The Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide For Travelers, From Under $50 to Over $2,000

15.11.2024 - 09:40 / matadornetwork.com

The Matador Network team isn’t always shackled to a desk. This year, we’ve explored around the world on memorable trips to places like the volcanic archipelago of the Galapagos, the Northwest Coast of Norway, and stayed in hotels breaking ground on sustainability measures. While doing so, we’ve tested truck loads of gear, from the latest apparel and luggage from leading outdoor and travel brands, to gadgets and packing aids that make our journeys more comfortable, to on-the-road essentials to keep our kids entertained. This year’s gift guide compiles our favorite products — items in our travel tool kits that have become indispensable. Whether you’re looking for a stocking stuffer, an affordable present for a white elephant gift exchange, or something special for a loved one who enjoys traveling as much as we do, our tried-and-tested suggestions will make your holiday shopping a walk in the park.

These are the best travel gifts for 2024.

Contributors: Alex Bresler, Keven Gungor, Morgane Croissant, Nickolaus Hines, Rulo Luna Ramos, Suzie Dundas, and Tim Wenger

We hope you love the travel gifts we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Skip to: beach book for traveling kids, footrest for more comfortable flights, travel time entertainment, stylish earplugs, handy wipe for outdoorsy women, humorous book on traveler reviews, book on the world’s flora and fauna, phone tripod, travel-ready briefs, travel coffeemaker

Photo: White Garment Publishing Group

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is a leader in family-friendly travel that is compatible with the needs of families with children on the autism spectrum. As part of the push to make travel to the beach accessible and fun for all, the city’s tourism board worked with author and illustrator Lynda Farrington Wilson for Splish, Splash, Squawk! Finding Joy in a Sensory-Friendly Vacation. The book is designed to inspire families and help them navigate unfamiliar environments with the story of Maris, who helps Myrtle Beach vacationers with sensory sensitivities top of mind. — Nickolaus Hines, Managing Editor

Photo: Basic Concepts

A foot hammock is the perfect joke gift for something like a holiday gift swap or white elephant because it’s funny, but actually useful. I tell everyone I know to buy one of these super packable and lightweight pieces of airplane gear. It’s a foot-sized hammock that clips onto airplane tray tables, creating a footrest for seats that otherwise wouldn’t have any (basically every economy seat on every airline). Having a footrest allows travelers to sit in multiple positions, shift their weight, avoid butt