Editor’s note: Former computer security consultant Anil Polat has set a goal of traveling the world indefinitely, while blogging about his tech-fueled experiences at foxnomad.com. Given his on-the-go lifestyle, Polat has strong feelings about what to look for in digital tagalongs. Here’s what he recommends.
Ethernet cable: Many hotels have ethernet jacks that allow you to bypass all of the potential flakiness of so many wireless connections. Many airports (hint, hint: JFK) don’t advertise that they too have their fair share of jacks hiding around certain terminals, opening up the possibility of free Internet via wire. A handy little retractable ethernet cable could be just what you need.
Portable battery: Need to use a backup battery during the day? Have to recharge your phone when it’s out of juice? The i.Sound Portable Power Max can charge up to five USB devices at one time, even when you have no access to a plug.
USB drive: Keep all of your important digital documents and files in a separate USB drive (16GB should cover you) in case your laptop’s hard drive dies on the road. You should encrypt passport scans, client documents, and the like to protect yourself even further. On USB drives you can also carry around portable operating systems, which give you a safe virtual environment in many Internet cafés.
E-reader: You certainly don’t want to schlep around a bagful of books, which is why e-readers are such perfect traveling companions. These days I like the Nook Color.
Bluetooth headset: You’ll want to consider both sound quality and comfort when you’re selecting a headset. You probably already have one, but if not (or if you’re considering an upgrade), take a look at PCWorld’s comparison of eight top Bluetooth headset models.
USB travel charger adapter: Chances are, your laptop doesn’t have more than a few USB ports. These adapters let you plug in your USB-charged devices directly into a wall socket. Another benefit: faster charge times. One adapter from Eforcity (not shown), priced at about $2, is hard to beat.
Individual power adapters: Why do you need these if you already have an all-in-one adapter? Because sometimes you’ll need to plug in more than one device. Also, many wall sockets aren’t completely firm, and individual adapters are usually light enough to prevent your charger from continually falling out of the outlet. Lenmar’s five-piece adapter set (not shown) is just $11.
Unlocked mobile phone: Though unlocking a phone will typically break your manufacturer’s warranty, a locked phone means you’ll pay for roaming charges internationally. An unlocked phone allows you to swap out any old SIM card around the world, saving you considerable money for talking and browsing the Web anywhere.
Extra SD Card for your camera: SD Cards, like all other storage devices, have a limited life span, and like many electronic devices they tend to go bad at the worst possible time. An extra, emergency card will set you back about $10 to $20, but it could save you the nightmare of missing wonderful opportunities to catch, say, a sunset in Fiji.
Veteran globetrotter Anil Polat plans to visit every country on the planet. The author of the ebook The Ultimate Tech Guide for Travelers, he blogs about travel and technology.