These four things make it easier to detect hidden cameras in your Airbnb, watch movies in-flight, disinfect your airline seat, and soothe achy muscles.
1. Hidden camera detector ($79)
This shouldn’t be necessary, but unfortunately it is.
I’m not saying there’s a hidden camera waiting for you in your Airbnb, but I’m also not not saying it. Despite the company’s policy on the use of cameras and recording devices, there are some people who break the rules. If you’re concerned about your privacy on your next vacation rental stay and want a little peace of mind, grab the Hidden Devices Camera Detector.
Designed to detect hidden cameras, this device is about the size of a remote control, so it’s easy to toss in your suitcase or backpack. The instructions are a tough read (poor translation), but it’s fairly easy to figure out. Camera detection is signaled by sound, light, and vibration. It has a rechargeable internal battery and includes a USB cable for charging.
2. Universal airplane phone mount ($13)
This is just the thing for watching movies on your phone on the plane.
When I am traveling light, I go phone-only; no tablet or laptop. I also like to watch movies and shows I’ve downloaded instead of relying on in-flight entertainment. This Universal Airplane Phone Mount is perfect for economy or front-of-the-plane.
The holding clamp can be rotated to provide more elevation, so your phone can be near eye-level, reducing neck stress. The spring used for mounting is pretty heavy duty, and requires a bit of effort to attach. At least it won’t shake off in turbulence! (The silicone pads also help to prevent slippage.) The holding arm rotates, so you can set it at the perfect angle, and it folds down small enough to fit into a pocket. I like the slide-on/slide-off tripod feature, too.
3. Wearable antibacterial mitt ($12)
I’m a mild germaphobe. I also never want getting sick to interfere with my travel plans. For years, I’ve been wiping down my airplane seat, tray table, controls, etc. with antibacterial wipes. These mitts make the job so much easier!
Pluses include a large surface area, 75% alcohol solution on the outside/protective liner on the inside, and double-sided design (switch hands for twice the cleaning power). One size fits most. Available in two- and ten- resealable packs. Also good for wiping down hotel rooms (wall switches, remotes, and the like) if that’s your thing.
4. Compact portable heating pad ($70)
After two-plus years of Covid, people are starting to travel internationally again. If you’re heading for Europe, that may mean more walking than you are used to. (Some days I log 20,000 steps or more.) That can also mean sore muscles, and a craving for a heating pad at the end of the day.
Rather than lugging a big one from home (and, if it’s electric, it would probably be the wrong voltage anyway), you may want to consider this compact option. The Sunbeam GoHeat Cordless Heating Pad is not only much smaller than most average heating pads, it’s powered by rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which means no not-long-enough cord/travel adapter hassles.
The heating pad itself is 9.5 inches by 12-inches, so it won’t take up too much room in your bag. Plus, it’s fully flexible and has an adjustable strap that lets you wrap it around any part of your body that needs heat therapy—arms, legs, neck, shoulders, back, etc. There are three heat settings to choose from, and the battery should last up to four hours when on the lowest setting.
Spending long hours in a cramped economy seat? You can even use the pad in-flight to keep your back and leg muscles from stiffening up.
Twist’s Take: These four gadgets make it easier to detect hidden cameras in your Airbnb, watch movies in-flight, disinfect your airline seat, and soothe achy muscles.
