Living Round the World Myself (Score 1)

I'm a trekking guide and live in Nepal. I'm often traveling with my computer in semi-rugged conditions. Spent a lot of time initially figuring out what works for me... I've taken my Mac PB G4 all over the world with me--Egypt, Mongolia, etc. While I haven't taken it to Everest Base Camp, and yes, it's not made to function at 18K ft, you are not going to be at altitude that long, are you? Most people are up there only a few days. Take photos and notes for 3 days. You can leave your computer locked up with a lodge owner lower down if you want/need to. Don't overgear. I watch people pack all the time. Most people are very worried about whatever is important to them, whether tech stuff or otherwise, and tend to spend a lot of money gearing up unnecessarily. My computer has been through dust storms, heat, and cold, and it's fine. It's small and fairly light, and yes, I carry it all over. I liked booqbags for their excellent indestructible sleeve, and I liked snowboarder bags (like Dakine) for a backpack because they don't look like you have a laptop in them, and they fit close to the body which makes them comfortable to wear under all sorts of conditions. Otherwise, look for a small climbing pack--same benefits. Look for inner pockets, instead of outer pockets that can be easily picked by theives. Regarding a replacement computer, you can definitely buy one in Nepal if need be. I can't speak to the rest of Asia, but you can get one with the right keyboard and language pack here no problem. I'm guessing that's true in other developing countries where pirated software is readily available. What you will most like to have if you have a mac is an Apple 2-pin-round plug adaptor to swap out on the plug adapter INSTEAD of having an adapter that fits over the 2-pin-flat plug. Also, I use my ipod as a backup for docs/calendars/addresses, and try to always keep it in a separate bag from my computer or a jacket pocket--just in case my computer does get bumped, broken, stolen. Good luck!