In our technology-obsessed culture, there seems to be a new must-have gadget hitting the market every day. But which ones are actually worth your money, and how can you best use these tools to travel smarter? Reading these travel-and-tech blogs is a good way to find out. Here are six of the sites we’ve bookmarked:
1. Too Many Adapters: Started by tech geeks and travel lovers Dave Dean and Dustin Main, Too Many Adapters has gear reviews, staff picks and how to advice on everything from taking kickass travel photos with a GoPro to digital security when you’re on the road. The site also has a monthly news roundup that will keep you in the ever-changing travel and tech loop.
2. Engadget: While not solely dedicated to travel, Engadget provides in-depth reviews, recommendation roundups (such as the moment’s top wearables, a hot topic in travel), and feature news pieces. For those looking to amp up their picture-taking skills, their photography review section is worth checking out.
3. foXnoMad: Started by Anil Polat, a blogger and computer security engineer, the intricately capitalized foXnoMad aims to provide road warriors with “the tips, tricks, and tech you can use to travel smarter.” You can sort information by country or travel topic (like security or train), and even read Polat’s personal musings in the Travel Journal section. Those with a thirst for sustainable travel should check out the site’s Green section, with advice on a how to explore the world with tech in a more responsible fashion.
4. Gear Patrol: As the name states, this blog is highly focused on gear, although you’ll also get general travel guides as well as news and advice for both travelers and non-travelers. Many articles have an unconventional spin and aren’t just straight reviews (like the posts titled “Is The Smartpen Just A Dumb Digital Device? “and “Why Building A Smartphone Is Easier Than You Think.”)
5. The Wirecutter: This blog covers a wide array of interests including cameras, mobile extras, and beyond. Guides and reviews are regularly updated, meaning that even its archived content stays fresh. Its Best Travel Gear For Your Next Journey is a good place to start, though niche guides on topics like shooting better underwater photography are also helpful for those with more specific interests. Also, don’t forget to check out the sidebar, which highlights the latest hand-picked deals and news.
6. Treehugger: If you’re a responsible tech traveler, Treehugger is a great resource, with green-focused guides covering transportation, design, technology, science, living, business and energy. The blog is less focused on straight reviews, with more news, op-ed and features pieces instead. Some of its recent posts have included discussions about Google’s internet balloons and a 3D-printed bikini that can clean polluted water (now that’s a nice piece of multipurpose travel gear!).
Jessica Festa is the founder on the solo and offbeat travel blog, Jessie on a Journey, and the online responsible tourism and culture magazine, Epicure & Culture. She’s constantly searching for local experiences beyond the guidebook. You can follow her travels on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
