11 Ways Data Has Changed How We Travel
Cloud computing has made it possible to analyze, prepare, and adapt to almost every aspect of modern travel. IBM Cloud is giving websites like HotelsCombined.com the power and speed to stay consistently out in front of the needs of modern travelers.
Our expectations for travel have come a long way in the last century.
To be honest, the bar was pretty low.
1. Today you can figure out the precise time of the week to book your flight in order to secure the best deal.
An analysis of travel site searches reveals that, for domestic travel, the best deals can be found when you book 3-7 weeks in advance, and for European travel, the best deals are 8-10 months in advance.
Opinions vary on the best day of the week to book, with most analyses pointing to Tuesday or Wednesday.
2. You can analyze historical weather patterns and weigh the probability of storms occurring during the times you're considering traveling.
Of course, you can still catch a freak storm anywhere, but it's better to improve the odds when you can.
3. You can find unconventional lodging and stay in places you never thought you could afford.
Listing private vacation rentals has never been easier. Cloud technology makes it possible to quickly search every imaginable option, from houseboats in Vietnam to 5-star hotel penthouses in Midtown Manhattan.
4. You can securely back up all of your vital travel documents in the cloud.
Before your trip, scan your passport and other travel documents and save the files securely in your web-enabled email and/or a cloud server.
5. You don't have to carry around much cash.
High-speed networked computers have enabled ATMs to sprout like weeds. ATMs typically provide better exchange rates than foreign banks, too!
6. The proliferation of cell phone networks around the world has made calling home a lot easier, but it can still be pricey.
International data plans vary widely depending on your carrier and your phone's ability to use a foreign SIM card. Call your carrier to turn on your international plan before traveling overseas and don't forget to turn it off upon your return.
To avoid huge charges, never download data over a cellular network, block your phone from roaming, and use Wi-Fi whenever possible. You can take advantage of free VOIP or Skype services to make calls over internet-enabled phones.
7. Geo-tag your travel photography and plot it on a map when you get home.
Smartphones and many new digital cameras include a GPS interface that let's you track the exact locations where your photos were taken. This gives you the ability to display your travel photography based on locations on a map. And it's a lot more fun than a slide show!
8. You can check in on your home from afar.
Web cameras and modern streaming technology make it possible to peep in on your pets, your plants, or your prized possessions. Sometimes all you need is a little peace of mind.
9. You can stay constantly connected to your friends, family, and hometown happenings through social media.
It can help you fight homesickness on a long trip, but travelers should always be mindful of what they're posting. You may be alerting ne'er-do-wells that your house is uninhabited.
10. You're never too far away from your favorite TV shows and live sporting events.
Most cable plans now provide mobile access, so even if you're on the other side of the planet, you'll always know what's happening on The Bachelor or how a playoff game ended.
11. With real-time updates on the location of flights, trains, and even taxis, you spend a lot less time waiting around than you used to.
There are many phone apps that will send you alerts based on when your transportation is delayed or when you need to leave a location in time to get to your next destination.
Next time you hit the road, take full advantage of cloud computing and travel smarter.
