Took my Macbook Pro to Vegas and back in May. Rain, hail, snow, desert heat, etc.
Put it in a neoprene padded slipcase and sandwiched it between my clothes.

No problems.

Loved it for route changes.

 

I've carried my Dell Vostro in the "Pizza Box" on rides up to 3,000 miles round trip. I put it in its case and wrapped it with a towel I carried in case of rain or whatever. I used it to upload files from my cameras and to stay in touch w/the folks back home at night via skype. Doesn't seem to mind the trip at all.

 

I have a Acer Netbook, its as small as a book, has wifi and does everything I need, mostly web and email. Use it to make reservations for motels. Would take a trip with out it