Why is it best if I don't take my personal laptop? That would be pretty hard for me - I'm a student and live through my laptop, I probably can't afford even a c

Why is it best if I don't take my personal laptop? That would be pretty hard for me - I'm a student and live through my laptop, I probably can't afford even a cheap replacement. I'd be open to backing it up before I leave, and then wiping it before I leave and after I return. Is that enough?