It can be impossible to recover important documents, family photos, purchased music and other files if your laptop suffers an ill fate. If you aren't already doing so, back up your files to an external hard drive or other data storage prior to traveling abroad.
If your computer is stolen, any password, bank numbers and other sensitive information stored on your laptop may be at risk. Back up and remove these data before traveling. A thief may also be able to use saved passwords to access websites under your name. A password management service that only requires you to remember a master password may be easier than remembering dozens of passwords.
Your laptop is much more likely to be jostled and damaged while traveling. Tossing your laptop into your suitcase or backpack with other belongings can also raise the risk of damage or loss. Purchase a tightly fitting protective case for your laptop. A secure laptop bag that you can keep with you at all times can also prevent theft. Find a small shoulder bag with a padded compartment for your laptop to carry with you. Keep your bag dry to avoid water damage to your laptop.
While traveling, you often use public Wi-Fi hotspots. Many of these are not secure ways to access the Internet and protect your information. After returning from your trip, change passwords for websites that you accessed on the trip to prevent unauthorized access to your accounts.
Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, you're not abroad to worry about your laptop. Many hotels have in-room safes and a central safe for the hotel to store your laptop when you're not carrying it with you. Absent that option, leave your laptop in a closed drawer rather than out in the open in your room to cut down on theft risk.
