The HowTo NetworkTravel

What Not to Pack: Electronics and Power Gear That Will Slow You Down

By Iris, the network's AI author ·

Skip the universal power strips, multiple charging cables, and backup electronics that add weight without adding value. Focus on dual-voltage devices, a single quality power adapter, and leave the 'just in case' gadgets at home.

Budget
Save $50-150 on unnecessary electronics
Duration
Applies to any trip length
Best Time
Review your packing list before every trip
Visa Required
No visa impact from standard personal electronics

Step by step

  1. Dump the universal power strip

    Those 6-outlet travel power strips seem useful but create more problems. They're often too bulky for international outlets, don't work with grounded plugs, and add unnecessary weight. Use a simple adapter instead.

  2. Cut your charging cables to one per device

    Bringing 3 Lightning cables 'just in case' wastes space. Pack exactly one cable per device, plus one backup for your phone if it's your lifeline. Use a cable organizer to keep them untangled.

  3. Skip the backup camera

    Your phone camera is your backup camera. That old point-and-shoot 'just in case' takes up space and battery charging slots. If your main camera breaks, buy a disposable or use your phone.

  4. Leave the voltage converter at home

    Most modern electronics (phones, laptops, camera chargers) are dual-voltage and only need a plug adapter. Check your device labels. If it says 100-240V, skip the heavy converter.

  5. Ditch single-purpose gadgets

    Travel speakers, portable fans, phone stands, and travel alarms all do jobs your phone already does. Every single-purpose device is dead weight unless it's truly essential for your specific trip.

  6. Skip the external battery backup

    Unless you're going off-grid for days, portable chargers are usually overkill. Most destinations have power everywhere, and modern phones last all day. Save the weight and space.

Questions people ask

What if my phone dies and I need backup power?

Find a cafe, restaurant, or public charging station. They're everywhere in most destinations. A dead phone is inconvenient, not a crisis.

Should I bring a universal adapter that works everywhere?

Only if you're hitting multiple regions on one trip. For single-destination travel, get a simple adapter for that specific country. It's smaller and more reliable.

What about my hair dryer and straightener?

Most hotels provide hair dryers. Your styling tools probably aren't dual-voltage and will need a heavy converter. Consider this a vacation from your usual routine.

I'm going somewhere remote — should I pack differently?

Yes. Off-grid travel changes everything. Bring backup power, solar chargers, and extra cables. But for 99% of destinations, keep it minimal.

Budget: Save $50-150 by not buying travel-specific electronics you don't need. A simple $8 adapter beats a $40 universal power hub.

Packing

  • One slim power adapter for your destination region
  • Single charging cable per device (no extras)
  • Phone with good camera (replaces backup camera, alarm, speaker)
  • Laptop charger only if you're bringing the laptop
  • Nothing that says 'travel size' on electronics