Planning a luxury getaway in 2021? You’re not alone, as after a turbulent 2020, we could all do with a little rest, relaxation and a real mental break from the stresses and strains of life.
From lavish five-star beach resorts to glamping in the Serengeti, whatever type of holiday floats your boat, it’s time to start planning. And although the state of travel restrictions remains unknown for the early part of the new year, from summer onwards, you might just be jetting off.
Of course, no luxury holiday is complete without all of the latest tech to help you get the most out of it. If you’ve ever kicked yourself in the past over a missed opportunity to snap that action shot on safari or failing to bring an underwater camera to capture the wonders of a tropical reef, then the chances are that you have since elevated this important packing category to the top of your list. From tablets to binoculars, dongles to MacBook Pros, there are numerous items you’ll want to bring with you to ensure that you’re never caught short.
Tech doesn’t just help you to get the most out of those special moments, but helps to enhance the overall experience, too. So, we’ve rounded up the top tech picks to pack for your luxury 2021 getaway, leaving no stone unturned.
The basics
Before you get over-excited and go to town on the latest gadgets you’ll be taking with you on the trip, it’s important to make sure you have the right luggage to carry it in. Some tech items can be pricey, and ensuring that they are suitably packed and well protected is vital to ensuring they arrive with you at your destination intact.
Firstly, you’ll want to invest in a large suitcase – designer, of course – to carry your main packing in, but when it comes to the more expensive items, it’s safer to take them with you on board the plane. Packing your camera, tablet and the like in your carry-on will mean that these items stay with you at all times, keeping them safe from potential damage or theft.
Depending on your travelling style, you may wish to opt for a backpack rather than a wheeled bag – but before you go getting visions of hostels and shared vans, hear us out. Backpacks are a much more versatile choice and a great option if you’re planning on moving between destinations.
According to the experts at Gearorigin, that’s not the only benefit, as many of them come with clever features such as small pockets and various compartments that make organising and packing your tech more convenient.
The tech essentials
A mirrorless camera
Perhaps the most important tech item that should be finding its way into your hand luggage is a high-quality camera to capture those unforgettable moments with. Be prepared to part with some serious cash here, because when it comes to the best cameras on the block, you definitely get what you pay for.
Our recommendation? Opt for a mirrorless, which is smaller and more lightweight than a DSLR, but doesn’t compromise on image quality. It’s the perfect pick to carry with you wherever you go, it won’t weigh you down and it promises some breath-taking shots of your trip.
Portable Wi-Fi hotspot
Offering global connectivity, a portable Wi-Fi hotspot, such as the Skyroam Solis, offers 4G LTE wireless internet wherever you are, even in the usual black spots. Fast and dependable, it comes with day-pass or monthly options and will allow you to stay fully connected during your luxury getaway, even if you’re on safari or hiking in the middle of nowhere.
Whether it’s Zooming the family back home or patching into an important board meeting you just can’t miss, this little pocket rocket has got you covered.
Wireless Bluetooth headphones
Gone are the days when we had to spend an hour untangling our earphones and grumbling with frustration while we did so before we could listen to our favourite tunes, as a pair of wireless Bluetooth headphones will make connecting to your playlist easier than ever.
Simply ensure they’re charged and they will see you through just about every eventuality. A great choice for solo travellers, or for a day spent relaxing on the beach, they’re also essential for blocking out any unwanted noise on the plane. Check out Even 3H and Beats by Dr Dre for some of the best and most stylish options.
A Go-Pro
Heading off on an adventure? Or perhaps you’re planning on spending your days exploring the underwater world, in between bouts of soaking up some rays on the beach, of course. Either way, one essential item for your hand luggage in a Go-Pro, which is the ultimate action camera and is excellent at capturing those turtle and manta ray sightings on the reefs, too.
If you’re heading to the likes of Mexico, Hawaii or the Maldives, then this is one bit of kit you’ll regret not packing, and if you’re going somewhere else for a spot of rock climbing, skiing or zip-lining, or any other active pursuit, for that matter, then consider it an essential.
A fitness wearable
From Apple Watches to Garmins, if you’re heading off on an active getaway then kitting yourself out with the latest wearable tech will allow you to track your hikes, cycles and runs with ease, as well as keeping on top of any important messages and phone calls, hands free.
The best models will allow you to monitor your progress and record your personal bests, while some even offer GPS capabilities, which could come in handy if you’re heading off into the wilderness or find yourself a little lost.
