As the holiday season approaches, many families gear up for their annual Thanksgiving travels. This time of year sees airports become bustling hubs filled with travelers, which can lead to stress and uncertainty, especially regarding luggage management. Fortunately, various tech gadgets can enhance the travel experience, mitigating anxiety and improving overall convenience.
In the realm of travel, Apple’s AirTags have emerged as a revolutionary tool for tracking luggage. Priced at around $99 for a four-pack, these tiny devices can now be acquired for just under $74 at retailers like Walmart and Best Buy, marking an attractive deal for buyers. Designed specifically for iPhone users, AirTags utilize Apple’s ultra-wideband technology and comprehensive Find My network to ensure precise tracking and vast coverage, surpassing standard Bluetooth capabilities.
One of the standout features of AirTags is their ability to connect with up to five users, allowing families or travel groups to keep an eye on each other’s belongings. This is particularly beneficial in busy airport environments where misplacing a bag can lead to unnecessary stress. The user-replaceable batteries provide added convenience, eliminating the need to replace the entire device when the battery is drained. However, it’s worth noting that AirTags lack a lanyard hole, which would have made them easier to attach to bags or luggage directly.
Another essential gadget for travelers is a quality pair of earbuds. Currently, Samsung’s Galaxy Buds FE are available at an incredible price of $59.99, making them a steal for anyone looking for reliable audio technology during their journey. Retailing at a $40 discount, these earbuds excel in offering features such as active noise cancellation and exceptional sound quality at an affordable price point.
While some advanced features, like wireless charging and multipoint connectivity, are missing—something that even higher-end models struggle with—the earbuds still provide a commendable audio experience for less than $60. The convenience of packing lightweight earbuds cannot be overstated, as they can significantly improve the travel experience by keeping noise at bay and providing entertaining content en route.
The OnePlus Watch 2 is another compelling option for travelers, especially those who prioritize health monitoring while away from home. Regularly priced at $299.99, promotional offers, including a generous $80 discount, make this smartwatch an appealing choice at $219.99, especially when coupled with the option to snag an extra strap as a bonus.
Running on Wear OS 4, the watch integrates seamlessly with Google Assistant, making it easier to stay connected without accessing your phone constantly. With a battery life of up to 12 days in power-saving mode, the OnePlus Watch 2 ensures that users won’t need to constantly charge it during their trip, which is a significant convenience for on-the-go travelers. Although it lacks LTE connectivity and is available in only one size, its overall functionality and reliability make it a strong contender against competitors like Samsung or Google.
Finally, a high-capacity power bank is essential for modern-day travelers. The Belkin BoostCharge Power Bank 20K is currently at an appealing price of $27.56, offering an economical option for on-the-go charging. While its USB-C port maxes out at 15 watts and its USB-A ports at 12 watts, it serves a practical purpose by ensuring charging capacity for phones and similar devices.
Though the speed may be on the slower side, as long as users understand its limitations, they will find this power bank a valuable addition to their travel kit. With its lightweight design and stylish appearance available in pink, it also offers aesthetic appeal — an often-overlooked aspect of travel tech.
Enhancing your travel experience during the holiday season with the right tech gadgets can ease many of the common frustrations associated with flying. From luggage tracking with AirTags to enjoying quality audio with Galaxy Buds and maintaining connectivity and health monitoring via the OnePlus Watch 2, and staying charged with a reliable power bank, these gadgets prove indispensable. As you prepare for the travels ahead, consider integrating these tools into your toolkit to make your journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible.