Are iPhones the Perfect Travel Companion?

It’s no secret, I’m a big fan of Apple. I use a lot of their products. You may be the same. But with 2017 being the 10 year anniversary of the iPhone (doesn’t it seem longer than that?), I knew something special was going to be announced. And it was. Not only did they announce changes to the Apple Watch, but they also introduced three new iPhones: the iPhone 8, 8 Plus, and, the belle of the ball, the iPhone X (pronounced as “iPhone 10”).

All three are improvements from older handsets, but how much of an improvement? Well, that depends on who you ask. The motions ranged from disappointment, to excitement. But one thing is for sure: all three are great for travel. And here’s why:

Slightly improved camera(s)

Unless you’re a professional photographer, or aspiring to be a professional, more and more people are just using their smartphones as cameras during their travels. It’s just easier. All of the pictures on my Instagram, for example, have been taken with an iPhone.

Both the 8 Plus and the X have pretty legit cameras that have the ability to take really good pictures. Here are the specs:

Qi (pronounced: “chee”) charging

This is a pretty cool feature that’s new to Apple (Samsung already has this implemented). You can basically place the 8, 8 Plus, or X on a Qi charging pad to charge it. No need to plug it into anything. What’s more with so many companies using Qi chargers, you’ll start seeing more and more of them on the road.

They’re not taking away the old way, it’s just a new way. The bad thing about this? From what I have read, it won’t work with thick cases on the phone.


Durability

All three are dust and water resistant, which is good for travel. What does “resistant” mean? Well, I probably wouldn’t dunk it in water, but if it gets rained on, it’ll be fine. All of which is really good for a traveler. 

Apple also claims the 8, 8 Plus, and X are all made with “the most durable glass ever in a smartphone.” But let's be honest: glass is glass. So I’d recommend still getting a case.


Bottom line

There’s a lot to consider. By far the most negative thing about the X is the fact that it starts at $1,000. Yeah, the phone costs as much as some computers.

The iPhone 8 starts at $700. And the 8 Plus starts at $800.

I personally haven’t decided which one to get yet. I really don’t like how much the X is. But the 8 Plus is bulky. I’m also not sold on the Face ID. Whenever Apple makes big changes, they typically improve during later versions of the phone. Again, I haven’t decided, but I’m leaning towards buying the 8 Plus now and waiting to buy Apple’s next version of the X when it comes out.

Are iPhones the PERFECT travel companion? Eh, maybe. Smartphones, in general, come pretty damn close.

With that said, are you interested in the X? The 8 or 8 Plus? Or are you happy with your current situation? Let me know!

And if you’d like to know the best travel apps to download to your new iPhone, or want to learn what the best kept secret about Google Maps app is when it comes to traveling, fill out the two lines below (and no, I won't spam you! I hate spam too!). By doing that, you'll gain instant access to my FREE travel library!