Organizing Chords, Cables & Gadgets for Travel
In this day, most people are traveling with technology and gadgets. Whether you’re a business traveler or on holiday, there will often be chords, cables, adapters or chargers you travel with for your trip. I have developed a system that works well for me and the TSA loves it. Here is my method of breezing through the TSA and staying organized when traveling with technology.
Organize Your Travel Accessories
I like to have all of my electronic accessories in one bag. I like to use cable clips to keep them organized. My friend Adam from my YouTube video below likes to use hair ties. Whatever the case may be, you want to avoid a tangled mess and keep them in one kit. If you are traveling from a US airport, you can typically leave this kit in your carry on bag. If you are traveling from a major international airport outside of the US (i.e. Heathrow), or within Europe, it is advisable that you take this kit out of your carry on for inspection. I’ve observed many business travelers in Europe who do this and it saves time.
Pack your Electronics in Your Carry-On
If you leave your electronics in your checked luggage, it’s a red flag for the TSA to further inspect your luggage. Always, have all of your electronics, gadgets, chords, cables, etc in your carry-on bag.
At the Airport
You usually have to take your laptop out of your carry on when traveling from a US airport and when inspected by the TSA. Smaller devices like iPhones, cameras and iPads, usually stay inside of your carry on. When you are traveling from an airport outside the US, one usually has to take out all major electronics (even iPads) from carry on bags. It is best to be prepared, go with the flow and listen to the inspecting agents. Having a kit with all of your smaller electronic gadgets and cables makes this process easy and time efficient.
[media url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KxxRBKv3qeE” width=”600″ height=”400″]
Barbara Carlson
What charger/converter do I need for my IPad in Italy? Can it be surge protected?
Angel
Barbara,
You don’t need a converter for your iPad/iPhone or any Apple products because their chargers are dual voltage. Meaning they take both American 110v and European 220v from the electrical outlets. What you do need is an adapter. It’s a two round pin adapter that is used all over the Continent of Europe. It should not cost you more than $5. No need for a surge protector unless you staying in a super old building with bad electrical wiring.
Barbara Carlson
Thanks for your help. I look forward to seeing you again in Tucson.
Barbara Carlson
Will my own hair dryer work in Italy?
Angel
IF you have a “dual-voltage” hairdryer, one that works on both European 220v and American 110v, set the dial to 220v when you use it in Europe. You will need an adapter to plug it into the wall. If not, I suggest purchasing a travel hair dryer that is dual-voltage.
Peter
Hi Angel,
What type of cable clips do you use and where can they be purchased?
Love all your packing tips.
Angel
Hey Peter! I use the ones by BLUELOUNGE. You can find whichever brand works for you at a home organization store. Cheers and Happy Travels.
Peter
Thank you, I will check those out.