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The 11 Best Travel Alarm Clocks of 2024

Wake up and enjoy your trip

In This Article

Final Verdict

• What to Look For

Frequently Asked Questions

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Being on vacation should be relaxing, but we all know that prepping for a trip can be stressful. A reliable travel alarm clock removes one of the biggest worries—missing your flight—and gives you the freedom to switch off your phone and still get up on time for tours and transfers throughout your trip. Travel alarm clocks vary considerably in features and looks, ranging from basic folding clocks to digital smart clocks and quirky analog clocks with a vintage aesthetic.

Standard features to look out for include lightness, reliability, and the option to run off a battery (making them ready for action wherever your adventures take you). We researched the best options currently available with an eye toward portability, price, and extra features such as Bluetooth and radio.

Best Overall

Travelwey digital travel alarm clock.

Button-lock function

One-year free replacement guarantee

Limited features

Batteries not included

If you like simplicity, you’ll love Travelwey’s digital travel alarm clock. Revised to accommodate user requests for a no-frills product that prioritizes functionality and ease of use, the clock lacks many of the extra features of others on this list. It doesn’t have a temperature gauge, date function, or radio integration, but it does keep time beautifully, with a large display and an effective snooze alarm. 

It’s one of the most affordable and best-reviewed travel alarm clocks out there, with several clever design elements, including forward-facing buttons, an on-demand light that illuminates the screen for five seconds, and a folding cover that doubles as a handy stand. For many, one of the best features is the on/off button, which prevents other buttons from being pressed in transit but maintains time for when it’s switched back on. Choose yours in black or white. 

Dimensions: 2.7 x 3.1 x 0.8 inches | Weight: 3 ounces | Power Source: (2) AA batteries | Display Style: Digital

Best Budget

Sharp digital alarm clock.

Alarm gets progressively louder

Long-lasting backlight

Very basic features

No protective cover for display

Another travel alarm clock that functions as a simple, easy-to-use timekeeper and alarm (and not much more), this offering from Sharp is one of the most cost-effective options on the market. It receives excellent user reviews, with satisfied customers praising its compact size and large, clearly legible LCD display. The clock’s tactile soft rubber case is a unique selling point, providing durability and style in one attractive package. 

The alarm increases in volume as time passes, giving you the chance to wake up gently and switch it off before it becomes aggressively loud. You can do so using the large, easily accessible buttons on top of the clock. The snooze button doubles as an on-demand backlight, illuminating the display with blue light for five seconds whenever you wish to read the time in the middle of the night. The fact that the light is not on permanently helps to save battery life.

Dimensions: 4 x 1.7 x 2.3 inches | Weight: 3.2 ounces | Power Source: (2) AAA batteries | Display Style: Digital

Best for Heavy Sleepers

Screaming meanie 220 alarm clock and timer.

Tested for toughness

Adjustable volume

Easy-to-pack size

Requires setting the alarm every day

Your fellow travelers may hate you

The Screaming Meanie 220 alarm clock is the answer for those who have hearing deficiencies or routinely sleep hard. There are three loudness settings to choose from—70, 90, or 120 decibels. The highest is equivalent to a chainsaw at close range and is guaranteed to cut through even the loudest ambient noise. There’s no chance of turning it off in your sleep and rolling over again, either—you need two hands to disable it. 

You can set an alarm time or use the countdown timer to set a specific number of hours and minutes until you need to get up. There’s even a clip on the back of the clock for attaching it to your travel backpack while in transit. Designed to fit in a pocket and subjected to a 30-foot drop test, the Screaming Meanie provides ultimate compactness and durability. It comes with clear instructions in black, green, or blue.

Dimensions: 6 x 2.5 x 1 inches | Weight: 5.9 ounces | Power Source: (1) 9-volt battery | Display Style: Digital

Best with Temperature Gauge

Peakeep smart night light digital alarm clock.

Easy to operate

Customizable interface

Attractive shades

This travel alarm clock from Peakeep comes with an indoor temperature gauge—handy for knowing whether to open a window or adjust the AC before climbing into bed. It’s compatible with a temperature range of 15.8 to 122 degrees F and can display information in Celsius, too. Similarly, you can choose to read the time using the 12- or 24-hour clock—either way, the HD LCD display is easy to see from across the room. 

At night, a built-in ambient light sensor switches the backlight on automatically. You can adjust the brightness or turn it off entirely if you prefer to sleep in absolute darkness. When the alarm goes off, it emits a series of beeps that increase in frequency for 90 seconds. Hit the snooze button on top of the hard plastic frame for another eight minutes of sleep. The clock comes in five colors, including stylish shades of pastel blue, mint, and pink. 

Dimensions: 5.25 x 2 x 3 inches | Weight: 6.7 ounces | Power Source: (3) AAA batteries  | Display Style: Digital

Best Analog

Marathon mini non-ticking analog alarm clock.

Established brand

Quiet timekeeping

Smart backlight

Backlight can't be dimmed

Analog fans will love the tried-and-tested reliability of this miniature alarm from the respected clockmaker Marathon. It features a classic aesthetic, an accurate quartz movement, and a continuously sweeping second hand designed to be entirely silent—a godsend for those who hate being kept awake by the incessant ticking of many traditional clocks. The alarm is easy to set, with on/off and snooze buttons conveniently placed on top of the hard plastic frame.

This alarm clock features an ambient light sensor and automatically emits a soft glow when placed in a dark room, making the display easy to read at all hours; however, the brightness of the backlight cannot be adjusted, only switched off. Choose from various color options, including a blue case with a white dial, a white case with a white dial, or a black case with a black or white dial. Batteries come with all models.  

Dimensions: 2.7 x 2.7 x 1.9 inches | Weight: 9.1 ounces | Power Source: (2) AA batteries | Display Style: Analog

iLuv Smart Shaker 3

Lots of customizable options

Long lasting

Only offers silent alarm

Doesn't display the time

The disc-shaped iLuv Smart Shaker 3 represents the newest generation of travel alarm clocks. It pairs with your smartphone via an easy-to-use app to schedule multiple alarms for different times and days at the press of a button. LED indicators on the shaker notify you of its battery life and any incoming calls, messages, or social media events on your phone. And, since it stores all settings internally, it works even when your phone is off. 

Unlike the other alarms on this list, this is not an audio alarm. Instead, the disc wakes you by vibrating underneath your pillow. You can choose one of five vibration strengths, depending on how deeply you sleep, and wake up without disturbing your sleeping partner. The alarm clock comes with a USB charging cable that requires mains power; however, it claims to last 14 days on a single charge. 

Dimensions: 1.7 x 5.3 x 6.9 inches | Weight: 9.9 ounces | Power Source: Mains | Display Style: None

Best Radio Alarm

Bejamy fm radio alarm clock.

Large snooze button on top of clock

Adjustable brightness

Power cable is short

For some of us, beeping is the worst thing to wake up to in the morning. Enter radio alarm clocks. Start the day right with music or your favorite radio DJ. This model from Bejamy has a radio auto search to quickly scan through FM stations and a telescoping antenna for better signal and portability. It's compact and lightweight—great for travel or placing around the house wherever you need it.

A large LED face is easy to read and there's an option for red or blue numbers. Below the display are several buttons to set alarms and choose between a 12- or 24-hour reading. This radio is powered via batteries or a DC power adapter and has a USB input for charging other devices. And don't worry about waking up for an important flight or meeting; you can also choose a "wake up to buzzer" alarm.

Dimensions: 4.7 x 1.5 x 3.8 inches | Weight: 10 ounces | Power Source: (3) AAA battery | Display Style: Digital

Best Pocket-Sized

Peakeep ultra small travel alarm clock.

Progressive and effective alarm

Difficult to read from across the room

Can only be set 12 hours in advance

Probably the tiniest travel alarm clock on the market, this pocket-sized offering from Peakeep measures just 2.25 x 2.25 x 1.25 inches and weighs only 2 ounces—perfect for those who like to travel light. It features a quartz-movement analog display with a silent-sweeping second hand for a quiet night’s sleep. Need to read the time? Press the manual backlight button on the front of the clock to illuminate the dial. 

The ascending alarm features a series of beeps that get faster and louder in four stages until you hit the snooze button or tap the large on/off switch. The latter rests on top of the clock for easy access. This battery-powered and stylish little clock comes in three colors—black, white, and aquamarine. Easy to find wherever your travels take you, the battery should last for over six months.

Dimensions: 2.25 x 2.25 x 1.25 inches | Weight: 2 ounces | Power Source: (1) AA battery | Display Style: Analog

Best Atomic

Sharper image atomic travel alarm clock.

Options for customization

Optional auto nightlight

Easy-to-read acrylic face

Relatively expensive

Atomic clock only works domestically

This Sharper Image travel alarm clock uses common radio waves to sync with the U.S. Atomic Clock and is ideal for business travelers who frequently move about the country. Select one of four time zones (Eastern, Central, Mountain, or Pacific), and rest assured that the time will always be 100 percent updated and accurate. The clock even switches automatically to daylight saving time. The clock can be set manually when you travel outside these four time zones. 

Its clear display shows the time (in 12- or 24-hour format), date, day of the week, indoor temperature (in Celsius or Fahrenheit), and alarm status. The backlight comes on automatically when it gets dark; you can disable this function and simply press the snooze button to activate the light on demand. The alarm beeps for 60 seconds, while the snooze function triggers a crescendo alarm that sounds five times at five-minute intervals. 

Dimensions: 3.25 x 3.75 x 1.5 inches | Weight: 3.2 ounces | Power Source: (2) AA batteries | Display Style: Digital

Pilife Mini Vintage Alarm Clock

Retro design

Manual backlight

Non-ticking

Challenging to set alarm for precise times

Can't be snoozed

Pilife’s stainless steel mini alarm clock adds a touch of retro glamor to your hotel room, hostel, or vacation rental. Inspired by vintage bedside clocks, it features a circular analog display with 3D numbers, little chrome feet, and a pair of top-mounted alarm bells. You can also choose from various on-trend colors, including pastel blue, pink, purple, and mint, or keep it classic with black or white. 

In addition to looking the part, the clock is ideally sized for travel at just 3 inches in diameter. It features an accurate quartz movement, a silent-sweeping second hand, and a backlight that can be activated at the press of a button. The alarm sound itself is extra-loud and therefore ideal for heavy sleepers. However, there’s no snooze button—which could be a pro or a con, depending on your perspective. 

Dimensions: 3.3 x 1.5 x 4.7 inches | Weight: 8.8 ounces | Power Source: (1) AA battery | Display Style: Analog

Best Folding

Westclox travelmate folding alarm clock.

Snooze function

Extremely compact and easy to store

Alarm could be louder

Dim backlight

Westclox has been making clocks in the U.S. since 1884, and yes, the Travelmate may look like a total throwback, but we all know classics are classic for a reason. This updated version features a clear LCD display showing the time, date, and day of the week. A blue backlight illuminates on demand, so you won't have to worry about changing the single, button-style battery for a good while. The defining feature of this travel alarm clock is the folding panel made out of hard plastic that protects the display and keeps the buttons from being pushed in transit when closed and doubles as a stand when opened.

Dimensions: 2.62 x 3.5 x 0.625 inches (folded), 2.62 x 3.5 x 3.5 inches (open) | Weight: 3.2 ounces | Power Source: (1) CR2032 (button) | Display Style: Digital

For a travel alarm clock with all the bells and whistles, we like the Sharper Image Atomic Travel Alarm Clock . But for those who want to keep it simple, the affordable and reliable Travelwey Digital Travel Alarm Clock is our top pick.

What to Look For in Travel Alarm Clocks

Portability.

By definition, portability is the top priority for a travel alarm clock. It should fit easily into your carry-on luggage , purse, or backpack pocket, and it should not add much weight. The most portable travel alarm clocks are usually those that fold flat; however, miniature versions of regular alarm clocks can be just as convenient.

Just how portable you need your alarm clock to be depends on the type of traveling you do. For example, a backpacker on an every-ounce-counts adventure will likely need something much lighter than a business traveler on an overnight road trip.

Travel alarm clocks come with a wide variety of features, from radios and temperature gauges to the ability to integrate with your smartphone for Bluetooth notifications. If you’re a heavy sleeper, an extra-loud alarm bell might be the game changer you need; if you have a partner who doesn’t like to wake up when you do, a vibrating alarm could be helpful. Those who travel primarily within the U.S. may appreciate the superior accuracy of an atomic clock, while others may prefer the pared-back simplicity of an alarm clock with a backlight, a snooze button, and not much more.

There is a travel alarm clock for every budget, with options on this list alone ranging in price from just over $10 to almost eight times that much. All of them fulfill the most basic function, i.e., to wake you up on time for your sightseeing tour, meeting, or flight departure. How much you choose to spend after that depends on the extra features you want and how vital particular aesthetics or brand names are to you. Often, checking past customer reviews is a more reliable way of guaranteeing a good product than simply paying for the most expensive version. A quality travel alarm clock can easily cost under $20.

Although there’s nothing to stop you from traveling with a regular alarm clock or using your travel alarm clock back home, the main difference between the two is size. Travel alarm clocks are typically designed with portability and lightness in mind and are either compact or foldable, or both.

The best travel alarm clocks are also extra-durable and battery-powered (circumventing any issues with different socket types or voltages at your destination).

Mains-powered alarm clocks are fine if you mainly travel domestically—but if you often go abroad, a battery-powered option is the better choice. That way, you don’t have to worry about packing an adapter or converter to enable compatibility with foreign plug sockets and voltages. If you find yourself without access to a plug point (in an airport terminal, for example, or on a camping adventure), your trusty alarm clock will still be able to wake you up on schedule.

You can, of course. But many seasoned travelers prefer the reliability of a battery-powered travel alarm clock that will work even when your phone has died (because you forgot to bring an adapter, perhaps, or because you simply don’t have access to electricity while in transit). Some like to use an alarm clock as a backup for their phone ahead of that all-important flight, while others use one so that they can switch off their phone and truly relax while on vacation.

Jessica Macdonald is a seasoned traveler, having visited more than 50 countries across six continents, often with the help of a travel alarm clock. For this article, she researched more than 20 of the best products currently on the market, comparing them for price, features, and user reviews. To be considered, alarm clocks had to be battery-powered (or at least have battery backup). Size and weight were carefully considered, and preference was given to those marketed explicitly as “travel” or “compact” versions.

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The 10 Best Travel Alarm Clocks [2023]

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Table of Contents

Things to consider with travel alarm clocks, the 10 best travel alarm clocks, final thoughts.

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It can be easy to fall out of your routine when you’re away from home. However, whether you’re traveling for fun or for business, making sure you wake up in a timely fashion is essential.

Packing a travel alarm clock on your trips can help ensure you always know what time it is. That way, you can stay on schedule without worrying about a dead phone battery or incorrectly synced time.

A travel alarm clock should be easy to use and guarantee that you’ll be able to wake up at your desired time. However, there are some different factors you should consider if you plan to purchase a travel alarm clock.

Volume and Alarm

The type of alarm a clock has is the first thing you should consider before you purchase one.

A heavy sleeper will want an alarm clock with loud or adjustable volume. A light sleeper, instead, should ensure their clock doesn’t emit a ticking sound that could disturb their rest.

Some alarm clocks have different sound settings regarding the type of alarm you can choose. For example, if a loud beeping might startle you, you’ll likely want to look for an option that uses a different noise.

Size and Weight

The size and weight of an alarm clock can affect how easy it is to travel with. If you tend to pack light or try to reduce the weight in your bag or backpack, you’ll want to find a compact clock that won’t take up much room.

However, lighter and smaller clocks often have fewer features which is another thing to consider. Larger clocks may have a screen that’s easier to see, but they’ll add extra weight or may take up more room in your luggage.

The material a clock is made out of might also be something you should consider before you purchase one. Many travel clocks are made out of plastic, however, the thickness and feel can differ between them.

If you have tactile issues, you might also want to look at clock options to suit your specific needs. For example, a rubberized clock might be easier to grip.

Bottom Line: You should also look at the difference in materials between any buttons and the rest of the clock if that might affect how you use it.

Power Source

The power source an alarm clock needs to work is another important thing you should consider, particularly depending on the type of travel you usually do.

Most travel alarm clocks are battery-powered. This is a universal option for all types of travel, however, it does mean you have to purchase new batteries.

Alarm clocks that are rechargeable are another viable option, as are clocks that use electricity. These options, however, might not work for international travel or if access to a suitable power source isn’t guaranteed (for example, camping trips).

While an alarm clock that stays in one place typically doesn’t have to withstand much wear and tear, the same can’t be said for travel clocks.

You’ll want to make sure your travel clock is made in a way that it won’t crack or chip easily. If you plan to take your clock camping, you might also want to look at water-resistant and dust-resistant options.

You’ll want to make sure your travel clock can withstand being banged around in transit without risking short circuits or malfunctions when you use it.

Travel alarm clocks aren’t all made the same, and it can be hard to decide which one will best fit the type of traveler you are.

To help you figure out what you should look for, we’ve compiled this list of the best travel alarm clocks on the market, including the pros and cons you should consider.

1. A Simple Alarm Clock To Get the Job Done

Travelwey digital travel alarm clock.

If what you’re looking for in a travel alarm clock is simplicity, the Travelwey is for you. This clock was designed for people who never use the other features that more advanced models offer.

Though the clock comes with a user manual, it’s intuitive to use , so even if you lose the instructions, you shouldn’t have trouble setting the alarm.

Thanks to its small size and how lightweight it is, the clock can fit in most backpacks, carry-on bags, or checked luggage, so it’s suitable for any travel.

It also only needs 2 AAA batteries, so it’s also extremely low-maintenance. Due to its simple screen display, the batteries don’t have to be changed often.

What We Like:

• It’s easy to use

What We Don’t Like:

• The alarm volume isn’t adjustable

2. Gives You All the Info You Need

Marathon travel alarm clock.

If you’re someone who wants to make sure they’re prepared for the day from the moment they wake up, this Marathon model is a great travel clock for you.

This clock not only gives you the time but also displays the metric and imperial temperature , ensuring you know how to dress for the day.

The clock also comes with a calendar setting that shows the date, month, and day of the week, so you can keep on top of your schedule. This is particularly useful for people who travel a lot and can get confused or disoriented when they move between different time zones.

• It can display temperatures in both Celsius and Fahrenheit
• The small screen can be cluttered with information

3. A Clock That Fits Anywhere

Kwanwa alarm clock.

The KWANWA alarm clock is perfect for people who want an option that can fit anywhere. Unlike a lot of travel clocks, this model doesn’t look particularly different from a standard digital alarm you’d find on anyone’s side table.

The numbers are displayed with red LED lights, which aren’t too harsh on the eyes in dim lighting. However, you can also adjust the brightness to suit your personal preferences, so even people with light sensitivities won’t suffer any eye strain.

The clock is easy to figure out and fairly intuitive, allowing you to choose the snooze setting and whether you prefer a 12- or 24-hour clock display.

• It can be used at home or while traveling
• It can be difficult to hang if that’s preferred

4. An Analog Clock for Light Sleepers

Marathon cl030053bl classic silent sweep alarm clock.

Analog clocks are preferred by some, but they can make rest difficult for light sleepers. The Marathon Classic doesn’t have that problem.

This travel clock was designed to be as unobtrusive as possible. There’s no constant ticking sound as time goes by, so you don’t have to worry about any noise from your clock until it’s time for the alarm to go off.

This model also takes care of the analog problem of telling time in the dark. It has a built-in auto-glow that will allow you to easily read the time, even in the middle of the night.

The clock is also compact and fashionably vintage-looking, making it a fun decor piece you can take with you.

• Whisper quiet
• Less budget-friendly

5. A Stress-free Autoset Option

Sharp digital alarm with accuset.

Sharp’s AccuSet alarm is perfect for people who don’t want to constantly worry if they set their clock right.

Traveling can be stressful if it involves changing time zones. If your electronics don’t automatically adjust, it can be a hassle figuring out what time to set your clock to. Having an alarm clock that automatically sets itself to the correct time can be a huge convenience.

This alarm has the added bonus of being equipped with 2 power sources . It can run electrically, which is great if you’re traveling within an area that uses the same power outlets. However, it can also run on battery power, making it perfect for international travel.

• It adjusts automatically to the timezone
• Display can glitch

6. Sleek and Stylish Travel Clock

Betus digital travel alarm clock.

If a lack of style is a potential deal-breaker for you, then you don’t have to worry about the Betus travel clock.

It might be a compact alarm that has a stand that doubles as a travel cover, but it’s still been designed to be sleek and fashionable. It’s smooth and comes in silver or black, so it will fit any decor seamlessly.

Despite its size, the clock also has a surprisingly large display for the time, date, and temperature . With a quick glance, you can find out most things you need to know about your day. It comes with a battery already installed, so you can start using it right away.

• It has a 1-year warranty
• Runs on less-common batteries

7. Perfect Option for Night Owls

Marathon atomic travel alarm clock.

Marathon’s Atomic alarm clock model is made with night owls in mind. Its display automatically switches to a “night mode” setting during the night hours, so it won’t cause eye strain. However, if you prefer to decide when the light turns on or off, you can also set it manually.

The clock is also designed to automatically adjust if it’s within a 6-timezone span in North America.

Though European times would have to be manually set, you can adjust the clock’s language to 4 other options other than English , so it’s still a perfect choice for users around the world. The ideal travel perk of this clock, however, is that it weighs less than half a pound.

• Atomic setting
• Not as sturdy as other options

8. A Compact and Budget-friendly Clock

Marathon foldable compact travel alarm clock.

A lot of travel clocks can be costly, and sometimes you just want something that gives you the information you need at a budget-friendly price.

Marathon’s foldable clock is a sturdy option that should last years. It’s easy to use with clearly labeled buttons and switches that are intuitive to follow.

The clock is less than 3 by 8 inches in size, making it small and portable . However, the display is still large enough to clearly see the time.

Though the clock is battery-powered, it doesn’t take much power to use — many people have claimed they’ve gone years before the battery needs to be changed. When the batteries do have to be changed, only 2 AAAs are needed.

• It’s simple to operate
• Light is only button-operated

9. Durable and User-friendly Option

Sharp digital alarm clock.

The Sharp digital alarm is a good option for you if you want an alarm clock that should stand up to a little rough-housing.

Unlike many options on the market, this model has a rubberized finish which helps protect it from cracking or breaking if knocked over or bumped around in a suitcase.

The rubber feel also makes the alarm easy to grip and use, making it a good choice for people who have mobility issues or who worry about accidentally dropping it.

The alarm is also a “crescendo” sound that gradually gets louder, which should protect against you being startled upon waking up, making for a more pleasant experience.

• Easy to feel for the buttons in the dark
• Blue light can be irritating

10. An Alarm Clock That Won’t Startle You

Braun classic analog alarm clock.

If you hate the loud racket that comes with most alarm clocks, this Braun model might be the right choice for you.

Rather than a startling alarm, it wakes you up with a beeping sound that gets more frequent as more time passes without a reaction.

Though it’s an analog clock, you don’t have to worry about being kept awake or annoyed by ticking sounds. It’s been specifically designed to be quiet enough not to bother you or anyone else nearby.

When in low-lighting, you can also set the clock to have a back-lit glow, so you’ll always be able to tell the time.

• Perfect for any occasion and location
• Only has a 5-minute snooze interval

A travel alarm clock should help ensure you wake up at your desired time while on a trip. However, the specific characteristics that make your perfect alarm clock will vary depending on your needs.

You may want an alarm clock that also tells you the current temperature, or you might need a sturdy clock you can throw in your bag without worry.

Hopefully, our list has helped you narrow down your choices, so you can pick the right clock for your travels.

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Best Travel Alarm Clock Recommendations to Help You Wake-Up

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You’ve got big plans on your next trip and don’t want to sleep in and miss them. So, we asked TFG readers to share their picks for the best travel alarm clock and this is what they said.

Best Travel Alarm Clock

Written By: Tae Haahrr

Table Of Contents

You’ve got big plans that you don’t want to miss—an excursion, walking tour, sunset boat ride—whatever it is that you’re excited about, you definitely don’t want to sleep through. So, you’ll need a portable clock.

There are a ton of travelers that like to use their smartphone as an alarm clock while they travel but considering the negative implications of using that little blue light emitting device right by your bed, we’d like to offer a few alternative ideas.

There may even be the occasional time you return home so exhausted that you forget to charge your phone before bedtime. Trust us, you don’t want this to keep you from missing your flight. Guilty—it’s happened!

If you’re looking for a travel clock that you can cart along to London , Bangkok , and Sydney , then here are our readers top picks:

Best Digital Travel Alarm Clocks

Travelway Digital Travel Clock

Travelway Digital Travel Alarm Clock

This Travelwey is a no-nonsense device. It tells you the time and wakes you up when you tell it to.

No bells and whistles, this clock can fold into an easy-to-pack size. It’s powered by two AAA batteries and easily switches on and off to save battery life while it’s not in use.

One TFG reader shares that a must-have for her is a “very inexpensive fold-up clock.” She also recommends bringing a few extra batteries for it!

If you’re looking for a travel clock that’s simple and easy to use, then this might be the one for you.

Noise-cancelling headphones can work wonders when it comes to blocking out the noise caused by snoring!

Marathon NightOwl

Marathon Battery-Operated Alarm Clock

The Marathon NightOwl is a great choice because of its small size and ability to conveniently fold up into a flat, packable form.

This alarm clock has the ability to switch between six time zones and five different languages. It has an automatic backlight and is battery operated (no international plugs to deal with). Plus, not only does it display time but also the date and temperature.

One TFG reader who uses the Marathon travel alarm clock says, “It’s pretty good and even when I’m not traveling I use it. The screen is nice and dim, so if you wake up in the middle of the night you can see what time it is without being blinded! You do have to set it outside at like two or five so the atomic clock sets, but after that you’re good.”

If you’re looking for something small with some extra bells and whistles, then this travel clock is for you.

Travelon Clock

Travelon Travel Alarm Clock 

Travelon is one of our favorite travel brands, from bags and purses to gadgets, they make some pretty awesome stuff. So, it’s no surprise that they have the Travelon Travel  Clock .

If you’re looking for a travel alarm clocks with temperature, Travelon has you covered. Not only does this travel clock tell the time, but it also tracks the date and temperature. It also has a backlight and a fold-down leg to help it stand up.

The Travelon is one of the best battery alarm clock choices and a great grab-and-go pick. Just fold up the stand, pack it in your bag and jump on the plane.

Check out our Travelon anti-theft crossbody bag review here !

Best Analog Travel Alarm Clocks

Peakeep Ultra Small

Peakeep Analog Pocket Alarm Clock

This cute little Peakeep Ultra Small analog alarm clock really can fit in your pocket, making it a superb choice for travel.

It’s easy to see in the middle of the night with the manual backlight button, not difficult to set, and its battery operated (just needs one AA battery). Plus, it’s super compact—only 2 ¼ inches by 2 ¼ inches.

If you’re looking for something small and simple, then this could be the right alarm clock to pack.

PiLife Vintage Alarm Clock

PiLife Travel Alarm Clock Wind Up

While these classic-style models are typically used as decorative alarm clocks, this mini vintage clock by PiLife is perfect for travel.

Why is it perfect for traveling, you ask? Because it’s mini—only 3 inches tall! It’s pretty and colorful and there are six colors to choose from. Also, even though this is a wind up device, it has none of that annoying ticking!

If you want a truly old-school experience, this adorable clock might be the perfect travel companion for you!

A travel alarm clock is one of the hostel essentials mentioned in this backpacking checklist !

Best Watch Travel Alarm Clock

LETSCOM Fitness Tracker Watch

LETSCOM Fitness Watch and Alarm

At $30, this LETSCOM Fitness Tracker Watch is the (significantly) less expensive version of those fancy smart watches. And it works great!

The reason why it’s such a cool watch for travel is that instead of the loud, rude wake up from a traditional alarm, this uses soft increasing vibrations to gently wake you up. You can program the alarm from a phone app, but put away your phone at night and wake up without being tempted to add to your screen time.

This watch probably isn’t a great alarm clock option for heavy sleepers, however, if you’re a light to medium sleeper it’s the lovely, non-intrusive way to wake up.

Timex Ironman Classic 30 Mid-Size Watch

Timex Travel Alarm Clock Watch

Using a watch as an alarm while you’re traveling is a smart idea because it’s right there . Travel watches tend to be less obtrusive instead of a loud heartstopping alarm when it’s time to get up.

Fit for travel, the Timex clock watch is waterproof at less than 100 feet below water as long as you aren’t diving. And there are 14 different awesome colors to choose from that will fit your unique style.

Using a Smartphone

When it comes down to it, using your smartphone as an alarm clock isn’t the best idea. The glow of the screen can be a sure-fire way that you don’t get the best sleep, and having it at your bedside could encourage you to use it before bed!

That said, some of us are most comfortable using our phone as an alarm clock while we travel. It’s reliable, timely, and has the proper sound to rouse some of us heavier sleepers. If that sounds like you, TFG readers have a few tips to share about how to make the most out of your smartphone alarm clock.

MoKo Phone / Tablet Stand

MoKo Smartphone Stand

For those of you that would prefer to use your smartphone as your alarm clock while you travel, one TFG reader suggests using the MoKo Phone/Tablet Stand to rest your phone on at night.

This stand is really multi-purpose, useable for your tablet if you want to catch a flick or read a book during your downtime. Sometimes the most comfortable way to do that is propped up next to you with a stand!

iHandy Alarm Clock Pro App

The iHandy Alarm Clock Pro App essentially turns your Apple device into a full-screen alarm clock. One TFG reader uses this in combination with a long power cord and the smartphone stand because  it’s “less to keep track of.”

There are a number of customizable features such as picking your own theme, choosing music on your phone to wake up to, fall asleep listening to your favorite music, podcast or audiobook, and it even has a flashlight function.

Keep reading to find out the smartphone camera accessories that will help you take a pic like a pro!

Travel Alarm Clock Product Comparison Chart

[wpsm_comparison_table id=”123″ class=”center-table-align”]

What’s the best travel alarm clock to use?

The best travel alarm clock really depends on your personal preferences, especially if you’re a heavy sleeper.

If you’re looking for an alarm clock for travel, you’ll want one that’s small, light, battery operated, and packable. But mostly, you’ll want one that works best for you.

And if you’re a heavy sleeper that has trouble waking up, try an alarm clock that gets louder the longer it rings.

Are there any benefits to using a smartphone?

You’ve probably read an article somewhere on the internet about it, but smartphones do not make good alarm clocks.

The blue light they emit clutters your brain. Instead of winding down and getting ready for sleep, if you’re sitting in your bed tapping on your phone then your brain is actually waking up and scrambling.

This brain confusion can result in having a poor sleep by making you sleepless or interrupting your sleep more often.

Oh, and this blue light also comes from your tablet, laptop and desktop screen. The general rule of thumb is to stay off your electronic devices for 20 minutes prior to heading to bed. So consider a small alarm clocks battery operated device and sleep better!

Compass Rose Travel Adapter

Using a Travel Adapter

Charging your device in other countries can be a challenge if you don’t have the correct wall plug, but the Compass Rose Travel Adapter was made exactly for that.

This bright and memorable adapter is red, so you won’t forget it. In addition, if you’re sharing your room with other travelers, you may be limited to charging space.

Always travel with an adapter like this one, which allows you to charge up to three devices at once.

Watch the video above or read this post to learn about the differences between travel adapters, converters, and voltage!

What is your favorite travel alarm clock? Share your thoughts below!

For more ideas on travel gadgets, please read:

• What are the Best Noise Canceling Headphones for Tavel?
• Best Portable Power Bank Chargers for Travel
• Stop Tangled Electronic Cables with these Travel Cord Organizer Options
• Best Travel Kettle Will Help You Start Your Day Right

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The 7 Best Gentle Alarm Clocks of 2024

For a calming wake-up that will help you start your day off right, consider these gentle alarm clocks.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Amazon / Walmart

Chances are you'll need to use some form of an alarm clock at some point in your life, whether that's a traditional device, your smartphone, or even a smartwatch. But most of those devices play rather harsh tones to wake you up, which isn't ideal for your mental and physical well-being. You're better off choosing a gentle alarm clock.

"Gentle alarm clocks are designed to wake you up more gradually with light, soft sounds, or a combination of both," says Dr. Shelby Harris, director of sleep health at Sleepopolis. "They are made to minimize the negative effects of traditional alarm clocks and reduce sleep inertia and are also beneficial in improving your mood, sleep quality, as well as symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), insomnia, and jet lag."

We've researched many different types of gentle alarm clocks, from sunrise lamps to coffee makers, to find the best ones that will rouse you in a calming manner. Our top pick is the Philips Sleep and Wake-up Light HF3670. We love that it wakes you up in the most natural way possible — with light — but also comes with high-tech elements like monitoring your bedroom environment and light-guided breathing programs to help you fall asleep at night.

Best Overall

Philips smartsleep connected sleep and wake-up light.

It's a sunrise alarm that also helps you sleep better at night.

All those extra features come at a higher cost.

"Light-based alarm clocks, also known as sunrise alarm clocks, are specifically designed to simulate the natural sunlight, which plays an important role in the regulation of our sleep-wake cycles and provides you with a more natural and gradual way to wake up," Harris says. That's why our top pick for the best gentle alarm clock is a sunrise alarm. This one pairs a gradually brightening light in natural sunrise colors with soothing sounds (you have a choice of eight) to wake you in the morning.

But this alarm clock goes far beyond the act of waking you up (and telling time). It also monitors the environment you're sleeping in, checking on things like temperature, noise, and humidity levels — with that information, you can tweak the settings in your room for the ideal sleeping conditions. Plus, it has a sunset setting that can help your body settle in for the night.

Sunrise alarm clocks like this one are great for helping you beat jet lag, too, as light is a natural way to reset your circadian clock.

The Details: 11.1 x 12.05 x 5.43 inches | Plug-in

Best Sunrise

Philips smartsleep wake-up light.

The digital display automatically dims in a dark room.

The wake-up light doesn't get as bright as our overall best pick.

Philips has an entire collection of sunrise alarm clocks at different price points, and we think this is the one that's the best bang for your buck if you don't want to splurge on the top-end model. Like our top pick, this gentle alarm clock uses a natural-looking, red-toned light to rouse you in the morning, and you have the option of pairing that with one of five different soft alarm sounds, including chirping birds and piano music. While it doesn't have sensors to monitor the environment, the alarm clock does have a nice bonus feature: its display automatically dims in dark rooms, so you won't be distracted by the bright lights of a digital clock at night. 

The Details: 6 x 10 x 10 inches | Plug-in

Best Scented

Homedics soundspa slumber scents alarm clock.

This is an all-in-one device that doesn't take up much space on your nightstand.

It's not actually the scent that wakes you up but gentle sounds.

If coffee isn't your preferred morning scent, this essential oil diffuser, white noise machine, and alarm clock combo allows you to pick your favorite scent. Just note that it doesn't actually emit scents at certain times of day to wake you up — you'll have to rely on the six white-noise sounds and the glowing lights for that. The sounds range from campfire crackling to a babbling brook, or you can sync your phone to the device via Bluetooth to play your own audio selection, whether a song or a podcast. As for the LED light, which can be set to six different colors, it's primarily used as a nightlight, but you can set it so that it turns on in the morning with your alarm.

The Details: 6 x 5 x 10 inches | Plug-in

Best Vibrating

Bellman & symfon vibio bed shaker.

This is ideal for hard-of-hearing folks and heavy sleepers.

You have to charge the device regularly.

This alarm clock isn't actually a clock, but it still can wake you up in the morning; it's a silent alarm that rouses you with vibration instead of noise. In order to set it up, you pair it with a free app, which can also sync the device with your phone to alert you of incoming texts or calls with vibration and LED lights (they aren't bright like sunrise alarm clocks, just little indication lights). Don't worry — if you have do not disturb on, the device will comply. Do note that you'll have to charge the device for 1.5 hours via USB to power it up, but it'll last up to 10 days under your pillow on a single charge.

The Details: 3.7 x 3.7 x 1.1 inches | USB charged, battery operated

Best Sleep Sounds

Loftie clock.

It's very design-forward.

It needs Wi-Fi to function, and it requires a very specific type of Wi-Fi connection.

Loftie has the best sound library of all the alarm clocks out there, and it's continually being updated so you can discover new sounds all the time. This is great not only for morning alarms (Loftie uses a two-phase system that combines very gentle sounds with slightly louder ones to wake you up), but also for falling asleep at night. One thing we really love: You can listen to some of the sounds online before purchasing the clock. But one thing we don't love is that this clock must be connected to a 2.4 gHz connection in order to tap into those sounds, which isn't great if you're traveling. Keep it at home on your nightstand, where you know the Wi-Fi will work. A nightlight is the only other feature besides the clock and the sounds.

The Details: 2.75 x 6 x 2.75 inches | Battery-operated

Casper Glow Light

There's nothing complicated about this light at all.

There's no clock.

Some gentle alarm clocks go a little too hard on the frills, but that's not the case with this one. In fact, there are essentially zero frills — not even a clock. In essence, this is a timed light that can be used both as a nightlight and a sunrise alarm. In manual mode, you can wiggle the light to adjust brightness, using it as a nightlight for a midnight bathroom run. Then you can twist it if you need a brighter light, such as for reading in bed. And finally, there's the alarm portion. You'll need to connect the device to an app, but once you do, you can set dimming and brightening timers to help you fall asleep at night and wake up in the morning.

The Details: 5.25 x 3.75 inches | Plug-in

Best for Kids

Hatch rest 2nd gen.

Though it's designed for kids, the clock doesn't look "kiddie" at all.

You can't play your own music or sounds, just the pre-programmed ones.

This gentle alarm clock is designed with kids in mind , though you wouldn't be able to tell from its elegant, minimalist form. But it is enabled to be a two-way audio monitor as well as a sound machine and a nightlight. As for the alarm, which can be used for both mornings and naptime awakenings, you can select a light color from 10 options and pick between 11 soothing sounds that include rain and lullabies. To set the alarm clock, you can use your voice via Amazon Alexa or do so with the phone app. There is a clock on the device, but you can adjust its brightness or turn it off entirely to ensure total darkness for your little one.

The Details: 4.2 x 4.2 x 6.61 inches | Plug-in

Tips for Buying a Gentle Alarm Clock

Be prepared to test it out on low-stakes mornings .

If you're transitioning from a loud alarm clock to a gentle one, do it when you have nothing going on the following morning, just in case the gentle one isn't enough to wake you up. (That is, do not tempt fate if you have an early morning flight the next day!) It might take a few mornings — or even more than a week — to get the settings on your new alarm clock just right. "Some gentle alarm clocks allow you to adjust the intensity of the light and wake sounds, so it’s important you make sure that you can set the brightness levels to be bright enough to wake you up in the morning," Harris says.

Consider portability for travel

If you plan on taking your gentle alarm clock on the road — most hotels only have loud alarm clocks, so make sure you take its size and portability into consideration. Ideally you'll want a small alarm clock that's battery-powered in case there's no outlet near your nightstand.

Yes, it's better to wake up in a gentle manner rather than a jarring one. "The problem with traditional loud alarm clocks is that they trigger your stress response, increase adrenaline levels, and essentially shock you into waking up. This forced awakening can increase sleep inertia and lead to high blood pressure and an elevated heart rate," Harris says. 

Before alarm clocks were invented, people typically relied on the sun to wake them up — followed by the sounds of animals like roosters, which were roused by the sun, too. During the Industrial Revolution at the end of the 18th century, humans were used as alarm clocks. People called knocker-ups would walk around town and use a stick to tap on the window of their clients, waking them up. Some knocker-ups would throw pebbles at windows or even use a peashooter. This practice continued into the mid-20th century, when alarm clocks became largely affordable to the masses.

"There are ways to train yourself to wake up to an alarm clock if you have an especially tough time getting up," certified sleep science coach Becca Fair, the sleep accessories editor at Mattressnerd.com says. "Moving your alarm clock away from your bed is a type of ‘forcing’ you [to] get out of bed. Following a morning routine is always a good habit as your body will adjust to the new routine and make it easier to wake up each morning."

But more importantly, you should be looking at why you're sleeping through your alarm — and the answer is likely that you're not getting enough sleep . "Research shows the more sleep deprived you are, the more difficult it is to be roused from sleep and the worse it feels," Jeff Kahn, co-founder and CEO of Rise Science says. "Keeping your sleep debt [low], or the amount of sleep you’re missing out on relative to your unique sleep need, is an excellent way to 'train' yourself to better wake up to an alarm."

If you find that you're getting a quality sleep for a sufficient amount of time each night but you still can't wake up for an alarm, you might need to see a sleep doctor to be assessed for a potential sleep disorder.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Stefanie Waldek is a freelance travel writer with nearly a decade of experience. For this article, she evaluated alarm clocks based on their features and read dozens of customer reviews. While researching alarm clocks, we spoke with Dr. Shelby Harris, director of sleep health at Sleepopolis; Becca Fair , certified sleep science coach and sleep accessories editor at Mattressnerd.com; and Jeff Kahn , co-founder and CEO of Rise Science.

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BC08 Braun digital travel alarm clock - black

Winner of a Red Dot Design Award for 2020. Braun’s minimalist, clean aesthetic was built around the brand ethos ‘less but better’. With all elements designed to prioritise ease-of-use for the... Read More

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Winner of a Red Dot Design Award for 2020. Braun’s minimalist, clean aesthetic was built around the brand ethos ‘less but better’. With all elements designed to prioritise ease-of-use for the user, the BC08 alarm clock range is a remarkable example of Braun's timeless Bauhaus-tradition design. It’s an alarm clock. Nothing more. Nothing less. Winner of a Red Dot Design Award for 2020. The BC08 is a move on from the classic BNC008 digital travel clock, the improved functions and product features a direct response to customer feedback and experience.

The BC08 features a crescendo beep alarm, snooze and backlight function and LCD with 12-hour and 24-hour setting options, all of which improve the functionality of this clock. The lightweight and compact design (W5.8cm x H5.8cm x D2.0cm) makes the BC08 the perfect travel clock. A design that reflects Braun principles of consistency, simplicity and clarity of design.

• Crescendo beep alarm
• Touch snooze function
• Backlight function (Reverse LCD display)
• 12/24 hour display

Specifications Height:   57.5mm Width:   57.5mm Depth:   20mm Movement:   Quartz Battery Type:   AAA Includes:   Clock, instruction manual & 2 year warranty

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Over the past 60 years, Braun has become an institution in the design community and a frequent reference point in the education of each new generation of creatives. That recognition also extends to the world’s most renowned design awards. Having received a total of 18 awards in the past 5 years, these are a key indication that Braun watches & clocks are continuing that longstanding legacy.

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Digital Travel Alarm Clock

Portable, folding clock design fits nicely in your travel bag

Snooze button & momentary backlight

Alarm ON/OFF switch

Battery-powered for on-the-go use

The AcuRite travel alarm clock features a portable folding design to keep you on time while traveling. The bold, easy-to-read LCD screen displays the time, and indicators for the alarm and snooze functions. Features a large Snooze/Backlight button, and easy-to-use alarm ON/OFF switch. One-year limited warranty. It's more than accurate, it's AcuRite.

Portable, folding clock design

Audible alarm

Battery-powered