Technology makes the world seem smaller, but it’s actually still quite big, so travelling can still a pain.
Thankfully, tech is here to help again.
A lot of the hassle of travel melts away when you’ve got the right device in your pocket and know some of the tricks to keep you ahead of other travellers.
The prep
You can make your journey more comfortable before you even leave by loading your phone with the apps and information you need before you go.
Some phones are already prepped. The Huawei P20 Pro has a built-in translation app, for example. The app is powered by AI on the phone, so before you go download the right language and you can translate languages without needing to go online.
Not only does that mean short phrases like “How much is this?” can be translated, but you can also photograph signs and do on-the-fly translation.
Speaking of downloading info, you can also download maps to your phone so you don’t need to rely on network coverage when you’re overseas. This will save looking like a lost tourist.
Also remember to pack a portable battery pack and some headphones. You’ll be able to the use the latter everywhere; from on the plane to block out screaming kids, to relaxing on the beach. As for the portable battery, a smart device without juice is no use at all.
Roaming
Roaming can be an expensive exercise. Instead, try and make the most of local networks and local deals. This means buying a local SIM card from a telco in whichever country you’re travelling to. Stores are usually found near the arrivals area in the airport.
But what about your New Zealand SIM? Some phones have dual-SIM slots, so you can have two SIM cards in the same phone and switch between them in settings.
This feature is handy for travelling – even more so if you travel often to the same country. Always popping over the ditch? Then keep an Aussie SIM and a Kiwi SIM in your phone and just go back and forth between the two.
Use a third-party messaging app
Want to stay in touch? Use a messaging app like Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp.
Using it overseas is exactly the same experience as using it at home. Plus, you can use it to make voice or video calls – again with just data. The catch, of course, is that you can only call or message other users of the app.
Take a lightweight speaker
Have music with that breakfast on the balcony. Yes, you’ll have your phone but a compact, lightweight speaker is even better and it won’t add bulk to the backpack.
Keep your device alive
Remember that you’ll need to keep your phone charged for all of these tips to work. Good phones have a fast charge facility, this means a few minutes and you’ll have a charge that lasts hours.
If you’re travelling to a country with a different plug from New Zealand you’ll still need a travel adapter. However, instead of getting one for every device, or hoping there’s a USB plug, get a single adapter and take a small multi-board. It’s the easiest way to charge your phone, tablet and portable battery all at the same time.
It’s also a good idea to have a water resistant phone. The last thing you need is to have a wet phone ruin your trip.
Tourist snaps
Of course you’re going to want a good camera too and the best camera is still the one you always have on you: your phone. The worst thing is taking group shots and trying to get everyone in. Thankfully, intelligent phones like the Huawei P20 Pro, can compose the shot for you. The AI counts the number of people in the shot and adjusts the frame in or out to make the shot perfect.
This article was created for Huawei.
