16 Must-Have Travel Gadgets for Stress-Free Trips
From staying connected to staying protected, these small but mighty items promise to make your travels much smoother and safer
While the contents of your luggage depend on your destination and itinerary, must-have travel gadgets are game-changers for any journey. Small, affordable, and essential, these are some of the best travel items to make your journeys smoother and more enjoyable—no matter where you're headed.
Stay charged and connected
Compact power bank: Keep your electronics charged at all times without having to seek out a public charging station. Ideal for carry-on luggage with a USB port, a small power bank is ready when you need it.
Small portable charger: Keep your phone powered on the go with a small charger that plugs directly into your phone’s charging port for convenient, hands-free charging.
Universal travel adapter: A small universal travel adapter works in foreign countries so that you can rest easy while traveling internationally. It’s worth bringing along for domestic trips, too, as it’s handy for those times when you have limited outlets and multiple devices that require charging.
Private Wi-Fi Hotspot: Most accommodations provide Wi-Fi—but it’s often weak, unreliable, and questionably secure. Stay connected with a Solis Wi-Fi hotspot, which provides domestic and international coverage in more than 135 countries. Purchase the device, download the app, register it, then select your plan—it’s as simple as that.
Block out the noise
Bose headphones: These over-the-ear headphones are stellar for blocking out distractions, whether it’s noisy hotels or crying babies. With both Bluetooth and wired options, they’re incredibly comfortable, and one charge lasts up to 24 hours. The carrying case not only secures the headphones but also features pockets for additional devices such as the AirFly.
AirFly: This small Bluetooth device is indispensable for flights. It allows you to use your AirPods or wireless headphones for in-flight entertainment, instead of those provided by the airline.
Noise-canceling wireless earbuds: Need more space in your backpack for essentials? Instead of Bose headphones, pack these earbuds. They’re small and affordable.
White noise machine: To block out the noise, sometimes, you need to make your own noise.
Keep valuables safe
Apple AirTag: Drop one of these into each piece of checked luggage, your carry-ons, and even your purse. It tracks the location of each item and sends alerts to your phone whenever their location changes. It’s great for peace of mind and tracking down “lost” luggage quicker.
RFID-blocking wallet: Secure your credit cards and cash in this compact wallet, ideal for travel. It easily fits into a jacket or pants pocket and protects your personal information from being scanned and stolen by RFID-enabled thieves.
RFID-blocking snap grip wallet: This magnetic wallet is attaches to your smartphone, holds up to eight cards, and provides RFID protection.
Mini crossbody: Convenience at your fingertips, this water- and slash-resistant crossbody has built-in organization for your phone, cards, cash, and keys while providing RFID protection. Its minimalist design is modern and practical.
Tackle tiny troubles
Heroclip: Remember that public restroom door with no hook to hang your purse or backpack? The Heroclip is a lifesaver for those situations. It fits in your purse or tote and eliminates having to place your bag on the floor (yuck) or awkwardly balance it on your body. The carabiner hook hangs over the door while the clip secures your smaller belongings. It’s also useful to clipping water bottles and other items to your purse or carry-ons.
Magnetic hat clip: If you love to carry a hat but hate fumbling with it, use this mighty magnetic hat clip that attaches to your purse or tote.
Portable luggage scale: Never worry about your checked luggage exceeding the weight limit. This scale is tiny and has a capacity of 110 pounds. Don’t forget to toss it inside your luggage for the return trip.
Nylon packable tote: Tuck this tote bag inside your luggage—just in case you buy too many souvenirs and need extra space to bring them home. It folds flat into its own storage bag, weighs mere ounces, and can hold all the new goodies you acquire along your journey.