If you’re planning on playing online or downloading games whilst on the go, you’ll need to do a bit of safeguarding as you won’t be offered the same protection and privacy as you would at home.
Digital Defences: Ensure your online security
Some apps are prone to WebRTC leaks, which could reveal your real IP and compromise your online security so it’s vital to take a couple of steps if you’re using public WiFi. A VPN extension like ExpressVPN for Chrome is able to block WebRTC and keep your location and identity private.
There’s nothing worse than gameplay being interrupted by buffering at a crucial moment and a Chrome extension will also minimise buffering by bypassing throttling and offering superior connection stability.
If you’re travelling further afield, you’ll need to be aware of the possibility of censorship or region-based restrictions that can keep you from accessing websites and apps in your browser. A VPN will also help avoid this by masking your IP and virtually placing you in a different country
Superior sound: choosing the best headphones
Over-the-ear headphones tend to offer better passive noise isolation meaning you can keep the volume a little lower. Therefore, you’ll not only be rest assured you won’t be disturbing others, but you’ll also be protecting your hearing at the same time.
Whilst over-the-ear headphones are often more comfortable and offer superior sound quality, ear-bud or in-ear headphones are obviously more portable. If you do go for this option, look for a set with noise cancellation, and high-res, well-balanced audio.
Brand wise it’s hard to beat Sony when it comes to great sound quality. The Sony WH-1000XM4 in particular offers extended battery life, fantastic noise cancellation and are both lightweight and easy to store. The brand also offers some first rate in-ear options which are a fraction of the price of Apple or Bose.
Whilst the vast majority of us now opt for wireless, you might also want to throw a pair of wired headphones in the suitcase in case there are issues with connectivity whilst you’re on the go.
Portable Play: Consider your console choice
Several factors need to be taken into consideration when choosing the right portable console. Firstly, it’s no good having great ergonomics if there aren’t enough play options so look for a device that has an extensive games library.
A long battery life is paramount if you’re travelling, and this can vary significantly. Most consoles offer around the three to four-hour mark but if you want something that’s going to last a little longer the AYN Odin 2 is a safe bet. The console will give around eight hours of battery life, jumping to around 20 with lighter tasks.
Given that you won’t want to be carrying around external hard drives, you’ll need to consider the console’s internal storage capacity, as well as the ability to expand it by adding a micro SD card.
Overall, when it comes to handheld consoles, which model you go for depends on how portable you want your portable device to be! If your priority is to travel with as little weight as possible, the Nintendo Switch Lite is certainly the most lightweight and transportable. However, if you’re prioritising a more superior gameplay experience and are willing to carry around a little more weight, the OLED might be your best bet.
Whether you’re off on your travels or are simply seeking entertainment during the daily commute, gaming on the go is a great way to relieve boredom and pass the time.
In addition to investing in the right console, it’s vital to take into account the necessary tech and add-ons. This will ensure that wherever you travel, you’ll be guaranteed the same quality of gameplay whilst you’re on the go as you would whilst sitting on your sofa.