Last Updated on December 13, 2024 by Lauren Belzer
If there is anything I’ve learned, traveling is way more fun (and less stressful) when you’ve got the right gadgets in your bag. Whether you’re hopping on a plane to Europe, hitting the road, or just sneaking away for a quick weekend trip, I’ve rounded up 9 travel tech essentials that are sure to make your life easier and your adventures better!
1. iWALK Portable Charger
As someone who has experienced this, a dead phone is a traveler’s worst nightmare. If you only take one thing away from this post, let it be this: get a portable charger. The iWALK Portable Charger is super compact and comes with a built-in connector, so you can leave those extra cables for the hotel or Airbnb. Something as compact as this portable charger is perfect for those long travel days when you need your phone to stay alive!
Why I Love It:
- Tiny but mighty
- No extra cables needed
- Charges your phone fast
Another to consider is the Anker Nano Portable Charger. It is a great brand and a very similar product! I have had both the Anker and iWALK chargers.
2. Apple AirTags
If you’re the type to lose track of your stuff (oops, guilty!), Apple AirTags will be your new best friend. Pop one in your suitcase, backpack, or even on your keys, and use the Find My app to track them down in no time. They truly have been a lifesaver not only for travel but for everyday life, too!
Why I Love It:
- Track your stuff with accuracy
- Replaceable batteries mean they will last forever
- Super small and lightweight
- Fun cover and keychain options to make them look cute
If you’re not an Apple person, Tile trackers are a great alternative.
3. TESSAN European Travel Plug Adapter
Heading abroad – specifically to Europe? Don’t forget the TESSAN European Travel Plug Adapter (you might even want to buy a 2-pack). It’s got you covered with multiple plug types and USB ports so you can charge all your gadgets at once. No more fighting over outlets with your family or travel buddies!
There are many great options out there, but the TESSAN plug is my tried-and-true!
Why I Love It:
- Works with most European outlets
- Comes with USB (and USB-C) ports for extra charging options
- Compact and easy to pack
4. Marshall Willen Bluetooth Portable Speaker
You truly don’t realize how great it is to travel with a Bluetooth speaker until you don’t travel with a Bluetooth speaker—even if it’s just for background music as you get ready for dinner in your hotel room! The Marshall Willen Bluetooth Speaker is small but amazing, delivering awesome sound quality wherever you are. Plus, it’s tough enough to handle the outdoors—perfect for the beach or a chill night at your accommodations.
Why I Love It:
- Great sound in a tiny package
- Long battery life
- Water-resistant for outdoor adventures
5. Travel Cord Organizer
Let’s be real: tangled cords and tech items that are all over the place are the worst. A Travel Cord Organizer keeps your chargers, cables, and adapters neatly in one place, so you’ll never have to dig through your bag again (thank God)! There are so many out there, but if you’re looking for an inexpensive one that will get to you from Amazon quickly, give the BAGSMART Cord Organizer a try—it’s only $9.99!
Why I Love It:
- Tons of compartments for all your tech
- Lightweight and easy to pack
6. Kindle Paperwhite
While some part of me will always be a paperback book girlie, for bookworms on the go, the Kindle Paperwhite is a must. It’s easy on the eyes (even in bright sunlight) and can hold thousands (and I mean thousands) of books, so you’ll never run out of reading material no matter how long you’re away!
Why I Love It:
- Super compact & lightweight
- Battery lasts forever (especially if you keep it on airplane mode)!
- Your entire library can be housed in one device
7. AirFly SE Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter Receiver
Watching movies on a plane just got a whole lot easier (and less annoying). The AirFly SE lets you connect your wireless headphones to the airplane’s in-flight entertainment system so you can enjoy a cord-free experience. No more tangled cords or settling for those awful airline-provided earbuds.
Why I Love It:
- Tiny and simple to use
- Works for hours on a single charge
- Connects to any device with a headphone jack
Pro Tip: Be sure to pair your headphones with AirFly SE before you take off!
8. Wireless Bluetooth Noise Canceling Headphones
Noise-canceling headphones are a must. Block out crying kiddos, chatty seatmates, and other loud airplane noises.
I have Beats Studio Pro headphones from a few years back. They’re comfy and stylish, and the sound quality is chef’s kiss. I’ve also heard wonderful things about Apple AirPods Max (definitely on the pricier side) and Bose noise-canceling headphones!
Why I Love It:
- Noise-canceling
- Long battery life for long-haul flights
- Looks as good as it sounds
9. Anker Nano Power Bank
Another portable charger? Yep, because when it comes to keeping your devices powered, you can never be too prepared. The Anker Nano Power Bank is super tiny but charges fast, making it perfect for those all-day adventures. I like to keep the tiny one mentioned above in my pocket or purse, and my main power bank (especially this one or a bigger one that can charge multiple devices) in my backpack/carry-on.
Why I Love It:
- Small and easy to carry
- Fast charging
- Built-in cord
- Durable and reliable
Traveling is way easier when you come prepared! These nine travel tech gadgets are game-changers, whether you’re staying organized, staying connected, or just staying entertained. Pack ‘em up, and get ready for your best trip yet!
Final note: I’m always looking to level up my travel experience so if there is a travel tech item that I need—please let me know ASAP!