Ask HN: Best laptop for backpacking + programming

I've travelled extensively with a variety of laptops, I would suggest getting an ultrabook or an Air, I've been using Airs for a few years now. The most important things to me are:

1) Small so it fits in a discrete looking backpack, this is important because anything that looks like it was made to carry a laptop is an invitation to be robbed in many places.

2) Light because you're going to walk miles with it

The new Macbook Air. The battery life is amazing for on the go needs. If you are traveling and are away from a plug often, this is critical. It is powerful enough for pretty much anything you would need and light weight and compact enough.

Checkout the Asus Zenbook Prime (UX31A). I've been backpacking + programming for the last 8 month with it and it's absolutely perfect. Best laptop I ever owned. I run Ubuntu on it without any problems.

MBA all the way. The new model shouldn't need much explaining. Considering my 7 hour battery lasts 5 now, your 9 should expect ~8 for the first year.