International tourism has been on the rise in recent years, with 2018’s international arrivals topping projected numbers at a whopping 1.4 billion, according to the World Tourism Organization.
While the global nature of business today is one reason for increased travel abroad, technology has arguably made the biggest contribution, as it has made planning and travel itself easier than ever before.
Here are a few ways technolgy has changed travel for the better:
1. Plan Your Trip
These days, all the information you need to plan your trip is in the palm of your hand, thanks to the internet and smartphones. With the click of a few buttons, you can easily book your flights, accommodations and rental car, as well as schedule tours and museum visits in the time it would’ve taken to wait on hold to book an airline ticket over the phone 25 years ago.
Not only are bookings easier, but you can also plan out which restaurants, shops, hiking trails and parks you want to visit with a quick search of blog posts, online travel articles and review sites like Yelp and TripAdvisor.
Prefer the classic, old-school travel books? Even those have gotten a tech update. Instead of lugging around a bulky Frommer’s guide, you can download a digital version to your smartphone or tablet with an e-reader app like Kindle or Apple’s Books.
Many travel guide publishers also offer mobile apps for even easier on-the-go access, complete with city guides, neighborhood highlights, interactive maps and local reviews of the top places to check out during your stay.
2. Pack Your Bags
The latest trends in luggage is designed with every traveler in mind. Whether you’re an overpacker, a minimalist or a frequent traveler, there is a roller suitcase, duffle or backpack for you. Today’s luggage is engineered for your needs, and most of it is lightweight enough to allow you to make the most of every use while also being strong enough to stand up to those cobblestone streets abroad and rough airport baggage handlers.
Technology hasn’t only changed your luggage; it has changed what we pack inside of it, too. Ease of access to accurate weather forecasts at your destination makes it easier to be prepared. Additionally, accessories like compression packing cubes not only simplify the packing process by making it easier to fit everything you need, but they also make it easier to live out of a suitcase during your trip. So sort your essentials into various cubes so you can quickly see and grab what you need without having to dig through your entire bag.
3. Bring the Right Gear
It has never been easier to find the best gear for your needs. Going somewhere cold? Ultralight packable parkas in technical fabric make it easy to roll up your coat into your carry-on. Is rain in the forecast? Then grab a compact umbrella and light rain jacket to stay dry without having to skip any of your planned adventures. Finally, bring along clothing made of wrinkle-free materials so you can spend more time seeing the sights and less time getting ready.
Thanks to Technology, Planning Your Travels Has Never Been Easier
Technology has changed travel in many ways, but above all it has made it easier than ever to explore the world and broaden your perspective. So what are you waiting for? Book your next adventure and get packing.