Protecting a Laptop in a Surge-Ridden Area

Question

I am traveling to Nepal with a laptop, where power frequently surges and wanes (brownouts).
What do I need to protect the laptop? A surge protector? Voltage regulator?

Answer 1

Most laptop power supplies cope with a wide range of input voltages and coupled with the battery itself, effectively gives you a UPS. If you are expecting surges, though, a surge protector is a good idea.

The biggest risk, however, will be theft and so I'd recommend insurance, a decent cable lock, keep all valuable data, photos etc. on encrypted USB sticks that you keep with you or locked in a hotel safe (where applicable) at all times.

Answer 2

Make sure you back up any changes that take place between the image you make before you leave and your computer when you get home!

Answer 3

I would also make a complete image of the hard drive before leaving and then wipe the drive and restore the image when you get home.

You don't want any trojans, viruses, etc from connecting to foreign networks getting introduced to your network when you get home.