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The Ultimate Travel Tech Gear Survival Kit
Whether you’re traveling for work or holiday purposes, it’s likely that tech will be tagging along in some form or another. Sometimes it’s a necessity, such as tools for a work trip or travel adapters. Other times, it’s a fun addition to the packing list. Entertainment during a long journey. A means of capturing travel memories. Ultimately though, your travel tech should serve a purpose, making your journey easier or more enjoyable. Especially when packing space is at a premium.
So we’ve rounded up a selection of gear to help make your journey as smooth as possible, from assisting with organization to helping you take great travel photos. Discover our picks for the ultimate travel tech gear survival kit…
Backing up
SanDisk Ultra Fit 256GB USB 3.1 Flash Drive (US$42.99)
Keen on low-key design and straightforward functionality? The SanDisk Ultra Fit USB flash drive delivers both. With 256GB of storage in a compact, easily portable design you can take everything from work files to film and gaming entertainment on your travels. It offers USB 3.1 capability, with read speeds up to 130MB/s and convenient plug-and-play functionality.
Kingston HyperX Savage 64GB USB Flash Drive (US$44.95)
Fast transfer speeds and plenty of storage space ensures you’ll have ready access to files, music, films and more with the Kingston HyperX Savage USB flash drive. The 64GB version provides 350MB/s read and 180MB/s write performance, with USB 3.1 Gen 1 (USB 3.0) functionality. And its eye-catching aesthetics add a little pizzazz to your tech setup too.
Power
Kikkerland UL03-A Universal Travel Adapter (US$9.72)
It’s important to be able to power your tech wherever you go. And the Kikkerland UL03-A Universal Travel Adapter is a great travel-friendly tool for helping you do so. Small, slim and lightweight, it’s easy to pack and comes in at just 1.6 oz (46g). It’s also compatible in over 150 countries, so you’re covered pretty much wherever you roam.
Anker PowerCore Speed 20000 (US$59.99)
Planning to travel off-grid or just want a handy power boost backup at the ready? The Anker PowerCore Speed 20000 provides charging capability wherever you go, packing 20,000mAh into a compact form that slips easily into a bag or large pouch. Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0 technology helps your devices charge quickly, while its impact-resistant build is well suited to a life of travel.
Cables
Cable Matters 2-Pack Retractable Ethernet Cable (US$9.99)
Cables can easily get twisted if you’re not careful, requiring time and effort to store them neatly when not in use. But this Cable Matters Retractable Ethernet Cable provides effortless cable carry and neatness during your travels. The three-foot retractable cable can be used to connect a variety of devices in tight spaces and larger areas alike. And this 2-pack is great value for money, lightweight and easy to carry if you want a spare in your kit.
Anker’s wide range of Lightning cables are MFI certified and designed to handle diverse travel requirements. From compact four-inch options to 10-foot cables for maximized reach flexibility. And even multi-functionality with 3-in-1 Micro USB, Lightning and USB-C. So you can pick and choose to adapt to almost any travel situation.
Organizing
Nite Ize Gear Tie Cordable (from US$3.98)
Want to get rid of cord chaos? The Nite Ize Gear Tie Cordable is a clever and convenient solution. A stretch loop on one end of the tie fits over the end of a cord, allowing it to stay securely attached for quick access. The reusable twist tie features a bendable wire interior and rubber exterior that’s durable, waterproof and won’t damage your cords and cables. Plus it comes in a variety of sizes to suit different cables, as well as a choice of colors for helpful color coordination.
Thule Subterra PowerShuttle (US$24.95)
The Thule Subterra PowerShuttle is great for storing a charger, cords, and other small accessories, with a clamshell-style opening and a choice of pockets and elastic loops to keep the contents in order. A cord pass-through lets you charge devices conveniently on the go, with handy exterior storage for quickly stowing a cable or other quick-access items.
Peak Design Tech Pouch (US$59.95)
Keeping all your tech gear tidy and easily accessible can be tricky. But Peak Design’s Tech Pouch makes it simple with its origami-inspired pocket layout and wide opening. The weatherproof, durable build is all set for travel, while carry handles and a cable pass-through pocket for convenient charging round out this useful organizer.
Photo Gear
AMIR Smartphone Lens Collection (US$12.99)
Want to keep packing weight down but still be able to capture good photos? You don’t have to carry a dedicated camera setup in order to get great shots on your travels. This collection of three lenses from AMIR works with a wide range of smartphones and tablets, providing a large variety of photography opportunities while keeping carry bulk to a minimum. The collection includes a 0.4X super wide angle lens, 180-degree fisheye lens and a 10X macro lens.
JOBY GorillaPod Original Tripod (US$14.90)
Tripods can be bulky and hard to travel with. But the JOBY GorillaPod Original combines compactness and excellent flexibility to adapt to a diverse range of photography environments. Designed for point-and-shoot cameras up to a weight of 11.5oz (325g), the tripod has flexible wrappable joints that allow you to secure the camera to a range of items such as branches, railings and more if required. The rubberized foot grips also enhance grip and stability, all in an easily portable design that won’t weigh you down.
Manfrotto PIXI Mini Tripod (US$24.99)
Sleek and lightweight, the Manfrotto PIXI Mini Tripod slips easily into a day bag (or even a pocket) so it’s close at hand when a picture-perfect moment presents itself. The tripod supports cameras weighing up to 1kg and has rubber feet for improved grip. It’s also comfortable to hold by hand and includes an easy push-button locking mechanism to secure the ball head in your desired position.
Peak Design Capture Camera Clip V3 (US$69.95)
If you’re traveling with a camera, having quick access isn’t just convenient. It’s often key to ensuring you don’t miss unexpected shots. And Peak Design’s updated Capture Camera Clip is an ideal way to keep your camera at the ready. The clip secures to a belt or backpack strap and holds your camera rigidly and securely when you’re on the go either on foot or by bike. The quick-release button also makes it simple to remove the camera. The V3 updates include a smaller, lighter, all-metal and more ergonomic design.
Panasonic LUMIX G7 4K Mirrorless Camera (US$497.99)
If you want to up your photography game from a phone to camera with 4K capability, the Panasonic LUMIX G7 4K Mirrorless Camera is well worth checking out. The camera allows you to capture 4K Ultra HD video and extract a photo with up to an 8-megapixel resolution from the video. And with three 4K photo modes to choose from, you’ll never need to miss that epic shot again.
Sony DSC-RX100 III Compact Camera (US$648)
Want a camera that’s small in size but big on features? Look to the Sony DSC-RX100 III Compact Camera, which is compact enough to carry in a pocket but still provides a host of handy features, from its pop-up electronic OLED viewfinder and f1.8-2.8 24-70mm Zeiss lens to its 180-degree tiltable screen and 1080p HD video capability.
DJI Mavic Pro Fly More Combo (US$891)
Looking to elevate your photo setup even further? Take to the skies with this DJI Mavic Pro Fly More Combo. The drone’s flight control range is up to 7km, with a flight time of up to 27 minutes. The drone offers 4K video resolution and 12MP camera resolution and also includes FlightAutonomy technology to detect and avoid obstacles. The drone comes with extra propellers and batteries, a battery charging hub and a shoulder bag.
Work
Logitech MX Anywhere 2 Wireless Mouse (US$47.89)
This Logitech MX Anywhere 2 Wireless Mouse helps reduce cable carry, keeping your tech setup tidier and more easily portable. Plus it’s packed with useful features for work or downtime convenience. It can be used with up to three laptops or computers courtesy of the included Unifying receiver or Bluetooth Smart wireless technology. It works on any surface, including glass. It allows for fast scrolling plus more precise navigation. And a single charge lasts up to 70 days, while a minute’s charge provides up to an hour of use.
Microsoft Surface Pro (5th Gen) (US$928)
If you appreciate all-in-one laptop and tablet versatility the Microsoft Surface Pro (5th Gen) is worth considering for your packing list. This version includes an Intel Core i5 processor, 128 GB of storage, 8 GB of RAM and a Surface Pro Signature Platinum Type Cover. It provides fast startup and up to 13.5 hours of video playback. Plus the inbuilt kickstand lets you set it up in laptop, studio or tablet mode.
Reading
Kindle Oasis E-reader (US$249.99)
E-readers are an ideal means of having a library at your fingertips without the heavy bulk of hauling books around. And the Kindle Oasis is a smart pick for travelers who want a little added peace of mind for their tech. The e-reader is waterproof with an IPX8 rating, so you don’t need to worry about getting caught in the rain, poolside splashes or accidental drops in water. This version includes 8GB of storage, with a 7″ high-resolution display offering 300 ppi and glare-free reading even in bright sunlight.
Music
Bose SoundLink Micro Bluetooth Speaker (US$79)
When it comes to Bluetooth speakers that make great travel companions, the Bose SoundLink Micro Bluetooth Speaker ticks a bunch of boxes. Compact and lightweight? Check. Great sound quality for its size? Yep. Drop-proof and waterproof? Tick. Plus it comes with a tear-resistant strap that lets you secure it to a bag, bike handlebars and more.
Jabra Elite 65t Wireless Earbuds (US$151)
If earbuds rather than headphones are your jam, the Jabra Elite 65t Wireless Earbuds could be music to your ears. The earbuds are dust-resistant and water-resistant and offer up to five hours of battery life or up to 15 hours with the included charging case. The Alexa-enabled wireless earbuds also come with a choice of EarGels™ to tailor the fit to your specific ear shape.
Sony WH-1000XM3 Noise-Cancelling Headphones (US$348)
Love listening to sweet tunes on your travels without outside disturbance? You’ll be reaching for these Sony WH-1000XM3 headphones on all your journeys thanks to their excellent noise-cancelling capability and Adaptive Sound Control that easily adjusts ambient sound settings depending on your surroundings. The Quick Attention feature lets you turn the volume down simply by placing a hand on the housing, so you can engage in conversation at a moment’s notice without needing to remove the headphones. The wireless headphones also provide up to 30 hours of battery life, with an included carry case and a cable for wired listening if desired.
Cleaning
iRoller Screen Cleaner (US$17.98)
Can’t stand smudges on your touchscreen devices? This nifty iRoller Screen Cleaner lets you quickly and easily clean screens with a simple rolling action. No liquids or cloths required. It’s reusable and compact for easy portability, whether you want to store it in a pocket or bag.
Security
The BASU eAlarm Jr. is a personal emergency alarm designed with ease of use in mind. It emits a 120dB alarm by simply pulling out the pin. The alarm will continue for 30 minutes unless the pin is returned. Additionally a carabiner is included to secure it to a bag or keychain. Lightweight and versatile, it’s handy outdoors to draw attention or serves as a deterrent in potentially dangerous situations.
Ping GPS Locator (from US$79.99)
Want a way to keep track of loved ones or belongings nearby or across the globe? The Ping GPS Locator works in 157 countries and lets you track everything from pets and children to luggage or other personal items. It utilizes Bluetooth, cellular and GPS for maximized range and provides a durable, waterproof and compact build. Additionally the check-in feature lets the wearer send their location with a simple button push or alternatively they can hold down the button to send a distress signal.
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