The 27 best travel gadgets in 2023

Apple AirTag

Once, I lost a personal bag containing passports, travel documents, and money. After a brief freakout, I opened up the Find My app on my iPhone and located the bag in my apartment, thanks to the small AirTag tracker I hid in a small pocket. I was able to return home to retrieve the bag and still make the trip, and I didn't have to run around trying to figure out where I had left it.

Whenever I check luggage on a flight, I always place an AirTag inside to make sure it made it onto the plane and arrived at baggage claim. And AirTags are becoming even more valuable when flying. Several major airlines, including United, Delta, British Airways, Lufthansa, and Qantas, have partnered with Apple to implement AirTag support to help passengers locate lost luggage.

We also like the Tile Pro, a tracker that's similar to the AirTag but works with both Android and iPhone. We're also seeing third-party accessories integrating Find My tracking into their products, like the PlugBug power adapter from Twelve South that I've been using to help cut down on tech weight.

Sony Wired In-Ear Headphones

You should always pack cheap wired earbuds in your bag for a few reasons, especially for a flight. Most airplane in-seat entertainment systems don't support Bluetooth, and they'll never run out of battery and interrupt a movie. I always keep a pair of Sony's MDR-EX Wired In-Ear Headphones with a Microphone handy, which I've been using some version of for more than 10 years. They can usually be found for less than $10, have surprisingly great noise reduction and audio quality, are comfortable to wear, and are far superior to the cheap headphones the airlines give (or even sell). Another terrific option is Panasonic's ErgoFit.

Insta360 X3 Camera

Sure, the best camera is the phone that's in your pocket, but if there's a reason to bring along an additional shooter, make it the the X3. This 360-degree camera works alongside a companion app on your phone and captures everything surrounding you — no longer will you need to choose what to frame. But what makes this camera truly fun are the special effects you can create, which will make your vacation photos and videos stand out from the crowd.

The X3 is plenty capable for most people, but Insta360 also has an upgraded version, the X4. It functions similarly to the X3, but it shoots video at 8K instead of 5.7K. It also has a longer battery, improved noise reduction, and lens guards for extra protection.

Bellroy Desk Caddy

You don't need to be a techie to feel overwhelmed by cables, adapters, pens, and other accessories. A good organizer case can help you rein in your gear. Bellroy's Desk Caddy is one of our favorites: It's built with the same quality materials and construction we love about Bellroy's bags and wallets, and there are pockets and compartments for your everyday carry, whether it's a charger or hand sanitizer. It has a durable outer shell and stands upright when opened for easy access. If you need something bigger to hold additional items, we also like the Bellroy Tech Kit. Check out our guide on the best tech organizer bagsfor more options.

TwelveSouth AirFly

TwelveSouth's AirFly adds Bluetooth capability to any source that lacks it, such as an airline seatback display. You simply plug it into an audio jack and then pair it with your favorite pair of Bluetooth headphones. If you're traveling with someone, the AirFly Duo lets you connect two pairs of headphones at once. And for road trips in older vehicles, the AirFly Pro lets you stream from your phone to the stereo's auxiliary-in port. The deluxe version of the Pro adds an adapter designed for two-prong airplane headphone jacks.

DJI Flip

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Sony WH-100XM5 Headphones

If you want the latest and greatest in over-ear noise-canceling performance, it's the Sony WH-100XM5s. The XM5s sport an updated design with a narrower headband and wider earcups for a roomier fit. The drivers have been updated and the ANC (active noise cancellation) performance has been kicked up a notch thanks to two processors and eight noise-canceling microphones, up from the four microphones found on the previous-gen XM4s. Speaking of the XM4s, they're still a great option and cost $50 less.

Anker 622 Magnetic Battery

If you own an iPhone 12 or newer and want to take advantage of MagSafe technology, this portable battery pack from Anker has a capacity of 5,000mAh, which is more juice than Apple's MagSafe battery pack, which is rated at 1,460mAh. The 622 is capable of wirelessly charging your phone at a max of 7.5 watts, but its best feature is the travel-friendly built-in kickstand. If you're looking for more power, Anker also sells a 10,000mAh version.

For more picks, check out our guide on the best MagSafe battery packs.

Mophie 3-in-1 Travel Charger with MagSafe

Apple stans will appreciate Mophie's 3-in-1 charger, which has dedicated charging spots for the iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods. We're not sure what we like more: the convenient carrying case or that it comes complete with a 30W USB-C wall adapter.

Fujifilm Instax Mini 12

The Instax Mini 12 is Fujifilm's newest camera, and just like its predecessor, it's a one-button instant camera that's so easy to use that even kids can operate it. The Instax Mini 12 improves on the lineup's winning formula by adding a new lens that you can twist to enable "close-up" mode. The entry-level instant camera works with Instax Mini film, which is widely available. Plus it runs on replaceable AA batteries, so you'll never have to worry about running out of power.

Anker 747 Charger

If you're a frequent traveler, you need a multiport charging hub. And Anker's GaNPrime-powered 747 Charger is one of the best you can buy right now. With three USB-C ports, one USB-A port, and 150W charging capacity, this compact charger can charge multiple devices — laptops, tablets, smartphones, or other small devices —quickly and all at once. And thanks to GaNPrime technology, the 747 is smart enough to identify how many devices are connected and how much output each device needs.

Native Union Belt Cable Universal

When it comes to cables, it pays to have a spare just in case you lose one. For that, we recommend this universal cable from Native Union. Measuring at 6.5 feet long and made from braided nylon, the cord can quickly transition between micro-USB, USB-C, and Lightning connectors.

Nimble Champ Portable Charger

The Champ Charger is one of Nimble's smallest and lightest power banks, but it still packs a punch. It's designed to top up smaller devices, and supports up to 15W of charging through one USB-A port and one USB-C port. The battery's 10,000mAh capacity is enough to charge your phone or tablet for a weekend of use.

Bonus: Nimble is a certified B Corp with a commitment to sustainable consumerism currently unmatched in the consumer tech industry, from using non-traditional materials and plastic-free packaging, to its free e-waste recycling program.

Moft Laptop Carry Sleeve

When you're on the road, ergonomics is a challenge. Moft's "invisible" laptop stand is an ultra-thin portable stand that won't add any weight to your laptop, and only takes a second to put into action. It has two elevation angles (15 and 25 degrees), which you can adjust to whichever is more convenient for your sitting posture. Moft also sells stands for other devices, including the iPad and iPhone.

Epicka Universal Travel Power Adapter

If you're jet-setting across the world, a universal travel adapter is a must. And you won't find one that'll meet most simple charging needs than Epicka's all-in-one adapter. This handy plug is designed for phones, laptops, and other smaller devices. The retractable prongs allow it to work in more than 150 countries, and it has six charging ports: four USB ports, one USB-C port, and one universal AC socket.

Backbone One Mobile Controller

For gaming on the road, we recommend the Nintendo Switch. But if you're looking for an alternative with even better portability, we highly recommend the Backbone One Mobile Controller, which can turn gaming on your iPhone or Android phone into a first-class handheld console experience. The Backbone One gives you joysticks and buttons, so it's comfortable for long playing sessions, and it works with mobile titles as well as cloud-gaming services like Xbox and PlayStation Remote Play.

Yogasleep Rohm Travel Sound Machine

With Yogasleep's Rohm Travel Sound Machine, you can rest easily wherever the road takes you. It features three modes: bright white noise, deep white noise, and "gentle surf." And unlike other portable sound machines, it's powered by a rechargeable battery instead of disposable batteries. If you're looking for something more baby-friendly, the Hushh Compact Sound Machine features a soft LED night light and child-safe locks.

GoPro Hero 13 Black Action Camera

If you can only pack one camera for travel, make it the new GoPro Hero 12 Black. An evolution of the already impressive Hero 11 Black, it's small enough to fit in the tightest corners of a bag, yet it is on par with much larger cameras, thanks to 12 generations of innovation. This latest version of GoPro's storied Hero camera can shoot high-dynamic-range video for improved contrast and coloring, a wider field-of-view lens to capture more of a scene, and Bluetooth support for headphones. Plus, it has the best in-camera stabilization yet. It's built to withstand bumps, drops, and splashes, and a great smartphone app lets you upload your footage to social media wherever you are.

Kensington Privacy Screens

Laptop privacy screens are great for keeping snoopers at bay, but they can also help reduce the brightness so that it doesn't bother your neighbors while they sleep. This makes them ideal for tight places like an airplane cabin or train car.

Kensington is perhaps one of the best-known brands for privacy screens. They come in various reliable options and price points, and besides limiting viewing angles, they also filter out blue light, retain touch capability for laptops that support it, and are Trade Agreement Act-compliant for government usage.

Etekcity Luggage Scale

Overweight baggage fees can cost an arm and a leg and who knows what else, and they're especially tricky when traveling internationally. Etekcity's luggage scale is reliable and accurate, plus it's ultra portable and weighs under five ounces to easily fit in your bag.

Logitech K380 Keyboard

Logitech's K380 keyboard is an excellent portable set of keys that has a small footprint that will make working even in the most cramped spaces a little more comfortable. It connects to any device that supports Bluetooth and pairs with up to three devices, which is perfect if you're switching between a laptop, tablet, and phone. It's ultra quiet, and can last two years one just two AAA batteries.

Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3

The newest ultra-portable speaker from Ultimate Ears, the Wonderboom 3 is a 360-degree speaker that should fulfill your travel needs. It has battery life of up to 14 hours on a single charge. There's an "Outdoor Boost" mode that cranks up the bass, and it can float if you throw it in water. This is a versatile little speaker that can also pair with another Wonerboom speaker for stereo sound.

Kindle Paperwhite

Easily one of the best Kindles you can buy right now, the 11th-generation Kindle Paperwhite includes a larger 6.8-inch, high-resolution display, adjustable warm lighting, responsive page-turning, and USB-C charging. The base Paperwhite comes with 8GB of storage, which should be plenty for most people (that's around 3,000 e-books).

Hypervolt Go 2

A must-have for preventing and easing the aches and pains of traveling, the Hypervolt Go 2 weighs just 1.5 pounds and lasts up to 3 hours on a single charge. With three speeds and two interchangeable heads, it can do wonders for a stiff neck, sore muscles, back pain and more. It's also surprisingly quiet. The Go 2 is TSA-approved, as long as it's packed in your carry-on. Unfortunately, it doesn't come with a travel case.

Manfrotto Pixi Mini Tripod

Whether it's for timelapses, self-portraits, or video calls, a phone tripod can be surprisingly handy when you're on the go. Manfrotto makes some of the best travel tripods in the world, and its Pixi Mini Tripod folds up small (you can also use this tripod as a grip) and weighs less than a pound. Unlike some tripods, the Pixi Mini can be used with different types of phones thanks to its universal clamp.

Roku Streaming Stick 4K

If you're not traveling with a streaming stick, you're missing out on a simple travel hack. You can plug it into your hotel room or Airbnb's TV and stream your favorite movies and shows. Roku's Streaming Stick 4K is well-suited for travel, and will give you great picture quality, whether streaming in HD, 4K, or HDR. Just don't forget to bring the physical Roku remote.

Kenu Stance Plus

Lifestraw

Knog Scout Travel

Airalo

DJI Osmo Mobile 6

Unfortunately, nobody wants to watch your vacation videos if they're nauseatingly bouncy, no matter how beautiful the scenery is. To capture rock-steady footage with smooth pans and tilts — think Hollywood-style cinematography — put your phone into what is the best gimbal for consumers. It's easy to operate, and the built-in telescoping pole lets you capture selfies with a wider view.

Honeywell Turbo on the Go Portable Folding Fan

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Bang and Olufsen

Looking for something cheaper? We also like the Beats Fit Pro, which has active noise cancellation for plane and train rides.

Motorola Moto G

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Meta Quest 3S

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