Password-encrypt your laptop. If your laptop is stolen, no one will be able to operate it to access your files.
Back up your files. No matter how well you protect your laptop during your travels, there is always a chance that something could still happen to it--and all your files.
Memorize all of your passwords before you leave home. The last thing you want to have to worry about while your vacationing is loosing a piece of paper that you wrote all of your passwords on.
Delete the cookies from your laptop. If your laptop is stolen, your cookies will allow a thief to access all your personal information by tracing the cookies in your hard drive.
Do not use your computer to access your bank and credit card statements while you are on vacation.
Safely tuck your power cord into your case. Your battery will only last so long.
Fully charge your battery before you pack it. If you have a spare battery, pack that too.
Don’t bring CDs or extra flash drives unless you absolutely need them. The more accessories you bring, the more stuff that can get lost.
Pack your laptop in a clean bag that's in good condition. You don’t want your laptop to fall to the ground due to an unexpected tear.
If you are traveling by plane, use a bag that can lie flat and has a compartment for just your laptop that does not buckle, zip or snap closed. If you are worried that your computer case won't be allowed through airport security, call the airport and ask. If you are purchasing a case for your laptop, look for one whose label states it's approved for airport travel.
Be prepared to power up your laptop if requested when you go through airport security. Some airports require that you remove the battery before your computer is sent through the scanner. Other airports prefer that you have your battery in your computer and ready to go, if they want to see your computer turned on. Make sure that you've removed an external devices, such as wireless cards and mp3 players, before you get to airport security.
Keep your eyes on your laptop at all times. If you sit down, put your laptop bag on your lap. People often set their laptops next to them--and then forget about them.
Tuck your laptop between your arm and ribcage when walking. This discourages would-be thieves from taking your laptop, and it protects it from getting jostled.
