Christmas is a tricky time of the year when youre travelling. Not only is it when most people are most likely to become homesick, but it can be difficult to ensure everyone you love has a Christmas gift without spending a fortune on postage.

There are many ways to show you care without a physical gift, and they have the added bonus of spreading a little hope, happiness and love as well. Here are my top ways of making the most of Christmas while travelling.

Give Some Time

It seems weird, but usually your family would much rather they spoke to you and had a chance to catch up than actually receive a gift in the post. I know my mum in particular would rather have a nice conversation and hear about my travels than know Im spending huge amounts of money sending gifts home.

Arrange with your family members to speak with them on Christmas day. Maybe you can organize to be in the room via Skype while gifts are being opened or for Christmas dinner. This is also a good option if youre missing your family, since youll be able to enjoy the fun of Christmas day without needing to fly all the way home.

An Act Of Charity

One great option for those who dont have huge amounts of money, a close family or the access to the internet is charity. As we travel, we see huge amounts of poverty and unfairness in the world, and giving to a responsible charity is one way to do your part, while also sharing that charitys mission with your friends and family members.

You can donate to Oxfam online, which is a great way to do this and help out those who are less fortunate. You could do a one off donation but a bigger impact will be had with steady, regular donations. The Oxfam Stories Of Hope ebook gives a great insight into what a hopeful act can do this Christmas.

If All Else Fails – Vouchers

Vouchers can often seem like a copout, but I know my mum loves them. Ill often get her a beauty voucher which she can use to go get a massage or facial, and shell often use it a few times and get her eyelashes and eyebrows tinted. It spreads a bit of happiness.

There are so any vouchers to choose from, including Amazon, Starbucks, and iTunes, and many local businesses will also allow you to purchase a voucher so you can surprise your loved ones at Christmas time wherever you are in the world.

If youd like to know more about Stories Of Hope, see the ebook below.

FINAL Oxfam – Stories Of Hope ebook