As a tour guide and travel writer, I think a little too much about the things I take traveling. After all, I live out of a backpack for a good portion of the year, so I really cannot have anything with me that is useless, poor quality, or doesn’t serve me exactly the way it needs to. For the traveler in your life (or maybe you are that traveler), I have some gift suggestions for tried and true travel gear as well as fun stocking-stuffers to elevate the next adventure – here are my favorite travel things for 2025:

Footcare

Ryka Shoes

I’ve had some foot pain recently, and I don’t know where it’s coming from. I cannot bring myself to buy Hokas, they are just too ugly, so I did some research and found Ryka. This brand specializes in women’s shoes, designed for women’s feet, and they have made a huge difference. No foot pain, and they come in lots of cute styles. By far, my favorite find this year!

Compression Socks – Wellow Bamboo Socks 

You’ve heard me rant about compression socks before, so have you bought them yet? They are great to relieve leg swelling from flights or walking, and they promote better circulation which can reduce some health risks. I like the wool ones from Sockwell, but these bamboo socks are more versatile for warmer climates.

Clothing & Underwear

Cashmere Zip Hoodie

I’ve been trying to come up with the perfect airplane outfit, and a zip up cashmere hoodie is the way. I have it in black and it’s very versatile.

NYDJ Waist Match Jeans

I wouldn’t normally recommend jeans for traveling, but these are the most comfortable jeans I’ve ever owned. The waistband is stretchy, making them soft enough to even sleep on a plane in. They even come in tall now!

Wool Undies

For long flights, these are the most comfortable undies I’ve found. They wash up quickly and are breathable. Once you try wool undies you cannot go back.

Wire-free bras

Another good choice for comfort on long flights and long travel days, these bras don’t dig with underwires or tight straps. Especially nice if you have boob-related back pain. While I prefer the brand “Evelyn and Bobbie” this is a knock off for about half the price.

Accessories

Simple Modern Tote 

I recently went to a big travel conference, and as trade shows go, I knew I’d get tons of brochures and needed a bigger bag that could also hold my tablet. I found this simple tote bag, and I actually use it more than my more expensive messenger bag now. It’s lightweight, perfectly functional, and even has a special pocket for glasses.

Phone Case and Secure Strap

I’ve had my phone ripped out of my hands on a street corner, and my phone case and strap saved the phone. This is really a must for travelers, especially if you tend to be absent minded and leave things behind.

Electronics

Bose Headphones

There’s a reason that every business traveler has these headphones on. Once you have them, you can never go back to flying without them.

AirFly

This little dongle can be plugged into the airplane screen and connects your wireless headphones. The best use of it I’ve seen is for connecting Airpods to our group audio systems on tour. The pro version allows two people to connect to the same audio stream.

DeWalt Power Cords USB/USB-C 

I am so sick of phone cords that break or wear out, so I bought this at Home Depot. The toughest cords I’ve ever found, be sure to pick the 6’ length for hotel rooms with awkward outlets.

Health & Wellness

Welly First Aid Kit

If you haven’t put together your own Box of Awesome, this pre-made first aid kit is a good start and comes in a tough metal box.

Nuun Tablets 

Do you know how much flying dehydrates you? I’ve become more aware of how being dehydrated can affect your day, so I’ve started carrying these tablets and they’ve made a difference.

Travel Toothbrush 

This is a fancy upgrade if you like carrying a sonic toothbrush. Pair it with my favorite toothpaste too.

Motion Sickness Patches

These come in handy in a first aid kit. Perfect for bus travel, boat trips, you put these little stickers behind your ear for quick relief.

Stocking Stuffers

Travel Power Adapter 

I can never have enough of these, considering how many electronics we travel with these days. Works on most airplanes too!

Portable Mini Fan

For the woman in your life that gets overheated. One of my favorite guests props one of these up in her cleavage to stay cool!

Poo-pouri Air Freshener

This travel sized spray is great if you plan to share a room on the road so you can avoid an awkward situation. Especially good for cruisers.