Weird Travel Gadgets You Actually Need Cool Gadgets

Is there a better time to write about must-have travel gadgets than after you’ve just exited the plane from a whirlwind trip to the Big Apple? (O.K., writing about it before travelling would’ve been more helpful, at least to me, but I digress.) Travel! It’s the best, isn’t it? Exploring new places, trying new things, and sampling new foods; now, more than ever, people are turning to experiences over things. However, some “things” are still crucial — especially when simplifying those experiences.

This list contains travel gadgets that are equal parts weird and wonderful. Some will help you stay entertained during long flights or even longer car rides. Others will keep your clothes clean, your bags (and body) safe, and your gadgets fully charged. There are also genius solutions for extra cargo and some privacy. So, dust off your passport and pick up some of these travel gadgets guaranteed to make your next destination just part of the fun.

You will love our editor’s curated product picks! FYI: We are an Amazon affiliate partner and may get a share of the sale of your purchase (at no cost to you).

If you’ve been on a plane lately, you know the struggle to not only get comfortable but also to make the trip enjoyable. The Flex Flap is a portable phone holder, and tablet stand designed by a flight attendant who saw a need and filled it. This works beyond a plane, too, making it simpler to watch movies in the car or even scope out recipes in the kitchen.

Don’t you hate getting somewhere only to notice you’ve picked up every piece of lint along the way? This retractable lint roller is small enough to stash in your handbag to keep you looking neat and tidy wherever you are. With its reusable and refillable design, it also eliminates the need to continually buy new lint rollers. This is a travel and office must-have.

It is virtually impossible to travel these days without a plethora of cords and cables. This storage pouch at least corrals the corded mess into something that resembles order so you can find what you need quickly. It’s small enough to stay out of your way but large enough to hold that obnoxiously-large MacBook charger. This has an interior mesh pocket and a zipper closure.

If you’ve got a flight coming up, TSA is a fact of life. This keyless combination lock lets TSA agents lock and unlock luggage without having to break anything to do so. There’s no key to lose, thanks to the easy three-digit combination that can generate 1,000 different code possibilities. Choose from seven colors and packs from one to six to protect all your gear.

Traveling can sometimes be dangerous but there are ways to safeguard yourself, like this personal emergency alarm. When triggered, this alarm lets out a loud 130-decibel alarm sure to scare off would-be criminals. Simply pull the pin to activate; it’ll sound for 30 minutes or until the pin is returned to the device. What might perhaps be the world’s smallest SOS alarm, this is a no-brainer when you’re in a new place.

Nothing says, “Please don’t talk to me,” like slapping on a wireless eye mask that not only blocks out light for a good snooze but also has built-in Bluetooth so you can listen to your favorite music, book or podcast. You can even take a call with this but why would you want to? You can remove the wires and module for washing the mask by hand with warm water.

Traveling doesn’t always mean you’re free of adult responsibilities like laundry. This retractable and portable clothesline expands to upward of 12 feet, has positioning beads so your clothes don’t bunch up, and includes 13 anti-skid clips that are windproof. Two strong stainless steel hooks let you attach this anywhere and remove it easily when it’s time to go. Twelve clips let you wash multiple pieces.

Even if you haven’t been on vacation recently, I suspect you already understand the importance of a good quality pair of headphones. These noise-canceling earbuds from Bose are top-of-the-line with high-fidelity audio, an adjustable fit and simple touch controls. If you’re serious about your music, you know Bose is hard to beat. Listen for up to six hours on a single charge and get an additional 12 hours from the charging case.

Carry your passport in style with this passport holder that’s slim and waterproof and has a snap button closure. I love this one because it gives you additional room for boarding passes, your ID, debit card and more, and is equipped with RFID-blocking technology to safeguard your identity and finances. Choose from nine different color options for this lightweight wallet.

You aren’t always going to be in a place where you can pull out the toothbrush and paste and go to town. These disposable oral care swabs let you clean, moisten and refresh your mouth, teeth and gums wherever you are. The simple four-angle-shaped device effectively sanitizes and is disposable for portable use and tossing in the trash. These are unflavored so no weird “bubble gum” taste.

This mighty mini is the lightest and smallest washing machine worldwide, weighing in at a mere 5 oz. Let the hundreds of internal Scrubba nodules work their magic, giving your clothes a scrub-a-dub-dub in no time. Crafted with durable Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) coated nylon, it’s built to withstand your wildest adventures. So pack your laundry worries away and embrace laundry freedom on-the-go.

Enhance your travel experience with this vibrant 4-pack of tags that brings a stylish flair to your belongings. Crafted with durable silicone and a stainless steel loop, these tags are designed to withstand all your adventures. The sleek, snag-free design ensures a seamless journey, while the privacy cover keeps your personal information concealed. Add a touch of swag to your travel and effortlessly spot your bags

Tired of wrestling with heavy bags and clunky wheels? Level up your travel game with Top Quality Luggage. Its feather-light design and silent gliding wheels turn navigating airports into a smooth and stylish affair. Stay organized and bid farewell to rummaging through chaos, thanks to its cleverly designed compartments. The adjustable handle adds a touch of personalized comfort, making you the envy of other travelers. And rest easy knowing your belongings are safe and secure with a trusty lock.

The 80’s called…they want their fanny packs back! Compact and stylish, these guys redefines travel accessories. Stay organized with multiple pockets, it’s hands-free and convenient, and even water-resistant in case you spill your drink trying to run to your gate. Elevate your travel style with this must-have accessory.

Crafted with premium materials and exquisite attention to detail, this passport holder adds a touch of elegance to your travel ensemble. But it’s not just a pretty face! With built-in RFID blocking technology, it shields your sensitive data from those sneaky scammers who prey on unsuspecting travelers.

This compact beauty mirror companion is a wanderlust must-have, fitting snugly in your pocket or purse for easy portability. The grip-friendly hinge and hidden magnetic power switch make it a breeze to handle and control the LED lighting, even in the most adventurous environments.

Measuring at a pocket-friendly size, this pill organizer effortlessly slips into your purse or carry-on, ensuring you never miss a dose while exploring new destinations. Say goodbye to fumbling around with pill bottles or worrying about spills—this little hero has a double lock system that keeps your pills secure and your mind at ease.

Ease of use is key with these compression bags. Simply seal the zipper, roll out the air from the zipper side to the bottom vent, and watch as these travel roll-up bags effortlessly compress your belongings. No need for additional equipment or complicated procedures.

Durability meets leak-proof design in these perfume bottles. Crafted with a sturdy aluminum shell and a hard glass inner container, they can withstand the rigors of travel without breaking or leaking. Say goodbye to fragrance mishaps in your pocket, bag, purse, or luggage.

Capture picture-perfect memories with ease using the ultra-transparent design. With crystal clear windows on both sides, you can snap stunning photos without taking your device out of the case. Plus, it’s not just for your phone—store your important holiday documents like passports, tickets, and credit cards securely in this versatile pouch.

Designed with family travel in mind, this passport holder offers a flexible interior structure that caters to all your needs. With multiple pockets and compartments, it can effortlessly store passports, credit cards, boarding passes, tickets, coins, keys, and more. No more fumbling around for important documents at the airport

Crafted from soft silicone, this makeup brush holder is not only durable and scratch-resistant but also waterproof and dustproof. Your brushes and other beauty essentials stay protected and ready for use wherever you are. Cleaning is a breeze—simply rinse with water and you’re good to go.

Compact and travel-friendly, this leave-in conditioner is the ideal companion for your adventures. Slip it into your bag or carry-on and enjoy up to 72 hours of softness that keeps up with your travel schedule. Indulge in touchably smooth and nourished hair, no matter where your journey takes you.

Say goodbye to beverage balancing acts while traveling with the Luggage Travel Cup Holders. Two cup pockets keep your drinks secure, while a secret stash pocket holds your essentials. Adjustable elastic drawstring ensures a snug fit, and waterproof material keeps spills at bay. Lightweight and foldable for easy storage.

Looking for some extra protection that keeps the unwanted out and ensures your peace of mind? The Portable Door Lock is here to save the day (and night)! Whether you’re solo-traveling or simply want to keep those pesky roommates at bay, this lock has got your back. Not only does it keep you safe from any unwelcome visitors, but it’s also a great tool to prevent little adventurers from embarking on unauthorized room expeditions. No more surprise guests or awkward encounters, thank you very much!

With its spacious design, this bag is a true beauty powerhouse. The large opening allows you to effortlessly pack all your toiletries and cosmetics, ensuring you have everything you need for your glamorous travel adventures. No more compromising on your makeup routine while on the go!

These portable travel hangers are not your ordinary hangers; they’re like little wardrobe superheroes. With their really smart and practical design, they can hold both baby’s and adult’s clothes with ease. They’re the ultimate multitaskers, adapting to your needs as you unfold them to perfectly fit your garments.

This bad boy features a built-in Lightning cable that delivers a whopping 12W of power to your iPhone. Translation? Lightning-fast charging that takes your battery from 20% to 60% in just 30 minutes. Now you can snap Insta-worthy travel pics, stay connected with loved ones, and navigate new cities with confidence.

Get ready to bid farewell to tangled messes. This organizer is specially designed to prevent your earrings, rings, necklaces, bracelets, brooches, hairpins, and even watches from tangling. It’s like having your own personal jewelry concierge, ensuring that each piece stays in its designated place.

Good looks and function? This bag is a master of organization, with front and rear zip pockets, open top wall pockets, and even a special spot for your keys (with an LED light for those moments when you need a little extra illumination). And let’s not forget the zippered RFID protected wall pocket that keeps your personal information safe from sneaky digital thieves.

This bad boy has it all: a built-in USB charging port to keep your phone juiced up, a separate shoe compartment to keep your kicks fresh, and a wet pocket for all your swimwear or gym gear. But wait, there’s more! It also comes with handy pockets for all your essentials, from toiletries to snacks. Made from durable and water-resistant nylon, this bag can handle any adventure you throw at it. Whether you’re hitting the gym, jetting off for a weekend getaway, or simply running errands, this bag has got your back (and your style!).

This will seem like a silly idea…until you need it. When it’s raining and you’re out and about in a new place, you need your hands for your phone, your bags, holding your kids’ hands. Let this device hold your umbrella for you. It only makes sense.

This cozy and versatile jacket is a must-have for your travel adventures. Made from soft polyester, it provides a warm and snuggly feel, perfect for chilly airplane cabins or outdoor exploration. The high collar and full-zip front keep you protected from the elements, while the side seam pockets offer convenient storage for your essentials. With its zippered pockets, elasticized cuffs, and contoured side seams, this jacket flatters your figure while keeping you cozy.