Top E-Readers for International Travel in 2023: Your Ultimate Guide

Marcus Shen

Content writer

Topic

Travel Buys

Published

October 14, 2023

Top E-Readers for International Travel in 2023: Your Ultimate Guide

E-readers are a must-have for book lovers, and they're especially useful for frequent travelers. Whether you're on a long-haul flight or backpacking through Europe, an e-reader can help you save space, weight, and money while keeping you entertained. However, not all e-readers are created equal, and choosing the right one for international travel can be a challenge.

When it comes to e-readers for travel, there are a few critical factors to consider. First, the device should be lightweight and compact, so it doesn't take up too much space in your luggage. Second, it should have a long battery life, so you don't have to worry about running out of power mid-flight. Finally, it should have a large storage capacity, so you can take all your favorite books with you without having to constantly delete and download new titles.

After researching and testing several e-readers, we've identified the best ones for international travel. These devices offer a combination of portability, battery life, and storage capacity that makes them ideal for bookworms on the go. In this article, we'll take a closer look at each of these e-readers and highlight their key features, so you can make an informed decision when choosing the best e-reader for your next adventure.

Best E-Readers for International Travel

When it comes to traveling abroad, packing light is essential. And for book lovers, this can be a real challenge. That's where e-readers come in handy. With an e-reader, you can bring your entire library with you without adding any extra weight to your luggage. But not all e-readers are created equal. Some are better suited for international travel than others. In this article, we'll take a look at the best e-readers for international travel, so you can find the perfect device for your next adventure.

Kindle (2022 release)

If you're a book lover who travels frequently, the Kindle (2022 release) is the perfect companion for you. Its high-resolution display, adjustable front light, and long battery life make it an excellent e-reader for international travel.

Pros

The Kindle (2022 release) is the lightest and most compact Kindle available, making it easy to carry in your backpack or purse.
With its glare-free, paper-like display and adjustable front light, you can read comfortably day or night, indoors or outdoors.
The Kindle (2022 release) is designed specifically for reading, so you won't be distracted by messages, emails, or social media notifications.

Cons

The Kindle (2022 release) doesn't support audiobooks or have a built-in headphone jack, so you'll need to pair it with Bluetooth headphones to listen to audiobooks.
While the Kindle (2022 release) has 16 GB of storage, it doesn't have a microSD card slot, so you won't be able to expand the storage capacity.
The Kindle (2022 release) doesn't have physical buttons, so you'll need to use the touchscreen to turn pages and navigate the menus.

The Kindle (2022 release) is an excellent e-reader for international travel. Its long battery life, lightweight design, and high-resolution display make it easy to read your favorite books wherever you go. The adjustable front light and dark mode also make it easy to read day or night, indoors or outdoors. If you're a book lover who travels frequently, the Kindle (2022 release) is definitely worth considering.

Kobo Libra 2 | eReader

If you're looking for an e-reader that can keep up with your international travels, the Kobo Libra 2 is a great choice.

Pros

The glare-free 7" HD E Ink Carta 1200 touchscreen is easy to read in any lighting, and the ComfortLight PRO feature helps reduce eyestrain.
The ergonomic design is comfortable to hold and easy to use, with both touchscreen and page-turn button options.
With 32GB of storage, you can take up to 24,000 eBooks or 150 Kobo Audiobooks with you on the go.

Cons

Some users have reported issues with the device freezing or crashing.
The Kobo Audiobooks feature is only available in select countries.
The device is slightly heavier than some other e-readers on the market.

When it comes to international travel, the Kobo Libra 2 has a lot of great features to offer. The waterproof design means you can take it to the beach, the pool, or even out in the rain without worrying about damage. And with a battery life of up to 21 hours, you can read for hours on end without needing to recharge.

One of the standout features of the Kobo Libra 2 is the adjustable ComfortLight PRO, which helps reduce eyestrain and allows you to read well into the night without affecting your sleep. And if you're someone who likes to switch things up, the device also offers a Dark Mode option for white text on a black background.

Overall, the Kobo Libra 2 is a great choice for anyone who wants a reliable, feature-packed e-reader for their international travels. With its ergonomic design, waterproof construction, and ample storage space, it's sure to be a valuable companion on any trip.

International Version - Kindle (2022 release)

If you're looking for a lightweight, compact e-reader for international travel, the International Version Kindle (2022 release) is a great option.

Pros

The 300 ppi high-resolution display makes text and images sharp and clear.
The adjustable front light and dark mode make reading effortless, day and night.
The device is specifically made for reading, which means no distractions from messages, emails, or social media.

Cons

The battery life might not last the full six weeks, especially if you're streaming audiobooks over Bluetooth.
The device only supports 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz networks, so it might not work with all Wi-Fi networks.
The device might not support connecting to ad-hoc (or peer-to-peer) Wi-Fi networks.

This Kindle is perfect for avid readers who want to take their books with them on international trips without adding extra weight to their luggage. The adjustable front light and dark mode make reading comfortable in any lighting situation, and the device's compact size makes it easy to take with you wherever you go.

The Kindle's extended battery life means you won't have to worry about finding a charging port for up to six weeks, and the 16 GB of storage lets you store thousands of books. Plus, with Kindle Unlimited, you can access over 2 million titles, thousands of audiobooks, and more.

The device's sustainability features, such as using recycled plastics and magnesium, make it an environmentally-friendly choice. Overall, the International Version Kindle (2022 release) is a great e-reader for anyone who loves to read while traveling.

International Kindle Paperwhite

If you're looking for an e-reader that is perfect for international travel, the International Kindle Paperwhite is an excellent choice.

Pros

The 6.8" display is perfect for reading on the go.
The adjustable warm light makes it easy to read in any lighting conditions.
The device is waterproof, so you don't have to worry about it getting damaged if you accidentally drop it in water.

Cons

The device does not support connecting to ad-hoc wifi networks.
The charge time is longer than some other e-readers on the market.
The device is not compatible with some file formats.

The International Kindle Paperwhite is perfect for travelers who love to read. The device is lightweight and compact, making it easy to take with you wherever you go. The 6.8" display is large enough to read comfortably, but not so large that it becomes cumbersome to carry around.

One of the best features of the International Kindle Paperwhite is the adjustable warm light. This makes it easy to read in any lighting conditions, whether you're in a dimly lit room or outside in bright sunlight.

The device is also waterproof, which is a huge plus for travelers who want to read by the pool or on the beach. You don't have to worry about getting the device wet, as it can withstand accidental immersion in water.

One downside of the International Kindle Paperwhite is that it does not support connecting to ad-hoc wifi networks. This may not be an issue for most travelers, but it's something to keep in mind if you need to connect to a wifi network that is not password-protected.

Another downside is that the charge time is longer than some other e-readers on the market. However, the battery life is excellent, so you won't have to worry about recharging the device too often.

Overall, the International Kindle Paperwhite is an excellent choice for travelers who love to read. The device is lightweight, compact, and has all the features you need to enjoy your favorite books while on the go.

PocketBook InkPad Lite

If you're looking for an e-reader for international travel, the PocketBook InkPad Lite is a great option.

Pros

The large 9.7 inch E-Ink Carta screen is perfect for reading a variety of content, including textbooks and comics, and provides an eye-friendly and glare-free reading experience.
The adaptive SMARTlight allows you to adjust the brightness and color temperature of the screen to suit your preferences, making it easy to read in any lighting conditions.
The e-reader is highly user-friendly, with side control buttons and automatic screen rotation for both right and left-handed users.

Cons

The black and white contrast could be better, which may make it difficult to read some documents.
The screen can be too sensitive and requires precise touch to access the main menu.
The font size can extend beyond the borders of the screen, resulting in some text being cut off.

The PocketBook InkPad Lite is a great e-reader for international travel due to its large screen, adjustable light, and user-friendly design. It supports a wide range of book, document, and image formats, so you won't have to waste time converting files. Additionally, you can easily manage your library by synchronizing books across devices and expanding the storage with a memory card. The only downsides are the black and white contrast and the screen's sensitivity, which may require some getting used to. Overall, if you're looking for a reliable e-reader for international travel, the PocketBook InkPad Lite is definitely worth considering.

PocketBook Era E-Reader

If you're looking for an e-reader that can withstand the rigors of international travel, the PocketBook Era E-Reader is a solid choice.

Pros

The glare-free, eye-friendly screen makes reading easy in any lighting conditions.
The waterproof and anti-scratch protection ensures that your device will stay safe and functional even if it gets wet or bumped around.
The audio-book support and Text-to-Speech function make it easy to enjoy your favorite books hands-free.

Cons

The software can be a bit slow, especially when navigating settings or starting up.
Some users have reported dead pixels on the screen.
The user interface can be a bit confusing, especially if you're used to other e-readers.

The PocketBook Era E-Reader is a great choice for anyone who wants a durable, feature-rich e-reader for international travel. The glare-free, eye-friendly screen is easy on the eyes, even in bright sunlight, and the waterproof and anti-scratch protection ensures that your device will stay safe and functional even if it gets wet or bumped around. The audio-book support and Text-to-Speech function make it easy to enjoy your favorite books hands-free, and the device supports a wide variety of popular formats, making it easy to read any file without conversion.

That being said, the software can be a bit slow, especially when navigating settings or starting up, and some users have reported dead pixels on the screen. Additionally, the user interface can be a bit confusing, especially if you're used to other e-readers. However, if you're willing to put up with these minor inconveniences, the PocketBook Era E-Reader is a great choice for anyone who wants a reliable, feature-rich e-reader for international travel.

Kindle Oasis - International Version

If you're looking for an e-reader that's perfect for international travel, the Kindle Oasis - International Version is an excellent choice.

Pros

The 7" 300ppi flush-front Paperwhite display is easy on the eyes and perfect for reading in any lighting conditions.
The adjustable warm light feature is a game-changer, allowing you to shift the screen shade from white to amber, making it easier to read in low light conditions.
The Kindle Oasis is waterproof (IPX8), so you can read in the bath or by the pool without worrying about damaging your device.

Cons

The Kindle Oasis is more expensive than other e-readers on the market.
The battery life is not as long as some other e-readers, with a single charge lasting up to six weeks.
The device can be a bit heavy for extended reading sessions.

The Kindle Oasis - International Version is an excellent choice for anyone looking for an e-reader that's perfect for international travel. The 7" 300ppi flush-front Paperwhite display is easy on the eyes and perfect for reading in any lighting conditions. The adjustable warm light feature is a game-changer, allowing you to shift the screen shade from white to amber, making it easier to read in low light conditions. The Kindle Oasis is also waterproof (IPX8), so you can read in the bath or by the pool without worrying about damaging your device.

While the Kindle Oasis is more expensive than other e-readers on the market, the features and quality of the device make it worth the investment. The battery life is not as long as some other e-readers, with a single charge lasting up to six weeks. However, this is still a decent amount of time for most people, and the device charges quickly. The Kindle Oasis can be a bit heavy for extended reading sessions, but the thin and light ergonomic design with page turn buttons makes it easy to hold and use.

Overall, the Kindle Oasis - International Version is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality e-reader that's perfect for international travel. With its adjustable warm light feature, waterproof design, and easy-to-use interface, it's sure to be a great addition to your travel gear.

PocketBook Touch HD 3

If you're looking for an e-reader that's perfect for international travel, the PocketBook Touch HD 3 is a great choice.

Pros

The E-Ink Carta technology provides a crisp and glare-free reading experience, making it ideal for long reading sessions.
The adjustable SMARTlight function allows you to read in any lighting conditions, even in complete darkness.
The e-reader supports 19 book, 2 comic, and 4 graphic formats, including EPUB, FB2, DOC, DJVU, PDF (DRM), JPEG, CBR, and CBZ, so you can open a wide range of books, documents, and images without wasting time converting files.

Cons

The support or help for the United States user is very hard to get.
The screen broke after just over a month for some users.
The device takes long to turn off when you press the power button and it comes from the Netherlands, so it takes a while to arrive.

The PocketBook Touch HD 3 is a great e-reader for international travel. It features an eye-friendly HD touchscreen that comes as close as possible to a page on paper, so you can read for hours without straining your eyes. The adjustable SMARTlight function is also a great feature, allowing you to read in any lighting conditions, even in complete darkness.

The e-reader also supports 6 audio formats and a playback option via Bluetooth pairing. Thanks to Text-to-Speech technology, the device can read any text file aloud with a natural-sounding voice. So you can always choose to read the book or listen to its audio version.

For added peace of mind, the PocketBook Touch HD 3 has an inside-out water protection, ensuring the resistance to splashes and spills. Let go of worries and immerse yourself in your reading without hesitation. Thanks to the G-sensor for automatic screen rotation, the e-reader is designed to provide maximum comfort for both right and left-handed users, ensuring an enjoyable reading experience.

In conclusion, the PocketBook Touch HD 3 is a great e-reader for international travel. Its eye-friendly HD touchscreen, adjustable SMARTlight function, and support for a wide range of formats make it a great choice for book lovers who refuse to compromise on quality.

Kindle Paperwhite - International Travel Edition

If you're an avid reader and love traveling internationally, the Kindle Paperwhite - International Travel Edition is a must-have for you.

Pros

Lightweight and compact design, perfect for traveling
Long battery life, lasts for weeks on a single charge
Adjustable backlight for comfortable reading in any lighting conditions

Cons

Limited storage space, can only hold a few hundred books
No audio or text-to-speech feature
Higher price point compared to other e-readers

As someone who loves to read while traveling, I found the Kindle Paperwhite - International Travel Edition to be a game-changer. Its lightweight and compact design makes it easy to carry around in my bag, and the adjustable backlight allows me to read comfortably in any lighting conditions, whether it's on a plane or in a dimly lit hotel room.

The long battery life is also a huge plus - I never have to worry about running out of battery while I'm on the go. However, the limited storage space can be a downside for some, as it can only hold a few hundred books. Additionally, the lack of audio or text-to-speech feature may be a dealbreaker for those who enjoy listening to audiobooks or having their books read to them.

Overall, if you're a frequent traveler who loves to read, the Kindle Paperwhite - International Travel Edition is definitely worth the investment. Its portability, long battery life, and adjustable backlight make it the perfect companion for any international adventure.

PocketBook Era E-Reader

If you're in the market for an e-reader that's perfect for international travel, the PocketBook Era E-Reader is worth considering.

Pros

The glare-free screen makes reading even in bright sunlight possible.
The device is waterproof and IPX8 certified, making it great for beach or poolside reading.
The e-reader supports 23 popular formats, including 17 book, 4 graphic, and 2 comic formats, making it easy to read any file without conversion.

Cons

The G-sensor feature, which allows for autorotation, can be sluggish.
The bookshop is not very organized, making it difficult to find and download open source free books.
The audio playback feature is not seamless, requiring users to leave the book and enter the audiobooks section to pause or play audio.

The PocketBook Era E-Reader is a great option for those who love to read indoors and outdoors. The SMARTlight feature allows for adjustable brightness and color temperature, making it easy on the eyes no matter where you are. The device has a compact design and side control buttons, making it highly user-friendly for both right and left-handed readers.

The audio-book support feature is also a plus, allowing users to listen to audio-books via Bluetooth connected headphones or the built-in speaker. The Text-to-Speech function is also a great feature, allowing the device to read any text file aloud in one of 26 languages.

With 64 GB of storage, the PocketBook Era E-Reader offers enough capacity for your favorite books, making it great for long international trips. The device supports a variety of formats, making it easy to read any file without conversion. Overall, if you're looking for an e-reader that's user-friendly, waterproof, and perfect for international travel, the PocketBook Era E-Reader is a great option to consider.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing an e-reader for international travel, there are several factors to consider. Here are some features you should look for to help you make the best decision:

Screen Size and Resolution

The screen size and resolution are crucial when it comes to reading on an e-reader. A larger screen size will allow you to read comfortably, while a higher resolution will ensure that the text is clear and sharp. Look for an e-reader with a screen size of at least 6 inches and a resolution of 300 pixels per inch (PPI) or higher.

Weight and Portability

Since you'll be carrying your e-reader with you while traveling, it's important to consider its weight and portability. Look for a lightweight e-reader that's easy to carry around, and one that can fit in your bag or purse without taking up too much space.

Battery Life

Battery life is another essential factor to consider when choosing an e-reader for international travel. You don't want to be stuck with a dead device when you're in the middle of a long flight or train ride. Look for an e-reader with a long battery life that can last at least a few weeks on a single charge.

Connectivity

If you plan on downloading books or reading articles online while traveling, you'll need an e-reader with Wi-Fi or cellular connectivity. This will allow you to access the internet and download content from anywhere, without having to rely on a computer or other device.

Additional Features

Some e-readers come with additional features such as waterproofing, built-in lighting, and support for different file formats. Consider these features if they are important to you and your travel needs.

In summary, when choosing an e-reader for international travel, consider the screen size and resolution, weight and portability, battery life, connectivity, and additional features. By taking these factors into account, you can find an e-reader that meets your needs and enhances your travel experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated e-readers for travel?

The top-rated e-readers for travel are the Amazon Kindle Paperwhite, Kobo Clara HD, and Barnes & Noble Nook GlowLight Plus. These e-readers are lightweight, compact, and have long battery life, making them perfect for international travel.

Which e-reader has the longest battery life?

The Kobo Clara HD has the longest battery life, lasting up to six weeks on a single charge. The Amazon Kindle Paperwhite and Barnes & Noble Nook GlowLight Plus also have impressive battery life, lasting up to several weeks on a single charge.

What is the best e-reader for reading in sunlight?

The Amazon Kindle Paperwhite is the best e-reader for reading in sunlight. It has a glare-free display that reads like real paper, making it easy to read even in bright sunlight.

What are the main differences between e-readers and tablets?

The main differences between e-readers and tablets are that e-readers are designed specifically for reading e-books, while tablets are multifunctional devices that can be used for various purposes, including reading e-books. E-readers have e-ink displays that mimic the look of real paper, while tablets have LCD displays that can strain the eyes during prolonged reading.

Which e-reader is compatible with multiple file formats?

The Kobo Clara HD is compatible with multiple file formats, including EPUB, PDF, MOBI, and TXT. This makes it easy to read e-books from different sources on the same device.

What are some alternatives to the Kindle for international travel?

Some alternatives to the Kindle for international travel are the Kobo Clara HD, Barnes & Noble Nook GlowLight Plus, and the Onyx Boox Nova3 Color. These e-readers offer similar features to the Kindle, including long battery life and lightweight design, but with their own unique advantages.