A computer can be useful for leisure travellers, and indispensable for business travellers and digital nomads. This article describes the hardware; there are specific articles for Internet access and Internet telephony.
Understand
As of the 2020s, a smartphone has apps for most daily needs; see Smartphone apps for travellers for apps especially for travellers. When it comes to ticket systems and maps, mobile apps might be superior to computer apps.
A tablet computer is a lighter option than a laptop computer, but is less versatile.
A laptop computer is both portable and useful, but can be the most expensive option.
A desktop computer is bulky, but might be an option in a few cases, as for a longer stay, perhaps in a vacation home, or as exchange student.
Buy
Buying a computer at the destination might be a solution, but has some risks when it comes to warranties and returns, if you intend to bring it back home. It may also be a hassle to get language settings and the like to be what you are used to. Also hardware, such as keyboard setup, may differ (the engravings are one thing, but if some of the keys are missing, you are out of luck).
If you do buy a computer abroad, look into possible tax refunds for tourists on high-value purchases; these may be available in popular shopping destinations such as Thailand. However, the tax refunds usually require that you don't use the device before leaving the country. Thus this is an option mostly where you stay at a good computer shopping destination before continuing to your destination country.
Buying external equipment on site, such as a keyboard and a mouse, is also an option. They can be cheap enough to discard or donate before returning home. On the other hand, you might want to bring the keyboard, as it is reasonably easy to carry, to get the keyboard layout and engravings you are used to.
Do
For computer-themed tourism, see hacker tourism and mathematics tourism.
Stay safe
- See also: Theft, Travel insurance, Proof of what you already own
Risk factors for computers include theft, damage from shocks or liquids, malware, and trouble with authorities. Apple laptops are more likely to be a target for theft in some places.