I know you’re thinking, “But my laptop is old/cheap/expendable.” Listen, I’ve been there. I once checked a beat-up Chromebook because I was lazy. It arrived with a cracked screen and a dead keyboard. The airline’s response? “We’re not responsible for electronics.” Surprise!
So, take the lesson from my 2 AM regret. Unless you’re flying a private jet or your laptop is a literal brick, keep it in your carry-on. Yes, it’s a pain. Yes, your backpack will be heavy. But your future self—the one trying to finish a presentation at a coffee shop in Rome—will high-five you.
And hey, if you absolutely have to check it? Pray to the travel gods, wrap it like a burrito, and say a little goodbye. Because you’re rolling the dice. And the house always wins. Now go pack smart—your laptop is counting on you.
