Top 5 Must-Have Travel Tech Gadgets for 2025 – Budget-Friendly Gear That Actually Works

Hey fellow nomads and travel lovers, welcome back to Budget Nomad!If you're like me, itching to get back on the road after months of being grounded, you’ve probably already started preparing your gear. Whether you're planning a post-COVID adventure or just upgrading your travel setup, this guide is for you.

Today, I’m sharing my top 5 tech gadgets for travellers in 2021 – all of which I’ve personally tested and packed. These are lightweight, budget-friendly, and designed to keep you connected, entertained, and productive on the move.

. 📱 iPhone SE 2020 – Best Budget Travel Phone

If you’re a minimalist or someone who needs reliable tech without attracting unwanted attention, the iPhone SE 2020 is a dream.

✅ Why I Love It:

• Affordable (~$400)

• Shoots in 4K at 60fps – This entire video was filmed on it!

• Wireless charging + waterproof (IP67)

• Compact + non-flashy = less risk of theft

• Powered by the A13 Bionic chip, the same as the iPhone 11

  
  

It’s a powerful vlogging tool that doesn’t scream “steal me” like the iPhone 12 or newer flagships. Plus, the battery life is solid, and you’ll get Apple’s regular updates for years.

2. 🎥 FIMI Palm 4K – Best Compact Camera Alternative

Think of it as the budget-friendly cousin of the DJI Osmo Pocket. If you want to capture smooth cinematic shots while walking through a busy street in Bangkok or hiking through Peru, the FIMI Palm is a solid pick.

🔍 Key Specs:

• 4K stabilized footage

• Built-in gimbal

• Wide-angle lens (perfect for vlogging or landscapes)

• Price: ~$150 vs. ~$300+ for DJI

  
  

It’s compact, fits in your pocket, and works great with an external mic for better audio (which you will want to add).

3. 🔊 Mini Bluetooth Speaker – Underrated but Essential

Solo travel can get quiet. A small Bluetooth speaker helps make any hotel or hostel feel more like home. Whether you're playing ambient rain sounds to fall asleep or putting on some music while editing videos, it’s a mood changer.

🧳 Travel Benefits:

• Great for budget rooms without a TV

• Perfect for podcasts or calls

• Costs ~$10 and lasts hours on one charge

  
  

I picked up mine from Urban Audio in India, but honestly, any compact speaker from Amazon or AliExpress will do.

4. 🔋 Anker PowerCore 10000 – Lightweight Power Bank

Let’s face it: if you’re shooting videos, navigating, or running a travel blog, your phone won’t last a full day. A good power bank is a must – but so is saving space and weight.

🔌 Pros:

• Super light (much lighter than the 20,000mAh bricks)

• Reliable Anker brand

• $20 budget-friendly

• Single USB-A output, but you can fix that with a multi-USB cable

  
  

I had a bulky 20,000mAh charger, but it was a brick. Swapping to this 10,000mAh version saved so much weight in my bag.

5. 🎧 Apple AirPods – The Most Convenient Travel Headphones

I know, I know – they’re not for everyone. But for me, AirPods are the most practical option for travel.

🎶 Why I Stick With Them:

• Instant pairing with my iPhone

• Tap controls (Siri, skip track, pause, etc.)

• Compact + crush-proof case

• Battery lasts 4-5 hours, with quick recharge

  
  

There’s no noise cancelling, but for podcasts, music, and quick editing sessions, they’re incredibly convenient. Plus, you can now find them for ~$130 online.

Final Thoughts: Stay Light, Stay Prepared

All of the tech I recommend here strikes the balance between performance, portability, and price – perfect for long-term travel, remote work, or backpacking adventures.

I’ll be uploading more gear guides, packing tips, and real travel planning content soon – including:

• What countries are reopening

• Budget tips post-COVID

• How I’m updating my minimalist gear setup for 2021 and beyond

  
  

If you found this list helpful, drop a comment, hit the like button, and consider subscribing to Budget Nomad for more budget-friendly travel content.

See you on the road soon ✈️– Richard