There are a few things that tend to increase for some people during the holiday season we're just entering, and travel is definitely on this list in many cases. If you're traveling and bringing along your laptop computer, whether for work, personal or anything in between, knowing how to protect your device is very important. 

At PC Laptops, we're here to offer a wide range of desktop and laptop computers to clients around Salt Lake City, Sandy, Murray, West Jordan and nearby parts of Utah, plus quality desktop and laptop repairs for any issues that arise. Here are some tips from our pros on how to keep your laptop and any other devices safe during holiday travel this season.

Laptop Carrying Options

There are several robust options at your disposal when it comes to carrying and storing your laptop for travel. These include each of the following:

• Backpack A backpack is one of the most popular options for carrying a laptop while traveling. Not only does it have designated compartments and padding for your device, but it also leaves your hands free for other belongings.
• Messenger bag: Similar to a backpack, messenger bags are designed with separate compartments and often come with shoulder straps. They can be more stylish than backpacks, but may not offer as much protection.
• Laptop sleeve: A laptop or tablet sleeve is a slim, padded cover that can be slipped into any type of bag for added protection. They're usually lightweight and ideal for short trips. Some people choose to purchase a sleeve in addition to placing the laptop in a backpack or messenger bag.
• Protective case: For those who want the most protection possible, a hard or soft laptop case is the way to go. These are specifically designed to fit your device and offer maximum impact resistance.
• Anti-theft bag: If you're concerned about the safety of your laptop while traveling, consider purchasing an anti-theft bag. These bags feature locks and slash-proof materials to deter thieves.

Securing Your Laptop

Whether you're traveling by plane, train, bus or car, never leave your laptop unattended - even for just a few minutes. If you must leave it in your hotel room, be sure to lock it in the safe. Additionally, always keep your laptop out of plain sight when in public areas.

Wi-Fi in Public Places

If you're planning on using public Wi-Fi during your travels, be cautious about which networks you connect to. Stick to secure, password-protected connections whenever possible and avoid accessing sensitive information while on a public network.

This is because public Wi-Fi networks are often unsecured and can leave your personal information vulnerable to hackers. It's always best to use a VPN (virtual private network) when accessing important information on a public network.

Backup Your Data

Before you embark on your holiday travels, it's always a good idea to backup all of your data onto an external hard drive or cloud service like Super Easy Backup. This ensures that even if your laptop is lost, stolen or damaged, you won't lose all of your important files and documents.

Full Shut-Down Between Uses

If you'll be using your laptop intermittently during travel, be sure to fully shut it down between uses. This helps preserve battery life and also reduces the risk of overheating. It also ensures that any software updates can be installed properly.

Precautions During Rain or Snow

If you happen to encounter inclement weather during your travels, be sure to take extra precautions to keep your laptop safe. This could mean carrying an umbrella or rain cover for your backpack, or keeping a plastic bag handy to store your laptop and other electronic devices in. This is because water damage is a common cause of laptop malfunctions, and it's always better to be safe than sorry.

By following these tips from our experts at PC Laptops, you can ensure that your laptop stays safe and secure during holiday travels. And always be sure to contact us for any PC or laptop need around SLC, Sandy, Murray, West Jordan or nearby parts of Utah.