My load of electronics

[peregrina2000]

So SYates asked on another post that I describe the heavy pile of electronics that go into my pack. Here goes.

I am a low tech person, and somewhat surprisingly, that has gotten me in a lot of trouble in terms of weight in my pack on the camino. I have always carried a camera, and have downsized my camera to a little canon that I think dougfitz recommended. I love it. It has a little charger with a little square battery.

Then about 12 years ago, I decided I really could use a Spanish phone to be able to call friends, call ahead for reservations, etc. So I have an ancient Spanish cell phone, which I load up with a new SIM card every year when I arrive in Spain. Plus charger.

Next -- in 2013, my mother (then aged 89) had a health crisis and I was close to cancelling my walk. But at the last minute, she improved and I decided the way to go was to get a smart phone (I was in 2013 the owner of one of those clam shell phones at home ). With my new smartphone, I was able to Skype with my parents using the ubiquitous wifi. On the Levante I talked with them almost every day. Charger comes along.

Then in 2014, as I was planning to walk the Camino Olvidado, seeing that it was a very solitary, and potentially very poorly marked camino, with a mountain stretch of about 16 kms with nothing but the mountains, Gunnar and susannafromsweden helped me to get a GPS and to figure out the bare minimum -- how to get tracks loaded onto it and how to follow it in a pinch. There was one point when I was at an abandoned mine far from any town and with no arrows of any kind when it was a lifesaver. I'm sure I wouldn't have perished in the mountains, but I really would have been in a pickle. Since then I have been on totally solitary caminos every summer and though I have a love-hate relationship with my GPS, and it has failed me (or I have failed it) on several occasions, I think I've now got a basic grasp of its functions and can limp along, thanks to dougfitz again. I have a 2016 plan for another solitary camino. Charger comes too.

So there you have it. Kind of ironic that someone who never carries a cell phone at home finds herself on the Camino with more gadgets than clothes.

Buen camino, Laurie

 

[SYates]

Ok, assuming that you 'only' use photos for sharing online and not plan to print them out bigger than postcard-size one smartphone (plus charger!) can replace phone, camera, GPS, wifi for Skype etc. Buen Camino, SY

 

[CaminoDebrita]

Ok, assuming that you 'only' use photos for sharing online and not plan to print them out bigger than postcard-size one smartphone (plus charger!) can replace phone, camera, GPS, wifi for Skype etc. Buen Camino, SY

I use an i phone 6s, and turn off the cellular data (in settings) and put it in the low battery mode. I use it for...

--facebook
--the forum
--photos
--videos
--gps
--messaging
--phonecalls
--music

It takes just a little time to figure it all out!

 

[Tia Valeria]

One clamshell phone each (share charger and adaptor) - we have had them since 2009.
One smartphone for wi-fi (usb lead charger -Spanish usb plug)
One coil - Spanish plug
One small camera each which use 2 ordinary AA batteries each, so we carry 2 spares and but when needed.

Contemplating bringing old AsusEEE mini netbook - 2009 model - (and charger) to save our photos, after last year's disaster with a memory card.
We are trying not to overload even though we will have the car! We occasionally take photos on the phone but don't like relying on 'one piece' technology.

 

[newfydog]

Since you now have a smartphone, you can leave out the GPS and use an app, such as MotionX GPS.

 

[SYates]

And if you use dropbox or similar you can back-up your photos directly into the cloud when you have wifi and keep them so save without the need of carrying another back-up device. Buen Camino, SY

 

[Devon Mike]

On the Camino I want to disconnect from home and just envelope myself in the Camino experience, so no phone, no music, no facebook, no wifi. Just a small compact camera which uses two AA batteries and only weighs 172 grams. Replacement batteries are available everywhere so just a couple of spares carried.

That's it.....

 

[SYates]

@Devon Mike That is great, but @peregrina2000 's question was how she can consolidate all the electronics in one/fewer pieces. As you can read, she has elderly parents with health problems and needs to stay in contact with them f.e. Buen Camino, SY

 

[Devon Mike]

@Devon Mike That is great, but @peregrina2000 's question was how she can consolidate all the electronics in one/fewer pieces. As you can read, she has elderly parents with health problems and needs to stay in contact with them f.e. Buen Camino, SY

Sure. We all have different needs, I was just adding my own.

 

[Anniesantiago]

I take my iPhone.
I get a €20 Spanish Sim for it when I arrive in Spain.
That's my list.

 

[Anniesantiago]

Speaking of GPS apps for the iPhone, any feedback on the in-app purchase costs or which apps are good/bad?

 

[peregrina2000]

Thanks so much everyone, but it may just be that I am currently hopeless. When you start talking about things like dropbox or icloud (I get messages about icloud on my phone all the time and have no idea what they mean) or Motionxgps, or putting a Spanish sim card in a US phone, you lose me.

I think that maybe, if I have the time this spring, what I should do is buy a new iphone. My current one is now past its programmed obsolescence date. The battery lasts about 4 hours which means I cannot trust it for all of those features while walking 32 kms out in the boonies. Then I would have to start one by one to learn these functions and how they work on the iphone. It is definitely something I will do when I retire, but maybe not this spring.

I was just at a talk about "Cognitive Aging" yesterday and heard a very inspiring and at times depressing description about the aging process and how it affects our cognitive functions and learning abilities. Not surprisingly, learning about technology is one of the most difficult things for people over 60. The good news is that this very distinguished member of all sorts of learned societies and a presidential commission about the neuroscience of aging said that the one thing that is indisputable and unshakably confirmed by all of the research is that the best way to prevent cognitive decline is aerobic exercise.

So imagine how horrible at technology I would be if I weren't doing all my hours of exercise every day!

buen camino, Laurie

 

[SYates]

4 hour battery life isn't good, I agree! I try to solve some of the other App mysteries for you:

Dropbox, iCloud etc.
Basically a virtual storage space on a far away server to which you can back-up photos and similar, prevents data loss if your phone dies completely. Your photos etc can be accessed from any computer and similar.

Motionxgps and other GPS apps
Convert your phone in a GPS

Putting a Spanish sim card in a US phone
You need an unlocked (not tied to a plan/provider) phone for that one. A smartphone without SIM card works only with Wifi, but not as a phone, more like a mini-computer/tablet. The SIM card is what converts it into a phone (roughly).

Hope that helps, Buen Camino, SY

 

[MilenaS]

Smart phones and their abilities can be really intimidating, there are so many options :-D One needs to clean out what one does not need and find programs/apps that suits ones need. If one can find this balance, a smart phone can solve a lot of the problems of heavy equipment.

I would suggest that you find a class specializing in teaching new technologies to those "technologically challenged" if you can. Younger family members and other people (staff in shops) can often be impatient... They also often take for granted that one understands them. I really hope this does not offend anybody, but special courses for senior citizens are a hit hear in Norway at least. One can also by smart phones that are built to be simple and without all the whistles and bells one does not need.

 

[BrienC]

I use an i phone 6s, and turn off the cellular data (in settings) and put it in the low battery mode. I use it for...

--facebook
--the forum
--photos
--videos
--gps
--messaging
--phonecalls
--music

It takes just a little time to figure it all out!

I'll echo CaminoDebrita's comment here. And add a couple of my own:

My tech load: iPhone, tiny europlug wall charger with USB output, USB iPhone cable, battery pack (that I charge while showering and eating dinner, then use to charge my phone in my sleeping bag or under my pillow at night), and USB cable for the battery pack. All fits in one hand.

I've seen way too many hassles with SIM cards and unlocking phones. I purchase an internation package from my service provider (AT&T) before leaving home. There are typically different levels with limited data, unlimited text and reduced rate calling. I've not had any trouble with the package working with another county's cell providers.

Buen Camino

 

[SYates]

If she can, you can @peregrina2000

 

[Anniesantiago]

I've never had a problem with putting a Spanish or French SIM card into my unlocked iPhone and using it.
The cost is under €20 and I've never spent more than a total of €50 for my entire Camino, which is MUCH less than I'd have to pay using AT&T's International program. (darned autocorrect!)

 

[newfydog]

Speaking of GPS apps for the iPhone, any feedback on the in-app purchase costs or which apps are good/bad?

MotionX is super, and costs just a few dollars. Let me know if you need help getting a route into it or putting a base map in offline memory.

 

[zzotte]

LOL I'm with you peregrina when I thought I had conquered my rotary phone hahaha my grandkid can do more in five minutes with the iPhone then I can in a day and I'm only trying to change the password hahaha and his is only 4 LOL LOL

Zzotte

 

[Angie94]

Thanks so much everyone, but it may just be that I am currently hopeless. When you start talking about things like dropbox or icloud (I get messages about icloud on my phone all the time and have no idea what they mean) or Motionxgps, or putting a Spanish sim card in a US phone, you lose me.

I can relate....just recently got a smartphone myself and was intimidated about having to learn about dropbox, icloud ect...but I went to the Apple store yesterday and a fine young gentleman took me thru the paces of learning just exactly how icloud works and I am amazed! I will take photos with my smart phone and they automatically go up "to the cloud" and are there for safe keeping! (as well as any documents or my contact list and a bunch of other things) As he put it "if you drop your phone in the ocean or it gets smashed to bits no worries, all your date can be safe." It did take him a bit to explain it all to me...looking back I see where it's not really that complicated - but that's the way it is with me, anything unknown creates a fair amount of anxiety! And then when I learn it I think to myself "what the heck was I so intimidated about??" Hah! Anyway, I feel SO much better knowing that all my pics will be okay. I am still reading the posts and learning about how to do the Spanish sim card ...I think I got (mostly) thanks to all who are so helpful on here. I am grateful beyond words!!

 

[Anniesantiago]

MotionX is super, and costs just a few dollars. Let me know if you need help getting a route into it or putting a base map in offline memory.

Ok. Great! I'll buy it. Do you know (approximately) what the extra maps will cost?? I assume you have to purchase maps?

 

[SYates]

The app costs $1.99 and the maps are from Open Street Maps aka open source = free, but you can also load maps from other sources into it, some of them are for pay. But in short for $1.99 you get a GPS plus very useable maps. Buen Camino, SY

 

[LesBrass]

I had never owned a smartphone before my walk... actually I never had a mobile phone! But I decided I would consolidate all electricals and have everything in one place.

I bought a Samsung Note 3 - it's a bit bigger than a phone but I like the larger screen and it's still small enough to go in a pocket. It has a really great camera and I've taken some wonderful photos. I've got a kindle app so my guide books are loaded, and pdf's. I replaced my old ipod for music too. As others have all said you can replace your GPS with a smartphone too... so it really can do everything you need... and lots more (as you'll know because you've got one).

I got Dropbox - I managed to get loads and loads of free space and whenever I was/am near wifi it loads photos for me automatically... it was really simple to set up and kind of guided me through the steps... and it's free.

I thought I would only use the phone for my camino and on the way home I gave the phone to my son... he was VERY happy! But, a few weeks after my return home my camera broke. I worked out the cost of the new camera compared to a reconditioned Note 3 and decided to buy another Note... I think it was 279€.

I'm a real fan, I love this phone. Not sure if this helps but I would certainly recommend this kind of one-stop-shop solution.

p.s. I know it's very subjective but I have a iPad too at home that I use for my music and I really dont love it as much as android stuff (I'll shuffle away now as I know I could have just upset a few Apple fans )

 

[SYates]

... (I'll shuffle away now as I know I could have just upset a few Apple fans )

I hate, hate, hate to admit it, but whilst Apple computers/laptop aka air books are the bees knees, Samsung phones and tablets are actually better imo than iPhones/iPads. SY

 

[LTfit]

As you know Laurie I only have my simple €11 cell with a Spanish SIM and my smartphone. I ditched my camera after my second camino as I ended up only taking pictures with my phone. When my iphone 4 died on me last year I replaced it with a SONY Xperia 3 compact due to it's camera functions and size. You know that you are a camino addict when to decide on a phone based on its ability to fit into the hip pocket of your backpack! You can get an SD card to increase the storage capacity but even without I was able to store all the fotos from our summer camino - more than 1,500.
I use the gps function on the phone at home but from experience it uses up the battery very fast (I had the same experience with the iphone), something you may not want to happen while walking. But then again I have never used a gps during a camino, I just get lost when the signage is bad and end up walking additional kilometers until I find my way.

 

[Kanga]

In my case I use an iPhone for everything including GPS but I do think in Laurie's case she may be better sticking with her separate dedicated GPS device for the better battery life.

@newfydog I have MotionX but found it too complicated to fathom; I could not work out where or how to load maps for offline use, and where or how to find premade gps tracks. Wish you were nearby to give me lessons. I finished up using Maps.me because it was easier, but I know I am missing out on functionality..

 

[BrienC]

I've never had a problem with putting a Spanish or French SIM card into my unlocked iPhone and using it.
The cost is under €20 and I've never spent more than a total of €50 for my entire Camino, which is MUCH less than I'd have to pay using AT&T's International program. (darned autocorrect!)

For $30 I get the base package. I went from France, through Spain then on to Ireland without a hitch. What price convenience I guess. With that package I use mostly texting, a little data for finding the price of a hotel in Logroño and such. Called home once a week at reduced rate.

 

[owms2323]

Ok, assuming that you 'only' use photos for sharing online and not plan to print them out bigger than postcard-size one smartphone (plus charger!) can replace phone, camera, GPS, wifi for Skype etc. Buen Camino, SY

IF I carry an IPhone 6s and get a sim card in Spain, can I still use all my current aps?

 

[newfydog]

Here's the instructions for loading maps in MotionX:

http://support.motionx.com/motionx-gps/downloading-maps/

Here's some free maps and the Camino Francis on an old iPhone, with no sim card.:

 

[peregrina2000]

Here's the instructions for loading maps in MotionX:

http://support.motionx.com/motionx-gps/downloading-maps/

Here's some free maps and the Camino Francis on an old iPhone, with no sim card.:

View attachment 23494 View attachment 23495 View attachment 23496

So, newfydog, if I were to put this program on my phone, could I then download wikiloc tracks and follow them? I don't care much about recording my tracks, the main thing is not to get desperately lost. My GPS has the Spain topo map, which I think must be different from a street map, but would it work as well? Muchas gracias. Laurie

 

[newfydog]

So, newfydog, if I were to put this program on my phone, could I then download wikiloc tracks and follow them? I don't care much about recording my tracks, the main thing is not to get desperately lost. My GPS has the Spain topo map, which I think must be different from a street map, but would it work as well? Muchas gracias. Laurie

You can download any track in the .gpx format. Just about any GPS track can be converted to .gpx if it is not already in that format They can be seen on a variety of maps in MotionX, but you would not see your Spain Topo and the track at the same time on MotionX

 

[t2andreo]

I have a related question to pose to my friends in the forum. Like many of you, in the past I have carried an "old-school" flip phone with a Belgian SIM that I have maintained since I lived in Belgium from 2006-2008. This phone is fine for basic voice and text.

This year, I gave up and joined the rest of the world, buying an Apple iPhone 6S. Now, I have a device that can replace my BE SIM flip phone, my iPod Touch (sold on eBay) and potentially my Canon digital camera, as the iPhone has a 12 gigapixel camera, and the Canon digicam I have takes 14 gigapixel photos. So, I am anticipating relying on one digital device to do everything. I think most folks would concur with that choice.

So, here is the question. It relates to the "BEST" SIM card for use across Spain. I realize people have preferences, but like many other pilgrims, who will be in Spain for one or more months, I am looking for a prepaid nano-SIM that has voice, text, and 4G data capabilities.

I will likely use texting and data far more than voice. As I plan to try to use Wikiloc GPS on the iPhone on my next Camino (from Madrid), I am GUESSING that I would need something around 2 Gb data, plus international and national voice and text. Most of my voice calls will be to mobile numbers in Spain, other EU nations, and the US.

From my experience, the three major Spanish mobile carriers appear to be Movistar, Orange, and Vodaphone. For reference, in the US I am using a prepaid t-Mobile plan that works very well for me. I know t-Mobile is originally a German company, but I have no experience with using t-Mobile in Spain.

So, the question is: WHICH MOBILE CARRIER LIKELY PROVIDES THE "BEST OVERALL" COVERAGE ACROSS SPAIN?

All suggestions welcomed. There are no stupid questions...I ask the stupid questions....claro?

Thanks in advance...

 

[GreatDane]

My husband used MotionX last year on Offa's Dyke (Wales) and it worked well for him. We downloaded the .gpx files for his hike and he used to mainly to see what was coming up directly ahead like which way at a fork in the road (not to collect tracks of where he'd been). Especially helpful because Offa's Dyke isn't as well marked at the CF and the path was cutting across fields.

 

[C clearly]

IF I carry an IPhone 6s and get a sim card in Spain, can I still use all my current aps?

Yes. Only your phone number will change. (But I'm no expert and my experience is limited to one trip and an Android phone, so I was hoping someone else would answer!)

 

[sabbott]

My tech load: iPhone, tiny europlug wall charger with USB output, USB iPhone cable, battery pack (that I charge while showering and eating dinner, then use to charge my phone in my sleeping bag or under my pillow at night), and USB cable for the battery pack. All fits in one hand.

BrienC, what brand battery pack do you use? Do you use it to charge your phone during the day when walking; if only at night, why not just plug your phone in the wall? I'm concerned about my iPhone not holding it's charge all day since I'm relying on it as a camera and guidebook, but am not clear on how to use the battery pack, or if it's worth the extra weight. Thanks for helping!

 

[Anemone del Camino]

Yes. Only your phone number will change. (But I'm no expert and my experience is limited to one trip and an Android phone, so I was hoping someone else would answer!)

You're correct, only the phone number changes.

I used a Vodafone card last spring and even keeping my Iphone on flight mode I was only able to make 2 calls, 1 minute long, back home on a 20€ card. Lady at a shop where I replenished my card told me that this was not unusual and one lf the reasons very few people in Spain, according to her, no longer use these prepaid cards. I know that if I ever buy one again it will be to be used on a regular phone, not a smart phone with data.

 

[Seabird]

From my experience, the three major Spanish mobile carriers appear to be Movistar, Orange, and Vodaphone. For reference, in the US I am using a prepaid t-Mobile plan that works very well for me. I know t-Mobile is originally a German company, but I have no experience with using t-Mobile in Spain.

So, the question is: WHICH MOBILE CARRIER LIKELY PROVIDES THE "BEST OVERALL" COVERAGE ACROSS SPAIN?

I chose T-Mobile for my US carrier precisely because it has such a great international plan. I haven't used it yet in Spain, but had great coverage throughout France, Germany, Austria, and Italy.

 

[Bajaracer]

IF I carry an IPhone 6s and get a sim card in Spain, can I still use all my current aps?

Provided your iPhone is unlocked, you can get a prepaid Spanish SIM card with data, you can use all your apps like you would at home except for Pandora radio (US only)
What phone service are you using in the US?

 

[Bajaracer]

BrienC, what brand battery pack do you use? Do you use it to charge your phone during the day when walking; if only at night, why not just plug your phone in the wall? I'm concerned about my iPhone not holding it's charge all day since I'm relying on it as a camera and guidebook, but am not clear on how to use the battery pack, or if it's worth the extra weight. Thanks for helping!

I have a USB battery pack that is also a flashlight, you charge the battery pack with a USB cable, once charged up, then you plug your iPhone cable to the battery pack and it will charge your iPhone inside your bag out of sight of prying eyes.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Flash-Light...hash=item3ab286f1bc:m:mmV6K6H6zDz2KXdx0Hgd4Tg

 

[Bajaracer]

I have a related question to pose to my friends in the forum. Like many of you, in the past I have carried an "old-school" flip phone with a Belgian SIM that I have maintained since I lived in Belgium from 2006-2008. This phone is fine for basic voice and text.

This year, I gave up and joined the rest of the world, buying an Apple iPhone 6S. Now, I have a device that can replace my BE SIM flip phone, my iPod Touch (sold on eBay) and potentially my Canon digital camera, as the iPhone has a 12 gigapixel camera, and the Canon digicam I have takes 14 gigapixel photos. So, I am anticipating relying on one digital device to do everything. I think most folks would concur with that choice.

So, here is the question. It relates to the "BEST" SIM card for use across Spain. I realize people have preferences, but like many other pilgrims, who will be in Spain for one or more months, I am looking for a prepaid nano-SIM that has voice, text, and 4G data capabilities.

I will likely use texting and data far more than voice. As I plan to try to use Wikiloc GPS on the iPhone on my next Camino (from Madrid), I am GUESSING that I would need something around 2 Gb data, plus international and national voice and text. Most of my voice calls will be to mobile numbers in Spain, other EU nations, and the US.

From my experience, the three major Spanish mobile carriers appear to be Movistar, Orange, and Vodaphone. For reference, in the US I am using a prepaid t-Mobile plan that works very well for me. I know t-Mobile is originally a German company, but I have no experience with using t-Mobile in Spain.

So, the question is: WHICH MOBILE CARRIER LIKELY PROVIDES THE "BEST OVERALL" COVERAGE ACROSS SPAIN?

All suggestions welcomed. There are no stupid questions...I ask the stupid questions....claro?

Thanks in advance...

Don't be afraid to ask dumb questions, they're a lot easier to handle than dumb mistakes.
To answer your question which has the "BEST OVERALL" coverage in Spain, that would be Movistar.
http://prepaid-data-sim-card.wikia.com/wiki/Spain

 

[Urban Trekker]

So SYates asked on another post that I describe the heavy pile of electronics that go into my pack. Here goes.

I am a low tech person, and somewhat surprisingly, that has gotten me in a lot of trouble in terms of weight in my pack on the camino. I have always carried a camera, and have downsized my camera to a little canon that I think dougfitz recommended. I love it. It has a little charger with a little square battery.

Then about 12 years ago, I decided I really could use a Spanish phone to be able to call friends, call ahead for reservations, etc. So I have an ancient Spanish cell phone, which I load up with a new SIM card every year when I arrive in Spain. Plus charger.

Next -- in 2013, my mother (then aged 89) had a health crisis and I was close to cancelling my walk. But at the last minute, she improved and I decided the way to go was to get a smart phone (I was in 2013 the owner of one of those clam shell phones at home ). With my new smartphone, I was able to Skype with my parents using the ubiquitous wifi. On the Levante I talked with them almost every day. Charger comes along.

Then in 2014, as I was planning to walk the Camino Olvidado, seeing that it was a very solitary, and potentially very poorly marked camino, with a mountain stretch of about 16 kms with nothing but the mountains, Gunnar and susannafromsweden helped me to get a GPS and to figure out the bare minimum -- how to get tracks loaded onto it and how to follow it in a pinch. There was one point when I was at an abandoned mine far from any town and with no arrows of any kind when it was a lifesaver. I'm sure I wouldn't have perished in the mountains, but I really would have been in a pickle. Since then I have been on totally solitary caminos every summer and though I have a love-hate relationship with my GPS, and it has failed me (or I have failed it) on several occasions, I think I've now got a basic grasp of its functions and can limp along, thanks to dougfitz again. I have a 2016 plan for another solitary camino. Charger comes too.

So there you have it. Kind of ironic that someone who never carries a cell phone at home finds herself on the Camino with more gadgets than clothes.

Buen camino, Laurie

I Prefer my tablet and I don't like using my smart phone in place of it. When I travel I carry a very small talk and text only dumb phone that works all over the world. My friend brings his GPS Buen Camino

 

[Stephen Nicholls]

All fascinating stuff .. as an old-timer, I'm delighted Laurie started this conversation!
[Mind you, to me her electronic list looks pretty normal ]

 

[Camembert]

So SYates asked on another post that I describe the heavy pile of electronics that go into my pack. Here goes.

I am a low tech person, and somewhat surprisingly, that has gotten me in a lot of trouble in terms of weight in my pack on the camino. I have always carried a camera, and have downsized my camera to a little canon that I think dougfitz recommended. I love it. It has a little charger with a little square battery.

Then about 12 years ago, I decided I really could use a Spanish phone to be able to call friends, call ahead for reservations, etc. So I have an ancient Spanish cell phone, which I load up with a new SIM card every year when I arrive in Spain. Plus charger.

Next -- in 2013, my mother (then aged 89) had a health crisis and I was close to cancelling my walk. But at the last minute, she improved and I decided the way to go was to get a smart phone (I was in 2013 the owner of one of those clam shell phones at home ). With my new smartphone, I was able to Skype with my parents using the ubiquitous wifi. On the Levante I talked with them almost every day. Charger comes along.

Then in 2014, as I was planning to walk the Camino Olvidado, seeing that it was a very solitary, and potentially very poorly marked camino, with a mountain stretch of about 16 kms with nothing but the mountains, Gunnar and susannafromsweden helped me to get a GPS and to figure out the bare minimum -- how to get tracks loaded onto it and how to follow it in a pinch. There was one point when I was at an abandoned mine far from any town and with no arrows of any kind when it was a lifesaver. I'm sure I wouldn't have perished in the mountains, but I really would have been in a pickle. Since then I have been on totally solitary caminos every summer and though I have a love-hate relationship with my GPS, and it has failed me (or I have failed it) on several occasions, I think I've now got a basic grasp of its functions and can limp along, thanks to dougfitz again. I have a 2016 plan for another solitary camino. Charger comes too.

So there you have it. Kind of ironic that someone who never carries a cell phone at home finds herself on the Camino with more gadgets than clothes.

Buen camino, Laurie

During ages pilgrims found their way to Santiago from all places in the world Laurie.
However since all these new gadges it has been much more easy in life (sometimes)
My old uncle allways said "when I was young ,only existed two electrical drvices-one I possesed...a lamp . And the other one ? I do not know what that one is like...and nowadays there are more electric devices I do not have " he said.
My wife and I have an antique Iphone 4 for the wifi and call to our kids and taking some pictures
My wife has an Ipad mini for blogging and I have a Gopro video camera for grabbing some video images of the caminho and other travels.
Two standard usb chargers, 3 chargingcables for two types of Apple connections and the Gopro. One extra small battery for the Gopro
Very light although.

Bom caminho

 

[LillySpall]

On the subject of electronics, I have come up with a clever way of reducing the size/weight of chargers carried. Instead of taking my Australian iPhone plug (which is already quite bulky) plus a foreign adaptor, I jump on eBay and search for a "wall to usb plug" for whichever country I am going to.

On a recent trip to the UK I was lucky enough to snag one for 99 cents which was about a third the size of my Australian plug not to mention I didn't need to buy an adaptor which can be anywhere from $10-20.

Also if you're really crafty you can try to ensure that all your devices can be charged using a USB adaptor so you only need to take one plug and a few cords. I know many cameras come with USB cords for charging and my Fitbit can also be plugged into any USB adaptor.

I hope this helps someone, Buen Camino

 

[Tia Valeria]

From my experience, the three major Spanish mobile carriers appear to be Movistar, Orange, and Vodaphone. For reference, in the US I am using a prepaid t-Mobile plan that works very well for me. I know t-Mobile is originally a German company, but I have no experience with using t-Mobile in Spain.

So, the question is: WHICH MOBILE CARRIER LIKELY PROVIDES THE "BEST OVERALL" COVERAGE ACROSS SPAIN?

All suggestions welcomed. There are no stupid questions...I ask the stupid questions....claro?

Thanks in advance...

We have Orange phones which also pick up Movistar without any problem and seemed to have good coverage.

 

[Deleted member 43985]

BrienC, what brand battery pack do you use? Do you use it to charge your phone during the day when walking; if only at night, why not just plug your phone in the wall? I'm concerned about my iPhone not holding it's charge all day since I'm relying on it as a camera and guidebook, but am not clear on how to use the battery pack, or if it's worth the extra weight. Thanks for helping!

If you use an iPhone you can also check out the Mophie battery packs that extend your battery life by 120%. I use one and have no issues with using GPS apps and others all day. http://www.mophie.com/shop/iphone-5/juice-pack-plus-iphone-5

 

[Fritz]

On the subject of electronics, I have come up with a clever way of reducing the size/weight of chargers carried. Instead of taking my Australian iPhone plug (which is already quite bulky) plus a foreign adaptor, I jump on eBay and search for a "wall to usb plug" for whichever country I am going to.

Also if you're really crafty you can try to ensure that all your devices can be charged using a USB adaptor so you only need to take one plug and a few cords.

I think this is easily overlooked -- I know when I look at my collection of electronics at home, the chargers and cords are bulky and different. Another addition to consider -- I'm just exploring these now -- are the portable chargers (essentially bigger capacity batteries) that can be charged and then packed along to allow 2 or more devices to re charge. Perhaps someone with more experience with these can offer some reports of their usefulness?

In 2013 there were some stops that that the queue to use the wall plug was longer than the queue for the shower. ( A slight exaggeration.)

 

[Tia Valeria]

We now have usb charger leads for our phones so only need one (Spanish) usb phone plug, or home (UK) usb plug plus adaptor. The charge-bars are usb so would be useful and are fairly light. The main thing we have to watch is that the phone ends of the leads are in the correct phone as their sockets are different.
Anything to lighten the load.....

 

[Patch]

I used to have a very old what we call a "builders phone" but had to update it to a smart Nokia 630 windows phone. Its unlocked so I could buy a local SIM but never do as i just use it to communicate via text, Skype or emails. I have it off most of the day or if i want to listen to the radio/music I pt it in aeroplane mode and by doing this i find one charge easily lasts a week. That said i have found plenty of places on the Camino to charge it and their is loads of free WiFi. Only problem I found is that window based phones struggle with some web application but as i only paid about 80 UK pounds for it and it does nearly everything (photos, emails, phone, text, music, radio)I want then i am more then happy. The phone is small and I use a USB to micro D charging lead. Its fairly easy to buy a plug with built in transformer in country so i dont even need to take a travel adaptor - many places now have USB chargers.

 

[Bajaracer]

During ages pilgrims found their way to Santiago from all places in the world Laurie.
However since all these new gadges it has been much more easy in life (sometimes)
My old uncle allways said "when I was young ,only existed two electrical drvices-one I possesed...a lamp . And the other one ? I do not know what that one is like...and nowadays there are more electric devices I do not have " he said.
My wife and I have an antique Iphone 4 for the wifi and call to our kids and taking some pictures
My wife has an Ipad mini for blogging and I have a Gopro video camera for grabbing some video images of the caminho and other travels.
Two standard usb chargers, 3 chargingcables for two types of Apple connections and the Gopro. One extra small battery for the Gopro
Very light although.

Bom caminho

Since most electronics are charged via USB, a three port USB charger would be ideal to charge up all three of your devices with one outlet, in this day and age with more pilgrims bringing electronics, outlets are getting scarce, this way you won't be an "outlet hog."
http://www.ebay.com/itm/MGC-3-1A-Tr...hash=item35f57657f9:m:mAcvLY6qs4gbugeMD56DYRg

 

[Camembert]

Since most electronics are charged via USB, a three port USB charger would be ideal to charge up all three of your devices with one outlet, in this day and age with more pilgrims bringing electronics, outlets are getting scarce, this way you won't be an "outlet hog."
http://www.ebay.com/itm/MGC-3-1A-Tr...hash=item35f57657f9:m:mAcvLY6qs4gbugeMD56DYRg

Thanks for your information. I am going after one.
Buen camino and regards

 

[t2andreo]

CHARGERS & CABLES: Over three years, I pared back the charger-cable to a solution that fits in small ziplock in a cargo pocket so it is never far from me. The result is very small, very convenient, and is the overall lightest combination I can find.

The charger is an Apple, Euro-spec (2 pin Schuko), wall to USB charger: Here is the link to the Spanish Apple web site:

http://www.apple.com/es/shop/product/MD813ZM/A/adaptador-de-corriente-usb-de-5-w-de-apple?fnode=97

Here is a photo of the charger:



This charger is about the size of a standard "Zippo" cigarette lighter.

The "BEST" cable I found yet is one that has USB to micro-USB, PLUS a tethered Lightning tip for Apple products. This sort of cable permits charging virtually any small electronic device with a rechargeable battery that uses micro-USB or lightning connectivity:

Here is a non-retractable cable by Belkin (one of the better manufacturers):

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IDI70SQ/?tag=casaivar02-20

Here is a photo of the white version:



Personally, I use a retractable cable, like this one...

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00K1II4N6/?tag=casaivar02-20

Here is a photo:



Here is a photo of the white version:



I like the retractable type cable, as the retracted cable and charger fit nice and flat in the small zip-lock in my pocket.

SIM: I am still on the hunt for a good SIM solution in Spain. As I already have t-Mobile here in the US, and whereas they apparently have an outstanding overseas free access to data and texting, this might be the way to go, no change needed or additional costs. I need to go to my local t-Mobile store to get some straight answers in advance.

BATTERY: I have since added the Apple, "piggyback" battery to my iPhone 6s. It keeps the phone at 100 percent charge for about three days. The battery pack exhausts itself first then the phone. Both charge simultaneously through the same Lightning port. The silicone case makes the phone easier to grip and improves protection. It does increase the weight, but you can't have everything. ANY extra battery for ANY smartphone is going to increase weight. I prefer the Apple solution as it is best integrated, looks fine, and improves overall usability. I found that separate battery packs tended to get lost or simply not used.

SCREEN PROTECTION: I use a "Gorilla Glass" full screen overlay made by Zagg, to protect the iPhone from scratches and impact damage. See it here: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LTV3K56/?tag=casaivar02-20

I hope this helps.

 

[peregrina2000]

This thread is so interesting, even though I haven't quite figured out what I will do. I love all the little tangents that focus on one particular aspect of my dilemma or another. Thanks everyone.

It seems to me that there are several groups of responses showing very different attitudes about technology. There are those who are bold and embrace it, probably the ones who replace their phones and their computers every couple of years to get the latest and the fastest. There are those who don't use any of it, either because it's part of their "time to disconnect" feeling or because they are Luddites like me. And there are those limping along in the middle, and this is where I find myself -- realizing that I have to find ways to stay connected with my family, realizing that I am terrible with directions and am not willing to get lost every day on these caminos with no one around. So I cobble together incremental options that require me to learn new things as little as possible, building on the known and tinkering with it to adjust. This is ultimately the path that got me where I am now, overloaded with too much gear.

I think pretty clearly the way to go is to get rid of all of it and find a new wonderful phone that will perform all of these functions. But I don't think that makes sense unless I'm committed to using this new stuff in my daily life off the camino -- the learning curve is just too steep for me to plop down on the camino with a new fancy do-everything phone. And frankly I just don't have the interest to commit to that now, so I have kind of boxed myself into a corner.

 

[melindafromtexas]

CHARGERS & CABLES: Over three years, I pared back the charger-cable to a solution that fits in small ziplock in a cargo pocket so it is never far from me. The result is very small, very convenient, and is the overall lightest combination I can find.

The charger is an Apple, Euro-spec (2 pin Schuko), wall to USB charger: Here is the link to the Spanish Apple web site:

http://www.apple.com/es/shop/product/MD813ZM/A/adaptador-de-corriente-usb-de-5-w-de-apple?fnode=97

Here is a photo of the charger:

View attachment 23536

This charger is about the size of a standard "Zippo" cigarette lighter.

The "BEST" cable I found yet is one that has USB to micro-USB, PLUS a tethered Lightning tip for Apple products. This sort of cable permits charging virtually any small electronic device with a rechargeable battery that uses micro-USB or lightning connectivity:

Here is a non-retractable cable by Belkin (one of the better manufacturers):
Great post and info and photos thanks!

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IDI70SQ/?tag=casaivar02-20

Here is a photo of the white version:

View attachment 23540

Personally, I use a retractable cable, like this one...

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00K1II4N6/?tag=casaivar02-20

Here is a photo:

View attachment 23539

Here is a photo of the white version:

View attachment 23537

I like the retractable type cable, as the retracted cable and charger fit nice and flat in the small zip-lock in my pocket.

SIM: I am still on the hunt for a good SIM solution in Spain. As I already have t-Mobile here in the US, and whereas they apparently have an outstanding overseas free access to data and texting, this might be the way to go, no change needed or additional costs. I need to go to my local t-Mobile store to get some straight answers in advance.

BATTERY: I have since added the Apple, "piggyback" battery to my iPhone 6s. It keeps the phone at 100 percent charge for about three days. The battery pack exhausts itself first then the phone. Both charge simultaneously through the same Lightning port. The silicone case makes the phone easier to grip and improves protection. It does increase the weight, but you can't have everything. ANY extra battery for ANY smartphone is going to increase weight. I prefer the Apple solution as it is best integrated, looks fine, and improves overall usability. I found that separate battery packs tended to get lost or simply not used.

SCREEN PROTECTION: I use a "Gorilla Glass" full screen overlay made by Zagg, to protect the iPhone from scratches and impact damage. See it here: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LTV3K56/?tag=casaivar02-20

I hope this helps.

 

[Anniesantiago]

Well, I bought the MotionX program and installed it on my iphone.
But I have absolutely NO idea what to do next.

 

[BShea]

I was probably the last on my block to get a smart phone. Mostly because I felt the screen was too small to actually use for anything other than as an expensive phone. But after two caminos and more planned, I was tired of carrying all the gadgets and their accompanying chargers and extra batteries. I finally broke down and got a Nokia Lumina 640 xl. It was under $200. The screen size is slightly larger than your average smartphone, so I'm hoping I won't miss my tablet too much (especially when I use it to blog). This phone also has a slot to expand it's memory so I bought a 128gb EVO micro SD memory card off eBay for $12. Now, I can store all my music and take all the photos I want for pretty much the rest of my life. Another really cool thing is that since it's a Microsoft product, any pictures I take will be automatically loaded to my One Drive (like a flash drive in the sky) every night (when it has a wifi connection) so if I lose my phone, I won't lose my memories. Since my husband has access to this account, he will be able to see my photos daily and vicariously share my trip. I researched the camera on line, and it got pretty good reviews. I have also downloaded several camino maps and a GPS (all for free). I noticed that you can buy an unlocked version which means you can use it with whatever cell phone company you currently use. The unlocked version has two slots for SIM cards (the little card that your cellphone carrier installed that allows you to make calls and determines your phone number). This means you can buy a SIM card in Spain and pop it in without worrying about removing your US SIM. Probably way too much info, but I hope this helps.

P.S. Thanks to @Bajaracer for his pre-purchase advice and links! http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1148739-REG/microsoft_a00025383_lumia_640_xl_4g.html

 

[tomnorth]

I used the Francés iOS application from Wise Pilgrim. This is a fabulous app. It includes a map of the route and shows you where you are in relation to the path. I found this incredibly useful. It also has alburgue reviews from pilgrims. Those reviews were a tremendous help.

 

[newfydog]

Well, I bought the MotionX program and installed it on my iphone.
But I have absolutely NO idea what to do next.

Tap Menu
Map
hit maps in lower left
check out the options of maps and air photos
walk around the block with it

 

[Anemone del Camino]

I used the Francés iOS application from Wise Pilgrim. This is a fabulous app. It includes a map of the route and shows you where you are in relation to the path. I found this incredibly useful. It also has alburgue reviews from pilgrims. Those reviews were a tremendous help.

Thank you for the tip. The app also includes the Invierno and San Salvador routes!

 

[majormarco]

Ok, assuming that you 'only' use photos for sharing online and not plan to print them out bigger than postcard-size one smartphone (plus charger!) can replace phone, camera, GPS, wifi for Skype etc. Buen Camino, SY

It is a good idea to uninstall old apps you are not using .(keeps the weight down)

 

[AlwynWellington]

Over three years, I pared back the charger-cable to a solution that fits in small ziplock in a cargo pocket so it is never far from me. The result is very small, very convenient, and is the overall lightest combination I can find.

I also seek simplicity and need to re-charge a tablet, camera and phone.

The compatibility section does not list any iPads. So it won't re-charge any other tablet also. Rather it will, but slowly.

I will be travelling in New Zealand, France/Spain, and United Kingdom. So need a light weight solution for all three. countries and all three devices.

This is a bit like @peregrina2000, who started this thread.

Any suggestions?

 

[dougfitz]

[Mind you, to me her electronic list looks pretty normal ]

Thank goodness, I'm glad I'm not the only other one who prefers to take separate devices.

 

[Jeff Crawley]

One clamshell phone each (share charger and adaptor) - we have had them since 2009.
One smartphone for wi-fi (usb lead charger -Spanish usb plug)
One coil - Spanish plug
One small camera each which use 2 ordinary AA batteries each, so we carry 2 spares and but when needed.

Contemplating bringing old AsusEEE mini netbook - 2009 model - (and charger) to save our photos, after last year's disaster with a memory card.
We are trying not to overload even though we will have the car! We occasionally take photos on the phone but don't like relying on 'one piece' technology.

You can always upload photos to a cloud account like Google Drive or Dropbox

JC

 

[Tia Valeria]

You can always upload photos to a cloud account like Google Drive or Dropbox

JC

No, thank you, that is not what we want to do. The camera is not wi-fi enabled so we would still need other technology. We do not use the smartphone for photos, generally, as we prefer the simple camera running on AA batteries.

 

[BrienC]

BrienC, what brand battery pack do you use? Do you use it to charge your phone during the day when walking; if only at night, why not just plug your phone in the wall? I'm concerned about my iPhone not holding it's charge all day since I'm relying on it as a camera and guidebook, but am not clear on how to use the battery pack, or if it's worth the extra weight. Thanks for helping!

Mine is made by Powergen. It has a 5200 mAh capacity. There are many of these USB chargeable batteries on the market. I charge my iPhone at night so that it's always in my possession. Too many things I'd seriously dislike loosing if someone happened to take my phone, if by mistake or otherwise. Unless your phone (and it's battery) are old, the battery should hold for normal use during a day. I used mine last summer for the camera, referring to Camino maps and running a GPS tracking app all day, without problem.

Hope this helps,

 

[t2andreo]

It is a good idea to uninstall old apps you are not using .(keeps the weight down)

Now THAT is funny - eliminating apps reduces the weight. Seriously?! Then again, electrons DO have a positive weight, at least at the theoretical level. I am getting a headache...

 

[t2andreo]

I am not a Luddite regarding gadgets. I used up to three separate devices on each of my first three Caminos. However, since returning home from Spain last August, I decided to join all my nieces, nephews and all my friends, just hold my nose and jump in. So I bought the newest iPhone 6s when it came out this past September.

So far, I am impressed with all the various things this single device can do. It cuts the comparable weight clearly in half.

Originally, I carried:

• Old school GSM flip-phone with switched US/EU SIM cards,in leather belt case
• iPod Touch with protective case/sleeve (for email and web use where Wi-Fi was available), plus the camera
• Canon pocket digital camera, in protective case, plus extra battery, plus specific charger.

This all weighed an all-in total of: 533 grams / 18.8 ounces (slightly more than A POUND OF WEIGHT)

Now, I plan to carry only the iPhone 6s with attached Apple Saddle back, silicone case. I will not factor-in the charger setup I mentioned earlier in my weight estimates, as it will not change when I reduce my carry load to only the iPhone.

This combination, together, weighs 250 grams / 8.8 ounces (due to the battery case). The iPhone 6S weighs 151 grams or 5.3 ounces, NET....with all the dozens of apps I use...despite their "weight."

So, this year, my electronic gear weight penalty is reduced by 283 grams / 8.8 ounces...or slightly over one half-pound. THAT, my friends is a serious weight reduction in only one category.

Clearly, if your hobby is photography, or you are a professional blogger, your needs will vary. You will carry more or less gear and accouterments as needed according to your individual needs.

By comparison, I have to tote daily protein supplements as I have a bariatric lap band. That medical / dietary requirement adds a daily 85 gram / 3.0 ounce weight "penalty." Over a week, that is 595 gram / 21.0 ounce weight penalty. Over a month, that is 2380 grams (2.38 KILOS) / 84 ounces (5.25 POUNDS). Clearly, my "10 Kg" pack weight limit, includes significant challenges that most do not share. So, I DO UNDERSTAND.

My point is that no two pilgrims gear requirements are the same. You do what you have to do to best support YOUR Camino.

I hope this helps.

 

[C clearly]

I use a large smartphone - Samsung Note II, a few years old. (There is now a large-screen I-phone which looks great.) With this, I can travel for a few months and not miss my laptop computer much. Because these are such expensive devices, I always have it attached to my belt loop or other secure spot with a lanyard (see photo). That has saved it from many an accident, forgetfulness and at least one pick-pocketing. I am surprised more people don't do use these, although it may not be very cool! There is a quick-release fastening so I can easily remove the phone if I want, and the lanyard dangles to remind me to re-attach it.

 

[Magwood]

I'm loving this thread. I feel like an addict who can finally feel safe in admitting my addiction - I like gadgets. They are more important to me than shaving weight.

There have been posts on this forum that try to make us tech fans feel inferior. That we cannot experience a 'pure' Camino if we take our gadgets. It seems to me that many of those who advocate a low or no tech Camino look down their noses at us, whilst I belive that we techies can appreciate that ours is not the only way, and each is entitled to their own way of walking.

So, here goes - my name is Maggie and I will be taking the following items on my next Camino....

Sparkly new iPhone 6 - the battery failed on my old iphone 5. I walked 22 kms the other day whilst recording the track on wikiloc with hardly a dent in the battery. I want my family to be able to contact me whenever they wish, which isn't that often. Particularly, by being in regular contact with my very supportive partner, he feels part of my Camino and can track my progress and share with friends. He would feel extremely excluded if we did not have this contact.

iPad mini - I blog every day live from my caminos and really can't be bothered to do this from a phone screen. I started blogging on my first Camino partly as a personal journal, and partly as a means for my family and friends to follow my progress. But not far into my first Camino I was receiving views on my blog from many people I didn't know, and I have now reached the dizzy heights of over 300,000 views. This never fails to amaze me - I get hits from all over the world and (other than bringing up my children) blogging is the most rewarding thing I have done. I have recently bought a second-hand iPad mini with SIM card so that I do not need to search out a wifi connection in order to post to my blog every day (although of course I will use wifi where I can get it).

Camera - I currently have a Panasonic lumix DMC-LF1, but unfortunately it is on its very last legs. A decision has yet to be made as to whether it is replaced before my next Camino. Although my iPhone, and indeed my iPad, are adequate for taking photos, I can't quite let go of my camera - and it doesn't weigh very much.

Power bank. The remote charger I took last year let me down half way through my Camino and I purchased a cheap replacement en route. But have now bought a 20,000 mAh battery pack with dual inlet and dual outlet. It is quite slim, but heavier than anticipated. But hopefully it will prove itself worth its weight.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00SKH4J9S/?tag=casaivar-21

Multi point wall charger that can take five usb cables for simultaneous charging, so I can offer other pilgrims to share this device.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00VTI8K9K/?tag=casaivar-21

I carry all these items (although not the wall charger) from my waist pack and do not really feel the weight carried this way.

Like some others of a 'certain age' I don't find learning new technologies particularly easy but thoroughly enjoy the process. I don't impact on anyone else by using these gadgets and am quite happy being an addict!

Buen Camino, whatever your persuasion!

 

[Deleted member 43985]

Fantastic post [SIZE=3]@Magwood[/SIZE]!! I relate 100%

One little piece that might be interesting if you don't already have it is an Apple SD card reader. I use this to bring photos from my camera to my iPad and then can use the mobile version of Adobe Lightroom to do some editing prior to posting for the day. Nice to not have to resort to raw, unedited photos!!

 

[Magwood]

Fantastic post [SIZE=3]@Magwood[/SIZE]!! I relate 100%

One little piece that might be interesting if you don't already have it is an Apple SD card reader. I use this to bring photos from my camera to my iPad and then can use the mobile version of Adobe Lightroom to do some editing prior to posting for the day. Nice to not have to resort to raw, unedited photos!!

Aha, my camera has wifi, so that is one piece of tech that I don't need.
I tend to put several images onto a collage grid before uploading to my blog, which saves loads of upload time. I use the app 'photogrid'.

 

[Urban Trekker]

I'm loving this thread. I feel like an addict who can finally feel safe in admitting my addiction - I like gadgets. They are more important to me than shaving weight.

There have been posts on this forum that try to make us tech fans feel inferior. That we cannot experience a 'pure' Camino if we take our gadgets. It seems to me that many of those who advocate a low or no tech Camino look down their noses at us, whilst I belive that we techies can appreciate that ours is not the only way, and each is entitled to their own way of walking.

So, here goes - my name is Maggie and I will be taking the following items on my next Camino....

Sparkly new iPhone 6 - the battery failed on my old iphone 5. I walked 22 kms the other day whilst recording the track on wikiloc with hardly a dent in the battery. I want my family to be able to contact me whenever they wish, which isn't that often. Particularly, by being in regular contact with my very supportive partner, he feels part of my Camino and can track my progress and share with friends. He would feel extremely excluded if we did not have this contact.

iPad mini - I blog every day live from my caminos and really can't be bothered to do this from a phone screen. I started blogging on my first Camino partly as a personal journal, and partly as a means for my family and friends to follow my progress. But not far into my first Camino I was receiving views on my blog from many people I didn't know, and I have now reached the dizzy heights of over 300,000 views. This never fails to amaze me - I get hits from all over the world and (other than bringing up my children) blogging is the most rewarding thing I have done. I have recently bought a second-hand iPad mini with SIM card so that I do not need to search out a wifi connection in order to post to my blog every day (although of course I will use wifi where I can get it).

Camera - I currently have a Panasonic lumix DMC-LF1, but unfortunately it is on its very last legs. A decision has yet to be made as to whether it is replaced before my next Camino. Although my iPhone, and indeed my iPad, are adequate for taking photos, I can't quite let go of my camera - and it doesn't weigh very much.

Power bank. The remote charger I took last year let me down half way through my Camino and I purchased a cheap replacement en route. But have now bought a 20,000 mAh battery pack with dual inlet and dual outlet. It is quite slim, but heavier than anticipated. But hopefully it will prove itself worth its weight.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00SKH4J9S/?tag=casaivar-21

Multi point wall charger that can take five usb cables for simultaneous charging, so I can offer other pilgrims to share this device.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00VTI8K9K/?tag=casaivar-21

I carry all these items (although not the wall charger) from my waist pack and do not really feel the weight carried this way.

Like some others of a 'certain age' I don't find learning new technologies particularly easy but thoroughly enjoy the process. I don't impact on anyone else by using these gadgets and am quite happy being an addict!

Buen Camino, whatever your persuasion!

Magwood, my list of electronics is identical only this year I'm leaving the iPhone at home and bring a very small world wide phone. Buen Camino

Happy Trails

 

[MichaelB10398]

Alas, I am a purist, elitist, romantic and can often be a snob about these things. Though I avail myself of technology and appreciate the convenience some tech offers - I have the mobile phone, the iPad, the laptop - I use them for a purpose and remain grateful. However, too often the bloke next to me is completely absorbed in their tech. Humanity, nature, life surrounds them and they are oblivious to it because their eyes, their mind, their feelings are stuck in talking to those "others" that are not present.

I acknowledge and teach that the Camino is personal - it is my Camino, her Camino, his Camino, your Camino. However, the Camino is also a communal experience for those who are present, observant, and don't have their eyes stuck to an electronic screen removing themselves from the Camino for the length of time they are thinking about their tech and involved with their tech, and taking care of their tech.

I don't think I have ever looked down on anyone absorbed in their tech, but I do pity them. If I do anything I ignore them because they are closed off from everything around them. Ignoring them is out of respect for their choice in the same way that I respect those who seek silence.

Yes, I know that my words may sound harsh and may offend. That is not my purpose. My purpose is to continue to support the concept that the Camino gives to those who are present - who focus on being a pilgrim while actually on the Camino. If by chance a techie begins to sense that something is amiss on their Camino it may be worth a little experiment. Put it away and engage with others, be open to them, serve them. In sacrificing yourself you may very well find yourself. There is a price for having a lot of tech; be wise in its use or you may miss exactly what you were looking.

 

[plainlost]

at the risk of again sounding super dumb.. Is there something additional that I need to plug in to the wall?

 

[Camembert]

Alas, I am a purist, elitist, romantic and can often be a snob about these things. Though I avail myself of technology and appreciate the convenience some tech offers - I have the mobile phone, the iPad, the laptop - I use them for a purpose and remain grateful. However, too often the bloke next to me is completely absorbed in their tech. Humanity, nature, life surrounds them and they are oblivious to it because their eyes, their mind, their feelings are stuck in talking to those "others" that are not present.

I acknowledge and teach that the Camino is personal - it is my Camino, her Camino, his Camino, your Camino. However, the Camino is also a communal experience for those who are present, observant, and don't have their eyes stuck to an electronic screen removing themselves from the Camino for the length of time they are thinking about their tech and involved with their tech, and taking care of their tech.

I don't think I have ever looked down on anyone absorbed in their tech, but I do pity them. If I do anything I ignore them because they are closed off from everything around them. Ignoring them is out of respect for their choice in the same way that I respect those who seek silence.

Yes, I know that my words may sound harsh and may offend. That is not my purpose. My purpose is to continue to support the concept that the Camino gives to those who are present - who focus on being a pilgrim while actually on the Camino. If by chance a techie begins to sense that something is amiss on their Camino it may be worth a little experiment. Put it away and engage with others, be open to them, serve them. In sacrificing yourself you may very well find yourself. There is a price for having a lot of tech; be wise in its use or you may miss exactly what you were looking.

You are right but it has become a social problem.

The other day we were in the albergue Casa Da Fernanda on the Portuguese caminho .it is one of the few places were is a common supper with singing together.
Some people only are interested in shuffling in the provided food as soon as possible meaanwhile checking their smartphones and after finishing their meal they disappear onlybecause the main attention is their magic screen.
Reason that Fernanda switched off the wifi device in her home .

 

[dougfitz]

Alas, I am a purist, elitist, romantic and can often be a snob about these things. Though I avail myself of technology and appreciate the convenience some tech offers - I have the mobile phone, the iPad, the laptop - I use them for a purpose and remain grateful. However, too often the bloke next to me is completely absorbed in their tech. Humanity, nature, life surrounds them and they are oblivious to it because their eyes, their mind, their feelings are stuck in talking to those "others" that are not present.

I acknowledge and teach that the Camino is personal - it is my Camino, her Camino, his Camino, your Camino. However, the Camino is also a communal experience for those who are present, observant, and don't have their eyes stuck to an electronic screen removing themselves from the Camino for the length of time they are thinking about their tech and involved with their tech, and taking care of their tech.

I don't think I have ever looked down on anyone absorbed in their tech, but I do pity them. If I do anything I ignore them because they are closed off from everything around them. Ignoring them is out of respect for their choice in the same way that I respect those who seek silence.

Yes, I know that my words may sound harsh and may offend. That is not my purpose. My purpose is to continue to support the concept that the Camino gives to those who are present - who focus on being a pilgrim while actually on the Camino. If by chance a techie begins to sense that something is amiss on their Camino it may be worth a little experiment. Put it away and engage with others, be open to them, serve them. In sacrificing yourself you may very well find yourself. There is a price for having a lot of tech; be wise in its use or you may miss exactly what you were looking.

@MichaelB10398, I have no doubt that we come to our pilgrimages from quite different perspectives when it comes to using 'technology', and I would make a sorry specimen of a pilgrim on the basis of your homily.

Even before the explosion of wifi, I would spend at least 30 min each night writing up my travel blog, so that my parents, siblings, children and grand-children had the opportunity to be with me vicariously when they couldn't be with me in person. I would like to think it more valuable to spend that time doing something that would influence how my grand-children see the world and its opportunities than rushing to the next bar to have a beer with some new found camino friend. I walked in 2014 with a woman who regularly skyped her family. She walked a week at a time because she didn't want to be away from her young daughter any longer than that. It appears you would have pitied her too, rather than admired her willingness to use technology to reduce the impact of her absence on her child. I doubt either of us were unusual in doing these things.

And I did find the expansion of wifi coverage a boon for more more mundane things, like keeping up with the fortunes of my football team. There is, after all, only so much enthusiasm one can muster for another round of Spanish football, racing or bull-fighting broadcast at full volume in every bar and cafe one goes to without hankering for some news from home!

Please, you don't need to pity me. I am not ignoring you, or my surroundings, or my fellow pilgrims. Rather, I will be doing things that right at that moment will be more important parts of my life than the alternatives you offer.

 

[Angie94]

I just downloaded the Wise Pilgrim app. Wow. What a marvelously handy application! Can't wait to utilize it.


Description of Application:

Camino Frances - A Wise Pilgrim's Guide by Wise Pilgrim

Four years older, Four years wiser!

Now in their 4th year the Wise Pilgrim Guides are the definitive app to help you to Santiago de Compostela. Built off the hand written notes of a veteran pilgrim, the app is updated regularly with new content and new features.

This guide covers the Camino Francés, the most popular route across Spain. It has been redesigned and now works almost exclusively offline. To use the map features, or to share your comments with other guide owners, will require a data connection. As more an more albergues share their WiFi this becomes less of an issue, and the guide will tell you which ones offer WiFi.

Accommodation Directory:
A full directory of Albergues, camping, hotels, pensions, paradors, and cases rurales. Over 800 in total, with special attention to those that can be booked online.

Stageless Guide:
No more "stage anxiety" or guide created bottlenecks.

Location Aware:
Every location is geo-coded. Devices with GPS enabled will display actual distance from every point (albergue, church, city, etc.) within the app. Devices without GPS will instead show measured distances between points.

Photos:
Photos of albergues, monuments and other points of interest along the way. Currently 900+ images and growing.

Maps:
If you have a data connection, or are connected to wifi, you can view the locations of every point on a map. Unfortunately, this feature is unavailable without a connection.

Scrollable Elevation Map:
This one is hard to show with just a screenshot, but the elevation that appears at the top of every city page scrolls East to West. One complete elevation, from St. Jean Pied de Port to Santiago, uninterrupted by page folds.

Comments:
Albergue closed early for the season? Have a restaurant that you want to share, or perhaps one to warn others about? Every location in the app gives you the opportunity to leave a comment and to read the comments left by others. No registration necessary.

 

[YourGreatAunt]

Rather, I will be doing things that right at that moment will be more important parts of my life than the alternatives you offer.

Agreed. I will take my pity-inducing screen over bombast anytime.

 

[Angie94]

Multi point wall charger that can take five usb cables for simultaneous charging, so I can offer other pilgrims to share this device.

After reading similar posts, I also ordered one of these so as not to be an outlet piggy!

One little piece that might be interesting if you don't already have it is an Apple SD card reader. I use this to bring photos from my camera to my iPad and then can use the mobile version of Adobe Lightroom to do some editing prior to posting for the day. Nice to not have to resort to raw, unedited photos!!

I am debating whether to invest in an ipad mini as I may want to do a blog for family and friends and it would be something my grandkids could enjoy in the future as well. (I was just going to journal in my notebook, but I am considering doing it electronically) I have never done a blog before but am looking into it. My questions are mainly - is it difficult to create a blog? I am sure there is a learning curve...and how to transfer pictures to the ipad mini from my iphone, but I believe you may have answered that question jozero

 

[MichaelB10398]

@MichaelB10398, I have no doubt that we come to our pilgrimages from quite different perspectives when it comes to using 'technology', and I would make a sorry specimen of a pilgrim on the basis of your homily.

Even before the explosion of wifi, I would spend at least 30 min each night writing up my travel blog, so that my parents, siblings, children and grand-children had the opportunity to be with me vicariously when they couldn't be with me in person. I would like to think it more valuable to spend that time doing something that would influence how my grand-children see the world and its opportunities than rushing to the next bar to have a beer with some new found camino friend. I walked in 2014 with a woman who regularly skyped her family. She walked a week at a time because she didn't want to be away from her young daughter any longer than that. It appears you would have pitied her too, rather than admired her willingness to use technology to reduce the impact of her absence on her child. I doubt either of us were unusual in doing these things.

And I did find the expansion of wifi coverage a boon for more more mundane things, like keeping up with the fortunes of my football team. There is, after all, only so much enthusiasm one can muster for another round of Spanish football, racing or bull-fighting broadcast at full volume in every bar and cafe one goes to without hankering for some news from home!

Please, you don't need to pity me. I am not ignoring you, or my surroundings, or my fellow pilgrims. Rather, I will be doing things that right at that moment will be more important parts of my life than the alternatives you offer.

Friend, you would be wrong. I do not support being a Luddite and I don't think it is necessary to leave tech at home - that would be an incorrect interpretation of my intent. Tech has its place, staying in touch with family and friends at home and elsewhere has its place. As I said, I use tech. It is when the involvement in tech become so consuming that some pilgrims will have walked and missed much of what the Camino has to offer.

I have read your comments for a long time now - I don't think this is what you do or what most people do. I am fearful of the imbalance that tech creates for some people. If the shoe does not fit, please don't think, sense, or feel that my comments apply to you or anyone else. However, if what I have said does seem to fit for someone then use my words as a caution. Don't let tech consume your Camino.

We have all heard that the Camino provides and she does, but if we are not listening or we are not present then she can do nothing. Does that make sense?

 

[MichaelB10398]

After reading similar posts, I also ordered one of these so as not to be an outlet piggy!



I am debating whether to invest in an ipad mini as I may want to do a blog for family and friends and it would be something my grandkids could enjoy in the future as well. (I was just going to journal in my notebook, but I am considering doing it electronically) I have never done a blog before but am looking into it. My questions are mainly - is it difficult to create a blog? I am sure there is a learning curve...and how to transfer pictures to the ipad mini from my iphone, but I believe you may have answered that question jozero

It will take five minutes to set up a blog. Do some research on the different iPads. I use a mini for reading emails and responding in brief comments - it is not conducive for long periods of typing. Consider bringing a keyboard with you. They can be lightweight and it would greatly speed and facilitate your entries.

There are a few different blog locations to consider - most of the big companies have sites for them. Just Google it and you will find a plethora of different offerings. If you have read others' blogs then you may want to consider using their same site. That will make it easy for friends and family to read it.

Cheers,

 

[Angie94]

Thanks Michael!

 

[MichaelB10398]

at the risk of again sounding super dumb.. Is there something additional that I need to plug in to the wall?

You only need to use an electrical outlet when you are recharging things - other than that you have no need of an electrical outlet. The problem comes when there are several individuals trying to recharge their tech when there is only limited electrical outlets.

If you have no need, smile and enjoy the Camino. If you will need to use them having a multiport, wall outlet to plug in will have songs sung for your kindness such as Magwood mentioned doing above.

 

[GreatDane]

I am an electronics addict and yes I could just bring my iPhone 6+ to accomplish everything (but if I had an extra $599 laying around I'd add a DXO www.dxo.com). So my digital camera plus its battery charger plus SD card reader that hooks to iPad mini and iPhone 6+ that share a USB cable, noise cancelling earbuds, and my iPod Nano. I only use the Nano at late at night and when I am flying. I can use it "forever" without the battery running low - its entertainment value per gram is fantastic. I could even watch movies on it if I cared to (and have). I am carrying this stuff not you so the weight is not important.

 

[AlwynWellington]

So there you have it. Kind of ironic that someone who never carries a cell phone at home finds herself on the Camino with more gadgets than clothes.

I have three devices and they each have a distinct purpose as well as providing redundancy.

• smart phone: watch, storage, back up to my tablet and phone. Backup camera, in extremis.
• tablet: 10" screen. Off-line maps and guides to consult at night when preparing for points of interest for the next day, daily office, storage, back up phone
• camera: usually held in the hand for immediate use to capture flora and fauna (including people) and the built landscape. It is much easier to use than a smart phone.

Chosen those which have micro USB connectors. So only one charger with one USB port, 2.1 amps and multi country mains plugs.

Still looking for the perfect charger with at least dual USB ports, 10 watts per port (so the devices can draw the amps that will allow them to charge quickest), have mains plugs for Europe, UK and NZ, and weigh not much more than 100 grams. Oh, and be compact.

 

[BrienC]

Thanks newfydog for suggesting the MotionX GPS app. Without success, I've been trying to load all my GPS logs, collected with the Strava app, into one map of Spain. So I bought the MotionX app and followed their directions to import my GPX file (edited from my 20 daily files into one). Voila, it worked!!! Thanks again.

 

[t2andreo]

I also seek simplicity and need to re-charge a tablet, camera and phone.

The compatibility section does not list any iPads. So it won't re-charge any other tablet also. Rather it will, but slowly.

I will be travelling in New Zealand, France/Spain, and United Kingdom. So need a light weight solution for all three. countries and all three devices.

This is a bit like @peregrina2000, who started this thread.

Any suggestions?

Alwyn:

I suggest that, for your situation, the "best" device charger would be one with those "swiss army-like" flip out pins and prongs that can fit virtually any main power in the world. For example, an iPad power adapter (with suitable mains socket pin adapters) will likely provide suitable power for any other USB device. Most devices now only accept as much voltage and amperage as they need. They usually have circuitry to prevent overcharging. Here is but one suggestion I found on Amazon.com, here in the US. I am certain they wil have he same thing on the "Kiwi Land" Amazon site.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000VMPWFA/?tag=casaivar02-20

I know that when I am traveling, not on Camino, I bring the 29 W Euro-pin (2 round pin Schuko) Apple power supply for my iPad Air 2. I also use it to charge my iPhone., which it does, albeit very quickly. It should similarly be able to charge nearly any other small USB-supplied device.

For what it is worth, Apple sells a World Travel Adapter kit. Here is the link to the US version.

http://www.apple.com/shop/product/MD837AM/A/apple-world-travel-adapter-kit?fnode=91

Your national Apple vendor will sell your version of this. You simply bring your iPad power adapter to the party. The kit contains mains socket adapters to satisfy your needs. This may be the easy solution, if not the lightest or the most "elegant."

I hope this works.

 

[newfydog]

Alas, I ...can often be a snob about these things.
Yes, I know that my words ...may offend. .

And yes, you are right.

 

[MichaelB10398]

And yes, you are right.

Gads, it seems like I never learn this one simple lesson. If someone wants to be offended they can take offense. You parse my words, but leave out the most important thing. Isn't that strange.

Let me quote myself -

• "....I don't think it is necessary to leave tech at home - that would be an incorrect interpretation of my intent. Tech has its place, staying in touch with family and friends at home and elsewhere has its place. As I said, I use tech. It is when the involvement in tech become so consuming that some pilgrims will have walked and missed much of what the Camino has to offer."

If anyone wants to take offense, do so, but do it knowing that it was not my intent.

Thanks for the help in making this better, Newfy.

 

[Kanga]

Lets keep it friendly please? It is easy to take the written word the wrong way; we don't have the benefit of friendly body language to help put things in context. Unless really pressed I find it better to ignore a post that initially strikes me as critical. Most on this forum are here with a good heart.

 

[Deleted member 43985]

After reading similar posts, I also ordered one of these so as not to be an outlet piggy!



I am debating whether to invest in an ipad mini as I may want to do a blog for family and friends and it would be something my grandkids could enjoy in the future as well. (I was just going to journal in my notebook, but I am considering doing it electronically) I have never done a blog before but am looking into it. My questions are mainly - is it difficult to create a blog? I am sure there is a learning curve...and how to transfer pictures to the ipad mini from my iphone, but I believe you may have answered that question jozero

Hi @Angie94 - There are many ways to blog and in itself is probably a great thread to start. I use a free blogging site called Wordpress. Easy to setup and easy to use. They have an app for IOS and Android so you can write offline if you choose to (during a midday break while an important through is still fresh in your mind, for example) and upload later when you have wifi. You can easily add photo and video to these blogs/vlogs. I really enjoy photography so I also edit my raw photos on my iPad using Adobe Lightroom Mobile. This isn't necessary but nice to know it can be done. I also use MotionX GPS on my iPhone and once my day is done can take a screen shot of my daily walking track and make that part of my blog. This part is usually the most interesting to my family and friends as it gives a great sense of where I've been and, when I include photos/video, what I've seen. For my family and friends who are a little more sophisticated I can also send them the GPS track so they can do a 'flyover' in Google Earth which is really quite amazing. I also have a Logitech iPad cover/keyboard so can type easily and with all 10 fingers as I'm not a fan of thumb typing for an hour to write a 5 minute blog.

I know there have been some disparaging remarks about those who get too involved with tech but I if you're of a mind to share your experiences with others, please do you best to understand their POV and then (mostly) ignore it and do what makes you happy I say mostly because there is some truth to their words in that I too think there is a time and place where I should and should not indulge in my tech. While I walk during the day I allow myself to be in the moment and rarely even want a walking partner as that also will take me out of the moment. Yes, my iPhone in is my pack and has the GPS running but the phone is turned off as is the music and any other distraction. I'm not a person who would sit at a dinner table and use my tech (other than maybe to show a photo if I'm sharing with another or play some dinner music at a group dinner) and not where it could have a negative affect on anyone else and any time (should be obvious but in Churches, after lights out in Albergues, etc). I think sometimes that some people believe having tech means one has to use tech all the time and while I'm sure some people do do that, I could also share stories of people who were rude, annoying, disruptive and even sometimes downright mean - and didn't have any tech at all...!!!

 

[Bajaracer]

I also seek simplicity and need to re-charge a tablet, camera and phone.

The compatibility section does not list any iPads. So it won't re-charge any other tablet also. Rather it will, but slowly.

I will be travelling in New Zealand, France/Spain, and United Kingdom. So need a light weight solution for all three. countries and all three devices.

This is a bit like @peregrina2000, who started this thread.

Any suggestions?

Here you go, this will cover all your travel charger needs.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00P2CSA30/?tag=casaivar02-20

 

[Deleted member 43985]

Lets keep it friendly please? It is easy to take the written word the wrong way; we don't have the benefit of friendly body language to help put things in context. Unless really pressed I find it better to ignore a post that initially strikes me as critical. Most on this forum are here with a good heart.

It is a wise lesson that I know I strive to learn but at the risk of failing my lesson, I think it's also really important that members of this community embrace differences and simply share their experiences and allow others to gather insights and decide for themselves how to best apply it to their experiences.

I'm sorry @MichaelB10398 but when statements are made that a writer needs to preface their comments by noting that they are a purist, an elitest, etc it really is easy to infer that when someone does something in a different manner then they are not pure or elite, then yes, it is easy to imagine words following will offend some even if that is not the intent. When you acknowledge that your words may seem harsh and may offend then why write them? Why not share your experiences without judgement and leave it at that? I am here to learn and share with people who love what I love. As @Kanga sagely noted, I try my best to not send 'hot' replies and if I believed I might offend someone in what I write then I simply would never write it because I believe that entirely at odds with what this all represents.

 

[newfydog]

It is when the involvement in tech become so consuming that some pilgrims will have walked and missed much of what the Camino has to offer."
.

I took no offense. I know you are only looking after the pitiful souls of those insufficiently astute to see all that they missed.

 

[AlwynWellington]

For what it is worth, Apple sells a World Travel Adapter kit. Here is the link to the US version.

T2, thanks.

I understand it, this is a set of face plates that are applied to a base unit. If so, I would need three face plates plus the base unit. Four items altogether. That is what I currently have from another supplier.

I am trying to find one unit that covers all those needs plus provides 2 USB outputs at full strength.

 

[AlwynWellington]

Here you go, this will cover all your travel charger needs.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00P2CSA30/?tag=casaivar02-20

@Bajaracer , thank you.

With 4.8 amps it will certainly charge a tablet and at least two other devices with ease.

On the other hand I still have to manage the three face plates/mains plugs that I will use when I leave my home in March this year.

 

[Kanga]

@AlwynWellington I found it easier just to buy a plug in Spain with dual USB ports. It is only good for Europe but I did not want the weight of all those other fittings. Worked beautifully. Cost peanuts.

 

[Magwood]

As I said near the top of this thread, I was enjoying the subject of admitting to my love of gadgets amongst likeminded people. I was therefore tempted to rip off an immediate response to @MichaelB10398's first post here, but held off whilst I took my dog for a lovely walk in the mountains. When I returned @newfydog had very eloquently done the job for me. But I would still like to air my feelings in the following way...

 

[MichaelB10398]

Yeah, I am done with this particular thread. Thank you both for your very charitable posts. Cheers

 

[Deleted member 43985]

As I said near the top of this thread, I was enjoying the subject of admitting to my love of gadgets amongst likeminded people. I was therefore tempted to rip off an immediate response to @MichaelB10398's first post here, but held off whilst I took my dog for a lovely walk in the mountains. When I returned @newfydog had very eloquently done the job for me. But I would still like to air my feelings in the following way...

View attachment 23620

This is very one-sided, @Magwood ... As a man I think I'm perfectly capable of multi... OH LOOK, A SQUIRREL...!!!!!