Useful travel-related gadgets and hacks should seamlessly become part of every traveler’s standard gear. These are the first items that you set out when packing—things you can’t travel without. Here are some of my favorite travel gifts for this holiday season. These have been collected from recommendations by travel colleagues and travelers I’ve encountered as I’ve explored this beautiful world. You are sure to find the perfect option for the traveler on your Christmas list. Hint: Item No. 1 can fit everything else on the list!
1. Portland Leather Makeup Bag: These beautifully crafted bags are gorgeous, sturdy, and squishable. My mustard yellow makeup bag has been from Montana to Cape Town and so many places in between. Two years later, it still stands strong and is easy to tuck into my carry-on or checked luggage. portlandleathergoods.com
2. Twelve South AirFly Duo: This is one of my new favorites. The AirFly is a nifty tech gadget that connects your earbuds to the plane’s entertainment system via Bluetooth. This handy device makes long flights so much better, and two people can share the same signal. twelvesouth.com
3. Sinyutia Travel Size Atomizer: These leather-wrapped refillable perfume/aftershave atomizers are a great way to bring your favorite scents along. No need to worry about losing valuable space in your luggage or a leaky bottle. Just pop these into your carry-on and away you go. amazon.com
4. Wellow Compression Socks: Whether it’s just for two hours or 15, don’t fly without a good pair of compression socks. I prefer Wellow because they are soft and seem to be the right level of compression—stronger than regular socks, but not so firm they need to come off a couple hours later. You’ll find me in my compression socks happily wandering around the office. wearwellow.com
5. Guerlain Orchidée Impériale Cream: I’m convinced there is magic in this product. I’ve never used a moisturizer that’s more rejuvenating. I put this on about an hour before landing. A client recommended it, and now I always carry a small jar of this in my carry-on. Stay hydrated while flying! guerlain.com
6. Babelio Baby Mini Sound Machine: For some, it’s a struggle to sleep in a new place, and a bit of white noise can help. This tiny sound machine won’t take up much space in a suitcase but will be enough to help lull anyone into a dreamy sleep wherever they’ve landed. babeliobaby.com
Martha Day is the founder of Opal&Finch, a Dallas-based luxury travel company. Through detailed travel planning and design, her hand-crafted travel experiences inspire travelers to deepen connections as they travel. Whether traveling solo, with family or friends, or celebrating something amazing, Opal&Finch can bring travel dreams to life.
opalandfinch.com | @opalandfinch
