What's In My Backpack? A 2024 Guide to On-the-Go Tech
The advent of the new year presents the perfect opportunity to reevaluate gear and upgrade to something better in 2024. This article updates on the objects carried on a daily (and nightly) basis when working, traveling, or just hanging out at home. These are considered absolute necessities for any occasion.
This list aims to help patch gaps in everyday carry setups or jumpstart gift ideas for tech-loving individuals. As 2024 progresses, it is anticipated that technology will continue to evolve, making up-to-date gear essential.
In My Backpack
The Backpack ($63.00)
Description: A sleek, black backpack designed for modern tech users. It features cushioned internal storage space for a 14-inch Macbook Pro and a separate zippered front compartment for an 11-inch iPad Pro. Additional internal pockets are available for smaller items. A convenient cup holder is integrated on the side, and a hidden strap on the back allows it to slide over the handle of a rolling suitcase for travel.
Despite being packed, the backpack remains compact, sleek, and lightweight. It is comfortable for travel and daily commutes, easily fitting under an airplane seat. This option is presented as a suitable upgrade from basic backpacks for those not yet ready for a premium leather briefcase.
Anker 67W Wall Charger ($59.99)
Description: A compact and powerful charging brick, ideal for side pockets. It is capable of charging three devices, including a laptop, tablet, and phone, rapidly. This represents a significant upgrade from older charging solutions.
Features two USB-C slots and one USB-A outlet, ensuring compatibility with various device generations. The 2023 refresh offers higher wattage, enabling simultaneous and faster charging of multiple devices.
Adaptable Charging Cord (2x) ($14.99)
Description: A versatile charging cord designed to accommodate multiple device types. It includes attachments for USB-C, Lightning, and USB-A cables, allowing a single cord to serve all devices and reducing weight.
Available in 4ft and 6ft lengths; carrying one of each provides flexibility.
Anker MagSafe Power Bank ($53.90)
Description: A slim and small battery pack with a 5,000mAh capacity, providing enough power to fully charge a smartphone.
Designed for MagSafe-enabled iPhones, it attaches directly to the back of the phone for wireless charging, eliminating the need for a cord.
6ft USB-C Charging Cord (2x) ($14.00)
Description: A go-to charging cable for modern devices, particularly after upgrading to the iPhone 15 and other accessories featuring USB-C ports. It supports universal charging standards.
This cable is long and fast enough for various uses, such as charging a tablet in bed or a laptop at a conference room. It is compatible with Anker charging cubes.
Chipolo Thin Wallet Finder ($30.00)
Description: A thin card designed to prevent the loss of wallets or other small items. It slips easily into a wallet or money clip.
Works seamlessly with iOS and Apple's Find My app, allowing users to track items like car keys, backpacks, wallets, and luggage. It is presented as a superior alternative to Tile devices due to its integration with the iOS ecosystem.
USB-A to USB-C Converter (2x) ($8.99)
Description: Small adapters that bridge the gap between older USB-A ports and newer USB-C devices.
Useful for users who have upgraded to USB-C but still encounter devices or cables with USB-A ports. Recommended to keep a couple handy for bridging technological gaps, especially when traveling.
SanDisk Flash Drive ($18.98)
Description: A portable data storage device with both USB-C and USB-A male ends, enabling connection to a wide range of devices. It offers a 256GB capacity.
An additional tip suggests enabling device encryption with a complex password for data security, even if the drive is lost.
Airfly Duo ($44.99)
Description: A compact device that connects Bluetooth headsets to any device with a 3.5mm headphone jack input.
Useful for watching TV on airplane monitors, using gym equipment, or connecting to rental car audio systems. It also functions as a splitter, allowing multiple pairs of Bluetooth headphones to connect to a single device for shared audio experiences, beneficial for families, couples, or individuals.
Soundcore A40 BT Wireless Headphones ($79.00)
Description: Wireless earbuds offering a high-quality listening experience, state-of-the-art noise cancellation, and a comfortable fit. They are presented as a cost-effective alternative to premium brands like AirPods.
These headphones have been used daily for months with no noticeable drop in audio quality compared to previous models and are priced at less than half the cost of comparable high-end options.
Microfiber Cleaning Cloth (2x) ($7.99)
Description: Soft, reusable, and durable cloths designed for cleaning devices, screens, and other surfaces.
Essential for keeping devices smudge and dust-free, ensuring optimal user experience and extending device lifespan. They are available in various colors.
In My Suitcase
Anker 3-in-1 Charging Cube ($149.95)
Description: A versatile charging solution that unfolds to reveal MagSafe charging pads for an iPhone, an Apple Watch, and a pair of AirPods, all contained within a compact cube.
Functions effectively on hotel nightstands or home bedside tables.
Anker Wall Plug ($19.99)
Description: A compact 30W charger with a foldable plug, used to power the Anker 3-in-1 Charging Cube.
When used with a high-quality USB-C cable, it ensures phones, watches, and AirPods are fully charged overnight.
Sonos Roam Bluetooth Speaker ($134.99)
Description: A rugged, compact, and waterproof portable Bluetooth speaker. It is powerful enough for various scenarios, from personal listening to impromptu parties.
It can also pair with other Sonos devices to enhance playback. Recommended for travel due to its durability and sound quality.
LG Gram + View 16in Portable Monitor ($349.00)
Description: A slim, lightweight portable monitor designed for travel. It slides easily into a suitcase pocket and features a 2K resolution.
It includes a slick magnetic cover that doubles as a stand. This monitor serves as a companion to laptops, doubling screen space and offering a bright display with excellent color rendition, making it suitable for tasks ranging from reading small text to editing vibrant images on-the-go.
