Top Gifts for the Traveler
/As a frequent traveler, I’m often asked about my favorite pieces to pack. And while a packing list is somewhat dictated by the destination, these are a few items I’m obsessed with that I wouldn’t leave home without. As we embrace the holiday season, remember to pick the perfect present for the jetsetter on your list that they can conveniently carry around the world. (Or, perhaps you’ll discover a gift pick that inspires you to plan a trip and GO!) Either way, I invite you to enjoy this gift guide from the perspective of a well traveled life...Happy Holidays!
My tried and true backpack is by Victorinox, with a modern silhouette and functionality perfect for the urban explorer. It’s lightweight but spacious enough for a camera or laptop, guidebook, wallet, etc. and, is water resistant. $199 www.victorinox.com
Perfect scents. While visiting perfumeries are always a treat when I travel, I also pack a perfume atomizer filled with my favorite scent. Try the fresh florals from Eric Buterbaugh…$175 www.ericbuterbaugh.com Travalo perfume atomizer, $14.99 www.travalo.com
Essential accessories for the chic traveler range from totes, to weekenders, to small leather goods like zip pouches and passport covers. Luckily, CUYANA has them all! (Monogramming available). Passport covers start at $75 www.cuyana.com
I love packing trendy jewelry that isn’t precious, but is fun and stylish like these hand-crafted, light-weight pom-pom earrings by Rebecca de Ravenal. Lots of colors to choose from! $295 www.rebeccaderavenel.com
Every traveler needs the perfect pair of walking shoes. Enter, Adidas Stan Smith leather sneakers. Comfortable, classic, and go with a dress! $75 www.adidas.com
Whether strolling, biking or hiking, the iconic and lightweight Ray-Ban aviator sunglasses are the perfect shades. Starting at $153 www.rayban.com
A bright luggage tag provides a pop of color to help you pick your bag out of the crowd. Graphic Image personalized luggage tag $38 www.saksfifthavenue
Shine bright! Laura Mercier Mosaic Shimmer Bloc works triple duty as a bronzer, blush and eye shadow. Love the healthy, natural glow whether you’re on the slopes or the beach. $44 www.saksfifthavenue
Planes, trains and subways - being on the go can be noisy! The BOSE Quiet Comfort noise cancelling headphones or earbuds are essential for any frequent traveler. Starting at $299 www.bose.com
Take me Away! This is the perfect, budget-friendly, roomy, carry-on that rolls easily! Starts at $225 https://www.awaytravel.com
The essential accessory, a scarf is my main must-pack. Handy for outdoor dining on cool nights, protection from the sun, covering my head or shoulders in a church or mosque, or an extra layer on chilly airplanes. (Cotton scarf pictured is handwoven in India by Fulia, prices vary.)
So long tired travel eyes! The YSL Touche Eclat Radiance Perfecting Pen under eye concealer (covers blemishes too) makes me look awake even when jetlagged. $42 www.saksfifthavenue
No wardrobe on the road is complete without a denim jacket. My current fave is the comfy, hip, distressed denim jacket by 7ForAllMankind. Prices vary. www.7forallmankind.com
Moleskine notebooks for journaling and jotting down memories - any size, layout and color you need. Easily fits in pocket or purse. Starting at $14.95 www.moleskine.com
For your fave photographer - a dream gift, the powerhouse DSLR Canon 70D camera captures memorable still and video images. I can’t leave home, let alone the country, without it! (For the novice shutterbug, it has an excellent autofocus.) Prices vary. www.usa.canon.com. Or, if outfitting a digital camera is more your speed and budget, check out the Olloclip 4-in-1 Photo Lens for iPhone 6/6 Plus that fits over the top of the phone. $79.99 www.olloclip.com
Healthy hydration - NUUN energy tablets are a must-have whether you are jetting across the country or the globe. Add the gluten-free electrolyte tabs to water to get a natural energy boost so you can hit the ground running. $7 (10 tablets/tube) www.nuun.com
Get a sultry, natural sheen day or night with Bobbi Brown lip gloss. (Fave shade is “buff”) $28 www.bobbybrown.com
No more leaving home without your electric toothbrush! The sleek, light Quip Travel Toothbrush is an electric toothbrush that runs for 3 months without charging. Now that’s something to smile about! $25 www.getquip.com
