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The well-traveled person in your life probably seems to have everything that they could want: the fancy hard-side case, the waxy weekender that they love telling you is going ten-years strong, the in-flight setup that means they can always drift off. And while you might not know as much about polycarbonate versus ABS as they do, that doesn’t mean you can’t find them a thoughtful gift to take with them on their next adventure. Below, I’ve rounded up some of the best gadgets, gizmos, tips, and tricks that have found their way into the carry-ons of Strategist travel writers.
As I was thinking about smaller items — stocking stuffers, to be precise — I’ve mostly opted for inexpensive products that will help round out a gift. That’s why almost all of the presents are at or under the $30 mark — but for those with a bigger budget, I’ve also included a couple of higher-end options that we’ve personally tested and I think are worth the splurge.
Each item on this list will still arrive by Christmas if ordered by tomorrow, Tuesday, December 17. Some items will also arrive if ordered after that date; make sure to double-check shipping information before purchasing.
Under $10
These teeny portable sheets dissolve into a non-drying hand soap on the go.
A similar idea, but for laundry: They turn any sink into a place to freshen up luggage.
If they’re serious about their skin care, they’ll want a cleanser they can travel with.
Under $20
An inexpensive item that may save them hundreds of dollars in overpacked luggage fees at the airport.
This fan saved one Strategist contributor from completely overheating during a sunny Italian summer.
As someone who camps often, I can attest that this kind of bottle beats out a Hydroflask or an Owala, because once the water is gone, it’s incredibly lightweight.
Something to keep a frequent flier’s many travel documents safe, including their passport.
We love the deeply nourishing hair range from Pattern — this mini is worth a chunk of your liquid allowance.
For when a spray can isn’t an option (one writer said a single wipe can keep her sweat-free for a week).
Hauling the full version of Catan around would be impossible — thankfully, this little dice version is just as fun.
A one-and-done dental-hygiene kit, with a toothpaste our travel writer calls “the best tasting around.”
They can say good-bye to awkwardly resting their phone on the tray table with this bendy and ingenious stand for streaming.
If their step counter frequently hits the 30,000 mark, they’ll be grateful for these springy insoles.
Under $30
Lips get chapped at high altitude — and this buttery balm is so nice they’ll want to use it even when they’re firmly on the ground.
Save them a last-minute dash to buy an adaptor in duty-free with this multi-way that has them all covered.
As this is a powder, non-aerosol dry shampoo, it’s ideal for traveling.
If they will have time for a full hair routine, Ouai’s products are some of the best to have in rotation.
I could simply never get comfy on a flight until I discovered this footrest that loops over the tray table. Now I’m lights out on every journey.
Over $30
This kit from Aesop covers hair care and has an additional hydrating and gentle body balm and cleanser.
Yes, this is expensive for a stocking stuffer, but it’s so key for a frequent flier. It allows them to use their wireless headphones to access in-flight entertainment, saving a tangle and achy ears.
The memory foam in this pillow takes it from last-minute airport grab to thoughtful (fancyish) gift.
The Strategist is designed to surface useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Every product is independently selected by our team of editors, whom you can read about here. We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.
