Best Gifts for the Budget Traveler
For some people, traveling is one big endless splurge on fancy restaurants, hotels, or experiential packages. The budget traveler is different. These folks like to save their pennies. They're a bit more practical and no-nonsense. They're more likely to appreciate a good bargain than an indulgent escape. If this is you or someone you know, check out these ideal gifts for the budget traveler in your life.
1. Gadget: 4-in- 1 Travel Adaptor
The perfect balance of price, functionality, and primary colors, this interlocking adaptor can help you convert electronic juice and navigate over 150 countries. The gadget is so chic it's actually sold at the Museum of Modern Art. Buy: Momastore.org, $25
2. Cosmetic: Flint Reusable Lint Roller
What if Apple designed lint rollers? This is what we imagine it'd look like. Become a little more polished and presentable on your next extended excursion with this portable and retractable device, which comes with 30 adhesive sheets. Buy: Amazon.com, $10
3. Travel Bag: iFLY Admiral Carry-On
A lightweight hard side with a TSA-accepted lock, laptop sleeve, 360-degree wheels, laundry bag and USB port for under a hundred bucks? Even the most economical traveler would give this her stamp of approval. Buy: iFLYLuggage.com, $99
4. Book: How to Travel the World on $50 a Day
There's a reason Matt Kepnes' book is now on its third edition: it's loaded with value. Packed with interviews, actionable advice and tales of his own experiences jetting around for over a decade, this could become your new bible. Buy: Amazon.com, $13
5. Accessory: Uniqlo Ultra Light Down Vest
Everyone knows the secret to traveling light is a monochromatic wardrobe. The other secret? Squishable articles of clothing, like this vest from the favorite Japanese retailer, that are both extremely warm and take up zero room in your duffel. Buy: Uniqlo.com, $60
6. Comfort: Muji Non-Itchy Wool Rib Beanie
Winter's not coming. It's already here! This wool-and- cotton blend won't make your head itch, which is great, because you've got more important things to think about, like finding the cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant in the world. Buy: Muji.us, $24
7. Subscription: Globe In Artisan Box
Help support local artisans with this subscription box that delivers one hand-picked, fair trade good every month. If you're the type that always returns from a trip regretting something you didn't buy, these gorgeous baskets, ceramics and jewelry might fill the void. Buy: GlobeIn.com, $10/month
8. Gift Card: Headspace
Perfect for navigating airports and Uber delays, this popular meditation app might just be the cure for every major travel woe. There are special meditation packs for stress, anxiety, work and much more, making it a small investment with a big payoff. Buy: Headspace.com, $96
9. Random: Artifact Uprising Wood Calendar
Surprise your travel buddy by grabbing a few of their best Instagrams and turning them into a handsome handcrafted calendar. They can relive global memories — and get inspiration for new trips — with each passing month. Buy: ArtifactUprising.com, $30
10. Charity: Kiva Card
This gift starts a chain reaction of supporting international entrepreneurs. Your recipient can choose to whom they want to loan money, from a farmer in Tanzania to a grocer in India. When the loan is repaid, they can lend the funds again. Maybe the most selfless present of all. Buy: Kiva.org, $25+
Prices accurate as of publication date. Check out more TPG gift guides here and the TPG guide on the best cards to use for holiday shopping.
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| 5X miles | Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel |
| 2X miles | Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day |
Pros
- Stellar welcome offer of 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. Plus, a $250 Capital One Travel credit to use in your first cardholder year upon account opening.
- You'll earn 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, which means you won't have to worry about memorizing bonus categories
- Rewards are versatile and can be redeemed for a statement credit or transferred to Capital One’s transfer partners
Cons
- Highest bonus-earning categories only on travel booked via Capital One Travel
- LIMITED-TIME OFFER: Enjoy $250 to use on Capital One Travel in your first cardholder year, plus earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening - that’s equal to $1,000 in travel
- Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
- Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
- Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
- Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
- Enjoy a $50 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Lifestyle Collection
- Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
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