The age of the compass and map are over for most. Instead, travelers are turning to convenience when they voyage, and there are a plethora of travel tech gadgets out there that make long journeys a piece of cake.
Are you planning a trip? Before you place the last item in your suitcase, take a look at our 10 must-have travel gadgets. You’ll be happy you remembered them.
10 Must-Have Travel Tech Gadgets
If you don’t want to die of boredom on your flights or find yourself searching desperately for a hot spot, take these goodies with you.
1. Smart Luggage
If you haven’t invested in a smart suitcase, now is the time. These containers are usually loaded with all the necessities of travel: battery packs, GPS locators in case your bag is lost and even electronic scales.
And if you’re tired of having to lug your case around the airport, the Travelmate suitcase may become your best friend. It uses advanced technology to follow you around the airport, saving your legs and arms the effort (and quite a few passerby’s feet and toes, too).
Keep in mind that new airline restrictions will require you to remove any lithium-ion batteries, so be sure to purchase a case that provides this option.
2. SmartWatch
Don’t forget that SmartWatch you have sitting on your dresser!
This can be an invaluable tool in travel. It can set your alarms and notifications and even be used to show your boarding pass for your flight. Even better, if your flight is delayed or canceled, it can provide quick updates that don’t require pulling out your phone.
Some hotels are even letting guests use them to open their hotel room doors.
3. Mobile Hotspot Device
If you’re traveling across the wilds, chances are you won’t have wifi the entire trip. And if you’re traveling internationally, some places are known for their spotty connections.
With a mobile hotspot device, you don’t have to worry about being disconnected. It also lets travelers sync multiple devices to it rather than relying solely on a cell.
PC Magazine points out, “So who’s using these hotspots? First and foremost, it’s road warriors–business people who need reliable connections on the go that support multiple devices and don’t drain their phones’ batteries.”
They’re that handy for travel.
4. Portable Charger
Of course, you can’t forget your charger.
A portable charger ensures you can keep your phone at full battery wherever you’re at. Today, many of them are the size of a cell.
If you’re in an unfamiliar neighborhood or country without a USB port anywhere in sight, this gadget will let your cell recharge so you can use your apps or GPS again.
5. White Noise Machine
Most voyagers find they can’t get a good night’s rest for the first few days of traveling. This is due to what scientists have dubbed The First Night Effect.
From years of instinct, our brains are hardwired to stay alert when we sleep in areas we can’t define as safe. One of the brain’s hemispheres stays awake in surveillance mode while the other rests.
White noise machines work by creating a monotonous, predictable sound that puts your mind and hearing into safety mode, allowing you to get a better night’s sleep. Nowadays, many of these devices are made to be portable or apps are available for you to download directly on your cell, although it will eat the battery life.
6. Camera
Sure, cell phones have some great cameras, but if you really want photos that capture a moment and that you can hang on your wall later, you’ll need an actual camera.
Even today, cell camera quality still doesn’t compare to an actual camera dedicated to particular tasks. And anymore, you can wirelessly transmit the photos on your camera to your phone or wireless device, making uploading a lot less of a hassle.
Furthermore, cameras are still better at tracking and focusing on fast objects, taking photos in low light and not dying after the tenth photoshoot.
7. Handheld Digital Luggage Scale
If you’re not lucky enough to have smart luggage which weighs itself, purchase a handheld digital luggage scale. These gadgets are easy to stick in a front pocket.
All you have to do is strap it on your baggage and lift it. The scale will weigh your luggage for you.
That means all kinds of travel loot can be had, and you can sort what goes into the carry-on and what is light enough to go in baggage.
8. Charged Backpack
Are you planning on hiking or camping? If so, take along a charged backpack. Turn your camping into glamping.
These packs can weather basically anything you throw at them. They are knife-proof and abrasion-resistant. Many offer additional security options, such as locks and RFID blocking pockets.
Even if you’re in the wilderness, with a charged backpack, you can bring along your other devices. Almost all contain batteries or solar panels to charge cells, laptops and other gadgets.
Did we mention some of them change color depending on temperature? Because they do.
9. All-in-One Adapter
If you’re traveling internationally, you’re going to run into some wonky-looking plugs.
If you have a universal adapter, you can still safely connect your devices. Some of these handy instruments will allow you to pass through up to 150 countries without worry!
Most come with additional ports so you don’t have to decide what to charge first.
10. Earbuds
Sure, you could listen to your music without earbuds, but you’re going to get some nasty looks from the people nearest you.
Be sure to choose some comfortable earbuds for traveling or a quick before-bed show. You can find wireless earplugs practically anywhere, and if you’re one of those people who can’t stand interruptions, noise-reducing headphones may be a good option.
Zip up That Bag
Did you check for everything? Are your travel tech gadgets all stored and ready to go?
Then it’s time to be off into the sunrise. But before you go, consider saving yourself some dollars. Check out our article about the cheapest ways to voyage around the world.
So now you’re ready. Get those gadgets packed and hightail it to the airline.
Just don’t forget to show your boarding pass on your smartwatch at the gate.
