The summer holidays are nearly upon us, cue the obligatory last-minute panic about what to pack. Make things a little easier with this guide to the top hi-tech travel companions
STEVE AOKI SUITCASE
The collaboration between DJ and scooter aficionados has resulted in this kick-board, suitcase and trolley hybrid that’ll get you from A to B in a flash, all while serenaded by the on-board Bluetooth speakers. There is also a more subtle version without the musical ability, which is a couple of budget airline tickets less. £349.95
SPACED 360
Is there a category in consumer technology so over-populated as that of the Bluetooth speaker? But don’t be overwhelmed; just pick this one. The unit packs three powerful speakers to deliver 360 degree sound and a bass that punches above its weight, all enclosed in a stylish unit with multiple skin colours to swap according to your location. Perhaps yellow for sunny holidays, black for a less sunny staycation? £250
BALANZZA LUGGAGE SCALE
With restrictions on the amount of luggage you can carry in the hold becoming ever stricter, you’d be well advised to invest in a digital scale to check your baggage weight. Costs can quickly spiral if you even slightly nudge over the top limit, so this gadget will pay for itself several times over, especially if you’re the type (and who isn’t?) who likes to bring back trinkets from their travels. £14.99
PORT SOLAR CHARGER
Forget the usual portable power units that will need another source of electricity to get them in action again, this one harnesses the power of the sun – and there’s apparently 2.8billion years of the stuff left. Stick it up on a window, let it soak up the rays, then plug in your gadgets until they’re back up to 100%. Easy. £49.99
KINDLE PAPERWHITE
Trying to stay within your weight limit isn’t easy if you start packing paperbacks, yet some eReaders can be rendered useless once the sun starts shining. Not so with the new Paperwhite. The glare-free screen means you can read just about anywhere, adjusting its brightness to perform from dusk till dawn. The battery lasts an incredible eight weeks too, so that’s one less charger to take up precious flip-flop space. From £109
SEAGATE WIRELESS PLUS 1TB PORTABLE HARD DRIVE
No need to download films, music or other digital data on your travels, just load up this device with hundreds of films or thousands of tracks before you go and it’ll wirelessly deliver them all to your devices. The perfect poolside entertainment centre. £129.99