Solo Traveler Gift Guide for the Holiday Season

Hello, darlings!

The holiday season is here, and with it comes the temptation of all those exciting sales. My biggest challenge this time of year is staying focused on gifting for others instead of sneaking in a “one for me too!” moment 🫣. Listen – we’re all human, right?

In the spirit of honesty, I’ve rounded up a list of perfect gifts for the solo traveler—if I were shopping for myself (and maybe I am a little). These are items I absolutely adore, use, and wholeheartedly recommend for any solo adventurer.

Whether you’re shopping for a sister, friend, or loved one with travel resolutions for 2025, this guide has something for everyone. Let’s help them embark on their next journey in style and comfort!

Ready? Let’s go!

Table of Contents

Solo Traveler Gift Guide for the Holiday Season

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Travel Location Crewneck Sweatshirt

When traveling light, it’s hard to bring home bulky souvenirs, and sweatshirts often don’t make the cut. That’s where you come in! Find a trendy, location-themed crewneck they’ll actually want to wear. Etsy is a goldmine for unique designs and support small. The one above is from amazon but still a super cute design that any traveler would love.

Compression Packing Cubes

Packing for six weeks abroad without compression cubes is like playing Tetris with a full freezer—stressful! These cubes have been my lifesaver for over a year, especially for compressing bulky winter sweaters. Bonus: the included shoe bag is perfect for separating dirty laundry.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen)

Game. Changer. These AirPods saved me countless times while traveling solo. Google Maps guided me discreetly, straight into my ears, so I never looked lost. For solo travelers with ADHD (like me), the noise cancellation feature is a godsend in loud, chaotic spaces. It’s perfect for those daily phone calls, loud moments, and also audiobook listening.

Universal Travel Power Adapter

This handy adapter has been my travel companion for two years. With plugs for every country, multiple USB/USB-C ports, and a design that doesn’t overheat, it’s a must-have for charging devices and using hair tools or laptops abroad.

Travel Diary with 5 Inserts + Pen Holder and Binder Clip

During a four-week trip last year, I quickly realized I needed a journal. I grabbed one in a charming Scottish village, but later upgraded to this travel diary. It doubles as a scrapbook—perfect for jotting down memories and adding keepsakes like tickets and photos.

Apple AirTag

Never lose your luggage again! This tiny tracker is a lifesaver. Attach it to your bag, and you’ll know exactly where it is—even before it hits baggage claim. If you’re new to solo travel, this is one hack you won’t want to skip.

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition (32 GB)

Yes, yes yes – I know. The new kindle color screen has been released. Why am I sticking to my Amazon Kindle Paperwhite? Because, my darling, there’s something to be said about “what’s not broke – don’t fix it”. The reviews on that new color screen are less than stellar and I’m so glad I didn’t drop the money to replace my, still, brand new kindle from last year.

My Paperwhite has been my trusty travel companion, my dinner date when I’m flying solo, and my escape during long travel days. Plus, I read more than ever because of it! While I usually rely on library books, I treated myself to a few months of Kindle Unlimited while traveling (which you can also gift), and it was worth every penny.

If you’re shopping for a book lover with wanderlust, this is a gift they’ll absolutely adore.

Daily Pill Organizer

This compact organizer isn’t just for travel; it’s part of my everyday routine. Vitamins, pain relievers, emergency meds—it’s all sorted and ready to go. For weekend trips or long-haul adventures, this little organizer is the best.

16 Travel Set Toiletry Bag

This is the best toiletry set because it’s TSA-approved and universally compliant. Meaning you don’t need to take anything out! I’ve breezed through security in Dublin, London, Sydney, Lisbon and Queenstown airports with zero issues —it’s a traveler’s dream!

I hope you found inspiration for the globetrotters on your list this holiday season. Tomorrow, I’m excited to share my Christmas tree and (hopefully!) finish decorating my home by week’s end.

Good luck with your shopping, and happy holidays!