40 Travel Essentials For Women and Men: Genius Gear and Gadgets

With our access to devices and gadgets, electronics and cameras, our ability to stay connected and capture memories as we travel the world is greatly enhanced.

What does that mean for YOU?

Today, it is even easier to consolidate the books and magazines to digital formats, replace camera film with phones and digital cameras, and keep connected to family as you explore. Create options for traveling lighter and pack travel tech that improves your experiences.

40 Travel Essentials for Women and Men

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Apple products for great travel gifts

I’m all for technological advances in our travel essentials. My electronic devices and travel tech feature prominently on my travel lists and they should on your lists too.

If you are looking for additional travel essentials for women, mens travel accessories as well as cool gadgets and travel tech, click on over to my Amazon Storefront.

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Whether you are planning travels to the South of France or Day Trips in Italy, be sure to have these close to home AND international travel essentials packed to make your travel experience easier.

Electronics for Travel

1. Smart Phone

Many options are available for smart phones. Whatever phone you have or choose to purchase, this is one of the cool travel essentials that you simply don’t want to leave home without.

In fact, on my first solo international flight, I dropped my youngest off with a friend before heading off to the airport and then remembered I had left my iPhone on the counter to do some last-minute charging.

I was grateful to be close enough to home to make a quick stop to pick it up.

2. iPhone Case

Don’t forget an iPhone Case! There is a debate on whether you really need one (Newsweek weighs in), but I like the fact that my phone is easier for me to hold with a case.

**Be sure to order the correct size for your model and style of phone.**

3. Portable Charger

My girls have all used the Anker Power Core Portable Chargers. They are pretty slick for a quick device charge with a size not much bigger than a tube of lipstick. The Anker IQ’s are an easy gadget to slip into a waist pack or travel backpack.

My youngest daughter gave me an INIU Portable Charger for Christmas. I then had to get her one of her own because she was using mine so often.

The INIU is a little bigger—a cell phone size—than the Anker Power Core and delivers 10,000 mAh for charging compared to the 5000 mAh of the Anker. And it comes with a handy dandy travel light. Choose one that works best for you; just be sure to have one.

4. Tablet

I love my Apple iPad Pro 11″ 256GB with its corresponding iPad Cover.

I have forgotten to bring my tablet a time or two on trips, and boy do I ever miss it. It is definitely one of the travel essentials for women and men.

5. Tablet Case

6. Tablet Keyboard

As a blogger, I also love the Apple iPad Magic Keyboard as it easily connects to my tablet with no need for pairing or charging.

Put this on your travel essentials list and don’t forget it.

7. E-Reader

Do you love to read? My girls have loved loading their Kindle Fire with books to read while we travel. We have had it for a number of years now, and it is the travel tech that still finds its way on many trips.

8. Watch

Smart watches, especially the Apple Watch that I wear, come in a variety of sizes, colors, and tracking abilities.

9. Chargers and Cables

And don’t forget to toss in the Apple Watch Magnetic Charging Cable when you travel to be sure to keep your watch charged as needed.

Visit my Amazon Storefront to check out all of the charger and cable needs for your travel tech.

10. AirTags

AirTags have jumped on the scene in recent years. If you are concerned about tracking your bag, travel backpack, or carry on, AirTags are awesome.

11. AirTag Holder

AirTag holders simply make attaching your AirTag to your luggage easier.

Headphones and Earbuds

womanlisteningtomusic
Photo credit: lordn7@hotmail.com

12. Noise Canceling Headphones

As a frequent traveler and airplane sleeper, Chris has tested a few varieties of noise canceling headphones. They are must have travel essentials for him to block out crying babies, chatty seat mates, and airplane noise to be able to sleep.

13. Headphones

The options for headphones are endless. I don’t wear headphones a lot other than when I travel (and sometimes for exercise), even so, I am particular about the ones I like.

So perhaps this is TMI, but I have small ears and cannot wear most earbuds or AirPods comfortably. My choice is Skullcandy Ink’d 2. I suppose the drawback is that these headphones are corded and they often get tangled in my curly hair. Curly hair problems!

14. Headphone Jack Adapter

Because my headphones are corded, I also travel with an Apple Lightning to 3.5 mm Headphone Jack Adapter in order to plug my headphones into my iPhone. It is just one of the necessary gadgets for travelers in my travel essentials!

TIP: Create habits in your travel, especially as you prepare to deplane, so you don’t forget anything.

15. AirPods

Do you travel with Apple AirPods? They are convenient and compact gadgets for travel—especially long flight travel essentials.

My husband, Chris, loves the effectiveness of the noise-canceling Apple Airpods Pro as long flight travel essentials. They are business travel essentials for him.

Apple airpods pro
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16. AirPods Silicone Case

Don’t forget the AirPods Silicone Case available in a variety of vibrant colors as well!

You can also find AirPods Pro Silicone Cases with a keychain that easily attaches to your travel backpack or handbag, crossbody bag, purse, belt loop, or carry-on.

17. Beats

My daughter likes her Beats Solo3. You might find that over-the-head headphones are more comfortable for sleeping while traveling. The Beats do fold, but are certainly not as compact as earbuds.

Beats Solo3 on ear headphones
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You have a lot of options in the headphones or earbuds you choose. Find one that fits your needs the best.

Photography Equipment

Camera representing the best travel photography courses for beginners
Photo credit: redpixel

I LOVE my camera.

Not sure which would win in a battle, my camera or my iPad, so let’s just say I love them both.

18. Point and Shoot Camera

The Canon Powershot G1 is great if you leave the camera in AUTO mode and work well with a point and shoot. It does give you the option to switch to MANUAL mode if you choose.

19. Beginner DSLR

I had an older version of the Canon T8i and it served me well over the years. If you aren’t going to take the time to learn the manual features, this camera or any DSLR wouldn’t be worth the effort or neck strain to carry in my opinion.

20. Canon EF-S Lens

My favorite lens for my Canon T-series Camera, and the one I traveled with 100% of the time when I used it, was the Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 with Image Stabilization.

21. Intermediate DSLR Camera

I have since upgraded to a Canon 6d Mark II and look forward to the amazing memories I can capture in a photograph.

If you have a knack for photography, then a DSLR would be awesome. The photo opportunities around the world are plentiful.

Related >> 5 Best Travel Photography Courses for Beginners

22. Nifty Fifty Lens

I also travel with my Canon “Nifty Fifty” because it is light and compact and just a handy all-round camera lens to have in my travel tech gear.

23. Canon EF Lens

For the Canon 6d Mark II, my travel tech lens of choice is the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 L IS USM Lens.

24. Underwater Camera

You’d be surprised how many opportunities you have to use an underwater camera. It creates fun shots of tropical fish as well as family and friends.

25. Camera Battery

My first Camera Battery Charger was a corded version that just took up too much valuable space in my carry-on backpack. When you are packing travel backpack essentials, you need to think about space and weight.

I switched to a charger with a flip out plug and was much happier with it.

Be sure to pick a charger, battery, or any gadget listed here that is specific to YOUR camera, phone, tablet, etc.

26. Camera Charger & Batteries

I would recommend original Canon Batteries every time, but if that is not in your price range or readily available, you can try these Camera Batteries.

I don’t know that I have taken enough pictures in a day to use up all of the battery in my camera, but I have come close. I always keep a charged battery in my backpack just in case.

27. Memory Card

I have a SanDisk 256GB Memory Card for my camera and it is plenty big; as I learn more about photography and want to begin shooting in RAW format, it will be the perfect size for photo storage as I travel.

Photography gadgets and travel tech deserve a post of their own. Check out a recent post on 15 Popular Photography Gadgets.

28. Camera Insert

This handy dandy camera insert on Amazon transforms the inner section of your backpack. If you are a photography enthusiast and don’t want to travel with ALL of your equipment, this insert is ideal.

29. Peak Design Camera Clip

If you have traveled and explored with a DSLR camera around your neck all day long, you know it can cause a lot of neck strain. One of the best travel photography gadgets is a Peak Design Camera Clip. The clip sure make travel easier.

The metal Peak Design Camera Clip clamps easily to any backpack strap for a secure, lockable, and convenient way to access your camera as you sightsee. Add an Arca tripod-compatible plate to your camera (included). With the push of a quick-release button, your camera then clips on and off as you need to use it as you take adventures, explore, and travel the world.

Gadgets & Gear

Travel bag backpack for travel it is the best women's travel backpack for Europe and travel essentials to survive an airport layover

30. Power Strip

I carry a Power Strip with USB Ports with me whenever I travel. The options are varied when you search on Amazon, so find the one that best suits your needs.

When I return home from vacation and unpack, the power strip just stays in my luggage until the next time. It is definitely one of my must-have gadgets for travel and one of the business travel essentials my husband often packs.

Invariably, with all of the travel tech and electronics to be charged, this power strip comes in pretty handy anywhere in the world as I plug into a outlet converter.

31. Travel Adapters

With my husband’s international travel, he invested in International Power Adapters that we have used on our family trips as well.

Even in different European countries, the plugs vary, so an Adapter Plug Set may also come in handy or be another option if you plan to travel throughout Europe and other countries. If you are traveling for work, it is definitely one of the business travel essentials you’ll want to invest in.

32. Wall Chargers & Cables

While the smaller cubes (pictured below) are pretty handy for travel and convenience, they do not charge as quickly as the larger wall cube and may not have enough power to charge larger devices such as laptops and tablets. But for smaller travel tech, they are fine.

Need to charge multiple devices at once? Check out the dual port options on charging cubes.

Chris loves this USB C charging gadget and says it charges his laptop in record time.

We often buy Amazon Basics Charging Cables for our electronic devices. Whether you are an Apple or an Android user, you will find a multitude of cable options online (make sure you select the right option for your device).

33. USB Car Charger

Planning to rent a car while on vacation? Not all vehicles are intuitively designed and you will find in some rentals that the USB charging port is hidden or inconveniently placed.

A cigarette lighter USB Dual Car Charger is convenient for charging or connecting your travel tech in your rental car.

My husband loves this handy gadget.

Just don’t forget to take it with you when you return the car!

34. Air Vent Magnetic Phone Car Mounts

These magnetic car phone mounts are such awesome little gadgets for travel as well.

You place a metal plate (included with your purchase) inside your phone case. (Many newer phones come with a built-in magnet.) The Magnetized Phone Mount slides on to your air vent slat; place your phone against the phone mount and voila! Instant attachment.

Again, don’t be like us and forget to remove it from the car when you return the rental!

35. Water-resistant Travel Bags

You might find that investing in Water-Resistant Zippered Bags or something similar handily keeps many small travel essentials in one easy-to-find location. These bags are great for electronics and travel tech (as well as for snacks).

36. Travel Tech Organizer

Is your guy a gadget guy? My husband loves cool gadgets that not only work seamlessly with his electronics but also have great function too. With all of the gadgets and electronics, an organizer is essential.

The Travelon Urban Tech Organizer features an abundance of zippered pockets and lets you see at a glance if you have forgotten to pack a cord, charging cable, or charger.

37. Anti-theft Crossbody Bag

A crossbody bag—or messenger bag or purse or handbag—is one of the great travel essentials too. Since crossbody bags hang in front of the body, it is easy to access all your valuables without having to take the bag off every time you need something. Plus, it offers some amazing anti-theft travel bag features to give you peace of mind as you travel.

>> Related: My #1 Favorite Crossbody Bag for Travel

38. Travel Backpack

The North Face Recon Backpack works as a camera bag AND as a personal travel bag, so if you are into photography, you might be interested in outfitting your backpack to pull double duty with a camera insert (above). And while you’re at it, check out these 15 Popular Photography Gadgets for travel.

39. RFID Blocking Passport Wallet

The Travelon Passport Wallet with RFID is perfect for securely storing a passport, credit cards, and a little extra cash. If you are the keeper of the family passports as you travel, this case can hold 3 passports quite nicely.

40. Vacuum Sealed Water Bottle

A Hydro Flask water bottle is super nice to have on vacation and to include in your travel bag. Just make sure it is empty before going through security at the airport! Be sure to fill the bottle before you board your plane.

Staying hydrated is always important. In fact, bring along some small single-serving packets of Crystal LiteElectrolytes, or Zipfizz to add a little flavor or energy boost to your Water Bottle.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have a favorite travel gadgets and accessories organizer?

My husband and I like the convenience of the Travelon Urban Tech Accessory Organizer. With just a quick glance, we can easily see if we have forgotten to pack a cable.

Is there an easy place to find travel tech recommendations?

You bet. My simplyjolayne travels Amazon Storefront features gadgets, electronics, and travel organization links.

What are the #1 travel tech items that people forget to pack most often?

Cables and chargers.

What about Lithium batteries on airplanes?

“Spare (uninstalled) lithium ion and lithium metal batteries, including power banks and cell phone battery charging cases, must be carried in carry-on baggage only. When a carry-on bag is checked at the gate or at planeside, all spare lithium batteries and power banks must be removed from the bag and kept with the passenger in the aircraft cabin. The battery terminals must be protected from short circuit.” FAA.gov

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Final Thoughts on 40 Travel Essentials For Women and Men: Genius Gear and Gadgets

Do you have cool gadgets for travel that enhance, consolidate and streamline your travel experience? Whether you like to travel solo or with family and friends, learning how to travel well is key.

What does traveling well mean? It means minimizing setbacks and hassles as much as possible, learning to be a minimalist packer, planning ahead, and choosing the bare necessities when it comes to your travel tech and travel essentials.

Whether you are a business traveler looking for business travel essentials, you love travel gadgets and accessories, you routinely plan for long haul flights, or your travel tech could use some updating, consider these travel essentials for women and men.

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70 Comments

  1. I once thought I was purchasing a converter so that I could use my curling iron in Europe. Much to my surprise it wasn’t a converter but just an adapter. Needless to say, I singed my hair pretty good because my curling iron was way too hot. Luckily my hair was the only thing that burned!

  2. I used to travel A LOT! In fact, I took a year off to travel around the world and I had SO many books in my bag! I wish e-readers existed back then. It would have made my life easier and it would have also been easier to find English books to read when I was in other countries.

  3. This is a thorough list of things you might need to travel. I wouldn’t mind if it were just for home. I like the magnetized phone mount. Looks like it would hold a phone for easy reading of directions.

  4. I never leave for a trip with my trusty Kindle (loaded with purchased and library books, of course). I keep most of our travel accessories in one tote, so it’s easy for packing. But, we’ve been caught off guard a time or two with dead a dead camera battery and a full memory card (with no way to download). Need to get an extra of both and leave a “don’t forget” note in the travel tote!

  5. My e-reader has been such a game-changer for travel. No more packing an entire suitcase just for books haha! These were all great suggestions!

    1. Exactly. Tablets make such a difference to the enjoyment of a flight. And on my way home from a trip i work on blogging to get a jump start.

  6. Traveling at all feels like such a dream right now, but I know I have completely forgotten all the basics on how to do it. Thanks for sharing this list to make it easier to get back into it.

  7. An Apple iPad Keyboard would be so helpful!! We love ours but I don’t use it for blogging and my own personal use because it doesn’t have a keyboard. Thanks for the great list of travel gadgets.

  8. I will say that the last one is something I use constantly! I have a magnet in my car and it makes life a thousand times easier. I also love my camera, of course. And I highly recommend earbuds and portable chargers when traveling. I haven’t done much traveling, to be honest, but I’m sure I’ll refer back to this in the future!

  9. This is such a helpful post! I love my portable charger, and it’s saved me on multiple occasions. Also, converters are so important for traveling internationally, so that’s a great suggestion. Thanks for sharing!

  10. This is a great list. We have all of these except for the smart watch, and are actively using them pretty much on a daily basis.

  11. I never even thought about taking a power strip but that really is genius!! Great tips- we never leave home without our airpods and chargers!!

  12. A lot of these items we bring along also. They’re indeed genius gadgets for travel! Didn’t knwo about the Water Resistant Travel Bags, so will have to check those out.

  13. So many great electronic gadgets that are not only helpful but life savers at times! I love my water resistant bags, portable charger and of course my camera the most!

  14. I am a bit of a gadget girl and am always looking for great suggestions for new adds to my pack. I always travel with my iPad but it is not always a great reading device in places like the pool deck. May need to start carrying my eReader too. I agree about carrying a power strip with you since so many places don’t have enough power. I may need to upgrade to one like yours that takes 3 prong plugs and has USB power.

  15. Super post, you have a solid collection of travel gadgets. We keep a drawer full of many of these to use when we packing for our next trips. Like you, we have given some of these as gifts to each other too. They are perfect!

  16. Great list you’ve put together! I don’t go anywhere without having a fully charged portable charger with me. The amount of times I’ve almost run out of battery and not had anywhere to plug my phone into is crazy.

  17. This is such a useful list! I really need to get one of these USB-C chargers. I’ve heard the same thing from everyone…record charging times. An absolute must when traveling. 🙂

  18. Thank you for sharing this great list of travel gadgets. I’ve travelled a lot and only just purchased a power strip. I bet that will make my life so much easier than trying to find enough plugs to charge everything.

  19. Totally agreed with everything on this list. I don’t think it’s even possible to have a good trip without a camera, portable charger and headphones. That’s just asking for problems! Never thought about the car air vents though that’s a new one for me but definitely handy for sure.

  20. We have a trip coming up for Costa Rica…at the beginning of rainy season…so I think those water resistant bags would work very well for us!

  21. Some really great suggestions! The one travel accessory I love is a charge adapter. It adapts to every possible plug socket and accepts 4 USB which means I can charge everything from my phones to watch to camera on a single socket!

  22. Think about charging your CHARGER/BATTERY PACK in the airport, instead of charging your PHONE. Phones are smart but can pick up malicious info if someone has tampered with the charging station you are using. A CHARGER cannot pick up malicious info, just power. THEN you can charge your phone from your own (safe) charger. Good idea to pack more than one battery pack (and all needed cables!) when traveling. If you lose one battery pack, or drain its power, you have a backup. Also, different airports may have different plugs, so have 2-prong & 3-prong both available, plus any adapters (go into SOCKET / WALL) and converters (change the power level which is input INTO your device) for any non-US travel. I pack a 2-prong power multi-strip for our son’s house, because the bedroom only has 2-prong outlets. For other places, I have a 3-prong power multi-strip.

  23. Pack a few plastic grocery bags with handles. They require zero space or weight, but sure are handy for muddy shoes, wet clothes & swim wear, etc. Another choice are the reusable totes which fold up to the size of pocket tissue packs. Never know when you need one. Some foreign stores charge extra for a bag for your purchases, so carrying one can save money.

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