As the holiday season approaches, many travelers are preparing for the annual rush that accompanies Thanksgiving. Whether you’re planning to visit family or take a well-deserved vacation, the stress of navigating airports and managing your luggage can be overwhelming. Fortunately, advancements in technology have produced a range of tools designed to ease the travel experience. Below, we’ll explore some significant gadgets and accessories that can help ensure a smoother journey this Thanksgiving.
One of the most effective ways to ensure that your luggage arrives with you is by utilizing Bluetooth trackers, particularly Apple AirTags. These small devices have garnered a reputation for their accuracy and effectiveness in locating lost items. Priced around $99 for a four-pack, they are currently available for $74 at major retailers, providing an excellent opportunity to invest in peace of mind this holiday season.
AirTags operate on the ultra-wideband technology that Apple devices leverage, allowing users to pinpoint their luggage’s location with remarkable precision. What makes them stand out is their integration with Apple’s expansive Find My network, which vastly enhances their range and capability beyond standard Bluetooth trackers. For families traveling together, AirTags also offer a convenient sharing feature that enables up to five individuals to track the same device, making them especially beneficial for group travel. Their durability—being water-resistant with easily replaceable batteries—ensures long-term usability, although it’s worth noting a few design drawbacks, such as the absence of a lanyard attachment for easy securing to bags.
Traveling can also involve long waits in airports or while on the road, making quality audio gear essential for entertainment and relaxation. At the moment, Samsung’s Galaxy Buds FE are available at a fantastic price of $59.99, marking a $40 discount and the lowest price yet. These entry-level earbuds pack a punch with features like active noise cancellation and impressive sound quality—qualities that travelers will find invaluable for immersing themselves in music or podcasts during their journeys.
While the Galaxy Buds FE do lack some premium features like wireless charging and multi-device pairing, such omissions are expected at this price point. With a reputation for reliability and solid performance, these earbuds offer excellent value, making them a smart choice for budget-conscious travelers wanting solid audio solutions without breaking the bank.
For those who prefer a wrist-based helper, the OnePlus Watch 2 is currently available for $219.99 (after applying a promo code), which reflects a considerable discount of $80. This watch is notable for being one of the few third-party devices that operate on the Wear OS 4 platform. A definite advantage for Android users, the OnePlus Watch 2 offers various features, including Google Assistant integration and an impressive battery life of up to 12 days in power-saving mode. Although it only comes in one size and lacks LTE connectivity, its sleek design and functionality make it a worthy alternative to more mainstream options from brands like Samsung or Google.
Finally, staying charged is crucial while venturing through busy airports, and the Belkin BoostCharge Power Bank 20K is an excellent tool in this regard. With a price of around $27.56, it’s an exceptionally affordable investment to keep devices powered throughout travels. Offering a high-capacity solution with multiple USB ports, this power bank is ideal for charging smartphones. However, it’s important to note its charging speed is on the slower side—its USB-C port provides 15 watts, while the USB-A ports offer 12 watts. Travelers looking for a budget-friendly power bank that can reliably keep their essential devices charged will find this product well-suited for their needs.
Traveling during the bustling holiday season doesn’t have to be chaotic. Armed with the right tech gear, you can navigate the airports and your itinerary more smoothly. From smart tracking solutions like AirTags to budget-friendly audio devices like Galaxy Buds FE, and must-have accessories like the OnePlus Watch 2 and Belkin power bank, there are numerous ways to enhance your travel experience. As you prepare for your journey, consider investing in some of these gadgets to ensure you’re ready for anything that comes your way.