All good answers!
I want to make an observation to the folks who carry all that hi-tech stuff. I mean, I have a cell phone with me - but as far as all kinds of cameras, GPS's, scanners - do you ever have time to look out the window???
I was sitting next to a guy on the Meteor a couple of weeks ago,m he had a gps and was staring at it for a long time. Being nosy, I peeked over his shoulder and saw a small map of a train track, and then there was a body of water and a bridge. I looked out the window and saw the river we were going over - DUHHHH.
Paul Theroux (great travel writer and train traveler) makes the point that early on he started leaving his camera at home when he went off, and only then did he begin to actually SEE stuff. I've been an avid photographer for years and feel much the same way when I am going someplace new.
So yeah I'll keep a clean shirt to wear in the dining car and leave the equipment at home.
David
Personally, I would be lost without my GPS, scanner, and cameras.
As others have noted about the GPS, it is nice to know where you are, names, speed traveling, etc. It's information that isn't "necessary" however nice to know. I guess it's just a personal preference. I however do not constantly stare at the screen though. I might glance at it every once in a while, or when I see something interesting outside just to see where it is that I am and so on. I only use it while in my room.
I could not and will not go on a trip without my scanner. I thrive on knowing what is going on within the workings of the crew and train. I only use it in my room with the volume up only loud enough that I can hear what is being said and not loud enough to hear in the hall even with the door open. If I use it anywhere else I wear an ear bud so as to not disturb others.
As for cameras, being a photographer and videographer (hobby), I can't leave home without them. I love to look back at things for memories mostly and to share with others. It helps when you "might" be able to afford to take a trip once, or twice (if very lucky) a year.
I have yet to get the feeling I have missed anything because of all my gadgets. If anything I have probably seen more than I would have.