Essential Travel Gadgets for the Modern Explorer

The Ultimate Travel Tech of the Year

Tablets for the Tech-Savvy Traveler

Motorola Xoom:

• Operating System: Google's Android
• Display: 10.1-inch screen
• Features: Rapid web page loading, Flash support, ideal for videoconferencing
• Availability: Motorola Xoom

Apple iPad 2:

• App Ecosystem: Over 65,000 apps, the largest for any tablet
• Features: GPS, translators, TV, games, magazines
• Popularity: Regarded as the king of tablet apps
• Availability: Apple iPad 2

Cameras That Capture Every Moment

Olympus Pen E-PL2:

• Type: Mirrorless camera
• Features: Professional-grade lens versatility, travel-friendly size, wireless image transfer with Penpal device
• Ideal For: Close-ups, low light photography
• Availability: Olympus Cameras

Nikon D3100:

• Type: Digital SLR
• Features: High-speed capture, Guide mode with shooting advice
• Ideal For: Safaris, sports events
• Availability: Nikon D3100

Casio EX-H20G:

• Resolution: 14.1 megapixels
• Features: Pocket-sized, geotagging, high-quality point-and-shoot
• Availability: Casio Cameras

Smartphones for Global Connectivity

BlackBerry Bold:

• Features: Easy email readability and response, world phone versions for major carriers
• Availability: BlackBerry Bold

Apple iPhone 4:

• Features: Global roaming with AT&T, enhanced stateside service with Verizon
• Availability: Apple iPhone 4

Motorola Atrix 4G:

• Processor: Dual-core
• Features: 4G capability, can be used as a computer with special accessories
• Availability: Motorola Atrix 4G

Audio Gadgets for Crystal-Clear Sound

Jawbone Era Bluetooth Headset:

• Technology: Military-grade noise-canceling
• Features: Clear conversations, interference-free speaker
• Availability: Jawbone Headsets

Mophie Juice Pack Air:

• Function: External battery for iPhones
• Features: Slim case, mobile charger
• Availability: Mophie Juice Pack Air

Able Planet Clear Harmony NC1100b:

• Type: Noise-canceling headphones
• Features: Superior sound quality
• Availability: Able Planet Headphones

V-Moda Vibrato Headphones:

• Features: Built-in microphone, excellent bass, midrange clarity
• Availability: V-Moda Headphones

Laptops and Accessories for the Digital Nomad

Apple MacBook Air:

• Size: 11-inch, over a half-inch thick
• Weight: 2.3 pounds
• Features: Full-size keyboard, quick start-up
• Availability: Apple MacBook Air

Microsoft Arc Touch Mouse:

• Design: Curvy when on, flat when off
• Availability: Microsoft Arc Touch Mouse

Reading and Navigation for the Avid Adventurer

Amazon Kindle E-reader:

• Features: Lightweight, affordable, glare-free screen
• Availability: Amazon Kindle

Magellan eXplorist 710:

• Type: Handheld GPS
• Features: Waterproof, topographical U.S. maps, worldwide road and city maps
• Ideal For: Hikers, bikers
• Availability: Magellan GPS

Eco-Friendly Transportation Options

Chevrolet Volt:

• Type: Electric car
• Range: 45 miles on battery power
• Rental Options: Available at Hertz and Enterprise, with hourly rentals via Enterprise Connect
• Availability: Chevrolet Volt

Noteworthy Mentions

While the aforementioned gadgets have garnered attention, there are emerging trends and statistics in travel technology that are worth noting:

• The global demand for travel apps is on the rise, with a projected market value of $1.7 billion by 2025, according to a report by Grand View Research.
• Noise-canceling technology is not just for headphones anymore; it's being integrated into travel accessories like neck pillows and eye masks to enhance comfort during flights.
• The use of renewable energy sources in travel gadgets, such as solar-powered chargers and battery packs, is gaining popularity among eco-conscious travelers.

These gadgets not only represent the pinnacle of travel technology but also reflect the evolving needs and preferences of today's travelers. Whether it's capturing the perfect shot, staying connected across continents, or simply enjoying the journey with ease and comfort, these devices are redefining the way we explore the world.