ZDNET's 12 travel gadgets upgrade flights and drives on a budget

ZDNET's summer travel gadget roundup features 12 affordable accessories designed to make flights and road trips smoother. Highlights include the Smartish Crown Joule cable ($19) combining USB-C and Lightning in one cord, perfect for mixed-device users. The AirFly SE ($35) lets you use wireless earbuds with airplane entertainment systems. For storage, the SanDisk ExtremeFit USB drive ($28) offers a compact, durable design. The Satechi Passport Holder with FindMy ($60) helps prevent losing travel documents. Power solutions range from the Torras Slim MiniMag wireless charger ($35) to the Anker 45W Smart Display Charger ($30) showing real-time wattage. The Baseus Enercore CG11 70W travel charger ($40) and Anker MagGo 3-in-1 foldable station ($72) cater to multi-device charging. Heavy travelers may prefer the Momac 205W GaN charger ($130, $30 off) for laptops and tablets. The Etekcity luggage scale ($10) and Apple USB-C SD card reader ($39) round out the list. Many items are discounted for July 4th weekend, with savings up to $30.

While not AI-related, this collection addresses practical tech needs for frequent travelers. The Smartish cable eliminates cable clutter, while the AirFly SE solves a common frustration: using Bluetooth earbuds on planes. The SanDisk drive and Apple card reader appeal to photographers and remote workers needing portable storage. Anker's chargers, especially the GaN models, offer fast charging in compact form factors. The Satechi FindMy integration adds a modern twist to passport security. Overall, these gadgets focus on convenience, portability, and price — most items cost under $50, with the flagship Momac charger being the only exception. Budget-minded professionals will find value in combining a few of these picks to upgrade their travel kit without breaking the bank.