22 Jan 09 Taking your Laptop Abroad

Many people, especially those going away on business, will take their laptop computers with them.  However, this opens up a few new concerns that you have to deal with. First, if you’re travelling abroad, you need to make certain that you have a voltage adaptor.  If you don’t, you may risk damaging your laptop by plugging it in to outlets that run on a different voltage.  Be certain you know if you’ll need an adaptor or not, and if you do, be sure you get the correct one. It’s also a good idea to find out about internet access if you need it.  Not all hotels provide internet access, and in some cases, you may have to pay for it.  You may also have to go to an internet café or other location to get internet access. Always keep an eye on your laptop, especially if you’re using it in a public place and are alone.  If you need to leave your table for any reason (to order or to go to the restroom, for example), take your laptop with you.  It may seem like a huge hassle, but it’s better than having your laptop stolen. Be sure to write down the serial number and other important information about your laptop and your laptop accessories just in case it’s stolen.  This way, you’ll be able to give the authorities all of the information they need to track down your computer.  It’s also a good idea to make a copy of all of the information on your laptop and leave it in a secure place at home in case your laptop is stolen or damaged during travel.

Tags: hotels, travel, travelling abroad