Gear Up and Go

Marty & Will Jencius
  • 4.0 (5)
  • TECHNOLOGY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

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. 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

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. 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

  6. 11/03/2025

    Apps for Local Transportation

    Marty and Will take on some of the apps people use for local transportation when traveling. Ride-Sharing & Taxi Apps Uber — The global standard for ride-hailing with reliable coverage in over 70 countries.https://www.uber.com Lyft — Excellent U.S. alternative with clear upfront pricing and good airport pickup integration.https://www.lyft.com Bolt (Taxify) — Popular in Europe and Africa; often cheaper than Uber and includes scooters.https://bolt.eu Grab — Southeast Asia’s go-to app for rides, delivery, and more.https://www.grab.com Tip: Always check which ride apps are licensed in your destination—some countries block certain services. Public Transit & Mapping Apps Citymapper — Combines trains, buses, trams, ferries, and walking directions in major cities worldwide.https://citymapper.com Moovit — Offers real-time arrival info and crowd-sourced updates on delays and route changes.https://moovitapp.com Google Maps — Still unbeatable for integrated driving, transit, cycling, and walking routes.https://maps.google.com Transit App — Excellent for North American cities with live bus/train tracking and route comparisons.https://transitapp.com  Bike & Scooter Sharing Lime — Rent electric scooters or bikes in cities across 30+ countries.https://www.li.me Bird — Electric scooter app with built-in safety tutorials and easy QR-code unlocking.https://www.bird.co CitiBike / Divvy / BCycle — Localized bike-share networks (U.S. examples).https://www.citibikenyc.com Pro tip: Always check local helmet laws and designated riding areas to avoid fines. Car Rental and Sharing Apps Turo — Peer-to-peer car rental app with diverse options (from economy to Tesla).https://turo.com Zipcar — Hourly or daily rentals available in most major U.S. and European cities.https://www.zipcar.com Getaround — App-based car sharing that unlocks cars directly with your phone.https://www.getaround.com Hertz / Enterprise / Sixt — Traditional companies now feature mobile-first booking and digital keys. Local Navigation & Safety Rome2Rio — End-to-end transport planning from door to door (bus, train, ferry, flight).https://www.rome2rio.com Waze — Real-time driving alerts on traffic, police, and hazards (ideal for road trips).https://www.waze.com Cabify — Offers verified local drivers and female-driver options in select regions.https://cabify.com  Marty’s Pick: Lyft Will’s Pick: Uber Eats / Sporcle Live - https://www.sporcle.com/events/  New tech courtesy of Chuck Joiner (Cool things on The Mac Show)Perilogics Universal in Flight Airplane Phone Holder Mounthttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B07T8KL6C6 Gear Tips Save all your travel apps in a single folder on your home screen labeled ‘Transit’.Download offline maps in Google Maps before leaving Wi-Fi.Always keep a backup payment method (e.g., Apple Pay or a travel credit card) stored in your rideshare apps. Where to Find Us Podcasts on all major platformsVideo and podcasts on: https://YouTube.com/@GUAGPodcastMore shows at: https://www.thepodtalk.net  - The Tech Savvy Professor  - The Old Mac Gang  - Vision ProFiles (Apple Vision Pro & AR/VR)  - Circular Firing SquadCatch Marty as a guest on:- MacVoices Live with Chuck Joiner (Tuesdays)- InTouch With iOS with David Ginsburg (Thursdays)Email: ThePodTalkNetwork@gmail.comWebsite: ThePodTalk.NetMusic: The Urban Gentry by Beat Mekanik via Free Music Archive (Creative Commons)Happy traveling, and thanks for joining us. Now it’s time to Gear Up and Go.

    50 min

  7. 09/22/2025

    Travel keyboards

    Will and Marty chat about some of their travel keyboard solutions and how they came to those decisions. What to Look for in a Travel Keyboard Size & Portability - Foldable or ultra-slim designs save space in bags. - Weight ideally under 12 oz for carry-everywhere setups. Typing Comfort - Key travel: shallow (mobile) vs. deeper (laptop-like). - Layout: full vs. compact (watch for missing arrow keys). Connectivity - Bluetooth 5.0 or newer for stable connections. - Multi-device pairing (phone, tablet, laptop). Battery & Power - Rechargeable batteries with USB-C are best. - Some run on coin/AAA batteries for ultra-long standby. Durability - Strong hinges or aluminum bodies handle repeated folding. - Splash resistance or rugged cases help for outdoor use. Extra Features - Backlighting for red-eye flights or dim cafés. - Built-in touchpads for tablet-first travelers. Recommended Travel Keyboards Apple Magic Keyboard (for iPad/BT devices) — Sleek, lightweight, rechargeable, and pairs seamlessly with Apple devices. https://www.apple.com/shop/product/MXCK3LL/A/magic-keyboard-with-touch-id-for-mac-models-with-apple-silicon-usb-c-us-english Logitech K380 Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard — Ultra-compact, multi-device pairing, works with Mac, PC, iOS, Android. A proven traveler’s favorite. https://www.logitech.com/en-us/products/keyboards/k380-multi-device.html Keychron K3 (V2) Ultra-Slim Wireless Mechanical Keyboard — Mechanical feel in a travel-friendly low profile; hot-swappable switches; Bluetooth 5.1. https://www.keychron.com/products/keychron-k3-wireless-mechanical-keyboard iClever BK08 Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard with Touchpad — Tri-fold design, pocketable size, includes built-in touchpad; pairs with multiple devices. https://www.amazon.com/Bluetooth-iClever-Pocket-Sized-Tri-Folding-Smartphones/dp/B01MTVC775 Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard — Extremely thin, spill-resistant, folds in half for easy packing; works with iOS, Android, Windows. https://www.amazon.com/Microsoft-Universal-Foldable-Keyboard-Android/dp/B00ZR7POQQ -* Arteck HB030B Slim Bluetooth Keyboard — Affordable, lightweight, 6-month battery life per charge, with LED backlighting. https://www.amazon.com/Arteck-HB030B-Universal-Bluetooth-Rechargeable/dp/B00X5P8BJO Mini USB Light for Keyboard, LED https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CS8F5XXP/ Logitech Mouse Pad - Studio Series, Computer Mouse Mat with Anti-Slip Rubber Base, Easy Gliding, Spill-Resistant Surface, Durable Materials, Portable, in a Fresh Modern Design, Graphite https://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Mouse-Pad-Anti-Slip-Spill-Resistant/dp/B09DV56338/ Where to Find Us - Podcasts on all major podcast platforms - Video and podcasts on: https://YouTube.com/@GUAGPodcast - More shows at: https://www.thepodtalk.net

    49 min

  8. 09/01/2025

    Tech jackets and vests

    Will and Marty speak about recent travel experience and travel tech jackets and vests 3‑piece system: shell + insulated mid‑layer + vest Shell is breathable & has DWR (water‑repellent) Insulation suits climate: down (dry/cold) or synthetic (wet/cold) Merino/blend liner or odor‑resistant inner fabric Weight goal: shell 10–16 oz; vest 9–14 oz (packable) Zipped, lay‑flat chest pocket (phone/boarding pass) Internal passport pocket (zipped) fits passport + slim wallet Two deep drop pockets to “TSA‑dump” small items Key leash/clip; hidden sleeve for tracker (AirTag/Tile) Cable pass‑through from power‑bank pocket to chest Two‑way front zipper (plane comfort) Raglan/articulated shoulders (backpack‑friendly) Low‑noise fabric if recording on the road Rain: taped seams, adjustable hood, small brim Ventilation: pit‑zips or mesh to prevent overheating Wind layer pairs cleanly over a vest Inside pockets for valuables in crowds Option to lock zipper pulls with a mini‑carabiner RFID sleeve for passport or use RFID pouch Power‑bank pocket high on chest (stays warm) Glove‑friendly zipper pulls & big toggles Eyewear pocket with soft liner (sunglasses/readers) Reflective accents for night walking Self‑pack pocket or stuff sack Quick dry time (avoid heavy cotton) Load phone, passport, wallet, earbuds, power bank + short cable Sit like on a plane—does anything jab/bunch? Raise arms as if stowing a bag—hem stays put Bend forward—nothing falls out Warm/humid: ultralight wind shell + tech vest Shoulder season: waterproof shell + synthetic vest Cold/dry: lightweight down + stretch shell (vest for planes) Power banks in carry‑on; under ~100 Wh common limit Hood adjustability: rear volume + front pulls What I got: ScotteVest Epic Travel https://www.scottevest.com/products/epic-travel-jacket-for-men?variant=45556698972375  Already owned  ScotteVest Pack Windbreaker https://www.scottevest.com/products/pack-windbreaker  SCOTTeVEST “Best Travel Vest” (Men) — pocket-rich vest (26 pockets), RFID sleeve; great for flights. https://www.scottevest.com/products/best-travel-vest-for-men  Patagonia Torrentshell 3L (Men) — true waterproof 3-layer shell; reliable all-weather travel jacket. https://www.patagonia.com/product/mens-torrentshell-3-layer-rain-jacket/85241.html  Arc’teryx Atom Vest (Men) — breathable synthetic mid-layer; warm even if damp; layers under shells cleanly. https://arcteryx.com/us/en/shop/mens/atom-vest-9559    Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket (Men) — ultralight, stuffs in its pocket; excellent “always-in-bag” shell. https://www.outdoorresearch.com/products/mens-helium-rain-jacket-322402  Montbell Superior Down Parka (Men) — very packable 800-fill down; big warmth, tiny packed size. https://www.montbell.com/us/en/products/detail/2301375    RAINS Long Jacket (Unisex) — minimalist, fully waterproof long raincoat; travel-friendly and low-profile. https://www.us.rains.com/products/long-jacket-female     Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody (Men) — classic packable down; versatile “one warm layer” for most trips. https://www.patagonia.com/product/mens-down-sweater-insulated-hoody/84702.html  Self Heating Jacket : Men's Heated Jacket with Battery Included 12V Self Warming Parka Coat, Down Ski Jacket, Bluetooth App Control  https://a.co/d/ecQcS1i Where to Find Us Podcasts on all major podcast 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

    38 min
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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
    33
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Marty & Will Jencius
  • Show Website
    Gear Up and Go

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