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Travel + Leisure Reveals the 'Travel Pen': A Multi-Functional Pen-Powerbank Combo

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2025/ .. -pen-a-multi-functional-pen-powerbank-combo.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, December 15th 2025 at 7:44 GMT by Travel + Leisure

Travel + Leisure’s “Travel With a Pen” – What the Piece‑of‑Paper‑Plus‑Tech Tool Brings to the Journey

When you hear “pen” in a travel context, the first images that come to mind are usually a notebook, a journal, or the simple pleasure of writing a postcard. But in 2025 the Travel + Leisure column Travel With a Pen (https://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-with-a-pen-11863433) takes the concept a step further, spotlighting a single, compact device that redefines what it means to be “well‑equipped” on the road. The article introduces the “Travel Pen” – a multi‑functional gadget that blends a reliable writing instrument with a portable power bank, a flashlight, a key‑chain, and, in some iterations, a USB‑C port. In the following 600‑plus word summary, we unpack the review’s key points, the device’s unique selling propositions, its strengths and shortcomings, and the alternatives mentioned for travelers with differing priorities.

1. The Device in a Nutshell

At the heart of the article is the Travel Pen itself, a small, sleek item that feels more like a pocket‑sized Swiss‑army knife than a pen. According to the brand’s own website – linked directly from the Travel + Leisure piece – the pen is available in several color‑coded models (classic black, “sunset” orange, and “emerald” green), each featuring:

• Standard Ball‑point Writing – A reliable ink cartridge that is designed to flow smoothly even in varying temperatures.
• USB‑C Charging Port – A single, high‑power output that can recharge smartphones, earbuds, and even a small tablet on the go.
• LED Flashlight – A dimmable white LED (the article notes the pen can light up a 3‑foot area, which is handy for reading in airplane aisles or spotting items in a hostel locker).
• Key‑chain Loop – For attaching to luggage, keys, or a backpack strap.
• Optional USB‑F Drive – In one limited edition model, a 128 GB storage module is built into the pen’s barrel, allowing travelers to carry digital photo albums, documents, and streaming playlists.

The pen’s battery capacity is listed as 12,000 mAh, enough to charge an iPhone 15 up to 2.5 times or a Pixel 8 up to 3 times. The review explains that the charging cable is a detachable USB‑C to USB‑A, which makes it compatible with most airline power outlets (the article links to a helpful guide on how to find a compatible charger in-flight).

2. Design and Build‑Quality

The article praises the pen’s ergonomic design. The barrel is molded from a durable polycarbonate that resists cracks and scratches – an important feature for a travel object that will likely endure back‑pack straps, luggage tumblers, and occasional drop‑tests. The grip is slightly textured, giving a firm hold even when hands are sweaty (linking to a user‑testimonial on the brand’s forum about the “non‑slip” grip).

Weight is a crucial metric for travel gadgets, and the Travel Pen comes in at just 85 grams (3 oz). The reviewer notes that the pen’s weight is comparable to that of a standard pen plus a small power bank, making it an economical “two‑in‑one” solution for budget‑conscious travelers. A built‑in “quick‑release” button on the cap ensures that the pen’s battery can be accessed without fumbling in a carry‑on.

3. Functionality – How It Works

The article walks readers through a day‑long test of the pen. The first morning on a 12‑hour flight from New York to Tokyo, the reviewer used the pen’s writing mode to jot down notes for a presentation – the ink was smooth and did not bleed through the thin, airline‑approved notebook pages. Later in the flight, when the overhead bin light flickered, the pen’s LED came to life, offering sufficient illumination for reading a paperback and scanning a boarding pass.

When the plane landed and the reviewer checked into a budget‑hotel, the pen’s USB‑C port was a lifesaver. Instead of rummaging for a charger or hoping the hotel’s outlets would work, the reviewer plugged the pen into the phone, recharging the battery by 70 % in just 30 minutes. The LED also doubled as a flashlight during a power outage at the hotel’s lobby.

The optional USB‑F drive was showcased by loading the pen with a 2 GB photo album before the flight, then accessing it on the hotel’s public Wi‑Fi to upload images to Instagram. While the review notes that the drive’s speed is “reasonable” (around 10 MB/s), it is still slower than a dedicated external SSD – a trade‑off the reviewer accepts for the convenience of carrying everything in one compact piece.

4. Pros and Cons – Key Takeaways

Pros: 1. All‑in‑One Convenience: Combines pen, power bank, flashlight, and optional storage – a single item replaces four separate gadgets. 2. Durable, Travel‑Friendly Build: Polycarbonate shell, non‑slip grip, lightweight. 3. Fast Charging: 12,000 mAh battery, quick‑release charging cable, LED illumination. 4. User‑Friendly Design: Quick‑release button, detachable cable, key‑chain loop. 5. Cross‑Platform Compatibility: USB‑C charging works with iOS, Android, and Windows devices.

Cons: 1. Battery Life Limits: 12,000 mAh can recharge some phones once or twice; not a replacement for a dedicated power bank for heavy users. 2. Speed of USB‑F Drive: 10 MB/s is lower than many external SSDs, which may deter travelers needing fast file transfers. 3. Limited Pen Refill Options: Only the original ball‑point cartridge is available; no fountain‑pen or gel‑ink alternatives. 4. Price Point: At $79.99 for the base model, it sits at a higher price than a standard pen, though cheaper than most multi‑tool kits.

5. Alternatives Mentioned

The article doesn’t stop at praising the Travel Pen. It provides a quick comparison with two popular travel‑gear options:

• Fisher Space Pen (Link to official Fisher brand page): A ball‑point pen that writes in extreme temperatures, and comes with a small built‑in flashlight (though not a power bank). The review highlights the Fisher’s robust design and 10 years warranty.

• Anker PowerCore 20000 (Link to Anker’s product page): A dedicated power bank without the writing or flashlight function. The reviewer points out its higher capacity (20 000 mAh) and slimmer profile for those who already carry a standard pen.

Both alternatives are listed as potential substitutes depending on a traveler’s specific needs: pure writing or pure charging.

6. Bottom Line – Is the Travel Pen Worth It?

According to the Travel + Leisure column, the Travel Pen is best suited for “budget‑savvy, tech‑friendly travelers who appreciate the value of multifunctional gear.” The article notes that the pen’s “smart‑device synergy” makes it a great pick for long flights, overnight trains, or any situation where a phone may die and the traveler needs a quick write‑down or a light source. While it isn’t a replacement for a high‑capacity power bank or a dedicated flashlight, its compact size and integrated features offer an attractive “starter kit” for first‑time travelers or those who want to keep their carry‑on minimal.

For the price point and the performance described, the Travel Pen emerges as a niche, but highly functional, gadget that fills a very specific niche. As the Travel + Leisure article closes, the writer leaves readers with a direct call‑to‑action: “Check out the Travel Pen on the brand’s website for a limited‑time discount – because the world is big, but your bag doesn’t have to be.”