Are you packing for a trip and worried you won’t be able to fit all your current books or magazines in your backpack? Do you need to access a lot of reading material for school? You can make life a lot easier when you simply carry a digital library wherever you go.

Whether you enjoy books, blogs or online news, e-readers offer optimum comfort and convenience wherever you are. You can access the next title on your reading list instantly via the e-reader search and purchase option, so there’s no need for shipping or shopping in person. And, you can check out e-books from your local library no matter where you are.

E-readers also make great gifts for outdoor enthusiasts. They are much slimmer and more portable than most novels. Additionally, many models boast an impressive battery life, which means you can make it through a weeklong backpacking trip without needing to recharge. If you do need a little battery boost, consider packing a portable power bank. It can also serve your phone and outdoor GPS.

One of the biggest decisions you’ll face when choosing an e-reader is whether you want color capabilities or basic black-and-white. When deciding, pay attention to battery life specs, as black-and-white models are generally more energy efficient. However, color models are better suited for reading graphic novels or textbooks.

Thanks to the latest technology in models like the Kindle Scribe, you have the option of pairing your paper tablet with a stylus pen to take margin notes or use the e-reader like a digital notebook. A stylus can certainly help you make the most of your new device, but if you are just reading for pleasure, you may not need to make the extra investment.

Finally, the e-reader brand is also important. The early rivalry was all about Amazon Kindle vs. the Nook e-reader. Now, the Nook and Kindle e-readers have many other excellent competitors. Whichever one you go with, leave some funds for helpful e-reader accessories, like an e-reader cover, as well as complementary devices, such as a mobile hotspot.