5 New Travel Gadgets Every Tech Lover Should Add To Their Packing List

As a frequent traveler who has an affinity for technology, I’m always keeping my eye out for the latest gadgets that will help make my trips either easier or more enjoyable. Usual suspects include noise-canceling headphones, AirTags, power banks, and various cameras. And while there were some exciting updates to many of the aforementioned products this year, there were also a couple unexpected, splurge-worthy accessories that popped up. From XR glasses to earbuds that’ll help you sleep, here are five of the most exciting new travel gadgets you’ll want to get your hands on.

It wasn’t too long ago that virtual reality was the next big thing, but we’ve somehow already quickly moved onto XR, or extended reality, which includes the various “realities” of AR, VR, and MR. And while the devices that harness these groundbreaking technologies have mostly come in the form of bulky headsets, Viture has gone to the next level with its sunglass-like devices.

With Viture’s Pro XR Glasses, you’re given a private and immersive experience that features a 135-inch virtual screen with a high refresh rate up to 120Hz. These glasses can be paired with handheld consoles, smartphones, tablets, and laptops, providing you hours of HD entertainment no matter where you are. In other words, you no longer have to watch your favorite Netflix show on your phone or put up with airplane seat screens. Instead, you can now turn your portable device into a theater-like adventure. But that’s not all. When paired with Viture’s SpaceWalker app, you’ll have access to a virtual multiscreen workspace that’ll inevitably help boost productivity while on the move. The app can also unlock your smartphone’s potential (like the iPhone 15 Pro or newer) with spatial photo and video playback—a phenomenal way to share some of your favorite travel memories with friends and family or relive them yourself.

And that’s not all. These glasses are the first and only of its kind to boast built-in myopia adjusters. They can also be paired with a magnetic prescription lens frame for those with severe astigmatism or have a prescription greater than -5.00D. Viture is also the first to offer shared experiences with the help of its Pro Mobile Dock—which also serves as a 13K power bank—allowing two users to watch videos or play games (the company also makes its own controller) together. And trust me, once you’ve taken these glasses for a spin, you’ll definitely want to share them with everyone.

Do you have trouble sleeping? Does your partner keep you awake with their snoring? Are you sensitive to the tiniest bit of noise? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then Ozlo Sleepbuds might just be what you need. Founded by three former Bose engineers who helped create a now-discontinued device by the same name for the major audio company, these noise-masking Bluetooth earbuds are designed to help you get some much-needed rest. For those familiar with its predecessor, you’ll find that the Ozlo Sleepbuds have the same design and deliver the same comfort (yes, side sleepers, these will still work for you), but with some significant improvements.

One of the most important changes is that these Sleepbuds are now compatible with various forms of audio, whether it be music, a podcast, YouTube, or a show. They can even detect when you’ve fallen asleep and will automatically switch to the noise-masking sleep sound you’ve chosen in Ozlo’s app. The app also allows you to schedule multiple alarms and there are future plans to eventually add sleep data. The earbuds last up to 10 hours on a single charge and the case holds up to four additional charges. And for those who previously used Bose’s version, you’ll be happy to know that Ozlo’s Sleepbuds now boast a better, more durable battery that promises to be more reliable.

GoPro has long dominated the action camera space, and for good reason. When you compare the specs between last year’sHero12 Black and the latest Hero13 Black, on paper they appear to be quite similar. Both tout an improved 8:7 aspect ratio, shoot ridiculously smooth 5.3K videos up to 60fps, can capture photos at 27MP, and are water resistant up to 33 feet. However, the 13 does have some technical improvements. It now supports HLG HDR video, which is particularly important for those who use GoPro for professional purposes; can capture burst slo-mo up to 400fps at 720p; sports an improved Enduro battery; and has reintroduced GPS tagging.

The latest iteration also comes with a new look, but it’s not just cosmetic. The new design makes the camera more durable than ever and boasts a tougher lens cover. There are now magnets at the bottom so that the camera can easily click in and out of magnetic mounts. But most importantly, the Hero13 is compatible with a new set of interchangeable lenses that includes ND filters, macro, ultra-wide, and a forthcoming anamorphic lens that captures at a cinematic 21:9 aspect ratio, allowing users to get shots that were previously only possible on professional cameras. And if you’re someone who likes to have multiple cameras on hand, there’s also the smaller, but still mighty, Hero that launched alongside the Hero13 Black.

Larq turned heads in 2018 when the company debuted the world’s first self-cleaning water bottle. Now, they’ve done it again with a new design and additional features. Using the company’s same proprietary PureVis UV-C technology to eliminate up to 99.99% of bio-contaminants, the new bottle now also allows for a detachable filter that removes chlorine and PFAS. The stainless steel, double-insulated bottle also features a swig top, removable handle, and has been updated with USB-C charging. To top it all off, if you’re someone who really takes their hydration seriously, the PureVis 2 syncs with Larq’s app and you’ll be able to track your water consumption and set reminders to improve your habits.

For Apple devotees, Anker is the go-to company for cutting-edge chargers. The latest drop for its MagGo line was particularly impressive, especially with this three-in-one Qi2 wireless charging station. It conveniently folds into a circular-esque shape that’s a little larger than a macaron, making it incredibly portable and perfect for travel. The trio of MagSafe-compatible pads are designed for an iPhone, AirPods, and Apple Watch, and offer fast charging speeds with a total output of 25 watts (15W for phone, 5W each for earbuds and watch). The device can also double as a landscape stand for your iPhone, ideal for both watching movies on a plane or StandBy mode in a hotel. But if you prefer a simple power bank just for your phone, there’s also a new, ultra-slim 10K MagSafe charger that delivers up to 15W of power that’s great for those constantly on the move.