great travel gadgets

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.

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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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.

RELATED: The Best Travel Items to Buy on Amazon

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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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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The 22 Best Travel Tech Essentials of 2024

Here’s all the gear you need to make your travel experience better from tablets to headphones.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Alli Waataja

We live in a technologically advanced society, and that means we usually bring some sort of gadget with us wherever we go, even if it’s just a phone. Some provide entertainment — like tablets, eReaders, and headphones — while others can make journeys more convenient or comfortable instead (such as luggage trackers, folding keyboards, and portable sound machines). To help you discover what your packing list could be missing, we've compiled a list of our favorite tech-related items whether you’re traveling for fun or business.

Best eReader

Amazon kindle paperwhite.

It has a 10-week battery life.

You need to pay a fee to get rid of the ad-supported lock screen.

One of the biggest players in the eReader game, the Kindle Paperwhite hits all the marks when it comes to features you need in a digital book. It has a 6.8-inch glare-free display screen with adjustable warm lighting for reading in the dark (say, on a plane at night), with a monumental battery life of 10 weeks and storage capabilities up to 16 GB. It's also water-resistant for poolside reading.

Best Earbuds

Bose quietcomfort earbuds ii.

The highly effective active noise cancellation technology drowns out annoying ambient sounds.

Our testers noticed inconsistent battery life after six months of use.

When we tested these Bose earbuds , we were impressed by a number of features, including effective active noise cancellation (ANC) technology, quick Bluetooth connectivity, and a lightweight fit. We also love that each pair comes with three sets of rubber earpieces, each a different size to accommodate multiple ear shapes and sizes. And, as for sound quality, Bose can't be beat, whether you're listening to music or taking a call. Though the headphones are pricey, we think these features make them worth the cost.

Best On-ear Headphones

Apple airpods max.

The ANC works particularly well for phone calls or Zoom meetings.

The only way to turn them off is by putting them in their carrying case.

These days, it's not good enough for a pair of headphones to simply deliver good sound — it needs to block sound, too. The Apple AirPods Max Wireless Over-ear Headphones do the trick with their ANC technology, which we found to be top-notch in tests . We also loved the intuitive nature, which can quickly and easily be controlled by buttons on the earpiece. But the one flaw here is that to turn them off, you must put the headphones in their carrying case. We'd appreciate a simple power button next time!

Best Power Bank

Tg90° portable charger.

It's the size of a credit card and has built-in cords.

It only holds approximately 1.5 full charges for most phones.

Portable charges come in all shapes and sizes, but if it's portability and convenience you seek, your best bet is to purchase this handy little device. Roughly the size of a credit card (albeit thicker) and weighing just 4.32 ounces, the TG90° Portable Charger is easy to toss in your bag or in your pocket. At 6000mAh, it holds less than two full charges for most phones, but it works perfectly when you need some juice in a pinch. Best of all, it has built-in Lightning and USB-C cords attached, so you don't need to waste space with extra cords.

Best Adapter

Epicka universal travel adapter.

It has six ports for maximum charging capabilities.

It's only an adapter, not a converter, so it can't handle high-energy tools like hair dryers.

A travel adapter is a must-have tool for all international travelers, since socket shapes vary in different parts of the world. This one by Epicka is our tester favorite — it can be used in more than 150 countries, making it a practical all-in-one device. It has an impressive six ports for chagrin: four USB-A, one USB-C, and 1 AC socket. So no matter what type of charger you're using, you'll be able to plug it into this adapter. As a bonus, it comes in four colors so you don't have to choose the standard black of so many tech items.

Best Wi-Fi Hotspot

Netgear nighthawk m6 pro.

It's unlocked, so you can use it on most major cell networks.

It's very expensive for occasional use only.

Portable Wi-Fi hotspots can be useful when you're traveling somewhere without a guaranteed internet connection, but do note that you'll usually need cell service to operate them. NETGEAR's Nighthawk M6 Pro is unlocked, so you can use it on any major cell network by adding a SIM card — and it taps into both 5G and the new Wi-Fi 6E to offer the highest speeds possible. You can also use a wired connection if you happen to have an ethernet cable.

Best Luggage Tracker

Eufy smarttrack link.

It's less expensive than an AirTag.

It isn't Android-compatible.

Apple AirTags might seem to run the show, but in our tests , we preferred Eufy's SmartTrack Link. For one thing, it's cheaper than an AirTag. And for another, it still works with the Find My app on iPhone just like an AirTag. Simply activate the device with the app, then put it in your checked suitcase, and you'll be able to track your bags as they make their journey through the airport and into your plane's cargo hold.

Best Projector

Nebula by anker solar portable projector.

It's compact yet still offers high-quality images and sound.

The power cord is quite short.

No, you probably won't need a portable projector on every trip you take. But if you're heading to a beach house or in a cabin in the woods, it could be a fun way to have a family movie night — particularly if your vacation rental lacks a big TV. If you're using it outdoors, note that we found the device to have a 3-hour battery life, which should work for most movies. Otherwise, you'll want to bring an extension cord to plug it in, as its built-in cord is just two feet long.

Best Smart Sunglasses

Ray-ban meta headliner.

You can't beat the video, photo, and audio quality.

The battery life isn't the best among smart glasses.

We've always been fans of Ray-ban sunglasses, but these smart glasses take the game to the next level. Within these frames, which have a slightly different shape than Ray-ban's classic Wayfarer, is a 12-megapixel camera with an ultra-wide lens to capture photos and videos that you can upload onto other devices like digital picture frames — and you can even live stream directly to Facebook or Instagram. There are five built-in microphones to capture audio, whether that's during a video recording or a phone call for extra-clear sound. The audio output quality is excellent, too, for both music and calls.

Best Digital Notebook

Rocketbook core.

You can scan a QR code to save your entries in an app.

It takes some getting used to a digital notebook rather than a traditional one.

Digital notebooks might not have the nostalgia factor of a traditional notebook, but they are pretty handy if you do a lot of journaling or doodling while you're traveling. This way, you won't have to lug around multiple notebooks on a months-long adventure! With Rocketbook Core, you can write or draw on the pages of the notebook with a Pilot pen , then scan a QR code to upload to an app. Once you're ready to start fresh, you can just wipe down each page with a slightly damp microfiber cloth (included). This is the full-size model, but there's also a mini size available if you'd prefer something more travel-friendly.

Best Laptop

Apple macbook air 13.6” laptop.

If you need to work on the road, this is lightweight yet reasonably powerful.

The base model only has 8GB of RAM.

If you're an Apple person, the newest MacBook Air is the best device for travelers. It has the ultra-fast M2 processing chip which is 1.4 times faster than the previous model, the M1. And, as an Air, it's lighter than the standard MacBook or MacBook Pro models which is always helpful when traveling. However, what we really love about the newest MacBook Air is that it's returned to a magnetic charging port, so you don't have to worry about accidentally ripping out your charging cable or pulling down a laptop if you trip over the cord.

Best Tablet

Apple 10.9” ipad (9th generation).

Since it's not the newest model, it's usually on sale.

It's best for entertainment rather than intense productivity.

Some planes aren't equipped with built-in in-flight entertainment systems, which means you should probably bring a tablet on your next trip . We're partial to the Apple iPad, specifically, not the latest model for one simple reason: it's usually on sale. Unless you plan on working from your iPad, in which case you'd probably want to upgrade to something more powerful or even a laptop, this one will do just fine for things like watching movies and shows. It'll still work for other tasks where a screen larger than a phone comes in handy, like sending email, making notes, and even taking photos.

Best DSLR Camera

Sony alpha 7r v.

It takes both excellent stills and video, thanks to its 61 megapixels and 8K video quality.

Lenses must be purchased separately.

For those seriously interested in photography and videography, you can't go wrong with the Sony Alpha 7R V. Ultimately, it has extremely high-quality imagery and video that works on a professional level. We're also impressed with its smart features, including fast Wi-Fi, real-time auto video tracking, and accurate subject recognition. And, for travelers, it's fairly lightweight for a DSLR, and it has a long battery life. Just know that it’s on the more expensive side if you’re just dabbling and the price does not include any lenses.

Best Point-and-shoot Camera

Sony rx100 iii 20.1 mp premium compact digital camera.

It's highly portable.

It's pricey for a point-and-shoot, though it does offer superior quality.

For more casual travel photographers, a point-and-shoot camera like the Sony RX100 III is an easier-to-use, more-travel-friendly option than a DSLR with much higher quality than a smartphone. It's still a smart camera, with built-in WiFi, a touch screen, and continuous autofocus to use in video mode, but it's far smaller and more lightweight than a DSLR. One feature we particularly like is its zoom — the built-in Leica lens has a 24–720-millimeter zoom range.

Best Portable Speaker

Ultimate ears wonderboom 3.

It offers bold sound for such a compact size.

It can be tricky to connect with other Wonderboom speakers (for surround sound).

Headphones are great for solo listening, but if you're with a group, you're going to need a portable speaker. We love the Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3, first and foremost, for the small size and loud, crisp sound, but, second, for its waterproof and dustproof nature. That means it's perfectly fine to take this on a more rugged journey into the woods or to a beach party, or toss it in a backpack without concern. If you want to amplify the noise, you can connect it to multiple Wonderboom speakers, though we found the process a little bit complicated.

Best Portable Monitor

Asus zenscreen go 15.6" ips lcd fhd monitor.

It has a 3.5-hour battery life.

It's portable, but heavier than other portable monitors.

Nothing beats a multi-screen set-up in your office, but bringing multiple screens on the go isn't realistically feasible. Or is it? Enter: the portable monitor. ASUS ZenScreen is a 15.6-inch screen with an adjustable kickstand that can easily be set up as a second monitor with its included adapters. Or you can use it as a larger screen to stream from your phone, thanks to wireless mirroring capabilities with Apple, Android, and Google. Perhaps most impressively, it can run on battery power alone for up to 3.5 hours.

Best Folding Keyboard

Samsers foldable bluetooth keyboard.

It can be used for various devices, including your phone.

The included stand is only designed for phones, not tablets.

For people who have to type lengthy emails, articles, or notes during their travels, sometimes the touchscreen keyboard of your phone or tablet doesn't cut it. If you'd like to leave your laptop behind but still have full typing capabilities, you'll want to pack this foldable Bluetooth keyboard . It's super compact, lightweight, and long-lasting (up to 40 hours of use on a single charge), but it unfurls to a full keyboard size.

Best Mini Photo Printer

Canon selphy square qx10 compact photo printer.

The photos are printed with a peel-off adhesive backing.

You can only print square photos.

Turn any camera into an instant camera with this portable photo printer. The Canon Selphy QX10 prints images on 2.7 x 2.7, adhesive-backed photo paper, making it easy to stick them into a notebook or onto a wall. If you download the Canon Selphy app, available on both iPhone and Android, you can even create multi-photo layouts and add effects, filters, and stickers to your images before printing.

Best Portable Sound Machine

Babelio white noise machine.

It's truly pocket-sized — and cheap!

You can't add your own sounds, as they're all pre-programmed.

Can't sleep without white noise? Bring this teensy portable sound machine with you on your next trip. There are 15 sound options on the device, which rain from white and pink ambient sounds to natural sounds like waves and rain. The battery will last the whole night (charged by a USB-C port), or you can set a timer for 30 or 60 minutes to automatically shut the sound machine off.

Best Headphone Adapter

Twelve south airfly pro.

It connects wireless headphones to in-flight entertainment systems.

Sometimes there's a slight lag in the audio.

While many headphone-wearers have cut cords and opted for wireless earbuds or headphones, in-flight entertainment systems on planes are still largely wired (though cabins are slowly debuting wireless audio capabilities!). Not only are they wired, but they're only compatible with a traditional 3.5-millimeter headphone jack. Fortunately, there's AirFly, a device that transmits audio from that jack to your wireless headphones via Bluetooth. It has up to 20 hours of battery life, which pretty much covers every flight in the world.

Best Tech Organizer

Bagsmart cable organizer bag.

There are multiple loops and pouches for cables, as well as pockets for memory cards.

It's not particularly small, so if you only have a few items to store, you might want to pick a more petite model.

Cords tend to get tangled in transit, so keep all your chargers nice and tidy with a tech organizer . This one has a variety of pouches and loops that can be used to keep your cords separate, as well as pockets for other small tech gizmos, like a Lightning to USB adapter or lightning to audio jack adapter. There's a spot for everything in this organizer, which makes it a touch bulky. You can always opt for a smaller version if you don't think you'll fill this one.

Best Laptop Backpack

Solo re:define backpack.

It has a compact silhouette but a sneakily large interior.

We noticed a zipper fraying after four months of use.

If you're traveling with a laptop, you'll definitely want some sort of bag or carrying case to store it in. Because laptops can be fairly heavy — or at least feel heavy after lugging them around all day — we recommend a laptop backpack. In our tests , we ranked Solo's Re:Define Laptop Backpack quite highly, praising it for its slim look yet surprisingly spacious interior. Then, of course, there's a padded laptop pocket that can fit devices up to 15.6 inches in size. With its sleek look, we think the bag is great for both students and commuters, but it'll also fare well on leisure trips, too.

Tips for Buying Travel Tech Essentials

Prioritize convenience, entertainment, or both.

Typically, travel tech essentials should either make things more convenient as you travel, or provide entertainment on a long day or during downtime at your destination. Of course, exact purposes vary but, before deciding to buy (or pack) any travel tech items, consider their portability as well as how much use you’ll get out of each pick as space is often limited on the go.

Plan for your organizational needs

Remember that you're going to have to store your travel tech somewhere so have an organizational plan in mind for the items you plan to bring. You can do this with bags with numerous pockets, such as easy-access ones where you can stash things you might need to take out frequently, such as your passport or headphones. Or you can store important items in smaller bags that go into bigger ones such as a cord organizer or travel pouch .

Consider your mode of transportation, your destination, and your itinerary. Are you packing essentials for a road trip , or taking a plane or train? If you have limited space, you may want to watch movies on your phone with a pair of earbuds. If you plan on taking long train rides or red-eye flights, on-ear, noise-canceling headphones may be an item you’ll want to leave space for in your bag. If you’re traveling for long periods and plan to work, a laptop or tablet and portable keyboard can come in handy, and if you know you’ll have a bunch of travel tech items, having some sort of organizer or a backpack with ample pockets will be key.

It's advisable to avoid bringing delicate and heavy items — the hardier and more lightweight, the better. Plus, remember that not all items can be taken on the road, specifically on planes. Lithium batteries and portable power banks, for example, cannot be stored in checked bags and must be brought with you in the cabin.

When flying, travelers commonly appreciate bringing headphones, headphone adapters, and portable entertainment like a tablet loaded with shows or movies or an eReader.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L contributor Stefanie Waldek is a freelance travel writer with a decade of experience. She flies 200,000 miles a year and spends months in remote destinations like Antarctica and the Arctic. so being fully prepared with tech essentials is part of her travel routine. For this article, she evaluated various pieces of travel tech to enhance a traveler's journey, taking into account personal experience, T+L tester insights, and customer reviews.

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Every product was carefully curated by an Esquire editor. We may earn a commission from these links.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

JBL Clip 4 Portable Speaker

Speaker convenient enough that you can clip onto your backpack or pant's belt loop is one that'll soundtrack your excursion. Not to mention JBL's Clip 4 is one with a durability rating of IP67 and surprisingly punchy audio.

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.

EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter

Maybe if all these heads of state and government just agree upon one shape of input/output plug, we'd have less international conflicts? Before then, grab one—or more—of these all-in-one travel adapters to, IDK, bridge the international relations?

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.

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.

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.

Ember Temperature Control Travel Mug 2

Hot coffee isn't just for homebodies who stay still and attached to a seat; travelers and adventurers alike also deserve the heat. Ember's travel mug will keep the contents inside hot at the precise temperature, and keep them secure with a leakproof, slide-lock design.

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.

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 .

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.

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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. 

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15 of the best travel gadgets for any type of traveller

By Abigail Malbon

The most seasoned traveller will have a list of gadgets they rely on to help make any trip run smoothly; whether it’s a portable phone charger or headphones to drown out noise. Whether you're shopping for Christmas or simply looking to travel gift – these are our favourites to shop in 2021. 

Neck massager, £70.99

This neck pillow doubles as an electric massager, so even the longest of flights won't leave you feeling uncomfortable. It can be used around the neck or tied at the waist, and has a heat mode for added comfort. One charge should last a full seven days, so any traveller would be thrilled to have it in their carry-on. 

Google Chromecast, £20

Hotel TV can be monotonous, which is why this Chromecast – which allows you to watch films, shows, live TV, YouTube and more from your own streaming device – is a handy purchase for the regular solo traveller. 

Bang & Olufsen portable bluetooth speaker, £260

A portable speaker is a great way to pack your personality on your travels, and this Bang & Olufsen version is lightweight and small enough to fit in a carry-on suitcase. The brand joined forces with fashion company CLOT to create this limited edition speaker that celebrates the vitality of life, music and Chinese culture. Completely dust- and waterproof, and with a battery life of up to 18 hours, it's a perfect travel companion.

Everyone knows someone who's attached to their iPad, and with good reason; these handy travel gadgets will help you get around, book restaurants, take pictures and videos, check out hotel reviews and plenty more. 

Sony E PZ 18-105 mm f/4.0 G power zoom lens, £419

Photography enthusiasts will be able to capture the most stunning landscapes with the help of this lens, which has incredible zoom range and focus quality. It also comes with built-in image stabilisation to compensate for camera shake that can blur images when shooting handheld.

Apple Watch, £179

The person always on the go will undoubtedly appreciate an Apple Watch, which allows them to see messages and emails and make voice commands hands-free. There's also a selection of fitness features, such as a heart rate monitor and GPS, to help them stay active even in a new location. 

Larq bottle, £95

This self-cleaning bottle uses UV-C LED light to eliminate up to 99.9999 per cent of bio-contaminants from your water and bottle, so that your tap water is safe to drink. A great sustainable alternative to plastic bottles of water.

Kindle, £69.99

Every traveller should have a Kindle. Lightweight, and much easier to carry than multiple hardbacks, they have a high-res display that mimics the appearance of paper, so even the most dedicated book-lover can be converted. This new version is waterproof; perfect for poolside days.

CNT Editors , CN Traveller

Adam Turner , CN Traveller

Connor Sturges , CN Traveller

Olivia Morelli

Tile pro, £29.99

For the person who often loses belongings on a trip, or simply for someone whose worst fear is misplacing their luggage, this Bluetooth item finder is invaluable. By connecting to the Tile app, you can easily locate belongings within a 120m range again.

Radio alarm clock, £31.54

For the traditionalist, this alarm clock will be a handy travel companion; with no ticking, thanks to its with digital display, the lightweight gadget comes with a radio, alarm and snooze function for easy use wherever you are in the world. 

Universal travel adapter plug, £14.99

A plug is any traveller’s best friend, and this universal one has four USB ports to help keep gadgets fully-charged at all times. With high-speed charging and interchangeable UK/USA/EU/AUS plugs, it’ll become invaluable on any trip.

Anker portable phone charger, £37.99

In the time of Covid, having enough battery left on your phone to be able to access evidence of your vaccines, passenger locator forms and other key documentation is essential. This sleek, compact portable charger provides 2.25 charges for an iPhone 12, 1.6 charges for the Galaxy S20 and 1.2 charges for an iPad mini 5 to help you out in the case of an emergency.

Bang & Olufsen E8 3.0 earbuds, was £300, now £239.14

There’s truly no better gift for the regular traveller than that of silence – or at least, of the kind of noise they choose to listen to themselves. Bang and Olufsen creates products with impeccable sound quality, so whether they’re listening to music on the go or streaming Netflix from the hotel room, they can be immersed in whatever they choose. Available in three different colours, these wireless earphones are small and portable, but pack a hell of a punch.

Luggage scale, £13.59

Simple, but incredibly useful, a luggage scale is a must-have for anyone with an aversion to packing light – or those who are partial to picking up a bottle of the local tipple on their travels.

How-To Geek

The best tech travel gadgets of 2023.

Getting ready for a trip? Make sure to pack these handy tech items.

Read update

We've reviewed our recommendations and are confident these are still the best gadgets for traveling to pick up.

Before heading out on that month-long vacation or quick business trip, don't forget to gear up. From noise-canceling headphones and Bluetooth trackers to plug adapters and travel routers, these devices are the best tech travel companions.

UPDATE: 11/17/2023

Kindle paperwhite signature edition, epicka universal travel adapter, sony wh-1000xm5, anker powercore slim 10000 portable charger, fujifilm instax mini neo classic 90, nintendo switch, apple ipad (10th-generation), logitech k480, tp-link ac750 wireless travel router, what to look for in tech travel gadgets.

When shopping around for necessary gadgets to take on your next trip, there are a few things you'll want to consider.

First, it's important to think about what's necessary for your vacation or business trip---whether for work or play, you'll likely have limited space in your luggage for clunky or heavy tech. Before making any purchases, you'll want to ensure that it's something you'll need while you're away from home. Our list contains things that may be considered necessary for some, but the ultimate decision will be up to you.

Likewise, size and weight are equally important factors. If you're planning on packing your tech in a carry-on bag, for instance, you'll want to stick to pretty compact gadgets such as a portable charger or a tablet. If you play on checking a bag, you may be able to pack larger items such as an instant film camera.

Lastly, you'll want to consider your budget. If you're specifically buying a gadget for an upcoming trip, you may not want to drop a ton of cash. However, if you're a frequent flier or road tripper, perhaps it's a good idea to invest in something that's on the pricier side.

How-To Geek's product recommendations come from the same team of experts that have helped people fix their gadgets over one billion times. We only recommend the best products based on our research and expertise. We never accept payment to endorse or review a product. Read More »

Best eReader: Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition

If you're a frequent reader, carrying chunky books can take up precious space in your carry-on or checked luggage. However, the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition , our top pick for eReaders , eliminates this issue through its 32 gigabytes (GB) of storage and the ability to rent up to 20 titles at a time with Kindle Unlimited.

The Kindle Paperwhite Signature is hard to argue against—you can charge it via USB-C, with one full battery lasting up to 10 weeks. Additionally, its display is something to write home about. The 300 ppi screen is glare-free, while its warm lighting is adjustable. The front light also automatically adapts to the brightness of your surroundings, making it an excellent option for red-eye flights.

Although you can use your Kindle without a Kindle Unlimited subscription (an additional $9.99 a month), the accompanying plan provides a free trial and access to thousands of content with no due dates.

The bottom line? If you've been tossing around the idea of buying an eReader, the $200 Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition is your best bet.

If you want all the updates and improvements of the new Paperwhite line, along with an auto-adjusting front light, 32 GB storage, and wireless charging right out of the box, this is the Kindle for you.

Best International Plug Adapter: EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter

Planning on diving into international waters? The EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter is essential.

Universal travel adapters allow electronics to power up in different countries. For example, the United States has plugs with two flat vertical prongs, while the United Kingdom has plugs with a top vertical prong and two bottom horizontal ones. A travel adapter ensures you can charge your devices regardless of where you go.

This option from EPICKA functions explicitly as a multifunctional travel plug. However, it doesn't convert voltage, so you'll want to make sure your devices support 100 to 240 voltage---especially hair dryers and electric razors, which often don't.

It boasts four USB ports and one USB-C, all of which can be plugged in simultaneously. It covers more than 150 countries, including the U.S., the UK, Australia, and Japan.

Best of all, this adapter is super compact. You can easily pop it into your carry-on bag for quick access, perfect for unexpected layovers or delays.

A great gadget to pack in your international luggage, this travel adapter is small, compatible with USB-C and USB, and can be used in more than 150 countries.

Best Noise-Canceling Headphones: Sony WH-1000XM5

Whether traveling via plane, train, or car, noise-canceling headphones are something you won't want to go without. For that, we recommend checking out Sony's WH-1000XM5 headphones , which is one of the best on the market.

Compatible with both Bluetooth and 3.5mm connections, these headphones are very popular, and their sound quality is a large reason why. You also get some of the best noise-cancellation around, complete with a comfortable design and convenient carrying case.

Other highlights? There's speak-to-chat technology, which automatically pauses your music when you talk. There's also built-in Alexa, touch sensor control that allows you to skip, pause, and play tracks, multiple device pairing, and two color options: Black and Silver .

All of those incredible features come with a hefty price tag, though—at nearly $400, these Sony headphones are a significant investment. However, if you have the cash to spend and want a pair of noise-canceling Bluetooth headphones that will last, these are your best bet.

Looking for a good pair of headphones for your child during your next trip? Check out our recommendations for the best noise-cancelling headphones for kids !

With the WH-1000XM5, Sony has shown once again why it is the current king of noise-canceling wireless headphones. These headphones are better than ever with gestures, improved noise cancellation, and better battery life.

Best Portable Charger: Anker PowerCore Slim 1000

A portable charger is a necessity for traveling. If you've somehow managed to live without one until now—or you're looking to upgrade your current model—we recommend the Anker PowerCore Slim 1000 . Priced at less than $30, its impressively slim design can provide multiple charges for iPhones, Android devices, and smaller tablets.

Perfect for tucking into your carry-on, this Anker charger features PowerIQ and VoltageBoost technologies, which ensures that your device is receiving the fastest charge possible. It's also airline-friendly and designed to provide optimal charging to low-power devices, such as headphones and Bluetooth speakers .

That being said, it does take nearly six hours to charge this gadget to its full capacity, so you'll want to gear this guy up a day or two in advance. Additionally, while there are both USB-A and USB-C ports, cords are not included, so make sure you have those ahead of time.

This charger has a 10,000mAh capacity, PowerIQ/VoltageBoost for optimized charging, and an ultra-slim profile.

Best Bluetooth Tracker: Tile Mate

A Bluetooth tracker is a great gadget, especially when you're away from home. These handy devices can be latched onto essentials such as your bag or wallet. And if you accidentally lose them, your tracker will help you find or keep an eye on them.

Our favorite? The Tile Mate , a compact little gizmo that can be easily snapped onto travel necessities and features a Bluetooth range of up to 250 feet.

At less than $50 for a pack of two, these trackers are super easy to use and affordable. You download the accompanying Tile app, which will ring your Tile when it's in Bluetooth range (you can also ask a smart home device, like Amazon Alexa or Google Home, to find it for you). There's also a custom QR code on each Tile, so you can be reached if someone finds it and scans the code.

We also like that the Tile Mate can be used to find your phone. You can double press the button on your Tile to make your phone ring, even when it's on silent. And, in cases when your Tile is out of Bluetooth range, you can use the app to see its most recent location on a map.

You'll have to upgrade to Tile's premium plan for added features like Smart Alert and item reimbursement. Additionally, the Tile is battery-powered, so you'll want to ensure it has a fresh battery before jet setting.

A handy Bluetooth tracker with an easy-to-use accompanying app that will help you keep track of your absolute necessities.

Best Instant Film Camera: Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic

Film cameras are all the rage right now, and this option from Fujifilm, the Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic , is no exception. This easy-to-use film camera instantly develops 2.1 by 3.4-inch (53.34mm x 86.36mm) photos.

In terms of its specs, the Instax Mini 90 is pretty cool. It can automatically detect the brightness of your background or surroundings and will adjust the flash and shutter speed, so you get a great photo every time. Additionally, there's a double exposure mode you can access by pressing the shutter twice.

While it has great ratings and reviews from buyers, we would only recommend this purchase if it's something that you've had your eye on for a while. The camera itself is pretty expensive, and the price can quickly continue to rack up with the added cost of repurchasing film.

This mini instant film camera from Fujifilm is a top-tier option for capturing your trip.

Best Handheld Gaming Machine: Nintendo Switch

Having a handheld gaming machine on deck is particularly smart if you're a nervous traveler or get bored easily. These gadgets can help keep your mind and hands occupied while waiting to board a plane or killing time during a layover.

Our number one pick is the Nintendo Switch , the company's latest addition to the handheld gaming universe. The Switch was essentially born to be a versatile device for solo or group play. It features three play styles (handheld, tabletop, and TV mode), and the Joycons easily slip in and out for the latter.

Other things to love? Depending on what you're playing on the Switch, it has between 4.5 and 9 hours of battery life. It's super lightweight and compact (it weighs in at less than a pound), and the 6.2-inch touch screen is perfect for collecting coins in Mario , making friends in Pokémon, or farming in Stardew Valley. Just make sure to pick up accessories to make it easier to take the Switch with you on the go.

The original Nintendo Switch model and its price cousin, the Nintendo Switch OLED , are a pricier investment, but you can also save $100 and pick up the Nintendo Switch Lite . This budget model is a portable-only device, however, so you won't be able to take advantage of a TV mode.

If you're a PC gamer, you might also want to look into the Steam Deck , to play your PC gaming library on the go.

Nintendo's latest console lets you take your console gaming on the go. Start up a game at home on your TV, then pull the Switch out of the dock and you can continue right where you left off.

Best Tablet for Traveling: Apple iPad (10th Generation)

If you're looking for a great tablet to travel with, look no further than Apple's 10th-generation iPad . The device was updated with a refreshed design that's a lot more modern than the previous model. The larger 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display gives you more room to manage email, surf the web, or kick back with some Netflix.

The iPad is powered by the A14 Bionic processor, which is the same chip used in the iPhone 12 and still going strong. That means you'll get great performance and battery life, with Apple quoting up to 10 hours of usage on a full charge. There's a USB-C port on the side for charging and connecting accessories like an external drive, and you get amazing stereo speakers.

What's more, the 10th-gen iPad works with the first-generation Apple Pencil and the Magic Keyboard Folio , making it a great all-rounder tablet pick. Still, another iPad model might suit you better—check out our roundup of the best iPads to see which is best for you.

The 10th-generation iPad from Apple gets a modern redesign with faster performance, a larger 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, and USB-C, making it a solid go-to tablet for a lot of users.

Best Tablet Keyboard: Logitech K480

Typing on a tablet screen can get old quickly, especially if you're used to typing on a physical QWERTY keyboard. If you want to ensure you can get work done on your tablet while you wait at the airport or bus station, the Logitech K480 keyboard is an awesome option to add to your travel tech collection.

Affordably priced with tons of amazing reviews, this Bluetooth-capable keyboard lets you connect to three devices at once and, thanks to the switch dial, enables you to switch between them anytime. It's compatible with Windows, Android, Chrome OS, and iOS devices. Plus, the pre-installed AAA batteries can last up to 24 months.

Although this Logitech gadget is super cool, it doesn't fold up. It features a classic keyboard design, so it could be a slight pain to travel with, depending on how much space you have. Make sure this is something you need before dealing with the potential pain of packing it!

This keyboard is super comfortable to use, allows you to switch easily between three different Bluetooth devices, and has a built-in cradle for your tablet.

Best Travel Router: TP-Link AC750 Wireless Travel Router

If consistently good Wi-Fi is a non-negotiable for you, you'll want to snag a travel router before leaving for your trip. We recommend the TP-Link AC750 Wireless Travel Router , a reliable option that's small enough to pack. It features five Wi-Fi modes, two of which are specifically designed for great connection on the go.

The AC750's router mode allows you to connect to a hotel's Ethernet to instantly create a private wireless network and share access across your devices. Meanwhile, you can also choose hotspot mode, where you can enable an outdoor WISP access point to create a private Wi-Fi hotspot in public areas.

Despite these "private" connections, you'll still want to use a VPN to protect your information, especially when you're away from home.

It also has a micro USB-C port that can be used to connect an adapter, portable charger, or laptop. You'll want to note that the router doesn't come with any cords (you will, however, receive a two-year warranty, which isn't too shabby).

TP-LINK's AC750 Travel Router is a solid option for connecting to consistently good Wi-Fi wherever you go.

The Gadgets We Bring on Every Trip

Updated March 15, 2024

We’ve reviewed this list and added a few new picks.

We've tested hundreds of gadgets, packed (and overpacked) for dozens of trips, flown hundreds of thousands of miles, and worked remotely from all over the world. But you don't have to be a digital nomad or a tech expert to travel like one. Here are a few gadgets and accessories to make travel as painless as possible via plane, train, or automobile, as well as at your destination.

Packing well means bringing only what you need. Pick things that are light, durable, and versatile.

Multiport USB wall charger

If you’re packing multiple chargers, it’s time to get something better. A single multiport USB charger can quickly charge all your devices at the same time and is barely bigger than the one that comes with a tablet. Some can even charge a laptop.

Affordable, fast, and compact, this four-port 40-watt USB-A charger is great for use at home or on the road.

This compact charger can power almost any USB-C laptop at top speed, and it works great for lower-powered devices, too.

Portable power strip

Packing a power strip that turns a single available outlet into three is an easy way to make quick friends out of potential enemies at airports, hostels, or anywhere outlets are at a premium.

This compact strip gives you three AC outlets and two USB power ports but doesn’t take up much space in a bag or weigh you down.

With 3 AC outlets, 2 USB-A ports, and 1 USB-C, this compact little cube has 5 feet of extension cord and will easily charge even power-hungry MacBooks. About the size of a tennis ball, it packs up easily into your carry-on and comes with an 18-month warranty.

USB power bank

A power bank ensures that your phone never runs out of battery when you need it.

This power bank is small and light, and it has enough capacity to charge most smartphones up to three times.

Cables and adapters for your devices

Your devices won't do you much good if you don't have the right cables to charge them. We suggest packing a spare for any mission-critical gear (in a separate bag if possible) just in case you lose one.

Anker’s PowerLine Lightning cables are fast, sturdy, and inexpensive, plus they come with a lifetime warranty. The 6-foot version is great for travel, when conveniently placed outlets are in short supply.

This cable is MFi-certified, sturdily built, and comfortable to grip, and it has a lifetime warranty. The 6-foot version is long enough to reach from a wall outlet to a nightstand or desk.

Anker’s PowerLine cables are fast, sturdy, and inexpensive, plus they come with a great warranty. The 6-foot version is great for travel.

This 6.6-foot cable rated for 100 watts can recharge even large laptops such as the 16-inch MacBook Pro, but it supports only USB 2.0 data-transfer speeds.

This cable can charge any USB-C laptop, even the 16-inch MacBook Pro, at full speed. It’s overkill (and short) for charging a phone, though.

Noise-cancelling headphones

Noise-cancelling headphones make it easier to hear music or movies over whatever cacophony is playing out around you. Or just wear them without sound to luxuriate in your private sanctuary.

The ideal travel companion, this pair of earbuds offers excellent noise cancellation, great sound, and long battery life.

The Bose 700 headphones deliver excellent noise cancellation in a comfortable, lightweight design that’s traveler friendly.

Virtual private network subscription

A VPN can keep your phone, laptop, or tablet secure when you’re logging in from public Wi-Fi; it can also help you get around regional censors and access the US version of sites while you’re abroad.

Mullvad is transparent about its security and privacy practices. The VPN offers reliable connections and is easy to use on laptops, phones, and tablets.

Two-factor authenticator app

Two-factor authentication gives you an extra layer of security for your important accounts. An app is more secure than SMS verification and works without a cell or data connection.

Duo Mobile is free, available on both Android and iPhone, and easy to use, and its security features are better than those of other two-factor authentication apps.

Password manager

A password manager is essential all the time, but it’s especially important when you’re traveling, so your passwords stay strong, secure, and accessible wherever you are in the world.

1Password now offers its extensive set of bells and whistles across all major platforms, including Windows and Chrome OS. With excellent security and a clear user interface, it’s the password manager to beat.

The free version of Bitwarden covers all the basics of a good password manager and doesn’t cost anything. But it lacks a feature that checks password strength and doesn’t have encrypted file storage.

Nice-to-haves

For long trips and international journeys, here are some optional items to keep you connected, organized, and entertained.

Bluetooth tracker

If you want to locate your luggage in case an airline loses your bag or you accidentally leave it somewhere, a Bluetooth tracker can help you keep tabs on your items.

AirTags use Apple’s huge network of devices to track down lost items, and they’re impressively accurate in pinpointing an item’s precise location.

The Tile Mate has a long range and takes up virtually no space in a suitcase. Its network isn’t as extensive as Apple’s, but it’s the best Android-compatible tracker we’ve tested.

Cable organizer bag

A bag can keep your cables, adapters, dongles, and small electronics stowed neatly and easily accessible.

The fine mesh makes it easy to see what these zip-top bags contain (though isn't water resistant), and the bags come in two sizes and colors so you can create a modular system for your cables, cosmetics, or whatever else you need.

Laptop backpack

A good backpack will protect your laptop from damage, and keep all your stuff organized and easy to find.

Refined details—including leather accents and gunmetal hardware—elevate this travel-friendly pack’s simple silhouette.

Travel plug adapter

Most modern electronic power supplies can work with voltages from 100 to 250 V, but you still need an adapter for the wall socket if you're traveling internationally.

Small, simple, and cheap, this set is perfect for someone who wants to carry only the adapter they’ll need and who already has a multiport USB wall charger they like.

With four plugs that will work in most countries, plus built-in faster-charging USB ports, this adapter has more features for a little more money.

Portable AC battery pack

If you have a laptop that doesn't charge via USB, an AC battery pack will charge it (and all your USB devices too).

This portable charger has an AC outlet, two fast-charging USB-C ports, and a USB-A port, and it can charge even the most power-hungry laptops while they’re in use. But you need to provide your own wall charger.

Ebook reader or tablet

With an e-reader or tablet, you can enjoy endless entertainment—whether it's books, comics, movies, or games—in a slim package.

This Kindle’s features and price, coupled with Amazon’s vast collection of reading material, make it the best device dedicated to reading.

The standard iPad is fast, easy to use, and compatible with the Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard, and it offers the features most tablet users need.

International phone plan

Most phones now work worldwide, but international roaming can be nearly free or outrageously expensive. We’ve researched the best mobile phone services for the majority of frequent international travelers.

With coverage in more than 210 countries and no international data roaming fees, T-Mobile Magenta is the best plan for most people who travel frequently and already own their phone.

Streaming stick

A portable media streamer can make a hotel room TV feel like your TV at home.

Easy to set up, the Roku stick supports huge numbers of streaming channels, works with hotel Wi-Fi portals, and gets all the power it needs from the TV's USB port. And its smartphone app lets you leave the remote at home.

USB data blocker

USB data blockers let you charge your devices from other peoples' USB ports (including charging kiosks) without the risk of their accessing your phone's data or infecting it with malware.

The PortaPow lets you charge your phone or other USB device from a USB port without worrying about accidental data transfer or malware infection, and unlike some others, it won't limit your charging speed.

Nintendo Switch

The Switch is a great home game console but also a great portable console for travel.

If you want a console you can disconnect from the TV and take with you, or if you just prefer Nintendo’s games, the Switch is for you.

If you don't want to risk your laptop or the data on it, a Chromebook is inexpensive, secure, and ideal for international travel. You can even wipe it before you travel and set it up when you get to your destination.

Reliable performance, a spacious touch display, and long-enough battery life for a full workday make this model the best Chromebook for the price.

This Asus model is a less expensive option that doesn’t sacrifice performance, but its non-touch display isn’t as tall, vibrant, or convenient as that of our top pick.

Things to skip

Global travel SIM card

These are very expensive for what they offer. You're better off with a local SIM, a good international data plan, or a phone that supports eSIM so you can activate a local data plan without buying a physical SIM card.

International hotspot

We haven't yet found an international hotspot worth the money. A better bet is to rent one upon arrival, find a hotel or café with Wi-Fi, or tether from your phone.

Further reading

Gear for Car Camping

The Best Gear for Travel

The Best Gear for Your Road Trips

Road-Trip Essentials

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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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34 Best Travel Gadgets & Accessories of 2024

A USB power bank, universal travel adapter, and filtering water bottle are just a few of the devices we wouldn’t go on a trip without.

Have you ever been in a noisy café trying to siphon WiFi for an important business meeting? Or in a foreign country, only to realize you have the incorrect wall adapter for charging your laptop or critical device?

We’ve all been there. And after more than a decade of travel, I’ve learned which travel gadgets are packing essentials and which ones are better off left at home. These are 34 of the best travel gadgets to pack when traveling both domestically and internationally.

Portable Power Bank

One of the most important things to have is power. Not just personal power over your travel plans, but actual power to your devices. In a recent study of 1,000 participants conducted by technology company ZAGG, 89% of people considered a portable power bank to be an essential packing item.

Indeed, choosing a high-quality power bank will help keep your devices alive and thriving. It’s an essential travel gadget.

To utilize fast charging on a USB-C output, check out the mophie powerstation . With multiple USB ports, it also means you can charge it all at once. The powerstation portable chargers have a surprisingly high capacity for their size which makes it an excellent choice for travel.

Especially in the name of safety, it’s worthwhile to have a portable battery charger on hand. If your car breaks down or you get stranded in the middle of nowhere, you’ll be thankful for that extra bit of juice to send out an SOS text or to call that Uber to come to your rescue.

Phone Vent Mount

The mophie snap+ wireless vent mount is a phone mount that clips onto your car’s vents. Utilizing MagSafe technology, your phone magnetically attaches to the charging puck. The vent mount is easy to pop off and take with you for usage in any car, anywhere in the world.

It’s, low key, one of my favorite travel gadgets in my arsenal. I use my phone for navigation every day, and an easy to use vent mount for your car is super handy to have on hand.

I use this wireless vent mount in my car at home then pack it in my suitcase to use in rental cars whenever I’m traveling.

Multi-Device Portable Battery Charger

If you travel with a lot of tech gadgets and need to charge multiple devices at once, a multi-device portable charger like the mophie 3-in-1 travel charger is going to be a necessity for keeping you juiced up.

This sleek and stylish portable charger unfolds like a mini-portfolio, with three dedicated charging pads for your Apple products (whether it’s your Apple Watch, AirPods, or iPhone). A USB-C cable and adapter is included as well.

I love that this travel charger packs up neatly for travel specifically. It’s helpful for saving space in your backpack, and it has fast charging capabilities to boot. It’s one of the best travel gadgets if you have multiple devices to charge each day.

Protective Phone Case

Unless cracking your phone screen is on your bucket list, a protective phone case is a must-have. If you’re traveling a lot, your phone is likely to get a fairer share of beatings, so an ultra-durable case is going to suit you well.

A heavy-duty, protective case like any of the Gear4 Protective Phone Cases is an extra measure to keep your goods safe.

Blue Light Blocking Screen Protector

We spend a lot of time in today’s world staring at the screens of our mobile devices and other travel gadgets these days, and the blue LED light from our cell phones may actually harm your eyes long-term and even disrupt your circadian rhythm .

A blue light blocking screen protector like the InvisibleShield Glass Elite VisionGuard reduces eye strain by blocking blue light, and it has the added bonus of protecting your phone from impacts and scratches.

Double whammy!

Universal Travel Adapter

Have you ever checked into your hotel room after a long travel day, fumbled around to charge your devices, and then realized you don’t have the right power adapter for the country you’re in?

Yep, it has happened to me way more times than this travel expert would like to admit.

Since there’s no such thing as standardized power sockets around the world, a universal travel adapter is one of the most essential travel accessories you can buy. The HERO Power Adapter is one of the more affordable travel adapters out there, and best of all, it comes with two USB ports, too.

A universal adapter is one of the best gadgets you can buy if you’re traveling.

Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones

Ok, there might be something worse than not having the right adapter to charge your travel gadgets: screaming babies on planes and trains.

Even travel to the most remote places typically consists of stopping in big cities and let’s face it: the world is a noisy place. The Bose NC 700 headphones are noise canceling headphones that help turn off the unwanted noise. Bose always has the latest noise canceling, which cancels out noise and delivers perfect sound quality.

For more information about the different models, check out my full comparison between the Bose 700 vs QC35 .

Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Whenever I’m traveling abroad, my JBL Flip 6 portable bluetooth speaker is a travel essential. It always helps to start the party, whether I’m at a hostel in Thailand or a pool in the Caribbean.

Since it’s waterproof, you can bring this baby anywhere. This small Bluetooth speaker delivers a surprisingly crisp, clear and powerful volume, especially compared to other speakers on the market. The battery is fantastic too⁠—once it’s fully charged, you’ll get a full 12 hours of play time.

Nintendo Switch

A Nintendo Switch is a pretty cool gadget to pack on your next trip. This lightweight device is perfect for gaming on the go, even if you’re not much of a gamer.

The Switch has an enormous roster of available games—everything from Minecraft to Animal Crossing to Mario Bros—so you’re guaranteed to find something to keep you entertained on those long haul flights (or those budget flights without any TVs).

And, fun fact: you can buy international eShop games as you’re traveling.

The Nintendo Switch also has an impressive battery life, so you don’t have to constantly recharge your battery like your other devices.

Travel Pillow

A good travel pillow is one of the ultimate travel accessories for long bouts of travel. For me, a travel pillow can make or break a long-haul flight. Either you’re constantly adjusting your pillow, or you’re snoozing like a baby.

The Ergonomic Travel Neck Pillow from Cushion Lab is a pillow that’s designed to work for everyone: the asymmetrical design supports your entire neck, chin, and head so you’re not flopping around. You can also rotate it to better suit your sleeping style.

It even packs down into a handy little travel kit no bigger than a mug.

Compression Packing Cubes

I have been using compression packing cubes since I started traveling years ago and they’re still some of the best travel gadgets I’ve ever used. They work twofold by separating your clothing and compressing everything down to save lots of space (something digital nomads will appreciate).

The Gonex Compression Packing Cubes set comes with four expandable organizers in an assortment of colors, so you can pick whatever suits your style.

When you unload your backpack in your hostel or hotel and start easily pulling out your packing cubes without having to root around for your pajamas, you’ll be grateful for these. If you haven’t used compression packing cubes before, pick some up for your next trip.

DJI Mavic 3 Drone

If you’re looking to up your photography game, the DJI Mini 3 Pro is one of the best drones on the market right now. It weighs in at only <249 grams and packs down to about the size of a cell phone, yet it’s a powerful piece of photography gear.

The DJI Mini 3 Pro can fly up to 11-15.5 miles and for 30-40 minutes, and it comes with a 48 MP, 1/1.3 inch CMOS sensor which can capture professional-level images and video.

As far as travel tech goes, this is one of the most impressive drones out there, and it’s super fun to travel with.

Mirrorless Camera

There’s no need to carry a bulky camera around with you on your travels anymore, because nowadays mirrorless cameras provide the same level of quality as DSLRs. I even wrote a whole article about the best cameras for travel .

The Fujifilm X-T30 is my top choice when it comes to mirrorless travel cameras, offering packing an incredible punch into quite a small package. With 26.2 megapixels of detail and a beautiful color profile, you get stunning photos with the Fujifilm X line. It’s a little pricier than some other options on the market, but you really can’t beat this kind of price to value ratio.

Portable WiFi and Hotspot

A portable WiFi hotspot is one of the coolest travel gadgets you can get your hands on these days⁠—especially if you’re a digital nomad, and even more so if you’re spending lots of time in places with less than reliable Internet.

The Skyroam Solis is a super fast 4G LTE hotspot with the fun perk of having an embedded power bank. You’ll get more than 16 hours of battery life regardless, but the best part is that you get full WiFi coverage in 130+ countries.

It also comes with encrypted security to keep all your stuff safe.

Travel Door Alarm

Here’s another one of my favorite top gadgets and accessories: a travel door alarm, like this one from Lewis n Clark .

For a little bit of extra security while you’re staying in a hotel or hostel, just attach the alarm to a door by simply hanging it from the door knob and placing the clip in the doorframe.

When the alarm senses some vibration, it lets out a massive 91 db alarm to wake up your neighbors. Take it on your next trip for some peace of mind.

Pacsafe Portable Travel Safe

Pacsafe is a frequent presence on my list of top anti-theft backpacks, and that’s because the brand offers state of the art technology when it comes to anti-theft travel gadgets.

The Travelsafe 3L GII Anti-Theft Portable Safe is exactly how it sounds: it’s a safe you can travel with. It has revolutionary 360° wire eXomesh® technology and a locking cable so you can lock your valuables down.

The 3L is ideal for stashing in your bag, but it comes in three different sizes up to 12L.

Portable Luggage Scale

Not a fan of traveling carry-on only? A portable luggage scale is one of those handy travel accessories that will help make life easier.

They won’t break the bank⁠—a reliable portable luggage scale should cost less than $15, but could save you a ton of money in baggage fees in the long run. It’s a great idea especially if you’re known to splurge on souvenirs while you’re traveling.

Kindle Paperwhite

According to the summer travel study by ZAGG, 53% of people considered books and entertainment to be a packing essential. I’m a big fan of paperbacks, but having an e-reader (instead of 20lbs of books in my luggage ) is so much better. For avid readers and frequent travelers, a Kindle Paperwhite is the perfect companion.

I’m impressed by how much the Paperwhite has advanced over the years. My first Kindle was barely readable, but the latest versions almost feel like a real paperback, they come with extra storage (up to 16GB), an adjustable warm light, waterproof coating (for the beach or bath tub!), and a fast charge via USB-C for up to 10 weeks of battery life.

Inflatable Solar Powered Light

I know the concept of an inflatable light sounds weird, but the Luci Original inflatable solar powered light is one of my favorite travel gadgets this year.

It’s fully inflatable and collapsible so it fits easily into your backpack or camping gear, and it lasts up to 24 hours on a single charge. It comes with 65 lumens and warm white LEDs to light up your space, making it one of those essential items to carry in case of an emergency or to simply to find your way in the dark. For such a small light, it’s incredibly powerful.

Gotenna Mesh GPS Device

One thing I make it a point to not do when off grid is pick up my cell phone. But in case of emergency, the Gotenna Mesh GPS Device is one of the best ways to stay on the path and connected to other people when I’m doing anything off-grid, whether it’s hiking or road tripping.

This simple small device pairs with your smartphone to send text and GPS coordinates to your group, even without cell or WiFi. I highly suggest picking up one of these for your next adventure, even just to give Mom and Dad some peace of mind. It privately relays messages and comes with micro USB connections for charging as well.

Vago Travel Vacuum Compressor

I’m all for packing light, but having extra room is just a nice luxury sometimes. That’s why the Vago Travel Vacuum Compressor is such a brilliant tool.

All you need is this tiny vacuum device and the included vacuum bag. Attach the Vago, press the button, and watch your clothes compress.

It takes only 5 minutes, and sensors will let the Vago know automatically when to stop. The entire thing weighs just 86 grams, so you’ll barely even notice it in your luggage.

Sea to Summit Eye Shades

I’m a sensitive sleeper, and I absolutely hate light filtering through my window. So when I’m traveling, I block out unwanted light with these comfy Sea to Summit Eye Shades .

They have an adjustable strap to keep secured against your face while blocking out light, and they come with a set of earplugs. (Or maybe you can just pair them with your wireless headphones for the ultimate nap experience.)

These shades are lined with microfiber, and they’re easy to wash and reuse. Once you get a pair, I promise you’ll take them everywhere with you.

Passport Holder

I’ve never thought of a passport holder as a necessary travel gadget, but my friends who are business travelers absolutely swear by them.

When you’re in transit and dashing through customs and security while trying to make connections, the ease of having all your documents in one place can be really helpful.

There are limitless options for passport holders , but I suggest one with multiple pockets for additional documents like your Nexus card, boarding pass, visas, etc.

Combination Luggage Lock

I’m all about luggage security. Since I travel with a lot of photography gear and other travel gadgets, keeping my stuff safe is an absolute priority.

Using a combination luggage lock like the Pacsafe Prosafe 800 keeps both my carry-on and checked baggage secure while I’m on the go. Nowadays you can even find thumbprint-release luggage locks, and they’re TSA approved too.

DJI Osmo 6 Phone Gimbal

Taking your travel videography to the next level doesn’t mean you have to invest time and money into fancy cameras or training programs⁠—sometimes it’s as simple as using a smartphone stabilizer.

The DJI Osmo Mobile 6 is one of the most intelligent smartphone stabilizers out there. It’s super compact and packs up into a tidy, foldable package that fits in your palm. But even when folded, it’s easy to whip out in a pinch⁠—the minute you need that perfect shot, you can unfold the gimbal in an instant.

The app is also excellent and lets you shoot, edit, and share quickly and efficiently.

Lume Cube Mobile Creator and Lighting Kit

The Lume Cube Mobile Creator and Lighting Kit is like a selfie stick on steroids. It’s one of those cool gadgets built with content creators in mind, and is entirely multi-functional so that you can capture photo and video content no matter where you are.

The 3-in-1 does it all: custom lighting, perfect audio, and different mounting options so you can set up your smartphone however you’d like.

The kit comes with a light panel and stand, a mic with a foam windshield and screen, and an extension stick that doubles as a hands-free tripod. It’s probably the most versatile travel gadget on this list!

Scrubba Washing Bag

The Scrubba Washing Bag is one of the best travel gadgets for backpackers and long distance hikers (or campers). It’s pretty much a portable washing machine for all of your trail gear, and it’s an incredibly smart bit of technology.

Toss all your dirty clothes in with a bit of detergent and some water, and you’ll be clean and fresh in no time.

You might think the Scrubba Washing Bag is an unnecessary addition to your luggage, but actually, being able to wash your clothes mid-trip means you don’t have to pack more stuff. You’ll just get to reuse your worn clothes. Plus, if there’s no laundromat or laundry services nearby, you might not have any other options.

Roku Streaming Stick

If you’re a frequent traveler who spends a lot of time in hotels, it’s time to invest in a Roku streaming stick. It might be the most underrated travel gadget on this list.

Watching TV or movies from an iPad or laptop is easy, but being able to catch up on your shows via your hotel’s big screen TV is so much better. Just plug the streaming stick into the HDMI port, wait for it to connect to the WiFi, and then use the app on your mobile device as a remote control.

You’ll have all your streaming services at your fingertips, even Spotify. Easy peasy.

LARQ Water Bottle

One of my best travel tips: make sure you’re always drinking clean water. Always. Nobody wants to miss several days of travel because they drank the tap water and ended up with crippling stomach issues.

I love the LARQ water bottle because it’s completely self-cleaning, with a built-in UV-C light that kills nearly 100% of viruses and bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella. It even cleans the inside of the bottle, so you don’t have to ever clean it again.

You’ll also cut down on a significant amount of waste with this water bottle…at least 300 plastic bottles per filter, actually.

When you travel with lots of gear and you’re trying to detangle millions of wires flowing from millions of USB ports in the middle of a busy coffee shop as you set your work station up for the day…you’ll be thankful that you have cable ties .

Reusable cable ties are a godsend. You can gather your cables together, wind them tightly with the cord, and keep them neat and tidy out of the way. I use them while on the road and also at home to keep my workspace nice and orderly.

Compact Binoculars

I’m not sure if it’s a sign that I’m getting older, but suddenly I love having a compact pair of binoculars with me when I’m hiking or camping. Whether it’s for birdwatching, wildlife viewing, or scouting out the trail ahead, my binoculars have gotten a whole lot of use lately.

There are a ton of brands to choose from, but Nikon makes excellent high-quality, water resistant binoculars . They fold down small enough you can even stash them into your coat pocket.

Wacaco Portable Espresso Maker

I know⁠—this gadget is pure luxury, but whipping out the Minipresso GR Portable Espresso Maker and brewing your own fine quality espresso shot wherever you are is a pleasure that’s worth the splurge, in my opinion.

The Minipresso GR is extremely light and versatile, and compact enough to fit in most day bags.

Grind your own beans beforehand and then add the grind to the filter basket with the included scoop, tap down the grind, add hot water into the tank, and voila! Espresso that tastes like it’s straight out of Italy.

Anti-Spy Detector

Did you know that you could actually buy a hidden device detector that helps detect hidden cameras, audio bugs, and other trackers? The G4 Pro Anti-Spy Detector does just that. It’s like anti-creep detector, really.

This small, pen-like detector only weighs 30 grams and yet has the ability to detect radio waves, 2-4G mobile signals, as well as bugs at certain frequencies.

You can never be too safe these days, especially if you’re traveling by yourself.

Travel Insurance

I’d be remiss to write a whole article about the best travel gadgets without at least bringing up one of my favorite topics: insurance for travel. It’s the ultimate travel accessory. Believe me.

Making sure you’re insured while you’re on the road is one of the best ways to set yourself up for success. You really don’t want to be left holding a $100,000 bill.

If you’re unsure where to even begin, our list of the best travel insurance companies is a great starting point.

Best Travel Gadget & Travel Accessories Summary

This list of travel gadgets and accessories is by no means conclusive, and there are likely a few things you’ll want to add to your own list as you’re traveling. (Compact wine bottle opener or quick-drying towel, anyone?)

These gadgets are meant to make your life a little easier. Enjoy the journey without all the extra fuss, and you’ll feel right at home on the road.

Travel Gadgets FAQs

What electronics do you need for travel.

For travel you should bring your smartphone, headphones, USB battery bank, charging cables, and adapters for your destination country.

How do you pack travel accessories?

Packing travel accessories in small packing cubes or pouches can help you stay organized during travel.

What electronics can you not bring on a plane?

Any rechargeable devices with lithium batteries are not allowed in checked luggage. You can bring them in your carry-on luggage though.

Do you have to pull your laptop out for airport security?

It depends on the airport. Many airports still require you to pull yout your laptop, but at airports with newer scanners, it isn’t necessary.

How do I pack electronics for TSA?

Make sure than any device bigger than a smartphone is easily accessible so you can take it out for security.

Jeremy Scott Foster

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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.

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

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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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

• How to Travel Cheap: Ultimate Guide to 108 Travel Resources
• 43 Amazing Money-Saving Travel Tips and Hacks
• Travel Insurance for Italy (What You NEED to Know Before You Go)
• 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.

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post.

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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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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.

Our editors carefully select every product we recommend. We may earn a commission from these links. Learn more

The 12 Best Travel Gadgets For Any Trip

By: Yoni Yardeni Published: Aug 04, 2023

By: Yoni Yardeni and Cameron Cardwell Published: Aug 04, 2023

Contributors

There are two sides to every vacation: the wondrous escape into an environment you’ve never encountered before, and the tumultuous planning and lead-up that precedes it. Whether you’re in for a long flight, train ride, or even just an Uber ride to the local airport, traveling can be an extremely strenuous process — and you don’t need to tell us twice just how much of a sour taste it can leave after a trip if things don’t go smoothly. And while these forms of transportation may try to accommodate us with a variety of entertainment options to take our mind off of just how long things are taking, that never quite manages to cut it, which is why we always seek out some superb travel gadgets to take along.

Thanks to all of the available modernized tech these days, there’s no need to endure all of travel’s ailing qualities without some additional accessories to assist us. Looking to make life simpler for you as you get ready to go out and about, our guide to the best travel gadgets to buy is sure to ease any sense of travel uncertainty.

The Best Travel Gadgets

Best Tracker

Best Toothbrush

Quip Electric Toothbrush

Best Portable Power Source

Anker Power Core Portable Charger

Best Hard Drive

LaCie Rugged Mini

Best Bluetooth Speaker

Sonos Roam SL

Best Health Tracker

Best Handheld Console

Nintendo Switch OLED

Best Carry-On

Away The Carry-On

Best Action Camera

GoPro HERO11

Best E-Ink Writer

Astrohaus Freewrite Traveler Typewriter

Best Headphones

Apple AirPods Max

Best Tablet

Apple iPad Pro

How we chose our picks.

For all of our gadget guides, we select products we trust and put good design and performance above all else. This time around, we’ve picked gadgets that will make traveling not only more peaceful and entertaining, but also safer and more productive. This guide includes devices like headphones, handhelds, and speakers for comfort and play, along with more practical gear like a hard drive, trackers, and chargers, so you can get some work done with peace of mind knowing your devices will have enough juice (and so you don’t lose anything). Everything on this list comes from well-known and trusted brands in their respective industries, and we leverage our decade-plus experience reviewing these products and covering the tech space on a daily basis to become intimately familiar with the gadgets before deciding to include them.

Why It Made The Cut

• Losing something while traveling is very stressful, and Tile’s water-resistant tracker helps prevent that for up to three years

Best Tracker: There are few hardships as tumultuous as losing something you cherish in a foreign land. With that in mind, a Bluetooth tracker is a necessity when you’re traveling, and who better to trust than Tile? As the brand that started it all, its water-resistant Mate tracker boasts a 3-year battery that you can replace when needed, so it’s intended to keep your valuables in check for a number of your upcoming vacations, as well as once you get back home.

Battery Life:  3 years Bluetooth Range: 76 meters

• It’s better for your teeth to have a reliable toothbrush than some dinky throwaway, especially if it’s electronic and has smartphone connectivity

Best Toothbrush: In a similar vein to wrinkles, hygiene upkeep most certainly doesn’t take a vacation just because you are. With that in mind, a smart toothbrush with seamless smartphone connectivity is the way to go. Maintaining oral hygiene is vital, and keeping track of just how long you’re brushing is made equally important thanks to Quip’s app that informs its users on their top-and-bottom row coverage and overall intensity. For those looking to have fresh breath throughout their trip and also make their dentist proud on their next visit, this is the way to go.

Batteries Required:  1 AAA Bristle:  Soft

• Keeping your devices charged is essential for entertainment, navigation, and work; and this offering from Anker provides six complete charges on most phones

Best Portable Power Source: Anker’s vast catalog of gadgets spans from projectors to magnetic charging stations to practically everything in between, but its PowerCore Portable Charger speaks for itself, your phone, and a couple of other devices too. It boasts a 26800mAh battery that can practically endure an entire vacation without dying, and even comes equipped with an additional pair of charging ports that are sure to assist anyone accompanying you on your trip.

Battery: 26800mAh Ports: Dual input and 3 USB Charging: Capable of charging the average smartphone around 6 times

• If you’re a creative or a remote worker, having reliable storage is a must, and it doesn’t hurt if it’s nearly indestructible

Best Hard Drive: You may have caught a glimpse of these ubiquitous hard drives at your local coffee shop or even on your favorite TV show — they’re just that popular, because they’re just so powerful. LaCie’s Rugged Mini is the ideal portable piece of technical gear thanks to its bolstered, shock-resistant exterior, 4′ of drop resistance, as well as dust and water resistance, allowing you to take this along with you across any terrain. On top of that, you can pack it up with movies, shows, and documents to peruse throughout your flight.

Storage: 2TB Connectivity: USB 3.0 Resistances: Shock-resistant, drop-resistant up to 4 feet, and water-resistant

• This speaker is IP67 waterproof and dustproof, making it the perfect beach companion

Best Bluetooth Speaker: The newly-released Sonos Roam SL boasts an intricately-engineered pair of the audio manufacturer’s signature Class-H digital amplifiers, simple AirPlay connectivity, an ergonomic composition, and a countless number of other things that make it the  perfect travel speaker . What sets it apart, though, is its IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, ensuring that you can take it with you whether you’re basking oceanside at a beach resort or venturing through sand dunes. Measuring just over 6.5″ tall and right under 4.5″ wide, it’s built to squeeze into any backpack or suitcase with ease.

Battery Life:  10 hours Resistances:  IP67 waterproof and dustproof, and drop resistant Size:  6.5″ tall and 4.5″ wide

Oura Smart Ring

• A lightweight titanium health tracker that connects to Google Fit and Apple Health, all inside a sleek ring

Best Health Tracker: Boasting all the intricate health details you get from a smartwatch and then some, this Smart Ring tracks your sleep and fitness, and has up to a week of battery life. Weighing less than 6 grams and composed of durable, lightweight titanium, the Oura is a seamless addition to anyone’s accessory assortment and also features easy user-friendly connectivity to Google Fit and Apple Health. Available in a quartet of sleek colors, accentuate your look and wardrobe with a piece of jewelry that provides some much-needed functionality.

Battery Life:  Up to 7 days Material: Titanium Connectivity: Google Fit and Apple Health

• Long flights and car trips are much more bearable with entertainment, and the Switch’s portability and multiplayer-friendly features are perfect for them

Best Handheld Console: Whether you’re an old-school gamer or an  Animal Crossing  enthusiast, there’s no shortage of fun to be had on the  ultra-portable Nintendo Switch . With the Japanese giant’s newly-released OLED-equipped model hitting the market just last year, you can revel in its glorious 7″ display as you play anything from its vast array of nostalgic Virtual Console games to the latest Kirby platformer. Plus, if you’re traveling with a friend, there’s no need to worry about lacking an extra controller, making for a conveniently inclusive playing experience.

Storage:  64 GB Screen: 7″ OLED Connectivity: Bluetooth and wired LAN

• Having a lightweight carry-on makes flying a lot easier, espcially when it has a USB charging port

Best Carry-On: While we already touched on a pair of gadgets that can charge your phone on the go, none boast the state-of-the-art appeal of an electronic suitcase. Away’s The Carry-On may feature a rudimentary name, but the unique piece of luggage is far more than meets the eye, as it comes equipped with an ejectable USB charging port that is bound to come in clutch when you’re amid any lengthy flight delays. Not to mention, it’s lightweight, sleek, and sits on a quartet of 360-degree spinner wheels, making it an  ideal carry-on  for the average tech junkie.

Capacity: 39.8 L Weight: 7.5 lbs Size: 21.7″ x 14.4″ x 9″

• If your trip involves some adventures, you might want to go with the pros on this one, and grab this action camera capable of 5.3K videos and 27MP photos

Best Action Camera: If you need something to document your trip and the latest smartphone camera technology just isn’t quite cutting it, instill your faith in GoPro to provide the market’s optimized action camera. The S.F.-bred techies’ HERO11 is an incredible choice thanks to its use of the brand’s state-of-the-art GP2 engine, paving the way for rapid-fire performance and the frame-doubling abilities that result in the smoothest footage possible. Capable of shooting up to 5.3K videos and snapping 27MP photos, you’ll be able to relive your trip in a manner so crystal clear that you’ll forget it ever even came to a close.

Battery: Removable 1720mAh Enduro battery Image Sensor: 1/1.9″ CMOS Waterproof: 10 meters Video/Photo Quality: 5.3k videos and 27MP photos

• E-ink is a lot easier on the eyes, especially for long reading/writing sessions, and this portable typewriter provides that in a manageable size

Best E-Ink Writer: For all the writers out there who can’t stand looking at their laptops anymore and aim for a more traditional experience, this is an incredible choice, even if you don’t find yourself gearing up for vacation. Astrohaus’ unique gadget boasts a whopping four-week battery life and features an E-ink screen with no glare or blue light, shedding much of the strain our eyes endure on a common basis through constant smartphone usage. With enough space to hold well over one million pages of drafts, writer’s block is truly the only thing to fear when purchasing the Freewrite Traveler.

Battery Life: 4 weeks Storage: Over 1,000,000 pages of drafts Connectivity: Dropbox, Evernote, and Google Drive Screen Size: 121mm x 70mm

• Stylish with high-quality audio and noise-cancellation, there’s a reason this is a grail pick for many

Best Headphones: There are countless wireless headphones to choose from, but Apple’s ergonomic offering takes the cake. This hi-fi option boasts a dynamic driver designed by world-renowned gadgeteers and features immaculate  noise-canceling capabilities  that are bound to come in handy on any of those stressful and noisy flights you have booked. In addition to that, they are compatible with spatial audio and feature dynamic head tracking, allowing you to make the most of Apple Music’s ongoing work with Dolby Atmos en route to crafting an immersive listening experience.

Battery Life: Up to 20 hours Connectivity:  Bluetooth 5.0 Technology: Active Noise Cancellation, transparency mode, spatial audio, and adaptive EQ

• A great way to have your work center and entertainment in one compact place, with Apple’s best-in-class UI and latest M2 chip

Best Tablet: It’s already more than likely that you’re traveling around with an iPhone in your pocket, so why not add to that with some more Apple gear? The Cupertino geniuses dominate the tablet game by all measures, and it hasn’t been close ever since Apple unveiled the very first iPad generation. The latest and greatest iPad Pros are powered by the brand’s almighty M2 Chip, resulting in lightning-fast speeds and otherworldly performance across the board. Round that out with a gorgeous Liquid Retina display and a long-lasting, all-day battery, and you’ve got yourself a portable entertainment and work center built to take on the world at your side.

Displays: 11″ Liquid Retina and 12.9″ Liquid Retina XDR Storage: 128GB – 2TB

The Best Camping Gadgets Right Now

While these picks are great for traveling, you might need some more rugged gear for camping. That’s where our best camping gadgets guide comes in.

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The 25 Best Gadgets From CES 2024 You Can Buy Right Now

It's barely two weeks into the new year, but the flood of new gadgets for 2024 has already started. Thanks to CES , we've seen a ton of innovative tech launch into the marketplace. While many products announced at CES won't be available till later this year, a fair number are already for sale. Check out this curated selection of devices available for purchase or preorder. (The preorder items listed here should ship within just a month or two.)

More CES 2024 Coverage

• 100+ highlights from the show
• Best of CES 2024
• First look at Supernal's 120-MPH flying car
• First look at the AI-powered Rabbit R1 assistant
• TVs got bigger and brighter, and even see-through
• Photos from Day 1
• Photos from Day 2
• Our CES recap podcast—all the news in 30 minutes

If you miss having a physical keyboard on your smartphone, the Clicks case might be the solution for you.

If you miss having a physical keyboard on your smartphone, the Clicks case might be the solution for you. It comes with a built-in physical QWERTY keyboard that you can use with your iPhone. The best part is that the virtual keyboard won’t appear unless you force it to, so you get back that screen real estate as you type. It does add some height to the phone, but it’s super cute and has backlit keys. It also supports Mac and iPad keyboard shortcuts. The case is only available for the iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max. You can order it now and select models will start shipping in February. —Brenda Stolyar

HP’s new Spectre x360 laptops feature Neural Processing Units (NPUs), which allow them to perform some AI-type computation without sending your data off to the cloud, which is what usually happens with AI queries. That's good for privacy, but might not be great for battery life. To help conserve battery life, the new Spectre x360s have a 2.8K OLED display that dims when you look away and adjusts its refresh rate based on content. —Scott Gilbertson

Celestron’s new screen-based telescope, Origin, allows you to explore the stars via the 6.4-megapixel sensor, which projects images to your smart device. You can set up the Origin outside and relax on the couch, projecting the heavens onto your TV. —Scott Gilbertson

Anker showed off a ton of wireless chargers at CES 2024, and almost all of these are Qi2-certified—that’s the newest wireless charging standard, and we have a whole explainer you can read to learn more here . All of these chargers have different functions in one way or another. The Anker MagGo Power Bank ($90) has a 10,000-mAh capacity and a built-in kickstand, with a display on the side to show how much juice is left. There’s a smaller 6,600-mAh version that drops the display but has a stand. If you want to spend as little as possible, there’s the MagGo Wireless Charging Magnetic Pad ($22) , and then a new version of the original MagGo Charging Station ($100) , which has MagSafe on the front, three AC outlets on the back, two USB-C ports, and two USB-A ports. Lastly, there’s the 3-in-1 Charging Station ($110) for Apple users, which I’ve actually been using here at CES to top up my phone. It’s a nice compact travel solution if you have an Apple Watch, iPhone, and AirPods. —Julian Chokkattu

This smartphone packs our favorite software coming out of CES 2024. The Apostrophy OS is based on GrapheneOS , which is based on Android, and replaces every element of Google’s presence from the software to instead have a privacy-focused alternative Android operating system. Instead of collecting and selling your data, it has a $15 monthly subscription to use Apostrophy OS after the first year. The Punkt MC02 itself has a 6.7-inch screen, a 5,500-mAh battery, 6 GB of RAM, and a 64-megapixel primary camera. You can order the MC02 now and it ships in the next month. — Julian Chokkattu

Segway’s transforming Go Kart is probably the most fun thing I tested at CES, and I don’t take that lightly (or say that about Segway, normally). In its first form, it’s a fun and zippy little Go Kart, with a max speed of 26.7 mph and plenty of pickup that corners nicely around the turns. In its second form, the back end detaches to become a little floating hoverboard. Finally, roll it into your house, park it in front of the TV, and it becomes a tiny racing sim. It’s compatible with most major consoles and games and has full 360 haptic feedback, as I discovered when I decided that CES was the right time to learn how to drift. This is the perfect toy for a wealthy 13-year-old, or perhaps more appropriately, a 40-year-old mom. —Adrienne So

Do you hate pulling out your phone every time you need to do some boring, mundane thing like DoorDash a hot dog or call an Uber? You might need (or just want) a Rabbit R1, an adorable, pocket-sized AI device. It’s about the size of a stack of Post-its with a screen, button, touchscreen, and camera. When you need to run an errand, just push a button, give it a voice command, and send a rabbit to do all the boring stuff that takes up time in your life: add a song to a Spotify playlist, make a reservation at your favorite restaurant. It does require its own cellular connection, but it could save you a ton of time and energy. Read Julian Chokkattu’s full story for more. Also, just know the first batch sold out in one day (!) but the company is taking preorders for the next batch. —Adrienne So

Dreaming of a bidet? What about a bidet you can control like a smart speaker? Kohler’s PureWash E930 bidet seat can be added on to your existing toilet, with features ranging from adjustable water temperatures and pressure to a heated seat, air dryer, and a motion-activated cover. But perhaps the most surprising feature is that it works with Amazon Alexa and Google Home, so you could ask your voice assistant of choice to activate the bidet or dryer. The included remote would certainly be faster to use, but voice control does mean you can have a fully hands-free experience. It’s available now for preorder. — Nena Farrell

Razer’s Iskur v2 gaming chair is on sale for $649 .

Chipolo’s team takes scuffs and marks seriously, which has turned into thousands of perfectly workable, but slightly less beautiful, wallet trackers getting removed from the product lineup—until now, with the limited edition Perfectly Imperfect version of the CARD Spot. The cards are made with plastic injection molding, which can result in minor streaks on the finish instead of being perfectly smooth, but now instead of throwing those cards away, they’re available to purchase. The interior technology works normally, and shopping one of these helps keep plastic from getting discarded. The Perfectly Imperfect line is available now starting at $35. — Nena Farrell

We tested the Trek Fetch+ 2 on a several-hours-long ride through Red Rocks Canyon outside Vegas. It’s a compact electric cargo longtail bike that’s big enough for two kids to sit on; I toted my backpack in the rear racks. It has a hydroformed alloy low-step frame with an integrated battery and a Bosch Performance Line Cargo motor, all atop very fun and maneuverable 20-inch wheels. Mount your phone and let it charge while you ride and watch your stats in Bosch’s eBike Flow app. Auto mode lets the bike apply just enough power to keep your level of effort consistent, no matter what the terrain looks like. It feels so natural that it’s confusing. I kept shifting to and fro trying to figure out why I wasn’t pedaling harder uphill. —Adrienne So

Considering RCA’s mascots are dogs Nipper and Chipper, it makes sense that the brand would expand into pet gadgets. Two automatic feeders hold 6 liters of dry kibble. You can schedule mealtimes or set it off manually via the app, and they also work with Google Assistant and Alexa. The $100 feeder comes equipped with a 1080p camera and the $80 version is camera-less. There’s also a $100 treat dispenser with a 1080p camera so you can launch a treat out rather than fill up a dinner bowl. For each purchase of those three devices, RCA is donating $1 to K9 for Warriors. —Medea Giordano

Pet tech was a theme this year, particularly trackers that keep tabs on pet health. The Invoxia Minitailz measures respiratory and heart vitals, detects atrial fibrillation, and tracks anomalies in behavior. The app compiles all the tracked data into easily digestible information that should give you a good idea on if you need to contact a vet, hopefully long before something serious happens. There’s also GPS tracking if your pet gets lost. The dog version is available for purchase now for $99 plus an $8.30 per month (about $100 a year) subscription. The cat version should be available in March. —Medea Giordano

JLab’s latest micro-sized ANC earbuds are notable not only for their tiny form factor, but also their slim-size price of just $60. This third-gen model comes with some solid features, including both noise canceling and transparency modes, basic EQ via the JLab app, and up to nine hours of playback time per charge without ANC. The budget brand also showed off its “first foray into the higher-end market” with the Lux ANC , an $80 pair of noise-canceling, over-ear headphones that have 70 hours of playtime per charge, spatial audio support, and Bluetooth multipoint to connect to your phone and PC at the same time. The headphones can be preordered now for expected shipping in mid-February, while the earbuds are available now. — Ryan Waniata

When does a monitor become a TV and vice versa? LG’s new 4K MyView Smart Monitor series blurs the lines, offering built-in smarts via LG’s webOS so you can stream from the screen directly, no PC required. This 32-inch model offers HDR support, good color coverage, and comes with a remote and detachable webcam, though its 60-Hz refresh rate could be limiting for gamers. — Ryan Waniata

If you’re worried about having backup power for your entire home, EcoFlow’s new Delta Pro Ultra promises to back up enough output power for every appliance in your abode—even the air conditioning. The Delta Pro Ultra can charge via solar panels, your local grid, or even an external generator, so there’s plenty of ways to power it up ahead of any expected outages or just for peace of mind. The 90-kWh battery also promises to store enough backup power for a month of “essential” use of a “standard household,” to keep the lights and fridge running. The Delta Pro Ultra is on sale now, and is stackable if your home needs more than one. — Nena Farrell

Since its debut last year, Sightful’s Spacetop AR laptop has been reserved for early adopters. Now it's available for everyone to purchase—no invitation required. The entire setup comes with a pair of glasses and a full-size keyboard and touchpad. Power it up, put on the glasses, and you have instant access to a 100-inch screen that displays as many windows and apps as you need. It’s a somewhat futuristic but also convenient solution for those who want to get work done on the go but can’t bring their multi-monitor setup along with them. — Brenda Stolyar

Last year, we tried the feather-light Targus Zero Waste EcoSmart Backpack made from 20 recycled water bottles. This year, the brand expanded its EcoSmart lineup with a backpack and briefcase with 900-denier polyester exteriors made from ocean-bound plastic—which means it was recovered within 30 miles of an ocean coastline or major waterway that feeds into the ocean—and 140-denier recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) interiors. Both have a secure laptop compartment with a recycled neoprene sling to minimize movement. Targus says the Coastline backpack has the equivalent of 69 percent recycled content and 26 percent ocean-bound plastic, and the briefcase is 70 percent recycled and 24 percent ocean-bound plastic. —Medea Giordano

If your concern is with your pet’s weight, Ilume’s Dog Wellbeing Smart Suite tracks your dog’s activity level and daily routines to recommend exactly how many calories they should be eating. The bowl has a light ring that closes as you add the right amount of food so you don’t have to figure out measurements. It’s pricey though at $250 to $300 right now depending on the batch you get. After March, it will likely reach its full price of $350. —Medea Giordano

Mojawa HaptiFit Terra

On the outside, the HaptiFit Terra Earbuds look like your standard over-ear bone conduction workout buds. But the coolest part is that these also function as both an activity tracker and AI sports trainer. Whenever you start tracking your workouts while listening to music, you can also leverage its AI feature to build a personalized training program. And, once it’s ready, you can then set your heart rate and pace thresholds and the earbuds will pulse on your head to keep you at the right speed. These are currently available for preorder for $200 ($100 off) if you use the code HFPRE1. —Brenda Stolyar

Maxi-Cosi’s brand-new baby monitor has everything you’d usually want from a baby monitor: pan and tilt controls, a handheld parent display, built-in temperature sensors and soothing sounds, and a 2K video feed to the smartphone app. But it also has something you wouldn’t usually find: AI that can identify a baby’s cries, called CryAssist. The See Pro 360° can identify a baby’s cries as sleepy, hungry, fussy, gassy, or agitated, and has descriptors for how it identified the cry. The app can track what kind of cries it hears in a little calendar so that you can look back and spot trends of when your baby tends to get hungry or fussy. Even with such a cool feature, it’s still well priced, costing $199. — Nena Farrell

The SM1 Slim is Satechi’s first mechanical keyboard. It comes with a 75 percent layout, low-profile brown switches, removable keycaps, and an adjustable white backlight. In addition to Bluetooth support, it also comes with a 2.4-GHz USB receiver that you can wirelessly connect to another device. Meanwhile, the keyboard itself can connect to four devices in total, like your laptop, tablet, or phone. It’s also compatible with macOS (as well as iPadOS and iOS), Windows OS, and Google Chrome OS. — Brenda Stolyar

The Renew is Airthings’ first-ever air purifier. It comes with a four-stage HEPA-13 filter that removes 99.97 percent of particles along with a high-performance carbon filter for removing odors and gases from the air. Designed for larger bedrooms, it can filter clean rooms up to 525 square feet within 10 minutes. You can also stand it upright, mount it to a wall, or lay it flat. It comes with three modes, including Silent mode (reduces noise output to 23 decibels), Auto mode (uses a sensor to detect changes in air quality and adjusts the fan speed accordingly), and Boost mode (runs the fan at its highest setting for an hour). Using the Airthings companion app, you can view air quality trends, control the air purifier, and reorder more filters. It’s currently available for preorder. —Brenda Stolyar

Audio-Technica’s classy new AirPods-style wireless earbuds feature impressive features, including customizable noise canceling, multiple calling modes, multipoint pairing, and two types of ear tips for an adaptable fit. Perhaps the best part is their $200 price point, which comes in well below the brand’s TWX9 flagship buds. — Ryan Waniata

The latest Razer Blade 16 laptop improves on the already incredible display on the Razer Blade 14 ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ) by switching to an OLED panel, giving it those infinitely deep blacks that make colors really pop. We haven’t tested this model out yet, but given Razer’s track record, we’ve got high expectations for this one. The Razer Blade 16 starts at $3,000 with a GeForce RTX 4070 GPU, 16 GB of memory, and a 1-TB SSD, but it can be configured up to an RTX 4090 and a truly absurd amount of storage and RAM if you have several thousand more dollars to throw at a gaming laptop. —Eric Ravenscraft

A projector is a big choice for your home theater no matter how you approach it. A good projector can be a few thousand dollars to start with, plus at least a few hundred dollars for a basic screen (and thousands for a really good one). So, from that perspective, AWOL’s Vision Vanish Laser TV system isn’t quite as absurdly priced as it seems, though you’re still paying for convenience—this system is about as all-in-one as a projector can get. It consists of an entertainment unit with a slide-out drawer where an AWOL LTV-3500 (included, mercifully!) can sit, tucked away when not in use. It also has a motorized, retractable 100-inch screen (or you can upgrade to the gigantic 120-inch model for an extra $1,000) that can roll up and disappear when you don’t need it. This has everything you need for a projector-based home theater in a single box, with the possible exception of an external sound system, though even the built-in speakers in the LTV-3500 are pretty nice . —Eric Ravenscraft

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Moscow Travel Guide: Best Things to Do + More [2023]

· everything to know about visiting moscow, including the best things to do and how to get around. ·.

Moscow is Russia’s vibrant capital city, and it also happens to be the largest city in all of Europe. The city’s long and infamous history makes it one of the most unique places we have ever visited.

The architecture ranges from centuries-old palaces to uniform, gray concrete buildings. The people range from cold and private to warm and welcoming. Moscow is a city is strong juxtapositions, and we learned a lot during our time there.

This post will break down all you need to know about visiting Moscow, including the best things to do, how to get there, how to get around, and more.

The Best Things to Do in Moscow

1. explore the red square.

The Red Square is the heart of Moscow. Most of the city’s top attractions can be found here, including just about everything on this list. The Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin’s Mausoleum are all located here, and the State Historical Museum and GUM are not far from here, either.

The Red Square is a common home for parades, protests, and seasonal celebrations. There are massive Christmas celebrations here, with food vendors and carnival rides set up in numbers.

2. Check Out the Ziferblat

The Ziferblat is a café in Moscow that is unlike any café we have ever been to. While most cafes charge you for your drinks and food, the Ziferblat charges you for your time.

Upon arrival, you are given a clock. When you leave, the barista calculates how much time you spent in the café and charges you accordingly. This concept was created to help visitors to be more intentional with their time, and the cafe itself is incredibly charming.

For a detailed look at everything you need to know before you visit, make sure you read my post about visiting the Ziferblat Cafe in Moscow .

3. Marvel at St. Basil’s Cathedral

St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic churches in the world, and it was the single thing we were most excited to see while in Moscow. Built almost 500 years ago, St. Basil’s Cathedral is recognized by its colorful domes and whimsical style. The church is of the Russian Orthodox faith, and the inside is just as wondrous as the outside.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is located on the edge of the Red Square, making it incredibly convenient to visit. Entrance for non-worshippers costs 800 rubles, and tickets can be bought at the church

4. Explore the Kremlin

The Kremlin is the largest active fortress in Europe, and it is the site of most of Russia’s government affairs. In addition to government buildings, the Kremlin Complex is filled with courtyards, towers, and museums that are open to the public. If you have the time, you could spend a couple of days fully exploring all that there is to see in the Kremlin.

5. Walk Through Lenin’s Mausoleum

Vladimir Lenin is one of the most important figures in Russian history, and his body is located perfectly embalmed in a mausoleum in the Red Square. The Mausoleum is open to the public to visit, and as long as you are willing to go through a few security checks, it is easily one of the best things to do in Moscow. Its convenient location in the Red Square makes it a can’t miss attraction.

There is absolutely no photography allowed inside the Mausoleum. Do not test this rule.

6. Wander Along Arbat Street

The Arbat is a very popular street in Moscow that is lined with stores, cafes, and other touristy attractions. It is one of the oldest streets in the city, dating back to the 1400s. This street is both quaint and trendy, and there are many walking tours that introduce tourists to the neighborhood’s wonders and highlights.

7. Catch a Show at the Bolshoi Theatre

As a lover of the arts, it is hard to think of Moscow and not think of ballet. Russia has always been a top dog in the world of fine arts, and Bolshoi Theater is one of the best places to catch a performance. We were lucky enough to attend an Opera here, and it is a venue that you don’t want to miss out on if you enjoy opera, ballet, or orchestral performances.

8. Visit the State Historical Museum

The State Historical Museum is one of the most respected museums in Moscow. Despite its name, it is not really focused on the history of Russia as a nation. Rather, it contains a collection of artifacts from all throughout Russia’s history.

The museum’s collection is very broad in nature. It houses some items from indigenous tribes that used to occupy the region, pieces collected by the Romanov family, and more.

9. Wander Around GUM

GUM is an absolutely massive mall within walking distance of the Red Square. It isn’t just the size that draws visitors here; it’s the sense of luxury. The mall is so beautiful inside, much like the metro stations.

While visiting a mall might not sound like it belongs on a bucket list, this mall does. You will not want to miss out on visiting GUM while in Moscow.

10. Admire the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

While St. Basil’s Cathedral is the most iconic church in Moscow, it isn’t the only one. The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is absolutely stunning, with massive golden domes. It is the tallest Orthodox church in the world, and it is the seat of the Orthodox Patriarch of Moscow.

It is located just about a mile from the Red Square, just south of the Kremlin Complex. You can walk to it from the Red Square in about 20 minutes.

How to Get to Moscow

Flying to moscow.

Moscow has three major international airports: Sheremetyevo (SVO) , Domodedovo (DMO) , and Vnukovo (VKO) . All three of them are directly connected to downtown Moscow by the Aeroexpress trains, which leave every 30 minutes throughout the day. By Aeroexpress train, you can expect to get to the city center in 25-45 minutes depending on the airport that you fly into.

Sheremetyevo is the biggest and busiest of the three airports, and it is the one you are most likely to fly into – especially if you are coming from outside of Europe or the Caucus region. We flew into Sheremetyevo on a direct flight from New York City.

I usually provide backup airport options, because flying right into the city isn’t always the cheapest way to get where you’re going. Unfortunately, when it comes to Moscow, don’t really have a choice other than to fly right into Moscow. It is a very remote city, and it is usually the cheapest place to fly into in Russia as a whole.

Since Sheremetyevo is so busy, you will probably find a great flight option anyway. I wrote in  my post about finding cheap flights  that using hub airports will lead to more affordable airfare, and the same logic applies here. Even though Russia’s national airline, Aeroflot, is no longer a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, Moscow is still a major hub connecting passengers from all over the world.

READ OUR CHEAT SHEET

Train or Bus to Moscow

Trains and buses are one of the most popular ways to get around Europe. However, they’re of very little use when you’re trying to get to Moscow.

Moscow is hundreds of miles from the nearest major cities. The only major European city that can even be reached within 8 hours on the ground is St. Petersburg, and even the Baltic capitals of Riga, Vilnius, and Tallinn are over 12 hours away.

If you want to get to Moscow, the best option is almost always to fly. While the train routes to Moscow are scenic, they simply take forever.

How to Get Around Moscow

METRO | TROLLEYS | TRAMS | BUSES

Moscow has one of the most memorable metro systems in the world. Its metro lines are very deep underground, and the stations are absolutely stunning. Each station has its own unique style, but all of them contain escalators that seem to go on forever.

The system was built in an effort to showcase the power of the Soviet Union and its bright future. The plans were a form of propaganda, but they resulted in what is still one of the most visually appealing subway systems on earth.

Moscow’s metro system isn’t just pretty. It is also very useful and accessible. The system has 17 lines that connect the city and its surrounding area.

But wait; there’s more!

The Moscow metro system is also incredibly affordable, with each ride costing less than a dollar. The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow, as it is almost impossible to beat the connection times and the low cost to ride.

Tickets can be bought at electronic, English-speaking kiosks in stations, or directly from ticket counters at certain larger stations. There are also day passes available, which are a very solid option if you plan on riding the metro several times per day.

The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow.

In addition to the metro system, Moscow also has a network of buses, trams, and trolleys. This system is nowhere near as convenient or well-connected as the metro, though, and is likely of little use to you during your trip. There is no Uber in Moscow, but a similar app named Yandex is available if you need a ride in a pinch.

How Many Days Do You Need in Moscow?

Moscow is the biggest city in all of Europe, and it is absolutely loaded with things to do. You could spend weeks in Moscow and still find new things to do. Of course, most travelers don’t have that kind of time to spend in one place!

I recommend spending no less than three full days in Moscow, and ideally closer to five or seven.

Moscow is very spread out, and it can take some time to get from one major point to another. There are also so many places that are nice to just sit back and relax, which is hard to do when you’re in a hurry trying to cram activities into just a few days.

If you only have a week to visit Russia, I’d advise spending all of the time in one city. If you decide to split your time between Moscow and St. Petersburg, I recommend not trying to squeeze in any day trips beyond those two cities.

When Is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Moscow?

There are two different ways to approach this question. Personally, I think the best time to visit Moscow is around Christmas and New Year’s Day. While the weather will be absolutely freezing, Moscow is a surreal winter wonderland in December and January.

We were in Moscow right before Christmas. While it was very cold, you can always bundle up. Exploring the Christmas markets and pop-up ice skating rinks throughout Moscow is one of my favorite memories from anywhere I’ve traveled, and I dream of going back to do it again.

If you aren’t fond of the cold, Moscow is beautiful in the summer. It tends to get pretty cold in the shoulder seasons, so if you want warm weather, you should plan to visit in the summer. Moscow actually gets pretty warm in July and August, and there are a bunch of fantastic places to soak up the sun within the city.

The best time to visit Moscow is either around Christmas or from late May to August.

Is Moscow Safe to Visit?

While Moscow is a truly wonderful city, there’s no denying that visiting Russia comes with risks. As the country is run by an infamous communist dictator, concerns about visiting are valid. While we didn’t experience any sort of threat or negative treatment during our time in Moscow, we visited in a peaceful time.

In our experience, Russia doesn’t seem to detain normal Americans or Westerners to use as pawns. As a regular person, as long as you don’t commit any crimes, there is a slim chance you will run into any issues. However, Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

To make matters worse, Russia has a bad reputation for gang violence. While the Russian mafia has very little interest in normal Western tourists, they won’t hesitate to pick a fight with anyone who ventures into their sphere of influence. If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

Finally, since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, things are all very different. Russia is currently at war, and there are battles raging within 8 hours of Moscow. While it is still relatively safe to visit, that could change at any time as the war with Ukraine continues.

Is Moscow Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt, Moscow is worth visiting. It is one of the most unique major cities we have ever visited, and we hope to make it back one day. The Russian Orthodox churches are stunning, the city’s history is unlike any other, and the food is to die for.

While many visitors prefer St. Petersburg to Moscow, I think Moscow deserves a lot of hype of its own. Moscow is the beating heart of Russian culture and history, and it’s a place I highly recommend checking out if you have the chance.

That’s all we have for you about Moscow! I hope this post was helpful as you plan your trip to Russia’s capital.

Have you been to Moscow? Or is this your first time visiting? Comment below if you have anything to add to our travel guide!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

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How to spend a perfect weekend in Moscow

Feb 11, 2020 • 5 min read

Moscow enjoyed the status of capital for most of Russia’s history, except for a relatively brief period (about two hundred years), when the Tsar and the government relocated to St Petersburg . But the Bolsheviks moved the capital back to Moscow in 1918, and today it’s an extremely diverse city. It can easily take a couple of weeks to see all of its sights, but if you've only got a weekend to explore, here's how to have two perfect days in Moscow.

Start your weekend in Moscow by acquainting yourself with top-notch Russian cuisine at Grand Cafe Dr Zhivago . Located on the first floor of the historical hotel National and overlooking the Kremlin, it’s definitely one of the best breakfast spots in the city. Try millet porridge with crawfish, pearl barley porridge with oxtail or traditional cottage cheese with raisins and candied fruit.

Set aside at least half a day for Russian capital’s major attractions: the Red Square and the Kremlin . To reach the Kremlin, cross the street from Dr Zhivago and walk through the Alexander Garden to the main entrance at the Kutafya Tower . Check out all the cathedrals, including Archangel cathedral with all the tsars’ tombs and Uspensky cathedral with medieval icons. Pause to look at the famous Tsar Bell and climb Ivan the Great Bell Tower to enjoy some great views.

Exit and walk to the Red Square through the Alexander Garden, where, if lucky, you can see the change of guard. If you’re feeling hungry, stop by the food court at Okhotny Ryad shopping complex to pick up a snack.

The Red square is dominated by four buildings of equal historical importance: the Kremlin's most famous Spasskaya (Saviour) Tower , with a clock and fourteen bells that chime national anthem four times a day (6am, noon, 6pm, midnight), St Basil's Cathedral , Moscow's best-known symbol with its multi-colored domes, Lenin’s Mausoleum , the resting place of the leader of the 1917 October revolution, and GUM , Moscow's oldest department store, topped with a glass roof, designed by one of Russia's most celebrated architects, Vladimir Shukhov. 

A guide to shopping in Moscow

Right behind the St Basil’s it is the relatively new Zaryadye Park , designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro, famous for its work on the High Line in New York City. Zaryadye showcases flora from all the climate zones of Russia, which is the largest country in the world. The floating bridge at the edge of the park is one of the biggest selfie magnets in Moscow, providing spectacular views of the river and the city skyline as the background. 

Another Zaryadye attraction is a glass pavilion that hosts restaurant Voskhod  (Sunrise) – a perfect spot for your lunch or early dinner. Voskhod focuses on dishes from all fifteen former Soviet Union republics and its inside looks like a Soviet-made spaceship with great views of the Moscow river. Try Azeri home-made pasta or trout from Lake Sevan in Armenia.

After all that walking and exploring you need some quality downtime and what better way to spend it than relaxing for a couple of hours at the famous Sanduny  traditional Russian hot bath. Make sure to get a massage with birch sticks!

You might still have time to go to Winzavod Center – a creative cluster with galleries housed at a former wine factory. Galleries like XL , pop/off/art and Ovcharenko always have something on, most likely a cutting-edge Russian contemporary art exhibition. Finish the evening hanging out at one of the best Moscow bars – try socialites’ paradise Noor Electro , co-joined with one of Moscow’s avant-garde theatres or Powerhouse Moscow , located in a 19th-century mansion, which is famous for live indie and jazz band performances. Both serve great food, too. 

Power up for a busy day ahead at one of Moscow’s trendiest coffee/breakfast spots,   Nude . Located in the upscale, well-heeled neighborhood of Patriarch’s Ponds, Nude offers a wide range of breakfast dishes, including scrambled eggs, toast, porridge and banana bread. Book ahead as it might be busy on a weekend morning.

After checking out the Patriarch's Ponds, which features prominently in Mikhail Bulgakov’s perennial novel The Master and Margarita , devote the rest of the morning and early afternoon to exploring Moscow’s best museums. Depending on your tastes, pick one of the following: Tretyakov Gallery for traditional Russian art, from medieval icons to the early 20th century;  New Tretyakov for 20th century and contemporary art as well as great temporary exhibitions;  Pushkin Museum for one of the greatest collections of Impressionist and post-Impressionist art in the world; and the Garage Museum for some eye-opening modern-art exhibitions. 

Whichever museum or gallery you choose, be sure to go to LavkaLavka for lunch, certainly one of the best places to try new Russian cuisine, which is a contemporary reading of centuries-old recipes. It’s one of the few places to try polugar , which is, allegedly, what Russians called vodka in the 19th century. 

When you talk about Russian culture, literary giants usually pop into mind: the likes of Leo Tolstoy, Fyodor Dostoevsky and Anton Chekhov. There are plenty of literary museums in Moscow, but if you had to pick one, visit Tolstoy Estate Museum , located just opposite the headquarters of Yandex, the Russian equivalent of Google. Every little detail has been restored just the way it looked when Tolstoy lived here in the 1880s–90s. 

Leave some time for exploring the Moscow Metro : every station is an architectural masterpiece in its own right. Our favorites include Mayakovskaya, Komsomolskaya and Kievskaya. Later, unwind at one of dozens of Moscow’s craft beer places . Try  Jawsspot , named after one of the leading breweries in Russia, Jaws from the Urals region, which also serves decent pizza and salads.  

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