This was published 4 years ago
Traveller's 2019 Christmas gift guide: The best gift ideas for people who love travel
By Julietta Jameson
Vintage-look: KARMME femme satchel.
For an increasing number of people, the way we consume everything, from toilet paper to travel experiences, is informed by an awareness of environmental and social impacts and the desire to reduce, reuse and recycle.
But , when it comes to Christmas, even the most "woke" individual will feel the urge to spend.
It may not be the ka-ching or bling of the 1980s and '90s, when Christmas accounted for half the yearly spend on diamonds, watches and furs at New York's ritzy department stores. Unless you're a chart topping rapper, Russian oligarch or a Kardashian, "conspicuous consumption" is, allegedly, all but dead – as alas, are many of those NYC department stores.
As we enter the third decade of the 21st century, luxury is said to be more about lasting quality, usefulness and suitability, and less about lavish goods for their own sake. Likewise, good Christmas gift giving should be about those things, too.
That's why those who seek presents for travellers are in luck. We're a tribe that values durability, usefulness and suitability in the goods we carry with us as we traverse the globe.
Of course, we still look forward to receiving a little frippery and fun on Christmas morning – a garish inflatable for the resort pool, for instance, or an item of sheer beauty, such as a book of iconic art that conjures dreams of new destinations.
Either way, the gifts we remember are those we go to time and again, whether for putting into the pack or for inspiring journeys. And we will also fondly recollect the ones who so thoughtfully found them for us.
In Traveller's annual Christmas gift guide, find 25 ideas for giving to Australians who journey, with each themed according to some of our most popular destinations. You might even find a little something for yourself.
JAPAN
BOSE FRAMES ALTO, $299.95
Impress an "early adopter" travelling to the home of all things cool with Bose's new audio frames combine listening with great looking sunnies. Bluetooth enabled, they have audio chambers in the arms and an integrated microphone to take calls with premium lenses that offer UVA/UVB protection. See bose.com.au
NEW ZEALAND
OAKLEY FRAMES, $264.95
Oakley's Prizm lens technology provides enhanced visibility by precisely tuning colours. Delight your fitness fanatic or adventurer before they hit the adrenalin highs in New Zealand, with something from Oakley's extensive range. Our pick, the Radar Ev Enhancer. See oakley.com
CHINA
GOPRO HERO8 BLACK, $599.95
Leave recording that epic walk along the Great Wall or a once-in-a-lifetime panda encounter at the Chengdu Research Base to a pro – the GoPro. Its Hero8 Black offers next-level video stabilisation with HyperSmooth 2.0, upgraded audio, customisable preset modes and a sleek design. See gopro.com
BALI
SMITHERS MEN'S SWIMWEAR, $80
A gift to keep your bathing beauty bathing beautifully. Smithers is an Australian-owned Sydney-made men's swimwear label with all garments manufactured to exacting standards from the compression material used in high-performance athleisure garments. The fabric dries quickly and each pair is graded UPF 50+. See smithers.store
USA
KEN DONE MONOGRAPHS, $24.99 EACH
Taking presents OS? Give some Aussie sunshine with these four volumes of Ken Done's work. Titled Sydney, Reef, Outback and Beach, the collectables celebrate an Australian artist who became a high-profile figure in parts of the US. See thameshudson.com.au
UNITED KINGDOM
THE ROYAL GEOGRAPHICAL SOCIETY PUZZLE BOOK, $29.99
Test your geography skills as you learn about 50 world explorers and expeditions via a set of increasingly difficult questions. This challenging, informative and entertaining book is perfect for Yuletide in Ol' Blighty as folks gather by the fireplace with egg-nog. See allenandunwin.com
VIETNAM
ASUS ZENBOOK 14, $1799
The Vietnam wanderer can keep in touch with ASUS's most compact laptop ever. The 14-inch device has a four-sided frameless NanoEdge display and ultra-slim bezels, while a comprehensive set of high-performance I/O ports gives ZenBook 14 connectivity flexibility. It also has integrated gigabit-class Wi-Fi. See asus.com/au
FIJI
ELLA BACHE HYDRATING SKIN COLLECTION, $110
Take the stress out of an island hopper's holiday pack with an Ella Bache's purpose-built gift box. This one promotes hydration and includes the legendary French brand's, Hydra Velvety Soft Cream (50ml), Hydra Hyaluronic Cellular Serum (15ml) and Hydra Cationic Skin Elixir (15ml). See ellabache.com.au
SINGAPORE
MAISON BALUCHON MACBOOK CASE, $150
The Lion City is famous for its lush parks and gardens and the Singapore stylemeister on your list can show their appreciation with this lovely MacBook case, handmade in Chaumont, France. The body is 100 per cent cotton, and the trims real leather. See bastilleandsons.com.au
THAILAND
SOPHIE ALLPORT HEARTS TRAVEL WASH BAG, $38 (£20)
No more plastic bags at airport security for the recipient of this wash bag, perfectly sized for carry-on liquids. It has large clear windows either side and a rose gold-coloured zip closure. Debossed with the words, "Love to travel", it can also used for make-up or loose items in the beach bag. See sophieallport.com
MALAYSIA
SAMSUNG GALAXY FOLD, $2999
A present with which to hit this Asian high-tech hub in step, when closed, the 5G-ready device allows its owner to access their essentials on the cover display. When opened, they can use it to watch videos, play games, and more, on its immersive 7.3-inch Infinity Flex Display. See samsung.com
FRANCE
CRUMPLER ORBITKEY, $49
Secure the keys to the Airbnb or farm stay with this fab collab between Melbourne label Crumpler and Orbitkey. The clever design keeps keys stacked neatly, and protects the things inside your bag and pockets from key scratches. It is constructed from left-over bag-production textiles and comes in a variety of colours. See crumpler.com
CANADA
LAPOCHE SHOE BAG, $22.95
This gift keeps shoes separate from the other contents of a pack. Handy for hikers whose footwear gets messy, or for carrying dress shoes to dinner in Whistler during a trudge to the restaurant in snow boots. Lapoche's shoe bag comes in several colours and also makes pulling footwear out for inspection at customs easy. See lapoche.com
SPAIN
IS COLLAPSIBLE WINE GLASS, $29.90
The oenophile on your list can hit La Rioja ready for the reds with this clever collapsible wine glass that comes with its own carry case. The bowl sits between the Bordeaux and chardonnay shape to cater for different types of wine and the rim is thin to make the drinking experience as close to glass as possible. It's also BPA free. See thedesigngiftshop.com
SOUTH KOREA
KITX GLOBAL NOMAD TRENCH, $695
Give a seamless foray into Seoul's street style scene with this funky, futuristic trench coat. It's made from Lenzing-certified Viscose in a closed loop system that guarantees no toxic waste by reclaiming and reusing the chemicals required. The fabric is biodegradable and recyclable and the coat features deep, elasticised pockets for re-useable coffee cups and water bottles. See kitx.com.au
PORTUGAL
KATE & CONFUSION AMALFI FEDORA, $119.95
The beaches of Porto beckon the owner of this women's fedora hat, with subtle silver lurex thread woven through the crown. It's made in Italy from raffia with an 8cm brim, just right for combining European mystery with sensible sun protection. See kateandconfusion.com
THE PHILIPPINES
TAG HEUER CARRERA HEUER 02 GMT, $8350
For the adventurous somebody who deserves something special, look no further than a beautiful timepiece which is water-resistant to 100 metres. It has a second-time-zone feature and is housed in a solid 45mm steel case. There's a good chance they'll love your present the best. See tagheuer.com
GREECE
KARMME FEMME SATCHEL, $280
For a vintage-look lover, this cross-body satchel made in Sydney from premium Italian leather does double time as a great carry-on and day bag. It has a double open pocket on one side for easy access to phone and a wide zip pocket. Under a leather-lined flap is a zip that keeps all your belongings safe. See karmme.com.au
SOUTH AFRICA
EVERLANE WASHABLE SILK TIE-CUFF SHIRT, $165
What's not to love about a shirt that goes from safari to cocktail sipping? Ethical clothing company Everlane's Washable Silk Tie-Cuff shirt can be put in the machine so your happy recipient can send it off to the hotel laundry. Or they can simply give it the old handwash in the bathroom sink between wears. See everlane.com
INDIA
HYBERNATE SLEEVELESS TEE, $57 & SLIM-LEG PANTS, $99
These Australian-made sleepwear separates are made with soft, breathable pima cotton and are designed to be both stylish and comfortable. The slim-leg pants and sleeveless tee can go from long-haul sleep to yoga session and back to bed again. Also in the range are shorts, sleep dresses, T-shirts and long-sleeve tops. See hybernate.com
ITALY
WOLF 1834 CAROLINE X-LARGE JEWELLERY BOX, $1250
The Mediterranean cruise aficionado who has everything can take their jewels and baubles onboard in this luxury leather case that features 43 jewellery compartments, four watch compartments, four ring rolls, a jewellery roll and smaller travel case. Not included: a partridge in a pear tree. See opsisdesigns.com.au
THE MALDIVES
SEAFOLLY SPIRIT ANIMAL SURF SUIT, $189.95
For the surfer or sun-exposure-conscious, this leopard-spot and polka-dot-print surf suit offers fashion and fun. It features a zip front and shelf bra with removable cups and is made with Seafolly's quality nylon-elastane blend. See seafolly.com
PAPUA NEW GUINEA
KERRIN DECK SHORT, $260
The above-knee length and boxy fit that sits away from legs makes these heavy-weight men's shorts breezy but built for adventure. The 325-gram durable cotton drill fabric and twin needle top stitch construction is designed to wear in beautifully over time. They are designed in Australia and made in Portugal and come in black and white as well as khaki. See kerrin.co
ANTARCTICA
CANON EOS 90D, $1878
The traditional DSLR lover's under-the-tree wish is the new award-winning EOS 90D which combines a robust body and high-level performance. It has a new 32.5 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, a 45-point autofocus system, the new multi-controller AFR joystick and a vari-angle LCD touch screen. See store.canon.com.au
SRI LANKA
RAINS LONG LINE JACKET, $170
When it pours in tea country (that's precipitation, not cuppa), Rains' long-line, unisex jacket will be a much-appreciated present. The light and water-resistant coat has pocket flaps, an adjustable hood with a practical cap function and ventilation under the storm shield. It comes in a variety of colours. See rains.com
FIVE GIFTS FOR AUSTRALIAN TRAVELLERS
BYRON BAY ZOKU NEAT STACK FOOD JARS, FROM $44.95
Giving to a conscious traveller who seeks to cut down their plastic use? Whether they're transporting food to feed children or to feed themselves, Zoku's new stainless steel insulated travel jar has a vacuum insulated, double-walled design that ensures their food will stay cold or hot for hours. See zokuaustralia.com.au
GOLD COAST WE LOVE SUMMER INFLATABLE $59.99
A Christmas pool party just isn't a party without novelty inflatables. We Love Summer's range of floating fun includes the Giant Multicoloured Llama, a Luxe Inflatable Yacht and this desert island complete with palm trees – how very Gold Coast. See anaconda.com.au
MORNINGTON PENINSULA DRY ICE COOLER BAG 15L, $89.95
For boaters who love to get out on the bay, picnics on the beach or parties in the park, this clever bag keeps drinks cold for up to 24 hours. The cooler includes a removable/adjustable shoulder strap and a purge valve for flat pack storage when not in use. See over-board.com
KAKADU BAMBOO DIARIES BAMBOO CUTLERY SET, $20.99
As useful in the campervan as in the office desk drawer, this seven-piece bamboo cutlery set contains everything you need for eating on the go or in the great outdoors. It also includes a bamboo drinking straw and cleaning brush, all wrapped up in its own cloth roll that comes in various colours. See bamboodiaries.com
FLINDERS RANGES ECOYA CAR DIFFUSER, $19.95
Give the road tripper in your life a breath of fresh air. Australian natural soy candle brand, Ecoya has branched out with its Car Diffuser range of natural fragrance pods that sit on an air vent in the car to release refreshing perfume for up to three months. See ecoya.com
FIVE GIFTS FOR JUNIOR TRAVELLERS
THE MUSIC FAN: JR 300 BT HEADPHONES, $69.95
During rainy afternoons, transit times or at restaurants, keep the noise down when your kids watch videos or play games on personal devices with JBL's cute junior headphones. In bright colours to delight under the tree, they'll also delight fellow travellers with reduced disturbance. See jbl.com.au
THE ACTIVE KID: FITBIT ACE 2, $129.95
Fitbit's latest activity tracker for kids, the Fitbit Ace 2 is waterproof for pool and beach activities design, has five days' battery life and family account access so the whole tribe can challenge each other to see who burns off the burgers fastest on holiday. See fitbit.com
THE TINY TRAVELLER: FABELAB CUDDLE DOLL, $24.95
Very soft and the perfect size for little hands, this Cuddle Doll from Fabelab is designed in Denmark, so would satisfy the Scandi-style-conscious parent on your list. A comforter toy for little ones, it's made from 100 per cent GOTS certified organic cotton and is available in four colours. See wigglespiggles.com.au
THE SCOOTER ADDICT: MAXI MICRO DELUXE FOLDABLE SCOOTER, $289.95
No more "your scooter won't fit in the car" tantrums as you head off for the summer vacay with the Maxi Micro Deluxe engineered to fold so it's easily stored and transported. Suitable for 5 to 12-year-olds, the stable three-wheeler has a 70kg weight limit, extra grip silicone-injected deck and durable ionised T-bar. See microscooters.com.au
THE COOL TEEN: ROMANCE WAS BORN X MAY GIBBS DRESS, $160
This mid-length cotton jersey tank dress is made in Australia and features a May Gibbs gumnut baby patch on the chest. It has an easy-wear drawstring waistline with a percentage of profits from the sale going towards The Northcott Society and The Cerebral Palsy Alliance. See romancewasborn.com
Q&AS
WENDY WU, FOUNDER, WENDY WU TOURS
IF I COULD GIVE A TRAVEL EXPERIENCE AS A PRESENT IT WOULD BE…
The unique beauty of Japan during the cherry blossom season.
WHY THIS GIFT?
Not only do the blossoms instil a sense of peace and wonder in those who experience them, but this is one of the most beautiful times to see Mount Fuji, explore traditional Takayama and also cultural Kanazawa. You can discover the beautiful 16th century Matsumoto Castle, visit an ancient papermill for a hands on workshop or relax in a hot springs. All these experience help you to learn about the culture of this alluring destination.
I'D GIVE THEM THIS GIFT AS …
Our Japan Uncovered tour. It takes you on an extensive journey including all the classic sights and key cultural activities over 18 days. From Osaka to Nara, Kyoto to Kanazawa and much more, you will experience modern cities, historical sights and beautiful landscapes.
THE TRAVEL EXPERIENCE I'D LIKE FOR CHRISTMAS IS …
To go to the Harbin Ice Lantern Festival at Chinese New Year to see the incredible sculptures. Then I would return to Xian for the traditional folk experience, visiting the local village homes, cooking with them, experiencing their warmth and hospitality. This is a traditional New Year, being 5000 years old, it is known as the world's largest annual human migration where families reunite and celebrate.
KATRINA McALPINE, COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR, CUNARD
IF I COULD GIVE A TRAVEL EXPERIENCE AS A PRESENT IT WOULD BE …
Christmas and New Year's Eve in New York.
WHY THIS GIFT?
Many of us have family and friends spread far and wide, so coming together from various parts of the world for a magical, cold, hopefully white Christmas would make for a lifelong memory and photos for the family album. The gift of spending precious moments together during this special time of the year is the best gift you can give.
I'D GIVE THEM THIS GIFT AS …
A Transatlantic Crossing on Queen Mary 2 from Southampton, sailing into New York at dawn with the sun rising over the city that never sleeps. Seven days at sea with nowhere to be but so much to do; what an inspiring feeling to settle into the guilt-free art of relaxation and uninterrupted time with your travel companions. What better way to travel to New York?
THE EXPERIENCE I'D LIKE FOR CHRISTMAS IS …
I would love to be heading to Ireland with the family to experience the warmth and hospitality of that beautiful country and its people – and for sipping on a Baileys or two in front of a cosy fire place.
JENNIFER VANDEKREEKE, VP AND GM, AUSTRALIA, CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE
IF I COULD GIVE A TRAVEL EXPERIENCE AS A PRESENT IT WOULD BE …
Family connection time.
WHY THIS GIFT?
We all know it's important to have fun together as a family, but with jobs, school, weekend sport and chores, life gets in the way.
I'D GIVE THEM THIS GIFT AS …
A Carnival Splendor cruise in the South Pacific. The best part about a Carnival cruise is that everything is taken care of, so the whole family can reconnect and have fun. There are so many things to enjoy together, like sliding down the Green Lightning waterslide, mini-golf or an adults-versus-kids ping pong tournament.
THE EXPERIENCE I'D LIKE FOR CHRISTMAS IS …
A girlfriend's getaway cruise to Tasmania, hiking the Annapurna circuit in Central Nepal, biking through Vietnam, bareboat sailing in Greece and a yoga retreat somewhere beautiful and near the beach. Can someone please make sure my husband sees this list?
DEBRA FOX, APT CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER
IF I COULD GIVE A TRAVEL EXPERIENCE AS A PRESENT, IT WOULD BE …
The magic of a true white Christmas visiting the Canadian Rockies.
WHY THIS GIFT?
One of the greatest things about travel is seeing the world differently. As Australians, our idea of Christmas is, of course, dictated by the southern summer. But to experience all the things the classic Christmas songs mention: the snow, roaring fires, mulled wine and roasting chestnuts, gives new meaning to this wonderful time of the year.
I'D GIVE THEM THIS GIFT AS …
APT's 12-day Winter in the Rockies tour. It includes an overnight journey gliding along on VIA Rail's Snow Train viewing the dramatic winter scenery of the Rockies, and stays at the Fairmont Hotels in Lake Louise and Banff Springs which promise breathtaking winter scenes. Celebrate a special Christmas day in Lake Louise and take a horse-drawn sleigh ride along the frozen lakeside trail.
THE EXPERIENCE I'D LIKE FOR CHRISTMAS IS …
Keeping on the winter theme, I'm keen to visit Europe's Christmas markets while sipping egg-nog onboard one of APT's luxury river ships.
NORM BLACK, FOUNDER AND CO-CEO, TRIPADEAL
IF I COULD GIVE A TRAVEL EXPERIENCE AS A PRESENT IT WOULD BE …
A visit to a country that's completely different to our own, somewhere you'll bump into holy men on the street and see grand palaces down almost every road.
WHY THIS GIFT?
I think it's important for people to get outside their comfort zone, to get a little perspective on how other people live and also experience the traditions that have shaped them.
I'D GIVE THEM THIS GIFT AS…
A journey through India's famous Golden Triangle (Delhi, Jaipur and Agra) as part of TripADeal's two-for-one package. Travel is always better when you share it with a friend.
THE EXPERIENCE I'D LIKE FOR CHRISTMAS IS…
A trip to northern Europe with my family. I think every Australian needs to experience a white Christmas at least once. There's nothing like it.
CAMERON HOLLAND, CEO, LUXURY ESCAPES
IF I COULD GIVE A TRAVEL EXPERIENCE AS A PRESENT IT WOULD BE …
The silent camaraderie of watching the sun set over the ocean while sipping an Aperol spritz.
WHY THIS GIFT?
Some of the greatest things about travel including sharing experiences with new people, being awed by the natural environment and most importantly taking the time to relax and enjoy the moment. Whether travelling solo, as a couple or with family or a group of friends, our travellers like to blend all types of experiences in their trips to ensure they get the most out of their holiday.
I'D GIVE THEM THIS GIFT AS …
A yacht in the Whitsundays, a hilltop view in Oia, Santorini, or from the rooftop of a luxury cruise liner in the Indian Ocean. Travel is the greatest way to bring people together, to learn about each other, and find perspective within ourselves in new environments. As the famous quote goes, "the world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page".
THE EXPERIENCE I'D LIKE FOR CHRISTMAS IS …
A trip on a small yacht along the Adriatic coast. Nothing is more relaxing than sailing and there's no better way to visit all the secret hideaways along that amazing coastline.
MICHELLE BLACK, VIKING ANZ MANAGING DIRECTOR
IF I COULD GIVE A TRAVEL EXPERIENCE AS A PRESENT IT WOULD BE …
Something to open the mind, stir curiosity and feed the desire for exploration, like the book The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho.
WHY THIS GIFT?
Like great books, experiences are food for the mind. They can completely change and enhance your life, and deepen your understanding of the world around us.
I'D GIVE THEM THIS GIFT AS …
A cruise with Viking is designed to drive that same sense of adventure and self-discovery. Follow in the footsteps of The Alchemist's main character Santiago on the ultimate voyage, Viking's 2020-21 World Cruise from Miami to London, which visits destinations such as the Andalusian region of Spain and the great pyramids of Egypt. On the journey, explore Viking's incredibly diverse collection of more than 1000 books on each ocean ship to enrich your journey.
THE EXPERIENCE I'D LIKE FOR CHRISTMAS IS …
Exactly this.
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