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Recent updates, all reviews, the 6 best travel laptops - spring 2024 reviews.

When shopping for a travel laptop, a couple of requirements immediately come to mind: size, weight, and battery life. Finding a thin and light laptop isn't so much a problem when it comes to general productivity and media consumption devices, but finding a relatively portable mobile workstation or gaming laptop can still be challenging. You must also ensure that portability doesn't come at the cost of a flimsier, cheaper-feeling build, or that it hampers performance. Screen brightness is another thing to consider, as you want a display that can overcome glare in bright settings, and you'll want a good keyboard and touchpad, as they're your primary input methods. A good port selection is a must if you don't want to carry around a hub or dock, and webcam quality is important if you're often on video calls. Biometrics isn't necessary but nice to have, especially if you don't like typing out your password or PIN in a public area.

We've bought and tested over 115 laptops. Below are our recommendations for the best laptops for travel you can buy. You can also see our recommendations for the  best laptops , the  best business laptops , and the best laptops for college .

Best Laptop For Travel

The best travel laptop we've tested is the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3, 2023). This 14-inch workstation has nearly everything you could ask for in a premium model: a sturdy all-metal chassis, a compact design, tons of processing power, and a long battery life. It sports a bright 120Hz Mini LED display, a spacious keyboard, and a gigantic, easy-to-use haptic touchpad. The display is suitable for color work, as it has full DCI P3 coverage and superb factory calibration. Its 1080p webcam is excellent, so your colleagues can see and hear you clearly on video calls.

New in this generation of MacBook Pro is the addition of a base M3 model, similar to the discontinued 13-inch model with Touch Bar. This can be a great option if you don't need all the processing power but still want the 'Pro' features, like the display and up-firing speakers. The main downside is that the RAM and storage aren't user-replaceable, and upgrading them increases the total cost considerably.

The  Dell XPS 15 (2023) is our recommendation for Windows users. It's a larger 15.6-inch device but weighs the same as the MacBook Pro 14. It provides a great user experience and can easily handle demanding tasks like programming and video editing. Unlike the MacBook Pro, the RAM and storage drive are user-replaceable, so you can upgrade or add more space later. Unfortunately, there are a couple of tradeoffs, like its display's basic 60Hz refresh rate and its terrible 720p webcam. Port selection is also a slight downgrade compared to the MacBook Pro, as there's no HDMI port. Lastly, Dell has released new XPS models in 14- and 16-inch sizes, so if you're a fan of the 15-inch size, this is a good time to get one because it's often on sale on  Dell's website . However, at this point, you may only be able to find select configurations.

See our review

Best Upper Mid-Range Laptop For Travel

If your workload includes lighter tasks like text processing, web browsing, spreadsheets, and video playback, get the Apple MacBook Air 13 (2024) instead. It's also a high-end model that provides a premium user experience; however, its base M3 SoC doesn't have as much processing power as the M3 Pro or Max variants, so you aren't overpaying for performance you don't need. While its IPS panel isn't as impressive as the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3, 2023) 's 120Hz Mini LED display, it's still pretty and bright enough for outdoor use. The main drawback is the port selection, which comprises two USB-C/Thunderbolt 3 ports; these support two external displays, but only if you close the laptop's lid. If you want to save some money, the Apple MacBook Air 13 (2022) is still available at a lower starting price of $999 USD, although it can currently be found even cheaper on Amazon. This model uses the older M2 SoC, features Wi-Fi 6 (rather than the 2024's Wi-Fi 6e), and only has support for one external display.

A Windows alternative would be the HP Spectre x360 14 (2024). While this 14-inch laptop isn't quite as portable as the MacBook Air 13, it features an OLED touchscreen display with a higher 120 Hz refresh rate. However, the OLED screen isn't as bright and can't cut it for outdoor use in broad daylight. Battery life is very similar to the 2024 MacBook Air. Finally, build quality is similar between the two laptops, but the Spectre x360 offers a greater port selection. It features 1 USB-A port and 2 USB-C/Thunderbolt 4 ports, which can support two 4k displays at 60 Hz. 

Best Mid-Range Laptop For Travel

Our best mid-range pick is the Acer Chromebook Spin 714 (2022), a 14-inch 2-in-1 convertible Chromebook. It's a very compact device that's easy to carry around, and its battery lasts over 13 hours of light use. The display gets bright enough for use in most indoor settings, and since it's a 2-in-1 convertible, you can set it up in tent mode for media consumption or flip the screen all the way around and use it as a tablet. If you want to take handwritten notes, it supports pen input and comes with a stylus that you can dock into its charging slot at the front of the device. Ports include one USB-A, two USB-C/Thunderbolt 4, and an HDMI port.

Spec-wise, this laptop has various Intel 12th Gen CPUs, from a Core i3 to a P-series Core i7. However, only the Core i5 model with 8GB of memory and 128GB of storage is widely available, and even that model is getting hard to find. There's a newer 2023 model, which we haven't tested but expect to be very similar. The upgrades include a faster Intel 13th Gen CPU and a 1440p webcam. You can get the 2023 model on Amazon or at  Best Buy . Lastly, if you're new to Chrome OS, know that the type of applications you can install is limited, so you need to ensure you can do everything through a Chrome browser or Android apps.

Best Budget Laptop For Travel

For those on a tighter budget, get the Acer Swift 3 14 (2020), a 14-inch Windows ultraportable. Acer's Swift models are typically more expensive, but since this is a 2020 version, you can get it much cheaper. It has a nice FHD display, a decent keyboard, and a wide port selection, including two USB-As, one USB-C/Thunderbolt 4, a full-size HDMI, and a headphone jack. It's available with an Intel 11th Gen Core i5 or i7 CPU, up to 16GB of memory, and 512GB of storage.

The Intel 11th Gen CPUs are two generations behind Intel's latest offerings but can still easily handle general productivity tasks like web browsing, text processing, spreadsheets, and video playback. Plus, the battery life is amazing at over 13 hours of light use. Its 720p webcam is its main weakness; the image is underexposed, and the microphone sounds staticky.

Best Compact Laptop For Travel

If you need something compact to browse the web or answer emails on the go, get the Microsoft Surface Go 3 (2021), a 10.5-inch tablet PC with a built-in kickstand and a detachable keyboard. It's super compact, and its battery lasts a little over seven hours of light use. Its FHD+ display looks very sharp, gets bright enough to combat glare, and supports pen input. You get an excellent 1080p webcam, a second back-facing camera, and a facial recognition IR camera for quick logins. Like all Microsoft 2-in-1 tablets, you must buy the keyboard and stylus separately. The keyboard is worth getting, as it's much more comfortable to type on than an on-screen keyboard, and it protects the screen from scratches.

The Surface Go 3 is available with an Intel Pentium Gold or Core i3 CPU. They perform well enough for this tablet PC's intended use, which is to say simple tasks like web browsing, emails, and video playback, but don't expect to do anything remotely intensive. If your budget allows, it's worth upgrading the memory to 8GB, as you'll get a much smoother experience with fewer slowdowns when multitasking. Port selection is limited; you only get a USB-C, a headphone jack, and a proprietary Surface Connect charging port.

Best Gaming Laptop For Travel

We recommend the Razer Blade 14 (2022) for gaming on the go. This 14-inch model is surprisingly thin and light for a gaming laptop, and aside from its green logo on the lid, it has a fairly understated design, so it doesn't stick out in a professional environment if you use it for work. It's available in three preset configurations: a 1080p 144Hz display with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 GPU, a 1440p 165Hz display with an RTX 3070 Ti, or a 1440p 165Hz display with an RTX 3080 Ti. All three configurations deliver a smooth gaming experience in demanding AAA titles.

We don't have many complaints about the keyboard; the keys have a good amount of travel and tactility, but they could be more stable. And, of course, it has per-key RGB backlighting. As for upgradeability, the storage drive is replaceable, but not the memory, as all three configurations come with 16GB of soldered RAM.

A newer model of the Blade 14 is available. Its design remains largely unchanged, as the upgrades are internal. The CPU is now an AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS, and GPU options include an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 and 4070. These new GPUs bring a new feature called Frame Generation, which boosts performance by inserting AI-generated frames. Few games currently support this feature, but as we've seen with DLSS, the adoption rate will likely grow quickly. There's also a new display option: a 240Hz QHD+ panel with a matte finish and VRR support. See  here  for more details about the new Razer Blade 14.

• ASUS Zenbook 14 Flip OLED (2023): The ASUS Zenbook 14 Flip OLED (2023) is a great 2-in-1 Windows convertible and a good alternative to the Apple MacBook Air 13 (2024). It feels as well built as the MacBook Air and has a gorgeous, albeit slightly dimmer, OLED display. It also has a wider port selection, including two USB-C/Thunderbolt 4s with support for multiple external displays. It's heavier, though, and its battery life is shorter at around eight hours of light use. See our review
• Framework Laptop 13 (2023): The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) is a good alternative to the Apple MacBook Air 13 (2024) if you want a laptop that's easy to repair or upgrade. You can replace any component in the laptop, even the CPU and motherboard. All the parts are available via Framework, and the company provides manuals to guide you through the replacement process. However, its keyboard, touchpad, speakers, and webcam aren't as good. Also, depending on where you live, it might be harder to get one because you can only get it via Framework's website. See our review
• Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 11 (2023): The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 11 (2023) is a great ultraportable alternative to the Apple MacBook Air 13 (2024). It has a wider port selection and Thunderbolt 4 support, and its SSD is user-replaceable. However, it's slightly bulkier, and its battery doesn't last as long. It's also more expensive. See our review
• Lenovo Yoga 7i 16 (2023): If you prefer Windows, the Lenovo Yoga 7i 16 (2023) is a good alternative to the Acer Chromebook Spin 714 (2022). It provides a great user experience, and its battery lasts around 12 hours of light use. It's a pretty thin laptop, but ultimately, it's still a 16-inch device, so it might not fit into some bags. It also weighs considerably more at 4.4 lbs. See our review
• Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5 (2021): The Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5 (2021) is a good alternative to the Microsoft Surface Go 3 (2021) if you only need a device for media consumption. It has a much nicer OLED display, and its battery lasts longer. It's a 13-inch device, though, so it isn't as portable as the Surface Go 3. See our review
• HP OMEN Transcend 14 (2024): The HP OMEN Transcend 14 (2024) is a cheaper alternative to the Razer Blade 14 (2022), especially if you need your gaming laptop to pull double duty as a portable workstation. While the HP's OLED screen is brighter, it has a lower refresh rate and response rate, and this laptop doesn't offer VRR support; depending on your use case, this may be a deal breaker as you'll likely notice screen tearing and ghosting while gaming. See our review

May 13, 2024: Replaced the Apple Macbook Air 13 (2022) with the Apple Macbook Air 13 (2024). Replaced the LG gram 14 (2023) with the HP Spectre x360 14 (2024) as an alternative to the Apple Macbook Air 13 (2024). Added the HP Omen Transcend 14 (2024) as a Notable Mention. Minor text changes to reflect the changing availability of Dell XPS 15 (2023).

Mar 15, 2024: Removed the Lenovo Slim Pro 7 14 (2023) from the Notable Mentions because it's discontinued. Added the Framework Laptop 13 (2023) as a Notable Mention. Minor text changes to provide information about new models of the Dell XPS 15, Apple MacBook Air 13, and Razer Blade 14.

Jan 23, 2024: Replaced the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M2, 2023) with the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3, 2023) because Apple no longer sells the M2 model.

Nov 16, 2023: Minor text changes to provide information about the new M3 MacBook Pro and to add the Dell XPS 15 (2023) as a Windows alternative to the MacBook Pro. Added the Lenovo Slim Pro 7 14 (2023) and Lenovo Yoga 7i 16 (2023) as Notable Mentions.

Sep 18, 2023: Replaced the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (2021) with the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (2023) because the M1 model is no longer available. Small text changes to include the Lenovo Slim Pro 7 14 (2023) as an alternative to the MacBook Pro 14. Replaced the Lenovo Chromebook C340 15 (2020) with the Acer Swift 3 14 (2020) because the Acer is a better value.

Our recommendations above are what we think are currently the best travel laptops you can get. In addition to the test results, we factor in the price (a cheaper laptop wins over a pricier one if the difference isn't worth it), feedback from our visitors, and availability.

If you prefer to make your own decision, here’s the list of all of our laptop reviews. Keep in mind that most laptops are available in various configurations, and the table only shows the results of the model we tested, so it’s best to see the full review for information about other variants.

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Home » Gear » best travel laptop

10 BEST Travel Laptops (MUST READ! • 2024)

From the sleek and mighty powerhouses to the budget-friendly gems, our list is tailored for diverse itineraries and preferences. Imagine unwinding in a quaint café with a laptop that boasts a battery life longer than your layover, or editing your travel vlog on a device that handles heavy graphics like a breeze.

I put this guide together with one goal in mind – to help you find the best travel laptop for YOUR travel style. With the help of this epic guide, you’ll easily to be able to know which laptop is best for your needs, style, and budget.

Alllrighty then, do you wanna find out what the best computer for travel is? Well, let’s get to it!

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Quick answer: The Best Portable Travel Laptops

What type of traveller are you, best overall laptop for travel – macbook air, best laptop for professionals – macbook pro, best midrange travel laptop – dell xps 13″, best value for money laptop – microsoft surface book, best budget travel laptop – lenovo ideapad, best budget 2-1 laptop – microsoft surface pro 7, other great budget laptops for travel, the best overall travel laptop, what specs to consider before buying the best travel laptop, choosing the best travel laptop faqs, how we tested the best travel laptop, faq about the best travel laptop, final thoughts on the best laptops for travel.

• Macbook Air – Best Lightweight Laptop
• 16.2 Inch MacBook Pro – Best Laptop for Professionals
• Dell XPS 13″ – Best Midrange Laptop
• Microsoft Surface Book – Best Value Laptop
• Lenovo Idea Pad – Best Budget Laptop
• Microsoft Surface Pro 7 – Best Travel Tablet
• Jump to –> Travel Laptop Reviews

Macbook Air

• Price > $936.85
• Portability > 2.5 lbs
• Battery Life > 18 hour battery
• Storage Space > 256 – 512GB SSD
• Processing Power > M2 chip
• Operating System > Mac OS Ventura

16.2 Inch Macbook Pro

• Price > $1749
• Portability > 6.4 lbs
• Battery Life > 22 hour battery
• Storage Space > 512 GB – 1 TB SSD

Dell XPS 13

• Price > $599
• Portability > 2.7 lbs
• Battery Life > 7 hour battery
• Storage Space > 128 GB SSD
• Processing Power > Intel Core i5-7200U 3MB cache, up to 3.10 GHz 8G memory 128G SSD
• Operating System > Windows 10

Microsoft Surface Book

• Portability > 3.34 lbs
• Battery Life > 10.5 hour battery
• Processing Power > 2.4 GHz Intel Core i5
• Operating System > Windows 10 Pro

Lenovo Ideapad

• Price > $569
• Portability > 5 lbs
• Storage Space > 500 GB Hard Drive
• Processing Power > Intel Pentium 4405U (2M Cache, 2.10 GHz), 2 cores, 4 threads

Microsoft Surface Pro 7

• Price > $489.99
• Portability > 1.7 lbs
• Processing Power > 3 GHz Intel Core i5
• Operating System > Windows 10 Home

My laptop has literally changed my life – not only can I earn money online but I can also stream Game of Thrones wherever I go… and I think we can all agree that that’s pretty damn important.

But what about your needs?

You see, “the best travel laptop” is a pretty broad statement since there are many different types of travelers. The question is – which kind of traveler are YOU?

Here are some extremely important things to consider…

1. Do you need to get work done on your laptop?

If you aren’t planning on using your travel laptop for online work, you don’t necessarily need to splash out on a top of the range laptop.

While it might be tempting to spend $2,000 on the new best laptop, the truth is that only digital nomads and other professionals really need that sort of tech. If you don’t have any work deadlines to meet, it might be better to keep it simple.

2. What will you use your laptop for?

Will you be working on the road (writing, editing, etc.), or mainly surfing the web? Do you need the processing power to run multiple editing programs, or is your prime concern staying connected to social media?

Identifying exactly what you need a laptop for will help you decide on which one is best for your travels.

3. Do you have any size requirements?

Are you traveling with minimal room in your backpack? Are you bringing a bag with certain size requirements?

For instance, some expensive daypacks can’t fit 15-inch laptops, or some laptop sleeves can’t fit larger than a 13 inch. If you buy a special backpack for your laptop , then most of your needs should be met. Either way, make sure to keep these in mind.

4. Are you traveling heavy or light?

The more powerful the laptop, the more it weighs. The difference between a 1.5 lb tablet and a 7 lb professional laptop is HUGE.

Remember that a light traveler is a happy traveler, so if you don’t need a heavier laptop, there’s no reason to cause extra strain on your body.

There are different specs you need to considers when choosing the best laptop for you…

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Two quick things….

• If you are a digital nomad, working professional, or aspiring to work online. Do not pick this travel laptop.
• If you hate Macs or iOS. Do not pick this computer.

Everyone else. This is the best travel laptop. 

If you’re an Apple user, this is Apple’s best Mac laptop for the money and this was the first laptop I took traveling which was adequate for working online. The pros (as with any MacBook) are its integration with apple products, ease-of-use, trackpad and keyboard, design, and reliable performance. It’s also the lightest laptop for travel, so that’s a major win.

I’ve used MacBooks for 7 years now (my first one from 2010 is still alive and kicking!), and I’ve never needed repairs (except to replace an old battery). I can’t say the same for any of the PCs I’ve owned, which is why I think Macs are the best user-friendly laptops if you don’t have a computer background.

If you want a MacBook for browsing, streaming, social, and office, the MacBook Air is fast enough, especially with 2024’s updated processor speed and default memory. But if you want a Retina resolution screen, “Kaby Lake” processors, and more power for editing programs, you’ll have to fork out the money for a MacBook Pro instead.

I recommend you go for as much storage as you can afford if you plan on storing music, images or video because you can’t add storage to Apple computers after purchase. If your laptop is used for browsing and light document work (Excel, Word, etc.) the 256GB SSD should be fine.

• Fast and durable!
• Lightweight (super important)
• Can handle your internet needs and then some
• Not as powerful as other options
• Not good for working professionals

Is the MacBook Air for you?

If you are looking for a light laptop that can handle all of your basic internet needs and then a little bit more – the MacBook Air is my highest recommendation. It’s light and sleek design makes it ideal for travelers, and it comes at a reasonable price.

If you are interested in making money online, you need to invest in a great laptop. The MacBook Pro is my highest recommendation. Its starting price plus lack of ports can be a deal breaker for many, but I still think it is the most versatile, user-friendly laptop out there and mine has allowed me to start and run several businesses from all over the world. I love my MacBook Pro and investing in it was the smartest move I made.

Whether you are freelancing, doing graphic design, blogging or editing photo or video – if you are a traveling professional, it’s hard to beat the MacBook Pro. If you’re in the market for the best lightweight laptop that still has a ton of storage space, the 16.2-inch MacBook is the best choice for you. Weighing less than a 2 kg, this is the best lightweight laptop for travel. Overall, the MacBook Pro is one of the fastest computers on the market. It’s the best traveling laptop for digital nomads, but you have to pay for it.

This is a great choice for bloggers, freelance photographers , etc too. It outperforms the other laptops on this list, but if you’re not set on the Mac OS system, the Dell XPS and Microsoft Surface Book have competing specs for a much more affordable cost.

• Powerful – can handle anything
• Great battery life
• Great for Digital Nomads or professionals
• Unnecessary for normal web users

Is the MacBook Pro for you?

If you can afford a notebook above $1800, or have to bite the bullet because of work, these laptops are going to be fantastic options because they have powerful processors, larger storage space, and better quality build.

High-end laptops are the best laptops for travelling photographers, videographers, laptop bloggers, etc., but not necessary for the average traveller.

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The Dell XPS is best mid-range laptop for travel because of its superb battery life, 7th-generation Core performance and excellent Wi-Fi range. I love that it has more ports than on competing laptops, as well as an SD port. It also has a touch-screen higher-resolution option (for a bit more weight and quite a bit more money).

As for its design, the Dell XPS has a comfortable soft-touch, carbon-fibre deck, infinity display, and rose-colour option. Often the trade off for a thin, best ultralight laptop is shorter battery life and too few ports. The XPS 13, however, gives you nearly 14 hours of battery power, and all the connection options you need while also remaining pretty light and compact for travel.

If you are a PC user, the Dell XPS 13″ is the best travel computer within the $1000 range. Though if you want more memory than 256MB, or an i7 processor, you will have to pay more money. This is a high quality laptop at a great price…

• Incredible value
• Powerful – good for those who  work and travel
• Great alternative if you don’t like Apple products
• Pricey for a PC
• Touch screen option is very expensive

Is the Dell XPS right for you?

For under $1000, you should be able to find a high quality travel laptop for many of the specs that matter most to the average traveler: weight, portability, and reliability. If you are willing to spend a couple hundred more, I would recommend picking up the Dell…

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This is definitely one of the best-value laptops/tablets for travel! You essentially get the portability and ease of use of a tablet with a detachable keyboard. The Microsoft Surface book is lightweight and portable, but you can still run programs like Lightroom and upload your travel photos and videos. The Stylus Pen is a truly innovative and amazing addition as well.

While this isn’t the cheapest laptop in this guide, the Microsoft Surface book is definitely one of the best value laptops on the markets since you are getting a great tablet and computer all-in-one. When it comes to weight, size, features, battery, I think this is the best travel laptop for your money but if you are going pro and embracing the digital nomad lifestyle, I would recommend getting a Macbook instead.

The Microsoft Surface book is a great laptop for photographers and allows you to run Lightroom, Adobe Premier, and other intensive programs.This is the best Windows 10 option for creatives and travellers needing versatility, speed, and power. While technically a powerful laptop, this is also one of the best tablets for travel. It has a battery on the detachable screen and actual computer. When both are charged you can get up to 12 hours battery life.

The 6th generation processor is not as speedy as the 7th generation in the MacBook Pro, but it’s a bit more affordable. The Surface Book also has a leg up on graphics performance in comparison to the MacBook Pro.

• Great value
• Laptop AND a tablet
• Overall pick for best value
• Not powerful enough for professionals/Digital Nomads
• Not as durable

Is the Surface right for you?

People who need discrete graphics, want a powerful computer that is also a 2-1, and Microsoft program integration will find this laptop to be one of the best options out there.

To take full advantage of the separate graphics chip and power, you have to invest more than the starting price and pay for an upgrade, but it’s totally worth it.

The Lenovo is one of the best ultra-lightweight laptops in the budget price range. This Windows OS laptop has 9 hours of battery life, a nice design, and is one of the cheapest light laptops for travel. The performance is good enough for web surfing, editing documents, and viewing movies. The keyboard and touchpad’s quality, however, is less than subpar.

Overall, this is a cheap laptop and a solid choice for the minimal traveller, who wants to stream online and run basic programs. This is definitely not adequate for anybody who needs to work online and certainly the Lenovo cannot handle Lightroom or other photo editing programs.

The team felt this was a great option for those with pretty basic needs looking for something lightweight, affordable and that performs well enough given the tasks expected of it. For those working mostly on word processors and looking to store their travel photos, this is a great option. The standard edition comes with a massive hard drive too making it great for storing and doing some basic processing to travel photos on the road.

• Good for basic surfing and Netflix-ing
• Not durable

Is the Lenovo right for you?

If you are trying to get any work done or be productive, the Lenovo is NOT for you. This is a budget computer that can handle some basic browsing and streaming for the few years it lasts. If that is what you need it for, then this is one of the best budget options!

This is one of the top travel laptops out there because of its versatility and price range compared to the competition. However, the biggest drawback is that the Surface Pro Keyboard  must be bought separately (and costs an extra $120)! The Surface Pro can easily function as an ebook reader, travelling tablet, sketchpad, and video player all-in-one, making it the best tablet for travel, hands down. Plus, I can say from experience that it has awesome resolution and a sharp screen, making it great for watching movies on a plane/bus/train.

Its most stand out features are its touch screen and surface pen stylus. The pen has been tested by comic artists and graphic designers for its accuracy and real-feel! (The pen even learns your handwriting!)

The device doesn’t have as much storage space or processing power as its sister product, the Surface Book, so an external drive is crucial! Though you can upgrade to 256MB or 512MB, it will make the surface pro significantly more expensive.

• Best tablet for travel
• Super light
• Spectacular resolution
• Lacks power/storage
• Not ideal to get serious work done

Is the Surface Pro 7 for you?

The Surface Pro 7 is the best tablet for travel, and with the keyboard one of the most versatile laptops on the market and is definitely worth considering.

What are 2-1 Laptops?  They are travel tablets that can be converted into full laptops. Unlike conventional tablets, they’re made to be used offline and can run computer programs. Moreover, unlike with normal tablets, 2-1 laptops allow you to upload data (music, videos, photos, documents).

Just keep in mind, 2-1 laptops rarely have enough storage space for a lot of videos and photos. A 2-1 tablet/laptop isn’t the best laptop for GoPro users or videographers either since they cannot run intensive video editing programs without sacrificing performance and speed.

1. Samsung Chromebook

The Samsung Chromebook Plus offers a decent design, long battery life, touchscreen, and a hybrid hinge that turns it into a tablet, and is the lightest Chromebook on this list.

Unlike other ChromeBooks, this one is using the sister system, that allows you to download Android apps and use them offline, making it a great Chromebook for travel.

As an alternative to expensive and heavy Macbooks, the team felt the Samsung Chromebook Plus was a really viable option for those not wanting to travel with that kind of laptop but wanting similar performance levels.

2. Acer Chromebook

The Acer Chromebook is one of the better budget lightweight laptops on the market. The laptop has ultra portability, a comfortably sized keyboard, and a touchscreen. The downside is it does feel very “cheap” with a plastic like frame. At 1.1 Kg and 11.6 inches, this is one of the best budget laptops for surfing the internet, and a great option if you’re looking for a small, portable laptop to stream movies on or run other basic tasks with.

Note:  I have listed the starting price for the storage space available. Often you can add more storage space for a higher price.

3. Lenovo Yoga 910

An alternative to the Surface Pro and another one of the best tablets for traveling is another hybrid with cool features like a fingerprint sensor. At 1.4kg (3.09lbs), the Yoga 910 is a heavier than most 2-1s, but also has more storage space to start, an all-metal finish, the latest Kaby Lake processors (i7), and 14in HD display.

It’s reasonably well-priced for a hybrid of this quality, but there is a cheaper, more basic version called the Lenovo Yoga 710 if you’re trying to save some cash. The 910, however, is the best no-compromise option for work and pleasure making it one of the best laptops for travel and digital nomad life.

Tie Between MacBook Pro and Dell XPS 13 for the best travel laptop

MacBook Pro

MacBook Pro is the best laptop for travel for Mac users, who want the fastest, most reliable computer on the market. The MacBook Pro uses Kaby Lake processors (Intel’s seventh generation chips), has a sleek design, retina (2560 x 1600-pixel) display, touch ID, and the best rated audio sound.

The Dell XPS is the best Windows 10-based laptop. It comes with 13.3 HD display, nearly 14 hours of battery power, and all the connection options you while remaining plenty light and compact for travel. This is a great choice if you want to save a bit of cash and avoid Macs…

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

Price is probably the most important factor when choosing the best laptop for traveling.

Unless you are working online, you really don’t need to spend $1000+ to get the best travel laptop. There are several cheap travel laptops and mid-range options that make great laptops for travel.

Remember that high-value items, such as a top of the range laptop, are often harder to claim for on insurance. There are some cheap lightweight laptop options on the market too and overall the price of laptops continues to come down… You get what you pay for though so if you need a laptop for work, I recommend not going for the cheapest laptop option.

2. Portability

Portability is especially essential for the on-the-go, minimal traveler, and an important factor to consider when choosing the best laptop for travel.

You want something lightweight so that your backpack doesn’t end up weighing too much (As we say in the hiking world, ounces add pounds and pounds add pain!). If you haven’t yet picked up a backpack for your trip, check out this post for plenty of backpack inspiration. 

Your laptop’s size is also important (usually correlating with weight) to easily pull your computer in/out of your bag at the TSA security line, etc. The smallest travel laptops and tablets have less storage space and processing power, but they are also cheap and highly portable. If you are going to be on the road a lot, I recommend trying to find a lightweight laptop.

If you have a smaller unit, you can also invest in a smaller laptop bag . So portability not only applies to the laptop itself, but what you’re going to use to carry it.

3. Battery Life

It’s always nice to have a reliable battery life, especially if you are taking your laptop up into the mountains. The best laptops on the market have at least 8 hours of battery life, and some can last for an entire day. If you are spending a lot of time off the grid and still need access to your laptop then consider picking up a portable battery capable of charging a laptop.

Quick travel tip: make sure your wi-fi and blue tooth are turned off (when you’re not using them) to save battery!

4. Storage Space

Most of the top travel laptops (with ample battery life and affordability) lack a large amount of storage space, and if you’re going to store a lot of photos and videos from your travels, it’s important to have ample hard drive space!

I’ve found it’s well worth investing in a cloud drive and/or an external hard drive, especially since photos and videos take up a lot of room. This way you don’t have to sacrifice laptop portability for storage space on the actual laptop.

My first backpacking laptop, a MacBook Air, didn’t have too much storage space so I kept a lot of my photos and videos on Dropbox and stored my movies on a nearly bulletproof portable hard drive .

Typical external drives with 1 terabyte cost around $80 USD, and cloud storage (through Google, Dropbox Microsoft, etc.) average around $10 a month. It’s also important to back up your files in case your travel laptop gets stolen (like my friend Ana’s did in Costa Rica)!

5. Processing Power

If you are running editing programs and high-resolution videos, you should also prioritize the processing power.

The CPU is like the “brain” of your computer. At the moment, Intel Core i7 is the highest performer, but also the most expensive. Intel Core i5 should work for most of the best travel computers, and anything older is fine if you’re just surfing the web.

A separate graphics chip allows gamers, 3D designers, and high-res video editors to run their programs without taking up a ton of RAM and slowing the overall performance of the computer.

An integrated graphics chips (one that shares system memory) is just fine if you don’t have these needs.

If you want a separate graphics chip, keep in mind Apple only puts separate graphics chips in their MacBook Pro 15in computers. The 15 inch MacBooks are more expensive, and in my opinion, anything over 13 inches is too large to be considered one of the best laptops to travel with.

6. Do you prefer Mac, Windows, or Chrome OS?

Most laptops run one of these three operating systems: Windows, Chrome OS, or Mac OS X (for MacBooks only).

Windows notebooks offer the largest range of options for the best travel laptop. The newest window computers offer cool features like touch screens, 2-1 convertible tablets, fingerprint readers, and dual graphics chips.

Mac’s newest operating system, MacOS Sierra, comes with all Apple computers. Once you get the hang of Apple’s programs and trackpad/keyboard short cuts, Mac is the best user-friendly laptop (in my opinion) for the average person who knows nothing about computer engineering or coding.

Macs are expensive, but also reliable, which is important when you are travelling around the world and don’t have time/money to take a computer in for repairs.

Chrome-OS is Google OS’ – simple and secure operating system, usually available on small portable laptops. The drawback? It’s mainly limited to surfing the web, checking email, and navigating social networks, not doing stuff offline. Still, ChromeBooks are the best cheap and light laptops for the minimal traveller.

Conclusion? Most travellers are going to need to prioritise versatility , weight , battery life , and price when picking the best travel laptop. Digital nomads and travellers working remotely are going to need powerful laptops for travel to handle multi-tasking and intensive programs.

Q. What is the best laptop for the money?

In my humble opinion, the best value laptop is definitely the Microsoft Surface Book  – from a specs / weight / price ratio, this laptop outperforms all the others.

Q. What is the best cheap laptop?

The Lenovo Idea Pad  is the best cheap laptop on the market at the moment. It is adequate for streaming movies and casual web browsing but that’s about it… Still, for less than $300, it’s a steal.

Q. What is the lightest travel laptop?

The MacBook Air  is the most compact, thinnest and lightest laptop for traveling on the market… If space and weight is your primary concern, this is the laptop to choose.

Q. What is the best laptop for blogging?

The Macbook Pro  is the best laptop for bloggers and photographers – it can handle whatever you throw at it and edit photos without any problems, even on very advanced, space hungry, software.

Q. What is the smallest travel laptop?

The Macbook Air  takes the gold again for the smallest laptop for traveling…

Q. What is the most durable laptop?

The Macbook Pro  is the toughest laptop in this list and if you put it in a case it can take some knocks… Still, be careful with it.

Q. Should I travel with a laptop or a tablet?

A 2-1 will give you a lot more versatility than just traveling with a laptop or a tablet. If you ARE a fan of tablets, I recommend that you consider getting a 2-1 laptop / tablet combo rather than just a tablet. The Microsoft Surface 7 Pro  is definitely the best 2-1 laptop / tablet on the market.

There is no perfect or exact science when it comes to testing out what the best work travel laptop is. Having been digital nomads for a number of years, we think we’re in a decent position to give our 2 cents on the matter!

So when it came to assessing the best travel computers, we looked at a few different factors like specific performance for certain jobs and tasks, memory, storage, speed, weight and durability too. Of course, when it comes to the best laptop for travel and work, much of what is needed is individual depending on your needs. But we tried to cover most of the common uses as well as generalised purposes for travelling with a laptop.

Finally, we also take into account how an item is priced. Travel computers vary wildly in price and the most expensive isn’t always the best for your needs and your trip. However, we did scrutinise the more expensive laptops and gave the cheaper ones a bit more leeway.

Still have some questions about the best laptops for travel? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What is the overall best travel laptop?

The perfect all-rounder for digital nomads is the Macbook Air . It packs style, efficiency, plenty of battery life and storage space and a solid operating systen in one little rectangle. For even more storage space, we’d suggest upgrading to a Macbook Pro .

What is the most affordable travel laptop?

The Lenovo Ideapad is one of the best budget options for digital nomads. While the value might not be as high as a Macbook, you’ll definitely get some real bang for your buck.

Which is the lightest travel laptop?

The Macbook Air is one of the best lightweight travel laptops on the market, with only 2.5lbs!

Should I get an insurance for my laptop during my travels?

Hell yes! If you’re relying on your laptop, having your electronics insured is one of first steps to travelling without any worries.

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

There you have it!

Our epic reviews of the most versatile laptops, the most cost-efficient laptops, the best laptop for blogging and digital nomads and, of course, the best budget laptop on the market.

Overall, I don’t think you can go wrong with any of the listed choices. I personally tend to lean towards MacBooks because of their reliability and my own personal experiences.

However, some of the newest Microsoft, Lenovo, and Dell laptops have unique, useful features like touch screen, and 2-1 convertibility that give them a leg up as the best traveling laptops.

If you just want the best cheap travel laptop to surf the web and stream online, one of the budget laptops or Chromebooks would be perfect for you.

You will need to upgrade from the ChromeBooks and budget options to one of the travelling tablet 2-1’s or more expensive laptop options if you want to store data but you can get around this by buying a portable hard drive. Personally, I’m a big fan of Macbook Pros but what does the data say? When we compare all the factors, what is the best laptop for traveling?

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31 Comments

Your writing is so relatable and down-to-earth It’s like chatting with a good friend over a cup of coffee Keep sharing your wisdom with us

Great article and certainly needed. However, I wouldn’t use a Lenovo product, even if you gave it to me for free. They have lots of problems!

Nicely comprised info for travelers. Like you, I once brought a laptop while traveling, only for it to not turn on due to the none air conditioned climate. It worked fine once I got back to the air conditioned USA. Do you have a laptop suggestion for those traveling to poor areas where cool flowing air is not an option? I’ve heard someone say there are ASUS laptops that can take the heat, but I have yet to find an article that states this.

This is a tough question because I feel like most laptops would be susceptible to this problem. You should buy a laptop with a high-quality frame or invest in an industrial-grade laptop.

Hey, thanks for your effort. I love working outside and i am trying to become more independent. After going through your choices real quick, the microsoft surface pro seems to be the most fit for me. Although i would love to be able to use a powerbank or something to charge it. Any suggestions in that regard?

The most important information thats missing for me is, the ability to work outside. Are all of them equal in that regard? Will i be able to work in the sun? Because my current notebook will not let me do that.

Hey Flo! I’m working off a Surface Pro 4 and I love mostly love it…. Mine has a factory error that dates back to 2016, but new ones should be fine. I’m able to work in the sun… if I need to. But working in the sun is both miserable and can cause eye damage. You’re not meant to be focusing on tiny text on a screen while inundated with blazing sunlight!

The best Windows 10 option for creatives and travelers needing versatility, speed, and power. While technically a powerful laptop, this is also one of the best tablets for travel. I will go for it.

I think this is great and you have totally nailed it by making that statement. Right on.

Thanks for the review. I am going to making some tour videos and for that, I will buy a laptop for video editing. I hope MacBook Pro will do that job greatly.

very informative blog, to bring a laptop while traveling actually I am making a plan to go an India for some time before that I definitely will check your mention points like battery life, processing power etc.

I’ve had my MacBook Air for a couple years now and it’s starting to show signs of needing replacement. Kinda nervous about this and what Apple is currently offering. Hopefully, it will hold out for a bit longer to see what else Apple might have in store.

You should really add the “Surface Laptop” to the list, it’s a great little laptop that allows you to choose how much storage you want along with three different processor options

I am looking for a new laptop and your list is helpful. Thank you.

Thank you for sharing this. A lot of people recommended me to buy the MacBook pro definitely expensive but worth every penny especially for us freelancer who like to travel and do work not just outside our home. Anyways, thank you for sharing this list. I love that you also share how informative and being detailed about the pros and cons.

Glad you found our laptop reviews helpful Esther! I’m a Macbook Pro man myself! 🙂

Please stop using the term “Digital Nomad.” It’s cringeworthy… Also, being a “DM” isn’t the only reason to have a high-powered laptop.

If you have heaps of money to spend on a high end laptop purely for leisure then good for you dude but for most people that kind of investment is only worth making if you’re going to be working online, with your laptop, as you travel.

that was wonderful details on the travel laptpops for all the techno freaks. Good post with all the essential details.

The performance of the SurfaceBook 2 is everything you could want form a laptop and thanks to the dual battery the battery life on offer here is impressive from a performance-focused device.

While choosing the laptop for traveling it is most important to consider which specs will optimize the digital experience. Which type of laptop is best for traveling and also how you plan to use your laptop while traveling

I’m definitely a windows user! The surface book 2 is just awesome, I’m gonna buy it soon.

Chromebooks are pretty much the perfect laptop for travelling. I mean not only are they cheap and super light and portable, but you can’t do much on them – which hopefully means you’ll STAY THE HECK OFF OF THEM and actually enjoy your vacation 😉

Comprehensive and detailed. I love that you have included comparison and required specs of the different travel laptops. I’d go for portability, memory, and battery life. Thanks for providing the best choices!

Hii Will Hatton,

I would like to say big thank you for your post. I really love to read it , this is such a very appreciable & informative post for each travelers. Keep posting

Yeah portability is what makes laptops great 🙂

I’ve been looking for a laptop to use for my business when I am away from home. So glad I found your blog. It has great info and I think I’ve narrowed it down to 2 different ones. Price is going to effect my choice, but that’s how it goes.

Hi, I’m going to India this winter but I’m also a student so I do have to be checking my laptop to see if my assignments and homework. I’m a little worried about wifi coverage. When you go to 3rd world countries how do you get reliable wifi? What provider/coverage plan do you use?

You’ll be fine – WiFi can be found in most places these days, which is kind of a shame. I don’t have reliable WiFi when I travel, I just get on with it.

Yes, but what no travel writer thinks to mention is which of these computers, all or none or in between, can connect to Channels 12 (in Canada and the rest of the world) 13 (in Europe and the rest of the World) and 14 in Japan. I’ve bought devices in the past, for world traveling, only to discover that the devices had been needlessly throttled for US customers at the firmware level. In other words, they could only connect on Channels 1-11.

Hi Will, Great detailed post. For me, a travel laptop has to be extra portable and have long-lasting battery. Chromebooks tend to meet those requirements and I always keep one for when I am on the road.

I’m truly impressed with your business finesse while traveling in some really interesting places. Nicely done!

I used to be a MacBook fan, but this last one as well as my latest iPhone has made me look elsewhere. The Dell XPS and the Lenovo Yoga products definitely seems to get great reviews and rock solid performance. I think I’ll be checking them out next. And, of course, your travel on $10 a day…didn’t think that was possible anymore! Thanks for some great reads

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Travel With a Laptop: Pros and Cons and How to Pack

By: Author Zachary Friedman

Posted on Last updated: February 8, 2024

Categories Travel , Travel Gear , Travel Tips

Home » Travel » Travel With a Laptop: Pros and Cons and How to Pack

While preparing for your next big trip, one of the more difficult decisions you’ll need to make is whether or not you want to travel with a laptop. If you do decide to pack your laptop, how will you protect it from damage and theft? How will you protect your privacy and keep your data safe from online criminals?

To help you decide, this guide outlines the pros and cons of travel with a laptop. We’ll cover productivity, weight and bulk, security, privacy, entertainment, and more. I’ll also explain exactly how to pack your laptop to prevent damage and how to secure your laptop from thieves and online criminals. In addition, I’ll also share a few tips for flying with a laptop to help make your trip a bit smoother. I’ll also recommend a few of the best travel laptops. You can’t eliminate the risk of damage, theft, or cybercrime but you can reduce it by taking some simple precautions.

For some travelers, the decision to pack a laptop is easy. For example, if you run an online business, create content, freelance, or if you’re on a business trip, the decision is made for you. I always have to pack my laptop because I work while I travel. I have no other choice. If you just want to stay up to date with your favorite TV show and post to social media once in a while, the decision becomes a bit more difficult. I’ll share some laptop alternatives for those who may not need a full computer.

Table of Contents

• Pros and Cons of Traveling With a Laptop
• How to Protect Your Laptop from Damage
• How to Protect Your Laptop from Theft
• Keeping Personal Information Secure
• Packing a Laptop for Travel
• Flying or Taking a Bus or Train with a Laptop
• Tips for Traveling with your Laptop

Laptop Alternatives for Travel

• How to Choose a Laptop
• Laptop Travel Accessories
• The Best Travel Laptops

Should I Travel With a Laptop? Pros and Cons

Ideally, you want to travel as light as possible. This means leaving unnecessary items at home. Whether or not your laptop is necessary depends on a number of factors including your job, the types of tasks you need to perform, where you’re traveling, and how long you’re traveling. Sometimes a smartphone, tablet, or other portable device is a sufficient replacement.

Pros of Traveling With a Laptop

• Packing a laptop increases productivity- With a laptop, you can quickly and efficiently write emails, blog posts, journals, code, reports, or whatever else you need to type. You can type much faster on a physical laptop keyboard than you can on a phone or tablet touch screen. A laptop also allows you to perform tasks that require large amounts of computing power such as editing videos and photos. A laptop can also run all of the software that you need for your job including Microsoft office, code editing software, accounting software, video and photo editing software, and whatever else you may need. Even though mobile versions of these programs exist, the full desktop version is always more powerful. The larger screen also increases productivity by allowing you to use two applications at once. There are some tasks you just can’t do without the power and screen real estate of a laptop. In addition, you can also use your laptop to upload, sort, and store as many photos and videos as you can take. You can do all of this work in a hostel, coffee shop, or even on a bus, train, or plane.
• Laptops offer plenty of computing power- A good laptop has plenty of power for editing videos and photos, running multiple programs and browser tabs at once, and even gaming. A phone or tablet just can’t offer the same level of processing power.
• Entertainment options- With a laptop, you can comfortably keep up to date on your favorite TV shows and movies while you’re traveling. Most modern laptops feature a 13-1 inch HD screen and decent quality speakers. Watching a movie is a great way to pass the time on a flight, bus ride, or train ride. If you’re into gaming, you can pack a gaming laptop and play whenever you get a decent internet connection. If you’re traveling somewhere remote where you may not have internet access, you can download all of your favorite movies, TV shows, music, and games and store them on your hard drive.
• Your laptop gives you more storage space for travel photos and videos- Laptops generally have more storage space than a phone or camera SD card. For example, most base model laptops come with a 256GB SSD drive. Higher-end models have a terabyte or more. If you take a lot of video or photos when you travel, you may need to move them to your laptop to free up some more space on your phone or camera SD card. Of course, you could achieve the same thing with an external hard drive or multiple SD cards. You could also back your data up to the cloud. This is only an option when you get a good internet connection. After moving your photos and videos to your laptop, you can easily sort and organize them and edit them.
• Laptops offer better security and privacy options- If you don’t pack a laptop, you can visit an internet cafe if you need to use a computer during your trip. Some hostels also still have computers for guests to use. The problem is that these computers may not be secure. For example, they could contain keylogging software and steal your login information. They could be infected with various viruses that can steal or destroy your data. Identity theft is a serious concern while using a random computer. The last thing you want is for criminals to access your bank account, email, or social media accounts. When you travel with your own laptop, you can take extra steps to make sure that your connection is secure. For example, you can use a VPN (virtual private network). You can encrypt your data. You can also pick and choose where you connect to the internet. For example instead of logging into your online banking or email on a random computer, you can wait and log in on your own secure computer on a secure network at a public library or airport. This is much safer.
• Laptops offer plenty of software options- On your laptop, you can run powerful programs that are designed for productivity. Smartphones and mobile apps are great and continue to get more powerful. They still can’t compare to full desktop programs in most cases. If you need to edit photos or videos, code, or do a lot of word processing, you’ll be happy you packed your laptop.
• You can work from anywhere- With a laptop, you can get work done in a hostel, hotel, train, bus, airplane, cafe, restaurant, library, or even a city park. These days, wifi is everywhere. The only place I had trouble finding wifi was in parts of Africa. Sometimes I’d have to search for a cafe with working wifi. If you can’t get a wifi connection, you can buy a local sim card with some data and use your phone as a mobile hotspot and tether.
• More efficient- A laptop allows you to get work done on your downtime, even if you don’t have an internet connection. For example, during a long bus ride you could sort photos, draft emails, or write a blog post instead of just sitting there. Once you arrive at your destination you’ll have more free time to explore because you already got some of your work done.
• You have your own computer set up the way you like it- When you pack a laptop, you have all of your files with you. They are exactly where you want them. All of the software you need is already installed. You can run whatever operating system, editing software, or accounting software you like. You don’t have to wait for files to download or install any programs. Everything is ready to go. You can’t get this experience at an internet cafe.
• You can charge your other electronic devices with your laptop battery- You can use your laptop’s large battery to charge your phone, camera, e-reader, headlamp, smartwatch, or any other device that charges through USB. This comes in handy when you’re traveling somewhere where you don’t have access to electricity. You can treat your laptop like a big external battery.
• You don’t have to go to internet cafes- If you don’t travel with a laptop and you find yourself needing to use a computer, you may need to go an internet cafe. This has two drawbacks. First, it costs money. Over the course of a multi-month trip, you could spend a couple of hundred dollars in internet cafes if you go a couple of times per week. You also have to find one. In much of the world, they aren’t as common as they were 10 years ago. If you have your own laptop, you can almost always find free wifi.

Cons of Traveling With a Laptop

• Passing through airport security is a hassle- This is the biggest annoyance to me. At most airports, you’ll have to remove your laptop when you pass through security. During an international flight, you might pass through security 2-3 times. You have to put your laptop in a separate bin. Having to remove your laptop from its case isn’t a big deal but it is kind of annoying. When you’re going to fly, make sure your laptop is easily accessible.
• Laptops are heavy- A standard 15” laptop weighs around 5 pounds (around 2.25kg). A lightweight ultrabook style laptop with a 13” screen weighs around 2.5-3 pounds (around 1.3kg). This is a significant amount of extra weight to carry around in your backpack. Particularly while hiking, walking to hostels, and chasing down buses when you’re running late. The more weight you have to carry around, the less happy you’ll be while traveling from one city to the next. Also, if you’re trying to pack only a carry-on bag, a laptop takes up almost a quarter of your carry-on allowed weight. Most airlines allow 10 kilos or 22 pounds in a carry-on bag. If you’re carrying a laptop, you can’t really consider yourself an ultralight traveler.
• Laptops are bulky- Your laptop, case, charger, and accessories eat up a big chunk of space in your pack. It can be difficult to stay within carry-on size limits if you are the type of traveler who doesn’t like to check a bag. For example, when I travel without a laptop, I can easily fit everything in my 40-liter backpack. When I pack my laptop, I usually use a 60-liter pack. Having a bulky pack makes travel a bit more difficult. You’ll have to check your bag when you fly. You may not be able to take your bag with you on a bus. Carrying a large bag also draws more attention to you while walking around a city. It’s harder to blend in. Large backpacks are also cumbersome.
• You’ll worry about your laptop getting stolen or damaged- Because a laptop is such an expensive and fragile item, you may feel nervous about leaving it in your hotel room or hostel dorm. While taking the bus or train to your next destination, you constantly have to keep an eye on your bag out of fear that someone will rummage through it and take your laptop. In a way, your laptop holds you back and makes you a bit less spontaneous. Traveling with a laptop can also add unnecessary stress to your trip. Even if it’s locked up safely in your hotel, you’ll still worry. When you’re in transit, you’ll worry about your laptop getting bumped, dropped, or crushed under someone else’s luggage. To relieve some of this stress, consider traveling with an old, cheap, or used laptop rather than a brand new high-end Macbook.
• Privacy concerns- These days, there are a handful of countries that can require you to hand over your laptop and your passwords before they allow you to enter the country. They could search through your files, copy the contents of your hard drive, install spyware, and who knows what else. Countries that may request to search your electronic devices include the US, Canada, UK, China, Israel, and probably others. Really, any country could make this request before you enter. Of course, they will want to search your phone or tablet as well. One solution to this is to wipe your device of any sensitive data before traveling then reinstall everything before you arrive. Of course, this is a hassle. If you have sensitive documents on your laptop, you may not want to travel with it.
• Wear and tear on your laptop- While traveling, you may expose your laptop to humidity, extreme temperatures, dirt and dust, and shocks and vibrations. These conditions can cause damage to your laptop or can cause it to fail prematurely. Particularly if it has moving parts such as a disc style hard drive or fans. HDDs can fail if they’re bumped while spinning. Fans can suck contaminants into your laptop which can cause it to overheat. If you travel with your laptop regularly, you’ll probably have to replace it sooner than you would if you only used it at home. Many travelers only get a couple of years out of their laptops.
• Laptops are a target for thieves- A laptop is an expensive item that you have to worry about everywhere you go. If it’s not properly locked up in your hotel room or hostel locker, it could easily get stolen. If a thief accesses your bag in your hostel dorm, on the street, or on a bus or train, your laptop is the first thing they’ll take. I met one traveler who had his laptop stolen right out of a hostel locker. Evidently, another guest saw him using it, waited for him to leave, then broke into the locker to steal the device. There are a couple of ways to reduce the likelihood of theft. I’ll explain how to keep your laptop safe in a later section of this guide.
• You’ll spend more time online- It’s easy to sit down and burn up a whole afternoon on your computer and not really accomplish anything. We’ve all done this in the past. That time could have been spent siteseeing, meeting people, exploring, or actually traveling. You don’t want to waste your precious vacation time on social media. While traveling, I try my best to limit the amount of time I spend on my computer.
• Using a laptop while traveling can be hard on your body- It’s difficult to achieve an ergonomic position while using your laptop while traveling. You won’t have an office chair or desk most of the time. Chances are, you’ll be typing on your laptop while laying in bed. Oftentimes you’ll sit hunched over with your laptop or on your lap. This isn’t the ideal ergonomic position and can lead to issues like carpel tunnel. It can also lead to poor posture and back pain. The solution is to pack a stand, mouse, and maybe even a keyboard. Of course, this takes up more space in your pack and adds more weight. Ergonomics are really only a concern for very heavy users. If you only use your laptop for an hour per day, you don’t need to worry about it. If you’re working full 8 hour days while traveling, you need to be a bit more careful.
• Packing a laptop can be redundant- Most likely, you’re going to bring a smartphone with you whether you pack your laptop or not. These days, phones are powerful enough to do almost everything that a laptop can. You can even do basic video and photo editing on a phone. You can also pack a wireless keyboard and mouse and use your phone like a small desktop. The only drawback to using your phone as your only computer is that the screen is too small for some tasks. The lack of a physical keyboard makes typing long notes or emails kind of tedious.
• You’ll need a VPN- A VPN serves a couple of purposes. First, it helps keep your connections secure by encrypting the data that you send over the internet. It also hides your IP address by sending your data through a series of different servers. This makes your online activity much harder to track. Having a secure connection helps to keep your data safe and helps to prevent you from falling victim to crimes such identity theft. A VPN also allows you to access websites that aren’t available in the country you’re traveling in. For example, Facebook is banned in China. Many travelers get around this ban by using a VPN. The VPN essentially makes it look as if they’re in another country where Facebook isn’t blocked. VPN service costs around $20-$50 per year.

How to Travel With a Laptop

If you decide to pack your laptop, the next step is to think about how you’re going to protect it from damage and theft. A laptop is a fragile and valuable piece of gear. Laptops are easy to damage. They are also a target for thieves.

You’ll also want to take some steps to secure your data and protect your privacy so your personal information doesn’t fall into the wrong hands. Identity theft is a concern while traveling with your laptop.

In this section, I’ll detail the risks of traveling with a laptop and explain how to keep your laptop and your data safe. You can’t eliminate the risk of damage or theft but you can reduce the likelihood by taking a few simple precautions.

How to Protect Your Laptop from Damage While Traveling

Laptops are fragile. They are sensitive to moisture, contamination, and shocks and vibrations. You want to pack your laptop carefully to avoid damage, failure of components, and premature wear and tear.

Humidity can cause internal parts to corrode and fail prematurely. This is a major concern while traveling in wet regions such as the tropics. Laptops don’t last as long when they’re used in humid regions. Obviously, moisture from rain and spills can also damage your laptop. Water and electronics don’t mix. You’ll want to pack your laptop in a way that keeps it dry. Ideally, you’ll store your laptop in a water-resistant or waterproof backpack, sack, or case. You should also store your laptop in a waterproof bag or dry sack for extra protection from the elements.

Dust, dirt, lint, hair, sand, and other contaminants can also damage your laptop. These contaminants can make their way inside of your laptop and clog fans, vents, and heat sinks. This prevents your laptop from cooling properly. Eventually, your laptop can overheat. This can damage the components and cause your laptop to fail. You’ll want to pack your laptop in a way that keeps it clean and protected from contaminants. You’ll also want to avoid using your laptop in dirty environments. If you do end up using your laptop in a dirty environment, you should open it up and clean it out periodically. You can remove dust and dirt with a can of compressed air. Keep in mind that some modern laptops can’t be opened up. Some have no moving parts.

Shocks and vibrations can also damage your laptop. A hard bump could crack the screen. Obviously, dropping your laptop could break it. Excessive vibrations could damage your hard drive if your laptop comes with a spinning-style HDD. You’ll want to pack your laptop so that it has some cushioning to protect it from bumps and vibrations. While traveling, you should always carry your laptop on your person. Never put it in your checked bag. Baggage handlers could throw it around, drop it, and cause damage.

The best way to protect your laptop from moisture, contamination, and shocks is by storing it in a quality laptop backpack or case. I’ll share some suggestions in the following section.

If you’re really worried about damage, you can buy a rugged laptop. These are laptops that are designed to be used in wet and dirty conditions. They are also designed to handle shocks and drops. For most travelers, these are unnecessary but they are an option. The main drawbacks to rugged laptops are that they are expensive and bulky.

How to Protect Your Laptop from Theft While Traveling

Your laptop will be exposed to theft when you travel with it. A hotel employee could enter your room and steal your laptop while you’re out. A criminal could steal your laptop bag while you’re sleeping on a bus or train. If you leave your laptop unattended at a cafe or library, someone could walk up and take it. A fellow guest could steal your laptop out of your backpack in a hostel. A bus company employee could go through your bag while loading the bus and take your laptop. You could also get mugged while walking through a rough part of town.

Opportunities for theft are endless. Every criminal would be happy to steal a laptop. They could easily sell your new Macbook for over $1000 at any pawn shop or used computer store.

The best way to protect your laptop from thieves is to keep it close at all times while traveling. Never leave your laptop unattended. Never store it in the luggage compartment under a bus or in an overhead bin on a train or plane. Always carry your laptop on your lap or by your feet while in transit.

While sleeping on a bus or train, consider tying or wrapping one of your backpack straps around your ankle or wrist. If someone tries to take your bag or go through it, you’ll feel it and hopefully wake up.

For even more security, you can lock the backpack using luggage locks and use a cable lock to secure your laptop backpack to part of the bus or train. some backpacks have built-in locking mechanisms.

While you’re out and about, lock your laptop up. If you’re staying in a hostel or guesthouse, lock it in your locker. If you’re staying in a hotel, store it in the safe, if it will fit. When there is no locker or safe, use a laptop lock to secure your laptop to a piece of furniture.

Alternatively, use luggage locks to lock your laptop in your backpack. Lock your backpack to a piece of furniture with a cable lock.

While working on your laptop in a public space such as a coffee shop, library, or hostel common area, consider using a laptop lock like the one above to secure your laptop to the table or your chair. This will prevent someone from running off with your laptop if have to get up to order a drink or use the restroom.

It can also help to make your laptop look unappealing. Put stickers or duct tape on your laptop to make it look ugly and broken. Carry an old laptop rather than a new model. Use a Windows PC instead of a Mac. Apple products hold their value better so they are more valuable to thieves.

Probably the best way to secure your laptop is to store it in an anti-theft backpack. These offer additional built-in security features such as a slash-proof metal mesh layer. This prevents thieves from cutting through your backpack to get to your laptop. Some models also feature built-in locks. More on this in the next section.

How to Keep Your Personal Information Secure from Cyber Criminals While Traveling

Using a laptop while traveling opens you up to identity theft and fraud. If you connect to an insecure network, criminals could potentially hack into your system to steal your personal information and eventually your money. A few steps you can take to reduce the risk of cybercrime include:

• Use a VPN- This helps you maintain your privacy while you’re online. A VPN makes you anonymous so people can’t see what sites you’re visiting or what you are doing online. This is achieved by sending your data through multiple servers, making you harder to track. This makes it more difficult for a criminal to steal your personal information while you’re connected to a network that might not be secure. They can’t snoop on you and see what you’re doing as easily.
• Make sure all of your passwords are strong- If someone gets their hands on your laptop, you don’t want them to be able to log into your email, online banking, social media, etc. Use long passwords. Particularly for logging into your computer and email. If someone gets accesso to your email, they could access many of your other accounts by resetting your passwords.
• Use a password manager- Password managers remember all of your passwords for you. All you have to remember is the password to your password manager. This allows you to use longer and stronger passwords for your online accounts. You can use passwords that would be impossible for a human to predict or remember. Most password managers can generate incredibly secure passwords for you that are almost impossible to hack.
• Keep your computer clean- Delete personal information from your computer. Never save your passwords in your browser. If there is anything that is potentially illegal in the country you’re traveling to, delete it.
• Set up remote wipe- This allows you to wipe data from your laptop if it gets stolen. You can even remotely wipe the entire OS, rendering the laptop unusable. This would come in handy if your laptop was stolen and unrecoverable.
• Use a privacy screen cover- These prevent people from seeing what’s on your laptop screen. This way, a criminal or nosy person can’t see your username, bank balance, or other private information that may be displayed on your screen while you’re sitting in a cafe.
• Use 2-factor authentication for your important accounts- 2-factor authentication increases security by requiring two different types of identification before you are granted access. This usually means a password and authentication code. For extra security, use an authentication app on your phone such as Authy or Google Authenticator. Avoid using email for your second mode of authentication.
• Log out of all accounts- When you’re done checking your email, bank balance, or social media profile, log out. Make sure your password isn’t saved in the browser. This way, a criminal won’t be able to easily access your accounts if they get their hands on your laptop. It’s a hassle having to log in every time but it’s worth it for the added security.
• Pack a travel laptop- Some travelers buy a laptop specifically for travel. They keep this machine free of personal information. This way, if it’s stolen or hacked the security risk is minimal.

How to Pack Your Laptop For Travel

You need to pack your laptop carefully to protect it from damage and theft. There are two ways to go about packing your laptop for travel.

• Carry your laptop in an anti-theft laptop backpack- An anti-theft backpack offers a number of security features to protect your laptop and keep it safe. This backpack will also double as your day pack and carry-on bag on travel days. This is the most popular, simplest, and most secure option.
• Store your laptop in a case in your main backpack or suitcase – This works well if you only travel with carry on baggage. This method is a little less secure. The main benefit is that it eliminates the need to carry two separate pieces of luggage (a big backpack and a smaller backpack). This cuts weight and bulk significantly. Ultralight travelers prefer this option. If you end up having to check your main bag or store it in a luggage compartment, you’ll want to remove your laptop and take it with you to avoid damage or theft.

Personally, I like to store my laptop in my main backpack and carry a packable day pack. When I need to check my main backpack for a flight or store it under a bus, I move my laptop into my packable day pack and carry it with me. When I’m walking from a bus or train station to a hostel, I put my laptop and day pack inside of my main backpack. This way, I only have 1 backpack to carry.

I pack this way mainly because it saves weight and space. I also prefer this method for aesthetic reasons. Carrying 2 backpacks with one on the front and one on the back looks goofy. It also draws attention. I prefer to blend in a bit more.

You should always pack your laptop in your carry-on. Laptops are allowed in checked bags. The problem is that checked luggage is not treated gently. It gets tossed around, dropped, stacked, and compressed. Your laptop is more likely to get damaged if you check it. To be safe, always pack it in your carry-on.

How to Choose a Laptop Backpack for Travel

The safest way to pack a laptop for travel is to carry it in a backpack that is specifically designed for carrying a laptop. When choosing a laptop backpack, look for one that has a built-in padded sleeve. The sleeve should secure the laptop so it sits against your back while you wear the backpack. A laptop is a heavy item. You want to carry it as close to your body as possible to reduce strain on your shoulders and back.

Ideally, the sleeve should also suspend the laptop. This way, your laptop doesn’t hit the ground when you set the backpack down or if you drop the backpack. A suspended sleeve also helps to protect your laptop from moisture. If something spills inside of your backpack or if you drop your backpack in a puddle, the liquid will pool in the bottom away from your laptop. The backpack itself should also offer some water resistance to protect your laptop in case you get caught in the rain.

Your laptop backpack also needs to be comfortable to wear and easy to carry. Remember, you will be wearing this backpack while walking through airports and bus and train stations. You may wear it while sightseeing if you don’t feel comfortable leaving your laptop in your guesthouse or hostel. This backpack will also be your day pack. Look for a backpack with thick, comfortable straps. A chest or hip strap is also a nice feature. These straps can reduce the load on your shoulders. If you’re traveling to a warm region, you might look for a backpack with good airflow so your back doesn’t sweat too much.

You should also try to choose a laptop backpack that is inconspicuous. You don’t want to stick out and you don’t want people to know you’re carrying a laptop. Avoid colorful or flashy backpacks with fancy features.

Avoid messenger bags and briefcases. They aren’t comfortable or practical for carrying around all day. When carrying these bags, your arms aren’t always free. You have to use one hand to hold the bag in place. They aren’t quite as secure because everyone knows you’re carrying a laptop. If you carry a backpack, nobody knows what’s inside.

Anti Theft Laptop Backpacks for Travel

Ideally, your laptop backpack should also offer some anti-theft features. A few important anti-theft features to look for when choosing a travel backpack include:

• Locking zippers- Some laptop backpacks have built-in zipper locks. Most are designed to be compatible with luggage locks. Locking the zippers prevents thieves from opening your backpack while you’re not looking. This eliminates the risk of getting pickpocketed while traveling.
• Cut resistant fabric- This fabric contains a layer of steel mesh. The steel mesh prevents thieves from cutting through the backpack to access your laptop. A knife or scissors can’t easily cut through the steel-reinforced fabric. This reduces the risk of slash and grab theft. (This is when a thief uses a knife to cut open your backpack while you’re wearing it and steals whatever falls out.)
• Detachable shoulder strap- Some anti-theft laptops allow you to detach one shoulder strap at the bottom, wrap it around a pole or piece of furniture, then lock it back in place. This prevents thieves from grabbing your backpack and running off with it. If your backpack doesn’t have this feature, you could use a cable lock and loop it through one of the straps.
• RFID blocking- This is a special pocket for storing your credit cards and debit cards. It prevents criminals from scanning your cards through the backpack.

You’ll also want to choose a backpack that is designed for your laptop size. For example, if your laptop has a 13” screen, you want to choose a backpack that is designed to accommodate a 13” laptop.

The ideal size for your anti-theft laptop backpack depends on whether you’re going to carry a separate laptop backpack or carry your laptop in your main backpack. For laptop backpacks, I have found that 20-30 liter models are ideal. This size gives you plenty of space for storing a laptop, camera, accessories, and other valuables as well as a change of clothes and some snacks. Remember, you’ll be using this backpack as a carry-on bag and day pack. It needs to be big enough to haul at least a day’s worth of gear. If you’re only traveling for a couple of days, you may even be able to fit everything in a backpack of this size. For ultralight travelers, you may prefer a smaller anti-theft laptop backpack in the 15 liter range.

If you plan to store your laptop in your main backpack, you may want to travel with a large laptop backpack. These are available in 40-65 liter sizes. These offer the same security features as smaller bags and can accommodate all of your travel gear including your clothing.

How to Pick a Good Laptop Case for Travel

As an alternative to packing a dedicated laptop backpack, you simply put your laptop in a case and carry it in your main backpack or suitcase. Remember, this option is a bit less secure.

When selecting a case, look for one that offers shock protection as well as water and dust resistance. This way, if your backpack or suitcase gets thrown around a bit or you get caught in the rain, your laptop will be protected.

If you choose a case that isn’t waterproof, consider storing the case inside of some kind of waterproof bag. A dry sack works well for this. You could also simply store the case in a large plastic bag like a trash bag. Simply roll or twist the top closed. This provides excellent waterproofing. It’s cheap too.

If you’re going to store your laptop in a case in your main luggage, you’ll want to choose a backpack or suitcase with some security features. Ideally, you should be able to lock your backpack with luggage locks. You might also want to carry a cable lock so you can lock your backpack to solid fixtures like a piece of furniture or a pole.

When you have to check your main luggage for a flight or store it under a bus, you’ll want to take your laptop out and keep it with you to avoid theft.

Tips for Flying or Taking the Bus or Train With Your Laptop

Traveling with a laptop is completely normal these days. In fact, I would guess that the majority of travelers pack their laptop. In this section, I’ll share some tips for flying or taking the bus or train with your laptop. We’ll cover luggage allowances, how to store your laptop while in transit, keeping your laptop secure, and more.

Luggage Allowances: Packing a Laptop in a Carry-On Bag

Most airlines allow you to bring one large piece of luggage and one personal item onto the plane with you. Your large carry-on must measure 22″ x 14″ x 9″ or smaller. Your personal item must be smaller yet. Most airlines limit the weight of your carry-on bags to 15-20 lbs. Some weigh your bags and others don’t. Generally, bus and train companies have a slightly larger carry-on luggage allowance than airlines.

Your laptop backpack or case is usually considered a personal item. You can bring this in addition to a larger piece of luggage such as your main backpack or suitcase. If you want to bring more bags, you’ll end up having to pay an extra luggage fee. If your main bag is too large or heavy, you’ll have to check it.

You’ll want to check the luggage allowance before your trip. When you travel with a laptop, you can easily go over. Laptops are fairly heavy. A 15” laptop, charger, case, and a few accessories can easily weigh 4-8lbs. On some airlines, this could be half of your carry-on limit.

If you’re unsure as to whether or not your luggage is overweight, check out my guide to weighing luggage without a scale.

Keeping Your Laptop Safe While In Transit

While you’re in the airport, bus, and train station, always keep a close eye on your laptop. Theft is a risk in these places. Someone cold easily snag your laptop bag while you’re not looking, hop on a bus or train, and disappear forever. Security is also pretty lax in bus and train stations. Oftentimes seedy people hang around these places as well. Theft is much less likely in an airport but is still a risk. Never leave your luggage unattended while in transit.

When passing through airport security, you’ll have to remove your laptop from its case and place it in a bin along with your other electronics, toiletries, shoes, etc. Be sure to keep a close eye on your laptop during this time. It would be easy for a thief to snag your laptop while you’re putting your shoes back on. After passing through security, store your laptop back in your backpack or case.

Security is usually a bit more lax at bus and train stations. Some have an x-ray machine and metal detectors and others don’t. Your laptop should never leave your possession.

You will want to keep an eye on security guards and bus and train company employees. In some parts of the world, these guys aren’t the most honest. If you check your laptop bag, it could get stolen.

You should always carry your laptop onto the plane, bus, or train with you rather than checking it. If the plane is completely full and there isn’t room for your carry-on bag, take your laptop out, carry it on with you, and check your bag. Never check your laptop in your luggage on a flight or place it in the luggage storage compartment in a bus or train.

There are several reasons that you shouldn’t check your laptop. First, it’s less likely to get damaged because you will be the only one handling it. Your laptop could easily get damaged by a careless baggage handler if you carry it in your checked luggage. These guys toss and stack luggage. They don’t care. Your screen could easily get broken this way. The temperature in airplane baggage holds often falls below freezing. This could potentially cause damage to your laptop. Your laptop is also less likely to get stolen when you carry it with you because you can keep an eye on it at all times. When you carry your laptop as a carry-on, it never leaves your possession.

When you’re on the plane, you can usually store your backpack either under the seat in front of you. It’s also safe to store your laptop bag in the overhead bin if you prefer. I avoid this because there is a risk that another passenger will jam their luggage into the compartment and crush my laptop. Storing your laptop under the seat also makes it easier to access if you want to get some work done while traveling. When booking tickets, try to avoid booking a seat with a bulkhead in front of it. These seats don’t have under seat storage.

While traveling on a train or bus, you can store your laptop under the seat in front of you, between your legs, or on your lap. It’s best not to place your laptop in the overhead storage space. It’s too easy for someone to grab it and get off the bus or train while you’re not looking.

If you plan to work on your laptop during your flight, try to book a window seat. This way, you can control the shade so you don’t have to deal with glare. Fewer passengers can see your screen as well when you’re seated near the window.

Tips For Traveling With Your Laptop

The biggest risks of traveling with a laptop include theft, damage, data loss, and identity theft. In this section, I’ll outline a few additional tips to help keep you and your laptop safe.

1. Back Up All Your Data

If your laptop gets lost, stolen, or broken, you’ll lose all your data. The only way to keep this data safe is to plan ahead and make regular backups while you travel.

There are a number of ways to back up your data. The easiest option is to back everything up to the cloud. You can back up your entire computer or choose which files and folders are backed up. Every time you connect your laptop to wifi, your files automatically start uploading.

I use Google Drive to back up select files. You could also pay for a backup service such as IDrive or Backblaze.

You will need a decent and unlimited internet connection in order to make cloud backups quickly and affordably. In some parts of the world, the internet infrastructure is still poor. For example, while traveling in Africa, I only found a fast enough connection to back up my travel photos and videos once every couple of weeks. Uploading multiple gigabytes of video from a cafe in a Ugandan village can take hours.

If you’re unable to back up to the cloud, you’ll want to make local backups. Pack an external hard drive or thumb drive and back your files up once in a while. This is particularly important if you’re traveling somewhere without internet or with poor internet. If your laptop gets damaged or stolen, you still have your files.

Be sure to store your backup drive separately from your laptop. You don’t want to lose both at the same time. If you’re traveling long-term or if your backup drive fills up, you might consider shipping it home and buying a second backup hard drive. Before you leave home, you might also want to take a full backup to store somewhere safe.

Backups are extremely important while traveling. For most travelers, the data is more valuable than the laptop. Imagine losing all of your travel photos and videos because you were careless with backups. That could ruin your whole trip.

2. Don’t Travel With a Laptop if You Can’t Face Losing It

There is a very real chance that your laptop will get lost, destroyed, or stolen when you travel with it. You could leave it on a bus. You could drop it and break it. If you’re unlucky, you could get robbed while traveling . If you can’t accept this risk, you probably shouldn’t travel with a laptop.

There are a couple of alternative options for those who can’t risk losing their laptop. One popular option is to buy a second laptop for travel only. This could be an entry-level model, a used laptop, or an old laptop. If it gets broken or stolen, you won’t care as much. For example, you could buy a basic Chromebook or a decent used laptop for less than $250. Of course, this isn’t an option for those traveling long term, those who work while they travel, or those who need lots of computing power.

Another good option is to buy insurance for your laptop. This can bring you peace of mind. If your laptop gets stolen or destroyed, you can file a claim and buy a new laptop with the payout. Some travel insurance policies automatically cover your laptop. You can also buy insurance specifically for your laptop. If you buy insurance, you’ll want to be sure to keep your laptop receipt so you can prove the value of the laptop if you have to file a claim.

If your main concern is damaging your laptop, you could consider buying a ruggedized model. These feature waterproofing and shock resistance. These laptops can survive spills and drops. This extra protection comes at a cost. Ruggedized laptops are expensive, heavy, and bulky. Of course, the rugged design does nothing to protect your laptop from theft or loss.

3. Pack Your Laptop in a Quality Laptop Backpack

As outlined above, a quality laptop backpack can protect your laptop from damage and theft. Padding can protect your laptop from bumps and vibrations. Water-resistant fabric can protect your laptop from moisture. Anti-theft features such as locking zippers and slash-proof fabric can protect your laptop from pickpockets, thieves, and robbers.

Laptop backpacks are also more comfortable to wear than regular day packs. They often feature extra padding and support straps. These are necessary to support the extra weight of a heavy laptop and accessories. You’ll be happy you have these features when you’re walking a mile from the train station to your hotel with your laptop in your pack.

4. Use a Surge Protector

In many parts of the world, the electrical infrastructure is unreliable. Power surges can happen when the power flow is interrupted briefly, when there is a short in the system, or when there is a sudden increase in voltage. A power surge can fry your laptop and destroy it. This is a rare event but it can happen.

To prevent this, you’ll want to use a surge protector. This is a device that you plug between your laptop and the wall. It protects your laptop from power surges.

5. Store Your Laptop in a Waterproof Bag

Most laptop backpacks and cases are water-resistant, not waterproof. Heavy rain or a spill could easily soak through your pack or case and get your laptop wet.

To prevent water damage, be sure to store your laptop in some kind of waterproof case. This could be a simple as a plastic trash bag with the top rolled up tight. You could also store your laptop in a dry sack. You can also purchase waterproof laptop sleeves.

If you’re still unsure about whether or not you need to travel with your laptop, there are a few alternative options to consider. These are great options for those who are not working from the road. By leaving your laptop at home, you cut weight from your pack, save space, and eliminate the risk of damaging or losing your laptop.

These days, smartphones are powerful enough to do pretty much everything a laptop can. Getting work done is just a bit more time-consuming and tedious due to the smaller screen and lack of a physical keyboard.

If all you need a computer for is to use social media, send emails, watch videos, research your destinations, book hotels and flights, and keep in contact with friends and family, a smartphone is all you really need. For trips shorter than a month, I usually just bring my phone and don’t bother with a laptop.

Mobile apps are so good these days that the experience is almost better than using a laptop for performing basic tasks. All of the major travel companies including Airbnb, Kayak, Booking.com, TripAdvisor, Hostelworld, airlines, bus companies, etc. all have mobile-optimized websites and apps that work great on your phone. There is no need for a laptop to make bookings. Social media apps work better on a smartphone than they do on a laptop.

It’s also possible to increase the productivity of your phone by packing a few accessories. For example, you can pack a small Bluetooth keyboard, mouse, and phone stand and use your phone like a small desktop. I’ve written and posted many blog posts this way. It is also possible to do basic photo and video editing on a modern smartphone. There are some surprisingly powerful apps these days.

Packing a smartphone only cuts at least 3 lbs from your luggage. It saves space too. Your phone fits in your pocket. You also don’t have to worry about your laptop getting damaged or stolen.

Both iPhones and Android phones both work fine for travel. Personally, I’m an android guy. The operating system offers a bit more functionality. iOS has some limitations. Android phones are also less of a target for thieves. They’re cheaper as well. That said, most travelers seem to prefer iPhones.

If you want a bigger screen but don’t want to carry a laptop, a tablet makes for a great alternative. Functionally, a tablet works about the same as a smartphone. The operating system and apps are all the same. A tablet might allow for a bit more productivity than a phone due to the bigger screen.

The main benefit of using a tablet instead of a laptop is that tablets are significantly lighter and more compact than laptops. For example, a base model iPad weighs just over 1lb. It takes up less space than a book. Tablets are also cheaper than laptops. They are a bit less powerful. You’re not going to do any serious gaming or editing on a tablet.

Tablets are excellent for those who mostly use their device for entertainment purposes. The screen is big enough to comfortably watch your favorite movies and TV shows. Your favorite entertainment apps such as Netflix, YouTube, and Kindle all work great on tablets. Battery life is usually pretty good as well.

With the right accessories, a tablet can also be used to get some actual work done. For example, if you pair your tablet with a wireless keyboard and mouse, you can type just as well as with a laptop. The WordPress app works great for bloggers. You can also use your tablet to do basic photo and video editing.

High-end tablets such as the iPad Pro and Microsoft Surface Pro are getting to a point that they are almost laptop replacements. They can do almost everything that a laptop can. For trips shorter than 3 months, a tablet is sufficient for most travelers.

Chromebooks and Netbooks

These days, a number of companies offer 11 inch laptops. A wide range of Chromebooks are available in this small size. 11 inch Windows laptops are also available. In the past, these were called netbooks. That term has kind of fallen out of style. Small laptops are sometimes called ultraportables these days.

These small laptops are kind of a cross between a tablet and a full-sized laptop. They offer the same form factor as a laptop but take up much less space in your pack due to the smaller screen size. They also have a full-sized keyboard and built-in touchpad, just like a laptop. In addition, they offer excellent battery life.

Most small laptops these days run Chrome OS. This is a lightweight, fast, and simple operating system developed by Google. It works great for those who do most of their work in the browser. Small Windows laptops are also available. These are ideal for those who need a full operating system.

Prices for these small laptops start at around $200. These offer a great alternative to a full-sized laptop for someone who doesn’t need a lot of computing power. They are also cheap enough that it doesn’t hurt so bad if they get stolen or broken. They are also pretty good for productivity. These days, you can accomplish a lot with just a web browser and some basic apps.

The drawback to Chromebooks and small Windows laptops is that they are generally not very powerful. They come with slow processors and insufficient RAM. They also lack storage space. Higher-end options are available but you’d probably be better off with a full-sized laptop at that price point.

How to Chose a Laptop for Travel

The ideal travel laptop depends on what you use your laptop for, how much computing power you need, your budget, and your personal preference. In this section, I’ll outline a few important considerations when choosing a laptop to travel with including screen size, operating system, repairability, durability, cost, size and weight, software options, and more.

• Screen Size- For most travelers, a 13” screen is ideal. If you need to do extensive photo or video editing or programming, you might be better off with a 15” laptop. If you just use your computer for social media and web browsing, you could get away with an 11” laptop or tablet and keyboard. 17” laptops are too bulky and heavy for travel. They won’t fit in most backpacks.
• Laptop size and weight- For travel, you want to choose the smallest and lightest laptop you can get away with. Remember, you’re going to be carrying it around with you much of the time. Ideally, it should weigh less than 3 lbs. It should also have a narrow profile so it doesn’t take up too much space in your pack. You don’t want to walk around with a 7 pound brick of a laptop strapped to your back.
• Screen resolution- For most travelers, a 1080p screen is fine. If you do lots of visual work such as photo or video editing or gaming, you may prefer a 2k or 4k screen.
• Specs (processor, RAM, storage space, graphics)- At a minimum, your laptop should have 8GB of RAM, 256GB SSD drive, and a mid-range processor such as an Intel i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 series. If you plan to game or edit photos and videos on your laptop, you might want to choose a laptop with a dedicated graphics card. If you only need your laptop for word processing, web browsing, and social media, you could get away with less power.
• Operating system- The best operating system depends on what you need to do with your laptop and what software you need to run. You can choose from Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, and Linux. For most travelers, Windows or macOS will be best. Both are pretty much equivalent these days. Which one you choose depends on personal preference. There are some programs that can run on one but not the other. If you only need to use your computer for social media and entertainment, you might consider ChromeOS. If you’re technically advanced, you might prefer Linux.
• Repairability- Travel is hard on laptops. You could drop your pack and break your screen. A component could overheat and fail. Your battery could die. Ideally, you want to pack a laptop with standard-sized parts that can be easily replaced. In general, Windows laptops are more repairable than Macbooks because they are more modular use more standard-sized parts. If you need a new hard drive, RAM, SSD, screen, fan, battery, etc. you can usually find one. Almost every city has a computer repair shop that can work on Windows laptops. Macbooks are a bit less repairable. The RAM and SSD are often soldered in place and the battery is often glued in. There are more proprietary parts as well. For most repairs, you’ll have to go to an Apple store. Many countries don’t have an Apple store so you’ll have to wait until you get home to repair your computer.
• Durability and longevity- Your travel laptop is going to take a beating. It will get tossed around. It will be exposed to humidity and heat. You want to choose a laptop that can handle the abuse. Look for a laptop with as few of moving parts as possible. Choose a model with a solid-state drive instead of a spinning hard drive. Consider choosing a fanless laptop. These are less likely to suck in dirt and overheat. Also, consider choosing a laptop that is upgradeable. After a few years, you might find that you need more RAM or hard drive space. It’s nice to be able to upgrade.
• Battery life- While traveling, you won’t always have an outlet nearby. Particularly while you’re on a bus, train, or plane. For travel, try to choose a laptop with at least 8 hours of battery life. Generally, Apple laptops offer more battery life than Windows PCs because they run a bit more efficiently.
• Cost- Because there is a chance that your laptop will get stolen or destroyed while you’re traveling, you’ll want to spend as little as possible on it. For basic web browsing, entertainment, and social media, you can get away with a $250-$500 computer. You can save money by buying a low-end or used model. Chromebooks start at around $250. You can buy nice used business laptops on eBay for less than $500. Personally, I wouldn’t want to travel with a laptop that’s worth more than around $1000. I certainly wouldn’t feel safe walking around with a $3000 maxed-out Macbook Pro. Of course, if you need a high-end laptop for work, the cost doesn’t matter as much. The laptop is a necessary business expense.
• Compatibility- Some software and accessories aren’t cross-compatible between Windows laptops, Macbooks, Chromebooks, and Linux laptops. While traveling, you’re more likely to find Windows laptop parts and accessories. There are also more software options for Windows computers. These days, compatibility problems are less common. You could run into issues if you’re using older hardware.
• Mac Vs Windows PC for travel- This choice comes down to personal preference. Macbooks make excellent travel laptops due to the long battery life, compact size, excellent keyboard, beautiful display, and premium build quality. macOS is a stable, reliable, and user-friendly operating system. Personally, I think Windows PCs make better travel laptops because they are cheaper, easier to repair, upgradeable, and offer better compatibility with software and accessories.

Accessories to Improve Productivity When Traveling With a Laptop

If you decide to travel with a laptop, you may also want to pack a few small accessories to make life a bit easier. Accessories you might want to pack include:

• Outlet adapters- Different regions use different types of outlets. Make sure you have the appropriate adapter for the region you plan to visit. For example, if you’re traveling to Europe from North America, You’ll need to pack a European-style outlet adapter. For world travel, a universal adapter is a good choice.
• Wireless mouse- Using a mouse is more ergonomic than using a touchpad. It reduces the risk of developing carpal tunnel. It can also make you more productive.
• Wireless keyboard- If your laptop has a poorly designed keyboard, you may find it more comfortable to type on a wireless keyboard. You can improve ergonomics by typing on a wireless keyboard as well.
• Laptop lock- These can lock your laptop to a piece of furniture or another solid object so a criminal can’t easily pick up your laptop and run away with it. Most laptops have a built-in Kensington security slot.
• Headphones- Don’t be that annoying guy that plays music on the bus, train, or in the hostel dorm room. Use headphones instead. Headphones can also come in handy when you’re trying to work in a noisy environment. You can play some white noise to drown out the sound so you can concentrate.
• Privacy screen or privacy filter- This is a thin piece of plastic that you place over your laptop screen. It prevents people from looking at your screen from the side while you’re working. You must view the screen head on to see what’s displayed. This helps to protect your private information.
• External hard drive or thumb drive- You need to be able to back up your documents, photos, and videos, even when you don’t have internet access to upload them to the cloud. This is particularly important if you shoot travel videos because video takes up so much space. Store your hard drive and thumb drive separately from your laptop. That way, if your laptop gets stolen or destroyed you still have a backup.
• Stylus- This is nice to have if your device has a touch screen. Styluses are great for those who work in graphic design. They allow you to touch your device’s screen much more accurately than you can with your finger. Some people just prefer using a stylus.
• Laptop stand- This can help you achieve a more ergonomic position so you’re not bending your neck and back in an uncomfortable and unnatural position. A stand adds weight and bulk but is worth it for those who need to work long hours while traveling.
• Cloud storage- This is really a must if you plan to take photos and videos while traveling. Even if you back everything up to multiple devices, there is still a chance that everything gets lost, stolen, or destroyed while you’re traveling. The only solution is to periodically back everything up to the cloud. I like Google Drive.
• Laptop case or backpack- As outlined above, you need a quality case or backpack to protect your laptop from moisture, dirt, shocks, and theft.
• Surge protector- This prevents your laptop from getting fried in the event of a power surge. This is particularly important if you’re traveling somewhere with frequent power outages.
• Spare batteries- Some laptops have swappable batteries. This allows you to work longer when you don’t have access to an electrical outlet. You may also need spare batteries for your wireless mouse and keyboard if you use them.
• Extension cord- Most laptops come with a 2 meter cord. Sometimes this isn’t long enough. An extension cord allows you to plug your laptop in when the outlet is on the other side of the room.

Travel Insurance

When traveling with a laptop, you’ll want to insure it. After all, it’s probably the most expensive individual piece of gear that you’re carrying. Having insurance gives you peace of mind. If your laptop gets stolen or broken, you can recover from the loss more easily if you were insured.

Before buying travel insurance, make sure the policy you’re buying covers your laptop in the event of theft or damage. Some travel insurance companies are better than others.

Before leaving for your trip, scan your laptop’s receipt and save it on your phone, to the cloud, and email it to yourself. You should also take a photo of your laptop and save it online. This way, you have proof to send to the insurance company if you need to use your travel insurance.

If you don’t want to buy travel insurance or you already have a policy that doesn’t cover your laptop, you can buy an insurance policy specifically for your laptop or other electronic device.

One thing to remember is that having travel insurance doesn’t automatically mean your laptop will be replaced if it gets lost or stolen. There is a very real chance that the insurance company will deny your claim. Particularly if you were traveling with a very high-end computer. After all, they are a business and will try to get out of paying for whatever they can. You’ll have a hard time getting $2500 out of an insurance company for a stolen laptop. Collecting insurance money on a $400 laptop may be easier.

My Experience

Before starting this blog, I never carried a laptop while traveling. My phone was good enough for all of my internet needs. When I needed to use a computer, I would go to an internet cafe. Back when hostels offered common computers, I just used those.

I traveled for multiple months at a time and never really missed my laptop. It was kind of freeing not having to worry about having such an expensive and fragile electronic device in my bag. Not having to carry around the extra weight was nice as well. Without a laptop, I could usually pack a carry-on bag only.

These days, I pretty much need to carry a laptop to keep this blog going. I type thousands of words per day and edit photos and videos frequently. I need a decent keyboard and a relatively powerful computer to achieve that. For these reasons, I always travel with a laptop.

My biggest complaint when it comes to traveling with a laptop is the extra weight and bulk that I have to carry around all the time. I like packing light and can’t really do that with 5 pounds worth of laptop and accessories in my pack. I also worry about my laptop getting stolen, even though I take as many precautions as possible to keep it secure. There is no way to eliminate the risk of getting robbed.

My current laptop is too heavy for travel. I carry an 8 year old 15″ Asus laptop that weighs over 4 lbs. When the time comes to upgrade, I will look for a lighter laptop. Hopefully something less than 3 lbs.

Final Thoughts

When I first started traveling, nobody carried a laptop or even a smartphone. Every hostel had several computers that you could use for free. Internet cafes were common. These days, pretty much every traveler carries a phone and laptop. Times change.

If you don’t absolutely need your laptop to work during your trip, you should probably leave it at home. If you’re traveling for less than about 1 month, consider just using your phone. For those traveling for 1-3 months, consider a tablet or Chromebook instead of a full-sized laptop.

For long-term travel, you’ll probably want to pack your laptop, even if you don’t need it for work. Over the months, you’ll get a lot of use out of it for entertainment purposes and for researching your next destination. Of course, if you’re on a business trip or if you work while you travel, you need a laptop.

Whether or not you need a laptop also depends on what kind of internet user you are. These days, some people use mobile internet only. They don’t own or use a desktop or laptop at all. If that’s the case, you’ll get by just fine without packing a laptop. A tablet or phone will do.

Do you travel with a laptop? Share your experience in the comments below!

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Zachary Friedman is an accomplished travel writer and professional blogger. Since 2011, he has traveled to 66 countries and 6 continents. He founded ‘Where The Road Forks’ in 2017 to provide readers with information and insights based on his travel and outdoor recreation experience and expertise. Zachary is also an avid cyclist and hiker. Living as a digital nomad, Zachary balances his professional life with his passions for hiking, camping, cycling, and worldwide exploration. For a deeper dive into his journey and background, visit the About page. For inquiries and collaborations, please reach out through the Contact page. You can also follow him on Facebook.

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The Best Travel Laptop for Remote Workers and Business Travelers

By Emily Price

When it come to travel these days (and especially business travel ), a laptop is an essential addition to your carry-on . But the best travel laptop isn’t always the same device you'd use while at the office. And sure, many laptops might tout that they’re great for taking on the go, but we've learned that not every option is created equal.

To identify the best travel laptop on the market, we spent the past few months working, watching movies, editing photos , and gaming on several different models before narrowing down to our six favorites. In choosing our favorites, we took a few key factors into account:

Weight: When you’re carrying a laptop around with you all day, be it to a coffee shop or in transit to your destination, an extra pound can make a dramatic difference. Almost all of the options on our list weigh in at less than two and a half pounds; some are even lighter.

Battery life: You want a laptop that’s going to be able to make it from point A to point B on a single charge, not one that’s going to run out of battery power halfway through your cross-country flight.

Performance: A light laptop won’t do you any good if you can’t get all your work done on it. We looked for laptops that packed a punch in a tiny package.

Below, the six best travel laptops to buy now, whether you're looking for something that can double as a tablet for easy vacation reading , the lightest option out there, or a laptop that functions just as well as a WFH back-up for when you're stuck at home.

All products featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Best overall: MacBook Air 2020

The MacBook Air has been the gold standard for travelers for a while now, due to its ability to handle complex tasks without added bulk. This year’s Air replaces Apple’s problematic butterfly keyboard with a new Magic Keyboard, and offers faster graphics and double the storage capacity of previous versions. You can purchase models with up to 2TB of internal SD storage, enough to hold over 70 hours of 1080p video. You can also watch up to 12 hours of video on the device on a single charge.

Touch ID makes unlocking the laptop a snap, and the edge-to-edge Retina display offers a resolution of 2560 x 1600, making everything from web pages to videos crisp and easy to read or see. The computer weighs in at 2.8 pounds, which, while once considered light for Macs, is a bit heavier than some of the other options out there. That said, if you use a Mac already, transitioning to the Air will be a relatively seamless experience and that extra pound will likely only come into play if you have to carry the laptop around for long periods of time.

Pros: This full-powered computer with a great keyboard is easy for Mac users to transition to.

Cons: While great for web-based work, the computer gets overloaded if you need to have multiple software programs or a large volume of browser tabs open at once.

Buy now: $1,000, amazon.com

Best for work and entertainment: Lenovo Yoga C940

Lenovo’s Yoga C940 is our favorite for both work and play, thanks to its 4K display and powerful Intel Core i9 that can handle heavy photo and video editing software, on top of basics like word processing.

The keyboard side easily folds back to put the device in tablet mode, perfect for watching a movie on your tray table, and the C940 is available with storage up to 2TB, so you can queue up viewing materials for your entire trip without running out of space. The Yoga’s Dolby Atmos speaker system also makes it a solid choice for watching movies; however, the laptop weighs in at 4.41 pounds, which is almost double the weight of other options on our list.

Pros: The device's pen fits into its side, making it easy to carry around without losing it.

Cons: Travelers having to carry their gear for extended periods of time will notice the laptop’s 4.41-pound weight.

By Melissa Kravitz Hoeffner

By Madison Flager

By Melissa Liebling-Goldberg

By Paris Wilson

Buy now: From $1,050, lenovo.com

Best combination laptop and tablet: LG Gram 2-in-1

LG’s 2-in-1 does double duty as both a laptop and a tablet. The 2.3-pound device folds easily in half, turning the keyboard into a stand for when you want to binge watch or video chat. It's battery life was also among the best we’ve seen, with the computer able to last up to 21 hours on a single charge.

Like some of the other Windows options we tested, the Gram 2-in-1 offers smart pen support. The laptop ships with a AAA-powered LG Stylus Pen that you can use to take handwritten notes on the screen, or mark up drawings and documents. Fingerprint recognition makes signing in as easy as touching the computer’s power button, and the laptop comes with two USB slots, in addition to the USB-C port used for power, so you can connect a few devices to it without using dongles.

Pros: The ability to fold it in half, and multiple USB ports, make this ultraportable device especially convenient.

Cons: The included pen doesn’t have a way to attach to the laptop, so you have to carry it separately. (We recommend a tech organizer like Bellroy's so you don't lose it.)

Buy now: $1,599, amazon.com

Best thin laptop: Samsung Galaxy Book S

Samsung’s Galaxy Book S is both thin and lightweight, at just .46 inches thick and 2.12 heavy, making it a great choice for travelers whose carry-on space is at a premium.

The laptop has a built-in SIM card slot, so you can also use it to connect to mobile networks through your phone plan. With the fingerprint sensor built into the power button, signing in is a breeze (and you can feel good about the added security). Since the device is so thin, it doesn’t offer any full-sized USB ports, just two USB-C ports, which means you’ll need to pack a dongle to attach any additional devices like keyboards or cameras.

The laptop isn’t as high-powered as some of the other options, so it's not the best choice for running a lot of programs at once—but those who mainly work with documents and spreadsheets on the go will have all the power they need.

Pros: The built-in SIM slot allowing access mobile networks on-the-go, and the laptop’s thin design, make it easy to use on the move.

Cons: No built-in traditional USB ports means that using the laptop with other devices is challenging, and while great for things like web browsing and word processing, the laptop lags when trying to handle more complex tasks.

Buy now: From $1,000, samsung.com

Best lightweight laptop: Microsoft Surface Pro X

Technically, this is actually a tablet that works like a laptop—but if you’re looking for something ultra-light, you’re not going to find anything as compact as Microsoft’s 1.7-pound Surface Pro X.

The tablet is 7.33mm thick (just over a quarter of an inch), making it thinner than many cell phones, even with the removable keyboard attached. (Bonus: There's a stylus tucked inside the keyboard.)

The device’s battery lasts up to 13 hours, ensuring you’ll have enough juice to make it through the day. If that battery does wane on long journeys, you can get it back to 80 percent in just an hour thanks to a quick charging feature. LTE support also allows you to stay connected even when WiFi isn’t available, helpful for road trips where you need to stay connected from the passenger seat. One downside: While it’s able to handle things like word processing, email, and spreadsheets with ease, it is a tablet after all. If you need to run more complex software, like for video editing, you might need to opt for a more high-powered machine.

Pros: Fast charging means you’ll always have power when you need it, and the ultra thin profile makes it easy to carry around. (Plus, we love a stylus that stores inside the keyboard like this one.)

Cons: The Surface Pro X tablet can’t run many applications you might use on your regular computer.

Buy now: From $1,000, microsoft.com

Best for those who need big displays: Microsoft Surface Laptop 3

While most people think of the tablet version when they hear “Surface,” Microsoft also makes a pretty solid laptop by the same name. The touchscreen laptop comes in both 13.5” and 15” varieties, the larger being the best for those who need a little extra screen to work with. The laptop’s battery can last up to 11.5 hours on a single charge, and, like the Surface Pro X, it can charge to roughly 80 percent after just an hour of being plugged in, so you could potentially get enough juice to make it through your long-haul flight just by charging up at the gate.

The Smart Pen support allows you to precisely draw on the screen or mark up documents. However, that extra screen space is reflected in the device’s weight: The 13.5” version of the laptop weighs in at 2.84 pounds, while the larger 15” is 3.40 pounds. (Both, it's worth noting, weigh less than the Lenovo Yoga, the heaviest on our list.)

Pros: The 15” version is a powerful machine with a ton of screen in a small package; and while that brilliant screen drains the battery, fast charging ensures you’ll have power when you need it.

Cons: The larger version can be heavy to carry around for longer periods of time, and the laptop is overall bulkier than other options on our list.

Packing List

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8 Tips for Traveling and Flying With Your Laptop

Keep it with you, avoid metal detectors, and lock it up

• Digital Cameras & Photography

Laptop tips to help ensure you keep your laptop secure and avoid problems dealing with Security and/or Customs. You are the first line of defense for your laptop when traveling and it’s important to keep these laptop tips in mind to save time and prevent aggravation.

Carry Your Laptop or Pack It Away?

 quavondo/Getty Images

Keep it with you at all times. It goes with you on the flight as carry-on baggage. Do not store it in the overhead storage area; it could get knocked around by someone else. Absolutely do not put your laptop in with your other baggage. Baggage handlers aren’t expecting expensive electronics to be in the stored baggage areas and you can’t expect it to be treated like a fragile object.

Visual Inspection (Hand checking)

You may be required to remove your laptop from its carrying case and turn it on to demonstrate to Security/Customs that the laptop is exactly that – a functioning computer. A good way to save time if you anticipate this happening is to turn on your laptop earlier and leave it in suspend mode.

This is a good reason to ensure that your laptop battery is kept charged. When your laptop is examined in this manner it is often called “hand checking”.

Should You X-Ray Your Laptop?

Letting your laptop go through the x-ray equipment will not harm your computer. The magnetic field which is generated is not enough to cause harm to your hard drive or cause damage to your data.

Metal detectors, on the other hand, can cause damage and request politely that Security/Customs do not use the metal detector but do a hand check instead.

Carry Proper Documents

It’s very important when returning to your country of origin, that you have the correct Customs documentation or original receipts. These show that the laptop and other mobile gear is what you left the country with.

The onus is on you to prove that you already own the equipment and did not purchase it while traveling. You will have to pay duty and taxes on items purchased while traveling if you can’t provide proof of ownership.

Keep a Low Profile

Don’t draw attention to yourself while waiting for your flight or while in-flight. While waiting for your flight and using your laptop, pick an area where you will have some privacy and don’t have to worry about someone looking over your shoulder.

If it’s too crowded, don’t use your laptop, and waiting for a time when it’s less crowded. If someone is curious about your laptop, be brief but polite and pack it in. They could be looking for a laptop to steal.

Don't Let Your Laptop Out of Sight

If you let your laptop get out of sight even for a few minutes, it could be gone. If you have to use the facilities in an airport, take your laptop bag with you. The only exception is if you are traveling with someone you know and trust, but remind them to not leave your laptop unattended.

While going through the Security/Customs screening keep a close view of your laptop if you are required to set it down for any reason.

Fact or Fiction - the Airport Laptop Scam

While there have been no recorded incidents of this type of theft, it’s still wise to keep this scenario in mind. Two people will get in line ahead of you at the security area. You have placed your laptop on the conveyor belt and it has moved ahead.

The first person goes through with no problems but the second has many difficulties. While you and Security/Customs are distracted, the first takes off with your laptop. Always wait until the last moment to put your laptop on the conveyor belt.

Keep Your Laptop Case Locked

In order to prevent someone from helping themselves to your other mobile gear and documents, keep your laptop bag locked. If you have it sitting on the floor by your feet it is possible for someone to get access to it unless it has been locked.

Another reason for keeping your laptop case locked is so that someone is not able to put anything “extra” in your laptop case. An open case could be a tempting location for someone to drop an item into, then later take the case to get the item.

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The Best Laptops for Travel

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Travelers have specific requirements when buying laptops, especially if they are on the go for extended periods. You could be a backpacker on a three-month trip, a digital nomad who doesn’t know what going home is, or a two-week vacationer relaxing by the pool. Whatever type of traveler you are, you will need something slim and lightweight so you can easily transport it. Battery life, RAM, and storage will also be crucial for some, especially traveling professionals.

Here are the best laptops for travel available today.

MacBook Air M2 13-inch

Microsoft surface go 3, hp spectre x360 16-inch 2-in-1, macbook pro m2, microsoft surface pro 9, dell xps 13 9310, lenovo yoga 9i 2-in-1, asus zenbook 14x laptop, our top travel laptop picks for 2023.

Convenience and Power for All Travelers

The MacBook Air with M2 chip is a powerful beast with excellent features for travelers. It has a stunning display and a substantial battery life to back it up. It also boasts a superior webcam to some other MacBooks and is highly portable thanks to its slight weight and thin design.  

• MagSafe charger
• 1080p webcam
• Gorgeous and bright display
• Slim and lightweight
• Excellent battery life
• No ProMotion 120Hz refresh rate

MacBooks offer travelers performance and portability, and the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro with M2 chips are both excellent yet similar choices. However, there are subtle differences between the two that might help you decide.

Both laptops offer up to 24GB of unified memory, up to 2TB of SSD storage, an 8-core CPU, and a 16-core neural engine. They also offer a 10-core GPU, but with the MacBook Air M2, you can settle for an 8-core GPU at a lower price.

Display-wise, the MacBook Air M2 has a slightly larger 13.6-inch screen, but the laptop weighs a little less than the Pro M2 and is even slimmer. The MacBook Air also has a Liquid Retina display, which is slightly better than the Pro’s Retina display, offering a wider color gamut and better reflection handling. Peak brightness is identical at 500 nits, so watching movies after a hard day's sightseeing is delightful. However, it doesn’t feature Apple’s ProMotion technology for a 120Hz refresh rate.

The MacBook Air M2 has a better 1080p webcam, a plus for travelers and nomads attending online meetings, taking classes, or calling home. Another positive is the reintroduction of the popular MagSafe charger, which effectively frees up one of the Thunderbolt 4 ports that the Pro must use when charging. However, the battery life on the MacBook Air M2 is a bit worse, although still outstanding at 18 hours.

A Budget-Friendly Option for Poolside Emailing

If you don't need high-end power and are looking for something more affordable, the Microsoft Surface Go 3 is an excellent pocket-friendly choice. It's ideal for travelers thanks to its ultra-portable size and build. While you need to purchase a separate keyboard to turn it into a complete laptop, you do get a decent battery life and a display worthy of your attention to enjoy videos.

• Touchscreen
• Fanless design
• Compact and lightweight
• Bright, vibrant display
• Battery drains quickly when watching videos
• Doesn't perform well with demanding workloads

For vacationers that don’t use CPU-intensive apps or play graphic-intensive games, there are more budget-friendly options for you to consider. One of those is the Microsoft Surface Go 3. It’s lightweight, small, and slips into any luggage with ease, handy for any excursions or day trips you make.

However, you should note that this is the tablet only. To turn it into a complete laptop, you will need to purchase a separate compatible Surface Go keyboard . You can also buy other accessories, such as the Surface Pen and Mobile Mouse .

With 8GB of RAM, you can stream movies, browse the internet, send messages, and do other daily tasks with ease. Catching up on documents while sipping pina coladas by the pool is also a breeze. But it’s the webcam and battery life that are especially pleasing. Making calls home or even taking online classes look great. And, with its 11-hour battery life, digital nomads can spend a full day teaching or taking meetings without worry.

On the downside, traveling business professionals may find the screen too small for multitasking. But it is bright, vibrant, detailed, and good enough to watch movies and shows while on the go. The battery does drain more quickly when playing video, lasting for around four hours, so you'll want to keep the charger handy.

A Large 2-in-1 Perfect for Nomads and Backpackers

Digital nomads will love the HP Spectre x360 thanks to its 2-in-1 design, durable build, and excellent webcam with features to make you look your best in Zoom meetings and video conferences. The display is also stunning, making it a good choice for watching your shows and editing your travel snaps and videos. It also has a comfortable stylus pen included for use on the 10-point multitouch screen.  

• Excellent webcam features
• Good audio system
• 10-11 hour battery life with regular usage
• HDMI 2.1, 1x USB-A, and 2x T4 ports
• Fast charging
• On the heavy side at 4.4lbs

The HP Spectre x360 is a 16-inch 2-in-1 laptop that checks most boxes for digital nomads and other long-term travelers. While it may be on the heavier side at 4.4lbs, tough Corning Gorilla Glass protects the 3K IPS multitouch display. This glass also features an excellent anti-reflective coating that preserves the stunning display in bright conditions.

Watching and editing content is a joy, and the 360-degree hinge allows you to find the optimum comfort for the various tasks you might perform as a digital nomad. You can place the device in tent mode to enjoy the stunning display when watching movies or get involved in editing, note-taking, and sketching in tablet mode with the included HP Tilt Pen.

It is powered by a 12th Gen Intel i7-12700H processor, 16GB of RAM, and 2TB SSD storage. It’s powerful enough for most nomads but may not perform as well for those needing to use CPU-intensive apps simultaneously. Additionally, while it is a good choice for most casual gaming, it is not not the best choice for serious gamers.

The 5MP webcam is excellent, and anyone attending video conferences and Zoom meetings will be delighted with the experience. It has features like auto-ISO sensitivity, white balance and brightness sliders, autofocus, a GlamCam panel for lighting correction, and Beauty Mode that will help you look your most dapper on those important work calls.

Mighty Battery Performance

The 13-inch MacBook Pro with the M2 chip is a powerful machine for travelers. It’s slim, lightweight, and has a beautiful display, perfect for editing snaps and videos. It also has an incredible battery performance that ensures you can take the laptop anywhere you like to catch up on work while traveling.

• Bright and detailed display
• Fast and reliable performance
• Slimline and lightweight
• Premium battery performance
• Lacks ports
• Average webcam

In terms of portability and performance, it doesn’t get much better than the MacBook Pro fitted with Apple’s M2 chip. The 13.3-inch display is perfect for travel. And, with it being just a little over half an inch thick, it can slot into your carry-on luggage or backpack quite easily while being barely noticeable at only 3lbs.

The M2 chip has an 8‑core CPU, a 10‑core GPU, and a 16‑core Neural Engine, and you can choose from 8,16, or 24GB of unified memory and up to 2TB of SSD storage. The gorgeous Retina display offers up to 500 nits of peak brightness, so viewing any content is a joy. It’s also one of the best laptops for editing video . The few that are better are heavier, bulkier, and for more expensive machines, including the MacBook Pro with M2 Pro and M2 Max chips.

The biggest selling point for travelers is the incredible battery life of up to 20 hours. Digital nomads can work at the beach, and you won’t need to be on the lookout for wall outlets at the cafe.

Unfortunately, the FaceTime camera remains at 720p, which is a strange choice considering the MacBook Air M2 has an upgraded 1080p webcam. It may be a deciding factor if you are an on-the-go educator or just want to look your sharpest during calls back home. Another drawback is that it only has two Thunderbolt 4 ports. Considering you will need one when charging, this may not be enough, and you might want to consider a lightweight docking station.

An Excellent Choice for Professional Video On the Go

The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is a reliable portable laptop that can be used as a proper tablet when not attached to the removable keyboard. You can also buy a stylus to make the most of the touchscreen. The display is stunning and fun for entertainment purposes. The battery life gets you through an entire day, and it’s lightweight and easily transportable. The excellent webcam is a bonus and helps you look your best during video calls and meetings.

• Robust and lightweight design
• Excellent webcam
• 5G connectivity
• Dual far-field microphones
• 19-hour battery life
• No headphone jack
• Keyboard and stylus sold separately

The Surface Pro 9 sports the excellent Microsoft SQ3 chip. This chip offers outstanding energy efficiency and battery life and is an ideal choice for travelers. It may not be powerful enough for traveling creatives running highly-demanding apps but is a great choice for everyone else. This model has 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, but there are plenty of other options if you need more power and space.

If video conferencing is essential to your day-to-day, this laptop won’t fail you. It has features that make Zoom meetings, online classes, and webinars look sharp and professional. The gaze correction feature will make your eyes appear to be looking at the camera at all times. Background noise elimination and central framing are other valuable features. On top of looking great, you will also sound great with the dual far-field microphones.

The screen is bright enough for watching movies while indoors. But, at 450 nits peak brightness, viewing by the pool on a sunny day might be tricky in direct sunlight. However, it has a 2K, edge-to-edge, 120Hz display with a 100 percent sRGB color gamut and good contrast.

A Powerful Choice With a Stunning OLED Display

The Dell XPS 13 9310 is a powerful laptop that travelers can enjoy. With its slim, durable construction, and light weight, you can easily slip it into a bag and transport it. However, the powerful processor and stunning display are what make this laptop such a good value. Creatives will enjoy editing their photos and videos, while the OLED display offers superb contrast and color for media watching after long, hot days at the beach or sightseeing.

• Robust and portable
• Stunning OLED display
• Powerful performance
• Good for gaming
• 720p webcam
• OLED display drains the battery quicker

The Dell XPS 13 9310 is small, lightweight, ultra-portable, and very powerful. It features an 11th Generation Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD that can handle most tasks you throw at it with little trouble. Running multiple programs together is also a breeze, and the XPS 13 can take on casual gaming and even some demanding titles.

With its 13.4-inch, 3.5K OLED screen, it’s an excellent choice for traveling creatives and is perfect for editing those vacation snaps and videos. The stunning display is also large enough for enjoying movies and shows after a long day. And while the 400-nit peak brightness isn’t as high as some of its rivals, it has an excellent anti-reflective coating that enhances the display in bright conditions. In dimmer environments, the deep blacks and rich colors of the OLED technology ensure any media content looks simply stunning.

It’s also very portable at just over a half-inch thick and weighing just under 2.8lbs. And, while it doesn’t match some of its competition, the battery life is also decent, and a full charge should see you get a whole day away from any wall outlet. Additionally, the touchscreen is a bonus and a good option for scribbling down notes if you are keeping a journal or planning your day.

A 4K OLED Display With Good Audio for Immersive Entertainment

The Lenovo Yoga 9i is the ideal 2-in-1 laptop for taking in media content when you’re on your travels. Long bus journeys or days when you have to wait out poor weather are all the easier on a 4K OLED display with a surprisingly good audio system. It also boasts a powerful processor with ample RAM and storage, making it a good choice for digital nomads.  

• 2-in-1 design
• Stylus included
• Stunning display with great speakers
• Average battery life

The Lenovo Yoga 9i is another slim and lightweight choice for travelers. And, thanks to the 360-degree hinge, you can fold this device seamlessly into tent, tablet, or laptop modes, making it another ideal 2-in-1 option that any intrepid adventurer would love to have. The keyboard is also comfortable with snappy keys, and the included stylus pen is a bonus.

On the Yoga 9i, watching videos and TV shows is an excellent experience because of the 4K resolution on a stunning 14-inch OLED display. Images are natural and vibrant, and the contrast is excellent. This superb display is rounded off with 400 nits of peak brightness.

A Bowers and Wilkins speaker system with a Dolby Atmos soundbar rotates and directs the audio straight to your waiting ears. Additionally, the rare presence of subwoofers means thumping low frequencies in bass-heavy songs and shows.

On top of being an excellent choice for watching media content, it’s also a top performer when it comes to multitasking and handling demanding applications. The Core i7-1360P is a powerful processor, and it also boasts 16GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD. One downfall, however, is the battery life. You’ll get around 10 hours with regular usage, but with anything more intensive, you might need to find a wall outlet.

Enhanced Productivity While On the Go

The ASUS Zenbook 14X is another lightweight option perfect for travelers. With its stunning 2.8K OLED display, media content looks fantastic. Its powerful specs and handy ScreenPad make it a good choice for multitasking, too. Having a primary display and a secondary display to assign less critical applications to is extremely useful for travelers and nomads looking to enhance their productivity on the go.

• 1080p ScreenPad
• Beautiful display with thin bezels
• Good number of ports
• Multitasking is easy
• Middling webcam

If you are searching for a travel laptop with a gorgeous display, you might want to check out the ASUS Zenbook 14X. This laptop has a stunning 14-inch, 2.8K OLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate pumping out a peak brightness of 550 nits. On top of that, it has an extensive color gamut. With a DCI-P3 and an sRGB of 100 percent, and an RGB of 99 percent, you can be sure that colors are vivid while blacks are deep and dark. It’s an excellent laptop for watching movies and editing travel photos and videos.

This is a powerful and lightweight laptop that you can transport with ease. It boasts an Intel Core i7-1260P CPU, NVIDIA GeForce MX550 graphics, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB SSD storage. Streaming, surfing, and creating content is seamless, and gamers will also get a decent experience. It doubles as an excellent entertainment source in your downtime or when flying. However, It has below-par battery life, so you might need to be near a power source.

One unique feature this laptop has is its ScreenPad. It’s larger than most trackpads, but it's also a secondary screen. Some may see this as a gimmick, but others may find genuine uses for it. Anyone multitasking will find it particularly helpful. These tasks can include working on the main display while you chat with colleagues or enter data on the ScreenPad.

Another thing to consider, especially for digital nomads, is the average 720p webcam. It works well enough in a brightly lit room. But travelers joining online meetings may want to find something sharper.

Considerations Before Buying a Laptop for Travel

The first thing you should consider is the type of traveler you are. Long-term backpackers and digital nomads will have different requirements than short-term vacationers. For example, they will likely need a good amount of storage for all their photos and videos, and they'll probably seek a model on which to smoothly edit them, too.

Nomads will also need features specific to their profession. Online educators and business professionals need a good webcam. In fact, they might even look for extra video features for web conferencing and Zoom meetings. The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is a good choice for this. However, the HP Spectre also has excellent video features as well as ticking many other boxes that digital nomads require, such as good performance, fantastic battery life, touchscreen capabilities, and a beautiful display.

On the other end, short-term vacationers may be looking for a decent, affordable machine for watching media content, emailing, and browsing. The Microsoft Surface Go 3 is an excellent shout, though you’ll need to buy a separate keyboard to make it a complete 2-in-1.

MacBooks generally cover all the needs of the traveler. They are lightweight and slim, easily transportable, have powerful performance, and their displays are excellent. They usually have decent audio, too, which saves you from carrying around a portable speaker. The MacBook Air M2 13-inch is a tremendous overall pick for travelers, and the MacBook Pro M2 is a good option, too, albeit at a higher price.

Apple M2 Convenience and Power for All Travelers

• Buying Tips

Since 2000, I have had one faithful companion on many overseas trips: my laptop computer. While this companionship has been challenging, I have found my computer indispensable for most of my travels, especially on long-term trips. As a travel writer and researcher, my laptop is necessary to work on stories and meet research deadlines. But bringing your computer along can also be a liability. Most travelers who bring a laptop on a trip depend on it for a living, so you should ask yourself how urgently you need your computer abroad. Ask yourself realistically if you will have time to use your laptop. Review your travel itinerary and assess the likelihood of having enough time to sit down and finish work. Last year, on a trip to India, a friend brought his laptop along to work on some grant applications, but he found his itinerary was so tight that he rarely had time to work. As a result, in retrospect, he couldn't fully enjoy the trip as he should have. He always felt the urge to work on his laptop, to be connected to his work and others, even while crossing the surreal and majestic Thar Desert of Rajasthan in a jeep. Nevertheless, as with smartphones, laptop users make their own choices as to how to balance direct experience and online or digitally connected time.

There are common threats laptop computers face when taken overseas: power surges, theft, climate factors, damage from wear and tear, etc. Unless you plan on using your laptop frequently and spend hours working on your projects, you may be better off leaving it at home. Consider bringing a few critical files on an external USB storage device, such as a cheap small flash memory stick(s), and try to work using secure WiFi. Tablets are another option since they are now not expensive to replace, are more portable, and need not be hooked up to a power supply so frequently. Of course, the powerful new models of smartphones are bigger now, and you can accomplish much blogging and social media with them. Still, you need access to WiFi, or the roaming or international charges can be substantial.

Preparing to Take Your Laptop

So you have decided to travel with your laptop or not at all. The next step is to figure out how to prepare yourself and your computer for the challenges that await you overseas. If you plan to access the internet with your laptop, you need to ensure that you have the latest security updates installed and a firewall. Both will help to prevent unwanted intrusions from outside computers, including ever-more-sophisticated adware and spyware.

Here are some possible strategies to keep your mind at ease while traveling:

• Make backup copies of all your essential files , and delete everything unnecessary and sensitive information you do not need overseas. You can save important files to external USB drives, many of which now store 32 gigabytes or more. Keep your backup USB drives in sturdy containers separate from your computer and different locations. Often you will carry digital copies of your passport and visa in case of loss, so it is essential to include a copy in a small money belt, for example.
• Encrypt all the files on your laptop computer and your USB drives , so they become unreadable for anyone other than the user with the correct password. There is plenty of information on the various ways to do so on the web, some quite simple.
• Back up your files to a free secure online data storage service , like Google Drive. Microsoft OneDrive, Amazon, and others all provide such options, often for free and minimal cost per year, for many gigabytes of storage space. Note that services that offer 2-step encryption give even more security for peace of mind. Wired has a good article on further measures to take to back up to the cloud with maximum security .
• Back up your files to low-cost cloud-based solutions such as Crashplan, Carbonite, or your favorite when you are at locations with WiFi.
• Leave your important files at home and retrieve them through remote access by connecting to your home computer via your home IP address. All you need to do is configure your home computer to allow remote access and set up a username and password to access it from anywhere in the world. Check your computer's manual and help function to find out how to connect to your computer remotely. The primary disadvantage to this approach is that your home computer must always be up and running, and you need someone at home to check the status. Remote access does leave your computer open to sophisticated hacks, so some opt not to go to this course and use the "cloud" instead.
• Bring a backup of the operating system via USB stick or CD , and backups of the necessary software for your travels.
• Bring a USB stick or CD from which you can repair or start up your computer , if you have hard disk problems. Most anti-virus companies now offer disk repair and file backup software, often to their cloud. These programs can perform scheduled hard disk checks and back up vital file information if you need to restore your hard disk.
• Instead of a portable printer, bring a mobile, external USB storage device , save the files you want to print, and then take it to a print shop or internet café for printing. A friend brought a small USB drive to Argentina, which he wore around his neck for ready access. An external USB drive is also great for backing up important files you are working on or storing encrypted passwords.

Power and Connectivity

Although you can get power adapters for airplanes, you often need a power outlet in economy class. So unless you travel in business or first class, taking advantage of your airline adapter won't be easy. The excellent Seatguru.com website provides diagrams of the fleets of many airlines marking the rows and seats with power outlets for laptops, includes information on the availability of WiFi access, and offers many other resources. If you plan on using your computer for an extended time during your flight, you should bring a second battery or even charged "brick" with enough power to charge your laptop and change your laptop's power settings to extend battery life. That way, you won't have to depend on getting a seat or an airline with a power outlet available.

The power grid is often unreliable in many developing countries, and a surge protector can save both your power adapter and your computer in case of a power surge. If you plan to send to sign on to the internet via WiFi or even a modem, your surge protection should include a phone jack. Many new laptops no longer have built-in modems, so you may need to bring an external one to be safe, though WiFi access is now becoming commonplace worldwide.

Unlike other electrical appliances, laptops don't require an electrical transformer to work overseas. Most laptop power adapters can convert voltage from 110-240 to power your computer, which is very practical for traveling. All you need is a plug adapter to accommodate the electrical plug used at your destination. To be sure, read the labels on your power adapter, which will tell you the input voltage range of your unit.

With unreliable power supplies in many remote areas and developing countries, bringing an extra battery is an excellent way to ensure you can work the necessary hours. Keep in mind that older batteries can suddenly lose charge, and you don't want to be stranded abroad without a working battery. Many travelers use downtime while waiting for a train or flight by working on their laptops, so ensure your batteries are in good working condition.

Although dial-up connections via modem are no longer standard for home or office use, it is still good to be prepared during an international trip to use a phone line for internet access in an emergency if you have no readily available broadband or WiFi connection. You may find fewer WiFi hotspots in some locations worldwide except at airports and major hotels. However, this is rapidly changing due to an upsurge in expectations due to generational demand. But if connectivity is critical for you, and you are staying at hotels with a telephone in your room but no WiFi there or nearby, consider a local dial-up service during your travels. Many internet service providers overseas have low-cost options that allow for prepaid dial-up access to the internet for a certain amount of hours per month. But such a need a fortunately now a huge exception rather than the rule. But such a need a fortunately now a huge exception rather than the rule.

Keeping your Laptop Safe and Alive

Bringing a laptop lock can help secure your computer in your hotel room and may deter theft, but it is not guaranteed. Hide your laptop creatively when not in your room so it is not immediately noticeable. I have had little trouble with hotel theft on my travels in over 40 countries, but that does not mean it has not happened to someone you know at some point.

WiFi access is a great innovation that has made connected traveling very easy. However, there are certain security risks since public WiFi networks are open to anyone. You never know who is trying to spy on your internet activities, and I recommend not accessing bank accounts or transmitting vital information while linked to an open WiFi network at hotels, businesses, airports, or coffee shops unless you have VPN access via software on your laptop. For anyone but incredibly remote workers, or those conducting financial transactions while traveling, VPN is a must in these days of hackers and potential censorship.

While it is common for people in North America and Europe to work on their laptops in public spaces such as cafés, this is much less the case in some other countries overseas. In many developing countries, a laptop computer is a sign of wealth that exposes you to theft. The less openly you carry your laptop around, the better. For the most part, I have limited myself to working on my laptop computer in my hotel room or at a friend's house. I also usually put my laptop case in a backpack in public so it is not immediately noticeable as a computer. I have found this helpful at bus and railway stations, where theft can be common in less wealthy countries.

Hard drives can be damaged when a computer falls or experiences heavy vibration or knocks. There are many laptops today (Apple, Hewlett Packard, to mention a few) that include motion sensor drop protection, a technology that senses when your computer suddenly changes its position and then locks the read/write head of the hard drive so it won't be damaged during a drop or sudden movement. Such protection is a nice feature if you are often out and about with your computer.

I always thought that computers are immune to climate change. I was wrong. The high humidity in the Brazilian Amazon accelerated the corrosion of the ribbon cable contacts of my laptop keyboard. I slowly lost the function of more and more keys until I had to use an external keyboard. I also wanted to keep my computer protected and out of sight while traveling, and I realized too late that my laptop case's dark and humid environment promoted mold growth. After I opened my laptop after a week, the keyboard and screen were green with mold, and my hard drive no longer worked.

If you travel abroad for a long time and have regular work on your laptop, you should find out if your computer manufacturer sells computers in the country where you are traveling. Getting replacement parts or repairing your laptop is much easier. As a Macintosh user, I could not fix my hard drive in the Amazon or buy a replacement since Apple computers are uncommon in Brazil. The nearest repair shop was in São Paulo, a few thousand miles away.

Other Considerations

Of course, streaming services are often the best bet for entertainment if you have WiFi access. Some people even bring along devices such as AppleTV and have the hardware to access scores of streaming services linked to their cable provider back home if they have cable.

Check out our Staying Connected While Abroad resources for more information about staying connected. If you prefer not to lug along your laptop when traveling but wish to stay connected via the internet, see my article on Using Internet Cafés Abroad (where available) for some practical inside tips.

Volker Poelzl is a Living Abroad Contributing Editor for TransitionsAbroad.com. He takes his laptop computer with him on his travels around the world.

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Table of Contents

How to choose the best laptop for travel

Top travel laptop recommendations, safety and security.

The importance of portability and weight

Durability and build quality, connectivity and mixed-use features, entry-level travel laptop options, victus by hp gaming laptop (15z-fb100): best entry-level travel laptop.

• Processor: AMD Ryzen™ 5 7535HS (Base)
• Display: 15.6" diagonal, FHD (1,920 x 1,080) (Base)
• Graphics: NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 2050 Laptop GPU (Base)
• Memory: Up to 16GB DDR5-4800 SDRAM
• Storage: Up to 1TB PCIe® NVMe™ TLC M.2 SSD
• Weight: 5.06 lbs
• Dimensions: 14.09 x 10.04 x 0.93"
• Battery recharge time: approximately 50% in 30 minutes

Mid-range travel laptop options

Hp envy laptop (17t-cw000): best mid-range travel laptop.

• Processor: Intel® Core™ i7-13700H (Base)
• Display: 17.3" diagonal FHD (1,920 x 1,080) (Base)
• Graphics: Intel Iris® Xe Graphics (Base)
• Memory: Up to 32GB DDR4-3200 MHz RAM
• Storage: 1TB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD
• Weight: 5.5 lbs
• Dimensions: 15.59 x 10.18 x 0.77"

High-end travel laptop options

Hp spectre x360 2-in-1 laptop (14-ef2047nr): best high-end travel laptop.

• Processor: Intel Core i7-1355U (Standard)
• Display: 13.5" diagonal WUXGA+ (1,920 x 1,280) (Standard)
• Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics (Standard)
• Memory: 16GB LPDDR4x-4266 MHz RAM
• Storage: 1TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe TLC M.2 SSD
• Weight: 3.01 lbs
• Dimensions: 11.73 x 8.68 x 0.67"
• Battery recharge time: approximately 50% in 45 minutes

Bonus: HP Spectre Foldable (17-cs0097nr) 3-in-1 Laptop: Best new laptop for travel

• 12th Generation Intel Core i7 processor
• Intel Iris Xe Graphics
• 16GB memory and 1TB SSD storage
• 17" diagonal 2.5K touch display
• Switch easily between laptop, extended screen, tablet, or desktop modes
• Includes HP Rechargeable MPP2.0 Tilt Pen
• AI Privacy Alert blurs screen when someone is detected behind user
• Walk away screen lock and wake on approach

Important security features on HP travel laptops

Tips for keeping your data safe with public wifi, about the author.

Dwight Pavlovic is a contributing writer for HP Tech Takes. Dwight is a music, gaming, and technology writer based out of West Virginia.

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How To Travel With Your Gaming Pc On Plane. Ultimate Guide To Packing Your Gaming Computer For Air Travel

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I love to travel, but I also love my gaming PC. It’s not always easy to bring it with me on trips, especially when flying. But after years of trial and error, I’ve learned how to pack my gaming computer for air travel without any damage or issues at security checkpoints.

In this ultimate guide, I’m going to share my tips and tricks for packing a gaming PC for plane travel. From understanding TSA guidelines to choosing the right packing materials and preparing your computer for transport, I’ll cover everything you need to know.

So if you’re like me and can’t bear the thought of leaving your beloved gaming rig behind on your next trip, read on – freedom awaits!

Table of Contents

Understand TSA Guidelines for Traveling with Electronic Devices

Before hitting the skies with your beloved electronic devices, it’s crucial to get acquainted with TSA rules and regulations. This is especially important if you plan on traveling with a gaming PC.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has strict guidelines for bringing electronic devices onto planes, so it’s essential to know what you can and cannot do. One of the most important things to remember when packing your gaming PC is that it must be placed in its own bin during security screening. You should also remove your laptop from its bag or case before putting it through the X-ray machine.

Additionally, you’ll need to remove any other electronics larger than a cell phone from your carry-on bag and place them in separate bins. It’s worth noting that TSA agents may ask you to turn on your computer during security screening. If they’re unable to confirm that the device is a real computer and not an explosive device, they may not allow it on the plane.

To avoid any issues, make sure your computer is fully charged before arriving at the airport. Now that you understand TSA guidelines for traveling with electronic devices, let’s move on to choosing the right packing materials for your gaming PC.

Choose the Right Packing Materials

The right packing materials are essential for ensuring your precious cargo arrives unscathed, but did you know that according to a recent survey, over 80% of items damaged during air travel were due to improper packaging?

When it comes to traveling with your gaming PC, selecting the right materials is crucial. Your computer will need protection from the jostling and vibrations of air travel, as well as from any potential impacts or bumps.

First and foremost, invest in a high-quality hard-shell case. This will provide much-needed protection against bumps and scratches. Foam inserts can also be added for extra cushioning. Be sure to measure your computer before purchasing a case to ensure it fits properly.

Additionally, consider adding bubble wrap or anti-static bags around individual components within the case for further protection. Another important packing material is zip ties or twist ties. These can help keep cables organized and prevent them from getting tangled or disconnected during transit.

Labeling each cable with tape or markers can also be helpful when reassembling your PC post-travel. With the proper packing materials in place, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your gaming PC is well-protected during air travel.

As important as it is to select the right packing materials, preparing your PC for travel is equally crucial. In order to prevent damage during transit, certain components should be removed and packed separately. Stay tuned for our next section on how to prepare your gaming PC for air travel!

Prepare Your PC for Travel

Get ready to ensure your beloved gaming rig arrives at its destination safe and sound with these essential tips for prepping it for takeoff. Before packing your PC, you’ve got to make sure that all the important data’s backed up and saved in a secure location. The last thing you want’s to lose critical files during transit.

Also, remove any peripherals or accessories from the computer such as keyboards, mice, headphones, etc.

Next, power down your PC and unplug everything including the power cable. It’s important to let your computer cool down before packing it because heat can cause damage during air travel.

Once cooled down, open up the case and ensure that all components are securely fastened in place. Use zip ties or twist ties to prevent any loose cables from moving around during transit.

• Wrap each component individually with anti-static bubble wrap or foam padding.
• Place all components inside the case and secure them using zip ties or twist ties.
• Put the case inside a sturdy cardboard box that’s big enough to hold it comfortably.
• Seal the box with strong packing tape and label it as fragile.

By following these steps, you can protect your gaming PC from any potential damage during air travel. Now that your rig’s safely packed away, it’s time to label your packing materials. This’ll help airport staff handle your luggage with care and avoid any mishandling of fragile items like gaming PCs.

Label Your Packing Materials

When traveling with my gaming PC, I always label my packing materials to ensure they’re handled properly.

I use fragile stickers to indicate that the contents inside are delicate and need extra care during transport.

Additionally, I include my contact information on the outside of the box in case it gets lost or damaged in transit.

By taking these precautions, I can have peace of mind knowing that my expensive equipment is being handled with care and can be easily traced if something goes wrong.

Use Fragile Stickers

As you carefully place delicate stickers labeled ‘fragile’ on the corners of your precious cargo, you can almost feel the weight of responsibility lift off your shoulders knowing that airline staff will take extra care with your valuable item. These stickers serve as a warning to all handlers that this package requires special attention and must be handled with utmost care.

It’s important to note, however, that simply placing these fragile stickers does not guarantee that your gaming PC will arrive at its destination unscathed. To further ensure the safety of your gaming PC during air travel, it’s recommended to use additional packing materials such as foam padding or bubble wrap. This will provide an extra layer of protection against any bumps or jostles during transportation. Remember, the more secure and stable your computer is in its packaging, the less likely it is to sustain damage.

With these precautions in mind, you can rest assured that your gaming PC will make it safely through air travel and into your hands at its final destination. Now that you’ve taken measures to protect your gaming PC during air travel by using fragile stickers and additional padding materials, it’s time to think about including contact information on the packaging.

Include Contact Information

Don’t forget to add your contact information on the packaging of your beloved gaming system, as it’ll provide a safety net in case anything goes wrong during its journey.

It’s essential to include your name, phone number, and email address clearly visible on the outside of the box or bag. This way, if your luggage gets lost or damaged during transit, airport staff can reach out to you immediately.

Additionally, consider including an itinerary that outlines where you’re coming from and where you’re going. This information will help airline officials track down any misplaced bags more efficiently.

By taking these extra precautions, you’re not only protecting yourself but also making it easier for others to assist you if necessary.

With your contact information and itinerary in place, it’s time to check with your airline before heading off on your adventure!

Check with Your Airline

Before taking off, make sure to double-check with the airline to ensure a smooth journey for your precious gaming rig. Each airline may have different rules and regulations regarding what is allowed in carry-on and checked baggage.

Some airlines may allow you to bring your gaming PC as a carry-on item, while others may require it to be checked in. It’s important to know these rules beforehand so that you can pack accordingly and avoid any last-minute surprises at the airport.

When checking with your airline, ask about their policies on lithium-ion batteries, which are commonly found in gaming laptops and other portable devices. Some airlines limit the number of batteries that can be brought onboard or require them to be placed in specific packaging. You should also inquire about any size or weight restrictions on carry-on luggage as well as any fees associated with bringing additional items onboard.

Remember that it’s always better to err on the side of caution when traveling with expensive electronics like your gaming PC. If you’re unsure about any aspect of packing or transporting your computer, don’t hesitate to reach out to the airline for guidance or advice.

With some careful planning and preparation, you can ensure that your prized possession arrives at its destination safely and securely.

Now that you’ve confirmed the requirements for bringing your gaming PC aboard a plane, it’s time to start packing! In the next section, we’ll go over some tips for safely securing all of your components and peripherals before takeoff.

Pack Your Gaming PC

Get ready to pack up your rig and take it on the go with these helpful tips for safely transporting your gaming setup. Packing your gaming PC is crucial to ensure that it arrives at its destination unscathed.

The first step is to remove all external components, such as the keyboard, mouse, and cables. Then, secure any loose parts inside the case by using foam or bubble wrap.

Next, cover your monitor in a protective layer of cloth or bubble wrap before placing it into a padded bag or box. Make sure that the padding is thick enough to absorb any shock during transit. For added protection, you can also use cardboard inserts between layers of padding.

Finally, place your PC tower in a specialized travel case designed for computer equipment. These cases are typically made with high-density foam and hard outer shells that protect against impact and damage from other luggage. Remember to label your equipment carefully so that airport staff know how to handle your gear properly.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to pack up your gaming setup with confidence knowing that it will arrive safely at its destination. Now let’s move on to the next step: transporting your gaming PC without any mishaps along the way!

Transport Your Gaming PC

Now it’s time to hit the road with your precious gaming rig, but buckle up because things could get bumpy! When transporting your gaming PC, it’s important to keep in mind that it’s not just a regular computer. It requires special care and attention during the journey to ensure that everything arrives in one piece.

First and foremost, make sure to pack your gaming PC securely in a sturdy case or box. This will protect it from any potential damage while being transported. Additionally, you should remove any loose components such as graphics cards or hard drives and pack them separately. This will prevent them from getting jostled around during transit and potentially causing damage to other parts of the computer.

When traveling with your gaming PC on a plane, be sure to carry it with you as a carry-on item rather than checking it in as luggage. This way you can keep an eye on it at all times and ensure that no harm comes its way. And remember, always check with your airline beforehand regarding their policies on carrying electronic devices on board.

It’s important to take extra precautions when traveling with your gaming PC to avoid any mishaps along the way.

In the next section, we’ll go over how to unpack your gaming PC once you’ve arrived at your destination so you can get back to doing what you love – playing games!

Unpack Your Gaming PC

It’s finally time to take out your beloved gaming rig and set it up for some serious gaming action after a long journey. But before you do that, make sure you unpack your PC with extreme caution. You don’t want to damage any of the components during the process.

Firstly, remove all the cables from your PC, including power supply cable, monitor cable, keyboard, mouse and any other peripherals attached to your computer. Once done, take out the graphics card if it isn’t secured in place by a locking mechanism. If there’s no locking mechanism available on your graphics card, then remove it as well.

Next step is to open up the case of your PC carefully and inspect all components for any signs of damage or dislodging during transit. Reattach any loose connections that you find and ensure everything looks good before closing up the case again.

Finally, plug in all cables back into their respective slots and turn on power to test if everything works fine or not.

By following these simple steps, you can successfully unpack your gaming PC after air travel without causing any unnecessary damage. Make sure to take extra care while handling delicate parts like graphics cards and processors as they’re prone to breaking easily if handled roughly. With this guide in mind, go ahead and enjoy some epic gaming sessions with your trusted machine!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any specific airlines that allow gaming pcs to be carried on board.

I’ve done a lot of research on this, and unfortunately, there aren’t any specific airlines that allow gaming PCs to be carried on board.

However, many airlines do allow passengers to bring their personal electronic devices as carry-on items. So, as long as your gaming PC fits within the airline’s size and weight restrictions for carry-on luggage, you should be able to bring it with you on the plane.

Just make sure to double-check with the airline before your flight to avoid any surprises at the airport.

Can you pack additional peripherals like gaming mice and keyboards along with your gaming PC?

When packing for air travel, it’s important to know what you can and cannot bring with you. As a gamer, bringing your peripheral devices like gaming mice and keyboards along with your gaming PC may be necessary.

The good news is that the TSA allows these items in carry-on luggage, so you won’t have to worry about checking them in and risking damage or loss. In fact, according to a recent survey by the Entertainment Software Association (ESA), 65% of gamers prefer bringing their own peripherals when playing games away from home.

So rest assured knowing that you can pack all your essential gaming gear for your next trip without any hassle!

Is it necessary to remove the graphics card before packing the gaming PC?

When it comes to packing a gaming PC for air travel, one of the most common questions is whether or not you need to remove the graphics card. As someone who’s traveled with my gaming PC multiple times, I can tell you that it really depends on the type of graphics card you have and how secure it is in your case.

If your graphics card is particularly large or loose in its slot, it’s probably a good idea to remove it before packing your computer. However, if your graphics card is securely fastened and doesn’t move around too much when you shake your case, then you may be able to leave it in place.

Ultimately, the best thing you can do is assess the situation carefully and make a decision based on what will keep your PC safe during transit.

How can you ensure your gaming PC is not damaged during the security screening process?

When it comes to traveling with a gaming PC, one of the biggest concerns is how to ensure that the computer doesn’t get damaged during the security screening process.

From my experience, there are a few things you can do to minimize the risk of damage. First and foremost, be sure to pack your PC in a sturdy case that can withstand some rough handling. Additionally, make sure all cables and accessories are securely packed away so they don’t get tangled or damaged in transit.

Finally, prepare for security screening by removing any liquids or gels from your carry-on bag and separating your laptop from other electronics in its own bin. By taking these precautions, you can help ensure that your gaming PC arrives at its destination safe and sound.

What should you do if your gaming PC is damaged during air travel?

If your gaming PC is damaged during air travel, it can be a heart-wrenching experience. I remember feeling like my world was ending when I opened my carry-on bag to find my computer in pieces.

It’s important to stay calm and assess the damage before panicking. If possible, take pictures of the damage and report it immediately to the airline or airport staff. Depending on the severity of the damage, you may be able to file a claim for compensation.

Remember to always pack your computer carefully and follow all TSA guidelines to minimize the risk of damage during transit. Despite our best efforts, accidents can still happen, but don’t let that deter you from exploring new destinations with your beloved gaming setup!

Well folks, I hope this guide on traveling with your gaming PC has been helpful. As a veteran gamer who has flown countless times with my trusty computer in tow, I’ve learned a thing or two about how to make the process as smooth as possible.

Of course, there are always those TSA agents who seem to think that a graphics card is some kind of explosive device. And let’s not even get started on the joy of trying to fit your giant PC tower into an overhead bin.

But fear not! With the right materials and preparation, you can show those airline security folks that your gaming rig is nothing to be feared.

So go forth, fellow gamers, and travel with confidence. Just remember: no matter how much you love your PC, it probably won’t appreciate being tossed around by baggage handlers like a hot potato. So pack carefully and treat it with care.

Happy travels!

Meet Scott Robinson, a seasoned traveler with 28 countries under his belt, has immersed himself in diverse cultures around the world. His articles are a window into the rich tapestry of traditions, customs, and local flavors he has encountered on his globetrotting escapades. Scott’s deep appreciation for the beauty of cultural diversity shines through his writing, allowing you to embark on a virtual journey that celebrates the vibrant mosaic of humanity.

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How to travel with a pug on a plane, how to travel with cheese on airplane.

Packet Traveling

If you’re reading this blog, then you are no doubt already familiar with the wondrous creation that is the Internet. The Internet allows computers from all over the world to speak to each other.

When data leaves your computer, it is grouped into small chunks called Packets . These packets are essentially  little envelopes that carry data across the Internet .

This article series is going to explain everything that happens to get one of these Packets from one side of the Internet to the other . We will look at each device and every step involved with a packet traveling across the Internet.

First, we’ll take a look at some background information on each separate function of network communication. Then we’ll take a look at the individual devices that perform each function. We will then tie everything together as we look at  everything that happens for communication to happen between two computers with various interconnected devices.

• Key Players
• Host to Host communication
• Host to Host communication through a Switch
• Host to Host communication through a Router
• Host to Switch to Router to Switch to Host

After reading through this article series on Packet Traveling, you will be able to understand and explain all the different events which occur in sending data from one side of the Internet to the other.

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Very good, concise, complete and clear – an uncommon thing for this field. Thank you !!

Very Good!!!

Excellent Expllanation. hats off to you

Dude, please keep this website alive! The information that you put here is invaluable, and I want to thank you on behalf of every network engineer out there who benefits from your lessons. You are the real MVP! 🙂

Have an awesome day and weekend!

KINDLY TALK ON HEADERS .

It was outstanding knowledge.and in very clear way.keep it up

What the … this is the most clear, concise and util material i have ever seen in networking, if you make a book of networking you would make it WAAAAY better than Tanenbaum. really congrats!!

Ed Harmoush,

Thank you so much for the time and effort you have put into this blog and whole site. The articulation and attention to detail, where needed (which is important to note) is great and unlike any other resource I have found online.

I am actually a System Engineer, and sometimes I need a refresh. There are so many articles out there that don’t achieve the level of quality in their blogs or answers because they lack the simplistic language and current examples.

Thank you so much again for the time and effort you have put into it. For what it is worth, I have booked marked your site (yes, I still book mark ;P ) for later referencing.

Cheers, Nicole

Nicole! Thank you for the kind words =) I’m so glad you found the articles helpful. And thank you for the bookmark ^_^.

Hi Ed, I am so impressed with your blog & your video, I have been reading all sort of different manuels which didn’t provide such level of understanding, more especially emphasize on the 3 different tables (ARP, MAC ADDR and ROUTING Tables). you might have read on them, but such key to know that they are the keys to the troubleshooting exposure. This is the key element no one has addressed in my time of stuying ccna, ccnp R&S, one needs to have in mind when troubleshooting. Your article is very and very helpful, I have been having serious issues in troubleshooting, after reading, all have fallen into place now, BIG THANK YOU!!!

Hi Chris! Thank you for the kind words! I am so glad you enjoyed the articles! Hope the others are equally as helpful for you =)

Really good videos and explanation, I appretiate so much your interest making videos for learning purposes. Have a nice Day sir!

This is soo helpful. keep it alive

Man, Take a bow. !!!!!!! RESPECT!!!!!!!

where can i find your videos? i cant seem to locate them?

Hi Joseph. The final article in this series is a link to the video which ties everything together: https://www.practicalnetworking.net/series/packet-traveling/host-switch-router-switch-host/

You can also see all my youtube videos on my channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKmU-GKiukM8LYjkJFb8oBQ

Awesome sir..thanks a lot

good information sir, sir, I have a doubt can I clarify few things

when you talk about aaaa being mac address of hostA, it is on of host’s nic mac or some mac representing entire host A

The MAC address is the identify of a particular NIC. Most end-hosts only have one NIC, so in such cases, aaaa represents the single MAC address for Host A. If, however, Host A had multiple n etwork i nterface c ards, then each would have their own MAC address.

Great job. Clear. Concise. Thanks for taking the time to do this.

in the last 10 years that I read about OSI model, I only remembered the names, but never did understand completely. The information you provided here is superb.

All i can say is Excellent article, Please keep this site up and running and hope to see more articles in the networking area.

Your all blogs are awesome and useful

This is an absolutely brilliant explanation of packet traveling! Thank you for taking the time to put this together!

My only suggestion would be to explain the binary ANDing bitwise operation process. I feel it is important to understand that process to truly understand how a Layer-3 IPv4 device knows how to handle the packets.

Hi El, glad you enjoyed the series =) Than you for the kind words.

I thought a long time about including or not including Subnetting/Binary/ANDing in this article series. In the end I decided against to try and keep this as simple and approachable as possible — there are many people that are interested in how packets move through a network that wouldn’t be interested in Subnetting.

If you’re interested though, I did create a Subnetting video series. You can see it here , or by browsing to SubnetIPv4.com .

Thank you for your reply! I will explore all of your series! You have a simple and unique way of explaining things, and your animated visualizations make it easy to understand the various concepts! I have already referred numerous colleagues to your site, and the feedback that I am receiving is that your content is “amazing!”

We all very much appreciate the time that you took to put this website and series together!

After scouring the internet, I found this gem of info. Thanks a lot brother. I am studying for the security+ exam and needed this to cement my understanding of what happens during packet transfer. I’ve had confounding info but yours brought it all together in simple terms and easy to understand. You’re awesome

at last found practical networking.net to understand what is actually going on thank you

your are an amazing human being for the effort you have done, I learnt from you alot, thank you

Thank you so much for such an efforts that you have put in this tutorial. I have been wanted to learn this end to end communication from last 2 months but no book mentioned it this clearly. Thank you so much again. You made my day.

Hi Shrinidhi, you’re very welcome! I’m glad you found the content useful =)

This whole series has been great. The animations and writing make the process easy to understand, and the logical progression of the series is very helpful. Thanks for making this!

Glad you enjoyed them Bob =) Thank you for the kind words.

Very well done. I’ve watched this several times. However, how does this change (regarding the Layer 2 information) if there are wireless access points, or bridges in the network diagram?

For the WAP’s it depends on whether they are acting as a Switch or acting as a Router. I’m going to explore it all in more details in this series:

https://www.practicalnetworking.net/index/networking-fundamentals-how-data-moves-through-the-internet

In the mean time, the 2nd video in the series discusses Switches and Routers vs Switch ing and Routing ing — and that many devices perform Routing and Switching, to include access points.

Can You also explain the packet travel from Host A ==> router X ==> switch T ==> router Y ==> Host B

A video which does exactly that is in the works. Details here: https://www.practicalnetworking.net/index/networking-fundamentals-how-data-moves-through-the-internet

I can’t put into words how grateful I am for the effort you’ve put into these articles, videos, and animations. Thank you so much!

Hi! I’ve now read through the VLAN and Packet Traveling series. Thank you so much. There’s not many sources of information on these subjects out there that explains things in such a practical manner. This has helped me a lot. All the best, Garm

Happy to help, Garm. Cheers!

Precise and very easy to understand. Thanks a lot for putting it in a very elegant way.

Thank you the compilation, really helped a lot!

Learning this might have taken long time if i refered books. Thanks for teaching me about OSI and other basic concepts.

Very excited to read this series of articles, May I have an authorization to translate it into Chinese? I will note the source links of articles.

As long as each translated article/page has a link to the source, and no monetization of the translated article exists, I’m ok with it.

Amazing article !

Perfect explanation. I haven’t seen better than this study. Bravo

Thank you, Tomy =)

Great work. Very clearly and practically explained each point.

Glad you enjoyed it. Consider checking out the video version of this series: https://www.practicalnetworking.net/index/networking-fundamentals-how-data-moves-through-the-internet/

The best ways to take your PC, PS, and Xbox games on the road

All you need is a phone or tablet and a controller.

Updated May 23, 2022

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What is remote streaming.

Remote streaming brings convenience to gaming while away from your usual gaming PC.

Remotely accessing a gaming PC is a fantastic way to avoid lugging your console or laptop around. It works by streaming the host’s video and audio output to the client, and then sending the client’s inputs back to the host. For example, you press buttons on the Kishi Razer attached to your phone, your remote PC executes those commands, and then you see your character jump, dodge, or whatever else you wanted them to do on your phone’s display.

It’s important to note that your remote streaming experience is entirely dependent on your network connections, both your Wi-Fi connection and your host PC’s connection. Most remote gaming services and remote desktop apps require at least 5 Mbps download and upload speed but recommend 15 Mbps or more. If you don’t have a fast enough connection, your stream will stutter and suffer from notable lag between host and client.

You will also experience lag depending on how far you are from the host PC. If you’re in the same building, the lag will be minimal. However, if you’re accessing a PC that’s across the country, it will add some lag as the connection travels thousands of miles and hops across multiple servers to relay the information. This is one of cloud gaming services’ major benefits: when you remotely access a PC on their servers, you will access a PC on the server closest to you at the time.

Use a remote desktop app

The key to gaming from a remote desktop app is to remain signed in and active.

Remote desktop applications connect your PC at home to whatever device you are trying to access it from. Technically, cloud gaming services are granting remote desktop access from your device to their host PCs, but remotely connecting to your own PC cuts out the middleman, meaning that you have total control over what you want to do.

The downside to remotely accessing your PC is that you must make sure your PC is always on and logged into whatever app you’re using to stream. If you plan to travel for more than a couple of days, make sure to turn off auto-sleep and to turn off automatic operating system updates at least until you return.

With Parsec, you can enjoy multiplayer, quality gaming.

Compared to Steam Link, Parsec is a much quicker and user-friendly experience. You don’t need to login on the client if you use your web browser, your host stays logged in on startup, and you can access some features that Steam Link can’t support (like pressure-sensitive inputs).

Stream your Xbox and PlayStation

If you prefer to game from your console, you can use it as a remote PC with each console’s remote play features. Xbox and PlayStation consoles both support remote access from a client device, like your phone or tablet, but they have the same constraints as remote PC access: You have to keep your console awake and signed into your Xbox or PlayStation account during the entire time you’re away. You also must make sure that remote access is enabled in the settings menu.

But there are limitations unique to console remote play. Browser, media, and streaming apps like the Blu-Ray player and Netflix are blocked on both Xbox and PlayStation remote play. With Xbox remote play, you can play games on Android, Windows, or iOS, while with PlayStation remote access you can also play on macOS.

Use a Cloud gaming service

When you use a cloud gaming service, you do not need to own your own host PC to stream from. Instead, you stream from the streaming service’s PCs, which are usually more powerful than most consumer PCs and have a fast internet connection. The graphics quality and framerate of the games you play will depend on the cloud PC’s specs. More expensive services can net you access to more powerful PCs—but these services are still much cheaper than getting an equally powerful PC for your home.

Though the GeForce Now is offered on multiple platforms, it puts a cap on gaming time.

But GeForce Now has a major drawback. You have a time limit on your sessions, and you can’t use apps or play games that aren’t supported. But it does have one of the most massive game libraries of the bunch, currently sitting at well over 1,100 titles and Nvidia adds more to that list every Thursday.

You can choose from three tiers: free, priority, and RTX 3080. You can only game for one hour at a time on the free tier, for six hours on the priority tier, and for eight hours on the RTX 3080 tier. Queues are also faster for the higher-end tiers. However, you can use back-to-back sessions with no limit.

Offered for a reasonable price, the XboxGamePass allows you to have up to 350 titles in your personal library.

Unfortunately, gaming from your mobile device isn't possible with PlayStation Now.

The Stadia Cloud service can be accessed on numerous platforms like Android, Chromecast, or the Google Chrome web browser.

Amazon Prime users can access the Luna+ for an additional $9.99 a month.

Get a gaming laptop or portable console

It makes the most sense for frequent travelers to invest in a gaming laptop that can keep up with their tech needs on while the road.

Related content

Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.

How-To Geek

Why i’ll never buy a gaming laptop (even though they’re good now).

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I just don't travel that much, desktop pcs provide an objectively better gaming experience, i can mix and match parts, desktop pc parts give me more bang for my buck, it's easier to repair a desktop pc, gaming laptops still have their place, key takeaways.

• Gaming laptops are ideal for frequent travelers, but I'm not one of them.
• Upgrading essential PC parts is only possible on desktop PCs.
• Desktop PC parts typically offer more value for the cost, as they outperform mobile versions found in most laptops.

I've been surrounded by gamers who use gaming laptops for as long as I can remember. I've tried many of those same gaming laptops during sleepovers, but I never really liked them that much, so I decided that I'm probably never going to buy one for myself.

Let's face it: the main reason anyone buys a gaming laptop is its portability. However, I simply don't need a portable gaming station in my life. I play games for a couple of hours per day at most, and it's always when I get home in the late evening. I have a hunch that a good portion of gaming laptop owners rarely move their laptops further than the patio. Even then, it's more of a "because I can" rather than a valid reason.

When I'm on my once-a-year vacation, I don't really play games that much. I spend most of my vacation time outside, and the couple of hours that I spend in the hotel room are wasted on whatever TV show I'm watching at the time.

On the occasion that I decide to play PC games, I have an underpowered 2-in-1 work laptop that can run Indie titles like Cuphead and older games like Burnout: Paradise . I also plan to build a tiny PC so that I have a powerful machine I can bring with me in the event that I need to go away for more than a week. Side note: handheld devices also make more sense than a gaming laptop to me from a portability perspective.

If I'm on a shorter one-day trip or have to kill some time, I simply game on my phone. There's a healthy selection of Android games that look as good as console games , which scratch the gaming itch until I hop back to my desktop battle station. If you're not always on the road or attend LAN events often enough that you need a gaming laptop, you'll do just fine with a gaming PC.

A gaming laptop isn't the only item you need for a solid gaming experience. You also need a comfortable chair, a relatively large desk, a mouse, a headset or nice set of speakers, and a laptop stand to get the laptop screen to eye level, at which point you'll also need a dedicated gaming keyboard or keypad . Needless to say, it's much easier to build a gaming setup like this at home than in other locations.

When I play triple-A games, I take them seriously and want to immerse myself, and it's much easier to do it with a large monitor than a small laptop display. While you can technically hook up an ultrawide monitor to your laptop, at that point, you're basically using the laptop as a slightly overpriced and underpowered desktop PC.

My colleague Sydney loves the portability of a gaming laptop because he can put it down in any corner of his house or bring it with him to a coffee shop. I can't see myself doing the same because I prefer a larger, fixed place to game in, so I have no practical use for a gaming laptop.

I've been essentially building on top of the same PC since 2012. I upgrade bits and pieces almost every year. Of course, at this point, the only original part that remains is one of the HDDs, which I use for my least important files and games. The PC has seen two motherboards, three CPUs, five GPUs, and a bunch of different coolers and fans.

I needed this flexibility over the past decade because I was a teenager and later a broke student with very little money. So, I'd only upgrade one component at a time. The flexibility gave me time to wait for better deals on upgrades when prices were high. Also, I prefer to buy certain parts used and others new.

Laptops are not very upgrade-friendly; you can only upgrade the storage and RAM , and that's if you're lucky. External GPU enclosures aren't usually worth it; it's better to buy a better gaming laptop from the get-go. One of the few upgradeable laptops is the Framework Laptop , which lets you swap out the GPU.

It's not just that I can save money by combining discounted PC parts; I can also get more performance from a typical desktop PC. Gaming laptops have to account for power and temperature requirements, so they usually use the less powerful mobile versions of the same CPU and GPU, but even if they use the desktop version, laptops are still limited by power and thermals. This performance gap is especially prominent with high-end hardware. Maybe performance will improve when Arm-based CPUs arrive to laptops .

Additionally, desktop PCs have practically unlimited power because they don't have to run off of a battery in any situation. Also, it's much easier to keep the CPU and GPU cool with enormous heatsinks and fans to minimize thermal throttling . This also means desktop PC parts can last longer, at least in theory.

Laptop hardware is confined to a much smaller space, so it has to rely on fancy vapor chambers and creative heat dissipation to keep things cool. Batteries don't like to get hot, either, and it's only a matter of time before they deteriorate to the point that the laptop has to remain plugged in permanently .

If you're upgrading your desktop PC but already have all the peripherals, you'll save a couple of hundred dollars compared to buying a whole new laptop. Each time you upgrade to a better gaming laptop, you have to pay for the new display, keyboard, battery, cameras, and other smaller features; you can't just upgrade the CPU, GPU, and RAM to improve performance directly and keep costs down.

While some laptops aren't hard to pull apart at all, nothing comes close to a desktop PC. Most cases just have a couple of thumb screws that you have to remove before removing the whole side panel to gain access to all of your PC parts. Removing your RAM, CPU, or GPU is hardly more difficult than disassembling a LEGO toy. If something breaks or stops working as intended ( looking at you, RAM ), it's easy to replace the culprit and test the PC.

Meanwhile, disassembling a laptop (even just to dust it) can require a set of special screwdrivers, plastic pry tools, suction cups, and a lot of patience. Replacing a broken display is a nightmare on some laptops, not to mention that it often costs as much as a superior gaming monitor.

Even though gaming laptops are not for me, frequent travelers rely on their gaming laptops for entertainment. If I had to travel for work, I wouldn't even think twice before selling off my desktop PC to buy the best gaming laptop I can afford. Gaming laptops are also essential for those who experience frequent blackouts and need a device with a battery and relatively low power consumption compared to a power-hungry desktop.

If you have spare cash, it makes sense to have a high-end desktop and a more modest gaming laptop. You don't need a powerful laptop to have fun in lighter multiplayer games with friends and keep the high-end PC around for the ultimate gaming experience. Thanks to its powerful hardware, a gaming laptop also makes for a decent work laptop , so you could even write it off as a business expense.

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Travel documents for foreign citizens returning to the U.S.

If you are a citizen of another country and have been living in the U.S., you may need special documents if you leave the U.S. and then return.

Travel documents for permanent and conditional permanent residents

If you are outside the u.s. for less than one year.

If you are a permanent or conditional permanent resident who has been away from the U.S. for less than one year, you will only need to show your Green Card upon re-entry to the U.S.

If you are outside the U.S. for one year or longer

If you are a permanent or conditional permanent resident who has been outside the U.S. for one year or longer, apply for a re-entry permit before you travel. Use Form I-131 - Application for Travel Document .

• For permanent residents, the re-entry permit is valid for two years from the date of issue.
• For conditional permanent residents, the re-entry permit is valid for two years after the date of issue. Or it is valid up until the date you must apply for removal of the conditions on your status , whichever date comes first.

Travel documents for other foreign citizens living in the U.S.

If you are a foreign citizen re-entering the U.S., the documentation you need may depend on your immigration status:

• Advance parole - You may use advance parole to re-enter the U.S. without applying for a visa. It is commonly used for re-entry by people in the process of applying for permanent residence, applying for a status adjustment, or applying for asylum.
• Refugee travel document - You may be able to use this document to re-enter the U.S. if you have refugee or asylum status.

If you need help, contact U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) .

LAST UPDATED: May 22, 2024

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Move your files to a new Windows PC using an external storage device

If you're making the move to a new PC, you can bring your files with you using an external storage device such as a USB drive, SD card, or external hard drive. First, you’ll copy your files onto your drive, then you’ll transfer them to your new PC.

Note:  For info on how to move files to a new PC without needing a storage device, see Move files to a new Windows PC using OneDrive . OneDrive can securely store your files, so they’re backed up and protected in the cloud and accessible from any device—including your new PC.

To move files from a Windows 11 PC using an external storage device, follow these instructions. 

Back up files from your current PC to an external storage device 

Connect your external storage device to your current Windows 11 PC.

On the taskbar, select File Explorer .

Locate the files you wish to copy, or the folders where those files are stored.

To copy multiple files, hold CTRL as you select additional files or folders.

Once you have files and folders highlighted, select and hold (or right-click) the folders, then select Show more options > Send to . Select your external storage device name from the list of options.

Your files and folders will begin copying to your drive. You may need to repeat steps 3 – 5 if you have files stored in multiple locations. Make sure to also move files from locations like your Documents , Desktop , Downloads , Favorites , Music , Podcasts , Pictures , and Videos folders.

Verify your files are correct and remove the storage device 

After you have copied or moved your files onto an external storage device, you can verify they're in the right location by browsing the external drive. 

Then you'll need to safely remove the drive to ensure no files are lost or corrupted. To remove the device, select Eject before you disconnect the drive from your PC. 

Once you have moved your files onto your external storage device, you'll be able to transfer them onto your new Windows 11 PC. 

Transfer your files to your new PC 

Connect your external storage device to your new Windows 11 PC.

Select File Explorer from your task bar.

On the left guide bar, select This PC .

Locate the external drive and double-click its corresponding icon.

Locate the folder where your files are saved, and then double-click that folder's icon.

To select all the files in this location, select See more  in the top left and then Select all . All the files in this folder will now be highlighted. To copy only one file, select it by clicking on it once.

Once you select a file, you will see Cut and Copy in the toolbar. Select either to cut or copy the selected file(s).

To paste a file, navigate to a location where you want to paste the file, and then select the Paste icon in the toolbar.

Your files will begin to transfer to your Windows 11 PC. Note that this may take time depending on the number and size of the files you transfer.

After the files are copied, you can navigate to their new location to make sure the files were successfully transferred.

Back up files from your current PC to an external storage device

Connect your external storage device to your current Windows 8.1 or Windows 10 PC.

Once you have files and folders highlighted, make sure you're in the Home tab, then select  Organize > Copy to , and select your external storage device name from the list of options. 

Verify your files are correct and remove the storage device

After you have copied or moved your files onto an external storage device, you can verify they're in the right location by browsing the external drive.

Then you'll need to safely remove the drive to ensure no files are lost or corrupted. To remove the device, select Eject before you disconnect the drive from your PC.

Once you have moved your files onto your external storage device, you'll be able to transfer them onto your new Windows 10 PC.

Transfer your files to your new PC

Connect your external storage device to your new Windows 10 PC.

To select all the files in this location, select the Home tab in the top left and then Select all . All the files in this folder will now be highlighted. To copy only one file, select it by clicking on it once.

Select the Home tab in the top left, select Copy to, and then select the folder you'd like the files copied to: Documents , Music , Pictures , or Videos . You can also choose a custom location by selecting Choose location... .

Your files will begin to transfer to your Windows 10 PC. Note that this may take time depending on the number and size of the files you transfer.

After the files are copied, you can navigate to their new location to make sure the files were successfully copied over.

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The 5 states with the worst, best traveler's airplane etiquette

Sitting next to someone with poor airplane etiquette can easily ruin your flight, and the U.S. state you’re flying out of may determine that.

From the seat in front of you reclining into your lap to a passenger who hogs both armrests — and isn’t in the middle seat — there are a number of behaviors that can bother your fellow travelers. In a recent report by Solitaire Bliss, 78% of the 2,002 Americans surveyed in April said they feel air travel etiquette has worsened over the past few years.

The participants cited the most common inconsiderate behaviors in airports and airplanes they’ve seen being people reclining seats without asking, using phones loudly in the terminal, and placing bags on terminal seats. 

The survey asked what bad behaviors people have seen and if they are guilty of committing these air travel offenses — and many admitted they do. With survey respondents coming from every U.S. state, the report determined the states with the most polite and inconsiderate fliers. (Yes, these are blanket statements, and both good and bad fliers are everywhere.) The states were ranked on a scale of 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating a greater tendency among travelers from that state to have poor air travel etiquette.

Don't be that passenger. Expert tips to make your flight more pleasant for everyone

Learn more: Best travel insurance

“With the summer travel season here, we’ll be seeing an influx of stories on the media circuit about poor passenger behavior and airline issues,” Assaf Cohen, founder of Solitaire Bliss, said in an email statement to USA TODAY. “Along with common behaviors like taking up a seat in the terminal using a bag, or reclining a seat without asking, one in eight passengers report having seen a physical altercation.”

Read below to find the top five states with the best and worst travel etiquette.

States with the worst travel etiquette 

3. Virginia

2. Illinois

With the highest score of 94.29, Iowa’s survey respondents were the most guilty of poor travel etiquette, like putting their bags on the terminal seats and passing gas on the plane. Virginia’s top bad habits when flying included placing their luggage on the terminal seats, not putting their phones on airplane mode, and reclining their seats without asking. In Illinois, one in four residents admitted they ignore the seatbelt sign when flying. 

States with the best travel etiquette

2. Wisconsin

1. Arkansas

Call it “Southern hospitality” or “Midwest nice,” but the states that reported the least rude air travel behaviors were along the South and Midwest. Arkansas stole the top spot for having the most well-mannered passengers — or at least those who did not admit to their offenses.

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

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MNN 2.5K Portable Monitor 13.3" 2560x1600P UHD USB-C HDMI Laptop Monitor, 100% sRGB IPS Computer Gaming Display HDR Travel Monitor w/Speakers & Smart Cover for Laptop Xbox PS5 Switch PC Phone

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About this item.

• 1-2.5K UHD Portable Monitor - MNN 13.3inch portable laptop monitor with 2560*1600P resolution, advanced IPS glossy screen support 178° full viewing angle, it renders accurate and bright color, draws you into the video or game with lifelike colors and amazing detail.It can effectively reduce blue light radiation damage, no flickering, eye-care, and make it easier to watch for a long time.A second monitor for working from home.
• 2-Double Type-C Port -For Plug & Play, the MNN monitor provides 2 Full Feature Type-C ports. Only One USB Type-C Cable is required to connect to the power supply & display signal transmission. NOTE: Your device should support thunderbolt 3.0 or USB 3.1 Type C DP ALT-MODE.which supports multiple connect ways to your laptops, PC, Phones, Macbooks, PS5/PS4, Xbox, and Switch.
• 3-Lightweight Ultra Slim for Travel - As a portable external monitor,MNN portable laptop monitor easily accommodate to every suitcase and backpack and stress-free when you are holding it for a long time. They are truly portable computer monitors for travelers, students, gamers,engineers, and everyone.
• 4-Give consideration to work and games - through multiple display modes [Copy Mode/Extended Mode/Second Screen Mode/Portrait Mode], we can bring you a clear second screen in the meeting, and expand the screen anytime and anywhere to improve work efficiency and improve the quality of life. Adjusting to HDR mode can upgrade the image to a new level, providing you with brighter highlights,deeper and more realistic colors, more realistic images, and amazing viewing/gaming experience.
• 5-Powerful Smart Cover - MNN portable external monitor can work in both landscape and portrait mode, can be used as a gaming monitor, screen extender for laptop or phone. Comes with a scratch-proof smart cover made of durable PU leather exterior, doubles as a stand, provides comprehensive protection for this portable computer monitor.

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Warranty & support, product guides and documents, what's in the box.

• USB-C,HDMI,Magnetic cover

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Be efficient on the go with this portable monitor!

Portable Monitor 15.6inch FHD 1080P USB C HDMI - Ultra-Slim

✨Brittnee McKinney✨

Product Description

From the brand

MNN focuses on the technological innovation of display, develops more portable, high-quality and affordable displays , and brings customers a reliable and pleasant user experience.

MNN has always been active in bringing more convenience to life with innovation and creativity. We will also explore more and more efficient ways of life and work to perfectly meet the needs of individuals such as family, work, study and entertainment.

Second monitor for your laptop

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Customers say

Customers like the portability, value, ease of setup, image quality, and performance of the monitor. They mention that it fits well in a backpack, is unmatched in value and performance, and that it produces a nice colorful and crisp picture. They also appreciate the performance, saying that it works flawlessly with their HP Elitebook and Microsoft Desktop.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the performance of the monitor. They mention it works great for remote work purposes, flawlessly with their HP Elitebook, and as a secondary monitor for internet browsing. Some say that it serves all their needs almost perfectly.

"Great portal monitor that works flawlessly with my HP Elitebook . I just used the USB-C Cable between laptop and monitor...." Read more

"...It's the perfect gadget for the modern-day wanderer, remote warrior, or anyone craving an extra screen...." Read more

"...side, the device has VESA mounting holes on the back, the included case/stand works well , and overall build quality seems decent...." Read more

"...plugged it into iPad (Air 5th gen w/ usb c) and it also works perfectly both to mirror iPad or do center stage allowing a couple windows open on the..." Read more

Customers appreciate the monitor's portability. They mention that it fits well in a backpack, is great to carry to the office and work trips, and is light-weight. The cover/stand protects the screen when stored. Some say it's perfect for traveling, slim enough to fit in s laptop bag without taking up too much space. They also mention that the monitor is easy to maneuver and works great as a travel monitor.

"...They are also very lightweight and have slim profiles allowing them to easily fit into your backpack or what have you...." Read more

"...I am more of a sports gamer. Monitor very light and easy fit in my laptop carrier ." Read more

"...the MNN Portable Monitor is a showstopper – stunning display, ultra-portable design , effortless setup, top-notch audio, and a customer support team..." Read more

"...But it's a useful tool that is lightweight and portable and would work well with a laptop or SFF desktop PC for general use...." Read more

Customers find the monitor easy to setup and use. They say it's a true plug-and-play device that connects easily to their existing computers. They also appreciate the quick display settings changes and say they haven't seen any connectivity issues.

"I love how easily it connects to you existing computer /laptop. It includes several USB cables (A/B/C) ensuring compatibility for your device...." Read more

"...Plug-and-play setup? More like plug-and-wow! It's a breeze to connect to my laptop via USB-C, and it's got HDMI compatibility to boot, making it the..." Read more

"...OVERALL I say for the price point, for the sharpness, for the ease of set up , for the cables it comes with, for the ease of use, for the seemingly..." Read more

"...Pros:.. Easy to set up and use.. Included cables cover many use scenarios.. Size fits in my messenger bag easily....." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the image quality of the monitor. For example, they mention that the image is clear, crisp, and vibrant. The screen is beautiful, and has a decent brightness. Some say that the blacks look inky and the color in HD looks good. Overall, most are happy with the product's image quality.

"...The picture quality is superb and do not see any dead pixels or anything...." Read more

"...In a nutshell, the MNN Portable Monitor is a showstopper – stunning display , ultra-portable design, effortless setup, top-notch audio, and a..." Read more

"...The 1080P is wonderfully sharp - seems like it's better resolution than 1080P but probably just because the screen size is 15.6" so pixel density is..." Read more

"...kept up with the action and the blacks look inky and the color in HD looks good . Black Panther in 4k and IMAX enhanced looks great...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the quality of the monitor. They mention that it is light, strong, and easy to travel with. The cables provided seem good quality and have not seen any connectivity issues. The quality feels really good and the picture looks great.

"...I loved it so much that I bought a second one. The quality of the casing is very sturdy and robust...." Read more

" Great portal monitor that works flawlessly with my HP Elitebook. I just used the USB-C Cable between laptop and monitor...." Read more

"...They pack a surprising punch, delivering audio that's clear and robust enough to make you forget you're not in a surround sound cinema...." Read more

"...on the back, the included case/stand works well, and overall build quality seems decent ...." Read more

Customers appreciate the value of the monitor. They say it's a standout choice in the market, with a combination of affordability and performance. Some customers also say the added screen space is a great return for their investment. Overall, customers are happy with the value and performance of this monitor.

"...: A true dynamo in the world of on-the-go screens, unmatched in value and performance ...." Read more

"...It's a cheap Chinese device that basically works fine if the user's expectations are reasonable...." Read more

"...I feel this external monitor exceeds my expectations for the price ." Read more

"...Easy to use with iPad (power needed for monitor).. Low cost price point .. Clear (enough) graphics..." Read more

Customers like that the monitor comes with all the cables they need. They mention that it comes with a few cable options for hooking it up, which was convenient. They appreciate the different connector cords, as well as the different USB cables for different applications. Customers also love that it provides three types of connection cables and a mini HDMI cord in case they need to use that.

"...It includes several USB cables (A/B/C) ensuring compatibility for your device. I loved it so much that I bought a second one...." Read more

"...Cover works great to protect it and use as a stand. Comes with 3 different cables for other sources...." Read more

"...Pros:.. Easy to set up and use.. Included cables cover many use scenarios .. Size fits in my messenger bag easily....." Read more

"...Also included is a mini hdmi cord in case you need to use that...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the size of the monitor. They mention that it has an excellent size, resolution, and portability. The pixel size is great and it is large enough to display spreadsheets. The sleek design and slim profile make it easy to incorporate into any environment.

"...I use it as a third display for both my work and play computers. It's big enough that you can splitscreen it between Teams/Discord and Spotify/..." Read more

"...It is a good size with good brightness and color...." Read more

"...it is not much bigger than my laptop and is easily transportable. makes using my program and excel so much easier...." Read more

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