While some “dumbphones” still persist, smartphones are the most popular gadgets people bring along with them while on the go, but there are several other devices that should make it into your travel bag. Some can keep you entertained when you’re away from home while others can save you a lot of trouble when you’ve found yourself in an unfortunate situation. In any case, having more than one gadget on hand tends to be a good thing!
Here are five you should take with you everywhere.
iPad
Tablets, in general, are must-have gadgets, but the iPad is genuinely something special. Particularly with the Pro version, the responsiveness and slew of different features offered are superior to its competitors.
Battery life is one of the key areas the iPad really stands out. When on standby with no apps running, its battery can literally idle for days and barely decrease. This makes the iPad an incredibly valuable tool when traveling around because if you remember to close your apps, you know it will have a charge when you need it.
Additionally, the large, clear screen makes an excellent tool both for writing with the Apple Pencil and entertaining yourself with your favorite shows (assuming, of course, you have the right geographic location; use a Virtual Private Network to alter your IP address if you’re watching Netflix outside the USA).
The iPad also offers access to the App Store, and if you’re an Android user with your phone, it gives you greater access to a more diverse range of options. Even if you do own an iPhone, virtually all apps run faster on the iPad because it’s just a powerful machine.
Smartwatch
A smartwatch is great to have because it reduces the need to retrieve your phone from your pocket or bag, and the display is always on. It’ll alert you of notifications, such as an incoming call, text messages, emails and updates from apps, so you can set your phone aside without having to worry about missing any alerts.
You can use it to respond to messages too, but perhaps the most appealing features of a smartwatch are its GPS and health tracking capabilities. Some are waterproof so you can even keep track of your usual notifications while at the pool.
They function as pedometers, tracking the number of steps you’ve taken and your heart rate, so they’re perfect for exercising. Depending on the smartwatch you choose to purchase, you’re able to use it to make calls and listen to music. They even double as a fashion accessory, so what’s not to love?
Power Bank
Having a portable power bank will make it easy to charge all your mobile devices while on the go. They’re especially useful for hiking or camping, as they’re essentially a battery pack that can be used instead of your typical wall chargers. Just charge the power bank before leaving home, and it’ll be ready for use.
Most power banks will fully charge your smartphone between three and six times before needing to be recharged itself. Tablets will require a bit more juice and drain the power bank quicker, but having this gadget on hand is helpful nonetheless. Purchasing one that has more than one USB port is best, as it’ll allow you to charge more than one device at a time.
Wallet Ninja
Wallet Ninja is a nifty gadget that almost seems a little too versatile considering its size and simplistic design. As an 18-in-1 multipurpose pocket tool, it can accomplish a lot and is perfect for those times when you’re in need of some tools but don’t have the space to carry them along with you.
Wallet Ninja is as small as a credit card, so it fits in an average-sized wallet, is made of steel, carries a lifetime guarantee and replaces the need for a variety of items. It can be used as a letter or box opener, ruler, bottle or can opener, wrench, screwdriver, nail remover, cell phone stand and (oddly) a fruit peeler.
If this all sounds too good to be true, check it out for yourself. Wallet Ninja is also TSA approved, so you’re able to bring it along with you even if you’re catching a flight.
Portable Jump Starter Kit
Some gadgets can literally save the day, and a portable jump starter kit for your car can do just that. After trying one, you’ll never want to go without it again. It uses a rechargeable battery pack with jumper cables to jump-start your vehicle’s battery and can do so about 3,000 times before needing a recharge.
When it’s time to recharge the battery pack, you can plug it into an outlet at home or use your car lighter to charge it. You can also use the battery pack to charge your mobile devices, so you won’t be without a phone if your car breaks down.
While there’s no doubt that gadgets can be helpful from just about anywhere, having a variety always available can reduce common inconveniences. So, which gadgets are your favorites to take with you everywhere? We’d like to know which you’ve tried and which you’d recommend. Let us know in the comments below!
About the Author: Cassie is a writer and blogger whose main area of interest is technology. She loves keeping up to date on the latest gadgets and reviewing them whenever possible.