I’m in the age of practicality when it comes to travel gear. I like to take trips with as minimal things as possible and utilize the space in my head and my suitcase to its full potential.
With that said: I also am a sucker for a cozy airplane sweater. Or a cute wallet to hold all my travel documents. Traveling is supposed to be fun and even a bit indulgent! So it’s perfectly alright in my book to have a few creature comforts for the journey. Especially if they support small businesses, artists, creators, and marginalized communities.
Because I’m feeling the fun holiday season already in full swing, I’ve made it simple for you to not only discover adorable gifts on Etsy, but also support wonderful creators who put hard work into their wonderful product lines.
You can have a wander through my list of Etsy holiday travel finds below. Also feel free to check out their holiday/winter inspiration picks, featuring lots of lovely things to keep your homebase feeling cozy while you’re away too.
Things to do on a plane that isn’t watching a screen
Destination coloring book: West Coast Wonderful
Ever since I got engaged on a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway, I’ve been hooked. I actually haven’t been back, though, in 11 years! We later moved to the UK and those west coast states seemed farther away. But maybe in the next year or two I can return after being inspired by this fun coloring book.
Colored pencils made from recycled wood
I love a pretty set on pencils to sketch with occasionally. I’d keep these in a special place so they don’t end up like my kiddos broken crayons. I like sketching and writing on planes because of the white noise and my ability to focus more without distraction.
Custom travel journal
I think I filled at least five journalist through my teens and twenties. I lost the art sadly but I still like to take notes by hand when traveling for work. I have one of these on hand though for when the mood strikes. It’s refreshing to journal just for you and not the masses online.
Goods to help you travel a little more sustainably
Bamboo travel utensil kit
Every trip I’m getting slighter better about using my own cutlery when getting takeout or prompted with plastic utensils. Having some sleek reusable kit on my person at all times definitely helps. I add a metal straw to this combo and I’m good to go almost anywhere in the world.
Vintage sweaters
Not only does Etsy have lots of modern artisans showing off thier talents, there’s also a hug vintage market for clothes, housewares, and art. I love searching for giant sweaters I can wear around the house and when I’m on a plane or traveling. I might be biased, but I often think older knits last longer and are worn to feel even cozier.
More pretty and practical travel apparel
Travel scarf with a hidden pocket
These are my dear friend Caitlin’s incredible scarfs she designs and distributes worldwide. She was one of the first to imagine a scarf with a hidden travel pocket to shore your phone, passport, or other essentials. I love curling up in this on the plane.
Hand embroidered sleep mask
I love that you can order this eye mask already embroidered or give it a go yourself. I’m less likely to buy more too and take care of something that’s been handmade like this too. They come in a variety of colors.
If you’re hunting down the best gifts for travelers, We have you covered this year. Check out our other gift guides below featuring everything from foodie finds, gifts for family travelers, and experiential gifts for those who love to roam. Happy holidays!
