Many laptop and notebook owners plug their laptops into a surge bar while at home.  This offers the laptop protection from power surges that can damage or ruin the electrical components inside.  However, have you ever brought any kind of surge protection with you when you are out and about?

Probably not.

I realize that surges are usually few and far between (unless you live out in the country) but it is still a risk.  You can think of it to be similar as to looking both ways before you cross the street – you probably will not get hit by a car, but you take the precaution (looking both ways) before crossing to minimize your risk.

An example of what they look like is below:

Think of them as not only protection for your notebook, but also as an insurance policy.  Most travel surge protectors come with a equipment guarantee:  if the surge protector fails to protect what you have plugged into it, your equipment will be covered to a certain dollar value of replacement.

So, protect that investment you have made in your notebook:  buy a travel surge protector and use it wherever you plug in your laptop. 

p.s.  I forgot to mention prices.  You can get them as cheap as about $5.00.  Check your local computer store or any online auction site.