Staying Informed

[cosmokramer1980]

In this thread we post ideas for staying informed. For the purposes of exploring every possibility, let's ignore weight, value, and other considerations. In other words, if it's heavy and expensive (e.g. a laptop) list it anyways. An emphasis on lighter and less valuable items is encouraged. Please explain any possible uses of the item you list if you choose to participate in this thread.

Allow me to begin.

• Portable radio. If mobile computing isn't an option, a radio would be a great source of information for weather, news, and even entertainment. Laminating the NPR Station list (found here: http://www.npr.org/stations/pdf/nprstations.pdf) might prove useful for long distance traveling. What else could be laminated, punched and inserted into a binder? Submit your ideas.
  
• A watch. Can be used to tell time, measure heart rate, set a walking pace, et al.
  
• A digital planner or PDA. Preferably one that accepts AA or AAA batteries and has low power consumption. This could be useful if a majority of your squatting and traveling takes place in the wilderness. I often go weeks without seeing another human being (in before basement jokes). This makes it difficult to recharge cell phones which would otherwise be perfect in utility and form factor.

Your turn.

 

[cosmokramer1980]

Here is a list of topics you will benefit from staying informed about:

• Weather
• News
• Disaster
• Time
• Date
• Location