Consumer Reports: Protecting Electronics On Vacation

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - When you head to the beach this summer, chances are you'll be packing a lot of electronics.

Most of us don't leave home without at least one device. In fact, the average person takes about three gadgets on vacation.

So, what's the best way to protect that stuff from getting damaged? Consumer Reports has some ideas.

From smartphones, tablets, e-readers, laptops, GPS devices to cameras, all your electronics practically need their own suitcase.

If you're thinking of checking them as baggage, don't.

"Nearly 10 percent of people in our survey reported damage to a laptop tablet, or digital camera that was in a checked bag," Glenn Derene, of Consumer Reports, said.

Consumer Reports recommends carrying-on your electronics instead. If possible, use a padded bag.

If you must check your devices, wrap them in soft clothing.

About 10 percent of survey respondents said their device got wet on vacation and 19 percent said sand or dirt was a problem.

"Obviously, be careful. But, if you're looking for a simple and cheap way to protect your electronics from sea and sand, use a zippered food storage bag. They're just as effective as pricey waterproof cases and you can even use your touch screen through them," Derene said.

Another common complaint from about half of those in the Consumer Reports' survey was batteries dying.

"Conserve power by lowering the screen brightness on your phone or tablet and reduce text and email updates to once every half hour," Derene said.

If there are no bars, just turn everything off or set to airplane mode. There's no sense in burning through battery life trying to connect to non-existent service.

Of course, the ultimate protection is just leaving some electronics at home.

In fact, nearly a one-third of people in the Consumer Reports' survey said they'd prefer their kids didn't bring along any gadgets on vacation.