Tech Items Every Traveler Needs

Even for seasoned travelers packing can get overwhelming when it comes to technology. With so many gadgets available on the market, choosing the ones that are actually useful and reliable is difficult. But it doesn’t have to be. Through years of trial and error, I narrowed my list down to five essentials. Most tech items featured here I own, others I would like to purchase for my next adventure. Check them out and see what will help you experience the world lighter, smarter and cheaper.

Camera

As a multimedia journalist, I often had to do my own photos. After buying an expensive, bulky camera gear, I felt obligated to drag it along everywhere I traveled. The stress of losing the equipment, sore shoulders and never ending chase for an impressive shot, was not worth the outcome. Unless you are a professional photographer, bringing a DSLR camera on your vacation is a hassle. Modern smartphones, like my Google Pixel, are powerful enough to capture the moment. Plus you can always up your game with clip-on lenses.

Selfie stick

Those traveling alone know – it’s extremely difficult to bring decent photos of yourself back. Strangers are rarely good photographers and regular selfies get boring. ATUMTEK Selfie Stick solved my problems. In addition to being light and compact, it turns into a stable tripod. I’ve been using mine for self-portraits, scenery shots and video taping. ATUMTEK Selfie Stick is compatible with most smartphones and comes with a Bluetooth remote, allowing extra flexibility up to 33 ft. So far, this is the best tech gift under $30 I have ever received.

E-reader

Any journey is better with a book. Whether you are camping on the weekend or traveling overseas for a few weeks, it will keep you company. Though I prefer traditional books, the convenience of e-readers can’t be denied. Packing an entire library has never been easier. If you already own a tablet, getting a Kindle is probably unnecessary. If you don’t, it’s something to consider. Budget-friendly and practical, Kindle is dominating the market. Avid readers love it for an easy-on-eyes display, long battery life and the environment free of interruptions.

Global power adapter

Electricity standards differ from country to country, which means your regular charger may not work in some places. There are 15 wall socket types around the world and NEWVANGA Travel Adapter fits most. It can handle low power gadgets between 100-240V, charging them with high speed. NEWVANGA Travel Adapter does not convert voltage. Be cautious of that and leave high power electronics at home. Doing otherwise will likely blow a fuse in your device, or worse, the building.

Portable charger

Murphy’s Law or not – batteries tend to die when it’s least convenient. But you can save yourself the trouble with an Anker PowerCore 13000. Small yet powerful, this portable charger has two high speed USB ports and the capacity to bring your phone back to life almost three times. An even better option is a BEARTWO Portable Solar Charger. Since the sun is all it requires for retrieving and storing energy, you wouldn’t depend on wall outlets anymore. Eco-friendly, durable and affordable, the BEARTWO solar charger is perfect for outdoors. 

Do you have a favorite tech items that didn’t make it to the list? Share your ideas HERE.

Find more trip ideas & everything travel in this section of my blog. Happy exploring!