In summer 2014, Ash Dykes, walked across Mongolia, solo, unsupported and set a new world record in the process. At just 23, he was the first recorded person ever to do so. His epic journey from the Altai Mountains, across the Gobi Desert to the Mongolian Steppe proved a test of endurance and stamina as he battled sandstorms, heat exhaustion and dehydration. Happily, answering a few questions from Global Grapevine was a rather less demanding challenge.
We’re fascinated by technology and its application to adventure. So we asked Ash for his thoughts on how tech makes travel easier. And as he’s also hitch-hiked and cycled parts of Australia, we asked him for some of his Australian travel tales. You can find those here.
What are your feelings about technology? Do you love it, loathe it or feel excited by the possibilities it presents?
I think technology can be fantastic in a lot of ways. Personally – I kind of like the whole ‘off the beaten track – surviving out in the wilderness’ type of thing, but technology can be great for capturing the moment & sharing it with others all around the world.
Do you use technology when you head off on an adventure, or is it merely a useful tool when planning?
All my previous adventures, I only ever took a camera. However, with my most recent expedition across Mongolia, I had a satellite phone to track the route I walked, camera equipment to film a documentary, and my iPhone. I was able to get a rough idea of what terrain I’d be trekking across using Google Earth, which was impressive!
What items of technology do you use?
[On my latest journey] I used a solar panel to charge all my electronics; I strapped it to my trailer whilst walking, until it was stolen by a Nomad. I used a very low tech watch I purchased from Amazon! I had an iPhone 4 on me. This carried nothing but a couple of movies I took and allowed me to get quick snapshots using the camera on it.
What are the drawbacks of taking technology on your travels?
The drawbacks are always the feeling of carrying something expensive which makes you more cautious. I prefer travelling light with nothing too expensive which I could break, or could get stolen. I think if you head out on an adventure and you’re not relying on technology to see you through, then that is when you feel most at ease. Then if something does go wrong with the electronics, it’s not such a big deal.
What are your thoughts about travel tech? Tell us your traveller’s tales here.
You can find more about Ash at www.ashdykes.com and follow him on Twitter @Ash_Dykes and Facebook.
Read our 2nd interview with Ash here
Read more interviews from Adventure Travel Show 2015
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