The holidays are here, darling, which means it’s time to panic-buy for the most discerning person in your life: the jet-setter. Finding the perfect holiday gifts for traveling gay men isn’t just about buying “stuff”—it’s about curating a lifestyle. Whether they are backpackers or bougie boutique hotel enthusiasts, we’ve got you covered.
Forget the socks. Here is our curated LGBTQ holiday gift guide featuring the best travel gifts 2025 has to offer.
1. The Savior: Portable Power Bank
Let’s be real: Grindr drains your battery faster than a layover at LAX. You cannot rely on those flimsy airplane USB ports. If your beloved fagabond is known for a dead phone, a high-speed power bank is non-negotiable. It’s one of those travel essentials for gay men that ensures they’re always powered up and ready for their next connection.
2. Bag Lady Chic: Crossbody & Reflective Backpacks
You can’t buy them luggage (too personal, darling), but you can upgrade their carry game.
- The Crossbody: If they haven’t embraced the crossbody life, give them a push with the Nasty Pig Youtility Bag. Designed by gays for gays, it keeps valuables close to the heart (and out of pickpocket range).
- The City Backpack: For the urban cyclist or the guy weaving through Manhattan traffic, a Reflective City Backpack is a must. I’m a personal fan of Dagne Dover bag options. But brands like Timbuk2 or Rains offer sleek options that go from “gym chic” to “high-visibility safety” the moment a headlight hits them. It’s safety, but make it fashion.
3. Main Character Energy: Meggings
Nothing says “I have arrived” like a pair of statement leggings. Whether strutting through airport security or hitting a festival in Barcelona, meggings are the unique gifts for travelers who refuse to blend in. We are obsessed with the “Rock Rider” collection from RUFskin or the bold prints from Kapow Meggings. They’re comfortable, lightweight, and guarantee all eyes are on the prize.
4. Scent of a Man: Travel-Size Cologne
Packing a full bottle of cologne is amateur hour. Upgrade their Dopp kit with a refillable travel spray. My personal obsession? Tom Ford Rose Prick. The magnetized top stays secure during turbulence, and the scent is pure, unadulterated luxury. It’s one of the top holiday gifts for traveling gay men who appreciate the finer things.
5. In-Flight Entertainment: Bluetooth Adapter & Portable Projector
Those complimentary airline headphones are trash, and we all know it.
- The Adapter: Gift them an airplane Bluetooth adapter so they can pair their noise-canceling AirPods directly to the seatback screen. It’s one of the most practical gifts for frequent flyers.
- The Cinema: For the guy who misses movie night, a sleek Portable Projector (like the Philips PicoPix) turns any hotel wall into a private theater. Load it up with classics like Weekend or Billy Elliot for a cozy queer film night, anywhere in the world.
6. Glow Up: Rosewater Facial Spray
If you aren’t moisturizing at 30,000 feet, are you even living? The Mario Badescu Rosewater Facial Spray is life-changing. It keeps the face hydrated through the driest cabin air and is the refreshing slap in the face we all need after a red-eye. It’s a top contender for holiday gifts for traveling gay skincare fanatics.
7. The Personal Touch: DIY Essentials Kit
Not sure what to buy? Curate a “Survival Kit” pouch. Fill it with the real stocking stuffers for travelers: earplugs, Advil, condoms, mouthwash, and a bamboo fan for the drama. Want to make it special? Hide a handwritten note inside that they’ll only find once they’re airborne. It’s the gift that keeps on giving.
8. Digital Art: Personalized Instagram Illustration
Transform their vanity into art. Commission a digital illustrator (check Etsy or Society6) to turn their thirstiest travel selfie—or a sunset shot from Mykonos—into a custom piece of art. It’s one of those gay travel gift ideas that says, “I stalk your Instagram, and I love it.”
9. The Experience: Vouchers & Escape Rooms
Sometimes the best gift is a memory.
- The Upgrade: Forget a generic gift card. Create a “Surprise Voucher” that promises an upgrade on their next trip—think business class bumps, a suite upgrade, or a pre-paid romantic dinner.
- The Adventure: For the group trip, book an Escape Room. It’s the perfect way to test your friendship and see who cracks under pressure (spoiler: it’s usually the one who planned the itinerary).
10. The Ultimate Flex: An Hermés Scarf
For the friend who has everything and is impossible to shop for: The Hermés Scarf. It is the peak of luxury travel gifts gay men covet. It says, “I’m rich, I’m prepared, and I’m fabulous.” Let’s see how many of those they have stuffed in their Rimowa.
Looking for more holiday gifts for traveling gay friends?
Whether you go for travel gadgets for holiday gifts or a romantic surprise winter getaway to Copenhagen, the best present is showing you care. Travel safe, drink the bubbly, and stay fabulous.