If there’s one thing that modern travelers can’t live without, what would it be? Not their clothes, their maps, their guidebooks or their backpacks. No, it would be the gadgets and gizmos that they bring with them, anything from iPods to digital cameras and GPS trackers. Not all gadgets are necessarily expensive and easy-to-lose; some are cheap and useful on your travels.
Consider using these for your next international trip:
The hardworking multi-tool
Essential on any outdoorsy trip and even in indoor situations, a multi-tool is handy in a multitude of situations. The Swiss Army knife has blades, scissors, bottle and can openers, screwdrivers, tweezers, toothpick, nail file and hook, among other accessories. The Leatherman multi-tool also packs pliers in the mix, which you may find quite useful.
The illuminating flashlight
A flashlight is indispensable to your travels. Cree LED flashlights are the best choice – small, light, powerful and battery efficient.
The secure money clip
Leave the wallet at home. Bulky, flashy and a magnet for pickpockets, chunky wallets and fat purses are no help to the gadget traveler. Instead, use a money clip which is slimmer and more secure. You can keep your cash in the front instead of the back pocket, reducing the risk of falling prey to thieves. The Smart Money Clip can also hold your credit cards, and the Memorex Money Clip multitasks as a 1GB USB drive.
The handy adaptor and power strip
When you’re jumping continents and collecting border stamps like well, stamps, keeping track of which adaptor to use in which country can be a nightmare. Pack a universal international adaptor which will let you access power points all over the world, and a power strip with at least three outlets. Belkin makes a surge protector that also has two USB jacks that can be used to charge iPods or mobile phones.
The healing first aid kit
First aid kits are a must for travelers. Even though every traveler hopes for the best, it’s best to prepare for the worst. Travel first aid kits don’t just provide bandages, painkillers and anti-bacterial creams; they also supply you with useful-in-a-pinch items like safety pins, rubber gloves, sterilized wipes and tape.
The space-saving bags
The best way to save on space in suitcases and carry-ons is to pack your clothes in vacuum bags. Travel Space Bags sell a variety of sizes which can be used to reduce the volume of packed items and increase storage. Ziploc bags are also handy to keep things airtight and dry. It is advisable to put all liquids in a Ziploc to keep from spilling in your luggage or backpack.
The old-school pad and pen
A traveler’s best friend is usually his or her own thoughts while journeying around the world. To capture the moment, jot your epiphanies down in a classic Moleskine pad. These come with a band to hold the pages together so they don’t get creased while being carted around in your suitcase.
So along with the iPod, make sure you include these great gadgets on your next trip. You will be glad you did!