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Whether it’s for a birthday bash, a Christmas gift, a bon voyage send-off, or simply a spontaneous “just because” moment, the quest for the ultimate travel gift can often feel like a daunting expedition. But let me share a little secret — there’s no universal definition of the perfect gift. No flawless luggage, no impeccable passport holder, and no headphones that fit every traveller’s taste.
Drawing from eight years of experience as a travel writer—characterised by four pairs of headphones, three different luggage brands, six backpacks and camera bags, one passport holder, and the inevitable loss of 40 water bottles — I can reveal that the key to the ideal travel gift lies in understanding the recipient. Are they a frequent business traveller? Do they favour soft cases over hard ones? Where is their next adventure, and what essentials do they lack?
It’s not about a one-size-fits-all solution but about tailoring your choice to suit their journey. So, toss aside the notion of a universally flawless gift and embrace the personalised adventure of finding the ideal travel companion for your favourite explorer.
To help you, I’ve put together the essential travel must-haves for every traveller, whether they’re travelling in economy or business, trekking Machu Picchu or navigating Paris’s retail golden triangle.
A Luggage for Every Situation
July, Carry On Pro, $395
Best for: The business traveller and light packer.
I’ve seen a July bag on pretty much every baggage carousel I’ve stood at this year, from Morocco to Thailand. It’s favoured for its vibrant colours and durability. Basically, they’ve made luggage sexy, and we thank them for that. But looks can only get you so far. Luckily, the Carry On Pro is equally practical, with a snap ‘on and off’ sleeve or hard shell pocket for your laptop and my favourite perk, the ejectable power bank. Whether you’re a business traveller zipping from city to city, going on a weekend road trip, or ready to tackle a three-week Euro trip with just a carry-on, let it be this bag. The Y-strap compression inside lets you pack just that little bit more in too.
A Backpack For Life
Nordace Siena Laptop Backpack, $276.74
Best for: Everyday life, students, urban travellers, and photographers.
Whether you’re a student, a photographer, or need a bag that fits everything but the kitchen sink for your travels, then this is it. The organisational pocket stitched inside is the highlight. There’s a place for your laptop, pens, books, chargers, lunch and a pocket for your emotional support water bottle. Travellers can feel secure knowing their valuables are in an anti-theft pocket. There’s even a USB charging port, so you’re never without power for your phone. It slides onto a luggage handle and can fit in any overhead cabin compartment or under the seat in front of you. For those who like to look stylish when travelling, there are nine colours to choose from, including a chic beige ($256.56).
A Fanny Pack With Style
AIKENDO Fanny Pack, $32.18
Best for: Runners, hikers, backpacker-style travel.
At one point in the last three or so years, fanny packs have become cool again, so here’s one that’s both stylish and great for travel, especially when hiking or running around a city. Keep everything within arm’s reach with this lightweight, water-resistant hip hugger. You can wear it around your waist, sling it over your shoulder, on the side or in the back. The large main compartment is a great size for sunglasses, phones, and a GoPro if you want. There’s really no downside to a fanny pack.
A Mini Case For All Your Tech
July Tech Kit, $85
Best for: Photographers, tech-heavy travellers, and everyone.
Whether you fold, roll, or crumble your tech cords, this transparent kit keeps it all in one place. However, it’s not just for tech; you can use it for jewellery, camera bits and bobs, toiletries, contact lenses, and anything else, really. Get it personalised for a special touch.
The Only Passport Holder You Need
The Daily Edited Olivia Passport Holder (now $55.30, was $79.00)
Best for: Everyone.
I’ve had just about every passport holder type, from the wallet to the folio-style, and given that most visas and important documents are digital these days, there’s really no need to add another bulky item to your bag. Instead, all you need is something to protect your passport, and preferably something stylish. This one from the Daily Edited is classic, can be monogrammed, and is reasonably priced, making for a great gift with a personal touch.
A Power Bank For Your Phone
Cygnett ChargeUp Boost Gen 3 20K Power Bank (now $63.95, was $79.95)
Best for: Everyone and that person who always has a low battery.
A Toiletry Bag to End All Toiletry Bags
Bon Maxie Bon Voyage Travel Toiletry Bag, $50
Best for: That traveller who brings their entire skincare and make-up collection on holiday.
Striking the ideal balance between size and spaciousness, this versatile bag boasts 14 pockets for organised storage of skincare and makeup essentials. Ditching the traditional plastic window, it offers a sleek design while remaining fully washable for easy maintenance. Its flexibility allows it to effortlessly fit into backpacks, weekend bags, or suitcases, making it the perfect solution for on-the-go travellers seeking both style and functionality.