Small Business Travel Gift List 2025

Every year, I do a travel gift list for the travelers on your holiday list. This year, I want to try something different. Instead of giving our money to big corporations, we want to give to small businesses and support real people who are impacted by every single sale. 

Here are some of my favorite small business travel (and related) merchants to purchase from this holiday season that will make your recipient happy and make you feel great about where your money went.

SpectraSpray

This woman-owned business brings convenience to vitamins and makes your travels better from sleeping better, supporting your immune system, and having more energy, even on your last day. You can slip all of these into your day bag, because they are small spray bottles that are easy to take anywhere you are. No water required. I am partial to the Sleep Well bundle, but you can buy several other sets or individual vitamins. (Remember to use code SHEREENTRAVELS)

Serenity Tray Organizer

It's no surprise that the airplane tray is one of the dirtiest things on the plane. It's also super slippery, so if you're trying to use it for anything while there is turbulence, forget about it. The Serenity Tray Organizer is not only anti-microbial, but it also helps you keep everything you need close at hand, so you don't have to contort your body to get stuff out of the bag under your seat. It has one large pocket and three small pockets and when you're done, you can slip it off, close the drawstring, and throw it back in your bag. 

GoDesk

If you're like me and try to do work on a trip or just want a place to put your sandwich and drink while you're at the gate and there's no table in sight, this little desk that attaches to your roller bag handle has a pull-out cup holder and a little flip up phone or tablet holder , so you can watch a movie while you're babysitting your luggage. 

Pang Wangle Essential Wrap

This woman-owned company is making fashion, functional. This wrap can keep you warm on the plane and then it's going to look chic everywhere you go. It that has an odorless bug repellent woven into its sustainable, impossibly soft, recycled cotton and Tencel fabric. It can be used it as a wrap, a sarong, a scarf, a blanket, and more wherever you take it. I take mine everywhere. 

Portland Gear

This local company has been expanding rapidly in the last year, but their product quality has not suffered at all. I owned a Cascade Backpack before I worked with them and now I have two Cascade Backpacks and a Cascade Tote and am patiently awaiting their spinner luggage that has been teased. These are pieces you're going to use for a long, long time, and always get complimented on them. I'm still baffled by how the hidden zip pocket on the backpack can hold so much stuff without displacing things in the main bag. 

Gravel

The guys at Gravel are so passionate about what they do. They love the outdoors and they love products that do exactly what they need to do, that are well-made and rugged. I have yet to use my Layover Travel Blanket on the plane, but I used it as a regular blanket in a hotel and it kept me warm, but not too warm. I also have both the mini and the max Explorer Dopp and I love them for different reasons. Do I need a 3L toiletry bag? No, but it literally holds all my toiletries, my makeup, my travel flat iron, and my pill caddy. It rules. If you're a minimalist, the mini is going to be perfect for you.

Cocoon

You might see Cocoon products everywhere, but they are, literally, a company with the bare minimum of staff and a handful of great products. Whether you love camping, glamping, or just comfortable budget travel in general, they have products you're going to love. The travel blanket can double as a wrap, a picnic blanket, a beach towel, and more. The packing cubes are awesome. The clothes line is a must for those who do laundry on vacation. The travel sheets and mummy liners bring a bit of luxury everywhere you go. 

Blisslets

For those of you, or your loved ones, that get motion sickness, either on a dinghy, cruise ship, car, or a plane, instead of those ugly patches behind your ears (though, you do you, because whatever works), get a set of pretty bracelets that put pressure on your pulse points to keep the nausea at bay. Blisslets come in pairs and are different, but complimentary, so you can turn your sickness solution into fashion. These even work for morning sickness!

Cabeau

No one wants to get a bad sleep, be it on the plane or at the hotel. Cabeau succeeds in having 3-5 products that they do really well. While I am not a fan of a regular neck pillow for travel, they have a range that are exceptional, including the Evolution X. I adore their Midnight Magic Sleep Mask and I was able to drive for 4 full days on a road trip without wanting to cry by using the Evolution Cushion. I've used it on the plane and at a basketball game and I highly recommend it for everyone.

Pursesuitz Pocket Travel Tank

Every woman should have one of these tanks - for travel, for walking, for exercise, for festivals. The pockets stay closed with a Velcro-like suction and keep all your belongings safe. This is where they can put their emergency cash, passport, and any other important thing she wants to keep close to her body, all in an attractive tank. It makes a great layering piece, but you can also wear it alone.

I'll be doing a few more lists closer to the holidays, but I really wanted to showcase some great small businesses for Small Business Saturday/Sunday, which may also be having Black Friday sales, because you basically have to. Your purchases impact small businesses much more than those same dollars going into the pocket of big corporations, because instead of hoarding that money, a small business will use that profit to live and also put it back into their company, putting more into the economy. 

Are you being more mindful this year of where your gift dollars go?

Disclaimer: Support Shereen Travels Cheap by using the links in my posts to shop. I receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so I can continue to create helpful free content. I earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you. I appreciate your support!

Surviving A Road Trip With Your Family

Are you thinking about taking a road trip with your kids? This can be a great choice because it means that you can explore a lot of different places and also take a new type of adventure with your family. 

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Work Out How Much Time You Need

First, you might want to think about working out much time you’re going to need for your specific trip that you are considering. By exploring the right possibilities, you can guarantee that you don’t feel like you have to rush to get to the right places. Be aware that there are lots of different steps that you can take to ensure that time doesn’t get the better of you. For instance, you might want to think about checking your car before you head off. A problem with your car can slow everything down. 

Pick Your Destinations 

Next, you should make sure that you are picking your destinations. There are lots of different destinations that you can consider. For instance, you could even look at a few different theme parks along the way with rides that are suitable for all your kids. 

Choose Your Means Of Travel

How are you going to get to each of your destinations along the way? This could be through the use of an RV or even your very own car. If you are going to use your car then this should be taken to a garage for a once over before you use it. That way you know it’s safe and roadworthy. 

Accommodation 

There is an important step in planning and executing a road trip, where you are going to stay. Accommodation is vital as this will likely need to be booked before you go, just so you know you will always have somewhere to stay. Check out some of the best family friendly options, this could be motels or more luxurious hotels. Go by the maps and work out how long it will take you to get there from your previous destinations. If you want the best accommodation then be sure to read reviews before you book. 

Activities Along The Way

Finally, if you are on a road trip with your family then you may be traveling through Texas on your way to another destination. If this is the case then you may be looking for somewhere to stop along the way, for some family fun! If you come across Pflugerville then you might assume that there is nothing to do. However, if you check out online what to do in Pflugerville, then you will likely come across Typhoon Texas waterpark. This has 33 awesome water slides and even a lazy river. 

I hope this helps you understand some of the key steps that you should take if you are thinking about taking a road trip with your family. This can be far more stressful than most people imagine, particularly if you are not used to the distractions that can come with a whole car full of kids. 

Prepping for Holiday Travel Chaos & Expenses

This holiday season is going to be a difficult one to truly prepare for if you're planning on flying. With the government in shutdown, and no sign of it opening back up at the moment, you are going to face delays and cancellations as there aren't enough workers at any given airport. There are threats of shutting down flights altogether, so if you can get to your destination any other way, this might be the year to go that route.

If airports remain open and operational, budget flights are probably going to be hard to come by and they will, for sure, be overbooked and going to the airport will be stressful and annoying. If you haven't already, sign up for flight alerts right now. If you just aren't sure how to pull off an affordable holiday trip, my ebook can give you all the inside tips for planning, booking, packing and not killing your family out of stress.

For less the cost of a bus ride back to the airport, I give you all the ways to sneak savings out of your planning and how not to lock yourself in the garage with a bottle of wine because your family is making you hate life. So, not only will you save on your trip, but also on this fantastic info. (Remember, you can download this book even if you don't have a Kindle. The Kindle app is free on iTunes and Google Play and works on all your web-enabled devices.) 

Later this month, as always, I'll be posting some new reviews and lists of fabulous travel gifts that can be ordered and shipped or easily slipped into your carry-on, so you don't have to check a bag just to bring your presents with you on the plane.

While holiday travels will never be that affordable, you can still save money and sanity in a lot of ways. 

Will you be traveling this holiday season?

31 Days of Halloween Stories

Guess what? It's Halloween! Every year I post a Halloween, Fall, or spooky story or article on Facebook every day of October leading up to the 31st and then I do a round-up of all of them at the end of the month, incase you missed any or just aren't on Facebook. I hope you enjoy them.

October 1: Salem, Massachusetts went from so not to so hot, marketing witches and witchcraft to the masses. I'm sure that Hocus Pocus and Practical Magic didn't hurt them either.  Why witches are so kitsch right now.

October 2: If you're looking for a spooktacular vacation or getaway, you might want to head to Nevada. It's the most haunted state in America! Now you can get your Paranormal Passport and explore all those creepy and deserted places you've always wanted to go.

October 3: I love Oregon and I love a road trip. I don't know how much I like being scared, but I adore abandoned places like ghost towns. Check out this ultimate haunted road trip through my state.

October 4: Tokyo is special kind of place to celebrate Halloween, and the parties and other events can start as early as September. From family-friendly parades and forest illuminations to adult cosplay festivals and nightclub bashes, you'll find it all in Tokyo. 

October 5: This memorial commemorating fallen Swiss Guards of the French Revolution has been called the saddest stone in the world. Mark Twain described the Lion of Lucerne as "the most mournful and moving piece of stone in the world."

October 6: If getting lost in the woods while hiking and seeing some gorgeous autumn colors is your speed, then you might want to pack your granola, put on your hiking boots, and hit one of these 12 awesome trails for a fall foliage hike.

October 7: Some people think this is the scariest hotel in America. It might be if you have coulrophobia, or fear of clowns. The Clown Motel in Tonopah, NV is a regular nightmare to some of us, but throw on top of it the fact that it might be haunted and it's right next to a cemetery and you have yourself a horrifying stay. (video)

October 8: Have you ever wanted to stay in your favorite scary movie? The house where the infamous murders that inspired The Conjuring movie (and a franchise) is going up for sale again on Halloween and it might just be revamped into site that can host overnight stays again. 

October 9: Yesterday we saw the house that inspired The Conjuring movie is going up for sale. If you just can't wait to sleep in a haunted or creepy hotel, then here are 16 Airbnbs you can book to get your spooky on.

October 10: Is being scared your thing? Every city has a haunted house or attraction that everyone goes to, but if you really want to get, like, pee in your pants cry for your mommy scared, check out the best haunted attractions in America.

October 11: Traveling this month? We always travel in the fall and often do Halloween activities where you wear a costume. While I love traveling and dressing up, not all costumes are great for packing light. If you are looking for a fun costume that will also fit in your carry-on, here are some ideas.

October 12: Some drinking and dining institutions have stood the test of time while their towns’ residents have mostly vanished. Here are 8 ghost towns to visit for great (or at least "spirited") food and drink.

October 13: Have you wanted to visit your favorite horror movie locations? From Nightmare On Elm Street to Us, here are 16 places to visit this Halloween.

October 14: I love a good horror movie. Actually, I love a bad horror movie, too. When I had a chance to visit Tom Devlin's Monster Museum in Boulder City, NV, I took it, because Tom Devlin is a legend and it's a short drive from Las Vegas. If you enjoy movie monsters, from the original Frankenstein to the Leprechaun to Michael Meyers, this is the place for you.

October 15: Europe hasn't always been the best place for Halloween lovers, but there are some great places to check out when you travel, regardless of time of year, to get some spooky vibes.

October 16: Spooky Season is the time I binge a ton of horror movies (not that I don't watch them all year long) and I love to see a movie that's based around travel, but also hate that I have to learn what not to do on a trip because of a horror movie. Here's a whole list of travel horror flicks that I've enjoyed and you might, too. I'd also add Heretic, Speak No Evil, Blink Twice, Until Dawn, and Death of a Unicorn.

October 17: If Halloween tourism is for you, then you might want to book a trip to this city next year. They boast haunted mansions (not the Disney one), ghost tours, and even a witch float. Bet you didn't think there was cool things like this outside of Salem.

October 18: The current government isn't the only scary thing in Washington, DC. If you love classic horror, then you will absolutely recognize these steps from The Exorcist. Though not haunted or incredibly interesting, if you like visiting sites where your favorite movies were filmed, you can climb to the top, or just take some pictures at this historical landmark.

October 19: Indulge in spooky festivals all year long, all over the world, when you travel. Whether you're into voodoo, death, or monsters, these 8 festivals should be on your list.

October 20: Every October, witches and wizards gather in Portland with their hats and their oars and their...paddleboards? That's right! It's the Witches on the Willamette event where magical people dress up, maybe decorate their boards, and float down the Willamette River. 

October 21: Spend some time haunting a cemetery while you're alive. There are great, old resting places everywhere you go, but one of my favorites is the sprawling Pere Lachaise Cemetery in Paris.

October 22: If you can't leave the country for Halloween, the US has amazing Halloween celebrations, too. Here are the 9 best places to go if you're stateside. 

October 23: Celebrate Halloween where it originated. The Celts celebrated Samhain long before Halloween came along and Dublin has some of the most spectacular events in order to usher in the season of spooks and frights.

October 24: Are you a fan of abandoned places? They're spooky, full of history, and often haunted, or at least feel that way. One of the abandoned places I really enjoyed was Eastern State Penitentiary.

October 25: Want to visit a Portland that isn't actually on fire like that one guy keeps saying? Don't worry, it can still be scary, but in an absolutely fun way. Plan your trip to PDX and spend 3 incredible days here (or more, because we are awesome, and our remodeled airport is gorgeous).

October 26: Have you heard about the 'Halloween Capital of the World'? I hadn't either, but apparently, this town in Minnesota is claiming the title, even though the Pacific Northwest has the actual town from Halloweentown. We don't have 3 parades though!

October 27: Obsessed with fall foliage? Well, start planning a trip next year to one of these gorgeous spring destinations, because when our weather is starting to warm up, the southern hemisphere is cooling down and the leaves are turning. You can get twice as much fall in your life!

October 28: Skip the more crowded destinations for the season and check out one of these 10 lesser-known haunted spots around the world. The same spooks, but none of the jostling to actually see things.

October 29: Train rides can be boring, romantic, historic, and, in this case, creepy! The No Hope After Dark is a 100-minute train ride through Pennsylvania woodlands and takes you to a haunted maze to face some of your fears.

October 30: Do treats sound better than tricks to you? You don't have to go anywhere to get scared. Instead, you could visit some very cool historical and mysterious places for the season instead.

October 31: Each year, from September to November, you can walk through The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze in the New York area, where thousands of pumpkins have been carved and lit up to give you a fun seasonal activity that's great for the whole family. We did something similar when we visited Philadelphia and aside from it being freezing (bring gloves and a hat) it was really beautiful.

I hope you have a safe and fun Halloween full of all the tricks and treats you desire. What are your favorite spooky, creepy, or mysterious travel destinations?

The Real Cost of a Road Trip

Road trips can be fun, but if you're short on time or money, it may not be worth it over flying to your destination. It all depends on what you want to get out of it. If most of your activities are taking place at your final destination, then the time spent driving is going to cut into that. If you plan to take your time driving, then you can plan fun stops along the way to make your vacation more interesting before and after you get to where you're going.

It's no secret that you get to see a lot more when you drive, plus you have a car to get around at your destination, but you also have to factor in if gas prices will outweigh the benefits of just flying straight to your destination. Say you're spending four days somewhere, but it will take you two days to drive there and two days back. You're going to be spending probably $200 minimum on gas, $200, on average, per night at a hotel, and any food you stop for along the way. That means you'll already be spending $600, on the low end, getting there and back.

If there are only two of you, you might be spending the same amount on two plane tickets, but you won't have to waste 4 days driving. Of course, if you have to rent a car at your destination, that will add on to that total, when driving you would already have your car with you. If you're traveling as a family, flights may end up costing you 3 or more times that, depending on how many of you there are, and you also wouldn't have built-in transportation when you arrive.  These are things to think about.

There are ways you can save on your road trip, like bringing your own food, staying in budget hotels, and even doing free or affordable activities along the way. 

Your family can really benefit from being stuck in the car together for hours or days. It can be great for bonding. We bring entertainment for us all, make sure we can all charge our phones, have the snacks we love, and plenty of podcasts, audio books, and music to get us through between stops. Check out this post for more tips.

Do you love a road trip?

How to Enjoy a Relaxing Ranch Getaway on a Budget

There's something that is deeply calming about spending time at a ranch. The open air  as well as the sound of nature and the slow pace of life is very appealing. It's a great place to go if you don't want to spend a fortune but wish to enjoy peace and quiet at the same time. 

Image by Kev from Pixabay

With just a little bit of planning you can have an adventure that is relaxing and memorable. The secret is about choosing the right destination and managing your itinerary as wisely as possible.

Choose Affordable Ranch Destinations

Many travelers assume that ranch vacations are going to be very expensive but that is not always the case. There are many charming hideaways and family ranches where you can get some very cozy accommodations. 

You can enjoy genuine hospitality and scenic trails at very affordable rates. At hideaway ranches you will find rustic surroundings that make a countryside escape unforgettable. You won't get the luxury resort price tag here just warm, cozy comfort. You should look out for all inclusive packages and consider traveling during the off season when the prices tend to be much lower.

Plan Low-Cost Activities that Feel Luxurious

One of the best parts of going on a ranch vacation is that you won't need to do any form of expensive entertainment in order to have fun. You'll be able to take morning walks by the water and even go for a sunset picnic if you choose. Horseback riding, hiking and stargazing are some of the experiences that you will have that will connect you with nature. 

They will provide you relaxation in ways money could never buy. You will also be able to bring your own food for a few of your meals and share costs with family and friends if you choose.

Pack Smart and Stay Simple

One of the main things you need to do is make sure that you are packing as efficiently as possible to save on money and prevent stress.  Don't be afraid to bring reusable water bottles, comfortable clothing and snacks. You're going to be staying for many days and you should consider doing basic grocery runs instead of going out to eat all the time. Most ranch accommodations will have outdoor grills and even kitchenettes. This will allow you to prepare very hearty meals. Staying simple is not only going to save you money but it's going to give you a feeling of being grounded and connected to the scenery that is all around you.

Leave Refreshed Not Broke

When you plan your vacation very carefully it's going to be much more than just a trip. You'll have a rejuvenating experience that is going to remind you to enjoy your life and the simple pleasure that it offers. In short, it's an invitation to slow down. Whether you find yourself listening to the wind through the Trees or enjoying the sound of birds as you wake up in the morning, you will return home feeling extremely refreshed. 

Get Inspired With These Holiday Ideas

When it comes to planning a holiday it can be tricky to pick the perfect spot, especially if everyone in your group has different ideas of what makes a great trip. While no single place can offer everything for everyone, there are destinations that are flexible enough to keep most people happy. If you are planning a trip with a group this year, it is worth thinking about what kind of holiday will give everyone something to enjoy. Here are some ideas to inspire your next adventure.

Photo by Viktoria B.: https://www.pexels.com/photo/campers-parked-near-road-near-water-14766759/

Thrill holidays

If you love a rush of adrenaline, a thrill holiday could be exactly what you are looking for. These types of holidays are all about pushing yourself a little further and trying activities that get your heart racing. Think zip lining through forests, white water rafting, or hiking to breathtaking viewpoints. Thrill holidays are ideal for people who want a mix of adventure and exploration, and they can turn an ordinary trip into something you will remember for the rest of your life. Just make sure you budget for the experiences you really want to enjoy.

Simple holidays

Sometimes the best trips are the simplest. A getaway where you pitch a tent, explore nature, and enjoy being away from screens can be exactly what a group of friends or family needs. Staying at an RV park can make this easy, offering access to basic amenities while still letting you enjoy the outdoors. Simple holidays are a chance to relax, connect with nature, and take a break from busy everyday life. They give you time to enjoy company, breathe fresh air, and really slow down for a few days.

Luxury holidays

Sometimes holidays are about treating yourself, and if that is what you need a luxury holiday is perfect. These trips are about comfort, indulgence, and making the most of your time off. You could stay in a high-end resort, take a cruise, or enjoy an all-inclusive break where everything is taken care of for you. Luxury holidays are not just about hot sunny destinations either, you can enjoy cozy cabins in the snow or charming apartments in beautiful cities. It is a chance to relax, recharge, and enjoy life for a little while without worrying about the everyday stresses. You can totally make this your holiday gift to yourself.

Food and drink holidays

For those who love to explore flavors, a holiday focused on food and drink is a dream. These trips allow you to try local dishes and drinks from different towns or regions, often giving a deeper insight into the culture as well. Food holidays are perfect for adventurous eaters looking to try new tastes, but they can also appeal to people who want to learn more about wine, craft beer, or local spirits. Whether you are sampling street food or dining in fine restaurants, a food and drink holiday can be exciting, fun, and surprisingly educational.

Planning your next holiday does not have to be stressful. Whether you are chasing thrills, luxury, amazing food, or simple pleasures, there is something out there for everyone. Take your time, think about what matters most for your group, and enjoy the adventure.

How do you like to travel during the holidays, or DO you?

Road Trip Ready: 5 Essential Motorhome Travel Tips

Motorhomes, or RVs, can serve as a vehicle and accommodation. They’re excellent for road trips - allowing you to travel where you want without having to pay for hotels along the way. There are of course some challenges to traveling in a motorhome such as getting used to the vehicle’s large size and making sure you park somewhere safe and legal. Here are some motorhome/RV travel tips that will help your adventures to go smoothly:

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Know your vehicle’s size

It’s worth knowing exactly how high and how wide your motorhome is in case you come across a low bridge or narrow road. Consider keeping a piece of paper on your dashboard with the dimensions of your vehicle written on it. It could also be worth practicing your parking to help you get a good idea as to how much room you have either side.

Select motorhome-friendly routes

It’s worth using a GPS option that can help you find motorhome-friendly routes. Some routes may include very narrow country lanes or low bridges, which you won’t be able to drive through. By making sure that routes are suitable for your motorhome, you can avoid stressful situations later down the line. 

Secure your valuables

It’s important to make sure that your belongings are all hidden and locked away - when driving and when leaving your vehicle unattended. Not only can locking away items stop them moving around and falling as you’re driving, but it can also prevent thieves from seeing them. Closing curtains and making sure that your motorhome door is locked are also important steps to take when parking up and leaving your vehicle. You can also consider security measures like steering wheel locks.

Look into RV parks

While you can park almost anywhere in a motorhome, many locations may not be safe or may not provide you with access to electricity. RV parks provide you with a designated pitch with an electrical hook-up. They are often well-lit and have bathroom facilities too (if you don’t want to use the toilet in your motorhome). Book RV parks in advance so that you know where to stop and so that you definitely have a pitch. Many campsites have designated RV areas. You may also be able to find pubs and hotels with RV electrical hook-ups. 

Invest in solar panels

When it comes to wild camping in your motorhome, a big issue can often be not having access to electricity. You don’t want to drain your battery using lighting, heating or electrical kitchenware. At the same time, you shouldn’t feel that you have to do without power. It’s possible to install solar panels on the roof of your motorhome that can allow you to keep your vehicle powered up in any location. These solar panels come in different sizes for generating different amounts of power. 

Ready for your road trip?

By following these tips, you can make sure that your motorhome experience is a comfortable and stress-free one. It all comes down to preparation - while you can still make room for spontaneity on your trip, planning the important things ahead will keep you out of trouble. 

Have you ever traveled in an RV before?