We bring out our travel expertise to talk about what we love, and what we can’t live without. From the digital nomad to the backpacker, and everyone in between, we share what works for us to help you find the best travel technology and amenities for your next trip.
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What we pack
Below is a list of what each member of the Pack Hacker team in Detroit carries on a daily basis and on tour. We’re all in the Apple ecosystem, so we’ve removed the following obsolete devices: MacBooks, AirPods, and iPhones.
Each person satisfies a different archetype. For more information on their individual uploads, watch the full video.
Lauren: Conditional Packer
I choose my gear based on what I bring with me for that specific trip. If I don’t bring my Apple Watch, I don’t bring some chargers. If my trip isn’t a certain length, I don’t bring certain chargers. I leave basic charging technology in my tech bag and add/remove as needed.
Eric: Pragmatist
I don’t care about new bells and whistles. Tech used to make big leaps between models (think iPhone 7 to X or 3GS to 4). Now, the changes are small spaces. Instead of upgrading all the time and wasting money, I wait for multiple upgrades (many small slots) to make the big jump. I went from an iPhone 6 to an iPhone 11, from a 2012 Macbook to a new Windows 11 PC, and I’m still using a Fuji X-T3 (2018).
Jacob: The Strategist
I am a technology enthusiast who always does extensive research on every piece of technology I own or am considering purchasing. It is important that I ensure that my system is developed with a meaningful balance between performance, trackability, and budget. Contributions can sometimes be made to performance or budget, but ONLY when it makes sense for my overall use. I don’t always need the latest technology, but I have a 3-5 year “gear life cycle” for most of the devices I own and will upgrade if I believe it makes sense.
Kristyne: Connector
I try to bring as little technology on the trip as possible, and I don’t use a ton of extra technology beyond what I need for work every day as it is. I stare at a screen all day for work and watch TV and play a few word games on my phone for fun, so when I go, I want to disconnect. I bring a lot of books, visuals, I use my phone for a camera, and that’s about it. The exception is Disney World because I need to use the app to book meals, Lightning Trails, and check the parade, shows, and ride times. That trip is pretty tough on the phone, and that’s the only time I need a battery bank.
Tom: Digital Nomad
My tech loadout is the smallest and lightest gear in one bag travel. The products work with a customized system that allows me to deliver fewer items while keeping me efficient as I work abroad. I always update my list when something new and better comes out.