When deciding whether to bring a laptop, tablet, or smartphone on your trip, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Each device has its pros and cons, and with so many overlapping features, picking the right one can be tricky. You’ll need to think about size, weight, cost, battery life, security, and more. But don’t worry—it’s all about finding the right balance for your needs.
As someone who carries a lot of tech gadgets, I get why this decision can feel complicated. But for most people, you really only need one device—keeping it simple while traveling is key. Here’s a breakdown of what each device brings to the table:
Smartphone
Almost everyone carries a smartphone when they travel. It’s our camera, map, translator, and communication tool all in one. It’s small, light, and perfect for minimalist travelers who want to keep things simple.
Unless you’re purposely avoiding tech, your phone will probably be in your bag. But if you’re wondering whether to go with just a phone, here are the key pros and cons:
Pros:
- It replaces several other gadgets, like a flashlight, music player, and alarm clock.
- It’s easy to stay connected, even without cellular data—many places offer free Wi-Fi.
- A ton of travel apps work both online and offline, including currency converters, translation tools, navigation apps, and more.
Cons:
- Battery life can be a major issue, especially if you’re out and about all day. Long travel days often leave your phone dead before you get back to your accommodation.
- The screen is small, so activities like watching movies or reading books aren’t ideal.
- Typing on a phone is fine for quick messages, but you’ll get frustrated if you need to do more extensive work.
Recommendation: If you only need basic apps like maps and translation and don’t mind a small screen, a phone is your best bet. You don’t need anything fancy—just a basic smartphone will do.
Tablet
Tablets, like the iPad, have been around for over a decade and are a popular option for travelers. They offer a larger screen than a smartphone and generally have better battery life. But they do take up more space and are usually more expensive.
Tablets are a good middle ground for those who need more screen real estate or plan to do more computer-related tasks but don’t want to carry a heavy laptop. They’re also great for traveling with kids, thanks to their large screens and availability of apps, games, and offline TV shows.
Pros:
- Apps work just as well, if not better, than on a smartphone, and the larger screen makes tasks easier.
- The battery life usually lasts longer than a smartphone, especially in flight mode or when using Wi-Fi only.
- If you have a tablet with cellular data, you can get a local SIM card for data use while traveling.
Cons:
- The size makes tablets less portable—most won’t fit in your pocket, and they’re heavier than smartphones.
- Taking photos is awkward—holding a tablet up to snap a picture isn’t as convenient as using a phone.
- While the screen is larger, the apps and keyboard input are still designed for phones, so typing can be slow, and the software options for serious work are limited. You can use a Bluetooth keyboard, but that’s one more thing to carry and keep charged.
Recommendation: If you want a bigger screen for watching movies or need something more than a phone but lighter than a laptop, a tablet could be a good fit. If you’re a light packer, you can easily bring both a smartphone and tablet.
Laptop
While it used to be the go-to device for travelers needing internet access, the need for a laptop on the road has diminished. However, there are still some good reasons to bring one.
Pros:
- Laptops are incredibly versatile and can handle almost any task you throw at them. Whether you need specialized software or just a larger screen for work or entertainment, a laptop delivers.
- The battery lasts longer than a smartphone or tablet (depending on the model), and they’re great for storing and backing up photos.
- If you’re traveling for work, especially if you run an online business, a laptop is essential. It’s faster, more powerful, and can handle multitasking with ease.
Cons:
- Weight is a big downside—laptops aren’t as portable as phones or tablets, and adding the charger makes them even bulkier.
- They’re expensive, and traveling with a pricey device brings extra stress over theft or damage. Travel insurance may not cover the full cost, either.
- Laptops are more fragile and can be difficult to replace if something goes wrong while traveling.
- For most travelers, a laptop’s power and storage space are overkill. The average traveler doesn’t need all the features a laptop provides.
Recommendation: If you’re running a business or need powerful software for work, a laptop is a must. But if you’re just traveling for leisure, a phone or tablet will likely be enough. Long-term travelers (six months or more) might find a laptop worth the space, but for shorter trips, you can get by without one.
Final Thoughts
For most travelers, a smartphone is the best option. It’s small, lightweight, and replaces a bunch of other devices. It’s perfect for staying connected, using travel apps, and handling most of your online needs. Plus, phones are affordable, with many options available for under $200.
If you prefer a bigger screen or want to watch movies on the go, a tablet is a solid choice, especially if you already have a smartphone. Together, they offer a good mix of portability and usability. Tablets usually range from $250-$600, depending on the model.
Unless you’re working while traveling, there’s really no need to bring a laptop. While they offer the most flexibility, the size, weight, and cost often aren’t worth it unless you have specific needs.
Ultimately, the best device is the one that fits your travel style. Make sure it works for you, doesn’t slow you down, and lets you enjoy your trip to the fullest. And, of course, remember to take some time away from your screen to really experience the world around you.
