09/01/2026

LYFE FRIDAY | JAN 9, 2026

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o Compact tools that make trips easier, comfortable Travel gadgets that work

Ű BY MARK MATHEN VICTOR

A S much as it can be a hassle for those that under-prepare, travel does not need to be one. For young adults and frequent travellers, a few small gadgets can turn chaos into smooth sailing. Some of these tools address common annoyances – from dead batteries, noisy flights, inconsistent internet to lost luggage – and make trips easier, more comfortable and more organised. Why some travel gadgets matter Many travellers list power loss, noisy transport and unreliable connectivity among the top irritations of travel. A good portable charger lets travellers stay connected even far from a plug, while noise-cancelling earbuds or headphones help them rest in crowded planes or noisy hostels. Then, there are portable Wi-Fi hotspots that aid in providing consistent internet access when hotel or public Wi-Fi is slow or insecure. Others like smart packing tools – such as packing cubes – help travellers find clothes or essentials fast without rummaging through luggage and making a mess. These small additions save time, reduce stress and lets travellers focus on enjoying their trip instead of dealing with avoidable annoyances. Gadgets worth packing Here are some gadgets that deliver real value: 0 Portable power bank Keeps phones, tablets or cameras charged during flights, long bus rides or day trips. Essential when outlets are few or unreliable. 0 Noise-cancelling headphones or earbuds Great for flights, noisy buses or shared accommodation. They block engine noise, chatter and city traffic to allow travellers to rest, read or work in peace. 0 Portable Wi-Fi hotspot or eSIM device Provides reliable internet in unfamiliar cities or remote areas. Furthermore, it helps with navigation, communication, planning and staying connected without heavy roaming charges.

Noise-cancelling headphones are a simple way to travel in peace.

developing wellness tourism to attract more tourists. The programme also celebrated the appointment and official introduction of the new Tourism Perak CEO Suhaimi Abu Hassan Shari. During the networking session, Tourism Perak also outlined its new strategic direction under the new leadership, while providing a platform for two-way interaction between the management and industry players to exchange views, share input and identify collaboration opportunities for Perak tourism products. – Bernama 0 Packing cubes or organised luggage storage As previously mentioned, these keep clothes, gadgets and accessories neat and ordered. It also makes unpacking easier and helps to find items quickly without unpacking the whole suitcase. 0 Compact travel pillow or comfort accessory For long flights or bus rides, a small memory-foam pillow supports the neck and helps travellers arrive at their destination less tired. Choosing travel gadgets 0 Pick gadgets that are lightweight and compact, as heavy or bulky gear defeats the point, where travellers want items that fit in a carry-on or backpack. 0 Focus on multi-use or multi-device gadgets, such as a power bank that charges phone and camera, earbuds that double as headphones for music and calls. 0 Do not overpack gadgets. Bring only what matches your travel style. For instance, a beach-holiday packing cube may not matter for a short city trip. 0 Choose reliable and tested items, especially for power banks, Wi-Fi devices or battery powered gear, as cheap, untested gear can fail at the worst time when getting a replacement then and there might be impossible. Ideally, whether travelling occasionally or often, a few well-picked gadgets can significantly cut friction and travel becomes easier without being worried about battery life, noise, chaotic luggage or weak Wi-Fi.

Portable power bank and charging cables are essential for long flights as well as road trips.

Packing cubes help in organising luggage and also give fast access to clothes and travel essentials.

Perak eyes tourists from neighbouring countries for Visit Malaysia 2026

PERAK is aiming to attract tourists from Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore and southern China, in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026). State Tourism, Industry, Investment and Corridor Development Committee chairman Loh Sze Yee said these countries have been identified as primary targets considering factors such as distance, ease of access and the ability of local industry players to adapt to the expectations of regional tourists. He said as a state with strong domestic tourism, Perak also requires the presence of tourists from neighbouring countries.

comfortable, safe and clean accommodation, he also encouraged tourism operators to step up and expand nighttime activities. “In fact, we already have various nighttime activities. For example, in Ipoh old town, there are now many cafes run by young entrepreneurs offering various menus, creating spaces for people to gather. “In other places, we can introduce activities such as river excursions, as well as village and forest explorations. It is important to fill the hours from after dinner until bedtime,” he said. He added that besides Perak’s strength in nature-based tourism, the state is also

“Thailand is a market we’ve been engaging with for several years, and we frequently receive familiarisation (fam) trips from tourism players there. Since last year, we have also been actively organising fam trips for Indonesia, so this is a natural extension for the overseas market. “Of course, for Singapore as well, where we have our only international flight. So our main targets now are Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore and southern China, because tourists from the northern part are unlikely to come here,” he told reporters after attending a networking programme with Perak tourism industry players. Loh said apart from facilities such as