BEST GIFTS FOR FAMILIES THAT TRAVEL
There is nothing more frustrating than trying to find a gift for people who don’t need anything.
As a full-time travel family, our first thought is affordability. We look for the best and most affordable family travel gifts.
If you are a frequent traveler, you may have been asked what do you want for the holidays?
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The answer to this question can be hard because as travelers, the goal is to travel as lights as possible. For parents traveling with babies and toddlers, this is easier said than done.
The best gifts for families that travel are affordable, useful, and compact. There are sustainable gifts for travelers that are environmentally consensus.
If you would like to buy a gift for the travelers in your family, we created this gift guide just for you. Not only is it easy, but also affordable because we know the importance of staying on budget.
Here are the most useful and affordable family travel gifts.
If you are looking for travel-inspired gifts for toddlers here are a few gift guides for your little one.
30 Travel Gifts for Toddlers that are Screen-Free & Educational
25 Best Travel Toys for Babies
20 Road Trip Travel Toys for Toddlers
Toys to Keep Your Toddler Busy While Traveling
Best Travel Toys for 2-Year-Olds
AFFORDABLE FAMILY TRAVEL GIFTS UNDER $10
Passport Holder
There is nothing more important when traveling than your passport. A passport holder can keep everything organized and avoid mishaps like spills or tears.
For some reason, our toddler loves to tear at our passports, so we have to make sure they are always out of reach.
There is nothing worse than getting to the airport and realizing there is something amiss with your passport.
This passport holder is equipped with RFID blocking technology and has space for your credit cards and cash.
Collapsible Water Bottle
Whenever possible, we try to avoid using single-use plastic bottles. Collapsible water bottles are not only great for the environment, but they save space.
Airports have started providing stations to refill water bottles, which not only save the environment but saves you money.
I am not sure about you, but I am not a fan of paying $4 for a bottle of water or searching for a Starbucks to get a cup of water.
A reusable water bottle is the perfect family travel gift for adults and kids.
UNO Dare
To us, traveling is the time to spend with family. Whether that time is spent in the airport, car, beach, or a hotel it is all quality time. Instead of being attached to a screen, cards are the perfect way to get your family to interact.
UNO is a classic game we all know. This version of UNO kicks it up a notch and adds “challenges” to the game. UNO dare will have your family having fun on vacation and at home.
Luggage Tags
When you think gifts, I am sure luggage tags do not come to mind. Although luggage tags aren’t a luxurious family travel gift, it is useful.
They are essentials when traveling because we all know things happen. Even if we plan every detail, we cannot control everything that happens at the airport especially, lost luggage.
These tags are great because, unlike other luggage tags, your personal information is hidden from anyone passing by.
The luggage tags are flexible, waterproof, and reinforced by steel to ensure they stay on your luggage.
Portable Luggage Scale
With airline charging for everything possible, a luggage scale is the perfect money-saving affordable family travel gift.
Every airline has a different size and weight requirement when traveling, making it hard to keep everything straight.
This luggage scale will not only save money but save time. How annoying is it to pack a bag to get to the counter, and it is a few pounds over the limit? Now you have to take items out or pay a high cost for “overweight” luggage.
With a luggage scale, you don’t have to worry about that. We have one that we use every time we travel to a new destination.
Portable Luggage Scale PriceClear Travel Bag
Getting through TSA with liquids can be a nightmare if you are not prepared. The best way to pack any liquid items in a carry-on when traveling is to put them in a clear travel bag.
A clear travel bag makes it easier for TSA to see what you have, speeds up the search, and makes repacking a lot easier.
You can carry up to 3 fl oz (100 ml internationally) through airport security, and having them in a bag will get you through faster.
Trust us, you do not want to be stuck waiting for them to search your bag or suitcase if you are running late.
Clear Travel Bag PriceTSA Approved Luggage Locks
No products found.It is sad but true that items can be removed from your luggage by airport security.
I had an experience where my shoes were taken out of my bag from Oahu to Los Angeles. I am not sure why someone would want my size 5.5 shoes, but they removed, and since that experience, I’ve always locked my checked bags.
Remember, you must use TSA approved luggage locks to protect your valuable.
We always advise keeping your valuable possession with you. Items like electronics, jewelry, or expensive equipment should always be in your view.
No products found.Luggage Straps
I am telling you from personal experience that luggage straps are the family travel gift you never knew you needed. It wasn’t until our move to Mexico that I realized they are much needed.
Luggage straps make it easier to get around the airport if you have multiple suitcases. Trust me, you will need these if you have several suitcases, a stroller, and backpacks.
Luggage Strap PriceAFFORDABLE FAMILY TRAVEL GIFTS UNDER $25
Packing Cubes
Packing cubes have changed how you pack and organize your suitcase. If you are not a believer, I can tell you from first-hand experience they are worth every penny.
Packing cubes allow you to save space and organize items like never before. Don’t forget that you may save on space and add weight inadvertently.
The goal is to avoid baggage charges while maximizing space. Plus, the laundry bag is great for keeping dirty clothes separate from the clean ones.
Packing Cube PriceCaliCase Waterproof Floating Case
Like almost everyone else in the world, I am sure you are attached to your phone. Cell phones are far too expensive these days to risk water damage during vacation.
Do yourself a favor and buy a CaliCase waterproof floating case. This waterproof case floats, making it easy to find just in case it slips out of your hand in the water.
There are always phone cases available for purchase while vacationing, but they are overpriced.
CaliCase Waterproof Floating Case PriceKid Travel Tray
Keeping your kids busy is essential when traveling. Once they get bored things, can go downhill, especially with a toddler.
One of the ways we keep our toddler entertained while traveling is with a kids travel tray. It is the perfect gift for families that enjoy road trips.
Related Post: Best Kid Travel Trays
Kid Travel Tray PriceInternational Travel Adapter
When traveling internationally we often forget small things such as travel adapters.
This adapter can be used universally throughout the world and has four ports to charge multiple devices at once.
International Travel Adapter PricePortable Charger
Portable chargers are essentials when traveling because we cannot live without our devices.
What sets this charger apart from the others is the display that provides you with the remaining power and voltage.
There are two charging ports to charge multiple devices at one time and can provide several charges for cell phones.
Portable Charger PriceErgonomic Neck Pilow
Getting sleep on an airplane is not the easiest or most comfortable thing to do. This ergonomic neck pillow allows you to control the length with a drawstring.
It also comes with a sleep mask and earplugs to block out all the noise and get sleep on a long flight.
This pillow is made of memory foam, with sweat-resistant fabric, and plush material.
An added bonus is the travel bag that accompanies this travel sleep kit.
Ergonomic Neck PilowWaterproof Dry Bag
Waterproof Dry Bag Price
AFFORDABLE FAMILY TRAVEL GIFTS UNDER $50
Mpow H12 Noise Canceling Headphones
No products found.The mPow H12 noise-canceling Bluetooth headphones are the perfect affordable family travel gift. They can be used by parents and kids alike (kids over 13 years old).
I have these headphones and have been using them to traveling for over two years. I had to replace them because my toddler somehow broke mine.
You do not have to buy a pair of expensive headphones to get the quality you need.
No products found.Related Post: Best Headphones for Toddlers
Rocketbook Reusable Notebook
In a digital world, some people have a hard time letting go of physical pen and paper. The rocketbook reusable notebook is perfect for those who want to have a physical book to write but combines it with today’s digital age.
There is no more wasting paper so it is environmentally friendly. Write your to-do list, plans, sketches, or business ideas.
This notebook can take anything you write and with a picture store it digitally in programs like Google Drive, OneNote, iCloud, Slack, Dropbox, and email.
Rocketbook Reusable PriceLeanTravel Compression Packing Cubes
Compression packing cubes take space-saving to the next level allowing you to fit and compress your items even more.
For long term and frequent travelers, you can pack more in less space for the family.
You may even be able to fit all of your family’s items into one suitcase. Don’t forget since you are saving space you will have the urge to pack more, do not do it.
Compression Packing Cubes PriceWaterproof Beach & Pool Bag
What’s more relaxing than a day at the beach? (A day at the spa, but besides that.) A day at the beach with a family isn’t just a day at the beach.
As parents, we have to make sure everything the kids need is packed. This waterproof beach bag will fit everything your family needs for a day at the beach.
Related Post: Best Beach Bags for Moms & Families
Waterproof Beach & Pool Bag PriceLifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottles
Hopefully, you are trying to lead a more waste-free life, given our current environmental situation. (I know, how can I talk with a travel blog. We strive for progress, not perfection.)
The LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottles remove the need for plastic single-use water bottles.
Although I wouldn’t recommend using it in places where the water is highly polluted, it can be used to filter your drinking water that is replenished at water fountains.
Remember, if we all make small changes they add up to something great.
LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottles PriceWant to travel more affordability, stress-free, and fun?
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BEST FAMILY TRAVEL GIFTS UNDER $75
EK7000 Action Camera
We use the EK7000 Action Camera when we travel, and I can say from personal experience that it is a reliable action camera. This action camera is the perfect gift for families who enjoy spending time in the water.
Although GoPro is the leading action camera on the market, we find it hard to justify spending that much money on a nice to have.
This action camera also comes with all the accessories you need for any activity from biking, snowboarding, driving, and snorkeling.
Feel free to contact us for more details on this fun and affordable family travel gift.
EK7000 Action Camera PriceHardcase Spinner Luggage
Suitcases are not as sturdy and well made as they used to be. I am sure you have watched videos of luggage being thrown around the tarmac while being loaded and unloaded.
The suitcases today often cannot withstand the beating they take while traveling. This hardcase spinner suitcase is affordable and based on the reviews, they can withstand the beating.
Spinner wheels make it easier to maneuver throughout the airport and can even be expandable.
Hardcase Spinner Luggage PriceSand-Proof Beach Blanket
If you know a family that loves the beach, this is the perfect gift for them. Many people have a love/hate relationship with san.
Although being at the beach and fun and relaxing, cleaning sand from the beach can be frustrating and annoying. Using beach towels will leave them hot and full of sand.
Our new and favorite discovery for the beach is the sand-proof beach blanket. We love it because it is breathable, heat resistant, soft, and comfortable.
This beach blanket will be your go-to for family days at the beach and even comes with a compression bag.
Sand-Proof Beach Blanket PriceTOZO T6 True Wireless Earbuds
If you are not a fan of large headphones, the TOZO BlueTooth earbuds may be a great alternative. They last do not take up additional space.
Although they are smaller, they do not lack power with over 35 hours of playtime. There is a built-in mic and multifunction touch control that allows you to answer calls when your phone is out of reach.
The best part is, these earbuds are water-resistant, which makes them ideal not only for travel but for activities such as hiking, working out, or biking.
TOZO T6 Wireless Earbuds PriceCompact Lightweight Aluminum Tripod
Travel tripods are a game-changer for family pictures. If you travel with a family, you know how hard it is to get a picture with everyone.
It seems as though there is never anyone around to take a picture when you need it. If someone is around, how often do you look at their picture, and the photo is disappointing?
I know toddler parents understand how crucial it is to get a picture when your kids are cooperating.
Traveling with a tripod changed our lives, and we can finally get pictures together as a family. The best part is, you can take multiple pictures and pick the best ones.
Compact Lightweight Tripod PriceOUR FAVORITE FAMILY TRAVEL GIFTS UNDER $150
Kids Fire HD 8 tablet
We always include kids’ tablets in our buying guides when it comes to family travel gifts for essentials. The most popular tablet on the market for kids is the Fire HD 8 Kids Edition tablet.
Honestly, this tablet has everything your little one will need to learn and keep themselves entertained.
This tablet comes with one year of Amazon Kids+. The subscription gives your kids access to thousands of games, videos, audiobooks, apps. There is also educational content included from Disney, PBS Kids, and Nick Jr.
Just remember, this subscription is only for a year, you will be charged a monthly fee thereafter.
Kids Fire HD 8 tablet PriceRelated Post: Best Tablets for Toddlers
Coolife Luggage 3 Piece Set
I bought the Coolife Luggage 3 Piece Set for our travel around the world. Based on their reviews, I thought they would hold up nicely against baggage handlers at the airport.
So far, they have been holding up great and glide smoothly on different surfaces. I like the additional outside pockets for quick access to things we need, like extra diapers and wipes.
We usually check the two larger bags and use the small bag as a carry-on.
Coolife Luggage 3 Piece Set PriceSummer 3Dlite Stroller
The Summer 3-D lite stroller is one of the most popular lightweight umbrella strollers on Amazon.
It is all the craze in many of the Facebook family travel groups.
Although I have not used it, because we prefer our Zoe Stroller, I have heard great things about it. This stroller is lightweight, inexpensive, durable, and compact.
If you want to give a much-appreciated family travel gift, I recommend a travel stroller.
Summer 3Dlite Stroller PriceTula Toddler Carrier
Carriers aren’t just for babies these days. If you travel with a toddler, you should consider purchasing the Tula toddler carrier to make your life easier.
Toddler carriers can hold kids up to 60 pounds. I know what you are thinking; who wants to carry a 50-pound kid on their back? Trust us, toddler carriers make it easy to hold your little one comfortably.
We pushed a stroller up a mountain to see a waterfall in the Smoky Mountains because we forgot our toddler carrier at home.
Tula Toddler Carrier PriceRelated Post: Best Toddler Carriers
LeapFrog LeapPad Academy Kids’ Learning Tablet
LeapFrog is one of our favorite brands when it comes to teaching toys for kids. If you are looking for a tablet that is more learning-based through fun and entertainment, I recommend purchasing the LeapPad Academy Kids’ Learning Tablet.
This tablet is packed with educational games and creativity tools to help foster your little one’s imagination.
Although the included subscription isn’t as robust as Amazon+, LeapFrog Academy is well worth the cost.
LeapFrog LeapPad Tablet PriceCanon PowerShot ELPH 180 Digital Camera
I will be the first to admit I am not an expert when it comes to cameras. The only thing I need is a simple point and shoot camera to be satisfied.
If you are like me and need a simple camera to capture your priceless vacation time with your family, I recommend the Canon PowerShot ELPH 180.
It is one of the easiest and affordable cameras on the market for novice users.
The lens has an 8x optical zoom, 5-inch screen, 12 megapixels, and captures video in 720p HD. Honestly, this is the extent of my knowledge of cameras.
I know it does what I need it to do when we travel.
Related Post: Best Cameras for Toddlers
Canon PowerShot ELPH 180 Price
