The way people travel has changed significantly over the past decade or so. Whereas travelers used to lug around multiple bags full of everything they needed, suitcases now have dramatically downsized thanks to advances in technology. Here are a few must-have gadgets for every business traveler.
Airport Express Gives You Your Own Private Network
When you’re traveling, especially when you’re staying in a hotel, you’re often confined to the Ethernet cable jutting out from the wall. With Airport Express, those days are behind you. Simply plug the Ethernet cable into the outlet, and you’ve got your own private wireless network. If you need to, the Airport Express doubles as a wireless repeater, extending the signal of a Wi-Fi network that’s already available.
Although it’s made by Apple, don’t think that you must have a Macbook to use it – the Airport Express is fully compatible with both OSX and Windows. Airport Express is available now for $99.
Pre-Paid Smartphones Keep You Connected
If you’re traveling internationally, your regular smartphone will be useless with your current data plan. You should go with one of the prepaid smartphones from T-Mobile. With a prepaid smartphone, you get all of the benefits of owning a smartphone with none of the stress. If your prepaid phone is unlocked, simply pop a new SIM card in and you’re good to go. Even if you don’t go that route, your phone will be able to use Wi-Fi to access data. Coupled with the Airport Express, you shouldn’t run into any problems.
Universal Power Adapters
Regardless of if you’re traveling out of the country or not, every business traveler should own a universal power adapter. These will make sure that your electronics will be able to draw power, regardless of the power outlet. These inexpensive devices will set you back less than $15, and it never hurts to have as many as you think is necessary.
The Innergie PocketCell Keeps You Charged
Since you’re likely to be using gadgets nonstop while traveling, it only makes sense to have a backup battery. The Innergie PocketCell will keep your phone powered up all day. It even has enough juice to power a tablet halfway to a full charge. This device will set you back about $60, but to have a full charge when you need it is invaluable.
Powerbag Keeps You Going Strong
In an effort to keep the average business traveler connected and productive, Powerbag has developed a backpack that’s equipped with a built-in battery system that packs enough juice to charge your phone up to four times. Even better, it has padded laptop and tablet pockets, so the next time you travel you won’t have to worry about anything getting damaged. They also make briefcases and messenger bags. Be warned, however,
these aren’t cheap – the backpacks will run you back around $150, while the messenger bags will set you back anywhere from $50 to $75.
LifeProof Cases Keep Your Electronics Safe
Like a safe little security blanket for your electronics, the LifeProof smartphone and tablet case protects your tablet against bumps, shocks, rain, dirt, snow, and more. The case won’t block any of the device’s features. Rather than go with a separate screen protector, you’ll simply fold over a slip, so you won’t have to worry about the annoying airbubbles that come with putting on-screen protectors. While this isn’t a gadget, it protects your gadgets. And since you’re traveling all over the place, you’re going to need it.
Tablet Keyboards Eliminate the Need for Laptops
When the tablet came out, everyone laughed at it. Once it was released to the public, however, people didn’t laugh anymore. For a lot of people, the tablet completely replaced the laptop. To promote this further, many companies have released keyboards for tablets. These keyboards usually connect to the tablet via Bluetooth. They usually run between $70 and $100, so you should make sure it’s worth it to you before you invest the cash in it.
Chromecast Transports Your Device to the Big Screen
With Chromecast, you’re able to transport anything you have on your devices – regardless of if it’s a
smartphone, tablet, or computer – and transport it to your TV over a Wi-Fi connection. If you missed a football game, it’s not a problem – just use Airport Express to set up a Wi-Fi connection in your hotel room, pop the Chromecast in the TV, turn to ESPN, and watch the highlights. The best part about Chromecast is its price – it’s only $35.
Regardless of whether you’re traveling domestically or internationally, these gadgets are absolute must-haves and will make you feel more at home.
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Author : Emily Green
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