The Best Tech Gifts for Travellers in 2026
By Elena Vásquez · May 15, 2026 · 8 min read
Tech gifting for travellers is mostly a matter of buying the universal kit that actually lives in our own carry-ons — not the magazine-friendly novelty items that get unboxed once and abandoned. Seven recommendations, all currently shipping in May 2026, all field-tested across the last twelve months of long-haul travel.
The seven travel-tech essentials
- Sony WH-1000XM6 (USD 449). Still the best long-haul flying headphone — better noise-cancelling, lighter and USD 200 cheaper than AirPods Max.
- Anker Prime 100W GaN charger (USD 99). Three USB-C plus one USB-A from a single outlet — passport-pocket sized.
- Apple AirTag four-pack (USD 99). One per bag; solves bag tracking universally.
- Kindle Oasis (USD 279). Page-turn buttons, IPX8, warm-light front light — still the frequent-traveller's pick over the Paperwhite.
- Peak Design Tech Pouch (USD 65). The cable-and-charger pouch that finally fits.
- Bose QuietComfort Earbuds Ultra (USD 299). For travellers who prefer in-ear; the only proper rival to AirPods Pro in ANC.
- Roost laptop stand (USD 75). Lounge-desk transformer for anyone working from hotel rooms; folds to passport size.
Sony XM6 vs AirPods Max — settled
| Sony WH-1000XM6 | AirPods Max | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | USD 449 | USD 649 |
| Noise-cancelling | Class-leading | Strong but a tier behind Sony |
| Weight | 240g — comfortable for 12h+ | 385g — heavy on long-hauls |
| Battery | 30+ hours | 20 hours |
| Best for | Long-haul flying, daily use | Apple-only ecosystem households |
Sources
- 1.Sony WH-1000XM6 — Sony. Accessed 2026-05-15.
- 2.Anker Prime 100W Charger — Anker. Accessed 2026-05-15.
- 3.Apple AirTag — Apple. Accessed 2026-05-15.
- 4.Amazon Kindle Oasis — Amazon. Accessed 2026-05-15.
- 5.Peak Design Tech Pouch — Peak Design. Accessed 2026-05-15.
Frequently Asked Questions
Editor, Wellness & Gifting
Elena VásquezElena Vásquez covers wellness retreats, destination spas, and the gifting edit. Trained at the Healing Hotels of the World audit programme.
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