We live in a digital world. This applies whether you’re staying put, or on the move. Getting the best from your technology while traveling is often a simple matter of choosing the right digital setup. What this means, in practice, is keeping things as simple as possible, so that you can stay organized even when you have other things on your mind – like which train you’re catching, or when you’re supposed to be checking into your hotel.
Essential Devices to Take on Every Trip
Most travelers will take at least one digital device with them, everywhere they go. Your mobile phone can be an indispensable source of information when you’re stuck in an awkward situation. But it’s often a poor source of entertainment, and you’ll struggle to do work on it.
A good laptop, or a tablet computer with an attached keyboard, might be a great addition to your backpack. Depending on your needs, you might not need a very expensive one.
Power Solutions: Chargers, Power Banks, and Adapters
Of course, if you don’t have any power for your digital devices, you’ll struggle to get any use out of them. Make sure that you have the relevant chargers, and adapters to suit the sockets of whatever part of the world you’re visiting.
A large power bank can be great if the built-in battery on your device isn’t cutting it. However, larger battery packs might not be allowed aboard a plane. Most airlines will set a limit of around 100 Watt-hours.
Offline Tools for When You’re Off the Grid
You might not be able to guarantee that you can access the internet at any point on your journey. Making certain tools available offline, like maps, hotel confirmations, and boarding passes, might save you a lot of trouble.
Data Backup and Cloud Storage Tips
During your travels, you’ll be exposed to more risk. What if your devices are lost, stolen, or damaged? If you haven’t backed up your data, it will be lost. As such, it’s always a good idea to regularly do so. You might use an online, cloud-based storage platform to keep essential files safe.
Keeping Your Digital Life Secure Abroad
If you want to prevent malicious actors from prying into your personal files, and intercepting your payment details and other sensitive data, then you’ll need to take encryption seriously.
Look for a free email account that’s protected by things like end-to-end encryption and two-factor authentication. Make sure that your VPN is reputable, and based in a country with strong privacy laws.
Emergency Apps and Connectivity Essentials
Finally, there are a few apps worth looking at. Third-party weather and clock apps are often a great help, as are navigation apps like Waze, and airline-checking apps like CheckMyTrip. Don’t be afraid to experiment, and to see which apps might really make a difference to your experience.