Travel Gift Ideas for Women
Are you looking for travel gifts for that woman in your life who is always looking up flights? Is your wife always proposing vacations and trips? Are you a wanderer at heart, but you’re not really sure what to ask for for a holiday? Travel gifts can sure be hard to come up with!
Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. My list of gifts for travel lovers is a collection of tried and true gadgets, experiences, and equipment that has helped me through my years of travel.
I’m a travel writer and blogger, plus a mom of 4 little kids. My love for travel started in high school with group mission trips, then developed as I did several study abroad and immersion trips during my years as a Spanish major in college. Nowadays, I travel on press trips and arrange countless travel opportunities for our family.
From my experience, I’ve got ideas for unique travel gifts for women, as well as easy gifts for travelers from Amazon. No matter what your budget, there’s something on the list for you.
Now, I’ve written this from the perspective of a mom, but I know that most items on this list would work for any female travel lover.
Without further ado, here are my top travel gift ideas for women!
P.S. Don’t want to read this whole blog post? Check out the travel gift list on my Amazon storefront!
RELATED: Gifts for Kids Who Love to Travel
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. That means if you click and link and make a purchase I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Gift Ideas for Travelers
Useful Travel Gifts for Women
1. The Wander Club - Wanderchain and Tokens
For the woman who wants the memories without the giant souvenir collection, consider a wanderchain with engraved tokens for each destination she’s visited! The chic and simple keychain is made with vegan leather AND they donate a meal to a hungry child with each order placed, so it’s a gift everyone can feel good about.
I love that they have different themed collections like National Parks, U.S. states, countries, landmarks, and even oceans so you can keep track of your travels no matter what your bucket list entails. There are even spacers so you can organize your travels by category or continent, so you’re not limited to just one collection.
I think this is such a thoughtful gift for women who love to travel because we all have keys, and it’s a fun conversation starter! What adventurous women doesn’t want to share about her travels? It’s also perfect because it’s practical while also being an easy way to keep your favorite travel memories close. I absolutely love mine, and the minimalist design is just my style.
2. Portable Charger
Perfect for on-the-go moms whether you’re traveling across the world or just to the local park. I’m constantly taking pictures and videos when we travel which tends to drain the battery on my phone. I’ve dealt with cheap portable chargers that take forever to charge my phone or die before they can get my battery to 100%, so it’s time for a high-speed portable charger that’s slim and lightweight.
3. Cord Organizer
This is at the top of my Christmas list this year. I travel with multiple cameras, Kindles, my computer, and my phone, so I need a way to corral and organize all of the cords, charging stations, and chargers.
I like this one because it’s thin and wouldn’t take up much space in a suitcase or backpack, but this one would be better for transporting my giant MacBook Air charger.
4. Packing Cubes
I have a deep and abiding love for packing cubes because they help me stay organized and efficient when I’m traveling with little kids.
These are the ones I have, but there are so many different styles and colors out there, it doesn’t hurt to experiment and try different ones to see what you like!
P.S. If you’re going to splurge, our family absolutely LOVES our Eagle Creek Packing Cubes.
They’re more pricey than some other packing cubes, but they provide compression and you can fit so much more.
P.P.S. If you’re not sure if packing cubes are for you, or you’re not sure how you would even use them, check out this post.
5. Kindle
I’m an avid reader, and I usually prefer real books to ebooks. However, when I’m traveling, I hate taking up extra space in my bags with multiple bulky books.
That’s where my Kindle comes in. Not only can I bring as many books as I want (using Kindle Unlimited), but I can also use it for downloading shows before a flight, listening to audiobooks (did you know you can GIFT an audible membership to someone!?!), and saving articles from the internet to read for later.
6. Travel-Themed Change Jar
I like the visual representation of saving for future trips for my own motivation, and to teach my kids that you have to work and save for what you want.
We received our travel change jar as a gift for Christmas one year, but here is a similar one to what we have.
7. Toiletry Bag
Not the sexiest gift, but the eBags Pack-It-Flat toiletry bag has gotten TONS of use in the 2 years I’ve had it. I can’t say enough about how much you can fit in it and how little space it takes up in your suitcase. 10/10 would recommend.
8. Neck Pillow
I was never a neck pillow person until I flew to Finland when I was 8 weeks pregnant with my 4th baby. I knew I would be exhausted and uncomfortable, so I wanted to maximize my comfort and sleep on the plane.
I really liked the memory foam pillow I brought, and I just clipped it to the outside of my backpack so it wouldn’t take up extra space in my bag.
9. Waist Pack
Thank goodness the waist pack (fanny pack?) is back in style so moms can have their hands free while carrying snacks, phones, and wallets.
I love how sleek and simple this one is because you could wear it on a hike or with your cute outfit and it would fit well in both scenarios.
10. Travel Scarf Blanket
Let’s face it. Plains are either sweltering hot or freezing cold. There is no in between, and there’s no way of knowing which one it will be.
I like to come prepared by wearing a travel scarf that doubles as a blanket like this one.
11. Portable Jewelry Case
If you’ve ever had to untangle your necklaces, bracelets, and earrings once you arrive at your destination, you know it’s 100% worth it to have a separate jewelry case for your travels.
I love this tiny one for minimalists like me, and this larger one for those that love accessories even on the road.
Books that Make Great Travel Gifts for Her
So here we are in a year where travel is unsure, and you’re not sure if you’ll have to cancel your trip or not. In the meantime, it’s always nice to read about travel and be inspired or prepare for future trips.
12. Travel Guidebooks
I love the internet. I love travel blogs. (I mean, hello. I write a travel blog). But sometimes you just need a lot more information and you need it all in one place. You need a travel guidebook that can give you the inside scoop.
When my sister backpacked Europe right out of college, she loved the Rick Steves series.
For all other destinations, you can’t go wrong with Lonely Planet, as they tend to be incredibly detailed.
Lately I’ve been loving the
13. Trave-Themed Coffee Table Books
Some travel books are practical. Some are aspirational. I love a good coffee table book that inspires me to seek out new destinations that I wouldn’t have otherwise thought of.
This book is high on my Christmas list! I also love this one and this one.
14. Atlas
I love maps and our family road trips. A LOT, so I thought it was high time I got an atlas. I’m looking for one with a spiral binding and fun facts and tips. This National Geographic one fits the bill.
15. Language Learning Book
Maybe you’re planning to travel somewhere where you don’t speak the language. It doesn’t hurt to practice some basic phrases so you can get around confidently and be polite to the locals.
As a former high school Spanish and German teacher, I know there is so much that goes into learning a language that doesn’t involve reading.
BUT, I will say that having a book of common phrases you can refer back to in a moment of stress REALLY helps. (Even as a proficient Spanish speaker, there are times I can’t think of the right word).
16. Novels That Inspire Wanderlust
Don’t overlook good old-fashioned novels that are set in exotic locations to inspire your next trip! A few suggestions:
17. Travel Journal
While moms don’t have a TON of spare time to journal while traveling with kids, it definitely helps to have a pretty journal where you can jot down short memories, quotes, and details of your trips.
Mine is from Trades of Hope, but I’ll link a few other ones here, here, and here.
Travel Gear For Moms
18. A Chic Suitcase
Are you still using that same ratty suitcase from college that’s falling apart at the seams? Time to upgrade! I love my hard shell suitcase that’s the perfect size to travel carry-on only.
19. Cute and Functional Backpack
I have several options to choose from for cute backpacks.
I’ve been using this leather one for 5 years - perfect for day trips, and for when your kids are a little older so you don’t need to haul ALL THE GEAR.
I love my new camera gear backpack - I can reach my camera from the side access zipper without taking the bag off my back.
It also has a water bottle pocket, a tripod pocket, and a laptop pocket, so it works on the plane, too.
And don’t forget a diaper bag backpack for you moms of babies and toddlers! But make it chic.
20. Passport Holder
I absolutely love my passport holder because it’s tall enough to hold the plane tickets, too. It just makes it so much easier to keep everything organized when you’re traveling abroad.
Now that we have four kids and international travel is opening back up, I’m looking for a family passport holder that holds six passports as my perfect travel gift.
21. A Crossboy Bag
I love a small crossbody purse or bag, or even a waist pack (fanny pack?) for city adventures or theme parks.
It’s nice to have your phone, wallet, and other small essentials close at hand without having to lug a large purse around.
Even when we have babies and toddlers and I have to bring a diaper bag, I still have my crossbody bag for my own essentials, and often throw the diaper bag in the bottom of the stroller.
Unique Travel Gifts for Women
22. Personalized Necklace
I recently did a campaign with Rellery jewelry, and I haven’t taken my customized bar necklace off since!
I definitely think this is a travel-related gift because you can personalize the message on the bar necklace to be a place with a lot of meaning, a word that inspires adventure, latitude and longitude coordinates of a special place, or the initials of your loved ones if you travel for work away from them.
It’s simple and understated, yet elegant, elevating any travel outfit. Check out the full blog post here!
24. Loopy Case
I bought my Loopy Case almost 3 years ago, and I don’t know what I would do without it! I’ve raved about it to friends and family, especially fellow moms.
The loop on the back of the case has been invaluable when I’m carrying kids, bags, and water bottles.
I can just loop it around my pinky finger and not worry about dropping my phone.
It’s been the perfect phone case for travel, too! I’m often around water or high heights where I don’t want to worry about dropping my phone, but still need pictures or videos for my blog and YouTube channel.
The Loopy Case never fails me! (I’m thinking specifically of a press trip to Iguazu Falls, Brazil!)
25. Sky Clip
I’ve noticed on more and more flights that there is no screen on the back of the seat, but rather access to entertainment on your own devices.
While I love the idea, it’s sometimes hard to watch a show while I’ve got a sleeping or wiggly baby on my lap. I have nowhere to set the phone.
The sky clip is an easy way to secure your phone to the seatback tray so you can watch shows without craning your neck. Plus you’re hands-free to help your toddler, eat a snack, or feed your baby.
It was a lifesaver this past year when I flew with my 1-year-old!
26. Bluetooth Headphones
Which leads me to my next gift suggestion: Bluetooth headphones!
When you’re traveling with babies and toddlers, there’s NO WAY you can have your headphones plugged in. They WILL pull the wire out for a fun game. I have these ones, and they have served me well for YEARS.
The only issue is that my baby loves grabbing them, so I’m looking for more of a subtle set of Bluetooth headphones. Maybe AirPod knockoffs this time, or over-ear headphones!
27. Universal Travel Adapter
If you’re a world traveler (or buying for someone who is a world traveler), or someone who wants to travel abroad for the first time, make the logistics less of a headache with one of these universal adapters!
28. Travel Size Makeup Or Skincare
If you’re making your own Christmas list, see if your skincare or favorite makeup of choice comes in travel sizes, then add it to your list!
If you’re buying for someone else, you make have to do some sleuthing to see what products or brands they prefer, but it would make a wonderful stocking stuffer!
I’ve been using the Tula skincare products this year, and am loving them so much I think I’ll need to purchase a travel-size kit to keep in my travel toiletry bag!
29. Smartwatch Or Fitbit
I’m not one to keep track of my steps or workouts or anything like that, but I do enjoy wearing my husband’s old Fitbit Blaze when I’m traveling because it’s fun to see how far we’ve walked in a day, and helpful to have notifications of messages or emails pop up so I don’t have to constantly be checking my phone.
I also purchased this band to make it look a little more feminine!
30. GoPro
The perfect little travel and adventure camera! Take it underwater, on a bike ride, clip it to your shirt, or wear it on your head.
It’s durable enough for kids to use, too! Our kids love using the GoPro for pictures and videos, and it’s been awesome to use at waterparks, hotel pools, the beach, Iguazu Falls, and more!
Right before our trip to South Dakota we purchased the GoPro Hero9 and it’s been the perfect action camera for our family.
The video is so smooth even when I’m wearing an active toddler and following my busy kids around. I love it so much!
31. Lightweight Camera
Perfect for the mom who is constantly taking pictures and videos, but struggles to bring the big DSLR camera while also juggling kids and all their gear. I have the Canon Powershot g7x Mark ii and LOVE how lightweight it is and the high quality of the pictures and videos.
Experience Gifts For Women
32. TSA Precheck
For frequent fliers, you can’t go wrong with TSA Precheck. My parents have it and have now convinced me it’s necessary.
You don’t have to take off your shoes or take out your laptop, and the line is always shorter. A must-have for parents with young children and a lot of stuff.
33. National Parks Pass
America the Beautiful National Parks Annual Passes are $80 and can be purchased as gifts. There’s no better gift than experiencing the beautiful outdoors with your loved ones!
We’ve only knocked off 3 National Parks so far, but if you’re planning to road trip somewhere with multiple parks, the pass will easily pay for itself!
34. Hotel Getaway
Honestly, what mom DOESN’T want a night away from the kids at a beautiful hotel?
Arrange a babysitter for her, and surprise her with a night or weekend getaway. It can be right in your city or a day trip away.
35. Travel Reward Points
Did you know you can often gift travel reward points, hotel points, or airline miles?
If a mom in your life is craving some travel and you’ve been racking up points or miles, share the wealth! You can even purchase points for many travel reward programs.
My absolute favorite card for those starting out is the Chase Sapphire Preferred because the points are so flexible! We’ve had ours for a few years and have easily been able to accrue points.
36. Outdoor Adventure Experience
Is there a woman in your life that loves outdoor adventure? Gift a rock climbing, snowshoeing, rafting, or biking adventure.
Getting out in nature and doing something challenging together is a great way to build a relationship, so you’re both having fun and doing something productive!
37. Airbnb Gift Card
Did you know you can buy Airbnb gift cards? Everyone loves Airbnb, but it’s especially helpful for moms because we LOVE to be able to put the kids to bed, close the door, and still be able to talk to our spouse, eat, watch tv, work, or just relax with a glass of wine. Unless you get a suite at a hotel, it’s lights out around 7 or 8.
Since Airbnbs are comparable in price to most hotels with all the cleaning fees and taxes, any extra money toward the stay helps!