Planning a winter getaway? Don't forget your tablet

(NC)—For many Canadians, winter is a time to escape the cold and dreary weather. Whether they're hitting the beach or exploring the streets of Europe, many are gearing up for vacations all around the world this March break.

Stephanie Lancaster, data girl at Rogers, says that while hard-cover books and paper maps continue to be common items travellers pack, the latest tablets are the complete resource that more Canadians are bringing this year.

“Why lug around a suitcase full of books, when you can read them on a tablet and use the same device to browse maps, organize travel documents, listen to music and watch the latest films?” says Lancaster.

Stay more organized, informed and entertained on your vacation this year by bringing along a tablet. Some of the popular tablets available on the market include the Apple iPad Mini, Samsung ATIV smart PC or the BlackBerry Playbook LTE.

Here are a few suggestions on how to use your tablet while you're away:

• Stay in touch with friends and family – message, call or video chat on your tablet with your mother or loved one about the food or museums you've visited

• Organize your documents – store all your travel documents, hotel bookings and flight schedules on your tablet for quick access when needed.

• Explore – use Google Maps or other applications to uncover the biggest attractions, restaurants or museums close by.

• Be entertained – for the plane, train or automobile travel time or just relaxing on the beach – keep yourself or your kids amused by using your tablet to play games, watch movies, read a book or listen to music.

• Document your trip – take photos, write blog entries and share with your friends and family back home all about your adventures.

Before you travel, plan how you'll use your tablet and make sure that you add a roaming data pass to your tablet so you can surf, stream and stay connected worry-free. While you're away, you'll receive text-message usage notifications as you use your data and will be hard stopped once your pass expires so you never incur overage fees.

To learn more about tablets and roaming in preparation for your vacation, visit www.rogers.com/techessentials for more details.

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