If you have a traveler on your holiday list, then you might be struggling to come up with the perfect gift, especially if they value experiences over material goods. Here’s a tip: They’ll appreciate thoughtful items to help smooth or document their journeys—for instance, a Bose wireless speaker, AirPods with noise cancellation, a travel adapter, or a collapsible water bottle. And as they explore beyond the city, support local by considering these gifts from St. Louis stores.
With crossbody bags, totes, and backpacks, Ori London bags are versatile and great for every traveler. The bags are made from recycled plastic bottles or repurposed fabric scraps, and you’ll find them in bright pops of red, yellow, and purple or more subtle shades of gray, olive green, and burgundy. The Moorgate messenger is perfect for carrying cameras, books, and larger items. If you don’t need as much space, the Carnaby crossbody is great for carrying cards, cash, and your phone. Prices vary depending on the style, Urban Matter, 3179 S. Grand.
Aside from sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat is the best way to protect your face from the sun. At Civil Alchemy in Webster Groves, you’ll find a stylish plowman hat that was hand-crafted by milliners in the United States. A black leather band adorns the woven straw hat. It’s perfect for a day on the beach and exploring the town. $120, Civil Alchemy, 8154 Big Bend.
Adhering to TSA’s liquid rules can be a challenge for carry-on-only travelers. Bar soaps and shampoos are a practical and convenient solution for simplifying packing and ensuring that you’re meeting security regulations. Union Studio has a wide selection of soaps and other toiletries. There’s a soothing lavender oatmeal soap or, for something more festive, pick up the peppermint soap. $7–$9, Union Studio, 8157 Big Bend.
Journaling on a trip is a great activity for families, and notebooks make the perfect stocking stuffer for nearly every person on your list. Papillon Press has a beautiful assortment of letterpress-printed notebooks with designs inspired by endpapers from antique books. The notebooks range in size and are spiral or stitch-bound. Prices begin at $20, Papillon Press, 8130 Big Bend.
The Osprey Fairview 55 backpack is one of the hottest on the market right now. It’s lightweight but durable and has all of the adjustable belts to make the backpack fit comfortably. A smaller pack snaps into the larger one, making it easy for traveling and great for day trips. The larger size meets most carry-on requirements, and the smaller pack can be stored beneath the seat. $165 (sale price). Alpine Shop, 440 N. Kirkwood.
Books are the perfect accompaniment to every trip. They make long airport waits bearable and train rides enjoyable. Avid travelers will enjoy reading about the history of the Mississippi River in The Great River by Boyce Upholt. In Tom Chesshyre’s Slow Trains to Istanbul: …And Back: A 4,570-Mile Adventure on 55 Rides, readers travel from London to Istanbul and back. It’s a perfect book for the train enthusiast on your list. If you don’t have a specific book in mind, the booksellers at Left Bank Books can help guide you to the perfect gift. Left Bank Books, 399 N. Euclid.
As we approach the 100th year of the iconic Route 66, there’s never been a better time to celebrate this famed highway. In Route 66: The First 100 Years, Jim Ross and Shellee Graham take readers on a vivid historical journey beginning in 1926. Meet the people, events, and places that have made Route 66 America’s highway. Available online at the Reedy Press Bookstore.
