Gifts For A Memorable Trip To New York City (2024)

If you're looking for the perfect gift for someone travelling to New York, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some ideas to get you started:

- A portable charger to keep their phone charged on the go

- A comfortable day pack or backpack for carrying essentials while exploring the city

- A good pair of walking shoes to navigate the city's streets and sidewalks

- Layers for unpredictable weather, such as a lightweight jacket, a sweater, and a scarf

- A portable water bottle to stay hydrated

- A New York-themed gift, such as a Yankees baseball cap or a NYC tote bag

- A guidebook or map to help them navigate the city and find the best spots to visit

- A gift card to a popular New York restaurant or coffee shop

- Tickets to a Broadway show or other cultural experience

Travel essentials: comfortable shoes, a sturdy backpack, a portable charger, and a reusable water bottle

Comfortable shoes

When it comes to exploring a new city, having a pair of comfortable shoes is essential. You'll want something that can withstand a full day of walking and sightseeing without leaving you with blisters and sore feet. Here are some recommendations for comfortable and versatile shoes that are perfect for travelling to New York:

• Dr. Martens Rometty Wyoming platform Chelsea boots – These boots are a perfect combination of style and comfort. They feature a platform sole for a little extra height and are easy to slip on and off, making them ideal for airport security.
• Blundstone 2215 high-top boot – These boots require no break-in time and are great for cold weather. They have pull tabs for easy on and off, shock absorption for comfort, and durable construction to last for multiple trips.
• Vagabond Shoemakers Cosmo 2.0 Chelsea boots – These lug sole boots are ideal for city trips to New York. They have a wider toe for added comfort and a bulkier silhouette that won't weigh down your suitcase.
• Adidas Samba OG sneaker – The Adidas Sambas are a classic style that has been around since 1950 and is currently having a street style moment. They are a comfortable and versatile option that can be dressed up or down.
• Kizik Milan sneaker – This sneaker has a unique hands-free design, combining the look of a sneaker with the ease of a slip-on shoe. The chunky retro design and breathable nylon material make it a great choice for walking around New York.
• Lululemon Cityverse sneaker – Lululemon's first casual sneaker offers an impressive outsole grip, a cool silhouette, and a comfortably wide toe box. They are perfect for all types of weather and can be dressed up or down.
• New Balance 574 Core sneaker – These sneakers offer a great balance of sportiness and style. They are comfortable enough to wear for hours of walking and have a neutral shade that goes with any outfit, making them a versatile choice for travelling.
• Veja Campo sneaker – Veja sneakers are known for their sleek, minimalist design and commitment to responsible sourcing. The Campo style has a chunkier sole that provides more support, making it a practical choice for walking around New York.
• Naot Adonis slip-on – This slip-on style from podiatrist-approved footwear brand Naot features a removable cork and latex footbed for all-day comfort. It's a great option for city trips and can be easily paired with no-show socks.
• Adidas Stan Smith sneaker – The Adidas Stan Smith has evolved from a tennis shoe to a streetwear classic. They are comfortable, versatile, and easy to slip on and off, making them perfect for travelling.
• Allbirds Tree Runners – Allbirds are known for their comfort and versatility, and the Tree Runners are a great choice for travelling to New York. They are available in a range of colours and are machine washable, making it easy to keep them looking new.
• Comme des Garçons PLAY x Converse All Star low-top sneaker – This playful spin on the classic Converse low-top adds a fun touch to your travel wardrobe. The canvas upper makes them relatively lightweight

Summer clothing: casual tops, shorts/skirts, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a lightweight jacket

When packing for a summer trip to New York, it's important to focus on breathable fabrics such as linen and cotton. The city can get hot and sticky during the peak summer months, so it's best to opt for comfortable and lightweight clothing. Here are some suggestions for summer clothing to buy for someone travelling to New York:

Casual Tops

Tank tops are a great option for summer in New York. They are usually made from breathable materials such as cotton and can be paired with skirts, trousers or shorts. If you want to add a bit of style to your casual look, button-down shirts are a good choice. They can be paired with jeans for a laid-back yet stylish outfit.

Shorts/Skirts

Lightweight tailored shorts are a comfortable and dressy option for summer in New York. They are more comfortable than denim shorts and can be worn all day, even for dinner. Linen shorts paired with a tank top are also a great option to stay cool. For skirts, breezy and roomy skirts are a good choice. They are comfortable and can be paired with a statement top for a stylish look.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses are a must-have accessory for summer in New York. They will protect your eyes from the intense sun and add a stylish touch to your outfit.

Sunscreen

Don't forget to pack sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays.

Lightweight Jacket

Although summer in New York can be hot, it's a good idea to pack a lightweight jacket for cooler mornings or evenings. A lightweight sweater or cardigan can be draped over your shoulders and will keep you warm without being too heavy.

Winter clothing: waterproof boots, thick socks, a heavyweight coat, a scarf, and gloves

When it comes to winter clothing, it's important to prioritise staying warm and dry in New York. Here are some tips for buying winter clothing for someone travelling to the city:

Waterproof Boots

Waterproof footwear is essential for navigating New York's slushy, icy streets. Look for knee-high leather boots or duck boots that will keep the wearer's feet warm and dry. Make sure the boots have good grip to prevent slipping on icy surfaces.

Thick Socks

To keep their feet extra cosy, thick wool socks are a must. Consider buying men's socks, as these tend to be better quality for a lower price. Just make sure they fit!

Heavyweight Coat

A long, heavyweight coat is crucial for protecting against the cold and wind. Look for something that covers the thighs, or even the knees, for maximum warmth. Parkas are a good option, especially those with a waterproof outer layer and a removable insulating layer for milder days.

Scarf

A scarf will help protect the wearer's neck and chest from the cold. Opt for something thick and preferably waterproof.

Gloves

Gloves are essential for keeping hands warm, and it's a good idea to buy several pairs, as they are easily lost. Look for gloves made from Polartec or another warm, breathable fabric.

Outdoor adventures: compact binoculars, a lightweight backpack, a small dry bag, and a mini first aid kit

Compact Binoculars

Compact binoculars are a great addition to your outdoor adventures. They are small and lightweight, making them easy to carry and use with just one hand. The Vortex Diamondback HD 8x28 is a great option, weighing only 14 ounces. They are comfortable to hold and provide good optical clarity and brightness. The Vortex Diamondback HD 8x42 is another great choice, offering exceptional performance for its price. They are slightly heavier at 25.5 ounces but provide impressive clarity and brightness, with a wide field of view.

Lightweight Backpack

A lightweight backpack is essential for outdoor adventures, allowing you to carry your gear comfortably. The REI Flash 55 is a great option, weighing only 2 pounds 13 ounces. It has a unique modular design, allowing you to remove straps and pockets to reduce weight. It also features forward-facing water bottle pockets for easy access. The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40 is another excellent choice, weighing 1 pound 13.6 ounces. It has a spacious front pocket and convenient bottom pocket, with a removable shoulder strap.

Small Dry Bag

A small dry bag will keep your essentials safe and dry during your outdoor adventures. The Osprey Ultralight Drysack is a simple and lightweight option, made of very thin 40D ripstop nylon. It weighs less than 2 ounces and has a rectangular shape, making it easy to pack. The HEETA 20L is another good choice, with a capacity of 20L and a removable shoulder strap. It has a roll-down closure system and is made of thicker, more durable material.

Mini First Aid Kit

A mini first aid kit is a must-have for any outdoor adventure. The Adventure Medical Kits Mountain Series Hiker is a compact and lightweight option, weighing only 10 ounces. It includes essential supplies like bandages, gauze, and medical tape. The Johnson & Johnson All-Purpose kit is another good choice, offering a variety of high-quality bandages. It also includes medical tape, Tylenol, and Benadryl anti-itch cream.

Hotel room comforts: earplugs, a sleep mask, slippers, a mini humidifier, and travel-sized toiletries

Hotel Room Comforts

Earplugs

Earplugs are a great way to block out any unwanted noise, ensuring you get a good night's sleep. If you're a light sleeper, or your hotel is in a busy area, consider investing in a good pair of earplugs. Foam and silicone are common materials for earplugs, with the latter allowing for a more personalised fit as you can mould the earplugs to your ears.

Sleep Mask

A sleep mask can be a great way to ensure your hotel room is as dark as possible, helping you fall and stay asleep. Look for masks made from soft, breathable materials like silk, which will feel gentle on your skin and keep you cool. You could also consider a contoured, memory-foam mask which offers a bit of compression and allows your eyes to open and close.

Slippers

Slippers are a great addition to your hotel stay, offering your feet some comfort and warmth. Disposable slippers are a popular option, with many coming in packs and made from soft fabrics like cotton and polyester.

Mini Humidifier

A mini humidifier can help combat the drying effects of hotel room air conditioning. Look for one that is portable and battery-operated, so you can easily pack it in your luggage and use it on the go. Some mini humidifiers also come with added features like night lights and auto shut-off functions.

Travel-Sized Toiletries

Travel-sized toiletries are a must when travelling to New York. They are compact and easy to pack, ensuring you can stick to your beauty routine even when you're far from home. You can find travel-sized versions of all your essentials, from soap and shampoo to sunscreen and body lotion.

Frequently asked questions