Absolutely. The underpinnings of OS X have their roots in UNIX, which was designed to run 24/7/365. So, there is usually little need to reboot (unless you're getting a significant system update). I close the lid when I'm done, I open it when I want to use it - and seldom do I ever reboot.
I have been doing just that for a long time now, no bad experiences in doing it, and from what I have heard from alot of other people there really isn't anything bad going to happen at all. I do however shut mine down from time-to-time but we are talking once every few months though.
The only time I shut mine off, is when I know I am not going to be using it for a couple of days. Or when I am running out of battery life and no apparent reason to use it, I just turn it off. I have had no problems with my laptop.
Apple themselves (can't find the technote at the moment) recommend putting the computer to sleep rather than shut down UNLESS you are going to be away from it for a longer period of time than normal.
As for laptops in knapsacks, the SAFEST thing to do is to shut it down when being transported in an enclosed bag. This prevents the possibility of it accidentally "waking up" and overheating due to lack of ventilation.
In normal use, however, I find that if one is thoughtful enough to WAIT once the lid is closed to CONFIRM that the laptop is in fact asleep, it should be fine for transport.
I have 2 iMacs and basically don't shut them down, never had any problems. Macs run maintenance jobs when not in use, so best to leave your iMac running.
I'm sorry guys as I didn't specify that it was indeed a Mac Book Pro.
But thanks for the info! The few times that I do take it with me I do
shut it down before I place it in it's case.
Russ
Shop for your Apple, Mac, iPhone and other computer products on Amazon.
We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon and affiliated sites.