The ideal system is continuously evolving, integrating new services and technology as it becomes available; here a few of the tools that I've used to cut costs while staying accessible on the road.
ULTRABOOK LAPTOPS
- Flash drive memory (one of the most generous in similar devices)
- Design: its ultra-thin design and light weight makes it a great fit for my backpack or messenger bag); oh yeah it also looks really good, with its brushed steel appearance!
- Screen: the impressive screen size
- Sound: it sounds great with its built-in Harmon Kardon speakers
- Battery life: up to 9 hours of use.
I've had mine for a while, but newer editions include touch-screens, higher capacities etc.
Pros and Cons of Ultrabooks
- Memory
PRO- ultrabooks typically feature flash drives (non-moving built-in storage that uses less battery and generates less heat.
CON - ultrabooks have typically less memory than desktops or other laptops.
WORKAROUND - Cloud computing has reduced the need for huge hard-drives on laptops and is also an effective feature-packed way to store your files. I use Dropbox as I can synchronize my files between all my devices including the desktop in the office, my tablet and my phones. - CD or DVD Drives
CON - very few ultrabooks include CD or DVD drives
WORKAROUND - Streaming music and movies have virtually replaced the need for CD and DVD drives and you can now find thumb drives of ginormous capacities to transfer files between devices. There are a few really good low-profile external CD/DVD burners that connect by USB.
TABLETS
I use an iPad Air with a SIM card because:- Design - I love the weight, size and form of this device. I used to have a mini, but I switched to the Air because the bigger screen is better for reading and movie watching and it is just slightly heavier than the mini
- iTunes - I like that I can sync my iTunes Library and have access to my music, movies, photos etc.
- Killer apps - the coolest and most versatile apps are made for iOS
- Airdrop - lets you wirelessly transfer photos and videos to other Apple devices (your or someone elses)
- SIM Card - I use T-Mobile which provides international coverage at no additional cost.
Tablets vs. Laptops
Many of my colleagues no longer travel with their laptops carrying only their tablets. It all depends on your usage; I find my laptop is better suited for my word-video-photo-editing and for writing longer emails etc. and my tablet is better for more recreational usages; gaming, listening to music , watching movies, Skyping etc.SMART PHONES
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| Typo 2 for iPhone 6 |
I use a T-Mobile iPhone 6 that I use with their international data plan. I was previously considering switching to a droid because T-Mobile's WIFI calling wasn't available on the iPhone until the iPhone 6 release. I wanted a iPhone 6 + but 1) it was too big and 2) the typo keyboard isn't available for it...yet.
T-Mobile is the Truth!
At the risk of sounding like a T-Mobile spokesperson, this is hands-down the best service for International travelers based in the US.For no additional charge T-Mobile decided to provide international data roaming in approximately 100 countries I'm often using Skype while roaming; Text is also included and making calls to the US (or receiving any calls) is 20 cents a minute while roaming in the countries included in their plan.For an additional $15 I also use T-Mobile's long distance program which includes calls to most of Europe and many other countries.
MY ESSENTIAL APPS/ PROGRAMS
- Skype - virtually everyone has an account and its a standard in the entertainment industry. Don't just speak to your peeps, see them too. I also use a virtual Skype number that lets people call you using a phone. For a few dollars more you can purchase Skype numbers in different countries. TIP: you can avoid cell roaming charges by forwarding your calls to a Skype number. Skype also works really well on 3G connections; I have it on my iPhone and use it to make and receive calls when traveling internationally. (see the T-Mobile info)
- Netflix - streaming movies and TV from hotel rooms is a sure way to kill time as CNN is the usually one of the only English channels on the hotel TV. Netflix only works in certain countries but you can work around this by using a Virtual Private Network (VPN).
- VUDU - I use the VUDU 2 GO App to download my movies and TV to my laptop, which comes in handy for the long haul international flights or in other areas where there is no or limited WIFI
- Flight Stats - check on flight delays, gate numbers etc.
- Airline APPS - I use these to store my itineraries, boarding passes, check on Frequent flier miles etc for all of the airlines I use frequently.
- Google Maps - essential tool for navigating cities and finding the nearest Starbucks
- Instagram - great way to share your trip and keep a visual journal
- Nook - I used to carry books, but now my entire library is digital; it saves space and now no book is left behind.
- Newstand - I subscribe to a few trade magazines including Billboard; I can save all the issues on my iPad and read them on the go; staying informed, current and entertained
- Games - Ruzzle, Chess, Un-block me are great at not only beating boredom while waiting at the gate or on the flight, but also helps to exercise the brain. My daughter Skyy is introducing me to new games all the time. TIP: start several games on Ruzzle prior to flights that have no WIFI since it depends on the internet. My
- Dropbox - provides instant access to my files whether on my laptop, iPad or any of my phones.
