Gift Guide for the Travelers in Your Life

Gifts for the Fun and Ease of Traveling

With an internal memory (1 GB for 30 minutes or 2 GB for 60 minutes) that downloads internet-ready files for emailing and video sharing sites and software that publishes directly to YouTube and AOL Video, this compact, lightweight and reasonably priced camcorder offers endless possibilities for sharing your favorite vacation moments with, well, just about everyone. The easy point-and-shoot technology lets you capture the moments spontaneously, without the complicated settings and instructions.

This is one of the best rain jackets I have ever owned for travelling or anytime. It is lightweight and stows in its own pocket for easy packing. Made of Gore-Tex, it provides excellent rain protection plus comfortable breathability. I prefer the longer knee length for added coverage, although L.L. Bean does carry a shorter version as well. This jacket fits true to size and is ideal for mild and moderate temperatures. There is a slightly more expensive insulated option for travelers who generally need a bit more warmth. If you think you will need to add bulk underneath the jacket for warmth, consider ordering a size larger than normal.

The hybrid charger is useful for adventure travel, beach vacations, camping and other off the beaten track getaways. Now compatible with the Universal iGo tip system for use with hundreds of different portable electronics, this charger's internal rechargeable and replaceable battery stores power for up to one year. It features a fan-blade design for maximum solar charging when opened and positioned properly in sunlight. A wall adapter is included for charging the battery at an outlet.

Samsonite Spinner luggage operates with 4 multidirectional spinner wheels, providing an easy to handle 360 degree turning radius. Moderately priced and available in various sizes and materials, options include everything from carry-on to full size and hardside to expandable choices in several colors. For ease of handling, durability and price this luggage is a good value.

For traveling with children ages 3 and up, these adorable plush animals are multi-functional and are great travel companions in the car, on the plane or any other means of transportation. Available in an array different animals and sizes, each Zoobie Pet can be a cuddly travel friend, a soft pillow and a warm fleece blanket. And, they are made of child friendly materials and are machine washable.

These Primaloft travel pillows offer allergy sufferers a comfortable and hypoallergenic alternative to down-filled pillows. Ideal for car trips and air travel, they will also suffice during hotel stays when you might not be sure you want to rest your head on the pillows provided, such as in damp areas where older hotel pillows sometimes acquire an unpleasant odor. (Not a nice thought, but more than occasionally true.)

Made of strong yet lightweight ripstop nylon, this tote is perfect as a carryon travel bag, shopping tote (ideal for browsing the unique shops and popular outlet malls of the Southeast), beach bag and sightseeing tote, or for anytime you are out and about. The self-stowing design makes this tote easy to pack as well.

Smile and this ultra-slim point-and-shoot camera will know it. Featuring Face Detection technology that recognizes and controls focus for up to eight faces and Smile Shutter Mode, which shoots automatically when the subject smiles, this point and shoot camera is a great choice for vacationers who want to remember the best of the good times. Also comes in silver and black.

The frequently lovely weather in the Southeast does give way to the occasional soaking cloudburst or summer thunderstorm and these lightweight (only 6.2 ounces,) thin, easy-to-pack and easy-to-carry compact umbrellas are handy to have during your sightseeing outings, just in case.

Useful for both saltwater and freshwater fishing trips to the Southeast, this nice-looking bag holds an array of fishing gear. It features adjustable padded dividers and compartments for fishing equipment and accessories, plus a wide-mouth style opening for easy access. A top work shelf provides useful workspace.