Gear Up and Go

Marty & Will Jencius

This is the podcast/video channel for the "Gear Up and Go" podcast videostream covering all the apps, hardware, and devices that you use to help you with travel. Marty Jencius, and his son Will Jencius, will talk about all these tools and more on the live stream Sunday nights at 9 PM EST. Look for video archives here, and also on all your podcast services.

  1. 3h ago

    Road Trivia

    Marty drives Will to the airport and we record a short episode catching up on travels and doing tech trivia to stump the chump.  Email: ThePodTalknetwork@gmail.com Website: ThePodTalk.Net Youtube: YouTube.com/@GUAGPodcast

    21 min

  2. 5d ago

    Preserving Your Vacation Photos

    Will and Marty talk about Will's recent honeymoon trip with a focus on travel photos and how to keep them safe and secure Set up and use iCloud Photos (Apple Support): https://support.apple.com/en-us/108782iCloud+ plans and pricing (Apple Support): https://support.apple.com/en-us/108047Access iCloud Photos on the web: https://icloud.com/photosSet up iCloud Shared Photo Library on iPhone or iPad (Apple Support): https://support.apple.com/en-us/118229Set up iCloud Shared Photo Library on Mac (Apple Support): https://support.apple.com/en-us/123926Optimize iPhone storage with iCloud Photos (Apple Support): https://support.apple.com/en-us/108782Use iCloud Drive (Apple Support guide): https://support.apple.com/guide/icloud/what-you-can-do-with-icloud-and-photos-mm8b32f3ae27/icloudSamsung T7 Shield 1TB Portable SSD (Amazon): https://www.amazon.com/SAMSUNG-Portable-Resistant-Compatible-AM/dp/B09VLH13LXSamsung T7 Shield on Samsung.com: https://www.samsung.com/us/memory-storage/portable-ssd/portable-ssd-t7-shield-usb-3-2-1tb-black-sku-mu-pe1t0s-am/SanDisk Phone Drive 256GB for iPhone USB-C + Lightning (Amazon): https://www.amazon.com/SanDisk-256GB-Phone-Drive-iPhone/dp/B0DDQK1F9BGoogle Photos app (iOS App Store): https://apps.apple.com/us/app/google-photos-backup-edit/id962194608Google One storage plans: https://one.google.com/about/plansAmazon Photos app (iOS App Store): https://apps.apple.com/us/app/amazon-photos-photo-video/id621574163Amazon Photos overview and features: https://www.amazon.com/b?ie=UTF8&node=16384500011Adobe Lightroom for iOS (App Store): https://apps.apple.com/us/app/lightroom-ai-photo-editor/id878783582Adobe Lightroom plans and pricing: https://www.adobe.com/products/photoshop-lightroom.htmlAccess your photos on iCloud.com: https://icloud.com/photosAiralo — eSIM data plans for international travel: https://www.airalo.comWill's SD Card pick (Amazon): https://a.co/d/0izMNvsxiDrive Backup Storage: https://www.idrive.com/ TIPS:The 3-2-1 rule is the gold standard: keep 3 copies, on 2 different types of media, with 1 copy off-site or in the cloud. Your iPhone is copy #1. iCloud Photos is copy #2 — it syncs automatically as long as storage isn't full. A portable SSD or flash drive is copy #3 — no internet required. Before any trip: confirm iCloud Photos is enabled and your storage plan isn't maxed out. Enable Optimize iPhone Storage so full-resolution originals stay in iCloud while your device stores lighter versions. Download Google Photos or Amazon Photos and enable auto-backup — Amazon Prime members get unlimited full-resolution photo storage at no extra cost. Pack a portable SSD like the Samsung T7 Shield (rugged, IP65-rated) or the SanDisk Phone Drive (plugs directly into your iPhone via USB-C or Lightning). Transfer each evening and store the drive separately from your phone. For international travel: set iCloud Photos and third-party apps to upload on Wi-Fi only to avoid surprise roaming charges. Connect to hotel Wi-Fi each night to trigger overnight uploads. A local eSIM from Airalo gives you affordable data without roaming. If your phone is lost or damaged, all your photos are still accessible at icloud.com/photos from any browser. Shoot RAW on a dedicated camera? Use Adobe Lightroom to sync edits, presets, and originals across every device. Traveling with others? iCloud Shared Photo Library lets up to six people contribute to a single library — everyone leaves with everyone's shots. Set it up before you leave. Verify it's working the first night. Then put the phone in your pocket and enjoy the trip. Click. Backup. Travel free. YouTube: https://youtube.com/@GUAGPodcastMore shows: https://www.thepodtalk.netEmail: ThePodTalkNetwork@gmail.com

    40 min

  3. Apr 5

    Luggage Tracking Tech

    Will and Marty talk about luggage tags and luggage apps that help you keep track of your luggage when traveling. Apple Air Tag Apple AirTag product page: https://www.apple.com/airtag/ Apple Share Item Location newsroom: https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2024/11/apples-find-my-enables-sharing-location-of-lost-items-with-third-parties/ How to use AirTags for luggage (The Points Guy): https://thepointsguy.com/travel-gear/airtags-luggage-tracking/ AirTag luggage travel test (Intentional Travelers): https://intentionaltravelers.com/how-to-use-apple-airtags-for-tracking-luggage-when-traveling/ AirTag newest features (9to5Mac, Nov 2025): https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/25/airtags-newest-feature-could-work-even-better-now-for-many-travelers/ Tile Tile home page: https://www.thetileapp.com/ Tile Slim product page: https://app.thetileapp.com/en-us/store/tiles/slim Tile airplane use FAQ: https://support.thetileapp.com/hc/en-us/articles/203567096-Use-Tile-on-an-Airplane Samsung Samsung Galaxy SmartTag2 (samsung.com): https://www.samsung.com/us/mobile/mobile-accessories/phones/galaxy-smarttag2-black-ei-t5600bbegus/ SmartTag2 vs AirTag head-to-head (AFAR): https://www.afar.com/magazine/which-is-better-samsung-galaxy-smarttag-2-vs-apple-airtag SmartTag2 review (Tom’s Guide): https://www.tomsguide.com/tech/samsung-galaxy-smarttag-2-review Chipolo Chipolo home page: https://chipolo.net/en-us/ Chipolo POP product page: https://chipolo.net/en-us/products/chipolo-pop Chipolo Travel Pack (luggage, passport, wallet): https://chipolo.net/en-us/pages/chipolo-travel-pack Airline Bag Tracking Delta bag tracking: https://www.delta.com/us/en/baggage/checked-baggage/track-checked-baggage How to use airline bag trackers — Delta, American, United, Southwest (Frommers): https://www.frommers.com/tips/airfare/how-to-use-delta-american-united-and-southwest-bag-trackers/ Which airlines offer luggage tracking (The Points Guy): https://thepointsguy.com/airline/airline-baggage-tracking/ Airlines supporting AirTag baggage tracking (Simple Flying): https://simpleflying.com/airlines-airtags-lost-baggage/ Rolling Square AirCard Pro https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F3DNV9XY Where to Find Us YouTube: https://youtube.com/@GUAGPodcast More shows: https://www.thepodtalk.net Email: ThePodTalkNetwork@gmail.com

    36 min

  4. Feb 16

    TSA Locks

    Will brings Marty the problem of what kind of TSA locks work for your travel security needs and a crazy list of what you can and cannot travel with. Recommended TSA Locks  Master Lock TSA 4-Digit: https://www.amazon.com/Master-Lock-Combination-Accepted-4696D/dp/B01BH5CVV2  Forge TSA 4-Digit All Metal: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M0B6C4T/  Tarriss TSA Cable Lock: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KPVQKRQ/  eGeeTouch Bluetooth TSA Lock: https://www.amazon.com/eGeeTouch-Patented-Bluetooth-Vicinity-Tracking/dp/B072JK4P71/  Biometric TSA Lock Search: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=biometric+tsa+luggage+lock&tag  Pairing with Trackers Apple AirTag: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0933BVK6T/  Tile Pro: https://www.amazon.com/Tile-Life360-Pro-Bluetooth-Compatible/dp/B0D634ZR1Y/  Use tracking plus locking for layered security. Digital Documentation Photograph luggage contents before travel and store securely. 1Password: https://1password.com Apple Passwords (built into iOS/macOS Settings) TSA Luggage Strap Search: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=tsa+luggage+strap&tag  Minimalist Setup: 2 metal TSA locks + 1 cable lock + 1 AirTag + spare CR2032 battery Advanced Setup: Integrated lock + tracker + digital inventory + optional Bluetooth lock   TSA What can I bring? https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/all  Travel security is about intelligent layers: physical lock, digital tracking, encryption, and documentation. A TSA lock is small—but when integrated thoughtfully, it becomes part of a smarter travel system. Where to Find Us YouTube: https://youtube.com/@GUAGPodcast More shows: https://www.thepodtalk.net  Email: ThePodTalkNetwork@gmail.com

    28 min

  5. Jan 26

    Surviving Flight Layovers

    Marty and Will talk about their experiences and advice for handling flight layovers. The First 10 Minutes After Landing (Layover Triage)• Open your airline app immediately to confirm gate, boarding time, and aircraft• Screenshot key details in case Wi-Fi or apps fail• Check airport monitors for last-minute changes• Decide your layover mode:  – Under 90 minutes: stay close, hydrate, quick snack  – 2–4 hours: food, charging, work block or lounge  – 5+ hours: sleep, shower, base campFinding a Base Camp in the Terminal• Look for seating with accessible power• Choose lower-traffic areas away from main gate clusters• Stay within reasonable walking distance of your departure gate• Use compact chargers and short cables to avoid loose-outlet issuesLounges, Day Rooms, and Buying Comfort• Airline lounges and credit-card lounges can be worth it for long layovers• Priority Pass lounges vary widely by airport• Day-use hotel rooms near airports offer showers, naps, and reset time• Spending modestly on comfort can save an entire travel day Power & Charging Essentials• USB-C power bank (10,000–20,000 mAh)• GaN charger (45–100W depending on laptop use)• USB-C to USB-C charging cables (short and long)• Power equals flexibility during gate changes and delays Connectivity That Actually Works• Airport Wi-Fi is often congested or unreliable• Phone hotspot provides a dependable backup• eSIM data plans help when Wi-Fi fails• Travel routers add privacy and consistency for frequent travelersNoise, Calls, and Productivity in Public Spaces• Noise-canceling headphones or earbuds are essential• Transparency modes help you hear announcements• Compact Bluetooth keyboards turn tablets and phones into work tools• Privacy screens protect sensitive work in public areasTracking Bags and Reducing Anxiety• Bluetooth trackers in checked and carry-on bags• Helpful during tight connections and delays• Small tech pouch keeps critical gear accessibleSleeping Through Long Layovers• Eye mask and earplugs• Inflatable neck pillow or jacket-as-pillow• Lightweight travel blanket or scarf• Day rooms or airport hotels for overnight resetsDisruption Mode: When Things Go Sideways• Rebook flights in the airline app as early as possible• Screenshot confirmations and gate info• Work digital options while waiting in physical lines• Prioritize sleep, shower, and charging during overnight disruptionsCore Layover Gear (Amazon Search Links)Power Bank:https://eshop.macsales.com/item/Coal/CP8CWHAP GaN Charger:https://www.amazon.com/UGREEN-Retractable-Charger-Charging-Adapter-dp-B0DXFJLSZH/dp/B0DXFJLSZH Noise-Canceling Headphones:https://www.amazon.com/Apple-Cancellation-Translation-Headphones-High-Fidelity/dp/B0FQFB8FMG Bluetooth Trackers:https://www.amazon.com/Apple-Luggage-Backpack-one-tap-Bluetooth/dp/B0D54JZTHY  Tech Organizer Pouch: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=travel+tech+organizer+pouch  Where to Find UsYouTube: https://youtube.com/@GUAGPodcastMore shows: https://www.thepodtalk.netEmail: ThePodTalkNetwork@gmail.com

    43 min

  6. Jan 7

    New battery rules for air travel

    Marty and Will talk about the new rules associated with carrying lithium batteries on planes along with what they take when they fly Battery & Power Bank Rules: • Power banks and portable chargers must be in carry-on bags only.https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/power-banks • Lithium-ion batteries under 100 watt-hours (Wh) are generally permitted in carry-on luggage.https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/power-banks • Batteries between 100–160 Wh may require airline approval. Over 160 Wh are prohibited.https://www.anker.com/blogs/power-banks/how-much-mah-power-bank-allowed-in-flight • Airlines are enforcing stricter rules due to battery fire risks.https://www.businessinsider.com/airlines-power-banks-crack-down-rules-lithium-batteries-how-safe-2025-12 • Delta Air Lines battery and fuel-powered item guidance:https://www.delta.com/us/en/baggage/prohibited-or-restricted-items/battery-or-fuel-powered   Tech We Always Carry On • Smartphone and charging cable• Tablet or eReader• Laptop with protective sleeve• TSA-compliant power bank (100 Wh or less)• Multi-port USB-C charger• Headphones or earbuds Smart Flight Tech Add-Ons • Noise-canceling headphoneshttps://www.waywardblog.com/best-travel-tech-gadgets-guide/ • Cable organizershttps://nickgray.net/travel-gear-2024/ • Portable SSD or flash drivehttps://www.waywardblog.com/best-travel-tech-gadgets-guide/ • USB data-blocking adapters  https://www.lifewire.com/have-tech-will-travel-7510414• Bluetooth luggage trackers  https://www.lifewire.com/have-tech-will-travel-7510414 Mentioned in episode 8000mAh Coal Power Bank https://eshop.macsales.com/item/Coal/CP8CBUCO/ Ultra Strong Magnetic Anti-Lost Straps for AirPods https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CLG9QKQW YouTube: YouTube.com/@GUAGPodcast Email: ThePodTalkNetwork@gmail.com Website: ThePodTalk.Net

    39 min

  7. 11/26/2025

    Travel Lighting Essentials

    Lighting is one of the most underrated travel items and the right light can dramatically improve travel work, podcasting, and Zoom calls. Will and Marty share their favorite picks for lighting tech. Our Lighting Decision Process 1. Solve for Lighting Environments First 2. Prefer Portable, Collapsible, or Magnetic 3. Battery or USB-C Only 4. Prioritize Dual Use 5. Test Before the Trip Marty & Will’s Picks Marty’s Picks: Keyboard lightingOriemars USB reading lighthttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B08LV78KP1  Facelight Amaran Ace 25c Pocket RGBWW LED Lighthttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DD41513N  Portable facelight Lume Cube 2.0 Portable Lighthttps://www.amazon.com/LUME-CUBE-Professional-Adjustable-Brightness/dp/B07XF786FR  Wall backlight for Zoom Doreio LED Spot Lights Indoor 3W Accent Lighting Up Lights Indoor Spotlight Lamp https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B5DQ1BM8 Will’s Picks: Keychain Light OLIGHT MINI https://a.co/d/hnm5NA6 Laptop Facelight https://a.co/d/0RlkMqf Studio Lighting Portable https://a.co/d/6KpVajW Headgear https://a.co/d/c2qRnhr https://a.co/d/j08XKRi (Durable Extreme Weather) Gear Tips - Carry at least one USB-C rechargeable light. - Magnetic or clip-on lights are incredibly useful in hotel rooms. - A small cold shoe tripod improves any lighting angle. - Warm lighting is friendlier on video calls. - Always test lights before the trip. Where to Find Us YouTube: https://YouTube.com/@GUAGPodcast More shows: https://www.thepodtalk.net Email: ThePodTalkNetwork@gmail.com

    38 min

  8. 11/11/2025

    Our ‘must-have’ tech when we travel

    Every traveler has that short list of items that always make the cut — no matter the trip, no matter the destination. In this episode, we will reveal the process behind choosing those items and the logic that keeps their travel setups light, efficient, and always ready. 1. Start with the Trip Story Before touching a suitcase, we define the story of the trip. Is this business, vacation, or family time? How much tech do we actually need? The clearer the story, the easier it is to visualize each day and avoid overpacking. 2. Think in “Kits,” Not Items We build travel kits around function: a sleep kit, a tech kit, a comfort kit, a health kit. That modular approach means we can swap kits depending on trip type instead of starting from scratch each time. 3. Balance Comfort and Space Every traveler wrestles with comfort vs. minimalism. We talk through what earns a spot in the bag by asking one question: Does it solve a real problem I had on a past trip? 4. Prioritize Redundancy for Essentials Some things deserve backups. Chargers, cables, and adapters live permanently in a travel pouch. We both maintain a “set-and-forget” tech pouch — so we never raid it for daily use and forget to re-pack later. 5. Test Before Takeoff Every item gets tested before it’s packed — especially tech. We power up chargers, connect routers, and make sure batteries still hold a charge. The final step is the “table test”: everything laid out, then halved — only what truly earns its space goes in the bag. 6. Keep a Running List After Every Trip We both keep notes on what worked, what didn’t, and what’s getting retired. This post-trip reflection keeps the next packing session smarter and lighter. Marty’s Picks:MacBook Air M4 or MacBook Pro M5Second monitor: https://www.amazon.com/KYY-Portable-3840X2160-External-Compatible/dp/B0FMF1FT5R/ref=sr_1_1_sspa Mouse pad: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09DV56338  magic mouse, magic keyboard Long flight: Vision Pro PodcastingAT2100 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07ZPBFVKK  Camera Osbot Meet 2: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D9W7J9SK Bone conduction headphones: https://www.amazon.com/SHOKZ-New-OpenRun-Pro-Comfortable/dp/B0D7HD7N23  Will’s Picks:M1 iPad Pro w/ Magic Keyboard https://www.apple.com/ipad-keyboards/ Airpod Pros 2 / 3 (always have on me) GaN Charger with 3 ports  3 in 1 charger https://a.co/d/9SYX9kL Air Tags https://a.co/d/c9yG8KS $20 in 5s/1s for service tips (luggage, shuttle bus, etc.) Long Trips  Apple M1 Pro Macbook Pro 16 inch Magic Mouse JBL Clip 5 https://a.co/d/2SdqQGi Podcasts on all major platforms Video and podcasts on: https://YouTube.com/@GUAGPodcast More shows at: https://www.thepodtalk.net - The Tech Savvy Professor - The Old Mac Gang - Vision ProFiles (Apple Vision Pro & AR/VR) - Circular Firing Squad Catch Marty as a guest on: - MacVoices Live with Chuck Joiner (Tuesdays) - InTouch With iOS with David Ginsburg (Thursdays) Email: ThePodTalkNetwork@gmail.com Website: ThePodTalk.Net

    51 min
See All (36)

Ratings & Reviews

4
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

This is the podcast/video channel for the "Gear Up and Go" podcast videostream covering all the apps, hardware, and devices that you use to help you with travel. Marty Jencius, and his son Will Jencius, will talk about all these tools and more on the live stream Sunday nights at 9 PM EST. Look for video archives here, and also on all your podcast services.

Information

  • Creator
    Marty & Will Jencius
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    36
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Marty & Will Jencius
  • Show Website
    Gear Up and Go