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1. An Airfly wireless transmitter so they can connect their AirPods and other wireless headphones to that ancient airplane seat display and watch movies or TV shows without having to pay for that crappy pair the airline gives you.
They can also connect up to two pairs of earbuds at a time, and it has 16+ hours of battery life for suuuper long flights.
Twelve South is a husband-and-wife-owned biz based in Charleston, South Carolina, and has just 20 team members! They've been designing accessories inspired by and made for Apple products since 2009.
BTW, BuzzFeed Shopping editor Chelsea Stuart can vouch for this genius device: "Last year I splurged on some AirPods Max and for the amount of money I threw down on them, I was determined to get as much use out of them as possible and that included on plane rides. With the AirFly Pro, I can connect my headphones via Bluetooth and use the seat-back screen without having to fiddle with the free wired headphones they hand out that 1.) have horrible sound quality and 2.) don't fit my ears in the slightest. (I swear my ear canals are tiny or something??)"
Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here).
Get it from Amazon for $54.99 (available in two colors and two other styles).
2. Or a universal phone mount, aka a GAME CHANGER if they spend their entire flight watching downloaded content on their phone. This handy gadget will let them *mount* it on the back of the seat in front of them so they can lean back and watch comfortably without ending up with neck pain after a few hours.
Perilogics is a small business creating hyper-functional tool holsters and bags for carrying your stuff on the go.
Promising review: "I bought this nifty gadget about six months ago for a multi-leg, ultra-long-haul trip and it more than held up the entire duration. I was able to finagle it to fit the tray tables on different planes, and like others, I find the height just nice when clamped onto a stowed tray table. It also works on my roller carry-on handle during layovers. However, I find myself using it a lot outside of travel too! Work-wise, I've clamped it onto my office desk shelving to hold my phone at eye level beside my computer. At home, I simply clamped it to a deck of cards and it turns into a versatile stand that I can place on any flat surface. Heck, I've been using it to hold my phone comfortably at eye level while watching videos in bed. It's extremely well-built, and I find myself fidgeting with it all the time. Thus far it still feels solid and I don't anticipate breaking it any time soon. Even if it does break, I'll be happy to buy another one or two of it!" —Earendil
Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here).
Get it from Amazon for $10.34 (available in three colors).
3. A reusable collapsible coffee cup because proper caffeination is *essential* to travel but space for their usual bulky thermos is...non-existent. This can handle hot *or* cold drinks with a temp-resistant sleeve to protect their hand, and when they're done, it folds down for stashing in their bag. We love an eco-friendly solution for both travel AND everyday life!
It's also microwave-safe! Note that the 12-ounce size does not include a straw, but both the 16-ounce and 24-ounce sizes do.
Stojo is a small biz founded by three New York dads who wanted a better way to get their convenient coffee fix without all the waste. Now they make stylish collapsible essentials in a variety of sizes and colors, including bottles and food storage containers.
BuzzFeed Shopping editor Danielle Healy has this and loves it. She writes: "This is of the first zero-waste swaps I made and I've never looked back. If you buy to-go coffee – whether you're jet-setting or just grabbing a mid-day pick-me-up — this cup is a must-have. So long as you remember to bring it, it's all the convenience of to-go coffee with none of the waste. It's leakproof and, when you're all done, it collapses down teeny tiny and can be tossed back in your bag. Oh! And it comes with a straw, so all you iced coffee lovers can get in on the action, too."
Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here).
Get it from Amazon for $14.95+ (available in four sizes and in 24 colors).
4. And a collapsible water bottle so they can beat dehydration *and* those absurd airport water bottle prices while traveling. It rolls up to fit in the palm of their hand when empty — no more lugging around their bulky everyday bottle. Whether they're backpacking through cities or hiking to ancient ruins, they'll appreciate how little space it takes up in their bag and just how *useful* it is.
Promising review: "Bought these for my friends who travel frequently. Saves them from spending lots of cash on bottled water! The best feature is these bottles collapse with a securing strap. Pack 'em and get the bottle out when needed. These can fit in almost any crossbody or larger bag!" —LUV2OPR8
Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here).
Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in five colors, two styles, and multipacks).
5. A waterproof anti-theft backpack made to thwart pickpockets with a zipper that faces their back while they wear it, giving thieves no access to the pocket holding their valuables. It's still super cute, so it won't stand out in their travel photos, and its adjustable straps let them wear it as a backpack or sling style over one shoulder.
Promising review: "I bought this backpack to use as a purse while on vacation, and it worked perfectly. The main pouch is protected when you’re walking around because the zipper is protected by your back. There are also two side zippered pockets, one of which kept my phone and the other perfect for sunglasses and a few other items that I wanted to access more easily. I loved that I could wear it as a purse to dinner but use it as a backpack during the day so that my shoulder didn’t get tired." —Allison
Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here).
Get it from Amazon for $21.59+ (available in two sizes and seven colors).
6. A digital luggage scale ensuring there aren't any surprises when they get to bag drop-off and have to heave their suitcase onto that big scale. (The *last* thing they need is a last-minute fee — that's souvenir money!)
To use, just hook the scale to your luggage handle, lift up, and the LCD display will show the weight! You can also switch between pound and kilogram measurements.
BTW, BuzzFeed Shopping editor Elizabeth Lilly recently put this scale to the test while packing for a trip to Iceland — check out her demo of how it works on TikTok!
Promising review: "Took this for a 10-day trip overseas with lots of flights. Weighed the luggage as things were added to it/purchased, and when we weighed in at the airport, it was perfectly accurate. Very important when the airline will charge $70 more for a suitcase that is too heavy or make you open the whole thing up and take stuff out in order to fly with it. Saved so much hassle." —B. M. O'Connor
Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here).
Get it from Amazon for $9.35+ (available in five colors).
7. A 2-in-1 hair tool so they can stop making room for both their curling iron and straightener in their suitcase — this will take up literally half the space and give them ~options~ for how they want to style their hair every day. Reviewers swear by it for international travel — it's dual-voltage!
Promising review: "The international traveler's BFF. Don't be fooled by the tiny price or size, this little baby is serious. If you are looking for a small travel option rather than lugging your big straightener and giant curling iron around the world, then I think you'll love this. It performs really well, turning my frizzy, wavy hair into a smooth and sleek style. The curling iron option also creates shiny, silky lasting curls! It's easy to transition between both. I also like the grippy handle and the fact that the curling iron clip is a different color than the straightening bars because that helps me see how I should be maneuvering it around. The voltage goes up to 240 so you are good using it internationally without a converter (but you will need an adapter just to fit it into various foreign outlets). At this price, definitely give it a try and flaunt your tresses abroad." —Christine
Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here).
Get it from Amazon for $59.95 (available in black or white).
8. A portable no-install door lock to give them a little extra peace of mind that no one will be able to break through their locked hotel door when they're staying by themselves. The durable steel body is inserted into the jamb of the door to add an extra layer of security so *no one* can just barge into their room during the day or night.
Just give them a heads-up that if they're flying with it, they'll want to keep it in an easy-to-reach spot in their bag, as one of our BuzzFeed Shopping editors said TSA flagged hers at two separate airports.
Promising review: "I purchased two of these, one for my apartment door and one for travel. Home: This fits perfectly on my front door. It was tested when the maintenance man at my building showed up earlier than expected. He knocked, and before I could get to the door, he was already trying to open the door AND COULD NOT. This held, and he was really pushing. I know someone can get in if they really are determined, but the level of noise they'd cause would alert neighbors and give me time to react. Exactly what I bought it for. Hotel: I've stayed in one hotel and this did fit. It was loose in the door jamb, but once the door was closed, it didn't budge when I tested it. Nothing is 100% secure. But this device definitely makes my door more secure then the lock and chain do! I highly recommend for anyone in an apartment and travelers. I practiced taking the lock off to be sure I could do it in a fire. It takes less than three seconds to set up and remove. Very happy with purchase." —nancy w.
Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here).
Get it from Amazon for $17.95.
9. A weighted sleep mask because yes, they've probably seen other seasoned travelers wearing sleep masks on long flights, but this one doesn't just block the light from the window shade their neighbor refuses to pull down. It puts gentle pressure around the eyes (but not *on* them) for a comforting, heavy feel that'll have them drifting off into snooze land...in...no time... 😴
Promising review: "I am a flight attendant and have a wacky work schedule. I frequently have to sleep during the day. These are SO comfortable and cool as well. I have ordered and tried out at least 10 eye masks off of Amazon and have found these to be the best. They are SO comfortable and do not have Velcro on the straps, for which I am thankful, because I usually sleep on my back and am sensitive to the thickness of eye masks that have the Velcro straps." —sw
Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here).
Get one from Amazon for $14.99.
10. Or a simply brilliant hoodie from Pond Los Angeles that has a sleeping mask BUILT-IN so they can pull their hood up and get some shut-eye; PLUS, they'll stay warm despite those constantly frigid plane temps. It's soft, it's cozy, it has a kangaroo pocket for ~secret storage~ — I mean, talk about the holy grail of hoodies.
Reviewers say it's oversized, so for a snugger fit, size down.
Pond Los Angeles is an Asian- and woman-owned small business that creates bags and clothing perfect for traveling.
Promising review: "I fly a lot and am constantly trying to find a hoodie with a big hood to cover my eyes so I can catch up on some beauty sleep on flight. I saw this product on Instagram and knew it would be a game-changer. I was able to use it recently for the first time on an early morning flight and let me tell you, it is EVERYTHING I was looking for and more. It’s comfy, cozy, oversized, and the eye covers make you feel like you’re in a whole other world and not packed like a sardine on a plane. My over-ear headphones fit perfectly under it and I got the best sleep I’ve had on a plane — EVER!" —Heather G.
Shipping info: Orders are processed and shipped within two business days, and arrive 2–5 days after shipping. Check out their full shipping FAQ here.
Get it from Pond Los Angeles for $102.40+ (originally $128, available in women's sizes XS–XXL and five colors).
11. A wheeled carry-on bag so they can stop worrying about whether there's enough overhead bin space for their bag while boarding. This bag can fit underneath their airplane seat, AND it rolls so their shoulder won't be aching the whole flight from hauling it across several terminals.
My mom got me a very similar carry-on bag for Christmas several years back, and it's come in handy more times than I can count!
Promising review: "This bag was absolutely perfect! So happy I didn’t have to pay for a checked or carry-on bag with Spirit because this bag flew for FREE as a personal item. Might I add I packed five outfits, two swimsuits, three small purses, three pairs of sandals, two pairs of sunglasses, and a small bag of makeup all in this bag. (I would suggest getting a compressed packing cube to save a lot of space like I did.) Definitely buying my husband one too. Highly recommend if you don’t wanna ever pay for Spirit’s bag fees again." —Amazon Customer
Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here).
Get it from Amazon for $50.77 (available in four colors).
12. A sturdy, lightweight eight-compartment pill organizer that's so small, it'll fit into the palm of their hand — because consolidating pills into this > packing half-empty bottles for a trip. Leaving behind their prescription meds isn't exactly an option, but they don't have to be a space-hogger, either. (Since this comes in a three-pack, it'd be a great stocking stuffer too!)
Promising review: "My husband and I travel a lot and take a number of prescription drugs. It was always a hassle accessing our medication when needed, so I purchased this organizer to make things easier. I used a label maker and labeled each little compartment, and it has performed wonderfully. I highly recommend this organizer to anyone who travels and needs medications throughout the day." —Jacqueline
Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here).
Get a three-pack from Amazon for $5.78.
13. And a travel jewelry case because delicate necklaces, earrings, and bracelets are one of the trickiest things to pack without them getting tangled (to the point of being unwearable) or lost in the abyss that is their suitcase. This compact case keeps everything organized and safely tucked away for all their travel accessorizing.
Promising review: "I purchased this box for a weekend getaway. In the past I have just thrown all of my jewelry into little makeup bags, but then everything gets tangled and disorganized. I love that this box keeps everything organized and leaves all my necklaces tangle free!" —Dogmom206
Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here).
Get it from Amazon for $19.98 (available in 12 colors).
14. A bungee cord made to strap their handbag, duffel bag, or coat to the top of their suitcase so it can double as their own personal pack mule as they dash through the airport. That leaves one of their hands entirely free for a quick Dunkin' stop on their way to the terminal — and their shoulders free of all that extra weight.
Promising review: "Don't know how I traveled without this piece of basic equipment, but it is a third hand and arm when you need it most. Easy to put into action, easy to put away when you are finished. For instance...I need a heavy coat outside the airport or conference center, but inside, it is a pain in the neck to carry and store while seated. I fold that big garment in half and attach it to my roll-around with this bungee, and the coat stays out of the way, stays clean, and is accessible. If you are tired of dealing with excess stuff while traveling, or you are in school/work and need to carry a coat around or a project around all day, then this is the go-to solution. What are you waiting for... put this in your cart!" —Patrick Molina
Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here).
Get it from Amazon for $15.99 (available in three colors).
15. A three-pack of noise-reducing inflight earplugs that'll be a godsend for anyone who experiences painful pressure and ear popping when the plane is landing or taking off. They'll also reduce the noise from that loud passenger behind them who's already telling their life story to their neighbor. Sweet, sweet relief.
Promising review: "Never fly without these! Before I found these, I endured excruciating pain in my ears upon descent and landing. Felt like a hot poker being driven into each ear. My ears would also be plugged up, and it would often take two to three days for them to resume their normal state of being. I insert them about an hour before landing, as the plane is making its slow descent. I'm comfortable and the most discomfort I experience is a slight adjustment of pressure feeling in my sinus. NO PAIN. NO TEARS." —K. Tombrella
Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here).
Get a three-pack from Amazon for $18.49.
16. A charger organizer I can almost guarantee is a better solution than whatever they're currently doing to pack their various chargers (for me, it's shoving them into my backpack pocket and hoping for the best). This'll keep everything neatly organized and contained, take up minimal space, and even has a zip-up pocket they could put their portable charger and other small items in.
Mister Crafter is a small business that creates handmade, personalizable travel products, wallets, and accessories made from 100% top-quality genuine cowhide leather.
Promising review: "I bought this for my husband before a trip and he loved it! The quality and durability were obvious the moment I took it out of the box. Definitely recommend this company and product." —Maureen Murphy-Weiss
Shipping info: Estimated delivery is 2–10 days after ordering, and free shipping is included! See the estimated arrival date range on the listing.
Get it from Mister Crafter on Etsy for $39.80+ (originally $56.86+; available in two sizes and two colors; personalization also available).
17. And a 3-in-1 magnetic wireless charger that folds up *so* small but can juice up their iPhone, AirPods, and Apple Watch all at once! It's so slim, they could literally carry it in their pocket (and free up their backpack for other items).
Promising review: "I use this product to charge my iPhone 13, AirPods, and Apple Watch. Prior to this 3-in-1 compact purchase, I have purchased three different kinds of 3-in-1 chargers — I frequently travel between school and home with carry-on bags on airlines, and all of the previous stand version chargers don't fit well in my bags, or I am always worried I will break them. This is compact and folds so well that I can fit it in my carry-on or in any zipper pockets without having to worry about breaking anything. Charger works really well, and it is the best compact one you can find on the market. Love it and been using it for two months now with no issues!!" —Sbreddy
Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here).
Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in nine colors).
18. A pair of compression socks in case they've accepted aching, swollen feet as a reality of long travel days — fortunately, it doesn't have to be that way. These apply gentle pressure to help keep swelling down *and* provide support for their heels and arches so their feet aren't a complete mess after an international plane ride and full day of sightseeing.
Promising review: "I bought these to travel to Ireland in August. My feet swell whenever I’m in buses, trains, or airplanes. I knew I was going to be traveling all the time in Ireland for 2–3 hours at a time so I bought these to help with the swelling. I wore them in my rain boots on hikes and with my sandals. They worked so incredibly well. My ankles and feet did not swell. Also I got so many compliments and was asked so many times where I got these by runners and athletes. Great buy and I’m buying more!" —Kimberlysanchez10
Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here).
Get them from Amazon for $10.95+ (available in four sizes and nine colors).
19. A bendy travel pillow that's leagues better than that old neck pillow they've been hauling around for years. This one isn't stuck in a U-shape; instead, they can twist, fold, and bend it to accommodate the most comfortable sleeping position whether they're in a car, plane, bus, or train.
Promising review: "I’m a flight attendant and I travel with this pillow all the time! In hotel rooms I use it to support my neck, on the plane I use it to support my lumbar area. When I drive it helps my lower back. I love that it has a liner that can be removed to wash. I bought my boyfriend one too and it goes everywhere we do!" —Debbie
Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here).
Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in six colors).
20. Or a blissfully comfy, ergonomic Trtl neck pillow in place of that bulky neck pillow that's an absolute *pain* to lug around while traveling. It's waaay more space-efficient and lightweight (not to mention more ergonomic and comfortable).
It also easily attaches to backpacks and luggage handles (see the photo on the right), weighs less than half a pound, and is machine washable!
Promising review: "I have tried many travel pillows, from the traditional U-shaped memory foam pillows to the large inflatable one you put on your dining tray that you put your face down on. This is by far the best one. It is high enough to give your head support, yet isn't too restricting. This is the third one my family has purchased." —P. Chang
Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here).
Get it from Amazon for $59.99 (available in four colors).
21. A hanging toiletry bag that might just be the GOAT of toiletry bags considering it seemingly breaks the laws of physics to fit in more bottles and tubes than you ever thought possible. Bonus: It has a built-in hook for hanging it so you can see what's inside each transparent compartment at a glance *and* save that precious hotel counter space.
BuzzFeed Shopping writer Emma Lord says, "I will scream this thing's virtues on every corner of this earth. I used this on an eight-day international trip. It fit a veritable arsenal of products — all of my skincare, makeup, hair supplies, toothbrush, toothpaste, and deodorant were wedged in the different pockets, and still compacted easily and went right into my carryon backpack. It made setting up at the hotel a two-second process of hanging it up and having all my products instantly accessible to me and easy to put away. I cannot imagine traveling without it, especially now that I've used it on a multi-city trip where it was so handy to fold back up and take through several hotels. At one point, I forgot to properly close a lotion, and it exploded a bit, and the bag was super easy to clean from the inside!
Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here).
Get it from Amazon for $18.39+ (available in two sizes and 12 colors/patterns).
22. A pocket-sized, refillable travel perfume atomizer for the globetrotter with a prized perfume collection that's always tricky to travel with. They'll just pump from their regular perfume bottle into this atomizer to take their signature scents all over the world without fear of leakage.
BuzzFeed Shopping editor Elizabeth Lilly says, "That's me [above] pumping my signature perfume into one of these travel atomizers I've been using for about a year. It's great to just throw in your purse on the reg for a fragrance re-up throughout the day. As you can see, it's about the size of my thumb and therefore takes up very little room. Plus! It's smaller than most rollerball travel fragrances you can pick up. This first one is working so well, that I just have the other three in storage. But if this one bites the dust this summer during travels, I'll be OK about digging into my stores to use one of the remaining three...especially at this price point."
Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here).
Get a four-pack from Amazon for $7.55.
23. A set of travel compression cubes with a genius double-zipper system that'll press out excess air and condense the clothes to reduce bulk. They'll also be able to plan and pack specific outfits together, leaving them with a perfectly organized bag that won't turn into a mess by the end of their first travel day.
Promising review: "Must-have traveling accessory. Best way to pack a suitcase! I’ll never go back to stuffing everything in on its own. These compartments held way more than I imagined and kept me organized. I will definitely add more to my collection. Makes a great gift for frequent travelers, too!" —Lisa
Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here).
Get them from Amazon for $18.95+ (available in 10 styles and in packs of two, three, or six).
24. Or, for a particularly long stint of travel, vacuum storage bags designed to squeeze out every bit of air and increase their storage space by a whopping 80%. If they're traveling with bulky apparel like coats and sweaters — or just want to bring a wider variety of clothing options — these are a lifesaver.
And when they're not traveling, these are great for general storage purposes too!
Promising review: "We needed to travel for a long trip to Japan, which included two days of skiing, and make all our clothes and gear fit in carry-on luggage. These bags were incredible. They worked well without any issues, and they were able to compress ski pants and gloves and warm sweaters down to a nearly flat surface. Everyone in our family used at least two in their carry-on bag, and that was what allowed us to pack everything we needed. Each bag worked well repeatedly, as we opened and shut them during the trip. Highly recommend when traveling and space is an issue." —whitnch
Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here).
Get a six-pack from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in four sizes, as well as other multipacks).
25. A long-sleeve Hackwith Design House shirt they can style more than five ways! Don't worry, it's OK to be an outfit repeater (despite what Kate Sanders from Lizzie McGuire might have taught us) — except, they won't really be repeating an outfit when they have a piece this versatile. No need to pack more, just pack smarter!
Hackwith Design House is a woman-owned small business that creates made-to-order apparel. This shirt can be worn as a V-neck, off-the-shoulder, boatneck, V-back, and even open as a jacket.
Promising review: "I’m being honest when I tell you this is the most 'worth-it' top around. I read a review from some frequent flyer who claims this is her go-to for flying. She said aside from the top’s flexibility — which allows much less packing as the top itself looks and behaves like four shirts and a jacket — it’s a savior on planes because it allows you to get into a usually overheated plane, and to weather the transition to iceberg that happens about 20 minutes into most flights, and it holds its shape and looks great. I was skeptical, as I do not have the money to blow on someone else’s opinion, but my husband told me to try it as I have the same issues with temps. Long story short, I got it. It’s a gorgeous fabric despite my usually hating the ribbed thing. It’s nice. REALLY nice. Yes, it’s extraordinarily flexible, and yes, it’s like a jacket. Ordering in the off-white now." —Mary B.
Shipping info: Orders ship within 2–10 business days. Rush shipping (1–2 days) available at additional cost. See their full shipping info here.
Get it from Hackwith Design House for $145 (available in women's sizes XS–4X and in five colors).
26. Low-top Blowfish sneakers that forgo laces in favor of stretchy elastic bands. That means they can kick them off at security with ease and move right through TSA without having to sit and spend five minutes putting their shoes back on (while feeling like everyone around is judging).
Prime members: You can try before you buy!
Promising review: "Hands down, best sneakers (especially for travel). I purchased these prior to our family beach trip. I found out I was pregnant and needed some type of support when walking around on vacation, rather than flat flip-flops. I read the reviews for these shoes and they were raving. I see why!! These could sell for more money but are reasonably priced. Great quality. There are no laces to tie — elastic bands. I really love these with or without socks. They are roomy but not too big width-wise. This is not a very narrow shoe. I would recommend this shoe for anyone traveling as the go-to shoe. They’re easy to get on and get off. Super stylish. My girlfriend ordered a patterned pair after seeing mine after I wore them to work. Definitely a great deal!!." —Nicole_B
Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here).
Get them from Amazon for $23.03 (available in sizes 6-11 and dozens of colors).
27. A zipper puller for that highly specific and eternally frustrating problem of trying to zip a dress up on their own — now they just clip this to their zipper and pull the long cord to zip it right up. For frequent solo travelers, that means no more having to contort their body uncomfortably just to get dressed in the morning.
Promising review: "This product is fabulous and saves me. I have a lot of back zip dresses for work, and my daughter helps me zip. I had to travel recently and bought this product. I read a lot of negative reviews. Do not believe them. This product works every time if you CLIP IT ON ACCORDING TO THE DIRECTIONS. If you do not clip it on the zipper properly it does not work. I have used this on little zippers, hidden zippers, and tight dresses with zero problems. This works both ways to zip and unzip. I don’t know how I have worn back zip dresses all this time without this product. I can buy back zip clothes now with no worry about how to get them on and off without help." —Foxyang
Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here).
Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in three colors).
28. A rechargeable handheld fan if they're constantly dabbing sweat off their face and hate being hot more than any other feeling on this earth (same). For warm-weather travels, this little gadget will become as essential as their phone, wallet, and bottle of SPF — which they finally won't sweat off their face.
The fan has two speeds and can be recharged by any USB cable.
Promising review: "I have used this mini fan for more than three months now. It’s good quality and works well so far. The fan is small in size but powerful enough that it blows out a large amount of air. I took it with me to Disney World and thanks to this fan, I had a nice vacation and I will use it this whole summer. It’s really a lifesaver on really hot days — highly recommend!" —Cruz
Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here).
Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in 11 colors).
29. A universal travel adapter, especially if they're planning to hit a number of countries on an upcoming trip — it'll ensure they're never left looking in confusion at a strange new outlet shape like, "Um...what am I supposed to do with that?" No need to pack separate adapters like they usually do — and their USB cables can plug right into it!
This style has five USB ports (including a USB-C port!) and works with outlets in over 150 countries, including Australia, China, the UK, Ireland, Japan, Germany, France, and most of Europe. Check the listing for the full breakdown of countries!
Note: This isn't a voltage converter!
Promising review: "Fantastic for international travel so you can charge your phone or tablet, use your own electric hair products, etc. This has adapters to use just about anywhere you’re going. We’ve used these when visiting rural areas of the Philippines. Always seem to share and then give them to other family members from other areas of the world." —Lewie D.
Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here).
Get it from Amazon for $22.99 (available in rose gold or white, and another style in other colors with fewer USB ports).
30. A Pocket Blanket ensuring they always have a place to sit and rest their tired feet while taking in the sights (especially when all the benches are taken). It even has tethered corner stakes so the wind doesn't lift it up and blow it into the ocean, and it folds up so teensy that they can keep it with them at all times.
Matador is a small business that creates innovative, durable, and long-lasting travel and outdoor products, and in fact, the Pocket Blanket was the first product they ever created.
My former colleague Ciera Velarde loves this: "I have this blanket and it really, truly fits in your pocket! When folded completely out, it fits two people lying down and would probably fit up to four people sitting. It's super thin without being flimsy, and any water, dirt, or sand just rolls right off of it. I did get some sunscreen on my blanket the last time I used it, but I threw it in the washing machine when I got home and hung it to dry and it was as good as new. I took this to the beach this summer, and the stakes in the corner and the sand pockets were super helpful at keeping it from flying away in the wind. It also has a very subtle stitched guide on the blanket that you follow to fold it back up to pocket-sized. This blanket is so great and is a must for spontaneous hiking trips, beach days, or even a date in the park."
Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here).
Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in three colors and two sizes).
31. A portable lock box so they can go swim in the ocean or pool without worrying about about their valuables when no one else is around to watch them. This has a heavy-duty steel cable and a code needed to open it up, so their phone, wallet, and other essentials will be safely tucked away while they have their face down snorkeling.
You can also use this in your room to keep valuables protected.
Promising review: "I use this on cruises, pool days, and any beach trip I go on. I solo travel a lot and I would always be nervous to go swimming and leaving my stuff. I finally have peace of mind knowing my valuables are locked up. I have had zero issues with the lock. It does add some weight to your luggage. I have traveled with this to many different countries and the quality has stayed the same. Make sure your valuables will fit before purchasing. 😁" —Jennifer
Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here).
Get it from Amazon for $44.95 (available in five colors).
32. A 50-count set of laundry soap sheets for easily washing their clothes on the go so they can wear them on repeat and not have to fill up a bulky "dirty clothes" bag over the course of their trip. These'll come in clutch whether they're hiking or camping or just don't want to use their hotel's expensive laundry services — plus, they can pack them in their carry-on since they're non-liquid!
These work best with hand-washing! If they have quick-drying clothing they can pack, even better.
BuzzFeed Shopping editor Elizabeth Lilly uses these: "I travel just about any chance that I get and found a WHOLE lot of success with these little laundry sheets on an almost-three-weeks European vacation this summer where I carried on only and rewore outfits several times."
Promising review: "This came SO in handy during my vacation to Europe! I was making lots of different stops to places with different types of weather. With these laundry soap sheets, I was able to wash my clothes in the sink — letting me pack just the right amount of clothes for all the different places I went." —Katie Fujarski
Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here).
Get a pack of 50 from Amazon for $10.15 (also available in hand soap sheets).
33. A Hairbrella so they'll *literally* be covered next time they're caught in a downpour, without having to carry an unwieldy umbrella. This bb folds up into a little pouch and is more effective at keeping hair dry (even Niagara Falls was no match for it, reports one reviewer). Here's the real kicker, though: It's satin-lined, meaning it won't give them that dreaded "hat hair" or frizz once they're ready to take it off.
BTW, people who wear glasses say it keeps them from getting wet, too!
Hairbrella is a Black-owned small business that specializes in hats that protect hair from all kinds of weather.
Promising review: "Traveled to London last month with a raincoat that did not have a hood, and wanted something that would protect my head/hair/blowout without lugging an umbrella. This definitely did the trick. Two of the three days were rainy (some quite heavy), and my hair stayed totally dry. It stows nicely, too. I'm still learning how to adjust it while it's on my head (easier to adjust first and then put it on), and I wish the adjustment/clasp was less prominent. But, all in all, this is perfect for anyone who wants to keep their blowout fresh in the rain." —Miss Information
Shipping info: Arrives in 8–9 days, and faster shipping available at additional cost — check the listing to see the estimated arrival based on your zip code and see Amazon's full shipping information here.
Get it from Amazon for $44 (available in seven colors).
34. A space-efficient shoe bag for packing up to three pairs of shoes — like their sneaks for walking tours, sandals for the beach, and flats for a nice dinner. It's a great compromise between wearing the same shoes the *entire* trip and, well, bringing along their entire Carrie Bradshaw-level collection. Plus, it'll help keep the dirty soles from touching their freshly laundered clothes.
If their trip includes a mixed itinerary of casual days and fancier reservations, this is a great way to cover all of their bases.
Promising review: "You can totally fit three pairs of shoes in this! (I wear a women's size 6.5 shoe, and it fits heels, wedges, and sandals.) I bought two and will absolutely be buying more for my husband. 10/10 would recommend! I travel frequently, and I always overpack; this helped cut down space and stress immensely!" —Taylor
Shipping info: Free expedited Prime shipping available for Prime members, and non-Prime shipping options will still arrive by Christmas (see Amazon's full shipping information here).
Get it from Amazon for $22.99 (available in nine colors and patterns).
35. All-natural toothpaste tablets (a cool stocking stuffer, and great for someone who appreciates more eco-friendly products) to pack in place of their full-sized toothpaste that's prone to ~leakage~ inside their toiletries bag — these are lighter, smaller, and both mess- and plastic-free. All they have to do is pop one in their mouth, wet their toothbrush, and start scrubbing! And, of course, there's the other obvious benefit: These are solid, aka not subject to TSA's restrictions.
Huppy is an Asian-owned small biz creating plastic-free toothpaste tablets out of sustainably and ethically sourced ingredients. Everything is vegan, GMO- and cruelty-free. Best of all? Huppy donates 2% of revenue to fund sustainability initiatives!
BuzzFeed Shopping editor Danielle Healy says, "I love how zero-waste the process is with Huppy. You get a forever tin (pick from blue or blush) and then buy refills that come in compostable pouches. The whole chewing thing can be weird at first (my boyfriend found it aggressively minty, I just think they taste like Altoids), but both of us got used to it pretty quickly. With water, the tabs foam up pretty instantly, and after that, it's just a normal teeth-brushing experience. In fact, I'm actually finding that not dealing with drippy toothpaste and tiny screw-on caps is actually pretty delightful. And I'm absolutely not traveling with regular toothpaste ever again — this is a travel must-have regardless of what you use at home. A cleaner process both in and out of my mouth."
Shipping info: Orders are processed within three days, and most packages arrive within 2–7 days. See their full shipping info here.
Get 62 peppermint-flavored tablets from Huppy for $12 (available under Travel Size when you click "buy once" instead of the subscription — though you can also subscribe and save for 15% off!)
36. Finally, Solgaard's genius Carry-On Closet that, honestly, might allow them to forgo the price (and headache) of checking a bag for good. Its built-in compression and organization will help them pack your carry-on as efficiently as possible, with a six-tier pop-out shelving system that'll let them bring along all of their cutest 'fits for roaming the world without a bulky full-sized suitcase.
Psst: Its lining is made with plastic from coastal communities that otherwise could have ended up in the ocean! The smaller size is accepted as a carry-on by all international airlines, including European budget ones, while the larger one meets all US airline standards.
Promising review: "Great design that allows me to organize everything I need in much less space than I ever expected. Take your time to select and pack your things thoughtfully and you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how much you can get into this carry-on. I have several pieces of luggage in different sizes and I’m giving them away because this is all I need. The size and versatility make it the perfect carry-on." —Michelle C.
Shipping info: Orders processed in 1–2 days and arrive in 7–10 days with UPS ground. See their full shipping info here.
Get it from Solgaard for $275+ (originally $345+; available in two sizes and eight colors).
The reviews used in this post have been edited for length and clarity.