Travel Gear: gadgets for the new year

Polar RC3 GPS Watch (above) Wearable tech such as the Fuelband from Nike or Jawbone's Up was probably under many a tree this Christmas. But if you're looking for a standalone alternative to keep those fitness resolutions on track, then a lower-end GPS watch option such as the Polar RC3 might be an option. It tracks your route, speed and distance, even altitude when synced with Google Maps, so cyclists and runners might find it particularly useful. There are downloadable training regimes to go with it if 2015 is going to see the new GPS-enabled hardcore you. €165 from elverys.ie

AquaBells

On the same note, here's a way to maintain your New Year gym programme even while you're travelling. A simple idea: the Aquabells pack flat in your bag and then you just fill them with water at your destination. The set includes two dumbbells which you can top up to just over 7kg each (16lbs) with a soft-handled bar which attaches in between. Your portable gym can be used in the pool too for a water-resistant work-out. $50/€40 from aquabells.com

Tumi Patrol Travel Puffer Jacket

Luggage brand Tumi has formalised something we've all done: fashion an improvised pillow out of a jacket. Its new down Patrol Travel Puffer Jacket has a pouch you can fold it into, creating a soft neck pillow. The shape will keep your head from lolling about, though dribblers may still dribble. And a jacket that's being a pillow isn't going to keep you warm. The outer layer is water-resistant and has an ID protection layer shielding the pockets from sneaky electronic theft. It comes in a range of colours. From $155, see tumi.com

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