Travel Tech Kit – 2023
Whether its just taking a phone or packing a whole slew of items, packing tech for travel has become a standard part of getting ready for a holiday in the modern world.
I like to go overboard and have individual items based for each need rather than relying on a device to be an “all rounder” when on holiday.
Why?
I do it mainly because I like to overdo things, but it gives me some redundancy in ensuring I can capture the holiday every way possible.
Here are the things I pack for travel in 2023:
DJI Osmo Pocket 2
The DJI Osmo Pocket cameras are amazing small gimbal cameras that capture 4K video and photos in a very small package. If you are a content creator (or just want better audio) the creator combo even comes bundled with a wireless mic.
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Sony Alpha 6400 Camera
While I currently use the Alpha 6000 Camera, the 6400 is the same form factor with updated internals and functionality.
This could be overkill for a lot of people, however there is nothing quite like a “real” camera if you want to capture those forever photos that document your travels.
It also captures 4K video for when you want that extra dimension to your holiday memories.
While your phone or a compact camera can capture all this, the added flexibility of interchangeable lenses using the E-Mount standard will really set your photos apart when taking photos of nature or close up portraits.
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Sony WH-1000XM5 Noise Cancelling Headphones
Let’s be honest, I can be an Apple fan boy but I would choose the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones over the AirPods Max any day.
First and foremost, the Sony headphones have a CABLE. While I would rarely use the cable with my phone or laptop, when flying long haul, they are a neccesity when using the airlines in-flight entertainment systems. Also, if the battery dies, you can still use them when plugged in.
The best of all though, they are nearly $400 (AU) cheaper than the Apple units.
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Mophie 120w GaN USB Charger
If I was going to pack any tech product, this would be it! If you havent heard of the benefits of GaN (Gallium Nitride) based chargers, its time to do some reading. While they are more expensive than their silicon based counter parts, the expense is worth it.
GaN chargers generate less heat so they can have components closer together. The end result is a smaller charger that has higher outputs.
On my last trip, the GaN charger was the only charger I took with me for ALL devices. It’s got enough power to charge a laptop (via USB-C), 2 phones and an Apple watch all at the same time without being warm enough to cook an egg.
I chose the Mophie unit has it has a separate power cord (rather than the plug attached directly) as it guarantees the charger will fit all combination of power points at my destination.
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SISMA Travel Cable Organiser
SISMA look like a generic brand on amazon with a range of organisational cases for tech products and cables.
They aren’t expensive but they do exactly want you want them to do – organise your gear.
While you can shove everything into your backpack loose – I like to use these things like packing cubes. Take them out when you get to your hotel and have them easily available. If you need to take a charging cable with you on a day trip – just take what you need and leave the rest for later.
These are a good all rounder and for the price, why not get more than one?
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Rode VideoMicro II
I love getting good audio from my videos and if you want a directional shotgun style microphone for your camera in a compact size, there is no beating a Rode VideoMicro II.
It comes with a TRRS and TRS cable, a “dead cat” diffuser and a handy little shockmount with cold shoe adaptor for your camera. Looking at other products on this list, it will connect to both the Sony ZV-E10 and the DJI Osmo Pocket (with USB adaptor) to give you the best audio in the smallest size.
Also…. Since this microphone is Australian made, its also an added bonus to me as I like to support local products when i can.
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USB-C to USB-A Adaptor
If you are like me and progressively moving all your tech over to USB-C type connectors, it becomes difficult to find a charging port in some places because a lot of ports feature the “USB-A” connector type.
These adaptors will give you the coverage you need. Keep one or two in your kit and if the need arises, you can use your USB-C cables just about anywhere.
You can even buy USB-A to USB-C adaptors as well to help you when things go the other way.
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Amazon AU | Amazon USIf you are only going to buy one thing…..
So while not an exhaustive list, these are some of my “must have” items in a tech based travel kit. The camera gear is not for everyone because a lot of people use their phones these days, but its a good array of products to get you on your way.
My pick of the list HAS to be the Mophie GaN charger. It just simplifies everything and reduces the need for multiple wall plugs and multiple adaptors. The Mophie unit I have put in this list has a large output, but you may not need that level as it will depend on what devices you are travelling with.
My advice is to check your current chargers, factor in what you need to charge concurrently and then add up the wattage to get an idea of what your needs are.
If its just for phones and small handheld devices, a 65w charger will probably be more than enough and they are around half the price of the more powerful units.
As always, the choices are endless.
In the meantime, Happy Travels!