When considering the tech-free period, parents and students sometimes opt to bring alternative devices to supplement offline functions of their smartphone. Below is a list of recommendations and options for parents looking to provide these replacements. It is important to keep in mind that in keeping with our tech policy, students are expected to abide by the philosophy and principles of this tech-free time, and that extends to the devices in this guide. As such, all these devices must have “offline” functionality, and must not be used as a way to circumvent the tech-free period, or otherwise distract students from the program.
Music/Audio
If your student wants access to their music during the tech-free period, or relies upon music at night to sleep, or uses music as a sensory/coping tool, then we recommend bringing a stand-alone audio player. Often referred to as “Portable Digital Audio Player” or “DAP,” these come in a huge array of prices and feature levels, from a variety of retailers, ranging from under $50 to over $1000. For a simple, offline audio option, we recommend The Mighty 3: an audio player designed for internet and screen-free audio listening via Spotify and Amazon Music. Alternatively, you can buy a traditional audio player and load your own music. For a short list and review of cheap digital audio players, see this article in Audiophile On, or search the web for your preferred criteria.
Please be mindful that music apps like Spotify and Apple Music require you to download or “make available offline” all media that you require if you want to use it without an internet connection. If you’d prefer to purchase digital music files, we recommend bandcamp.com, the iTunes store, and Amazon Music.
E-Books/Readers
Many e-readers have full offline capability. Popular models include the Kobo eReaders, Amazon Kindle, and Onyx Boox, which allow users to download e-books, PDFs, and even audiobooks, and store them on the device for offline access. These e-readers use e-ink technology, which offers long battery life, often lasting weeks on a single charge. They typically support a variety of file formats and provide distraction-free reading experiences, with storage capacities that can hold thousands of books. While many offer syncing options when online, make sure your content will be fully available once offline for use during the tech-free period. Additionally, please note that iPads and other tablets are not a suitable substitute for e-readers. Of course, students may also simply opt to pack a traditional book.
Cameras
On programs where students have access to their phones during the tech-free period, most phones will allow you to continue taking photos and videos even while the phone is locked using quick access menus and gestures. However, please note that students are unable to review, edit, or share photos until after the tech-free portion of the program.
For students who want to supplement or enhance their photography during the tech-free period, or the program as a whole, there is a huge array of options available. Digital cameras come in a variety of options, both in terms of features and budget, ranging from $300 to over $1000. In this guide, we will recommend two strategies for alternatives to your smartphone camera. For something similarly sized, with comparable image quality, consider a point-and-shoot such as the Canon PowerShot ELPH HS 360. Alternatively, you may wish to bring a camera with more advanced performance and capabilities. In that case, consider a DSLR or a mirrorless camera. These are larger, more durable, and use interchangeable lenses. They are ideal for someone interested in being more intentional about photography, and provide more control over the technical aspects. The most cost-effective example is the Canon EOS Rebel T7 with 18-55mm Lens. Ultimately there are many factors to consider. For an introductory guide, see this article in Tom’s Guide. Finally, traditional film cameras—such as 35mm SLRs, disposable cameras, Polaroids or “instant print” cameras—can be another way to embrace the philosophy of the tech-free period.
Watches & Wearables
Smartwatches like the Apple Watch and fitness trackers such as Fitbit or Garmin can often display notifications, messages, social media updates, and other distractions that may interfere with the tech-free experience and detract from students’ time on a program. For this reason, we strongly recommend leaving these devices behind. For families who want to send students with a simple alarm, timer, pedometer, or stopwatch, ‘offline’ versions of these can be easily purchased at affordable prices from various retailers, such as this Casio Men’s Wristwatch, or this belt-clip pedometer.
Tablets, Laptops, & Hybrid Computers
Students are strongly discouraged from bringing tablets, laptops, and other full-featured online devices on the program. These types of devices are cumbersome, prone to loss or breakage during travel, and provide needless distractions and temptation for students during the tech-free period of the program and beyond. Unless your packing list explicitly states that you may bring one for a particular seminar or activity (such as photography) please leave these devices at home.
