Technology has not only changed the world, but also the way of traveling, so presumably it will continue to do so as it continues to evolve. Technological advances such as the internet, smartphones or social networks have affected travel in incalculable ways. From sites that offer tips for planning the perfect trip, to the way we book, take photos or get a taxi, there is basically a technology solution for every detail of the trip.
Definitely as a result of digital technologies, consumer behaviour and the way of traveling are not the same and they will not be in the coming years, as new technological developments promise an even more interactive and exciting experience. Here are 8 ways technology has changed the way we travel and made travel more fun and convenient.
1. Ease of access to documents.
Thanks to technology, it is now possible to store all our documents in one easily accessible location, which has made our trips easier, since it is not necessary to print several documents, and it also allows to have a backup in case of loss. This undoubtedly gives us the peace of mind of having all the information we need at our fingertips and being able to access it from anywhere in the world.
2. Travel is more environmentally friendly and time-consuming.
For those who want to take care of the environment while traveling, technology is a great ally since the need to print the plane ticket, the boarding pass or the hotel reservation have been eliminated. This saves large amounts of paper and has taken away the worry of having to carry numerous documents. In addition, by making reservations online we save time, since it is not necessary to queue.
3. Technology helped us overcome language barriers.
The days when we had to carry a book with phrases in the language of the destination to visit or the struggle when interacting with the locals are gone. Nowadays we only need a smartphone with an internet connection and an application to translate like Google Translate or iTranslate, which also allow the use of the camera of the phone to translate in real time, including signs or menus.
Although for those who want to learn a new language, there are also applications like Duolingo, which save us spending money on classes and improve our pronunciation. All of this has the ability to further change the way we travel, as we can minimize the language barrier and have a more enriched experience.
4. Electronic payments make our way of traveling easier and safer.
Among the great advances in digital technology, electronic payments have undoubtedly brought great advantages, since it is not necessary to use cash or carry a lot of money with us, nor to stand in a queue to make withdrawals at ATMs.
This translates into a lower risk of theft when traveling abroad, a problem that can cause great inconvenience to many travellers. Besides, with the use of apps like Apple Pay, Samsung Pay or Google Wallet, we don’t have to worry about credit card fraud or card switching.
In this sense, one of the technologies that will give a lot to talk about and that will definitely also change the way of traveling is the Blockchain. Although initially it was intended for the safer and easier handling of digital currencies, it is possible that in the future it will be useful for other aspects of a trip such as, for example, the creation of electronic passports, the identification of passengers at the airport, or guaranteeing transparency in tourists’ opinions.
5. We can get the best travel tips
Whether we are planning a trip to that dream destination, or simply thinking about which destination to choose, it is possible to find forums and blogs with tips and advice from thousands of people who have already travelled. From how to travel on a budget to how to avoid theft when traveling, or which suitcase to choose, there is a useful tip to make the most of the travel experience and prevent bad situations.
In short, all the information we need to plan and have a perfect trip, or about a particular destination is available online, you just need to invest a few hours on the internet to get it. We can also share our experience and knowledge with others to help them on their next trip.
6. Our smartphone can help us in everything
When we talk about new ways of traveling, smartphones are one of the main protagonists. And thanks to them and their mobile technology, we can have a solution at hand for every detail and stage of our trip, from reservations, payments, and purchases, to the possibility of taking photos and having maps, entertainment at our fingertips, getting a taxi or having an interpreter.
It has basically become our tour guide, travel agency, best restaurant locator, and more. In fact, according to estimates, 45% of people use their smartphone for everything that has to do with their trips.
7. Technology allows us to visit any place without getting up from the sofa
The digital world does not exist separate from the real world, and thanks to technology, we can have a richer experience of the real world than we would have otherwise, as it is possible to see new places without actually being there. In this sense, augmented reality and 360 technologies have entered the world of travel to allow us to have a more immersive experience.
With them we can teleport ourselves to the most remote corners and discover how incredible the world is. For example, seeing the Great Wall of China, the Grand Canyon or the top of Mount Everest in all its splendour for a few seconds, enjoying all the sights and sounds of the place.
8. We are always connected
Technology allows us to stay connected to the world while we travel. For example, those who must be absent from work can work from a remote location. Apart from that, we can always keep in touch with our loved ones, making them know where we are.
ALFA