Next time you have to give a gift, think about doing something different and more personal. Instead of giving trinkets or home goods, give a ticket to adventure and the opportunity to create lasting memories. Make an investment in someone else’s vacation or getaway–give the gift of travel.
Pack Your Bags, it’s Time for a Vacation
The first step for anyone looking to take a getaway is packing. Long-lasting and durable luggage is hard to find, and some people consider it a luxury that they can’t afford. Do your intended gift recipient a favor and purchase them a nice set of luggage from a reputable brand such as Rimowa luggage. Whether going on a European vacation, to another state, or even just to the next town over, good luggage will ensure your friend’s possessions will stay secure.
I was lucky enough to be gifted a luggage set for my college graduation and it’s still in great condition today. I don’t travel too often, but when I do, it’s nice to know that my belongings are protected by my high-quality travel gear and I won’t even have to worry about my luggage falling apart and me having to pay a premium to get a new suitcase while travelling.
Travel by Air, Land, or Sea
The luggage itself can be the entire present, or you could choose to add more to your gift. For instance, you could provide flight tickets, train tickets, car rental certificates, or even purchase a cruise for your loved one.
Many of the major airlines provide opportunities to purchase gift certificates. This gives the recipient a chance to choose their destination and the time of their travels. Delta also offers the option of transferring your miles to someone else, or purchasing miles as a gift.
If your recipient doesn’t like to fly, then a gift certificate for Amtrak or a rental car company might be the way to go. This would be great for a trip along Route 66 or along Highway 1. Most of the major players in the car rental field offer gift certificates for purchase.
Another option is purchasing a cruise. Cruises are generally full service, and include room, food, beverage and many on-board entertainments.
Present the gift in a thoughtful and funny way by taping the tickets to the bottom of a Travelocity Gnome, or simply place them in one of the pockets of the luggage. In either instance, make sure your guest knows to check the hiding place!
Cover a Portion or the Entire Hotel Stay
Many hotels and resorts offer gift certificates whether they are plastic cards or online e-certificates. Best Western travel cards, for example, can be purchased in amounts as low as $35.00. You can even redeem your own points for travel cards and give the card to the guest. Travel cards and gift certificates allow the recipient to book their stay at a time that is convenient for them. The gift would be redeemable at most, if not all, of the hotels in a chain. They can even be used for more than just the night’s stay depending upon the location; many gift certificates can be used towards the other amenities that the hotel or resort offers.
For example, if they have already booked the room in advance, enhance their stay by upgrading their room to a suite, purchasing spa treatments, attraction tickets, or restaurant gift cards.
Maximize the gift you give by making sure there are no blackout or expiration dates to limit the possibilities. If there are limitations, make sure to let them know so they can make their plans accordingly. Give the gift of travel with quality luggage, travel tickets, and hotel stays. Further enhance their vacation by upgrading their room or purchasing add-on items for them to enjoy during their stay. They’ll never forget the memories they make on their getaway, and they’ll never forget your kindness in making their dreams a reality.
Have you ever given luggage or travel arrangements as a gift?
