15 Gift Cards Any Traveler Will Love

Need a last-minute gift idea that still feels thoughtful? Look no further than a voucher for adventure.

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Published on December 18, 2019

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Various travel gift cards — Photo: Courtesy of Retailers as Credited

The benefits of travel are impossible to wrap up in a gift — taking in the splendor of an impossibly beautiful view, touching down on a new continent, or having a life-changing conversation with a local who lives oceans away from you. However, it might be a while before we can return to our favorite destinations or take on a new adventure. But that doesn't mean you can't give the gift of travel to a friend or family member who's already looking forward to their next trip, whenever that may be.

That's where travel gift cards come into play. You can select gift cards that will make getting to and from destinations easier or enrich the experience on the ground. From language classes to a few nights at a hotel, there are a myriad of gift card options for travel lovers.

And, hey, if you have a birthday coming up yourself, don't be shy. Forward this link to your friends and family to treat you to what you actually want: a ticket out of here!

Southwest Airlines Gift Card

Southwest is known for offering booking flexibility with no hidden costs, and the airline consistently ranks on our World's Best domestic airlines list. So if you've got a friend or family member who's looking planning their dream trip, you'll be their new favorite person with this pick.

To buy: amazon.com

Hotels.com Gift Card

Expedia's hotel arm, Hotels.com, is one of the best places to score hotel bookings and packages for less. The site is always offering savings at some of the top spots to stay around the world, whether you book for now or later. You'll effectively be gifting a discount and taking care of the bill, too.

To buy: hotels.com

Restaurant.com Gift Card

Are your parents finally doing that cross-country RV trip they've been talking about since, well, forever? Make sure they're well fed with a Restaurant.com gift card. With hundreds of dining options to choose from, they can book reservations across every state border they attempt to take a selfie on.

To buy: restaurant.com

Airbnb Gift Card

For someone you know who values a truly local experience when they travel, an Airbnb gift card is a no-brainer. Now they can use it to either book a unique space to sleep, whether they're taking a staycation in their own city or venturing out to a National Park.

To buy: amazon.com

Tumi Gift Card

If your loved one has been using the same suitcase for years upon years, why not gift them an upgrade? A Tumi gift card will allow them to shop for the perfect luggage from the customer-loved brand, whether they're looking for a hard-sided carry-on, spacious duffel, or even a sleek backpack for everyday use.

To buy: tumi.com

Paravel Gift Card

From sleek, vintage-inspired suitcases to genius packing accessories, Paravel is one of our favorite sources for stylish luggage. And a gift card will let your loved one choose their ideal bag. Whether they opt for a chic duffel for overnight trips or packing cubes that will help keep them organized on-the-go, they won't be disappointed Paravel's winning combination of style and function.

To buy: tourparavel.com

Zappos Gift Card

When you're traveling, there are few things more important than having comfortable shoes. A a gift card to this online store will help your friend find exactly what they're looking for — from winter boots for a trip to the mountains to sandals for an upcoming beach vacation.

To buy: zappos.com

Nordstrom Gift Card

Whether your loved one is on the hunt for a new winter coat, a pair of versatile winter boots, or even a new piece of luggage, there's a good chance Nordstrom will have everything they need. Give them the gift of choice with a gift card from this customer-loved department store.

To buy: nordstrom.com

Apple Gift Card

Have a digitally nomadic friend who you constantly have to locate via Instagram? They've mastered the skill of booking a flight at the drop of a hat and finding the cheapest last-minute hostel or hotel deal, but they could always use a little insurance for their most valuable asset: their technology. With an Apple gift card, they'll be able to buy the accessories they need or enjoy a little discount if their laptop or iPhone bites the dust on the road.

To buy: apple.com

Amazon Gift Card

When you think of traveling, your first instinct might not be to shop online, but if your friend is planning long road trip or outdoor adventure? There's nothing quite as addicting as reading every last review on Amazon for suitcases, packing cubes, and portable chargers. Especially if your pal is already subscribed to Amazon Prime, a gift card to this marketplace will help them keep their bags stocked with all the travel essentials.

To buy: amazon.com

CheapoAir Gift Card

Even if you won't be traveling anytime soon, you can still give the gift of adventure with a CheapoAir gift card, since they never expire. Here, your loved one can search for the least expensive routes and start planning their dream trip, whenever that might be.

To buy: cheapoair.com

Columbia Gift Card

After months of training, your sister is finally setting out to hike the Appalachian Trail all by her bad self. Express your support and encouragement with a gift card to Columbia, one of the leading trusted brands in outdoor wear. Depending on how generous you're feeling, you can outfit her with a tent, an insulated jacket, a backpack, and much more.

To buy: columbia.com

Uber Gift Card

Navigating a new city can be stressful, there's no doubt about it. Uber is now available in many parts of the world, making a gift certificate not only a smart idea, but one that will help you rest easy, knowing your friend can make it from point A to point B safely.

To buy: amazon.com

Fluent City Gift Card

If being able to speak another language comfortably has always been a goal for your mom as she plans her dream trip to Rome, consider giving the gift of spoken word. Right now, Fluent City offers both private and group online language lessons. Even if it's a while before she puts her Italian skills to the test, she'll be more than prepared for when she finally arrives.

To buy: fluentcity.com

Starbucks Gift Card

Ok, trying the local coffee concoctions in every country is an important experience. But real talk? Sometimes travelers crave a venti iced coffee instead of a mini shot of espresso that you can't take to go. For when the caffeine fix hits your globetrotting pal, a Starbucks gift card will come the rescue.

To buy: amazon.com

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