Tips For Traveling With Your Laptop

By Andrew Johnson

Whether for business or personal use, laptops have become one of the everyday essentials. We like to have them with us at all times. The following are a few simple tips on how to travel with your laptop.

If traveling by airplane, take the computer on with you. NEVER check your laptop or put it in another suitcase for transport. Baggage handlers see literally thousands of pieces of luggage everyday and so not always treat them as though they are fragile. Suitcases can get thrown around and dropped. You do not want to subject your computer to this.

Never store your computer bag in one of the overhead compartments. Opt instead to stow it under the seat in fro not you when you are not using it. Other passengers are constantly sifting through the overheads and can easily knock your bag out my accident. And while you don't expect anyone to actually steal it, it is possible that someone may try.

Be cautious while getting the laptop through security. Try to set it on the conveyor belt at the last possible moment to help ensure that you get through the metal detector in time to pick it up. Don't set it down and then lollygag. Somebody on the other side could easily snatch it up, whether on purpose or by mistake.

Don't worry about sending it through the X-ray machine. The rays will not damage your computer. You may be asked to open it up and turn it on. This is just to show security that the laptop is in fact a laptop and not a shell for something sinister.

Usually airports will have wireless internet. This really helps pass the time and make the long waits less tedious. If you can find a wall outlet, plug your computer in to keep it charged. An extension cord is a good thing to always have in your bag for reaching outlets that may be far away. If it can't be plugged in, use an energy-saving mode.

For train travel, you want to follow the same rules. Always bring the laptop on the train with you. Store it under your seat in coach. If you have a sleeping car, you will have access to an electrical outlet to keep it charged. There are times you will want to leave your sleeper. If you don't feel like carrying a computer around with you, keep it well hidden in your room.

Take precautions in your hotel room. Don't leave the room with a computer sitting out on a table. Before you go out, turn the computer off and unplug it unless it really needs to be charged. Stow it away in your bag. It is also a good idea to turn on the password function. While it is doubtful that hotel staff will steal your laptop, you never know when somebody will decide to turn it on and check their emails.

About the Author:

0 comments


***