Travel technology: The three devices that changed how I travel

When it comes to shopping for the globetrotter in your life, the ideas really are endless. But here’s three that are worth adding to your Christmas list.

When it comes to Christmas shopping for the globetrotter in your life, the ideas really are endless.

Whether you’re dealing with a friend about to go on a backpacking adventure, someone who enjoys a little luxury abroad or even that one person who spends more time on business trips than in their own home — they all have one thing in common. They want something that streamlines their travels, looks good, and won’t break the bank.

If you're a traveller, these are the devices you'll want for Christmas. Picture: Supplied

So if you don’t want to fork out loads on flight vouchers or a hotel to share the gift of travel this festive season, look no further.

Because when it comes to finding great ideas for the ­travel-addict in your life — from a very smart suitcase, to a nifty camera smaller than your palm — these are the items that should be on your last-minute Christmas list.

THE GOPRO HERO 8

If you’re like me and literally want to capture every single second of your holiday, it’s time to give your smartphone a rest because this new GoPro device is all kinds amazing.

Sure, some globetrotters are happy with their smartphone snaps, but for those wanting a little more detail and definition — and amazing livestream ability — you might want to send them away with one of the lightest cameras on the market.

The new GoPro Hero 8 is a great way to ramp up your social media snaps.

The new GoPro Hero 8 isn’t as scary as it sounds (despite having a list of functions and features as long as your arm).

Not only does it shoot in 4K at 60 frames per second, but it also features HDR image capabilities, waterproofing to 10 metres, and their new HyperSmooth 2.0 video stabilisation technology makes even the worst photographer look semi-pro.

Dubbed one of the best action cameras currently on the market, this new model is made for selfies in both still and video mode, and with the LCD screen and voice control — there’s no excuse for taking a bad shot.

For the social media obsessed, one of the best features from this new device is called ‘TimeWarp’, which basically allows users create the smoothest footage imaginable. Whether you’re shooting in high speed on the slopes in Japan or low speed while meandering down a lagoon, the tiny camera even allows you to stream HD footage live to Facebook or Instagram.

The new GoPro Hero 8 has new video stabilisation technology which makes even the worst photographer look semi-pro. Picture: Supplied

For the social media obsessed, one of the best features from this new device is the ability to livestream. Picture: Supplied

But with any device, a camera like this — albeit a ‘simpler’ device compared to others on the market — can still be daunting if you’ve spent a lifetime relying on your smartphone.

Basically, you can get technical with your editing through GoPro’s video-editing companion Quik, which is built in to their app. It’s a feature that makes editing a breeze (even for those who are slightly technologically challenged) or advanced enough if you are wanting to do more than cut a cheeky clip for the ‘Gram.

Essentially, the editing and camera combo means you don’t need to be on NatGeo’s level to use it — a plus when you’re hoping to upload a few images while waiting at an airport.

Ok, now to your wallet.

Retailing at just under $600, this is an investment. But if you’re wanting to document every aspect of your trip, without forking out on a DSLR, it’s a pretty nifty accessory for the chillers, and the thill-seekers.

THE SAMSONITE EVOA TECH COLLECTION

There are suitcases and then there are Samsonite suitcases.

Earlier this year, the leading luggage retailer known for their chic design and durable exterior launched their very first smart suitcase.

Featuring fingerprint-activated TSA locking technology, a built-in weight scale, Bluetooth tracking and an all-important USB port to charge your phone when it hits 10 per cent – this range merges technology and style. Essentially, for the tech-savvy traveller, this suitcase turned the way we travel on its head.

Forget a lock and key, you'll need a fingerprint to get in to this suitcase.

The range of suitcases have their own set of scales.

The new features aim to eliminate common problems in everyday travel, improve efficiency and enhance security.

The fingerprint-activated TSA combination function is quite the novelty, and feels very James Bond-esque when you first unlock the luggage with one simple touch.

And if it’s a bag you think will be shared, the memory allows up to 10 selected fingerprints within the device, allowing the suitcases to be borrowed or accessed by friends and family.

The real winner on this case is the USB port which you can use to charge mobile phones and tablets with the power bank kept inside the smart pocket of the interior divider. Hidden away, you simply plug in a cable and away you go.

My favourite part, however, is the built-in scale.

That anxiety you feel while approaching the check-in desk wondering if maybe you’ll tip the scales? Finito.

The bag comes with an integrated weighing scale, meaning travellers avoid costly airline baggage fees at the airport because it tells you your bag weight whenever the scale is switched on.

The suitcase is pretty lightweight.

The new range of 'smart luggage' is a gamechanger.

The biggest feature for most travellers will be the in-built Panasonic SeekitTM Bluetooth Tracker, which literally follows your bag wherever it goes. With the touch of a button, the bags proximity guidance feature can be set up to alert you when your luggage is a set distance away or even opened by security.

Coming in three sizes, the 55cm bag is great for up to a weekend of travel, while the 75cm version is more suited to check-in.

The catch? Well, it’ll cost you a pretty penny. And because of the battery the bag requires, you won’t be able to check it in which kind of defeats the purpose of the bluetooth tracker when departing from Australia.

In a nutshell, the 55cm will set you back $679.00, 69cm a cool $799.00 and 75cm will retail at $899.00.

PORTABLE TRAVEL CHARGER

Let’s face it,hauling out the inside of your suitcase to find a charging cable and then going on a mission to find a powerpoint is a massive pain in the a**e at the airport.

No one likes stressing over a low-power signal on their device, but this nifty power box make charging your devices less of a worry when hanging around for your flight. One brand that’s proving to be very popular is the myCharge Hub Turbo, which is the brand’s first charger that features built-in lightning and USB-C cables for the fastest recharge possible.

The myHub personal charger is a lifesaver if you have multiple devices. Picture: Supplied

It means you can charge two devices straight from the personal device, and a third using the USB port on the side. It’s a real game changer and cuts down on a lot of tangled cables in your suitcase. Basically, if you’re travelling with more devices than anything else, this is a must-have and will only set you back around $110.