Traveling can be both exciting and challenging, especially when it comes to staying connected, capturing memories, and navigating unfamiliar places. Fortunately, advancements in technology have given rise to a plethora of gadgets that can significantly enhance the travel experience. In this blog post, we’ll explore 10 ingenious gadget hacks that every smart traveler should know. These hacks will not only make your journey more convenient but also help you make the most out of your travel gadgets.

1. Portable Power Banks: Your Lifesavers on the Go Running out of battery during your travels is a nightmare. Invest in a high-capacity portable power bank to keep your devices charged throughout the day. Opt for power banks with multiple USB ports to share the juice with fellow travelers.

2. Smartphone Photography: Lens Attachments and Stabilizers Turn your smartphone into a photography powerhouse with clip-on lens attachments. Wide-angle, macro, and fisheye lenses can add a new dimension to your travel photos. Additionally, consider using a smartphone stabilizer to capture smooth and professional-looking videos.

3. Noise-Canceling Headphones: Peace Amidst Chaos Long flights and noisy environments can be exhausting. Invest in noise-canceling headphones to enjoy your favorite music, movies, or podcasts without distractions. Some models even have a built-in translator, making communication in foreign countries a breeze.

4. Multi-USB Travel Adapters: Charge All Your Devices at Once Carrying multiple chargers for different devices can be cumbersome. A multi-USB travel adapter allows you to charge all your gadgets simultaneously, eliminating the hassle of finding multiple power outlets.

5. Digital Luggage Scale: Avoid Excess Baggage Fees Save yourself from unexpected fees by weighing your luggage before heading to the airport. Compact digital luggage scales are portable and easy to use, ensuring your bags meet the airline’s weight restrictions.

6. Offline Maps and Translation Apps: Navigate with Ease Stay on track even without an internet connection by downloading offline maps and translation apps. These tools can help you find your way and communicate effectively in foreign languages, making your travel experience smoother.

7. Smart Locks: Secure Your Belongings Keep your belongings safe and secure with smart locks. These compact and innovative gadgets allow you to lock your luggage, hostel locker, or even hotel room using your smartphone, providing peace of mind while you explore.

8. Waterproof Phone Cases: Protect Your Device Whether you’re relaxing on the beach or exploring waterfalls, a waterproof phone case is a must-have. Safeguard your smartphone from water damage and capture stunning underwater moments without worrying about your device getting ruined.

9. Portable Wi-Fi Hotspots: Stay Connected Anywhere Stay connected on the go with portable Wi-Fi hotspots. These devices provide a secure internet connection, allowing you to use maps, check emails, and upload photos without relying on public Wi-Fi networks, which may not always be safe.

10. E-Readers: Carry Your Library Everywhere For avid readers, carrying multiple books can be impractical. Invest in an e-reader to enjoy your favorite novels, travel guides, and magazines on a single device. E-readers are lightweight, compact, and offer long battery life, making them perfect companions for travelers.

Incorporating these gadget hacks into your travel routine can transform your journey into a seamless and enjoyable experience. Embrace the power of technology to capture memories, stay connected, and navigate unfamiliar places with confidence. By investing in these innovative gadgets, you can focus on immersing yourself in the wonders of the world without worrying about the challenges that often come with travel. Happy travels!

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Are you a tech-savvy traveler looking to stay ahead of the curve with the latest iPhone? Upgrading to a new model can be an exciting experience, but what do you do with your old iPhone? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of trading in your iPhone for a new one, ensuring you make a smooth transition while getting the most value from your old device.

• Evaluate Your Current iPhone: The first step in the trade-in process is to assess the condition of your current iPhone. Note any physical damage, check for functional issues, and ensure you’ve removed any personal data. Devices in better condition typically yield higher trade-in values.
• Data Backup: Before trading in your iPhone, back up your data to iCloud or your computer. This ensures you don’t lose important photos, contacts, or documents during the transition to your new device.
• Choose the Right Time: Apple typically releases new iPhone models in September each year. Consider waiting until after the latest release to get the best trade-in value for your old iPhone.
• Compare Trade-In Options: Research different trade-in options, including Apple’s official trade-in program, carrier trade-in programs, and third-party trade-in services. Compare offers and terms to determine which option suits you best.
• Prepare Your iPhone for Trade-In: Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for resetting your iPhone to factory settings. Remove your SIM card, sign out of iCloud and iTunes, and erase all content and settings.
• Gather Necessary Documents: Collect any required documents, such as proof of purchase, warranty information, or the original box and accessories. Having these items can enhance your trade-in value.
• Securely Dispose of Your Old iPhone: If your iPhone isn’t eligible for trade-in, consider recycling it responsibly. Many electronic retailers offer recycling programs to dispose of old devices safely.
• Selecting Your New iPhone: Once you’ve arranged your trade-in, choose your new iPhone model. Consider factors like storage capacity, camera capabilities, and any specific features that align with your travel and tech needs.
• Activate Your New iPhone: Follow the activation instructions for your new iPhone. Restore your data from your backup to ensure a seamless transition.

Trading in your old iPhone for a new one is a smart move for tech-savvy travelers who want to stay up-to-date with the latest innovations. You’ll not only enjoy a smoother transition but also maximize the value of your old device.

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Most of us are familiar with SIM cards: a small, physical card that is inserted into our phones and ties your phone to a specific carrier. A SIM card gives your phone a verifiable identifier to phone carrier networks. In order to avoid outrageous roaming fees when you traveled, you’d switch out your SIM card for a local one and save some money.

Apple has hinted at getting rid of physical SIM cards in their phones for a while, and as of September 2022 they’ve done it with their new iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro release. This is the biggest difference between the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14. What does this mean for you and your future travels?

Why did Apple switch to eSim only?

SIM cards have gone through a couple of iterations. The current micro-SIM we have in our phones now used to be a larger, full-sized SIM card with more plastic around it. Micro-SIMs cut out the extra plastic and the next logical step was the eSIM because in a digital world, we don’t need a physical SIM card to connect a phone to a network or carrier. A lot of new phones can use eSIMs anyway, beginning with the iPhone 11, and most Android phones are already eSIM-compatible as well. Moving away from a physical SIM card in the phone opens up some physical space inside the phone and makes way for extra components, a bigger battery, a bigger screen, and any other way to optimize and make phones sleeker.

How do you get an eSIM?

Let’s say you’re signing up to a new phone service (AT&T, Mint Mobile, Verizon, take your pick)… most of the major carriers offer an eSIM version of their service, meaning you sign up online or in store, take a picture of a QR code from your new phone, and you’ll begin setting up your new eSIM card.

Is setting up an eSIM complicated? How do you set up an eSIM?

Despite the convenience of not having a physical SIM card, setting up an eSIM can get a little tricky. The process isn’t always intuitive if you’re doing it on your own and can be confusing. If you trade in your old iPhone for an iPhone 14 or iPhone 14 Pro, your eSIM will come already set up to use in the United States.

But if you’re an international traveler and setting up an eSIM to avoid international roaming fees, you’ll look to use a service like Airalo, for example. You’ll purchase the eSIM, which will come with data loaded, for the location to which you’re traveling. Make sure you follow set-up instructions carefully, as it’s possibly to mess up and nullify the eSIM. If that happens, you’ll have to purchase a new one and start over in the set up process.

Get caught up on how to use and set up eSIMs now!

If you’re planning to upgrade your iPhone and you have an iPhone 14 bought in the U.S. and you travel overseas, remember you won’t be able to insert a physical SIM card into your phone (physical SIMs are still prevalent around the world), so don’t go to a local shop asking for one without specifying that you can only use an eSIM. You can also find a service online and complete the process on your own. Look here for some information on how to use eSIMs for help.

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USB Data Blocker

You should never use public USB charging ports without a USB data blocker! Most USB ports in public places are USB 3 or 3.1, which have 4 pins. Two others are for data transfer – in and out. When you plug your phone into an airplane, monitor, or in any other USB port in the airport or a public space, you don’t know what kind of information transfer is taking place between your phone and the airplane or airport software you’re connected to. The way around this problem is to travel with a USB adapter that blocks data transfer pins in USB ports. You can find these for about $15 by doing a simple search for a USB data blocker. Using a USB wall charger will help you avoid this problem altogether, and help you charge your phone  faster anyway.

USB Wireless Antenna

Sometimes it can be a challenge to find and maintain a strong wireless internet connection while you’re traveling, and especially when you’re in the airport or at a hotel. A simple and portable way to fix this problem and make sure you stay connected is by bringing a USB wireless antenna.  A USB wireless antenna can put out more power than the wireless adapter in your laptop.

Retractable Lock

I’ve mentioned, but it’s worth mentioning again: a retractable lock is an effective way to secure your laptop and multiple bags/items while traveling. You can lace a retractable lock through your bag’s zippers, and even directly to the laptop itself.

Apple AirTags

On the topic of security, Apple AirTags are a great way to keep track of your belongings while on the road. Place an AirTag in your luggage for example and keep track of your bags on your way to your next destination. Likewise, you can throw one into your daily bag in case you lose track of your bag in that busy café. Finally, you can put one In your rental car as you go on that road trip… just in case!

AirFly Pro

The AirFly Pro isn’t a necessity, but more of a convenience. The gadget is a wireless headphone adapter that allows you to use wireless headphones/earbuds in places where you can’t use Bluetooth, and where there is only a headphone jack available. You can use the AirFly Pro to watch in-flight movies without having to use pesky wired earphones or use earphones provided by the airline. You can also use the AirFly Pro to connect your phone to your car’s stereo if you would normally have to use an AUX cord.

Plan and Pay Reasonable Prices for Your Gadgets

These are just a few gadgets that make travel easier, but before you hit “buy now” make sure you shop around. There are several USB data blockers, USB wireless antennas, and retractable locks to choose from, so find the best one for you and your needs. You can usually find refurbished tech gadgets at lower prices that still provide optimal performance. And if the AirFly Pro sounds useful, make sure you have a pair of wireless earbuds to use with it!

Post written by Tech Guide staff.

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Since PayPal went public in 2002, several services have emerged to give it a run for its money (no pun intended). While PayPal has long been trusted as arguably best or most secure way to send and receive money, more and more people are leaning toward options that allow them to avoid PayPal fees and send money for free. PayPal charges a 3% transaction fee when sending or receiving money for personal purposes internationally, and you can’t use PayPal to send payments to and from some countries, including India.

PayPal recommends using Xoom, a PayPal service, to send money internationally to the countries that PayPal does not operate in. That being said, Xoom is riddled with fees, and users complained of less-than-favorable exchange rates.

Wise

One of the best ways to transfer money when you’re traveling abroad  may be Wise (formerly known as TransferWise). Launched in 2011, Wise does what the previously mentioned services do not and allows international transfers for a fee that is lower compared to its competitors, as well as favorable exchange rates across currencies. This means you do not need a U.S. bank account, and any local bank account will do the job. With that, you will be sending the money in your local currency, and the recipient will receive the payment in their own currency. Transfers are usually not instant, and take a couple of days to get to the recipient, usually due to bank transfer delays and procedures.

OFX

OFX is another good option for international money transfers, with low fees and not-bad exchange rates. Like with Wise, bank-to-bank transfers conducted through OFX can be on the slower side, and unlike Wise OFX accepts a minimum transfer amount of $1000 USD.

Venmo

Launched in 2009, Venmo is a mobile payment app (owned by PayPal) that has no hidden fees or extra charges. The catch with Venmo is that you can only link U.S. phone numbers and bank accounts to the app, meaning it doesn’t work internationally.

Zelle

Unlike Venmo or PayPal, Zelle is backed by banks—including Bank of America, BB&T, Capital One, JPMorgan Chase, PNC Bank, U.S. Bank and Wells Fargo. Launched in 2017, Zelle is built into each of the banks’ mobile apps, making it easy to use and leaving it as secure as the banks are. That being said, money transfers are subject to amount limitations set by the banks, and Zelle accounts must be tied to a U.S. bank account. Zelle transfers are only available to U.S. residents, or U.S. bank accounts.

CashApp 

CashApp was released in 2013 and is available in the U.S. and U.K. and only requires a working bank account (in either of those countries) to work, and the service only works within the country in which you live.

There are several options for money transfers depending on where you are, what you want to do, and how much money you need to receive or send. If money transfers don’t seem like your thing, it wouldn’t hurt to look into the best travel banks so that you can avoid those pesky fees or make up some of the money you spend on random travel fees by getting the best credit card for travel perks.

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FaucetSafe app, available for iOS and Android, is a worldwide guide on where you can and can’t drink the local tap water, that is updated in real-time. Whether or not the local water is potable is one of the most common questions travelers have but a lot of the information online is either inaccurate or out of date. I developed FaucetSafe to be a travel guide in your pocket, that can give you current information on water potability around the world.

      

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DroneMate is an app I created that shows you the international rules for flying a drone in every country in the world. Available for iOS and Android, the DroneMate map is updated regularly from official sources, to make sure the information is as current and accurate as possible. DroneMate also includes U.S. state laws as well as the specific rules for various tourist sites around the world so you fly your drone without breaking any rules.

      

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WiFox is a map of airport wifi and lounge passwords from around the world that’s updated in real-time with information verified from other travelers, pilots, and reliable sources. WiFox is available for iOS on the App Store, Android devices on Google Play, and Amazon.

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Reader Steve C recently asked me on foXnoMad:

“How could Bitcoin be used during international travel? Is there any benefit? What type and how much risk might there be?”

Those are interesting questions about the digital currency a lot of people are talking about right now. There is a lot of confusion around Bitcoin and what it is exactly, so let’s start by clearing that up first, then looking at how travelers may (or not) be able to use it.

What Is Bitcoin?

Bitcoin is a digital currency whose value is derived from the fact that a growing number of people use it online. Like paper money, Bitcoin doesn’t have any intrinsic worth but is valuable because a lot of people use it. Bitcoin are created by computers after solving highly complex math problems – a process taking a lot of processing power – so your any-old-laptop isn’t going to cut it. Plus there are a lot of computing groups around the world pooling their resources which makes “mining” any appreciable amount of Bitcoin unpractical for most people. The simplest way to obtain Bitcoin for the masses is through purchases using standard money (e.g. dollars) on sites like Mt. Gox or Bitstamp.

How Much Is A Bitcoin Worth?

Bitcoin markets are very volatile and can swing several hundred dollars in hours. You can see just how active the Bitcoin market is by watching its rate versus other currencies in real time. It’s important to remember if you’re looking to trade Bitcoin for profit against another currency to know what you’re getting in to. Setting aside trading on the Bitcoin markets for the moment, if you simply want to use the digital currency for what it is and shop online, there are some options.

Get Set Up First

In order to use Bitcoin, you need a digital wallet. There are two ways to go about this, either create a wallet on your own computer or use a cloud service. Bitcoin wallets need protection jut like physical money wallets which is why for most people I recommend using a cloud service, akin to storing funds in a bank rather than under your mattress. Although a cloud service Bitcoin wallet like Blockchain is no guarantee of security it places the burden of protection on a company with theoretically better resources that you.

• Create Your Own Wallet – In case the cloud options above still don’t sit completely well with you, setting up your own Bitcoin wallet is free and simple. Those of you going this route should brush up on securing your Bitcoin wallet however.

Where Can I Spend Bitcoin?

Now that you’ve got a wallet which hopefully has some Bitcoin in it, there are a growing number of places where you can spend it. Bitcoin Magazine has a regularly updated list that also includes a travel section. You’ll notice there are hardly any major retailers but I suspect that will change as Bitcoin’s value stabilizes and governments figure out how to regulate it. Countries are well on their way to taxing Bitcoin, making other forms of involvement likely not to be too far behind.

Can I Use Bitcoin As A Traveler Right Now?

Technically yes, just not in a lot of places. Given that Bitcoin doesn’t have a physical incarnation (well, mostly) limits your transactions to a select set of online stores and services. Bitcoin’s value is also unstable, so investing any money in Bitcoin is risky as the worth could drop quickly. Think about the currencies around the world airports almost always convert to and from – dollars, Euros, British pound – because banks can reasonably be confident of their worth.

Bitcoin doesn’t have any security right now in terms of valuation and its appeal for many is that its difficult to trace. Unless you’re interested in moving large amounts of cash under a government’s taxing eyes or living in limited cyberspace during your next vacation, Bitcoin probably isn’t going to do you much good. Yet. As people, markets, and regulators begin to take Bitcoin seriously, there’s a good chance it might be a new widely accepted currency sometime in the near future.

I hope I’ve been able to clear up some of your traveling questions about Bitcoin and how it might be useful on your next trip. The topic of Bitcoin is a bit complex (to put it lightly) and I haven’t covered nearly everything – but I’m happy to answer any other questions you may have in the comments below.

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Traveling exposes you to new sounds and sights but some days the only thing you want to do is stay in your hotel and watch the latest episode of The Walking Dead. That’s not always easy though since regional regulations and Internet censorship can all prevent you from watching your favorite TV shows. There are however multiple ways to get access to your favorite programs, no matter where in the world you may happen to be traveling.

Get On The Right Digital Soil

Many TV shows are streamed on legitimate sites like Hulu and Netflix, however due to a complex patchwork of international distribution laws, access to them is generally restricted to inside the United States. (They’re usually available in western European countries as well, albeit with new shows often delayed by months.) Using software like Hotspot Shield, you can make it seem to such sites that your computer is in America (or other country you specify) plus enjoy these benefits of traveling with a VPN.

• Download Shows Directly From iTunes – Most non-premium networks typically upload new episodes within 24 hours for $0.99-2.99 each.
• Stream From Sites You Already Have Subscriptions To – Watch movies and TV shows from services like Netflix, Amazon Instant Video, and Hulu Plus by getting access to US-based websites using the aforementioned Hotspot Shield.
• Set Your Proxy By Country And Website – The free Firefox plugin FoxyProxy lets you do just that so only specific websites of your choice connect over a regional proxy. Here’s how to use it.
• Watch Music Videos And Official Show Clips By Automatically Unblocking Video Sites – ProxMate (Firefox/Chrome) seamlessly unblocks video that’s behind any regional block on YouTube, MTV, Discovery Channel, Pandora, and others.

The Walking (and Talking!) Dead fans can also use Hotspot Shield to keep up with current episodes within 30 days after they air live on U.S. television directly through AMC’s website.

The Exceptionally Brief Guide To Using BitTorrent

BitTorrent is basically a file downloading technology that distributes a file among all of those sharing it. You download chunks of a given file out of sequence – meaning you get any part of the total file that’s available, rather than having to get each minute of a movie in order, for example. (Uploading files also works this way too – as soon as a file chuck is downloaded, you’re redistributing it to the host of people who’re downloading the same file you are.) There’s more to it than I’ve got room for here but essentially you’ll need to download a BitTorrent client.

uTorrent (Windows/Mac) and Transmission (Mac) are two good, free options. Then head over to a torrent search engine. Although there are several, you likely won’t have to go beyond The Pirate Bay or isoHunt. Search for your TV show, avoid the ad link bait, and open with the BitTorrent client you downloaded. Then, you wait. Torrent download times vary, but if you’re curious, here’s a calculator that can give you an idea how long your show will take, given your bandwidth plus a few other factors.

Obviously you don’t want to break international laws to keep up with Game Of Thrones and remember that various countries have stiff penalties for downloading and distributing media illegally. Take heed of who’s listening to your online communications and protect your privacy against invasive governments before crossing international borders.

A version of this article originally appeared on foXnoMad.com.

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