25 gifts for travelers in 2024
The holiday season is officially upon us, and that means it’s time to start thinking about gifts for your loved ones.
Each year, we curate some of our top picks for the jet setters and road warriors on your list.
This year’s guide includes 25 of our top picks for travel tech, luggage, gear and more. The TPG team tested and approved all of them.
Without further ado, here are TPG’s 2024 holiday gift picks, many of which are currently on sale for Black Friday.
Apple AirTags
If there’s one must-have travel item this holiday season, it’s the Apple AirTag. While many travelers have and use AirTags, you almost can’t have too many. Plus, multiple airlines are on the verge of integrating the location of the AirTag into their lost baggage processes.
These coin-size item trackers are a lifesaver for those who travel with checked luggage, especially as delayed and misplaced baggage continues to be a periodic global travel issue.
Just pop one into each of your bags — and perhaps your keychain and backpack, too. Then, you’ll be able to track your bags directly on your iOS device. The next time an airline tells you that your bag is “lost,” you’ll hopefully have a much clearer picture of where it is.
Buy: Apple AirTag (pack of four): $69.99; Apple AirTag (individual tag): $19
Apple AirPods Pro
There are many top-notch noise-canceling headphones on the market, but none are as easy to use as Apple’s AirPods Pro, in our humble opinion.
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The second-generation Pros bring major improvements to the noise cancellation experience, and the entire package can easily fit in your pockets — a game changer for travel.
Also, the latest generation Pros offer a USB-C charging case, which pairs perfectly with the new iPhone and the latest tech standards.
Buy: Apple AirPods Pro: $189.99 (normally $249)
Le Labo
Most of us can agree that one of the best parts about staying in luxury hotels is trying out all of the fancy scents and bath amenities that you wouldn’t necessarily purchase at home.
There are also quite a few TPG staffers who unanimously agree that Le Labo and the Edition are some of the best travel collabs out there, and it’s reason enough to consider staying at our favorite Edition properties.
Plus, Shop Edition lets you redeem Marriott Bonvoy points to cover the cost of your gifts. It might not be the world’s best points redemption, but it’s at least worth noting the option.
From lotion, shampoo, conditioner, and body oil, the Le Labo product lineup is honestly all worth considering.
Buy: Le Labo Travel Set: $48 (normally $60)
Loop Engage Earplugs
If your family or friends are sensitive to noise when traveling, you might want to buy them a pair of Loop Engage Earplugs this holiday season.
TPG staffers agree that these are among the best earplugs available. The loop system should help them stay in your ears when you’re dozing off.
To buy: Loop Engage Equinox Earplugs: $27.95 (normally $34.95)
Silk Sleep Eye Mask
Eye masks are another sleep essential, especially when crisscrossing time zones on long-haul flights.
While there are various silk sleep masks on the market, this Lulusilk mulberry silk sleep eye mask boasts nearly 11,500 Amazon reviews. Its highlights include a 0.4-inch-wide elastic head strap design, which means it won’t tangle hair like a contoured mask and is suitable for side sleepers.
With this gift, you’ll help your friends and family doze off during their next flight — and they might not even ask you again for extra miles for a business-class upgrade.
To buy: Silk Sleep Eye Mask: $7.99 (normally $9.99)
Away Bigger Carry-On
With the launch of Away’s Softside collection, travelers now have an entire new collection to choose from, in addition to the brand’s original hardshell luggage line.
Away’s largest carry-on suitcase, the Bigger Carry-On bag, offers high-end luggage looks and features, such as a handy mesh laundry compartment, fun colors and 360-degree spinner wheels.
Having used the Softside Bigger Carry-On for the past year, TPG news reporter Caroline Tanner can confirm how spacious it feels while still adhering to domestic airline carry-on requirements.
Plus, Away is currently offering 25% off sitewide through Dec. 2.
To buy: The Bigger Carry-On: $221 (normally $295)
Anker Prime 67W USB-C Charger
Cable clutter can be frustrating, but there are ways to minimize the number of power bricks and cables you carry in your travel backpack.
With Anker’s 67-watt USB-C charger, you can leave all your big and bulky power bricks at home. This small cube easily fits into your backpack, and it boasts two USB-C ports and one USB-A port for easy charging of up to three devices.
No wonder the TPG team swears by it.
Buy: Anker Prime 67W USB-C Charger: $35.99 (normally $59.99)
Riemot Luggage Travel Cup Holder
We’ve all been there. You just picked up a coffee at the airport, and now you need to figure out how you’ll hold the cup, wheel your bag and carry your purse or briefcase without spilling the drink.
Enter this luggage cup holder. It fits perfectly on the handle of your rollaboard and is the perfect place to put your coffee when you’re hustling to the gate.
It has already saved some TPG travelers from multiple spills, and it’s the gift that certainly pays dividends.
Buy: Riemot Luggage Travel Cup Holder: $8.49 (normally $11.99)
Wanderlust Passport
There are many digital tools available to track your travels. However, sometimes a pen and paper will be your best bet. Also, if you want to help a loved one get started on journaling their travels, consider the Wanderlust Passport.
This notebook features maps and open-ended prompts to help jog their memories, and it includes pockets to store ticket stubs and receipts. This would make a great gift for adventurous kids and teens.
Buy: Wanderlust Passport — A Travel Journal: $36
Q Slim Portable Charger
If your friends and family members aren’t yet traveling with a portable power bank, it’s time to change that. On a recent long-haul flight, the power outlet was broken, forcing me to either drain my battery or resort to using a power bank.
When gifting a power bank, Q Ultra’s 10,000mAh model is a good bet. Not only does this power bank have enough juice for all your devices, but it also has built-in charging cables for added convenience.
Buy: Q Slim Portable Charger: $25.91(normally $33.99)
Sabre Door Stop Security Alarm
Not to be an alarmist, but danger can strike at any time. As a traveler (especially if you’re a solo female traveler), it’s important to protect yourself.
Even at home, take precautions with a Sabre 120 dB Wedge Door Stop Security Alarm.
This door alarm is small and lightweight, and it’ll provide extra peace of mind in hotels and Airbnbs.
Buy: Sabre Door Stop Security Alarm: $13.19 (normally $14.99)
Belkin BoostCharge Pro
This 3-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charging Stand with Qi2 15W from Belkin’s BoostCharge Pro has become a fixture for TPG senior aviation reporter Zach Griff, who reports on the multiple tech devices he uses while traveling.
This all-in-one dock can wirelessly charge up to three devices with just a single power cable. Additionally, with the introduction of Standby Mode with iOS 17, iPhone users can dock their phones and peek at all their important widgets without even touching the device — a game changer when I first wake up in the morning.
The Belkin site is currently offering up to 35% off sitewide for Black Friday.
Buy: Belkin BoostCharge Pro: $95.99 (normally $129.99)
Vuori Joggers
When it comes to being comfortable on flights and travels (or anywhere, for that matter), Vuori’s Performance Joggers are a top choice for TPG’s senior editorial director, Summer Hull.
The good news is that Vuori has a variety of joggers available for both men and women in various colors, designs and materials. If you have a frequent flyer in your life, here’s an easy way to make them more comfortable on their next journey.
Buy: Women’s DreamKnit Performance Joggers: $94
Buy: Men’s Transit Jogger: $118
‘How to Win at Travel’ by Brian Kelly
That’s right, the Points Guy, Brian Kelly — our esteemed founder and head honcho, the man who started this here website from the ground up — has finally gone and written a book. It’s a weighty tome that details all of his secret strategies for leveraging airline and credit card points and traveling like a bona fide expert. Whether you’re a beginner to the points and miles world or a seasoned frequent flyer, this book is jam-packed with helpful advice that will change the way you travel — and save you money to boot.
Buy: How to Win at Travel by Brian Kelly: $27.90 (normally $30)
Tile Mate
If you’re not quite indoctrinated into Apple’s iOS world and want a reliable alternative to the much-lauded Apple AirTags, look no further than Tile and its lineup of luggage trackers.
This Black Friday, you can save up to 20% on their entire range, including Tile Slims, Pros, Stickers and select Tile Mates.
Buy: Tile Mate: $19.99
FrSara Neck Fan
Yep, that’s right. This headphone-looking contraption is actually a bladeless fan designed to be worn around the neck to keep you cool on the move.
One of the most popular fans we’ve ever featured on the site, this is an absolute travel essential if you’re planning a trip somewhere sunny in 2025.
Its output is virtually soundless (less than 25 decibels, e.g., as loud as rustling leaves), and it weighs just 6.7 ounces, so it won’t strain your neck. The battery lasts between four and 16 hours, depending on the power setting you use, making it ideal for almost all trips or hikes.
Buy: FrSara Neck Fan: $23.79 (normally $27.99)
Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack
Dagne Dover is one of our favorite travel brands at TPG, and Caroline would recommend multiple items from the brand on this list if she could.
If you are new to the brand or are just looking for a chic yet efficient backpack, Caroline recommends starting with the Dakota Neoprene Backpack.
If you’re a gal (or guy) on the go, this backpack seamlessly provides the space you need to get through your day, from work to the gym to the plane and beyond.
It has a water-resistant Neoprene sleeve and is 100% vegan. Their medium-sized Dakota backpack fits a 13-inch laptop, but there are smaller and larger versions as well.
Plus, each backpack comes with a shoe bag (I mean, are you serious?) for all your commute needs.
Buy: Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack: $195
Calpak Packing Cubes
Calpak’s five-piece packing cube set is Summer’s favorite because it is one of the most durable and aesthetically pleasing packing cubes on the market.
She appreciates the thick mesh and polyester material, which has held up extraordinarily well across a variety of theme park, ski and cruise trips. The see-through mesh allows for breathability and a peek at what’s inside.
Plus, her Calpak packing cubes have survived many rounds of heat in the dryer without any noticeable impacts, which is not the case for all packing cubes.
They’re currently discounted thanks to Calpak’s Black Friday sale.
Buy: Calpak five-piece packing cube set: $54.40 (normally $68)
Hoka Women’s Everyday Running Bondi 8
People have mixed feelings when it comes to Hoka, but regardless of how ugly you find them, there seems to be a consensus that they’re comfortable. And, let’s be honest, this becomes all the more important with age.
Hoka’s Bondi 8 appears to be a starter shoe for the brand. It’s great for those of us just wanting to dip our toes into the ubiquitous sneaker, no pun intended. For those of you reading right now, these shoes are currently on sale for less than $150.
Buy: Hoka Women’s Everyday Running Bondi 8: $131.99 (normally $165)
Epicka Universal Travel Adapter
The universal travel adapter from Epicka will cover all your charging needs whether you are traveling domestically or abroad. This worldwide adapter includes four plugs covering more than 150 countries, including the U.S., Canada, Japan, the U.K., Germany, Italy and Spain.
This adapter has four USB-A ports, one USB-C port and an AC socket, so it can charge up to six devices simultaneously. It’s compatible with iPhones, laptops, tablets, power banks and other devices. Although it can charge various items, it is not a voltage converter and should not be used for high-voltage items like hair styling tools.
Buy: Epicka Travel Adapter: $19.99 (normally $25.99)
trtl Travel Pillow
Caroline first heard about the trail travel neck pillow from one of her favorite comedians, Heather McMahan, after which she promptly bought it.
Although she eventually lost it along her travels at some point (relatable), she still recommends it as the only travel pillow that allows you to fall asleep on board a plane by dropping your neck. The trtl is known for providing ultimate neck support that helps keep your head and neck in an upright position at all times, without straining.
If you’ve been wanting to try out the trtl but were turned off by the cost, it’s currently on sale for Black Friday at less than $50.
Buy: trtl Travel Pillow: $45.49 (normally $64.99)
Amazon Kindle (16 GB)
Caroline’s mother is an avid reader who always told Caroline that she would never convert from real books to a Kindle. Fast forward to 2024, and her mother is Kindle’s biggest fan. Each new generation of Kindle gets lighter and more compact, making it even better for travel.
With an adjustable front light and long battery life, the convenience of a Kindle compared to traveling with books is unmatched. Just be sure to buy books for your Kindle from your local bookstore or rent from your local library.
Buy: Amazon Kindle (16 GB): $89.99 (normally $109.99)
Comrad Compression Socks
Many consider compression socks a must-have when traveling internationally, and these nylon knee-high socks from Comrad are unisex while offering soft and breathable support.
Compression socks promote circulation, which is important when sitting for extended periods of time.
Buy: Comrad Compression Socks: $22.39 (normally $27.99)
Rumpl NanoLoft Travel Blanket
You don’t have to be hiking or camping or doing anything outdoorsy to benefit from Rumpl’s travel blankets. At 3.5 inches by 11 inches packed, it’s the ideal travel size, with NanoLoft insulation technology that mimics down for packing purposes.
It’s stain and water resistant and easy to clean in the wash. Plus, its polyester shell and insulation are 100% post-consumer recycled. Available in a variety of bright colors, these will instantly boost your mood.
Buy: Rumpl NanoLoft Travel Blanket: $57 (normally $95)
Global Entry/TSA PreCheck/Clear
Perhaps the most selfless gift you can give to the travelers in your life this year is the gift of an expedited airport security program so they can spend less time waiting in line.
TSA PreCheck users can pass through airport security using a dedicated PreCheck line without removing their shoes, laptops, liquids, belts or light jackets like passengers in the regular TSA line.
Global Entry gives preapproved, low-risk travelers expedited clearance upon arrival in the U.S. from abroad through entry at automatic kiosks at more than 75 airports.
A five-year membership to TSA PreCheck costs $78 to $85, while five years of Global Entry costs $120. However, a variety of credit cards offer up to $120 in statement credit reimbursement for the application fees.
This credit is typically available every four to five years, though you should check the terms for your specific card for the exact frequency.
Some of the cards offering free TSA PreCheck and/or Global Entry memberships are:
There are far fewer cards covering Clear since the third-party expedited security program costs $199 per year.
However, you do still have some options if you want your travel credit card to pay for your Clear Plus membership, including:
*Enrollment required; subject to auto-renewal.
The information for the Centurion Card, Amex Green and Hilton Honors Aspire has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Bottom line
We hope this list gives you some gift ideas for every type of traveler on your list, and some peace of mind since the products have been tested by TPG staffers.
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