Best Travel Tech Gadgets Under $100 That Actually Make Travel Easier

Why it's worth it: This isn't the cheapest power bank, but it's the one I actually carry every trip. At 10,000mAh, it fully charges my iPhone twice with juice left over. The slim profile (0.55 inches) fits easily in a jacket pocket or purse.

Real-world test: On a 12-hour flight to Tokyo, I charged my phone, tablet, and wireless earbuds without reaching for an outlet. The USB-C port means I only need one cable for both the power bank and my devices.

What I like: Power Delivery fast charging, slim design, doesn't get hot while charging, LED indicators show remaining battery.

Worth noting: Not waterproof. If you're kayaking or beach-hopping, you'll need a protective case.

Why it's worth it: Last year, my checked bag went to Miami while I flew to Seattle. Thanks to my AirTag, I knew exactly where it was and could show the airline. They had it to me within 24 hours instead of the usual "3-5 business days."

How I use them: One in my checked suitcase, one in my carry-on, one in my backpack, and one in my wallet. The Find My network is so extensive that I get location updates even in remote areas.

What I like: Precise location tracking, replaceable battery lasts a year, works globally, privacy features prevent stalking, water-resistant.

For Android users: Consider Tile Pro instead (reviewed below). It works with both iPhone and Android.

Why it's worth it: If you're on Android or want something that works with both platforms, Tile Pro is your best bet. The 400-foot Bluetooth range is the longest I've tested—perfect for large airports or parking lots.

Real-world test: At Chicago O'Hare, I couldn't remember where I parked in the massive garage. The Tile app guided me straight to my car from three floors away. The loud ring is also easier to hear than AirTag's speaker.

What I like: Louder ring (119dB), longer range than AirTag, replaceable battery, works with Alexa and Google Assistant, can ring your phone even if it's on silent.

Worth noting: Requires Tile Premium ($30/year) for smart alerts and unlimited sharing. The basic free version still tracks location.

Why it's worth it: I used to carry four different adapters for different countries. Now I carry one. This adapter has sliding plugs for US, EU, UK, and Australia/China, plus 4 USB ports so I can charge everything at once.

Real-world test: In a London hotel room with only two outlets, I charged my phone, laptop, tablet, camera battery, and power bank simultaneously. The USB-C port supports fast charging for my phone.

What I like: All-in-one design, 3 USB-A + 1 USB-C port, built-in fuse for safety, compact size, LED power indicator.

Important note: This is an adapter, not a voltage converter. It won't convert 220V to 110V. Most modern electronics (phones, laptops) handle both voltages automatically—check your device before using with hairdryers or other high-wattage appliances.

Why it's worth it: One $75 overweight baggage fee pays for this scale seven times over. I weigh my bag before leaving home and again before my return flight (after accumulating souvenirs).

Real-world test: At Barcelona airport, my bag felt heavy. The scale showed 52 pounds—2 pounds over the limit. I moved some items to my carry-on and avoided a €50 fee.

What I like: Weighs up to 110 pounds, switchable between lbs/kg, auto-off saves battery, includes tape measure for luggage dimensions, easy-to-read backlit LCD.

Pro tip: Keep it in your carry-on for the return trip. You're more likely to overpack when coming home.

Why it's worth it: I was skeptical about packing cubes until I tried them. Now I can't travel without them. The compression zippers actually work—I fit a week's worth of clothes in my carry-on for a European trip.

How I organize: Small cube for underwear/socks, medium for tops, large for pants/sweaters. Everything stays organized, and I can find what I need without unpacking my entire bag.

What I like: Double zipper compression design, durable ripstop nylon, mesh panel to see contents, set includes 4-6 cubes in different sizes, saves space and keeps clothes wrinkle-free.

Bonus benefit: Makes packing for multiple climates easier. Keep winter gear compressed until you need it.