Don’t Lose Your Laptop While Travelling!
Travelling with a laptop computer has become almost the norm these days, but you do run a risk if you take your computer with you on holiday. It can easily be stolen, especially if you take it out with you to many different places. However, if you follow these safety tips, you shouldn’t have any issues with your computer.
First, it’s important to keep your laptop in your sight at all times if you take it with you outside of your lodging. If you’re sitting in a café or restaurant with your laptop and decide to use the restroom, for example, don’t leave your computer on the table. Restaurant servers and other employees are not responsible for your personal property, and while they should stop someone who attempts to steal your computer, they may not notice. While it’s a hassle, you should pack up your laptop and take it to the restroom with you.
Another concern is transportation. If you’re taking a bus somewhere, always take your laptop with you when you get off the bus. Don’t leave it in your seat or even put it under your seat—an unattended bag is too tempting a target for thieves. When flying, never leave your laptop (or any baggage) unattended in the terminal, and keep a watch on your laptop when sending it through security.
Don’t make yourself an easy target, either. If possible, use a bag that is not immediately identifiable as a laptop bag, such as a backpack. Backpacks are harder to steal, especially while you are walking, and they may actually give you more room for your laptop accessories. If you don’t want a backpack, at least make certain that you carry your laptop bag in a secure fashion and that it can’t easily be pulled off your shoulder.
Finally, make certain your laptop and laptop bag have some form of identification on them. Write down your laptop serial number and carry it in a safe place while travelling (some place other than your laptop bag, obviously). This way, even if your computer is stolen, you’ll be able to give the authorities the necessary information that will, hopefully, lead to its recovery.
