It would have been different if...IF we were not all so dependent on our lap tops, one would not dream of leaving home without our trusty information holder. Sure you can walk with a USB device, but what happens, if there is no computer in your room or you wanted to make some changes to a document and the business office is closed?

Yes, it is crucial to take it with you and here are 9 things to remember when travelling with it.

1. Adaptor - before you plan your trip double check to see if you need an AC adaptor in the country you will be visiting.

2. Packing - do not pack your laptop in your baggage as your bag can be knocked around and your machine damaged. Do not store it in the over-head compartment either for the same reason.

3. Proper carrying case - be sure that your case has proper insulation in case your lap top falls; although there has been much improvement in the manufacturing process, err on the side of caution.

4. Going through X-ray - you computer is safe; the machinery will not harm it. You should however be careful of metal detectors - they could do damage.

5. Battery - before you leave home, make sure that your battery is fully charged, as you may be asked to show that it is working at customs; better yet boot it up when you get to the airport so you hold up the line.

6. Keep a close eye - you should never leave your computer alone, better safe than sorry as you never know with whom you are keeping company.

7. Storing other documents - if you have to store papers, files or discs in the same carrying case be sure that they are in a secure folder or pocket, otherwise when you open the case these additional items can go flying all over the place.

8. Protect your information - if you have to use it make sure that sensitive information is not on your screen; be aware of the people around you and how much attention they are paying to what you are doing.

9. Documentation - walk with proof of ownership; just a precaution. When you return home, you would not want to have to pay again for something that you own. It is your responsibility to prove that this is a pre-owned machine and not something you purchased on your trip.

Joanna Parris, CSP is a Certified Home Stating Expert; President, Durham Chapter - RESA (Real Estate Staging Association); member of SEA (Staging Excellence Alliance) and certified Senior Move Manager (cSMM) - she can be reached at Joanna(at)effectivestaging.com.