Love travel but not the...uh...traveling part? I hear you. Long lines, delays, and loud noises can make for an unpleasant journey. Here are my favorite gadgets for turning that scenario around.
I’m all about discovering new places, trying new foods, and wandering around aimlessly in a city I’ve never been to. But the getting-there part? That’s a whole different story. I’m talking airport chaos, delays, cramped seats, loud talkers, and the dreaded “your bag didn’t make it” announcement. It’s enough to make anyone want to stay home. And that’s where these travel gadgets for a stress-free vacation come in.
Luckily, a few well-chosen travel gadgets can make a huge difference. Whether you’re flying across the world or just road-tripping a few hours away, these are the travel essentials I swear by to keep things smooth, quiet, comfy, and—yes—enjoyable.
1. TESSAN 205 Travel Charger
Credit: TESSAN
What’s my new favorite travel charger? The TESSAN 205 Travel Charger. Compact and lightweight, it packs 8 ports into a palm-sized design. So, yes, it fits in your carry-on. It has enough power to charge 2 laptops simultaneously and works in 200+ countries. How’s that for a travel companion?
Preorder it for: $128, $89, 30% OFF
2. Rolling Square TAU 2 Emergency Power Bank
Want a compact emergency power bank? Look no further than the Rolling Square TAU 2. This emergency power bank has Lightning, Micro USB, and USB-C ports. This means it’s compatible with virtually every device. I’m crazy about the design—a powerbank that fits on a keyring??? Sign me up! Meanwhile, the magnetic charging dock gives you a tidy place to power up every day.
Price: $39.90
3. Sony WH-CH720N wireless noise-canceling headphones
The Sony WH-CH720N headphones are the lightest noise-cancelling headphones by Sony…ever. So if you geek out over packing as light as possible this pair is a dream. At just 192g, they won’t weigh down your backpack, neck, or carry-on, which makes a big difference when you’re sprinting through the airport or trying to keep your bag under the limit.
Amazon Price: $148
4. Therabody SmartGoggles
If you’re like me and can’t sleep on an airplane, the Therabody SmartGoggles can help you relax and drift off. With 3 customizable modes—Focus, Sleep, and SmartRelax—and a blackout design, getting some Zs during flight has never been easier for me. I love the heat and vibration on the forehead. And the design—foldable and portable—is perfect for frequent travelers.
Price: $219.99
5. ShiftCam ProGrip Starter
Snap great vacation pictures with the ShiftCam ProGrip Starter Kit. Equipped with a wireless shutter button and an integrated powerband for wireless charging, it’s the ultimate accessory for iPhone travel photography. Why? Because you can use it for incredible shoots—like views from the Eiffel Tower—without dropping your phone. Priceless.
Price: $149.95
6. WearWorks WAYBAND
Find your way without looking at your phone with the WearWorks WAYBAND haptic smart band.This clever wearable uses gentle vibrations to guide you to your destination, so you can keep your eyes on your surroundings—not a screen. No more looking like a lost tourist (and potentially attracting pickpockets). Whether you’re exploring a new city or navigating your own neighborhood hands-free, this band helps you move confidently and discreetly. It’s a simple way to blend in and feel like a local—without needing to ask for directions.
Price: $249
7. Twelve South AirFly Duo Bluetooth Transmitter
With the Twelve South AirFly Duo Bluetooth transmitter, you can easily connect your wireless headphones to any headphone jack. Not only that, but it provides 20 hours of battery life and volume controls. Moreover, you can pair 2 AirPods with AirFly Duo for TV, iPad, and Gaming—perfect for kids or a couple. I appreciate that it works with a range of headphones, including AirPods, Sony, Bose, and more.
Price: $54.99
8. Apple AirTag (4-Pack)
I don’t mess around when it comes to keeping track of my stuff while traveling. I stick an Apple AirTag in every checked bag, carry-on, and even my kids’ backpacks. If something goes missing—whether it’s at the airport or in the back of a hotel shuttle—I can instantly see where it is. Thanks to the Apple Find My network, I can locate stuff pretty much anywhere there’s a nearby iPhone.
Price: $99 $79.98, 19% OFF
9. Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Suitcase
My very first “grown-up” luggage set was from Samsonite, and it lasted me over a decade (seriously). I’d probably still be using it if airline size rules hadn’t changed. So when I saw this Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Suitcase discounted on Amazon, I was pumped. You get those smooth dual spinner wheels and a spacious 24″ x 18″ x 11.5″ interior.
Price: $209.99 $159.50, 24% OFF
10. Loop Quiet 2 Plus Earplugs
Between the engine noise, the chatty neighbors, and the occasional crying baby sleep on a plane is near impossible for me. But the Loop Quiet 2 earplugs have totally changed that. They knock down the noise by up to 24dB, and they actually look good (no giant foam cones sticking out of your ears). I pop these in, put on my eye mask, and I’m finally able to chill—even in economy.
Price: $27.95 $20.95, 25% OFF
The Last Line
Make your next vacation feel less like a hassle and more like the adventure you planned with the right travel gadgets in your corner. From noise-canceling headphones that block out the chaos to luggage trackers that give you peace of mind, and smart wearables that keep you hands-free and in control—these little tools can make a big difference. Travel’s never perfect, but with the right gear, it can be a whole lot more comfortable, organized, and enjoyable.
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