The BCS has compiled some tips for travelling with a laptop
after finding that 15% of executives take their computer on holiday
to contact business colleagues and keep up with
e-mails.
A further 8% take them to keep in touch with friends and family, to
research local amenities or to use other technology such as digital
cameras. Nearly half those who take their computer spend at least
an hour a day dealing with work e-mails.
Executives who take their computers on holiday said they return to
work feeling re-energised and in control, knowing they do not have
to wade through a deluge of e-mails when they return.
BCS chief executive David Clarke said, "The figures reflect a 21st
century working culture and also reveal that people are using
technology to adapt to the demands of their work. Taking a laptop
on holiday gives peace of mind by enabling them to keep in touch
and respond to a situation."
The BCS has put together some tips for taking a laptop on
holiday:
- Make sure it is covered by company or personal insurance
- Do not forget spare batteries, a charger or mains adaptor
- Keep the laptop in its case and take it on the plane with you;
never check it in as luggage
- Ensure you have adequate password protection
- Use the laptop discreetly in public places. Laptops now compete
with mobile phones in the theft league
- Never store sensitive information such as your passport number
or bank details unless it is encrypted
- Keep the laptop away from the sea and sand and avoid humid
conditions
- If you must work while on holiday, let customers and colleagues
know you are available only at a fixed time.