Is it more difficult to buy gifts for women or men? It’s a toss-up, but when it comes to travelers, both appreciate items that are well designed, compact, and super functional.
Related: The Best Men’s Travel Gifts Under $50
Like the MiniPresso GR Espresso Maker, for example, which lets you brew a frothy espresso shot without batteries or electricity, he’ll love it whether he takes it camping or on a long-haul flight — and it’s something you can both enjoy together.
Whether you’ve been married for 30 years or dating for six months, all of the gifts on this list feel thoughtful and practical enough to fit most relationships. Consider your Valentine’s Day shopping done.
A Leather Toiletry Bag
We’ve all forgotten our toothbrush, toothpaste, and razors before, but something about a really luxe full-grain leather Dopp kit makes this seem less likely — it’s one of those items he will actually look forward to packing. We love that there are three separate zippered compartments for smaller essentials like contacts or a toothbrush.
To buy: amazon.com, $120
A Reliable Carry-on Suitcase
Designed by a onetime Northwest Airlines pilot, the “Platinum Magna” line from Travelpro was among the first of the vertical travel bags. The brand prides itself on testing bags for sturdiness, and this 22-inch ballistic nylon spinner is functional, well-reviewed by frequent travelers, and expandable if he happens to over-pack (or shop) before heading home.
To buy: ebags.com, $255
City Map Glass
This intricate city map glass transcends typical cocktail glasses in style and creativity at a very reasonable price — and you've got to love a gift that looks more expensive than it actually is. They're made in the U.S. and hand-etched in New Hampshire and you can get a pair featuring their favorite city streets for just over $30.
To buy: uncommongoods.com, $16 each
A Collapsible Water Bottle
Help him save the environment a little bit at a time with every trip. Nomader’s collapsible, 22-ounce water bottle is so smart that it made our list of Ultimate Travel Essentials. When not in use, it will pack away to nearly nothing in his carry-on. However, unlike a hydration pack, this bottle can hold its shape while he’s drinking and is completely dishwasher safe.
To buy: amazon.com, $22
Parachute Classic Bathrobe
This ultra-cozy Turkish cotton bathrobe will make anyone feel like they’re at a five-star hotel spa. It comes in dark gray, light gray, and white and has two slouchy front pockets.
To buy: parachutehome.com, $99
Silver Tip Shave Brush
For men who appreciate a really close shave, this fancy silver tip badger-fur brush is worth the splurge. One superfan claimed, “[it] feels ridiculously soft on the face.” And if you’re trying to encourage him to ditch his shoddy, knick-prone disposable razors, toss in a high-quality, super-nourishing shave gel, like Baxter’s aloe vera–infused “Line-up” gel.
To buy: amazon.com, $95
A 4-in-1 Phone Lens
Is he always Instagramming during dinner? Indulge him with a cool, snaps-to-your-phone lens package — which comes with fisheye, wide-angle, 15x macro lenses — and make his social media posts that much more handsome.
To buy: amazon.com, $100
Minnetonka Moccasins
There’s nothing like stepping into a warm pair of moccasins on a cold day, and Minnetonka has been making some of the best for more than 70 years.
To buy: nordstrom.com, $46
Espresso on the Go
In need of a gift for your favorite caffeine fanatic? This miniature Aeropress-like espresso maker allows him to “pump” a shot of espresso anywhere he can find hot water. After all, it works without batteries, electricity, and most notably, without waiting in line at the office coffee pot.
To buy: amazon.com, $65
Timex Weekender Watch
You don’t always have to empty the bank for a sleek looking watch. Timex offers this casual Weekender with multiple strap options. It’s water-resistant, offers a night-light, and is made in the U.S.
To buy: amazon.com, $39
Tumi Pax Packable Quilted Jacket
If your boyfriend or husband is a diehard packing minimalist, this is the pick for him. The wind- and water-resistance may not even be the most impressive features of this duck-down jacket — it converts seamlessly into a neck pillow for long flights. And it's also available in gray, navy, and black.
To buy: nordstrom.com, $195
