Holiday Gifts for Travelers 2023

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Last Updated on February 18, 2024 by Grant

It is that time of year again… time to shop for holiday gifts! Many people find joy in shopping for the right gift for family and friends. Unfortunately, gift shopping can also be frustrating. No need to worry, though, we’ve updated our annual gift guide for travelers to help you find the right gift for everyone on your list. And maybe even something for yourself!

We know not everyone is a frequent traveler. But most everyone travels at least a little bit, even if it’s just a weekend trip to visit friends or family. While some items are focused on serious travel, most of these holiday gifts are great for the occasional traveler or even for use at home.

Unless otherwise noted, everything on this list is something we use and love. So, if you have questions about any of the products, please ask!

Grant geared up to go to Isle Royale National Park.
Grant geared up to go to Isle Royale National Park.

We tried to sort everything by price point, but with all things, it depends on what’s on sale and sometimes certain colors and sizes are more or less expensive.

Updated November 2023

(Disclaimer: When we link to places where you can buy our stuff or places we stayed, we are using special codes that earn us commissions on the sales at no additional cost to you. Please see our Review Policy  for more information.)

Holiday Gifts: Less Than $30

Amazon Basics Cables

Let’s be honest, electronics are a part of our everyday life now. And keeping them charged is important! We have found that chargers make great holiday gifts because they can always be used at home, work, in the car, on the road and, well, just about anywhere! We use Apple products and we live by Amazon Basics cables because they work just as well, for a fraction of what Apple charges for their charging cables.

The quality is great… we have never had to replace one and we’ve been using these almost exclusively for many years. Instead, we just keep buying additional cables to keep in the truck, RV and with our portable charging stations so that we don’t have to remember to pack the ones we keep at the house.

And, if you’re not an Apple user, you can find an Amazon Basics cable that will work at a fraction of the cost of just about any branded cable.

Portable Charger

You’ve got your charging cables, but what if you don’t have electricity? We picked up an Anker PowerCore portable charger, similar to this one, a couple of years ago and we love it! It will provide three iPhone charges and can also charge an iPad. It’s one of the smallest and lightest portable chargers out there. This is a life-saver when you know you will be out and about and need to keep your phone charged.

Anker PowerCore 10000 Portable Charger, 10,000mAh Power Bank, Ultra-Compact Battery Pack, Phone Charger for iPhone 15/15 Plus/15 Pro/15 Pro Max, Samsung and More
  • The Anker Advantage: Join the 50 million+ powered by our leading technology.
  • Remarkably Compact: One of the smallest and lightest 10,000mAh portable chargers. Provides almost three-and-a-half iPhone 8 charges or two-and-a-half Galaxy S8 charges.

Dual USB Car Charger

Being able to charge your electronics is essential. Being able to charge two devices at one time… even better! With as much as we rely on our phones and other devices, it’s important to keep yours charged on the road.

Many newer cars have built-in USB chargers, like our F-150. But, if you’re still rocking an old-school charging plug (or even a cigarette lighter), you’ll need an adapter.

The two port USB charger and Amazon Basics Cables we use to keep our devices charged while driving.
The two-port USB charger and Amazon Basics Cables we use to keep our devices charged while driving.

This inexpensive dual car charger, along with a couple of Amazon Basics charging cables, makes for the perfect mobile charging station!

Sale
Anker Car Charger Adapter, 24W Dual USB Car Phone Charger, PowerDrive 2 for iPhone 14 13 12 11 Pro Max Mini X XR XS 8 Plus, iPad Pro/Air 2/Mini, Note 5/4, LG, Nexus, HTC and More
  • The Anker Advantage: Join the 50 million+ powered by America’s leading USB charging brand.
  • Advanced Charging Technology: PowerIQ and VoltageBoost combine to provide the fastest possible charge up to 4.8 amps or 2.4 amps per port. (Does not support Qualcomm Quick Charge).

Money Belt

Lots of travel-industry folks will suggest using a money belt when traveling to hide your cash. We like this one, which is actually a belt. Traditional money belts hide under your clothes and pretty much require you to undress to access them.

While this one will not hold your passport, etc., it will hold emergency cash and it’s a real belt! An actual, functional, comfortable belt!

Money Belt for Men Travel Security Belt with Hidden Money Compartment Pocket, Cashsafe Anti-Theft Wallet Non-Metal Buckle
  • PATENT PENDING ; (🔥 KEEP YOUR CASH HIDDEN FROM YOUR WIFE / GF!🔥 ) Travel Security Money Belt
  • 🔒 BYE BYE PICKPOCKETS 💵 – DESIGNED FOR TRAVEL TSA 🧳 – keep your cash safe from pickpockets; equipped with an easy-to-use hidden zippered security pocket; safely conceals bills, coins, keys, USB-stick from thieves

Sunglass Straps

Whether you are at home or away, being able to easily slip your sunglasses on and off is essential! I got my first pair of Croakies many, many years ago and they have been a staple of my life ever since. Grant now regularly uses them, too.

Mammoth Cave National Park is what most folks think of when they think of Kentucky national parks.
You can see Grant’s sunglass strap off his left shoulder.

Since then, we have gotten these great glasses straps, which are quite comfy. While they do not float, they last have lasted longer than Croakies and you can tighten them down on your head to keep your glasses snug against your face.

HALF CRESCEN Glasses Strap (2 PCS) Sports Eyeglass Strap Adjustable Sunglasses Retainer for Men Women -2 Pack(Black, Grey)
  • 【SIZE】The total length of eye glass strap is about 11.8inch, (Suitable for glasses temple tips with width between 0.33inch-0.52inch.)
  • 【Anti-slip Elastic Material】 Made of softest, most comfortable material of elastic nylon/spandex. This soft elastic braided rope has great anti-slip effect, allowing it to be firmly attached to the glasses temple.

Key Multi Tool

One of the struggles of traveling by air, especially when you only pack a carry-on, is leaving behind basic tools. Before 9/11, Grant used to keep a Swiss Army Knife on his keychain. That tool allowed him handle minor repairs and open difficult packages with ease.

Now, he has a light, simple tool he can carry with him, even on a plane: the Nite Ize DoohicKey+. This tool has eight tools built into it and it easily fits on a keychain. This is a perfect stocking stuffer for any traveler!

Sale
Nite Ize KMTSE-11-R3 DoohicKey Keychain Multi Tool, 1 Count (Pack of 1), Stainless Steel
  • PACKS 8 TOOLS INTO ONE DESIGN – The DoohicKey+ combines a bottle opener, nail puller/staple remover, wrench, ruler, serrated edge, scoring point, and Phillips and flathead screwdrivers into 1 simple device
  • PROVIDES COMPACT EVERYDAY CONVENIENCE – Measuring only 0.70″ wide and 2.65″ tall, the DoohicKey+ defines compact simplicity, delivering endless utility without adding bulk to your keychain

Travel Towel

A good travel towel is essential, especially when backpacking or camping. We used similar towels from REI when tent camping because they dry quickly. They also roll up fairly tight, thus not taking up a lot of room in your luggage.

Having a towel when traveling is great just in case you need to shower at a train station or if you get caught in the rain and just need to dry off. Plus, if you plan on visiting the beach, you’ll generally want a towel!

Sale
Rainleaf Microfiber Towel Perfect Travel & Sports &Camping Towel.Fast Drying – Super Absorbent – Ultra Compact.Suitable for Backpacking,Gym,Beach,Swimming,Yoga
  • FAST DRYING – much comfortable for next use & convenient to pack. BEAUTIFUL COLOR – much suitable for multi use daily.
  • SKIN FRIENDLY – remarkable soft suede like feel on your skin and face.SUPER ABSORBENT-will absorb water 5 times more than its’ weight but dry fast

Luggage Scale

Nobody likes overweight baggage! Check your weight with a luggage scale BEFORE you get to the airport. If you’ve ever tried to weigh luggage with the bathroom scale, you know it’s not easy and, often, not accurate. Plus, this is easy enough to pack with you so that you can make sure all that shopping you did while on vacation doesn’t put your bag over the weight limit.

luggage scale
Bonnie weighing our luggage before we return home from Greece.

If you’re a backpacker, you can make sure you don’t load your pack so that it is too heavy for your body weight. Believe me, that pack will feel A LOT heavier after 45 minutes than it does whenever you first pick it up!

Etekcity Luggage Scale, Travel Essentials, Digital Suitcase Weight Scales for Travel Accessories, Hanging Baggage Scale with Temperature Sensor, Rubber Paint, 110 Pounds, Battery Included, Blue
  • Gift for travelers: Weight before you go to avoid overweight fees and fit the scale in pockets easily
  • High-accuracy sensor:The travel sacle has 110lb/50kg weight capacity & 0.1lb/50g graduation,it also can measure the ambient temperature

Travel Power Adapter

If you are traveling internationally, you will need an adapter plug. Sometimes you will need a converter but, usually, just an adapter will do. Since every region is different, we recommend an all-in-one Travel Adapter, like this one. This compact adapter covers 150 countries with a built-in surge protector. Note: we have not personally used this exact product but have something very similar that is now out of production. Actually, this device might be even better than what we currently have!

Sale
Travel Adapter, Worldwide All in One Universal Travel Adaptor Wall AC Power Plug Adapter Wall Charger with Dual USB Charging Ports for USA EU UK AUS Cell Phone Laptop Black
  • This Travel Adapter with 4 international plug adapters. Cover more than 150 Countries with US/EU/UK/AU plugs, but this adapter cannot be used in South African, India, Swiss and Italy. Please kindly pay attention to avoid any inconvenience.
  • This Charger Adapter Plug Converts the Power Outlet Only, it Does Not Convert Electrical Output Current and Voltage

Headlamp

Headlamps may look silly, but the functionality can’t be beaten. Our Petzl headlamps have lasted us for nearly 10 years.

We also picked up a pair of rechargeable headlamps we keep in the truck. I love that with this headlamp we don’t have to worry about batteries while we are traveling.

Maybe you are navigating streets without streetlights or changing a tire on the side of the road. We’ve even used the headlamps to set up our tent or RV when arriving at the campground after dark.

Heck, Grant even got his out one night when the sun went down before he was done mowing the grass! Yes, that is just one reason why we now live in an apartment!

TP Kit

When you gotta go, you gotta go, right? Doesn’t matter if there is a bathroom nearby or not, sometimes nature calls and you just have to answer. With as much travel and hiking as we do, we’ve definitely had our fair share of TP “emergencies.” We’ve had to stop along the trail and pull over on the side of more than one remote road. The worst was when Grant realized AFTER taking care of business that he should have gotten toilet paper BEFORE going into the stall in a train station in Budapest, Hungary.

TP Kits make great holiday gifts for travelers and hikers.
The TP Kit has five tissues and two wet wipes in a resealable package, perfect for travel and the trail.

When we heard about TP Kits, we knew it was something we just had to try! These small packages each contain 5 two-ply tissues and 2 wet wipes in a resealable packet. And, yes, the wet wipes are each in their own sealed package. Best of all, all contents are 100% biodegradable. Grant and I both now keep one of these packets in our daypacks and in our travel backpacks.

TP Kits are available in singles or a 10-pack, which is what we recommend. Yes, you can just keep a stash of toilet paper in a plastic bag. Honestly, though, having one easy-to-grab packet that includes toilet paper and a couple of wet wipes is worth the small expense.

Purchase TP Kits here.

Owala FreeSip Insulated Water Bottle with Straw

For a “normal” water bottle, when you know you’ll have access to safe drinking water, this Owala insulated bottle is what we both carry these days. The insulation is top-notch, keeping ice all day long or even overnight. The freeSip spout allows you to swig from the spout or sip through a built-in straw. A leak-proof seal prevents spills.

For travel, the 24-ounce fits in the cupholder in the truck and in the side pouch of a backpack. Or, you can choose 32 or 40 ounces. Choose from a variety of colors, depending on whether you prefer neutrals or something more colorful.

SaleBestseller No. 1
Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Straw for Sports and Travel, BPA-Free, 24-oz, Boneyard
Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Straw for Sports and Travel, BPA-Free, 24-oz, Boneyard
Protective push-to-open lid keeps spout clean; convenient carry loop doubles as a lock
$24.89 Amazon Prime
Bestseller No. 2
Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Straw for Sports and Travel, BPA-Free, 24-oz, Light Green/Lilac (Retro Boardwalk)
Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Straw for Sports and Travel, BPA-Free, 24-oz, Light Green/Lilac (Retro Boardwalk)
Protective push-to-open lid keeps spout clean; convenient carry loop doubles as a lock
$27.99 Amazon Prime
Bestseller No. 3
Owala Star Wars FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Straw for Sports and Travel, BPA-Free Sports Water Bottle, 24 oz, Stronger Than You Think
Owala Star Wars FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Straw for Sports and Travel, BPA-Free Sports Water Bottle, 24 oz, Stronger Than You Think
24-ounce insulated stainless-steel FreeSip spout water bottle with Star Wars themes; Protective push-to-open lid keeps spout clean; convenient carry loop doubles as a lock
$34.99 Amazon Prime
Bestseller No. 4
Owala FreeSip Clear Tritan Plastic Water Bottle with Straw, BPA-Free Sports Water Bottle, Great for Travel, 25 Oz, Shy Marshmallow
Owala FreeSip Clear Tritan Plastic Water Bottle with Straw, BPA-Free Sports Water Bottle, Great for Travel, 25 Oz, Shy Marshmallow
Protective push-button open lid keeps spout clean; convenient carry loop doubles as a lock
$41.21 Amazon Prime

Our Book – USA RV Adventures

USA RV Adventures
I think the moment it was most real for us was finding our book on the shelf in the local Books-A-Millon.

Looking for the perfect gift for the RV owner in your life? Get them a copy of our book, Moon USA RV Adventures. This book covers 25 routes across the country. These routes include driving directions and attractions, as well as restaurant and campground recommendations.

We designed these routes to highlight some of this country’s best sites and made a point to take all of the legwork out of planning an excellent vacation to see these wonders.

Sale
Moon USA RV Adventures: 25 Epic Routes (Travel Guide)
  • Sinclair, Bonnie (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 560 Pages – 02/28/2023 (Publication Date) – Moon Travel (Publisher)

Holiday Gifts: $30-$50

Scratch Off Map

So, we got the Landmass Goods Travel Tracker Scratch Off map hung and now we are hanging one picture from every trip surrounding the map.
So, we got the Landmass Goods Travel Tracker Scratch Off map hung and now we are hanging one picture from every trip surrounding the map.

The Landmass Travel Tracker Scratch-Off maps are a great way for any traveler to record (and show off) where they’ve visited. Available in a World map or the United States (with National Parks), any traveler will love this gift! This easy-to-scratch-off map is a great display of where you’ve been and where you still need to explore.

A fun map and conversation starter!

Travel WiFi Router

We take this small (2.2″ by 2.2″ by 0.7″) WiFi Router by TP-Link with us everywhere we travel. Combined with a retractable Ethernet cable, we can both use just about any wired ethernet connection at a hotel. Admittedly, it doesn’t always work, but when it does, we get a boost in speed and not as much “congestion” as we would on the hotel’s router. Plus, it’s more secure.

Sale
TP-Link AC750 Wireless Portable Nano Travel Router(TL-WR902AC) – Support Multiple Modes, WiFi Router/Hotspot/Bridge/Range Extender/Access Point/Client Modes, Dual Band WiFi, 1 USB 2.0 Port
  • Travel Sized Design: Conveniently small and light to pack and take on the road, creating Wi Fi network via Ethernet
  • Dual Band AC750 Wi Fi: Strong, fast connection for HD streaming on all your devices

Amazon Fire Stick

We have gotten to where we almost always travel with an Amazon Fire Stick. It is small and easy to pack and allows you to stream just about anything you want to, provided you have the subscription.

The best part about the Fire Stick is that it has the ability to log into Web-enabled internet portals, found in most hotels. This makes it the perfect device for streaming Netflix, etc. while on the road. That’s right, no more fighting over ESPN or Lifetime; couples can just stream whatever shows they enjoy together at home while even while traveling!

The Amazon Fire Stick is great for traveling with or without your camper.
The Amazon Fire Stick is great for traveling with or without your camper.

The Amazon Fire Stick is one of the best holiday gifts that can be used at home or on the road!

SaleBestseller No. 2
Amazon Fire TV Stick, HD, sharp picture quality, fast streaming, free & live TV, Alexa Voice Remote with TV controls
Amazon Fire TV Stick, HD, sharp picture quality, fast streaming, free & live TV, Alexa Voice Remote with TV controls
Listen on Amazon Music, Spotify, Pandora, and others. Subscription fees may apply.; Plug in behind your TV, turn on the TV, and connect to the internet to get set up.
$24.99 Amazon Prime
SaleBestseller No. 3
All-new Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max streaming device, supports Wi-Fi 6E, free & live TV without cable or satellite
All-new Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max streaming device, supports Wi-Fi 6E, free & live TV without cable or satellite
Enjoy smoother 4K streaming, even when other devices are connected to your router.
$39.99 Amazon Prime

Therm-a-Rest Compressible Travel Pillow

We first bought these pillows for tent camping. They roll up into themselves, making them easy to pack and store while traveling. The pillows naturally expand in a reasonable amount of time to be comfortable while sleeping.

Our tent at the Rustic Rook glamping campground with our Thermarest pillows.
Our tent at the Rustic Rook glamping campground with our Thermarest pillows.

Our original two pillows now “live” in the camper, as the perfect companion to our “normal” pillows on the bed. Recently, we bought two additional pillows to take with us on road trips without the camper. We just aren’t a big fan of the feather pillows we seem to find at most hotels these days.

Therm-a-Rest Compressible Travel Pillow for Camping, Backpacking, Airplanes and Road Trips, Denim, Medium – 14 x 18 Inches
  • Ultralight (9 ounce) compressible travel pillow with soft foam filling that packs down small for road trips, plane travel, camping, and backpacking
  • Foam filling expands into a 4-inch thick pillow for head, neck, and back support in tents, cars, planes, and other tough-to-get-comfortable places

Travel T-Shirts

My go-to shirts for travel these days is the Amazon Essentials Women’s Tech Strech T-Shirt. They are quick-dry and moisture-wicking, with just a little bit of stretch. You can dress them up or down and they come in a variety of colors. It really is a great, versatile shirt!

Grant has recently fallen in love with the Eddie Bauer Resolution t-shirts. The Eddie Bauer Resolution shirts are light and comfy and can be worn just about anywhere, from the trail to dinner.

Sale
Amazon Essentials Women’s Tech Stretch Short-Sleeve Crewneck T-Shirt (Available in Plus Size), Pack of 2, Black/Dark Grey Space Dye, Large
  • RELAXED FIT: Relaxed, comfortable fit through the body.
  • TECH STRETCH FABRIC: An ultra-light weight and breathable fabric, with a soft smooth sheen finish. Made with quick dry and moisture-wicking finishes, helping you stay comfortable and cool while you workout. This knit fabric has a 4 way gentle stretch for full flexibility during wear.
Eddie Bauer Men’s Resolution Short-Sleeve T-Shirt, Storm, X-Large
  • Built for active performance and superior comfort, this ultra-versatile men’s t-shirt freatures a polyester knit with that exceptionally soft, easy on your skin feel that consistently makes it first from the drawer when you’re going to be working hard or just kicking back.
  • Our FreeDry moisture wicking disperses sweat so your skin feels drier during workouts; making it one of our best dry fit shirts.

Selfie Stick

How many times have you gotten home from a trip and realized you have no pictures of yourself? Yep, it’s happened to us many times. So, we finally broke down a bought a selfie stick. Yes, it’s sometimes a little cumbersome to use, but it does make getting pictures of yourself and your entire group a lot easier!

We like this Bluetooth selfie stick because it also opens up to a small tripod and has a wireless remote. It really is very versatile!

ATUMTEK Selfie Stick Tripod, Extendable 3 in 1 Aluminum Bluetooth Selfie Stick with Wireless Remote and Tripod Stand for iPhone 13/13 Pro/12/11/11 Pro/XS Max/XS/XR/X/8/7, Samsung Smartphones, Black
  • ⭐ [Integrated Innovative Design] – The ATUMTEK Selfie Stick and tripod stand are integrated, combined with a premium aluminum extendable stick, making the selfie stick exceptionally stable. The extendable pole is constructed with aviation-grade aluminum alloy and undergoes surface anodic oxidation for sturdiness and durability.

Travel Laptop Backpack

Grant and I both are always on the hunt for the perfect backpack for every situation. I initially purchased this laptop backpack to use for work but quickly realized that it was better for travel! It worked as the perfect carry-on when I flew to Paris, with plenty of room for my laptop, a change of clothes and all the other stuff I wanted with me on the plane.

It’s a medium-sized backpack… not big enough to pack more than 1 or maybe 2 days’ worth of clothes but also maybe a little too big for a daypack. But, it was perfect for what I needed! I really loved that the laptop sleeve has a lock on it; it also has a couple of “hidden” pockets for cash or other small items. Add in several small front and side pockets and a connection for a battery pack and it really is a versatile pack.

Sale
LOVEVOOK Travel Laptop Backpack Waterproof Anti Theft Backpack with Lock and USB Charging Port Large 17-17.3 Inch Computer Business Backpack for Men Women Black
  • ✈【ANTI-THEFT DESIGN & TSA FRIENDLY】 With Fixed Password Lock and Durable Metal Zippers, our 17 inch laptop bag is safe guaranteed for protecting your valuable items inside. No need to worry theft easily opening your backpack when you are travelling or lining up.With the instruction card,you don’t need to worry about forgetting your code. And lay-flat design is for easily organized and get your items via opening up to 180 degree when through the airport security.

Grant recently got an Eddie Bauer Adventurer Backpack 2.0 to fill this niche. It is large enough to pack for a weekend, including his camera, and has sleeves for his laptop and tablet. He hasn’t had the chance to test it out, yet, so he can’t fully recommend it. Still, it is a solid bag!

Eddie Bauer Men’s Adventurer 30L Daypack in Black
  • DESIGNED FOR THE ULTIMATE OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE: The Eddie Bauer Adventurer 30L Backpack is weather-ready with a StormRepel WR finish to shed moisture and keep your gear dry. The FreeCool Air back panel technology boosts air flow to help keep you comfortable and dry, perfect for the outdoor enthusiast or taking a simple hike.
  • ORGANIZATION: This backpack features a front stash pocket with daisy chain webbing for attaching extra gear, two side mesh pockets for water bottles, a small fleece-lined front pocket for sunglasses or phone, and front daisy chain loops to keep all your essentials within easy reach.

Holiday Gifts: $50-$100

Packable Daypack

For anyone on the go, having an extra small bag is never a bad thing. We love this Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable 30L Pack. It packs into its own pouch so you can easily pack it in your main bag. At 30L it is big enough for a full day out and about. Grant even used it for our overnight trip to Isle Royale National Park.

Grant carrying the Eddie Bauer 30L Stowaway Backpack.
Grant using the packable daypack from Eddie Bauer called the Stowaway 30L. It packs down well and is large enough for a trip to the beach.

We each have one of these packs and take them with us just about every time we travel.

Read more about choosing the right daypack and all the various packs we use when we travel.

Sale
Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable Backpack 30L w/ 2 Mesh Side Pockets and Water Resistant, Dark Smoke, One Size
  • WATER REPELLENT: The Eddie Bauer Stowaway Packable 30L Backpack is made from ripstop polyester and holds up to the rigors of daily use. The ultra-durable lightweight material is treated with StormRepel WR finish that sheds moisture, keeping your gear dry when weather is a factor.
  • ORGANIZATION & COMFORT: The Eddie Bauer 30L backpack with lightly padded mesh back panel, backpack straps, and lumbar strap provides maximum comfort during extended use. This pack includes an interior sleeve and portal for a hydration bladder, as well as an exterior stretch mesh pocket with a daisy chain and two additional mesh side pockets for convenient organization and storage of water bottles and other essentials. “

Multi-Port Charger

For years, we traveled with a dedicated charging station that had a built-in battery pack. While it did a great job, it had some limitations in terms of power and it was a bit bulky. Additionally, we now travel with more electronics than we used to, so we wanted to get something that would handle charging a laptop in addition to our phones and watches.

With 65 watts of power, two USB-C ports and two USB-A ports, I can charge my iPhone 12 Pro, iPad Mini, Macbook pro and Sony RX10 at the same time.
With 65 watts of power, two USB-C ports and two USB-A ports, I can charge my iPhone 12 Pro, iPad Mini, Macbook Pro and Sony RX10 at the same time.

When Grant spotted the KOVOL 65W Charger (formerly RAV Power) and saw it would charge his MacBook Pro (now MacBook Air) plus all of his other electronics, he jumped on it. This one device eliminates both the laptop power brick and charging station with one compact and lightweight (5.6 ounces) charging station.

USB C Charger, KOVOL 120W GaN III USB C Charging Station, Powerful USB C Charger 100W, 4 Port Desktop Fast PD 3.0 Charger for MacBook Pro/Air, Dell, iPad Pro, iPhone 13/12, Galaxy and More
  • Powerful Charging Output: The USB-C output is capable of delivering 100W (Max.) of power that rapidly charges a MacBook Pro 16″ in 1.7 hours, or simultaneously provides up to 60W to 2 MacBooks via both USB-C PD ports. 120W total output.
  • Smart Power Distribution: This 4-in-1 USB-C PD GaN charger includes 4 charging ports (2x USB-C ports + 2x USB-A ports) for multi-device charging and allocates optimal power to each device for maximized charging efficiency.

If you have switched over completely to USB C or need more in terms of charging capacity, check out this Anker alternative. It is a bit more expensive and a bit heavier but will handle a lot more in terms of devices.

Sale
Anker USB C 120W, 547 Charger, PowerPort III 4-Port Charging Station for MacBook Pro/Air, iPhone iPhone 15/15 Plus/15 Pro/15 Pro Max/14/13 Series, Galaxy, Pixel 4/3, iPad Series, and More Devices
  • “Embrace the Anker Community: Join over 80 million global users who are reaping the benefits of our cutting-edge technology that delivers efficient charging solutions.
  • Unleashed Quadruple Power: Experience the potency of this 120W charger that smartly distributes power across 4 ports, facilitating the simultaneous charging of 2 laptops and 2 smartphones with absolute ease.

Laptop Power Bank

The more time we spend on the road, the more we end up in remote locations and need to get work done. Especially during the pandemic, the idea of sitting down to work in a coffee shop for several hours to take advantage of free Wifi was not really appealing.

That’s why Grant really loves this Laptop Power Bank the folks from Eggtronic sent us. It allows us to work from pretty much anywhere, regardless of having an outlet to power our devices.

Grant using the Eggtronic Laptop Power Bank to run his MacBook Pro.
Grant using the Eggtronic Laptop Power Bank to run his MacBook Pro.

It has serious capacity (20,000 mAh), produces enough juice (63W) to charge his MacBook Air and has a small display that indicates the current charge level. We took this with us while glamping near Great Sand Dunes National Park and it really saved the day in terms of keeping our devices charged for the next day.

For something that only weighs a pound, it has found a permanent spot in Grant’s gear.

Sale
EINOVA Laptop Power Bank | Ultra-Fast 20,000mAh Slim Battery Pack in Pink – USB C + USB A, 63W Output | Charge 3 Devices at Once- Phones, Tablets, Laptops, 3ft Cable Included (Gray)
  • Multi-Device Backup Power | 20,000mAh backup battery with 63W total output over three ports (45W USB-C PD, 18W USB-A Quick Charge 3.0, 5W USB-A 2.4A) can charge 3 devices simultaneously.
  • Multi-Device Backup Power | 20,000mAh backup battery with 63W total output over three ports (45W USB-C PD, 18W USB-A Quick Charge 3.0, 5W USB-A 2.4A) can charge 3 devices simultaneously.

Packing Cubes

One of the best ways to make a small backpack or suitcase work is to use packing cubes. You will be amazed at how much more you can fit if you pack your clothes into these cubes. Packing cubes also allow couples who pack together in one bag to keep their clothes separated.

Once everything was placed in it's compartments, all I was left with was my clothes, camera, medicine, water bottle, travel pillow and small towel. the eBags packing cubes made quick work of packing my clothes.
The eBags packing cubes made quick work of packing Grant’s clothes for eight days in Italy.

We use eBags Hyper-Lite Packing Cubes. They come in a variety of sizes and colors, so you can get whatever size best fits your backpack, suitcase, or whatever you are packing in. They also sell multi-packs if you want or need a variety of sizes.

eBags Light 5 Piece Packing Cube Set (Grey)
  • INCLUDES 5 LIGHTWEIGHT PACKING CUBES, Dimensions: 1 Slim (13″ x 6.5″ x 3.5″), 2 Small (6.5″ x 6.5″ x 3.5″), and 2 Large (13″ x 13″ x 3.5″)
  • SUPERIOR QUALITY & DURABLE FABRICS: Quality design featuring 30D siliconized Cordura brand nylon and silicon coating on the interior surface makes these bags easy to fill. Also includes premium self-repairing coil zippers with corded pulls for a lifetime of opening and closing.

Travel Pants

The Clingmans Dome Trails is definitely a must of the Great Smoky Mountain National Parks hikes.
Grant hiking up the Clingmans Dome Trail wearing his Eddie Bauer Guide Pro Pants

Convertible pants (which zip off and convert to shorts) may not be the most stylish, but they sure are convenient! I have tried several different brands over the years and all are about the same, other than the specific fit of the pants. Try a few and find a pair that are comfortable for you.

Bestseller No. 1
Bestseller No. 2
Cycorld Women's-Hiking-Pants-Convertible Quick-Dry-Stretch-Lightweight Zip-Off Outdoor Pants with 5 Deep Pocket(Army Green, Large
Cycorld Women’s-Hiking-Pants-Convertible Quick-Dry-Stretch-Lightweight Zip-Off Outdoor Pants with 5 Deep Pocket(Army Green, Large
Equipped with 5 pockets for your storage, keep your essentials close at hand.; Women hiking pants have adjustable waist help to fit your waist and define your shape.
$41.99 Amazon Prime
Bestseller No. 4
Plusexy Women's Push Up Strapless Bra Thick Padded Underwire Convertible Multiway Bras Nude 34B
Plusexy Women’s Push Up Strapless Bra Thick Padded Underwire Convertible Multiway Bras Nude 34B
Note: Hand wash for longer durability. Not washing with machine.
$27.88 Amazon Prime

Grant has been wearing the Eddie Bauer Men’s Rainier Pants | Guide Pro Pants for travel and hiking and loves them. They are light, have great pockets, wrinkles just fall out of them quite easily and they are quite comfy regardless of where you are. He likes them so much, he wears them to work, too!

Eddie Bauer Men’s Guide Pro Rainier Lined Pants, Dark Smoke Rainier, 32W x 30L
  • The winterized version of our versatile hiking pants for men made of bluesign certified fabric – ensures safe and sustainable textile production – that include Flexion 2-way active stretch for optimal mobility
  • Be prepared for any weather condition because these hiking pants come with StormRepel DWR finish that sheds moisture on the rainy days and FreeShade UPF 50+ for sun protection during those summer adventures. On top of that, these pants are lined with a soft yet very wamr fleece fabric making them ideal for hiking in cold weather

Daypacks

REI Trail 25 Pack

This pack is a bit heavier than past packs Grant has used but it has some excellent features which make it perfect for our hikes. It has a hydration sleeve, so he can carry a water bladder. It also has multiple mesh pockets on the side for stuffing odds and ends plus a top pocket for accessing snacks.

Grant stands on the Bumpass Hell Trail admiring the view of Lassen Peak.
Grant on the Bumpus Hell Trail in Lassen Volcanic National Park wearing his Trail 25 Pack.

The pack has a framesheet, which adds structure but still keeps the weight down. This pack has more space than his former one, allowing him to more easily stow layers when hiking in cold weather.

For more information, check out our article on choosing the right daypack here.

Osprey Packs Daylite Plus Daypack

I have been using the Osprey Packs Daylite Plus Daypack for a hiking pack for a couple of years now. This 20L pack will hold an extra layer, snacks and all the essential hiking gear. It also has a large main compartment, a medium front pocket and a small pocket for keys or other small items. The stuff-it pocket on the front is perfect for stashing a trail map for easy access or an outer layer as temperatures warm up.

Bonnie hiking with her new daypack, an Osprey Daylite Plus.
Bonnie hiking with her new daypack, an Osprey Daylite Plus.

For longer hikes, there is a hydration bladder sleeve. For shorter hikes, there are two mesh side pockets for water bottles. There is even a padded compartment for a tablet or small laptop if you wanted to use the bag as a carry-on.

For someone who likes to stay organized even when on the trail, this is a great pack!

Osprey Daylite Plus Commuter Backpack, Black
  • Premium efficiency and design
  • Storage tuned to the each season
  • Purpose designed to help mak the most of each exploration. Internal hydration sleeve

Packable Raincoat

Having good rain gear when traveling is essential. At the very least, you should always take a packable raincoat with you in case of the rain rolling in. We each have a couple of raincoats that we use for different purposes.

Alaska cruise in Glacier Bay
Bonnie using her Eddie Bauer Rainfoil Jacket as a shell layer.

Grant hates hoods, so he always goes for jackets with a hood that packs into the collar or zips off. He has a Glennaker Lake Rain Jacket from Columbia he got several years ago. It packs into its own pocket and doesn’t weigh that much. For casual use, it’s great and it stays in the truck most of the time. For travel and backpacking, he recently got a Rainier Jacket from REI, which weighs a bit more but is far more robust and has pit zips for ventilation. He wore that coat at a very soggy Army football game and loved it. Were he not averse to hoods, he would certainly be interested in the men’s version of my Eddie Bauer Rainfoil Packable Jacket.

I have two raincoats, one designed to be packable and one I have used a stuff sack with. My newest raincoat is an Eddie Bauer Rainfoil Packable Jacket, which works really well. It has kept me dry every time I have used it. My first raincoat, a Marmot PreCip, was actually a wedding gift from Grant. I had it for more than 10 years before it finally had to be retired. The only downside is that it does not pack down as well as the one from Eddie Bauer.

SaleBestseller No. 1
Eddie Bauer Women's Rainfoil Packable Jacket, Deep Eggplant Recycled, Large
Eddie Bauer Women’s Rainfoil Packable Jacket, Deep Eggplant Recycled, Large
WeatherEdge Plus 10k/10k waterproofing keeps you dry; 100% recycled 2-layer polyester shell
$54.50 Amazon Prime
SaleBestseller No. 2
Eddie Bauer Men's Rainfoil Packable Jacket, Medium Indigo Recycled, XX-Large
Eddie Bauer Men’s Rainfoil Packable Jacket, Medium Indigo Recycled, XX-Large
WeatherEdge waterproof fabric breathes well during moderate activity; StormRepel DWR Plus moisture-shedding finish
$54.50
SaleBestseller No. 3
Eddie Bauer Men's Rainfoil Insulated Parka, Twilight, Small
Eddie Bauer Men’s Rainfoil Insulated Parka, Twilight, Small
StormRepel Plus DWR treatment provides a moisture-shedding finish; WeatherEdge 2-layer, seam-sealed, waterproof fabric
$159.99 Amazon Prime
Bestseller No. 4
Eddie Bauer Men's Rainfoil Packable Jacket, Dk Marigold Recycled, Medium
Eddie Bauer Men’s Rainfoil Packable Jacket, Dk Marigold Recycled, Medium
WeatherEdge waterproof fabric breathes well during moderate activity; StormRepel DWR Plus moisture-shedding finish
$99.00 Amazon Prime

AirTags

We always do our best to not check bags when we fly. And, if you use packing cubes, choose the right outfits and plan to do laundry, it’s really not that difficult even on a long trip. In fact, we managed both a month in Eastern Europe and a month in Italy with just a carry-on backpack! But, sometimes you just have to bite the bullet and check a bag, which is what we did when we went to Greece.

While you’re still at the mercy of the airline baggage handlers, we found that placing an AirTag in our suitcase reduces a lot of stress. You can easily check the location of your bag before you get on the plane and when you land. While it doesn’t prevent your bag from getting left behind, it at least answers your question before you are the last person waiting at baggage claim.

We picked up a set of four AirTags, along with a 4-pack of silicone case key chains. Two of the AirTags go in our checked bags and we have the other two on my keys and Grant’s work backpack. Yes, AirTags are handy for anything that you are likely to leave behind or misplace.

Sale
Apple AirTag 4 Pack
  • Keep track of and find your items alongside friends and devices in the Find My app
  • Simple one-tap setup instantly connects AirTag with your iPhone or iPad
ANDOLO 4 Pcs Silicone Case for Apple Airtags, Lightweight Soft Protective AirTag Holder Keychain Skin Cover GPS Item Finder Accessories Compatible with Apple Air Tags Key Chain Ring Cases
  • Apple airtag case cover is specially designed for Apple AirTags. (Note: AirTag is not included)
  • The Airtag holder is made of silicone rubber, soft and comfortable, scratch-resistant, non-slip; protect the Air tags from impact, drop and scratches.

National Park Pass

Did you know you can purchase an America The Beautiful Pass, which grants access to most public lands, including units of the National Park Service, Forest Service, and Bureau of Land Management, as a gift? You can and it makes a great gift for the adventurous folks in your life.

You can purchase the pass at any National Park site which charges a fee. If you don’t live close to a site, you can get one online from REI. They cost $80 and are good for a year.

Pro Tip: Buy this the same month you plan on giving the gift so the recipient gets the most value out of the gift. The passes come pre-punched to expire a year from the month they were purchased.

Holiday Gifts: More than $100

Suitcases

While we rarely travel with a suitcase, there are times when that is just the best way to pack. We mostly use a suitcase when cruising or going to a resort… basically, any trip that involves unpacking just one time.

Buying the right suitcase for your needs is essential. It needs to be sturdy, yet lightweight. Wheels and a handle are a must. The size that you need will vary, so think about that before you buy one.

Getting a picture of Grant with a suitcase is a rare thing. We only use suitcases for specific trips, like a cruise, where we only have to unpack once.
Getting a picture of Grant with a suitcase is a rare thing. We only use suitcases for specific trips, like a cruise, where we only have to unpack once.

We each have a hard-sided Samsonite suitcasesimilar to this one. Four wheels allow it to spin and pull easily. It has a built-in TSA lock. The size allows us to easily pack for more than a week. And it’s expandable… essential if you typically do a lot of shopping while on vacation!

Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Navy, Checked-Large 28-Inch
  • 28″ Spinner luggage maximizes your packing power and is the ideal checked bag for longer trips
  • packing dimensions: 28.5″ X 20.5″ X 13.5″, overall dimensions: 30.5″ X 21.5″ X 13.5″, weight: 10.35 pounds

For our most recent trip to Greece, we decided to get smaller suitcases we picked up at eBags since we knew we would be unable to do laundry and most everyone was checking bags anyway. These suitcases were quite good and useful for a 10-day trip. They are still too big to use as a carry-on, though.

Bonnie in the airport in Athens
For this trip, we used luggage and daypacks rather than our normal backpacks.

Travel Backpacks

When traveling overseas, or anytime that we will be moving around a lot, we carry a backpack rather than a suitcase. If you have ever tried to pull a suitcase across cobblestone streets, you will understand why we love to travel with a backpack. Being able to have our hands free when getting on a train or walking through the airport is also great.

I use the eBags TLS Mother Lode Weekender Convertible and Grant uses the Lowepro Highline BP 400 AW. I wish you could still buy Grant’s bag but it has been discontinued by Lowepro, along with most of their non-camera bags. It’s too bad because we both have daypacks from Lowepro which are awesome but have been sadly discontinued as well.

The backpack may be a little bit and boxy, but it carries nicely and has great organizational features!
The backpack may be a little bit and boxy, but it carries nicely and has great organizational features!
eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack | Fits Laptops Up To 19 Inches
  • KEY FEATURES: Padded laptop sleeve fits up to 19″, zip expansion for an extra 1.5″ and stowable backpack straps
  • TRAVEL BENEFITS: 2 exterior quick-grab zip pockets, side zip water bottle pocket and bottom and side carry handles and 4 exterior compression straps
  • ORGANIZATION: Easy access front zip compartment with several interior pockets and key leash, large main compartment with compression straps & fold-down shelf and interior zip-around mesh panel pocket
  • BREATHABLE & COMFORTABLE: Breathable back panel for comfort; removable, adjustable sternum strap
  • DIMENSIONS: Exterior Dimensions – 22″ X 14″ X 9″; Linear Inches – 45″; Laptop Compartment Dimensions – 19″ X 11.75″ X 1.5″; Weight: 3 lbs, 15 oz; Capacity: 3299 cu. in.

With some careful packing, we can fit about five days’ worth of clothes, plus toiletries, electronics, and any other essential items. It does take some creative packing and VERY careful consideration of what you actually need, but we have lived out of a backpack for more than a month at a time in Europe.

When we traveled to Italy in 2017, we actually managed to pack for eight days and both of these packs performed like a charm. Personally, I would rather take 5-6 days and do laundry but both of these packs impressed us on that trip.

You can read a full review of Bonnie’s backpack here and Grant’s here. If you think you can’t pack in just a backpack, read our tips on How to Travel Like a Professional Traveler.

Grant is in the process of evaluating a new backpack: the Tortuga 40L Travel Backpack. It looks great but he has not tested it out yet, so he can’t quite recommend it. Still, they offer a 30-day trial period with the pack, so if it looks like something you are interested in, it is worth a shot.

Tablet

I know not everyone is on the Apple bandwagon, but we are and that is what we recommend. The iPad Mini is my tablet of choice, allowing me to read books, work, or just catch up on the day’s news. Until recently, we both had iPad Minis. Grant now has a full-size iPad Air, which he uses extensively to read books, play games, watch movies and perform basic work tasks. Additionally, we can use both tablets as extra screens for our Macbook Airs.

Bonnie reading a book on her iPad at the camper.
Bonnie reading a book on her iPad mini at the camper.

Both tablets are the perfect size for reading and they fit easily in our backpacks for easy access on the train or in the airport. Yes, the iPad Mini is smaller and lighter.

In the past, when my old iPad Mini’s screen broke, I opted for a Fire Tablet. It worked really well as an e-reader but it’s all of the other things where an iPad excels and is worth the additional price.

Whether you opt for an iPad or a Fire Tablet, anything that allows you to carry just about unlimited books while traveling is a great option!

Check out our list of books to inspire your travels.

Sale
Apple iPad Air (5th Generation): with M1 chip, 10.9-inch Liquid Retina Display, 256GB, Wi-Fi 6, 12MP front/12MP Back Camera, Touch ID, All-Day Battery Life – Space Gray
  • WHY IPAD AIR — Serious performance in a thin and light design. With an immersive 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display and the amazing performance of the M1 chip, iPad Air is a creative and gaming powerhouse. Featuring Touch ID, advanced cameras, superfast Wi-Fi 6, and a USB-C connector.
Sale
Apple iPad Mini (6th Generation): with A15 Bionic chip, 8.3-inch Liquid Retina Display, 64GB, Wi-Fi 6, 12MP front/12MP Back Camera, Touch ID, All-Day Battery Life – Space Gray
  • WHY IPAD MINI — The full iPad experience designed to fit in one hand. With an 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display, powerful A15 Bionic chip, 12MP Ultra Wide front camera with Center Stage, USB-C connectivity, and ultrafast Wi-Fi. Take notes, mark up documents, and edit photos and videos.

Cameras

Canon SX70

While the camera on the iPhone is great, sometimes you just need a bit more. This is where the Canon SX70 comes in. It is lightweight, making it perfect for hiking or backpacking around the world.

Grant using the hiking staff as a lightweight monopod to steady the SX40HS for shots of a moose.
Grant using the hiking staff as a lightweight monopod to steady the SX40HS for shots of a moose.

Grant used the SX40, a previous version and we have taken it on hikes, to Eastern Europe and twice to Italy. While he has since upgraded to a different camera, he really likes this camera for a relatively inexpensive travel camera. The camera is light, has an AMAZING optical zoom and weighs about a pound.

Canon Powershot SX70 20.3MP Digital Camera 65x Optical Zoom Lens 4K Video 3-inch LCD Tilt Screen (Black) (Renewed)
  • Powerful 65x optical zoom.
  • 20.3 Megapixel* CMOS sensor and DIGIC 8 image processor.
  • 4K video and 4K time-lapse movie.
  • 0.39-Type Approx. 2.36-million dot, OLED EVF.

Read more about all the gear that Grant keeps in his camera bag.

Sony RX10 Mk IV

Looking to spend a lot more money on a travel camera? Then look no further than the Sony RX10 IV.

While this camera does not have the zoom range that the SX70HS, it has a MUCH better lens and a MUCH better sensor. But that extra performance comes with a significant additional cost over the SX70HS. Still, this camera is easily Grant’s favorite camera.

Read Grant’s review of the RX10 here.

Grant using his new Sony RX10.
Grant using his new Sony RX10.
Sony Cyber‑Shot RX10 IV with 0.03 Second Auto-Focus & 25x Optical Zoom (DSC-RX10M4), Black
  • World’s Fastest AF acquisition speed of 0.03 sec. Optical image stabilization technology developed by Sony is valuable for handheld still and movie shooting, especially in low light or at the ultra-telephoto end of the zoom range up to 600 mm
  • 315 phase-detection AF points covering Approx. 65% of the frame. Light etering mode- Multi pattern, centre weighted, spot (Standard/Large), entire screen average, highlight
  • ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T 24-600mm3 F2.4-F4 ultra-zoom Lens
  • 20.1 MP 1″ back Illuminated Exmor RS stacked CMOS sensor w/ DRAM. Dimensions (W x H x D) (CIPA) -5 1/4 x 3 3/4 x 5 3/4 inches, 5 1/4 x 3 3/4 x 5 1/8 inches (from front of lens to monitor). Weight-2 pounds 6.7 ounce (Battery and SDXC Card included) / Approx. 2 pounds 5.1 ounces) (Body Only)
  • 24 Fps4 continuous shooting up to 249 frames with AF/AE tracking. Filter diameter:62 mm.

Cotton Carrier Sling Belt

Looking to upgrade your camera strap? Grant is a huge fan of the Cotton Carrier Sling Belt. He uses this belt whenever he hikes or does any sort of walking tour while traveling.

The Sling Belt has three components: a belt with a mount on the right side, a sling strap, which attaches to one of the strap loops on the camera, and a cam that screws into the tripod lug.

Grant watching the stragglers in the distance.
Grant watching the straggling bison in the distance. Note the Cotton Carrier Sling Belt and RX10 on his hip.

The cam slides into the mount and securely locks the camera to the belt, making it quite secure for hiking and travel. The belt takes the weight of the camera off your neck/shoulders and is quite comfy. The sling provides drop security when you are using the camera and can be used by itself.

Use the code WANDERFILLED at checkout to get 10% off!

Cotton Carrier Slingbelt with Tether for One Camera. Camera Harness for Hiking and Traveling for Hands-Free Carrying
  • SLINGBELT. Carrying your camera with heavy lenses can be tough, which is why photographers love our Slingbelt! Easily strap in your camera and go! Made with an adjustable hip belt and secure locking-mechanism, you can enjoy doing what you love without worrying about your camera.

Looking For RV Gear?

Be sure to check out our RV Gear Guide for suggestions for the RV owner in your life.

Still Need More Ideas?

You can find many of these items and much more on our Amazon Influencer page. Check it out for additional gear suggestions.

Final Thoughts on Holiday Gifts for Travelers

Hopefully, we made shopping for the holidays just a bit easier! Every item is something that we use ourselves and feel comfortable recommending as holiday gifts for anyone who travels extensively or occasionally. If you have any questions or are looking for recommendations on something we haven’t covered here, please contact us! We are happy to answer any questions about our recommendations.


Travel Resources
What do you use to find a flight?

We use Skyscanner to find deals on flights. Skyscanner has a great interface and compares tons of airlines for the best pricing and routing. That said, it does not always have every airline and some airlines will have better deals on their website. Still, Skyscanner is a great place to start.
Click here to search for a flight.

What do you use to find a hotel?

We typically stay at Hilton properties, so we use the Hilton website. You can find good Hilton Honors discounts or AAA discounts for a hotel there. We make great use of our free night certificates from our Hilton Honors American Express.
Click here to book a Hilton property.

If there are no Hilton properties available, we use TripAdvisor to read reviews and book the hotel. We find we can get the best price that way.
Click here to search for a hotel.

We recently partnered with Stay22 to add interactive maps to each of our destination posts. This will allow you to see a plethora of hotels and vacation rentals all in one responsive map of the area.

What if I need more space than I can get at a hotel?

We use Vrbo for the times when we have rented a cabin for a weekend getaway, like this cabin in Townsend, TN, or needed to rent a house for a large family vacation. We had a great experience with them in terms of refunding deposits when COVID hit and will continue to use them.
Click here to search for a vacation rental.

Who do you use for rental cars?

As a general rule, we book with Hertz for rental cars. We have had nothing but good experiences with them. Plus, we really like unlimited mileage and not worrying about crossing state lines. We have even rented from Hertz overseas in both Slovenia and Croatia.
Click here to book a rental car.

How about booking a cruise?

We have found some amazing prices for booking a cruise through Cruise Direct. We have saved a lot of money on our cruises compared to what we found elsewhere, making a last-minute Bahamas cruise even cheaper.
Click here to book a cruise.

What if I want to rent an RV?

We highly recommend Outdoorsy for RV rentals. We rented a camper van for a week to visit Rocky Mountain National Park for the elk rut and Custer State Park for the Buffalo Round-Up and had a blast. The program was easy to use and we really enjoyed the freedom of having a camper van for that trip.
Click here to rent an RV.

What do you use for booking tours?

We don’t often book tours. Typically, we like to do stuff on our own. That said, there are some experiences you can’t have any other way. So, when we do want to book a tour, we always check Viator first.
Click here to book a tour.

Do you use anything to get discounts on the road?

We make extensive use of both Good Sam and AAA on the road. Good Sam is normally regarded as a discount card for RVers at campgrounds and Camping World but anyone can use the 5 cents off a gallon at the pump at both Pilot and Flying J.
Click here to get a Good Sam membership.
We have had AAA as long as we have been married and it has more than paid for itself in discounts at hotels, aside from the peace of mind of having roadside assistance. Add in paper maps and the ability to get an international driver’s license and it is more than worth it for any traveler out there.
Click here to get a AAA membership.

Looking for holiday gifts for a traveler? Our holiday gift guide includes gift ideas for men, women and couples of all travel styles.

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