Giving Ideas for Those Who Can't Pack Big Gifts

There's a 95 percent chance Senior Editor Christine Sarkis is thinking about travel right now. Follow her on Instagram @postcartography and Twitter @ChristineSarkis.

Christine Sarkis is an SATW-award-winning journalist and executive editor at SmarterTravel. Her stories have also appeared on USA Today, Conde Nast Traveler, Huffington Post, and Business Insider. Her advice has been featured in dozens of print and online publications including The New York Times, Conde Nast Traveler, and People magazine. She has also shared travel tips on television and radio shows including Good Morning America, Marketplace, and Here & Now. Her work has been published in the anthologies Spain from a Backpack and The Best Women's Travel Writing 2008. She is currently working on a travel memoir.

The Handy Item I Always Pack: The Trtl Pillow. It's easy to pack and comfortable, and makes it so I can actually sleep on flights.

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: Seeing the Aurora Borealis from the comfort of somewhere warm, like a glass igloo or hot spring.

Travel Motto: Curiosity is an amazing compass.

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: Aisle all the way.

Email Christine Sarkis at editor@smartertravel.com.

See recent posts by Christine Sarkis

Do all the new [[Airline Fees | baggage fees]] have you wondering how you’re going to fly with gifts this holiday season? Then why not:

Shop Online

Buying online and shipping directly to the recipient frees up space in your bags, and can save you money as well. Not only can shipping items be cheaper than checking bags, but some websites offer free or discounted shipping.

Buy Gift Certificates

Yes, gift certificates are slightly impersonal, but with options from so many stores, you can still show how well you know someone with a well-chosen gift card. Plus, since budgets are tight for many people this holiday season, they may appreciate the chance to buy exactly what they want.

Give an Experiential Gift

Forget the wrapping paper and give the gift of experience and companionship. Take the recipient out to dinner. Or go to the spa together. For kids, consider a trip to the zoo or a sleepover. If you can’t give the gift in person, send a card with a gift certificate or cash and instructions.

Order a Gift to Be Picked Up

Some nationwide chain stores allow you to buy an item online, then choose where and when to pick it up. Select a store at your destination and you won’t have to carry a thing.

Team Up

If you’re traveling to visit a region where you have a concentration of family, consider teaming up with someone who lives there for your gift giving. You’ll travel light and double your gift-spending power.

Do you have more easy-to-transport gift ideas? Share your suggestions by submitting a comment below!

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