Hi Katherine (and all),

        I was able to take my laptop along on our trek from Georgia to
Anchorage, AK and it turned out to be the smartest thing I ever did.  As far
as security, just use common sense... don't display it in public and don't
leave it in the van overnight if you are staying in a hotel/motel.  I was
even able to use a 37 dollar AC converter from Walmart to power it in the van
while driving (don't worry, wife was driving).  And the most important aspect
was the access to the list while traveling.  I had 3 separate mechanical
failures and the list was right there to help get me back on the road (THANKS
VOLKS!).  So.... invest in a decent carrycase for the laptop, pickup a car
power adapter, and take the Vanagon List along for the ride.

Be Well

Scott De Santi
86 Vanagon