Hit and hope – You’re at the mercy of your device’s maker regarding when/if you’ll actually get Android 14, and which goodies will end up on your smartphone. The tips here are for vanilla Android – your options might differ. If you have a Pixel 4a or newer, head to ‘System update’ in the settings to check if the revamped OS is waiting for you.

Lock it down – Security is a major part of Android 14. It’ll block ancient apps built for Android 5.1 or older – although anything already on your phone will still run. Passkey support is improved, and there are new PIN input options. In ‘Security and privacy’ > ‘Device unlock’ > ‘Screen lock’, you can disable animations to thwart people nosing over your shoulder as you type to unlock.

Share the love – Android has a default share sheet, but some apps override it to add custom components. Android 14 seeks to stop this by giving app creators ‘ChooserAction’ slots that surface key commands within the standard share sheet. The redesign also makes it clearer what your action will do, such as sharing a link or an image.

Check your battery – Android 14 is optimised for battery life, and tracking options are improved. In Settings > Battery > ‘Battery usage’, there’s a welcome return for ‘Screen time since last full charge’, which helps you understand phone use. For background drainage, dig into ‘View by systems’ to see what’s eating your battery.

Adjust alerts

Splash the flash – In Settings, go to Notifications > ‘Flash notifications’. Toggle and preview options to flash your camera and/or screen when a notification arrives. This feature is designed for the hard of hearing but can benefit anyone surrounded by noise.

Fine-tune volumes – In the ‘Sound and vibration’ section of Settings, you now have the means to define separate volume levels for your ringtone and notifications. So you can make alerts more subtle but still be sure to never miss a call.

Read more easily

Go (really) large – You could already scale fonts in Android (Settings > Display > ‘Display size and text’). But now you can go all the way up to a whopping 200%. Smartly, the scaling is non-linear, which stops headings from becoming too gigantic.

Access quick settings – When you only want to change your system font size temporarily, digging into Settings is annoying. Handily, then, you can use the ‘Font size’ tile in Quick Settings, which gives you the same font-resizing slider as found in Settings.

Make it your own

Rock the lock screen – In Settings, head to ‘Wallpaper and style’. Swipe between the clock options to choose a style; tap the button below to access a screen where you can define the clock’s colour and size.

Take a shortcut – Scroll down and tap Shortcuts, then select which two action buttons you’d like on your lock screen – including Home, Camera, Do Not Disturb, Mute, Torch, Video Camera, Wallet, and a QR code scanner.

Create wallpapers – Under ‘More wallpapers’, you can choose from a built-in selection – or make your own. For example, tap ‘Emoji workshop’, choose a bunch of different emojis, and then decide how they’re displayed in terms of pattern and colour scheme.

Master gestures

Drop it – Although it’s best suited to larger screens, drag-and-drop exists on Android 14 phones. For example, select and then tap-hold a block of text. With another finger, use the app switcher to change apps, and let go to drop the text in place.

Get back – Bit of a punt, this one, since it’s not fully baked at the time of writing, but with Android 14 you should get a preview of what a back gesture (slide from left) will do. This could be useful, stopping you from unexpectedly ending up on your home screen.

As we guide you through this setup, just a few things. Firstly, Windows is an operating system developed by Microsoft for laptops and PCs. Not all laptops will come out of the box with Windows – If it’s labelled ‘Apple’, you’ll find something called MacOS and this guide will be of little help.

But if your new laptop bears any other brand, like Acer, Asus, Dell, HP, or Lenovo to name a few, you’re in the right place.

Step 1: Preparing for setup

Before diving into the setup process, take some time to prepare. Here are a few crucial tasks to complete even before you hit that power button.

Back-up your data: Ensure that all your important files, documents, and settings are backed up from your old laptop or PC. You can use external hard drives, or cloud storage services like Google Drive or Microsoft OneDrive. Just be sure to save all your important data before porting to a new machine.

Gather necessary accessories: Gather any bits and bobs you may need, like a mouse, keyboard, or external monitor. You may also have to charge up the battery on your new laptop straight out of the box, so go ahead and grab a multiplug and get it charged up.

Step 2: Initial setup and config

Once you’re ready, it’s time to set up your new Windows laptop. The next few steps are fairly straightforward, and the laptop will likely do a lot of the heavy lifting.

Power on and initial setup: Power on your laptop and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the Out of Box Experience. This includes selecting your language, region, and keyboard layout, and setting up user accounts.

Connect to Wi-Fi: You’ll have to ensure your laptop is connected to a Wi-Fi network to access online services and complete some of the setup tasks.

Pro tip: When you reach the account-setup stage, you might notice you’re forced to sign in with a Microsoft account. If you’d rather create a local account and sign in later, enter “no@thankyou.com” (without the quotes) as your email address and then literally any text as the password. This will throw up a message saying the account is locked and allow you to create a local account.

Windows update: After initial setup, check for Windows updates to ensure that your laptop has the latest security patches and feature improvements. Head over to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update to check for updates.

Read More: Exploring the walled garden: First-time iPhone setup tips

Step 3: Customisation and optimisation

Now that your laptop is set up, it’s time to customise and optimise it to suit your preferences and needs.

Personalisation settings: Explore the personalisation settings to customise your desktop background, theme and colour scheme. You can also adjust display settings, such as screen resolution and brightness, to optimise your viewing experience.

Install essential software: Install essential software and applications based on your needs, such as productivity tools, web browsers, and multimedia players. Be selective to avoid cluttering your system with unnecessary programs.

Pro tip: We’d recommend checking out ninite.com. It’s a free package management system that allows you to select a number of free programs and intalls their latest version for you in one go.

Organise your files and folders: Logically organise your data to streamline your workflow and make it easier to find what you need. Create separate folders for documents, photos, videos, and other types of files.

Step 4: Security and maintenance

Okay, now you’ll have to ensure that your laptop is secure and well-maintained to protect your data and prolong its lifespan.

Activate Windows security features: Enable Windows security features, such as Windows Defender Antivirus and Firewall, to protect your laptop from malware, viruses and other online threats. If you have a subscription to a different antivirus, go ahead and install that one.

Pro tip: Some laptops will come preloaded with antivirus bloatware like McAfee, which will annoy even the most patient among us with ads and pop-ups. Be sure to uninstall it properly with Revo Uninstaller (available through Ninite) or by navigating to Settings > Apps > Installed apps then clicking on the ellipses menu and selecting Uninstall.

Read More: How to set up iCloud on your Windows PC

Set up backup and recovery options: Set up your backup and recovery options to safeguard data against accidental loss or corruption. You can use built-in Windows features or third-party backup options.

Regular maintenance tasks: Perform regular maintenance tasks, like disk cleanup, defragmentation (if you’ve still got a hard drive with a spinning platter, this isn’t recommended for SSDs) and software updates. This will help keep your laptop running smoothly and efficiently over time.

Step 5: Dive even deeper

Once you’ve completed the basic setup and configuration, take some time to explore advanced features and tips to enhance your laptop experience:

Keyboard shortcuts and gestures: Learn useful keyboard shortcuts and touchpad gestures to navigate your laptop more efficiently and easily perform common tasks. Here are a few to start with (where you see ‘Win’ we’re referring to the Windows key usually located between the Control and Alt keys):

• Win + I = Settings
• Win + L = Lock your account
• Win + P = Projection/second screen options
• Win + Shift + S = Screen capture tool
• Ctrl + Shift + Esc = Task manager (quicker than Ctrl + Alt + Del)
• Win + X = Admin tools/troubleshooting options
• Win + number row = Opens the pinned app on your taskbar
• Win + Space bar = Switch language

Accessibility features: Explore accessibility features, such as magnifier, narrator, and high contrast mode, to customise your laptop for specific needs or preferences.

Pro tip: If you’re looking for something specific, just drop the word into the ‘Search’ in the Windows Task Bar.

Power management settings: Optimise power management settings to extend battery life or maximise performance. Adjust sleep, hibernate, and power-saving options to suit your usage patterns.

Read More: Navigating the badlands: First-time Android setup tips

Firstly, make sure the phone you’re setting up is either brand new or a properly formatted hand-me-down or secondhand phone. Either way, there are a few steps to follow that’ll streamline the setup process.

Step 1: Preparing for setup

Before diving into the setup process, it’s vital you go out and gather everything you need.

Back up your old phone: Start by backing up your old phone to ensure a smooth transition to your new one. Luckily, this part is pretty straightforward. Use Google’s backup feature to save your contacts, calendars, text messages and other essential data. Navigate to Settings > System > Backup (or Settings > Accounts and backup > Backup and restore for Samsung Galaxy phones) to initiate the backup.

Gather necessary items: Have your SIM card (or eSIM activation details), Wi-Fi network information, and Google account credentials ready. Additionally, if you plan to transfer data from your old phone, a USB-C to USB-C cable will come in handy.

Step 2: Okay, it’s time

Now that you’re prepared, let’s get started with setting up your new Android phone.

Insert SIM card and power on: Insert your SIM card into the new phone and power it on. Follow the on-screen instructions to select your region and language, connect to Wi-Fi, and sign in with your Google account details. That last step isn’t strictly required straight away but it could save you a few headaches later on.

Set up security features: It’s always a good idea to enhance the security of your device by setting up a screen lock method, such as a PIN, pattern or biometric authentication (fingerprint or facial recognition). While you’re at it, consider enabling your preferred electronic payment method, like Google Pay, Samsung Pay, or any of the other locally supported systems.

Restore backup: If you didn’t do it earlier, sign in with your Google account to restore data from your backup. This includes contacts, calendars, app settings and more. During this process, you’ll have the option to choose which data to restore.

Step 3: Post-setup details

After completing the initial setup, don’t forget these important post-setup tasks.

Update system and apps: Ensure your device is up to date by checking for system updates in Settings > System > System update. Additionally, head to the Play Store to update your apps, ensuring you have access to the latest features and security patches.

Add other accounts: Integrate additional accounts, such as social media, email, and cloud storage accounts, to your device for easy access. Navigate to Settings > Accounts (or Passwords & accounts) > Add account to add new accounts.

Step 4: Personalisation and Customisation

Configure Google Assistant: Maximise the capabilities of Google Assistant by customising its settings. Access Assistant settings by saying “Hey Google, open Assistant settings” or navigating to Settings > Google > Search, Assistant and Voice > Google Assistant.

Explore additional customisation options: Delve into the settings menu to explore customisation options such as home screen layout, display settings, and notification preferences. Android offers a wide range of customisation possibilities, so feel free to go mad here and really make the phone your own.

Read More: Exploring the walled garden: First-time iPhone setup tips

Step 5: Explore advanced Android features

Now that your phone is set up, take some time to explore advanced features and tips to enhance your Android experience.

Utilise gestures and shortcuts: Familiarise yourself with gesture controls and shortcuts to navigate your phone more efficiently. From swipe gestures to app shortcuts, mastering these features can significantly improve your productivity — even if that’s just reordering your apps so you don’t have to swipe and scroll to look for it.

Explore built-in apps and services: Take advantage of the built-in apps and services offered by Android, such as Google Photos, Google Drive and Google Maps. These apps seamlessly integrate with your device, offering powerful features for managing photos, files, and navigation.

Discover accessibility features: Explore accessibility features designed to make your phone more accessible to users with disabilities. From screen readers to magnification gestures, Android provides a range of accessibility options to accommodate diverse needs.

Before diving into the setup process, you’ll want to make sure you have a few things within reach. Make sure you have your Apple ID and passcode handy, along with your current iPhone’s passcode. These will be essential during the setup process.

There’s also your Wi-Fi SSID and password – these will come in handy. Additionally, if your new iPhone doesn’t have a physical SIM card tray, you’ll be setting up an eSIM. If transitioning from Android to iPhone with eSIM, obtain a QR code from your carrier.

Step 1: First-time iPhone setup

Looks like you’re ready to set up your new iPhone. You may be lucky enough to have unwrapped a brand-new device, but setting up a secondhand iPhone is just as exciting. Just make sure the older phone is properly wiped and the previous owner removed their Apple ID from the device.

Power on your iPhone: Press and hold the Side Button (located on the right edge of all models) to turn on your new iPhone.

Follow the onscreen instructions: Sounds easy enough, right? Go through the instructions to select your language, and region and connect to Wi-Fi. Set up Face ID or Touch ID and create an Apple ID if you don’t already have one.

Read More: How to set up iCloud on your Windows PC

Step 2: Transitioning from an old iPhone

If you’re upgrading from an old iPhone, setup is just as straightforward, but this time you can easily carry over your old data.

Check software updates (on the old device): Ensure your old iPhone is running the latest software version by navigating to Settings > General > Software Update > Update Now. Back up your old iPhone to iCloud by going to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup > Back up now.

Transfer your data: During setup (on the new device), choose the “Transfer Your Data” option. Hold your old iPhone near the new one and follow the onscreen prompts to transfer data. Ensure your old iPhone is backed up in advance.

Step 3: Complete the setup

You may have already inserted your physical SIM if you have one. Otherwise, you’ll have to set up your eSIM at this stage.

An eSIM, or ’embedded SIM’, which means you won’t need a physical SIM to connect to your mobile network. If you’ve got one of these, follow the onscreen instructions to transfer your number. For Android-to-iPhone transfers, scan the QR code provided by your mobile network.

Update your iPhone: After setup, check for software updates by going to Settings > General > Software Update. Install any available updates to ensure optimal performance and security.

Read More: Why you shouldn’t give your older tech to your old relatives

Step 4: Get accustomed to iOS

Learn gestures: Practice essential gestures like swiping up from the bottom of the screen for the home screen. Use the grabber bar to switch between apps quickly and efficiently.

Customise your device: Personalise your home screen, lock screen, and wallpaper to reflect your personal style. Explore features like Do Not Disturb and you can now go ahead and customise the Action Button for added convenience.

Explore accessibility options: iOS offers some nifty accessibility features like Zoom for enhanced readability. Customise your iPhone with essential apps and games to suit your lifestyle and interests.

Before we delve into the nitty-gritty, let’s clarify: iCloud is Apple’s suite of cloud-based services, including file storage, device syncing, and password storage. It’s a vital component of the Apple ecosystem, which connects your devices and ensures your data is accessible wherever you go.

Step 1: Installing iCloud for Windows

It’s simple – just head over to the Microsoft App Store and download iCloud for Windows. Ensure your PC meets the minimum requirements: Windows 10 or later (64-bit). Once installed, launch the app and sign in with your Apple ID. Yeah, it’s that easy.

Step 2: See what iCloud does

With Apple’s app up and running, you gain access to its various services, including:

• iCloud Drive: Store and access files in the cloud, syncing them across your devices.
• Photos: View and manage your iCloud Photo Library.
• Mail, Contacts, Calendars, and Tasks (with Outlook integration): Keep your personal
  information in sync.
• Safari Bookmarks: Access your bookmarks across devices.
• iCloud Keychain: Securely store passwords and sync them across your devices.

Step 3: Optimise your system for iCloud

Now that you and Apple’s cloud are acquainted, here are some practical tips to enhance your experience.

Tip 1: Collaboration

One of iCloud’s most powerful features is its ability to foster collaboration among its users. Using iCloud for Windows, you can effortlessly share and collaborate on files stored in iCloud Drive directly from your File Explorer. Need to whip up a report with your team? Simply create a shared folder in iCloud Drive, and changes and edits will sync across all your devices via the network.

Tip 2: Dark Mode

Who says productivity can’t look good? With iCloud for Windows, you can now indulge your dark side. The latest update introduces support for Dark Mode within the application, giving your workspace a sophisticated makeover. We all know Dark Mode looks better, so go ahead and flip that switch.

Tip 3: Security

In the ever-escalating battle against cyber threats, iCloud Keychain is your trusty companion, in the Apple ecosystem at least. With Keychain, you can securely store, manage, and generate passwords across all your devices. So bid farewell to sticky notes and insecure passwords, and those notebooks filled with illegible scribbles…

Tip 4: Data protection

iCloud also features something called Advanced Data Protection. This feature encrypts almost all your iCloud data, ensuring your sensitive information remains shielded from prying eyes. So rest easy, knowing that your digital fortress is fortified with the latest in encryption technology.

With iCloud for Windows, bridging the gap between Apple and Windows ecosystems becomes seamless. Whether you’re syncing files, managing passwords, or collaborating with colleagues, iCloud offers a range of features to streamline your digital experience, even if you find yourself on Microsoft’s platform.

As a result, well-intentioned efforts to bridge the digital divide by passing down old tech to older relatives may not always yield the desired outcomes. Turns out there are some risks and consequences of this practice, however well-intentioned it may be.

Rather, techy young ones often find themselves as their family’s unofficial tech support, or a Family Information Officer (FIO) if you will. Whether it’s troubleshooting technical issues, providing guidance on device setup, or recommending software solutions, FIOs play a crucial role in helping older relatives navigate the complexities of modern technology.

However, despite their best efforts, the process of digital inclusion for older generations remains fraught with challenges.

The digital divide

One of the most pressing issues in the realm of technology adoption is the widening gap between those who are digitally fluent and those who are not.

This digital divide is particularly pronounced among older individuals, many of whom may have limited exposure to digital devices and online services. As society becomes increasingly reliant on digital platforms for essential tasks such as banking, healthcare, and communication, the stakes of digital exclusion are higher than ever before.

At the heart of the issue lies a phenomenon Stuff‘s editor-in-chief Toby Shapshak calls ‘downstreaming’ wherein younger relatives pass down their old tech to older family members in an attempt to facilitate digital connectivity.

While this gesture may be well-intentioned, it often falls short of addressing the unique needs and challenges faced by older users. Outdated devices with obsolete operating systems, incompatible apps, and complex user interfaces can quickly become sources of frustration and alienation for older relatives.

And there are consequences

The consequences of handing down outdated tech to older relatives are manifold. In addition to the practical limitations imposed by obsolete hardware and software, there are also psychological and emotional implications to consider.

Feelings of inadequacy, frustration, and isolation may arise when older individuals are unable to effectively navigate modern technology or participate fully in digital interactions.

Also, the rapid pace of technological advancement means that the knowledge gap between younger and older generations continues to widen, exacerbating those feelings of disconnect and alienation.

The alternative method

In light of these challenges, there is a growing recognition of the need for tailored technology solutions designed specifically for older users.

You can find a range of products and services tailored to the needs and preferences of mature users. From simplified interfaces to larger buttons and compatibility with essential services, these solutions are designed to empower older individuals to navigate the digital landscape with confidence and ease.

Read More: How older people are mastering technology to stay connected after lockdown

All of this means we should be addressing the digital needs of older generations, and it requires a multifaceted approach. While the impulse to hand down old tech to older relatives may stem from a desire to help, it is essential to recognise the limitations of this approach and explore alternative strategies for promoting digital inclusion.

By prioritising tailored solutions, thoughtful assistance, and ongoing support, we can ensure that older relatives remain connected, engaged, and empowered in an increasingly digital world.

Hitting the streets (or the trails) means you’re committing to trading your legs for wheels. That means you should be mentally and physically prepared in terms of safety and health. Luckily, cycling tech has come a long way, and you’re in for a treat.

Kryptonite Lock Fahgettaboudit | R2,000

Ensure the safety of your bike with the Kryptonite Lock Fahgettaboudit. Crafted from 18mm hardened special steel, this lock is virtually theft-proof. For added security, consider pairing it with a portable alarm system – we all live in South Africa and understand the risks that go along with that privilege. Especially if you’re travelling by bicycle.

Ryder Slim Air SL pump | R150

The Ryder Slim Air SL pump is a compact, chic, and powerful solution for on-the-go tyre inflation. It’s slim enough to fit into just about any riding pack and makes for a useful tool when things go wrong. We’d definitely recommend a small hand pump for those pedalling offroad.

Knog Oi Classic Bell | R380

Pretty up your bicycle with a good-looking device like the Knog Oi bicycle bell – a minimalist, sleek bicycle bell that emits a wonderful sound. It’s much more discreet than a traditional bicycle bell, and you’ll find that the slim design fits a more minimalist style. Good thing it sounds nice and not obnoxious like little Timmy’s bike bell.

HBP-2055-BK Backpack | R600

You’ll need to stay hydrated for long periods of time – a slimline cycling backpack like the HBP-2055-BK backpack is ideal. It’s fitted with a 2L hydration bladder that’s easily removable for refilling, with an attached hose for easy access.

Kärcher O3 Mobile outdoor cleaner | R3,600

Yeah, we’ve all seen a bike after a sudden Joburg flash flood, or an early-morning run on the mountain. The most efficient way to get your bicycle back to its original colour is a portable bike cleaner suitable for both outdoor and indoor use. The O3 runs on battery and will last 15 minutes on a charge.

Velosock Bike Covers | R1,000 – R1,200

Keep your space/garage clean when bringing your bike indoors with a Velosock bike cover – the brand offers a variety of funky and creative designs. It’s a stylish solution to making your mounted bicycle look like a piece of art on your wall. The best part? Takealot offers a large range of the brand’s designs.

Read More: Head for the hills with some of the best hiking gear money can buy

Garmin Varia RTL515 | R4,400

Out and about at night? Or maybe just during misty and low-visibility conditions. You can easily enhance visibility and safety with the Garmin Varia Radar Rear Light. Emitting 5 lumens of light, it warns of approaching vehicles with visual and acoustic signals. It might be on the pricier side, but you can’t put a price on this kind of safety.

Hövding 3 Airbag Helmet | R7,000

Yeah, you’ll have to import this one, but it’s truly one of the most intriguing cycling gadgets of our time. The stylish Hövding Airbag Helmet is just worn around your neck like a bulky necklace – freeing up your head and ears. Integrated sensors trigger the airbag in case of impact, providing head and neck protection. It sounds too good to be true, but it works.

While originally designed for platforms like iOS, Android and Windows, Mac users may also be keen to access Copilot in their ecosystem. While not officially available on Mac at the time of writing, there are ways to access Microsoft’s latest on your platform.

Before we delve into the integration methods, it’s essential to understand what Microsoft Copilot offers. It uses AI models to assist users in generating code, providing suggestions, and aiding in various programming tasks. It offers the ability to understand context and provide relevant assistance has made it a valuable tool mainly for developers.

Via the App Store

For Mac users with Apple Silicon-based devices, accessing iPad and iPhone applications natively is pretty easy, thanks to the Arm architecture. This means that you can directly download and install the Microsoft Copilot app from the App Store onto your Mac.

Go to the App Store: Launch the App Store on your Mac and search for the Microsoft Copilot app.

Download and installation: Once located, proceed to download and install the Copilot app onto your Mac.

Integration into your workflow: After installation, you can integrate Copilot into your workflow, as it’s right there in your Applications folder.

While this method provides direct access to Copilot, achieving system-level integration like you would through Windows environments requires additional steps. You’ll have to make use of something called Automator and some keyboard shortcuts to make Copilot even more accessible.

Configuring Automator: Open Automator and create an automation to launch the Copilot application.

Keyboard Shortcuts: Customise your keyboard shortcuts in your Mac’s settings to call up Copilot from any location on your device effortlessly.

Read More: Microsoft’s AI wants to be your Copilot

Or through web apps

Alternatively, Mac users can access Microsoft Copilot through Safari as a web application. While this method doesn’t offer the same level of system integration, it provides a fairly convenient way to utilise Copilot within the Safari browser.

Accessing Copilot via Safari: Open Safari on your Mac and navigate to the Microsoft Copilot website.

Add it to the Dock: Click on “File” at the top of the Safari window and select “Add to Dock” to create a shortcut for Copilot.

Seamless access: Copilot will now be accessible directly from your Dock, allowing for quick access whenever needed.

The Safari web app option offers some level of accessibility, but it’s essential to note that it operates essentially as a Safari tab within an application wrapper. Meaning that there are bound to be some limitations compared to native applications.

While Mac users may not have an official Copilot application, certain unofficial integration methods provide viable solutions for those who really want to access Copilot on Mac. Whether you opt for the native iPad app or the Safari web app option, integrating Copilot into your workflow is pretty straightforward, with each solution bringing with it its own pros and cons.

Facing the elements isn’t as straightforward as, say, running on a treadmill in a comfortable temperature-controlled environment of the nearest Virgin Active. You need a lot more protection and must be prepared for just about anything Mother Nature can throw at you. We want to make sure you’re equipped to handle any trail you choose to tackle. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best hiking equipment money can buy (in South Africa) to help you out.

Inov-8 RACESHELL | R3,200

Combat clamminess with the Inov-8 RACESHELL waterproof running jacket. Weighing a mere 100g, this jacket boasts a breathability rating of 15,000 B-1, allowing heat to escape while keeping you dry. With fully taped seams and a compact design for easy carrying, it’s the perfect choice for staying cool during your hikes.

Patagonia Granite Crest jacket | R6,000

For a reliable outer layer in wet conditions, look no further than the Patagonia Granite Crest jacket. Designed for all-day movement, this lightweight and breathable jacket suits both high-performance hikers and casual ramblers. Laminated pockets keep your essentials and your tech safe, and the responsibly-made jacket is crafted from recycled fishing nets. Marvellous.

Fastpack 20 | R3,400

The Fastpack 20, a 20-litre pack, is perfect for fast-packing and day-long hikes. It comfortably carries its weight and accommodates space for everything from gadgets to maps, sunglasses and a dedicated space for water bottles. Designed for long-distance training, racing, or casual walks, it remains hardy in all conditions and distributes weight on your back evenly, making it a versatile choice.

Adidas Terrex AX4 Mid | R3,000

Adidas Terrex AX4 Mid is a lightweight and mid-height hiking boot offering the comfort of a trail-running shoe with added stability. With fantastic ankle support, Gore-Tex membrane and Continental rubber grip, these boots ensure you stay on your feet over muddy terrain. A nice bonus for those with a sustainable streak – 50% of the upper is made from recycled materials.

Inov-8 RocFly G 345 | R3,800

The sleek-looking Inov-8 RocFly G 345 is your go-to boot for longer hikes and multi-day treks over the Drakensberg. Featuring graphene foam for greater energy return, this lightweight hybrid boot is designed for hard and rocky ground, drier trails, and roads. While not suitable for snowy or soft conditions, it ensures a bouncy and cushioned feel for those longer walks and even some climbs.

On Cloudrock Waterproof | R4,000

Crafted for fast hiking, the On Cloudrock Waterproofs with Speedboard technology offer extra propulsion on trails. The Missiongrip rubber outsole provides traction without compromising cushioning, making them ideal for short distances on trails. Waterproof and fashion-conscious, these boots are a good choice for casual hikers.

Garmin eTrex SE | R4,000

Don’t get lost on the trail – just make sure you equip yourself with the Garmin eTrex SE. This compact GPS tracker ensures you stay on course with 168 hours of battery life. While there are various models to suit different needs, the GPSMAP 67i wins as a handheld device with two-way messaging, SOS alerts, and location sharing.

Petzl Iko Core head torch | R1,900

The Petzl Iko Core Head Torch should be your companion if you’re the type to go wandering around at night. A rechargeable battery pack and 500 lumens of maximum light power ensure you see where you’re going, wherever. Comfortable to wear for extended periods, this head torch is lightweight at just 79g, preventing discomfort on your hiking adventures. It’s also handy for when Eskom flick off the lights.

We get it, it’s easy to overlook its cleanliness when you’re busy. But it can lead to a myriad of issues over time. From dust accumulation hindering performance to grime buildup affecting aesthetics, neglecting your laptop’s hygiene can result in costly repairs and diminished functionality.

All you have to do is maintain your laptop’s cleanliness and it’ll properly prolong its lifespan. We’re here to help.

The deep clean

As with most things, it’s good to prepare adequately. Start by saving and backing up any important files, ensuring you don’t lose any critical data during the process.

Shut down your computer completely and disconnect all cables and peripherals. This not only prevents accidental damage but also provides a clear workspace for the cleaning process.

Addressing the outside

Begin by focusing on the external surfaces of your laptop, particularly the keyboard and chassis. Lay down paper towels to catch any debris, then gently invert your laptop and give it a shake to dislodge loose particles. If your laptop permits, consider removing the keys for a more thorough cleaning.

Armed with a soft microfibre cloth and a gentle cleaning solution, meticulously wipe down the keyboard and chassis. Take care to avoid spraying directly onto the laptop to prevent moisture damage. Instead, apply the cleaning solution to the cloth and focus on cleaning around vents and openings where dirt tends to accumulate.

And then the inside

While external cleaning is essential, don’t overlook the internal components of your laptop. Dust and debris can accumulate inside vents and ports, hindering airflow and causing overheating issues. If you suspect significant internal dirt buildup, proceed with caution.

Consult your laptop’s documentation to determine if it’s safe to open up the back and clean the internal components. Grab some cotton buds and compressed air to carefully clean out vents and ports, ensuring no moisture or debris remains trapped inside. However, be mindful that opening your laptop may void its warranty, so proceed at your own risk.

Read More: Best budget laptops to buy going into 2024

Proper screen cleaning

The screen is the window to your digital world, and keeping it clean is essential. Here, be sure to use a soft microfiber cloth and a screen-specific cleaning solution to remove dirt and smudges gently. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the display.

Apply the cleaning solution to the cloth and use slow, circular motions to clean the screen thoroughly. Take your time to ensure streak-free results, and use a separate dry cloth to carefully dab the screen dry if needed. With a clean and clear screen, you’ll enjoy enhanced visual clarity and reduced eye strain during prolonged use.

All about consistency

Maintaining your laptop’s cleanliness is an ongoing process, requiring regular attention and care. Establish a cleaning schedule and aim to clean your computer every few months or more frequently if it accumulates dirt quickly. By incorporating these cleaning practices into your routine, you’ll not only prolong your laptop’s lifespan but also optimise its performance and appearance.

Your laptop is a valuable investment, and it deserves proper care and maintenance. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your cleaning supplies, and give it the pampering it deserves.