After spending over a thousand dollars for a laptop, you'd think you've done enough damage on your credit card. Your laptop is your business partner, your secretary, and your investment all rolled into one. It'll be a wise idea to get a few laptop accessories to enhance its performance. I'm not telling you to go ahead and buy every gizmo and gadget that promise better laptop performance. In truth, there are only a few laptop accessories every business traveler must have.

First stop: a protective laptop bag. Get this first before buying other laptop accessories. In fact, get this together with your laptop. This baby will protect your thousand-dollar business buddy from spills, scratches, and falls. Plus, carrying your laptop in a sleek case looks more professional than your college backpack. Laptop bags range from cheap $25 bags to a hundred dollar leather case. Whichever one you get, consider the quality and not just the price. Check for waterproofing, shock absorbing capacity, and pockets for added convenience.

If your laptop came with its own software, don't think that you're all set. Check if the installed software matches your business needs. If not, install a new software and keep the installation disk in your laptop bag. It's good to bring it always because you never know when you'll need an emergency re-install. Without the software disk, you'll be a sitting duck. An actual USB mouse is often overshadowed by other laptop accessories. Your laptop has eraser nubs and trackpads which are convenient when working in vehicle. However, for stable surfaces like in a cafe or conference room, a mouse pad is more suitable. By using an actual USB mouse, you refrain from blocking the screen each time you adjust or operate your presentation. Even though you think you won't use it, keep it handy.

Most laptops today come with Ethernet ports. But even if your hotel provides Ethernet connection, it is useless without a suitable cable. So include internet, phone, and modem cables in your laptop accessories list to avoid being caught off-guard. Your thousand-dollar laptop may look sleek the first time you use it. But over time, finger oils and dust can make it look grimy. Stash some disposable and lint-free cloth to wipe the surfaces of your laptop. Make sure the cloths are not abrasive to avoid scratching your laptop. For file storage, keep USB drives and blank CD-Rs handy. These are also handy for situations other than file storage. Suppose you delivered an excellent presentation and an executive of your client company requested a copy. Instead of emailing him a copy, you could burn him a copy instantly and give him the CD. Choice laptop accessories are not limited to protecting your laptop. Most protect your professional image and business as well.