My Favorite Travel Gifts From Small Businesses (2024 Holiday Guide)
When it comes to travel gear, some of my all-time favorites don’t come from big-name brands—they’re from small businesses pouring their hearts (and always thoughtful features) into every stitch and detail. For me, supporting these brands isn’t just about snagging amazing travel products; it’s about championing the passion, creativity, and dreams behind them. 🩵
So, with Pink Friday and Small Business Saturday just around the corner, I wanted to give the spotlight to a few of my favorite small-biz travel products. These thoughtful, smartly designed products have accompanied me on trips all over the globe—earning their place as carry-on MVPs.
Whether you’re shopping for the globetrotter in your life or looking for travel inspo to add to your own wish list (no judgement here!), this guide is packed with gift ideas that support incredible makers and entrepreneurs. Happy shopping!
Turkish Towel (Peshtemel) from Shop Thriae
I’ve taken these lightweight Turkish towels all over the world, using them a beach towel, airplane blanket, picnic throw, sarong, and more. It’s ultra-absorbent, quick-drying, and packs down so small, it’s a no-brainer for carry-on travel. I’m gifting these beauties to everyone on my list this year.
DEAL: Use my code RILEEBLACKFRI for early access to their 35% off + free shipping Black Friday promo!
The Denner Wallet from Andar
A staple in my travel tote bags, the Denner Wallet is compact, functional, and pairs perfectly with one of my favorite tote features: the key leash. The tether clip lets me easily attach it inside my bag or to my keys, keeping everything secure and organized on the go!
Voyager Tote from Poppy & Peonies
Poppy & Peonies is one of my favorite brands for travel bags, and the Voyager Tote is packed with features to keep up with any adventure. With a bottom compartment for shoes or snacks, a padded laptop sleeve, and a trolley slide for breezing through airports, it’s as functional as it is stylish.
DEAL: Snag it now for just $47 (regularly $107)!
Subtl Beauty Makeup Stack
This tiny stack packs a big punch, replacing your entire makeup bag with just one compact set. Perfect for even the smallest travel makeup bags, it holds everything from concealer and cream blush to bronzer and setting powder—all TSA-approved.
DEAL: Save up to 30% for Black Friday—the more you stack, the more you save!
Hold Everything Hair Claw from Kaxi
This hair clip comes with me on every single trip—it’s that good. It’s perfect for travel because it securely holds even the thickest, longest hair and the best part is it clips off to the side, so you can lean back comfortably on an airplane or car seat without your hair claw digging in.
Tomodachi Sling from Nomad Lane
My go-to travel crossbody this year, the Tomodachi Sling has been with me to Turkiye, Amsterdam, and beyond. Despite its small size, it somehow fits my Kindle (a travel essential for me!) alongside all my daily must-haves. The secret pockets are a lifesaver for keeping things like my passport and lip balm easy to grab while on the move.
DEAL: 15% off for Black Friday (plus get a sling free on all orders over $150!)
Strapsicle
A must for all my Kindle girlies, the Strapsicle lives on my Kindle 24/7. It makes reading strain-free and super comfortable, whether I’m lounging by the pool or tucked into bed. Plus, it gives my Kindle a little extra grip to avoid those inevitable “oops” or drop-everything shocking plotline moments.
DEAL: 20% off for Black Friday
Large Bon Vivant Tote from Bon Maxie
The newest contender in my Perfect Tote Bag series, this tote has me seriously excited! It’s the first one I’ve found that doubles as a beach bag and meets all my perfect tote requirements—laptop pocket, water bottle holder, luggage strap, you name it. The coated canvas gives it a beachy vibe while staying clean and practical for sand, spills, and beyond.
DEAL: 19% off + free gifts on orders over $200!
Overachiever 4-in-1 Makeup Brush from Alleyoop
The perfect addition to any carry-on-only makeup bag, this 4-in-1 brush is a total game-changer. With tools for powder, blending, foundation, and precision application, it replaces an entire makeup toolkit while saving space.
DEAL: 30% off for Black Friday
Keote Keychain Tote
The perfect expandable tote for the overpacker in your life, the Keote clips right onto your daily bag and unfolds into a roomy tote when you need it. Whether you’re out shopping or hauling back all your souvenirs, this chic and practical bag has you covered.
DEAL: Buy 3, get 1 free with code BUNDLE + free shipping on all US orders!
Toiletry Sticks from WYOS
Perfect for carry-on-only travelers, these solid toiletry sticks save space in your liquids bag and bypass TSA restrictions since they’re in solid stick form rather than liquid! From face cleansers to other essentials, they’re compact, leakproof, and make an ideal stocking stuffer for any traveler.
DEAL: 50% off for Black Friday
Interchangeable 2-in-1 Heels from Pashion Footwear
It’s no secret I’m obsessed with my Pashion heels—they’re the only travel heels I pack. With interchangeable heel kits, I can create endless shoe combinations, all while saving space in my carry-on. Plus, each pair comes with two shoe options: heels or flats (a total game changer when you’ve been sightseeing all day).
Trolley Strap from Travel Soxiety
If your bag doesn’t have a built-in luggage strap, the Trolley Strap easily adds one, letting you attach your purse or backpack to your rolling suitcase. It’s a game changer for freeing up your hands while navigating busy airports.
DEAL: 30% off for Black Friday
That’s a wrap on my favorite small-business travel finds! Whether it’s a Turkish towel that’s traveled the world with me or a trolley strap that saves the day at the airport, these are some of my go-to travel essentials from incredible small businesses. If you’re looking for more gift ideas, stay tuned—I’ve got plenty of holiday gift guides coming your way, plus be sure to check out my roundup of Black Friday Luggage Deals you won’t want to miss!