The age old dilemma: “What to buy the family for Christmas?” This challenge is compounded when said family are travelling (or planning to) and space and portability are factors! Nobody wants to check-in a lifesize ride-on unicorn called ‘Mr Glitter-so-much’ at the airport (OK, my daughter definitely does - but it’s not happening!).
Don’t fear though! If you are buying for a Boundless Life family (or any globe-trotting family) this guide is for you. It’s packed with suggestions to fill their hearts and NOT their suitcases!
Experiences, Not Things
One of the nicest gifts you can give to a travelling family is the gift of memories! There are so many different tours and travel experience providers out there now who offer the option of gift vouchers including:
The best bit about this is that the family can then share the experience with you via social media or maybe even a Photo Book or custom postcard using a tool such as TOUCHNOTE!
This is a GREAT gift for the travelling family. Light to carry and with no screen glare, they can enjoy thousands of books on the go and round the pool without squinting! Throw in some Kindle Credit and you are on to a winner. Audible Credit is a good alternative if they prefer to listen to their books.
A Special Overnight Stay
If you know your target family’s itinerary it might be nice to give them a special overnight stay at a nice spa hotel or a unique Airbnb?
Jewellery
OK, don’t worry, we are not talking about diamond rings here. However, if ‘Mom’ is a Pandora bracelet fan, a meaningful charm to add to her collection would probably be cherished. Lockets are another option. Some like the ‘Memory Keeper’ by Lily Blanche have multiple apertures so you can fill them with great photographic memories or leave it empty to add their own from their travels.
Digital Cameras for Kids
My kids LOVE taking photos. However, they currently do this using my mobile phone which is a nerve-wracking experience when they are holding it over the side of a boat to photograph a dolphin!
Check out digital cameras designed specifically for kids like Kidamento! They are designed to be durable, splashproof and easy for little hands to grasp.
Got a Budding Entrepreneur in the Family?
Kidpreneur Academy is a collection of great online resources for kids who are keen to learn more about entrepreneurship! The philosophy behind the Academy is simple. The future of our children begins with us! Most people say, “It’s never too late.” The founders of Kidpreneur say, “It’s never too early.” Maybe give the gift of access to the programme?
Small Games with Great Re-play Ability
Favourites like ‘Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza’, ‘Uno’ and ‘Dobble’ are always popular in our house and weigh very little. No small pieces to go walk-abouts either.
Stationery, Colouring Books, Stickers and Novelty Pens
Great for when families are on the road, but also on wet weather days.
Small Toys
Perhaps a bit controversial this one as they come with a ‘small pieces alert’ but small light toys such as Lego and Polly Pocket can come in handy. Just don’t step on them as there are swear words that haven’t been invented yet that the kids will get to learn very quickly.
Story Boxes
These are fantastic devices that play stories that are pre-loaded onto collectible figures (like with the Tonies) or cards (like Yoto). If the child already has the player itself, the figures and cards make great gifts. You can even buy ‘blank’ versions and record yourself reading their favourite stories. One of my daughter’s favourite pastimes is listening to her aunt read to her on her Tonies box.
Last but by no means least… Travel Essentials from The Sellar Company
This fantastic treasure trove of all things ‘travel’ is operated by one of our own wonderful Boundless Life families. From essentials to things you never thought you might need, but now can’t live without - The Sellar Company has it covered!