TRAVEL GADGETS WE CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT – OUR TOP PICKS
Let’s face it: travel is glamorous, exciting, and full of life-changing experiences—but it can also be downright exhausting. From sleepless flights to unexpected humidity in faraway lands, we’ve faced it all. Over the years, we’ve fine-tuned our packing game, testing countless gadgets and gizmos to discover the ultimate must-haves. Whether you’re jet-setting to Bali, backpacking through Europe, or simply hopping on a weekend getaway, these are the tried-and-true essentials we never leave home without (and yes, we own and love each one of them).
1. Trtl Pillow – The Neck-Saving Hero
Unless you’re luxuriating in a lie-flat seat in Business or First Class, a good neck pillow is a lifesaver. After years of using clunky foam neck braces, we found the one: the Trtl Pillow. It’s more of a scarf with a hidden plastic brace that provides incredible neck support. It’s lightweight, easy to pack, and a total game-changer for long-haul flights when you need to snooze upright.
2. Charmast 20,000mAh Power Bank – Power When You Need It
Imagine this: your phone’s dying, your camera battery’s out, and—oh no—you forgot your charging cable. Enter the Charmast Power Bank with built-in cables and a wall plug. This little powerhouse doesn’t just charge your devices; it comes with multiple USB ports for anything from phones to laptops. Compact, versatile, and practically indispensable, it’s easily our most-used gadget.
3. Epicka Universal Travel Adapter – Plug into the World
You’d think every hotel room is equipped with international outlets, but experience has taught us otherwise. The Epicka Universal Travel Adapter is a lifesaver. It handles voltage conversions and supports ten plug types, so you’ll never fry your favourite gadget. Plus, its multiple USB ports, including a 70-watt USB-C port, make it perfect for charging all your devices at once.
4. Manta Sleep Mask – Darkness and Comfort
Sure, the complimentary sleep masks in Business Class are decent, but they’re no match for the Manta Sleep Mask. This beauty offers 100% blackout coverage, zero-pressure eye cups, and full adjustability. Our favourite? The SOUND version with built-in Bluetooth headphones. Drift off to soft music or white noise and wake up refreshed, even on the noisiest flights.
5. AirFly Bluetooth Transmitter – Ditch the Cords
Hate airplane headphones? Us too. That’s why the AirFly by Twelve South is a permanent fixture in our carry-ons. This nifty gadget plugs into the airplane seat’s headphone jack and connects wirelessly to your Bluetooth earbuds or headphones. No more tangled cords or subpar sound quality—just seamless audio for your in-flight movie marathon.
6. PQ Wax Ear Plugs – Sweet Silence
Planes are noisy. From roaring engines to crying babies, peace and quiet can feel like a distant dream. Enter PQ Wax Ear Plugs. Unlike foam plugs, these mold perfectly to your ear’s shape, stay in place, and are comfortable even for side sleepers. Bonus: they’re reusable!
7. Higo Neck Fan – Keep Your Cool
Sure, it looks a little goofy, but when you’re exploring a tropical paradise with 30°C+ temperatures and high humidity, the Higo Neck Fan is a lifesaver. It sits comfortably around your neck, with multiple cooling settings and a bonus cooling plate for extra relief. With a battery life of up to 10 hours, it keeps you cool all day.
