In our ever-globalising world where we are constantly working or travelling overseas, it’s more common than not to be spending Christmas apart from at least one of your loved ones.
Whether it’s your brother working overseas, your daughter studying abroad, mum and dad travelling across the world, or perhaps it’s you yourself who will be away – it’s easier than ever to share the spirit of Christmas without being physically present.
Check out these great Christmas gift ideas for loved ones abroad.
A personalised Christmas decoration to remind them of home!
What could be more perfect for any of your friends and family that will be away from home for Christmas but a beautiful Christmas decoration, personalised just for them. There is no doubt they will feel very loved and it is bound to be a keepsake that will remind them of that special Christmas for many years to come.
Accessories for the climate.
Where has your loved one relocated? If they’re spending this Christmas in some cooler climates, considering sending some thermals, gloves, thick socks or ear muffs. Or perhaps they’re better off with a new set of swimmers and a microfibre towel? If they’re of the adventurous spirit, perhaps it’s worth having a look at your local backpacker store – you’d be amazed at the innovative knick knacks available to make hiking, canoeing and camping safer and easier.
USB of Music
Is music something that you share with a loved one? Like a pen-pal letter but with a contemporary twist, collect files of all the great songs you’ve discovered this past year – including from bands and producers that are local to you – and load them up on a USB. This can become a great tradition to share with each other!
Another cute idea is to create an online scrapbook or photo album that you can mail on a USB!
Gift voucher to their favourite store
A gift voucher is great for an overseas loved one, as you don’t have to worry about shipping costs, breakages or gifts not arriving. Think about their favourite store here, and if there is an equivalent in the place that they are living. Most big brands have gift vouchers for sale on their websites, and you can simply email it, or print it out and send it in a handmade card.
Webcam
A webcam is a great way to stay in touch, with Skype and Facebook Video Chat so easy to access now! Plus, webcams these days are relatively inexpensive and light, so they’re great for shipping. Alternatively, if you’re at the electronics store, perhaps look at accessories for what your travelling friend may enjoy. Do they have a camera or GoPro and could use some new rigs? Or perhaps an underwater phone case?
Activity vouchers for local adventures
Have a look at GroupOn, or whichever deals website is most popular in their place of residence. There are always great deals available for things that people wouldn’t often to think to buy themselves. Whether it be a dinner-for-two, a speed boat ride, a night in a hotel, a massage, a cooking lesson, yoga classes or skydiving – the possibilities are endless!
Home Sick Package
Making hampers are great fun, and there’s so much scope to make them personal. Think about what your loved one would be missing from home and stock up. Add photos, and notes and letters from your friends and family – perhaps even little cards from their former barista, vet, or teacher as a cute touch. If like us you’re from the land down under, you also obviously cannot forget Tim Tams and a tube of Vegemite!
Subscription
Having not needed to be physically mailed, subscriptions – such as to magazines, online-streaming, music sites, hobby magazines, or online journals – really are a gift that keep on giving.