From University Computing Services
Traveling With Your Laptop Computer
Making the Connection

You will need a voltage converter. These are available in kit or single unit built-in adapter styles.  In addition, consider taking a small multi-plug cord or power strip as one compatible place to plug in is NEVER enough and that's all the adapter kit will provide.

Sample electrical connectors

Radioshack Foreign Travel Adapters

http://www.cdw.com/shop/products/default.asp?EDC=120256

Traveling Wireless

A wireless Ethernet card should be included or embedded in the laptop.

PRE-PLANNING PAYS OFF– When you make your travel plans ask the hotel for a room with 802.11b wireless or find out if the hotel has an Internet room.

Lock it Up

The physical security of your laptop is always an issue, in the airport, at the hotel, anywhere you are. Take a look at these Web sites for valuable security information.

http://www.roadnews.com/html/Reviews/TrackIt.htm

Eyes are Watching

Check your password and log-off procedures for Web mail before you leave home. When you finish sending e-mail from your foreign location be sure that your account closes so that others cannot access your account.

Carefully consider information that you e-mail.

What Time is It?

Often it is difficult to keep track of the time difference between your location and home, which can make coordination of downloads and communications difficult. Bookmark this handy site.

http://www.timeanddate.com/

BEST BUY: Consider buying WorldWatch software ($50) to add to your portable. This software shows day/night transition and times graphically.

http://www.exptech.com/home/Products/WorldWatch/worldwatch.shtml

Travel information

This Web site has a wealth of travel information and vendors.

http://www.roadnews.com/html/home.html

Language Translators

You may want to install optional language character sets on the portable.

A language translator may be of assistance to you, as well.

http://www.ectaco.com/?refid=826

How Much Does It Cost?

A currency "cheat sheet" can be useful to have on hand. Add this site to your bookmarks.

http://www.oanda.com/convert/cheatsheet

Stay In Touch With the Home Front

How do you call home? How will home call you?

Consider Instant Messaging (MSN-IM, AOL-IM, and ICQ) to keep in touch with the family. It's easy and reduces the need/cost of phone calls.

Enjoy your trip!

=