Must I have a computer case or can I just leave my mobo exposed?

[10ftcoke]

In a year or so I will be moving off to college. Now I'd love to take my monster of a desktop pc but its convenient to lug the entire case around because it takes up so much space and because its heavy.
So I wonder, if I just take my mobo and everything connected to it out, and wrap that up in bubblewrap, would that be a workable computer? Let me make sure you know what I mean: I have no computer case, but my mobo is wrapped in bubblewrap and antistatic paper. I turn on and use my mobo set up this way. Will the computer work? Will it blow up? Will it melt the wrapping? I was thinking this would give the CPU more ventilation if anything.

Speccy
Operating System
MS Windows 7 Ultimate 64-bit SP1
CPU
AMD Athlon 64 X2 3800+ 44 °C
Toledo 90nm Technology
RAM
3.00 GB Dual-Channel DDR @ 200MHz (3-4-4-8)
Motherboard
ASUSTek Computer INC. NAGAMI2 (Socket 939) 40 °C
Graphics
HP w19 (1440x900@60Hz)
ATI Radeon HD 5570 (XFX Pine Group) 33 °C
Hard Drives
9.96GB QUANTUM FIREBALLP LM10.2 ATA Device (PATA)
244GB Western Digital WDC WD25 00JS-60NCB1 SCSI Disk Device (ATA)
Optical Drives
NEC DVD_RW ND-2510A ATA Device
Audio
Realtek High Definition Audio

 

[geofelt]

No need even for the bubble wrap.

I normally test out a new build that way, outside of the case.
Just put it on a non conducting surface, like cardboard.
If your space is secure from kids, cats, or anything that will disturb the space, you are ok.

 

[aaab]

I wouldn't recommend this there's a reason people use cases,
Airflow would be a major problem... Also if you accidentally kicked it, dropped or spilt something on it.

You could however pack all your stuff up in a box with bubble wrap. Then buy a new cheap small case and use that while your at collage.

 

[duxducis]

there are no requirements for computer parts to have case, (most need to hold, cool and protect),
thou think your bubble wrapped parts would overheat.
if you must, can try cardboard, there is actual cardboard case, made out of old box

Find matching box, install pats, secure them (plastic ties, ductape)
might need to open it when using, thou
if box is from adult diapers even better, probably nobody going to steal it