WHICH LAPTOP BACKPACKS ARE BEST?
For business people, travelers and students, backpacks have a lot of advantages over briefcases and messenger bags because they’re easier on your shoulders and arms. If you’re looking for a backpack to use every day, then you probably want a bag that has more than a single compartment in which to store your stuff; you don’t want your lunch and water bottle in the same pocket as your computer, or your gym shoes in the same pocket as a term paper.
Luckily, you have more choices than just a gigantic hiking pack or a tiny computer case. The Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe excels in protection for your computer, but if there’s a special feature you just have to have, there’s probably a quality bag that offers it.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU BUY A LAPTOP BACKPACK
Laptop sleeve size
Careless buyers may glance at the advertised dimensions for a bag, see that its height is greater than their computer’s size, and click “Buy.” Don’t do this. Because of the extra padding, a bag’s laptop sleeve will be smaller than the bag itself, so it’s the laptop sleeve’s dimensions that you need to be looking at. Those with 17-inch computers have fewer buying options than those with 13-inch laptops.
Laptop access
There are different styles of laptop backpacks with different types of laptop sleeves. Some involve a padded pocket within the main compartment. In others, the laptop sleeve is a completely separate zippered pocket, allowing you to pull it out quickly without opening the entire bag. There are also some airport-friendly models where the laptop compartment can fold down for going through TSA checkpoints, so if you’re a frequent flyer, these may be worth paying extra for.
Water-resistant vs. waterproof
If you live in a rainy climate, there’s a good chance your bag will get wet, and if it doesn’t repel water, that could spell disaster for your expensive computer. Some bags advertise waterproof material, while others have water-resistant bottoms or in some cases, no resistance at all. Many people think they need waterproof, but water-resistant is enough for most uses unless you plan on getting really wet.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A QUALITY LAPTOP BACKPACK
Storage capacity
Your laptop is going to take up a lot of space inside the bag, and how much room you need beyond that is up to you. Students may want an exceptionally large pack that allows them to carry books and gym clothes, while businesspeople may be able to get away with a slim model.
Organizational compartments
The best way to stay organized is to keep everything separate. Beyond your computer, there are notebooks, pens, sunglasses, chargers, phone cords, keys, wallets and important papers. A bag with an organizer or a large number of internal pockets prevents everything from getting too jumbled inside.
Hidden security pockets
While many bags offer a zippered inner pocket for storing cash and other items, some backpacks offer pockets with RFID-blocking technology to prevent criminals from stealing your credit card or passport info. Others offer external pockets in the straps where you can store a train ticket or boarding pass for convenience.
Comfortable straps
While most people focus on the inside of the backpack, don’t neglect the straps. If you’re going to be wearing it around a lot, you want to be comfortable. Straps with a lot of padding are key, and some backpacks offer mesh backs with air vents to keep you from getting overly sweaty in the summertime.
HOW MUCH YOU CAN EXPECT TO SPEND ON A LAPTOP BACKPACK
Because everyone needs a computer these days, this is an incredibly broad category with widely varying prices. You can easily find a cheap laptop backpack for under $50, while the fanciest travel backpacks can cost several hundred. It also means there’s no reason to settle — shop around and find the one that fits your needs.
LAPTOP BACKPACK FAQ
Will the rain ruin a leather backpack?
A. It could be. If the bag is 100% leather, it’s probably a bad idea to take it out in the rain without some sort of weatherproofing, and you’ll need to check that the product you’re using won’t harm your backpack. If rain is a consistent worry, you might consider a vegan leather or PU leather option that will look good but isn’t made of real leather.
Can I charge my phone with my backpack?
A. With the right backpack, you can connect your phone via USB to a battery bank to charge it while you’re walking around. However, just about every bag that offers this capability requires you to supply the battery pack, so add that onto the cost of the bag when calculating how much you’re willing to spend.
How big of a backpack can be used as a carry-on?
A. This varies by airline. Generally speaking, European carriers are much stricter regarding carry-on luggage, so if you’re planning to spend some time overseas, you might want to go a size smaller than your original plan. No matter what, it’s a good idea to research your preferred airline’s carry-on policy before purchasing.
What’s the best laptop backpack to buy?
Top laptop backpack
Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe
What you need to know: This is a versatile option with many high-end features and a lifetime warranty, and its interior pocket can accommodate laptops up to 17 inches.
What you’ll love: Water-resistant bottom to keep liquids from seeping in. Luggage pass-through strap to attach to a rolling suitcase handle. Removable sternum strap and padded back panel for comfort. Available in five colors.
What you should consider: While the amount of padding is great for protecting your laptop, it means less space for other items in the main compartment.
Top laptop backpack for the money
Case Logic Value 17-Inch Laptop Backpack
What you need to know: Offering the same amount of storage as high-end bags at a fraction of the price, this is an ideal pick for students hauling a lot of books and devices.
What you’ll love: Spacious and lightweight when empty. Has a helpful front organizational pocket and a side mesh pocket for a water bottle.
What you should consider: Only offered in one color, and lacking in padding both on the bottom and surrounding the laptop sleeve.
Worth checking out
Kenneth Cole Reaction Manhattan Leather Laptop Backpack
What you need to know: With a gorgeous full-grain leather exterior, this designer pack is as functional as it is eye-catching, thanks to a wealth of security and organizational features.
What you’ll love: RFID-blocking pockets to protect credit card information. Padded ergonomic straps and air mesh back panels for comfort. Hidden zipper stash pocket for valuables.
What you should consider: Leather isn’t for everyone, as it can be damaged by rain, and the sleeve is too small for 17-inch laptops.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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