I'm a travel writer. These are the best travel-size gadgets I never leave home without
Travel-sized gadgets quick picks
Best travel-sized gadget for staying cool: Gulaki Neck Fan
Best gadget for surviving economy class: Twelve South Airfly Pro 2
Best travel-sized gadget for fighting jet lag: Soundcore Sleep A20 Earbuds
Best gadget for capturing travel moments hands-free: Insta360 Go 3S You probably already know which travel-size gadgets and accessories to bring along on your next holiday — or at least the travel gear essentials you know will come in handy throughout your trip. Obvious accessories like travel-size toiletries, travel-size sunscreens, the most comfortable travel shoes and other practical items have become such travel staples that it has almost become muscle memory to grab them while packing.
But there are also not-so-obvious personal item bag-friendly gadgets you should consider adding to your packing list: tech travel products you never knew you needed but that have proven indispensable to globe-trotters, adventurers and even all-inclusive vacationers. Take it from a travel writer and fanatical world explorer: Once you've tried these travel-size gadgets, you'll never want to leave home without them.
Gulaki Neck Fan
Whenever people ask me how I survived the almost oppressive tropical weather during my recent Philippines getaway, my answer is simple: the Gulaki neck fan. Our top pick for the best neck fan has not only seen me through the hottest and most humid days there but also kept me cool during sweltering summer hikes in Los Angeles. If you're jetting off to somewhere warm, this is one affordable travel-size piece of gear you need in your personal item bag.
LifeStraw Peak Squeeze
Though not a tech gadget, the science and technology behind LifeStraw are huge lifesavers. It comes in this water bottle form that's useful for airport layovers and long bus rides, and it's also travel-friendly with its compact and collapsible form. I love having it handy in countries or areas where drinking tap water could potentially mean several trips to the bathroom — or worse, the emergency room!
Canopy Portable Humidifier
Extremely dry air, including low humidity levels in airplane cabins, can cause some health issues. And traveling when you're feeling ill is not fun at all, which is why I prefer to travel with a portable humidifier like this one from Canopy that has a built-in diffuser for natural oils. There are more pocket-size options, but this one is easier to set up on flights. It even has an 11-hour battery life, which is long enough for most long-haul flights.
Soundcore Sleep A20 Earbuds
Jet lag is real, but there are ways to avoid it even when there's a huge time zone difference. If you're uncomfortable with total silence or full sensory disconnection during sleep, these Soundcore sleep earbuds may just save you from a lot of sleepless nights. They may not have active noise cancellation (ANC), but the connected app contains a library of soothing white noise sounds you can choose from and layer. Plus, their design is friendly to side sleepers.
First Alert CO710 Carbon Monoxide Detector
There have been enough incidents of carbon monoxide poisoning in hotel rooms or other accommodations to cause concern, so it doesn't hurt to take extra precautions, especially if you're traveling alone. This under-$50 portable carbon monoxide detector could potentially save your life, and it's easy to travel with too, especially with its 10-year battery life and compact design. It'll even go off at 85 decibels to let you know when it's time to get out.
Twelve South AirFly Pro 2
One of the downsides to having an aisle seat is that you have to dismantle your entire setup whenever a seatmate has to get up to use the bathroom, but this brilliant wireless audio receiver makes things easier, keeping you untethered from the in-flight screen. It'll also let you listen to the same audio source with another person, which is useful for, say, watching the same movie as your travel partner. This is one of my personal favorite gadgets to travel with.
Amazon Kindle (16GB)
I'm a physical book purist at heart, but even I can admit the value of having an Amazon Kindle in one's travel arsenal. This handy travel-size gadget, which offers a decently long battery life, not only keeps your personal item bag lightweight but also helps you avoid doomscrolling before bedtime. Plus, it gives you access to an extensive library of books if all you want to do on your vacation is relax at the beach. Heck, it might even help with jet lag.
Vasco M3 Language Translator
Learning a new language can be hard and time-consuming. Luckily, you don't have to do so to show respect and communicate with non-English-speaking locals when traveling overseas. Not that you shouldn't, because learning a new language is worthwhile, but this user-friendly translator will help you read menus, understand airport announcements and overcome language barriers when visiting a foreign country. It's not perfect, but it's definitely handy in a pinch.
Twelve South PlugBug
This travel charger from Twelve South may be the only one you'll ever need, what with its adapter plug set and USB-C ports that'll let you charge all your devices just about anywhere in the world. It's travel size, and it even comes with a built-in tracker, a brilliant addition that doesn't affect its portability. You can even get the 120-watt version so you can keep your laptop juiced up as well.
Insta360 Go 3S
An action travel camera is great to have, especially when you're planning to go on a few adventures during your trip, but it can also distract from the experience. This is why I prefer the Go 3S from Insta360, which is extremely portable and intended to be used hands-free. The pocket-size camera can be worn around your neck or strapped to your shirt or baseball cap so you can press and forget, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience.
Nesugar G2 Steam Iron
Keeping your packed clothes wrinkle-free isn't easy, let alone straddling that line between wrinkle-free clothing and fitting as many pieces as possible into your luggage bag. Luckily, there are many portable clothes steamers that will easily fit inside your carry-on, including this one from Nesugar. It's on the expensive side, but it's very effective in smoothing out shirts and dresses for those fancy dinners and work events you're attending during the trip. The plethora of travel-size gadgets you can throw in your carry-on or personal item bag isn't a sign that you should just stuff your luggage with whatever you can bring on your trip. Especially with air travel, size and weight matter a lot, thanks to airlines' increasingly tighter and stricter luggage restrictions.
So, when deciding which travel-size gadgets are appropriate for you to pack, consider how each will be useful to you during your trip. If it's something you can live without for the duration of the trip or something that's best purchased in your destination country (hair dryers, for example), then leave it at home.
However, if it's a travel-size gadget you'll use a lot as you gallivant around a place, it's probably a good idea to add it to your packing list. Before you pack it, double-check to make sure it's TSA approved, otherwise you may have to forfeit it at airport security.
Maureen O'Hare, senior producer at CNN Travel, lent us her travel expertise to answer the following questions about travel-size gadgets.
Are travel-size gadgets covered under travel insurance?
Are travel-size gadgets covered under travel insurance?
Always read the fine print. Before purchasing travel insurance coverage or setting off on a new trip, check that the policy covers what you need. A standard policy might only have limited coverage for gadgets, so if you're bringing a substantial amount of valuable tech, consider taking out additional gadget coverage or a stand-alone policy.
What gadgets are the best for security while traveling?
What gadgets are the best for security while traveling?
Luggage trackers help with peace of mind and are an easy, super-lightweight addition to your baggage. Belt bags and anti-theft backpacks are useful for navigating busy tourist hot spots. My phone battery drains quickly when traveling due to heavy use of camera, maps and location services, so a good mobile charging kit is essential to avoid being caught out and about without a charged device.
Where's the best place to secure travel-size gadgets while traveling?
Where's the best place to secure travel-size gadgets while traveling?
I prefer to put my most expensive items in my carry-on luggage rather than risk the stress of them disappearing in a lost check-in bag. Keep valuable items in your hotel safe when you're not using them; you're unlikely to need to take out every item every day. Use secure bags with appropriate padding to protect your items from baggage, but avoid overly showy items that will make it clear, for example, that you're carrying expensive camera equipment.
For this article, we consulted the following expert to gain her professional insights.
Maureen O'Hare, senior producer for CNN Travel based in London
CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item.
Testing writer Michelle Rae Uy has years of experience covering travel gear and writing product reviews. She's written much of our beach content, including the best beach blankets guide, a review of a popular sunscreen applicator and a solo travel gear guide. She recently came back from a tropical beach vacation, during which she tested several types of travel and beach gear.
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CNN
12-06-2025
- CNN
I'm a travel writer. These are the best travel-size gadgets I never leave home without
Travel-sized gadgets quick picks Best travel-sized gadget for staying cool: Gulaki Neck Fan Best gadget for surviving economy class: Twelve South Airfly Pro 2 Best travel-sized gadget for fighting jet lag: Soundcore Sleep A20 Earbuds Best gadget for capturing travel moments hands-free: Insta360 Go 3S You probably already know which travel-size gadgets and accessories to bring along on your next holiday — or at least the travel gear essentials you know will come in handy throughout your trip. Obvious accessories like travel-size toiletries, travel-size sunscreens, the most comfortable travel shoes and other practical items have become such travel staples that it has almost become muscle memory to grab them while packing. But there are also not-so-obvious personal item bag-friendly gadgets you should consider adding to your packing list: tech travel products you never knew you needed but that have proven indispensable to globe-trotters, adventurers and even all-inclusive vacationers. Take it from a travel writer and fanatical world explorer: Once you've tried these travel-size gadgets, you'll never want to leave home without them. Gulaki Neck Fan Whenever people ask me how I survived the almost oppressive tropical weather during my recent Philippines getaway, my answer is simple: the Gulaki neck fan. Our top pick for the best neck fan has not only seen me through the hottest and most humid days there but also kept me cool during sweltering summer hikes in Los Angeles. If you're jetting off to somewhere warm, this is one affordable travel-size piece of gear you need in your personal item bag. LifeStraw Peak Squeeze Though not a tech gadget, the science and technology behind LifeStraw are huge lifesavers. It comes in this water bottle form that's useful for airport layovers and long bus rides, and it's also travel-friendly with its compact and collapsible form. I love having it handy in countries or areas where drinking tap water could potentially mean several trips to the bathroom — or worse, the emergency room! Canopy Portable Humidifier Extremely dry air, including low humidity levels in airplane cabins, can cause some health issues. And traveling when you're feeling ill is not fun at all, which is why I prefer to travel with a portable humidifier like this one from Canopy that has a built-in diffuser for natural oils. There are more pocket-size options, but this one is easier to set up on flights. It even has an 11-hour battery life, which is long enough for most long-haul flights. Soundcore Sleep A20 Earbuds Jet lag is real, but there are ways to avoid it even when there's a huge time zone difference. If you're uncomfortable with total silence or full sensory disconnection during sleep, these Soundcore sleep earbuds may just save you from a lot of sleepless nights. They may not have active noise cancellation (ANC), but the connected app contains a library of soothing white noise sounds you can choose from and layer. Plus, their design is friendly to side sleepers. First Alert CO710 Carbon Monoxide Detector There have been enough incidents of carbon monoxide poisoning in hotel rooms or other accommodations to cause concern, so it doesn't hurt to take extra precautions, especially if you're traveling alone. This under-$50 portable carbon monoxide detector could potentially save your life, and it's easy to travel with too, especially with its 10-year battery life and compact design. It'll even go off at 85 decibels to let you know when it's time to get out. Twelve South AirFly Pro 2 One of the downsides to having an aisle seat is that you have to dismantle your entire setup whenever a seatmate has to get up to use the bathroom, but this brilliant wireless audio receiver makes things easier, keeping you untethered from the in-flight screen. It'll also let you listen to the same audio source with another person, which is useful for, say, watching the same movie as your travel partner. This is one of my personal favorite gadgets to travel with. Amazon Kindle (16GB) I'm a physical book purist at heart, but even I can admit the value of having an Amazon Kindle in one's travel arsenal. This handy travel-size gadget, which offers a decently long battery life, not only keeps your personal item bag lightweight but also helps you avoid doomscrolling before bedtime. Plus, it gives you access to an extensive library of books if all you want to do on your vacation is relax at the beach. Heck, it might even help with jet lag. Vasco M3 Language Translator Learning a new language can be hard and time-consuming. Luckily, you don't have to do so to show respect and communicate with non-English-speaking locals when traveling overseas. Not that you shouldn't, because learning a new language is worthwhile, but this user-friendly translator will help you read menus, understand airport announcements and overcome language barriers when visiting a foreign country. It's not perfect, but it's definitely handy in a pinch. Twelve South PlugBug This travel charger from Twelve South may be the only one you'll ever need, what with its adapter plug set and USB-C ports that'll let you charge all your devices just about anywhere in the world. It's travel size, and it even comes with a built-in tracker, a brilliant addition that doesn't affect its portability. You can even get the 120-watt version so you can keep your laptop juiced up as well. Insta360 Go 3S An action travel camera is great to have, especially when you're planning to go on a few adventures during your trip, but it can also distract from the experience. This is why I prefer the Go 3S from Insta360, which is extremely portable and intended to be used hands-free. The pocket-size camera can be worn around your neck or strapped to your shirt or baseball cap so you can press and forget, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience. Nesugar G2 Steam Iron Keeping your packed clothes wrinkle-free isn't easy, let alone straddling that line between wrinkle-free clothing and fitting as many pieces as possible into your luggage bag. Luckily, there are many portable clothes steamers that will easily fit inside your carry-on, including this one from Nesugar. It's on the expensive side, but it's very effective in smoothing out shirts and dresses for those fancy dinners and work events you're attending during the trip. The plethora of travel-size gadgets you can throw in your carry-on or personal item bag isn't a sign that you should just stuff your luggage with whatever you can bring on your trip. Especially with air travel, size and weight matter a lot, thanks to airlines' increasingly tighter and stricter luggage restrictions. So, when deciding which travel-size gadgets are appropriate for you to pack, consider how each will be useful to you during your trip. If it's something you can live without for the duration of the trip or something that's best purchased in your destination country (hair dryers, for example), then leave it at home. However, if it's a travel-size gadget you'll use a lot as you gallivant around a place, it's probably a good idea to add it to your packing list. Before you pack it, double-check to make sure it's TSA approved, otherwise you may have to forfeit it at airport security. Maureen O'Hare, senior producer at CNN Travel, lent us her travel expertise to answer the following questions about travel-size gadgets. Are travel-size gadgets covered under travel insurance? Are travel-size gadgets covered under travel insurance? Always read the fine print. Before purchasing travel insurance coverage or setting off on a new trip, check that the policy covers what you need. A standard policy might only have limited coverage for gadgets, so if you're bringing a substantial amount of valuable tech, consider taking out additional gadget coverage or a stand-alone policy. What gadgets are the best for security while traveling? What gadgets are the best for security while traveling? Luggage trackers help with peace of mind and are an easy, super-lightweight addition to your baggage. Belt bags and anti-theft backpacks are useful for navigating busy tourist hot spots. My phone battery drains quickly when traveling due to heavy use of camera, maps and location services, so a good mobile charging kit is essential to avoid being caught out and about without a charged device. Where's the best place to secure travel-size gadgets while traveling? Where's the best place to secure travel-size gadgets while traveling? I prefer to put my most expensive items in my carry-on luggage rather than risk the stress of them disappearing in a lost check-in bag. Keep valuable items in your hotel safe when you're not using them; you're unlikely to need to take out every item every day. Use secure bags with appropriate padding to protect your items from baggage, but avoid overly showy items that will make it clear, for example, that you're carrying expensive camera equipment. For this article, we consulted the following expert to gain her professional insights. Maureen O'Hare, senior producer for CNN Travel based in London CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. Testing writer Michelle Rae Uy has years of experience covering travel gear and writing product reviews. She's written much of our beach content, including the best beach blankets guide, a review of a popular sunscreen applicator and a solo travel gear guide. She recently came back from a tropical beach vacation, during which she tested several types of travel and beach gear.
CNET
29-05-2025
- CNET
I Pack This Tiny 4K Action Cam No Matter Where I Travel (and It's on Sale Right Now)
As part of my job, I travel frequently and work from many different parts of the world. No matter where I go, I'm always careful to pack a a variety of must-have items, and my Insta360 Go 3S camera is one of them. I like to document my travels in the most convenient manner possible, and this tiny action camera does exactly what I need. Normally, action cams can cost a pretty penny. But right now, the Insta360 Go 3S has dropped from its usual retail price of $400 and is down to $341 when you apply a $59 off coupon on Amazon. That's just a dollar more than its all-time low. The Insta360 Go 3S, released last summer, introduced a minor but significant upgrade to its predecessor by adding 4K video recording -- a first for this ultracompact camera line. I've been using it since its launch, and so far, I've been pleased with the image quality, stabilization and the magnet mounting system. This action cam lets me get POV shots with unmatched ease, far beyond what I can get with my phone. Why I chose the Insta360 Go 3S I carry the Insta360 Go 3S with me for its portability and quality. It's smaller than the GoPro Hero cameras I've used and weighs 3.4 ounces (96.3 grams) with the Action Pod and just 1.38 ounces (39.1 grams) for the camera unit. The design is pretty slick, with a capsule-shaped camera that pops out of its "Action Pod" and can be mounted magnetically to unconventional places like railings, poles, streetlights, etc. This lets me capture myself on the go without needing a tripod. The Go 3S also comes with a pendant-style accessory in the box, which I wasn't entirely sure I would use. But unlike the GoPro Hero 13 Black, this pendant allows me to attach a camera to my chest without needing a chest strap, so I've used it a lot. Prakhar Khanna/CNET Apart from the sharp 4K footage, Insta360's Go 3S can also shoot slow motion at 200fps in 1080p resolution, but I found the 2.7K at 100fps videos to be better in quality. I've also noticed better footage of motion shots than the Go 3, likely because of the higher bit rate of 120Mbps (versus 80Mbps). It obviously shoots the best quality videos in bright daylight with vibrant colors, great dynamic range and better shadows. Insta360's FloState stabilization is pretty good, too -- I've used it while running and riding a bike. The videos were close to GoPro-level stability. Watch this: Insta360 Go 3S Review: We Took the Smallest 4K Action Cam to Big Sky, Montana 05:38 I shoot most of my 4K videos in FreeFrame mode at 30fps so I can edit them later in the aspect ratio I want. It goes up to 50fps in 1080p resolution but I prefer 4K. The app allows me to transfer media, edit videos, add color profiles, add fun effects to my edits and more. The Insta360 Go 3S offers a narrower field of view (16mm versus 11 of 35mm equivalent) than the Go 3 but the difference is barely noticeable. It's slightly narrower. While it can also capture images (JPG as well as DNG), I use my Go 3S to shoot videos. The only downsides of Insta360's camera are nonexpandable storage and average battery life. I recommend you buy the 128GB version instead of the base 64GB, which is double that of the predecessor but might not be enough for everyone. Plus, add a power bank to your backpack to keep it charged at all times. Essential Insta360 Go 3S specs Size (camera): 1 x 2.1 x 0.9 inches 1 x 2.1 x 0.9 inches Size (Action Pod): 2.5 x 1.9 x 1.2 inches 2.5 x 1.9 x 1.2 inches Weight (camera): 1.38 ounces (39.1g) 1.38 ounces (39.1g) Weight (Action Pod): 3.4 ounces (96.3g) 3.4 ounces (96.3g) Video resolution: 4K 4K Maximum waterproof depth: 33 feet 33 feet Battery life: 140 minutes (with Action Pod) A standard bundle includes the Insta 360 Go 3S camera, magnet pendant, Easy Clip, Action Pod and pivot stand. Insta360 Yes, there are lots of action-cam alternatives As much as I travel, I appreciate the convenience and portability of the Insta360 Go 3S, and with its current discount, it's a pretty great deal right now. But there are plenty of worthy action cam competitors, depending on your needs and budget. If you're interested in checking out other action cameras from the likes of GoPro, DJI and Akaso, here are CNET's top action cams tested by our expert reviewers. And if you happen to be doing some early shopping for Father's Day or a soon-to-be-graduate in your life, check out our list of the best gifts for dads and the best gifts for grads.
The Verge
28-05-2025
- The Verge
Anker's new wireless earbuds come with a case that can also charge your phone
Anker's Soundcore audio brand has released a new pair of wireless earbuds that may be worth the upgrade for the charging case alone. In addition to a status screen, the case incorporates a hefty 3,000mAh battery that can keep the buds powered for over a week, or it can be used to partially top up a smartphone. For comparison, the AirPods Pro 2 's charging case includes a much smaller 523mAh battery. The new Soundcore P41i wireless earbuds are now available for purchase through the brand's online store in the UK for £89.99, or around $121. They're currently not listed on the US version of Soundcore's website, but previous versions of the earbuds in this line have seen a wider global release. Anker says the earbuds themselves offer up to 12 hours of battery life with ANC turned off, which can be boosted to up to 192 hours when paired with the charging case. That's enough power to use the buds around the clock for eight continuous days, although with more realistic usage it means the case can probably go for about a month between charges. That much battery life potentially makes the Soundcore P41i a great travel option, but also a solution for those dealing with smartphone battery anxiety. The charging case includes a built-in USB-C cable that doubles as a wrist strap, as well as a Lightning adapter for charging older iPhones and iPads. Anker estimates the case's 3,000mAh has enough capacity to charge a dead iPhone 16 Pro halfway, or a Samsung Galaxy S24 to 45 percent. The Soundcore P41i earbuds feature 11mm composite drivers and the brand's optional BassUp technology for those wanting more presence from lower frequencies. They also offer adaptive ANC using six microphones with the option to adjust the intensity of the noise cancelling through Soundcore's app if you want to hear more of what's going on around you. AI noise reduction will help reduce background sounds while you're on a call, and the buds have an IPX5 water resistance rating so while getting them wet is okay, you'll want to avoid a complete dunking.
