My Newest Travel Gadgets

I purchased some items to assist in happier traveling, so I thought I’d share. I’ve been itching to use this first item, and it did not disappoint.

AirFly Pro 2 Deluxe

I purchased the AirFly Pro 2 Deluxe for $69.95 on Amazon. Listed alongside my device are less expensive alternatives with fewer features.

First, let me tell you what it does. The AirFly Pro 2 Deluxe works as a Bluetooth transmitter. In other words, when I pair it with my AirPods, I can watch movies wirelessly from my seat back. I plug the device into my headphone jack on the tv, and voila—-I have sound.

I loved when the mom next to me asked to get out to go to the bathroom. I stood up and stepped out of the way. The mom didn’t have to step over my cord, and I was able to continue watching while we shuffled by each other.

The AFP2 Deluxe has a few items that come with the purchase. I replaced their vegan bag with a hard case with a carabiner. I inserted the charging cord and the international headphone jack in the case, and I easily stored it in my next purchase…

Cascade Kit Standard

Portland Gear sells a Tech Organizer, and had I seen it when I started ordering from them, I’d have purchased it. However, their Cascade Kit does the same thing. It’s filled with pockets and secure straps that keep my plugs, cords, and my plethora of other tech items secure. My favorite feature—it is water resistant. On my last trip I inadvertently spilled a water bottle in the middle of the night (forgot to cap it). The Cascade Kit sat in the water all night, but when I awoke, I wiped off the bottom and felt inside. Everything was dry! I loved that.

Cascade Bag

I have purchased many items from Portland Gear. I’ve mentioned their backpack before (which perfectly holds two Cascade kits) and also boasts an amazing water resistant nature. I love that it is top loading and even has a few pockets (one for a laptop). Prior to this bag, I’d open my backpack and things would just fly everywhere. With the Cascade Bag, the opening stays open while the bag stays upright. I never worry I’ll lose an item. There’s even a hidden security pocket. I love it so much, I couldn’t resist adding to the collection. I purchased a burgundy bag during their free monogramming event, and I purchased a Rose colored Cascade Compact Bag too.

I wanted to compare the two sizes, and both maintain high quality standards. I just love the roominess of the bigger bag. Of course, that didn’t stop me from purchasing a yellow Cascade Compact Bag with Cascade Compact Kit for my niece and a full sized Cascade Bag with matching navy kit for another niece. Seriously, I love the bag (and should probably own stock).

I could keep going, but I want you to check them out for yourself. Yes, they are a bit pricey…and yet I have no regrets. My next bag will likely be the one with the shoe compartment.

Travelpro Bag

Many of you know I lost my carryon on my last trip. I loved the bag for sentimental reasons (it was my dad’s), but I knew I needed something to appease both my travel needs and my future profession. (I’d like to be a flight attendant.)

Researching top bags for flight attendants, the Travelpro brand kept showing up in my research feeds. Of course, black had to be the choice (I think that’s part of the flight attendant uniform), so I went all in. Oh my…the wheels on this carryon make me think of the phrase “smooth like butter”. I smile as I make my way to gates.

Here, I’d never heard of the brand before and now I’m a Travelpro convert. I love the bag. Each bag has different additions (mine has a removable toiletry compartment), so look for what you might want. I imagine this bag will last a while—especially with the guarantee.

AirPod Max Pro

I had a Bose set of headphones at one point in my life, but I decided to make a switch and try Apple’s newest headphones. My first impression was that they felt heavy. However, their features amaze me. So much that I think I need a class on how to effectively use them.

I did purchase clear protectors for them, but I’m most excited about their ability to translate what someone is saying. I’ll need to do some research before I know how this feature works, but I’m hoping as technology advances, so will the translation capabilities on my headphones. Soon I’ll be traveling abroad and communicating effectively “on my own”.

Vacuum Bags

My last purchase I’d like to mention is one I’ve not used yet…Vacuum Bags. You know, these suck out all the air and allow you to pack more items in your bag. Mine comes with a rechargeable pump, so theoretically I can take the pump with me, so vacuum packing can continue the entire trip. I will mention that Europe has weighed my bags before, and their weight standards are enforced more than in the U.S. That means the vacuum bags might not help my international travel plans. I’ll let you know once I try.

So friends, now it’s your turn. I’m always looking for new travel hacks. What are some travel items you use to make travel that much better?