Tips On How To Travel With A Full Sized Monitor

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Have you ever considered traveling with a full-size computer screen? 

On the surface, it appears to be a crazy idea to carry around a huge, heavy screen as a digital nomad. But think about it for a second. Wouldn’t it be nice to have that massive screen with you to work more comfortably no matter where in the world you are?

We mean, a laptop screen can only do so much!

If you are a fan of massive workstations but also can’t give up the traveler lifestyle, this one’s for you. 

Why Travel With A Full-Size Monitor?

Freelancers who design graphics, edit videos or do other complex computing usually do best with a two-screen setup. This usually means investing in a full-sized travel-friendly monitor and using it as an addendum to the laptop screen.

Here’s why that’s such a good idea: 

Better Performance

You’ll find estimates on the internet about how much working on a larger screen affects your performance at work if you run a search. The actual values will vary depending on the person and the outcome. However, experts suggest a screen that’s no bigger than 27 inches. 

Selecting computer equipment to purchase and lug around is all about compromise, just like everything else. While laptops and tablets may fit comfortably into your backpack, the screens aren’t really suitable for design work. 

As a result, most individuals choose to work on desktops or connect their laptops to huge displays, giving them two displays to work on. 

Pack The Monitor For Protection

If you’re only traveling to Asia for several months or plan to live in the Bahamas for the next year, why wouldn’t you bring a suitable workstation with you? At the very least, you’ll get done with your work much faster. 

You need to place the screen flat inside your full-sized baggage. Then cushion it with clothing, especially around the corners. Use your shorts and jeans as a ‘wedge’ to keep everything in place. Also, remember to add some padding against the screen, i.e., the face of the monitor. 

Another way to pack it is by securing it in its original packaging, sealing it well, and booking it as a fragile item. But make sure it doesn’t exceed the total weight allowed for luggage. That should be no trouble as most 27-inch monitors should stay within the target.

Bringing A Monitor On The Plane

In addition to remembering how to pack a desktop monitor for relocating, there are numerous additional factors to consider before boarding an aircraft with one. Even though not all airlines follow the same laws and regulations, here are some fundamental suggestions.

It would be best to keep in mind that not all airlines follow the same rules and regulations. Thus, some may place additional restrictions on larger screens, such as curved monitors.

One factor that could get in your way is that some airlines confine you to a specific checked item. So if you wish to check anything extra, you’ll have a hard time getting around this issue.

On the other hand many airlines permits two or more bags to be checked in as long as the total weight does not exceed their limit, while some others such as British Airways only allows a single checked item. As a result, exercise caution while selecting a carrier.

You’re taking a risk because most airlines don’t cover damages to electronic devices, even in the event of loss or damage beyond their control. Even if your item is labeled as “fragile,” it will still be handled and stored like any other piece of luggage. 

However, some airlines and travel agencies provide additional insurance to ensure that your belongings arrive securely roughly 90% of the time. Making sure that your items are insured is a great practice when traveling with your work equipment in any case.

Tips On How To Travel With A Full-Sized Monitor

Monitors are allowed on flights by the TSA and other air carriers, but there are some general rules and advice to follow to ensure a safe journey.

Guidelines For Checked Baggage 

Some restrictions apply when it comes to flying with an electronic device such as a monitor screen as checked luggage, which can be more stringent than most requirements for renters insurance policies that include computers. In any case, it’s a good idea to double-check the small print.

  1. Typically, airlines have a maximum weight limit for checked bags. LCDs of today are relatively light. Thus, this shouldn’t be a problem for most people. In any case, verify it with your airline.

  2. There is usually a maximum weight and height limit set by the airline. That is to say, huge monitors, such as curved gaming screens, may not be allowed on flights. As long as you are not packing the screen in its original packaging, you should be able to meet this criterion.

  3. Before giving it to an airline employee, designate your computer display as fragile to prevent it from being damaged accidentally.

  4. Checking a monitor as an item of checked-in luggage on an aircraft can have cost associated. If there is a particular airline you use, these frequent flyer benefits could cancel out that charge.

Guidelines For Carry-on Baggage 

As long as it fits a few criteria, most airlines will let you take a computer monitor on board with you.

  1. You must ensure your monitor is the correct size. To put it another way, check to see whether it will fit in the overhead compartment or the space beneath you.

  2. Keep the monitor in its case if you intend to take it on a plane. This method will guarantee that the screen will not get damaged in midflight in the luggage compartment.

  3. TSA security may need to inspect it. So, if TSA authorities ask you to open the monitor’s box, be ready to comply.

Wrapping Up 

Traveling with a monitor is more common than you think. Nobody wants to waste their time on a small screen while on a trip.

Having a nicely-sized monitor can keep you productive and efficient even when away from home. You must be aware of the technicalities of flying with a monitor, so you don’t get your monitor damaged or have to leave it behind. 

Dan McCabe
Dan McCabe

Long time remote worker with the dream of enabling everyone to join the remote workforce. Owner and Editor of caniworkfromhere.com.

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