10 Best Travel Writer-approved Finds

Ahead of the holidays, Google just dropped its list of the 100 most-searched products of the year—a curated snapshot of what captured everyone’s attention in 2025. As a travel writer who constantly tests what’s worth packing, I sifted through the entire list to uncover the gifts that truly stand out: practical for life on the go, a little more thoughtful than the usual suspects, and from household names like Gap, Samsonite, and Adidas.

From cozy joggers and noise-cancelling earbuds to cashmere sweaters, I’ve narrowed the list down to 10 gifts I’d personally give (and secretly hope to receive). Whether you’re shopping for a frequent flyer, a cozy homebody, or anyone in between, these picks are thoughtful, stylish, and bound to be used long after the holiday season—no return label required. Plus, prices start at just $20.

A Travel Writer’s Top Picks from Google’s 100 Most Popular Items

The Gap High-rise Vintage Soft Relaxed Joggers

Gap

Cozy joggers were one of 2025’s most-searched items, and Gap’s take is the definition of elevated comfort. The brushed fleece feels soft enough to live in during red-eye flights, and the relaxed silhouette still looks put-together for coffee runs or layovers. Pair it with the matching crewneck for a chic, monochrome travel set that makes a perfect gift for anyone who loves being comfy while in transit.  

Samsonite Outline Pro Carry-on Spinner

Samsonite

If there’s one gift that’ll actually get used on every trip, it’s a reliable carry-on. Samsonite’s Outline Pro has earned its spot as a travel essential for good reason—it’s sleek, sturdy, and glides through airport terminals as smoothly as it tucks into an overhead bin. It’s the kind of practical luxury that travelers might not splurge on for themselves, but will appreciate every time they pack for a weekend getaway or international flight. 

Crocs Classic Cozzzy Slippers

Zappos

For the person who values comfort above all else, these cozy Crocs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Lined with plush fleece and designed with that signature Crocs ease, they’re as good for lounging by the fire as they are for slipping on mid-flight or padding around a hotel room. Affordable, durable, and delightfully comfy—this is one gift guaranteed to be worn on repeat.

Calpak Personalized Luggage Tag

Calpaktravel

A small but thoughtful upgrade for any frequent flyer, Calpak’s personalized luggage tag makes every suitcase feel instantly more polished. It’s a meaningful (and affordable) gift for the traveler in your life—especially since customization is included at no extra cost. Available in sleek neutrals, like buttercream and espresso, and on sale right now, it’s one of those practical pieces they’ll actually appreciate the next time they’re waiting at baggage claim.

Google Pixel Buds Pro 2

Amazon

“Pixel Buds Pro 2” were among Google’s top-searched tech items this year, and these noise-cancelling earbuds more than live up to the hype. They’re featherlight, have an impressively long battery life, and the sound quality rivals pairs twice the price. As a travel writer, I never board a plane without them—they block out engine noise beautifully and stay secure through even the longest travel days. A thoughtful, high-tech gift for anyone on the go.

Ralph Lauren Featherweight Wool Cashmere Sweater

Ralphlauren

When I saw Ralph Lauren was Google’s most-searched brand for cable knits this year, I wasn’t surprised. This cashmere sweater is soft, timeless, and effortlessly elegant, with a luxe feel that makes it a thoughtful gift for anyone who appreciates classic style. The fabric is light enough to layer on travel days yet cozy enough for chilly winter escapes, and the vibrant color options, like royal blue and mandarin orange, add a cheerful twist to the traditional knit. It’s the kind of piece that feels special to unwrap and even better to wear.

Anthropologie Travel Journal 

Anthropologie

For the sentimental traveler, there’s nothing better than a beautifully bound travel journal. This Anthropologie version is filled with guided prompts and creative layouts that make documenting adventures feel easy and inspiring. It’s the kind of thoughtful gift that turns fleeting memories into keepsakes—perfect for jotting down notes from a Tuscan vineyard or a quiet morning in Kyoto.

Adidas Adizero Evo SL Running Shoes

Nordstrom

“Adizero running shoes” searches jumped an incredible 285 percent on Google this year—and it’s easy to see why. Adidas’ Evo SLs are the latest evolution of the brand’s speed-forward design, featuring responsive cushioning and a racing-inspired silhouette that looks as good as it feels. Whether your gift recipient is training for a marathon or just loves exploring new cities on foot, these sneakers strike that perfect balance of comfort, performance, and style that travelers will actually appreciate.

Rhode Mini Glazing Milk Facial Essence

Sephora

Rhode’s Glazing Milk earned its viral status for good reason—it’s lightweight, glow-boosting, and fits perfectly in a toiletry bag. The mini size is TSA-friendly, making it a great under-$25 gift for beauty lovers and jet-setters alike. It’s one of my current travel skincare staples, and I love gifting it during Secret Santa because it’s universally loved (and looks chic on any vanity).

Roverlund Out-of-office Carrier 

Roverlund

If your favorite traveler never goes anywhere without their furry co-pilot, this trending pet carrier from Roverlund is a dream gift. It’s airline-compliant, made from durable, tear-resistant mesh, and has a smart luggage sleeve that slides right over a suitcase handle. The padded shoulder strap even doubles as a leash, making airport runs and hotel check-ins a breeze. It’s stylish, functional, and sure to make life easier for any pet parent on the move.

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