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Since we began full-time traveling two years ago, we’ve realised that kids really don’t need lots of ‘stuff’ to be happy. We also realised that every item that chose to pack had to be lightweight and easily packable. It became obvious, very quickly, that anything without a clear purpose, that was just taking up precious space, needed to go.

If you’re looking for a list of thoughtful, purposeful, intentional and actually useful Christmas gifts this year then you’ve come to the right place. The following is a combination of things we’ve taken around the world with us and actually used—items that have added value, made travel easier, and brought joy while inspiring creativity along the way.
Of course, this isn’t just for travelling families; it’s for anyone looking for thoughtful, practical, and useful gifts for their kids this Christmas.

Art & Craft

Creative activities are a lifesaver for kids on the go. Items like yarn-making kits, pens, watercolors, sketch pads, and loom bands inspire creativity while keeping the kids busy during long flights, downtime, or rainy days. They’re portable, versatile, and perfect for sparking imagination anywhere. Bonus, our girls have used these items to make gifts for new friends all over the world.

Watercolour Kit

Sketching Pencils

Sketch Book

Knitting Loom Kit

Loom Bands

Ooly Glitter Gel Pens

Mini Activity Booklet

Technology

Traveling with tech essentials can make all the difference. Our girls use it to keep up with school work and connect with family back home. Noise-canceling headphones have been a life saver in blocking out distractions and keeping ears safe. A kindle has kept their favourite books lightweight and accessible, and two-way talkies make exploring new places fun while staying connected safely.

Noise Canceling Headphones

Kindle

Two-way Walkie Talkie

iPAD

iPAD Case

Blue Light Glasses

Portable LED Night Light

Packing

Staying organized and allowing the kids to pack and take care of their own personal items has created a sense of responsibility and ownership. We’ve been so proud of the way they’ve taken care of the things they have. The Fjallraven backpack was an investment and it has been worth every single dollar. Through the deserts of the Sahara to the snowy mountains of Canada and in and out of many different modes of transport these backpacks have been taken a beating and never once let us down.

Each of the following items have come in super handy, if not used every single day.

Cotopaxi 3L Hip Pack

Fjallraven Kanken Backpack

Snuggle Toy

Water Bottle

Inflatable Pillow

Pencil Case

Games and toys

Compact and engaging, these games and toys are perfect for travel. LEGO has undoubtably been one of the BEST activities we brought travelling. It has been particularly useful in longer stays where the girls have created pulley systems, villages, different modes of transports etc. It’s also been useful in adding different schooling projects.

All of the following have come in handy at some point or other, either on travel days, waiting in long cues, sitting in a restaurant or filling time on a rainy day.

Fidget Toy Cube

Hand Ball

Dobble Card Game

UNO & Phase 10 Card Game

Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza Card Game

Lego

Monopoly Deal

Tools

Versatile tools like a Swiss Army knife and carabiners are surprisingly handy for family travel. From cutting string to securing bags or hanging gear, these lightweight essentials are practical and great for teaching kids useful skills.

Swiss Army Knife

Carabiner Clip

Compact Binoculars

Choosing Christmas gifts for kids doesn’t have to mean adding to the clutter. With these thoughtful, travel-friendly ideas, you can give something that truly enhances your adventures.

Whether your family is full-time on the road or just planning the next trip, these items are sure to bring joy and practicality into every journey. Here’s to more adventures, magical moments, and meaningful gifts that truly make a difference!