Published on 12:00 AM, August 27, 2021

6 travel gadgets to get you set for any trip

With new technology and innovation, there are unlimited options of travel gadgets to try. These gadgets can make your vacations easier, more organised, and enjoyable.

Here is a list of 6 travel accessories and their features that you may consider while purchasing.

Universal travel adapter

A universal travel adapter lets you plug your electronic devices into walls with any kind of socket. Sockets and voltage ranges can differ from area to area or from country to country. So this kind of adapter converts them to a standard one.

While buying a travel adapter, keep in mind that some old-fashioned adapters have sockets only for two-pin plugs. Those who have a MacBook or devices with the round earth pin may get into trouble if they do not notice this before purchasing.

In most countries, the usual voltage supply is 200-240 volts, and so the adapter you are buying should support up to 240 volts. Moreover, it is better to buy a smaller adapter as the larger ones tend to fall out of the socket due to the weight of any plug.

Smartphone sanitiser

Your smartphone tends to have more harmful microorganisms on it. As it is now more important to ensure hygiene, you may consider buying a smartphone sanitiser before your next trip. UV rays from such devices disrupt the growth of microorganisms and protect your smartphone from germs. Therefore, it needs some time to complete the cleaning process.

Try to look for a UV smartphone sanitiser that takes at least 3 minutes to ensure deep and effective cleaning. In most UV sanitisers, you need to flip your device to get a full 360° clean.

UV bulbs burn out quickly. So it is better if you can choose a sanitiser with a UV LED light. It may not be a good idea to try to find cheaper options for these UV sanitisers as they can be harmful to your smartphone as well as you. Consider buying a safer and more reliable option.

Solar power bank

Charging a phone is quite challenging during a long trip, especially when it is difficult to find any socket in that place. A power bank is now a must while being on a tour. If you are using a solar power bank, then you can also green your power consumption and minimise your carbon footprint.

Note that a cell phone usually has up to 5000 mAh battery and tablets up to 12,000 mAh. Solar power banks available in markets have a charging capacity of up to 50,000 mAh. A heavier solar power bank has more charging capacity than a lighter one.

However, it may be inconvenient to carry a heavy power bank, especially when camping or hiking. Thus, select it wisely based on what you need more in your trip.

Bluetooth tracker

If you are clumsy with your belongings and often lose your stuff, consider buying a Bluetooth tracker. This type of tracker works optimally up to 100 feet, but some companies offer trackers that can work up to 200 feet. Different barriers such as walls or trees can decrease connectivity.

Check individual product reviews before buying.  Bluetooth trackers ring when you search for them. So choose one that is loud enough to be heard. Before your purchase, think carefully about which item you need as some Bluetooth trackers have additional features depending on that. For example, there are card-shaped trackers for your wallet and keyring-style for backpacks.

Portable door lock

Staying in unfamiliar places, especially being a solo traveller can be both exciting and daunting. To add an extra layer of security, one may use a portable door lock while staying in a hotel room or any place where they stay.

Unlike other locks, portable door locks can only be used from the inside. These come in different shapes and sizes. But they almost work in the same way and prevent intruders from outside.

While selecting a portable door for your trip, try to choose one which is small, inexpensive, and comes in one piece. Moreover, select the door lock that takes less time and is less complicated to install and remove in case of any emergency. Remember that most of these locks are designed for inward-swinging doors.

Portable travel coffee maker

If you are a frequent traveller and coffee is your mood booster, you know the struggle of finding a perfect cup of coffee especially when you are on a camping adventure or in a remote area. Choose a coffee maker that takes from 30 seconds to 5 minutes to brew, and can be washed with minimal components.

While buying such an appliance, consider how much coffee you need at a time and the overall size of your luggage. A bulkier coffee maker has a larger capacity, but it'll weigh more and you don't even need such a bigger one in case you're travelling alone.

Travel coffee makers can be used manually or can require batteries, solar power, or electric outlets. Select it smartly like if you are going camping or boating, the one that works by electricity is of no use.