Cable Luggage Lock/Compact Speaker/Duffel Bag in a Pouch
Nomadico issue #213
Some gear items I pack often were highlighted years ago when we had half as many subscribers, so this week’s “Retro Nomadico” is bringing them back again while it’s Prime week through Friday and there are widespread discounts at Amazon.
Retractable Luggage Lock for Suitcases
There’s no shortage of articles and videos online about people having their whole suitcase or daypack stolen while in a public place or on a train, especially in Europe. I nap easy on a train even if my bag is at the end of the compartment thanks to this inexpensive retractable cable luggage lock. It can fit through zipper clasps on quality suitcases or through the handles to ensure that your bag is not going anywhere until you unlock it with your combination.
JBL Go Speaker Packs a Punch
I like this little water-resistant Bluetooth speaker so much that when I lost one, I bought the same model as a replacement. It fits in the palm of my hand and is easy to pack, but punches above its size in volume and bass, providing a good sonic range. The newest model is the JBL Go5, but I have the Go4 and it’s technically equal but just doesn’t light up (preferable to me) and it’s under $40.
Small Electric Toothbrush
Back in July of 2024 I highlighted the slim Philips One by Sonicare electric travel toothbrush that I’d bought. I made a mistake and got the battery powered one that has since been discontinued. It’s still going strong, but my wife has the rechargeable one that is still available and has also performed well for even longer. It doesn’t vibrate as hard as a big one like people have at home, but it’s lighter and much smaller for packing—not much bigger than a regular manual toothbrush.
Packable Duffel Bag
Ever need to come home with more items than you left with? You could buy additional luggage on the other end, but when I can anticipate this happening, like I did this trip from shopping and getting useful trade show swag, I bring along a duffel bag that packs down into a little pouch. I have tried a few different ones, all working well, but here are two examples from Eagle Creek and Bago. One of these can also be useful if you manage to jam everything into an underseat bag for a short trip on a budget airline and want a larger bag to expand into for moving around on the other end.
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also good to note as a daypack or something smaller than a carry on backpack (mine is extremely bulky because it holds multiple cameras, lenses, batteries, led lights, and devices), is a smaller daypack for regular out and about. It takes up a little more space in the checked bag but ultimately makes life easier on the ground when i dont want to lug the big ole backpack while walking around a location.