Essential Tools for a Global World

Traveling can be a pain if not prepared properly. I don't know about you but I am the type of person who likes to hop in a car or on a plane and go when I want - or when I have to. I prepare most of my trips quickly using Google Maps and local resources from the internet. I usually also get a phonecard in the country I go to, and obviously currency. It helps a lot to have a local bank account although moving money around can be a pain. Since hotels, motels, and hostels are offering services at all levels planning accommodation is not a real problem.

There is nothing worse than starving on the highway because you forgot to bring your favorite chocolate bar. In addition to some snacks I also bring a little bottle of water. Not only can it save me, sometimes it also saves my car, or my shirt.

Lately mobile technology has diffused into the consumer households accompanied by a significant price drop. But I never imagined how much fun it can be to liberate myself from internet lines and paper maps. GPS rules! I used to carry my laptop around with maps installed, and got those looks that you get when everybody around you reads a book and you are the only one with a computer. Not anymore. I invested in a PDA with Bluetooth and WLan, and achieved almost complete freedom.

The second piece of equipment is my phone which could almost replace the PDA. Most importantly it offers a GPRS connection and Bluetooth so I can go online when I need to with the PDA.

The third fun toy is a GPS receiver. Don't underestimate the value of such a device. I remember one night in southern New Jersey when I left the highway to find out where I was. I drove for miles and didn't even know the direction I was heading. In the end I was 30 miles off course. I have certainly learned to value my onboard, rather on-human electronics. They have become more important than a toothbrush.