Transforming My iPad into a Touchscreen MacBook During Travel

Remote work from cafes abroad is a passion of mine!

Venturing with My iPad Pro

This time around, my travels see me accompanied by my iPad Pro instead of a bulkier laptop. The portability of a 13-inch tablet was a blessing as I traversed the final stretch of the Camino Frances, something a 16-inch laptop couldn't easily accommodate.

However, this comes with its own set of obstacles. Transitioning from my Mac workflow to the iPad has been challenging, mainly because the iPad lacks a full operating system. But is there really no way to have MacOS on an iPad?

MacOS via the Cloud

Enter the cloud-based service I use, which provides MacOS access online. Setting it up is a breeze, and it allows me to tailor the hardware, the software, and the subscription to match my needs.

This virtual setup surprisingly performs well with the right internet connection. It feels a bit like managing a garden next door using tools operated through a distant window, but it's an effort I can easily recommend for those needing a remote Mac system.

Initially, I believed that tethering my iPad to my iPhone's hotspot would be sufficient. Pre-departure trials seemed successful, yet real-world use in Spain revealed its instability. After spending time troubleshooting, it became apparent that viable Wi-Fi was a crucial element.

Although hotspots let me down, plentiful cafes with solid Wi-Fi here in Spain easily solved connectivity issues.

Keeping Tech Gear Secure

A sturdy bag for my digital essentials aligns with the saying, 'a place for everything and everything in its place.' My choice is an anti-theft bag, perfect for carrying the iPad Pro safely.

Pre-Charging and Power Solutions

Power availability isn't guaranteed when I'm working in public spots. To counter this, I've noticed many broken USB outlets during my travels.

While connectivity is less of an issue now, thanks to advancements, power isn’t always accessible. It’s prudent to ensure your devices are fully charged before heading out and carrying a power bank for backup.

eSIM for Connectivity and VPN for Security

For consistent iPhone internet access, eSIMs are unbeatable, eliminating the hassle of local SIM swaps. With services like Saily and Nomad, I'm able to secure my data connectivity.

Additionally, using a VPN, like Nord VPN or Proton VPN, is critical for protection against cyber snooping on public Wi-Fi.

Lessons from My Journey

While I consider myself meticulous, occasional mistakes creep in. For instance, switching to an unverified, longer charging cable at the last minute that didn’t function properly, or forgetting that a power bank was dead, causing confusion when my phone wouldn’t charge.

Such small missteps aren’t game-changing but emphasize the importance of preparation.