A travel dial was a wrist-worn teleportation device used for travel on the planet Marinus, being very similar to a teleport bracelet.
History[]
Considering that the First Doctor was familiar with the travel dial but not with the planet, it must have been used on other planets as well. The Doctor referred to the technology as an acceptable method of travel.
The wearer merely had to twist the dial in order to effect instantaneous travel to the pre-programmed destination. Though compact, the dials could contain dozens of pre-programmed locations.
Arbitan gave one each to the First Doctor, Susan, Ian Chesterton and Barbara Wright in order to make it easier for them to find the keys to the Conscience of Marinus. (TV: The Keys of Marinus)
The Voord on Kandalinga had brought two travel dials with them. The Voord leader placed one on himself and the other on the Doctor so that he would take him to his spaceship. (PROSE: The Fishmen of Kandalinga)