If you’re like many modern travelers, you appreciate packing light and traveling efficiently. Beyond the usual travel necessities like comfortable walking shoes or versatile clothing, integrating the right Travel Tech can significantly streamline your journey. Travel tech encompasses those essential gadgets and devices designed to make every phase of your trip smoother, more enjoyable, and hassle-free. From ensuring you remain entertained and powered up on long flights to simplifying airport navigation and enhancing comfort in unfamiliar environments, the right technology is indispensable. The Traveler team has rigorously tested a plethora of products to identify the travel tech gadgets that are truly worth investing in for your next adventure.
Below is a curated list of top-tier travel tech gadgets that will be your perfect companions on any getaway. The best part? These editor-approved must-haves are conveniently available on Amazon, with many offering Prime shipping for quick delivery before your upcoming travels.
Perilogics Universal in-flight airplane phone mount
1. Perilogics Universal In-Flight Airplane Phone Mount
This ingenious and budget-friendly Amazon find, priced under $20, has revolutionized in-flight entertainment. For travelers who prefer to watch movies or downloaded videos on their smartphones during flights, often paired with noise-canceling Bluetooth headphones, this gadget is a game-changer. Instead of awkwardly holding your phone or struggling to prop it up on the tray table, this pocket-sized phone mount easily clips onto the top of your seat tray table. It securely holds your phone in place, allowing for hands-free viewing of movies, TV shows, or even podcast videos. Featuring a 360-degree rotation, it accommodates both vertical and horizontal screen orientations. Its versatile 1.5-inch clamp isn’t limited to airplanes; it can also attach to tables, desks, gym equipment, and various other surfaces. Originally acquired for air travel, this essential piece of travel tech has proven useful in various scenarios, from attaching to luggage handles while waiting to board to train rides. —Meaghan Kenny, commerce editor
Etekcity digital luggage scale for travel
2. Etekcity Luggage Scale: Avoid Overweight Baggage Fees
For those prone to overpacking, like myself, an electric handheld luggage scale is indispensable travel tech. This device is particularly crucial if you frequently check bags at the airport. The Etekcity scale uses a simple strap system to attach to your suitcase handles. By lifting with both hands, applying even force, the scale accurately displays your luggage weight. This straightforward process helps avoid unexpected overweight baggage fees and the often embarrassing scramble of repacking at the airport to redistribute weight. It’s a smart investment for stress-free travel.
Bril UV-C portable toothbrush sanitizer case
3. Bril UV-C Toothbrush Sanitizer: Hygiene on the Go
Maintaining hygiene while traveling, especially in transit, can be challenging. Brushing teeth in airplane lavatories or airport lounges, known for less-than-pristine conditions, highlights the need for extra cleanliness. The Bril UV-C toothbrush sanitizer offers a solution. This compact device, about the size of an AirPods case, utilizes UV light technology to sanitize your toothbrush effectively. Its magnetic backing allows for convenient mounting on bathroom mirrors in hotels, keeping your toothbrush off countertops. A single charge impressively lasts up to a month, ensuring hygiene throughout long vacations. This is a small but significant piece of travel tech for health-conscious travelers.
MEE Audio Connect Air in-flight Bluetooth audio transmitter
4. MEE Audio Connect Air In-Flight Bluetooth Audio Transmitter: Wireless Entertainment
A common frustration for travelers with wireless headphones is the inability to connect to in-flight entertainment systems, which typically use wired connections. The MEE Audio Connect Air wireless audio transmitter resolves this issue. This small, yet powerful device pairs with your Bluetooth headphones and plugs into the airplane’s audio jack, wirelessly transmitting sound. It ensures seamless entertainment on long-haul flights. Keeping this gadget pre-charged and in your travel bag means you’re always ready for in-flight movies or music. Furthermore, it supports pairing with two headphones simultaneously, ideal for couples or travel partners wanting to share entertainment.
JBL Go 4 compact waterproof Bluetooth speaker
5. JBL Go 4 Waterproof Speaker: Portable Sound for Any Adventure
Whether you’re in an Airbnb, by a pool, or at a campsite, a portable Bluetooth speaker enhances the ambiance. The JBL Go 4 stands out for its compact size, robust features, and waterproof design. Measuring just three inches in length, it provides up to seven hours of playtime on a single charge. Its waterproof capability makes it perfect for poolside relaxation or beach outings. The integrated loop allows for easy attachment to beach bags or key rings, ensuring your music is always accessible. This travel tech gadget brings high-quality audio to any travel scenario.
Airplane Pockets tray table cover with pockets
6. Airplane Pockets Tray Table Cover: Organize In-Flight Essentials
Limited space and hygiene concerns are common airplane grievances. The Airplane Pockets tray table cover addresses both. This FAA-approved polyester cover slips over your tray table, providing a clean surface and added organization. It features four expandable pockets for securing essentials like phones, headphones, and snacks, keeping them within easy reach and off the often-unclean tray table surface. When needed for meal service, the covered tray can be lowered without disturbing your organized items. This simple yet effective travel tech improves both convenience and hygiene in-flight.
Xcool 4-in-1 USB-C multi charging cable
7. Xcool 4-in-1 USB-C Cable: Universal Charging Solution
Minimizing luggage bulk is key for efficient travel. The Xcool 4-in-1 cable is a space-saving travel tech solution for charging multiple devices. This six-foot cable features USB-C, USB-A, and lightning connectors, covering a wide range of devices including phones, iPads, and laptops. Its versatility eliminates the need for multiple cords, streamlining your travel charging setup. This is an essential gadget for keeping all your devices powered up on the go without the clutter.
Macally Car Cup Holder Tray Table
8. Macally Cup Holder Tray: Road Trip Convenience
Road trips are a popular way to travel, and snacking on the go is part of the experience. The Macally cup holder tray enhances road trip convenience by providing a stable surface for snacks or meals. It securely fits into a car cup holder and features an adjustable swivel arm for optimal positioning. It’s perfect for holding food from drive-thrus or acting as a snack plate. An added phone slot keeps navigation accessible for passengers. This travel tech gadget makes road trip dining and navigation easier and cleaner.
Cozy Essentials Vacuum Storage Bags with electric pump
9. Cozy Essentials Vacuum Storage Bags: Maximize Luggage Space
Vacuum storage bags are invaluable for travelers, especially when visiting destinations with colder climates requiring bulky clothing. The Cozy Essentials set is particularly travel-friendly due to its included electric pump. Unlike traditional vacuum bags, these can be easily compressed and sealed on the go without needing a household vacuum cleaner. The 26-pack includes various sizes, from jumbo for jackets to smaller ones for shirts, maximizing space for clothes, souvenirs, and more. This travel tech is essential for efficient packing and space-saving travel.
Riemot Travel Luggage Cup Holder for suitcase
10. Riemot Travel Luggage Cup Holder: Hands-Free Airport Navigation
Navigating airports often involves juggling luggage, coffee, and phones, especially after those long coffee shop lines. The Riemot Travel Luggage Cup Holder simplifies this. This hands-free pocket slips over luggage handles and holds up to two drinks and a phone. Its adjustable Velcro opening ensures a secure fit on various suitcase handles. Machine washable, this practical travel tech gadget stays clean even if spills occur. Keeping it in your personal item ensures it’s always ready for airport dashes.
Hatch Rest Go portable sound machine for travel
11. Hatch Rest Go Portable Sound Machine: Sleep Soundly Anywhere
Unfamiliar noises in hotels can disrupt sleep quality while traveling. The Hatch Rest Go portable sound machine solves this. Originally designed for soothing babies, it works equally well for adults. It offers 10 different sounds, including white noise, nature sounds, and lullabies, effectively masking disruptive noises from neighbors or city streets. Compact and lightweight, it easily fits in any bag. This travel tech gadget ensures restful sleep, regardless of your location.
VersionTech Mini Handheld Fan with USB charger
12. VersionTech Mini Handheld Fan: Beat the Heat
For travel to warm climates, a handheld fan is essential travel tech. The VersionTech mini handheld fan is a top choice for its performance and portability. It charges quickly via USB and offers three speed settings to keep you cool and refreshed. Its foldable handle allows it to stand on a table, providing hands-free cooling in various situations, from hot buses to outdoor meals. Compact enough for backpacks or fanny packs, it’s a must-have for staying comfortable in hot weather, often envied by travel companions lacking this cooling gadget.
Conair Handheld Travel Garment Steamer for wrinkle-free clothes
13. Conair Handheld Travel Garment Steamer: Wrinkle-Free Travel
Wrinkled clothes after meticulous packing are a common travel frustration. The Conair handheld travel garment steamer is a solution for maintaining a polished look on the go. Weighing under two pounds, it won’t significantly add to luggage weight. It heats up in just 35 seconds and features a removable, easy-to-fill water tank and adjustable steam head. While cruise lines restrict these, it’s perfect for hotel stays, ensuring wrinkle-free clothing throughout your travels.
Apple AirTag for tracking luggage and belongings
14. Apple AirTag: Keep Track of Your Belongings
For peace of mind while traveling, the Apple AirTag is invaluable travel tech. These small, puck-like devices pair with iPhones or iPads and use geolocation to track your belongings. Using the Find My app, you can monitor the location of your luggage, bags, or any item tagged with an AirTag. This is particularly useful for ensuring luggage arrives at your destination after flights, reducing travel anxiety related to lost items.
Cincha Travel Belt for securing personal bag to luggage
15. Cincha Travel Belt: Secure Your Personal Bag
Many modern totes and backpacks include trolley sleeves for securing them to suitcase handles. However, for bags without this feature, the Cincha travel belt provides a workaround. It loops around your suitcase handle and then secures around most bags like a seatbelt, with adjustable straps for a snug fit. This travel tech gadget prevents personal bags from toppling off luggage, simplifying airport navigation and keeping your belongings securely together.
Hey Dewy Wireless Facial Humidifier for dry climates
16. Hey Dewy Wireless Facial Humidifier: Combat Dry Air
Dry hotel rooms and airplane cabins can dehydrate skin during travel. The Hey Dewy wireless facial humidifier combats this. Compact and travel-friendly, it weighs under a pound and is easily packed in carry-ons. Setting it up on a hotel nightstand provides localized humidification, preventing dry skin and enhancing comfort, especially in drier climates or during long flights. This travel tech gadget is a skincare essential for frequent travelers.
Slim Mint Ultra-Thin RFID-Blocking Wallet for secure travel
17. Slim Mint RFID-Blocking Wallet: Protect Your Data
In an age of digital security concerns, the Slim Mint RFID-blocking wallet is a smart piece of travel tech. This ultra-thin, compact case protects credit cards and key cards from electronic theft with RFID-blocking technology. It securely holds essential cards and cash while remaining lightweight at just 3.2 ounces when empty. This wallet is a practical way to safeguard personal data while traveling, offering both security and convenience.
This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Madison Flager and Meaghan Kenny.
