To enable the automatic mapping capabilities of the mapping page I've decided to go with a handheld GPS unit. The eTrex Vista is Garmin's top-of-the-range handheld unit which makes it overkill for these requirements! However, as part of a broader...   > More

I swapped the immense Crumpler "December Quarter" for their Next Venue bag before heading off to Belize. As you can hopefully tell from the uniquitous bottle of beer in the photos, the Next Venue is a much more sensible size for extended periods of carrying.   > More

I've been trying to track down the perfect tech kit bag for our trip. My existing CCS bag is fantastic but it might as well have a glowing "steal me" sign on it. The most likely candidates would seem to be Crumpler's range of kit bags. I was initially tempted by their top of the range 'December Quarter' bag. I was soon proved wrong.   > More

I'm nervous of taking a laptop but I think it's going to make Snowdune content preparation a whole lot easier. The key attributes are going to be weight and battery life. A CD writer is important as well as it will enable us to mail back CDs of photos as a backup. I don't view speed as an issue providing it can run Photoshop 7 and Photoshop Album without grinding to a halt.   > More

I expect much of the graphical input to Snowdune will come from photography. However I feel that it will be an interesting addition to be able to capture the scrawls, ragged notes, postcards, maps and other pieces of paper that make up part of the travelling experience.   > More

Got them! Finally tracked down a new version of the Patagonia pants linked to in the first entry. These ones are this season's retro fit, no old granny elasticated waistband and good fitting wide legs. They'll get a good workout...   > More

Well, that's what all the catalogues and gear shops seem to call them - I call them trousers... and they've gone all hi-tech while I wasn't looking... In the general spirit of keeping my pack as light as possible, and...   > More

Here I go - the single biggest thing I will buy to take on The Big Trip (in more ways than one..), so there will be plenty of posts on my developing thoughts in this area. Initial recommendations seem to...   > More