Our holiday shopping guides continue today with yet another list of great gear for the adventurer on your list. This time out, we'll take a look at some of the best adventure tech available today, providing travelers, explorers, and adventurers the tools they need both at home and while on the road.If you're looking for other gift ideas this holiday season, check out my previous gift guides for hikers and backpackers, outdoor athletes, and adventure travelers too.
iPad Pro with Apple Pencil (iPad - $649 | Pencil - $95)
With the introduction of the iPad Pro, Apple has inched us closer to not having to carry a heavy laptop with us when we hit the road. These powerful tablets can handle everything from editing video and photos, to recording podcasts, composing music, and writing blog posts and even a book. Throw in the awesome Apple Pencil, and you have a portable toolbox that can do some surprisingly awesome things from taking handwritten notes to sketching maps, and so much more. Throw in the new multitasking abilities of iOS 11 and you have a mobile workstation that is a blast to use.
Gnarbox ($270)
For mobile professionals who edit photos and videos on the go, the Gnarbox is a must-have device. This tiny, lightweight editing station provides the power of a laptop in a convenient package, allowing users to backup and store photos and video, while also editing those images and video up to 4K resolutions. Uses connect to the Gnarbox using their phone and tablet, and with a special app have all the tools they need to get work done in the field.
GoPro Hero 6 Black ($500)
If it has been awhile since you updated your action camera, GoPro has a few surprises for you. The new Hero 6 Black offers unparalleled image quality, capturing footage at stunning 4k resolutions at 60 fps. The camera is waterproof without a special housing, uses voice commands to control filming, and has onboard image stabilization too. As if that wasn't enough, low-light performance has improved dramatically and the new touch screen interface allows simple zooming as well. In short, its the best GoPro camera yet and a worthy addition to any budding filmmaker's arsenal.
DJI Spark Drone ($499)Yes, DJI makes a line of more powerful and feature packed drones, but its Spark is affordable, offers lots of functionality, and is compact enough to carry with us just about anywhere. On top of that, it offers good flight times (16 mins) and is extremely easy to get up and flying. Capable of capturing great video and photos, this is a drone that is easy to transport without compromising on features.
Cases from Catalyst (Prices Vary By Model)
Keeping your mobile devices protected while exploring extreme environments can be challenging, but thanks to Catalyst it doesn't have to be impossible. The company makes great cases for a wide variety of devices, including the new iPhone X ($40/$90). My favorite Catalyst product at the moment is the handy waterproof case they make for AirPods ($25), which is simply the perfect accessory for frequent travelers.
Romeo Saber Power Pack ($299)
Striking the right balance between providing power and portability, the Romeo Saber is a battery pack that can keep all of our gadgets – including laptops and drones – functioning in the field. The device offers a powerful 86Wh, fast-charging battery, coupled with an AC outlet and three USB ports, all in a compact and relatively lightweight package. Portable power has never been this efficient and handy.
Cauldryn Fyre Mobile Heated Travel Mug ($130)
Battery technology has come a long way, allowing us to do some incredible things with what were once basic products. Take for example the Cauldryn Fyre Mobile, a heated travel mug that is powered by a lithium-ion battery and can keep your beverage warm all day long. But better than that, it can actually boil water, making it great for use around the campsite and even cooking meals. The Cauldryn is also equipped with a USB port that allows it to share its battery's charge with mobile devices too.
Ecoxgear EcoLantern ($130)
Camp lighting continues to get better and better. Take for example the new Ecoxgear EcoLantern, which not only offers up to 400 lumens of light, but also functions as a Bluetooth speaker and charger for small mobile devices. There are even "party" modes to that thump to the sound of the music and bring multicolored lighting to the campsite too.
