Last updated on January 8, 2023
This is one of those ever-present questions for new travelers—should you bring a laptop on your round the world trip? And if you do, what’s the best way to protect your laptop? There’s actually a lot to think about before you set off overseas with a computer in tow.
For some, it’s an easy answer. If you start your own travel blog, then carrying a computer is a no-brainer—you need a laptop with you. Likewise if you’re a freelancer working from the road (this has been me for 13 years!), then you also absolutely need it (but then, digital nomads already know that a laptop is the price of their freedom).
But if you’re somewhere in between—maybe you plan to record your trip on Instagram, pick up some small work assignments as you go, or you hope to watch Netflix on the road—this post will help you consider the pros and cons of traveling with a laptop, as well as the best alternatives that may just get the job done without the commitment of a full computer.
Best Way to Travel With a Laptop
If you’ve decided to bring your laptop on the road, then you need to know one thing: Keep it close. Traveling with a laptop means keeping an awareness of your gear at all times, even when leaving it behind in the hostel, hotel, or guesthouse. Here are the key considerations when considering how to best travel overseas with your laptop.
Pick a Quality Backpack
Your laptop backpack should be easy to carry through airports, on trains and buses, and even out day tripping if you just don’t trust leaving it in your guesthouse. For that reason, you want to avoid messenger bags and instead choose a pack thick, comfortable backpack straps. Laptop backpacks with a chest strap get extra points because that can really relieve the load on your shoulders after hours of carrying one. Timbuk2 makes some of the best luggage out there—get this Timbuk2 Authority laptop backpack for your travels asap.
Protect Your Laptop
The right backpack can go a long way toward protecting your backpack from all of the challenges you face when traveling. The best travel laptop backpacks offer security features that prevent thieves from running off with it when you set it near your chair at a cafe (that means a bags with a carabiner-type feature or other travel MacGyver-esque hacks). Bags that are “slashproof” add another layer of security too. Also! The protective sleeve inside your backpack should be suspended—this helps if you drop your bag on the floor, if it lands in a puddle, or if a water bottle overflows inside your bag (you never know what faces you when traveling overseas). Another way to protect your laptop? Make it look unappealing. There’s a lot to say for the power of duct tape to make any piece of gear worthless when used to “decorate” your precious gear. Then, of course, never leave your laptop unattended, even in a cafe where another patron offers to watch it—just don’t do it!
I recommend PacSafe brand bags because they are well made and include valuable security features that go a long way toward protecting your laptop from theft. I also believe Timbuk2 make some of the most durable, thoughtfully-designed, and stylish bags out there, their Authority laptop bag is a good purchase.
Consider the Ergonomics
If you work at home with an external monitor and lumbar-supporting chair, then you’ll have a wake up call working from tiny tables, stools without a back, and more. I have honed an amazingly portable, ergonomic travel system over the years that includes a Roost laptop stand paired with a portable keyboard and mouse. All of these items pack down and slide into my laptop backpack.
Pack Appropriate Accessories
You’ll need a great power adapter when traveling abroad with a laptop. Make sure whatever adapter you buy can accept the third grounding plug if your power cord uses this! (You’d be surprised how many don’t.)
Should You Travel With a Laptop?
Going as light as possible on the electronics you pack can be incredibly liberating for long-term travelers. If you’re planning to travel the world, this might be the perfect opportunity to force yourself offline. The fact is, most travelers these days have a smartphone, so bringing a laptop might be overkill for your trip.
Did I carry a laptop? Yes, I brought my computer with me on my yearlong RTW trip, and for every year for more the more than a decade that I stayed on the road. What’s more, I cannot imagine traveling without it (my heart stutters at the thought). But I did not take a traditional RTW trip. I have worked as a freelancer since I left in 2008, so my trusty Macbook kept me on the road (although it was a Dell for the first few years!).
If you’re prepping for a traditional trip around the world, or if traveling abroad for a few months, consider these pros and cons of bringing your laptop on an international trip.
Disadvantages of Traveling with a Laptop
- Safety is a big concern. And I don’t mean personal safety—when you pack gadgets galore then you have to come up with ways to keep your electronics safe. For me, that meant a bringing a PacSafe mesh net on my budget backpacking trip and securing my laptop in my main backpack when I left it behind at hostels and budget guesthouses. In more recent years, I travel more mid-range, and the PacSafe is no longer needed since I don’t share spaces. Also, although the PacSafe mesh net saved my piece of mind (and stopped my gear from being nicked), PacSafe now makes laptop backpacks that integrate many core safety features without the need for a net.
- You spend more time on the computer. If you have a laptop, then you’ll likely spend more time using it than you might have otherwise. That means possibly getting sucked into technology when you could be out meeting new people, playing cards with others at your guesthouse, and generally exploring.
- You’ll worry. This ties into the safety concerns, but you have a much more heightened sense of worry. Even with the PacSafe, I was nervous whenever I felt my laptop wasn’t truly safe at the guesthouse or hostel. (Disclaimer: Most of my worry stems from my laptop’s role as my key source of income on the road; as a freelancer I cannot afford to lose my laptop in the middle of a project).
- It’ll weigh you down. In the backpacking world, it’s all about packing light. Less is more. There are even “my pack’s smaller than yours” debates among those who care. Even if you don’t, prioritize truly minimalist travel, a laptop means more weight in your pack and on your back as you hike to hostels, chase down chicken buses, and make a mad sprint for your train.
- It’s hard to stay ergonomic. I developed serious RSI and carpal tunnel from my years working from the road. Because of that, I still travel with a laptop, but I have a few other ergonomic travel products that make it easier to work as I travel. This setup includes a Roost Stand, nice mouse, and portable keyboard, among other things (talk about no longer traveling light!).
- You’ll need a VPN. Dreaming of watching Netflix from your hostel bed when the travel fatigue sets in? You’ll need a good VPN to stream most U.S. shows. And although downloading shows isn’t regulated in some places, it’s super illegal in others. Bringing your laptop opens up a whole other set of worries and necessitates a VPN for many travelers.
Benefits of Traveling With Your Laptop
- Efficiency. A laptop allows you to pre-write blog posts, upload and sort photos, and draft emails—all from a hostel or train. It takes a lot of time to run a travel blog, and long train rides (a few trains/buses even have power outlets!) provide the perfect opportunity to catch up on work and get information ready for the next time you find internet.
- More connectivity. Internet access is pervasive. That means that you can sip a hot tea from a small café and tap into wireless on your laptop. Wireless cafes are available from Laos to India and throughout Australia and Eastern Europe, not everywhere, but they’re there. Where there wasn’t good WiFi (parts of Africa), I could buy a local SIM card and hotspot myself (tether) from my phone.
- A nice computer. I like my laptop; it’s familiar and modern. I had a Dell XPS for years and it only croaked after like 7+ years of hard wear and tear. I quite like the Dell XPS series and it’s arguably one of the best travel laptops on the market. Should you choose to bring a laptop on the road, and you’re a PC person, it’s a good option. However, when my Dell finally broke down, I ended up replacing it from a shop in Cape Town with my beloved Macbook Air, which is also a fantastic albeit flashier option. Nice computers are not the case at a lot of foreign internet cafes. Fortunately, even back in 2008, the vast majority of cafes allowed me to hook the internet cable into my own computer. Familiarity with your device also means less time transferring files to a computer built in 1989, or dealing with janky keys, foreign keyboards, etc.
- Storage. It’s nice to have one spot to upload your photos. Though this can be easily accomplished with a sturdy external hard drive or cloud storage, your own computer is invaluable for storing and sorting massive amounts of media.
How to Travel Safely With Your Laptop Overseas
Use a laptop case or bag
A laptop case or bag will protect your device from bumps and scratches while you are on the go. Look for a case or bag with padding and sturdy construction to provide the best protection.
Backup your data
It is important to backup your data before you travel to protect against loss or damage. Use an external hard drive or a cloud storage service to store copies of your important files.
Use a password manager
A password manager (like LastPass, which is what I use) can help you keep track of your login information and create strong passwords for your accounts. This can help protect your data and prevent unauthorized access to your accounts.
Use a VPN
A virtual private network (VPN) will help protect your online privacy and security while you are traveling. A VPN encrypts your internet connection and can help protect you from hackers and cyber threats. I have used VPNs for years not just for safety, but also to watch U.S. Netflix and work on clients’ websites that have IP detectors that change their website by region. I use NordVPN for three years and counting and it’s hands down the best I’ve ever used.
Use caution when using public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi networks can be convenient, but they can also be insecure. Avoid accessing sensitive information, such as online banking or shopping, while connected to public Wi-Fi.
Laptop Alternatives for Travel
If you’re still torn about the traveling with a laptop issue, you have a couple other options. If you’re not working from the road, then you really can get by without one and you’d likely do fine with one of these.
Tablets
This is a fantastic option if you’re running a casual travel blog to keep people updated, but it’s not an option for digital nomads. For blogging, if you can get photos onto your tablet (you will need an extra doohickey to read from a memory card for iPads), then the WordPress app will see you nicely through your entire trip.
Most travel companies have incredibly effective apps now—from Airbnb to Kayak to TripAdvisor—and you can easily book and plan your long-term travel as you go. Skype is also a great app; you can knock out the need for a Kindle with the Kindle app; Netflix will work on the road (with a different selection of films unless you have a VPN), and tablets even allow you to easily edit photos and upload to your blog or social media. If you’re not working on client projects, and you’re instead simply traveling the world, then a tablet is a pretty fantastic solution! To work effectively from one, you might want a wireless keyboard and some cloud storage, too. Here are ergonomic, portable options for accessories.
Smartphones and the iPhone
If emails and social media are your priority then a small smartphone might do the trick. This is barely adequate for travel bloggers, but just might meet your need for connectivity—it’s small and portable and less conspicuous than a laptop. If you don’t plan to edit a lot of photos, or you’re accustomed to doing everything from a smartphone anyways, then this is a great option. I would grow weary of just a smartphone on a long-term trip, but it could be excellent for trips of less than three months.
Netbooks
This is a step up from the iPhone, but a step down from a full laptop. I carried a netbook on the Camino de Santiago in 2017 and it was absolutely perfect for my needs. Even though I had hoped to walk the Camino without client work, some deadlines made that impossible. So I packed it into my bag and it was everything I needed. They’re smaller and lighter than a full-sized laptop and have a longer battery-life. They connect to wifi signals and give you a screen bigger than your smartphone, and a device that multitasks better than a table. A netbook is ideal if you simply want the comfort of a laptop for your long-term trip, or if your main business on the road is blogging. The primary issue you’ll encounter is storage space, so you will need to back up to the cloud if you plan on taking a lot of photos! One other benefit—if it gets nicked while traveling you’ll be sad, but not out the cost of your pricey Macbook.
If you’ve already started your travel blog and you’re looking for great resources to get your blog off the ground, I share companies I use and love for developing this very travel blog. And if you’re planning to start a travel blog, I have a how-to primer here.
Suggested Reading for Those Working While Traveling
- Ergonomic Travel System: This is the fully portable system I use to travel and work from the road. It includes detailed information on how to prevent injury when you are working online from cafes around the world.
- The End of Jobs: An essential book for anyone who wants to work as an expat or digital nomad; speaking to why MBAs and JDs can’t get jobs, research on integrated living, and more.
- Four Hour Work Week: No doubt you’ve seen it for years, but if you haven’t read it yet, you should. Some of Tim Ferris’ viewpoints are very counter to how I live my life, but I will give him this: His book changed my perception about what is possible in building an online business. It’s still a primer read for a reason; it’s worth having that knowledge and perspective in your head as you move forward.
- The 80/20 Principle: A good companion to the Four Hour Work Week, this book talks about how 20% of your efforts will generate 80% of your results. As an expat or digital nomad working smarter, not harder, is key and this book provides a good base.
- Content Machine: Use Content Marketing to Build a 7-figure Business with Zero Advertising: While this business model is not going to work for everyone, Dan makes some excellent points about content creation and marketing.
That's really interesting to know – I have always been a tad resistant to
the platform on the minis – but great to know that they can handle some of
the heavier programs :-) Will looking into the Mini 10 when I am shopping
for one!
My only concern would be the screen size and if I had to use Photoshop. I once used a Mac mini as a development machine, and though it had a better processor the rest of the specs were similar. It wasn't the best, but it was usable.
So I would probably get one with a higher res screen and stick to mostly coding work, but I think something like a Dell Mini 10 can do 90% of what I currently do. And I'm willing to make that compromise for the drastic reduction in cost and weight.
Still learning the ropes of the iPhone, but I just love the Skype feature – it's already come in incredibly handy :-)
Do you really think that a netbook could adequately handle your web development work? That's why I've stayed with a full sized (though seriously considering the ones that are in-between and only like 11 inches! – that'd be sweet.)
My iPhone has been great for travel. I mostly use it for Skype calling, Google maps/transit, and the Kindle app is indispensable for guidebooks. It's much nicer to pay $10 for a Kindle book that weighs nothing, than €25 for the same book that adds a pound to your bag, if you can even find a store that sells it (in English).
As a freelance web developer I've also always taken my laptop with me. However I'm increasingly convinced that a netbook would be even better. It's a lot easier to lose/replace a $300 netbook and weighs half as much.
Shannon,
Traveled to Costa Rica with a 15″ Mac have downsized to a 12″ and will probably move to a tablet as soon as they come out. You have a very infomative blog for people on the move. Pacsav is an ingenious product. Headed to China this may and will keep watching to see what else is going on here.
The tablets will be pretty sweet. I haven't gone Mac yet, but I ponder it on
a regular basis :-) Thanks for the feedback on the blog and good luck in
China this Spring!
Shannon,
Traveled to Costa Rica with a 15″ Mac have downsized to a 12″ and will probably move to a tablet as soon as they come out. You have a very infomative blog for people on the move. Pacsav is an ingenious product. Headed to China this may and will keep watching to see what else is going on here.
The tablets will be pretty sweet. I haven't gone Mac yet, but I ponder it on
a regular basis :-) Thanks for the feedback on the blog and good luck in
China this Spring!
surely we couldn't either travel without one! we are practically addicted to our mini dell notebook, it's just great, light (less than 1kg) and very compact. We only have one between Chris and I and that's why we are always fighting who is going to use it first. Next trip we will bring one each!
It's just impossibile to travel without a computer if you are running a blog but also if you want to stay connect back home without the hassle of finding an internet cafe' when you need it, as you would find around many places to connect to a wireless connection even for free. Security is our only concerne but with our pacsafe we have piece of mind all the time when leaving it behind in a room or in our van and when we travel we always stuck it in our small daypack.
I've heard that from a several couple travelers, that bringing two laptops
was wise because it's hard to share! :-) That being said, you are right on
with the other comments, if you're operating a blog there is just no other
way to go. And it's great that you guys are also using a PacSafe, their more
popular than I thought when I bought mine two years ago!
surely we couldn't either travel without one! we are practically addicted to our mini dell notebook, it's just great, light (less than 1kg) and very compact. We only have one between Chris and I and that's why we are always fighting who is going to use it first. Next trip we will bring one each!
It's just impossibile to travel without a computer if you are running a blog but also if you want to stay connect back home without the hassle of finding an internet cafe' when you need it, as you would find around many places to connect to a wireless connection even for free. Security is our only concerne but with our pacsafe we have piece of mind all the time when leaving it behind in a room or in our van and when we travel we always stuck it in our small daypack.
I've heard that from a several couple travelers, that bringing two laptops
was wise because it's hard to share! :-) That being said, you are right on
with the other comments, if you're operating a blog there is just no other
way to go. And it's great that you guys are also using a PacSafe, their more
popular than I thought when I bought mine two years ago!
Very well said on the controlling the content – I found a fantastic browser
add-on that I put on my brothers and family computers on the kids accounts,
there is just too much danger and inappropriate content out there right now
for children. It really sounds like you guys have crafted a very secure and
educationally nurturing environment for Mozart – I will be looking to you
for advice in the future when I begin a family and head on the road :-)
Oh, and I'm imagining that TSA had a few eyebrow raises at the three
laptops! :-)
Sweet, thanks for letting me know – I'm thinking that this summer I need to
slim down to something like this and appreciate the information! As for W7 –
I really, really like it. We have it on a desktop at home, and it has been
stellar and leaps and bounds better than Vista :-)
Yes I agree that kids today need exposure to virtual skills & a laptop is essential for lots of her communication with friends and roadschooling (like learning programming via free MIT Scratch, free digital libraries, Brain Pop, John Hopkins Univ.'s CTY program, violin & piano lessons with teachers in US, collaborating with kids & schools around the world, fun educational CDs, etc).
That said, kids have growing brains that can be damaged by too much screen time, so we put a severe time limit on that, so she's not on it very much & we have a LOT of control on WHAT she is on which I think is important.
She spends most of her time outdoors in nature, playing with other kids & reading, (also musts for kids!) but a laptop is essential for an extended travel kid. (FYI We've never had a TV her whole life & don't watch the one in Spain with UK channels, she has no wii, nintendo ds, ipod, can only watch 1 dvd a week etc, but she did get a MP3 player last year as a gift & is exposed to those other things through friends).
There are times when all 3 of us need to be on, but if we are traveling fast we usually just take one & share it as we travel then with just a day pack each. (Although we have taken all 3 like this & it shocks the TSA folks on the rare occasion we take planes, but we go through quickly & easily. )
Type of travel dictates the laptop decision and luckily we very rarely have to deal with the theft issue & almost never stay in hostels as they are too expensive for families. We have a pacsafe, but almost never use it.
BTW, having both macs & PC has been VERY helpful for us, as there are times one or the other is the preferred choice. We bought her the macbook, but I ended up taking over that as we are mac people, but most kids educational programs work on PC's. Thus PC is least used, but very needed at times. (Twas a hard decision before we left, but worked well).
For an open ended world tour like ours, there's no question really as it's our life line. We started out with 17in Macpro & 17 PC, soon dumped our top of the line quad phone & added a macbook for our kid. BEST investment on our trip!!
I betting that Mozart loves having her own laptop – my 9yo niece just got
one and I think it's so key to get them familiarized young as a life skill
for later – just as valuable (in a totally diff way) as her music lessons I
daresay! :-)
Yes I agree that kids today need exposure to virtual skills & a laptop is essential for lots of her communication with friends and roadschooling (like learning programming via free MIT Scratch, free digital libraries, Brain Pop, John Hopkins Univ.'s CTY program, violin & piano lessons with teachers in US, collaborating with kids & schools around the world, fun educational CDs, etc).
That said, kids have growing brains that can be damaged by too much screen time, so we put a severe time limit on that, so she's not on it very much & we have a LOT of control on WHAT she is on which I think is important.
She spends most of her time outdoors in nature, playing with other kids & reading, (also musts for kids!) but a laptop is essential for an extended travel kid. (FYI We've never had a TV her whole life & don't watch the one in Spain with UK channels, she has no wii, nintendo ds, ipod, can only watch 1 dvd a week etc, but she did get a MP3 player last year as a gift & is exposed to those other things through friends).
There are times when all 3 of us need to be on, but if we are traveling fast we usually just take one & share it as we travel then with just a day pack each. (Although we have taken all 3 like this & it shocks the TSA folks on the rare occasion we take planes, but we go through quickly & easily. )
Type of travel dictates the laptop decision and luckily we very rarely have to deal with the theft issue & almost never stay in hostels as they are too expensive for families. We have a pacsafe, but almost never use it.
BTW, having both macs & PC has been VERY helpful for us, as there are times one or the other is the preferred choice. We bought her the macbook, but I ended up taking over that as we are mac people, but most kids educational programs work on PC's. Thus PC is least used, but very needed at times. (Twas a hard decision before we left, but worked well).
Very well said on the controlling the content – I found a fantastic browser
add-on that I put on my brothers and family computers on the kids accounts,
there is just too much danger and inappropriate content out there right now
for children. It really sounds like you guys have crafted a very secure and
educationally nurturing environment for Mozart – I will be looking to you
for advice in the future when I begin a family and head on the road :-)
Oh, and I'm imagining that TSA had a few eyebrow raises at the three
laptops! :-)
I betting that Mozart loves having her own laptop – my 9yo niece just got
one and I think it's so key to get them familiarized young as a life skill
for later – just as valuable (in a totally diff way) as her music lessons I
daresay! :-)
I think the more appropriate question is: how could you *not* travel w/both
a laptop and a PBR?! ;-)
As for the freelance gigs – that's completely how I managed to stay on the
road so long. Keep business cards with you and you'll be surprised how many
opps you have to hand them out. Particularly w/hostels, I found so many were
interested in Web site redesigns and SEO work!
It's a Sony Vaio model VGN TZ37GN. It's ultra light weight and I can pack it in a sleeve that fits in a handbag. There's probably a newer model now.
I should upgrade to W7 though I'm not keen on reinstalling all the software.
Can I travel with a laptop AND PBR?
I'm planning to take mine with me mostly because I can't imagine being without Photoshop. And if I'm lucky enough to get some freelance design gigs as I go then I'd definitely need it.
I think the more appropriate question is: how could you *not* travel w/both
a laptop and a PBR?! ;-)
As for the freelance gigs – that's completely how I managed to stay on the
road so long. Keep business cards with you and you'll be surprised how many
opps you have to hand them out. Particularly w/hostels, I found so many were
interested in Web site redesigns and SEO work!
For an open ended world tour like ours, there's no question really as it's our life line. We started out with 17in Macpro & 17 PC, soon dumped our top of the line quad phone & added a macbook for our kid. BEST investment on our trip!!
Can I travel with a laptop AND PBR?
I'm planning to take mine with me mostly because I can't imagine being without Photoshop. And if I'm lucky enough to get some freelance design gigs as I go then I'd definitely need it.
The netbook is going to be perfect for your upcoming travels – really ideal
if your travel blogging and connecting to friends and family! I look forward
to reading along w/your blog now, I've added you to my reader :-) Happy
travels Sara!
Thanks for this post. I've travelled round the world twice before, but next time I'm hoping to take my netbook with me as I've recently started travel blogging. It's helpful to know what safety precautions to take to keep my gadgets safe on the road.
The netbook is going to be perfect for your upcoming travels – really ideal
if your travel blogging and connecting to friends and family! I look forward
to reading along w/your blog now, I've added you to my reader :-) Happy
travels Sara!
I can't imagine travelling without a laptop. I download photos from 2 cameras, video, every day, use it to write and make use of travel time on plane and train rides. I'd be lost if I just had to rely on, say, an iphone. Mine is just a little larger than a netbook but with full functionality. Except it runs on Vista. Grrr.
Can I ask what type yours is? I travel with a full sized right now but can't
ever do the switch over to a netbook because of the web work I do?! Oh, and
I completely understand the frustration with Vista – what a POS, W7 though
is pretty great – we have it on a computer at home and it's been stellar.
It's a Sony Vaio model VGN TZ37GN. It's ultra light weight and I can pack it in a sleeve that fits in a handbag. There's probably a newer model now.
I should upgrade to W7 though I'm not keen on reinstalling all the software.
Sweet, thanks for letting me know – I'm thinking that this summer I need to
slim down to something like this and appreciate the information! As for W7 –
I really, really like it. We have it on a desktop at home, and it has been
stellar and leaps and bounds better than Vista :-)
I can't imagine travelling without a laptop. I download photos from 2 cameras, video, every day, use it to write and make use of travel time on plane and train rides. I'd be lost if I just had to rely on, say, an iphone. Mine is just a little larger than a netbook but with full functionality. Except it runs on Vista. Grrr.
I used to try and get away with traveling without the computer but found it impossible if you did much photo taking at all. I tried to take the little WD Passport Hard-Drives (300gig) but 1/2 the time i found computers in Egypt to Ecuador couldn't connect with it because they were so old. So i would have to get photos burned on to DVD and lost a lot of pictures because so.
On top of that I got so sick of having to spend the first 10min in an internet shop on what keystroke makes the “@” sign!!! I could do a whole blog post about that but it drives me insane , esp since most keyboards are in English. Example: Ecuador has the @ sign but you can't use it, instead you have to hit Shift+6+4, then let go for it to apear… WTF???
I hate carrying the laptop but couldn't live without it and still do photos. I have a big 15″ Mac Pro fully loaded and it's configured just the way I like it. I got my girlfriend one of the little Acers last year for about $350 total at Best Buy. It had everything, wireless, 1gig RAM, 160gig memory, web cam exc and she loves it. If it breaks, no worry and pick another one up… my Mac would be a different story though! lol
I think it's practically essential since a laptop can act as a phone, research tool, photo backup, etc. It can be a hassle though worrying about it, especially if you've got a nicer one. Uglifiying your laptop (or laptop cover) with stickers is a good way to make it look cheaper, less re-sellable, and easily identifiable if someone in the hostel does take it.
A little piece of my soul cries at the thought of making all of my
electronics look like crap – but that's my task for next week actually :-)
Like you said, it just really ups your chances of keeping it safe if it
looks like a POS! Mine being held together last year w/ducktape and a string
(out of necessity, not fashion) did the trick nicely :-)
haha, me too. You can try putting an Invisible Shield or some other thin cover on first and getting all the stickers on there. Easier to un-ugly the laptop afterward.
That is a brilliant idea!…that's why you're my techie guru Anil, you just
have the best ideas :-) I will look into getting one of those today!
That is a brilliant idea!…that's why you're my techie guru Anil, you just
have the best ideas :-) I will look into getting one of those today!
It took me a few weeks to find this laptop as everybody I talked to said the same thing as the Best Buy guy – that it didn't exist. Well, the good news is that it does! And the slightly bigger screen than a netbook makes such a difference, as the netbook screens are too small to spend a significant amount of time staring at. I believe there is also a Toshiba version out there as well…
A little piece of my soul cries at the thought of making all of my
electronics look like crap – but that's my task for next week actually :-)
Like you said, it just really ups your chances of keeping it safe if it
looks like a POS! Mine being held together last year w/ducktape and a string
(out of necessity, not fashion) did the trick nicely :-)
You just made my day Earl!! I went into Best Buy last month and
*specifically* asked the guy if something like the Acer Timeline 1810
existed – he said no, that I had to go full-sized if I wanted a full specs
of larger ones! This is *perfect* – and if you say that it runs Dreamweaver
well, then I'm sold :-) Thanks, I will be looking into getting something
like this over the summer!
I was terribly envious of your mini when you came – it really is so
incredibly ideal for traveling! Right now I am on the hunt for a smaller
backpack for my big ole laptop so that I don't look like such an idiot when
I am wearing both! xo
I used to try and get away with traveling without the computer but found it impossible if you did much photo taking at all. I tried to take the little WD Passport Hard-Drives (300gig) but 1/2 the time i found computers in Egypt to Ecuador couldn't connect with it because they were so old. So i would have to get photos burned on to DVD and lost a lot of pictures because so.
On top of that I got so sick of having to spend the first 10min in an internet shop on what keystroke makes the “@” sign!!! I could do a whole blog post about that but it drives me insane , esp since most keyboards are in English. Example: Ecuador has the @ sign but you can't use it, instead you have to hit Shift+6+4, then let go for it to apear… WTF???
I hate carrying the laptop but couldn't live without it and still do photos. I have a big 15″ Mac Pro fully loaded and it's configured just the way I like it. I got my girlfriend one of the little Acers last year for about $350 total at Best Buy. It had everything, wireless, 1gig RAM, 160gig memory, web cam exc and she loves it. If it breaks, no worry and pick another one up… my Mac would be a different story though! lol
haha, me too. You can try putting an Invisible Shield or some other thin cover on first and getting all the stickers on there. Easier to un-ugly the laptop afterward.
I think it's practically essential since a laptop can act as a phone, research tool, photo backup, etc. It can be a hassle though worrying about it, especially if you've got a nicer one. Uglifiying your laptop (or laptop cover) with stickers is a good way to make it look cheaper, less re-sellable, and easily identifiable if someone in the hostel does take it.
Can I ask what type yours is? I travel with a full sized right now but can't
ever do the switch over to a netbook because of the web work I do?! Oh, and
I completely understand the frustration with Vista – what a POS, W7 though
is pretty great – we have it on a computer at home and it's been stellar.
I'm always with a laptop and recently bought the Acer Timeline 1810. It has all of the specs of a large laptop but is only slightly larger than a netbook (and weighs the same as a netbook). I'm absolutely loving it so far as it can handle even heavy programs such as dreamweaver and photoshop with ease.
But I definitely agree, when traveling with any computer, a lot of time is spent worrying!
You just made my day Earl!! I went into Best Buy last month and
*specifically* asked the guy if something like the Acer Timeline 1810
existed – he said no, that I had to go full-sized if I wanted a full specs
of larger ones! This is *perfect* – and if you say that it runs Dreamweaver
well, then I'm sold :-) Thanks, I will be looking into getting something
like this over the summer!
It took me a few weeks to find this laptop as everybody I talked to said the same thing as the Best Buy guy – that it didn't exist. Well, the good news is that it does! And the slightly bigger screen than a netbook makes such a difference, as the netbook screens are too small to spend a significant amount of time staring at. I believe there is also a Toshiba version out there as well…
hee hee hee. I'll just put on here for the record that my Dell Netbook was the best $300 I spent all last year- maybe ever. Granted, I wasn't gone for 11 months, but YOU know, Shan – even with the free-lancing work, it was more than perfect for me. Next time, I'll bring a external hard drive to account for the small one in the Mini, but how convenient was it that I could carry it (nearly) always in my Camelbak? And the fact that it was $300 means that even in a worse case scenario… I mean, replacement of a Mini is so much more feasible in a jam than a $1,500 laptop.
Unrelated, I laughed out loud at your 'a little email' from “Ray.” Can't wait to see you next month, girl. We'll have to talk about Machu PIcchu ;)
I was terribly envious of your mini when you came – it really is so
incredibly ideal for traveling! Right now I am on the hunt for a smaller
backpack for my big ole laptop so that I don't look like such an idiot when
I am wearing both! xo
I'm always with a laptop and recently bought the Acer Timeline 1810. It has all of the specs of a large laptop but is only slightly larger than a netbook (and weighs the same as a netbook). I'm absolutely loving it so far as it can handle even heavy programs such as dreamweaver and photoshop with ease.
But I definitely agree, when traveling with any computer, a lot of time is spent worrying!
Does the Pac Safe really work? I have been looking for something to feel more secure about my electronics on the road, I get a little worried even leaving my stuff in the lockers provided by the hostels. It seems like anyone who really wanted to steal my stuff/laptop could easily just cut the Pac Safe with a wire cutter and take my whole back pack. Or am I just thinking it looks a bit more flimsy than it actually is?
The PacSafe works – and it's not because you *couldn't* use wire cutters –
because that would surely work, but the bulk of theft you're worrying about
is not at that level. In hostels, people aren't carrying these on them, and
they are FAR more likely to go for the nearby packs w/out anything.
Really, it keeps people from doing the quick steal – and that's where I have
always felt there is more danger. Dave and Deb at ThePlanetD took one with
them and they have also found it incredibly useful. It wont stop someone
who's determined and has the time on their hands, but it will stop all the
rest!
I think it's worth it if you're carrying a laptop and esp if you add a DSLR
and other electronics onto that :-)
Can't afford a net book or anything else right now, so laptop is the way to go for me!
I feel you there! I pondered upgrading my computer (it quite literally fell
apart at the end of my RTW) but instead invested $100 and fixed up this one
– cheaper than getting a new of the equivalent! :-)
hee hee hee. I'll just put on here for the record that my Dell Netbook was the best $300 I spent all last year- maybe ever. Granted, I wasn't gone for 11 months, but YOU know, Shan – even with the free-lancing work, it was more than perfect for me. Next time, I'll bring a external hard drive to account for the small one in the Mini, but how convenient was it that I could carry it (nearly) always in my Camelbak? And the fact that it was $300 means that even in a worse case scenario… I mean, replacement of a Mini is so much more feasible in a jam than a $1,500 laptop.
Unrelated, I laughed out loud at your 'a little email' from “Ray.” Can't wait to see you next month, girl. We'll have to talk about Machu PIcchu ;)
Thanks for this post. I've travelled round the world twice before, but next time I'm hoping to take my netbook with me as I've recently started travel blogging. It's helpful to know what safety precautions to take to keep my gadgets safe on the road.
We are traveling with our laptops (one each!) and couldn't run our blog without it. We have been using the pacsafe and it helps ease our minds a lot. I don't think that I could have the computer and not have the laptop. If we are staying in a sketchy place it is good to know that it is securely locked to the bed.
Sure they take up space, but I think it is needed. From editing video, pretyping posts before hitting the Internet cafe and going through hundreds of photos. A lot of work can get done while laying in bed at night.
We are using our iphone as well and are starting to use it a lot more to check email and facebook etc. It saves time at the Internet so that we can spend time to focus on the blog. We are really loving the Iphone now.
Great points all around Shannon!
I second you on the PacSafe – although it's not infallible, it does make it
a whole lot harder for someone to walk away with your electronics!
I'd be interested in seeing a followup post from you guys on the iPhone ;-)
I bought one and unlocked it a few weeks back, but I have yet to use it on
the road – hoping it will do me well in Central America and am interested in
seeming the pros and cons not that you've used it! :-)
My iPhone has been great for travel. I mostly use it for Skype calling, Google maps/transit, and the Kindle app is indispensable for guidebooks. It's much nicer to pay $10 for a Kindle book that weighs nothing, than €25 for the same book that adds a pound to your bag, if you can even find a store that sells it (in English).
Still learning the ropes of the iPhone, but I just love the Skype feature – it's already come in incredibly handy :-)
I think some readers are missing a point – there are people out there (like me) still drinking PBR! My wife take are laptops with us wherever we go, but we're traveling by car, not backpacking. If I were backing, I would still want a computer with me – a net book seems like the ideal choice.
Lol – I agree on the PBR…I actually had a bartender crack on me hardcore
for asking for one (this out in posh LA where they do not, apparently,
accept PBR ;-)
The car does make it easier, but as you said, even backpacking, the laptop
comes in handy :-)
I have a Samsung NC-10 netbook and love it! With the advancements in today's technology, I think it's getting to the point where the question should be “Why wouldn't you?”. Although, my preference would be a netbook.
It's a one stop check your email/write your blog post(s)/listen to music/watch videos/catch up with your favorite bloggers/redesign your website portal. It does so much for you without requiring a lot of space which is crucial when you are traveling. Great post, Shannon!
Thanks for weighing in on this Renee! The only key drawback that I can see
is if you're one of those travelers who is really aiming at unplugging from
technology for a bit- but for bloggers, you're right, with the tiny netbook
technology it's pretty simple to carry one with you w/out too much extra
weight! I carry a full laptop w/me and even that is doable :-)
A question I ask myself every time I'm packing… I find my answer varies depending on the trip in question.
One of those “must-haves” for me, but sometimes I really do dream about taking a couple weeks totally away from my internet jobs! ;-) It really does add weight and other worries!
As a freelance web developer I've also always taken my laptop with me. However I'm increasingly convinced that a netbook would be even better. It's a lot easier to lose/replace a $300 netbook and weighs half as much.
Do you really think that a netbook could adequately handle your web development work? That's why I've stayed with a full sized (though seriously considering the ones that are in-between and only like 11 inches! – that'd be sweet.)
My only concern would be the screen size and if I had to use Photoshop. I once used a Mac mini as a development machine, and though it had a better processor the rest of the specs were similar. It wasn't the best, but it was usable.
So I would probably get one with a higher res screen and stick to mostly coding work, but I think something like a Dell Mini 10 can do 90% of what I currently do. And I'm willing to make that compromise for the drastic reduction in cost and weight.
That's really interesting to know – I have always been a tad resistant to
the platform on the minis – but great to know that they can handle some of
the heavier programs :-) Will looking into the Mini 10 when I am shopping
for one!
I've never heard of a Pac Safe before, so thank you for bringing this to my attention. I am preparing for my trip and in the process of researching laptop options. My thinking is to get a Netbook … Thank you for the insight!
Something to definitely consider – their line of safety products are really neat…but expensive. A few weeks back another traveler brought the PacSafe TravelSafe to my attention – smaller but will fit something like a NetBook in it so you don't have to have the conspicuous mesh net on the bag!: PacSafe Travel Safe on Amazon
The PacSafe works – and it's not because you *couldn't* use wire cutters –
because that would surely work, but the bulk of theft you're worrying about
is not at that level. In hostels, people aren't carrying these on them, and
they are FAR more likely to go for the nearby packs w/out anything.
Really, it keeps people from doing the quick steal – and that's where I have
always felt there is more danger. Dave and Deb at ThePlanetD took one with
them and they have also found it incredibly useful. It wont stop someone
who's determined and has the time on their hands, but it will stop all the
rest!
I think it's worth it if you're carrying a laptop and esp if you add a DSLR
and other electronics onto that :-)
I feel you there! I pondered upgrading my computer (it quite literally fell
apart at the end of my RTW) but instead invested $100 and fixed up this one
– cheaper than getting a new of the equivalent! :-)
Lol – I agree on the PBR…I actually had a bartender crack on me hardcore
for asking for one (this out in posh LA where they do not, apparently,
accept PBR ;-)
The car does make it easier, but as you said, even backpacking, the laptop
comes in handy :-)
Does the Pac Safe really work? I have been looking for something to feel more secure about my electronics on the road, I get a little worried even leaving my stuff in the lockers provided by the hostels. It seems like anyone who really wanted to steal my stuff/laptop could easily just cut the Pac Safe with a wire cutter and take my whole back pack. Or am I just thinking it looks a bit more flimsy than it actually is?
Can't afford a net book or anything else right now, so laptop is the way to go for me!
I second you on the PacSafe – although it's not infallible, it does make it
a whole lot harder for someone to walk away with your electronics!
I'd be interested in seeing a followup post from you guys on the iPhone ;-)
I bought one and unlocked it a few weeks back, but I have yet to use it on
the road – hoping it will do me well in Central America and am interested in
seeming the pros and cons not that you've used it! :-)
I think some readers are missing a point – there are people out there (like me) still drinking PBR! My wife take are laptops with us wherever we go, but we're traveling by car, not backpacking. If I were backing, I would still want a computer with me – a net book seems like the ideal choice.
Thanks for weighing in on this Renee! The only key drawback that I can see
is if you're one of those travelers who is really aiming at unplugging from
technology for a bit- but for bloggers, you're right, with the tiny netbook
technology it's pretty simple to carry one with you w/out too much extra
weight! I carry a full laptop w/me and even that is doable :-)
We are traveling with our laptops (one each!) and couldn't run our blog without it. We have been using the pacsafe and it helps ease our minds a lot. I don't think that I could have the computer and not have the laptop. If we are staying in a sketchy place it is good to know that it is securely locked to the bed.
Sure they take up space, but I think it is needed. From editing video, pretyping posts before hitting the Internet cafe and going through hundreds of photos. A lot of work can get done while laying in bed at night.
We are using our iphone as well and are starting to use it a lot more to check email and facebook etc. It saves time at the Internet so that we can spend time to focus on the blog. We are really loving the Iphone now.
Great points all around Shannon!
I have a Samsung NC-10 netbook and love it! With the advancements in today's technology, I think it's getting to the point where the question should be “Why wouldn't you?”. Although, my preference would be a netbook.
It's a one stop check your email/write your blog post(s)/listen to music/watch videos/catch up with your favorite bloggers/redesign your website portal. It does so much for you without requiring a lot of space which is crucial when you are traveling. Great post, Shannon!
Something to definitely consider – their line of safety products are really neat…but expensive. A few weeks back another traveler brought the PacSafe TravelSafe to my attention – smaller but will fit something like a NetBook in it so you don't have to have the conspicuous mesh net on the bag!: PacSafe Travel Safe on Amazon