize how loud and disruptive airplane or outside noise can be until you can switch it off with the flick of a button. It makes a huge difference in sleep and comfort to upgrade from regular headphones. This Bose pair is one of the highest-rated noise cancelling headphones on the market, and my personal fave.

GoPro Hero 8, $299.99 (on sale from $349.99!!)

For any adventurers, a GoPro is a must have travel gift!! This bad boy can handle any weather condition and the picture quality is amazing considering how compact it is. It’s so fun to shoot with one and I’ve always come out with some gorgeous, in-the-moment adventure snaps. Don’t forget to pick up a GoPro dome to take some seriously cool half-underwater photos!

DJI Mini Drone, $399.99

DJI drones are some of the highest-rated on the market. They create spectacular aerial shots and are one of the best gifts for travel photographers. This is a definite investment but seriously opens up a whole new world of possibility for photos! I personally would kill for a drone, especially as a solo traveler who often struggles to take pics unassisted.

Chic Luggage Set, $325

Who wouldn’t love some sleek new luggage? My personal favorite brand Calpak makes beautiful luggage sets in a wide variety of colors and patterns. The rose-gold (pictured) is the most popular, but I own the white marble set , and have my eye on the rainbow gradient . They’re super lightweight but very sturdy and well-made.

Shay Mitchell’s Beis line is also EXTREMELY well-rated and very sleek. Revolve currently stocks a ton of luggage options including a 29” roller linked here , or a 21” roller linked here (both come in black and beige!).

Panasonic Lumix Mirrorless Camera, $479.99

If you know anyone who loves photography and travel, get them a mirrorless camera. An iPhone simply doesn’t do incredible destinations justice, but a DSLR is way too bulky to be practical for travel (I hate lugging mine around everywhere). A mirrorless camera gives you all the quality of a DSLR without the heft – it’s the perfect travel camera. I’ll be swapping out my Canon 6D for the Panasonic as soon as I can afford it!

  FitBit Versa 3 Smartwatch & Activity Tracker, $229.95

Traveling does a number on your body, and it’s really hard to stay in shape (especially when you love trying new foods). Any long-term traveler would love a tracker to help monitor their activity and stay on top of their health while abroad. This was my personal most-wanted item this year, and I’m confident I’ll get a ton of use out of it on future travels.

Gift an Experience

If all else fails, and you don’t want to burden your traveler with more Stuff – give them a gift they’ll never forget! Like a Harry Potter studio tour in London . Or a hot air balloon ride over Sydney’s Hunter Valley wine country. Or a romantic dinner cruise through the San Francisco Bay .

Or… just grab them a gift card and let them choose their dream experience .

Unique Travel Gifts for Her

Silk sleep mask.

Trying to sleep on a flight or in an unfamiliar environment (like a night train) can be absolutely miserable – a sleep mask will help to get some shut-eye. I have this pink silk version and it’s so  cute and super soft.

Shampoo & Conditioner Bars

The number of times my shampoo/conditioner have leaked into my bag and destroyed some important possession are like… endless. And continually lugging around/purchasing new (sh*tty) hair products is both impractical, and bad for your hair. Solution? Gift travelers shampoo/conditioner bars (and bar soap!), which travel easy and leak-proof, while keeping hair sleek and moisturised even in the most remote destinations.

Cute Leather Luggage Tags 

Especially if someone has indistinct luggage (like a basic black case), these will help avoid any mix-ups at the airport. And in case the bag gets lost, airport staff will easily be able to identify it. Plus they’re cute. My ex’s family got me these one year and I LOVE them – I use them every time I fly!

Personalized Leather Passport Holder 

Your passport is the most important thing you take with you on your travels! And especially with frequent trips, they can get pretty banged up – mine is literally falling apart. If you know someone whose passport looks a little worse for the wear, get them a passport holder. They look nice and they’re a super functional travel gift.

Also, Socks

I know it’s a running joke that you know you’re old once you get excited about socks for Christmas, but like, I would really love some socks lol. Whatever you decide to buy this year, just chuck some socks in the package too.

If you or someone you love needs socks too, here’s a link . You can never have enough socks, guys.

ANYWAY, I hope this helped you sort out your last-minute Christmas shopping this year!! Hope you guys have a lovely holiday season, and please let me know if you ended up buying any of these gifts for world travelers in your life. I’d love to hear about it! 

Don’t forget to PIN this post or drop a comment below if you found this list of unique travel gifts helpful! And subscribe to my email list below if you’d like to receive monthly updates with new posts, tips, and travel recaps! 

(Disclosure: This post is a paid collaboration with Enjoy the Wood, Pins US, and KnackPack) 

Related posts:

Join the list.

December 3, 2019 at 7:10 am

Those socks! Where have they been all my adult life?!

December 3, 2019 at 6:30 pm

I don’t know, but what I do know is that everybody is getting socks from me this year LOL

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Copyright © 2024 jaleh michelle · Theme by 17th Avenue

60 Useful Road Trip Gifts and Basket Ideas for Travelers in 2023

By: Author Kim Tate

Posted on Published: March 2, 2023

Planning a road trip or know someone who is traveling soon? For travelers that are heading out soon, how about you surprise them with some road trip gifts — perhaps you’ll even make them a road trip gift basket! As someone who has taken dozens of roadtrips, these are some of the best road trip gifts you can pack.

These ideas are also perfect for auction gift baskets – this road trip basket below is one I made for our class school auction!

In this article:

Best Road Trip Gifts Ideas

As someone who has taken a LOT of road trips, here are 60 of my favorite road trip gift ideas! This list has a mix of road trip gifts including road trip essentials, road trip gadgets, games for road trips, unique gifts, and even some ideas for family road trip gifts!

Affiliate links are included in this post so I may earn a small commission if you purchase with my link.

Road Trip Essentials

These items are essentials that will help make a road trip more comfortable, safe, and clean. They make great road trip gifts as they're practical gifts and most have a low price. Many of these can be added to a road trip gift basket to fill in space.

Rand McNally 2022 Large Scale Road Atlas

While we all rely on google maps on our phones these days, there's always a chance you'll lose your coverage while driving. A road atlas helps you navigate to where you need to go if you lose signal for some reason. Rand McNally makes great road atlases, this one is spiral bound with large-scale maps but they also make a traditional staple-bound atlas. A road atlas is one of the best road trip gifts.

If you're staying in one particular state or region, you might consider a paper map for that state that you can just store in your glove compartment versus a whole atlas.

Also, keep in mind that digital maps will probably tell you the best way to go to save time or mileage, but it might not be the most scenic way to go. A road atlas can help you look for scenic drives and routes.

While traveling in the car there's nothing worse than getting something on your hands and not being able to wash them. Wet wipes are a great item to pack as they can be used to wipe up spills and messes -- not just for kids! I recommend buying biodegradable eco-friendly wipes.

Hand Sanitizer

Of course over the past couple of years having hand sanitizer handy has been a big part of traveling. But our family has been packing hand sanitizer on road trips for a while. The 8 oz Purell pump bottles fit well in our van cup holders and is easily accessible for all. It's great for using after stops, after fueling up, and before eating.

Paper Towels

Going along with the keeping things clean theme, a roll of paper towels is a great item to pack for a road trip. These come in handy in a variety of situations, cleaning up messes, wrapping up wet or dirty items, or even cleaning up spills in the car.

Facial Tissues (Kleenex)

Having some facial tissues, aka kleenex on hand is helpful since there's a good chance someone will need to blow their nose at some point. These can also come in handy if you need to use an outhouse or "green latrine" while on the road. These travel packs work well for the car but I know some brands make canister-style facial tissues that are supposed to fit in cup holders, too.

Car Trash Bag

While you can certainly use a plastic shopping bag for this purpose, a car garbage bag can make a great road trip gift. This is the one we use and I love that it has an elastic neck which makes it easy to push trash in, plus it has a rolled velcro bottom that you can simply unroll to empty out the garbage when you get to a large garbage can. Great (cheap) gift for road trip travelers!

5 Organization Tips for Road Trips

Here are some tips for keeping your car clean and organized during a road trip -- which will help everyone enjoy the trip more!

Roadside Emergency Kit

A roadside emergency gift is an excellent road trip gift idea -- especially for teen drivers! You never know when you'll have an issue on the road and one of these items might just help you avoid a serious issue or inconvenience.

5 Steps to Prep Your Car for a Road Trip

And don't forget to make sure your car is road-ready and any car maintenance is up to date. You'll also want to make sure your spare tire is in good condition and ready if you get a flat tire.

Car Battery Booster Pack

While the roadside emergency kit above comes with jumper cables, that relies on having another car available to give you a jump. When you're on the road, a car battery booster pack is a good idea since you can jump your car without relying on the help of strangers.

First Aid Kit

While you should make sure you're covered for serious medical concerns and can access a hospital, minor scrapes can be fixed with a travel first aid kit. Remember some ibuprofen/acetaminophen, stomach chews (Pepto Bismol), allergy pills, and bug bite cream. We've used them all on road trips.

Helpful Tips for What to Pack in a Travel First Aid Kit

If you're traveling as a family, here are some helpful tips for what we pack in our travel first aid kit - many items are useful for traveling with kids!

Odor Eliminator Spray & Air Freshener

Let's face it, long stretches in a car with one or more people are going to lead to some stink. Pack along a bottle of air freshener / odor eliminator to help manage smells while on the road. This is an item that many don't think about packing and so makes a great road trip gift!

Reusable Insulated Water Bottle

Water bottles are great for road trips as they help you stay hydrated and can save you money from buying drinks at every stop. Insulated bottles can also be used for coffee in the morning and water later in the day.

I like to have a bottle that has a flip/slider lid and a straw option as those are the easiest for using while driving in my opinion (versus a screw cap bottle). Just make sure to get a bottle that will fit in most cup holders (like these Simple Modern ones)!

A reuseable water bottle is one of the best travel gifts!

If you're planning a long drive with multiple rest stops along the way, it can be useful to have a simple day bag that you can grab if you leave the car for a hike or even to run into a store. A sling bag like this can even hold smaller tablets and books, plus it has a pocket for a water bottle or umbrella.

Facial Wipes

For long, multi-day road trips, facial wipes can come in handy, especially in the summer. These work for men and women and can be useful in helping you feel refreshed and

Being in the car for a long time can lead to some dry lips, so having some lip balm on hand

There's nothing worse than dry eyes, especially when you're driving! Having some eye drops packed in the car can be a real lifesaver on a long road trip.

Dental Floss Picks

Since eating in the car or on the go is pretty standard for road trips, having some dental floss picks packed can help keep your mouth feeling clean after meals. I also try to buy biodegradable ones so I'm not adding plastic to the landfills.

Another comfort item for road trips is lotion. We like to use a pump bottle, but you can also use a travel-size tube,

Microfiber Cleaning Cloths

These microfiber cloths are especially handy for cleaning eyeglasses and sunglasses. But they can also be used for cleaning mirrors or windows or even the screens of DVD players, phones, and tablets.

Polarized Sunglasses

Driving in bright sunlight can be overwhelming and even dangerous. I have eyes that are sensitive to sunlight and a pair of polarized sunglasses is a huge help for driving during the day. Even people who don't normally drive with sunglasses can find these useful on the open road!

Slip-On Shoes

While these aren't necessarily a road trip gift you can gift someone you don't know well, slip-on shoes are definitely a road trip essential. You'll be making stops often and wearing shoes that tie will slow you down and become an annoyance for taking on and off when you're not driving. Of course, if you're a solo driver, you can wear whatever shoes you want since you won't be taking them off while in the car.

Travel Pillow

If you're going to be a passenger on a long road trip, you'll want to pack a travel pillow. Pillows like this one can be useful for traveling and make great gifts for a road trip passenger.

5 Reviews for the Best Travel Pillow

Check out my reviews for these different travel pillows.

Travel Blanket

Another road trip cozy item is a small travel blanket. This is useful for passengers if one person wants to keep the car at a cooler temp than others prefer. I also think being cozy makes it easier to fall asleep. This blanket also makes a great filling item for a road trip gift basket.

Travel Towel

If you're making stops along water and beaches, a travel towel can come in handy. We've stopped at roadside beach pull-outs and have always appreciated having a towel to dry off our legs and feet after taking a little walk in the waves.

Picnic & Outdoor Blanket

Planning some picnics or beach stops along the way? One of these fold-up picnic blankets is one of the best gifts for road trippers who like to enjoy nature along the way.

Reliefband Anti-Nausea Wristband

Keep in mind if anyone suffers from motion sickness while traveling. If so, be sure to pack some items to help with that. You can use medicine like Bonine, essential oils, ginger candies, or a Reliefband tech bracelet that uses electricity to help combat motion sickness.

Car Road Trip Accessories & Gadgets

For techy travelers, many of these road trip accessories and gadgets will seem like essential items! I'm making them their own category as they do offer some convenience and will certainly help plugged-in travelers stay connected while on the open road.

Car Power Inverter USB Charger

So many of us have electronics that will need to be kept charged during a long road trip. This power inverter also allows you to charge larger electronics like a laptop, in addition to having multiple USB ports for everyone to be able to charge their device. Great gift for a road trip with friends or family!

Portable Cooler Refrigerator

For road trippers that want to save money and eat on the road, a portable refrigerator that hooks to a car 12V outlet works great. It keeps food and drinks cool to enjoy later on the trip. This one comes with an AC plug too, so you can bring it in to plug in your hotel room.

We all know that driving can be dangerous, and these days proving who is at fault during an accident can come down to who has proof. A dash cam like this can help you prove what happened if something does go wrong while you're on a trip. (note, some US states do not allow you to mount dashcams to windshields, only dashboards)

If you're an Alexa-loving road tripper, consider "teching out" your car with one of these Echo Auto devices. You'll be able to go hands-free to play music, listen to audiobooks, and even play Alexa games.

Kindle Paperwhite

For travelers who love to read, having a Kindle can be a great gift idea. And for road trips, the glare-free Kindle Paperwhite is perfect for in the car. You can even get them with a trial for Kindle Unlimited which is a great service for avid readers!

Car Charger Phone Vent Mount

We love having this car mount in all our cars and I love that it charges my phone, too. Fits most phones and vents.

Handsfree Bluetooth FM Transmitter

If you or your friends have an older car, they might want one of these Bluetooth transmitters that let them connect their phones to their car through an FM radio station. Great for allowing you stream your favorite playlists and audiobooks from your phone to your car sound system.

If you like to keep your car clean while traveling, having a car vacuum on hand can be useful. This one plugs into a 12V outlet in the car and can help keep crumbs and dirt at bay. Make a great road trip gift!

Portable HEPA Air Purifier/Deodorizer

Since most road trips involve fast food and eating in the car, it's no surprise that your car can start to stink. This car gadget works to clean, purify, and deodorize the air. No more coming out to a car that smells like french fries from the day before!

Digital Tire Pressure Gauge

This handy road trip accessory gadget helps you check your tire pressure. It's always a good idea to drive with proper inflation and know if you might have a leak so you can get it fixed quickly!

Car Trunk Organizer

Here's another handy organization item that makes a great gift for road trips! Help your best friend keep things in order with a hanging trunk organizer. This one is great for vans and SUVs, but you can get sedan-sized organizers that work well for cars.

Car Window Shade

If you're buying a road trip gift for a group or someone who is traveling as a group, these car window shades can be useful. Often they're used by families for babies, but they work well for any passengers that don't want the sun beating down on them while they watch movies or sleep.

Cleaning Gel for Car

Here's another fun road trip accessory that makes for an affordable gift. This cleaning gel (aka slime) will seep into tight crevices and pick up rogue crumbs that a vacuum just can't quite reach.

Family Road Trip Gift Basket Ideas

Here are some great family road trip gift ideas that are perfect if you're shopping for someone who will be road-tripping with kids! These road trip gift basket items will keep the kids entertained and comfortable on the open road.

Road Trip Travel Games Gift Box

Here's a fun set of road trip games and activities for kids and it's already packaged together, making it ideal for adding to a family road trip gift basket!

Kids Travel Tray with Dry Erase Board

This travel tray can be a lifesaver for traveling families. Kids will have a surface to help them draw and eat, plus handy storage pockets for keeping their toys and activities from falling in between the seats!

Backseat Car Organizer with iPad Holder

If the kids are planning to watch some movies or shows on a tablet during the road trip, having a hanging pocket or mount can come in handy. This seat organizer serves that purpose as well as offering pockets for storing away other items.

Car Seat Organizer with Cup Holders

If you don't like the backseat mounted organizers, these organizers can sit in the middle seat next to kids to give them easy access to toys and snacks. Plus this one has cup holders!

Car Seat Headrest Pillows

One of the best ways kids can stay happy on a road trip is by sleeping, whether you're talking toddlers or teens. This neat road trip headrest gadget creates a cushioned rest for kids or adults to lean against which supports their heads.

Printable Road Trip Games for Kids - License Plate, Bingo, I Spy...

Check out my post with free printable road trip activities!

Shotgun! The Hilarious Family Card Game for Road Trips

Here's a fun road trip game perfect for grade school and teen-aged kids. Adults can even play along. This game is sure to bring laughs and great family memories!

Hidden Pictures Book Set

These are classics and I remember loving them when I was a kid. This pack of hidden picture books will keep kids entertained in the car and give parents a bit of peace and quiet while they search. :)

Free Printable Road Trip Scavenger Hunt for Kids

Print off this fun road trip scavenger hunt.

These are fun sensory toys for kids, letting them use their imagination to craft and build. They're fairly mess-free although you likely don't want to leave them in the hot sun as they're coated in wax to allow molding.

Crayola Color Wonder Mess Free

The Crayola Color Wonder Mess-Free art sets are perfect for traveling kids. The markers only work on the special paper, so no worries about marker messes on your car, and no stress about melting crayons!

Kids Travel Bag Activities to Pack for Vacation

Here are some fun travel activities kids can bring on the road.

Road Trip Activities and Travel Journal

This fun book is packed full of road trip games and activities for traveling kids. Great gift for kids who are writing.

LCD Writing Tablet for Kids

This brings back some memories of etch-a-sketch for me! Kids can draw whatever they want and then at the push of a button the screen is clear and ready for a new design. The name-brand version of this toy is Boogie Board in case you want to avoid the "knock-off" versions.

Dramamine Motion Sickness for Kids

If you're buying a road trip gift for a family who hasn't traveled much with their kids, adding these kids' motion sickness tablets could be a lifesaver.

Road Trip Gift Cards & Memberships

Another great idea for road trip gifts is to give travel lovers gift cards or memberships that will be useful on the road.

Roadtrippers Plus

One of my favorite tools I used on a recent road trip was Roadtrippers. It's a road trip planning app that helps you find great spots to see and things to do along your route. It even includes reviews and photos from fellow travelers. It's a perfect road trip gift!

National Parks Pass

If the road trip will be heading past national parks in the US, giving the gift of a National Parks Pass ($80) can be a great idea. Plus, there are even ways people can get a parks pass for free!

Audible Membership

Audiobooks are great to listen to on road trips, and a gifted membership to Audible will help road trippers stay entertained and maybe even learn something new while on the road.

AAA Membership

AAA is the leader in roadside assistance memberships, so a membership for their service can make a great gift. Many hotels also offer a AAA discount on hotel rooms which could help a traveler save money!

Gas Gift Cards

Buying a gift card for gas can be a bit tricky as you might not know what gas stations will be popular on the road trip route. However it's a fun gift idea with a definite road trip theme, so even a small amount to a local area gas station can get used.

Road Trip Snacks

Lastly, there’s nothing quite like snacks to help make a road trip great! Read my full list of road trip snacks , but these are a few of my favorites that make great gifts for a road trip gift basket!

• Fruit Leathers/Snacks
• Granola Bars
• Rice Krispie Treats
• Animal Crackers

I hope this list has been helpful. Many of these road trip gifts are a great way to prepare travel lovers for their upcoming trip while also providing useful gifts that they might not have thought of! Let me know if you have any other gift ideas I didn’t list.

Share and Save This Post:

Last-Minute Gifts Alert! 🚨 Order 48 hours in advance for on-time delivery. For same/next day delivery, contact us before ordering; immediate fulfillment not guaranteed.

A Touch of Magic for your Orlando Vacation

Gift Baskets, Balloons & more

At Magical Gift Baskets, we understand the magic and excitement that comes with embarking on a Walt Disney World & Universal Orlando vacation.

Our goal is to help make those moments even more memorable and exciting with our gift basket delivery service.

Whether you want to surprise a loved one or thank a client, our thoughtfully curated gift baskets are the perfect way to celebrate the start of their vacation.

We offer a wide range of options to suit every taste and occasion.

With Magical Gift Baskets, you can be assured of quality, personalization, and a touch of magic in every gift delivered to your Orlando theme park area resort.

Explore Our Selection of Themed Gift Baskets

Snacks gift basket, disney princess gift basket, disney refillable popcorn bucket, disney parks snacks gift basket.

• Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
• Opens in a new window.

Travel Gift Basket – budget-friendly gift ideas for the traveler

by Janet LeBlanc | 8 comments

The holidays are fast approaching, and we’ve got a great idea for a unique travel gift basket for the traveler on your gift list this year. Our travel gift basket is also a great “bon voyage” present anytime of year.

This creatively-themed gift basket is great for a college-student (they all have wanderlust right?) or a friend who you know with a big trip coming up. It’s designed to make their traveling experience as comfortable and fun as possible, and the best part is, every item here is $10 or less, with the exception of the travel wallet and the surge protector, which are still just around $20. You can mix and match items to create a thoughtful gift basket that won’t break your bank.

Please note that this post contains affiliate links. All opinions expressed are my own.

the budget-friendly travel gift basket:

COLORFUL EARBUDS  – $8

I’m always losing or breaking my earbud headphones and digging around my purse to find a pair. These  earbuds  are colorful and fun (they come in a full range of color options), inexpensive, and don’t take up a lot of space. They’re an essential on a long plane ride or for sitting in the airport to listen to music, movies, or TV shows.

A COMFORTABLE NECK PILLOW  – $20

This is a must-have on a long flight. I like that  this pillow  is inflatable so it won’t take up any space when not in use, and it has a pocket in the cover that can store your earbuds, ear plugs (for better sleeping), or a small cell phone.

AMAZON GIFT CARD  -$10

Mini pretzels ,  peanuts ,  peanut butter cups , or other snacks -$2.

It saddens me to no end that most of the airlines these days don’t give out free snacks during your flight anymore! The prepackaged snacks they sell now are so overpriced. Gift your traveler with a few snack bags to enjoy on their flight. I’m a traditionalist so I always crave the good old  mini pretzels  or  peanuts  when I’m flying (just like they used to offer); these  mini peanut butter cups  are a good something sweet.

MAGAZINES  (DIGITAL OR PHYSICAL) – $3 – $5

Pick up a magazine or two that your traveler would enjoy. You can now buy them online for less than at your grocery store. For $5 or LESS you can buy a 6-month subscription to many popular magazines on Amazon (like  Glamour,   Allure,  and  Shape  are only $5 for a YEAR of print issues…that’s $.50 per magazine!) and this price includes both the digital AND hard copy of the magazine! That means your traveler can read it on their kindle or iPad if they want to as well. For only $5 yall! Just be careful with the auto-renewing options.

REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE  – $10-$12

A reusable water bottle is a must for me when traveling. You can take it empty through security then fill it up at a water fountain near your gate. A lot of stewards/stewardesses will even fill your water bottle will ice water on the plane, so you can always stay hydrated. These  camelbak water bottles  come in a variety of colors for a low price.

FOLDABLE TOOTHBRUSH  – $7

This isn’t the sexiest gift, but it’s just darn useful. You can encourage personal hygiene and solve the tricky problem of how to keep your toothbrush clean and protected with this  nifty foldable toothbrush.

TRAVEL SURGE PROTECTOR WITH USB PORTS  – $15

I seriously  love  this product. These days it seems like you go to a hotel and there are never enough outlets for “all the things”. Or, there’s no spare outlet for your phone near the bed, and the closest empty outlet is on the other side of the room (#firstworldproblems, I know). With this handy  travel surge protector , you get 3 extra outlets plus 2 USB ports to charge your devices. Plus, it rotates, so you can get it to fit in those tricky behind-the-nightstand plug situations.

A VERSATILE, STYLISH TRAVEL WALLET  – $16

Do not gift your traveling friend a fanny pack please! A nice light-weight travel wallet should hold your passport, ID, credit cards, and cash at the very least.  This one  earns bonus points for having zippered pockets (keeps you from losing things!) and room for more, like those little earbuds, your flight documents, and even your cell. You can stow this safely in a bigger bag or purse and have everything in one place. It also comes in a range of fun colors.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this idea for a budget-friendly gift this holiday season. There are lots of possibilities here that you can add to the gift basket to continue the theme, depending on what fits your traveler’s needs. You can also add chapstick, a pocket mirror, ear plugs, an eye mask, hand lotion, or whatever else you might like to travel with.

bon voyage!

Ooh those are some good ideas, especially the snacks 🙂

Great ideas!

Those are fabulous ideas! I personally, would love to receive that travel gift basket!

Good ideas, I like the custom name tags!

That is such a good idea. I have one particular friend who is a traveler fiend so I may do something like this for her Xmas gift this year! 🙂

Cute!! Love your ideas 🙂

Great gift idea! Loving it. My family is full of travelers. This is the perfect idea.

Great Ideas!

Thank you for sharing!

My son and his bride are getting married November 28th. Then they will board an airplane and fly to New Orleans for their honeymoon.

I already gave them the travel guide. What else would you recommend that I put in the basket?

I’m asking this question of anyone who has ideas. Thank you

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Recent Posts

• How to access your 2024 updated spreadsheets
• How to Catch Up on Your Bookkeeping – for Etsy & Shopify Sellers
• An Overview of the Schedule C
• What to do with 1099 Forms (2022 & 2023)
• 4 signs you’re ready to sell on your own website

MorningChores

56 Fantastic Gift Basket Ideas to Make Any Recipient Smile

Gift baskets and hampers are an absolutely genius idea. The best thing about them is how easily they can be personalized, for anyone from little girls who love sleepovers to men who are coffee obsessed.

You can make gift baskets to match any price point too. If you really want to spoil a special someone you could spend hundreds on a fancy basket and pile it high with all their favorite luxuries, but a simple small hamper filled with a couple of special treats is equally as thoughtful.

Of course, you can fill a gift basket with anything and everything at once, but I personally love it when they have a theme. This not only makes it easier to shop for, sometimes having too many options and ideas makes it impossible, but also lets the recipient know that you created their perfect gift basket with only them in mind.

Fantastic Gift Basket Ideas

1. for a snowy day.

Even in the festive season of joy, it is sometimes difficult not to feel entirely miserable when you are cooped up inside, unable to leave the house for fear of freezing your limbs off. These days are however a perfect excuse to spend some good quality time together.

Whether you have this made up just ready to bring out on a homebound day, or you give it to someone to prepare them in advance, this snowy day gift basket would shin a light on any gloomy day. You could add in your own favorite games to play together, but I personally love the idea of it being full of baking and hot cocoa themed goodies, everything you need for a good old tummy-warming.

2. For Breakfast in Bed

I think this breakfast in bed gift basket would be a perfect gift to give to couples, and an easy go-to if you don’t know them too well.

The jar of pancake mix is a genius idea and something that anyone would appreciate. Who wouldn’t love easy homemade pancakes? This example features a sweet breakfast with pastries and pancakes, but you could definitely adapt it to any breakfast theme you want, like a full cooked breakfast with hash browns and bacon. If you are doing this though, bear in mind that some of the items might not be able to be left out of the fridge for too long.

3. For Someone Who Loves Ice Cream

It is true that one doesn’t always crave ice cream in the colder months, but in the summer this would be the most amazing gift.

I think that kids would love this ice cream sundae gift basket , and it would be great for them when they are with friends. This could even be a fun activity at a birthday party. This DIY includes an easy chocolate sauce recipe which is extremely handy, and you could adjust the sauces and toppings that you include in your gift basket to suit the preferences and tastes of whoever you are giving it to.

4. For a College Newbie

Moving to college for the first time isn’t easy, and it is always incredibly difficult to know what to bring with you. I remember when I first moved out, my little car was absolutely full to the brim with anything and everything I owned. Of course, I only ever used about a third of it.

This college survival kit gift basket is such a lovely idea, especially for someone who might be nervous about leaving home for the first time. Make sure to fill it with all their favorite things, as well as useful things they might not have thought to buy for themselves. I always think it is so important to bring lots of photos and decorations to a college dorm, it makes it feel so much more like your own, so make sure to add some of those in if you can.

5. For the Manicure Maniac

My younger sister has always been obsessed with having her nails done all fancy, ever since she was little and would always have hands covered in nail stickers from magazines. I just know she would absolutely love to receive this manicure gift basket .

You could give this to a friend who you feel is in need of a little TLC, and give her an excuse to sit down and take a little time to herself every once in a while. If you’re lucky, she might even invite you to join her in doing so.

6. For the Hot Cocoa Enthusiast

The way this hot cocoa gift basket is presented in this DIY is enough to make me want to give one to everyone I know this Christmas. The pine decorations and added candy canes make it look so full of festive cheer, and this would definitely be well received by anyone who loves their hot cocoa.

Most people will have their own hot cocoa powder in their house around this time of year, so really try and change it up a bit with what you put in this gift basket. Try some interesting new flavor of hot chocolate that you think sounds delicious, and don’t hold back one bit when it comes to marshmallows, syrups, whipped cream and of course all the sprinkles.

7. For Someone in Love With Their Car

We’ve all got someone in our lives who is utterly obsessed with their car, I swear one of my friends washes his car more often than he washes himself, and that’s daily.

This car care themed gift basket would be perfect for car lovers and new drivers alike. I remember when I bought my first car, my parents bought me something very similar to this and I am still working my way through all the goodies. The smart thing about this as a gift is that the container itself is a bucket, perfect for washing your car, so there really isn’t one aspect of this gift basket that will go unused.

8. For Someone Who Deserves To Be Pampered

I can think of so many people in my life who I wish would relax more, and who deserve so much more time off than they give themselves. I am hoping that giving them this spa gift basket might make them take the hint.

You could adapt this pamper gift basket to the needs of the recipient, like massage oils for someone who is always very tense, or bubble bath for someone who could benefit from just soaking in the warm water for hours. I love that they have suggested adding lovely towels to this DIY, it is little details like that which will make the gift even more special.

9. For Your Green Fingered Friend

This gardeners gift basket is not only cute but also very useful for anyone who likes getting their hands dirty out in the garden. Many people in my family love gardening, but something I have noticed is that they never buy themselves pretty or more expensive gardening tools and accessories. That is why I think it would be so lovely to do that for them.

There are so many options for things you could put in this gift basket, whether it be books with tips for gardening, patterned gardening gloves or exciting seeds to try planting, and this specific gift basket has so many exciting ideas.

10. For Helping Someone Get Well

My family seems to always get hit hard with the coughs and sniffles around this time of year, and if one of us has it, the rest of us are pretty much doomed.

This get well soon gift basket would be such a thoughtful gift for anyone feeling the cold this season. Fill it up with both the practical – throat soothers and tissues and the personal – a DVD of their favorite movie or a flask of homemade soup. They are bound to get better in no time, and you will know that you did something to really brighten their day.

11. For Welcoming a Little One Into the World

Most first time parents will undeniably be bombarded with new clothes and toys for their little bundle of joy, so why not use this new baby gift basket as inspiration to get them something a little different, that they will undoubtedly use.

Think of practical things, like wipes, pacifiers, and diapers, things that you really can’t get enough of when adjusting to life with a new baby. If you yourself are a parent, think of the things that you found most useful, and pass on your tips and tricks. It’s a nice idea to add in a couple of goodies for the parents too, like the bottle of wine suggested here, to congratulate them on their new arrival.

12. For a New Home

I think this practical new home gift basket is such a smart idea. There are only so many ‘new home’ plaques you can display around your house before it gets to be too much, what someone with a new house really needs is all the little practical bits and bobs.

Whether its hooks for the walls, an extension lead or a handy tube of superglue, chances are the recipient of this gift will be looking through the gift and exclaiming ‘oh I forgot to get that myself!’ Of course, it would be lovely to add in some more personal items too. You could maybe fill a photo frame with your favorite picture of the two of you together so that it can be proudly displayed in the new house.

13. For Someone with the Travel Bug

Paris is my favorite place in the entire world, I know it sounds cliche, but it undeniably is. I was definitely bitten by the travel bug at a very young age, and it will stick with me for the rest of my life, so this is something I would absolutely love to receive as a gift.

This specific gift basket is, of course, Paris themed, but you could take inspiration from it and recreate it with the theme of the favorite city or country of your lucky recipient. The possibilities are endless when filling up your travel themed box, make sure to add in a quirky guidebook and some typical food of the region.

14. For a Perfect Cozy Day

I love always being busy and being out doing things, but I still definitely know the value of cozy days in. This cozy gift basket idea would be perfect for days like that.

No one can ever have too many fluffy blankets, pretty mugs or warm slippers, so you really can’t go wrong with the contents of this gift basket. The theme is very broad, so you could customize it as much as you want, the only rules are that everything included must be comforting and cozy.

15. For the Ultimate Girly Sleepover

No woman can deny that the person they are today was partly formed through the age-old tradition of the girls’ sleepover. Staying up late and pretending to be asleep when your parents checked in on you, having midnight feasts, doing face masks, sleepovers were eagerly anticipated for weeks.

I am desperate to make up a couple of these sleepover gift baskets for my little cousins, and fill them with all my favorite goodies from when I was their age. If I ever have a daughter I can already tell that I am going to be one of those really annoying moms who get way too involved in everything that she does. And I can’t wait.

16. For Spreading a Little Bit of Sunshine

Just looking at this sunshine themed gift basket makes me smile. Yellow is one of my favorite colors simply for the way that it can brighten up a room and a mood.

Stress has such a massive influence on people nowadays, and although it might not solve all problems, I definitely think that receiving this gift, would ease the worries even just for a little while. It is always nice to know that when you are struggling, there is someone out there thinking of you. This would be the perfect gift for anyone, of any age, as the ultimate pick me up.

17. For Someone Who Loves Baking

This baking gift basket would be greatly received by anyone who is a fan of cooking up sweet treats. You could even make it themed for a specific time of year, just as this example is themed for Easter.

It would be easy to customize this gift for different ages or purposes. For example, kids would love their bowl being filled with fun patterned cupcake cases and funny shaped cookie cutters, while an adult may prefer some fancy vanilla extract or a nice ceramic mixing bowl. The fact that it all comes together in a bowl is both fun and of course very useful in terms of an actual gift.

18. For the Coffee Addict

Many people can’t start the day without having their coffee fix, so why not stick to something you know they love and make them up one of these coffee gift basket ideas .

There is an abundance of cute festive mugs being sold in literally every shop at the moment, and loads of thermal flasks too, which would be a great gift for someone who you know likes to drink their coffee on the go. There is an equal variety of new and crazy coffee flavors, so as well as popping in a packet of their favorite, push the boat out a bit and give them a flavor they will never have tried before. You might be the reason for them finding their new obsession.

19. For a New Mom

There is a tendency for a whole lot of attention to be placed on a new baby when it is born, but remember that the mom could really do with a little bit of loving too.

New moms are going to be exhausted and adjusting to a very different way of life, so it would be a lovely idea to make them up a new mum gift basket to help them through. For this specifically themed basket, I think the more personal you make it, the better it will be. If they have been complaining to you about sore feet, get them some foot cream, if there is a specific tea they love then put that in too. Make sure this one is all about the mom, no baby bits, she deserves a whole lot of pampering after all.

20. For the Bride To Be

My sister and I were bridesmaids for my aunt’s wedding, so we made her up one of these engagement gift basket ideas before the big day and it went down an absolute treat.

Plan a day when you can all enjoy the basket together, I know we had so much fun flicking through the bridal magazines, applying the nail polish and sipping the champagne we put in ours. The guide for making this specific engagement gift has so many amazing ideas, from fun straws to a framed engagement photo, and it is bound to make any bride feel special.

21. For the Games Night Host

Family games night is a much loved and much-feared event in my household. Let’s just say that we aren’t the best at keeping our competitive sides under control.

This games gift basket would be a great gift to give to a family, or even a couple, complete with board games, card games, and snacks. Anything games that people can enjoy and play together around this time of year are great and help to completely avoid the possibility of any awkward moments or silences at family gatherings.

22. For the Tea Lover

The British in me will never ever turn down a cup of tea. Every time you enter my granny’s house, you can bet money on the fact that by the time you leave a large percentage of your blood composition will actually be tea.

There are so many fun and fruity tea varieties out there, so you could fill this tea gift basket with a wide selection of different flavors for someone to try. Anyone who loves hosting will really appreciate the restocking of their tea supply and will feel very fancy when they next offer tea to a guest and can list off their tropical selection. I love to dip a biscuit in my tea, so I am all for the shortbread addition, and the little teapot is incredibly cute.

23. For an Epic Movie Night

No proper movie night is complete without a whole load of snacks, preferably unhealthy ones, and some popcorn. For the film fanatic in your life, this movie night gift basket would be a great gift.

I love the fact that the snacks are put in a popcorn bucket, it makes it look very authentic and fun. If you want to take this even further, you could include a DVD or box set in the bucket along with the snacks, so your recipient really could stop everything and have a cinematic experience the minute you give this to them.

24. For the Love of Fall

Pumpkins and spice and everything nice! Welcome fall and the new neighbors with an aromatic gift basket. This is a non-food gift basket that gives a boost of rejuvenation!

You can add lip balms, scrubs, soaps, butter and lathers with the delicious smell of pumpkin or the calming sensation of cinnamon. Get creative by using bright fall colors and add dry leaves or flowers for decoration.

25. For the Extra Sweet Teacher

Show your teacher that you appreciate their hard work by telling them how sweet they are! A super cute and charming idea that is fun to make and fun to give away!

It can be as simple as filling a basket with tasty ice cream toppings, a couple of pretty bowls and of course the most important of all; the ice cream scoop!

26. For those Cold Christmas Nights

Help your friends battle those cold Christmas nights with a thoughtful and pretty gift basket . A stylish teapot, a wintery mug, gingerbread snap cookies, and little pine trees (real or faux, you choose!)

27. For a Special House Warming

Make a good first impression and create a friendly welcoming to your new neighbors with a helpful gift basket ! It’s always a good idea to make friends with the people on your block, you never know when you might need to borrow some sugar!

Get them started with champagne and party cups, cleaning supplies or fix-her-upper tools and of course homemade cookies!

28. Adult Easter Basket

Adults can celebrate Easter too ! Sure you like to put together Easter baskets for the nieces and nephews but what about the aunts and uncles?

Begin filling your Easter basket with colorful confetti and then pick useful and pretty gifts that you can add. It could be new office supplies like cute paperclips and patterned pencils or maybe a bright pink lipstick and a new comb. Customize accordingly to the receiver!

29. For the Herb Lover

It’s never too late to get your herb garden started! Fresh herbs are the best to have in or near your kitchen. Not only for the aroma and aesthetic aspect but because you will always have garnish for your dinners!

Fill your basket with homemade clay markers, fine scissors, and some herb seeds or even already started plants to make it even easier.

30. For the Worlds Greatest Pop

Make sure he knows he’s special! A very clever and cool gift basket perfect for your pop!

Everything “pop” in this gift basket! Ring pops, popcorn and soda pop. With a little bit of creativity, I’m sure you can come up with some more “pop” themed items!

31. For the Graduate (and their dirty laundry)

Although you like to believe you’ve raised them well enough to do their own dirty laundry, you can always help them get started. A nice laundry basket filled with the basics could be a great graduation gift idea. Laundry detergent, laundry machine coins, towels, and dryer sheets!

32. For the Potty Training Survivor

Your bestie has a new baby and potty training time is slowly creeping up. Help them feel prepared with a thoughtful potty training survival kit basket. It has everything they need to make potty training go smooth and easy.

Progress chart and stickers, certificates, wet wipes, and disposable bed mats! What else can you come up with that could help them get through the training?

33. For the Barbecue King/Queen

You can never be too early for barbecue season. Get the spices, herbs, and sauces ready!

A great gift for that person who is always standing behind the barbecue and cooking up those juicy steaks (or veggie burgers!)

34. For the Trendy Coffee Addict

Another idea for a stylish gift box that your coffee-loving friend will definitely appreciate! A great gift for Christmas, graduation, a birthday or just as a thank you!

Pretty wooden spoons, coffee (or coffee capsules) homemade cookies, beautifully crafted clay mugs and everything decorated with notes and packing paper.

35. For the Spring Bloomer

Help your family and friends welcome Spring with a happy and colorful gift basket of all the Spring essentials.

Seed packets, aromatic bath salts, a fresh new nail polish, chocolate flowers, and moss all mixed together in a concrete planter.

36. For the One who Needs a Spa

Is there someone in your life who could really deserve a rejuvenating spa day? Give them that gift ! A spa day at home courtesy of you!

Face and body cleansers, shampoo and conditioner, bath salts and of course an all-natural bath sponge!

37. For the Salty Snacker

Some prefer sweets and some prefer salty! Well for that salty person in your life they will absolutely adore this cheese and crackers snack basket !

Marcona almonds, jarred chutney, crackers and as many artisanal cheeses as you would like to spoil them with!

38. For the Holiday Cookie Monster

Baking cookies is one of the best parts of the holidays ! So share the experience with your loved ones by getting them everything they need to have fun with the kids and to get the house smelling of fresh-baked cookies!

Pre-made cookie dough, cookie cutters, sprinkles, a cooling rack, a cookie tray, and a new spatula to lick clean!

39. For the Hibernating Bear

Who doesn’t like to get cozy in the fall and winter months? Let your friends know you love them by making them feel toasty and warm during those cold days.

Sweet-smelling candles, a new coffee mug, delicious artisanal chocolate, cozy socks, and a fuzzy throw blanket.

40. For the Never-Ending Laundry

Sometimes the mass amounts of laundry that needs to be done can be a little bit overwhelming. Well, help that new mom in your life by getting her started with a cute laundry basket.

Fill the basket with baby-friendly laundry detergent, stain remover, baby clothes, baby size hangers, and a closet organizer.

41. For the Birthday Girl

A happy birthday in a box ! Such a cute gift idea to surprise your girlfriend with!

Confetti, nail polish, lip gloss, birthday candles and don’t forget the birthday balloon!

42. For the Pedicure Princess

A little pampering never hurt anybody! Create the perfect foot spa day with this adorable pedicure slipper gift basket .

Cozy slippers filled with all the pedicure essentials!

43. For those Pancake Breakfasts

It’s hard to have a bad day after a delicious hot pancake breakfast! Homemade pancakes topped with maple syrup and cut up fruit? Yes, please !

Orange juice and champagne (for the mimosas of course!) bacon, maple syrup and don’t forget the pancake mix!

44. For the Video Game Nerd

Someone in your family loves to game? Then here’s a great idea for a gift basket ! Fill a box with new video games, reusable batteries, delicious snacks, and clever signs!

45. For the Coca-Cola Chap

You can have yourself a Coca-Cola Christmas with hot cocoa, or you can give it as a gift!

Simply use a Coca-Cola bottle box as the gift basket , fill it with Coca-Colas and hot cocoa mix (don’t forget the marshmallows!)

46. For the Lumberjack

I absolutely adore this idea for a gift basket (or gift box)! It’s a great idea for the big lumberjack in your life!

Everything you need to get the fire started and the party going! You can add timber (pretzel sticks), fire starter (hot sauce), kindling (snack mix), and more!

47. For the Dinner Party Host

Don’t know what to bring to the dinner party? How about a helpful gift basket to show your appreciation!

Fresh bread and an artisanal cutting board, homemade jam and don’t forget the bubbly!

48. For the Mimosa Maker

Your bestie will “bubble over” with joy when they receive this lovely gift basket ! It has everything they need to get the mimosas going and have a beautiful Christmas morning.

49. For the European Dreamer

Sipping wine and nibbling flavorful cheeses in a small cafe with a beautiful view of the Eiffel Tower… Help your loved one turn that dreamy image into reality ! Well, maybe not the Eiffel Tower part but definitely that robust glass of wine and those silky cheeses.

50. For the Last Minute Shopper

It’s almost Christmas time and you are still missing a couple of gifts! Don’t stress! Here’s a gift that anyone would love to receive! Your sister, that guy at work, your Pilates instructor…

Simply grab a bottle of wine from the local liquor store, throw in a candle and a wine stopper and voila! Your Christmas shopping is done!

51. For the Cookie Creator

What a great idea to pack up a bunch of baking tools and place them cutely into an oven mitt as a gift ! The cookie monster in your life is sure to love this wonderful thought!

52. For the Sangria Sipper

This gift is perfect for those backyard party hosts to help them throw an amazing party!

Everything you need to make the most refreshing sangria out there! Fresh fruits, a delicious bottle of wine, a stylish sangria jar and a stirring spoon.

53. For the Bundt Specialist

This gift basket is “nothing bundt adorable” as the cute sign says. Use a bundt pan as the gift basket and fill it with dish towels, cooking supplies, and any other goodies you can think of.

54. For the One in the Scoop

Celebrate someone’s special day in a special way. And what’s more special than ice cream? Use bright colors and lots of confetti to make it extra fun for them to receive !

55. For the Spring Cleaner

Make Spring Cleaning fun with these helpful getting started gift basket ideas. However, your house isn’t the only thing that needs help cleaning. You can also pamper yourself to welcome the new season. New nail polishes, a good book, and an empty journal ready for your dreams and plans.

56. For the Zero Waste King/Queen

I am totally in love with this idea ! It’s a great idea to cut down on waste and helping someone get started is a wonderful feeling!

Some examples of items that they give are soap nuts (an amazing naturally lathering soap-like nut), cotton dishtowels, beeswax candles, loose tea and strainer, fabric produce bags and more.

I think there might now be a slight chance that every single one of my family members will be getting various themed gift baskets for Christmas this year. I also think that they would not complain.

I am a big fan of the sleepover gift basket, because it brings back so many fun childhood memories for me, but I also love the various hot drink gift basket ideas, and know so many people who would really appreciate those this winter. I am secretly hoping one of my friends gets engaged soon too, just so I have an excuse to make up another engagement gift basket.

Have you ever received a gift basket you absolutely loved? Do you think you will be placing any of these under your Christmas tree this December?

Was this article helpful?

What went wrong.

This article contains incorrect information

This article does not have the information I am looking for

How can we improve it?

We appreciate your helpful feedback.

Your answer will be used to improve our content. The more feedback you give us, the better our pages can be.

Follow us on social media:

How to Make Your Own DIY Christmas Fruit Decorations

11 Completely Natural Hair Dyes without Using Harsh Chemicals

31 DIY Clothing Rack Ideas to Conveniently Increase Storage Space

23 Awesome DIY Smokehouse Plans You Can Build in the Backyard

30 Outstanding Dremel Projects You Can Make in a Few Hours

27 Creative Fall Pallet Projects for Decorating Your Home on a Budget

35 Unique and Useful Uses for Egg Shells That Will Inspire You

30 Beautiful DIY Cabin Plans You Can Actually Build

How to Build a Cheap and Sturdy Earthbag Dome House

14 Gorgeous DIY Faux Fireplaces for Any Budget

45 DIY Picture Frames to Display Your Happy Moments

40 Free DIY Farmhouse Table Plans to Give a Rustic Feel to Your Dining Room

More From Forbes

Mother’s day gift guide 2024: the most impressive getaways.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

Grand Hotel Victoria, Lake Como, Italy

With all that moms do for us, it can be hard to find a gift that adequately expresses our gratitude. Instead of generic gifts like flowers and chocolate, experiential gifts are a more thoughtful gesture. Whether mom is burnt out and in need of a break from the family or retired and ready to travel, the gift of a vacation is one that keeps giving years after memories are made on her trip. The below list offers something for whatever mom is seeking—from elephant encounters in Thailand to truffle-hunting in Tuscany to forest bathing in the California Redwoods.

For the beach-lover: Rosewood Mayakoba , Riviera Maya, Mexico

Rosewood Mayakoba, Riviera Maya, Mexico

With the crowds of winter dissipating come Spring, Mother’s Day is the ideal time for a quick beach getaway. Upon arriving at this lush 620-acre resort where many of the rooms are accessed by taking a boat through winding mangrove-sheltered canals, it becomes apparent this is not your typical Mexican beach resort. All 129 suites feature oversized terraces, soothing earth materials and furnishings by Mexican artisans, creating a sense of calm. Moms will want to linger at Sense, A Rosewood Spa , which has its own hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam room and hot-cold pool circuit, in addition to offering unique wellness experiences like a shaman-led ceremony in the temezcal (sweat lodge) and treatments inspired by the rituals of the ancient Aztecs. With eight dining concepts—each reflecting the cuisine of a different region of Mexico—and plenty of activities offered by Mayakoba—the gated community in which the Rosewood is set, like golfing, diving and hiking—mom could easily spend a week here and never get bored.

For the animal-lover: Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, Chiang Rai, Thailand

Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort

In a country where it can be hard to ethically participate in elephant tourism, moms can rest easy knowing this elephant camp supports the rehabilitation of their 20 onsite elephants. Located on the lush Mekong River at the intersection of Myanmar and Laos, an hour north of Chiang Rai, mom could easily fill her days taking in the views of the lush valley from the pool or her own balcony in one of the property’s spacious 15 suites. But with sidecar adventures, cooking classes, a jungle spa and the opportunity to sleep amidst the elephants in a luxury pod , it’ll be hard to resist partaking in all this resort has to offer.

For the five-star adventurer: Micato Safari , India

Micato Safari

As the most populated country in the world, planning a trip to India can be a daunting task, even to the most well-travelled mom. Five-star safari outfitter Micato makes it easy with expertly crafted itineraries, a 24-hour concierge team and Indian born-and-raised travel directors who accompany guests through the entirety of their trip. From palace-hopping in Jaipur and Udaipur to witnessing royal Bengal tigers up close in Ranthambore National Park to sunset boat rides on the Ganges in Varanasi, Micato can curate a journey around whatever mom wants to see. While better known for their Africa safaris, Micato’s India safaris are their pride and joy, since the founding family lived in Goa before moving to Kenya. Their Indian ancestral roots result in bespoke itineraries that offer the chance to stay in the country’s most luxurious hotels and see a side of India inaccessible to most visitors.

For the Pacific Northwest explorer: Lotte Hotel Seattle , Washington, USA

Lotte Hotel Seattle

Located in the heart of downtown Seattle, walking distance from Seattle’s iconic Pike Place Market, this is the ideal hotel for a Mother’s Day spent exploring the Emerald City. Occupying 16 floors of the 44-floor F5 tower, the Philippe Starck-designed hotel offers some of the most luxurious accommodations in the city. The hotel’s 189 guest rooms and 32 suites provide sweeping views of Elliott Bay from floor-to-ceiling windows, which make the rooms feel while more spacious than they already are. Mom will feel like a queen in her marble bathroom, but guest room’s mid-century modern furniture adds some personality to the high-end luxury feel. On the 16 th floor, the hotel’s signature Charlotte restaurant serves up contemporary Pacific Northwest cuisine with impressive ocean views. For the special holiday, Le Spa de l’hôtel LOTTE adds a mother’s day package to their existing selection of treatments using Biologique Recherche and Bellefontaine products. She’ll want to linger to utilize the sauna, steam room and 16-head walk-in shower.

The Best Romantic Comedy Of The Last Year Just Hit Netflix

Apple iphone 16 unique all new design promised in new report, rudy giuliani and mark meadows indicted in arizona fake electors case, for the design aficionado: intercontinental danang sun peninsula resort, da nang, vietnam.

InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort

Set high in the lush hillside of the Son Tra Peninsula nature reserve, a 30-minute drive from Da Nang airport, this other-worldly resort is one of the country’s hottest destinations for a relaxing getaway. Designed by coveted American designer Bill Bensley, the black and white color palette evokes the Chinese philosophy of yin and yang, while soaring wooden pillars and silhouettes harken to ancient temple architecture, imbuing the entire property with a sense of tranquility. Moms seeking a Zen retreat will want to book a one-bedroom spa lagoon villa. Floating on stilts above the peaceful spa lagoon, the secluded villa has its own treatment room, al fresco shower garden, two outdoor terraces, a private jacuzzi and one-of-a-kind bathtub, plus a personal butler and private chef to prepare meals in the fully equipped kitchen. For moms who like to keep busy, there are no shortage of activities on offer: from cocktail making classes to the entertainment club’s karaoke rooms to the 100-seat, banana-themed movie theatre.

For Japanese quiet luxury: The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka , Fukuoka, Japan

The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka

As the country’s sixth largest city, Fukuoka has all the appeals of Tokyo—with its diversity of restaurants and shops—without the crowds. Rising 24 stories high above the growing skyline is the Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka, what is arguably the city’s most luxurious hotel. Decorated with woven bamboo and Hakata-ori silks, the hotel’s 147 rooms and 20 suites are a tranquil reprieve from the bustling streets below, and beginning at 538-square-feet in size, they’re some of the most spacious in the city. While Fukuoka is known as the birthplace of Tonkotsu ramen and famed for their street food stalls (known as ‘yatais’), foodies will be just as happy dining at the hotel’s signature restaurant, Genyu, which honors Japanese culinary traditions like kaiseki, sushi and teppanyaki serving Wagyu beef from Iki Island and seafood from the Genkai Sea. At the Ritz-Carlton Spa, moms can treat themselves to unique Japanese treatments like a massage that incorporates rice-filled heated pillows and local ingredients like Ume blossoms.

For the Parisian: Mandarin Oriental, Paris , France

Mandarin Oriental, Paris

With the upcoming 2024 Summer Olympics, Mother’s Day is likely the last chance to experience Paris without the crowds. For mom’s seeking a quiet reprieve, the Mandarin Oriental, Paris offers a distinct kind of tranquility that only this luxury Asian hotel brand can provide. With silk bedspreads, soft rugs and pillow menus, the hotel’s 135 rooms and suites are a comfortable place to rest up after a busy day exploring the city. Mom will especially appreciate the Asian-influence at the spa, where treatments borrow from Traditional Chinese Medicine (think: massages that involve four therapists and work with the body’s meridian lines to restore energy). Foodies will want to take the hotel’s pastry- and cocktail-making classes, or join a complimentary tour of Marché St Honoré Food Market.

For the Gilmore Girls fan: Delamar West Hartford , Connecticut, USA

Delamar West Hartford

Fans of Gilmore Girls will want to plan a Mother’s Day getaway to this boutique hotel in Hartford, Connecticut, where the feel-good show is said to be based. Guests who book their Gilmore Girls -Inspired Package can relive the seminal show about mother-daughter relationships with special access to the art gallery at Rory’s alma matter, Yale University, or a visit to the Sterling Library. Richard Gilmore’s adoration for vintage cars and the annual Stars Hollow charity picnic basket auction are honored here with a chauffeured ride in the hotel’s 1941 Cadillac to your own private picnic curated by the hotel’s chefs in true chef Sookie-style. Sookie’s imaginative culinary wizardy is also celebrated back at the hotel’s Artisan Restaurant with a pre-fixe “Sookie” menu serving New England-inspired dishes and an afternoon tea Emily Gilmore would approve of. In addition to accommodations, the package includes a 60-minute couples massage, arrival bottle of bubbly and complimentary buffet breakfast.

For the bath queen: The American Club, Kohler, Wisconsin, USA

The American Club

You might not expect a manufacturing company to host the ideal mother’s day getaway but with 150 years of experience in plumbing, Kohler is an expert in designing for relaxation. What once were the dorms of Kohler manufacturing workers are now intimate, mahogany-rich rooms with bespoke bathroom features like chromatherapy (color light therapy) and infinity pool bathtubs. The real showcase of their manufacturing innovation is Kohler Waters Spa, which boasts hydrotherapy treatments unlike any you’ll find elsewhere in the country (think: an acoustic bath that synchronizes vibrations with the rhythms of the body). But it’s not all water wellness here, the 500-acre resort is home to two champion golf courses; river and forest terrain for hiking, fishing and hunting; as well as a spin and yoga studio, largely frequented by locals—making this the ideal Spring getaway for some R&R.

For the Anglophile: Rosewood London , England

Rosewood London

Holborn isn’t the first neighborhood to come to mind for a mother’s day getaway, but the Rosewood London—with its private courtyard giving the feel of a mini-Somerset House—is a destination in and of itself. With original Edwardian details, an impressive Grand Pavonazzo marble staircase and 262 chic guest rooms, this five-star hotel set in a Belle Époque building will make mom feel like royalty. For an extra-luxe stay, consider booking one of 44 suites or the Manor House Wing, the five-bedroom suite that is so large it has its own postal code. Downstairs, mom can treat herself to a spa treatment at Sense, A Rosewood Spa , an inventive cocktail at the coveted Scarfes Bar , or an art-themed afternoon tea , which features picturesque pastries inspired by the works of famous artists.

For the fitness fiend: Equinox Hotel New York , New York, USA

Equinox Hotel New York

If mom’s ideal Mother’s Day looks like experiencing top-notch fitness classes and the latest wellness treatments, then she’s sure to be impressed with a stay here. Referring to themselves as the “fittest hotel on Earth,” everything here is meant to optimize your health—from the in-room wellness amenities featuring over 80 products (think: nourishing snacks, supplements and recovery tools) to morning and evening rituals that guide guests through stretching and breathwork. With soundproof rooms, blackout blinds and king-sized beds with temperature-regulating natural fibers and for those who need it, an Equinox Sleep Coach, a stay here will leave mom totally rejuvenated. Further restoration is found at the spa which offers innovative circuit treatments featuring the latest wellness therapies like cryotherapy, infrared saunas and NutriDrip IV drips. No visit to a hotel from a fitness brand would be complete without experiencing the fitness club, which she’ll have access to with her stay. In addition to the state-of-the-art fitness center, she can try out one of their classes, the 25-yard indoor saltwater pool or simply relax on a daybed on the outdoor pool deck overlooking the Hudson Yards’ Vessel.

For the foodie: Castelfalfi, Tuscany, Italy

Castelfalfi

With summer being Tuscany’s busiest season, Mother’s Day is the best time to beat the rush. This 2,700-acre estate set in the rolling hills of Tuscany an hour outside Florence includes its own restored Medieval village (complete with a church and castle) that, on a quiet day, feels like a journey back in time. Olive groves, vineyards, a lake and forest surround the village, providing fertile ground for mom to experience the best culinary experiences Tuscany has to offer—from pizza-making workshops to truffle-hunting to tasting the homegrown olive oil and wine. When she’s not savoring and sipping, or partaking in one of the estate’s many activities—like horseback riding, ziplining in the adventure park or golfing the 27-hole golf course, the largest in Tuscany—she’ll be in the RAKxa spa. Here she’ll find an indoor-outdoor pool, experiential showers, several saunas and treatments featuring Thai modalities from renowned Thai wellness brand RAKxa and essential oils from the Tuscan countryside.

For stylish French-Canadian flair: Vogue Hotel Montreal Downtown , Quebec, Canada

Vogue Hotel Montreal Downtown

After receiving a makeover from Montreal architecture firm Sid Lee, Montreal’s iconic Vogue Hotel has been transformed from tired to chic. In a city known for its eclectic Quebecois culture, the Eastern influence here makes this Zen hotel a standout, with its muted color palette and minimalist décor exuding a kind of quiet luxury that’s hard to find elsewhere in the city. At the hotel’s signature restaurant Yama, mom can savor creative dishes inspired by Canadian celebrity chef Antonio Park’s South American, Canadian and Korean upbringing, and in the morning, she can enjoy authentic French pastries chef Park has made in collaboration with acclaimed pastry chef Bertrand Bazin at Café Bazin. Located in the heart of downtown Montreal, mom will be steps away from historical cathedrals and museums, as well as the most luxurious retailers such as Gucci, Prada and Holt Renfrew (which is directly across the street). While the hotel doesn’t have an onsite spa, they’ve paired up with Bota Bota Spa Sur L’Eau for a Mother’s Day package including a 3-hour water circuit experience on the St. Lawrence River.

For the Manhattanite: The Peninsula New York , New York, USA

The Peninsula New York

Upon entering the lobby from Fifth Avenue, mom will immediately be wowed by this hotel’s grand entrance with its opulent staircase, flower arrangements and sparkling chandeliers. Head upstairs and she’ll be even more impressed with the accommodations—the 239 apartment-styled rooms and suites are spacious by New York standards. With king-sized beds fitted with Fili D’Oro linens from Italy and the hotel’s Wellness Program offering sleep patches and peaceful bath rituals, she’ll rest well in the city that never sleeps. She also has a 24-hour wellness concierge and in-room mental health services like access to a meditation app. Downstairs, mom can enjoy a semi-buffet brunch and champagne bar after a bouquet-making workshop with the hotel’s Champagne Brunch & Floral Experience on Mother’s Day. The package also includes a $30 gift certificate to The Peninsula Spa , where mom can experience one of their popular Biologique Recherche facials, the aromatherapy steam room or take a dip in the indoor pool.

For the forest-bather: Canyon Ranch Woodside , California, USA

Canyon Ranch Woodside

While there are no shortage of wellness retreats across the United States, Canyon Ranch consistently remains a favorite for their unique programming and superb service. Their California property, located less than an hour outside San Francisco, is a standout for its location in the Redwoods. Rooms here look like soaring glass treehouses set high in the canopy. Nature lovers can get their fix forest bathing and hiking the many trails on property, or simply lounging on their own private balcony. Immersion in nature is the theme here as local ingredients appear in the spa and at the restaurant, which serves a daily set menu of local, vegetable-forward cuisine. Mom can take her pick of a specific expert-led retreat (think: ‘Find Your Purpose’ and ‘Journey to Empowerment’) or craft her own customized itinerary ahead of her trip with the support of Canyon Ranch’s on-staff wellness guides.

For Canadian cosmopolitanism: Shangri-La, Toronto, Canada

Shangri-La, Toronto

With summer being Canada’s high season, Spring is the perfect time to visit the country’s largest city. With so many neighborhoods to explore, the Shangri-La, Toronto is ideally situated in the heart of downtown, steps away from public transit. Located in the Entertainment District, mom will be close to some of the city’s best restaurants and theatre performances. The five-star hotel’s 202 spacious rooms feature wrap-around windows and Zen décor, providing a quiet reprieve from the bustling streets below. For further R&R, mom can take her pick of five ethically sourced soaks and bath bombs from the ensuite bath menu created in partnership with local bath brand Bathorium, the first hotel offering of its kind in the country. Downstairs, a Spring afternoon tea is served in the lobby lounge, one of the city’s hottest meeting spots. Inspired by the hotel’s bee apiary, the afternoon tea service is a celebration of the golden nectar harvested onsite with artful treats like beehive honey cake topped with apple compote and dulce whip ganache. Pair the afternoon tea with the hotel’s special Mother’s Day buffet brunch for the complete experience.

For the spa goddess: Grand Hotel Victoria , Lake Como, Italy

Grand Hotel Victoria

Home to the largest spa in Lake Como, the Grand Hotel Victoria is the ideal getaway for mom’s seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The 12,800-square-foot spa boasts a Himalayan salt room, ice room, two wood saunas, and a series of experiential showers, jacuzzis and pools for a complete hydrotherapy circuit. The abundant natural beauty of Lake Como serves as the inspiration for both the facilities—like a silent relaxation room featuring a wall made of nutrient-rich moss—and the treatments, which incorporate local ingredients. Upstairs, the five-star hotel exudes all of its original Belle Époque grandeur with soaring ceilings, ornate columns and sparkling chandeliers. Set overlooking sparkling Lake Como against the backdrop of the majestic mountains, the Grand Hotel Victoria is a hidden gem in the quiet Northern town of Menaggio, away from the crowds of the busier towns on the lake’s southern edge.

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

20% of Aldi’s Annual Sales Are Estimated to Have Come From Its ‘Aisle of Shame’ — Here’s What You Need to Know About It

Need a chainsaw? A trumpet? Some bedding? The German grocer's weirdest aisle's got your back.

Jelisa Castrodale has been a staff writer with Food & Wine since 2019.

SeanPavonePhoto / Getty Images

Visit the r/Aldi subreddit often enough, and you'll surely scroll past a post that mentions the store's "Aisle of Shame," whether it's an Aldi regular showing off the random items they found in the German chain's most "chaotic" section, a customer complaining that their store's center aisle isn't chaotic enough , or a confused shopper asking what, exactly, the Aisle of Shame is. 

"It's where you can find weird s--- you never knew you needed," one Aisle of Shame regular explained on r/Aldi . "Last week, I found a queen comforter set marked down for $3, a hanging plant basket, a metal watering can, and some pickles." 

That kind of sums it up: It's the center section in most Aldi stores where you can find an ever-changing assortment of products, including more standard grocery items and some real surprises. 

It’s also massively popular among Aldi shoppers: In addition to that subreddit, there’s an “ Aldi Aisle of Shame ” Facebook community with over 2.5 million members. And there are more than 1,000 TikToks with the #aisleofshame hashtag. 

Perhaps unsurprisingly, Aldi doesn’t refer to it as the Aisle of Shame, opting instead to classify it as the “Aldi Finds” aisle — and in one press release, the grocer referred to it as the “Aisle of Fun.” 

Customers also have other names for it. In 2019, one reporter for The Guardian wrote that he’d heard it referenced as “the WTF aisle,” “treasure aisle-land,” “the Aisle of Wonder,” and “the Aisle of S**t.” 

Regardless of what you call it, every week, the chain stocks that section with around a hundred different items, usually 50% edible and 50% non-edible. Purchases from that aisle also really add up: Nils Brandes, the retail consultant who co-wrote Bare Essentials: The Aldi Story , told Atlas Obscura that he estimated that up to 20% of Aldi’s annual sales could come from things from that now-infamous aisle. 

“The customers who come in and only buy milk and eggs are not great for Aldi. No one really makes money off of that,” John Clear, senior director of the Consumer and Retail Group at consulting firm Alvarez & Marsal, told CNN . “You have to get that customer who comes in once or twice a week to also pick up some other products. That’s where this aisle of shame fits in and helps Aldi offer its low prices overall.”

According to Aldi, in any given week, the Aldi Finds aisle can include anything from “Bat Knit Crazy Cheddar and other Halloween-themed cheeses and decor; luxury jarred candles; pre-mixed mimosas; a range of Advent calendars including cheese, chocolate, toys, beer and premium wine; home furnishings including a recent social media favorite teal cabinet; small kitchen appliances, pet sweaters, cast iron cookware, and yes, even chainsaws.”

So who actually coined the term “Aisle of Shame?” No one knows for sure. 

The Aldi Reviewer website connected it to a handful of online references from the “mid-to-late 2000s” that reference the “aisle of shame” in other contexts, like the Fantasy section in bookstores, the area in drug stores where you find certain personal care products, or even the walk a late-to-board passenger has to make on an airplane. 

In the context of Aldi , the site explains, “the ‘shame’ seems to revolve around the joke that people go to Aldi intending to get bread and milk, but they end up shamefully drifting into the middle aisle and purchasing things they may not need, from teal cabinets to pressure cookers.” 

We don’t think there’s any shame in going to Aldi for a box of Girl Scout cookie dupes and leaving with a blow-up mattress, a box fan, and a seasonal candle — unless you post your best finds somewhere online so the rest of us can marvel over them. That would be truly shameful. 

Related Articles