Essential Tech Gear for the Globe-Trotting Traveler
When you’re a digital nomad, you’re carrying everything you need in your backpack at all times. And if you travel around the world only occasionally, having certain items packed in advance can make your journey stress-free. For both, these include tech accessories and gadgets to keep you connected, empowered, and ready to take on any challenge.
Still not sure what to pack on a trip around the world? Let’s take a look at the essentials!
Fully Powered Gadgets: Portable Charger
Traveling around the world means you will often be stuck in transit or have to seek charging points in coffee shops on the way to the hotel. Unfortunately, not all locations have a free socket for you to plug in the charger.
That’s where a portable charger steps in. This powerful unit can charge several gadgets at once, depending on the capacity you pick. So, when you are in the middle of the road or stuck in the local coffee bar waiting for hotel check-in, you can plug your smartphone, headphones, and tablet into the power bank and charge them. Before purchasing, make sure it has multiple ports and can support several gadgets at once.
Reliable Mobile Connection: eSIM
Throughout the journey, you will cross borders and change destinations. In the past, this meant arriving at the airport or bus station and buying a new SIM card every time. Your SIM card slot became worn out from all the usage, and you had to spend extra to find a good plan for the limited time you’re in the country. Thankfully, the mobile connection industry has evolved, and you no longer have to do that.
Let’s put it this way: if you want to visit the Tower of Pisa and the Colosseum yet remain connected, all you need is an eSIM for Italy. With an eSIM, you don’t have to change SIM cards physically, and your mobile plan will be activated as soon as you land. Once you depart for your next adventure, you can change your plan to fit another destination. There will be no roaming charges or inconvenience in transit.
Working On The Go: Laptop or Tablet
Depending on the goal of your trip, you might be resting every day or working the usual hours. Additionally, you might pack your laptop to watch movies or play games to entertain yourself. A laptop for travelers has to be lightweight, suitable for your backpack, and capable of different operations without lagging.
Those who are worried about ruining their laptop in transit can grab a less expensive option, such as a tablet. It might not be as comfortable for work without an additional portable keyboard and mouse, but it’s perfect for leisurely activities like watching movies and series, listening to music, and even hosting video calls with friends and family.
Staying Charged Anywhere: Travel Adapter
Traveling around the globe? Then you must know that there are more than ten different socket types across various countries. And if you want to be able to charge your gadgets, you should be prepared with a dedicated travel adaptor. These combine several socket types in one, and sometimes include additional USB ports for charging your devices. So, you will be able to plug in your laptop, smartphone, earphones, and more, depending on the adapter you choose.
Instant Sensory Break: Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Whether you plan to work during travel or not, noise-cancelling headphones are a must. Not only can they completely drown out the noise when you’re on a business call and need to focus, but they can also help you get a sensory break during transit. Moreover, some hotels and districts can be pretty loud, especially at night. So, pop in your earphones and fall asleep like a baby, regardless of where you are.
Tracking Your Items: Luggage Tag
Over the past several years, there has been a record of lost luggage and canceled flights due to various emergencies. If you’re travelling with more than a backpack, mishandled luggage can become a real bother. Once you hang a tag there, however, you can easily track where your bags are, even when your airline doesn’t have that capability. There are several options you can choose from based on the type of your phone, and your bags will never be lost again.
Safe Public Connection: VPN
Not all mobile connections are capable of withstanding hours of international usage. Additionally, it’s less likely that you will purchase unlimited data for your mobile since you are constantly on the move. In such cases, utilizing the nearest Wi-Fi hotspot is your best bet. There are free Wi-Fi hotspots travelers can find in many places, such as coffee shops, restaurants, and malls.
However, by connecting to a public network, you might be spilling sensitive information and sharing it with local bad actors without knowing. Then, they might get access to your social media accounts, personal files, and even bank accounts.
To avoid that, you can install a VPN service. If you’re wondering what a VPN is, it’s the kind of software that encrypts your connection with any network, meaning that everything you send and receive is just a jumble of code to unauthorized users.
Prepared for International Travel
Doesn’t matter what the goal of your travel is — a lifelong digital nomad journey or a one-month trip — the tech you take with you will make or break it. The guide above details the essentials, from eSIMs to travel adaptors, for a stress-free trip.
