You’re finally on that long-awaited vacation, settled into your plane seat, and ready to unwind. Except… the in-flight entertainment is limited, your book is packed deep in your luggage, and staring out the window only holds your attention for so long. This is where a tablet comes in handy! Whether you’re catching up on your favorite shows, reading an e-book, playing games, or staying connected with loved ones back home, a good tablet can be a lifesaver on any journey.
Choosing the right one, however, can be overwhelming. There are so many options available, each boasting different features and price points. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide to the best tablets for travel. We’ll help you navigate the specs, consider your needs, and find the perfect portable companion to enhance your travel experiences, no matter where you’re headed.
Before we start our review of the best tablets for travel, here are some related products you can find on Amazon:
Travel Companions: Why Tablets Are Your New Best Friend on the Road
Remember those days of lugging around heavy guidebooks, struggling to find Wi-Fi hotspots just to check email, or desperately trying to entertain the kids on a long flight with nothing but coloring books and a prayer? Thankfully, those days are largely behind us. The rise of the tablet has revolutionized travel, offering a compact, versatile, and powerful tool that can handle everything from navigation to entertainment. With the right tablet, your travel experiences can be smoother, more enjoyable, and significantly less stressful.
But with so many options flooding the market, how do you possibly choose the right one? That’s where we come in! Consider that global tablet shipments reached 128.5 million units in 2023, according to IDC, highlighting the widespread adoption and diverse range of tablets available today. From budget-friendly options perfect for streaming movies to high-powered slates designed for working on the go, there’s a tablet out there for every type of traveler. Finding the best tablets for travel doesn’t have to be daunting.
Think about your travel style. Are you a backpacker who needs something rugged and lightweight? Or are you a business traveler who needs a portable workstation? Do you primarily need it for reading, watching movies, or video conferencing? Answering these questions is key to narrowing down your search. Battery life is also a crucial consideration; nobody wants their tablet dying halfway through a transatlantic flight!
In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the best tablets for travel available today, considering factors like screen size, battery life, storage capacity, and overall performance. We’ll also explore different price points to help you find the perfect travel companion without breaking the bank. So buckle up, and let’s find the tablet that will transform your next adventure!
Best Tablets For Travel – Reviewed
Apple iPad Air (5th Generation)
The iPad Air is a fantastic all-around tablet that really shines for travel. It strikes the perfect balance between power and portability. The M1 chip makes it incredibly fast for everything from streaming movies to editing photos, and the stunning display is a joy to look at. Plus, the battery life is solid enough to get you through a long flight or train ride without constantly searching for an outlet.
One of the best things about the iPad Air for travelers is its size and weight. It’s thin and light enough to easily slip into a backpack or carry-on without weighing you down. The Apple ecosystem is also a big plus, with access to a huge app store filled with travel-specific apps, entertainment options, and productivity tools. It’s an investment, but one well worth it for frequent travelers.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S8
Looking for a premium Android tablet that rivals the iPad? The Galaxy Tab S8 is a superb choice. The vibrant display is perfect for watching movies or browsing photos from your adventures. The included S Pen is a surprisingly useful tool for note-taking, sketching, or even navigating the interface. And with DeX mode, you can even transform the tablet into a laptop-like experience for getting some work done on the go.
The Galaxy Tab S8 truly excels with its versatility. It runs on a powerful processor, so it handles demanding tasks with ease. The expandable storage via microSD card is a lifesaver for travelers who want to load up on movies, music, and offline maps. The battery life is also excellent, keeping you entertained throughout your journeys.
Amazon Fire HD 10 (2021)
If you’re on a budget but still want a decent tablet for travel, the Amazon Fire HD 10 is an excellent option. It’s surprisingly capable for the price, offering a large screen that’s perfect for watching videos and reading ebooks. While it doesn’t have the processing power of higher-end tablets, it’s perfectly adequate for basic tasks like browsing the web, checking email, and streaming content.
Don’t expect bells and whistles, but the Fire HD 10 is a workhorse that will get the job done. The integration with Amazon’s ecosystem is a major selling point, giving you easy access to Kindle books, Prime Video, and Audible audiobooks. While the app selection isn’t as vast as the Google Play Store or Apple’s App Store, there are still plenty of useful apps available for travel planning and entertainment.
Lenovo Tab P11 Pro Gen 2
The Lenovo Tab P11 Pro Gen 2 boasts an incredible display, making it a joy to use for watching movies or looking at photos. The powerful processor makes the tablet quick and responsive. The sleek and lightweight design makes it an easy travel companion.
Beyond its looks, the Tab P11 Pro Gen 2 packs a serious punch when it comes to entertainment. It also offers features that are useful for work. The long battery life ensures you can stay entertained on long flights or train rides.
Microsoft Surface Go 3
Need a tablet that can double as a laptop on the go? The Microsoft Surface Go 3 is a compact and versatile device that runs the full version of Windows. This means you can run your favorite desktop applications, making it a great choice for travelers who need to stay productive. The optional keyboard cover transforms the tablet into a mini-laptop, perfect for writing emails or working on documents.
Keep in mind that the Surface Go 3 isn’t a powerhouse, so don’t expect to run demanding games or video editing software smoothly. However, for everyday tasks like browsing the web, checking email, and working on documents, it’s a solid performer. The compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry around, and the built-in kickstand is convenient for watching videos on a plane or train.
Why Buy a Tablet for Travel?
Imagine yourself on a long flight, crammed into a seat with limited legroom. Your phone’s battery is dwindling, and the tiny in-flight entertainment screen is showing a movie you’ve already seen. Now picture this: you pull out a lightweight tablet, loaded with your favorite ebooks, movies, and podcasts. Instantly, your travel experience transforms from tedious to enjoyable. A tablet becomes your personal entertainment hub, offering a much larger, more immersive screen than your phone, allowing you to escape into a world of captivating stories and engaging content. This is just one of the many reasons why travelers are increasingly choosing tablets as essential travel companions.
Beyond entertainment, tablets offer incredible practicality. Need to quickly check your itinerary or flight updates? A tablet provides a more comfortable and efficient platform than squinting at your phone. Want to stay connected with loved ones back home? Video calls are a breeze on a tablet with a clear, larger display. And for those who like to document their adventures, tablets offer decent cameras for capturing memories along the way. Plus, with a detachable keyboard and access to productivity apps, your tablet can double as a lightweight mobile office, allowing you to handle emails, edit documents, or even write blog posts on the go.
Think about navigating unfamiliar cities. Instead of relying solely on your phone’s small screen, a tablet offers a more expansive view of maps and travel guides, helping you confidently explore your destination. Many of the “best tablets for travel” also boast impressive battery life, ensuring they can keep up with your adventures throughout the day. Consider the convenience of downloading offline maps and translation apps, so you can navigate and communicate even without a Wi-Fi connection. A tablet becomes your trusty digital guide, helping you make the most of every moment.
Ultimately, investing in a tablet for travel is about enhancing your overall travel experience. It’s about transforming downtime into enjoyable moments, staying connected and productive on the move, and navigating new environments with ease. With the right “best tablet for travel,” you’re not just purchasing a device; you’re investing in a more convenient, entertaining, and enriching travel experience. So, ditch the travel boredom and embrace the freedom and versatility a tablet can offer on your next adventure.
Tablet Accessories That Enhance Your Travel Experience
Okay, let’s talk accessories! A tablet alone is great, but the right accessories can seriously level up your travel game. Think about it: trying to binge-watch your favorite show on a noisy airplane with crummy earbuds? No thanks! Or awkwardly holding your tablet for hours while reading an e-book on a long bus ride? There are solutions to these, and they are so worth investing in.
First up, noise-canceling headphones are a must. Imagine being able to block out the crying baby, the chatty seatmate, and the drone of the engine. Suddenly, your travel time transforms into a peaceful oasis of entertainment or work. Plus, good noise-canceling headphones can also double as your everyday headphones, making them a versatile investment.
Next, consider a sturdy tablet case with a built-in stand. Not only will it protect your tablet from bumps and scratches in your backpack, but it will also allow you to prop it up on a tray table or any flat surface for hands-free viewing. Think about it – reading recipes while trying out that new street food in Thailand! A well-chosen case is a lifesaver.
Finally, don’t forget about portable power. A power bank is essential for keeping your tablet juiced up during long flights, train rides, or sightseeing adventures where outlets might be scarce. Imagine capturing those amazing sunset photos without worrying about your battery dying! A reliable power bank is your travel lifeline.
Essential Apps to Download Before Your Trip
So, you’ve got your tablet, you’ve got your accessories – now it’s time to load it up with the apps that will make your trip a breeze. Think of your tablet as your digital travel companion, ready to help you navigate new cities, communicate with locals, and stay entertained on the go.
First things first: download offline maps. Google Maps and Maps.me both allow you to download maps of entire cities or regions, so you can navigate even without an internet connection. Imagine exploring a maze of ancient streets in Rome without the fear of getting hopelessly lost! Offline maps are a game-changer for independent exploration.
Next, consider language learning apps. Duolingo or Memrise can help you learn basic phrases in the local language, making it easier to communicate with locals and immerse yourself in the culture. Picture yourself ordering coffee in fluent Spanish in a cafe in Madrid! A little effort can go a long way in building connections with the people you meet.
Don’t forget about entertainment! Load up your tablet with your favorite streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, or Spotify for offline viewing or listening. Imagine settling in for a long train ride through the Swiss Alps with a curated playlist or a captivating movie. These apps ensure you’re entertained, no matter where your travels take you.
Finally, download some essential travel apps like currency converters (XE Currency), translation apps (Google Translate), and flight trackers (FlightAware). These apps can help you stay organized, informed, and safe on your trip. Imagine being able to quickly convert prices in a Moroccan market or understand the meaning of a sign in Japanese. These apps are your secret weapon for navigating the complexities of international travel.
Troubleshooting Common Tablet Issues On The Road
Let’s be real, even the best tablets can have hiccups, especially when you’re bouncing around the world. Knowing how to troubleshoot common issues can save you a lot of frustration on the road. Think of it as packing your digital first-aid kit.
First up: battery issues. If your tablet’s battery is draining faster than usual, try adjusting your screen brightness, closing unused apps, and turning off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when you don’t need them. Imagine being stuck on a long bus ride in the middle of nowhere with a dead tablet! Simple adjustments can extend your battery life significantly.
Next, connectivity problems. If you’re having trouble connecting to Wi-Fi, make sure you have the correct password, try restarting your tablet, and check for any software updates. Imagine needing to upload a crucial document from a hotel lobby, only to find that the Wi-Fi is not working! Knowing how to troubleshoot connection issues is essential for staying connected.
Then there’s the dreaded frozen screen. If your tablet freezes up, try a soft reset (usually holding down the power button for a few seconds) or a hard reset (check your tablet’s manual for specific instructions). Imagine being in the middle of an important video call with your family when your tablet suddenly freezes! A quick reset can get you back on track.
Finally, overheating. If your tablet gets too hot, turn it off and let it cool down in a shaded area. Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or in a hot car. Imagine trying to use your tablet to navigate in the scorching desert heat! Keeping your tablet cool can prevent damage and ensure it works properly.
How to Protect Your Tablet From Damage and Theft While Traveling
Your tablet is an investment, and protecting it from damage and theft is crucial when you’re on the road. Think of it as safeguarding your personal information and valuable travel tool.
First, invest in a good quality case and screen protector. A rugged case can protect your tablet from drops and bumps, while a screen protector can prevent scratches and cracks. Imagine dropping your tablet on a cobblestone street in Prague! A sturdy case could save you a costly repair.
Next, be mindful of your surroundings when using your tablet in public places. Avoid leaving it unattended, and keep it in sight at all times. Imagine leaving your tablet on a cafe table while you run to the restroom! A moment of carelessness can lead to theft.
Consider using a travel-friendly tablet lock. A lock can secure your tablet to a table or chair in public places, preventing someone from snatching it. Imagine working on your tablet in a busy airport lounge! A lock can provide peace of mind and deter thieves.
Finally, back up your data regularly to a cloud service or external hard drive. If your tablet is lost or stolen, you can still access your important files and photos. Imagine losing all your travel photos and documents if your tablet is stolen! Regular backups ensure that your memories and information are safe, no matter what happens.
Best Tablets For Travel: Your Ultimate Buying Guide
Hey there, globetrotter! Planning your next adventure? That’s awesome! In today’s world, a tablet can be your ultimate travel companion – a digital passport to entertainment, information, and connection. But with so many options flooding the market, choosing the right one can feel like navigating a crowded airport during peak season. Don’t worry, though! Consider me your friendly travel guru, here to guide you through the maze. This guide will help you navigate all the noise and find the best tablets for travel that fits your specific needs and budget. Let’s ditch the confusion and get you ready to choose the perfect tech companion for your journey!
Screen Size and Portability: Finding the Sweet Spot
Think about how you’ll be using your tablet. Are you primarily reading ebooks on long flights? Or perhaps editing photos from your mountain hike? For readers, a smaller tablet, around 8 inches, is incredibly portable and easy to hold for extended periods. You can slip it into a small bag or even a large pocket without feeling weighed down. Imagine curling up on a beach with your favorite novel displayed on a compact, lightweight screen. Pure bliss!
However, if you’re planning on watching movies, editing videos, or using productivity apps, a larger screen, around 10-12 inches, might be a better choice. The extra screen real estate makes it easier to see details and manage multiple tasks. Just remember that a larger screen comes with increased weight and bulk, which might impact portability. Ultimately, it’s about finding the sweet spot between screen size and how easy it is to carry around. Finding the best tablets for travel means finding a balance that suits your travel habits.
Battery Life: Powering Your Adventures
Imagine this: you’re on a long train ride through the scenic countryside, engrossed in a captivating movie. Suddenly, your tablet screen flickers and dies, leaving you with nothing but a blank screen and a deep sense of boredom. This is the nightmare scenario we’re trying to avoid! Battery life is crucial for travel, especially when you might not have access to a power outlet for extended periods. Look for tablets that offer at least 8-10 hours of battery life for general use, and even more if you plan on using it for power-intensive activities like gaming or video editing.
Don’t just rely on the manufacturer’s claims, though. Read reviews from other travelers to get a realistic understanding of the tablet’s real-world battery performance. Also, consider investing in a portable power bank to provide extra juice when you’re on the go. This will give you peace of mind knowing you can stay connected and entertained, no matter how remote your destination. After all, the best tablets for travel are those that can keep up with your active lifestyle.
Storage Space: Packing Your Digital Essentials
Just like you pack clothes and essentials for your trip, you need to pack your digital content onto your tablet. Think about all the photos, videos, movies, ebooks, and apps you’ll want to have access to while traveling. Running out of storage space mid-trip is incredibly frustrating, especially if you’re in a location with limited Wi-Fi. Therefore, choose a tablet with enough internal storage to accommodate your needs.
A minimum of 64GB is a good starting point, but if you plan on storing a lot of high-resolution photos and videos, you might want to consider 128GB or even 256GB. Even better, look for tablets that offer expandable storage via a microSD card slot. This allows you to easily add more storage as needed, without having to delete existing files. When seeking the best tablets for travel, consider those that allow you to bring along your whole entertainment library.
Durability: Surviving the Rigors of Travel
Let’s be honest, travel can be tough on electronics. Your tablet might get jostled around in your backpack, exposed to extreme temperatures, or even accidentally dropped. A fragile tablet won’t last long in these conditions. That’s why durability is a key consideration. Look for tablets that are built to withstand the rigors of travel.
Consider tablets with ruggedized designs, such as those with reinforced corners and water-resistant or dustproof features. If you’re not opting for a ruggedized model, invest in a high-quality protective case that can absorb shocks and prevent scratches. A screen protector is also a smart idea to guard against cracks and scratches. Choosing a durable tablet ensures that your investment will last and that it can withstand whatever adventures you throw its way. The best tablets for travel are the ones that can survive the journey.
Operating System: Choosing Your Digital Ecosystem
The operating system (OS) is the heart and soul of your tablet, dictating how you interact with it and the apps you can use. The main contenders are iPadOS (Apple), Android, and Windows. Each OS has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important to choose one that aligns with your preferences and needs.
iPadOS is known for its user-friendly interface, smooth performance, and vast app ecosystem, particularly for creative professionals. Android offers more customization options, a wider range of hardware choices, and seamless integration with Google services. Windows tablets are essentially portable computers, offering full desktop functionality and compatibility with a wide range of software. Consider your existing devices and the ecosystem you’re already familiar with. Switching ecosystems can be a bit of a learning curve, so sticking with what you know might be the most convenient option. Ultimately, the best tablets for travel for you depends on what OS you’re most comfortable with.
Connectivity: Staying Connected on the Go
In today’s world, staying connected is crucial, even when you’re traveling. Whether you need to check emails, upload photos, or video chat with loved ones, having reliable connectivity is essential. Most tablets offer Wi-Fi connectivity, but if you plan on traveling to areas with limited or unreliable Wi-Fi, you might want to consider a tablet with cellular connectivity (4G/5G).
Cellular tablets allow you to insert a SIM card and connect to mobile networks, giving you internet access wherever you go (provided there’s coverage). Keep in mind that you’ll need to purchase a data plan from a mobile carrier to use cellular connectivity. Also, consider the tablet’s Bluetooth capabilities. Bluetooth allows you to connect wireless headphones, keyboards, and other accessories, enhancing your travel experience. When looking at the best tablets for travel, keep in mind that they offer varied connectivity options.
Price: Finding Value for Your Money
Of course, price is a major factor for most travelers. Tablets range in price from budget-friendly models to high-end powerhouses. It’s important to set a budget and find a tablet that offers the best value for your money. Don’t automatically assume that the most expensive tablet is the best.
Consider your needs and priorities. Do you really need all the bells and whistles of a top-of-the-line model, or will a more affordable tablet suffice? Read reviews and compare specifications to find a tablet that offers the features and performance you need at a price you can afford. Also, keep an eye out for sales and discounts. You might be able to snag a great deal on a tablet that’s normally outside your budget. The best tablets for travel don’t have to break the bank; it’s about finding the right balance of features, performance, and price.
FAQs
What size tablet is best for travel?
That’s a great question! The ideal tablet size really depends on what you plan to use it for and how much space you have in your travel bag. Generally, 7-8 inch tablets are super portable and perfect for reading e-books, browsing the web, or watching the occasional video on a plane. They easily slip into a purse or small backpack.
However, if you plan to do more work, like editing documents, drawing, or watching movies regularly, a 10-11 inch tablet might be a better choice. They offer more screen real estate for those tasks, which can make them more comfortable to use for extended periods. Just remember, the bigger the screen, the more space it takes up in your luggage!
How much storage do I need on a travel tablet?
Think about what you’ll be storing on your tablet. If you’re mainly streaming movies and music, and relying on cloud storage for documents, you can probably get away with 32GB or 64GB. But remember, streaming isn’t always reliable when traveling, especially on planes or in remote areas.
If you plan to download movies, music, games, or store lots of photos and videos, you should definitely consider 128GB or 256GB. It’s always better to have a bit more space than you think you’ll need, especially since storage fills up faster than you anticipate! Also, check if the tablet has a microSD card slot for expandable storage – that’s a lifesaver!
Should I get a tablet with cellular connectivity (4G/5G)?
This is a big one, and it boils down to how much you value being connected all the time. If you need to be able to access the internet regardless of Wi-Fi availability, then a cellular-enabled tablet is definitely worth considering. This is especially helpful if you’re using your tablet for navigation, communication, or work on the go. Keep in mind this will usually add to the upfront cost of the tablet, and you’ll need to pay for a separate data plan.
However, if you mostly plan to use your tablet in hotels, cafes, or other places with Wi-Fi, you might be able to save some money by sticking with a Wi-Fi-only model. You can always use your phone as a hotspot in a pinch, but be mindful of your data usage and roaming charges if traveling internationally.
What’s the battery life like on most tablets?
Generally, you can expect most tablets to offer anywhere from 8 to 12 hours of battery life on a single charge. That’s typically enough to get you through a long flight or a day of sightseeing. But battery life can vary depending on what you’re doing with the tablet.
Things like streaming videos, playing games, or using GPS can drain the battery much faster than simply reading e-books or browsing the web. It’s always a good idea to bring a portable charger or power bank with you, just in case you need to top up the battery on the go.
Are tablets good for taking photos and videos while traveling?
Tablets can be okay for taking photos and videos, but honestly, they aren’t usually the best option. While tablet cameras have improved over the years, they still generally don’t compare to the quality of cameras found on smartphones or dedicated cameras.
That being said, if you don’t want to carry a separate camera and your tablet is all you have, it will definitely do the trick for casual snapshots and videos. Just don’t expect professional-quality results. And be aware that holding up a large tablet to take a photo can look a bit awkward!
Can I use a tablet for work while traveling?
Absolutely! Tablets can be fantastic for working on the go, especially when paired with a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse. They’re lightweight and portable, making them much easier to carry around than a laptop. You can easily use them for tasks like writing emails, editing documents, creating presentations, and even some light graphic design work.
However, for more demanding tasks like video editing or coding, a laptop might still be a better choice. It really depends on the type of work you do and the software you need to use. Many popular productivity apps are optimized for tablets, so you can often get a lot done even without a full-fledged computer.
How durable are tablets for travel? Should I get a case?
Tablets aren’t usually as rugged as some dedicated travel gadgets, so protecting them is key! Dropping a tablet on a hard surface can easily crack the screen or damage the internal components. A good case is an absolute must, especially for travel.
Look for a case that provides both screen protection and impact resistance. A rugged case with reinforced corners is ideal if you’re prone to dropping things. Some cases also come with built-in stands, which can be really handy for watching movies on a plane or in a hotel room. A screen protector is also a good idea to prevent scratches.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the perfect travel companion can feel overwhelming, but hopefully, this guide has given you a clearer picture of what’s out there. Think about your priorities – are you a movie buff needing a stunning display, a digital nomad craving productivity, or a budget-conscious explorer? The best tablets for travel truly offer something for everyone, so focus on what will make your journey smoother, more connected, and ultimately, more enjoyable.
Now, armed with this knowledge, it’s time to take the leap! Don’t overthink it too much; trust your gut and pick the tablet that sparks joy. Picture yourself relaxing on a beach, catching up on your favorite shows, or effortlessly navigating a new city. Adventure awaits, and the perfect tablet is ready to be your indispensable partner. Go explore!