With the holiday shopping season right around the corner, people are beginning to prepare their Christmas wish lists and also looking to get a head start on buying gifts. We all know how difficult it can be to come up with gifts that people will surely like or even use. Sometimes it just makes sense to come up with practical gifts that people just plain need. If you have a family member that will be traveling in the upcoming months, consider these following gift ideas for travelers.

1) Luggage. Is your loved one hauling around grandma’s old, tattered luggage that doesn’t even have wheels? Consider taking advantage of holiday deals to buy him or her a new set of luggage. It may not seem fun and exciting at the moment, but it will sure come in handy when maneuvering in and out of airports, train stations, bus stops, hotels, and city streets.

2) Cash. Christmas shopping can be very time-consuming and frustrating, especially when shopping for extended family. Keep in mind that time is worth money. Save yourself some time and do both parties a favor by giving cash. It’s hard to know what others want, like, or need. Instead of settling for a sweater that might not even fit, consider giving cash. Write a nice note in the card expressing that you are thrilled to be able to help make the traveler experience a reality. Upon return from the trip, spend some time talking with your loved one about his or her learning experiences. Chances are, you’ll see how your money was put to use and you’ll feel great about your gift.

3) An iTunes gift card. Technology can come in handy when traveling. Travelers can purchase eBooks, music, or movies to entertain themselves on their mobile devices while passing time during travel. There are also several apps that are useful for travel, editing photos and video, and even maintaining work or school productivity while away. Again, consider writing a note inside a card that expresses your thoughts for what the iTunes gift card could be used for. Your loved one will appreciate your efforts in purchasing a gift that is both thoughtful and useful.

Casey Stinnett/Via Flickr

4) A camera. Help your loved one capture the exciting, life-changing moments throughout his or her trip. Consider purchasing a new digital camera. This technology isn’t exactly new so it’s relatively easy to find a great camera at a great price. Several cameras can capture both high definition photos and videos too, which means that the traveler won’t have to carry two different types of cameras. Can you ever go wrong with purchasing technology as a gift?

5) A nice journal or scrapbook. When most people embark upon travel that isn’t work related, they look for fun and creative ways to preserve their thoughts, memories, and experiences. By gifting a unique travel journal or scrapbook, you will encourage your loved one to record these memories. I’d even suggest writing a personal message on the front page that expresses some of your thoughts, hopes, and wishes for the traveler. Well after the conclusion of the trip, he or she might even share a completed scrapbook with you. Hearing the passion in their voices and seeing the excitement in their eyes will let you know that your gift was a success. In all honesty, it’s almost like getting a gift in return.

When purchasing gifts for somebody that is about to travel, look for something that is useful. Add meaning to it by including a personal message. Chances are your loved ones will not only use the gift, but will think of you when doing so. As a bonus, here are even more Holiday gift ideas that are great for travelers!As the holidays draw near, I want to wish each of you a happy and safe holiday season!

Scott is a high school Spanish teacher and basketball coach. He began traveling with EF Tours in 2001 and has led 8 student tours to various Spanish-speaking countries. Scott strongly believes that student travel builds self-confidence and inspires students to develop and work towards long-term goals.