8 Essential MacBook Setup Tips Before Traveling

While a phone or tablet is often enough for travel, sometimes you really need a laptop. This article covers key MacBook settings and preparations to make before your trip.

Why Take Your MacBook With You?

A MacBook is more than just a wireless iPad with a keyboard. Tablets are great for simple tasks, but a laptop is much better for blogging, editing photos, and other more complex activities. If you plan to post photo reports during your trip, using a laptop is much more convenient.

Additionally, your MacBook can serve as a charging hub for multiple devices. With its USB ports, you can charge your iPhone, iPad, camera, and other gadgets at the same time, instead of switching them in and out of available outlets.

1. Enable “Find My Mac”

If your laptop is lost or stolen, the Find My Mac feature (available in all macOS versions) can be a lifesaver. While it’s not as effective as Find My iPhone (since it requires an active internet connection to send location data to iCloud), it can still help if someone tries to use your MacBook.

To activate it, go to System Preferences > iCloud, sign in with your Apple ID, and check the box next to Find My Mac.

If your MacBook is stolen, log in to iCloud.com with your Apple ID. You’ll be able to track its last known location, play a sound, lock it with a passcode, or even erase all data remotely.

2. Back Up with Time Machine

Backups are always important, but especially before traveling when the risk of loss or theft is higher. Use the built-in Time Machine feature in macOS to quickly back up your data to an external drive.

3. Set Up Password Protection

If you haven’t already enabled password protection, now is the time. First, set a password by going to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > General and clicking Change Password.

Next, enable Require password immediately after sleep or screen saver begins to ensure your MacBook always asks for a password after being locked.

4. Add a Lock Screen Message

For extra security, add a message to your lock screen in case someone finds your MacBook. Go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > General, enable Show a message when the screen is locked, and enter your message (such as your contact info).

5. Enable FileVault and Firmware Password

FileVault encrypts your entire disk, making your data inaccessible if your MacBook is stolen. To enable it, go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > FileVault, click Turn On FileVault, and follow the instructions. Your MacBook will need to stay on for several hours while the disk is encrypted.

A firmware password prevents your Mac from booting from any disk other than the designated startup disk. This stops thieves from using Recovery Mode or booting from an external drive. To set it up, restart your Mac and hold Cmd + R to enter Recovery Mode. In the menu bar, select Utilities > Firmware Password Utility, click Turn on Firmware Password, set your password, and restart. Don’t forget this password! If you do, you’ll need to visit an Apple Store with proof of purchase to reset it.

6. Get Useful Accessories

• Apple World Travel Adapter Kit: This set is designed for Apple chargers and lets you plug your MacBook into outlets worldwide without worry.
• SD Card Adapter: Handy for transferring photos from your camera to your MacBook for editing. The MOKiN USB C adapter is a great choice for newer MacBooks.
• Protective Case: A case, like the affordable models from Mosiso, helps protect your MacBook from physical damage during travel.

7. Use Airplane Mode

Don’t drain your battery unnecessarily. When you’re on a plane or somewhere without Wi-Fi, switch your MacBook to airplane mode to stop it from searching for networks and peripherals, saving battery life.

8. Connect via VPN

To access services from home while abroad, use a VPN (such as ExpressVPN or CyberGhost). This lets you watch your favorite shows on Netflix or Hulu even if they’re unavailable in your current location. VPNs also help keep your data secure when using public Wi-Fi networks.

Other Tips for Safe Travel

Now you know how to keep your MacBook safe while traveling. Don’t forget, you can also use your iPhone as a personal hotspot if your mobile plan offers affordable data rates.