The MKBHD studio team members who travel frequently have developed strong opinions about what works best. Through our collective experiences, we’ve identified some essential items that deserve a spot in your travel bag—some familiar, others you might not have considered.
Audio: Your Sanctuary in Chaotic Environments
When it comes to headphones, I’ve found that personal preference matters tremendously. While many travelers swear by over-ear headphones, I prefer earbuds like the Bose QuietComfort Ultras. Their noise cancellation is absolutely transformative on airplanes—the moment you activate it, that overwhelming white noise simply vanishes.
The trade-off with earbuds is battery life. At roughly four hours per charge, I always pack a backup pair of wired earbuds for longer flights. Android users might consider the Galaxy Buds Pro 3, which offer excellent noise cancellation and volume control.
For those who prefer over-ear options, the AirPods Max provide exceptional noise cancellation. As one team member noted, they serve a dual purpose: blocking noise and signaling to others that you’re not available for conversation.
Power Management: The Lifeline of Modern Travel
Nothing is more frustrating than running out of power while traveling. My most essential charging accessory is an Anker portable battery with a built-in AC outlet. This versatile device can charge the battery itself when plugged into a wall while simultaneously powering other devices through its USB-C port.
For hotel rooms, a compact charging solution makes a huge difference. Several team members recommend foldable 3-in-1 or 4-in-1 chargers that can handle multiple devices simultaneously. The Ridge power bank with pass-through charging is particularly useful—it can charge itself while powering your phone and watch at the same time.
Bags: The Foundation of Travel Organization
Your choice of bag can make or break your travel experience. After testing dozens of options, I’ve found that versatility and durability are non-negotiable features.
The most popular options among our team include:
- Peak Design Tech Pouch for organizing cables and small accessories
- Packable backpacks like the Osprey for day trips
- Ridge Duffle Bag that pairs well with their suitcases
- Expandable suitcases that provide flexibility for souvenirs
For camera equipment and other valuable gear, we never check bags. The risk of damage is simply too high. Instead, we use carry-on roller bags combined with backpacks to distribute the weight.
Productivity On The Go
Maintaining productivity while traveling requires thoughtful planning. The iPad Mini with Apple Pencil has proven invaluable for creative work, allowing for drawing and animation even in cramped spaces like airplane seats.
For storage, portable SSD drives from SanDisk offer excellent value, especially when purchased during Black Friday sales. The 1TB and 2TB models provide ample space for work files, photos, and videos without adding significant weight to your bag.
When capturing content on the road, the Osmo Pocket 3 paired with a DJI mic delivers impressive quality in an incredibly compact package. For more serious photography, the Peak Design carbon fiber tripod offers exceptional stability while remaining lightweight and packable.
Entertainment: Making Long Flights Bearable
Entertainment options can transform a tedious flight into an enjoyable experience. The Nintendo Switch 2 has quickly become a favorite among our team, offering multiplayer capabilities that make it perfect for traveling with companions.
For solo entertainment, e-readers like the Boox Palma 2 combine the benefits of traditional reading with text-to-speech functionality. This versatility makes it easier to consume books even when your attention span is compromised by travel fatigue.
Some team members have developed unique travel hobbies, from solving Rubik’s cubes to journaling in a Traveler’s Company notebook. These analog activities provide a welcome break from screens and help pass the time on long flights.
The most important lesson I’ve learned about travel tech is that you don’t need to buy specialized “travel” versions of products you already own. Many everyday items work perfectly well on the road. The key is selecting versatile, reliable gear that meets your specific needs without weighing you down.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the most versatile power solution for international travel?
A portable battery with built-in AC outlet and USB-C ports provides maximum flexibility. Look for one with pass-through charging capability so you can charge multiple devices simultaneously while also recharging the power bank itself.
Q: Are noise-canceling earbuds or over-ear headphones better for flights?
This depends on personal preference and trip duration. Earbuds like the Bose QuietComfort Ultras offer excellent noise cancellation in a compact form but typically have 4-5 hour battery life. Over-ear options like AirPods Max provide longer battery life and may be more comfortable for extended wear, though they take up more space in your bag.
Q: What’s the best approach to packing tech for international travel?
Focus on versatility and minimize redundancy. Choose devices that serve multiple purposes, keep valuable equipment in carry-on bags, and use organizers like tech pouches to keep cables and accessories easily accessible. Consider power requirements at your destination and pack appropriate adapters.
Q: How can I stay productive while traveling without carrying too much gear?
An iPad with Apple Pencil can replace a laptop for many tasks while taking up less space. Portable SSDs provide ample storage without bulk. Consider cloud-based solutions when internet access is reliable. For longer trips, a compact mechanical keyboard can significantly improve typing comfort compared to touchscreen keyboards.
