We've said it many times in the past, and it rings more true than ever: buying gifts for travel lovers isn't exactly as easy it sounds. That's especially true when you're shopping on a budget!
Whether you're looking for a gift for a flight attendant, something "little" to add to a frequent traveler's stocking, or you're stumped as to what to get the avid adventurer in your life, this guide has you covered.
We found nine awesome gifts for travel lovers, all with price tags under $25! Some are even customizable!
Best Budget Gifts for Travel Lovers
1. The Wander Club Travel Tokens
There isn't much in this world that's customizable, stylish, and costs well under $10. Travel Tokens from The Wander Club fit the bill, however!
With a huge selection including Country Tokens, National Park Tokens, US State Tokens, Landmark Tokens, sports-themed tokens, and many more, there's truly one (or five or 10!) for everyone.
The tokens are made of surgical-grade stainless steel and even come with a lifetime guarantee. Even better, there's an option to create your own Custom Tokens with any message you'd like!
2. The Wander Club Wanderchain
So you took our advice and you're buying a few Travel Tokens right now, but then what? We just happen to have a great solution: a Wanderchain!
These stylish leather (or vegan leather, if you prefer) Token Holders organize up to 40 individual Travel Tokens. Use it as a keychain or attach it to your backpack or luggage for a unique luggage tag. And to show off your adventures, of course!
Like the Travel Tokens, all Wanderchains are customizable with a unique monogram. Combined with some hand-picked tokens, it's easy to see why this is one of the best travel gifts!
Pssst....need suggestions on how to wrap a Wanderchain?
3. Power Bank
When you think of tried-and-true gifts for travel lovers, it's hard to think of anything more practical than a power bank.
With this helpful and much-appreciated gift, your recipient won't have to worry about their phone dying at a critical moment.
We don't recommend one particular power bank because people have so many different devices and preferences. However, we do recommend getting a totally wireless one (assuming the phone is capable of charging that way, of course).
Photo credit: On the Water
4. Buff Gaiter
Regardless of the destination or mode of transportation, a gaiter is one of the best gifts for travel lovers (especially outdoorsy travelers!).
This simple yet ingenius invention can be worn in a multitude of ways, from a face mask to a neck warmer under your ski gear to a headband for keeping the hair out of your face during a hike.
Aside from being inexpensive and versatile, gaiters are also fantastic specifically for travel because you can easily wear them around your neck and pull up over your mouth as needed.
5. Packing Cubes
If you've never used a packing cube or seen one in action firsthand, consider this fair warning that your life is about to be forever changed. It's truly amazing how much a simple fabric cube can compress!
Again, there's a vast range of brands, styles, and price points out there, so we don't necessarily recommend any specific set of packing cubes.
With that being said, one of our writers regularly travels with these packing cubes and bonus, they come with an ultra-budget price tag of under $20 full-price!
6. Ear Buds
Sure, Air Pods and Beats are great — and pretty dang expensive. Whether the person you're shopping for already has a pair of those or not, a (much) more budget-friendly pair is one of the best gifts for travel lovers.
Losing one (or worse, both), especially while traveling, is frustrating, so it may be a good idea to travel with an inexpensive pair.
Somewhat surprisingly, there are several universal pairs on Amazon that cost well under $25 and have fantastic reviews. Really! See for yourself; this pair has over 40,000 reviews and clocks in at 4.3, plus it costs under $20!
7. Travel Electronics Organizer
As people continue to get more and more devices, traveling with them can be somewhat cumbersome. So many cords and plugs and chargers to keep track of!
That's precisely what makes an electronics organizer (also often called a "cord keeper" or "cable keeper") one of the best budget gifts for travel lovers.
Head to Amazon, where you'll find a massive selection in a variety of sizes and styles. Best of all, most cost between $10-15!
8. LifeStraw Personal Water Filter
Regardless of the type of travel or destination, clean, safe water is incredibly important. It's not necessarily always readily available, though, which is where LifeStraw comes in.
Whether you opt for a personal water filter, a water filter bottle, or a gravity bag, LifeStraw gives you quick, easy access to clean water.
With a variety of items under $25, you can afford to gift and keep one!
9. Flexible Tripod
Travel and photography are practically synonymous. It's not always easy capturing epic adventures, though, especially for people who often travel solo.
A flexible tripod solves that problem, with the ability to wrap around virtually anything. No flat surface is no problem, when you can wrap your tripod's legs around a tree branch, fence post, or chair back.
Search "flexible tripod" and you'll find hundreds of options, some as low as $10. Just be sure to read the fine print, as some models require a separate adapter to hold phones.