The Ultimate Guide to the Best Travel Printer Scanner for 2025

In an increasingly mobile world, the "office" is no longer a fixed location. Whether you are a digital nomad working from a café in Bali or a corporate executive closing deals in a London hotel, the need for physical documentation remains. However, carrying a bulky office machine isn't an option.

Picture: Canon

The solution? A high-performance travel printer scanner. In 2025, technology has advanced to the point where you can fit a professional-grade all-in-one printer in your backpack. This guide explores the top-rated portable printers and scanners that will keep you productive on the move.

Why You Need a Travel Printer Scanner in 2025

Even in a digital-first era, some tasks require physical output or high-resolution digitization. Business travelers often need to:

Print and sign contracts on the spot.
Scan and upload receipts for expense reports.
Digitize ID cards and travel documents for security.
Hand over physical brochures or flyers to clients.

Top 3 Portable All-in-One Printers (Print, Scan, & Copy)

If you need a single device that does it all, these "All-in-One" (AIO) units are the gold standard for mobile professionals.

1. HP OfficeJet 250: The Professional's Choice

The HP OfficeJet 250 remains the top-rated travel printer scanner for 2025. It is a rare "true" AIO that offers printing, scanning, and copying in a compact frame.

Key Features: 10-page automatic document feeder (ADF), rechargeable battery, and a 2.2-inch color touchscreen.
Best For: Business travelers who need high-quality inkjet color prints and the ability to scan multi-page documents.

2. Canon PIXMA TR150 (with Scan via App)

While technically a print-only device, the Canon PIXMA TR150 is often paired with the Canon PRINT app to function as a "virtual" scanner. It is lighter than the HP and offers stunning photo quality.

Pros: Incredible portability, USB charging, and sharp text.
Cons: No built-in hardware scanner; relies on your smartphone’s camera.

3. Epson WorkForce WF-110

This is one of the smallest inkjet printers on the market. While it lacks a built-in scanner bed, its footprint is so small that many travelers pair it with a dedicated wand scanner (see below) to create a modular travel office.

Best Standalone Mobile Scanners for Fast Digitization

If you already have a compact printer or only need to go paperless, a dedicated mobile document scanner is more efficient and provides better resolution than a smartphone app.

Brother DSmobile DS-940DW

The Brother DS-940DW is a powerhouse for digital nomads. It features a unique "U-turn" path, meaning the paper comes out the top rather than the back—perfect for scanning on cramped airplane trays.

Specs: 16 pages per minute (ppm), wireless connectivity, and an internal battery.
Use Case: Ideal for scanning long contracts or stacks of receipts.

Epson RapidReceipt RR-70W

For those focused on bookkeeping, the Epson RapidReceipt RR-70W is the best travel scanner for receipts. It includes smart accounting software that automatically extracts data from your scanned receipts and integrates with QuickBooks or Excel.

The Rise of Inkless Thermal Travel Printers

For ultra-light travelers, thermal printers are a game-changer. These devices use heat-sensitive paper instead of ink or toner, making them virtually maintenance-free.

Phomemo M08F & Brother PocketJet 8

These "stick" printers are incredibly thin. They don't have built-in scanners, but their ability to slide into a laptop sleeve makes them a favorite for field workers.

Note: You must use specific thermal paper, which is slightly more expensive and feels different than standard A4 paper.

Key Factors to Consider When Buying a Travel Printer Scanner

Before clicking "buy," evaluate these four critical criteria:

1. Size vs. Functionality

Do you need a single unit (like the HP OfficeJet 250) or a modular setup (a small printer + a separate wand scanner)? AIO units are convenient but heavier. Modular setups can be lighter but require managing two devices.

2. Battery Life and Power Options

Look for a battery-powered printer that supports USB-C charging. This allows you to charge your printer using the same power bank you use for your laptop or phone.

3. Connectivity (Wi-Fi vs. Bluetooth)

In a hotel with "splash page" Wi-Fi, connecting a printer can be a nightmare. Look for devices that support Wi-Fi Direct or Bluetooth, which allow your phone or laptop to connect directly to the printer without a router.

4. Running Costs

Inkjet cartridges are expensive and can leak in high-altitude cargo holds. Thermal printers have no ink but require special paper. Consider how often you print to determine which technology is more cost-effective for your travel style.

Expert Tips for Using Portable Office Gear Abroad

Avoid Clogs: If using an inkjet travel printer, run a test page once a week to prevent the print heads from drying out.
Storage: Always store your printer in a padded case. The scan beds and paper trays are more fragile than laptop screens.
Paper Supply: In many countries, A4 is the standard size, while the US uses Letter (8.5" x 11"). Ensure your printer settings are adjusted to the local paper size to avoid jams.

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

For the Corporate Road Warrior: The HP OfficeJet 250 is the only real choice for a high-quality, all-in-one experience.
For the Budget Digital Nomad: Pair the Canon PIXMA TR150 with the Brother DS-640 scanner for a versatile, lightweight duo.
For the Minimalist: A Phomemo M08F thermal printer and your smartphone's camera for scanning is the lightest possible kit.

Investing in a high-quality travel printer scanner is an investment in your professional freedom. With the right gear, the world truly becomes your office.

OLDER POSTS