Taking a Laptop on International Travel
Taking a laptop abroad used to be only for business travelers and a few students, but nowadays more and more people need to stay connected wherever they go. Make sure your info is backed up, accessible and secure before you go so that you can travel with peace of mind. Check out the local power supply and Internet resources at your destination before you travel so you don't have to waste time hunting for adapters and net cafes.
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Instructions
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Back up everything. Make a copy of all essential files on your home computer, or on an off-site backup service such as the one linked to below. This is a good idea anyway, but is especially important when you are traveling.
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Consider erasing sensitive information from your laptop once you've copied it. Anything with client records, personal credit records or other info you don't want found should be deleted from your computer. If you need to get a hold of that info during your trip, you can use an online service that allows you to view your data remotely, such as Google Docs.
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Consider encrypting your hard drive. That way, if it gets stolen, no one will be able to use the information on it. Encryption software is available for Windows, Mac, Linux and most other operating systems.
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See if your computer is equipped to handle the voltage in the country you are traveling to. Many countries have 240 volts instead of 120 like America does. If it is dual voltage, your computer should have a sticker on it that says something like 120/240 VAC. A dual voltage laptop will only need a plug adapter. A single voltage computer will need a voltage converter.
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Pack your computer safely. Use a hard laptop case or a well-padded soft case. The more rugged the case, the better.
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Research the Internet access at your destination. Many hotels around the world have free WiFi, and most cities have Internet cafes where you can use your computer.
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Tips & Warnings
Take a USB cable with you in case you need to plug into a physical connection.
Laptop batteries don't last forever. Carry an extra one with you when you travel.
