Carrying all their needs in one convenient bag, backpackers travel light, travel cheap, and travel smart. Most people would agree though that a computer is an essential item these days.<br><br>Space is at a premium, so by packing a netbook something else will have to be left at home. After clothes and toiletries though, is there anything more important than a computer? In case you are still unconvinced, here are some reasons why netbooks are perfect for backpackers...<br><br>Reason #1 - Size<br><br>Backpacks have to be carried around a lot, and whilst you might not think that a few extra pounds makes much of a difference, they do. Netbooks weight that little though, most are around a pound or so, that you will hardly even know that you are carrying it. A larger laptop is not only heavier, it is also more difficult to conceal, whereas a small, discrete netbook can be hidden away from the eyes of opportunistic thieves.<br><br>Reason #2 - Features<br><br>Netbooks continue to pack in more and more features these days. Just a few things that backpackers can use them for include writing emails to keep family and friends up-to-date with their adventures, uploading photos to Facebook, writing a travel blog, or phoning home on Skype. Also, thanks to the power of the Internet, a range of tools and extensive travel information are just a click away from the savvy backpacker. Backpackers can quickly get a variety of directions and information on attractions in a few short minutes.<br><br>Reason #3 - Affordability<br><br>Costing between $200-400, netbooks are affordable, especially when compared to the cost of standard laptop computers. It is important to keep costs down, because the more money spent prior to traveling, the shorter the trip will probably have to be. Even that amount may initially seem prohibitive though, however, just think of the accumulated costs of paying to use computers in Internet shops for the whole duration of a trip away. Spending even a dollar or two a day in them soon adds up.<br><br>Reason #4 - Memories<br><br>For those eager to preserve the memories of their trip, netbooks offer a variety of ways to do so. In addition to word processing devices and web browsers for journaling and blogging, most netbooks now include a webcam and microphone. With the large size of the hard drive there is no need to hold back at all. You can save as many details of your trip as you want to.<br><br>So, for a small investment of money, a netbook can turn a traditional backpacking trip into an even more rewarding and informed experience. By taking one, you really will be the envy of everyone else, who will feel unprepared compared to you.<br><br>Also, remember that you can still use your netbook after you return from your travels. They are a great piece of equipment to have in general, so bear that in mind if you are thinking that you can not justify buying one just for backpacking.