On our trip to England last week Pat and I decided to travel light. That meant no paper books, just our Kindle and newly purchased Kobo.

Like many people who love to read, I at first resisted the move to e-readers. But I quickly learned that it’s the content of a book, not the physical trappings, that makes the experience so stimulating.

Books have certain advantages, but when you’re travelling, e-readers win hands down. They are very light and easy to carry around in a purse or backpack. They are easier on the eyes in a dimly lit room or plane. If you happen to fall asleep, they tend to stay on your lap without falling and waking you up.

However, I have one regret. I thought I was doing the smart thing by loading up some guidebooks on my Kindle. A guidebook is something to skim through, flipping back and forth to find what you want. This can be an exercise in frustration on an e-reader. As I took in the sights of London I was very envious of people poring over their dog-eared Frommers or Fodors.

Some people say that paper books will become obsolete. I don’t think so – certainly not guidebooks. Next time I travel abroad I’ll just make a little extra space.