Backpackers make use of high-tech gadgets more than ever

More and more backpackers are packing high-tech gadgets, deeming them as essential items to take with them on their travels. High-tech gadgets such as smart phones and netbooks enable backpackers to stay in touch with friends and family whilst they are abroad. These items have now become very compact so they don't take up too much room in their rucksacks.

Backpackers can use their high-tech gadgets to access Wi-Fi at hostels, pubs and cafes all over the world, making it even easier for them to let their parents know they are safe. Access to the internet also ensures that backpackers can keep their travel blog up to date.

Smart phones now have lots of useful apps for backpackers. There are apps to book hostel rooms, find restaurants in the area and learn more about local tourist attractions. Lonely Planet has an app for their guide books, which is much more convenient than lugging a huge book around. High-tech gadgets also enable backpackers to carry several novels with them in electronic form, saving even more space.

Many backpackers use Facebook to keep in touch with friends and upload photographs of their travels. Twitter and online forums are great tools for backpackers to hook up with fellow travellers in different countries. One man actually used Twitter to fund his travels by calling on the kindness of strangers to help him travel around. He later wrote a book about his adventures called Twitchhiker.

There are many internet cafes all over the world, but having your own high-tech gadgets ensures that you can access the web whenever you want without having to queue up or deal with international keyboards, which can often be quite confusing and time consuming!

Backpackers should remember to check that their backpacker travel insurance includes cover for all their high-tech gadgets. Check the policy wording as sometimes mobile phones won't be covered and some gadgets are only covered up to a certain value.

If you are a backpacker abroad, keep your high-tech gadgets hidden when not in use and be discreet when you do use them. If you flash your fancy gear around you could become a target for thieves.

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