With the rise of technology, even our travel habits have changed. Most travelers today will acknowledge that devices such as their smartphones are just as important as their passports. Smartphones and tablets enable globetrotters to access an enhanced experience while traveling mainly due to apps which help them call caps, interpret languages and choose the best local restaurants.
But access to the latest and most innovative apps isn’t the only thing globetrotters need to do this summer to use technology to their advantage. Whether you’re a novice or seasoned traveler, 8 tech tips can boost your experience this summer.
Carry devices sturdy enough for any occasion
For those who are planning to travel this summer, one of the most important tech tips relates to the durability of your devices. Whether you’re planning a trip to picturesque mountain resorts, exotic island locations or a road trip with friends, you’ll want to ensure that your gadgets are well equipped for any destination. Thankfully, many gadgets offer protective features such as the waterproof and dust-resistant Sony Xperia Z2 which topped CNET’s list of best water-resistant smartphones. But what if your phone isn’t an Xperia Z2 or even a Samsung Galaxy S4 Active?
Protective cases for smartphones
Having your phone damaged during your travels is a globetrotter’s worse nightmare. For this reason, protective cases are a vital aspect of any gadget owner’s shopping lists. Recently, companies have become even more innovative in their attempts to provide cases that are both protective features and a sleek design. But with such an extensive array of choices, it may be difficult for some travelers to choose the ideal smartphone case. Before you make a purchase, look for the following features often found in the top-rated protective cases:
- Shock and water-resistance
- Cases with in-built charging capabilities
- Cases that do not interfere with your phone’s functionality
- Sleek design due to reduced bulkiness
- Multiple color options
Easily navigate foreign cities via Uber travel app
Though apps are a relatively recent phenomenon, most travelers today will acknowledge that it’s hard to think of a life without travel apps. These apps enable users to perform an array of tasks that would otherwise be time-consuming and difficult. Uber, one of the best travel apps, radically improves your experience while on the go through its innovative taxi service.
Uber provides users with easy access to cabs and luxury vehicles in more than 100 cities and 38 countries worldwide. The service is making headways due to its innovative approach to the cab business and was recently named one of the fastest growing companies in the world.
Once you send a request for a driver, the app responds with a text to notify you that the driver is on his way. You’ll also be sent information regarding the taxi’s arrival time and track the driver progress on a the app’s map. Uber charges your credit card so you won’t need to worry about making payments via cash.
Talk to locals with help from the best translation apps
Another important aspect of travelling relates to your ability to communicate with others. Since most travelers are not polyglots, they’ll need a personal translator to carry along with them. Why not carry that translator in your pocket via an app?
Google Translate is one of the best translation apps due to its extensive features and language compatibility. It enables users to speak, write or type queries and offers translation is 80 languages. It also enables users to save their favorite phrases and access dictionary features.
Apps like Word Lens are also great alternatives for those who want to interpret signs, menus and other forms of printed text without writing a query. Through the use of your smartphone camera, Word Lens translates words. Another aspect of the app is the fact that it works without an Internet connection.
Purchase travel adapters
Access to your gadgets and electronics is vital for any traveler but this access could be jeopardized if you forget to purchase travel adapters. Since different wall sockets are used in American than places like Europe, you’ll need to purchase appropriate adapters. While planning my trip to Sweden a few years ago, one of my first purchases was an appropriate travel adapter. Determine which adapter is best suited for your needs by doing your research. It’ll save you a lot of trouble in the long-term.
Have a battery backup plan
Are you planning your trip without a battery backup plan? If that’s the case, you’d better think again. Adding more juice to your gadgets isn’t as hard as you might think. It’s possibly way cheaper than you imagine as well. Firstly, stock up on USD/ micro-USB cables. This is one of the most convenient means of charging smartphones and other devices.
There’s also the option of purchasing battery packs. For instance, battery pack cases from Mophie double the battery life of your device without adding much bulk. Other options like the high-performance Juno Jumpr increase the juice in your tablet or smartphone and even jumpstarts car batteries.
XE Currency App
Spending money in a foreign country can be very tricky, especially when you aren’t so good with mathematical calculations. Apps like XE Currency enable globetrotters to quickly access exchange rates throughout the world. Since the app can be used in offline mode, travelers won’t need to worry about an Internet connection to access features such as exchange rates and each historical rates for each currency. With this app, you’ll be able to navigate foreign cities and enjoy your travels without suffering from financial woes.
Sign-up for an international plan with your carrier
The fact that most travelers bring their smart devices with them on their journeys highlights the importance of staying connected. However, many overlook the option of using their domestic carrier’s international plan to stay in touch with family and friends. Companies like AT&T offer plans which enable travelers to access a bundle of minutes depending on their needs. However, this may be a pricey option so be very selective when choosing your international plan. Determine how much talk time you need and verify if purchasing a SIM card from a carrier in the country you plan to visit is the most viable option.
Make the most out of your travels by taking advantage of the many benefits that technology has to offer. Start you travel plans by ensuring that you purchase protective cases, battery packs and travel adapters. Also download apps like Uber, Google Translate and XE Currency App since they’ll enable you to more easily navigate unfamiliar cities, communicate and spend money while on your adventure.
Top 8 Tech Tips for Globetrotters this Summer
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