Updated 2026
Answer Capsule
Modern RTW travel means deciding whether you want to be fully connected or partially disconnected - there's no reasonable "completely offline" option anymore because you need internet for booking accommodations, handling money, and communication. Most travelers benefit from a decent smartphone, portable charger, and a solid plan for cheap local SIM cards or international data plans. Cameras have shifted dramatically with smartphone quality improving so much that dedicated cameras only make sense if you're seriously into photography. Bring less gear than you think; weight matters more than you realize after miles of walking.
The Smartphone Question
Your phone is your most important tool - maps, translation, accommodation bookings, money transfers, communication home. Get something reliable with good battery life and water resistance. iPhone or Android both work fine internationally. Don't bring the newest flagship model; bring something you're not panicked about dropping in a river.
Most travelers use local SIM cards in each country rather than international plans. SIM cards cost $3-15 and work immediately. You'll save substantially versus international roaming.
Chargers and Power Banks
You'll live on your phone's battery. A 20,000mAh power bank ($20-30) is essential. Solar chargers sound great but work slowly and unreliably. Bring one universal charger covering US, EU, UK, and Australian outlets ($10-15) - better than collecting outlet adapters. Many hostels have USB charging stations; use them while you're there.
Cameras
If you're not specifically interested in photography, your phone camera is sufficient. Modern iPhones and flagship Androids take genuinely good photos. If you do want a dedicated camera, mirrorless cameras (Sony a6400, Canon R50) offer better zoom and manual control than smartphones but weigh more and need lenses. Point-and-shoot cameras are largely obsolete now because phones beat them.
Most RTW travelers who bring cameras end up using their phones 80% of the time anyway.
Laptops and Tablets
If you're working remotely, you need a laptop. If not, a tablet or large-screen phone usually covers what you need (watching videos, reading, light work). Laptops are heavy, get stolen, require outlets, and generate heat in hot climates. Only bring one if you genuinely need it for work.
Headphones and Audio
Lightweight wireless earbuds are worth bringing (noise-canceling on flights is magical). Full headphones are heavier and bulkier. Download entertainment before you travel because internet speeds are unpredictable.
Other Gadgets
GoPro cameras, drones, e-readers, smart watches - honestly optional. Most RTW travelers use zero of these. If you're bringing electronics, think about weight and actual utility. Will you really use that GoPro when you could use your phone? You're carrying that extra weight for months.
What NOT to Do
Don't bring your newest, most expensive tech. Bring something you won't panic losing to theft or water damage. Don't pack devices you "might" use - weight adds up. Don't assume WiFi is fast or reliable; download everything important beforehand. Don't bring charging cables for every device; use one universal charger. Don't travel without a portable battery pack. Don't bring more gadgets than clothes.
The Bottom Line
Your smartphone is your primary device. Get a good portable charger and universal charger adapter. Use local SIM cards instead of international plans. Only bring a dedicated camera if photography is genuinely important to you. Leave behind anything you could live without for two months. Weight becomes exhausting; every ounce matters.