GorillaPod Flexible SLR Tripod with Bubble Level

My favorite product for travelers this season is X-treme Geek’s GorillaPod Flexible Tripod. No more asking strangers “can you take a photo for me?” This unique travel accessory is a must to pack along any day trips or longer journeys as it is compact and its’ flexibility allows you to take the perfect shot just about anywhere. Compatible with both cameras and video cameras, you can actually be in front of the lense for a change and will have a much more complete video and photo album upon return. Buy it here and readers are eligible to receive free shipping when they enter code GiftFS at checkout.

Inspirational Photo Frames with Recording Option

Another gift idea topping my list are products by Inspirational Gift Gallery, which offers a variety of frames, including one designed for grandparents and loved ones, suitable to keep vacation memories alive, both in photos and voice. These display frames have a recording function where multiple messages can be captured providing a new way to say “wish you were here” or to feature a few of your favorite memories. This is especially creative to include kids by asking them what their favorite part of the vacation was or a special greeting for a loved one.

Cruising Caddy

BVT Products offers the perfect solution for travelers who want to stay hydrated, but also have quick access to keys, phones, cameras and other necessities. The Cruising Caddy is compact and utilizes a shoulder strap, leaving hands free to take photos or video or to participate in other vacation activities. No need for a large backpack with the Cruising Caddy. It even comes with a sleeve to keep your water bottle cool when exploring your vacation destinations. Do not let the name fool you, as this compact case is perfect for beach-goers, hikers and other travelers on the go.

Caboodles Travel Case

Remember the classic Caboodles® from the 80′s? Well, the company continues to design cost-effective travel cases for women on the go who have style, yet appreciate functionality and organization. New is the In My Case^TM product which features a funky, modern design – launched and is available for purchase in Ulta and Target. There are removable storage panels, dividers and other necessities to keep all of a gal’s beauty products on hand, especially when traveling.

Motorola Talkabout MJ270

Skiing this season or taking a cruise or traveling with kids? Then, be sure to not leave home without the new Motorola Talkabout MJ270 two-way radios, which operate in many areas not covered by cell phones. These radios give a sense of independence for the younger travelers, but a large sense of safety for the parents-and all without roaming fees. With a range of 27 miles, this device offers many other useful functions including NOAA weather alerts, hands-free operation, an Emergency alert button, charging from the car and the computer. These can be purchased at Radio Shack, Best Buy, Home Depot, online and other places. Personally, I can’t wait to try these out on our next cruise as our phones never work and I know how useful these would have been on my many ski trips to Whistler, Park City and other great winter destinations.

Corel Digital Studio 2010

What to do with the photos and videos taken on vacations? There is a software program that boasts ease of use for taking photos and videos and making quick edits, creating a personalized movie, or even creating that must-have photo book or calendar. The Corel Digital Studio 2010 makes it fun to preserve vacation memories, prompts you to relive your 2009 vacations and inspires you for upcoming trips. This gift idea encourages the photographer to advance to the next level with working with video. I have always worked with my vacation photos electronically, but have never had luck with video work as I have always been overwhelmed with “what” to do, so I can not wait to put this software to the test.  Corel Digital Studio is available at www.corel.com and Amazon and at leading retailers including Best Buy, Fry’s Electronics and Micro Center.

Gifts for the Traveler was created by and is property of American Consumer News.

Never Too Late to Save

While many consumers have gotten in the habit of starting a Christmas Club early in the game, many more either do not think about it in time or feel they have no money to spare. But whatever the case, even $5 a week will make a dent in your shopping needs. But for those who haven’t yet saved, there is still time. Take the remaining amount of months left until the shopping season (August to November = 3 months). Consider the amount of money you think you will spend on gifts and other holiday-specific needs and divide it by three to gain a better understanding of how much money you need to tuck away each month.

Never Too Early to Shop

While a budget may prevent a lot of miscellaneous spending, there may be benefit in purchasing items you find on sale. If you are lucky enough to find great sales on your gift ideas, make sure you keep track of what you have purchased and for whom. Don’t just throw it into a closet and forget about it until the week before Christmas or you will likely overspend on other gifts that weren’t even needed. In addition to spending a little bit at a time instead of one lump sum, you also have the advantage of finding items easier as opposed to when they are in the highest demand. By giving your self more time, you’ll also come up with better and more unique Christmas gift ideas.

Nothing Wrong with A Gift from the Heart

If you have enough time because of early planning, you may be more inclined to create gifts for others. There is no rule that says all gifts must be store bought and with the exception of some children, many people would be delighted with a homemade gift from the heart. This approach can only work if you start early so there is no rush to bring the project to completion. If you are a knitter, a woodworker, or craftsperson, there are a wide-range of items that could be worked on. Anyone with a hobby can turn a little time and effort into big savings.

Never Too Early to Think About Santa was created by and is property of American Consumer News.