Tens of thousands of people, world-famous acts showcasing their latest talents, long days and nights…Mobile World Congress is a bit like a huge music festival when you think about it. And the coping strategies are much the same. Do you want to be someone who’s exhausted at the end of day one, or the person that misses out on the most important keynote because they got lost? I thought not.
Following on from the guide we wrote last year about how to make MWC 2014 a success, we’ve compiled a list of what every well-prepared MWC “camper” should pack in their bag to ensure their experience is a successful one.
A smartphone, such as HTC’s One M8 which has received rave ratings from the mobile media for its powerful processor, speedy Duo Camera and Boomsound upgrade. All essential for Tweeting throughout the show, accessing the MWC app (which includes a timetable and map to prevent you getting lost or missing your favorites) and taking photos of you enjoying this year’s version of the infamous Android slide, Barcelona sights and after-hour parties. And to help with your photos, why not bring…
A selfie stick! It’s this year’s must-have accessory to get that perfect shot. The Looq Selfie Stick was recently featured by the WSJ’s Joanna Stern in her selfie stick round-up. Stern writes that the rubberized grip is a nice feature. If you’re looking for a cheap, solid option for your first selfie stick, this is the first model you should consider. Stern argues that the smallest amount of money you should spend on a selfie stick is $15, to ensure the best quality. Since you can get this selfie stick for around $20, it’s definitely in Stern’s suggested minimum budget range.
Before you arrive, why not install the Find my Friends app which allows you to easily locate your colleagues and friends around the exhibit and Barcelona from your iPhone or Android device – for free. The app uses real-time data with GPS tracking data so you can pinpoint each other’s exact location. It even provides navigational help so you can find your way to one another. No more hours traipsing around the exhibition center or the streets of Barcelona looking confused!
If you don’t want to carry around a bulky laptop, try the Microsoft Surface Pro 3 for writing up all those articles, blogs and points from keynotes…and checking in to the office whilst on the move. This latest version was just given a 4.5 out of 5 star rating by TechRadarPro for its display, design and ability to be used just like a laptop.
You might also need a 4G dongle, because let’s be honest that MWC Wi-Fi is going to be pushed to the max. There is a huge selection on the market. UK comparison site USwitch has rounded up the top ten 4G mobile broadband deals here for just such an occasion. Although obviously you’ll need to search according to your own country’s network.
Finally, why not bring a portable charger for when the inevitable happens and your smartphone and/or tablet dies whilst you’re on the move and you don’t have time to sit still long enough to plug them into a wall somewhere. As PC Advisor explains, it’s important to consider portability and capacity when choosing a portable charger or ‘power bank’. Avoid heavy bulky designs and be sure to check the specification of your device’s battery to estimate how many full charges you can expect.
Do you have any other things you’d encourage us or our readers to include in their survival bag? If so, add them in the comments below. We’d love to read them!
