If you make your living from computers chances are that when you travel anywhere you like to not be too far from an internet connection. This has become easier in recent times with the advent of Wi-Fi networks in coffee shops, public spaces and even on airplanes.
It can be strange using equipment that is not your own though. It doesn’t have any of your bookmarks, it’s difficult to know about the security of the system being used and it is rarely a nice experience. In light of the potential travelling plight that can be faced by those who get withdrawal symptoms if they don’t check their email or update their social media status from one hour to the next, here are some handy hints for those who love travel and their online lives!
Laptop or Netbook – It’s an obvious one, but why take the risk of the Internet cafe being closed, take your own and hook up in your hotel or wherever you can find a Wi-fi signal.
Online Storage Space – Use your own web server or a third-party online storage provider, store the files you’ll need there so you can access them from anywhere with an Internet connection. This can be a great option if you have some files you’d not like to lose if your laptop was stolen while you were away.
Online bookmarking – Sign up to an online bookmarking site before you go and import all of your bookmarks, then no matter what computer you are using you’ll be able to access all of your favourite bookmarks. A top tip is to bookmark health information, embassy information and the websites of any places you will be staying at, then if you need to get access to any of this information you will be able to avoid searching for it again and reduce stress (always a good thing!).
Power Adaptor – Easily forgotten and can be very hard to find in some countries, pack one and don’t fall at the first hurdle!
Don’t pack your laptop deep inside the biggest suitcase you can find under all of your clothes – airport security will want to check your laptop and will make you unpack everything if it’s ‘well-packed’.
Set up a blog – This one is not directly concerned with ‘travel’ and is definitely more of a tip than an ‘essential’. A blog can be a really easy way to keep a diary while you are away and share your experiences with those back home. For the social networkers out there they can also be integrated with other social networking accounts to share your updates with all of your friends (whether they like it or not!).
Finally, don’t be foolish and pull out your laptop in a shady bar or on every possible street corner and if possible, don’t carry it in a laptop bag. Try using a rucksack as opposed to a bag that screams look at me, I’m carrying a laptop! Be sensible and stay safe, it’s worth remembering that no matter how valuable the equipment your carrying is, it’s not worth more than your personal safety.
Hopefully these tips will make your next trip a bit easier if you are planning on staying ‘online’ and will also make the lives of any travelling companions easier who may have had to put up with any withdrawal symptoms!