"How do you load ipads with digital content abroad? What?"
A couple of extracts from the iTunes EULA (UK version):
GIFTS
Gifts purchased from the Stores may be purchased only for, and redeemed only by, persons in the United Kingdom.
and
B. ITUNES STORE TERMS AND CONDITIONS
The Service is available to you only in the United Kingdom. You agree not to use or attempt to use the Service from outside this location. iTunes may use technologies to verify your compliance.