Laptop Cases/Bags

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jbard

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#85817 25-Jun-2011 18:31

I was wondering what everyone uses to carry their laptops in?

What type of bag/case do you prefer/find easy to use?

I think i am after a backpack style bag with room for my laptop and space for some other items as well.

Where are the best places to buy them from?

Online or IRL.

BlakJak

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#485852 25-Jun-2011 18:52

I have one of these http://www.affordablecomputer.co.nz/catalog/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=45&products_id=1582 - doesn't get a lot of use these days as I use a satchel style bag day-to-day but the backpack is used whenever I travel (and will likely be what I use once the satchel gives up the ghost).

I think I got it from Ascent. It was a few years ago now but I see it's still current line + available etc...

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b0untypure1

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#485888 25-Jun-2011 20:22

i have one of these,
http://dicksmith.co.nz/product/XH9992/be-ez-larobe-sleeve-13-quot-black-wasabi-green

foam style is awesome, survives all knocks and pressures put on it.

i find backpack styles (two shoulder straps) will soon find yourself not liking it....
the over the shoulder style is much more "hip"

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51HW0YdW6dL.jpg

b0untypure1

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#485889 25-Jun-2011 20:23

and buy IRL, unless you know exactly what size you want, then go online

BlakJak

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#485891 25-Jun-2011 20:27

b0untypure1: i have one of these,
http://dicksmith.co.nz/product/XH9992/be-ez-larobe-sleeve-13-quot-black-wasabi-green

foam style is awesome, survives all knocks and pressures put on it.

i find backpack styles (two shoulder straps) will soon find yourself not liking it....
the over the shoulder style is much more "hip"

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51HW0YdW6dL.jpg

I swear by the backpack if you have to walk any distance or carry anything resembling a weight.

My satchel carries a full sized laptop w/power brick, windbreaker, a couple of not-small walkie-talkie type radios (don't ask), pens, notebook and (occasionally) an umbrella. It's full-to-overfull most of the time and is beginning to show some wear. If I have to walk more than about 1km I find it more annoying than the backpack, hands down. Backpack is also far more padded and able to withstand knocks a lot better.

(day-to-day the walk between my car and my office is pretty short, which makes the satchel more convenient for other reasons; my stuff is more accessible.)

If you've got a relatively light-weight machine and don't have to carry a lot else, I do agree the Satchel format is probably better.

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b0untypure1

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#485894 25-Jun-2011 20:31

well, for long distance definitely a backpack ! i agree with that. even a schoolbag is sweet, my element schoolbag does wonders on those long trips

tigercorp

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#485907 25-Jun-2011 21:27

Backpack ftw.

I originally got this Targus Voyager as it was one of the few that fit a 17" backpack. Turned out to be a great decision. with the padded back, useful pockets and it's own little gimicky but useful rain cover.

3.5 years later and I'm about to get another as one of the straps have broken (totally my fault).

Dell

Shop now for Dell laptops and other devices (affiliate link).

SandyJ

152 posts

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#486336 27-Jun-2011 10:49

Just a quick note.. The Warehouse has these Targus Voyager (lookalikes) on special right now at $30. They are reduced by $20 so its a good buy. Obviously not the same quality as Targus but if you want to try the backpack style and see if its the type you want.. its an option. (sale finishes tomorrow by the way)

SandyJ

nickb800

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#486341 27-Jun-2011 10:55

I use a neoperene sleeve for my laptop, which i use on its own for short distances. When going longer distances/carrying more stuff I have small and large basic backpacks which i put the laptop in it's sleeve inside their main compartment. Seems to protect it fairly well, although wouldnt resist a drop like the purpose built laptop compartments do. You could put your laptop in a sleeve and chuck it in a messenger bag or whatever takes your fancy.

If looking for a laptop sleeve, katmandu has pretty cheap ones on special (~$20)

jbard

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#486345 27-Jun-2011 11:01

Cheers for the tips guys, will definitely go for a backpack style as i am planning on doing a lot of travelling soon.

Will check out the ones at the warehouse but i think i will be best spending a bit more for the quality as my laptop is very important so it is worth securing it.

Going to town on Wednesday to buy one so will let you know what i end up getting.

dclegg

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#486346 27-Jun-2011 11:01

I have a Targus laptop backpack, which has served me well since about 2003. At the time, I had about 30 minutes of walking as part of my 2.5 hour each way commute, and I found the transition from the more traditional briefcase style laptop case to a backpack to be a marked improvement in comfort. Once you've gone 'pack, you can never go back :-)

josephhinvest

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#486500 27-Jun-2011 16:55

+1 anything Crumpler. Have previously had a laptop bag, now a bag for my DSLR + second lens. They are reasonably expensive, but you do seem to get what you pay for, good quality materials and construction.

Cheers,
Joseph