Getting ready for a relaxing day at the beach can actually be quite stressful. From sunscreen to kids’ toys, there's a lot to pack up in the car and then carry across the sand. Fortunately, however, tech companies have been hard at work creating summer gadgets that can make your life much easier. Here are a few user-friendly, efficient and downright fun tools for your upcoming beach trip:
1. Canon PowerShot D10: Waterproof, freezeproof and even shockproof, the Canon PowerShot D10 camera is a necessity for those who love capturing action photos both above and below the water. This attractive, compact camera features 12.1 megapixels of resolution and a 3x optical zoom lens, which make for priceless pics of sandcastles, kids and sea creatures. Divers will love that the PowerShot D10 offers crystal-clear views 33 feet underwater, and those taking a polar bear plunge up north are sure to appreciate the gadget’s tolerance for temperatures as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit. The PowerShot D10 really makes a splash, however, when it comes to price; this 2011 Travel + Leisure Tech Award-winner retails for under $400. Learn more about this underwater wonder at www.usa.canon.com.
2. Juice Bag Solar Beach Tote: If you're always on the go during summer months, then you know what a hassle it is to keep all your electronics charged. Thanks to the Juice Bag Solar Beach Tote, however, you can make sure your cell phone, iPad, GPS or camera is powered-up without ever leaving your beach blanket. Simply place the solar panel into its pocket and attach your gadget to the tote with a car charger – no batteries needed, since the sun will do all the work. The tote can also be adapted for USB charging as well. And while the Juice Bag runs around $250, it's an item you'll have for life. Thanks to a water resistant base, attractive canvas design, sturdy cotton webbing handles and a convenient inside pocket, you won't need any other tote bag again. (www.rewarestore.com/product/beachtote.html)
3. Metal Detecting Sandals: We've all seen dedicated beachcombers with their metal detectors, and while it may seem a bit odd to some, most people would admit that finding buried treasure is pretty exciting. For those who want to release their inner archaeologist, but avoid making a scene, metal detecting sandals, like those on sale from Hammacher Schlemmer (http://www.hammacher.com/Product/76779) are the perfect fit. Using beat frequency oscillation technology, the pack (attached to your leg with a strap) lights up, vibrates or buzzes when a metal object is detected within two feet of your foot. With one nine-volt battery, you'll get six hours of treasure hunting time. The comfortable sandals have foam footbeds and come in several men’s and women’s sizes.
This year's hot beach gadgets come in a range of styles and prices. Those who can't wait to get their hands on the latest and greatest techno tools will find plenty of innovative, cutting-edge items. And of course, for technophobes, several award-winning picks are far from intimidating. With products that will make your summer days more easy and enjoyable, why not invest in a little bit of scientific sunshine?
