Whether you’re jetting off to chase the Northern Lights, preparing to carve fresh tracks in the powdery snow in the Rockies or escaping to a tropical locale where your winter coat is a coverup, one thing’s for sure — the right gadgets can make your trip smoother, smarter and way more fun.
From tags that locate lost luggage and earbuds that drown out the surrounding noise to wearable high-def cameras that can take your post-trip memories to new levels, travel accessories are no longer just nice to have — they’re essentials.
We’ve rounded up some of the coolest products that deserve a place on your packing list this season:
Tie It All Together
For the minimalist packer, the standard go-to is likely a carry-on and backpack. But nothing is worse than trying to rush to your gate with your bag on your back while rolling a suitcase. That’s where the Cincha travel belt comes in. These adjustable straps keep your personal item (backpack, tote or laptop bag) securely fastened to your roller bag. Available in an array of sizes, colors and patterns, you can match your personal style and vibe. $29.99-$39.99, cinchatravel.com
Rock Out — or Retreat
For years, Beats has been at the top of the game when it comes to noise-cancelling headphones. Now, it has introduced the Studio Buds+ for that same crisp sound in a more compact format ideal for those on-the-go. Hold the button on the right earbud to switch from spatial audio — when you need to actually hear what’s going on around you — to the noise-cancelling option that drowns out chatty seat neighbors. $169.99, beatsbydre.com
Find It Fast
There’s nothing worse than learning your luggage didn’t make it to your destination. Apple AirTags can’t prevent luggage delays, but they can determine where your suitcase wound up. Just drop it inside your bag and track it via app on your phone. You’ll even get notifications if you leave your items behind. $29, apple.com
Seat Valet
We’ve all been there: You’re trying to watch something on your tablet, but there’s no room for it, your complimentary soda and pretzels on the seat-back tray. If you’re in the window seat, you’re in luck: BEVLEDGE is a foldable window organization station that instantly makes economy feel like business class. $19.99, amazon.com
Time, Track and Train
Not only can you keep up with your wellness routine while traveling, but Google’s Pixel Watch 4 can also customize workouts based on your hotel’s equipment (or lack thereof) with Gemini AI. Other cool safety features include first-to-market SOS satellite communication that will call for help even when you’re in a dead zone, fall and crash detection, loss of pulse detection and safety check — which allows your location to automatically be shared with emergency contacts if you fail to respond to your watch within a specified time frame. From $349, google.com
Heightened Hydration
The GrayL GeoPress Water Filter is designed to handle any source of H2O — taps, lakes or streams — with a firm press of the bottle’s top. In just eight seconds, you can have 24 ounces of clean drinking water anywhere on Earth. Removes waterborne pathogens and filters pesticides, chemicals, heavy metals and microplastics and improves taste, smell and clarity. $79.95, grayl.com
High-Tech Specs
With just a voice command, Meta Ray-Ban glasses can record hi-def video or snap still photos without needing to hold anything in hand. Available in traditional clear lenses and sunglasses in an array of frame colors and styles, you can not only look cool but capture long-lasting memories in the process. You’ll even have the ability to take hands-free calls or listen to your favorite playlist via built-in Bluetooth connectivity. $299, meta.com
