Contemporary jobs are much more dynamic than they used to be. Thanks to technology, many people can do their daily jobs anywhere they go—all they need to do is connect to their devices and get to work. But whether you’re a freelancer, a digital nomad, or a student, being productive on the road requires preparation and the inclusion of a few essential must-haves that can ensure you remain connected for as long as you need and as far as you can go.  

Portable Power Bank

  While on the go, it’s a must to keep energy stored away to be used when you can’t plug in. As such, a portable power bank is non-negotiable to maintain your productivity levels wherever you are. The power bank’s type, size, and capacity depend on your job’s needs. For example, you may be comfortable with a tiny 2600mAh portable USB power bank that’s easy to carry around and won’t weigh you down, but you might also need a larger option, such as a 10000mAh alternative.  

Wi-Fi Jetpack

  Counting on flights and cafés’ Wi-Fi connections is not the most reliable travelling option. If you want to remain consistently online, perhaps your best bet is to invest in a Wi-Fi jetpack. Simply put, a jetpack is a portable device that creates a hotspot that provides Wi-Fi access to multiple devices. It is similar to your smartphone’s mobile hotspot but much more reliable, stable, and robust—not to mention it doesn’t consume your phone’s battery. When picking, you need to consider the size, how portable it is, the battery life, and the type of cell signals it provides.  

Noise Cancelling Headphones

  Travelling frequently means working in multiple environments that may not be ideal. Whether on a plane with a crying child or in a busy coffee shop with countless chattering customers, you might need to block out ambient noise to focus and be productive. There are countless types of noise-cancelling headphones on the market, all with varying styles and price points. As such, choose the ones that fit your budget, aesthetic preferences, and even the noise-cancelling levels you’d like.  

Bluetooth Keyboard

  If your job involves a lot of writing and you’re not able or interested in using a laptop all the time, a Bluetooth keyboard could be a lifesaver. Pair it with your smartphone or tablet; you can write faster and more accurately, saving valuable time and reducing mistakes. It is also a much lighter option than a laptop, which is extra convenient while on the go. The keyboard type, size, weight, and style depend on you and what you prefer. Some are flat and convenient, while others even include built-in stands to transform your device into a makeshift laptop.  

Adaptors

  Different countries and regions manage varying interfaces, formats, and voltages. For example, the USA has a different style than the European Union, and Switzerland’s electrical plugs are entirely different from those. Figuring out which adaptors you might need could be a hassle, so your best option would be a comprehensive worldwide adaptor that includes most existing formats. However, if you always travel between specific locations, finding an adaptor suited for them is also an alternative worth considering.  

USB Hub

  A laptop is your number one ally if you work remotely or on the go. Sadly, they only have one or two USB ports, and you may need a lot more than that. A USB hub is an accessory that includes several USB ports. Once you connect it to your laptop, it expands the number of ports you can use, allowing you to multitask without worrying about limitations. They come in multiple shapes, sizes, and styles.  

Get Ready, Set, Go!

  Working while traveling can be simple, but why settle for the bare minimum? With a few smart accessories, you can stay organized, efficient, and stylish on the go. A little investment and luggage space go a long way—so gear up, pack smart, and make every work trip a breeze!

  It’s not a secret that Earth has a trash problem, and electronic waste (E-waste) only makes it worse. According to the World Health Organization, E-waste is among the fastest-growing solid waste fields in the world. Of the 62 million tonnes of e-waste produced globally in 2022, only 22.3% was ever recycled—and that percentage keeps growing smaller. However, the danger of e-waste is more pronounced than in other fields. Unrestrained disposal of e-waste can release toxic substances into the environment that can poison the ground and lead to long-term, widespread damage. Luckily, you can take measures to safely reduce your e-waste output.  

1. Repair Whenever You Can

  Of course, the first step in recycling your old tech is to ensure you don’t have to dispose of it just yet. If you are disposed to do so, much of the tech thrown away has minor imperfections that can be easily solved with curiosity, handiwork, and a little monetary investment. If you enjoy tinkering around, you may consult online resource websites such as Instructables, iFixit, or YouTube for further advice. If not, plenty of local repair stores in your area could help.  

2. Check for Trade-In or Buy-Back Programs

  Plenty of electronic retailers and large stores offer trade-in or buy-back programs that could help you get safely rid of your electronics—and grant you a payment they deem fair for your device, usually in the form of a gift card you can use to upgrade. Amazon has a well-known and reliable trade-in service, but it’s far from the only option. British users can enjoy Currys’ excellent terms, while Best Buy offers a similar deal in North America. Likewise, many tech companies, such as Apple, provide programs for their products.  

3. Sell Second-Hand

  Selling second-hand electronics is the way to go if you’d prefer to receive cash for your used electronics rather than a gift card. After all, you can set your prices and aim for the highest amount possible. You can do so locally through Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist, but you can also expand your range using Amazon, eBay, and similar websites.  

4. Donate

  If your old tech devices are still functional and making money out of them is not your top priority, donating might be the solution for you. Not only will you be able to make a difference for someone in need, but you might also extend your tech’s useful life and ensure the resources employed in its fabrication are put to good use for much longer.  

5. Recycle

  Recycling is a vital last-minute option for tech damaged beyond repair. However, since electronics have countless components of vastly different materials, recycling methods are rather specific. Depending on where you are, you can get access to multiple organisations with e-waste recycling programs that can help you safely dispose of your old tech. Since not all e-waste is the same, each centre will explain which type of e-waste they accept and under which conditions. If you’re in the United States, you can get more information on the Environmental Protection Agency’s website, while folks in the United Kingdom can use Recycle Your Electrical’s locator. In Singapore, the National Environment Agency lists different recycling programmes worth checking. These are just some examples, so check your local resources.  

Make a Difference

  Recycling is not as popular as it should be, and recycling e-waste specifically is still far from the most popular approach to disposing of old tech. However, the tech industry’s environmental impact is incalculable, and although it’s impossible to vanquish it entirely, humanity must reduce it as much as possible—one tiny grain of sand at a time.