Tech On The Go: Must‑Have Travel Gadgets & Accessories

Travelling should be exciting, not stressful. But we all know how frustrating it can be when your phone dies halfway through a journey, or when you realise you’ve brought the wrong charger. That’s where the right travel tech makes all the difference.

Whether you're heading abroad, going on a road trip, or just commuting, here’s a rundown of the must-have travel gadgets and accessories to keep you powered, connected, and comfortable — wherever you go. In this guide, we will help you discover the best travel gadgets and essential accessories for backpackers, jet-setters and holiday sun seekers.

Think of it like this: the fewer tech hiccups you have, the smoother your trip goes.

• No more fighting for a wall socket at the airport

• No more tangled cables or wrong plug types

• And no more worrying if your devices will make it through the day

Modern travel gadgets are designed to save space, simplify your setup, and give you peace of mind while you’re on the move.

No plug? No problem. A reliable power bank is one of the most important things to take with you.

Look for:

• Enough capacity to charge your phone 2–4 times

• Fast charging options (USB-C or wireless charging)

• Lightweight and cabin luggage–friendly designs

Pro tip: Check airline rules. Most allow power banks under 100Wh (roughly 27,000mAh) in hand luggage only.

Different countries, different plugs. A universal adapter saves you the hassle of carrying multiple chargers — especially on multi-country trips.

Features to look for:

• Covers UK, EU, US, AUS plugs

• USB-A and USB-C ports built in

• Compact design with built-in safety features

Whether you're chilling at the beach or having a picnic in the park, a small speaker can lift the vibe.

• Choose one that’s splashproof or waterproof

• Long battery life (8+ hours is ideal)

• Clip-on designs are handy for backpacks

Tip: A speaker with a built-in mic doubles up as a speakerphone if you need to take a call on the go.

Music, podcasts, movies, calls — you’ll want a good pair of earphones or headphones with you.

Your options:

• Wired earphones: great for in-flight entertainment

• Wireless earbuds: ideal for general use and freedom of movement

• Noise-cancelling headphones: perfect for long flights or noisy environments

While smartphones are great for quick snaps, there's still something special about bringing a dedicated camera when travelling.

Why consider a digital camera?

• Better image quality in low light and zoom situations

• More storage for videos and high-resolution shots

• Faster shooting - ideal for capturing fleeting moments without lag

• Longer battery life than most phones

And don't forget the charm of disposable cameras too! With no screens, you live in the moment, not behind your phone. They're lightweight and require no charging, making them perfect for beach days, festivals and adventurous travels.

There’s nothing worse than forgetting the right charging cable — or bringing the wrong one. Save yourself the stress.

What to pack:

• USB-C, Lightning, and Micro USB cables (or a multi-cable solution)

• A short cable for on-the-go charging (fits better in pockets or travel pouches)

• A compact USB hub if you’re charging multiple devices at once

Bonus tip: Keep a spare charging cable in your bag at all times. You’ll thank yourself later.

Heading somewhere remote? A small portable power station can keep more than just your phone running — think cameras, lights, and even small laptops.

What to look for:

• Under 100Wh for airline safety

• Multiple output types (USB, DC, AC)

• Durable, compact build for travel

These are perfect for camping, festivals, or van life.

Ever lost a bag while travelling? A smart tracker can give you peace of mind.

• Track your suitcase from your phone via Bluetooth or GPS

• Get alerts if your bag gets left behind

• Some travel cases even include built-in charging ports

• Pre-charge everything before your trip — including backup batteries

• Use cable ties or small pouches to keep cables organised

• Bring a spare power bank or charger, just in case

• Download maps, media, and documents offline in case of poor signal

Travel tech isn't just about looking cool — it's about making your journey easier, safer, and more enjoyable. Whether you're charging your devices on the go, listening to music on a long ride, or making sure your bag arrives at the same destination as you, a few smart gadgets can make a world of difference.

Browse Maplin’s travel tech range and get kitted out for your next trip. Wherever you're headed, we've got the gear to get you there.