Whether you're in need of a birthday gift or something sweet to celebrate an upcoming holiday, our editors are here help you (and your paycheck) find a gift that's in your price range without sacrificing looks or luxury.
Below, you’ll find our guide to gifts that look like they cost an arm and a leg — but won’t break the bank. We’ve thought of all kinds of knick-knacks for your globetrotting family and friends, like stylish travel accessories (think sleek passport cases and eye masks), on-the-go beauty products (hello, Chanel lip gloss), comfy travel shoes, cozy blankets, and much more. No matter the cost, they will love unwrapping these items.
Related: 25 Travel Gift Ideas Under $25
This year, Travel + Leisure is offering its most comprehensive gift guide ever. The goal? To make sure you can find the perfect present for everyone on your list, from the coffee connoisseurs to the royal family superfans. Below, our picks for thoughtful presents that won’t empty your wallet.
Women’s Kona Backless Mule Loafers
Leather loafers are all the rage right now. A pair of these elegant, faux-leather slides from Target's A New Day brand are perfect for slipping on and off at security, on the plane, or from work to home, at a perfectly reasonable price.
To buy: target.com, $23
Pave Circle Stud Earrings
These stud earrings are just as delicate and elegant as they are affordable, and are a great day-to-night or work-to-airport accessory for any sparkle-lover.
To buy: madewell.com, $24
City Map Glass
Drinking glasses can be expensive, but this intricate city map glass transcends typical cocktail glasses in style and creativity, while being sold at a very reasonable price. Made in the U.S. and hand-etched in New Hampshire, you can get a pair of these featuring your favorite city streets for less than $30.
To buy: uncommongoods.com, $14
The Sleepy Cottage Vintage Glam Eyelashes Sleep Mask
Every travel diva needs a reliable eye mask so that she can catch some shut-eye on a long flight. This handmade “vintage glam” sleep mask couldn’t be cuter — or cheaper.
To buy: amazon.com, $16
Anker PowerCore Portable Charger
A portable charger is one of those items that any regular traveler would find immensely useful. This one features one of the smallest, lightest batteries around, and provides high-speed charge for both iPhone and Galaxy.
To buy: amazon.com, $26
Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe Herbs and Rosewater
After a long flight, there’s nothing like a refreshing spritz of floral-infused facial spray. Mario Badescu uses herbal extracts and rosewater to form this perfect (not-so-pricey) pick-me-up for tired, dehydrated skin.
To buy: amazon.com, $7
SojoS Mirrored Sunglasses
These UV-protected, anti-glare sunnies make a great stocking stuffer for the sun-loving traveler in your life.
To buy: amazon.com, $13
Formlig Vase
The interior decorator in your life will surely appreciate the elegance and simplicity of this beautiful, two-toned, glass-blown vase that looks much pricier than it is.
To buy: ikea.com, $10
iRing Grip / Stand Holder
Anybody who is on the go could use one of these handy grips that holds your iPhone up while you watch a video, do some reading, take a photo — the list goes on. The iRing micro hook mount allows the user to safely mount the phone on any flat surface, like a tray table or dashboard.
To buy: amazon.com, $20
Leather Passport Case
Every world traveler needs a trusty passport cover. Nordstrom’s own faux leather case is stylish, sleek, and comes in six colors.
To buy: nordstrom.com, $29
Chanel Gloss Volume Plumping Lipgloss
Yes, it’s Chanel. Yes, it’s the perfect stocking stuffer, and yes, it’s just as luxurious as it looks — with no chance of breaking the bank.
To buy: nordstrom.com, $30
Modern Rustic Airplant Holder with Airplants
Perfect for friends or family who inhabit small space. These hanging plants are lovely to look at, and come at a fraction of the price of traditional standing plants.
To buy: holder, amazon.com, $9; plants, amazon.com, $8
State Slate Cheese Boards
The perfect gift for travelers with hometown pride and love of fromage.
To buy: uncommongoods.com, $20
NetNeed Shopping Tote
Give the eco-conscious traveler in your life the gift of this reusable cotton tote that’s 100 percent environmentally friendly.
To buy: amazon.com, $8
Tomtoc Tech Sleeve
Clean lines, two-toned materials, and gentle magnets create a sleek and elegant look for this affordable iPad protective sleeve, perfect for the tech-loving traveler in your life.
To buy: amazon.com, from $16
Vermeil Prosecco Rose Corta Maison Candle
It’s hard to convince yourself to pay a lot of money for something that is going to be burned, even if it smells good. This beautiful candle from Voluspa smells, looks, and just sounds totally decadent. And pricey — but it’s not!
To buy: nordstrom.com, $30
Tuvalie Throw Blanket
Whether it’s used as a bulky travel wrap or a couch throw, this cozy blanket is just as versatile as it is affordable.
To buy: ikea.com, $13
Tapioca Blue Leather Vintage Pencil Case
All writers need a good spot to store their most important tool. This practical, real-leather pencil case rolls up neatly to be easily packed into a carry-on or purse.
To buy: amazon.com, $22
Wilder California 8 x 10 Hanging Palm Art Print
There’s nothing like a travel-inspired wall art. Give your favorite globetrotter this chic — and super affordable — print from California-based artist Jane Wilder. Made on cotton paper pressed in Italian mills, the piece is high-quality and just might inspire the recipient’s next beach vacation.
To buy: urbanoutfitters.com, from $19
