Travel is back in a big way, which means you’re no doubt stocking up on all the travel essentials again. Whether you are hitting the road for a business trip or a much-needed getaway with family and friends, some gadgets are more than just a convenience, but are a lifeline. Technology can help to connect us to the people we love (wherever we might be in the world), enable us to capture life’s most precious moments in exquisite quality, and share our favourite sounds with loved ones.
The best technology makes your life and travels more manageable and enjoyable. Thankfully, today’s travel gadgets offer options to satisfy several types of travellers, from adventurers, photographers, and even outdoorsy music lovers. So, to help you make the most of your next getaway, here are some gadgets you need to keep at the top of your travel checklist:
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Noise-cancelling headphones
Quality noise-cancelling headphones can be a lifesaver when travelling, especially if the journey involves a long flight, noisy bus, or even a long road trip. However, considering how long you’ll most likely listen to your favourite music, it’s best to consider a set that won’t put too much pressure on your ears, like a comfortable pair of over-the-ear headphones. Whether you prefer a wireless headset or an old-school pair of wired headphones, comfort is key when it comes to choosing noise-cancelling headphones.
We recommend: Sony WH-1000XM5 wireless headphones
From plane noise to people’s voices, the Sony WH-1000XM5 wireless headphones feature multiple microphone noise cancelling to keep out more high and mid-frequency sounds than ever. And with Auto NC Optimiser, noise cancelling is automatically optimised based on your wearing conditions and environment. Best of all, these lightweight headphones are beautifully finished in newly developed soft-fit leather. This material fits snugly around the head with less pressure on the ears while keeping out external sounds.
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Outdoor speaker
There is no better way to make the most of your travel experience than by adding your favourite playlist to every memorable moment. Including a portable Bluetooth speaker in your travel essentials list will enable you to bring your favourite soundtracks along with you wherever you go and create the ideal setting to enjoy time with friends and family. Taking a dustproof and waterproof outdoor speaker with you when you travel allows you to enjoy your favourite soundtracks at the beach, camping, or even relaxing by the pool.
We recommend: LG XBoom Go PL7 Bluetooth speaker
LG’s XBoom Go PL7 portable Bluetooth speaker is lightweight, water-resistant, and compact, so you can take it wherever the party is. The PL7 offers up to 24 hours of battery life on a single charge, and can also charge your mobile phone. Certified pool-party proof, the wireless speaker is rated IPX5 water-resistant, so it can handle being sprayed with water, keeping it safe from splashes, spilled drinks, and other water hazards associated with summer.
PriceCheck tip: If you’re heading somewhere remote, it’s always a great idea to pack a Bluetooth speaker for the hotel room or outdoor area. Find the best deals on Bluetooth speakers PriceCheck.
Compact full-frame camera
Most people think they can get away with snapping all their travel pictures on their smartphones. But, while you can get amazing photos on your phone, these devices do also have their limitations. There are certain types of images you can only capture on a dedicated camera. Any keen photographer will ensure they have both their smartphone on hand for quick snaps and a compact full-frame camera in their bag for the best travel photos of their trip.
The overall image quality produced by a full-frame camera is astounding. And this image quality comes to life when you plan on doing anything with the images you’ve captured beyond just posting them to Facebook and Instagram. Best of all, despite the compact size of most designs these days, full-frame cameras deliver spectacular quality for both stills and movies that are only possible on a full-frame sensor, with fast autofocus and continuous rapid-fire shooting.
We recommend: Sony Alpha 7C
Bigger sensors create better images, and the Sony Alpha 7C’s full-frame sensor is much larger than the sensors in smartphones, compact digital cameras, and similar-sized interchangeable-lens cameras. The resulting increased light collection allows for professional-quality images with reduced noise, and more retained detail in both shadows and highlights.