A journey without a charger, cable or adapter can quickly cut you off the world online. If the digital detox is not the main goal of your trip, check what to remember!
What to remember when going on vacation so as not to cut yourself off from the world
Holidays are a time of rest, but hardly anyone wants to be without the support of working applications nowadays, when you need to find a way to the hotel, take a picture or answer a valid phone. In 2025, technology is an inseparable element of travel, so proper hardware preparation is the basis. In this article, we discuss how to take care of chargers, powerbanks and other accessories so as not to cut yourself off from the world, regardless of whether you go to Polish mountains, to the sea or to the other end of the globe.
Chargers – base base
The most important thing in luggage is the right charger. Most smartphones, tablets and headphones today use USB-C ports, which makes life easier, but not always. Check what nest your equipment has. Elderly iPhone or Airpods – you will still need a Lightning cable. In Samsung, Xiaomi or Google Pixel smartphones, we’ve already had USB-C ports for a long time, but exceptionally old phone models can still require a micro-USB cable. In my case, this also applies to the age Kindle, which accompanies me on trips.
It is also key to matching the charger to the power of the device. In 2025, the standard for flagships is fast charging 25-65 W. Use of a weak charger (e.g. 10 W) will extend the charging time and may not be enough with intensive use. Check the specification of your device – manufacturers give the recommended power on the product page or in the instructions.
It is also worth investing in a multi -port charger, which works when you have, for example, a phone and headphones. The more ports, the less separate “cubes” need to be taken with you. If you have a smartwatch, like Apple Watch or Galaxy Watch 7, do not forget about the right cable for these devices.
Powerbank – Your Plan B
Powerbank is a must-have on travel, especially if you are planning long trips without access to the socket. In 2025, popular models, such as Anker PowerCore 10,000 (10,000 mAh, approx. PLN 120) or Xiaomi Power Bank 3 Pro (20,000 mAh, approx. PLN 180), offer fast PD charging (Power Delivery) to 30-65 W. Such a powerbank will successfully charge the smartphone 2-3 times, and its weight (200-400 g) However, it makes a very large donkey when it comes to luggage.
Important note: Airlines have some restrictions on power bank. In hand luggage, you can take a cell with a capacity of up to 100 Wh (about 27,000 mAh at 3.7 V). Larger, like 300,000 mAh, may require the consent of the carrier. Never pack a power bank in checked luggage – this is contrary to the IATA regulations. Before leaving, check if your powerbank has a capacity designation in WH, because service at the airport can ask about it.
In places without access to electricity (beach, mountains, long journeys) Powerbank is one of the most practical solutions. When choosing, it is worth paying attention to:
- capacity (10,000 mAh usually allows 1-2 smartphone charging, 20,000 mAh and more – more cycles or larger devices),
- number of ports and their types,
- possibility of charging larger devices (e.g. a laptop with USB-C PD),
- Powerbanka charging time – especially with larger capacities.
Adapters and adapters for sockets
Different countries are different sockets. In Europe, type C dominates (two round pins), but in the USA, Canada or Japan you will meet the type A/B (flat pins), and in Great Britain type G (three rectangular pins).
Before leaving, check what sockets are in the target country – the parties like worldstandards.eu provide accurate information. IMPORTANT: adapters do not change tension, and in some countries (e.g. USA – 110 V), the voltage differs from European (230 V). Most modern chargers (e.g. from Apple, Samsung or Anker) support the 100-240 V range, but make sure your equipment can withstand, especially if you use older devices.
Cables and accessories – trifles, but necessary
Cables are often an underestimated element of traveler EDC. A cheap market cable may not support fast charging or easily damage. In 2025, USB-C cables with PD 3.0 support are the standard, which transfer power to 100 W. Good quality cable will withstand bending and ensure fast charging. It is also good to have one spare cable with you – just in case. The cables like to get lost or spoiled, and we are not always in a place where you can buy it. If you have devices with different ports (e.g. USB-C and Lightning), consider a universal cable with replaceable tips. The length also matters – 2 meters is an optimum for convenience on a plane, hotel or car.
Mobile Internet and SIM card
Lack of internet access can make it difficult to make orientation in the field, checking train schedules or contact with the hotel. It is worth it before:
- Check that your operator offers favorable roaming conditions (in the EU it often works automatically),
- consider buying a local SIM card with a data package,
- Use ESIM cards if this device supports this – more and more operators offer packages for tourists that can be activated remotely.
The alternative can be portable Wi-Fi routers for SIM card or hotspots from the phone, but the latter discharge the battery faster.
In order not to cut yourself off from the world during the holidays (unless we have such an idea), a few simple steps are enough – from taking the right number of chargers and cables, through PowerBank, to checking the type of sockets and the mobile internet option. Although it may seem that “everything will somehow get over on the spot”, random situations, lack of electricity or minor defects can significantly affect the comfort of travel. Preparation of the basic EDC electronic set allows you to keep peace and independence – regardless of the place and circumstances.
