Compact Remote Controls That Travel Well
The Logitech Harmony Companion stands out as the top pick for travelers who want to control multiple devices with one remote. Its hub-based design works with IR, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi, so it can handle hotel TVs and streaming sticks alike. The main drawback is that you must pack the hub, which adds bulk to your luggage.
Traveling often means juggling multiple remotes for the TV, streaming stick, and soundbar. A universal or compact remote can simplify your hotel room setup. But not all remotes are travel-friendly; some are too bulky or require a stable internet connection.
We looked at remotes that are small, lightweight, and work with the most common devices you might encounter on the road. From pocket-sized options to app-controlled hubs, here are the best remote controls for travel.
The top picks, ranked
Logitech Harmony Companion
The Harmony Companion is a universal remote that connects to a hub via RF, allowing you to control IR devices even if they are hidden. It works with Alexa and Google Assistant, and its activity-based setup lets you switch between watching TV and streaming with one button.
Pros
- Controls up to 8 devices
- Activity buttons simplify switching
- Hub ensures line-of-sight not needed
Cons
- Bulky for travel due to hub
- Setup requires a computer or smartphone
Roku Voice Remote Pro
This remote is a dedicated companion for Roku players and Roku TVs. It features a rechargeable battery, a headphone jack for private listening, and voice control. It can also control TV power and volume via IR or CEC, making it a great travel partner for Roku fans.
Pros
- Rechargeable battery lasts months
- Voice search and control
- Private listening via headphone jack
Cons
- Only works with Roku devices
- No universal device control beyond TV basics
Amazon Fire TV Stick Remote
The Alexa Voice Remote included with Fire TV Sticks is compact and works well for travel. It controls the Fire TV Stick and can manage TV power and volume via IR and CEC. Its small size makes it easy to pack, and you can use the Fire TV app as a backup.
Pros
- Very lightweight and small
- Alexa voice commands built in
- IR blaster for TV control
Cons
- Requires Fire TV device to function
- No headphone jack on older models
Sideclick Universal Remote Attachment
The Sideclick clips onto your existing remote, like a Roku or Fire TV remote, and adds dedicated TV control buttons. It learns IR codes from your TV and soundbar, so you can replace the hotel remote with one unit. It is lightweight and slip-on design makes it travel-friendly.
Pros
- Adds TV controls to any remote
- Clip-on design is secure
- Learns from existing remotes
Cons
- Only IR control
- May not fit all remote models
GE UltraPro Mini Remote
The GE UltraPro Mini Remote is a credit-card-sized IR remote that can control up to 4 devices. It is pre-programmed with codes from major brands and is easy to set up. Its slim profile fits into a wallet or pocket, making it an ultra-portable option.
Pros
- Extremely thin and portable
- Pre-programmed codes for quick setup
- Controls up to 4 devices
Cons
- Limited to line-of-sight IR
- No backlight or voice control
Sevenhugs Smart Remote
The Sevenhugs Smart Remote uses spatial awareness to automatically display controls for the device you are pointing at. It works with over 500,000 devices including smart home gadgets. While pricey, it is praised for its intuitive interface and long battery life.
Pros
- Contextual controls based on pointing
- Supports smart home devices
- Backlit touchscreen
Cons
- Expensive
- Requires initial setup with app
Broadlink RM4 Mini
The Broadlink RM4 Mini is a small IR blaster that turns your smartphone into a universal remote. It has a database of over 50,000 IR codes and works with Alexa and Google Assistant. Since you control everything via app, there is no separate remote to carry.
Pros
- No extra remote to pack
- Large IR code database
- Works with voice assistants
Cons
- Requires Wi-Fi and a power outlet
- Phone is your only remote
Compared at a glance
| # | Model | Connectivity | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Logitech Harmony Companion | Hub: RF, IR, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | Multi-device control with a hub | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Roku Voice Remote Pro | Wi-Fi Direct, IR | Roku streaming stick and TV control | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | Amazon Fire TV Stick Remote | Bluetooth, IR | Fire TV Stick users | 9.0 | Check price |
| 4 | Sideclick Universal Remote Attachment | IR learning | Adding TV control to your streaming remote | 8.8 | Check price |
| 5 | GE UltraPro Mini Remote | IR | Simple IR control in a small form | 8.6 | Check price |
| 6 | Sevenhugs Smart Remote | IR, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, RF | Contextual control of many devices | 8.4 | Check price |
| 7 | Broadlink RM4 Mini | Wi-Fi, IR | App-based control with no remote to pack | 8.2 | Check price |
How to choose
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a universal remote in a hotel room?
Yes, many universal remotes work with hotel TVs. If the remote uses IR, you just need to point it at the TV. However, some hotel TVs are locked down or use IR codes that are not in the remote’s database. Having a remote with learning capability can help, but it is not guaranteed.
Will a Roku remote work with any TV?
The Roku Voice Remote Pro can control TV power and volume via IR or CEC, but it only works with Roku players or Roku TVs. It will not control other devices like cable boxes or soundbars. For full universal control, you need a different remote.
What is the smallest travel remote?
The GE UltraPro Mini Remote is one of the smallest, being credit-card sized and very thin. It is designed for portability. Other compact options include the Sideclick attachment, which clips onto your existing remote, and the Amazon Fire TV Remote, which is lightweight.
Do travel remotes need Wi-Fi?
Not all. IR remotes like the GE UltraPro Mini do not need Wi-Fi. Bluetooth remotes like the Roku Voice Remote Pro connect directly to the streaming device. Some universal remotes with hubs, like the Harmony Companion, require Wi-Fi for setup and cloud services, but they can still operate via IR after setup.
Can I use my phone as a travel remote?
Yes, many devices have smartphone apps that act as remotes. The Broadlink RM4 Mini turns your phone into a universal remote via IR. Streaming sticks often have companion apps that control them over Wi-Fi. Using your phone eliminates the need to carry a separate remote, but you must have the app installed and the device connected.
How do I program a universal remote?
Most universal remotes come with a list of codes for different brands. You enter the code for your TV brand. Some remotes have an auto-search function that tries codes until one works. More advanced remotes like the Harmony use a smartphone app to set up activities and devices.
Are there remotes that work without line of sight?
Yes, remotes that use RF or Bluetooth do not require line of sight. The Harmony Companion uses RF to communicate with its hub, which then sends IR signals. The Roku Voice Remote Pro uses Wi-Fi Direct, so you can control the Roku even if it is behind a cabinet.
What should I do if my remote doesn’t work with the hotel TV?
First, try adjusting the IR emitter location. If that fails, you can use the hotel’s own remote. Many smartphones with IR blasters can be used with universal remote apps. Alternatively, you can bring a learning remote and teach it the hotel remote’s codes, but this is not always possible.
The verdict
For most travelers, the Logitech Harmony Companion is the best choice because it offers the most comprehensive control and can handle virtually any device you encounter. If you mainly stream with a Roku, the Roku Voice Remote Pro is more compact and just as effective. Budget travelers should consider the GE UltraPro Mini for its portability and simplicity, while tech enthusiasts might appreciate the Sevenhugs Smart Remote for its innovative interface. Choose the Harmony Companion for peace of mind, especially if you often find yourself in unfamiliar hotel rooms with multiple devices.
