2017 Holiday Gift Guide for Globetrotters: Expert Picks for Travelers + Exclusive Giveaways
After careful curation, my 2017 Holiday Gift Guide for travelers is here—packed with practical, tested recommendations.
As an experienced globetrotter and frequent flyer, I've selected gifts ideal for women adventurers, backpackers, beach lovers, armchair explorers, and practical travelers. These are items I've personally owned, used, or added to my wishlist. Most are affordable, under $50, ensuring value without excess cost.
In the spirit of the season, I'm partnering for giveaways on featured items—details throughout.
For Globetrotter Girls
Travel Scarf with Hidden Pocket
Seeking a versatile accessory, I discovered Waypoint Goods, a Denver-based boutique studio crafting soft infinity scarves with concealed zipper pockets. I rely on mine daily in New York for securing keys, cards, and metro pass—perfect when purse-free. Stylish patterns available.
Order from Waypoint Goods or Amazon.
Price: $29.99
***Enter to Win a Travel Scarf***
Win a super-soft infinity scarf with hidden pocket in your chosen color/pattern. Partnered with Waypoint Goods for three giveaways—comment below to enter! Note: US shipping only.
RFID-Blocking Wallet
This RFID-blocking wallet safeguards against card cloning (a mishap I experienced at O’Hare). Sleek for cards and business essentials, it's both secure and stylish.
Price: $9.99
Travelon Anti-Theft Purse
Travelon's anti-theft purses suit any journey, from city breaks to long-haul. Features include RFID slots, removable LED light. Top picks: Messenger Bag ($34.99), Classic Mini Shoulder Bag ($29.90).
BLOM Headband
Designed by a fellow nomadic entrepreneur, BLOM headbands offer 14 wear styles, no-slip fit, and silky rayon viscose from natural wood cellulose—exceptionally comfortable and affordable.
Price: $14.95–$15.95
You Are Here: A Mindful Travel Journal
Ideal for note-takers, this journal captures trip memories affordably.
Price: $13.57
Everywoman’s Travel Journal
Beautifully designed with lined/blank pages for writing and sketching. Includes safety tips, remedies, packing lists, etiquette. Inner pocket for mementos.
Price: $11.36
Jewelry Roll Bag
End jewelry tangles with this organizer: three large zip pockets for chains/bracelets, three small for rings/earrings, plus hang hook.
Price: $12.99
Anti-Theft Secret Bra Pouch
Pacsafe's clip-on pouch secures cards/cash to bra—essential for backpackers.
Price: $9.76
For Frequent Flyers
The Old Fashioned Carry-On Cocktail Kit
TSA-approved tin with spoon, bitters, sugar, recipe—perfect in-flight sip. Moscow Mule kit ($40) for couples.
Price: $24 
The Perfect Travel Pillow
Inflatable, packable, easy-clean pillow for superior rest.
Price: $20.99
For Armchair Travelers
Travel-inspired home decor gifts.
1850 Vintage World Map Art on Canvas
Reproduction of antique map (6ft x 4ft, three panels)—stunning for enthusiasts.
Price: $109 
Large World Map Wall Art Canvas
Contemporary, colorful options from Etsy’s World Wall Art Shop.
Price: $130
Personalized Photo Prints
Custom prints in gift boxes—timeless for shared adventures. $8.99 (15), $10.99 (22), $12.99 (30).
***Get a Free Photo Gift***
MyPostcard app (Android | iOS): Use code GLOBETROTTERGIRL for $10 credit toward prints/cards.
Travel Subscription Boxes
Bring global flavors home: Try The World Snacks ($19/mo), Countries ($39/mo).
Magnetic Antique World Globe
10” handmade globe with pins—no puncture marks.
Price: $79.95
For Backpackers
Noise-Canceling Headphones
Mpow Over-Ear Bluetooth: foldable, comfy, mic-equipped. Alt: TaoTronics in-ear ($43.99).
Price: $42.99
Relefree Premium Microfiber Towel
Quick-dry, compact, soft essential.
Price: $13.99
How to Travel the World on $50 a Day
Matt Kepnes’ bible: budget tips, gear, rewards cards (3rd ed.).
Price: $12.75 
***Win a Copy of How to Travel the World on $50 a Day***
Comment below for the 2017 edition giveaway!
For Beach Babes
Microfiber Beach Towel
Sand-free, absorbent, stylish with pouch.
Price: $17.52
Embroidered Floppy Sun Hat
Insta-worthy beach essential.
Price: $21.99
Inflatable Lounger Boho Bag Air Sofa
Lightweight, floating nylon lounger.
Price: $29.99
For Practical Travelers
The MemoBottle
Slim, BPA-free, recycled plastic. 750ml | 375ml.
Price: From $28
RFID-Blocking Weekender Bag
Spacious for overnights, laptop sleeve, RFID slot, versatile straps.
Price: $79.99
Packing Cubes Set
9-piece organizer set for efficiency.
Price: $19.99
Anti-Theft Laptop Backpack
ibagbar: USB port, 15.6" laptop fit, water-resistant.
Price: $31.99
Power Strip Surge Protector
K-Century: 2 outlets, 4 USB ports.
Price: $14.99
Universal Adapter
LOOP: 150+ countries, dual USB/AC.
Price: $14.95
Memory Card Case
Protect originals: options $5.98–$11.99.
Portable Charger
Power bank: flashlight, dual USB, 10x iPhone charges. Alt: Jackery ($15.99–$22.99).
Price: $29.99 
Waterproof Bluetooth Speakers
Honstek K9: 16hrs, rugged. Alt: AYL ($24.99).
Price: $45.99
Travel Books for Inspiration
Personalized guides: walking tours, niche interests, or local discoveries like Not For Tourists or 111 Places series. Recommendations: The New York Nobody Knows ($6.67), Brooklyn Nobody Knows ($15.95), Lonely Planet You Only Live Once ($21), Ultimate Travel ($8.15), Nat Geo Destinations ($27).
Happy Holidays!
Disclosure: Some links are affiliates; I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Recommendations based on personal experience/use/wishlist—only items adding true value.
