Smartphones have become so ubiquitous nowadays that we no longer notice their presence anymore but we can definitely feel their absence. It’s enough to go one day without using these smart devices to start wondering how in the world people survived without them, although they’ve only been around for 20 years. It seems like two decades were more than enough to render us completely dependent on smartphones and have our lives shaped by the technology they provide.
The wide-ranging and ever-expanding collection of applications available has turned smartphones into multifunctional devices that assist us at every step. We use them to connect with each other, browse the internet, stay informed, listen to music, snap and share photos and much more, which makes them particularly useful while traveling.
It’s difficult to imagine planning or going on a trip and leaving our smartphones behind, especially for younger generations who have grown up with digital devices around them. And we most certainly don’t want to give up on all the advantages they offer. But while we’re used to thinking of smartphones as an asset, is it possible for them to turn into a quiet enemy on vacations? There are always two sides to a story, so it’s worth exploring both the pros and the cons.
The perks of having a smartphone as a travel companion
There’s no denying that smartphones can make travel so much easier and infinitely more convenient. Just think of all the things you can do if you have a smartphone with you. Apart from their primary purpose of making phone calls, which no one makes these days, smartphones are literally miniature portable computers that you can carry around in your pocket, allowing you to perform all sorts of tasks.
Want to switch networks with ease, stay connected and enjoy enhanced security while abroad? An eSIM smartphone will take care of that. Want to search for cheap flights or affordable accommodations to plan your vacation? There are countless apps that you can install on your phone. You can find information about different destinations, search for the best dates and itineraries, compare fares, book tours and organize your trip down to the smallest detail with just a few simple taps.
But probably one of the most useful smartphone features for travelers is navigation. With the right apps, you’re able to turn your phone into a GPS navigation device that will help you find your way in any part of the world without fear of getting lost. That’s a far cry from the old ways of traveling when one had to unfold a paper map and try to make sense of it or ask locals for directions to get from point A to point B. These days, we have Google Maps instead. al you have to do is enter the starting location and the destination of your choice and it will take you wherever you want to go.
Also, let’s not forget how easy it is to capture memories of your trip with a smartphone, as newer generation devices are better at taking photos and videos than many traditional cameras.
As for those who are not tech-savvy and worry that smartphone technology is too complex for them, there are plenty of tutorials and guides available online that will teach you everything you need to know about using your smartphone intelligently, from choosing the best travel apps to managing settings or activating a Google Fi eSIM on your phone.
All in all, there’s a lot that smartphones can do for you when planning a trip – saving you time, effort and money – and during your trip, helping you make the most of your travels.
The case for limiting smartphone use during holiday
Most holidaymakers are already familiar with all the perks listed above but they’re not nearly as aware of the drawbacks related to smartphone use while traveling, or they choose to ignore them.
The biggest argument in favor of limiting our dependency on smartphones is their fallibility. As smart and sturdy as they might be, smartphones can still break down, and get lost or stolen. And when that happens, you’ll find yourself forced to handle things without all the conveniences and assistance that smartphones provide.
Unfortunately, too many people no longer know how to navigate life without them. That’s why you should always bring hard copies of important documents while traveling and store information such as directions or addresses in physical format as well. It’s wise to have alternatives ready in case your smart devices let you down when you most need them.
But apart from the practical aspects, smartphone use can also have a negative impact on the whole travel experience, taking away from the joy and excitement of the trip. It’s common for people to look at things through the lens of their smartphone cameras instead of putting their devices away for a while, live in the moment and immerse themselves in the beauty of the places they visit without mediators.
Smartphones also make it harder for travelers to disconnect and get away from their usual routine, day-to-day worries or work-related tasks. Many find themselves answering phone calls, going through emails and working when they should be out and about enjoying themselves. Once you start browsing on your phone, it’s a slippery slope that can cause you to miss out on all the holiday fun.
Maximizing Your Smartphone
While there are undeniable benefits to using smartphones when traveling, there are equally as many disadvantages to take into account. But in the end, smartphones are neither good nor bad. It’s the way people use them that makes all the difference. As with all things in life, balance is key to maintaining a healthy relationship with technology and turning your smartphone into a travel ally rather than an enemy.
