Compared to Six Years ago – its a resounding Yes.

This article was written for Western Sydney Publishing and published in December 2025. Six years ago, I assessed whether an iPad could replace a laptop for overseas work travel. Back then, I found it possible, but I struggled with VPNs, remote desktop access, and the lack of multitasking features.

Well, it was time for another holiday in Peru. Unlike my last trip, I did not even bring my laptop. Screen space, portability, weight, and internet connectivity were my key requirements. The ability to do online banking, email, prepare proposals, and handle general work requirements was a must. Watching movies, television series, and social media was equally important, especially on long plane and bus trips. On a 10-hour bus ride through the Andean mountains, I managed my emails with ease while occasionally switching to my favourite series. The limited space for my iPad on the narrow fold-down tray didn’t bother me. It was during this journey that I truly appreciated leaving my heavier laptop behind.

The current iPadOS 26 version delivers genuine multitasking. I now resize, layer, overlap, and manage multiple apps. I can open up to 12 apps simultaneously. I can attend video conferences while working on spreadsheets, chatting on social media, and uploading documents. Additionally, stoplight controls (close, minimise, maximise) and a floating menu bar now simplify navigation.

During those six years, my business technology changed. We moved off a server and transferred our data to Microsoft Teams. Our Line of Business application introduced a cloud interface, eliminating the need for a remote desktop client. Now, I use Microsoft Office, Teams, and OneDrive seamlessly on the iPad. I can access all my work resources securely, quickly, and easily. Xero accounting, another tool I use, updated its web interface and now works much better on the iPad. When compared with laptops, the iPad truly shines in battery life, lasting up to 10 hours on a single charge, whereas laptops often fall short.

Connectivity has also improved. I set up dual-screen remote work by connecting my iPad to hotel televisions with a suitable cable. This consistent setup made me much more productive.

iPads have always supported Bluetooth keyboards, and they now support Bluetooth mice as well. Previously, I found editing items on a touchscreen frustrating and counterproductive. Printing still poses a challenge on the road, since printers must support AirPrint.

In summary, the iPad, particularly when paired with a keyboard and mouse, is now a viable laptop replacement for travel, meeting both my professional and personal requirements. Its combination of portability, battery life, and improved multitasking has convinced me not to travel with both devices again. My iPad Pro now does everything I need on the road.