Over the past decade, South America has emerged as an alluring travel destination, with a remarkable 60% increase in international tourist arrivals in Latin America & Caribbean between 2010 and 2019, resulting in a staggering 200 million visitors in 2019.
The continent's unique blend of rich history, idyllic destinations, breathtaking sights, and landscapes have captured the world's imagination. Fortunately, with today's technology, traveling abroad has become significantly easier.
Gone are the days of struggling with paper maps or worrying about finding a public telephone to make a call back home. In this article, we will explore the must-have travel tech for anyone looking to explore the wonders of South America.
What To Expect When Traveling To South America?
South America is a vast and varied continent with a plethora of activities and places to explore. From the lively cities of Brazil to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru, there are endless adventures to embark on.
South America is also known for its fun-loving people, vibrant dance parties, tequila tastings, and thrilling activities like LATM online sports betting. So get ready to explore this magnificent continent with the right tools and an open mind.
A Mobile device with GPS
A mobile device with GPS is an essential tool for any traveler exploring South America. With its built-in GPS technology, a smartphone can help you navigate through unfamiliar places with ease. It can provide you with accurate directions to your destination, show you the distance and estimated travel time, and help you avoid getting lost in a new city.
To fully utilize this feature, it's best to download essential travel apps and maps beforehand. This way, you can still use the GPS function even if you don't have access to data or Wi-Fi. Some of the popular map apps include Google Maps, Waze, and Maps. These apps can show you not just directions but also nearby attractions, restaurants, and other points of interest. A mobile device with GPS can also enhance your travel experience. You can use it to discover hidden gems, such as local markets, street food stalls, and off-the-beaten-path attractions. It can also help you find popular tourist spots, such as museums, landmarks, and historical sites.
Aside from navigation, a mobile device with GPS can also help ensure your safety while traveling. With the help of GPS tracking apps, you can share your location with friends and family or call for help in case of an emergency. Some popular safety apps include Red Panic Button, bSafe, and My Safetipin.
Power Bank
When traveling, it's essential to be prepared for unexpected situations, and having a portable charger can make all the difference. This is especially true when visiting South America, where long travel days and limited access to electrical outlets are common. With a power bank, you can ensure that your phone, camera, and other electronic devices stay charged throughout your journey.
Whether you're exploring bustling cities, trekking through the Andes, or lounging on the beach, a portable charger can keep you connected and on the grid. Not only can a power bank help you stay connected, but it can also be a lifesaver in emergencies. If you find yourself lost or in need of assistance, having a charged phone can be the difference between getting help quickly and being stranded.
Universal Electric Plug Adapter
It's important to remember that this region uses a variety of power outlets. This can be a challenge if you're not prepared, as different countries in South America often have different electrical standards. To avoid the frustration of not being able to charge your devices or worse, damaging them, it's highly recommended to bring along a universal electric plug adapter. With a universal adapter, you can ensure that your electronics will always have the right fit, no matter where you are in South America.
Having a universal adapter on hand can give you peace of mind that you'll be able to charge your phone, camera, laptop, or other devices safely and conveniently. It's a small investment that can make a big difference in ensuring your trip is comfortable and enjoyable.
A Light Tablet or Laptop
Bringing along a lightweight tablet or laptop can be a game-changer. Not only can it help you stay connected while on the go, but it can also serve as a useful tool for storing and backing up the photos from your trip.
In today's digital age, many of us rely heavily on our electronic devices to stay connected, whether it's for work, communication with loved ones, or simply for entertainment. You may even find some time to play some of South America’s top-selling video games.
That's why having a lightweight tablet or laptop on hand can be particularly helpful, especially during long travel days or while exploring new destinations. When choosing a tablet or laptop, be sure to look for one that's lightweight and portable, as well as one with long battery life.
Good Quality Headphones
It's important to be prepared for the noise and chaos that can come with traveling in this vibrant and lively region. Whether you're navigating bustling city streets or embarking on long journeys by bus or plane, having a good quality pair of headphones can make all the difference.
Investing in a set of noise-canceling headphones can be particularly beneficial if you need to work or relax during your travels. With noise-canceling technology, you can block out the sounds of the busy streets or the chatter of fellow passengers, allowing you to focus on your work or unwind with your favorite music or podcasts.
When choosing a set of headphones, be sure to look for ones that are comfortable to wear for long periods, have good sound quality, and are durable enough to withstand the rigors of travel. Consider investing in a hard-shell carrying case to protect your headphones when not in use.
Water Resistant Mobile Case
If you're planning on exploring the great outdoors or engaging in water-based activities during your trip to South America, it's essential to keep your smartphone protected from water damage. One way to do this is by investing in a water-resistant mobile case.
A water-resistant mobile case can provide an extra layer of protection against the elements, such as rain, splashes, or accidental drops into the water. This is especially important if you plan on taking your phone with you on outdoor adventures, such as hiking, kayaking, or beach excursions.
When choosing a water-resistant mobile case, look for one that fits your phone model and is certified to protect your phone against water damage. Some cases even have additional features such as drop protection, making them even more durable and long-lasting.
Remember, even if your phone is waterproof, a water-resistant case can help protect it from damage and ensure that it stays functional throughout your trip. It's a small investment that can make a big difference in keeping your phone safe and sound.
Wi-Fi Portable Hotspot
A portable Wi-Fi hotspot allows you to connect multiple devices, such as your laptop, tablet, or smartphone, to a secure and reliable internet connection. This can be especially helpful if you're traveling with a group or need to access the internet on multiple devices simultaneously.
Buying or renting a portable Wi-Fi hotspot before traveling to South America can also save you money compared to using expensive roaming fees or purchasing local SIM cards. When choosing a portable Wi-Fi hotspot, consider factors such as data limits, battery life, and coverage area. You'll want to make sure you have enough data to cover your needs and that the battery life can last throughout the day.
Additionally, check the coverage area to ensure that you'll have access to the internet in the locations you plan to visit.
Final Thoughts
South America's rich history, stunning landscapes, and breathtaking sights make it a popular travel destination for people worldwide.
Whether you're a history buff exploring the ruins of Machu Picchu, Nazca Lines, and Tiwanaku or soaking up the vibrant colors and unique charm of Brazil and Argentina, there's something for everyone. But before you set out to explore, it's essential to pack smart and bring the right travel tech to enhance your overall experience.
