Gifts that Give Back: For the Traveler

Okay, time for gift guide #3!

This one holds a special place in my heart because it's for the world traveler (or aspiring world traveler, like myself ;). All these gifts are essential for someone who finds themselves taking long flights and spending hours in airports regularly as they set off to experience the world.

Travel Journal $21 (converted from euros)

Confession: I kind of really want this journal for myself despite the fact that I already have way too many travel journals. The cover is leather, the color is perfect, and the pages are completely blank in case you also want to doodle/draw/add pictures, etc. Those of us who love to travel know the most meaningful part about trips aren't the things you bring home, but the memories you make - which is why travel journals are invaluable. This one is fair trade, and your purchase will support a family of artisans in Rajasthan, India.

Luggage Tag $9

Another fair trade and handmade gift from India, these luggage tags are inexpensive and colorful, perfect for anyone who wants to add a little color to their suitcase. I should also note that the leather in these tags (and the journal above) is cruelty-free, meaning that it's sourced only from cows who died of natural causes.

Fair Trade Gift Box $68 (for regular size)

Help ease the wanderlust of your favorite traveler who's come home from the holidays by gifting them one of these fair-trade gift boxes that feature items from all around the world. This box has chai tea from Kenya (I can tell you from personal experience that there's nothing quite like Kenyan chai tea), a journal made in India, a soy candle and more. Pumeli works with small businesses and craft producers in developing countries to bring well-designed and high quality products that make an impact.

Passport Wallet $35

Passport covers are essential for frequent travelers, in my opinion. They keep your passport nice and clean, but also conceal it when you need to take it out. This one is even better because it's a passport cover and wallet in one, so you can keep all your most essential items in one place. The company who sells these sources all their leather from a local company in Ethiopia, with a mission to support artisans in that area by helping them remain competitive internationally.

Silk Eyemask $30

An eye mask is a blessing for a frequent traveler who needs to get a good night's rest in planes and hotel rooms. This one is made with 100% eco-friendly mulberry silk and comes in several lovely colors. Each mask is made by hand at Mehera Shaw, a Fairtrade tailoring unit in Jaipur, India.

Tell Stories Camera Strap $109

If you know a traveler who's also a photographer, this gift may be perfect. With a cute Tell Stories label inscribed onto it, the Sahel camera strap helps inspire the nature or travel photographer wherever they are. The length of the strap can also be adjusted. Part of the proceeds from the strap go to Charity:Water, an organization seeking to provide access to clean water to everyone around the world.

I seriously want some of these for myself... (hint, hint). Stay tuned for another gift guide soon. :)