A friend just told me that she was already wrapping holiday gifts. Mind you, not just writing out her list, but checking off items. Not just buying gifts, but wrapping them.

Just as ahead of the game, it seems, are several websites—ready with gift recommendations for travelers, would-be travelers, or friends-of-travelers. Here are a few of the more intriguing ideas I’ve found (and not just blow-up pillows or passport holders):

• Aquapac Compact Waterproof Camera Case: A clear, waterproof case, so that you can shoot underwater with your own camera, not one of those poor-quality disposable gizmos. ($30. Posted on The Travel Writer’s Life.)

• Quik Pod DSLR: An extendable/collapsible, hand-held tripod that adds a bit more distance in those at-arm’s-length self-portraits. ($50. Posted on MSNBC.)

• USB Rechargable AA Batteries: Eco-friendly batteries that recharge from a USB port.
($18. Posted on Bright Hub.)

• BackTrack GPS Navigation System: A straightforward GPS unit with a compass-like digital face and geo-tagging to help you find your way. ($73.95. Posted on MSNBC.)

Then again, I’m also a fan of the simple ideas, like travel magazine subscriptions or a laminated wall map with dry-erase pens for trip-planning. Or even better, the altruistic and soul-satisfying ideas, like contributing to someone’s dream through DreamBank, which Perceptive Travel tipped me off to. Consider it a kind of registry for gifts not usually found at Macys or Pottery Barn—like trips to visit family in Argentina or to take a language course in Italy.

For more ideas, you might want to check out the gift guides posted at Concierge, Go Green Travel Green, BootsnAll, and Chicago Tribune.