Most of us use a network for file transfers. Laplink will work, but a network is more versatile. If you are willing to spend a little extra money, get a network card for your pc and for your notebook and connect them with a crossover cable. If you need any help with the configuration you are already in the right place 🙂
The only drawback to this is that PCMCIA (PC Card) network cards are expensive 🙁, but in the end it's still probably worth it for the added speed and flexibility.