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The 27 best travel gadgets in 2023

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For today's traveler, a packing list includes not only their daily wear and toiletries, but also tech gadgets: a phone, maybe a laptop or tablet, and possibly a smartwatch. You may also be wondering, what other gizmos are worth lugging around? As it turns out, there's a lot to consider. 

Whether you're on a long-haul flight, a never-ending road trip, or just jetting around your destination, there are plenty of travel-appropriate tech gadgets that can make your next trip a breeze. 

From gear to ensure you're charged up to a TSA-approved massage gun to ail the aches of travel, here are our favorite travel tech gadgets and accessories to ensure you're ready for anything that comes your way.

For keeping an eye on your valuables, put a Tile Pro or Apple AirTag in your checked baggage. We recommend Tile because it works for both Android and Apple devices, while utilizing the Tile user network to help you locate things that are much further away.

On the flipside: Apple's AirTag offers the same features, but only works with Apple devices. The AirTag connects to the Find My app built into every iPhone and iPad, which theoretically means it taps into a wider network of users to locate your item. Whichever you choose, consider a tracker in your luggage as personal insurance.

Insta360 X3 Camera

Sure, the best camera is the phone that's in your pocket, but if there's a reason to bring along an additional shooter, make it the the X3. This 360-degree camera works alongside a companion app on your phone and captures everything surrounding you. No longer will you need to choose what to frame. But what makes this camera truly fun are the special effects you can create, which will make your vacation photos and videos stand out from the crowd.

Sony WH-100XM5 Headphones

If you want the latest and greatest in over-ear noise-canceling performance, it's the Sony WH-100XM5s . The XM5s sport an updated design with a narrower headband and wider earcups for a roomier fit. The drivers have been updated and the ANC (active noise cancellation) performance has been kicked up a notch thanks to two processors and eight noise-canceling microphones, up from the four microphones found on the previous-gen XM4s. Speaking of the XM4s, they're still a great option and cost $50 less .

Beats Fit Pro

The Beats Fit Pro was released back in 2021, but they continue to be one of our favorite wireless earbuds. It packs the same features you'd get in the AirPod Pros, but in a more secure, sweat-resistant package. This year, Beats introduced three new eye-catching colors: coral pink , volt yellow , and tidal blue . 

Panasonic ErgoFit Wired Earbuds

It's a good idea to have a pair of wired earbuds to toss in your bag for a flight, especially since most in-seat entertainment systems have yet to roll out support for Bluetooth. And while there are plenty to choose from, Panasonic's ErgoFit is a tried-and-true budget pair you won't regret. Available in more than 15 colors, these earbuds are as basic as you can get, but they'll get the job done for under $20. Just note that you'll need a Lightning adapter for Apple devices .

Anker 622 Magnetic Battery

If you own an iPhone 12 or newer and want to take advantage of MagSafe technology, this portable battery pack from Anker has a capacity of 5,000mAh, which is more juice than Apple's MagSafe battery pack , which is rated at 1,460mAh. The 622 is capable of wirelessly charging your phone at a max of 7.5 watts, but its best feature is the travel-friendly built-in kickstand. If you're looking for more power, Anker also sells a 10,000mAh version . 

For more picks, check out our guide on the best MagSafe battery packs . 

Mophie 3-in-1 Travel Charger with MagSafe

Apple stans will appreciate Mophie's 3-in-1 charger , which has dedicated charging spots for the iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods. We're not sure what we like more: the convenient carrying case or that it comes complete with a 30W USB-C wall adapter.

Fujifilm Instax Mini 12

 The Instax Mini 12 is Fujifilm's newest camera, and just like its predecessor, it's a one-button instant camera that's so easy to use that even kids can operate it. The Instax Mini 12 improves on the lineup's winning formula by adding a new lens that you can twist to enable "close-up" mode. The entry-level instant camera works with Instax Mini film , which is widely available. Plus it runs on replaceable AA batteries, so you'll never have to worry about running out of power.

Anker 747 Charger

If you're a frequent traveler, you need a multiport charging hub. And Anker's GaNPrime-powered 747 Charger is one of the best you can buy right now . With three USB-C ports, one USB-A port, and 150W charging capacity, this compact charger can charge multiple devices — laptops, tablets, smartphones, or other small devices — quickly and all at once. And thanks to GaNPrime technology, the 747 is  smart enough to identify how many devices are connected and how much output each device needs.

Native Union Belt Cable Universal

When it comes to cables, it pays to have a spare just in case you lose one. For that, we recommend this universal cable from Native Union. Measuring at 6.5 feet long and made from braided nylon, the cord can quickly transition between micro-USB, USB-C, and Lightning connectors.

Bellroy Tech Kit

A dedicated tech bag can turn the roost of cables, cords, and techy accessories you travel with into a well-organized mobile workstation. While you should shop around to find a tech organizer bag that suits your particular needs, the Tech Kit from Bellroy is a quality option. It features a soft-shell body for added structure and protection, along with loops, pockets, and compartments to neatly store your essentials. It's also available in a compact size .

For more options, check out our guide on the best tech organizer bags . 

Nimble Champ Portable Charger

The Champ Charger is one of Nimble's smallest and lightest power banks, but it still packs a punch. It's designed to top up smaller devices, and supports up to 15W of charging through one USB-A port and one USB-C port. The battery's 10,000mAh capacity is enough to charge your phone or tablet for a weekend of use. Bonus: Nimble is a certified B Corp with a commitment to sustainable consumerism currently unmatched in the consumer tech industry, from using non-traditional materials and plastic-free packaging, to its free e-waste recycling program.

DJI Osmo Mobile 6

Unfortunately, nobody wants to watch your vacation videos if they're nauseatingly bouncy, no matter how beautiful the scenery is. To capture rock-steady footage with smooth pans and tilts — think Hollywood-style cinematography — put your phone into what is the best gimbal for consumers. It's easy to operate, and the built-in telescoping pole lets you capture selfies with a wider view.

Moft Invisible Laptop Stand

When you're on the road, ergonomics is a challenge. Moft's "invisible" laptop stand is an ultra-thin portable stand that won't add any weight to your laptop, and only takes a second to put into action. It has two elevation angles (15 and 25 degrees), which you can adjust to whichever is more convenient for your sitting posture. Moft also sells stands for other devices, including the iPad and iPhone .

Epicka Universal Travel Power Adapter

If you're jet-setting across the world, a universal travel adapter is a must. And you won't find one that'll meet most simple charging needs than Epicka's all-in-one adapter. This handy plug is designed for phones, laptops, and other smaller devices. The retractable prongs allow it to work in more than 150 countries, and it has six charging ports: four USB ports, one USB-C port, and one universal AC socket. 

Backbone One Mobile Controller

For gaming on the road, we recommend the Nintendo Switch . But if you're looking for an alternative with even better portability, we highly recommend the Backbone One Mobile Controller, which can turn gaming on your iPhone or Android phone into a first-class handheld console experience. The Backbone One gives you joysticks and buttons, so it's comfortable for long playing sessions, and it works with mobile titles as well as cloud-gaming services like Xbox and PlayStation Remote Play.

Yogasleep Rohm Travel Sound Machine

With Yogasleep's Rohm Travel Sound Machine , you can rest easily wherever the road takes you. It features three modes: bright white noise, deep white noise, and "gentle surf." And unlike other portable sound machines, it's powered by a rechargeable battery instead of disposable batteries. If you're looking for something more baby-friendly, the Hushh Compact Sound Machine features a soft LED night light and child-safe locks.

GoPro Hero 12 Black Action Camera

If you can only pack one camera for travel, make it the new GoPro Hero 12 Black. An evolution of the already impressive Hero 11 Black , it's small enough to fit in the tightest corners of a bag, yet it is on par with much larger cameras, thanks to 12 generations of innovation. This latest version of GoPro's storied Hero camera can shoot high-dynamic-range video for improved contrast and coloring, a wider field-of-view lens to capture more of a scene, and Bluetooth support for headphones. Plus, it has the best in-camera stabilization yet. It's built to withstand bumps, drops, and splashes, and a great smartphone app lets you upload your footage to social media wherever you are.

Kensington Privacy Screens

When you think of tech privacy while traveling, you might think of VPNs , which allow you to connect to the internet through a secure server so you can work securely and remotely. But for added security, don't overlook privacy screens. Kensington sells a number of reliable privacy screens  — some attached with magnets, others by an adhesive, depending on your laptop or tablet — that reduces viewing angles and filters blue light .

Etekcity Luggage Scale

Overweight baggage fees can cost an arm and a leg and who knows what else, and they're especially tricky when traveling internationally. Etekcity's luggage scale is reliable and accurate, plus it's ultra portable and weighs under five ounces to easily fit in your bag.

TwelveSouth AirFly

A tiny dongle that lets you use your wireless headphones for in-flight entertainment? How smart. TwelveSouth's AirFly plugs into the audio jack so you can hear airline TV screens using your own personal headphones. And with more than 20 hours of battery life, it could last even the most long-haul flights. If you've got a travel companion, the AirFly Duo lets you connect two pairs of headphones at once. And for car rides in older vehicles, the AirFly Pro lets you stream from your phone to the stereo's aux-in port.

Logitech K380 Keyboard

Logitech's K380 keyboard is an excellent portable set of keys that has a small footprint that will make working even in the most cramped spaces a little more comfortable. It connects to any device that supports Bluetooth and pairs with up to three devices, which is perfect if you're switching between a laptop, tablet, and phone. It's ultra quiet, and can last two years one just two AAA batteries.

Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3

The newest ultra-portable speaker from Ultimate Ears, the Wonderboom 3 is a 360-degree speaker that should fulfill your travel needs. It has battery life of up to 14 hours on a single charge. There's an "Outdoor Boost" mode that cranks up the bass, and it can float if you throw it in water. This is a versatile little speaker that can also pair with another Wonerboom speaker for stereo sound.

Kindle Paperwhite

Easily one of the best Kindles you can buy right now , the 11th-generation Kindle Paperwhite includes a larger 6.8-inch, high-resolution display, adjustable warm lighting, responsive page-turning, and USB-C charging. The base Paperwhite comes with 8GB of storage, which should be plenty for most people (that's around 3,000 e-books).

Hypervolt Go 2

A must-have for preventing and easing the aches and pains of traveling, the Hypervolt Go 2 weighs just 1.5 pounds and lasts up to 3 hours on a single charge. With three speeds and two interchangeable heads, it can do wonders for a stiff neck, sore muscles, back pain and more. It's also surprisingly quiet. The Go 2 is TSA-approved, as long as it's packed in your carry-on. Unfortunately, it doesn't come with a travel case. 

Manfrotto Pixi Mini Tripod

Whether it's for timelapses, self-portraits, or video calls, a phone tripod can be surprisingly handy when you're on the go. Manfrotto makes some of the best travel tripods in the world, and its Pixi Mini Tripod folds up small (you can also use this tripod as a grip) and weighs less than a pound. Unlike some tripods, the Pixi Mini can be used with different types of phones thanks to its universal clamp.

Roku Streaming Stick 4K

If you're not traveling with a streaming stick, you're missing out on a simple travel hack. You can plug it into your hotel room or Airbnb's TV and stream your favorite movies and shows. Roku's Streaming Stick 4K is well-suited for travel, and will give you great picture quality, whether streaming in HD, 4K, or HDR. Just don't forget to bring the physical Roku remote.

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• Main content

17 Travel Gadgets That Will Make Your Next Trip Smoother

By Megan duBois

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Figuring out what you need to pack for a trip can be challenging—especially if you like to travel carry-on only . But whether you’re heading for a weekend away with your best gal pals or a week-long jaunt to a new city, the tech you pack is important. From portable batteries and small location devices to headphone adapters for planes, we’ve tested multiple items to see what the best travel gadgets really are, and which ones simply aren't worth the space.

We promise the products below merit a spot on your packing list . Keep them in a pouch or near your suitcases so you know exactly where they are at all times, and can grab them when the need arises. The best part? All of these accessories are available on Amazon , and most on Prime, so you can get your hands on them quickly in advance of your next trip .

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Madison Flager.

This under-$20 Amazon find has completely upgraded my in-flight entertainment experience. When I fly, I usually watch movies or downloaded videos on my iPhone so I can continue to use my noise-cancelling Bluetooth headphones. This means I’m usually rotating between holding my phone in my hand and (unsuccessfully) propping it up on the tray table. This pocket-size phone mount clips onto the top of your seat tray table and perfectly holds your phone in place so you can watch movies, TV shows, or podcast videos hands-free. It features 360-degree rotation, allowing travelers to view their screen vertically or horizontally. The 1.5-inch clamp can be attached to tables, desks, gym equipment, and a variety of other surfaces. While I originally purchased this carry-on essential to use on airplanes, I’ve also attached it to my luggage handle while waiting to board a flight and on a train ride from Lucca to Florence. —Meaghan Kenny, associate commerce editor

If you've been on a group trip, you know the struggle of trying to get ready when there are too few mirrors available compared to the amount of folks in the house or hotel room. Eliminate the hassle with a portable travel mirror, like this fold-out option available on Amazon. It shifts to varying heights, has three light settings (warm, cool, and natural daylight), and folds up flat, weighing less than a pound.

Associate commerce editor Meaghan Kenny calls this small wireless device “a complete game-changer—I'm never going back to the days of dry hotel rooms and dehydrated skin post flight.” She's found that sleeping with it, both at home and on the road, leaves her skin less dry and helps her to wake up feeling more refreshed. It's easy to use, too: “For as compact as the humidifier is, it can still fit 11.3 ounces of water—more than enough needed for a continuous cool mist throughout the day or night.”

Read a full review of this product.

Sure, many totes , backpacks , and small duffels now come with a trolley sleeve to secure it to a suitcase handle, but when you find yourself using a bag without that little sleeve, keeping your things together and upright becomes a balancing act. A Cincha travel belt is the workaround: It slips over your suitcase handle, then wraps around most any bag like a seatbelt, with adjustable straps to tighten or loosen as needed.

There’s nothing worse than getting onto an airplane and your wireless headphones not connecting to the seatback entertainment system. That issue is easily averted with this wireless audio transmitter and adapter . The small device pairs to your headphones via Bluetooth and then plugs into the tiny TV on the airplane so you’re never without entertainment on long-haul flights . I keep this Amazon gadget in my pre-packed go-bag, then charge it the night before I fly so I know it's fully charged before heading to the airport. Even better is that the device can pair with two sets of headphones, so if I'm traveling with someone we can both watch the same movie at the same time.

Gimbal stabilizers come in a variety of sizes and price points. If you’re testing the waters with the smartphone travel accessory , you may want to consider this under-$50 option. The anti-shake, one-axis stabilizer allows you to capture smooth videos and crisp photos of your travels without having to think about keeping your hands perfectly still and balanced. One perk of this particular stabilizer is that it doesn’t have a corresponding app that you need to use to make the device work, so you can just pop your phone onto the handle and go. At just 7.5 inches and less than half a pound, the stabilizer can fit easily into your day bag without weighing it down.

We’ve all experienced those long, twisty lines at the airport coffee shop that take longer than expected and leave you rushing off to your gate, juggling an iced coffee and your phone, all while somehow wheeling your carry-on bag behind you. Make that scenario a memory of the past with this luggage cup holder. The hands-free pocket slips over the handle of your luggage to hold up to two drinks and your phone. The adjustable cup holder has a Velcro opening that can be tightened or loosened to fit your suitcase handle and stay securely on your luggage as you traverse the airport. I keep this in my go-to personal item at all times, that way I know where it is before I head to the airport. Even better, if I do somehow spill a drink when using this, the cup holder is completely machine washable; I’ve throw it in with a load of towels to keep it clean.

If you’re headed somewhere warm, be it a theme park or Europe in summer, one of the best travel gadgets to bring along is a mini handheld fan. This VersionTech handheld fan is my absolute favorite of all of the ones I’ve tried. It charges quickly with an included USB charger (you can also use any micro-USB cords you're already packing), and has three speeds to keep air moving and keep you feeling refreshed. The handle of the fan can be folded back to allow it to sit on a table if you stop for a meal or coffee, or find yourself on a hot bus or train. I always have this in my backpack or fanny pack in the summer—when I whip it out and have a cool breeze blowing across my face, my travel buddies are instantly jealous that they don’t have one too.

Keeping your phone charged while traveling through airports can be difficult—not every airport has charging ports integrated into the seats at the gates, and most of the time people are huddled around the one or few outlets near the gate. I love this phone charging passport holder because I can charge my phone with an included power bank, and it has an integrated cable holder, and elastic bands to keep my phone in place as I traverse the airport. I also appreciate that the holder has a space for your passport and RFID blocking credit card slots for added protection.

No matter how meticulously you pack your clothes, pieces always end up wrinkled and looking like you slept in them on the other end. That problem is easily solved with this handheld garment steamer . The small electronic device weighs in at just under two pounds, so it won’t add much weight to your luggage. The steamer takes just 35 seconds to heat up, and has a removable water tank that’s easy to fill and an adjustable steam head so you can get wrinkles out no matter how your clothes are hung up. Leave this at home if you’re headed on a cruise, though; these portable steamers are not allowed on any cruise line.

Find more portable steamer recommendations .

Whether you’re traveling internationally or domestically, having a travel adapter is always a good idea. The universal adapter allows you to plug in your devices to outlets, no matter what country you’re in. There’s also a built-in surge protector and two USB ports so you can charge your phone or watch without having to unplug something bigger like hot hair tools or a laptop.

There’s nothing worse than misplacing something or finding out that your luggage got lost in transit on the way to your hotel or Airbnb. With an Apple AirTag , you can have constant eyes on your belongings, even if they aren’t technically with you. The tiny puck-like devices pair with your iPhone or iPad and use geolocation to let you know where your belongings are. I like that I can check on the location of my luggage, purse, or whatever else I've dropped an AirTag into with the Find My app. This is especially helpful after a plane lands and I want to be sure my luggage made it to my final destination.

Is there anything worse than checking into a hotel room and tossing and turning all night because of loud noises from neighbors or city streets? With this portable white noise sound machine, you can easily drown out the sounds of people, cars, or snoring companions. The machine has three sound options, and multiple volume settings so you can find the option that’s best for you. And because it’s so small at just 3.5 inches in diameter, it can fit in a backpack or carry-on bag with ease.

An electric handheld luggage scale is without a doubt one of the best travel gadgets, especially if you’re prone to overpacking and always have a checked bag at the airport like me. The handheld scale uses a strap to attach to the outside handles of your suitcase. Then you simply pull up with both hands using even force for the scale to display how much your luggage weighs. This is my easy way to avoid overweight fees or having to open my luggage on the airport floor to take things out and squish items into my backpack before racing off to my gate.

After flying through the friendly skies and making your way to your perfect vacation destination, your phone is likely showing that annoying red battery indicating that it’s almost out of power. With this wireless portable charger , you never have to get below 10 percent charge again. The charger can support wireless charging or charging with a connecting cable and can support Apple and Android products. iPhone users will be glad to know that with one full charge of the power bank, the device can charge an iPhone 12 at least eight times.

Keeping your personal information safe should be a top priority while traveling. One easy way to do that is with an RFID-blocking wallet, so skimmers in the pockets of nefarious patrons can’t get your credit card info just by walking by you. The wallet has multiple slots for credit cards, plus two zip pockets that are great for coins and paper money. Everything is further protected with a snap that covers both zippers and keeps the wallet closed.

Another popular travel wallet option: the Slim Mint ultra-thin RFID-blocking wallet. The compact case can hold cash and whatever essential cards you need on you—credit cards, hotel room keys, metro cards—so that they are easily accessible. When empty, it weighs just 3.2 ounces.

57 Brilliant Travel Accessories Every Traveller Must Have [2024 Edition]

Travel smarter and safer in 2024 with 57 of the best brilliant travel accessories and travel gadgets. From the best adapters, earplugs, space-savers, travel safety to portable chargers.

1. this ergonomic travel pillow.

The smart design of this washable pillow prevents your head from falling forwards as you sleep. Suitable for adults and children and perfect to use on airplanes, buses, trains, cars, camping, while backpacking, wheelchairs, airport terminals, or even while watching TV.

Buy it here

2. Pack more with these awesome space bags ! I have 20 of them!

Saving space in your suitcase is no longer a challenge with these amazing space bags that push out the air when rolled up. You effectively gain up to 50% more space in your baggage. I use the larger ones at home and the smaller ones for travel. They make for great organisers too!

Buy them here

3. Keep your dirty clothes separate with this handing laundry bag

Keep your dirty clothes organized and separate. This handy GOMATIC hanging laundry bag has a strap to attach it to a doorknob. Once your laundry bag is full, you can easily pack it and have it ready to empty straight into your washing machine when you get home. Buy it here.

4. Get this cute secret pocket infinity scarf

5. This Travel-sized Wireless Router with USB Media Storage

Convert any wired network to a wireless network and stay connected! Not only that you can also stream your videos, photos, and music to your connected media devices. If that wasn’t enough, back up and free up space on your mobile devices by using an attached USB flash drive or hard disk.

6. This Travel Door Alarm

Travelling alone or just wanted added peace of mind in your accommodation? Attach this pocket-sized alarm to your door or window and be alerted the second there is an intruder. There’s also a built-in LED flashlight so there’s no fumbling in the dark.

7. This Multi-Bag Stacker

No more bag juggling or pushing multiple trolleys/carts, just attached this nifty strap that connects suitcases and bags together through their handles.

8. These Amazing Space-Saving Laundry Soap Sheets

Add water and the sheet will dissolve instantly. They also come in shaving, body wash and hand soap versions.

9. Protect your phone from water, drops and scratches with this Lifeproof Case

10. this digital luggage scale.

You’ll never be surprised with having to pay for excess weight at the airport again. This compact and lightweight luggage scale can weigh up to 110 lb / 50 kg luggage. No batteries required.

11. No more breaks and leak with this inflatable bottle bag

This versatile roll-up travel bag suspends items in an inflatable air cushion to protect your bottles such as wine and olive oil. No more nasty surprises and messy spills when you open your suitcase.

12. Boost Circulation with these highly-rated compressions socks

13. Keep your Laptop and Other Items safe with a Portable Safe

14. This Vintage Laptop and Travel Backpack that Charges your Gadgets

15. The Only Travel Adapter You’ll Ever Need PLUS Dual USB Ports (Covers 150 Countries)

16. This inspirational luggage tag with card slot

17. Always Be Ready with a Pocket, Picnic and Beach Blanket

18. For Those Who Love a Mini Electric Toothbrush

19. Keep Your Drinks Hot on Long Haul Flights with this Insulated Stainless Steel Travel Mug (Different Colours Available)

20. Get This Gorgeous Multi-Use Travel, Hiking, Camping Bag Rucksack

21. This Smartest Carry-on suitcase Built-in USB Charger

22. Keep your toiletries organized with this waterproof organizer

23. Stay clean with these laundry sachets 

24. This personalised passport holder and protector  

25. Charge multiple accessories super fast with this portable compact charger

26. Get some shuteye with this contoured sleep mask

27. Avoid the knots and get this nifty cable organizer

28. Sleep anywhere with the ultimate ergonomic neck supporter

29. Pack like a boss with these space-saving packing cubes with shoe bag

Keep your gear organised with these travel cubes in assorted sizes. Buy it here

30. Keep your stuff safe with this TSA approved luggage lock

31. Keep your jewellery organized with this compact jewellery box

32. Never buy cabin luggage again with this durable and lightweight case

33. Stay hydrated with this collapsible water bottle

34. Breathe easy with this USB or battery operated mini humidifier

35. Take your music with you with this wireless and waterproof Bluetooth speaker

36. Get safe drinking water wherever you go with the LifeStraw water filter

37. Get 18 in 1 multi-purpose credit card size pocket tool

38. These cabin-approved leak-proof travel bottles for makeup and cosmetics

39. Stay charged on the go with this mini power bank

40. Take your phone underwater with a universal waterproof case

41. Protect your camera with this anti-theft shoulder strap by PacSafe

This camera strap is essential for supporting heavy cameras like DSLRs and even popular travel cameras such as Mirrorless ones.

Buy it here $26.87

42. Take this lightweight tripod anywhere and wirelessly take pictures and video

43. Protect your gear with this anti-theft shockproof backpack that’s ScanSmart TSA friendly and water resistant

44. Charge your phone and tablet with this USB solar charger

45. Keep your phone clean with this sanitizer and universal phone charger

46. Put your feel up with this compact foot hammock

47. hang up your washing with this travel clothes line.

No more hanging your delicates over hotel room chairs. This pegless washing line stretches up to 2.5metre and can be to affixed to either a  wall or furniture with its metal hooks or suction cups.

48. Get this beautiful waterproof travel and passport wallet

49. This Convenient Water Bottle with Built-in Pill Organizer

Great way to take your medication while on the go! This water bottle can store your medication for each day of the week. The medication holder can also be detached. Holding 23 oz. or 600ml, the bottle cap also doubles as a cup. Ingenious!

50. Keep all your documents in once place with this travel wallet

51. Alert others when in trouble with this safety whistle

52. Stay entertained with movies, TV shows, songs, Kindle e-books, apps and games on Kindle Fire

Buy on Amazon for $79.99

53. Wash your clothes wherever you are with this machine quality wash bag

Buy on Amazon for $42.44

54. This Clever Tank Top  with Secret Pockets

Keep your  passport, cash and credit cards safe with this versatile tank top. Perfect for both warm and cool climates. It can even fit your cell phones and keys.

Buy on Amazon

55. This Anti-Crease Shirt Transporter

Save time on ironing! This Tupperware for shirts and blouses is called the Shirt Shuttler, perfect for those trips when you know you’ll be spending a night out on the town or in a boardroom, or both!

Buy on Amazon for $24.99

56. This Optical Camera Lens for Smartphones and Tablets

57. The only worldwide travel charger and power adapter you’ll ever need  (UK/US/AU/EU/JP) + Dual USB Ports

Buy on Amazon for $25.99

Want more? Check out these 43 Amazing Money-Saving Tips for Smart Travellers

Stay tuned! I’m constantly updating this page as I discover the latest and greatest travel accessories. If you’re going backpacking or long-term travelling, check out my ultimate travel packing list . Got a favourite travel accessory? Share it below! 🙂

Want more travel tips? Don’t miss these

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• 10 Simple Long Haul Flight Tips for Arriving Rested and Relaxed
• 23 Top Travel Essentials: Ultimate Travel Packing List for Backpackers
• What Pack for Winter in Norway: 17 Must-Have Packing Items
• 10 Travel Hacks That’ll Make Your First Solo Trip A Total Breeze
• 20 Clever Ways to Staying Fit While Travelling You Should Try

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Over to you!

What other travel accessories do you recommend? Have you used any of these? Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

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Howdy Michele, I love to travel. I’ve read so many posts about travel gadgets, but you are the best one. Your article was beneficial in finding the necessary devices. I personally like an anti-theft shockproof backpack, which is ScanSmart TSA friendly and water-resistant. It is useful for everyone.

Thank you so much, Kim 🙂

Hello, I have gone through your guide and seems to be interesting though I have one more concern on the WiFi devices. Can you recommend me on the best Pocket Device that will work well on anywhere I travel. I have using AllDayWifi but its very slow on their international data plan. I have been considering RentnConnect though I know very little about it

Hi Collins, have you considered this Skyroam device ? It one of the leaders in the market and very compact.

What about this Trackimo 3G Travel Tracker device this has Light Exposure Sensor – detect/alerts when package or luggage is opened. I am currently using this tracker and i found this very useful to me every time i go travel around the world 🙂

Excellent addition Helen, thank you 🙂

A tracking device would be a great addition to this list.

Amazing! This makes traveling easier.

Definitely brilliant ideas worth sharing

This IS such a cool list! I thought I had everything, but then I found out the door travel alarm (never would’ve thought of it)!. And I wonder how good the neck support (#33) is because there were PLENTY of times I could have used something like that on my trips.

Hey Trang, the door alarm is such a great idea especially for those times when you just don’t feel safe 🙂 Is there anything you’d add to the list?

I just carry a small rubber door stop wedge.

WOW! This is one extensive list of all things travel and certainly one that I will be using to give hints to my friends and family round the holiday season. The new ScanSmart backpack along with the waterproof phone case and solar charger are on top of my list. However my top two purchases are going to be the smart suitcase and the backpack which are absolutely brilliant. Thanks for such a cool list.

Hi Michele, There are all great ideas. I have one more suggestion for you. Smart Blanket! I used it when flying to Zurich to see my son and his family. The plane was freezing, and there were no blankets to be had. I was the only one that was warm and cozy for the whole 8 hours. I love mine. Got it on Amazon http://amzn.to/2hTYlOP I paid $49.00 for mine. Think they are having a sale on them now. Hope you like my suggestion.

The door alarm and aeroplane pillow are a great idea to stay comfy and safe! I always take an extension lead when I travel; so that I have more plug sockets in a hotel room, and it also means you don’t need as many adapters when you travel. You also can’t go wrong with baby wipes and small-ish plastic bags in case a seat is wet, a bottle is leaking or you’ve got a mark on your clothes! ✈️?

All brilliant ideas Emily 🙂 Thanks for sharing. I love the baby wipes idea!

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Home / Features / Best travel gadgets 2024: the ultimate tech setup for explorers, wanderers, and holiday lovers

Best travel gadgets 2024: the ultimate tech setup for explorers, wanderers, and holiday lovers

The best gear for your next trip, including headphones, speakers chargers and more

Booked your next holiday? Got an upcoming work trip? Decided to simply leave your troubles behind? Then you’re probably after a carefully curated list of the best travel gadgets. 

In the words of Bilbo Baggins, it’s a dangerous business going out your door and stepping on the road, and we agree. The mere thought of a dead battery during a five-hour airport transfer delay makes us tremble, and don’t get us started on travelling without headphones.

• Read more: These are the best headphones around right now

There’s no shortage of travel-oriented tech out there. In fact, there’s too much. That’s why we’ve rounded up some of the best travel gadgets to help make your next trip run as smoothly as possible.

The best travel gadgets you can buy today:

Sony wh-1000xm5.

Sony’s critically-acclaimed active noise cancelling (aka ANC) headphones aren’t just one of the best travel gadgets in 2023 — they’re some of the best headphones ever made, period.

With superb noise cancellation for drowning out airport clutter and cabin drone, incredible sound, a formidable battery life, and a feature-laden app, they’re one of the best all-rounders money can buy.

LinkOn Ganius 136W Wall Charger

Chargers don’t normally fall under the category of covetable tech, but LinkOn’s offering is definitely an exception. While it may look like any other regular slim plug, it’s got some serious charging chops hidden beneath its slim black exterior. Capable of delivering 100W to a single device, it’ll easily charge demanding devices like laptops with ease, with plenty of capacity left over to simultaneously charge phones and more.

If you need even more juice, you can snap up an even more powerful 166W variant directly from LinkOn . Either way, you’ll be getting one of the most powerful chargers that money can buy, and it comes with hot-swappable plugs too, making for less clutter when you travel.

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite

While there’s obviously something to be said for remaining connected with the rest of the world, sometimes it’s good to pop down the smartphone and reconnect with a bit of literary therapy. And if you’d rather not cart around multiple books during a long trip, then an e-reader is the way to go.

The Kindle Paperwhite is one of the best choices for most people, hitting the sweet spot in terms of both price and features. With a generous 6.8in backlit (adjustable) display, up to 10 weeks of battery life, faster page turns, USB-C charging, and a waterproof build for poolside reading, it delivers on practically all fronts.

Insta360 Link

A webcam might seem like an odd choice for a list outlining the best travel gadgets in 2023, but if you’re regularly scooting around for work and/or looking to create content on the go, then the InstaLink 360 is one of the best, most compact options around.

Regarded to be one of the sharpest, clearest webcams in the world at the time of writing, it’ll elevate you from pixellated mess to razor-sharp professional in an instant, and it’s laden with tech and features too. These include a gargantuan sensor which dwarfs the competition, and a built in three-axis gimbal (powered by AI tracking) to ensure you’re always in focus and in frame, even when you’re moving around. With gesture controls and powerful software, it’s an ideal companion for serious on-the-go collaborators.

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

This mighty Olympus snapper is a retro-styled delight that will comfortably fit into any bag without causing sore shoulders. Its compact stature is all thanks to a Micro Four Thirds sensor, which means smaller, lighter lenses too. Despite its size, it’s a very strong performer, and one of the best portable cameras around.

Key features include snappy autofocus, burst shooting, crisp shots, and impressive 4K video. Sure, you’ve got a smartphone as well, but if you’re looking to elevate your holiday memories, you can’t beat a dedicated camera — especially one as handsome and as small as this.

GlocalMe Numen Air

While it might be overkill for the occasional trip to Europe, the Numen Air SIMless portable hotspot is a veritable godsend for serial travellers who want to work and stay connected regardless of where they find themselves. Key perks include 5G capability for the fastest possible speeds, and support for more than 100 operators in more than 50 countries.

Its sim-free capabilities also mean that you don’t have to go around hunting down phone shops at every destination, while the ability to connect up to 16 devices makes it a true connectivity workhorse. With a 2.4in touchscreen, generous 5400mAh battery, and the ability to double up as a power bank too, this is a Digital Nomad’s new best friend.

Tribit StormBox Micro 2

The award-winning Tribit StormBox Micro 2 is a dinky speaker that’s turned heads thanks to its impressive power, which is balanced with surprisingly detailed sound, and (even more surprisingly), decent thumping bass. Despite its pocket-sized shell, it’s capable of around 12 hours of use per charge, with fast USB-C charging making for a convenient top-up.

Naturally, it doubles up as a power bank, and can be easily clipped onto handlebars, bags, tree branches, or anything else you fancy. An accompanying app lets you tweak things to your liking, while IP67 waterproofing powers let it easily shrug off rain, mud, snow, and even full immersion without any problems.

GoPro Hero11 Black

GoPro’s Hero11 Black is one of the best action cams money can buy, making it an ideal choice for adrenaline junkies who want to record their high-flying (or deep-diving) antics. A new image sensor serves up impressively crisp 5.3 60fps videos, with a 2.7K 240fps mode for 8x slo-mo for highlighting particularly slick moments.

The Hero11 also has the widest field of view of the range to date, with souped-up HyperSmooth stabilisation making sure that footage is comfortable to watch. With plenty of accessories and a water/glare-repelling lens, it’s a solid investment for content creators and those looking to document their travels, hands-free.

DJI Mini 2 SE

The new Mini 2 SE weighs in at under the magic 249g number, meaning you can fly it practically anywhere without any registration required. With a generous 10km range and 31-minute maximum flight time, it’s also a capable little thing that’s sturdy enough to fend off winds up to 38kph.

With a fully-featured app offering easy-to-use functionality like natural panning, you’ll be recording Attenborourgh-worthy footage in no time. Depending on where you are, of course.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

Need to pack a bunch but don’t want the hassle of relying on the Carousel Gods for the safe return of your suitcase? Then a large backpack is the way to go. This capacious 35-litre offering from Cotopaxi not only looks incredible (we’re a sucker for bright colours), but it’s also rammed with practical features to make life on the road easier.

These include robust materials, a suitcase-style full-wrap zipper, subdivided compartments, reinforced handles, a rain cover, and more. With hidden pockets for valuables, a removable hip belt, and plenty more tricks beneath its alluring exterior, it’s sure to serve you well for years to come.

• Read more: Want a smartwatch? Here’s our guide to the best smartwatches around

Esat has been a gadget fan ever since his tiny four-year-old brain was captivated by a sound-activated dancing sunflower. From there it was a natural progression to a Sega Mega Drive, a brief obsession with hedgehogs, and a love for all things tech. After 7 years as a writer and deputy editor for Stuff, Esat ventured out into the corporate world, spending three years as Editor of Microsoft's European News Centre. Now a freelance writer, his appetite for shiny gadgets has no bounds. Oh, and like all good human beings, he's very fond of cats.

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The Best Travel Accessories to Make Your Trip Easier

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Charge Ahead Nimble Champ (Series 2) Read more

Charge Everything at Once Mophie 3-in-1 Travel Charger With MagSafe Read more

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Tag, You’re It Artovida Neoprene Luggage Tag Read more

Travel isn’t always as luxurious as the brochures make it seem. Sure, the destination may be intoxicatingly gorgeous, but the journey to get there is often one of cramped seats and uninterrupted noise. Traveling can be a gauntlet to be endured or, if you equip yourself properly beforehand, a mere speed bump to glide over. From travel pillows and noise-canceling headphones to luggage trackers, it turns out you actually can purchase peace of mind. These are the best travel accessories after years of traveling and testing.

Don't forget to check out our Best Travel Bags and Best Travel Adapters guides for more recommendations.

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Charge Ahead

Don't count on always finding an outlet. You never know when the café or airport you’re in will be outlet-deficient, and it's almost a running joke at this point at how often the airliners' onboard outlets are broken. The Nimble Champ Series 2 is our top recommendation in our Best Portable Chargers guide because of the company's environmentally friendly efforts in its manufacturing and packaging . Its light at 6.2 ounces, and we recommend the medium-size 10,000-mAh option, which can recharge a smartphone several times. There's a smaller version and a larger one too.

Charge Everything at Once

For the Apple devotee who travels complete with an iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods, consider picking up this 3-in-1 charger that can top off the juice in all three of your devices at the same time. No more prioritizing which one of your devices gets the precious outlet. No wonder WIRED senior reviews editor Julian Chokkattu raved about it in our Best Apple 3-in-1 Chargers guide . It comes with a felt pouch, plus a charging adapter and cable. There are three pads, one with a grooved spot for holding AirPods, one magnetic pad for MagSafe iPhones, and another for the Apple Watch.

Learn to Adapt

When I'm traveling, there are never enough power outlets. WIRED reviewer Simon Hill gave this model top marks in his Best Travel Adapters guide because of how securely plugs stick into this outlet. It has enough built-in outlet styles to charge devices in 200 countries. It also offers three USB-A ports, which deliver a maximum charging rate of 15.5 watts, and two USB-C ports, which deliver up to 18 watts through one PD and one QC 3.0 port. That's enough to juice up iPads and smartphones, but stick to the outlet for your laptop.

Tag, You’re It

Any little thing that makes a bag stand out from the acres of look-alikes on the baggage carousel, the better. These come in a snazzy rotating collection of designs by select artists, and they attach surprisingly securely by slipping the larger end through the hole after looping it around a baggage handle. Even after tens of thousands of airline miles, mine have held up without wear or tear. Call me paranoid, but you should have two luggage tags, in case one gets torn off. Good thing these come in a two-pack.

Aarian Marshall

David Nield

Keeping Track

We have mixed thoughts on AirTags, but if you have an iPhone, they are among the best ways to keep a digital eye on your bags. These trackers utilize the sheer number of iPhones and Apple devices out there to regularly report their location back to your device. Even if you don't plan on checking your bag, you might end up having to gate-check it on crowded flights. Drop an AirTag into an interior pocket to make sure you and your luggage are reunited at your destination.

AirTags don't work with Android devices, so if you use an Android phone , our recommendation is the Chipolo One ($25) . We have more details about it in our Best Trackers guide , but the setup is simple, and you can even get alerts if you leave the house without it.

Catch Some Z’s

I've never been one to fall asleep on a plane. It's not that the audience bothers me—I'll never see these people again—but rather that it’s impossible to fall asleep in a near-vertical seat. The Travelrest ( 9/10, WIRED Recommends ) is the ultimate neck pillow because it remedied this problem. Thanks to its high, contoured sides and a flat back that keeps it square against the seat, I can reliably nod off on any flight. The Travelrest easily beats those rounded, doughnut-shaped neck pillows for comfort and support.

To Safeguard Your Electronics

Some countries have less reliable electrical infrastructure, and you never know how well-wired that discount hotel's outlets are. Protect your device from getting fried with this compact, one-outlet surge protector. It has a lifetime warranty and $5,000 of coverage if your device is damaged from a power surge while using it. I haven't had to test that aspect of it, but the two USB-A ports are convenient when I've had to charge earbuds, battery banks, and other accessories.

A Better Pillow

Hotel pillows tend to have all the firmness and support of a wet roll of toilet paper that's been stomped on for 30 minutes. That tends to mean that vacation memories are accompanied by a stiff neck. Side sleepers like me need a firm yet poofy pillow. I've caught more good nights of sleep on this Therm-a-Rest than I can count. It rolls up into an integrated pouch, and a cinch compresses it into the size of a large water bottle for storage.

Tip the Scales

A scale is handy to have when you're packing a heavy bag for an upcoming trip. Avoid those enormous surcharges and make sure your bag is under the airlines’ weight limits before you arrive at the check-in counter. International airlines are sticklers for carry-on weight, and even US airlines will be unforgiving about the weight of checked bags. I've used this scale for years, and I prefer the simplicity of not needing any batteries. It's accurate, easy to read the gauge, and the strap is strong enough in the long term to handle some seriously heavy luggage without fraying or breaking.

To Protect Your Laptop

Travel through enough airports without a case and it’s only a matter of time before a bare laptop or tablet picks up nasty scratches and dents. Protect your devices from banging around in the security bins against keys, phones, and belts with this slim laptop sleeve, available for laptops of several common sizes. The water-resistant zippers are smooth and slide easily, and the padded, non-scratch material protected our MacBooks from a few bouts of rough handling by over-eager TSA agents without any exterior damage. Even if you don't normally use one, consider picking one up just for travel. For tablets, check out the Zugu iPad Case for $50 . We have guides for choosing the best laptop backpacks and laptop totes , too.

Mosquito Guard

In much of the world, mosquitoes aren't just pests. They carry life-threatening diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and Japanese encephalitis. Even in hotel rooms in certain places, you're not safe from them. When I traveled through Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos last year, I brought this mosquito bed net with me. It's large enough for most two-person mattresses, and an elastic rim tucks underneath the mattress so that there are no gaps for critters to sneak through. The World Health Organization says a minimum of 156 holes per square inch are needed to keep mosquitoes out. This model has 500 tiny holes per square inch, making it that much more secure.

A Good Book, or 20

There's nothing like tackling a long ride on a train or plane with a good old book. But if you're a voracious reader or traveling on a long trip, a few books can take up a lot of room in your luggage. The Kindle Paperwhite's glare-resistant E Ink display is less harsh on your eyes than a typical tablet screen, so you can read for a long while before fatigue sets in ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ). With 8 GB of storage, there's room for thousands of books. You can find more recommendations in our Best Kindles and Best Ebook Readers guides.

Top Up Your Devices

Not all USB cables are made equal. This Cable Matters cord came out on top in our testing (read more in our Best USB Cables guide ), thanks to its ability to handle 100 watts—enough to charge a power-hungry laptop. It also can transfer data at an impressive 40 Gbps. The 6.6-foot cable is an active cable too, which means it has a chip inside to push data further without degradation. It supports DisplayPort Alt Mode (DP Alt Mode), meaning you can use it to connect your laptop to a portable monitor, along with USB Power Delivery (USB-PD) and Programmable Power Supply (PPS), so that certain devices will fast charge through the cable. Seriously, it's the one USB-C cable to rule them all.

Maintain Your Sanity

Anyone who's spent time on public transportation knows that the cacophony of shouting, crying, and other people's loud devices can be maddening when you're stuck in your seat for the next few hours. The Sennheiser Adapt 660 ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ) are our favorite value noise-canceling headphones . WIRED associate reviews editor Parker Hall says they are comfortable and one of the lightest headphones he's tested. You can count on excellent sound quality for up to 30 hours of usage.

For Compact Peace and Quiet

WIRED reviewer Simon Lucas praised these Bose earbuds as having hands-down the best noise-cancellation. It's the top pick in our Best Wireless Earbuds guide, though they are expensive. He says their “naturalistic, vivid sound” is untouched by any counter-signal or audio evidence that the noise cancellation is working to muffle unwanted background sounds. That means you can enjoy that movie or album without jet engines and passenger chatter disturbing your peace.

Whether you'd like to plug directly into the seatback entertainment system or just don't feel like juggling one more device that needs frequent charging, wired headphones are by no means obsolete. These nabbed the top spot in our Best Wired Headphones guide , thanks to the excellent sound quality of the two 7-mm, full-range dynamic drivers that deliver punchy, finely detailed audio at a reasonable price. WIRED associate reviews editor Parker Hall reports that they're comfortable and secure in his ears, and the detachable cable is braided for durability.

A Nice Travel Sling

You don't want to tote around a heavy bag when you're seeing the sights at your destination. Pack the small version of the Wandrd Roam ( 3 liters ) and you'll have plenty of space for a compact camera, a spare lens, cables, a phone, a wallet, and more. The YKK weather-resistant zippers ensure things will stay dry in the rain. Available in 3, 6, and 9 liters , you can size up if you feel like you want to carry a little bit more on your journey. Read more about it in our Best Camera Bags guide .

An All-Day Stash

Think past the journey to the destination and consider how you'll keep your devices, maps, snacks, and charging accessories handy when you're at your destination. The Tour is our best all-day waist pack and another great mini bag to consider aside from the Wandrd Roam. Thanks to pockets galore, WIRED editor Michael Calore says he can fit a change of clothes and a couple of ready-to-eat meals in there, with room to spare. Two water bottle pockets and a zippered phone pouch maintain the essentials, and when the pack gets too heavy, an included shoulder strap turns it into a sling.

Entertainment is awfully limited if you rely on the seatback video system of an airplane, and its absent on trains, most buses, and some low-cost carriers. If you're feeling particularly active and want something other than a book or movie, delve into any fantasy world of your choosing with the Nintendo Switch OLED ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ). WIRED reviews editor Julian Chokkattu found the 7-inch OLED screen fantastic and the kickstand much-improved over the old model. It’s stable, secure, easy to pull out, and adjustable to a wide range of angles, and you can get that long gaming session in by propping it on your meal tray, no matter how far back the guy in front of you reclines his seat.

Bring Your Best Friend

More of us are taking our four-legged pals with us on our journeys these days, but the trials of travel are no easier on them than they are on us. WIRED senior reviews editor Julian Chokkattu loves this pet carrier for how stable and soft its base is. He says the straps are thicker than most competing bags, and they stayed on his shoulder securely. You can clip a leash to the built-in carabiner, and there's a small stash pocket for poo bags. The best part is how well-ventilated it is, and there are multiple ways to open the bag and check on your pet. It's compliant with most major airlines’ policies.

Make Yourself Understood

It's tough to learn a new language, especially if it's just for a vacation booked a few months in advance. But you really should know the basics of conversation to be a good guest. WIRED contributor Christopher Null reviewed the Pocketalk Plus Voice Translator ( 7/10, WIRED Review ), which translates conversations between different languages in real time. He praised how reasonably quickly it provided translations, its intuitive interface, and the number of supported languages. This kind of device makes sense only if you're traveling to multiple destinations in a year. Otherwise, you can probably get by with Google Translate.

If you want to work toward learning a new language yourself, check out our Best Language Learning Apps guide .

Connect the Unconnected

Love your wireless earbuds but hate that you can't connect them to the screen embedded in the airplane seat in front of you? The AirFly is a Bluetooth adapter that plugs into a standard headphone jack and connects to your wireless buds. I used the AirFly SE model, and I found no noticeable change in audio quality, at least from a few feet away when I took it on a flight. You get volume control buttons so you don't have to tap on the screen, and a double-tap mutes the audio too. Twelve South claims 20 hours of battery life, and although battery life can differ based on usage, it felt like a pretty accurate estimate in my experience watching movies and listening to music on the plane.

For Chilly Flights and Nights

You can't count on your hotel being as warm as you might like, and don't get me started on how cold they keep airplane cabins. Forget the scratchy blankets they sell on board and bring this lightweight, packable travel blanket if you're prone to the chills. I like how my feet fit in the “leg pockets,” my hands in the hand warmers, and how securely it stays around my neck with the button snap. The zippered pocket was perfectly sized for my AirPod case and for at least a few of those free snacks I felt like saving for later. It's also a great blanket to bring for road trips, in case you plan on sleeping in the car.

Don't Forget the Toothpaste

Consider this alternative to conventional toothpaste, especially if you find yourself butting up against the TSA's 3-1-1 rule . WIRED reviewer Medea Giordano enjoyed these toothpaste tablets while she was running tests for her Best Electric Toothbrushes guide. You just bite down on them and start brushing. You also get bonus points for reducing the amount of plastic waste you'd otherwise generate via toothpaste tubes—the packaging here is all glass bottles and compostable pouches.

Stay Hydrated

Travel, especially air travel, puts you in a bit of a bind when it comes to cutting down on your usage of single-use plastics. While you can't show up at the airport with your own drinks, you can do your part after you've passed through security. In my search for the best travel mugs , this Hydro Flask Coffee Mug came out on top. It's insulated, so it'll keep your coffee warm for longer than any flight. It's narrow enough to fit any cupholder, and no matter how much I banged it around, the tough powder-coated metal showed neither a scratch nor a dent. Unlike many water bottle manufacturers who use lead in their bottle construction , Hydro Flask has been lead-free since 2013.

Get Steamed

Hotels often have an iron and ironing board available, but I find it quicker and easier to steam my clothes. WIRED reviewer Medea Giordano and I both have been using Urpowers for years. For a tiny thing, it's powerful and effective at steaming practically anything in a minute or two. You just need to refill it often; one reservior is enough for one or two garments, at most. If you're going to another state or country for an important event, like a wedding, this is a must-have.

Eric Ravenscraft

Adrienne So

Scott Gilbertson

Julian Chokkattu

Nena Farrell

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34 Cool Travel Gadgets for Flights and Road Trips This Holiday

Consider these useful picks to solve your travel blues.

Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site. Why Trust Us?

The Travel Gadget Everyone Should Get

Incharge 6-in-1 portable keychain charger cable.

Best Old School Gadget

Brunton tag-along 9045 chill compass.

Best Travel Adapter

Newvanga universal travel adapter, all in one plug adapter with usb c.

Best Locking Carabiners

Gold lion gear aluminum carabiner with lock.

Best Portable Air Conditioner

Jisulife portable neck fan, hands free bladeless fan.

Best Door Lock Gadget

Winchy portable door lock home security door locker hotel.

Best Digital Notebook

Amazon kindle scribe (16 gb).

Best Sleep Headphones

Musicozy sleep headphones bluetooth 5.2 headband.

Best Watch Case for Traveling

Aukura 2 slot hard watch travel case.

Most Unique Travel Gadget

Cool material lock pick training kit.

The best travel gadgets and electronics should highlight an inefficiency in your travel routine and help solve the problem. A travel gadget should provide high functionality, comfort (or both) while also being considerate of space. If your travel gadget does not have any of these qualities, then it's going to be hard to make a case they're worth bringing along for the ride.

Read more: Best Gadgets of 2023

Companies are constantly trying to come up with new gadgets to improve the travel experience, but the only way of knowing which ones actually work is by vetting them in person or conducting thorough research. Lucky for you, we took the time to bring together a list of worthy travel gadgets that could help improve your travel experience by leaps and bounds. Ahead, the very best travel gadgets and travel electronics, curated with all types of travelers in mind.

2024 Tech Awards | Best Duffel Bags | Best Carry-On Luggage | Best MagSafe Wallets | Best Macbook Accessories | Best Travel Bags | Best AirTag Wallets | Best Travel Pants | Best T-Shirts | Best Backpacks

Power is everything when traveling, and a lot of times our chargers can take up tons of space. The inCharge is the size of a small keychain and has six different charging input and output combinations to provide power to your phone, headphones, e-reader, smartwatch , and more. For quick reference, the inCharge has these specific ports: an input USB-C, an output USB-C, a USB-A, and an output lightning plus micro USB.

Never under estimate old-school instruments. This portable gadget comes with a compass and a thermometer to always let you know about your environment. It's super portable (barely 3 inches by 2 inches) and will tie on any bag for easy access. Oh, and it's also made with recycled materials.

There are a zillion travel adapters out there. Our favorite is this three-in-one device that operates as a an outlet adapter, USB-C adapter, and a surge protector.

A carabiner with a locking function is a great gadget for keeping your items together—and for helping decrease the chances of theft. This pack of five here is our go-to for locking carabiners. Keep one or two on your backpack or travel duffel at all times.

News flash: it's always summer in some part of the world. This portable AC fan is a lifesaver when traveling to warm climates. Throw this baby around your neck and enjoy three different gears of air flow directly to your head and neck.

Door locks aren't a necessary gadget when traveling, but they do pose value in giving travelers peace of mind. This compact one here is easy to store away. And when in use, all you have to do is place the end of it in your door latch, shut the door, and then fold out the sides and tighten the bolt down.

An e-reader is a no brainer for travels, but Kindle's new Scribe throws in the ability to operate as a digital notebook. You can annotate your favorite book paragraphs and then open up your free pages for some travel journalling.

A pair of sleep headphones can help give you that added push to get you into a deep slumber. Throw these on whenever you need to drown out any background noise during your travels.

Sometimes more than one watch is needed for a trip. This hard case will hold up to two watches and protect them when getting from point A to point B.

Read more: Best Watch Boxes

This lock pick kit is very James Bond-esque in the way that it prepares your for the unpredictable. Will you ever actually need to pop open a lock? Probably not. But wouldn't it be cool to use your travels as a time to learn an interesting skill? Absolutely.

Field Notes Expedition Edition 3-Pack

For the ol' fashioned travel writer, a pack of weatherproof notebooks is in store. This three-pack from Field Notes is printed with waterproof and tearproof Yupo synthetic paper, so you won't have to worry about a little rain ruining your travel log.

County Comm Titanium UGM Tritium Keychain Cage

Ever heard of a tactical glowstick? Well you're looking at one. This keychain gadget is made of grade four titanium and comes tritium tubes that will glow up in the dark—thus, allowing you to spot your keys or other items easily at night.

Alpaka Gear Zip Pouch Pro

Compact, functional, and tough as nails, the Zip Pouch Pro is an easy side kick to turn to for travels. It's made from a strong and waterproof X-Pac material and features two zippered compartments and three external pockets for storage. Use it to hold cash, cards, keys multi-tools, pens, you name it.

Twelve South AirFly Pro

The AirFly allows your AirPods or headphones to be used to watch movies on your plane's in-flight entertainment center. We like the pro version of the AirFly, as it allows up to two people to connect to the same in-flight screen and watch at the same time. No more having to use the corded headphones that are passed out.

Groove Life Groove Belt

Making sure you look presentable while traveling is a subtle style move that will make you feel good and leave a positive impression on others. Ditch the pajamas and aim for a comfortable casual look. For keeping your pants in place, the Groove Belt is your best friend. It's wildly comfortable and simple to clip on and off, and it stretches enough to provide movement in all ranges of motion.

MATEIN Electronics Travel Organizer

There are a zillion electronic organizers out there, and really you can't go wrong with most of them. Our favorite, however, is this simple water-resistant pouch from MATEIN that has over 5,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. It's got enough space to hold all your charging cords, as well as a space for small e-readers or small tablets. Best of all is the fact it's less than $25.

Read more: Best Travel Backpacks

INIU Portable Small Power Bank USB C in/Output

Portable chargers are a must for every traveler, but traveling with a clunker is no fun. This super-portable power bank packs enough juice for full charge to your phone (10000mAh) and will slip into a small pocket for easy storage.

Pluto POD Travel Pillow

If you think all travel pillows are the same, think again. The Pluto POD acts almost like a sensory deprivation mask that works to block out sound and light with smart design notes like a slide-down eye mask and a deep hood. This travel pillow is perfect for promoting relaxation in the air and on the road.

LifeStraw Go 650 ml Water Filter Bottle - 22 fl. oz.

The LifeStraw Go is like any other refillable water bottle , except for the fact it's got a near-perfect filter built into, you guessed it, the straw. The LifeStraw can protect against a whopping 99.999999% of bacteria and 99.999% of parasites, making it a safe option for drinking water that comes from sinks and water foundations, and even some outdoor streams and rivers.

Kodak Luma 150 Ultra Mini Pocket Pico Projector

It's better to think of using this mini pocket projector at the hotel to watch your favorite shows or films, but in the rare chance you get stuck in a flight delay the projector can also be useful in helping entertain your kids. Regardless if you're a parent or not, this is an entertainment option that's fun for everyone.

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'ZDNET Recommends': What exactly does it mean?

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The best travel gadgets you can buy: Chargers, headphones, and more

The holiday season is here, and with it, lots of plans for travel to see family or just to get away. If you're already starting to stress about some of the logistics, don't worry -- there are things you can do and pack that make travel easier, less stressful, and combat some metaphorical turbulence. For example, you can slip an AirTag into your bag to at least know the whereabouts of "lost" luggage.

Also:   The best travel VPNs you can buy

AirTags, however, aren't the only tech travel gadget you should consider as a stowaway. There's lots of tech out there that can save you space, battery, trip memories, and all three combined. To find the gadgets best suited for the job -- and your luggage or even car --  I talked to travel experts and enthusiasts to see what they consider essential, and you should, too. Our pick for best travel tech gadget overall is Anker's 747 GaNPrime 150W charger  due to its compact form and its ability to charge up to four devices quickly. However, this charger is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to essential travel gadgets. Check out the rest of our top picks below. 

The best travel gadgets of 2024

Anker 747 ganprime 150w charger, best travel tech gadget overall.

• Can charge up to 4 devices quickly
• Compatible with iOS and Android devices
• USB-A and USB-C charging ports

Anker 747 GaNPrime charger features:  3 USB-C ports and 1 USB-A port | Can charge 2 laptops at once | Can charge up to 4 devices at once | 38% smaller than Apple's 140W charger, but packs in 10 more Watts (150W)

When you're traveling, it's important to keep all your devices powered and ready to go. Has anyone else ever had their phone die just as you're scanning your mobile boarding pass? To avoid that embarrassment, world traveler  Nick Yiu is saving up for the Anker 747 charger to power all his devices for the five flights he has coming up. Even though the brick is smaller than a standard Mac charger from Apple, it offers three USB-C style ports, a traditional USB-A port, and all at a whopping 150W total output. To put it in perspective, it's powerful enough to charge two laptops in a short amount of time. 

"This would replace the need to carry any additional power bricks, so you just need this one alone," said Yiu. 

The 747 also employs Anker's GaNPrime technology , which is a faster, more powerful, and even more sustainable semiconductor than traditional silicon chargers. Anker's ActiveShield 2.0 technology also monitors temperature throughout the day and makes the appropriate power output adjustments, safeguarding connected devices. For these reasons and more, this charger is even essential for ZDNET contributor  Jason Cipriani  when he travels for work. 

However, Cipriani points out that while the brick is compact, it is heavy, "falling out of most outlets, which is why Anker includes a plate that fits around the adapter and has a bunch of small suction cups to hold it against the wall." Aside from its density, the only other downside of the 747 power brick is the $110 price tag. However, when you factor in its adaptability and power, you're really paying for multiple charges rolled into one. 

Tessan International Plug Adapter

Best adapter for international travel.

• Lightweight
• 5 total USB ports
• Can use adapter for almost any country
• Enough wattage to charge a laptop
• Only compatible for 100V to 250V devices
• Max of 15W on USB-C

Tessan International Plug Adapter features: 2 USB-A ports (12W) | 3 USB-C ports (15W) | 4 different built-in plugs, which covers over 150 countries | 6 in 1 travel adapter outlet 

The New York Times' recent daily crossword  acknowledged that the most "annoying thing" you can forget to pack for a trip is, by far, a charger. Even more frustrating is remembering a charger, and don't forget that if you're traveling abroad, there's a high likelihood your charger won't work. Enter the Tessan International Plug Adapter. This compact tool has four different built-in plug types, which covers over 150 countries, and also includes a universal AC outlet that can convert plugs from the ES, EU, UK, and AU to fit your chargers' socket. 

Featuring five total USB ports, three of which are USB-C, this can also be used both internationally and domestically as a multi-charging brick. In fact, the executive editor of The Points Guy, Scott Mayerowitz , says this is one of his biggest tricks since they easily plug into airplane outlets and can be a one-stop, compact shop to keep track of different cords. 

This is especially a good option if you don't want the heavy price tag or physical weight of something like the Anker 747. It may not be as fast, but it's definitely efficient and price-conscious. However, keep in mind that devices requiring a higher voltage, such as a hair dryer , are only compatible with devices in the 150V-250V range. 

Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones

Best travel headphones.

• Noise canceling quality is best in class
• Long lasting battery life
• Advanced voice chat quality makes for quality video conferencing
• Over-ear headphones take up more space than earbuds
• Larger carrying case than previous generations

Sony WH-1000XM5  headphone features: Over ear, closed back | Bluetooth 5.2 | USB-C charging port | Up to 30 hours of battery (3 hours on a 3-minute charge) | 4Hz-40,000Hz frequency response 

Sony's WH-1000XM5 headphones are a cult classic. With market-leading active noise cancellation and up to 30 hours of battery, they've rightfully earned the top spot on our best headphones and  best noise-canceling headphones  list and in Lonely Planet Managing Destination Editor Alex Howard's favorite travel bag . 

"The drone of the engines disappears into a pleasant background hum, and you can focus on catching up with the Last of Us instead of the screaming baby a few rows over," Howard said.  

Excellent sound quality isn't their only travel perk; the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones include a folding design and compact carrying case, making them easy to take on the go for short and long trips alike. 

AirPods Pro 2

Best travel earbuds.

• Transparent and noise canceling quality is best in class
• Wireless charging
• Integrates Apple's FindMy system
• Remain some of the most expensive earbuds on the market
• If you have multiple Apple devices, beware of connectivity chaos
• Not the greatest for non-iPhone users

Apple AirPods Pro 2 features: 6-hour battery life and 30 hours in the case | IPX4 waterproof rating | 5.3 g each | Wireless charging | New Apple H2 chip 

Over-ear headphones are a powerful sound blocker, but they're not necessarily space-conscious. If you're not ready to sacrifice precious luggage real estate with headphones, no matter how compact or portable, a pair of pocket-sized noise-canceling earbuds can be just as effective. I personally never leave my apartment without my Apple AirPods Pro 2 or get on a plane without them. What I love about the second-gen AirPods is that they deliver outstanding sound quality in both noise-canceling and transparent modes . 

Also: Flying soon? Flighty is a must-have iOS app for air travel

Sure, it's great to block out the rattles of the subway car as I make my way to the airport or the crying baby on the plane, but it's also important to be aware when traveling. And with my AirPods, I can clearly hear the flight attendant announce which carousel my luggage has (hopefully) arrived at without having to pause Taylor Swift's "Welcome to New York" as I fly into the city, per Scott Mayerowitz's suggestion.

Plus, there's a built-in case speaker that makes it easy to ping your AirPods case if it's lost in the depths of your bag or waiting to be rescued from the airplane seatback pocket. Apple's FindMy feature also comes in handy to keep track of all Apple-associated devices when you're on the go, sending you a notification when one isn't on the move with you. The second-gen Pros also employ wireless charging, even via the Apple Watch charger, which may save you packing one less cable. 

Review: AirPods Pro 2 offer two big upgrades but connectivity chaos hasn't been tamed

Best travel tablet

• 12.9-inch screen and high resolution display
• 1600 nits at peak brightness
• Lightweight for an iPad Pro
• Doesn't have the newest M2 chip
• Camera suite isn't as updated as newer models

iPad Pro (2018) features: M1 chip | 12.9 inch Liquid Retina XDR display | WiFi 6 connection available | 12MP Ultra-Wide camera | 4K video recording at 30 fps or 60 fps | Five microphones and four speakers | FaceID | USB-C charging port 

Speaking of Apple, Alex Howard relies on his iPad Pro for inflight entertainment. But his main pro tip is to upgrade to a bigger storage size to "accommodate extra seasons of your favorite TV show when Wi-Fi is spotty." 

While a few years old, the 2018 iPad Pro features Apple's fast-performing M1 chip, a 12.9 Liquid Retina HDR display that makes for sharp and vivid visuals, and 1600 nits at peak brightness. Plus, if you take Alex's suggestion and opt for more storage, you won't face much latency and can let the high-res graphics shine. 

At  22.26oz and around $480 at most retailers, you won't be adding too much weight to your travel gear or your wallet, especially compared to the most recent iPad Pro model. Additionally, the iPad Pro 2018 (3rd generation) is compatible with the more sleek, capless second-generation Apple Pencil, which simply attaches to the magnetic strip to pair and charge . And if you're like me, it's great for taking notes that can even sync to and stay on your other devices while you're on the go. 

Of course, the iPad Pro 2018 also integrates Apple's FindMy system, making it easy to track and find as you destination hop. 

Duex Plus monitor

Best travel monitor.

• Folds up and flips out easily
• USB-C connectivity – no HDMI cords
• 1080p resolution
• Adds bulk to your laptop
• Pricey at $280
• Drains laptop battery

Duex Plus monitor features: 13-inch display | Compatible with Mac and Windows laptops | Auto-Rotation display | Multi-device compatibility | 1.33 mm | USB-C plug-and-play 

Traveling doesn't mean you have to sacrifice work productivity. If you, like me and many other working professionals, rely on a monitor to multitask, the Duex Plus is a great portable option. Coming with four adhesive magnets, the monitor easily attaches to your laptop cover and flips out hassle-free. From there, it's as easy as connecting via USB-C to either your Mac or Windows laptop -- no extra HDMI cord is needed. 

ZDNET's June Wan reviewed the monitor and was not only impressed with the easy setup but also with its ability to enhance his workflow, from responding to Slack messages to video editing. 

What makes the Duex optimal for travel is its ability to slide in and out from the laptop lid and then just collapse and act as a makeshift case before you pack it away in your back. While there's no need to lug around an extra bag or pack the monitor as a new entity, it unsurprisingly does add some bulk to your laptop. 

Review: This flip-out portable monitor is my productivity secret weapon

Insta360 X3

Best action camera for travel.

• 360-degree footage
• Compact and rugged for adventurous travel
• User-friendly
• 2.29-inch display makes for an excellent viewfinder
• Software support can be sluggish
• 360-footage requires a larger MicroSD card

Insta360 X3 features: 180g | 2.29-inch touchscreen | ½" 48MP sensor | Up to 5.7K resolution | 1,800 mAh removable battery | USB-C or MicroSD connectivity | Waterproof up to 33ft 

The best part of traveling is making memories and capturing them. However, lugging around a big camera takes up space, adds weight, and places limits on capturing fun action shots. As of right now, travel buff Nick Yiu likes throwing in his tiny but mighty GoPro to take versatile footage but has his eye on the Insta360 X3 action camera. As the name suggests, the camera films at every angle and assures you won't miss a shot -- even if you're skydiving. 

ZDNET's June Wan did have the chance to go hands-on with the Insta360 X3, and his experience confirmed that it's worth a spot on Nick's packing list and our best travel tech list. 

"Whether you're a professional or a beginner, the X3 brings a lot to the table for all to play," said Wan. 

This third-generation action cam is the Insta360's most compact, refined design yet and, according to Wan, "the exterior is gilded with a rugged blend of rubber and texturized ridges which assures you that the X3 can hang in the toughest outings and/or within the slipperiest of fingers." 

Perfect for long adventures, the camera is also capable of lasting two to three days on one charge, limiting yet another device you have to charge on your trip. Additionally, Insta360 puts "art" in artificial intelligence, as June Wan puts it, packing a suite of photo editing AI features on the back and front end. 

Review: Insta360 X3 360-degree action cam will blow you away  

Guide AI trip planner

Best travel planner.

• Personalized travel itinerary
• Hotel booking
• Can modify recommendations
• Group planning enabled
• Only available as a website
• No flight, transportation, or restaurant booking

Guide features: AI trip planning tool | AI chatbot to ask questions | Free | Can book hotels | Group planning

If you want to make your trip as seamless and efficient as possible, you need a trip planner. While not a tech gadget per se, a planner can help you stay organized before and during your trip, making travel much less stressful.  Guide is an AI travel planning tool that helps you create personalized itineraries based on your trip preferences. (Full disclosure: It's also ZDNET's sister brand. It's currently in private beta, but you can join a wait list.) Once you create an account, you can input your travel details, and Guide will generate a customizable schedule for your desired trip, with hotel, restaurant, activity, and attraction suggestions. 

You can modify Guide's suggested itinerary to your liking by adding new activities and restaurants or by moving current suggestions around -- a feature ZDNET associate editor Gabriela Perez Jordan loves. In a recent trip, she used Guide to find the top activities and restaurants to visit in Austin, Texas. 

With Guide, you can also send your schedule to friends and family to assist in the trip-planning process, or you can use its chatbot to ask your most burning questions regarding your destination. While you currently can't book any flights, transportation, or restaurant reservations through Guide, you can book and find great hotel deals powered by Expedia. 

What is the best travel tech gadget?

There are lots of tech gadgets that can optimize travel, from canceling out distractions on a long flight to capturing memories around you, and a device to power all of those devices. The items on this list consider functionality, durability, build, battery life, and more that hopefully enhance your journey.

 *Lowest price at the time of writing. Please note that prices may vary based on retailer and available promotions, sales, or discounts.

Which travel tech gadget should you buy?

All the items on this list were carefully selected, as most have various functionality for different needs, preferences, and even budgets. Here's a further breakdown if you're trying to decide which gadgets are essential for your next trip. 

How did I choose these travel tech gadgets?

To compile my list and decide which travel tech was the best of the best, I turned to experts and enthusiasts. I consulted Nick Yiu, who took 15 flights in 2022, the executive editor of travel publication The Points Guy,  Scott Mayerowitz , and Lonely Planet Destinations Managing Editor Alex Howard. As a frequent traveler myself, I also drew from my own experience and looked at products ZDNET has reviewed.  Ultimately, I weighted the following aspects when curating this list: 

• Design: When selecting travel tech gadgets, portability and design were top of mind since you must always consider where you will store your devices during your trip. Most, if not all, of these devices are lightweight and compact, perfect to store in a purse, backpack, carry-on, or suitcase. 
• Durability:  No one likes to buy products that break at first use, which is why I only included items you could buy and count on their performance for years to come.
• Price: Useful travel gadgets don't have to be a hefty investment, especially when you have hotel, transportation, and flights to consider -- or, let's be real, you can easily forget the gadgets in a car or hotel. The devices on this list are top-quality devices that won't break the bank. 
• Functionality: Traveling requires fitting all of your essentials in a tight, compact space. This means you should only take devices that advance common traveling components, such as charging your phone, tuning out noise on the plane, or storing and recording memories.  

What should I look for in a good piece of travel tech?

According to The Points Guy Executive Editor Scott Mayerowtiz, it's important to travel with tech that is lightweight, compact, and durable. 

"You might have to pay an extra $10 to $15, but it's well worth it to have the lightest device or the one with the battery that lasts that extra 20 to 30 minutes. It makes all the difference when you're on the road or in the air," he said. 

That said, it's also important not to get the most expensive item on the market, "How many chargers have you left in a hotel room when checking out in a rush?" joked Mayerowitz. "Maybe it doesn't have to be the 'best' product out there. Be mindful that things on the road get damaged." 

I considered Mayerowitzs' tips on what to look for when compiling this list -- making sure I talked to someone who had hands-on experience with every product and could vouch for it's quality. 

Is smart luggage worth it?

Smart luggage has been a hot-button item, but they don't necessarily make travel easier. If a smart suitcase has a lithium battery, you'll have to remove it before even getting to the airport. However, certain smart suitcases, like the Away suitcase, can be purchased without the lithium battery pack. 

Are there alternative travel tech gadgets worth considering?

While deciding on the best products on the market, we tried to find the best options to throw in your luggage and make your next trip as stress-free, entertaining, and easy as possible. 

However, there are also other options worth considering, depending on your different preferences and how you like to spend your travel time. 

ZDNET Recommends

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12 Best Travel Gadgets for Any Trip in 2021

Ed Hewitt started traveling with his family at the age of 10 and has since visited dozens of countries on six continents. He wrote for IndependentTraveler.com for more than 20 years, producing hundreds of columns on travel and offering his expertise on radio and television. He is now a regular contributor to SmarterTravel.

An avid surfer and rower, Ed has written about and photographed rowing competitions around the world, including the last five Olympic Games.

He's passing his love of travel on to the next generation; his 10-year-old son has flown some 200,000 miles already.

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When it comes to travel, I am overall anti-gadget; like many independent travelers, I’d rather pack light than lug tons of stuff around in an attempt to carry every convenience of home with me on the road. That said, some travel gadgets are essential to just about every packing list. Besides your smartphone—which is a given for just about all of us—I’ve come up with the 12 best travel gadgets that deserve inclusion in your carry-on.

Universal (All-in-One) Plug Adapter

After years of thrashing through a bag of adapters before every international trip, I was thrilled when all-in-one adapters started appearing on the market—that is, until I tried to use one in actual wall outlets.

Some outlets are recessed, requiring an extender that seemed not to be included in most adapter sets. Some adapters didn’t seem to correspond to the shape that you found in the guidebooks for the country you were visiting. Others were poorly made and came apart after a few days’ use.

That is mostly over, as today’s all-in-one adapters address most of these issues with a built-in extender on the European adapter plugs. Most have enough options that you will never be out of luck, and they tend to be better made to boot.

A couple of well-reviewed choices include offerings from NEWVANGA and Unidapt .

Noise-Canceling Headphones

“ Noise-canceling headphones were probably the best travel investment I have made,” says pro photographer Erik Dresser, who logs tens of thousands of air miles each year for his work. Dresser notes that the headphones let him shut out the general din of the aircraft so he can relax more easily, permit him to sleep in flight without getting woken up by chatting passengers and crying babies, and signal to others that he is not up for socializing.

USB Flash Drive

A USB flash drive (also known as a thumb drive) can come in handy on any number of occasions while traveling, such as sharing a document with the hotel front desk so they can print it for you or accessing a photo of your passport if it’s lost or stolen.

Amazon lists thousands of these ; most work pretty well.

Portable Phone Charger

On two separate occasions in the past few years (a company party and a fundraiser), the “party favor” was a small, rechargeable USB phone charger , probably the most useful and welcome party favor in history. The only thing about “party favor” quality chargers is that they tend to fail pretty quickly, so purchasing a good one is probably worth the money.

This one from Anker  will give you a heap of charges, which beats buying drinks you don’t need at a coffee shop just to be able to plug in.

For more recommendations, see SmarterTravel’s list of the best portable chargers .

Car Charger

If you will be renting a car or driving your own vehicle on a road trip, bring a car charger/adapter . Recharging your stuff while driving helps combat the “not enough accessible outlets in the hotel” factor and allows you to use your device to map your route, play a podcast , or distract your kids in the back seat without running down the battery. The Maxboost Car Charger seems to be the leader in this realm, ranking #1 on Amazon’s best sellers list in this category.

Weatherproof Phone Case

In my informal gadget survey of friends who travel frequently, the one thing that few of them owned but many were thinking of getting was a weatherproof phone case . At home, such cases often seem overly bulky, but when traveling they’ve found it more common to get caught out in bad weather.

“ Ziploc bags work to protect the phone, but actually using the phone through a wet plastic bag is a mess,” one noted.

LifeProof cases are the go-to for many hardcore travelers, while PunkCase is a well-regarded option at a lower price point.

Bringing a tablet as well as a phone had always seemed like just too much stuff to me—until newspaper and magazine apps started getting good. I used to leave home with more than five pounds of paper reading material, which I left behind for other potential readers in airplane seatback pockets, gate areas or hotel lobbies; now I download magazines and books to a tablet.

Tablets come in a wide range of price points; click here to browse.

For heavy vacation/travel reading, many hardcore readers swear by the Kindle because it’s so easy to read outside in strong light. If you read a ton while traveling, and in all kinds of places, a branded Kindle e-reader is probably the way to go in lieu of a tablet.

Solar Charger

For hardcore travelers who might spend long periods of time away from plugs of any kind—such as backcountry hikers, climbers, and campers— solar chargers are a useful addition to a packing list. Sure, part of the point of heading into the backcountry is getting away from connectivity, but that doesn’t mean that GPS devices, cameras, or even smartphones are completely verboten.

Leading brands for solar chargers include Goal Zero and Suntactics .

Mobile Hotspot

Depending on which cell phone plan you use, a mobile hotspot can save you money on international plans and data charges. These devices broadcast a secure, dependable Wi-Fi signal you can use in any country, without having to rely on sketchy public Wi-Fi signals or use your own pricey data. Well-reviewed options include devices from NETGEAR and GlocalMe .

Sun-/Insect-Repellent Shirt

This isn’t exactly a gadget, but clothing has become quite technical in nature and can provide more than just routine cover. Many companies make pants , socks , and shirts that provide specific protection from both sun and insects, including measurable UV protection as well as EPA-certified insect repellent properties. Many are lightweight and breathable as well, making this a “tech” purchase perfectly suited to travel.

The Insect-Repellent Clothing and Gear Every Traveler Should Have

Smart Suitcase

We’re in the early days of smart suitcases , but the idea is extremely compelling—being able to check on your smartphone where your bag is, how heavy it is, and whether it has been opened. Many smart suitcases even provide the ability to charge devices through a USB connection.

There are also simple tracking devices you can put into your luggage, so that might be another way to tap into this type of tech without going all in on an expensive bag. As this tech comes into its own, soon enough tracking our own bags might seem almost routine.

Away’s The Carry-On will charge your phone and comes recommended by gear review sites, including SmarterTravel .

More from SmarterTravel:

• 7 Tiny Travel Gadgets You Can’t Leave Home Without
• 4 Surprising Low-Tech Gadgets You Need
• 9 Travel Products That Take the Stress Out of Your Trip

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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23 Best Travel Electronics, According to Tech Experts

Make your next trip easier with these useful gadgets and tech accessories.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

That’s why we've put together this list of the best travel electronics and tech gadgets to save some extra room for in your luggage.

Our top picks:

Best Travel Gadget for WiFi

Verizon jetpack mifi 8800l.

Best Travel Gadget for Smartphones

Anker 325 power bank (powercore 20k).

Best Travel Gadget for Filming Content

Dji osmo mobile 6.

Best Wall Charger for Travel

Anker 40w 4-port usb wall charger.

Best Travel Gadget for Sleeping

Marpac rohm portable white noise sound machine.

Best Travel Gadget for Luggage

Apple airtag.

Etekcity Luggage Scale

Best Portable Speaker for Travel

Ultimate ears wonderboom 3.

Best Travel Gadget for Charging

Best Travel Gadget for Clothing

Oliso m2 mini project steam iron with solemate.

At the Good Housekeeping Institute , we review and test all types of travel gear in our Labs, from luggage trackers and noise-canceling headphones to carry-on suitcases and packing cubes . Our recommendations here include products we've tested first-hand in our own travels and swear by, as well as popular picks we found by researching seasoned travelers' rave reviews online.

Read on to learn more about the most useful travel gadgets to bring along on your next adventure, and find more information about how we make our recommendations at the bottom of this guide. Looking for more travel tips? Check out our best travel tips for families and our guide to the best luggage brands for every type of traveler .

If you need solid coverage and strong Wi-Fi on your next trip, consider this Verizon Jetpack that enables you to connect up to 15 devices to your very own personal WiFi network in over 200 countries . Our tech experts like that it works on a reliable Verizon network and has impressive battery life (in our Lab tests, the battery lasted a full day, holding up to the brand's claims). Plus, it can even charge your phone if you can't get find an empty outlet at the airport. Just keep in mind that you'll have to purchase a separate data plan from Verizon to use.

Having your phone die on you while you're exploring a new place is never ideal, especially if you want to snap a photo or access Google Maps. This portable charger will be there to give you enough juice to stay connected. We love its slim, compact design, which should easily fit into any size travel backpack . We also like that it can charge two devices at once via its USB-A ports . When you've used up all the battery life, we found it easy to recharge the power bank via micro-USB or USB-C.

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Pack this lightweight, compact gadget if you want smooth, stabilized footage of your vacation. The gimbal stabilizer is designed to hold your phone securely in place and has built-in controls that allow you to rotate it in one sweeping motion — a.k.a. the image will be way steadier than your shaky hand. Our tech pros love that this device not only helps create professional-looking footage, but it comes with a tripod and a magnetic clamp to make attaching your phone super easy.

Doesn't it always seem like hotel rooms never have enough outlets? This charger has a whopping four USB plugs, making it a great choice for a family or anyone who wants to charge their phone, tablet, headphones and smartwatch all at once . We also like the Anker 735 charger if you want to leave your bulky MacBook charger at home and use the compact design to power your computer, phone and more.

If you or your little ones are used to sleeping with a sound machine on at home, you'll want to bring along this top-rated portable white noise machine. This model has three different sound options to help drown out any noises that could disturb your sleep, like noisy neighbors or honking city horns. Best of all, it's super small (just 3.8 ounces) and doesn't require an outlet, since it can be recharged via USB.

If you're worried about losing your luggage, we suggest investing in a luggage tracker . Just tuck one of Apple's compact AirTags inside your suitcase, wallet or even passport holder so you can keep tabs on everything right from your phone . Though you need to use Apple's ecosystem, we love that AirTags offer easy real-time tracking and a one-year battery lifespan.

If you're notorious for overpacking or shopping on vacation, bring this lightweight and compact gadget on your next trip to avoid extra luggage fees for overweight suitcases . Just hook it on your suitcase to get an instant read. Lexie Sachs , the executive director of the Textiles Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute, says she's gotten tons of use out of this luggage scale over the years and it's helped her figure out how to divvy up her belongings between bags to avoid going over the weight limit on the way home.

There's nothing worse than arriving at your Airbnb only to realize you forgot your Bluetooth speaker . Our tech experts recommend bringing along this portable option from Ultimate Ears. Not only does its compact size make it easy to stuff in your bag, but we found that it packs a surprisingly loud punch . It's waterproof (it can even float in the pool!), has a long 14-hour battery life and can be paired up with another Wonderboom 3 speaker for stereo sound.

Why travel with tons of different cables when all you need is this handy multi-charger keychain that you can attach to a purse or keys? We love that it's designed to not get tangled up in your bag and that it features multiple outputs and inputs (like USB-C, USB-A, micro-USB and a lightning port for your iPhone) so you can power up all your devices. Just keep in mind that the cable is on the shorter side, so your device will need to be close at hand.

If you're tired of dealing with wrinkled clothing after a long day of travel, we've found that this steam iron is great for tackling small jobs on the go . In testing, our Cleaning Lab pros were impressed with the iron's ability to press out heavy creases as well as how lightweight it is ( only 2.2 lbs.). We found that it's easy to maneuver and comes with a useful silicone rest.

JOOMFEEN Travel Adapter

If you plan on traveling abroad, you'll want to pack a universal charger so you don't end up having to go out and buy a new one for your phone, tablet or computer. Our pros like this compact pick that can be plugged into most countries' respective outlets . Once you've plugged the adapter into the wall, all you need to do is plug your U.S. charger in and say goodbye to dead batteries. It also features two USB ports for simultaneous charging of multiple devices.

Amazon Fire HD 10 Tablet

With a Fire tablet, you can download Kindle books or stream your favorite shows to stay entertained in the car or at the airport . It's lightweight and gives you the many benefits of a traditional tablet , minus the hefty price tag. Plus, it claims to have a battery life that lasts up to 12 hours. We also like the Fire HD 10 Kids model if you're looking for a tablet for your children.

Bose QuietComfort 45 Headphones

Our testers found these noise-canceling headphones super comfortable, making long flights a lot more bearable. They f eature excellent sound quality, and we like that you can easily switch between Quiet and Aware modes , so you can hear important flight announcements without taking them off. Just don't forget to bring along the included cable so you can use the plane's audio jack if needed.

Sony WF-1000XM4 Noise-Canceling Wireless Earbuds

If you're someone who struggles to find earbuds that remain comfortable after a few hours, our tech experts recommend these wireless earbuds from Sony. They're an excellent AirPods alternative featuring impressive battery life and soft silicone ear-tips . And on top of the fantastic sound quality, they also come with noise-canceling features so they're a good choice for planes.

Amazon Paperwhite

On trips, you probably don't have the space in your bag to carry around heavy, bulky books. We love this travel-sized Kindle Paperwhite e-reader , which makes downloading all kinds of books from anywhere in the world (in your language) so simple. We especially love that this model is IPX8-rated , so you don't have to worry if it accidentally falls in the pool or the bathtub . This IP (ingress protection) rating signifies that it can handle continuous water submersion. It's also so lightweight that you likely won't even notice it in your bag.

GoPro HERO9

Leave behind your iPhone and take photos and videos on your next adventure with this tiny camera. It's made to capture the action as you ski, dive, hike, bike and more with its super durable, waterproof design (you can take it down to 33 feet deep according to GoPro). It has tons of compatible accessories to help you film, like a helmet strap and a chest mount . Our tech pros love that it shoots in 5K so you're guaranteed sharp, high-quality memories once your trip is over. If you want the most up-to-date GoPro technology and features, consider the pricier GoPro HERO11 .

LifeProof FRĒ

A waterproof phone case can save your phone from serious damage should it accidentally fall in the pool while you're snapping some photos. We like this LifeProof model because we're confident it will keep your phone dry and unharmed thanks to its built-in screen cover and solid construction: In our tests, it even survived an hour of full submersion in 6.5 feet of water !

Joby GripTight ONE GorillaPod Stand

It can be frustrating when no one is around to take a family photo for you. Fortunately, this popular tripod from Joby comes with a clamp for your phone (no matter which model you have) as well as flexible legs that you can wrap around objects like a tree branch.

BUBM Electronic Organizer

This super affordable electronic organizer will keep you from losing track of any cables, chargers, memory cards and more . Offered in ten different colors, we love that it folds up into a flat shape that will easily fit into a backpack or suitcase. There's also a convenient zipper closure for items that you want to store more securely.

Case-Mate Marine Waterproof Floating Pouch

Though most smartphones these days are waterproof, most of us still don’t feel comfortable taking our precious devices into a body of water. But if you plan on doing any water sports during your trip, bring along this waterproof pouch. Though we haven’t tested it in our Labs, it's rated IPX8 which means that it's been tested to withstand continuous water submersion without risking harm to your device . Our experts like that it features a touchscreen window so you can easily take photos and that, according to the brand, it floats.

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23 Best Travel Gadgets That'll Make Your Next Trip Even Better

For more organized, manageable, and unforgettable adventures.

This cohort of travel tech is also constantly evolving, and it's increasingly becoming more portable: Handy enough to fit in your carry-ons or use on the go. Altogether, the best travel gadgets can make your trips more organized, manageable, and unforgettable—just better through and through. Hence, from tools you'll actually use during transportation or overnight stays, to devices that'll help you enjoy sceneries of a foreign land to the fullest, we recommend these 23 best travel gadgets below for every type of traveler and journey. Grab a cool instant camera , a portable WiFi hotspot , a universal power bank , or even a pair of binoculars, for example, then you'll really be bon-voyage-ing.

JEPWCO G4 Pro Anti Spy Detector

You never know what kind of creeps are lurking at your hotel room or AirBnb. Hence, a wireless hidden device detector that'll blow the gaff on those pinhole cameras, audio bugs, and trackers. And, it doesn't look like a detective's walkie-talkie, which is cool.

Omnicharge Omni 20+ 20000mah Power Bank

A portable charger on the road or in the air will prove a life-saver during those unexpected power-off moments. The Omni 20+ is one almighty power bank capable of charging your cameras, drones, laptops, and phones simultaneously, at up to 100W—one of the fastest speeds we've ever seen. It's got ports of all kinds for that matter, ready to lend a hand to all the heavy travel tech you'll bring along.

Apple AirTag, 4-Pack

Of course, you have to get some AirTags. Four is the perfect number, because you can insure you never lose your wallet, passport, carry-on, and checked bag.

furid Airtag Wallet

There's no reason to add any extra stress to your trip. Get an AirTag wallet and save yourself from a succession of mini heart attacks.

Leica SOFORT 2 Instant Camera (Black)

Most polaroids are too big and bulky to really enjoy. For any vacation, you should either get a disposable camera or this brand new Leica point and shoot. It takes digital photos you can develop later, but it can also print those photos immediately onto little polaroids.

Bellroy Tech Kit

We won't tell you what iPhone chargers or power adapters to get—you probably already have the best. But we do recommend a carry-on organizer for all your essential tech accessories, and Bellroy's tech kit has a place for every possible one you might need while traveling.

Twelve South AirFly Pro

Simply put, it's a TikTok viral gadget that'll connect your AirPods —or any wireless headphones and earbuds—to the airplane TV. A godsend for your inevitably long, dull flight across the country, or the globe.

Garmin Instinct 2 Solar GPS Watch

Garmin's GPS watch beats Apple's latest release —the Ultra—to the punch at something any outdoorsman can appreciate: It's solar-powered. I.e. Instinct 2 has unlimited battery life as long as you keep the lights on. And it's built like a beast with a tough-as-nails anti-water/shock/heat case. It'll keep up with wherever you're traveling to, whatever extreme activity you might partake.

Therabody SmartGoggles

The last row of economy feels like first class when you put these on. They calm you down or put you to sleep with massages around your eyes and temples.

Cadence Starter Set

I talked about these little to-go skincare containers in our editors' travel hacks story . Instead of using drug store travel-sized products, you can take your expensive hair and skin care regimes on the road with you.

Solis Lite Hotspot & Power Bank

The last thing you need while traveling is to go offline—especially if you don't speak the local language. Thus, a WiFi hotspot , like the Solis, which is one of the easiest to operate. Just connect it to the mobile app and pay for the data, then off you go—web surfing, messaging, or any easy Internet usage. Cell carriers be damned.

DJI OM 5 Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer

Not just any selfie-stick. Use DJI's smart gimbal that is anti-wobbling to up your photography or vlogging skills to match even the pros. The ActiveTrack algorithm will automatically follow main objects in the frame for an HD focus. They can be walking, running, swimming, zig-zagging... This gimbal don't miss.

Bose Alto Audio Sunglasses

Flexing designer shades on the go is pretty much any traveler's second nature. Bose's classic-cool smart sunglasses , with open-ear audio built in to play music only for you, will save you a pair of headphones at that, while letting you stay alert (of those pickpockets, specifically).

VSSL Adventure Flask Kit

More than just a drinking vessel kit for passing around whiskey to your traveling mates during a makeshift happy hour, though that's definitely its main purpose. VSSL adds an LED light, compass, and a bottle opener to the setup, so folks who are really outside adventuring can stay safe and sound, and, of course, enjoy some sips.

Trova Go Biometric Stash Case

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Trova's portable biometric safe is for travelers who keep essentials with them as they wander through a whole new city or countryside of beautiful landscapes—so... Any traveler? Only you can access what's inside, so you can fully let down your guards and actually enjoy the trip, stress-free.

Vortex Optics Crossfire HD Binoculars

So, when you're at the top of Lady Liberty, you're able to get a clear shot of what's happening down there through its 10x magnification—and maybe spot your long-lost cousin? Or for when you're at Yellowstone and need a HD view of what's two miles ahead before venturing farther into the wild.

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Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e

Everybody needs some Don't Talk to Me headphones. These from Bowers & Wilkins so comfortable and sound so great that I awarded them in our Esquire Gadget Awards .

The Nori Press

An iron and an ironing board are rarely guaranteed, so plenty of fashion types carry a steamer with them. The Nori Press is the best clothes steamer out there because it combines the features of steamer and iron. It's lightweight and packable, but it can set a nice sharp crease.

TUMI Just In Case Tote

Alright, this is pushing the definition of gadget, but hear me out. This nylon tote packs down to the size of a book. Slip it into any suitcase or backpack, and forget it's there. Then—if you have extra stuff to bring home or just pack more lazily—pull it out, expand it and toss all your leftover stuff in it. It's my favorite travel hack product.

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27 Travel Gadgets That Are Too Cool To Resist

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Some of them are just too fun to miss, others add extra convenience to our experiences, yet others open up new realms in the world of technology. You’ve guessed it: we’re talking about travel gadgets!

These smart tools that have forever changed how we experience the world are life savers for today’s travelers. They solve some of the most annoying travel problems, keep our stuff organized on the go, and make the best travel gifts for nomads on the go.

We’ve scoured the internet and our very own backpacks and suitcases to find the products that make our trips better. From life-saving sanitizing devices to portable coffee makers, there’s a world of cool, innovative travel gear out there that can improve your next adventure in ways you’ve never imagined.

Here are 27 cool travel gadgets ready to make your trips safer, easier, or simply more enjoyable.

Travel-Friendly UVC Sterilizer

A handy little thing to take on holidays, the CleanWave Portable Sanitizing Wand uses UVC (ultraviolet C) light to sanitize surfaces and help you protect yourself against invisible germs. Small enough to fit in a small purse, this travel-friendly device kills 99.9 percent of germs without the use of chemicals and is extremely easy to use. Just sweep the battery-powered wand over the surface/object you want to sterilize, and you’re good to go.

Smart Carry-On Suitcase

Finding the best aluminum suitcase for your next vacation depends on a number of factors, including your personal style, design preferences, and needs. For those who want to look and feel like James Bond, Samsara is for you!

Made of lightweight polycarbonate and durable aviation-grade aluminum, this futurist Grand Carry-On is sleek, compact, and loaded with tech features. The integrated Apple AirTag technology helps you track your suitcase when you’re apart, while the flat top allows you to use it as a portable working surface when traveling. On top of that, the bag comes with smooth-rolling spinner wheels, TSA-approved combination locks, and is made with recyclable materials.

Action Camera

Say hello to the world’s smallest hands-free action camera! The sleek, aerodynamic design, along with its innovative features and a myriad of accessories designed to extend its functionality, make the Insta360 GO 3 the perfect travel companion for the adventure-inclined.

Aside from delivering quality photos and videos in any situation (can shoot at up to 2.7K resolution), the action camera is IPX8 water-resistant and comes with convenient magnetic mounting, FlowState image stabilization, and an Action Pod which doubles as a 2.2″ flippable touchscreen and wireless remote.

Award-Winning Flashlight

If you’re looking for a smart and compact source of light for your next adventure, look no further than the Red Dot-awarded HOTO Flashlight DUO . This cool travel accessory offers 13 unique light combinations and is cleverly designed with a magnetic base, a retractable magnetic hook, and a strap, making it easy to wrap or hang around the camp. Powered by a 3200mAh large-capacity lithium-ion battery, it offers up to 65 hours of use.

Pocket-Size Washing Machine

Whether you are backpacking through Europe, going on an African safari, or traveling on a budget in South Asia, you are going to love the Scrubba Wash Bag . Equipped with a flexible washboard, this lightweight, pocket-size wash bag will not only help you do your laundry anywhere on the road but also save you money and time.

With only 2-4 liters of water and a bit of washing liquid, you’ll have your clothes fresh and clean in less than 3 minutes. So yeah, we think it’s pretty safe to say it’s one of the best travel gadgets for campers, backpackers, and anyone venturing off the beaten path.

Portable Power Station

Ideal for camping and RV adventures, the EcoFlow DELTA mini Portable Power Station comes equipped with an outstanding 882Wh battery, helping you power your appliances and devices in areas where electrical outlets are not available. The unit can be fully recharged through a 12/24V car port in less than 10 hrs or by solar panels in about 4 – 7 hrs, and its wide array of outlets allows you to charge up to 12 devices simultaneously.

Sandless Beach Mat

Calling all beach lovers! The C-Gear Original Sand-Free Mat is a revolutionary beach accessory that’s literally impossible to cover with sand. Initially intended for military uses, this clever sand-free ground sheet is perfect for a fun and stress-free beach outing. Finally, no more annoyingly sticky sand! Now you can make the most of your seaside experience while lounging in the warm sunshine, reading a book, or spreading out a picnic.

Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot & Power Bank

With Solis Lite , you don’t have to worry about foreign SIM cards or roaming charges when traveling the world.

One of the best mobile Wi-Fi hotspots on the market, this ingenious connectivity gadget offers unlimited 4G LTE service in over 135 countries around the globe. Each device can support up to 10 connections and also works as a portable charger for your phone or tablet while on the move, thanks to its integrated 4700 mAh power bank. A day pass is $9 and gives you unlimited internet access for 24 hours.

Tiny and Lightweight Travel Drone

With its 48-megapixel 1/1.3-inch sensor, a new RC controller for improved user flying experience, and up to 34 minutes of flying time, DJI’s Mini 3 Pro is no doubt one of the best travel drones out there. The small, lightweight device is packed with intelligent features and can fly as far as 7.4 miles away, allowing you to capture the beauty of your surroundings in flawless HD video at 4K/60fps, 2.7K/60fps or 1080p/120fps, as well as photographs in 48MP RAW or JPG format.

Perfect for travelers always eager to immortalize and share their adventures on the go, this sleek & silent high-tech flying camera comes with obstacle detection and ActiveTrack following, as well as multiple flight modes. Best of all, it’s under 250 g, meaning it can be flown without a license in most countries.

Compact Travel Steam Iron

Featuring a 350-watt motor and three fabric heating levels, this mini travel steam iron from Amazon is a lifesaver on the road. The compact device will easily fit into a carry-on bag and can be extremely useful for business travelers and basically anyone willing to remove the inevitable wrinkles from packed clothing. The Sharper Image SI-755 Dual Voltage Travel Iron heats up in 1 minute and has a run time of about 6 minutes.

Waterproof Outdoor Speaker

Allowing people to listen to music anytime, anywhere, a portable speaker is a must-have for any traveler who wants to make the most of the outdoors without compromising on any of the luxuries of the indoors. The Beosound Explore is Bang & Olufsen’s smallest and most affordable Bluetooth speaker, but don’t let that fool you, as sound quality is nothing short of grand.

Its gigantic 27 hours of battery life, along with a sleek and durable design, which is also scratch-resistant and waterproof, makes this easy-to-use portable Bluetooth speaker a reliable travel companion.

Cool Backpack

Who says a backpack has to be boring? Crafted from durable, recycled materials, the Ramverk Backpack 21L from Db is as sleek as it is tough, not to mention compact, lightweight, and endlessly functional.

Undoubtedly one of the best backpacks we’ve tested , it sports a separate laptop section, a handy top pocket for quick access to essentials, and a fully-opening main compartment designed for versatile organization and storage opportunities. When combined with Db’s S Camera insert (sold separately), for instance, the daily backpack becomes a practical photography bag with easy access to your equipment. The innovative Rib Cage technology provides structure and protection, while the patented Hook-up system allows it to connect with the brand’s roller bags for a seamless travel experience.

Noise-Canceling Headphones

A pair of noise-canceling headphones can significantly improve your travel experience, and this lightweight, ergonomically designed model offers excellent sound quality and noise-canceling abilities in a stylish, comfortable package that won’t break the bank. Powered by the brand’s V1 processor, the Sony WH-CH720N Noise Canceling Wireless Headphones allow you to listen to your favorite songs while still being able to hear traffic noise and transport announcements.

The set delivers up to 35 hours of power, comes with a built-in microphone for hands-free calling, and can be paired with two Bluetooth devices at the same time. Compatible with both Alexa and Google Assistant.

Personal Biometric Safe

A personal safe might not be the most obvious thing to bring on a trip, but if you’re traveling with valuable objects or the security of your accommodation is questionable, they’re an absolute necessity. Made of strong and lightweight aluminum alloy and equipped with smart technology, the TROVA GO PLUS keeps your cash, jewelry, and documents safely locked away wherever you go. This personal biometric safe connects to your phone and its proprietary app via Bluetooth, allowing you to find out its battery life, last known location, when left open, or if it needs a charge.

Hidden Camera Detector

Being watched in a vacation rental is a scene straight out of every traveler’s nightmare. Make sure this never happens to you with the JEPWCO G10 Pro Camera Detector . Thanks to its advanced technology, this stylish, portable spy camera finder can accurately detect hidden cameras and RF signals from suspicious devices, as well as GSM, 2G, 3G, 4G mobile signal and radio waves within 15 meters. Better yet, its sleek, portable design means you can stash it in your bag and take it anywhere.

Satellite Hotspot Device

Designed to keep Android or iOS devices connected even when there is no cellular service, the Motorola Defy Satellite Link lets adventurers communicate while off the grid. Made of rugged materials, this slick, pocket-sized device uses Bluetooth to pair with a smartphone, enabling users to share messages with their loved ones and connect to professional assistance via the SOS button. This must-have travel gadget includes one year of SOS service and messages and is powered by a 600 mAh Li-Po battery providing up to 4 days of use.

Travel Vacuum Storage Bag Set

Small, smart, and stylish, this electric vacuum pump is the ultimate travel packing gadget. Each Vmstr Travel Vacuum Storage Bag Set includes 8 storage bags of different sizes and a USB-powered vacuum pump that removes all the excess air compressing the clothes, thus leaving plenty of room in your suitcase for souvenirs and other things you may buy on your trip.

It’s an essential travel tool, especially if you’re adding a bit of shopping to your trip or are traveling somewhere cold and need to bring along some heavy winter wear.

Water Purifier Bottle

Most of the travelers’ health problems are caused by contaminated drinking water, which means a water purification system is a must when traveling abroad. This is especially useful when venturing into remote locations with harsh environmental conditions or destinations such as the Middle East, Central America, Asia, or Africa, which are also known for their unsafe tap water. Fortunately, these days there are many products designed to help in such circumstances.

GRAYL’s Ultralight Purifier , for instance, is a state-of-the-art device capable of transforming almost any tap or clear natural water source into pure drinking water in just 15 seconds. Perfect for travelers and outdoor adventurers, each bottle comes equipped with a replaceable purifier cartridge, providing protection against viruses, bacteria, heavy metals, as well as many chemicals. This is an excellent way to get safe drinking water on the go, while at the same time, saving money on bottled water.

Best Tree Tent

Experience the wilderness like a pro with the Tentsile Connect Tree Tent , a dangling two-person shelter combining the comfort and versatility of a hammock with the security of a tent. Designed for the ultimate arboreal camping experience, this awesome piece of travel gear comes with fold-away doors and a removable rain fly, and can also be attached to other Connects to create one suspended super-camp.

The unique design and sturdy, high-quality materials make this portable treehouse ideal for year-round outdoor adventures.

Flask Light

Part flashlight, part booze container, this unique multifunctional tool is one of the best travel accessories for glamping enthusiasts, festival goers, fishing aficionados, and anyone in between.

In addition to holding 10 ounces of your favorite beverage, the VSSL Flask includes 2 collapsible stainless steel shot cups, a bottle opener, a compass, and a powerful LED flood beam flashlight. If you ask me, I’m pretty sure this would also make an inspired Christmas or birthday present for the outdoor adventurer in your life.

Travel Coffee Maker

Compact, lightweight, and cleverly designed, the WACACO Cuppamoka Pour-Over Coffee Maker makes brewing coffee on the go simple and easy without taking too much space in your travel bag. Made of BPA-free stainless steel, this portable coffee make combines a sleek, insulated travel mug with a built-in coffee dripper, meaning that aside from making a great cup of coffee, it’s also able to hold it at the right temperature. The leakproof drinking lid is a nice touch too.

Best Multisport GPS Watch

Combine style and adventure with the new Garmin epix Pro (Gen 2) Standard Edition, one of the best multisport outdoor watches on the market. Complete with a top-notch AMOLED display, a wide range of tracking capabilities, plus built-in GPS, smart notifications, and music storage, this versatile, lightweight device has you covered whether you’re skiing in the Alps, swimming in the Med, or hiking off the beaten path in Nepal. Available in multiple models, colors, and sizes.

Handy Sleep Product

Getting a good rest when traveling can be difficult, but this nifty device makes it easy. In addition to blocking annoying noise, the Yogasleep Rohm Travel Sound Machine comes complete with three soothing sounds, including white noise, deep white noise, or gentle surf, helping you sleep (or concentrate) anytime, anywhere. Compact enough to throw in your carry-on luggage, this is one of the coolest travel accessories to bring along on loud planes, busy campsites, or clamorous hotel rooms.

Wallet Credit Card Multi-Tool

With its sleek, TSA-approved design and strong 4x heat-treated steel construction, the Wallet Ninja Multi-Tool is an excellent travel gadget. Ideal for explorers, adventurers, and any well-prepared traveler out there, this stylish credit card folding knife functions as a screwdriver, bottle opener, cellphone stand, fruit peeler, and hex wrench & nail puller, among others, making for an extremely useful tool when hiking or camping in the woods.

Portable Cinema

Tired of missing out on your favorite series while traveling? With the Formovie P1 Pocket Laser Projector , you don’t have to. Equipped with a type-C charging port, built-in speaker, and wireless screen casting, this ALPD smart laser projector acts as a portable cinema, allowing you watch movies, play games, and look at your travel photos anywhere. Though not much larger than a power bank, it’s capable of projecting images up to 100 inches in size and works with any iOS/Android smartphone or Windows computer.

Ostrich Pillow

Ostrich Pillow is an extremely useful accessory for when you’re on the go and just need a quick nap to refresh and increase productivity.

Envisioned by Kawamura-Ganjavian architecture and design studio, this groundbreaking product prevents jet lag (a common problem for long-distance travelers) by providing you with a micro-sleeping environment. Although it might seem a little weird, its design is fun and intuitive, featuring polystyrene filling and a soft interior that allows you to sleep anytime, anywhere without being distracted by noise, light, and other things going on around you.

Smartphone Breathalyzer

Compatible with iPhone and Android devices, the BACtrack Vio Smartphone Keychain Breathalyzer  is a fun and affordable way to estimate your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC). The gizmo is shaped like a USB flash drive and connects to your smartphone via the free BACtrack app. Be aware, though, this breathalyzer doesn’t have a professional-grade sensor integrated, so don’t use it to judge whether or not you are sober enough to drive.

Tip: For those with a penchant for design, our product discovery newsletter , Vivid Red, is a must-join. Dive into a curated collection of awe-inspiring finds, delivered to your inbox every Sunday. Best of all, it won’t cost you a dime!

I really like the sand less products. After a beach vacation my car looks like it needs a major detailing job. Sand less products would really help…how about sand less flip flops!

I always travel with a canister of powder from the local dollar store when taking a beach/sand outing. Sprinkled liberally on damp sandy feet and quickly brushed off with a small towel brings remarkable results. Sprinkle on flip/flops and tap them together, similar results.

Finally a list of things that I actually want!

Scrubba Wash Bag is the most useful thing when travelling. You can use it as “washing machine” and also as a waterproof bag todo keep safe all your gadgets. It’s really worth it.

I love mine and everyone I show it too is amazed by it and the results you get from it.

Thanks Meeroona. This is really helpful. I am traveling to Vietnam. Its going to be a budget trip and am sure a few things mentioned herein above will be really handy.

These items are kinda good for camping in your backyard but not much real use. Have you ever heard of North Face, Rei, etc?

Are you writing to help people or to move some new untested products?

Hi Nichols,

Thanks for stopping by! To answer your question, I always write about things that I like and I would use. Plus, this is not an article about camping gear, nor it is about how to survive in the wild.

Great Products Meeroona. It takes lot of hard work for INNOVATIONS.

Its awesome that you have included products like the Scrubba & the solar powered light. We definitely need travelers turning towards sustainable solutions at a quicker rate! For me personally the sand-less beach mat was a game changer (thank you for that), especially since I am lanky and beach towels always get so much sand on them so quickly.

The scrubba washing bag is GREAT! I have 2

Great recommendations, thank you.

I’m planning to travel in Hawaii next week and this article amazed me, cool gadgets and good recommendations!

Really cool gadgets. I hope I could afford every single one on the list.

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7 Best Travel Tech Gadgets For Any Trip

Enhance your next trip with these 7 tech gadgets that are as fun as they are productive.

Tech gadgets are everywhere, from ads on Instagram to the shelves at your local big-box store. Deciding which travel gadgets are worth taking with you on your next adventure can be difficult, so we’re here to help! Maybe you’re looking to make your life easier while working abroad. Or, perhaps you’re tired of balancing your phone on ledges to get the perfectly timed photo. No matter how you swing it, the tech gadgets you bring have the potential to amp things up.

We’ve partnered with Holafly to bring you this roundup of the best travel tech accessories for your travels. A travel essential that’s often overlooked when traveling abroad is the humble SIM or eSIM card keeping you connected. It helps you share your experiences with friends and family, post perfect content to social media, and use a map app to get directions to that hidden gem.

Holafly offers SIM cards and eSIMs (for e-SIM-compatible phones) to help you stay connected in more than 100 destinations worldwide. Or, select a card that works in regional destinations, like Europe or Asia, and maintain your service in dozens of countries as you cross between borders. There’s even an unlimited 4G plan or the option to top up your data, saving you the guesswork of how much data you'll need. Order the eSIM from anywhere in the world and it will arrive in your email inbox immediately.

Getting started is as easy as scanning a QR code. Configure the eSIM and then activate it when you reach your destination. If you encounter any hiccups along the way, Holafly is there to help with 24/7 Live Chat and WhatsApp support in four languages. Avoid the hassle of finding a way to connect and get right to your adventures when you land.

Check out Holafly and use code PACKHACKER to save 5%.

Now let’s get you connected to some great travel tech accessories to make your trip next level.

• Clutch Charger V2
• JOBY GripTight ONE Micro Stand
• Anker PowerPort Atom PD 4
• sungwoo Foldable Silicone Keyboard
• Rolling Square EDGE Full Kit
• Roost V3 Laptop Stand
• Google Chromecast

A battery bank is a must-have travel gadget by today’s standards, and the Clutch Charger V2 is the thinnest model we’ve tested to date. It isn’t a one-trick pony, though–it also has a built-in charging cable, so everything you need to power up is in one easy-to-store place. The bank’s footprint is roughly the size of a credit card, is 4mm thick, and weighs just 2.3 ounces. This makes sliding it into your pants pocket, billfold wallet, sling , or daypack a breeze.

The battery is rated at 3,000 milliamp hours, which will power an iPhone 13 to just over 90% and a Samsung Galaxy S22 to just over 80%. While it’s great for topping off your battery during an afternoon excursion around a new city, it’s not ideal as a power bank for adventures that span multiple days unless you have access to electricity to give it a recharge. Though small, it easily powers your essential travel tech gadgets while you’re on the go.

At the time of writing, USB-C, Lightning, and wireless chargers are available. The two wired models don’t have removable charging cables, so you have to select which charger you want at the time of purchase. We recommend reviewing what tech gadgets you’ll need to charge while you’re on your dream vacation before making a purchase. The wireless option is suitable for those who like the convenience of going wireless, though the battery bank is a bit thicker than the cabled models, which is worth considering.

Whether you just want a convenient battery backup for a trip across a new city or to ensure your phone lasts through your next flight, the Clutch Charger is one of those tech gadgets you'll be happy you brought along.

Cell phone technology has progressed by leaps and bounds in the past year alone–turning what used to be a simple way of communication into a tool that can be utilized for just about anything your imagination desires. The JOBY GripTight ONE Micro Stand is a phone stand to put things simply, but more broadly, it enhances those features. The stand offers unique ways to watch content on the go, take selfies with friends and family, and use the camera features on your mobile device to take your photography to a whole new level. This stand is a tech gadget that brings out your phone's best features.

While en route to your destination, load up the phone grip to angle your device so you can comfortably watch TV, movies, or the newest Pack Hacker video. It has an adjustable head, which allows you to get cozy in the seat of the airplane, train, or bus that you’re traveling on. Or, set up the stand and FaceTime with friends and family or join a meeting across the globe. This leaves your hands free to take notes, work on your computer, or continue relaxing while you tell your grandma about what a great trip you’re having.

Once you arrive at your destination, the JOBY transforms into a tripod for photos and videos. It operates as a mini-phone tripod for group photos–just set the timer on your phone and run into the shot. Or, explore your phone’s timelapse mode to take dramatic pictures of clouds rolling past your hotel window. You can remove the phone grip from the stand and re-attach it to a proper photography tripod to take even more epic selfies or get a shot for your next vlog. The bottom of the stand is helpful as a tripod for a small camera or Instax. It’s so small that even medium-sized point-and-shoot cameras, especially those with non-centered tripod mounts, can topple the stand. Combat this by aligning the camera's body with one of the legs, offering a more sturdy stand for photos and videos.

The JOBY GripTight ONE Micro Stand is an excellent addition to any travel kit, and best of all, it comes in at 1.59 ounces and will slide into your pocket. Talk about packing a punch!

Charging all your devices at home can be tricky and even more so while away from home. The Anker PowerPort Atom PD 4 is a 100W charging brick with four ports to remedy this issue. It has two USB-C and two USB-A, which we dig because it means you have the option to use either kind of cable.

Having four plugs ensures that we can charge our laptop, phone, tablet, and e-reader at the same time. Need to charge your headphones? No problem. Smartwatch? Fuggedaboutit! As long as you don’t need to charge more than four things at once, this thing has you covered. It’s great for hotels, Airbnbs, and local cafes with minimal plug access. If you’re feeling generous, you can even share your extra plugs with family and friends—the ones you brought with you and the ones you make along the way (you never know who you might meet in the coffee shop line).

The power cable for the PowerPort is just under 5 feet long, which we think is ideal for traveling because it doesn’t take up a ton of space in your bag or even your tech pouch if you have a larger model. The cable is detachable, too, making for more accessible storage and replacement if you lose it. Keeping your tech gadget charged up is much easier with a powerful tool like the Anker PowerPort Atom PD 4.

To make a dream trip work, you sometimes must get work done between your adventures. The sungwoo Foldable Silicone Keyboard rolls up easily to fit into small spaces, whether inside your daypack, travel backpack, or even a larger sling.

As the name suggests, the keyboard is crafted from silicone, which is water-resistant and dustproof. Working conditions while traveling aren’t always optimal, and the rugged construction of this tech gadget ensures you don’t have to worry about accidental spills at the coffee shop. Plus, there are no gaps between the keys, so if you leave it in the bottom of your pack between uses, the silicone prevents dust from building underneath the keys. If it does get dirty, just grab a disinfectant wipe and clean it. However, the keys feel squishy as you type, which may take some getting used to if you’re coming from a mechanical-style keyboard.

The sungwoo is compatible with the Mac and PC ecosystems, enabling its use with whichever computer you take on your trip. It connects via a wired USB-A cable, which is standard on many PCs. Or, convert it with a dongle to USB-C for PCs without USB-A connectors or Mac computers.

The keyboard has a number keypad on the right side–a feature that even some full-size keyboards don’t have. Small details like that make the sungwoo feel like home and will enable you to get your work done sooner, so you can get back to your adventure.

The Rolling Square EDGE Full Kit helps create a more intuitive minimal carry for your travel tech gadgets–using three accessories to simplify the working-while-traveling experience.

The main attachment, the Edge Mount, attaches to your laptop or tablet using a strong adhesive. It has a magnet that holds your Apple or Android device next to your screen, that way, you can use it as a second place for entertainment, data, or video meetings. Whether you’re meeting with your boss or watching TikTok videos while answering emails, the Edge Mount has you covered.

The other two accessories work in conjunction with the primary attachment. Attach a light to the magnet and brighten up a dark room for video meetings with better lighting or as a nightlight up your hotel or Airbnb without waking up your partner. The light maxes out at 280 lumens, which we find bright enough for most travel situations.

The last add-on is a wireless charger, which keeps your phone juiced up while it’s attached to the Edge Mount. This is ideal for traveling because you can use your device and charge it simultaneously, so when you’re done with work, your battery is full, and you’re ready to explore the city.

While the stand is designed for people between five-foot-three and six-foot, it’s still functional for those near those height ranges. Choose between seven different height settings depending on where you are. Adjustments are easy, so transitioning from a standard hotel desk to a high-top coffee shop table is easy. We find that switching the height every so often is a good change of pace and is helpful to stay comfortable throughout the day.

The stand also has safety measures to ensure your laptop makes it through your trip unscathed. Horseshoe grips hold onto the edge of your laptop and rotates to match the angle of your computer so it won’t fall off the stand. The feet of the stand are grippy, too, so you don’t need to worry about unexpected bumps and knocks while at a crowded cafe or WiFi hotspot.

The critical component of the Roost V3 Laptop Stand is that it fits into small places. In fact, we like it so much that it’s on our Digital Nomad Packing List , which contains a collection of extremely packable tech gadgets. The Roost exemplifies that, as it measures just 13 inches long and roughly one inch thick.

Sometimes, the best tech gadgets are already at home. A Google Chromecast is the perfect way to recharge your physical and mental battery after a long day of exploring so you’re ready to do it all again tomorrow. Simply plug it into an HDMI port and turn any TV into a travel tech gadget.

You can use apps on your phone—YouTube, Netflix, Hulu, etc.—to cast content to the TV, making unwinding in your hotel or Airbnb feel homier. Plus, you can even cast your entire laptop screen, which is excellent for viewing photos from the day’s travels, video calling with friends and family back home, or if you need a larger screen to map out your next day’s adventures.

The device works with both 2.4 and 5 GHz connections, so you can connect to almost any WiFi network worldwide. Despite its multiple functions, it’s small enough to fit into the palm of your hand. If you get tired of holding it on the airplane, toss it into your tech pouch or a pocket in your travel pack for safe keeping. It’ll take up less room than most of the tech gadgets on this list and has a ton of features for its size.

So there you have it, seven pieces of travel tech for your next trip! We hope that you’re able to find your new favorite tech gadget, and if not, learn a thing or two about using technology while traveling. Check out our guide to Working Remotely for more tech gadgets and tips that will make your life easier, and check back for more in-depth reviews , packing lists , and posts like this one. We’ll see you in the next one!

July 14, 2022

Author: Eric Hergenreder

Eric has been across the globe, but his favorite place to explore is his home state of Michigan. His love for photography has taken him all around the Great Lake State, often writing about his travels so that others can enjoy them, too. Eric loves messing around with analog photography, watching soccer, and searching for the world’s best burger in his spare time.

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27 top-rated Amazon tech gadgets you need for travel

Your phone is dead. Your luggage was sent to the wrong airport. These sound like nightmares, but they can be a reality when you’re traveling. These mishaps are simply a part of the adventure, but you can be prepared with the help of travel tech gadgets. 

Whether you’re traveling a few hours away or across the globe, there are travel gadgets that can help make your trip easier, safer and (mostly) headache-free. We spoke to a travel expert, tried a few products ourselves and sorted through hundreds of top-rated products on Amazon to find the best tech to pack for your next trip. 

SKIP AHEAD The best travel tech

Our top picks

• Best overall : Apple AirTag
• Best for sleep : Lightimetunnel Sleep Headphones
• Best safety alarm : Birdie Personal Safety Alarm

How we picked the best travel tech essentials

To figure out what types of travel tech are worth bringing along on your next trip — and which gadgets to skip — we spoke to several experts who have spent years traveling all around the world. Here’s what they recommended keeping in mind: 

• Size: As you consider travel gadgets, it’s important to evaluate their size and weight, especially if you have limited space in your carry-on or suitcase . If you’re planning to bring something oversized, be sure it’s worth the real estate in your bag. For instance, cameras are a popular item to bring while traveling, but many experts suggest leaving them behind because they’re bulky: “Cell phone cameras are so advanced now that you can take phenomenal photos on your mobile,” says Tom Marchant, co-founder of luxury travel company Black Tomato .
• Convenience: Whether you’re taking a car, plane, train or bus, the best travel tech gadgets provide convenience when you’re on the road, ensuring you’re comfortable and prepared for common travel issues. Almost all of the experts we spoke to recommended a power bank as their top travel accessory. Marchant explains that these devices are a convenient way to charge electronics in airports, on airplanes (or other modes of transportation) and while exploring your destination. 
• Peace of mind: The right technology can also help reduce stress while you travel, allowing you to make the most of the experience. For this reason, our experts highly recommend devices like Bluetooth trackers, personal safety devices and noise-canceling headphones. “I always put AirTags in every piece of checked luggage, especially if making multiple transfers, as it can greatly save headaches and stress,” explains Marchant. 

select Tired of lugging around a clunky suitcase? Here are the best lightweight luggage options

The best travel tech gadgets on amazon to buy.

Using the guidance of travel experts, we sorted through hundreds of popular travel tech gadgets on Amazon. The following are best-selling devices that are highly rated by thousands of shoppers, and you may want to grab a few of them for your next trip. 

Twelve South AirFly SE Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter

4.4-star average rating from over 8,300 reviews

This wireless audio transmitter plugs into the in-flight entertainment system on airplanes and sends the audio directly to wireless Bluetooth headphones. This allows you to listen to movies or other content without being tethered to the seat by a cord. The transmitter can also be used on gym equipment, televisions or gaming devices, and it lasts for up to 20 hours per charge, according to the brand. 

Apple AirTag 

4.7-star average rating from over 126,700 reviews

For iPhone users, AirTags are an inexpensive way to keep tabs on your luggage, keys or other belongings while traveling. The location of these Bluetooth-powered trackers can be monitored through the Find My app. If the AirTag is within Bluetooth range of your phone, its Precision Finding feature will point you toward it, or you can see its location on a map if you’re further away.

Apple AirTag

Fyy travel cable organizer.

4.5-star average rating from over 13,100 reviews

You can keep electronics and all their accessories neatly organized with this travel pouch. It comes in 11 colors, and there are two compartments inside with various pockets to store charging cables, power banks and more. The cable organizer is compact enough to put in a carry-on or handbag, and the exterior is water-resistant to protect its contents, according to the brand. 

FYY Electronics Organizer

Conair handheld travel garment steamer.

4.3-star average rating from over 19,000 reviews

It’s inevitable that your clothing will get a bit wrinkly while traveling, but you can remove creases with this top-rated travel garment steamer . It heats up in less than a minute, and its high-velocity steam will help smooth wrinkles on shirts, dresses, and other clothing — important if you’re traveling for work. It has an adjustable steam head that lets you hold it at any angle, and the device is even dual-voltage for international trips. 

Kindle Paperwhite

4.7-star average rating from over 34,000 reviews

If you like to read while traveling, this popular e-reader is a worthwhile investment. It has an 8GB storage capacity, allowing you to download dozens of books, and the glare-free display is comfortable to read even in direct sunlight. It’s lightweight and more compact than your average paperback novel, and it can last for weeks on a single charge, so you don’t have to bring a charger with you, according to the brand.

4.5-star average rating from over 10,800 reviews

Apple AirTags only work for iPhone users, so if you have an Android phone, you may want the Tile Pro instead. These trackers work similarly to AirTags, using Bluetooth to collect location data. You can make the Tile ding if you’re within Bluetooth range, or its last location will be displayed within the Tile app if the tracker is farther away. It also works in reverse — you can make your phone ding using the Tile, which can be helpful if you misplace it. 

Philips One by Sonicare

4.5-star average rating from over 23,700 reviews

This electric toothbrush is designed specifically for traveling. According to the brand, the toothbrush can last for up to three months on a single AAA battery, and it comes with a case that protects the brush head. The brush uses micro-vibrations to help clean your teeth, and it has a built-in two-minute timer that vibrates at 30-second intervals to let you know when to move to a different area of your mouth. 

iWalk Mini Portable Charger

4.3-star average rating from over 22,400 reviews

Our experts highly recommend portable chargers for traveling, and this popular model is roughly the size of a tube of lipstick, making it compact enough to fit in a carry-on, purse or your pocket. It has a built-in lightning connector for iPhones, eliminating the need for a charging cable, and its 3350mAh capacity can charge most iPhone models one full time. However, it can’t be used with Android phones. 

iWalk Small Portable Charger

Yogasleep rohm portable white noise sound machine.

4.3-star average rating from over 12,600 reviews

If you have trouble sleeping in noisy hotels, this portable sound machine has three white noise audios to drown out background noise. The gadget is 3.5 inches in diameter and weighs a few ounces, allowing you to tuck it in your suitcase or backpack, and the brand says that it can be used overnight on a single charge. It charges via USB cable, and you will generally need to bring along the charger on multi-night trips. 

GL.iNet Mango Mini Pocket VPN Router

4.2-star average rating from over 10,100 reviews

This pocket VPN router can convert any public Wi-Fi network into a private network for more secure browsing. The device needs to be plugged into your laptop or a charging bank for power, and it supports more than 30 popular OpenVPN service providers, as well as Wireguard. The router is small enough to tuck in a carry-on bag or suitcase, and it’s designed to provide an extra layer of security if you’re working on the go. 

Brita Insulated Filtered Water Bottle

4.6-star average rating from over 13,200 reviews

This reusable water bottle has a filter built into the straw, and it’s designed to reduce the taste of chlorine if you fill it up at a public water fountain, according to the brand. The stainless steel bottle holds 32 ounces of water, and the brand claims it can keep your beverage cold for up to a full day.

Hicober 3-in-1 Charging Station

4.6-star average rating from over 3,000 reviews

If you travel with your iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods, this 3-in-1 station is a convenient option for keeping your electronics charged. Instead of bringing individual chargers for each device, you can use this all-in-one station, which has designated spots for all three products. It also folds up into a compact flat form for easy storage. 

Lightimetunnel Sleep Headphones

4.2-star average rating from over 17,700 reviews

You can block out the world around you while traveling with these Bluetooth-enabled sleep headphones. They’re shaped like a sleep mask , with light-blocking eye covers and the headband strap has comfortable flat speakers that will play audio for just you to hear. You can connect the device to your phone to play podcasts, music or just white noise, and the brand says that the headphones offer up to 12 hours of playtime per charge. 

Etekcity Luggage Scale

4.7-star average rating from over 57,000 reviews

There are hefty fees for overweight luggage, so it’s always a good idea to weigh your baggage before you head to the airport. This luggage scale has a maximum capacity of 110 pounds, and you simply hook your bag onto the braided belt to check its weight. The digital scale is compact and lightweight, so you can tuck it into the pocket of your suitcase to take along on your trip.

MiiKare Airplane Phone Holder

4.5-star average rating from over 3,000 reviews

You’ll be able to watch movies or play games comfortably on long flights with this airplane phone holder. It can be slotted into the back of an airplane seat or clamped to a tray table, and it’s compatible with most iPhone and Android phones. You can even rotate your phone 360 degrees while it’s in the stand for the optimal viewing angle. 

Miroposs Rechargeable Travel Makeup Mirror

4.7-star average rating from over 2,300 reviews

This lighted makeup mirror can help you get ready in dark hotel rooms. According to the brand, its rechargeable battery offers around 180 minutes of use per charge, and you can choose from three light settings with adjustable brightness levels. The mirror’s cover doubles as a stand, and you can adjust its angle to suit your needs. It also comes with a removable 10x magnifying mirror for more detailed tasks. 

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

4.7-star average rating from over 10,600 reviews

Travel adapters are essential when you’re going to a different country, and this universal model includes four plugs — types A, C, G, and I — that can be used in more than 150 countries. The adapter has four USB-A ports, one USB-C port, and one AC socket, supporting up to six devices at once. Just keep in mind that it’s not a voltage adapter, so AC-powered devices need to support dual-voltage operation to work in certain locations. 

Airglo Flex Flap Cell Phone Holder

4.5-star average rating from over 3,700 reviews

This cell phone holder has a metal core that’s wrapped in a faux leather cover, and you can bend it into any shape to hold up your phone or tablet. It can be used on tabletops, airplanes or even in the car, and the flat design will take up minimal space in your luggage. 

Ntonpower Travel Power Strip

4.8-star average rating from over 1,000 reviews

This power strip will give you more outlets to charge your electronics while on the road — it’s especially useful on cruise ships where outlets are limited. It has a 4-foot extension cord that wraps around the plug for compact storage, and the strip has two three-prong outlets, two two-prong outlets and three USB-A ports. There’s also extra space between the outlets to accommodate larger plugs, such as camera or laptop chargers. 

Pocketalk Classic Language Translator Device

4.0-star average rating from over 1,100 reviews

This translation device can be used to translate 82 languages, helping you to communicate in foreign countries. It has a built-in two-year mobile data plan with a global SIM card that can be used in 133 countries, and the brand says its average translation time is only 0.6 seconds, allowing you to keep up with conversations in real-time. The translator lasts for up to 240 hours per charge, and it has a simple touchscreen for operation.

Anker PowerCore Essential 20000 

4.7-star average rating from over 77,000 reviews

You’ll be able to recharge electronics several times using this large-capacity power bank. Its 20,000mAh cell capacity can charge an iPhone 11 more than four times, and the brand says it charges iPhones 20% faster than other models. It has two USB ports to charge multiple devices at once, and there’s also a trickle charging mode for low-power gadgets. 

Anker PowerCore Essential 20000

Beats studio buds.

4.4-star average rating from over 71,400 reviews

Noise-canceling headphones are useful in loud environments if you’re trying to relax or focus on work. These wireless earbuds have active noise cancellation technology that helps to block out background noise, as well as built-in microphones that eliminate wind and other sounds when you’re on the phone. 

Birdie Personal Safety Alarm

4.5-star average rating from over 9,500 reviews

If you’re traveling alone, this personal safety alarm can provide peace of mind. It’s activated by pulling the top out of the base, and the device emits a loud siren and flashing strobe light to attract attention. It has a loop that can easily be attached to a keychain, and the alarm is reusable — just reinsert the top pin to turn it off.  

Jisulife Portable Handheld Fan

4.6-star average rating from over 11,500 reviews

This portable fan is a useful accessory if you’re traveling during the summer. It folds up into a small form that can be tucked into any bag, and the brand says that it can run for up to 21 hours per charge, depending on the setting. It has two speeds, as well as a small built-in flashlight and it can also be used as a power bank to charge electronics in a pinch. 

Jisulife Handheld Pocket Fan

Braun mobileshave electric razor.

4.2-star average rating from over 6,800 reviews

If you don’t want to take your everyday electric razor on a trip, this small model is designed for traveling. It has a swiveling cover to protect the blade in your bag and it’s powered by two AA batteries. The razor has a slide-out precision trimmer on one side, and you can wash it under running water for easy maintenance on the go. 

Lewis N Clark Travel Door Alarm

4.3-star average rating from over 2,300 reviews

This travel alarm can provide peace of mind in your hotel room or rental. The alarm is designed to hang on the doorknob, and its sensor has two metal prongs that you slide between the door and door frame. If the door is opened, the brand says that the device will sound a 91-decibel alarm to alert you. The device can also be used on your windows if needed. 

4.8-star average rating from over 23,100 reviews

If you’re planning a hiking or camping trip, this Bluetooth speaker will provide entertainment without taking up too much space. It’s designed to clip onto a bag using its integrated carabiner, and it’s water- and dust-resistant. The speaker can play audio from your phone for up to 10 hours on a single charge, according to the brand, and it has a simple control panel that lets you start or stop the music or adjust the volume. 

select Planning a short weekend trip? These bags can keep your travel essentials in one place.

Meet our experts.

At Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure that all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and with no undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

• Tom Marchant , co-founder of luxury travel company Black Tomato .

Why trust Select?

Camryn Rabideau is a freelance writer and editor who has previously covered travel lifestyle stories, along with reviewing tech gadgets like the Apple AirTags.

Catch up on Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

Camryn Rabideau is a freelance writer and product reviewer who specializes in home and pet products. In her six years as a product tester, she's reviewed hundreds of items firsthand with the help of her cat and two dogs.

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17 Best Travel Gadgets for Long Flights

There's a lot pack in order to travel sanely, but we'd be lost without a battery pack and noise-canceling headphones

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Packing the right travel gadgets for a long flight can make all the difference between misery and comfort. Tablets and e-readers provide hours of entertainment while noise-canceling headphones can help block out the world, and a smart bag or portable power bank will keep everything topped up even if you find yourself stuck on an extended layover.

Before you head off on your next long flight, check out all these great gadgets that can keep you entertained, help with productivity, and improve your overall travel experience.

Use a Smart Bag As Your Carry-On

slexp880 / iStock / Getty Images

Charge your devices without bringing a separate power bank.

Useful features like electronic locks and built-in tracking.

Designed with travel gadgets and other tech in mind.

More expensive than a regular carry-on.

Airlines limit how much battery capacity you can bring on a plane.

Smart bags include features that can come in handy on a long plane journey, including built-in device charging, GPS tracking, app-operated electronic locks, and wireless connectivity. You’ll typically replace your standard carry-on with a smart bag, so select one that conforms to the relevant size limitations.

Since smart bags typically include built-in device charging, you may not need to pack a separate power bank. If you pack a power bank anyway, keep in mind that airlines limit how much battery capacity you can bring in a carry-on, so don’t go over that without obtaining explicit permission from the airline ahead of time.

If you opt for a more significant smart bag that you’ll need to check, remember that the TSA places strict limits on lithium-ion batteries in checked luggage. Some smart bags are powered by AA or AAA batteries to get around that limitation. Smart bags powered that way don’t have built-in charging, but they can include other useful features like built-in electronic scales, GPS tracking, and electronic locks.

Enjoy Peace and Quiet With Noise-Cancelling Headphones

silverkblack / iStock / Getty Images

Listen to music, audiobooks, videos, and more.

Effectively shuts out distractions.

Less likely to bleed sound that could annoy seatmates.

Batteries may not last the entire flight.

Noise cancellation takes extra power.

Wireless noise-canceling headphones or earbuds shut out the outside world on a long flight. They’re pretty indispensable, with uses that range from listening to music from your phone, watching videos on your iPad, or even hooking into the plane’s in-flight entertainment system with the help of an adapter.

Headphones with cups covering your ears and in-ear earbuds, like AirPods Pro, are the best for flights because they prevent the most sound leakage and avoid annoying your neighbors. The downside is that wireless headphones and earbuds only last so long between charges. And noise cancellation requires additional power. Still, we consider noise-canceling headphones one of the most essential parts of any traveling kit.

Stash Wired Earbuds as a Backup

Jeremy Laukkonen / Lifewire

Easy backup for batter-powered headphones.

Compact and doesn't take up much space.

Can provide decent quality sound.

Some devices will need an adapter.

Wires can get tangled.

Packing a backup pair of wired headphones or earbuds is an easy solution to power-drained wireless headphones.

Most wired headphones take up too much space to pack as a backup, but foldable headphones are slightly more reasonable, and wired earbuds are compact enough to slip into your pocket.

Remember that some of your devices will need a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter if they don't have an audio jacks.

Try an Airplane Bluetooth Adapter

Use your wireless headphones with in-flight entertainment.

Works with other devices that don't have built-in Bluetooth.

Easy plug-and-play setup.

Some airlines use non-standard audio jacks.

It's one more thing to remember to keep charged.

Small and easily lost.

If you like taking advantage of in-flight entertainment options, consider packing an airplane-compatible Bluetooth adapter.

These adapters include a 3.5mm audio jack and a Bluetooth transmitter, so you can plug into the audio port of your armrest or seatback entertainment center and then pair your Bluetooth wireless headphones or earbuds. The result is that you can lean back and relax without worrying about tangled cords. You can also use these with portable game systems and gym equipment.

We like the Twelve South AirFly SE because it’s easy to use, has a flexible audio connector, and charges via USB-C , so you probably don’t need to pack an extra cable. There are various other options, so pick one compatible with your wireless headphones.

Keep Tabs on Your Gear With a Device Organizer

Kostikova / iStock / Getty Images

Keep your gadgets and wires nicely organized.

Less chance to accidentally forget something important.

Some include built-in batteries.

It's one more thing to pack.

It can be tough to find the right one to fit all your gear.

Sure, you can toss all your travel gadgets in a backpack or carry on and hope for the best, but why do that to yourself? Consider making a list of all your gear instead, and then pick out a device organizer that will allow you to store everything in a nice and orderly manner.

Some device organizers even come with built-in batteries for charging devices, so keep that in mind if you plan on packing a separate power bank.

Power Up With a Flexible Travel Charger

Fahroni / iStock / Getty Images

Charge multiple devices from one charger.

Don't need to worry about bringing additional international adapters.

Compact and easy to store.

Need to verify power needs of all your devices.

Still need to pack charging cables.

Space is limited, so you may consider picking up a portable charger that will work with all or most of your devices. Instead of packing all your chargers, consolidating them into one will save a lot of space and lighten your load.

If you’re traveling internationally, you can save yourself a lot of headaches by selecting a portable charger that works with all the electrical systems in each country you plan on visiting.

Simplify Your Life With a Multi-Charging Cable

Sergey Kharin / iStock / Getty Images

Don't need to worry about packing multiple cables.

Less clutter in your carry-on.

Save money by not needing to buy charging cables during your trip.

Need to find one that works with all of your gadgets.

May still need to pack additional cables for data transfer.

A good multi-charging cable can simplify your traveling experience and save you from scrambling to find a charging cable at the duty-free store.

Pick a multi-charging cable with all the connections you’ll need to power all your devices, pair it with a travel charger, and you’ll be able to charge everything without digging through a mess of cables at the bottom of your carry-on.

Charge Mid-Air With a Portable Power Bank

Keep your devices powered even on long flights.

Power multiple devices at once.

Easier to charge the bank than individual devices when a only one outlet is available.

Airlines limit how much battery capacity you can pack.

Can't be placed in checked luggage, so you need to carry it at all times.

All of your travel gadgets require power, and you won’t always be able to find a power outlet. Airlines place limits on flying with batteries, and they don’t allow lithium-ion batteries in checked luggage, so keep that in mind when selecting a power bank .

It would be best if you generally stuck to power banks that provide no more than 27,000 mAh or 100 Wh. You may be able to pack two slightly larger batteries if you get special permission from the airline but don’t count on it.

We like the Omnicharge Omni 20+ for long flights because it’s very compact, provides wired and Qi wireless charging, charges via USB-C, and even has a built-in inverter. It also slides in under the airline limits with 20,000 mAh of stored power. If that’s out of your price range, pick one that stays within the airline’s limitations.

Catch Up On Your Reading With a Kindle

martin-dim / E+ / Getty Images

More comfortable to read than other screens.

Carry lots of books in a lightweight form factor.

Catch up on your reading wherever you find yourself.

Expensive initial purchase.

Need to buy ebooks as well.

Why pack physical books that occupy valuable real estate in your carry-on when you can bring several books in a device that takes up less space than a single paperback?

The Kindle Paperwhite is the obvious choice here since it’s lightweight, has plenty of storage space, and includes a built-in reading light, but any e-reader will accomplish the same basic task. If you go for a Kindle, consider checking out Kindle Unlimited for a low-cost way to boost your vacation reading list.

Pack a Tablet for Entertainment and Productivity

Jose Luis Pelaez Inc / The Image Bank / Getty Images

Multipurpose device for entertainment and productivity.

Compact and lightweight.

Good entertainment during layovers.

Expensive if you don't already have one.

Harder to work on than a laptop.

Tablets are remarkably flexible devices that don’t take up much space, making them great for long flights and layovers. They’re more compact than laptops and useful for both productivity and entertainment. You can use a tablet to listen to music or audiobooks, read ebooks, play games, catch up on email, browse the internet, or join a voice or video call if Wi-Fi is available.

The iPad Mini and iPad Air are both great options for travel since they’re compact and relatively low-cost (you might want to go with an iPad Pro if you’re looking to get some work done). An inexpensive Android tablet or Kindle Fire if you’re operating on a tighter budget.

Get Comfy With an Airplane Tablet Holder

Westend61 / Getty Images

Don't need to hold the tablet or phone the whole flight.

Good for children who are prone to knocking devices over.

Compact and easy to carry.

Doesn't work on bulkhead sets.

Can be compatibility issues with some airplane seats.

Tablets are great for entertainment on long flights, but they aren’t always comfortable to use in the cramped environs of a typical airplane seat. Instead of trying to awkwardly prop your tablet up on the tray table or your lab, consider a tablet holder that hangs off the back of the seat in front of you.

This isn’t useful if you find yourself in a bulkhead seat, but it makes for comfier viewing in other circumstances.

If you aren’t packing a tablet and relying on your phone for entertainment, consider picking up a tray table phone mount. These mounts clip securely to the tray table on the seatback in front of you, allowing you to watch videos without awkwardly holding your phone until your arm falls asleep.

Listen to Audiobooks from Audible

Hours and hours of entertainment.

Option to switch between audiobook and ebook for some titles.

Listen on a device you're bringing already.

Requires a paid subscription.

Audiobooks aren't for everyone.

Audiobooks provide great entertainment on a long flight. You don’t have to stop listening when it’s time to debark, hike to a connecting flight, or pick up your luggage.

In most cases, you won’t need to pack any additional hardware, as you can listen to audiobooks on your phone or tablet, and some Kindle e-readers even work with Audible . That last option is the best of both worlds since it lets you swap seamlessly between reading and listening whenever you want.

Store Music on Your Tablet or Phone for Offline Listening

Listen to your favorite music in airplane mode.

Pick and choose your favorite songs or even podcasts.

You can download a lot of songs.

Not available from every streaming service.

Takes up a lot of space on your phone.

Wi-Fi isn’t always available in planes and airports, so you may want to stock up on some music before you leave home. Streaming services with offline modes include Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, and Amazon Music Unlimited.

By loading up your phone at home, you’ll never have to worry about whether or not you’re burning through your precious mobile data every time you hit play.

Beyond music, some video streaming services also allow you to download TV shows and movies for offline viewing.

Pack a Portable Game System For More Entertainment Options

Lots of gaming options.

Potential for multi-player fun.

Catch up on games you've been meaning to play.

Portable game systems take up a lot of space.

Expensive if you don't already own one.

We recommend the Nintendo Switch for console gamers and the Steam Deck for PC gamers.

The Nintendo Switch is a little smaller, weighs a bit less, and includes built-in options for both single and multiplayer games.

The Steam Deck is bulkier and has less battery life, but it offers a lot more flexibility and even has a full Linux desktop mode that might let you leave your laptop at home.

Stay Cool With a Mini Handheld Fan

zhengshun tang / Moment / Getty Images

Stay cool when air conditioning isn't available.

Small and compact.

Some can charge via USB.

One more thing to pack that takes up space.

Useless if the batteries die.

A mini handheld fan can be a lifesaver if you’re traveling anywhere remotely warm. While you can typically rely on the built-in air once you’re seated on your plane, mini handheld fans are great for cooling off while waiting to board.

Look for a fan with a built-in rechargeable battery to keep it powered up as needed.

Track Your Luggage with GPS or Bluetooth

Options for GPS and Bluetooth tracking.

GPS trackers can locate your luggage wherever it ends up.

Bluetooth trackers are convenient and don't require a subscription.

Most trackers rely on nearby devices that are connected to the same network.

Pinpoint locating is only available from a small number of trackers.

GPS trackers require an ongoing subscription.

The best way to make sure your luggage doesn’t get lost is to pick up a luggage tracker. GPS luggage trackers are more precise but typically require a monthly subscription. Some GPS trackers have substantial batteries, too, and the FAA rules state that lithium batteries in luggage trackers can’t exceed 0.3 grams in weight or 2.7 Wh in capacity.

The other option is to use something more commonly used as a car key tracker, like Apple AirTags or Tile Pro, Slim, and Stickers . They’re less expensive to purchase, and they also don’t require a subscription. The downside is that they aren’t as precise and rely on the proximity of other devices connected to the tracking system.  

Get the Most out of Your Phone

Oscar Wong / Moment / Getty Images

You're already bringing your phone anyway.

Easy access to important documents.

Less digging around for documents in your bags.

Single point of failure if you lose your phone.

Digital drivers licenses aren't available everywhere.

Your phone is useful for more than just calls and texts, though, and it can enable a lot of helpful travel hacks to make your experience less hectic. Before you head off to the airport, here are some useful things to set up on your phone:

• Boarding pass : Most airlines support mobile boarding passes . For the easiest experience, store your mobile boarding pass on your phone so it’s ready when needed.
• Passport : If you’re traveling internationally, a mobile passport app on your phone can help speed up clearing customs when you return home. That doesn’t mean you can leave your physical passport at home, but it can save some time.
• Important documents : Take photos or scans of important documents and store them on your phone for easy access, even without internet access.  Use Notes to scan documents on iPhone and Google Drive to scan documents on Android .
• Track your stuff : Trackers aren’t just for luggage. Consider tagging your most important gear with trackers so you can use your phone to track anything that gets misplaced.

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9 Essential Travel Vlogging Gear For Every Trip

As a travel vlogger, identifying the essential gadgets to bring along without carrying a mountain of gear can be quite challenging. Not to mention that most filming equipment is heavy, making it hard to walk around with them for long.

This guide lists the main vlogging gear you need that’ll help document your adventures without carrying along with an entire studio.

At A Glance

2. iPhone 13 Pro Max

3. samsung galaxy s21 ultra 5g, 4. external microphone, 5. windshield, 6. portable wifi, 8. gopro action camera, 9. backpack for vlogging, what travel vlogging gear to pack for your trip, 9 gears you can’t do without for travel vloggers on the road.

While travelling, the choice of camera narrows down to compatibility and image stabilization. A compact and mirrorless camera is the lightest option that can match a DLSR’s quality. Mirrorless cameras have a larger sensor and this feature plays a crucial role in capturing light; thus, the camera works great even in poor lighting.

The Canon G7X Mark II is one of the most recommendable compact and lightweight cameras that you can consider. It can easily fit in your pocket or any backpack, and some of its key features include outstanding optical image stabilization, 1.8flens, and a flip screen.

Other recommended compact cameras include Canon EOS M50 Mark II and Sony ZV-1 . These small cameras usually have low battery life, and with the immense recording as a travel vlogger, you will need to carry extra batteries.

Apart from cameras, smartphones are a great choice for shooting and can act as backup for the camera. Some of the best camera phones for 2021 include;

The iPhone 13 Pro Max is currently one of the best vlogging camera phones, thanks to its advanced auto HDR, deep fusion, and 3x zoom features. The phone is lightweight, has a great battery life, and guarantees great video quality and stabilization.

Yes, the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G,  with this phone, you get a big-sensor main camera that gathers a lot of light and an autofocusing ultrawide camera. You not only get one but two telephotos offering you one of the most versatile zoom setups.

At times, vlogging in windy scenarios can affect the quality of the audio of your videos. You don’t want to have to discard a chunk of footage just because of poor sound quality.

The built-in mics in cameras are good at picking up your voice but not in windy scenarios. This is why you need an external microphone that can focus on your voice over background noise. A shotgun microphone is the most recommendable option for travelling since they are excellent at reducing the background noise, allowing you to record smooth videos .

Some of the best microphones include the Rode VideoMic Pro+ , Sennheiser MKE 600 , and Rode NTG3 .

Another compact microphone that works great for travelling is the lavalier microphone . The mic allows you to wear it and move around while still capturing sound for a great price.

They do offer excellent audio, and you can plug them directly into DSLR cameras, PCs, portable audio recorders, and even smartphones. Some of the best lav mics include Sony ECM-AW4, Audio-Technica AT899 , and Rode Lavalier Go .

As stated earlier, the weather while travelling isn’t always stable, and you’re bound to encounter extremely windy scenarios. If you plan to hike a mountain or vlog along the beaches the quality of your audio will be affected. Having a good quality microphone helps, but a windshield does a better job retaining the sound quality in windy situations.

There are various types of windshields that you can use on your camera’s built-in microphone, a shotgun mic, a lavalier, or even on your smartphone. If you don’t have an external microphone, getting a mini windscreen is the least you can do to maintain the quality of your audio.

Top recommended windscreens include Auray WSW-007 MKII Windbuster , Rycote Softie Windshield , and Movo WS220 .

As a travel vlogger, you’ll probably be editing your videos while on the go, and you’ll need a stable internet connection to upload your videos or pictures. One way to remain connected to the internet across countless countries is by using a hotspot.

Bear in mind these hotspots are not exactly intuitive since you have to keep changing SIM cards. More so, the internet connectivity won’t always have the best speed that can help you upload travel videos. This is why you need to have portable WiFi, and some options even work off 4G, which guarantees a safe and fast connection.

These portable WiFi routers work great on your laptop and mobile phones, and in addition to uploading your videos, having a strong internet connection while travelling allows you to pass the time streaming your favourite show or playing your favourite online games.

Moreover, if you stream live on platforms such as Twitch or Youtube, a strong connection is paramount otherwise it may end up with glitches. Whenever playing a game or watching a stream, lags can be very irritating, especially if you are playing live casino or slots.

If you wish to play slots on the go, be sure to have great WiFi and check for comparison sites that compare all the best online casinos where you may play anytime, anywhere, as long as you have internet. They have the most recent games from prominent providers while assuring that only the sites they recommend are safe and licensed by trustworthy organizations to secure your money. There, they look for all of the greatest free spins offers, write detailed evaluations, and offer advice on the various banking options, like Paypal and/ or Ethereum.

A tripod is an essential accessory for shooting cinematic scenes. As a travel vlogger, you’ve to consider the functionality, weight, and size of a tripod before choosing to buy one.

With a travel tripod such as the Joy Gorilla Pod , lightweight and multifunction are its best factors. Ideally, its legs can be moulded and attached to pretty much any surface.

You can attach it to a tree or a rock, and it’ll remain steady. The GorillaPod usually comes in various sizes, allowing you to choose the most convenient size depending on your camera’s size. From this GorillaPod guide, it’s evident that these tripods have a lot to offer. However, if your camera is heavy, you will definitely need a heavier tripod to help hold it securely.

Nevertheless, the GorillaPod can make vlogging too bulky if you work with a mirrorless or DSLR camera. The Manfrotto PIXI EVO 2 is a recommendable tripod that works great with a DSLR camera, and you can easily vlog for a longer period without straining your hands.

Other recommendable tripods for your travel include Sirui ET-35K, Benro Tabletop Tripod, and the Joby GripTight ONE Micro Stand .

This is not a must-have gadget, but it can elevate the quality of your travel vlog by capturing unique shots that are impossible to get on a regular camera. A GoPro camera is a great option if you’re planning a trip with extreme activities such as hiking, water rafting, snorkelling, or kayaking.

The device is waterproof, and it has incredible features that allow you to capture moments in action. If you’re going on an adventurous trip, you can get the latest GoPro Hero 9 . It’s small and lightweight and is great at taking wide-angle pictures.

However, we emphasize that this camera is only suitable for fast-paced moments and doesn’t really fit normal shots. Ideally, the ultra-wide-angle lens does have a perspective distortion, making everything look unnatural. Thus, your viewers will find it hard to watch, especially longer videos.

While you can still use the usual backpacks, those designed for photography usually come in handy. This is because they have compartments that allow you to store your travel vlogging equipment safely while maximizing space.

Most of these bags are also weather-sealed, which is an excellent feature that gives you peace of mind when travelling since your equipment won’t be damaged because of extreme weather.

One of the best backpacks you can consider for your next trip is the Peak Design Everyday Backpack . This bag is designed for digital nomads and is made from an ultralight waxed Kodra synthetic canvas. The fabric also has an extra DWR coating which makes it weatherproof. It has multiple access points, making it easy to remove your equipment. The shoulder straps are padded and can rotate and swivel for extra comfort.

Other reliable travel backpacks that offer durability, quality, and utility include the K&F Concept Multi-Functional Camera Backpack 600D and the MOSISO Camera Backpack .

Having the right equipment as a travel vlogger is crucial, but at the same time, you don’t want to be carrying around huge bags.

Ideally, when choosing your gadgets, the key features to consider should be compatibility and functionality. If you can get lightweight equipment that does the job right, you don’t need to buy a bulkier version.

When packing for your next trip, make sure you have a camera, most preferable, a compact or mirrorless one. You’ll also need an external microphone to boost the quality of your audio. A windshield is also necessary for windy situations. Other vlogging tools include a compatible tripod and an action camera if you are going on an adventurous trip such as water rafting, hiking, snorkelling, or kayaking.

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Isabel Leong

Full-time travel blogger at Bel Around The World and SEO coach roaming the world at a whim, Isabel helps aspiring content creators and brands get the most out of their online presence by attracting organic leads/traffic and achieving financial freedom with her Skyrocket With SEO course. She's closely involved in and has been featured as a speaker in other travel & digital nomad networks & podcasts such as Traverse, Travel Massive, The Nomadic Network and Location Indie.

Hi! I'm Isabel, a full-time traveller and digital nomad from Singapore. In the past 10 years, I've lived in New Zealand , Japan , Kauai Hawaii , Mexico , Costa Rica and Bali . Pulling from my own world travel adventures and blogging lessons, I share my tried and tested tips, so that I can get YOU to work LESS and play MORE!

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These Southwest Passengers Have a Hilarious Way to Avoid a Seatmate — See the Video

Whether you should try it is a matter up for debate.

Courtesy of Southwest Airlines

Passengers flying with low-cost airline Southwest are familiar with the slow walk down the plane aisle, carefully eyeing empty seats and gauging whether they’d like to sit there or not. Recently, some passengers have gotten creative with new techniques to discourage people from sitting there  Instagram creators and travel companions Kalah and David Allen published a joint Instagram reel in which the duo pretended to be in a heated argument, as a way to dissuade anyone from joining their row. The video has gone viral on social media, and launched a online discussion about seat-saving etiquette. 

In the video, Kalah and David were seated in the window and aisle seat, leaving the middle seat empty, and made clear any potential seat-mate would be caught in the crossfire of the fake confrontation.  In the hilarious video, which has been viewed at least three million times, the couple breaks character several times laughing at the absurdity of the situation. Fortunately for them, the middle seat stayed open on the flight, as passengers seemed to quickly walk past the argument in order to find a different seat.  On Instagram, hundreds of people shared their take on the seat-saving strategy, with some calling it a "great idea," however some travelers say they would have picked the seat for some additional in-flight entertainment.  "I’m so nosy I would of sat right in the middle of them just so I can see what they was arguing about,” one person commented.  Another person had a unique idea to help keep the seats next to them empty during a solo flight, sharing, “Maybe if I argue with myself I can get the entire row.” Southwest doesn’t list any policy about saving seats on the website for boarding policy .  “Southwest-operated flights have open seating. Once onboard, simply choose any available seat and stow your carryon items in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you,” the airline explains about their boarding process. 

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Viral Four Seasons baby takes internet by storm: 'She's so little but so grown'

You're never too young to have good taste.

A Florida family, and specifically their tiniest member, has gone viral all over social media thanks to one baby's elevated preferences. The video, posted to TikTok on May 17, has amassed millions of views and likes.

"I have a question for everybody," says a woman's voice behind the camera, identified by TODAY.com as Bailey Wise of Tampa. The frame pans to a young girl climbing excitedly off her bed over to a diaper-clad baby held in a man's arms, who TODAY identified as her father, Will Wise.

"Who wants to go to the Four Seasons Orlando?!" the voice continues. The baby, who is named Kate according to TODAY, responds not a beat later with a resounding "ME!" complete with a raised hand and growing smile.

The young girl in the background, Kate's 4-year-old big sister Madelyn, agrees, enthusiastically insisting "meeeee!" as the adults can't help but giggle at the younger sibling's reaction.

"If the @Four Seasons Hotels is looking for a baby ambassador my niece got you 😂🤣😂🤣😂" Bailey's sister, Stefanie O’Brien, captioned the eight-second clip, posted to her account @sobrizzel.

Watch the viral 'Four Seasons Orlando baby' video

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The "digitine:" The 'digital guillotine' and why TikTok is blocking big name celebrities

Naturally, Kate and her family went massively viral for the few-second video, wracking up more than 42 million views and 5.3 million likes. After all, what does the internet love more than cute babies? Nothing, except maybe cat videos.

Netizens couldn't help but be enamored both with the baby's enthusiasm, but her seemingly advanced intelligence and ability to understand the question - after all, who wouldn't be excited about the Four Seasons? That baby has taste.

"Oh my mother I would be dazzled to attend the four seasons Orlando," joked one commenter. "I would be delighted mother to accompany you on this exhilarating excursion to the four seasons Orlando I will be sure to pack the acquired necessities for our trip. my excitement is palpable," said another.

"The baby booked the trip," wrote one commenter, echoed by another who said, "I think the baby is in charge of the family finances," said two more.

"She's so little but so grown," one comment with thousands of likes summed up.

Countless response videos have flooded the platform making silly edits , putting Kate in a top hat , creating voice-overs and recreating the video itself.

Several sports teams got in on the joke as well, including the Atlanta Hawks, Cincinnati Bengals and the Spanish-language MLB account.

Perhaps most importantly, Four Seasons Hotels responded, posting on TikTok for the first time since 2022. In the video, Four Seasons employees can be seen lip-syncing along to the audio from the original clip in several Four Seasons locations, overlayed with the text "Who wants to welcome our newest ambassador for Four Seasons Orlando?!"

"Let the adventure begin  @Stefanie O’Brien  fam 🏰✨@FourSeasonsOrlando," said the caption.

What is the "fully conscious baby" TikTok trend?

The popularity of the Four Seasons baby left some marveling at what appeared to be an example of advanced understanding for such a young brain. Jokes about Kate being a super-intelligent baby rolled in as viewers marveled at what they saw as eerily adult-like behavior.

The juxtaposition between Kate's very young diaper-clad appearance and her seemingly grown-up reaction spurred a side conversation about "fully conscious babies" - young children who are cognitively advanced in a way that resembles a mini adult or someone beyond their years. Think something like a real-life "Boss Baby" or Stewie Griffin from "Family Guy."

The concept has spawned memes and videos galore. In some, people edit voice lines over clips of kids, making it look like the children are speaking in full adult sentences. Others are sharing clips of young children looking like mini-people, doing "adult" things like throwing darts at a board.

Some users have also taken to making videos sharing stories (fake or otherwise) of "fully conscious babies" they've met in their own lives, like one man who described briefly babysitting a young girl only to discover she could speak and understand more English than her parents believed.

While the clips are silly and fun, in reality, they show nothing abnormal.

In the original clip, Kate is about 1 year old, though she may appear younger to some. The processing and language skills she demonstrates in the video are age-appropriate, as are those of other children shown in similar videos.

Children begin to learn and process language very early in life, and while every baby is different, you can generally expect to see language milestones including the use of real words (hi, dog, mama, dada) and the understanding of basic words and concepts (their name, cup, juice, daddy, yes, no, come here, want more?) between 7 months and 1 year old.

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Sony says focus is on creativity, with games, movies, music, sensors, IP, and not gadgets

FILE - A logo of Sony is seen at the headquarters of Sony Corp. on May 10, 2022, in Tokyo. Japanese electronics and entertainment company Sony says it’s focusing on creativity in movies, animation and video games, rather than old-fashioned gadgetry. (AP Photo/Eugene Hoshiko, File)

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TOKYO (AP) — Japanese electronics and entertainment company Sony says it’s focusing on creativity in movies, animation and video games, rather than old-fashioned gadgetry.

Its chief executive, Kenichiro Yoshida, outlined the company’s strategy Thursday, saying Sony was helping creative professionals deliver what he called “kando,” or a moving experience.

Yoshida did not speak about reports Tokyo-based Sony and Apollo Global Management are interested in buying Paramount Global.

Yoshida said the company is now emphasizing the creative process itself instead of prized products of the past like the Walkman portable music player and Trinitron color TVs. He said “synergies” are no longer between entertainment and electronics, but determined by intellectual property spanning animation, music, games and films.

“We will continue to support people’s creativity through our technology,” he said in an online briefing.

Sony is adapting to tougher times, with rivals making cheaper but competitive electronics. Critics say venturing into movies, music and other entertainment can be unprofitable.

Starting with its acquisition of EMI Music Publishing in 2018, Sony has invested approximately 1.5 trillion yen ($10 billion) in the last six years to strengthen its content creation.

In 2021 it acquired Crunchyroll, which has more than 13 million paid subscribers and delivers Japanese animation globally. Another was Yoasobi, a Japanese music duo that includes Vocaloid technology, or singing voice synthesizer software, and is attracting global fans.

Sony’s real-time computing technology that records “this moment,” as Yoshida put it, is being used in cameras at sports events because it can capture quickly moving subjects without distortion.

It’s also used for news coverage and editing and in 3D video and computer graphics, including hit movies like “Godzilla Minus One,” and games based on human athletes’ movements, according to Yoshida.

Sony recently reported its quarterly profit rose to 189 billion yen ($1.2 billion) from 141 billion yen the year before. Quarterly sales for the maker of the PlayStation game machines rose 14% to 3.48 trillion yen ($22 billion).

But for the fiscal year through March, Sony recorded a 3% decline in profit at 970 billion yen ($6.2 billion) due to a weak performance in its financial services segment, which will be partially spun off next year.

Yuri Kageyama is on X: https://twitter.com/yurikageyama

Lawsuit says American Airlines kicked 8 Black men off plane, citing body odor

Three of the men sued American Airlines in federal court Wednesday morning.

Key takeaways

Summary is AI-generated, newsroom-reviewed.

• Three of the men sue airline, claiming “blatant and egregious race discrimination.”
• Lawsuit says no legitimate reason for action; American says it’s investigating the claims.
• Passengers eventually allowed back on flight, but one calls it “horrible,” “traumatic” experience.

Did our AI help? Share your thoughts.

Three Black men sued American Airlines in federal court Wednesday, claiming they were victims of “blatant and egregious race discrimination” after employees ordered them and five other Black men off a plane in January.

Airline representatives told the men, who were traveling from Phoenix to New York, to return to the gate to be rebooked, according to the lawsuit. An employee eventually told them the reason: Someone on the plane had complained about body odor.

When they first were told to leave the plane, the plaintiffs were “annoyed and frustrated that they were getting bumped” and would probably get home late, attorney Michael Kirkpatrick said. Then they realized that all the booted passengers were Black men.

“It hit them like a ton of bricks,” Kirkpatrick said.

American Airlines said in a statement Wednesday morning that it takes claims of discrimination “very seriously.”

“Our teams are currently investigating the matter, as the claims do not reflect our core values or our purpose of caring for people,” the statement said.

Videos of the incident, taken by some of the men, show the passengers in disbelief on the boarding ramp as they express shock, ask for an explanation and tell the employees that their treatment amounted to discrimination.

“I agree. I agree,” replies a woman wearing a lanyard and badge.

“Y’all just took like eight Black people off the plane,” one man says. “What?”

American ultimately allowed the passengers back on the plane and continued to John F. Kennedy International Airport.

The plaintiffs — Xavier Veal, a production assistant; Emmanuel Jean Joseph, an actor; and Alvin Jackson, a musician and music teacher — all live in New York City and had booked a flight home from Burbank, Calif., with a layover and plane change in Phoenix. They did not know each other before the flight, were not sitting together and did not see the other five men again.

The lawsuit claims the airline’s decision to remove the men was not based on any “legitimate rationale.” An airline employee ordered the men off the plane one by one without an explanation, the lawsuit says.

It “is near impossible to imagine that American would ever treat white customers in a similar manner,” the lawsuit says.

The body odor complaint came from a White male flight attendant, according to the suit. The lawsuit says none of the men suing the airline had offensive body odor and that none were accused directly of an offense.

Airlines mention body odor in their contracts of carriage that list reasons passengers can be refused boarding. In American’s case, it says passengers must “be respectful that your odor isn’t offensive (unless it’s caused by a disability or illness).” Veal called the airline’s reasoning for removing him and his fellow passengers “ridiculous.”

A woman who was on the flight said that while the men were off the plane, the remaining passengers heard an announcement that an issue with body odor was being addressed, according to Kirkpatrick, an attorney with the Public Citizen Litigation Group. American could not find alternate flights for the men and, after about an hour, let them get on the flight again, the lawsuit says.

“We’re walking through the aisle of shame, if you will,” Veal, 36, told The Post in an interview. “It was horrible. It was a really traumatic experience.”

Veal said there was “visible tension” on the plane when they boarded again. At the baggage carousel later, he said, some passengers said that what had happened to the men was terrible. Veal, who lives in Queens, connected with Joseph and Jackson at baggage claim, and the three decided to pursue a suit against the airline.

Veal said he has experienced racism in his life but that this was a new scenario.

“Unfortunately, I’m a Black man and I live in America,” he said. “It wakes you back up to the reality that I can’t just go to the store; I can’t just do regular things like take a plane home.”

American Airlines faced criticism in 2017 for its treatment of Black passengers, including removing people from flights, which prompted a travel advisory from the NAACP. The group lifted the warning the following year.

Though American allowed the men in January to get back on the plane and fly home, the experience was “traumatic, upsetting, scary, humiliating, and degrading,” the lawsuit says.

“None of the White passengers were taken off the plane and humiliated and embarrassed,” Kirkpatrick said.

The suit seeks an unspecified amount of compensation and punitive damages. Kirkpatrick said the plaintiffs also want the airline to reform its practices to prevent such an incident from happening to anyone else.

“Somebody should have stepped up and said, ‘Wait a minute. We can’t do this. This is wrong,’” Kirkpatrick said. “But instead, nobody stepped up and intervened to stop it from happening.”

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Bad behavior: Entitled tourists are running amok, defacing the Colosseum , getting rowdy in Bali and messing with wild animals in national parks. Some destinations are fighting back with public awareness campaigns — or just by telling out-of-control visitors to stay away .

Safety concerns: A door blew off an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 jet, leaving passengers traumatized — but without serious injuries. The ordeal led to widespread flight cancellations after the jet was grounded, and some travelers have taken steps to avoid the plane in the future. The incident has also sparked a fresh discussion about whether it’s safe to fly with a baby on your lap .