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You're a solopreneur working from your home office. You're about to land a big client for your contract business. You plan. You prepare. You research in advance to make sure that nothing goes wrong.
Well, the same thought needs to go into protecting your business tools. Your laptop - heck, all your electronic devices - are crucial to your business. (Just imagine for a moment they were lost or damaged beyond repair.) A little planning, preparation, and research before leaving on vacation will go a long way toward safeguarding your work essentials from summer's elements.
If you must take your laptop or tablet on vacation with you, remember that sand and electronics don't play nicely together. Irreparable harm is not just possible, but likely, if the two meet head-on.
The same can be said of the surf, and I don't mean only if you happen to drop your laptop into the ocean. A few splashes poolside may end its life. Ask anyone who's ever spilled their morning cup of joe on their keyboard or their cell phone into the toilet (don't ask).
Skins are widely available for your tablets and laptops, blocking moisture from entering through their seams; investing in a waterproof one is not just smart, it might be the best investment in your business you make this summer.
You even have the option of purchasing waterproof and firesafe hard drives for your computers. A quick search online will show you what options will best suit your needs.
You can find screen protectors that also serve as privacy filters. A huge benefit to many models is the anti-glare feature, which you'll certainly appreciate out in the bright sunshine.
Be sure not to allow your equipment to lie out in the sun. Extreme heat will quickly damage or ruin it. You'll need to plan your day so that your computer won't be baking outdoors - or in a hot car, either.
But what about protection for your keyboard while you're actually working on it? Consider a keyboard skin. It will offer you a measure of protection from sand and water damage.
Because your computer or tablet is more vulnerable to theft or loss when you travel, always update your anti-virus software before going out of town and never leave programs open unless you're working on them, even just for a few minutes. It takes just a few seconds for someone to pick up your equipment if they're watching you. Do a backup of your files immediately before going out of town.
Know the specs of your computer - make, model, etc. - to be able to make phone inquiries looking for it should you need to. Even better, jot down its ID number (similar to a car's VIN).
Learn how to password-protect your content and even apply a password in order to sign onto the computer. While this won't stop a professional from hacking into your files if they want to, it may be enough to protect your data and confidential information if your laptop is lost in the airport or found by a passerby at the hotel swimming pool.
That said, chances are you'll go on vacation with your computer and cell phone and nothing will happen. You'll keep your office up and running, and your business tools will never be lost.
But all it takes is one time to wreak havoc and ruin a vacation before you can say, 'do over'... so protect your business assets while you vacation this summer, and keep your trip memorable for all the right reasons.
Here may be the best idea yet... why not consider leaving all but your cell phone at home this year and not work for a week?
I truly hope you have a great time on vacation and please stay safe. | 
