A Christmas gift guide for the travellers in your life

Get a head start on your Christmas shopping this year with our curated selection of memorable gifts.

There is an art to gift-giving. You need to know what makes a person tick – and for real impact, what meaning or memories they will attach to the gift long after the festive season ends. We have curated a list of gifts that are sure to inspire your gift-giving this Christmas and are guaranteed to be used with fondness by your loved ones throughout the year ahead.

For the reader who’s always en route

Got a friend who’s always jetting off to a beautiful destination with a book in hand? Or someone who scours through the aisles of newsagencies and bookstores for the latest glossies to inspire her carefree lifestyle? Here are handy ideas and incredible gifts that will surely delight travelling bibliophiles as they embrace the joy of turning the page.

Australian Traveller and International Traveller bundle subscription

Australian Traveller and International Traveller Christmas bundle subscription — All Australian Traveller and International Traveller print subscriptions include digital subscriptions for free.

For the best reads to inspire next journeys, a subscription to Australian Traveller and International Traveller grants anyone access to expert-approved travel experiences out there, around Australia and beyond. Each subscription comes with digital access to the latest issue, too, giving discerning readers instant travel inspo at their fingertips.

Price: $54.95

Kindle

Even committed fans of the paperback can use a break once in a while and take in the joys of packing light. The Kindle , which comes in a delicious matcha green colourway, saves anyone from a holiday schlep, with its waterproof feature coming in handy for reading days by the pool or bathtub.

Price: $168

SONY WH-1000XM6 noise-cancelling headphones

Sony noise-cancelling headphones — Hit play on your next airport playlist with trusty headphones. (Image: Supplied)

Only a select few items can make a world of difference to anyone’s holiday – and wireless headphones that can drown out noise and let you be in your own literary world are no doubt an invaluable purchase. SONY’s WH-1000XM6 noise-cancelling headphones epitomise quiet luxury, and serve a rich and expansive soundscape so anyone can enjoy reading in peace.

Price: $578

Business card holder

One thing that should never go out of style? Business cards. Not only do they prove useful for old-school networking, but they’re also incredible in showing off somebody’s taste, from font and colours to the texture of paper stock. This cardholder tray from Studio Henry Wilson houses valuables in a sleek, hand-finished display guaranteed to impress business prospects.

Price: $190

For the sun seeker

With December signalling not just the start of the festive season but also summer, there’s never been a better time to treat your favourite sun-seeker. Luckily, there are options aplenty for stylish and practical pieces to enjoy perfect days by the sea.

Miss Amara beach mat

Isandro beach mat — A cute towel sets the scene for relaxing by the sea. (Image: Supplied)

If you’re quite unsure about someone’s preferences but still want a foolproof gift, then look no further than a chic and practical beach mat. Anybody who loves to lounge in the outdoors all day would appreciate the earthy-toned Miss Amara’s beach and picnic rugs collection , featuring mats that are equal parts aesthetic and durable with their water-resistant fabric.

Price: From $109

Bondi Born swimsuit

With Australia’s close proximity to water, it just makes sense to invest in swimwear pieces that last past the season’s end. Perfectly capturing its namesake’s laid-back vibe, a Sculpteur® fabric suit from local luxury swimwear brand Bondi Born comes in signature cool-girl-nonchalance: think timeless cuts crafted with advanced technology that’ll make figures look effortlessly snatched and sculpted.

Price: $300

Christopher Esber thongs

Move over, loafers and sneakers. It’s time for the slip-and-go this season, and these minimalist tonal thongs from Christopher Esber can be someone’s newest chic and dependable footwear obsession.

Price: $300

Velvet Canyon sunglasses

La Touriste sunglasses — Summer calls for a functional and fab accessory. (Image: Supplied)

Aside from sporting statement-making swimmies and comfortable sandals, one staple that immediately springs to mind is a trusty pair of classic sunglasses, which come in handy for the beach and beyond. Inspired by the romanticism of the 60s, La Touriste by Velvet Canyon keeps peepers stylishly shaded, equipped with a UV400 grade functionally made for the Aussie sun rays.

Price: $329

Beso Beach Beso De Mar perfume

One spritz evoking the serene and salty air of Formentera, the Beso De Mar fragrance is the perfect present for the summer-loving fraghead in your life. The recipe? Cardamom, lavender, lemon, with a touch of woodiness that is pure bliss.

Price: $330

UE MINIROLL speaker

miniroll speakers — Portable speakers are the perfect grab-and-go option for audiophiles on the go. (Image: Supplied)

Who says portability and quality can’t go hand-in-hand? The UE MINIROLL is tiny but makes up for its size; its battery life lasts 12 hours, and it’s waterproof, dust-proof and drop-proof. Plus, it comes with a hookable strap that is perfect for keeping the tunes going while hitting the road, lake, or just about anywhere.

Price: $99.95

For the person whose bar cart is their pride and joy

If the way to a heart is through the stomach, then alcoholic beverages are surely part of the equation. Below, delectable cocktails and wines that are meant to be shared with a giftee who’s a certified bon vivant.

Coravin Hermitage Red Timeless Six + wine preservation system

Coravin Hermitage Red Timeless Six + aerator — Never waste another drop of wine. (Image: Kera Wong Photography)

Looking for the perfect gift for the wine lover in your life? Coravin has officially become an essential accessory in every oenophile’s arsenal. The wine preservation system allows you to pour a glass of wine without removing the cork, helping savour opened bottles for years to come. To celebrate the holidays, Coravin has released a limited edition ‘Hermitage Red’ colour that’s both timeless and festive. The Hermitage Red Timeless Six+ package includes the Timeless Six+ System, three Coravin Pure Argon Capsules, six Coravin Screw Caps, a Premium Timeless Aerator, a carry case, and a wine bottle sleeve. Cheers to that!

Price: $699.95

Corey Ashford martini glasses

Another elegant gift idea for the thoughtful hostess, the martini glasses from Melbourne-based designer Corey Ashford are something you wanna earmark (even for yourself). Not only are they aesthetically pleasing and unique, given how they’re produced using a mouth-blown technique, but they’re also durable and dishwasher safe.

Price: $220

Pommery Champagne

Pommery's 2025 World Collection — Pommery’s 2025 World Collection draws inspiration from Mexico’s radiant spirit. (Image: Supplied)

This pretty bottle adorned with vivid floral motifs and symbolic patterns comes by way of lauded Champagne house Pommery’s 2025 World Collection . The limited-edition champers are an ode to Mexico’s creative and festive spirit, the perfect drinks to pop in this year’s special holiday moments.

Price: $125

FIELDBAR drinks box

fieldbar cooler box — Who says cooler boxes can’t look chic? (Image: Supplied)

With the hot, scorching days creeping in, anybody would surely appreciate a stylish cooling box to keep beverages chilled and ready to quench their thirst. The FIELDBAR Drinks Box in Lobster Red is equal parts stylish and functional, the perfect carry-on for upcoming adventures under the sun.

Price: $299

Handpicked Taste the Symphony gift box

Oenophiles are notoriously hard to impress, but rest assured, even seasoned ones will be willing to give Handpicked’s new gift pack a go, created in collaboration with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. The pack features the latest vintage releases from Tasmania, coupled with a QR code linking to a symphony, making a case for how music enhances somebody’s perception of flavour.

Price: $150

Never Never panetonne negroni

Panettone Negroni — The festive cocktail smells like Nonna’s kitchen on Christmas. (Image: Supplied)

For somebody who loves hosting a festive gathering, a seasonal cocktail is a guaranteed hit. Inspired by the flavours of the traditional Italian sweet bread and crafted using Triple Juniper Gin, bitter citrus aperitif, and sweet vermouth, Panetonne Negroni will make any celebration memorable.

Price: $75

El Toro pocket cocktails

Pocket Paloma — This cheeky drink is made for pockets and purses. (Image: Supplied)

On hot summer days, there’s no better spirit that pleases the taste buds than good ol’ tequila. Packed as small bottles serving big vibes, look no further than El Toro’s pocket cocktails for some of the easiest and sneakiest Palomas you can give to friends.

Price: $15 each

W.J. Sanders wine stopper

Sulphur-Crested Cockatoo Wine Stopper — The intricately designed stopper embellishes wine bottles with Australian charm. (Image: Supplied)

It’s easy to get a regular wine stopper, but an eccentric, Australian-inspired cockatoo one? Surely one way to attract a hostess who loves joie de vivre. Buy the Sulphur-Crested Cockatoo Wine Stopper and achieve just that.

Price: $1980

Smokehead Islay single malt scotch

Smokehead High Voltage Islay Single Malt Whisky — This whisky is ideal for people who love their Christmas drink with drama. (Image: Supplied)

With a plethora of whisky brands to choose from, it’s a bit difficult to start. But if the lucky recipient wants their dram bold, smoky and with a bit of drama, then the Islay Single Malt Whisky is as good as it gets.

Price: $123.99

Studio by Miraval Rosé

Remaining a perennial favourite of pink drinkers, Studio by Miraval Rosé is a great buy for anybody who loves grilled dishes, seafood and salads during the holidays.

Price: $28.99

Edinburgh strawberry & pink pepper gin

Edinburgh pink gin — The drink for lovers of sugar and spice. (Image: Supplied)

Make a special addition to any gin lover’s collection with Edinburgh Strawberry & Pink Pepper Gin , crafted with locally sourced Scottish strawberries that truly capture the essence of summer.

Price: $74.99

For the glow-getters

Shopping for somebody who doesn’t skip her skincare routine despite long hours on the plane? Luckily, there’s no shortage of indulgent yet fuss-free self-care gifts for the beauty-obsessed.

Nanoleaf LED light therapy face mask

LED light therapy mask — LED light therapy suits jetsetting individuals who love salon-like experiences. (Image: Supplied)

Give the gift of beauty rest with Nanoleaf LED Light Therapy Face Mask , which offers a host of healing benefits – from addressing fine lines, acne, uneven skin tone and more to boosting glow. It’s perfect for beauty fanatics looking for skincare indulgence on long-haul flights, and works just as well for a quick hotel refresh.

Price: $212.49

Ayurscience energetic mask

Ayurscience mask — A detoxifying mask is always a good idea. (Image: Supplied)

For someone who dreads the horror of long-haul flights and changing weather on the skin, a detoxifying clay mask is a must. The Ayurscience Purifying Mask soothes any irritation and comes with targeted botanicals to reset the skin and calm any flare-ups.

Price: $59.95

Vintage mirror by Gaetano Pesce

Perhaps it’s quite a splurge and something that can’t be brought on travels, but we can’t resist adding this whimsical face-themed mirror housed in an unassuming vintage shop in Sydney’s Elizabeth Bay neighbourhood to this list. It’s the ultimate mood booster and makes for that satisfying selfie pre-trip.

Price: $2200

For the savvy traveller

For travellers who are notoriously practical, it’s all about striking the right balance: give them something memorable but ensure it’s not adding any chaos inside their luggage! Below are some smart items worth giving to that globetrotter on your list.

Samsonite C-Lite suitcase

With its shock-absorbing design and double wheels for smooth manoeuvring, the Samsonite C-Lite suitcase earns a spot in a traveller’s list of allies. Plus, the fact that it comes in a chic chilli red colourway saves you time from spotting it at the airport and gives some serious endorphins in the style department, too.

Price: $450

Icebreaker merino thermal leggings

oasis women's leggings — Good for staying chic and warm. (Image: Supplied)

Jeans and shorts trends may come and go, but a good pair of leggings is tried and tested to last for seasons and beyond. For your bestie who loves to travel to cold-weather destinations, thermal leggings from Icebreaker are a no-brainer for powering through a multitude of activities and adventures.

Price: $139.99

Icebreaker merino blend short-sleeve t-shirt

Merino scoop tee — A soft and versatile tee is a necessity for outdoor adventures. (Image: Supplied)

And for those heading for a summer trip overseas or staying in town for coastal adventures, this scoop t-shirt passed the wear test, made from a breathable and lightweight fabric designed to help keep anybody cool.

Price: $119.99

Fjällräven Skule 28 bag

Perfect for chiller hikes and short weekend trips, this lightweight bag from Swedish brand Fjällräve is a testament to their signature nature-focused style. Durable and timeless, it’s a worthy addition to any explorer’s reliable bag collection.

Price: $179.95

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.

Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.

two people standing in front of kiama blowhole — See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)

Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.

Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.

Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures on the new south wales south coast — Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery . Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.

Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda , and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey ‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.

End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines .

The Sebel Kiama exterior — Sleep by the harbour.

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.

First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.

Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, winter on the New South Wales coast — Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk , one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.

Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines , where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.

port macquarie koala hospital — Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)

The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala . Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.

Back in town, Whalebone Wharf serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.

At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie , right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.

bed at Mercure Centro Port Macquarie — Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.

Winter on the Central Coast

On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.

The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk , an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.

Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.

a humpback whale breaching on the central coast — Spot migrating humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park . Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.

If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast , a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery , where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.

Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm . Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.

woman holding a pearl at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal , which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.

Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores , between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.

restaurant at Pullman Magenta Shores central coast — Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

Winter in Wollongong

Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.

If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.

Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple , the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.

monk teaching tai chi at Nan Tien Temple — Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch . Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.

The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong . A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery , which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.

monkey at Symbio Wildlife Park — Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)

As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen . It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.

Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach , right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.

Winter on the New South Wales coast starts with a cosy place to stay. Start planning your adventure at all.com.