Protecting Your Devices When Studying Abroad

There is plenty of both software and hardware available to keep your digital devices safe when studying abroad. There are even GPS capabilities now built into laptops, smartphones, and tablets that will allow you to find your device if it gets lost or stolen. However, there are also many ways you can prevent theft of your digital devices in the first place! Let’s take a look at a few methods of ensuring your digital devices don’t end up in the wrong hands.

Keep Them in an Older Case or Bag

If you’re spending a semester abroad, you will inevitably want to get a few new things for your experience. However, when carrying around your laptop, camera, smartphone, or tablet, it is best to keep them in something older. An older looking case or an unbranded messenger bag/backpack will draw far less attention than something that is brand new or designer. This is especially true if you have a specific bag for your hardware, like a camera bag that says “Cannon” or a laptop bag with the Apple logo. The less obvious you can make the contents of your bag, the better.

If Traveling, Keep Devices With You

The best way to ensure your devices don’t get lost or stolen, especially when on a plane, is to keep them with you. Keeping them in your carry-on bag may cause some delays at security, but it will give you peace of mind knowing that your $600 phone, your $800 tablet, and your $1200 laptop aren’t being handled by anyone besides you.

Put a Label on Your Items

If something does happen to get lost when abroad, it can be hard to claim a device, even if it’s found. Without a label, how can you prove the device is yours? Labels are old fashioned, but a simple sticker with your contact information inside your phone’s case or on the body of your laptop can make claiming your lost device much easier.

Finding a “Safe” Place

You can’t always bring your devices with you, especially if you have a DSLR with a few lenses or a heavy laptop. In this case, the best thing to do is use a safe, or if one isn’t available, get a lock and key. Drawers, closets, or hidden storage can be locked in order to protect dorm room guests from going through your things.

Many of these suggestions can be used when studying at your local college or university, but when studying in a place that is completely new to you, it is best to take a little extra precaution, and make sure you get yourself into a routine. It could save your devices from ending up in the wrong hands!