Pack, Pack, Pack It Up!

By Courtney S. Ries

You *heart* technology. You think technology is the best thing since sliced bread. Technology and the road go together like corn-row braids and Mexico, and here's why:

Organize your life on the road: Technology helps you organize your life while you're away from home. Overseas banking? Easy-peasy. Have to fill out a job or school application? No worries. Hiking in the desert and you want to assure that you won't get lost? Piece of cake. With high-tech gadgets like computers, PDAs and GPS systems, these are things you won't have to worry about again.

More versatility for what life throws your way: Stuck in Rome for another night and you need to find a hotel? Simply call from your mobile phone before you hoof it across town. Technology can help you adapt - and keep your cool.

Creature comforts: A cell phone keeps you in touch with your family and friends. A translator lets you order off a menu. Technology makes life a little easier, and more enjoyable.

Modern traveler: The more technology you have, the better. You are part of the cutting edge, the epitome of the 'wave of the future' - the modern traveler.

Streamline life with travel: Advancements make life and travel more compatible - you can take part in conference calls, check in with your house sitter, etc. The bottom line? You get to spend more time on the road and less time in the office.

Teach others: If you are heading to a developing country, bring along your laptop or other electronic gadget and provide locals with an opportunity to learn more about technology.

Clearer memories: Chances are, your digital point-and-shoot is going to give you waaay better quality pics than that old fuzzy film camera. A video camera will remind you of things you forgot. A type-written journal will be easier to decipher than your back-of-receipt scribbles.

Emergency use: Who knows when you might need a mobile phone, or a GPS system. These toys aren't always just for fun and games.

With justifications like this, how could you possibly leave any gadget at home?

Article added on March 01, 2005

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