Cool Travel Gadgets You Didn't Know You Needed

If you’ve ever traveled, you probably already have a collection of your favorite travel gadgets that make packing easier, adventures more fun, and vacation that much more enjoyable. But there's always room in your suitcase for something extra. Innovators come out with new tools and accessories all the time that’ll help take your next trip up a level. Here’s our list of cool travel gadgets that you didn't know you needed!

Mini Travel Vacuum

If you always have trouble zipping up your suitcase because it's so full, one of the top travel gadgets for you is a vacuum. With today’s high-tech solutions, you can now get a mini vacuum or travel compressor that is powered with a USB cable, fits in the palm of your hand, and weighs less than half a pound. This amazing tool and the special bags it comes with can condense your clothes to half their normal size. You’ll have plenty of extra room—an especially helpful option for your return trip once you’ve bought souvenirs and other fun items during your travels.

Portable Laundry System

If you're going camping, backpacking, or somewhere else that won't have a washing machine, you can keep your clothes clean with the Scrubba Wash Bag. This is a portable laundry system that functions as a washboard and as a waterproof bag to separate clothes. All you have to do is put your clothes, water, and soap in the bag, roll it up, and rub the bag to clean your clothes. The bag weighs only a few ounces, so it won’t add a lot of unwanted weight to your luggage.

Travel Steam Iron

If you know you'll need to dress up while on your trip, a mini steamer is a good item to keep in your suitcase. While a lot of hotels will have irons, you can use this portable tool for a quicker, easier way to get wrinkle-free clothes because of intense steam. There are several companies that make portable steamers, and you can choose yours based of which size and temperature settings will work best for you and your wardrobe.

Luggage for Kids

All parents who have traveled with their young children understand the stress of managing their kids and their luggage while trying to get to their destination. If this struggle is familiar to you, you might benefit from a carry-on suitcase that doubles as a stroller. There are a number of these cases on the market, but some of the best have an extra kickstand with wheels that turns the case itself into a seat for your little one. You can swiftly navigate the airport or train station while you child has fun riding on the suitcase.

Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot

A portable Wi-Fi hotspot is one of the most important travel gadgets for anyone who wants to easily stay connected or up-to-date. With one of these, you don't have to worry about using a foreign SIM card or accruing roaming charges when you travel internationally. You can also easily take work with you, staying in the loop and on top of everything while on the go.

goTenna Mesh

Disconnecting from the grid can be a great experience, but safety is always a concern. goTenna Mesh keeps your phone connected when there isn't any cell service. With this travel gadget, you can have peace of mind knowing that you'll be able to send out a message to anyone in your group that’s also synced with a goTenna Mesh. If you’re hiking in a remote location, travelling internationally, on a cruise ship, or just anywhere without regular cell reception, it’s perfect to stay together and safe. This travel gadget uses Bluetooth-LE to allow users to share location information and other messages within a 4-mile range. The device fits easily into your pocket or can clip onto your backpack or your keys.

Travel Aromatherapy Kit

Vacations are full of fun activities and once-in-a-lifetime experiences, but can still be stressful. A travel-sized aromatherapy diffuser can help you wind down after a long, busy day being out and about. These kits are usually USB-powered, so they're simple to plug in and set up. You can choose your favorite essential oils, and the device will infuse the air with the scent. Your environment will immediately feel more homey and comfortable, helping you relax and recharge for more adventures.

Credit Card Utility Tool

Nowadays, with increased security measures and the cost of bringing baggage, it’s hard to pack everything you might need on a trip. A credit card utility tool is lightweight and sleek, like a Swiss army knife that’s been made in the shape and size of a credit card. It's one of the best travel gadgets for backpackers, campers, or anyone else who likes to be prepared for anything on a trip. Many of these gadgets have a blade that is safely tucked into a groove or folds into the tool itself, so you can store the knife safely in your wallet, pocket, or backpack. Plus, some versions come with great functions like bottle openers, tweezers, mini screwdrivers, and more!

Travel Door Alarm

If you feel nervous when you travel, you can install a travel door alarm on the door or window of your hotel room. The device uses a motion sensor and will produce loud sounds and flashing LED lights if any intruders enter. Many travel door alarms costs less than $15 and are small enough to fit inside your pocket, so it’s a great option if you want an extra sense of security.

Tile Mate

Losing your keys, a phone, or other essential belongings while away from home is a traveler's worst nightmare. It's easy to lose track of your things while you’re in unfamiliar places, but Tile Mate trackers can help you locate them. These travel gadgets are small bluetooth devices that can attach to any of your belongings or devices, and you can use the Tile app to see exactly where they are on the map at all times. Plus, if you can’t find your phone, you can use the tile on another device to make it ring, easily finding it—even if it’s on silent.

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