Once this time of year rolls around and we start seeing more and more areas of New York covered in snow, it's hard not to feel like you're living inside the most charming snowglobe on the East Coast! With that said, there are some destinations around our state that simply transform into something truly magical during the holiday season. Turning into a page out of your favorite Charles Dickens book, discover for yourself how this one town becomes an absolute Christmas wonderland each year.
With a small population of roughly 7,000 residents, the town of Skaneateles sits along the waterfront and is often a popular place to visit during the summer months.
But during New York's off-season, Skaneateles continues to welcome visitors from all over the state as they put on their annual Dickens Christmas event.
That's right! The town of Skaneateles transforms into A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens each holiday season, an event that's been celebrated here for a total of 25 years now.
Each Saturday and Sunday between November 23rd and December 23rd, you'll get to witness 50 Charles Dickens characters making their way throughout town.
The entire town of Skaneateles joins in on the holiday festivities, with the businesses along Main Street looking as picturesque as ever with all of their seasonal decorations.
Another thing to keep an eye out for, the darling Christmas tree that they set up each year at the end of the town pier. Have you ever seen a Christmas tree out on the water like this?
On Friday, November 23rd AKA Opening Day, visitors can also witness the World's Smallest Christmas Parade in town that begins at noon - a great weekend to plan on visiting Skaneateles.
Running every Saturday and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., experience one of New York's most enchanting holiday towns and step inside our Dickens Christmas in Skaneateles.
If you have never been to the Big Apple, or you think you have done and seen it all in New York, you may be surprised by the number of fun and amazing things to do in New York in winter that you'll find. Yes, winter. At this time of the year, the city gets sloppy and slushy, Upstate gets buried in snow, and if you go outside with wet hair you might turn into an icy Medusa. Aside from the weather, there is a current of energy that flows through New York that simply cannot be taken for granted. That's why we'd love to show you some of our favorite activities and attractions during winter in New York.
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Holiday Events In New York
New York City is pretty magical in the wintertime. With holiday light shows, ice skating in Bryant Park, and the iconic "ball drop" on New Year's Eve in Times Square to name just a few world-class activities that people travel from all around to be a part of each winter. Here are a few winter events in New York to look forward to that you just won't find in your typical travel guide.
Popularity: This very popular event is a year-round activity, but when the holidays roll around it is truly special.
Price: Free to enjoy, however, there is a parking fee of $5-$10 (depending on the time of year) to spend the day at Niagara Falls. An annual pass for all parking lots will run you around $40.
One of the most incredible holiday light shows in NYC is at Niagara Falls. You don't even have to wait until the holidays to enjoy it either, because it runs every night year-round. But come winter the Niagara Falls Lights Show takes on even more holiday magic. It is one of those events in New York that you need to experience at least once in your lifetime.
2. Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting Ceremony
Christmas tree stands in front of The News Corporation Building between 47th Street and 48th Street on the 6TH Avenue at New York City NY USA on Jan. 02 2020. A crowd of people walks down the Avenue.
Location: New York City, NY
Popularity: The Christmas Tree lighting is one of the most popular holiday events in NYC.
Price: If you are looking for free things to do in New York in winter this is one of them. You'll definitely want to get there early to grab a good parking spot — this event fills up fast.
One of the most incredible holiday light shows in NYC is at Niagara Falls. You don't even have to wait until the holidays to enjoy it either, because it runs every night year-round. But come winter the Niagara Falls Lights Show takes on even more holiday magic. It is one of those events in New York that you need to experience at least once in your lifetime.
3. Farmers' Museum Candlelight Evening
Location: Cooperstown, NY
Popularity: This hidden gem is an unforgettable experience and one of the most romantic things to do in New York in winter.
Price: Adults: $15, Seniors 65+ $12.50, Children 7-12 $6, ages 6 and under are free.
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The Big Apple with the gorgeous lights atop the Empire State Building is a hot spot for holiday events, but getting away from the city to a charming town like Cooperstown is a wonderful way to enjoy a rare moment of peacefulness and holiday cheer. The historic Farmers' Museum Candlelight Evening brings us back to the 1800s with an authentic old-world feel to celebrating Christmas. It's like stepping back in time to a Charles Dickens Christmas. Sit out by the bonfire sharing smiles and warmth, ride the Empire State Carousel with giggles and joy, go on hayrides while listening to music and carolers, and warm your tummy with delicious holiday goodies. This is one winter village you'll remember for a lifetime.
4. Holiday Lights at the Bronx Zoo
Location: Bronx, NY
Popularity: The Bronx Zoo holiday nights event is a popular attraction, but there is plenty of room for everyone.
Price: Adults: $41.95-$46.95, Seniors: $36.95-$41.95, Children ages 3-12 $26.95-$31.95.
New Yorkers really know how to celebrate the holidays. And the Bronx Zoo puts on a show like none other. This incredible event will take your breath away with exquisite ice sculptures, dancing lit-up animal puppets coming to life, stationary animal lanterns glowing in the dark, performers taking us on a magical adventure, and lights, lights, everywhere. The Holiday Lights at the Bronx Zoo is a Christmas spectacular that will make you feel like a kid again this holiday season.
Christmas Towns In New York
There is certainly something to say about the glitz and glamor of NYC at Christmas time. Shopping at Saks Fifth Avenue, hanging out on a rooftop bar in Manhattan or Greenwich Village, seeing Macy's all lit up with Christmas lights, but other parts of New York deserve some attention too. These next few Christmas towns in NY are incredibly enchanting in the wintertime.
5. Lake Placid
Location: Lake Placid, NY
Popularity: Lake Placid is a popular Christmas Town in New York because of its immense holiday spirit and fun activities.
Price: A wide selection of free and paid activities await.
One of our favorite Christmas towns in New York is Lake Placid with its annual Lake Placid Holiday Village Stroll event. Enjoy the tree lighting ceremony, shopping at Maker's Mart, ice skating at the Olympic Center, or going skiing on Whiteface Mountain dressed as Santa Claus. It is such a magical town to walk around during the holidays to enjoy the beautiful window displays, good cheer, and Christmas lights.
6. Hamburg
Location: Hamburg, NY
Popularity: Hamburg is one of those hidden gem towns that sneaks under the radar. But when its holiday festival comes to town word spreads fast.
Price: Hamburg Festival of Lights Full Experience: $30 per carload. Drive-Thru Only: $20 per carload.
You'll find this delightful town south of Buffalo, NY in Erie County (home to the largest county fair in the US). What makes this suburb one of the best Christmas towns in NY? The Hamburg Fairgrounds Festival of Lights, and particularly the Christmas Tree Forest. This magical place is so picture-perfect people come from miles around to wander around the forest that is filled to the brim with Christmas lights and a sense of wonder. Starting in November and running through December, you can either enjoy the drive-thru-only event or spend the day taking in all of its fun activities.
Popularity: Not as many people know about this lovely town as they should. This means you'll have a pleasant stay to enjoy the festivities and the warm welcoming community.
Price: You really can't put a price on this town's good cheer and holiday spirit.
This picturesque village comes alive during the holidays. When fluffy snow starts to fall around Skaneateles Lake and carolers start to warm up their pipes, everyone in town knows what is to come. Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol come to life! Every weekend from Thanksgiving through Christmas gather at the town's gazebo for festive songs, greet town members dressed to the nines in vintage clothing, and enjoy a romantic evening at the Sherwood Inn. A Christmas town isn't complete without carriage rides! Tour the town's quiet streets in a carriage or horse-drawn wagon for a bucket-list-worthy activity to remember.
8. East Aurora
Location: East Aurora, NY
Popularity: East Aurora is a charming small town that you may not have heard about yet filled with fun things to do in New York in winter.
Price: You may not be able to catch a Broadway show but you can enjoy a free movie night at the Aurora Theatre.
Erie County is well-known for its celebrations, so it should come as no surprise that this small town near Buffalo knows how to ramp up the Christmas cheer. Head to the Roycroft Campus for its annual Holiday Show and Christmas markets, take a family hike through the picturesque Knox Farm State Park, join in the Annual Christmas Carolcade, or go ice skating at the Healthy Zone Rink. If you are feeling a little nostalgic for those epic Christmas movies (You know, Elf, The Grinch, and Christmas Vacation… okay fine we can add The Christmas Carol to the list too), spend an evening at the historic Aurora Theatre for its free movie night. When you visit East Aurora during the winter.
Outdoor Activities
From ice skating at the free public Wollman Rink in Central Park, the rink at the iconic Rockefeller Center, skiing at one of the many ski resorts near NYC, or taking a sightseeing tour of the Hudson River, spending a winter day outside can be quite enjoyable if you bundle up and wear sixteen layers of warm clothes. All kidding aside, if you enjoy outdoor activities in the winter these next few suggestions deserve to be on your bucket list.
Popularity: Ice skating at Bryant Park is a popular winter activity that can get pretty full at times. But it is generally less busy than ice skating at Rockefeller Center.
Price: Ice skating is free at the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park. Skate rental is an extra charge, and a reservation is needed to skate. Ice Bumper Cars tickets start at $25 per person.
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Tooling around the ice skating rink at Winter Village at Bryant Park is an iconic activity in New York City. But did you know there are ice number cars too? Bryant Park's ice bumper cars are a fun way to enjoy some ice time even if you aren't very stable on a thin blade of steel. Winter Village is an amazing place to enjoy winter in NY. Warm up with pop-up igloos where you can grab a meal and a holiday-themed beverage, try curling under a heated dome, have an event at the Polar Lounge overlooking Midtown Manhattan with its floor-to-ceiling windows, and of course, go ice skating on the 17,000-square-foot rink. Ice skating is one of our favorite cheap things to do in New York in winter, especially if you have your own skates.
10. Snow Tubing at Peek'n Peak Resort
Location: Clymer, NY
Popularity: While skiing and ice skating might be a bigger draw during New York winters, snow tubing is increasing in popularity.
Price: Rates start at $45 for anyone above the age of 12 and $40 for children ages 6-11. There are some nice military and student discounts available.
If you are looking to spruce up your winter months in New York, a little nighttime snow tubing is in order. There is nothing like sledding down a ski slope at 100 miles per hour, okay fine it isn't that fast, but it is still pretty thrilling. What makes this snow tubing park even better is the lighted evening runs. It really turns this place into a winter wonderland. So skip the toasty warm indoor activities and bundle up for one of the most intense outdoor adventures you can take on a rubber inflatable tube at the Peek'n Peak Resort.
11. Skiing/Snowboarding at Bristol Mountain Ski Resort
Location: South Bristol, NY
Popularity: Weekends and holidays can get pretty busy at this ski resort, but compared to other popular resorts the wait times are much shorter - especially during the week.
Price: Lift tickets start at $62 for 8-hour passes or $27 for evening skiing.
The Finger Lakes region of New York is beautiful any time of year. But when the snow starts to fall those of us who enjoy strapping on a pair of skis or a snowboard start to get excited. Seeing as Bristol Mountain has 1,200 feet of vertical descent (One of the biggest in the country) it might surprise you to hear that this resort isn't packed to the brim. That's why it is one of our favorite ski resorts in New York. Bristol Mountain Resort has ski runs for all experience levels, and night skiing, and offers easy lodging with ski-in/ski-out access.
12. Santa's Workshop
Location: North Pole, NY
Popularity: North Pole, NY is a year-round Christmas town, but it really is filled with magic during Christmas time. It is one of our favorite family things to do in New York in winter.
Price: With plenty of free activities a visit to Santa's Workshop can fit any budget. Of course, there are lots of treats and goodies you might want to splurge on.
Did you know there was a North Pole, NY? This amazing small town definitely deserves to be on the list of best Christmas towns in NY for obvious reasons but we wanted to save the fun for its outdoor activities around Christmas time. Santa's Workshop first opened in 1949 to the delight of guests around the world. Some would even say it was America's first theme park. The town even has its own post office so you can actually send a letter or present from the North Pole! If you love holiday shopping, and a tasty treat or two, check out fun shops like Santa's Toy Maker, Santa's Hat Maker, Santa's Blacksmith, The Candy Shop, and Santa's Bake Shop (for those treats we mentioned). You can even head to Santa's House to meet the jolly old fellow himself. Santa's Workshop is one of the best winter attractions in New York.
Winter Getaways
Whether your idea of a winter getaway in New York is a cozy cabin in the Catskills, a luxury downtown getaway to see the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall, or sipping champagne while looking out at the Hudson River from the Observation Deck after a private showing at The Met, there is something for everyone in New York. Here are a few ideas to inspire you to come visit.
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13. A Snowy Cabin at Hohmeyer's Lake Clear Lodge & Resort
Location: Lake Clear, NY
Popularity: This is a popular resort for those in the know. Consider yourself now in the know.
Price: Rates start at $384 per night depending on availability.
What is it about a snowy cabin in the woods that lights a fire under our, um, "bottom dollar" to get out and enjoy a weekend getaway? Spending time with someone special with a toasty fire in the fireplace as the cold New York winds blow outside is pretty magical. The historic Lake Clear Lodge has an old-world charm since it was built in 1886. It takes that charm and dazzles guests with Speakeasy dinners, the History of Adirondack Food tastings, and lantern-lit sleigh rides. If you get snowed in it isn't the end of the world either - who wouldn't want to be trapped inside with its fully-stocked beer and wine cellar? With plenty of unique lodgings to choose from including private chalets, lake-view suits, and the main lodge itself, you'll want to come back again and again to try them all. Visit the Lake Clear Lodge website to book your stay.
14. Go on a Hot Springs Getaway at the Curtiss Hotel
Location: Buffalo, NY
Popularity: Keep this secret gem between us because we don't want word getting out about how luxurious and affordable this beautiful hotel is.
Price: Rates start at a very reasonable $227 per night.
Did you know there was a hot springs hotel in Buffalo?! The Curtiss Hotel is a luxury boutique hotel on Franklin Street. And it is hot. Yes, we just said that. In fact, it is the first and only year-round hot springs in Buffalo. In the winter, it is especially nice to slip into the warm water of the large indoor and outdoor hot springs as you feel your stress melt away. If you could use a little pampering this winter (and really who would turn down a little luxurious pampering) you'll enjoy chilling out on the rooftop bar before dining at the world-class Chez Ami Restaurant with a revolving bar that looks out over the city. It is incredibly good to know you don't have to travel deep into upstate New York to enjoy this kind of swank.
Popularity: Shh, this is another secret just for those of us who are in the right time and place for one of the best getaways in New York.
Price: $329+ per night.
We have an absolute treat for you! Can you imagine anything more beautiful (and romantic) than a cabin surrounded by the Catskill Mountains? Natural wood is the theme of the day at this stunning getaway. Just wait until you slip into the cedar barrel hot tub with endless views of the mountains, or a wood-fired cedar sauna just waiting to relax those weary shoulders. Throw in a wood-burning stove in the cozy living room, or a roaring fire in the fire pit outside as the stars come to life in the night sky, and you have one incredible cabin to make memories. As the early morning sun streams through the windows you'll know you picked the best spot in all of New York to spend your vacation - The Mountain Wonder. Book your stay on Airbnb.
16. Float in luxury at the Baccarat Hotel
Location: New York, NY
Popularity: The Baccarat Hotel is a luxurious experience not everyone can swing. But if you want to feel like royalty at least for a night, it is a remarkable and memorable place to stay.
Price: Prices range from $896 per night to "We'll take your new BMW i4 for a weekend stay".
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To enjoy a winter getaway in New York you don't have to travel to the Catskills or Lake Placid, you can enjoy a whole lot of luxury right here in NYC under the watchful eye of the Statue of Liberty. NYC in winter may have its moments of loud horns and busy streets, but there is a sense of wonder and magic that flows through those streets like no other place in the world. Let's take a little jaunt past Lower Manhattan, Soho, and the Empire State Building to a little slice of luxury at the Baccarat Hotel. This beautiful and elegant hotel is just a few blocks from Times Square in the heart of NYC. The only way to describe the Baccarat Hotel is by dropping you into a champagne pool covered in rose petals with the sound of angels humming against your skin filling your heart with joy. It is a New York experience we all need to treat ourselves to at least once in our lifetime. Book your stay at the Baccarat Hotel on Hotels.com.
With so many fun events and holidays in winter from Thanksgiving to the Chinese New Year, New York is a great place to visit to experience something new with your family, friends, and loved ones. Fall in love with NYC itself, with the Metropolitan Museum of Art, holiday lights at the New York Botanical Garden, and vibrant holiday markets in the East Village. Or, head upstate to some of the most beautiful natural areas in the USA.
We hope you have found a new love for New York because it is one of our favorite winter destinations. Which of these things to do in New York in winter will you add to your bucket list? Share a few fun things you love to do each winter in NY.
So, what's winter like in New York? Well, check out this year's winter predictions, and make sure you have all the cold-weather gear you need to get you through the season.
Between the boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn spans the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. But did you know there is a secret chamber beneath the Brooklyn Bridge that used to hold massive wine cellars?
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
