Re: Essential mobile gear
The essential gear that you have to carry depends on how well equipped your notebook is to start with.
In a way I agree with you especially as it pertains to the commercial endorsements on the
essential list. Remember that the essential list is what the author carries in a personal, true road warrior, setup. However, what counts is getting the job done. The gear chosen has to fit the task. So, if you absolutely have to have a functioning computer for your job, carry two.
The MacBook works for my tasks so I carry two in my briefcase. The power bricks go in my roll on. That gives me a hard drive for backup, double power, all the ports I might need and, back to back, not much more thickness than older IBM Thinkpads I use to carry. I include a travel mouse (not mentioned as essential in the article).
If the Air, drum roll here, fits the task, use it. I don't get your remarks that it is a cripple. It's a specialized tool much like an ultralight fishing rod is a tool for its segment of sport.
I agree with the article about using a good bag on the road especially a rolling bag instead of a carry bag. I don't agree with filling it with the suggested essentials unless they are specifically for a needed task however they are what the author carries. I prefer to research my needs at the location and carry only what is needed. Except for the ID tags, everything mentioned is easily acquired locally if needed. Warriors need a sword and a spear but not much else.
