Traveling all of the time can create some odd conundrums and gift-giving is one of them. Whether it’s you that travels all of the time or it’s someone else who is always on the go, picking out and picking-up thoughtful gifts can be a challenge to the person who is doing the giving.
When you (or they) are never around it’s hard to judge what gift could be the perfect addition to any home or lifestyle; in other words,something wanted,useful, and appreciated. For the one that travels, shipping gifts can be difficult (and expensive) if the travel is international. For the one gifting the traveler, catching them between trips or finding them along their travels could be a mess.
Here are a few quick tips for giving gifts when you are on the go and for giving gifts to people who are always on the go. The first challenge is remembering important events so be sure you have a clear organized plan for keeping track of all of those dates to remember!
Gift Giving on the Go
· Who Are You?: Staying in touch is the number one way to give a great gift. Why? Because when you stay in touch you know the person. You know what they are currently interested and/or involved in. You know a person on a deeper level and gift giving becomes easier when it’s personal.
· Go Go Gadgets and Gift Cards: Older kids are gadget and AP happy so anything they can add to their iPhones or iPads is a great choice. Adding money to an existing account is great too! You can do this from any computer or Smart device.
· Gift Cards: Gift cards are great for both kids and adults alike. You can purchase and of these online. They can be destination specific or they can be pre-paid Visas or most other “credit cards”.
· Travel Souvenirs: Gifts for both kids and adults that come from your travels will always be appreciated, but try not to get the kitschy stuff. Find something unique for the family to enjoy. Better yet, host a virtual experience where you share the culture with them when you’re in town with things you bring back.
When it comes to gifts for children that are not yours, be sure their parents are OK with all of your gift choices.
Giving Gifts to Those on the Go
You Care: Put together handy travel friendly “care packages”. Fill a stylish insulated bag with a magazine, chewing gum or mints, new luggage tags, change (for vending machines), a travel sewing kit, a puzzle book, and any other doodads that will make their trip easier. Don’t forget to print out and add these great tips for packing travel bags and some info on how to survive having to spend the night in an airport!
It’s Been Paid For: If you know where they are staying, surprise them by contacting the hotel and paying for a night of their stay, sending room service, a bottle of wine, or even a massage. You should be able to do this right over the phone with your credit card.
Safaris ‘R Us: OK maybe not a safari, but wherever they are staying is bound to have some local tourist or novelty attraction or local show. Get tickets, buy passes, or otherwise book for friend or family member for a day to remember.
The thing about gifts is that it’s just nice to be thought of, that must be why they say, “It’s the thought that counts”!
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