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A Maze of Must-Have Gadgets Makes Packing for Travel a Hassle

Torri | Jun 29, 2010 |

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With our dependence on hi-tech gizmos at ridiculous levels, sorting out what to take for a holiday trip and what to leave behind at home has become a viable issue. It is clear that packing the entire arsenal is out of the question, if only due to its sheer size and weight that make traveling totally impractical. The other extreme, leaving everything behind, is equally untenable since we have grown so accustomed to relying on some gadgets that without their company and support, our vacation can become a painful travel back in time. To reconcile both ends of the spectrum, travelers have to consider striking a reasonable balance that reflects their needs and obsessions. Here is some advice on how to get there.

1) Put being practical before having fun

Most hi-tech devices cannot go a long way without being charged up or hooked up to other machines. To meet the first requirement, it is essential to compile a list of what is necessary to keep your greatest digital friends going. For example, a typical digital camera may not last longer than a few days of intense use, so securing its power supply is a top priority. This involves not only packing a suitable power adapter, preferably universal, but also a transformer for travel to countries with different socket configurations. A reasonable selection of cords and connectors is another basic category to think about before leaving.

2) Use a gadget to stay within the budget

They may weigh half a kilo extra or so, but some doodads can go a long way towards actually saving you money. One outstanding example is relying on Skype to make phone calls home as long as your laptop or smartphone is connected to the Internet. It can cost you and your relatives literally nothing to stay in touch, so find some room for a Skype-enabled device and keep your eyes open for wi-fi hotspots around the world. For local calls anywhere, it makes sense to pack an old, unlocked cellphone and buy a SIM card from an operator at your destination. Slip it in and you can enjoy bargain prices wherever you are located.

3) Give applications a go

Whether it is your smartphone, iPad or another gadget, spend some time researching what king of applications are available for its users that can potentially do you some good while on the go. There are fantastic mobile itinerary services, both for hand-held devices and laptops, websites with hotel ratings and tips or hospitality services that can help you land free accommodation and make local friends.

4) Keep you doodads nice and clean

Gadgets, except some special models, are delicate creatures and require care and attention. It is a good idea to invest in a waterproof sleeve if you plan to sunbathe on the beach with your tablet computer or graphics tablet. It is not a bad idea to look for a small travel bag that is designed to handle a laptop, a camera, a pen tablet and others that seem important travel companions.