Travel bloggers tend to be a difficult set to buy gifts for- usually because they are on the go and don’t want a lot of extra “stuff” to weigh them down.
Now, when you ask a travel blogger what they would like to receive, their answer usually begins with “A trip to…”. Unless you’re a frequent flier with loads of miles to spare (and if you are I would love to claim you as a long lost close relation), that type of gift is just not going to happen. So what do you get that globetrotting go-getter on your list?
Travel Blogger Gifts under $50
Amazon or iTunes digital gift cards. Available in denominations starting at $5; these always fit- as long as you know if your recipient is an Apple or an Android.
Travel bloggers take loads of pictures and video, so you can never go wrong with an SD card in a large capacity like 32 or 64 GB. Or, if you want to really impress them, give a wifi enabled SD card.
Skype is a terrific free online service, but did you know that it can be used to call land lines and cell phones? Skype credits are a welcomed gift for keeping in touch.
Every globe-trotting traveler knows that power adapters burn out at exactly the wrong time. Surprise them with multiple adapters which are inexpensive to purchase in the US but crazy expensive when you’re overseas.
Travel bloggers are always in need of more power. An external battery charger will keep them on the go.
Gifts under $100
Every female blogger I know wants a camera bag that doesn’t look like a typical camera bag. A terrific option that won’t break the bank is a DSLR Messenger Bag by Janine King. Really want to spoil your blogger? She would likely squeal if an Epiphanie bag were found under the tree.
For the more active travel blogger, the Lowepro Photo Sport Sling with easy access to equipment, loads of room and even a rain cover can’t be beat.
Really versatile luggage is always a welcome gift for any traveler, and you can get a terrific bag at IKEA. The Upptäcka Backpack on Wheels is incredibly versatile with a padded computer compartment, detachable day pack, and organized compartments.
Gifts over $100
If you really want to splurge on your adventure traveler, the Olympus Tough TG 820 Waterproof Shockproof camera can be submerged, dropped, frozen or squished, and should still work.
The international traveler on your list will thank you every time they try to relax on a flight if you spoil them with a cashmere travel set with cozy blanket, eye mask and cover for the suspect airline pillows.
Does your traveler want to upgrade from a point and shoot camera, but doesn’t want the bulk and weight of a DSLR? A micro four-thirds camera like the Olympus PEN is the best of both worlds!
Travel bloggers can always use more pockets, so a Scottevest item like the Molly Jacket or the Essential Travel Jacket for Men is both stylish and handy.
Ideas for Travelin’ Kids
Where travel bloggers are, you’ll often find traveling kids.
Having their own luggage encourages independence and is a source of pride for kids (as well as helpful to mom and dad!) The Trunki is both fun and functional for the little ones, and tweens will love the Travel Cool bags from TrendyKid.
You never know what you will get when you give a kid a camera. An easy to use point and shoot camera lets them record their own travel memories.
Something to cuddle and use on long flights or drives? You can never go wrong with a Pillow Pet.
What are your “go to” gift ideas for travel bloggers?
Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate. All photos from the linked websites except the introductory image, which was taken by the author.
Need more recommendations? See the 6th Annual Type-A Parent Gift Guide for Bloggers!
Special thanks to Therapon Skin Health for sponsoring this year’s gift guide. Be sure to like Therapon on Facebook and follow @theraponskin on Twitter.














Jessie Voigts
fantastic list!
Erin Bender
Great article, got some ideas to tell my parents for christmas now
Carolyn Sasek
I was just thinking about this 'list' last night
Jennifer Frosch Leal
Great list…..now, off I go to pass this along to family and friends.
Kelby Hartson Carr
Hahah… exactly.
The Barefoot Nomad Travel Site
Great list, Jody! Our seven year old is too big for a kids camera (they take bad photos), but we can't quite trust him with our regular point and shoot, so we let him use our rugged waterproof, drop-proof point and shoot. Works so well – he can take good photos, and we don't have to worry about our camera being ruined!
Jody L Halsted
Thanks! What we did was find decent used point & shoot cameras on ebay or CL. We usually find them for under $10, they take decent photos (in fact, I use them on my website!) and the girls have "grown up" cameras.
Annie André
great list. I actually got some good ideas. I've been thinking of getting my husband one of those travel jackets that have a bunch of hidden pockets inside. I think Steve Scott makes them. I can't remember. but there is a pocket for everything, money, ipad, phone. Even in the backof the jacket there are hidden compartments. But on the outside it just liooks like a normal jacket.
Jody L Halsted
Hi Annie. So glad you enjoyed the list! The jacket you're referring to is a Scottevest, company owned by Scott Jordan. My husband has the Fleece 5.0 and loves it. Personally, I adore my Molly Jacket.
Annie André
Thanks Jody. I'm getting ready for christmas and my hubby needs one of these vests. He likes those fisherman type vests with all the pockets so i thought this would be a nice compromise.
Jody L Halsted
I really like my vest. My husband loves his Fleece 5.0- bonus- the arms are detachable and it can be a vest, too!