Whether you're flying interstate for business, backpacking across Southeast Asia, or just commuting on the train, your laptop faces unique risks during travel. Physical damage, theft, data breaches on public networks, and battery death at critical moments can all derail your trip. This guide covers everything you need to keep your laptop safe and functional while travelling.
Before You Leave: Preparation
Proper preparation prevents the worst travel disasters.
Back Up Your Data
Before any trip, ensure your data is fully backed up. If your laptop is stolen or damaged, losing the hardware hurts—losing irreplaceable data is devastating. Cloud backup (OneDrive, iCloud, Google Drive, Backblaze) provides automatic protection. Consider a local backup to an external drive kept at home as additional insurance.
Enable Full Disk Encryption
Encryption protects your data if your laptop is stolen. Without the password, thieves cannot access your files, accounts, or personal information. Enable BitLocker (Windows Pro) or FileVault (macOS) before travelling. See our security guide for detailed instructions.
Update Your Software
Install all pending updates before you leave. Updates often fix security vulnerabilities, and you don't want to be downloading large files over expensive hotel Wi-Fi or mobile data abroad.
Note Your Serial Numbers
Record your laptop's serial number and take photos of it. If stolen, you'll need this information for police reports and insurance claims. Store this information separately from the laptop itself—in your phone, email, or cloud storage.
Set up "Find My Device" (Windows) or "Find My Mac" (Apple) before travelling. These services can locate, lock, or remotely wipe a stolen laptop—but only if configured in advance.
Choosing the Right Bag
The bag you carry your laptop in significantly affects both protection and convenience.
Key Features to Look For
- Dedicated laptop compartment: Padded sleeve that suspends the laptop away from the bottom of the bag
- Water resistance: At least water-resistant fabric; waterproof is better for Australia's unpredictable weather
- Comfortable straps: Padded shoulder straps for backpacks; reinforced handles for messenger bags
- Secure closures: Zippers that can be locked for added security
- Airline compliance: Dimensions that fit under seats or in overhead bins
Backpack vs. Messenger vs. Briefcase
- Backpacks: Best weight distribution for extended carrying. Look for anti-theft features (hidden zippers, lockable compartments) for travel
- Messenger bags: Quicker access, professional appearance. Can cause shoulder strain with heavy loads
- Briefcases: Most professional, least comfortable for extended carrying. Good for car-to-meeting situations
Airport Security and Flying
Air travel presents specific challenges and requirements for laptop owners.
Australian Domestic Flights
Current Australian domestic screening generally doesn't require removing laptops from bags if they're in a dedicated laptop compartment. However, security staff may request removal during random checks or if the bag appears cluttered on the X-ray. Be prepared to comply quickly.
International Flights
Many countries require laptops to be removed from bags and placed in separate bins. The US, UK, and EU often have this requirement. Check current rules for your destination before travel, as regulations change.
Never pack laptops in checked luggage. Checked bags are thrown, dropped, and subjected to temperature extremes. Theft from checked luggage is also more common. Always carry your laptop in the cabin.
In-Flight Use
Modern airlines generally allow laptop use during cruise (though not during takeoff and landing). For productivity during flights:
- Download any needed files beforehand—Wi-Fi is expensive and unreliable
- Charge fully before boarding; not all seats have power outlets
- Use a privacy screen if working on confidential materials
- Consider a compact wireless mouse for the cramped space
Staying Connected Abroad
Australian laptops need consideration for international use.
Power Adapters
Australia uses Type I plugs. You'll need a travel adapter for most destinations:
- Americas: Type A/B adapters
- Europe: Type C/E/F adapters
- UK/Singapore/Malaysia: Type G adapters
- China: Type A/C/I adapters (mixed system)
A universal adapter covering all types is the most practical purchase for frequent travellers.
Voltage Considerations
Good news: virtually all modern laptop chargers are universal voltage (100-240V), meaning they work anywhere with just a plug adapter. Check the fine print on your charger to confirm—it should say "INPUT: 100-240V."
Internet Access
- Hotel Wi-Fi: Convenient but often slow and insecure. Always use a VPN
- Mobile hotspot: International roaming plans from Telstra, Optus, or Vodafone offer data packages. Consider local SIMs for extended stays
- Travel SIM/eSIM: Services like Airalo offer data-only eSIMs for many countries at reasonable rates
Security on the Road
Travel increases your vulnerability to both physical theft and digital attacks.
Physical Security
- Never leave your laptop unattended in public spaces—not even "for just a minute"
- Use hotel room safes when available (if the laptop fits)
- When safes aren't available, use a laptop lock to secure it to fixed furniture
- Be discreet; expensive-looking laptop bags attract attention
Public Wi-Fi Safety
Public networks are playground for hackers. Protect yourself:
- Use a VPN: Encrypts all traffic, preventing eavesdropping
- Verify network names: Confirm the correct network name before connecting
- Avoid sensitive transactions: Don't access banking or enter passwords if you can't use a VPN
- Forget networks after use: Prevent automatic reconnection to potentially compromised networks
A quality VPN subscription (~$10/month) is the single best investment for travel security. It protects you on any network, anywhere in the world, with no ongoing attention required.
Protecting Against Physical Damage
Travel subjects laptops to bumps, drops, and environmental extremes.
Impact Protection
- Use a bag with a suspended laptop compartment (laptop doesn't touch the bottom)
- Consider a hardshell case for additional protection
- Never stack heavy items on top of the laptop in your bag
- Set bags down gently; don't drop them
Temperature Extremes
Both heat and cold can damage laptops:
- Never leave laptops in hot cars (temperatures can exceed 60°C, damaging batteries and displays)
- Let a cold laptop warm to room temperature before powering on (prevents internal condensation)
- Avoid beach/pool environments where sand and water pose serious risks
Water and Humidity
- Keep water bottles in separate bag compartments
- In humid climates, silica gel packets in your bag absorb excess moisture
- If caught in rain, ensure the laptop is completely dry before use
Power Management While Travelling
Access to power isn't guaranteed when travelling. Maximise your runtime:
- Charge fully whenever you have access to power
- Enable battery saver mode proactively
- Reduce screen brightness
- Close unnecessary applications
- Consider a portable power bank with USB-C Power Delivery (choose one that supports your laptop's wattage)
See our battery life guide for detailed power-saving strategies.
Essential Travel Accessories
Pack these items for a smooth travel computing experience:
- Universal power adapter
- Portable charger/power bank (laptop-compatible if possible)
- Quality earphones/headphones
- Compact wireless mouse
- USB-C hub (if your laptop has limited ports)
- Privacy screen (for confidential work in public)
- Small microfibre cloth for screen cleaning
With proper preparation and awareness, your laptop can be a reliable travel companion that enhances your trip rather than becoming a source of stress. Safe travels!