I Won't Leave Home Without....

My favourite gadgets that are essential to my travel experience, in no particular order: Please note I paid for and use all products mentioned. I endorse them without any compensation ... which is kinda the story of my life: Opinions For Free! 1. IPad:

It's important to me that I download photos daily to ensure I have the irreplaceable image files on a device and on the cloud. Like most, I need devices and internet connectivity for accessing and organizing travel/health documents, communication, books, music, podcasts, entertainment, research, travel booking, email, social media, navigation, access to my financial and medical information, etc. As a solo traveller, making regular check-ins are vital for our loved ones' peace of mind. I'm old and my eyesight isn't what it used to be. I hate using my phone for internet or photo editing because the screen is too small. I need a bigger screen and buttons but I don't want to carry my laptop when travelling. If I'm overseas and using public transportation, I don't want the extra weight nor the worry. I have an Ipad mini which works to give me a big enough screen yet it tucks safely into my day bag and adds very little weight to my carry-load. I have a folding portable Bluetooth keyboard that I will use when doing a lot of typing.

2. Skyroam Solis HotSpot

Roaming charges are extravagant for Canadians and, until recently, using foreign SIM cards was next to impossible. When I was leading student groups on international trips, I needed a consistent internet connection, but I couldn't justify the cost and hassle of adding that service onto my plan for a couple of weeks each school year. I discovered Skyroam. It's a pay-as-you-go mobile hotspot, cheaper than my mobile provider that multiple devices can use simultaneously. The 3G original served me incredibly well for many years. I easily upgraded to the 4G. Anywhere in the world there is a cellphone signal, this device will connect and create a hotspot. I plan on adding a cell signal booster antenna to Wanda sometime in the next year.

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