8 Gifts Aspiring Travel Writers Would Love For Christmas

The holidays are upon us and it’s time for “What do you want for Christmas?” It’s a tougher question as we get older because we already have what we want. I have spent the last few weeks researching and testing the products on this list. Each is unique, innovative and perfect for the traveler on your shopping list, or your own Christmas list. I love everything on this list and have bought many items for gifts or added to my own Christmas List.

I received samples of many of these products to try and test each one on one of my many trips. All opinions are my own.

1. STNKY Washable laundry bag

A laundry bag as a gift? I know what you’re thinking, but these STNKY bags they are amazing, complete with a unique inner wash net. Put your dirty clothes in the bag and zip it to lock in germs and odors. No more sweaty socks. When it’s time to do laundry, open the bottom of the bag and let the wash net fall out. The bags are washer and dryer safe. Just wash your clothes at the recommended temperature. For travelers, these bags keep your suitcase and clothes clean and fresh. When washing, the bag keeps everything together so users won’t lose socks or other pieces of clothing. They come in a variety of sizes. I use the XL on longer trips, but the standard is perfect for gym wear or weekend getaways.

I tried the XL bag on a recent cruise. There are straps that I used to hang the bag and it was very convenient to add my dirty laundry. tea Discovery Princess It had a laundry room for guests to use on each floor. I loved that when I washed my clothes, they stayed in the bag. The net bag was sticking out from the bottom and my clothes were clean. I was worried that they wouldn’t have enough water and detergent through the bag, but that wasn’t the case. The unique design with the inner mesh bag makes all the difference when using public laundry.

NOMATICS

You can buy something from NOMATIC for Christmas. I absolutely love their products. The quality is exceptional with sturdy construction, durable materials and innovative features. The products have a lifetime warranty. Here are two items that are currently on the way.

2. NOMATIC Navigator Tech Organizer

Finally, all my cables and plugs for the many electronics I travel with are wrapped in a durable, water-resistant tech bag. tea NOMATIC Navigator Technology Organizer it’s so well designed with numerous zipper pockets, pen slots, elastic holders, and a deep pocket that holds my power bank and laptop power cables.

I was amazed at how well this organizer held up. Computer power cords, a handheld light, cables for my phone, adapters and a Fitbit charger all had a place in the tech organizer. When packing everything back, I could easily tell if I forgot a cable because every piece had a place in the bag.

3. NOMATIC Packing Cubes

tea NOMATIC packing cubes they are expensive but worth it. Mine have traveled all over the world with me and still look brand new. I always pack a lot and jam so much into these that I can barely close them, putting pressure on the zippers. They held on, though. Mesh allows air to escape for maximum compression. I have one of each size and will use all three in one trip. On my recent cruise, the cubes gave me more space in my suitcase. I also liked that it kept smaller items together. I just unpacked the bag, but I kept the underwear and socks in the cube and it made it easier to find what I needed.

4. Wanderfull HydroDouble Crossbody Bag

This is my new favorite travel bag. I ordered the HydroDouble Matte Island Navy Shoulder Bag and it’s a good neutral color when you just want to carry a bag. What makes this bag unique is its innovative neoprene sleeve inside for water bottles, wine bottles and reusable coffee cups. The waterproof bag protects the inside of the bag and everything in it. I find a water bottle a must when exploring and it’s so nice not to have to hold it. For forgetful people like me, it keeps me from losing my bottle.

The jazzy design uses a puffer-coat fabric that is lightweight while still being durable. There is plenty of room for everything, including the side pockets. I like the 2 inch wide strap that spreads the weight over the shoulder for more comfort. Interchangeable adjustable straps are also available for purchase to customize your style.

It was a huge hit when I tried it on a cruise and got a lot of compliments. It was the perfect bag for overland excursions and held everything I needed. I loved the body strap, which made the bag hands-free and useful when shopping. The two zipped front pockets are easy to access. I used one for my passport when going through security.

5. Forager Eco Travel Kit

Bee Inspired Goods is a company that produces a variety of products handmade in the United States; many use beeswax or honey that comes from bees. I usually have more time in the evening when I travel alone. It’s a perfect opportunity to put on a facial mask or other time-consuming beauty treatment. tea Forager Eco Travel Kit it’s a trio of beauty products in a nice 2 ounce bag. My favorite of the three is the Peace of Mind Honey Body Butter. This thick moisturizing paste was so effective on my dry skin that I ordered a full size for home. Also included is the Peace of Mind Body Scrub and the soothing Lavender Calming Mask. All three come packaged in a reusable muslin bag.

The Peace of Mind Honey Body Butter was really helpful on my trip because it was extremely dry and my skin was very dry. This product was so soothing to my skin and helped to retain moisture. I find that my skin needs extra moisture when I travel and this product lasts most of the day.

Pro tip: Use immediately after a shower when the skin is still damp to give it an extra moisture boost.

Keristin Florian

I love this brand and have tried many of their products. Keristin Florian uses advanced technologies with high quality ingredients that truly deliver dramatic results. I saw a difference after just one use of the skin care routine. The skincare collection is expensive, which is why it’s on my Christmas list, but it really works.

6. Collection Sun

I love the texture of these two sun protection products. tea Mineral sunscreen for the body SPF 30 it uses 100 percent non-nano zinc oxide that somehow doesn’t leave that chalky white haze on your skin. It is skin friendly and a natural formula. It also keeps my skin nice and hydrated. tea Corrective Multi-Vitamin Day Cream SPF 30 it’s a great everyday moisturizer, but with enough sun power to handle a day at the pool or beach. This moisturizer is light but still emollient. My face feels oily and protected after use.

7. Holiday kit

Keristin Florian has a variety of Holiday Kits for 2023. On my list is the Skincare Starter Kit and the Bath and Body Starter Kit. Both come in a travel bag with TSA approved travel sizes. Enjoy a wellness and spa experience when you travel. I love the brand’s Acqua Natural Rehydrating Neroli with a lovely orange blossom fragrance. It is included in both kits and is the perfect size to carry in your purse. A spritz of water is refreshing and the smell can counteract some of the unpleasant smells you encounter when traveling.

8. Boomstick Trio By Cindy Joseph

I recently tried these products and added more on my Christmas list. tea Boomstick Trio by Cindy Joseph it is the basic kit. If you’re on social media, you’ve probably seen the products shown. Designed for aging skin, these tubes contain a super emollient formula that makes aging skin glow. Ingredients include beeswax, royal jelly and vitamin E. I have had so many compliments on my skin since I started using it.

Boomstick Color is magical because it works with all skin tones and can replace blush, lipstick and bronzer. Boomstick Glo adds the necessary moisture to the skin and gives it a fresh look. The Boomstick Glimmer adds a bit of shimmer but it’s not too shiny. It looks natural on older skin. I use it mostly as an eyeshadow. I was so impressed with these products that I added more from their line to my Christmas list. They just came out with Boomstick Nude Rose, which is a color stick that I think will look great with my skin tone.