Travel guide specialist Lonely Planet has unveiled it is investing in new technology that could help
backpacker travel insurance holders make more of their time abroad.
The firm, famous for its printed guides, is now turning its attention to harnessing digital technology to enhance travel experiences.
Among the products currently on offer are digital phrasebooks, online podcasts and mobile city guides for Nokia handsets.
However, travel editor Tom Hall insists Lonely Planet hopes to maximise its services further in the coming years: "The aim that we have is to make the information that you want available to you when you want it, in a format of your choosing at a price that's right."
Among possible developments is a product inspired by Googlemobile handsets that allows users to hold up their phone to what they are looking at for further information on local attractions.
Carrying technology overseas, however, does carry theft risks and it is advisable that backpackers take out comprehensive
worldwide travel insurance before departing.
Fastcheck, an American supplier of free downloadable travel guides, recently reported that demand for its PDFs has increased by 24 per cent in the last six months.
Going, going, gone. Downunder for
cheap travel insurance.
