GADGET GURU

T3’s out-and-about tech rambler rambles on some more

JAMES, VIA EMAIL

What should I put in my tech go bag?

Let’s look at this in order of priority. Mazlow’s hierarchy of needs puts physiological things first. Food-wise, you could throw in a few MREs; mre-uk.co.uk will sell you a field ration pack for £15. For water, a LifeStraw Sip makes even council pop potable – a pricey but worth it £35. Chuck in some paracetamol and such, or a cheap TENS machine if you’re going full tech, and a Patagonia Nano Puff jacket (around £190) for ultimate warmth in minimal space.

Next comes safety. Communication will be important if we’re building an apocalypse-ready bag, so a cheap phone with the longest possible battery, like the £110 Oukitel WP28E, is probably a good idea. It’s rugged, claims a silly 10,600mAh juice, and is compatible with four satellite positioning systems on the off-chance they don’t fall from the sky.

Next step up on the pyramid is social, so let’s keep in touch with fellow survivors and consider a radio which doesn’t rely on mobile networks. A pair of license-free Baofeng BF-88E walkie talkies will set you back under £20, though if you’re not worried about Ofcom tracking you down, in which case opt for a multi-band handset like the Baofeng UV-5RH (£30).

The last bits of the pyramid – self esteem and self-actualisation – are a bit trickier to achieve with any legality. GaGu suggests you get a Nerf N Series Infinite Blaster (£40) and use it to assert your dominance over any poor sap you find in the street. You’re the king around here, and if they don’t agree, they can eat foam darts.

Q NIALL FRANKS, BELFAST

Guru, can I build my own speakers from scratch?