Holiday Nerd

    The Best Travel Gadgets for Every Traveller

    Travel gear has come a long way. Beyond packing the right clothes and documents, having the right tech can mean fewer hassles, less stress, and more enjoyment on the road. Here’s a roundup of some of the travel gadgets we personally find valuable and worth considering for your next trip.

    Multi-Plug Travel Adapter with USB + USB-C Ports

    Gone are the days of carrying separate adapters. The best travel plugs now include:

    • Worldwide socket compatibility (US/UK/EU/AUS, etc.)
    • USB-A and USB-C charging ports
    • Compact design that fits small power strips

    Whether you’re in a hotel, Airbnb, train station or airport lounge, one adapter with multiple ports keeps all your devices powered without hunting for extra sockets. A single adapter that works in most countries not only saves space at home, but is also ideal for multi-country trips — keeping your packing light and your charging simple.

    High-Capacity Power Bank

    A high-capacity power bank (20,000 mAh or more) is indispensable, especially for long haul flights, days of sightseeing, or travel with limited access to plugs.

    Look for:

    • USB-C PD (fast charging)
    • Dual / triple output
    • Airline-friendly mAh rating

    Tip: Airlines restrict power bank capacity — stick to models that comply with safety guidelines if flying. Also always carry in your hand luggage as most airlines restrict power banks from being transported in hold luggage.

    Noise-Cancelling Headphones

    Whether it’s engine noise, busy terminals, or chatty neighbours on a flight, good noise-cancelling headphones can dramatically improve rest and focus.

    Key features to consider:

    • Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
    • Long battery life
    • Comfortable for long wear
    • Foldable/compact design for packing

    Digital Luggage Scales

    If you pack your bags close to the weight limit a simple way to avoid surprise overweight bag fees is with a small digital luggage scale. These are light, inexpensive and save money at check-in.

    What to look for:

    • Easy-to-read display
    • Comfortable grip
    • Grip strap that fits large handles

    eSIM Subscription

    Staying connected abroad without racking up huge roaming fees is easier than ever with a preloaded eSIM.

    We’ve put together a separate, in-depth guide that covers everything you need to know — from how eSIMs work to choosing the best option for your trip.

    Anti-Theft Bag & Money Belt

    Pickpocketing and petty theft are unfortunate travel realities. If you’re visiting a destination where crime is more common and need to carry a bag, an anti-theft backpack can make protecting your valuables much easier.

    For higher-risk situations — such as sleeping on an overnight coach or train — a discreet money belt is a smart extra layer of security for storing your passport, cash, and cards safely under your clothing.

    What to Look For:

    • Slash-resistant materials
    • Hidden or RFID-protected compartments
    • Locking zips, cables, or combination locks

    These are especially useful in crowded cities, hostels, on public transport, and during overnight journeys.

    Packing Cubes

    Packing cubes aren’t tech, but they’re one of the most game-changing travel accessories around.

    Benefits:

    • Keeps your suitcase organized by type (shirts, underwear, tech)
    • Compresses clothes, giving you more space
    • Makes unpacking much easier

    Tip: Choose a set with different sizes and colour codes for quick sorting.

    Compact Travel Tripod / Phone Gimbal

    If you love taking photos or video, a small tripod or gimbal stabiliser will dramatically up your content quality.

    Look for:

    • Lightweight materials (carbon fibre or aluminium)
    • Foldable for carry-on
    • Quick setup

    These are perfect for solo travellers, vloggers or people who take their photos and videos seriously.

    Compact First Aid Kit & Travel Laundry Kit

    First Aid

    Not glamorous and not tech, but every traveller should have a small, well-stocked first aid kit. It doesn’t need to be bulky — just tailored to your needs. Thing to consider including should include.

    • Plasters (including blister plasters)
    • Pain relief tablets
    • Antiseptic wipes
    • Allergy medication
    • Diarrhoea relief tablets

    Customising your kit means you won’t waste time (or overpay) trying to find basics in an unfamiliar place.

    Laundry

    If you’re travelling for more than a few days — especially somewhere with washing facilities — a small laundry kit can save luggage space by having to pack less clothes.

    Pack:

    • A small amount of washing powder or
    • Travel detergent sheets

    This prevents you from buying a large, unnecessary box of detergent while away and allows you to pack fewer clothes overall.

    If you enjoy having a bath while travelling — or simply want to hand-wash clothes in a sink — pack a small universal sink stopper.

    Bonus Tip: Sink Stopper

    An increasing number of hotels no longer provide bath plugs, encouraging guests to shower and reduce water usage. A compact stopper takes up almost no space but can make a big difference to comfort and convenience.