Tech journalist and frequent traveller Nafisa Akabor looks at new tech you can use on your travels.
By: Nafisa Akabor
New travel tech toys worth checking out: the DJI Mini 3 drone that captures vertical videos for social media; a Samsonite backpack on wheels; and the BenjiLock fingerprint padlock for your luggage. Stay powered with Anker’s 2-in-1 wireless charger, and EcoFlow’s portable power station for road-trips or camping.
DJI Mini 3 Fly More Combo Plus
The new DJI Mini 3 Fly More Combo Plus is ideal for travellers, with two extra batteries providing 102 minutes of flying time. It captures footage in 4K HDR from a 12MP sensor, has improved wind resistance, and rotates 90-degrees for vertical shots. It comes with a remote, carry case, cables, charger, screwdriver and 3 propeller sets. Price: R18 999.
BenjiLock Fingerprint Padlock
The world’s first padlock with fingerprint technology is from BenjiLock. This TSA-approved travel lock supports fingerprints or a set of keys. It stores up to five fingerprints, is fast to access, and has LED indicators. Ideal for travellers since you don’t have to worry about carrying a set of keys. Available in black or white. Price: R910.
Samsonite Roader Backpack
Tapping into the bleisure trend, Samsonite’s Roader backpack with wheels is suited for business and leisure travel. It fits laptops, tablets, phones and other travel essentials in organised compartments, plus clothes for an overnight trip. Move through airports quicker with wheels to give your shoulders a break. Price: R3499.
Anker 623 MagGo
The Anker 623 magnetic wireless charger is a perfect travel companion due to its small size. Charge a smartphone (7.5W) and wireless earbuds (5W) simultaneously while watching videos. Its LED indicator switches off after 3 seconds and comes with a 20W plug. It supports Apple and Samsung phones and earbuds, and Sony headphones. Price: R1399
EcoFlow River 2
The EcoFlow River 2 portable power station is suited for road tripping, camping or home use in South Africa or neighbouring countries. This multi-purpose power station recharges from 0-100% in a mere 60 minutes or from a car and promises 10 years of use. Ports include SA 3-pin, 2x USB-A and 1x USB-C for devices and appliances. Price: R6 999.
Venturous Victoria Falls
Just an hour and 40 minutes from Johannesburg via South African Airways, Victoria Falls is a must for anyone who has yet to see this majestic beauty. It is the largest waterfall in the world, spanning over 1 700 metres wide across Zimbabwe and Zambia, with up to 500 million litres per minute descending on the Devil’s Cataract, Main Falls, Rainbow Falls and the Eastern Cataract.
Ideal for an extended weekend away, you can see the falls on foot, through a helicopter ride, or a microlight tour. Other activities include a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, a visit to Elephant Café, white water rafting, and a day visit to the Hwange National Park.
It is visa-free for South Africans, including a bunch of other SADC-related discounts. Top Tip: Have your Covid-19 vaccine certificate (digital or physical) ready, as it is checked upon arrival at Victoria Falls Airport.