What The Tech: tech travel gadgets

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The summer travel season is here! And if you’re planning a vacation in the next few months, plan your vacation now to make sure you have everything you need for your tech devices.

Are you staying in an Airbnb, hotel or apartment on your next trip? While they may offer the comforts of home, they often lack technological amenities.

Here’s how to make sure you’re well-prepared for your technology needs:
Power outlets are never where you need them, so packing a portable hub or power strip is a game changer. Consider an Anker power strip that offers 6 AC outlets, 2 standard USB ports, and a USB-C port for quickly charging phones, tablets, and laptops.

If you’re cruising, remember that all cruise ships prohibit the use of power strips with surge protectors. Anker and several other companies offer power strips, especially for cruise cabins.

These are a necessity because cabins typically offer few outlets.

Portable power strips are a great option, providing multiple outlets and USB ports in one form factor
compact size.

Although hotels and rental companies offer Wi-Fi, having your own Wi-Fi router is a smart move for greater security. By connecting a router, you create a private network, protecting your devices from potential hackers on shared networks.

Hackers who know what they are doing can steal stored passwords by taking over your Wi-Fi network.

Security experts even warn that hackers can manipulate Wi-Fi routers and intercept keystrokes days or weeks after leaving the property.

You’ll also need to check with your Airbnb host to see if you can use your own router.

Some people forbid you from disconnecting your WiFi router because it controls the security cameras.

Travel routers are compact and affordable. You can also repurpose an old router. Alternatively, consider a hotspot from your mobile operator or use your phone’s hotspot feature to access the internet.

If you have an older phone that you no longer use, you can add it to your cellular plan and use it as a dedicated hotspot for your family.

Regardless of where you stay, always use a VPN for an extra layer of security. Wi-Fi networks in hotels and rental companies are typically less secure than Wi-Fi in coffee shops, so a VPN is essential to protect your sensitive data.

With these technical travel tips, your next trip will be smooth and safe.

Safe travels