Equipment Transport (Attending)

Getting to an event with all of your things safely intact requires some preparation. Helpfully, there are many strategies available to you.

Packing Computers, Consoles and Screens

With the exception of laptops, computers typically aren't moved around very often. Here are typical methods for making a computer both reasonable to carry and resistant to damage.

Original Packaging

If you still have the original packaging for your computer case or console, many gamers choose to put it back in so it can be protected by the polystyrene and cardboard. This has the advantage of being a very good fit, and keeping the computer dry in the case of bad weather.

Wheeled Suitcase

If you have a wheeled suitcase, it can be possible to put your computer case or console inside, padded with your clothing and bedding. This has the advantage of making the computer much easier to carry, but won't be as good a fit as the computer's original packaging.

Computer Carry Harness

GearGrip manufactures clip-together harnesses for computers, screens and peripherals. The computer tower carriers don't offer any protection against bumps, but do make the tower much easier to transport, allowing one-handed carrying in most cases.

Pelican Cases

If you are very concerned about the safety of your computer or console during transport, and have the budget, a Pelican case (or equivalent) offers more protection than any of the other options on this page. They are manufactured from ABS plastic, making them waterproof and very strong. They come with foam inserts that you can tear out sections from to make a mould for your equipment, and the larger models also have wheels.

Disassembly and Repackaging

The most extreme strategy is to disassemble the computer and re-package each component in its original packaging. This is typically the method used when flying with a computer as it ensures the rough baggage handling doesn't cause components to be broken inside the case.

Packing Peripherals

When you unplug your computer you may be surprised how many little things you want to take. If you can't fit your peripherals in with your computer and screen, try one of the below methods to pack them.

Collapsing Crate

Usually the right size for taking the typical peripherals, and can stack up small once you've unpacked at the event. Search for a crate online if you do not already own one.

Backpack

Most backpacks can accommodate a full-length keyboard and the rest of your peripherals.

Coiling Cables

To ensure your cables do not get tangled and damaged, wind them using the under-over technique and do not coil them around your hand or arm. Use velcro wraps or cable ties to keep them coiled, and avoid using adhesive tape as this will leave the cable sticky and prone to pick up dust.

Driving

By far the easiest way to travel to a LAN in most cases is to drive or be driven. Typically you aren't as restricted in what you can take, but do consider what other equipment will need to fit if other attendees are travelling in the same vehicle

Public Transport

Travelling to an event by public transport is challenging but possible. Consider how much you can carry at one time, and only bring what you need. It is also worth giving thought to the security of your equipment when travelling this way.

Flying

Unless you have a laptop, flying to an event is typically the most challenging method. Packing into a Pelican case or using the disassembly method as described above will help protect your equipment agains undue damage. If your computer or console is small enough and your airline permits it, carrying it on as hand luggage will mean that it is not subject to the harsh treatment of baggage handlers.