Go Back  Fodor's Travel Talk Forums > Destinations > Europe
Reload this Page >

Computer and packing

Search

Computer and packing

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old May 19th, 2003, 06:36 PM
  #1  
jmp
Original Poster
 
Join Date: Feb 2003
Posts: 130
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Computer and packing

I am leaving for Paris tomorrow!. I will need my computer but don't want to bring it as a carry on. Is it safe to pack it in my suitcase - if so, is there a specific way I should pack it?

What if security decides to open my suitcase - should I be worried about theft?

thanks
jmp is offline  
Old May 19th, 2003, 06:59 PM
  #2  
 
Join Date: Feb 2003
Posts: 37
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
I don't believe that there is a way to pack a computer in checked baggage. To the contrary, I'm aware of at least one that was destroyed--they are very fragile. Wishing you a wonderful trip and time in Paris!
AmyLynne is offline  
Old May 19th, 2003, 07:14 PM
  #3  
 
Join Date: Feb 2003
Posts: 62
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Try the Paklite cabin bags which have a lid with several sections - designed to put your laptop andpapers in. I use this everytime I travel for conferences.
clbc is offline  
Old May 19th, 2003, 08:54 PM
  #4  
 
Join Date: Jan 2003
Posts: 426
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
My best piece of advice is: NEVER PACK SOMETHING IN YOUR CHECKED BAGS THAT WOULD CAUSE YOU HEARTBREAK (OR WORSE) IF IT DISAPPEARED FOREVER!

My husband and I have had our luggage delayed by 24 - 72 hourse a handful of times, and each time, we spent an agonizing 1 - 3 days mentally making lists of what we'd packed in our bags that we'd be devastated if we lost forever.

Fortunately, we've always gotten our bags in the end (knock on wood!), but we've spent harrowing hours mourning the (potential) loss of special items (me) and a work computer (him).

But have a GREAT time in Paris - I'm so jealous!
Andrea_expat is offline  
Old May 20th, 2003, 04:41 AM
  #5  
ira
 
Join Date: Jan 2003
Posts: 74,699
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Hi jmp,

Mind telling us why you do't want to carry your computer on the plane? I would think that that is the best way.

Also, have you considered whether internet cafe's would be acceptable?
ira is offline  
Old May 20th, 2003, 05:57 PM
  #6  
 
Join Date: May 2003
Posts: 74
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Do NOT pack the laptop in your carry on. Yes you should be worried about TSA opening your luggage, baggage handlers etc. The airline will only reimburse you a limited amount (and it is pretty small on international flights!)Plus it is your word against their's that you packed a computer and they will fight you! If it is not a a Laptop and you are not moving to Paris leave it at home! If it is a laptop, put it in the bag, sling it over your shoulder and get on.
CarolLA is offline  
Old May 20th, 2003, 06:16 PM
  #7  
 
Join Date: Jan 2003
Posts: 13,192
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts


I used to put the laptop in checked luggage from time to time on Intra Europe flights when I did not want to lug it around airports. . would sandwich between multiple layers of clothing for cushion. Never had any problems at all.

With current rules around unlocking luggage, I don't think I would do it now, particlarly on a trans-Atlantic flight. I have stuck it in the main carryon which has wheels to keep from lugging it. My current laptop is so light that it is not an issue.

Have fun . . Rich
Rich is offline  
Old May 20th, 2003, 09:02 PM
  #8  
 
Join Date: Jan 2003
Posts: 16,067
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
I was a business traveler with a laptop as an appendage for a long time... but even more so, I work in the computer industry. I've also some interesting stories on the condition of checked luggage after I've gotten it back. When I've gotten it back.

If you don't really <b>need</b> the laptop anymore, check it. Otherwise, I'd bite the bullet and carry it on. Maybe not in the laptop bag if you're holding the carry on space for something else, but try hard to squeeze it in.
Clifton is offline  
Related Topics
Thread
Original Poster
Forum
Replies
Last Post
bamababe
Mexico & Central America
11
Apr 12th, 2007 01:58 PM
KeyGal
Travel Tips & Trip Ideas
5
Aug 28th, 2006 06:24 PM
Ducko
Europe
20
Apr 11th, 2006 08:48 AM
sandi
Air Travel
11
Feb 20th, 2003 11:52 AM
Eddie
Air Travel
13
Jan 17th, 2003 05:15 AM

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Trackbacks are Off
Pingbacks are Off
Refbacks are On



Contact Us - Manage Preferences - Archive - Advertising - Cookie Policy - Privacy Statement - Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information -