50 Travel Gifts Under $50 They'll Actually Use on Their Next Trip

Skip to main contentFind hotelsFind hotels by location...Find hotels by city or location...These gifts are proof you don't need to break the bank to give something special this season.Travel buffs can be surprisingly difficult to shop for. They probably already have a suitcase they love, noise-canceling headphones, and enough packing cubes to last them a lifetime. Instead of adding to their collection of travel essentials, consider something they wouldn't necessarily buy for themselves. It doesn't have to be expensive, either. The best travel gifts will upgrade every journey, whether it’s a smart gadget to help make a red-eye flight less miserable or a sweet reminder of their favorite destination—all without breaking the bank.With this in mind, I’ve rounded up 50 thoughtful gifts under $50 to give this season, from personalized accessories to luxe skincare sets. Whether you're shopping for a frequent flier, an avid road tripper, or a friend with a growing list of places to visit, there's something here for every traveler on your list—including yourself.Luggage and bagsTravel accessoriesOutdoor gearClothing, shoes, and accessoriesBeauty and wellnessHome goodsTop gifts:L.L.Bean Boat and ToteJump to reviewMark and Graham Leather Travel Tech organizerJump to reviewKodak Charmera keychain digital cameraJump to reviewBombas Gripper slipperJump to reviewSummer Fridays Jet Lag essentials setJump to reviewLuggage and bagsEtronikWeekender bagEvery traveler needs a sturdy duffel bag for weekend road trips. This under-$30 weekender has enough space for two to three days' worth of clothes, as well as a separate shoe compartment and pockets for small travel accessories. Plus, it fits underneath a plane seat and features a luggage sleeve.EachyLarge travel makeup bagThis large makeup bag has earned over 13,000 reviews for its practical design, which opens flat so you can see everything inside without rummaging through it. It also has a few interior pockets, a separate brush compartment, and a water-resistant exterior that’s easy to wipe clean.L.L.BeanBoat and ToteL.L.Bean's classic Boat and Tote bag holds everything you need for a day trip and packs completely flat in your carry-on. It's great for storing souvenirs or to have just in case.CalpakThe Everything cubeTrue to its name, this bag can be used for a variety of things; it’s roomy enough to fill up with snacks, charging cords, or the jumble of in-flight necessities that usually float around in the bottom of your tote. It has a water-resistant lining and multiple interior and exterior pockets for easy access.BagsmartTravel backpackBagsmart's lightweight backpack is a practical gift for travelers who are always headed on a weekend getaway or could use a new personal item for the plane. Unlike a traditional backpack, it features a clamshell opening, so you can see all of your belongings at once and pack items like you would in a suitcase. The adjustable straps can even be clasped over your chest, making it more secure and comfortable.QuinceItalian Leather phone crossbody caseDitch the bulky purse with this crossbody phone case, made from genuine Italian leather. It features an adjustable, removable strap you can wear crossbody or around your neck. The protective case helps guard against drops, and there's even a handy card slot on the back for your credit card or ID. It's available for iPhone 16 and 17 models.Travel accessoriesZimasilkAdjustable Mulberry Silk sleep maskMade from 100% mulberry silk, this sleep mask feels soft against your skin while blocking out light for some much-needed shut-eye. The contoured eye cups leave room to blink without pressing on your lashes, and the adjustable strap keeps it comfortably in place.BenevolenceTravel jewelry caseThe hard outer shell of this case protects jewelry during travels, while little nooks, slot rolls, and hooks keep earrings, necklaces, and bracelets separated and tangle-free. It's small enough to pack on quick trips while being roomy enough for destination weddings and longer vacations.NodpodWeighted sleep maskA weighted eye mask is a thoughtful gift for any frequent flier. This soothing mask is ideal for side sleepers or back sleepers, and keeps you comfortable at home and on the road.CabeauEvolution S3 travel pillowA reliable travel pillow is an essential on every long-haul flight. What really sets this Cabeau pillow apart from the rest is the Velcro straps on the back, designed to loop around a plane seat's headrest, helping to keep your head upright and take any pressure off your neck.AppleAirTagThis small but mighty stocking stuffer is bound to get used right away, especially if your giftee is frequently on the go. Attach it to everything from keys to luggage to keep tabs on the item using the accompanying app on your iPhone.CadenceThe Small TrioLeakproof, magnetic, and practically indestructible, these TSA-friendly mini jars are great for decanting your toiletries, medication, or anything else that fits, for carry-on travel.Mark and GrahamLeather Travel Tech organizerKeep charging cables, earbuds, adapters, and other small tech essentials from getting lost in your bag with this leather organizer from Mark & Graham. Its slim design and snap closure make it easy to pack for trips or daily commutes.Mark & GrahamFillmore vegan leather passport caseChoose from a variety of fonts, colors, and designs to customize this passport cover for the international traveler in your life. Pro tip: A bonus of going with a brighter color is that it’s easier to find in your bag when you need it.TumiLuggage tagThis leather luggage tag from Tumi adds a little personality to your suitcase while making it easier to spot on the baggage carousel. Available in more than 20 colors and customizable with a monogram, it's a small but thoughtful gift for frequent travelers.TuskMini card caseAvailable in six vibrant color combos, these handcrafted leather card cases hold up to five cards or, thanks to the snap closure, can be used to stash foreign coins that accumulate when traveling internationally.CaselySunday Best Kindle caseIf your friend is always reading a book on their Kindle, gift them a fun case that will protect their device from accidental drops. Casely’s Kindle cover is durable yet lightweight, so they can slip it into a weekender bag or backpack without it weighing them down.DewenwilsRechargeable book reading lightThis tiny, portable reading light packs a powerful punch. It attaches securely to your book and has a swiveling head with two brightness levels. Plus, it’s rechargeable via USB, with a battery life long enough to cover multiple page-turners’ worth of reading.Outdoor gearKodakCharmera keychain digital cameraSmall enough to fit in the palm of your hand or clip onto a bag, this mini keychain camera is a fun way to capture travel memories with a nostalgic twist. It takes photos and videos, has retro-inspired filters, and comes in one of seven surprise designs. Note that you'll need to buy a memory card separately.JBLGo 4 portable speakerWaterproof, dustproof, and practically everything-proof, this pocket-sized speaker is perfect for streaming your favorite tunes or podcasts while on the go. It’s available in eight fun color combos, and the best part is its durability: You can bring it on your beach vacation without worrying when it inevitably gets sandy.OwalaSmoothSip Slider coffee tumblerOwala is known for its fun-colored water bottles, but its travel mugs are equally amazing. This 12-ounce mug keeps coffee or tea hot for hours and is completely leakproof. Plus, it's available in a slew of bright colors.High Camp Tumbler setWhether serving your beverage neat or on the rocks, these insulated stainless steel tumblers are designed to last through countless happy hours in the backyard or backcountry. They also pack up neatly in a wool felt case for easy carrying.Wise Owl OutfittersCamping hammockLounge comfortably in your own backyard with this outdoor camping hammock. It folds down into a small storage pouch, and is incredibly lightweight while still able to hold up to 400 pounds.Swiss ArmyClassic KnifeFor any outdoorsy traveler on your list, you can't go wrong with a classic Swiss Army knife. It fits in a small fanny pack or sling bag and comes in handy for hiking or camping adventures.GutimoRechargeable hand warmers (pack of two)A set of rechargeable hand warmers like this two-pack can keep your fingers warm for up to 12 hours on a three-hour charge, and means you don't have to abandon exploring some magnificent winter wonderland vistas due to the chill.LifestrawPeak Series personal water filterCompact, durable, and endlessly reliable, this straw filter is an adventurer's essential—capable of transforming even the murkiest stream into safe, drinkable water. It’s the kind of smart, ultralight gear you’ll be glad to have on hand, whether you’re trekking through the backcountry or navigating an off-the-grid escape.NomadixThe Original towelMade from certified post-consumer recycled plastic, this ultra-absorbent towel can be used for yoga, camping, the pool, and pretty much everything in between. It’s also guaranteed to stand out on the beach courtesy of the vibrant print options available, from classic stripes to national park–inspired patterns.Sip SoloBeverage syrup variety packNo need to settle for bad hotel coffee. These compact, individually packaged syrups (about the size of a tea bag) are easy to travel with, so you can perfect your morning latte every time. The variety pack includes flavors like rose vanilla, lavender honey, pistachio coconut, and salted pecan praline.Clothing, shoes, and accessoriesQuinceOrganic cotton oversized cardiganA warm cardigan is an essential for chilly fall and winter mornings. Throw on this one to run errands, venture out to a museum, grab coffee (or a cocktail), and, well, pretty much anything in between.QuinceMongolian cashmere crewneck sweaterAnother one of our favorite staples from Quince is this cashmere crewneck. It's super-soft, lightweight, and works for just about any winter getaway.EverFoamsWomen's fuzzy slippersWith over 10,000 Amazon reviews, these best-selling slippers are made for cozy days at home. They have a soft, fuzzy lining, cloud-like memory foam cushioning, and nonslip soles for the occasional trip outside. Even better, they're machine washable.BombasGripper slipperThis sock-meet-slipper bootie has a soft brushed lining and grippy bottoms and comes in everything from heathered neutrals to festive Fair Isle patterns.QuinceMongolian cashmere glovesCold hands are no match for these Quince gloves, made from 100% Mongolian cashmere. The longer cuffs provide extra coverage on chilly days, while touchscreen-friendly fingertips mean you won't have to take them off every time you reach for your phone.Todd SnyderSelvedge Chino Dad capWhether you're having a bad hair day or are just going for that model-off-duty look, Todd Snyder's Dad cap elevates any airport uniform. It's made from the same Japanese selvedge used in the brand's best-selling Chinos.BombasMerino Cashmere Blend Rib Calf socksThese Bombas socks add a little luxury to an everyday essential with a soft, cozy blend of merino wool and cashmere. They're thick and warm without sacrificing breathability, with built-in arch support and a seamless toe for added comfort. They come in three sizes—small, medium, and large—for a more personalized fit.Todd SnyderArgyle dress sockSocks might not seem like the most exciting gift to open on Christmas morning, but Todd Snyder's Argyle dress socks will have you thinking differently. Made in Italy with a cotton blend, they're soft and sophisticated enough for the most special of occasions.Beauty and wellnessRhodeThe peptide eye prep setLand at your destination feeling refreshed by popping on Rhode's depuffing eye patches. These hydrating patches actually stay in place without sliding around.Summer FridaysJet Lag essentials setGive dry, tired skin a little TLC with the Summer Fridays Jet Lag Essentials Set, featuring four travel-size bestsellers: a hydrating face mist, serum, moisturizing mask, and depuffing eye patches.RhodePocket Pair lip + cheek setThis limited-edition Rhode set pairs the brand's creamy Pocket Blush with its glossy Peptide Lip Tint for an easy pop of color on the go. Both formulas are hydrating and buildable, and the set comes in three coordinated shade combinations, from soft pink to warm brown to mauve.L'OccitaneNourishing Travel Favorites setKeep dry hands soft and moisturized on the go with this L'Occitane gift set. It includes three travel-sized hand creams made in France, featuring the brand's signature shea butter, warm almond, and calming lavender scents. They're just the right size to tuck into a purse, carry-on, or desk drawer.AesopGinger Flight Therapy roll-onWhether you’re looking for relief after a marathon of luggage-laden travel or a little help unwinding from back-to-back Zoom meetings, this soothing botanical blend of lavender, ginger root, and geranium provides just the right dose of self-care in a TSA-approved rollerball size. Pro tip: Dab it on your pulse points and pair with an eye mask and noise-canceling headphones for brief moments of zen.Act+AcreScalp gua shaThere’s nothing more relaxing than a soothing scalp massage. This beautiful, weighty comb is carved from jade (and comes in varying shades of serene green). It is designed to relieve tension and help stimulate circulation. It’s perfect for pairing with your favorite hair treatment for a calming self-care ritual.Le LaboAll-In-One cleanserInfused with aloe and botanical extracts, this skin-softening cleanser from New York City–based Le Labo can be used head-to-toe—taking a simple act of hygiene to the next level with its classic yet luxurious scent of lavender, bergamot, and violet.Kate McLeodGrounding stoneFormulated with five ultra-nourishing oils and butters (cocoa, sweet almond, apricot kernel, fractionated coconut, and avocado), this sculptural moisturizer softens as it comes into contact with warm, dry skin. Bask in the calming mix of woody vetiver and zesty bergamot, and use it as a massage stone for an incredibly relaxing and indulgent self-care ritual that rivals a day at your favorite spa.Merit BeautyMini Great Skin SerumGive the gift of great skin with Merit Beauty's best-selling serum. This mini size is TSA-approved and fits nicely in any Dopp kit.Merit BeautyFlush cream blushMerit's Flush cream blush is just the right size to keep in your purse for quick, on-the-go touches. It melts effortlessly into the skin and makes blending in your blush easier than ever.Home goodsBee HarmonyHoney flightRaw, sustainably sourced, and utterly therapeutic, these wildcrafted honeys are hand-harvested from apiaries around the country. Break up the set to gift as foodie stocking stuffers—or hoard one or two for yourself.FazeekTeaspoonsThese beautiful color-blocked teaspoons from Australian brand Fazeek are hand-blown from durable borosilicate glass, and are useful for drizzling toppings or mixing concoctions. They make for a memorable gift for the foodie friend who has everything.VoluspaMediterranean lemon large jar candleBring a taste of the Italian coast home with this Voluspa candle, which blends bright scents of Sicilian lemon and bergamot with notes of jasmine and warm amber. Plus, the embossed glass jar and metal lid make it pretty enough to leave on display.Carrière FrèresBotanical Palet necklaceA unique gift for the Francophile in your life, these wax discs by storied candle brand Carrière Frères can be used in suitcases, closets, or the car—anywhere you’d like to add a soft lavender scent. They also double as a fragrant ornament, and thanks to the ornate packaging, require no additional wrapping.Need more gift inspo?The best gifts for every travelerThe best travel gifts on AmazonThe best travel gifts under $25The best gifts for womenThe best gifts for menThis article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.7 Airport Essentials That Make Morning Departures, Quick Connections, and Layovers SmootherJane Sung is a Los Angeles-based writer and editor with over 15 years of experience creating travel, beauty, and style content for print and digital media. She has previously held senior editorial roles at Lucky magazine and NBC Universal. Her writing has appeared in Afar, Allure, Condé Nast Traveler, Forbes, NYMag, ... Read MoreLauren Dana Ellman is a New York-based freelance writer and editor. A graduate of Syracuse University, Lauren's work has been published in Brides, The Knot, Allure, Elle, SmarterTravel, and ShermansTravel, among other digital lifestyle publications. ... Read More