[pct-l] Trying to find a pocketmail device.

[John Abela]

Hey Kathy,

I have not spent a great deal of time with it my newest version on-trail.
Perhaps a half-dozen or so nights back when I was hammock camping (because
it's just such a nice pleasure to be out under the Redwoods swinging in a
hammock and reading a good book!). I bought one of the original kindles and
it went just about everywhere with me. Of course, back than I was not sub-9
pounds so it was able to find its way into my backpack. Different story now.

As for durability, I would have no issues with taking it on-trail for a very
long time. Treat it with care like you would any digital device you depend
upon. That said, the height of it might be an issue for some. Unlike a
smartphone or a gps or pocketgadget, the kindle is a bit taller and thus
would be one of those things you are constantly considering "where in the
pack is it". I would not put my bear canister right next to it, inside of my
pack, that is for sure. But, if you have a safe spot, sure, it might be
doable.

As for email/internet, yes, it uses the 3G network so anywhere you have 3G
you will have the ability to download new books, and load the browser. Not
the fastest thing in the world, and only black and white, but it works and
you pay zero monthly fee. You would not have any way to attach files within
the emails that you send but if all you care about is loading gmail and
sending/checking email, good enough.

You do have to have the 3G version of the kindle of course. That should be
obvious. Well worth the extra 50 bucks or whatever it is.

John


On Sat, Jan 15, 2011 at 6:00 PM, Kathy Walter <kathywalter at me.com> wrote:

> John,
> I'm thinking about using the Kindle, too--how much time have you spent
> with it on the trail? I'm wondering about it's durability and how long
> the battery really lasts. And I didn't know you could use it for e-
> mail and internet. I'd appreciate your review!
> Kathy
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