Buzz
CNN revisits former travel essentials now falling out of favor and highlights the latest trendy items favored by modern travelers.
Travel items on the verge of disappearing
Since ancient times…
Postcards: Once cherished by countless travelers, these small postcards conveying affectionate messages from the road to loved ones are no longer in vogue. According to a survey in the UK last year, over 60% of travelers surveyed preferred texting to stay in touch with friends and family while traveling, with only 16% still opting for postcards.
Slideshow Projectors: Once a staple of American gatherings, this 'slideshow' culture has gradually been forgotten. Instead, people now directly view photos on their mobile phone screens or digital cameras.
Traveler's Checks: ATMs worldwide and global credit cards have relegated traveler's checks to the past. However, traveler's checks are not yet on the verge of extinction, with many travelers still using this form of currency.
Photo Albums: The boom in social media, along with digital cameras, has led people to increasingly forego printing photos to preserve them in albums.
Traditional Travel Suitcases: Nowadays, travelers often opt for lightweight, convenient suitcases with smooth wheels, rather than the bulky ones of the past. And of course, if you're wealthy, just having a credit card in hand means you can travel the world.
Travel Guidebooks: Holding a travel guidebook in hand, indicating where to go based on its recommendations. Now with smartphones and the Internet, is this way of traveling too outdated?
Internet Cafes: A few years ago, internet cafes were essential for contacting family while traveling. You couldn't go anywhere without stopping by an internet cafe to send news home. But nowadays, with smartphones and wifi almost everywhere, the existence of internet cafes is no longer so crucial.
Alarm Clocks: This one hardly needs much explanation, as phones have long rendered alarm clocks unnecessary for travel preparation.
Paper Maps: Wherever you travel, buying a paper map of the area used to be a must-have habit for many travelers. But now, with smartphones and GPS, there's no need anymore.
Economy Class: Since the economic crisis of 2008, economy class has ceased to be the choice for many travelers. Not to mention modes of travel by train, car, bicycle, or... on foot.
Until now…
Smartphones Take You Around the Globe: Whether it's maps, guidebooks, or books to read while waiting,… everything is concentrated in your smartphone, what more do you need?
Social Media Connects You with Everyone: Instagram, Facebook, and many other social networks allow you to share every moment with your loved ones and friends, no matter where you are.
Backpack + Sleeping Bag, Ready to Go: 'Backpacking' or 'trekking' is increasingly favored over 5-star hotels with warm beds and cozy mattresses. Spotting a good deal on tickets and you're off, no need to think twice.
Essential Travel Items You Can't Miss: It may sound quirky, but having them will make your trip much more effective. Check out '15 quirky but useful travel items'.
According to Zing
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Reference: Mytour Travel Handbook
MytourJanuary 8, 2015
