Updated September 2026: in 2021 I wrote about two things that stopped me leaving my Mac at home when travelling, handling Zip files on an iPhone or iPad and apps that were missing or sold only by subscription. I have rewritten it as a guide to working from an iPad or iPhone, with the Zip problem now largely solved.
I use a Mac as my main computer and rely on my iPad or iPhone for important work while travelling. Handheld devices can handle most tasks now, but when I first wrote this two things kept getting in the way: Zip files and apps.
Can an iPhone or iPad open Zip files?
Yes. The built-in Files app can open and create Zip archives. Tap a Zip file in Files and it extracts into a folder next to it. To make one, select several files, open the menu and choose Compress. For other formats such as RAR or 7z, you still need a third-party app from the App Store.
How do you handle large files on the go?
- Use cloud storage such as iCloud Drive, Google Drive or OneDrive, and download only what you need.
- Connect a USB-C drive to an iPad with a USB-C port. It shows up in the Files app.
- Keep enough free space on the device, since extracting an archive needs room for both copies.
Which work tasks still need a laptop?
Much depends on your job. Email, documents, spreadsheets, video calls and light photo editing work well on an iPad, especially with a keyboard. Tasks that still tend to need a computer include some specialist software, developer tools, complex multi-window work and anything that relies on desktop-only browser extensions.
Why are so many apps subscription-only?
This was my second complaint, and it still applies. Many desktop apps now have iPad versions, but they often ask for a monthly or yearly subscription instead of a one-time price. Before you rely on an iPad for travel, list the apps you need, check whether each has a mobile version, and add up the yearly cost. Some web apps work well in Safari and can be a free alternative.
What accessories make an iPad work like a laptop?
A keyboard case with a trackpad makes the biggest difference. A USB-C hub adds ports for drives and displays, and a stand helps on long calls. Together these cover most of what I used to carry a laptop for.
Should you leave the laptop at home?
For short trips where the work is mostly communication and documents, an iPad is usually enough. For longer trips or specialist work, test a full working day on the iPad at home first. If anything blocks you, pack the laptop.