World Travellers

Casey Phillips our expert of the day, writes:

I am always going on business trips for work. The one thing I cannot travel without is my trusty laptop. As much as I love my MacBook, it is always an annoyance having to put the laptop through security, carry it with me around the airport, and finally, get it, along with myself, onto the plane. Normally it is not a question for me; I always bring my laptop as a carry-on.

However, on my most recent business trip I decided that because I was not planning to do any computer work on the plane, there was no reason to carry it with me. I regrettably checked it in with the rest of my luggage. This was the worst mistake I could have made. For a seasoned business traveler, this may seem like a blunder only a novice would make. However, sometimes we all need a little reminding. I hope by relaying my story, I can save you from making the same mistake I did. A laptop is an extremely valuable portable device. Whether you are in the office or on the go, it can quickly provide you with access to important data, information, and software. However, it is for these same reasons that laptops are of great interest to thieves, and, consequently, highly vulnerable to theft.

In fact, the Safeware Insurance Group reported that in the US, laptop owners have a 1 in 14 chance that their laptop will be stolen. Of course, I am aware that laptops are a prime target for theft, but I thought it would be perfectly safe in my suitcase. I could not have been more wrong. Just because it was packed amongst my business suits and collared shirts did not mean it was protected. The fact is that you really must be aware of where your laptop is at all times, and, if it is checked in with the rest of your luggage, you are violating this simple rule. You have absolutely no idea who may be handling it or where it may end up. By naively deciding to check my laptop along with the rest of my luggage, I was in a sense setting myself up for it to be taken. What is more, the scariest part about having your laptop stolen is the fact that your confidential data inside is now accessible to a thief. Who knows the intentions of a thief?

Needless to say, once I discovered my laptop had been taken, I was scared.I know it may seem like a big hassle having to unload your laptop just to make it through security, but I promise you this: unloading your laptop at the security gate in an airline is only a minor inconvenience in comparison to the trouble that comes with a stolen laptop. Filing a police report, working without your important files, and worrying someone may be committing identity theft with your personal information are inconveniences to avoid at all costs.

What is the easy solution?

Get a computer case. I recently purchased an excellent computer case that not only securely holds my laptop, but also has room to store the other essential carry-on items I need during the flight. I love it because in addition to being very compact and portable, it is also quite fashionable. Having a computer case lets me check-in my one piece of luggage worry-free because I know my laptop is safe and secure by my side. Still, even when you make the safe choice and carry your laptop onto the plane, there are a few things to be aware of while traveling.

Make sure and keep a close eye on your laptop while it is on the conveyer belt at the security gate – and don’t forget to pick it up again after it has passed through security. Finally, keep your laptop near you on the plane – at your feet or in a locked case stowed away in the overhead compartments – and be aware of your surroundings at all times.