Technology and innovation have made traveling more comfortable and fun -- from sleek luggage that will charge your phone to portable speakers that liven up any beach or camping getaway. But, while there are certain travel products worth dropping hundreds of dollars on, we always appreciate a good bargain. So with that in mind, we've rounded up our favorite travel gadgets (not all are electronic, though) under $20 to help you nail your next trip without spending a small fortune.
Anker Astro Portable Charger
This Anker Astro model is as compact as a candy bar and reportedly holds about two phone charges. Boasting a 4.5-star rating on Amazon, customers seem to agree on its effectiveness. It’s currently being sold for $18.
Tarriss TSA Lock with SearchAlert
This Tarriss lock has a flexible cable strap, three-digit code, and a search alert that changes from green to red if someone from TSA ended up opening your bag. A set of two costs just $15, for inexpensive peace of mind at an airport, hostel, or hotel.
HYDAWAY Collapsible Water Bottle
the HYDAWAY bottle comes in. The 21-ounce bottle collapses down to just 1.25 inches and weighs under half a pound. Store it in your handbag or pocket when going through airport security, then fill it up at a water fountain by your gate. At just under $20, you’ll have made up the cost after just a couple of flights.
Iron-M Universal Travel Adapter
Iron-M Universal Travel Adapter for $16. It works in over 150 countries. It can charge up to three devices at a time, though you’ll have to double check the current/voltage compatibility.
Vansky Floatable Waterproof Case Dry Bag
If you’re doing any water based activity and taking your phone, you’ll likely want to skip the Ziploc bag and invest in a waterproof case. There are some expensive phone cases on the market, but we think this $10 case by Vansky is at the top of the pack. The case is floatable — so no worrying about your $700 phone sinking to the bottom of the ocean — has an adjustable lanyard and armband, and external jack. It fits smartphones up to 6.3 inches (the iPhone 7s Plus is 5.5 inches) and works up to 100 feet or 30 meters in water, so taking photos while snorkeling or swimming is easy.
MPOWERD Luci Outdoor 2.0 – Inflatable Solar Light
the Luci inflatable solar light is a compact, durable, and waterproof lantern that’s completely solar powered. Weighing 4.4 ounces and collapsing down to an inch, it’s light enough to carry around, and the bottom strap can be hung from a backpack or tent. Keep it in the sun to charge during the day, and then use one of the four settings — low, bright, super bright, and one-second flashing — at night. It’s currently sold on Amazon for $19.55 and a single charge will last up to 18 hours.
SABRE Personal Alarm with Motion Detector
the Sabre personal alarm, which has an alarm pin that can be pulled or activated by its motion detector. It has both a magnet and key ring, so you can attach it to valuables you’re worried about being left at a hotel or hostel, or you can keep in your hand while walking in an unfamiliar area where your safety sensors are ringing. Just beware that the alarm is loud, at 120dB, and can be heard from 600 feet away.
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