Mainstream smartphones have become so big that they’re less ideal for traveling. The bigger screens are perfect for scrolling social media or watching Netflix, but that doesn’t matter when exploring new places. I would choose a sub-6-inch compact phone, but I don’t have any good options, especially in the high-end segment. That’s one reason I opted for a clamshell foldable like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5, and it has served me well, especially while traveling.
Folding your phone in half reduces the footprint when needed. Every bit of space you save while traveling counts, and you can do that with a flip phone. This unique form factor unlocks a range of possibilities that a compact slab phone can’t match. And you can enjoy the traditional smartphone experience when you want. While using a clamshell foldable comes with its fair share of trade-offs, its versatility more than makes up for them.
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5 Unmatched pocketability
Compact enough to fit in your shirt pocket
The last thing I want in my pocket while traveling is a large slab phone that’s hard to take out and put back in. I struggle with this when wearing jeans or tight pants on an airplane. Clamshell foldables mitigate this hassle. When folded, my Galaxy Z Flip 5 shrinks to about half its size, allowing me to put it in my shirt pocket for quick and easy access during a flight. I don’t have to fumble to stash my phone away or worry about pickpockets.
Also, I can use my pant pockets for essential things while traveling, like my wallet, wireless earbuds, and room keys. Since I can fit my phone into the smallest pockets, my phone’s screen won’t be scratched by my keys while exploring a new city. The best part is that I can check my notifications and use Google Maps from its tiny cover screen. With a clamshell foldable, you don’t give up comfort or convenience when you bring your phone around because its pocketability is something no traditional phone can match.
4 Extra protection for the main display
Accidental drops are less likely to damage your phone’s inner display
You’re more likely to drop your phone accidentally while you’re on the move. Although that 9H-rated tempered glass screen protector may help, it doesn’t cover the edges of the display. A hit to the corner could shatter the screen. However, when you have a phone that folds, you have an extra layer of protection for the inner display. Even though you can’t install a tempered glass screen protector on the delicate folding screen, you don’t have to worry about dropping it when you take it out of your pocket.
The folding design also eliminates the chances of scratches and scuff marks on the inner screen from keys and coins when the phone is in your pocket. As a result, you’re less worried about damaging your phone when you’re traveling. The inner screen is fragile, but the folding design offers screen protection you don’t get with traditional smartphones, unless you buy a wallet-style case. If you damage the outer cover screen, you can replace it for around $100, which is less than replacing the main display.
3 Versatile photography and videography
The folding mechanism allows you to use your phone like a tripod
Folding phones don’t have the best camera hardware like traditional smartphones, but they make up for it with their versatile form. Their hinge design lets you position the phone at different angles without external tripods or stands. This makes it convenient to take pictures or film yourself while traveling without needing an extra hand. You can also fold open your phone partially onto a flat surface for stable night photography and unique long-exposure shots.
The best part is that you don’t have to use the mediocre secondary camera on the inner screen for selfies. You can use the primary camera for higher-quality selfies while using the cover screen as a viewfinder to frame your shots. When you want to video call your loved ones while in the hotel room, you can keep your phone partially open on a desk for a hands-free experience. Clamshell foldables may disappoint if image or video quality is a priority. However, you can get away without additional accessories if you prefer being creative with your shots.
2 Less distracting
You’re less likely to get sucked into doomscrolling
It’s easy to be distracted by social media. One Instagram DM is all it takes for many of us to scroll through Reels endlessly. That’s the last thing you want to do while traveling. In the two years of using my Galaxy Z Flip 5, I’ve realized that it’s less distracting than my iPhone, which is why I keep the latter at home when I head out. The cover screen serves as a barrier to unnecessary distractions.
When you get a message, you can quickly respond from the tiny outer display. However, the cover screen isn’t bearable for doomscrolling. You must unfold your phone and open the app to scroll through social media. Unfolding your phone becomes a deliberate choice instead of an automatic reaction, which promotes mindful usage, which is essential when you’re on vacation.
1 Split-screen multitasking works better
The taller screen gives more vertical space for apps
Clamshell foldables feel cramped compared to mainstream smartphones with a standard 16:9 aspect ratio, but they’re ideal for split-screen use. When you split the screen to run two apps simultaneously, both have ample vertical space. The extra width on traditional smartphones matters less when you enter split-screen mode. While traveling, you’re more likely to use multiple apps at once. For instance, you may want to check reservations while using Google Maps to navigate.
Plus, split-screen multitasking feels more natural on a screen that folds in half, thanks to a clear, visible crease that separates the top and bottom halves. I usually fold it half open and watch a YouTube video on the top half while replying to WhatsApp messages on the other. Juggling multiple activities while traveling, like replying to urgent emails, checking your itinerary, or tracking expenses in the notes app, is more convenient with a clamshell foldable like the Galaxy Z Flip 6 or Motorola Razr+.
The unique form factor shows its strengths while traveling
Traveling often comes with compromises, but you can minimize some trade-offs with the right smartphone. Clamshell foldables may not be perfect for media consumption like traditional slab phones, but why would you need your phone for entertainment when you’re on vacation? Portability, protection, and camera versatility matter more while traveling, and clamshell foldables check all the right boxes. While you don’t get the best cameras or the most durable phone, a clamshell foldable can reshape your next trip with its practicality. The only thing you may need to consider is its battery life, but that’s when a power bank comes in handy.
