After a long year of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns, we're all looking forward to spending Christmas with family and friends, eating delicious food and relaxing in the sunshine.
But the silly season can also be a time of stress and indecision as you attempt to figure out what to buy for friends, family, in-laws, your kid's teacher etc.
We're here to help with a definitive Newshub Christmas gift guide series.
While we aren't able to go to the airport and head to the other side of the world right now, there is still travelling to be done. And, for those who live for going on adventures, it's important to keep the world of travel front of mind, if only for peace of mind.
Plus, with the possibility of Australia and Pacific Islands travel bubbles right around the corner, Christmas has come at the best time to treat the travel lovers in your life with gifts that'll have them set to jet.
Gift ideas for travellers:
Samsonite Convertible Bear Travel Pillow
Two things that are essential for any travelling child (or child at heart) are a decent neck pillow and a cuddly toy. Samsonite has a range that's both at the same time: pillows that transform into a teddy bear. The manufacturer is known for its range of suitcases and travel accessories, but it actually started in 1910 building toy wooden trunks. This cute little accessory can retail up to around $45, but is available for $28 from The Market.
GoPro Travel Kit
This one does come with a bit of a prerequisite: the recipient will need a GoPro camera already. But, often due to the cost of the camera, getting accessories can be just a bit too pricey. This kit is ideal for someone who may be just starting out with travel video content, or someone who needs an excuse to dust off the camera and get shooting again. GoPro cameras themselves start from around $350, while this accessory kit retails for just over $100.
AirFly Pro
This is by far one of the most handy inventions for frequent flyers that I've seen in the last couple of years. How often have you forgotten your headphones are plugged into your inflight entertainment screen, or into the armrest plug? This small bluetooth transmitter plugs directly into any of these plugs and transmits to your bluetooth headphones, essentially detaching you from your seat and free to move around - except of course for your seatbelt. It could also be used at your desk or other places where headphone wires can get in the way, and works with a Nintendo Switch. The AirFly Pro retails for around $85, but there are previous generations around for about $50.
AirSnap
Moving on from preventing the destruction of headphone cables to looking after the technology that means you don't need them. Earbuds or in-air headphones aren't new, but they could possibly be the worst thing you could lose in your plane seat or in the airport, and are likely the easiest to lose also. The AirSnap case hooks on to your bag and gives easy access to both getting them out and putting them away. You're more likely to put the earpods somewhere safe if that place is easy to get to on a cramped flight. You can pick these up for just a little over $30.
Kobo Nia
Before the days of inflight entertainment systems, no long-haul flight experience would work without a good book in hand. That old-school practice is still popular, especially on shorter domestic routes where there's no entertainment available. Why not take 6000 books on the plane with you? This device means you can do that and not have to worry about exceeding the 7kg cabin baggage allowance as it only weighs 172g. The Kobo Nia retails for around $150 and the specially designed protective covers are $35 each.
Airport Tag
Lastly, if you're not already familiar, let me introduce you to the website airporttag.com. This is one of the best shops online for anyone with a love of travel or flying. I've chosen just two of the hundreds of customisable products available. The first is the Lionel Richie - "Hello, is it me you're looking for?" bag tag.
You can also have your contact details printed on the back. It will not only give the recipient a good laugh, but you'll also hear a few people chuckling as the bag appears on the luggage belt upon arrival.
The second item is perfect for the Mrs Bucket in your life: someone who thinks of themselves as a class above the rest. This "Do I look like I fly economy?" T-shirt would make a great gift for any friend or family member that turns their nose up at flying Jetstar. Shipping on airporttag.com can be a bit pricey, so it's best to make a purchase when you're ordering a few things at once.
Do you have any entertaining or helpful travel gift ideas? Tell us about it on the Newshub Travel Facebook Group.