Rick's Daily Tips

Review: AmazonBasics Backpack for Laptops

Posted on March 6, 2026

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Laptops and notebook computers are getting thinner and lighter all the time.

And as you probably know, that makes it more important than ever to protect them from being damaged while you’re carrying them from place to place.

Laptop bags have been around as long as laptops themselves, but most people these days seem to prefer carrying their machines in laptop backpacks.

If you’ve been looking for a great laptop backpack at an affordable price, let me tell you about one that I really love.

[Read more…]

How (and when) to boot your Android device into Safe Mode

Posted on March 6, 2026

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If you’re a Windows or Mac user you probably know that restarting your computer in Safe Mode is a great way to troubleshoot software problems that are difficult to track down when everything but the kitchen sink is running on the machine.

In a nutshell, booting a device into Safe Mode ensures that only the most essential parts of the operating system and the most basic hardware drivers are loaded into memory to make it easier to track down those most stubborn issues.

Luckily, Android devices can be booted into Safe Mode as well. [Read more…]

Q&A: Will leaving the lid open 24/7 damage my laptop?

Posted on March 5, 2026

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Question from Mark: I have a four month old Acer Nitro Gaming Laptop with a 32 inch gaming monitor connected and set as the primary display.

I use the external monitor for my games. The laptop’s built-in screen is always open with my email and a few other apps open on it.

What I need to know is could leaving the lid open all the time damage the laptop in any way? [Read more…]

Vehicle Paint Protection Services: What they are and why they matter

Posted on March 5, 2026

A friend of mine drives the Tauranga to Auckland motorway three times a week. Last month he counted 14 fresh stone chips across his bonnet and bumper after one run behind a loaded truck.

The respray quote was over NZ$900 for the bumper alone.

New Zealand roads are hard on paint, and our summer UV Index regularly hits 12 or higher, which is classed as extreme. That combo speeds up fading, oxidation, and chip damage. [Read more…]

How to earn your Class 6 Riding License in NZ

Posted on March 5, 2026

Getting your Class 6 license is simpler than the acronyms make it sound. You’ll pass a handling test, sit a theory exam, then progress through learner, restricted, and full stages.

When I first looked it up, BHST, LAMS, CBTA, 6L, 6R, 6F felt like a wall of letters. Once you map them to real steps, it becomes straightforward.

For now, today’s graduated rules still apply, with no confirmed changes taking effect until July 2026. That means you can plan with confidence using the current timeframes. [Read more…]