Eco and Ethical Christmas Gift Guide – For Her

For mums, grandmas, aunts, sisters and friends…our pick of the best eco and ethical Christmas gifts for her.

Hygge gift set – £59 from Aerende, www.aerende.co.uk

It became one of the words of 2016, now you can spread a bit of Danish cosiness to the Scandi-lover in your life with this ‘hygge’ gift set. Featuring handmade cup and saucer for warming hot chocolates, a handmade organic cotton cushion to snuggle up to, and a (Danish essential) soy wax scented candle. All products are handmade by social enterprises and charities – the cup and saucer has been made by residents with learning disabilities at The Grange in Glocestershire; the cushion is handmade by refugees in Hertfordshire as part of a Refugee Council project; and the candle is made by staff with a range of additional needs at Beacons Creative in Wales. Browse the rest of the Aerende range for more brilliant handcrafted gifts from people facing a range of social challenges.

aerende_hygge-christmas-gift-set

‘Samphire’ eau de toilette (100ml) – £60 from Laboratory Perfumes, www.laboratoryperfumes.com

This inventive British brand makes perfume the ‘old fashioned way’, taking inspiration from natural botanicals and using natural oils. We love this cool, fresh, coastal fragrance of verbena, juniper, lavender, citrus oils, basil and rosemary with base notes of oak moss and amber. Other fragrances in the range include Atlas, Amber, Gorse and Tonka – all unisex, they develop into something unique on every individual. All perfumes come in a stylish, minimalist cardboard tube. Matching scented candles are also available.

edt_samphire‘So Sleepy’ limited edition collection – £10 from Tropic Skin Care, www.tropicskincare.com

This brand new set from Tropic Skin Care is a perfect stocking filler. Including a travel-sized pillow mist and temple roll-on to help you nod off into a deep sleep. It smells gorgeous thanks to the essential oils rosewood, vanilla and lavender.

tropic-so-sleepy-collection-lrArtisan Sparkling Elderflower Wine Maker’s Kit – £40.99 from Yumbles, www.yumbles.com

This fun DIY kit includes everything you need to make your own sparkling elderflower wine (3 litres of it!). The ingredients are organic, vegetarian and gluten free, and the equipment is suitably ‘chemistry set’ fun and easy to use. Time for some bubbles!

artisan-sparkling-elderflower-wine-kit

Smoke & Musk travel candle – £16 from Museum of London shop, www.museumoflondonshop.co.uk

Handpoured in east London using eco-friendly soy wax, this scented candle smells like being in a cosy cabin in the woods. A bespoke blend of essential oils including green balsam fir, wood smoke and musky patchouli. This handy travel size makes a great stocking gift; it’s also available in a 3-wick 500ml size (for £50).

smoke-musk-travel-candle-16-museumoflondonshop-co-uk-white-cutout

Butterfly Collection ‘Revive’ and ‘Indulge’ gift sets – £19.95 and £8.50 from Green People, www.greenpeople.co.uk

The new Butterfly Collection organic skincare and bodycare travel sets from Green People make good stocking fillers or tree presents. Beautifully packaged, a donation from each sale goes to Butterfly Conservation to help protect butterflies, moths and the environment. The ‘Revive’ body wash and lotion set is scented with uplifting lemongrass and ginger, while ‘Indulge’ is a special night-time facial treat.

l031_revive_16

‘Bird’ brass earrings – £15 from Danaqa, www.danaqa.com

We love these cute brass earrings from online boutique Danaqa. Handcrafted by a husband and wife team at their studio in Iran, these earrings also come in a variety of bird and tree designs – and at this price make lovely stocking fillers or tree presents. Browse more gift ideas on the Danaqa site – their homewares, jewellery and accessories are all ethically and fairly sourced, and support women-led businesses in developing countries.brass-bird-earrings-15-danaqa-comAphrodite facial oil (30ml) – £20 from MOA (Magic Organic Apothecary), www.moa.london

This organic and vegan-friendly super-luxe facial oil rejuvenates and rehydrates party-worn and stressed-out skin. The delicately scented balm is packed full of organic yarrow essential oil, rosehip and damask rose oil (organic ‘hero herb’ yarrow, which is native to British hedgerows, and has been used for centuries to heal, repair and leave skin naturally glowing). It smells delicious and is non-greasy – just apply overnight and wake up with a glowing complexion!

img_20151124_140851

Foxhole Gin – £40 from Foxhole Spirits, www.foxholespirits.com

This is a first, a gin distilled from unused English wine grapes picked in Sussex vineyards. In a typical harvest around 30-40% of grape material is unused and has to be thrown away – so this gin helps reduce waste and encourage sustainability. Velvet-textured with floral coriander and orris flavours, and balanced with grapefruit and lemon zests, this gin has a long finish of subtle bitter orange notes. Grab one of the 960 first-batch limited edition bottles.

foxhole-gin

Puressential Gentle Heat Diffuser – £18.67 from Cocoon Center, www.cocooncenter.co.uk

Aromatheraphy the clean, safe way – with no candle or flame, this essential oil ceramic diffuser can be placed on any surface as heat is only located at the top. Available in navy or white.

uk_gamme_diffuseurs

Dr Organic Lavender Oil Moisturising Gel Socks – £15 from Holland & Barrett, www.hollandandbarrett.com

Socks for Christmas? Yes, but these are no ordinary socks… Pop these on and create silky smooth feet after just 20 minutes of pampering a day. The socks are infused with lavender oil with a balanced blend of moisturising jojoba oil, olive oil and vitamin E, and an organic cocktail of essential oils including jasmine, patchouli, bergamot, ylang-ylang, sandalwood, vetiver root, cedarwood and emerald cypress oils.

lavender-socks-single-pack

Avalon Organics Intense Defense skincare collection – RRP £34.99 from www.avalonorganics.com (for stockists)

Perfect for keeping winter skin in tip-top condition, this set includes organic Cleansing Gel with pure botanical cleansers, Renewal Cream to encourage collagen production, and Antioxidant Oil to reinforce the skin’s natural lipid barrier. Enriched with vitamin C, lemon and white tea it’s got plenty of zing, and an attractive make-up bag to boot.

avalon-set

Coconut Collection beauty range – from £1.75 by Urtekram, www.urtekram.com (for stockists)

Coconut and Danish – not a yummy pastry but two of the trends of 2016, so what better gift than something from the new Coconut Collection by Danish organic beauty brand Urtekram? Featuring vegan and cruelty-free shampoo, conditioner, shower gel and body lotion, each product is infused with organic virgin coconut oil and organic coconut nectar from palm trees in the South Seas.

coconut-hamper

Eco and Ethical Christmas Gift Guide – For Kids

For babies, toddlers and little ones, here are some eco and ethical gift ideas to light-up little faces on Christmas morning…

Campervan walker toys – £62.50 from Jo & Co, www.joandcohome.com

These funky campervan walkers are made of wood from natural rubber trees that no longer produce latex. The lovely design means it’s a piece of kit that you don’t mind taking up space in the living room! Suitable for 12 months+, the walkers encourage early movement, but confident toddlers will also love pushing them around like trollies and using them as toy storage. Available in blue or pink.

campervan walkerRacoon Pyjamas Set – £20 from Rockin’ Baby, www.rockinbaby.com

We love the Rockin’ Baby brand – they’ve partnered with ChildFund for their one-for-one, mother-for-mother scheme: for every piece purchased, the scheme provides slings and clothing to children living in poverty worldwide. To support a great programme, these cute Raccoon PJs are great for lazy Sundays as well as bedtime. Available in sizes from 18mths to 10yrs.

racoon-pyjamas

 

Jungle Safari Wooden Skittles (large) – £30 from ZSL Shop, www.shop.zsl.org

You can’t beat a wooden game, and these large hand-painted skittles are a quirky and cute twist on the traditional version. Featuring two balls and six skittles (hippo, elephant, zebra, lion, monkey, giraffe). Everything bought from the ZSL (Zoological Society of London) shop helps support their ongoing conservation work around the world.

wooden-skittles-safari-18-sml-or-30-lrgToy Dinosaur – £30 from Zaliwana Accessories, www.zaliwanaaccessories.co.uk

Zaliwana Accessories specialise in sourcing handcrafted, ethically-sourced gifts from around the world. This felt dinosaur has been lovingly handmade in Nepal. Suitable from newborns upwards, no-one will be able to resist a cuddle!

toy-dinosaur-30-zaliwanaaccessories-co-uk_lowres

Bamboo 3-piece dining set – £14.50 from Yours Sustainably, www.yourssustainably.com

This cute and colourful children’s dining set is made from natural organic bamboo fibre, so is a great eco alternative to plastic. Each set includes a decorated divider plate with matching bowl and handled cup. Comes in two designs – fun ‘Robots’ and cute ‘Animals’.

bamboo-set

Baby clothing by From Babies With Love – from £15.90, Big Issue Shop, www.bigissueshop.com

This award-winning baby clothing line donates 100% of its profits to orphaned and abandoned children around the world, supporting organisations that help break the cycle of poverty and ensure children grow up in loving family homes. We love the frog, duck robot, rabbit and penguin designs on the babygrows (£21.90), T-shirts (£15.90) and reversible baby blankets (£26.90) in this ethically-sourced range.

from-babies-with-love

Elephant Craft Kit – £12 from ZSL Shop, www.shop.zsl.org

This easy-peasy crafting kit is perfect for little fingers. With no cutting required, this kit includes everything you need (including pre-cut felt, plastic non-sharp needles, thread, stuffing and googley eyes) to make your own elephant toy. Everything bought from the ZSL (Zoological Society of London) shop helps support their ongoing conservation work around the world.

craft-kit-elephant-zsl-12-4-years-c

 

Christmas gift guide 2015

Stuck for what to give your nearest and dearest this Christmas? The Goodtrippers Christmas gift guide is full of bright ideas for those looking for eco-friendly, sustainable or charity gifts….now, it’s time to start shopping!

For kids…

seeded christmas tree - www.sciencemuseumshop.co.uk

Plantable Christmas trees – £5

Printed on seeded paper, these hanging decorations can be used over the festive season, then after Twelfth Night, plant them and help create more trees for the future. Buy from www.sciencemuseumshop.co.uk

PENGUIN Boys Set www.rockinbaby.com

Rockin’ Baby Penguin PJs – £26

These cute PJs are just a part of the excellent Rockin’ Baby range for boys and girls. We love the fact that for every item bought, Rockin’ Baby donate an item of clothing to children in over 30 countries, in partnership with ChildFund International. Buy from www.rockinbaby.com

24 x non-toxic wax crayons (dinosaurs), £11.99, yourssustainably.com (2)

Eco-friendly wax colouring crayons – £11.99

This set of cute dinosaurs will brighten up the post-Christmas thank you cards. Made of non-toxic wax, they come in a set of 24 assorted colours. Buy from www.yourssustainably.com

For foodies…

Styled_Group

Pomora olive oil subscription gift – £29 or £39 per quarter

Support small, local growers in Italy by adopting or fostering an olive tree for a loved one through the Pomora subscription service. Each quarter they’ll receive three 250ml tins of premium extra virgin olive oil direct from the producers, including rosemary, lemon and white truffle oils. Buy from www.pomora.com

Karma ColaKarma Cola – £1.59

This delicious craft cola is made with real cola nut and the best organic and Fairtrade ingredients, also available in Gingeralla and Lemony Lemon. Named ‘The World’s Fairest Trader’ in 2014 by Fairtrade International, Karma Cola not only tastes good, it’s doing good, making a big difference for a small village in Sierra Leone, rebuilding itself in the aftermath of war and benefitting the farmers of the sacred cola nut directly. Buy from www.waitrose.com

wraps (all), £6.99, yourssustainably.com

Reusable food wraps – £6.99 each

Leave that dull clingfilm at home, these gorgeous fabric sandwich wraps will add style to any lunch al fresco or ‘al desko’. With waterproof lining these reusable, washable wraps can help you cut down on wasteful food packaging. Buy from www.yourssustainably.com

On the go…

BAGS_QS004_NAVY_WHITE (1)

St Mary’s X-10 Sailcloth Laptop Bag – £60

Just one of the bags from the Quba Sails range of laptop bags, weekend bags and washbags, all vegan-friendly and made from reworked sail cloth. Buy from www.quba.com

incognito luxury combo2 low resolution

 

The incognito luxury travel combo – £45

Perfect for treks in the tropics or camping on the Scottish coast, this set for ‘bite-free’ holidays is 100% natural, biodegradable, chemical-free, achieves an overall recycling rate of 95% and won the Queen’s award this year for its efforts in sustainability. Buy from www.lessmosquito.com

BRITA Fill&Go Blue LR[1]

BRITA Fill&Go bottle – £14.99

Help save on plastic bottle waste with the Fill&Go. This sleek bottle is BPA-free and each filter disk can filter 20 litres of water, saving 40 plastic (500ml) water bottles. The Fill&Go has an straw enclosed in the bottle, making it easy to drink from when running. Buy from www.brita.co.uk

wee PAL chargers small file(1)wee PAL rechargeable power bank – £25

This portable charger powers up any device that is compatible with a USB (phones, Bluetooth speakers, cameras, games controllers) and can fully charge an iPhone 6 in just 1.5 hours.  For each wee PAL purchased, social enterprise Power a Life delivers a solar light, free of charge, to a child living without electricity in Africa to help them do their homework at night. Buy from www.poweralife.com

image002

Yogabellies luxury eco yoga mat – £59

Don’t leave this beautiful eco-friendly yoga mat at home! It’s made from 100% natural tree rubber and uses water based inks. It’s free from latex, silicone, toxic glue and phthalates and contains no PVC or chlorine. This means that it’s safe to use for pregnancy and practice with your baby. Buy from www.yogabellies.co.uk

For fashion and style lovers…

Mela lightweight cotton striped scarf (red and coral), £40, Danaqa.comMela scarf – £40

This lightweight and vibrant cotton scarf has been handmade in Ethiopia by dedicated craftswomen of a small, women-led business. Buy from www.danaqa.com

dragonfly broochDragonfly pewter brooch – £22

Handmade using lead-free pewter and inspired by the wildlife of Norfolk, this dragonfly brooch will add an original touch to any outfit. Buy from www.folksy.com/shops/yljewellery

Neroli neckace 2 RGNeroli necklace by Liz Earle Jewellery – £180

This beautiful necklace is part of a botanics collection made entirely of fairtrade and ethically-sourced materials. The Neroli necklace is available in 24ct rose or yellow gold vermeil and 100% certified Fairtrade. Buy from www.credjewellery.com

Don’t forget the charity gifts…

Christmas really is the time to give back and help those less fortunate. There are so many charity gifts available but some of our favourite ones include Good Gifts (so much choice, great categories and we love the cartoon gift cards); animal adoption schemes such as snow leopard adoption from WWF; Oxfam Unwrapped gifts helping those in poorer countries; or buy a gift for someone you’ll never meet (even though you will be making them feel special this Christmas) via the Salvation Army’s Christmas Present Appeal (check the website for details of local appeals in your area – hurry, ends soon!).

And relax…

After all of that shopping for everyone else, how about a little something for your Christmas wish list? We’ve picked a stocking filler and a ‘star gift’ that are both guaranteed to help you relax after the festive season.

STV0563.OBO.261-EditOlverum bath oil – from £23.50

This gorgeous natural bath oil will relax you even before you slip into the bath! Releasing a gorgeous aroma under running water, its scent will instantly turn your bathroom into a luxury spa. It’s packed full of natural essential oils including lemon peel, geranium flower, rosemary, lavendar, lime, ecualyptus and verbena to leave you uplifted (and with silky smooth skin to boot!). Buy from www.olverum.com

Tiipii Bed (2)Tiipii Bed – £199

We love this innovative take on the traditional hammock. Just hang from a tree or secure a hanging position indoors, and create your very own chill-out zone. With enough room for 1-2 adults or 4-5 children, add a few cushions and you’ll be battling to keep the swing bed to yourself! It also packs down into a tidy, lightweight carry bag so you can take it with you on holiday too. Available in natural white, natural green or natural taupe. Buy from www.tiipiibed.co.uk

 

Last minute Christmas gift guide

Leaving it late for your Christmas shopping? Don’t want to brave the frantic last minute rush on the high street? Don’t panic! Here are some great Christmas gift ideas for the Goodtripper in your life – and they can be grabbed with the click of your mouse!

(Good tip: Many of these gift givers will email you a voucher to confirm your present, but if you do miss the final delivery date for vouchers or packs, you can get creative and make your own voucher card and give the real thing in the new year!)

If they’re always thinking of others… Get them a Good Gift

Protect an acre of rainforest
Protect an acre of rainforest

One of the original and best charity gift givers – we love the creativity and imagination in the Good Gifts range, and all gifts come with great little cards. There are ways to help good causes at home and abroad, but travel fans may like some of these suggestions:

An Acre of Rainforest (£52) – help mitigate 200 tonnes of CO2 from your loved-one’s carbon footprint (Good Givers have already helped protect 12,000 acres of tropical rainforest!)

25 sqm of Woodland (£32) – closer to home, help them protect green belt woodland which saves a tonne of carbon

Air Ambulance Journey (£120) – in rural parts of Africa, air ambulances are vital in saving lives. If your loved one loves flying, help them fund one of the most important flights for someone in need in Africa.

Get these, and many more Good Gifts ideas, at www.goodgifts.org

If they love the sea… Boutique Beach Hut hire for a day

Boutique beach hut, Grand Pavilion
Boutique beach hut, Grand Pavilion

We love this idea! Two brand new beach huts at Walton-on-the-Naze in Essex, are currently being spruced up ready for hire from 1st February 2015. But these aren’t your average beach front hideaways – these are rather fancy (chandelier and luxury interiors) boutique beach huts! Pick either Grand Pavilion or Indian Summer, add on a luxury picnic with champagne, and you’ve got a very special seaside trip sorted. The organisers are also offering to arrange spa treatment and welcome bouquet add-ons.

Price: Grab the introductory price of £38 for a day’s hire. A luxury package, including picnic and champagne, is £94. The pretty gift voucher comes boxed.

Get it at www.boutiquebeachhuts.co.uk

If they love animals… Adopt an animal

Adopting an animal at a zoo, nature park, animal shelter or conservation project is a great way to show your support. Many organisations offer adoption schemes and give your recipient a welcome pack plus regular updates.

WWF offer a great adoption scheme which helps them protect many endangered animals around the world (and recipients receive a cute cuddly toy along with their welcome pack and updates!). Choose from snow leopard, Bengal tiger, Hawksbill turtle, orangutan and many more.

Price: From £36/year (you can pledge as much as you like, min.£3, as a monthly payment)

Get it at www.wwf.org.uk

If they want a memorable day out… Meet the animals at London Zoo

Meet the giraffes
Meet the giraffes

ZSL London Zoo and ZSL Whipsnade Zoo offer animal lovers an incredible chance to go behind the scenes at these world-famous zoos and meet their animals on a vip day out. Join a keeper and find out even more about the fascinating lives of the aardvarks, penguins, meerkats, kangeroos, giraffes and more. Taking part in this experience helps support ZSL’s conservation work around the world.

Prices vary and start at £45 per person

Get this, and other gift ideas (including animal adoption) at www.zsl.org

For the person who has everything… Even more charity gift ideas!

Frankly, who needs another unwanted present? MoneySavingExpert.com has compiled a great list of charity gift ideas, complete with final delivery dates for vouchers (although many can be emailed up to Christmas Eve). Take a look at the ways you can spread some Christmas love and cheer with charities including Unicef, Centrepoint, Age International, Oxfam and more – MoneySavingExpert.com Charity Gifts

Look for a bargain… Don’t forget to browse our Good Offers section for a few special discount codes for some of our favourite brands

Check out our 2013 Christmas Gift Guide packed full of present ideas including travel gadgets, outdoor gear, sustainable fashion and accessories.

Everyone loves books at Christmas – we pick 10 of the best travel books

10 of the best travel books

You can’t go far wrong with choosing a good book as a present. Whether they prefer reading on a Kindle or a good ‘back to basics’ paperback, here are some of the best books around for travel and outdoor fans…

If they love the sea….

Wild Swimming Coast: Explore the Secret Coves and Wild Beaches of Britain
– by Daniel Start

In the depths of winter, it’s nice to dream of hazy summer beach days – salty air, sand in your picnic food, and a bracing dip in the sea. This book, the follow-up to Wild Swimming, takes a look at Britain’s secret coves and wild beaches across Scotland, Wales and England. This isn’t about ‘Kiss Me Quick’ hats, deckchair strewn promenades and fish and chip shops – this is a celebration of rock pooling, catching your own seafood supper, swimming with aquatic beasties, coasteering and enjoying Britain’s wonderful natural coastline and maritime heritage. The book is handily laid-out with information including swimming difficulty, access, nearby food and camping for each location, plus safety tips for new wild swimmers. It’s also peppered with beautiful photography making this a great book to browse through on a cold winter’s afternoon.

If they love camping…

Extreme Sleeps: Adventures of a Wild Camper
– by Phoebe Smith

Being spurred on by a ‘my country’s better than yours’ argument with an Australian, author Phoebe Smith decided she needed to leave her relatively comfortable backpacking routine and get out of the hostels and into the wilds. So began a journey that involved sleeping under the stars at Ayres Rock, staying with a group of Bedouin in Jordan, and wrapping up in reindeer skin in the Finnish Arctic. And it didn’t stop when she came back to the UK – Extreme Sleeps chronicles her nights spend wild camping in the most northerly area of Scotland to southernmost England, proving that the UK could provide as exhilarating an experience as anywhere in the world.

If they’re looking for adventure…

Fodor’s The Complete Guide to African Safaris (Fodor’s Complete African Safari Planner)
– by Fodor’s

Fodor know what they’re talking about so you can expect this book to be comprehensive and inspiring when it comes to embarking on the ultimate adventure holiday – an African safari. The book is crammed with maps and information about the national parks and wildlife areas across the whole continent – from the stunning Victoria Falls to the tropical paradise of the Seychelles. With handy lists covering best wildlife experiences, most luxurious lodges, best locations for meeting the locals and more, this guide is aimed at those who respect local wildlife and cultures but aren’t experienced field guides and so need a bit more about enjoying the safari travel experience.

If they’re looking for a career break…

Gap Years for Grown Ups: Because gap years are wasted on the young
– by Susan Griffiths

The term ‘gap year’ is synonymous with 18 year olds backpacking around the world, partying hard and living off beans and beer for months on end. But there are plenty of older generations with itchy feet and a bit more money (and wisdom) seeking out worthwhile travel experiences. ‘Gap Years for Grown Ups’ provides advice and inspiration for those looking to take the plunge and tackles all the practical concerns (dealing with your property, job, family and relationships), to essential kit, safety on the road, and how to readjust when you return. Inspiration comes from chapters on the different types of trips to take (boat, air, bike), spiritual journeys, travel involving study, volunteering projects and more. They’ll be booking their one-way ticket in no time!

If they’re a foodie…

Food Lover’s Guide to the World: Experience the great global cuisines (Lonely Planet Food and Drink)
– by Lonely Planet

If the massive Christmas dinner hasn’t put them off thinking about food, this book will have them salivating. Lonely Planet cover some of the world’s most enticing cuisines and some lesser known delicacies, alongside sections dedicated to the best food markets, jewish dishes, coffee, and cheese. Gorgeous photography will have your belly rumbling as you read about the expected gastronomic hot-spots of the Mediterranean or southeast Asia, but also the food of the deep south of the USA, Nepalese mountain fare, or where to eat an authentic Maori hangi. History, recipes and restaurant recommendations are punctuated throughout.

If they like ticking off a list…

1000 Places to See Before You Die
– by Patricia Schultz

This no.1 New York Times best seller has been updated to include 25 new countries (including Qatar, the Maldives and Greenland) plus a re-write and review of all the places included in the book. So many places are included, it is a little text heavy but the information is thorough and detailed enough to inspire at least a few trips, and ensure you can’t resist flicking through to read about your own home town or favourite place to see what the author has to say about it. Contact details for accommodation, eating out, events and more are all included making this a great ’round the world’ companion.

If they love good design…

Exotic Retreats: Eco Resort Design from Barefoot Sophistication to Luxury Pad
– by Julia Faiers

Hopefully, regular readers of Goodtrippers will know that eco-friendly accommodation and luxury need not be mutually exclusive. This photography book is full of images of glossy, luxurious eco retreats around the world to prove the point, including locations and contact details if it’s inspired you to make a booking. For real design junkies, architect details are also included. Perfect coffee table fare for fantasy holiday dreamers.

If they love a good view…

501 Must-Visit Natural Wonders (501 Series)
– by D. Brown, A.Brown, A. Findlay

Caribou migration, the Hoodoo Mountains, Madagascar, the Scottish Highlands…they’re all here in this storming book that has plenty of wonderful photography to make you ‘ooh’ and ‘aah’ at how amazing Planet Earth is. Updated for 2013, it provides enough advice and information to encourage you to leave your armchair and explore some of the world’s most awe-inspiring sights. But this book isn’t about serving up the planet for mere entertainment – a serious ecological message is present throughout; help save these magnificent places before it’s too late.

If they’re a bird watcher…

A Supremely Bad Idea: Three Mad Birders and Their Quest to See It All
– by Luke Dempsey

You don’t have to be a ‘birder’ to enjoy this book, although those who do like to spend their free time in the great outdoors with binoculars glued to their face will recognise the fanaticism and mad excitement that the author communicates. Following the escapades of Luke and his friends as they travel across the United States to spot birds (the feathered variety), this funny book is as much about relationships as birding.

If they’re scared of flying…

Flight Free Europe (Time Out Flight Free Europe)
– by Time Out Guides

Europe, with its myriad countries and cultures, is a great continent to explore without having to set foot inside an airport – great news for flying phobes, and for the planet. This Time Out guide is split into short two hour trips, longer day trips, overnighters, and revokes the idea of the Grand Tour (Baltic ferry-hopping or the Orient Express anyone?). It’s not just about trains too with inspiration for boat, bike and walking trips, even a nod to car hire (with ‘green’ car hire options increasing in number).

All of the Amazon links in this article link to the Goodtrippers Amazon Affiliates site – this is at no additional cost to you (prices are the same as going direct to Amazon) but Goodtrippers receives a small percentage from sales when you purchase using these links. Many thanks for your support.

For more Christmas gift ideas see The Goodtrippers Christmas Gift Guide – Part 1

The Goodtrippers Christmas Gift Guide 2013 – Part 1

Wondering what great Christmas gifts to get friends and family this year? We’ve picked some of the best ideas for travel enthusiasts, backpackers, weekenders, globe trotters and lovers of the great outdoors. Time to get shopping!

FOR STYLE_SAVVY TRAVELLERSE-SIDE - Proof Wooden Sunglasses in bamboo polarized - £120

Sustainable wooden sunglasses by Proof: These stylish shades, designed by Proof, are individually handcrafted and rendered in beautiful eco-friendly wood such as ebony and bamboo. We like the classic, unisex style, and that for every pair you buy a portion of the sale price goes to supporting charitable causes worldwide, including an eye clinic in rural India.

Price: £120. Available from www.e-side.co.uk

Oxfam Monsoon wash bag

Monsoon for Oxfam large wash bag: This special Monsoon collection for Oxfam includes hand embroidered items are made by SEWA (Self Employed Women’s Association), a community cooperative in India committed to empowering female artisans. This beautifully patterned textile washbag is a stylish way to carry your travel accessories.

Price: £9.99. Available from www.oxfam.org.uk/shop/local-shops/monsoon

 

trapper-wrist-warmer-turquoise-blue Snugbug hat and wrist warmers: Snugbug create some the most Cable Floppy Pom Pom Whitesnugly winter woollies around! Made with 100% New Zealand wool, this top quality lanoline repels rain and snow making them great for winter outdoor activities. We love the on-trend chunky cable-knit designs and tribal-style patterns of the wrist warmers. But best of all, Snugbug works with ethical and fairtrade suppliers in Nepal where they are hand knitted – this ensures the money goes directly to the Nepalese villages involved.

Price: Cable floppy pompom hat – £22; Trapper wrist warmers – £20. Available from www.snug-bug.co.uk

 

TEKO EVAPOR8 socks: Every Christmas list needs a pair of socks and, would you believe it, Teko Evapor8 socksthese socks are actually made from recycled drinks bottles! The high-tech lightweight fabric ensures that your feet will stay dry, comfortable and odour-free as the EVAPOR8 fibre dries incredibly fast and is very durable making them perfect for high intensity activities or for wearing in hot, humid conditions.

Price: from approx. £8.50. Available from www.tekosocks.com or Amazon

 

Reflexion photography cases: For the wannabe David Bailey in your life who’s always lugging their camera (and Reflexion casescamera equipment) on their trips, the Reflexion photography case collection could be just the thing. The range, by Case Logic, includes two messenger-style cross-body bags which feature a removable camera pod to store your camera, lens and accessories, as well as offering good padded protection.

Price: various, from £45. Available from Amazon

 

FOR GADGET FANSTrakdot device

Trakdot luggage tracking device: Never fear lost luggage again! Once you register on the Trakdot website, place the device inside your suitcase or bag. Trakdot will deliver location information directly to your mobile phone or SMS device via text or email. An additional app even alerts passengers as their baggage approaches on the carousel…smart.

Price: £44.99 (plus annual service fee of £13.65). Available from www.trakdot.com

 

E-SIDE - Handmade wooden compass - £15

 

Wooden compass: For trekkers who prefer the classic forms of navigation, get them this stylish, hand carved wooden compass by Singgih Susilo. It’s tactile and attractive enough to keep them away from battery-draining GPS devices.

Price: £15. Available from www.e-side.co.uk

 

 

House of Marley watch, Transport light wood House of Marley watch, Billet Fabric greenHouse of Marley Watches: We love these eco-friendly watches designed and crafted by House of Marley (yes, of Bob Marley family fame). Choose a design with either salvaged leather, REWIND fabric, cotton and canvas straps; recycled steel or FSC-certified wood dials; and casing and buckles created with low impact ion plating. And to make them extra lovely, a percentage of proceeds from each sale goes to support 1Love.org, a non-profit which aims to make lives better around the world.

Price: various, ‘Billet’ with fabric strap – £89.99; ‘Transport’ with leather strap – £109.99. Available from www.watchshop.com

 

Lifeproof NUUD S3 case

Lifeproof waterproof cases: Smartphones and tablets can take a battering on your travels, but the award-winning Lifeproof creates a great range of shock-proof cases that protect your precious gadgets from water, dirt, mud and snow. The LifeJacket case even makes your tablet or smartphone completely buoyant allowing you to take it out on the water, and even take photos underwater. Cases available for iPhone 5, iPhone 4, iPad, iPad mini, Samsung S3 and S4.

Price: various, from £59.99. Available from www.lifeproof.com or Amazon

 

FOR OUTDOOR ENTHUSIASTSDraper Tools Folding Stool_Backpack

Draper Tools folding stool backpack: Lighten the load on a long hike – no need to carry a backpack and a separate chair, this durable, water-resistant backpack has a lightweight steel tube attached (1.6kg) that forms into a comfy seat. Ideal for camping or hiking.

Price: £16.50. Available from national outdoor stores or Amazon

 

Zap-It: Being in the great outdoors is wonderful – but not so wonderful if you find yourself a meal for the local Zap it in greenmosquitoes! Zap-It is a cute little device that is perfect to soothing itchy insect bites. Just place over the offending itch and click a few times – the mild and harmless (no stronger than a gentle pinch, honestly!) electrical impulse is created by crystals, delivering little zaps that soon stops you scratching. Its tiny size means you can even carry it around in your pocket.

Price: £5.95. Available from various health stores, garden centres, pharmacies and online at www.ecobrands.co.uk

 

JML Flexi torch: This slimline, bendable torch helps you illuminate awkward, hard-to-reach areas with its 360° JML FlexiTorchflexible head. But as a bonus, the head extends up to 57cm and is magnetised allowing you to retrieve lost or trapped metal items – you’ll realise how useful this is when you drop your keys down a tiny hole! It can lift objects of up to 1kg. The three LED lights have a good life expectancy and batteries are included.

Price: from £9.99. Available from www.jmldirect.com or Amazon

 

H2Onya 350ml purpleH2-Onya-750ml-Emerald-Green

H2Onya steel bottles: Perfect for hiking or cycling trips, these reusable stainless steel bottles are lightweight but sturdy enough to survive regular knocks. Made from 100% foodsafe material and bisphenol A-free, they won’t leach any nasties into your drinking water. We like the funky metallic colours and attractive ergonomic design.

Price: £11 (1l); £9.50 (350ml). Available from www.onyabags.co.uk

 

Coming soon…The Goodtrippers Christmas Gift Guide: Part 2 (last minute gifts to buy online!)

All of the Amazon links in this article link to the Goodtrippers Amazon Affiliates site – this is at no additional cost to you (prices are the same as going direct to Amazon) but Goodtrippers receives a small percentage from sales when you purchase using these links. Many thanks for your support.