Travel Alarm Clock: A familiar alarm in a different room

Make sure a separate clock has a job

This is useful for a traveller who wants a familiar alarm or prefers to keep a phone away from the bed. Someone content with phone alarms may not want another item in the case. Their usual waking routine is the best starting point.

Read what the batteries actually do

Normal battery operation and battery backup are different. A bedside clock may use cells only to retain settings when mains power is interrupted. For use without a socket, confirm that the clock and alarm run on the stated batteries, and find out whether they are included.

Common replaceable cells can be convenient on a longer stay. Rechargeable clocks need a way to top them up. Follow the relevant transport and manufacturer instructions when carrying spare batteries.

Choose controls they can use half asleep

A folding cover or dependable off switch can prevent an alarm sounding in packed luggage. Find out how the time is set, the alarm is turned off and the display is illuminated. A temporary backlight may be preferable to an always-bright display.

• Analogue: consider ticking, visible hands and the precision of the alarm setting.

• Digital: look for clear 12/24-hour options and straightforward buttons.

• Alarm: a suitable volume matters more than a heavy-sleeper label.

Set the time on arrival

A simple clock can need manual adjustment to local time. Radio-controlled versions depend on a supported regional signal, so automatic time-zone changes should not be assumed. Test the alarm before an important early start.

If the complaint is light in the room, a sleep mask may be the more useful present.