Travel Essentials For The Digital Media Pro In You

You’re on the internets — writing for yourself or someone else — but on every trip, you’re recreating what to take with you. Then you end up forgetting something along the way and you’re stuck in the back corner fighting for a spot in the room’s only AC outlet.

Here’s my packing list for my next trip:

Technology:

• Cell phone — I have a Motorola Droid Razr Maxx. Great battery life, the ability to share my internet connection with other devices and a solid cell network. The most important part is the battery life. If you don’t have it, you need a supplement.
• Laptop — I use a 13″ MacBook Pro though I honestly could have gone with any number of options here. The important thing is that it is fairly lightweight, compact, has good battery life and has a great keyboard.
• Tablet/Lapdock — Depending on what I need, I’ll either use my iPad or I use a lapdock that my phone can use. Two devices may be overkill but the point of the tablet lapdock is to aid in browsing or light usage without taxing your cell phone or laptop.
• Dual-port USB charger — That way I can charge both my cell phone and tablet using only one outlet.
• Hands-free set — I prefer wired because I don’t have to charge it. But, if you have a bluetooth headset, go for it.
• Nice laptop bag — I use an Engineers Bag that I absolutely love. It is very compact (it just fits my laptop, tablet and accessories).

That’s it. Other than the addition of a tablet/lapdock, I keep it simple with things that are guaranteed to work, compact and serve multiple purposes.

Other creature comforts:

• Pen/paper — I know, we’re digital. I just listed off a litany of technology. But I always end up using it, either for notes or just to help organize my thoughts easier.
• Comfortable shoes — I’m okay wearing sneakers but even if you can’t, you have to invest in good shoes that you can walk a few miles in.
• Comfortable clothes — Unless you are spending your time outside, you should be planning for temps between 66–72 inside of the hotels, airports, offices and conference centers that make up the typical trip. You don’t usually need shorts. Sleeves are good. Things that you don’t have to iron a ton are good.

What are the essentials that you take on a trip?