Battery Bank – Carry-On ONLY

Flights get delayed, sightseeing days run long, and sometimes you just can’t find a plug. A reliable power bank keeps my phone, earbuds, and other essentials charged, so I’m never left scrambling for an outlet when I need my devices most.  Note that many airlines now have very strict rules and you should understand these when boarding an aircraft.  Some airlines now do not allow their use onboard during a flight.

AirFly

This little adapter lets me connect my wireless headphones to in-flight entertainment systems that still only offer wired jacks. It means I can enjoy movies and shows in comfort with my own high-quality headphones, instead of the flimsy ones airlines provide.

Additionally, if you are doing a cruise or land-based tour and the tour guide is using a transmitting device that your cruise line supplies, you may be able to pair your AirFly and use your own wireless ear buds.

Charging Cables

Obvious but essential. I always pack more than one cable—because one always seems to go missing or get borrowed. Different lengths also come in handy for planes, hotels, and even cruise cabins where outlets aren’t always in the most convenient places.

Selfie Stick

Not just for selfies, but this doubles as a compact way to capture wide-angle shots of my surroundings, especially when I’m traveling solo. It’s also useful for group photos without asking strangers to handle my phone.

Lapel Microphone

As someone who records content on the go, clear audio is non-negotiable. A lapel mic plugs into my phone and keeps my voice crisp, even in noisy environments like airports or bustling city squares.

Flying Pressure Ear Plugs (Alpine FlyFit)

These are lifesavers for reducing ear pain during take-off and landing. They help regulate pressure changes and make flying much more comfortable, especially on long-haul trips.  These have been a game changer for me who is one that has always had pressure issues with my ears when flying and if not taking a strong decongestant, would have plugged ears for hours and even days after landing.  Now I don’t need the decongestants – these are amazing.

USB Handheld Fan

Airplanes, airports, and even some hotels can get stuffy. A small USB fan is a surprisingly useful comfort gadget and it’s rechargeable, so no need to hunt for batteries.  Climates are hotter than ever now and when in the centre of a city this fan could be your saving grace.

AirPods

Perfect for quick listening, taking calls, listening to podcasts, or music. They’re lightweight, convenient, and easy to slip in and out when moving through security or boarding.

Bose Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones

When I want to block out the world, whether it’s airplane engine noise, chatter in a café, or the bustle of a train station, these are essential. They also pair beautifully with the AirFly for in-flight entertainment.  Crying baby on your flight?  Even if they are one or two rows away, these will block it all out.  My tip is just pop them on with no music, and if you have the noise cancellation enabled, you just have beautiful silence.

Carabiners

A few sturdy carabiners live on my bag straps. They’re great for clipping on water bottles, hats, or even small shopping bags, keeping my hands free while exploring.

Battery-Operated Nightlight

Cruise cabins and hotel rooms can be pitch black at night, or leaving a light on in the bathroom is just too bright. A little nightlight makes it easier to move around safely without fumbling for switches or waking your travel companion.

Sanitizing Wipes

Airplane trays, cruise ship rails, and public touchscreens aren’t always the cleanest. Wipes give me peace of mind and help keep germs at bay while I’m on the road.  I am the germaphobe and when boarding an aircraft, everything gets wiped.  Not to shock you, but if it is a plastic or leather headrest, don’t get grossed out how dirty these are.

Dry Detergent Sheets

These are flat, packable, and perfect for doing a bit of laundry in a hotel sink or cruise cabin. It keeps packing light and makes re-wearing clothes practical.

A Few More Handy Additions

  • Travel Adapter with USB Ports: Essential if you’re heading overseasone adapter can charge multiple devices at once.  There is not much need today for current converters, as our basic electronics (Laptops, phones, tablets, etc.) are all compatable with 110 or 220 but you do need the plug adapter.

     
  • Collapsible Water Bottle: Saves space in your bag and keeps you hydrated on excursions.      This also helps to reduce single use plastic.

     
  • Portable Luggage Scale: Avoids overweight bag fees before you even leave the hotel or the cruise ship.  I tend to pack a bit underweight on my departure and then I know that I have a KG or two space for bringing bits home.
     
  • AirTags:  I love AirTags and have one in each bag.  Many airlines now are improving their own systems of bag tracking - some with RF in the luggage tag - they don't all work everywhere in the world. 

Final Thought

Traveling is full of surprises, but these gadgets help me stay comfortable, connected, and ready for anything. They might sound like small things, but together they smooth out the bumps in the journey, so the focus stays on the adventure, not the hassles.