Technology

Since it’s important to me (and seemingly most people) to document my travels visually, I care deeply about the technology I bring along with me. I believe a lot in the abilities of a Canon Powershot above all other makes and models. And Nikon’s DSLR cameras are wonderful for the budding photography enthusiast as well as the long-time lover of the shutter button.

But make sure if you’re getting an SLR camera to budget for a high quality lens, or you’re not going to get the photos your camera body is capable of. UV filters are a must to keep your precious lens scratch and blemish-free.

To create high quality videos on The Nakavika Project, I’ll be using this Sanyo HD camcorder for creating Nomadderwhere videos as well as field correspondent footage for Trip on a Deal.

Saving images and travel writing when you didn’t bring a laptop (and even if you did) is very easy with a WD Passport, instead of worrying about CDs or something else. And I don’t care all that deeply about brands and memory on flash drives, but bringing one will be nothing but helpful. I’d probably use no more than 8GB for fear of becoming reliant and then possibly losing it (because that’s so darn easy to do).

And the big kahuna of all my technology, my Mac Book Pro. It’s a beaut, a high-quality laptop with creative capabilities out the wazoo. I’d recommend this model if the following things are important to you: video production with either iMovie or an amped up program like Final Cut Express or Pro, photo manipulation on a screen with amazing graphics (I’d recommend using Adobe’s Lightroom), integrating visuals into written pieces or other programs, easy transportation of the laptop, and much more. If you’d like a snazzy cover for your MBP, Alkr makes a very cool one for all your urban protection needs.

Apparel

Budget travelers save up for big things that they know will bring value to their lives: a big journey, a mountain trek, one nice hotel stay in between heaps of $2/night joints. We understand how to translate currency into value in a way that makes sense to us. We also find great merit in purchasing those quality items that will last through all the “once-in-a-lifetime” experiences. I’ll tell anyone to go for the cheapest option on housing or transportation, but I can’t say “just wear your old Keds” on a big trip. Wear Merrell Chameleon Arc Gore-Tex Trekking Shoes! I add good insoles, and my feet are never in pain, regardless of the activity. Throw on some Smart Wool Trekking Socks, and you’ll be fine for months.

And now my backpack…I don’t take this subject lightly. I also think a backpack should be an investment in quality. It doesn’t matter if you’re never going on any big treks with your pack, it needs to be good for weight distribution, have ventilation for the back, and be durable for the long haul. I bought my Deuter ACT Lite 40 + 10 Trekking Backpack while on a trip and put it to work immediately. I’ve yet to find a flaw in its design in three years. It’s 50 liters of space, which is more than enough for a long trip, and I’ve actually slept with this backpack more times than I could attempt counting. It’s comfortable and won’t piss you off, which is great for a solo traveler who might very likely get attached to his/her only steady companion. And while I’m on the topic of quality, polarized, high quality sunglasses will always fit your face, resist scratches, and make it very easy to see while at sea or anywhere really. I’ve loved my Ray-Ban RB 4068 Sunglasses since the dawn of time.

Logistics

If you’re going on a big trip, it probably means your adventurous. You may very well need traveler’s insurance as many programs and projects require you to have evacuation covered, in case of that dreaded emergency. I went through World Nomads, and it was pretty darn simple.