REI Labor Day sale preview is here with early discounts of up to 55% off laptop backpacks. 

If you're back-to-school shopping on a budget, this is an opportunity to find a durable school bag for less. During the sale, you can score solid savings on top-rated backpacks from Patagonia, REI Co-op, Mountain Hardwear, The North Face, and more.

Right now, the Mountain Hardwear Camp 4 Printed 32 Pack is $62.73 ($77 off). This is one of the best laptop backpack deals for college students. 

It has a padded 15-inch laptop sleeve and a dedicated sleeve to fit tablets up to 11 inches. With a spacious capacity of up to 32 liters, you'll have ample room for your devices, textbooks, and gym clothes. The pack's main compartment is outfitted with a secure zip pocket, stretch mesh stash pocket and pen slots. 

Made of durable 420-denier coated ripstop nylon and featuring a fold-and-hook top closure, this Mountain Hardwear pack is durable and keeps items secure. Meanwhile, the top handle makes it easy to grab-and-go, making it a great haul bag for the busy student lifestyle.

Not a fan of camo print? Browse REI's entire sale and my favorite discounts below.

REI Labor Day sale on laptop backpacks — Quick links

• Browse: REI's Labor Day sale preview
• The North Face Recon Backpack: was $109 now $65 @ REI
• Patagonia Fieldsmith Lid Backpack: was $109 now $57 @ REI
• Patagonia Black Hole Backpack: was $169 now $117 @ REI
• Herschel Little America Backpack: was $130 now $91 @ REI
• Osprey Heritage Scarab Backpack: was $170 now $91 @ REI

REI Labor Day sale on laptop backpacks

It's back-to-school season, which means it's time to buy a new laptop to power your studies this year—but don't forget to get a high-quality laptop backpack to protect it! 

A durable, stylish laptop backpack is a must-have for students of all ages. After all, if you're spending hundreds on one of the best laptops for students, you don't want to risk breaking it by storing it in a low-quality bag. 

I know from experience how hard it can be to find a backpack with a good laptop pocket that's also affordable. I went through a handful of backpacks in high school and college to find the perfect one and uncovered a few gems every student should know about, including great picks from top brands like JanSport and The North Face. 

These top three back-to-school laptop backpacks look fantastic, feature padded laptop sleeves, and cost under $100. They're also durable and come in dozens of colors, so you can choose one to match your style or school colors perfectly. 

If you're shopping for back-to-school tech, remember to visit Laptop Mag's guide to back-to-school deals to maximize your savings on a new laptop, tablet, headphones, and more! 

Top 3 affordable laptop backpacks for back-to-school 2024

More from Laptop Mag

• Best laptops for college in 2024: Student laptops for every budget
• 59 best back-to-school sales 2024: Up to 70% off laptops, more
• 25 best back-to-school laptop deals of 2024: Save up to 70%

For college students, a laptop backpack protects your tech and other everyday carry gear. The number of gadgets and personal items one has to transport to and from classes, the library, and extracurricular activities varies.

If you plan on buying a new laptop backpack for school, chances are you're considering function, versatility, durability, style, and cost. Whether you can afford to splurge or prefer to go the budget-friendly route, there's no shortage of options.

Next to picking a major, one of the most important decisions you'll ever make in your college life is finding the perfect backpack  With so many brands and styles of packs now on the market nowadays, making a choice can be overwhelming, 

That's where I come in to help make it less of a daunting task. Here are 7 back-to-school laptop backpack deals I recommend:

7 best back-to-school laptop backpack deals

The difference between your precious laptop surviving a fall and ending up as a pile of expensive broken parts comes down to the bag you carry it around in. The best bags not only provide room for everything from your computers and phone, to pencils, paperwork and your Nintendo Switch, but it also protects it all in shock-absorbing materials.

If you want ultimate protection, get a rugged laptop that can take all manner of abuse, but if an armor-plated system is out of your reach, a sturdy bag is the way to go. When it comes to picking a bag for your computer, start with a design that includes a padded section to protect the computer. The goal is that the padding will not only keep it from being jostled around while you go about your day, but the foam cushioning is there to squish enough to absorb the impact of being dropped or otherwise mishandled. 

Get a bag made of heavy-duty material that can protect its contents from the elements. It needs to be strong enough to not rip when you stuff it with your gear or slide it under an airplane seat. Still, it can be covered with soft fabric on the inside.

That’s just the start because nobody travels with just a computer. There needs to be room for everything from your keys to your AC adapters and even a water bottle. Make sure it has a comfortable handle (for a traditional briefcase) or shoulder straps (for a backpack). The good news is that you don’t need to decide between one or the other because there are convertible bags that go from being a backpack to a briefcase or messenger bag and back again. 

With hundreds of cases to choose from, we set out to pick the best by using them every day with a typical 12-inch notebook, tablet and a slew of accoutrements. Then, we performed instrumented drops with an accelerometer. The goal is to pick the bag that fits the most into the smallest, lightest bag while absorbing the shock of impact with the floor.  

While I’m a notorious cheapskate, the one thing I don’t skimp on is my notebook bag. After all, a $100 case can save a thousand dollars of gear from damage and destruction and look good at the same time. That sounds like a good deal to me.

As its name implies, the Amazon Basics 15.6-Inch Laptop Computer and Tablet Shoulder Bag Carrying Case is a simple, straightforward way to carry a notebook around. Its black neoprene fabric is water-resistant and the case is so inconspicuous that it easily blends into the background, perfect for hiding a notebook in plain sight.

At 1.2-pounds, the Basics bag is lightweight, yet can hold up to a 15.6-inch notebook, along with an AC adapter, cables and some travel gear. The bag measures 3.5 x 12.5 x 16.5 inches and has two external zippered pockets along with lots of places inside for stashing pencils, pads and files. In other words, it’s a good choice for day trips or a short commute.

Its open main section lacks any additional padding or a hold-down strap to keep a computer or tablet from bouncing around. The minimalist design doesn’t have anything like a clip for your keys, although there is a trolley strap for use with a wheelie bag. In addition to its pair of fabric handles, the Basics bag comes with a clip-on shoulder strap. 

The bag absorbed some of the impact from my drop tests, resulting in readings of 2.5- and 2.7gs on the flat and bottom edge tests – two of the highest shock ratings I saw. This puts it second best to STM’s Myth by not soaking up as much of the fall.

Belkin’s Air Protect is for those who want to travel lightly. At just 1.1-pounds, rather than being made of loose fabric, the Air Protect has a rigid outer shell that acts like padding, reinforced stiffeners on all six sides and a layer of microgel to hold the system in place.

The briefcase is small at 1.6 x 10.7 x 14.8 inches and has roughly enough space for a 14-inch notebook or 2.3 liters of stuff. Because it has a rigid outer shell, you can use the case as an adjustable notebook stand. It worked remarkably well when I needed instant access to my computer. Rather than pulling out the computer and starting it up, I just opened the case and the computer is ready. On the downside, it has no pockets, inside or out.  

The Air Protect Always-On case is meant more for short trips and some will find that it’s a squeeze to get other items in the bag. It has a pair of fabric handles, but lacks a clip-on shoulder strap, a trolley strap or a key ring.

If the notebook is strapped into the Air Protect Always-On bag, it’s protected against being jostled around. It was less protective against falls with the system experiencing 2.7gs on the flat drop test and could be a danger to a computer. The case vindicated itself with a much better 2.1gs result on the bottom edge test. 

The Air Protect Always-on Slim Case has one more trick up its sleeve: it has a visible place up front to hold a business card to identify that it is actually your case and computer. With a 1-year warranty, the case costs $40, making it a high-tech steal. 

The Everki Glide Laptop Backpack is the rare computer bag that can not only protect your notebook, tablet and phone, but let you take it all with you. That’s because the 6.7 x 12.5 x 17.3-inch bag has 26.5 liters of interior volume to fill with computer gear, accessories, pads and files. On the downside, it weighs in at 2.4 pounds, making it one of the heaviest notebook bags around.

Its backpack design has a padded back panel that makes it comfy to wear. In addition to cushioned shoulder straps, the Glide has a fabric handle. With 14 pockets and sections, the bag can fit almost anything – from pens and AC adapters to files and magazines – while keeping it all organized. It has no trolley strap. 

Made of rugged and water-resistant polyester fabric, there are extra supports in the lower corners to help protect the contents if it’s dropped. On the outside, the bag has thoughtful reflective stripes on the sides and the interior is lined with soft felt. There are padded sections for up to a 17.3-inch notebook and a tablet. 

It was one of the best on the flat fall test by registering an enviable 2.0gs of impact. That was mollified by the 2.6gs the accelerometer measured on the bottom edge test. That makes the Glide one of the best on the flat fall, but only mediocre on the bottom edge drop.  

The backpack carries a lifetime warranty from Everki so that you may never need to buy another computer bag. While not a lot in the larger scheme of things, the Glide’s $100 price tag is the highest for this group of notebook bags. To my mind, its ability to carry everything and protect it while en route makes it worth every penny – and more.

Made from recycled PET water bottles, HP’s Envy Renew backpack is among the most ecologically-conscious bags available to protect your notebook. As is the case with the Targus Cypress Convertible Backpack’s fabric, after cleaning and grinding up the bottles, the waste polymer is turned into a thread that is dyed and woven. The result for the Envy Renew is a strong smooth fabric that looks like denim and makes up 97% of the backpack’s material; it is available in black or blue.

The overall design is among the sleekest around without any bulges, making bags like the tomtoc Vintage look positively sloppy. On the downside, it lacks any external pockets.

It weighs just 1.5-pounds, occupies 4.0 x 11.6 x 17.1 inches and has room for 14 liters of stuff inside, about half that of the tomtoc Vintage backpack. The bag’s interior has two main zippered sections with 10 pockets for everything from AC adapters and cables to pencils and paper. It has a handy key ring inside.

At heart, the Envy Renew is a backpack, but it has a large “Vegan” leather handle at the top for grab-and-go maneuvers. It has a trolley strap for use with a wheelie bag, but does without an exterior water bottle holder.

Its padded back and shoulder straps made the Envy Renew comfortable for carrying a full load of gear around in. Inside, it has a cushioned place for up to a 15-inch notebook alongside a tablet; both are held in place with a strap. It performed well in the drop tests with the Envy Renew experiencing only 2.1- and 2.4gs of impact shock on the flat and bottom edge drops, making it the rare bag that protected its contents well on both tests. 

At $64, the HP Envy Renew bag includes a 1-year warranty. Overall, it is a bag that can not only fit all your stuff but protect it along the way from A to B.

Higher Ground turns the world of notebook cases on its end with the long and narrow Vert 3.1 bag. Well padded, it can stand up to abuse.

As its name implies, the Vert 3.1 is oriented the long way and the Large version I looked at measured 1.5 x 9.8 x 14.0 inches and weighs 1.3 pounds. It comes with a handle, a shoulder strap and a pair of unpadded backpack straps, making it easy to change its personality. Big enough to hold a 13-inch notebook or tablet, there’s just enough room for an AC adapter and a few folders, but not for a bigger system; there’s also a smaller model for 11-inch computers. 

It has a single large pocket, but the Vert 3.1 has neither a key ring nor a trolley strap. Made of polyester with corrugated stiffeners to protect its delicate cargo, the Vert 3.1’s surface has been sprayed with Scotchgard to shield against road spills. It also has a place to put a business card or contact info. 

The notebook area is heavily padded. It was enough to do a great job protecting my notebook when it was dropped flat with a score of 2.1gs of shock. But it fell short of the mark on the bottom edge drop where it registered 2.8gs of impact, making it the least protective. If you’re looking for more protection, Higher Ground also sells sleeves that can add another layer of defense. 

With a lifetime warranty, the $64 Vert 3.1 can protect for years to come.

One of the most feature-rich notebook backpacks on the market, Kensington’s Contour 2.0 not only has a multitude of places to put things, but also has a cool passthrough from the interior to the exterior for a headphone or USB power cable. 

It pays the price for all that space by being one of the heaviest notebook backpacks on the market at 2.5 pounds. Made of super-tough ballistic polyester fabric, the Contour 2.0 is water-resistant and can stand up to abuse. It is lined with padded nylon material and has eight pockets, including one that is shielded from RFID signals. Unlike the others, it can fold open for easy inspection, and – hopefully – not require taking your notebook out at an airport security check. 

At 6.5 x 13.7 x 19.0 inches, it is designed for up to 16-inch notebooks, yet is larger than the Everki Glide, which can handle larger 17.3-inch systems. The backpack has padded straps and the top of the Contour 2.0 has a handy strap. It not only has a trolley strap but a place for a water bottle and key ring.

There’s a cushioned section for a notebook and a tablet that cradles them in place. As far as protection goes, the Contour 2.0 was one of the most consistent of the 10 bags I looked at. It garnered 2.4gs on both tests. This puts it firmly in the middle when it comes to protecting the bag’s contents. 

It comes with a 5-year warranty. At $90, it is a good buy for those with a lot to carry and protect.

With the name Laptop Sleeve, you’d think that the STM Goods Myth notebook bag might be used as an extra protective element inside a larger bag. You’d be wrong, because, despite its light weight and small size, the Myth is among the safest ways to transport your computer, although it lacks some of the creature comforts we take for granted.

At 1 x 11 x 15.8 inches and just 14 ounces, the Myth is small yet can compete with bags that are much larger and heavier when it comes to protection. Made of rugged polyester fabric on the outside, the Myth has a padded layer inside and soft fleece lining. There are versions sized for 11-, 13- and 15-inch systems, with the largest one able to accommodate a 16-inch MacBook. The Myth bags are available in Black, Slate Blue, Granite Black and Windsor Wine red. In addition to a shoulder strap, the bag has a handle that allows it to be carried vertically but without a key ring or trolley strap.

Big enough to hold a computer and an AC adapter, the Myth bag has a dozen assorted internal sections. There’s an open interior for a computer and a single zippered outside pocket. 

Despite its plain appearance, the Myth was one of the most protective bags of the group. Its contents experienced 2.0- and 2.6gs of impact from the flat and bottom edge drops. That roughly matches the larger, heavier and more padded Everki Glide bag. 

There’s a big bonus that STM offers with the Myth that few can match. It comes with a lifetime warranty. That means that it is not only one of the best at protecting a computer from damage but just might be the last bag you’ll ever need.

The Targus Cypress Convertible Backpack with EcoSmart is the quick-change artist of the notebook bag world that can go between being a briefcase and a backpack.

At 2.0 pounds, the Cypress bag is a middleweight that measures 4.1 x 12.6 x 19.1 inches. Its 13 liters of internal capacity can accommodate a 15.6-inch notebook but has significantly less capacity compared to more conventional backpacks from Everki and tomtoc.

The Cypress convertible has a pair of shoulder straps for use as a backpack, but can quickly be converted to a briefcase notebook bag with the included clip-on cross strap. While other backpacks have a single handle for quickly grabbing the bag, the Cypress has two fabric handles, one on the top and another on the side, providing the most carrying flexibility.

Constructed from two dozen recycled PET water bottles, it is eco-friendly and waterproof but is a slightly rougher weave compared to the HP Envy Renew and is only available in gray. It has a single large open area inside, one large exterior zippered pocket and a trolley strap, but lacks a key ring. 

While the interior of the Cypress Convertible lacks any additional padding, the bag excelled on the drop tests. Its 2.1gs result on the flat drop was only outdone by its 2.4gs on the bottom edge drop, making this the bag to get for the clumsy among us. 

In the final analysis, the Cypress bag is more comfortable and works better as a briefcase than as a backpack. It includes a lifetime warranty that makes its $90 price tag all the more attractive for those who want a bag with three separate travel personalities.

It may look a little sloppy with its external pockets, strap and zipper pulls, but tomtoc’s Vintage bag provides an excellent combination of size, places to stash all kinds of items and protection at a price that’s tough to beat.

Clothed in a black and gray camouflage pattern, the Vintage bag is made of tough polyester fabric inside and out. Although the inside doesn’t have the felt or fleece lining that makes other bags more inviting, it is functional and spacious. In addition to the expected padded shoulder straps and top handle, the Vintage bag has several thoughtful design touches, like the leather pulls, top flap buckle and a magnetic catch.

All told, it is 6.7 x 12.2 x 17.7 inches, making it one of the biggest bags around. It can accommodate a 17-inch notebook and can hold an astonishing 28-liters of gear. Still, the Vintage bag weighs in at a modest 2.2-pounds, 5 ounces less than the Kensington Contour 2.0. There are eight pockets, including a patented padded protective section for a notebook and tablet. It has a convenient key ring in one of the outside pockets but lacks anything like a trolley strap.

The Vintage backpack was one of the best at protecting a computer but led the field in neither test, making it a consistent performer. With the interior of the bag experiencing 2.1- and 2.3gs on the flat and bottom edge drops, the Vintage bag seems ready for almost anything and can protect your gear from damage. 

It comes with a 1-year warranty that can be extended by a year if you register with tomtoc, but falls short of the lifetime warranties that are common these days. At $80, the price of the Vintage bag is less expensive than either the Everki Glide or Kensington Contour 2.0 yet can hold a variety of gear and protect it better. To me, that makes it a winner.

With a design that owes its roots to the classic day pack, Topo Designs’ Standard Pack is a good way for a computer to go through the day incognito.

Available in two-tone patterns, Topo Designs Standard can be ordered in green and blue, blue and black, black and red as well as white and gray, although getting it in black raises the price from $60 to $100. Regardless of the color combination, the Standard Pack weighs in at 2.0 pounds, making it a lightweight design compared to the likes of the 2.5-pound Kensington Contour 2.0. 

The backpack takes up 6.5 x 11.5 x 17.5 inches, can hold up to a 15-inch notebook and has a 22-liter capacity. That’s 20% less than the tomtoc Vintage bag’s capacity which is of comparable overall size. In addition to a large outer pocket, the bag has two sections inside and a place for a notebook. There is cushioning on the bottom and back panel.

The exterior and interior are made of nylon with a water-resistant DWR coating. There are places for water bottles as well as straps for attaching items to the outside of the pack. It has a key ring but does without a trolley strap for attaching it to a wheelie bag.

With the notebook in place, the Topo Designs bag did an adequate job of protecting its contents in the flat drop test with a 2.1g result. That said, its result on the bottom edge drop rose to 2.6gs, putting it more in the middle of the pack. If that’s not enough, Topo Design also sells a $35 sleeve that can add extra protection.

It comes with a lifetime warranty and at $60, the Standard Pack can help protect your gear while in transit. 

Testing Notebook Bags

To get a good sense of the worth of each of these bags, we gave them all a high-impact aerobic workout. It all started with a weigh-in that included measuring each while checking out the padding, straps and area reserved for the computer. Then, we looked closely at the material used inside and out, followed by going through each bag’s pockets, sections and key ring, if it had one. Each bag used a 12-inch Asus notebook, an 8-inch Pasco Spark Element Android tablet along with a day’s worth of gear and papers. 

When we had a good idea as to the bag’s capabilities it was time to put each to the test. Using the Element’s internal accelerometer, we recorded the shock that each bag experienced. Set to take readings in the X-, Y- and Z-axis, the device was configured to record the impact in increments of g (the acceleration of gravity) at millisecond intervals. I did two different drops for each bag, and a lower number shows that the bag is absorbing more of the impact and protecting its delicate contents.

• I dropped each back flat from 5-feet onto a carpeted floor this is to simulate it falling from a crowded overhead storage rack on a plane or train.
• Next, I dropped the bag on its bottom edge onto concrete to simulate a clumsy user.

After the drops were completed and the results tallied, we had one more task: determine the impact of the drops without the bag. Think of it as a worst-case scenario for dropping a computer. For the flat drop onto a carpeted floor, the Spark Element tablet took a 3.6g hit and continued working. This shows that even the least protective bag still helped safeguard its contents. The 36-inch fall to concrete, however, cracked the case and did the tablet in. The screen went blank and it wouldn’t restart. Since this is an Android tablet at heart its demise should be a cautionary tale for traveling without a strong bag.

The best laptop backpacks for travel offer well-organized space for your belongings and convenient features like a water-resistant design, hidden pockets, or a USB charging port. Travel backpacks should also be comfortable to wear for long periods of time, especially if you’re waiting through a security line at the airport or planning to walk around a theme park all day. 

In addition to being durable and practical, the best travel backpacks should make a visual statement. You can go bold with a vibrant color or whimsical design, or stick with a classic, timeless color scheme rooted in black or grey — either way, you shouldn’t have to sacrifice style for utility when choosing a backpack for travel. 

All of the backpacks listed here are equipped with a dedicated laptop sleeve or compartment, and they’ve all been personally tested by Laptop Mag. Whether you need a simple backpack to fit one or two changes of clothes and a few other essential items, or you want a bag that you can take on a plane in lieu of a suitcase, we’ve got you covered.

If you're shopping for a new laptop, be sure to check out our best laptops page before you travel next. 

The Quick List

Best Laptop Backpack for Travel Overall

This laptop backpack from Volher is the best option for most travellers, combining practical storage with an eye-catching, vibrant design. Inside the bag’s main compartment, there’s a padded sleeve for any 15.6-inch laptop and open storage for clothes, snacks, or other travel essentials. You can store drinks in the padded mesh side pockets, and hide your valuables in the anti-theft back pocket. 

Volher’s backpack sports a water-resistant polyester fabric, so if you’re caught in the rain, water droplets just roll right off and all your belongings stay dry. Its durable fabric makes this backpack an excellent choice for hiking trips or other outdoor excursions, especially if you choose one of the bright, high-visibility color options. With padded mesh on the back and the shoulder straps, it’s comfortable to wear for long hours. 

This travel bag also has a special feature: a built-in USB charging port. The port itself is on the bag’s left side, and there’s a cable inside you can connect to a power bank. Then, while you’re hiking or walking around Disney World, you can easily charge your phone without needing to take the backpack off or hold onto a power bank. 

See our full Volher Laptop Backpack review. 

Best Budget Laptop Backpack for Travel

If you want many of the same features as the Volher laptop backpack but for a bit less money, check out the Mancro Travel Backpack. Starting at just $19.99, it packs a lot of value into its low price. 

The Mancro Travel Backpack features a padded sleeve for 15.6-inch laptops, a spacious main compartment with room for a few changes of clothes, a side pocket for water bottles and an integrated USB port for portable power banks. The outside is made of water-resistant polyester, which is always nice to have on a travel backpack. It also includes a little combination lock you can use on the zippers, but it's not the sturdiest and makes quick access to the main compartment inconvenient. 

See our full Mancro Travel Backpack review. 

Best Compact Laptop Backpack for Travel

Bigger isn't always better when it comes to laptop backpacks for travel. If you're looking for a day pack or simply have a smaller frame, check out the SwissGear Getaway bag. It's minimalistic, sturdy and compact, perfect for anyone traveling light. 

Inside is a padded 13-inch laptop sleeve and a main compartment with room for a day or two of clothes and some snacks. It has a few zipper pockets on the outside, but unfortunately doesn't have any side pockets. We reviewed the SwissGear Getaway in gray, but it is also available in black and camo. 

See our full SwissGear Getaway Laptop Backpack review.

Best Premium Laptop Backpack for Travel

If you want one of the best laptop backpacks for travel money can buy, take a look at the eBags Luxon. If you're carrying around a premium laptop, you should have an equally premium backpack to keep it safe. The eBags Luxon is a great option, complete with a dedicated zippered compartment for your laptop. 

Inside you'll find a roomy main compartment with space for two or three days' worth of clothes and a detachable sling bag that doubles as a waist pack. The sling bag has a hidden RFID pocket that's great for keeping small, valuable items safe from theft or just tucking your phone away. 

The exterior fabric of the Luxon has a smooth water-resistant coating, so your laptop and valuables will be safe from rain. The coating also adds to the sleek, premium look of the whole backpack. The thick, padded mesh back panel ensures it's comfortable all day, too. At time of writing, the Luxon is available in either black or gray. 

See our full eBags Luxon Laptop Backpack review.

Best Aesthetic Laptop Backpack for Travel

If you want a laptop backpack for travel that balances looks and features, check out the Herschel Pop Quiz. Herschel is known for their stylish backpacks and the Pop Quiz is not exception. It's available in a ton of different colors and patterns, including the unique paint pour pattern we reviewed. 

The real highlight of Herschel backpacks is the laptop sleeves. They're some of the softest and cushiest out there, lined with a smooth, padded black velvet that's sure to keep your laptop safe. The Pop Quiz has a 15-inch laptop sleeve and a spacious main compartment with room for two or three days of clothing, snacks and a book or two. The zipper pocket on the front was a bit hard to open in our testing, but that does make it a good anti-theft pocket since pick pocketers will have a tough time opening it, too. 

See our full Herschel Pop Quiz Laptop Backpack review.

Best Utility Laptop Backpack for Travel

If you're the type of traveler who packs with the motto "better to have and not need", you'll appreciate the wealth of pockets, space and organization on the Targus Legend IQ backpack. This is a great laptop backpack for anyone who likes to bring a lot of electronics with them or needs to pack for a longer trip. 

The Targus Legend IQ has multiple zippered compartments and a built-in media pocket with aux cable passthrough into the shoulder strap. There's plenty of room to organize charging cables, headphones, power banks, your Nintendo Switch or ASUS ROG Ally, a tablet and up to a 16-inch laptop. 

The basic, plain black design of this backpack puts practicality over fashion, but that's part of what makes it a great utility backpack. You won't have to worry about running out of packing space for all your favorite devices and travel essentials with this one. 

See our full Targus Legend IQ Laptop Backpack review.

How To Choose a Laptop Backpack for Travel

In many ways, the search for the perfect travel laptop backpack is just like searching for a work- or school-dedicated backpack. Most importantly, consider what you’ll need in terms of total space and organizational compartments. Make sure the backpack you choose can accommodate your laptop, travel snacks and drinks, handheld gaming console or books to read for fun, however many changes of clothes you need for your trip, or anything else you’d typically bring along while traveling. 

Many backpacks will list whether they can accommodate 15.6-inch or 17-inch laptops, and some brands will list the specific dimensions of the laptop sleeve or compartment within the backpack. In addition to comparing the measurements of your laptop to those advertised by a potential backpack, consider whether you want a dedicated zipper compartment for your laptop or if a padded sleeve inside the main compartment will do. 

With laptop backpacks for travel specifically, there are two useful features to look out for: hidden pockets and a USB charging port. Some backpacks come equipped with a zipper compartment positioned on the side or the back of the bag, making it incredibly difficult or impossible for someone to pickpocket what’s inside. These pockets are perfect for your valuables, like your wallet, smartphone, or keys. 

Then, some bags include a USB charging port accessible on one side of the backpack and a cable inside that you can attach to a power bank you own. This allows you to comfortably charge your phone without needing to carry the power bank while you walk around a theme park or sit in the backseat during a road trip. With some travel backpacks, you can slip your phone into a side pocket so you don’t need to carry it, but it’s easily accessible when you need it. 

If you plan on traveling via plane, you should see if the backpack complies with TSA guidelines. Then, check with your airline to get minimum dimensions for overhead and under-seat luggage to ensure you won’t need to check your backpack at the last minute and pay a premium. 

For backpacks going under the seat in front of you on a plane, it’s a smart choice to go with a water-resistant polyester fabric that’s easy to clean and can withstand accidental spills. Durable, water-resistant fabric is also a smart choice if the place you’re traveling to gets a lot of rain or if you’re exploring outdoors at the beach or on a mountain. 

Why Trust Laptop Mag

Laptop Mag reviews over a hundred different laptops every year, from paperweight ultralights to everyday workhorses to lumbering gaming notebooks that scorch the frame rates of even the hottest AAA games. We're not just experts in the laptop field, as we go one step further by meticulously testing smartphones, tablets, headphones, PC accessories, software, and even the latest in gaming. 

We are 100% independent and have decades of experience to help you buy with confidence. In fact, Laptop Mag has been testing and reviewing products for three decades, and we continue to deliver trustworthy reviews you can rely on. 

Our editorial trustworthiness is enforced by one of the world's largest technology publishers, Future Publishing. As a company, we have unrivaled experience across every tech sector — and we're the group's specialist for all things mobile tech.

Packing for adventure demands the best laptop backpacks – the kind that conquers chaos and keeps your tech safe alongside your intrepid spirit. Whether you're looking to bring along the best laptops for college, business laptops, 2-in-1 laptops, Ultrabooks, or Chromebooks, you need an excellent backpack to accompany you.

My number one pick is the Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 30L, which is built with a 400D nylon shell to protect your belongings, and is an excellent choice for heavy duty packers who use important equipment like cameras or drones. If you prefer a more traditional backpack for cheaper budgets that still has more than enough room to fit your laptop, the Volher Laptop Backpack is an excellent choice and is available in plenty of colors.

There are plenty more great laptop backpacks to buy, so here are my best picks!

The Quick List

Best laptop backpack Overall

The Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 30L leads the *ahem* pack in terms of overall ergonomics, rugged weatherproofing, and clever compartments galore. The adjustable laptop sleeve can fit laptops ranging from 13 to 16 inches. The main compartment also has three removable origami-style dividers to help with organization. There are loads of pockets inside and out for all of your peripherals, chargers and smaller electronics.

The Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 is also waterproof on the outside, which makes this a great choice for traveling, whether around the world or just on your commute. The 400D double poly-coated nylon canvas exterior is super durable, too, so you won't have to worry about this bag ripping on you.

The design of this bag is slightly futuristic, but still low-key enough you can take it to the office. It's tough enough to take on weekend adventures to the outdoors, too. If you want a laptop backpack that can double as a camera bag, you'll love all of the organization features. Despite it's high price, this is the laptop bag to beat.

See our full Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 30L review.

Best travel laptop backpack

If you frequently travel with your laptop, you need a durable, spacious, feature-rich backpack to protect it. The Volher laptop backpack is a top choice, boasting plenty of space in the main compartment, a cushy sleeve for a 15.6-inch laptop, an anti-theft pocket and even a USB port for portable power banks.

The exterior fabric is water-resistant polyester, so you don't need to worry about your laptop if you get caught in the rain. Our review unit was a vibrant pink, but the Volher laptop backpack is available in 8 colors so you can pick a different one if pink's not your thing. Outside, there are a few smaller zipper pockets and mesh side pockets for storing drinks or umbrellas. The straps and padding are comfortable enough for long hours of use when you're on the road or navigating airports.

One of the best features of this laptop backpack is the integrated USB port. You can plug in a portable power bank so you're able to charge your gear directly from the backpack. It's super convenient for those times when you're away from a charging station on a trip, like wandering airports or theme parks.

See our full Volher Laptop Backpack review.

Best rugged laptop backpack

Timbuk2 is known for making tough yet stylish backpacks, including the Spire Laptop Backpack 2.0. It's a more ergonomic refresh of one of the company's best-selling laptop bags, featuring premium durability and organization. This rugged utility backpack earned an Editor's Choice award from us, so it's definitely worth checking out.

The Spire Laptop Backpack 2.0 is top-loading with flap-top closure, which is great for quick access. In back there's also a hidden zipper for the laptop compartment, which can accommodate laptops up to 17 inches. The outside is water-resistant and features daisy-chain tactical webbing for keychains, safety lights, a bike lock or other gear. The front pocket also has several sleeves inside for extra organization.

See our full Timbuk2 Spire Laptop Backpack 2.0 review.

Best hybrid laptop backpack

If you're searching for a laptop bag that can go from work to play with ease, take a look at the Solo New York Duane Hybrid Briefcase. It's convertible from a messenger bag to a backpack with a hidden back compartment for packing away the shoulder straps. This is a pretty budget-friendly option, too, coming in at $64.99 (although you can often find it on sale for half that).

The Solo New York Duane Hybrid Briefcase isn't the most durable bag on this list by any means, but it does have a lot of pockets for organization. For the low price, you get dedicated laptop and tablet sleeves, three exterior pockets for stowing smaller gear, and a design that will blend in at the office.

See our full Solo New York Duane Hybrid Briefcase review.

Best fashion-forward backpack

Not all laptop backpacks are plain gray rectangles. The Targus 15-inch Newport Backpack has a sleek, stylish design featuring premium leatherette accents, metallic trim and a minimalistic tan exterior. It balances style with function so you can protect your laptop and look good at the same time.

Inside are two large main compartments included a padded laptop compartment. There's also two smaller zippered pockets in front and a luggage sleeve in the back. The shoulder sleeves are padded without being too bulky, which also makes this a good backpack for people with narrower shoulders. It's not as durable as some of the other laptop backpacks on this list, but it does come with a limited lifetime warranty.

See our full Targus 15-inch Newport Backpack review.

How to choose the best laptop backpack

Choosing the best laptop backpack to suit your lifestyle (and budget) is hardly a one-size-fits-all process, and there are a variety of factors to consider when shopping for tip-top tech totes:

Price — First things first. What's your price range? There are plenty of budget bags to be found around the $50 mark, but the very best laptop backpacks can cost a pretty penny, upward of $150. At the end of the day, you get what you pay for. That being said, if you own an expensive gaming laptop or laptop for programming, you'll want to keep those larger displays protected when you travel. After all, a premium bag is worth the extra spend if it can protect your tech from the occasional "Hulk smash."

Size — How big is the laptop that you plan on schlepping around town with? Some laptop backpacks are petitely portioned (ie, 15L capacities or less), and meant to hold smaller notebooks (ie, up to 13-inch screens). Content creators, business professionals, and gamers on the go will likely be interested in bigger bags (ie, around 30L capacities), which are designed to accommodate larger notebooks (ie, up to 17-inch screens) and a lot more stuff inside the main compartments. Long-story-short: make sure the laptop backpack you buy lines up with the laptop going inside, not to mention the extraneous gear you'll be carrying on the regular. You'll thank us later.

Style — As the name suggests, "laptop backpacks" look like regular backpacks from the outside, with a dedicated sleeve to house your notebook on the inside. Hybrid-style laptop backpacks, however, can transform between backpack and messenger bag with a simple rearranging of straps, adding some extra versatility to your commutes. Hybrid bags are great for office workers and students who rely on top-tier organization to get through the day, with less of an emphasis on rugged features.

Construction — Speaking of which. The best laptop backpacks we've tested have extra-durable construction made from water-resistant materials (eg, 400D nylon canvas shells, anodized aluminum hardware) to keep your tech dry when you get caught in the occasional squall. (Or if you accidentally set the bag down in a puddle.) Premium models may feature leather or twill construction, fleece-lined laptop sleeves, and hardcore hardware holding everything together. For anyone who takes their tech into the great outdoors on the regular (eg, photographers, drone operators), the more rugged the build materials, the better.

Extra features — Laptop backpacks are, first and foremost, designed to protect your laptop as you jet from point A to point B. Some models, however, come with internal dividers to keep smaller gadgets in place, which is perfect for mobile mavericks everywhere. Look for hidden compartments, built-in keyrings, side-access zippers, luggage straps, daisy-chain tactical webbing, and stretchable side pockets on the premium backpacks we've tested. If you're waffling between a few different models, comparing special features might help you make a final decision.

FAQs

Can a laptop backpack fit any laptop?

No. Laptop backpacks come in different sizes and have limits on what laptops they can fit. It's important to check the largest size laptop compatible when purchasing a backpack. Every laptop on this list has a section detailing the largest laptop dimensions it can store, and if you're unsure, you can check the dimensions of the bag to see if it would fit your exact laptop.

Are all laptop backpacks waterproof?

If you're specifically in need of a waterproof backpack, the only option in this list that is waterproof is our overall winner, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 30L. Otherwise, some backpacks in this list are water resistant or water repellant, but it's always best to be safe than sorry, so while you can expect they will resist rainy days, there's no guarantee they will be safe when submerged in water.

How we test laptop backpacks

In order to test out the best laptop backpacks, I begin by examining the bag itself, taking note of build materials and overall construction. Does the stitching feel sturdy? Do the zippers open and close in one smooth motion? Are the main compartments intuitively placed? Is there a sternum strap to secure the bag to my chest as I walk? As I examine the backpack inside and out, I ask myself, "Who is this bag for, exactly?"

Once I have a general feel for the bag, it's time to check out the inner laptop sleeve. If possible, I'll test sleeve dimensions with a laptop that has the largest display it's rated to fit. For example, if a given backpack is rated to hold laptops with a 17-inch display, I'll slip a 17-inch system inside; it should be a snug fit. (Extra points for fleece-lined sleeves, which help keep your notebook scratch-free.)

To get a real feel for each laptop backpack, I load them up with roughly 15 pounds of weight, and then go for a casual stroll outside. As I walk around my neighborhood, I first take note of the shoulder straps' padding and overall comfortability; it should be easy to make subtle adjustments to the shoulder straps when I'm on the move, without having to take the bag off.

Some bags might take some time to break in, of course, but the best laptop backpacks are instantly comfortable across my back, with equal weight distribution that doesn't bounce around when I walk. Which is why my favorite backpacks have adjustable sternum straps across the chest to keep everything as snug as a bug in a rug as I'm chugging along.

Last of all, I consider any special features that add extra value to the bag. Is there a water bottle pocket? Extra tablet holders? A luggage strap? Hidden pockets? Budget backpacks won't have much to offer in this regard, but premium backpacks include such goodies as daisy-chain webbing (for exterior carry), stretchable side pockets (for water bottles and/or umbrellas), and hidden pockets to stow your valuables.

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There's a Patagonia backpack sale going on at Backcountry right now. For a limited time, save up to 60% on a Patagonia pack for back to school or your next outdoor adventure.

For a limited time, you can get the Patagonia Black Hole 32L Backpack for $117 at Backcountry. Typically $169, that's $52 off and the lowest price we could find for this backpack. Made of durable ripstop fabric, it's water-resistant and has an air-mesh back panel for air circulation. Inside the bag you'll find a padded sleeve to fit laptops and tablets up to 15-inches.

This Patagonia Black Hole 32L is suitable for walking around on the campus, everyday life, travel, and outdoor adventures. If you're looking for something smaller, you can get the 25L version for $103 ($46 off) at REI. If you want to spend the least amount on a Patagonia backpack, you can get the Fieldsmith Linked 25L Backpack for $53 ($36 off) directly from Patagonia. 

See more of today's best Patagonia backpack sale discounts below. 

Today's best Patagonia backpack deals

The Targus 15-inch Newport Backpack is one of the sleekest laptop backpacks on the market with a retro-chic exterior that’ll no doubt appeal to jet-setting fashionistas everywhere. Meant to manage machines with up to 15-inch screens, this 15L laptop backpack balances form and function with ease without weighing you down. 

At first glance, the Targus 15-inch Newport Backpack looks like an ordinary backpack. But between the premium leatherette accents, shiny metallic trim, and attractive tan exterior, one might mistake it for a high-end pocketbook from afar. Aesthetics aside, the Targus Newport line is loaded with a variety of useful (yet basic) features that should please just about anyone in the market for a midrange laptop backpack. 

Is the Targus 15-inch Newport Backpack perfect? Nope, and there are literally dozens of other Targus laptop bags to choose from, which means you’ve got the privilege to be picky. Is it the right laptop backpack for you? Read on to find out. 

Targus 15-inch Newport Backpack price and availability

The Targus 15-inch Newport Backpack is available for $108 on Targus’ website and $110 at Dell, along with a variety of other online retailers. This is but one laptop backpack in the company’s Newport line of premium laptop accessories, complementing the similar 15-inch Newport North-South Tote, which is essentially the same bag with a different carrying style. 

The tan-and-gray color scheme is pleasing to the eye, but if you don’t like it, tough luck, bucko. Just kidding. For $98, the similarly equipped Targus 15-inch Newport Ultra Slim Backpack comes in a sleek black design, though it lacks the 15-inch Newport Backpack’s extra compartment in the front.

It looks like Targus is well aware of their *ahem* target audience. On their website, they allege the Targus 15-inch Newport Backpack “wouldn’t be out of place strolling down brownstone-lined streets or beach neighborhoods.” Say no more, Targus. Say no more.

Targus 15-inch Newport Backpack design

Targus has been in the laptop backpack scene for a while now, and they’ve long been a go-to brand for quality luggage. Measuring 11.4 x 17.5 x 5.7 inches and clocking in at 1.4 pounds, the Targus 15-inch Newport Backpack is the slimmest, lightest laptop backpack I’ve tested to date. This is great news for anyone zipping around with minimal bulk on your back, but not-so-great in terms of overall padding.

Let’s take a look at the Targus 15-inch Newport Backpack from top to bottom. There are two larger compartments with zippered enclosures up top (one for your laptop or tablet and another for larger accessories) along with two zippered pockets in front. Flip the bag over, and you’ll find a pair of padded shoulder traps to complement the leatherette carrying handle — adding some extra versatility to your commute — and a built-in strap for attaching the backpack to rolling luggage. Looking good so far.

Targus is clearly looking to make a fashion statement with this bag, and I (reluctantly) appreciated the understated tan-and-gray color scheme, which isn’t particularly polarizing from my personal point of view. If you look closely, the smooth inner lining sports a 3D cube design, which is neat. 

At this price range, you’d expect some kind of weatherproofing on the exterior, and luckily, the Targus 15-inch Newport Backpack feels much more durable (and washable) than it looks. In my testing, the “weather-resistant” high-density twill nylon shell wicked water away when I gave it a splash, but I’d wager the “leatherette” accents would be hard to clean if you accidentally set the bag down in a mud puddle. 

If you’re looking for a more rugged laptop backpack, the Herschel Kaslo Backpack Tech and Timbuk2 Spire Laptop Backpack 2.0 are meant to withstand the elements a bit more. Want the ultimate drop protection for your tech? If your pockets are deep enough, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 30L is second to none, and it comes with literally double the storage space.  

Targus 15-inch Newport Backpack pockets and organization

This is what it’s all about, folks! In synchronicity with its name, the Targus 15-inch Newport Backpack has a modest 15L capacity, starting with the padded laptop compartment, which is predictably designed to accommodate 15-inch screens. My old 15.6-inch Acer Aspire E5-575 fit snugly inside (as did my 13-inch Lenovo Flex 5 Chromebook), but a 16-inch laptop would have been just a smidge too big. 

The secondary compartment houses one zippered pocket on the back wall — the perfect size for my 6-inch Kindle Paperwhite — along with four organizational sleeves below for pens, charging cords, external batteries, or anything else you don’t want lost in the bottom of the bag. There’s two more zippered pockets in the front for quick access to your stuff.  

But that’s not all! Targus knows how sneaky you’ve gotta be when you travel, which is why they included a “hidden back panel pocket to safekeep important and private articles.” Or, you know, your passport and wallet. (See below.)

The best laptop backpacks are equipped with stretchy side pockets for water bottle or umbrella storage, but Targus seems to have forgotten how even the most fashionable of humans need hydration in their daily travels; there are no side pockets to be found. This is a bit disappointing because the bag definitely has room for a thin mesh pocket on the side.

Targus 15-inch Newport Backpack adjustability and comfort

Laptop backpacks, as their name suggests, are meant to be slung across your back when you’re on the move, and the Targus 15-inch Newport Backpack has acceptable padding in the shoulder straps — but no mesh underlining for breathability like competing brands.  

What’s more, Targus went off the beaten path with their stylishly streamlined shoulder straps, which look really cool, but are kind of a drag to adjust on the fly. I prefer straps that can be quickly adjusted with one hand (as with the Timbuk2 Spire Laptop Backpack 2.0), but you need both hands free to adjust Targus’ shoulder straps, which is mildly annoying. 

Loaded up with a 15-inch laptop, a couple of books, my Kindle Paperwhite, and a few other mobile accessories, I was pleasantly surprised by equal weight distribution across my back when I took it on a quick neighborhood jaunt for testing. However, since the backpack lacks a sternum strap, it started bouncing around a bit whenever I picked up the pace. 

Targus 15-inch Newport Backpack special features

As mentioned above, a discreet back panel pocket is tucked in the side to hide your valuables in public spaces, making it more challenging for pickpockets to snatch your stuff, yet easy to keep important documents at hand when you travel. (Especially when the backpack is attached to luggage.)  

In addition to the built-in luggage strap on the back, the sturdy leatherette handle is flanked by two metallic hoops, which are the perfect size for attaching keychains or smallish carabiners.  

Bottom line

Busy fashionistas and bonafide business professionals will find a lot to like about the Targus 15-inch Newport Backpack, though the price range might be a little high for students on a budget. It’s one of the lightest laptop backpacks you’ll find on the market today, and it’s just as fashionable as it is functional. To a point.

While the Targus 15-inch Newport Backpack performs perfectly well as a laptop backpack, it doesn’t have nearly as many special features as Herschel Kaslo Backpack Tech, Timbuk2 Spire Laptop Backpack 2.0, nor Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 30L, which include such goodies as removable compartment dividers, built-in key tethers, removable sternum straps, and much higher storage capacities. That being said, if you plan on using it indoors most of the time, the Targus 15-inch Newport Backpack is a fashion-forward laptop backpack that’s good for everyday carry, but not equipped for the great outdoors. 

The Herschel Kaslo Backpack Tech is an ultra-rugged 30L laptop backpack that’s packed with perfectly placed compartments a-plenty. The tough 600D outer fabric is made from 100% recycled water bottles, and the fleece-lined 16-inch laptop compartment will keep your gear scratch-free as you jet from point A to point B.

Herschel has long been a trusted brand in terms of quality carry-ons, and the Kaslo Backpack Tech *ahem* carries on this legacy with ease. It’s a deceptively slim backpack at first glance, but once you peek inside, you’ll find over a dozen well-placed pockets and subdividers to maximize your mobile organization when you’re on the move.

The Herschel Kaslo Backpack Tech is a good value overall, and an excellent companion for larger luggage during longer excursions. It’s also great for day trips, with expandable pockets that reach an impressive 30L capacity when loaded to the max. 

Herschel Kaslo Backpack Tech price and availability

The Herschel Kaslo Backpack Tech costs $150 on Herschel’s website, and it’s available at a variety of other online retailers. The 20L “daypack” model costs $130, but comes with roughly 30% less storage space than its big brother.

If you’re always on the run with your mobile gear in tow, this backpack has an impressive array of inner sleeves, compartments, and zippered pockets galore to keep everything organized, along with an airmesh trolley sleeve and removable sternum strap to snap across your chest (more on that below).

There are five elegant colors to choose from: Ivy Green, Black, Mood Indigo, Light Grey Crosshatch, and Raven Crosshatch. The bag I reviewed came in Ivy Green, which matched well with other earth tones in my apartment. And wardrobe, incidentally.

Herschel Kaslo Backpack Tech design

Measuring 18.5 x 12 x 8 inches and weighing in at just 2.2 pounds all by itself, the Herschel Kaslo Backpack Tech is much less bulky than the 13 x 19.1 x 10.6-inch, 4.7-pound Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 30L. Both laptop backpacks are rated to fit laptops with screens up to 16 inches, and they have the same general capacity, compartment-wise.

The Herschel Kaslo Backpack Tech’s 600D outer fabric is made from 100% recycled post-consumer water bottles, with a soft fleece lining for the dedicated laptop compartment — which is smartly in the bag's rear, closest to your back. All the main compartments are secured with zippered closures, complemented by two mesh side pockets that are big enough to house even the bulkiest of Nalegenes (chunky water bottles).

Let’s talk aesthetics: while the Herschel Kaslo Backpack Tech feels just as tough as the Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 30, the latter laptop bag has an outer sheen that looks more refined overall, whereas the former looks exactly as rugged as it feels — in a good way. Herschel’s offering also collapses into a much thinner package when empty, while Peak Design’s bag has the rigid structure of a turtle shell regardless of what’s inside.

Herschel Kaslo Backpack Tech pockets and organization

When it comes to the best laptop backpacks you’ll find on the market today, plentiful pockets are the most important part of any purchase‌. Everyone has different daily duties‌, and figuring out how to best organize your gear is not a one-size-fits-all process. Luckily, the Herschel Kaslo Backpack Tech has you covered.

Up front, you'll find a discreet side-loading compartment perfectly sized for books, magazines, or folders you might want easy access to. Behind that is a larger, more organized compartment: it contains eight inner sleeves of varying depths, including pen holders and a carabiner-style key clip. Behind that is the largest storage compartment, which has a zippered mesh sleeve on one side. 

And behind that you’ll finally find the zippered 16-inch laptop sleeve, which is smartly situated against your back when you’re on the move. The sleeve has a soft fleece lining to keep your tech scratch-free, and an extra clip to keep it from accidentally falling out when you unzip it.

For my weekly grind in NYC, I always have hydration by my side, and the best laptop backpacks have at least one outer pocket for bottle storage. Refreshingly, Herschel handles this feature with two mesh side pockets, which were much stretchier than I was expecting.

Herschel Kaslo Backpack Tech adjustability and comfort

Messenger-style laptop bags favor functionality over comfort, but laptop backpacks are of a different breed, and they’re meant for longer, bumpier treks. That’s why I put an awful lot of impetus on those shoulder straps, which should be sturdy enough to handle whatever weight I’ve got on my back, yet padded enough to keep from digging into my shoulders (or armpits) as I walk.

The adjustable, removable sternum strap came in handy when I was on the move, keeping the overall load from slipping off my shoulders when I took it to the beach; it’s a simple but important feature. 

Adjusting the shoulder straps in conjunction with the sternum strap on the fly was no problem, with adequate padding on the undersides. I used the Herschel Kaslo Backpack Tech as a daypack for a couple of days, and there was plenty of room — inside and out — for my towel, sunscreen, water bottle, Kindle, Chromebook, headphones, battery pack, and other fun-in-the-sun essentials I took to the beach; with all the main pockets zipped up tight, getting sand or water inside the bag was a non-issue, thanks to that water-and-sand-resistant 600D shell.

Weight distribution in my testing was good overall, but since laptop backpacks often necessitate a somewhat squarish design, expect so-so ergonomics in that department. Hardly a deal-breaker by any means.

Herschel Kaslo Backpack Tech special features

Constantly listening to Spotify when you’re on the move? Me too! The hidden shoulder strap pocket was the perfect size for my AirPods case during my noisy Manhattan travels, and it’s a simple-yet-welcome feature for multimedia mavens like myself.

Jetsetters will also appreciate the airmesh luggage trolley sleeve on the back, which lets you easily slip this laptop backpack over longer handles after you zip through airport security. Bonus: there’s a shallow pocket hidden directly above this sleeve with a velcro enclosure for instant access.

Bottom line

This premium laptop backpack will give you everything you need, and nearly nothing you don’t. However, $150 is nothing to sneeze at for such an accessory. If the Herschel Kaslo Backpack Tech is out of your price range, you might consider more affordable options like the Timbuk2 Spire Laptop Backpack 2.0, which is similarly equipped for $40 less. 

That being said, the Herschel Kaslo Backpack Tech is an excellent option for frequent travelers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to keep their valuables organized, and it can take a beating all while protecting the tech inside. Thanks to loads of discrete compartments, pockets, and zippered enclosures, this is one of the best laptop backpacks you’ll find on the market today, and it’s ideal for work or play. 

The Targus Legend IQ Laptop Backpack is a fantastic option for anyone in need of well-organized, plentiful storage areas. It features a dedicated sleeve for up to 16-inch laptops, a sleeve for tablets, and special areas for your best pens, sunglasses, smartphone, and water bottles. For everything else, there’s a decent amount of open storage. 

Its black, utilitarian design is a classic choice for Targus, and the inclusion of pleather accents with decorative grey stitching make the bag more stylish. The Legend IQ Backpack is all about function over form, and that’s evident in how much storage the bag has as well as how comfortable the padded mesh back panel and shoulder straps are, even when the bag is weighed down with heavy items. 

Targus’ Legend IQ is a tech lover’s dream, with multiple pockets to store electronics and cables and a headphone jack built into the shoulder strap for wired headphones or earbuds. However, there are a few ways this backpack misses the mark with its design.

Targus Legend IQ Laptop Backpack price and availability

Targus is well-known for its techy, utilitarian backpack styles, and the Legend IQ Laptop Backpack continues this trend. This bag is available only in black, which many people probably prefer. Even if you typically like brighter designs, you might find that the backpack’s features outweigh its black design. 

On the Targus website, the Legend IQ Backpack is listed for $74.99. For the best price, you’ll want to head to Amazon, where it’s listed for $49.99. At the time of writing, the Legend IQ bag is discounted even further to $29.99 on Amazon, which is an absolute bargain.

Targus Legend IQ Laptop Backpack design

The Legend IQ Backpack is more useful than it is stylish, but it’s still an attractive backpack. Most of the bag is adorned with textured, black polyester fabric that’s softer than it looks. At the bottom of the bag, you’ll find a decorative pleather strip with grey stitching. This same material and grey stitching can be found above the front pouch and decorating the outside of the sunglasses pocket.

These small differences in texture and look make the bag feel more fashionable and less like a techy, utilitarian backpack. Unfortunately, some of the stitching doesn’t look like it was finished well because it was already fraying in a few spots as soon as it came out of the box. 

The zippers are thicker towards the end, making them easier to grab and pull, but it would’ve been nice to see some type of extender attached to improve usability. Other helpful design features made up for the lack of zipper extenders. There’s a luggage strap that can be tightly secured with velcro in the middle and a wide carrying handle that’s soft to the touch. 

Targus says the Legend IQ has an upright design that makes it easy to reach your items when the bag isn’t on your back. This seemed to be true only when there were enough items in the bag weighing it down. Grabbing an item out of the bag or even tapping it would occasionally make the bag fall over. 

With long-term use, the reinforced bottom should stretch out and make it easier for the bag to stay upright with less items in it. However, as a new bag, it’d be best to lean it up against something or at least give it something solid to fall back into so your items don’t spill out. 

When it’s empty, the Legend IQ Backpack weighs 1.76 pounds. This is slightly heavier than some backpacks, but it’s still lightweight and comfortable enough to wear for long periods. The bag doesn’t have much depth at 4 inches, but its width and height measurements of 15 and 19 inches, respectively, give you plenty of storage space. Inside the backpack, the laptop sleeve measures 10.5 x 15.25 inches.

Targus Legend IQ Laptop Backpack pockets and organization

The Targus Legend IQ Backpack has plenty of compartments and pockets to house all your belongings and keep them well-organized. If you use a backpack to only cart a few items back and forth between home and school or work, there may be a few unnecessary storage areas. However, it’s better to have more storage and not need it than to have less and need more.

In the main compartment, there’s a padded laptop sleeve that can fit up to 16-inch laptops, a fleece-lined tablet sleeve, and a medium-sized mesh pocket that could hold a few snack packages. The rest of this compartment is open storage. I can fit my 14-inch laptop, my tablet, two thick spiral journals, a medium-sized journal, a paperback book, and a standing pen bag in this main compartment. It’s a tight fit depth-wise, but there’s still room for less rigid items on top, like a sweater, some snacks, or a pencil bag. 

Many of this backpack’s special compartments and pockets have an intended use, which cuts down on the potential for shoving items in random pockets and forgetting about them. There’s a heavily padded media pocket at the top of the backpack that’s suitable for your smartphone or something else you don’t want pickpocketed, like your wallet. 

On the bag’s front, the upper zipper pouch has a reinforced bottom and a section of fleece lining for your sunglasses. There’s more room in this zipper pouch for open storage. The lower zipper pouch contains a built-in carabiner for your keys, a zipper pocket, and several built-in slip pockets, two of which are for individual pens or pencils. 

On top of this lower pouch are two easy-access zipper pockets. The smaller zipper pocket is suitable for a smartphone, wallet, or something similar in size. The larger pocket is about twice the size, perfect for meds, quick snacks, or your favorite small notepad. 

Lastly, there are two zipper side pockets that can unzip to fit small or large water bottles and umbrellas. Each side pocket has a little mesh triangle toward the end of the zipper chain that allows larger objects to fit and increases breathability. You can pull the zipper up if you want to make the pocket tighter, or store loose items inside and close the pocket completely. 

Targus Legend IQ Laptop Backpack adjustability and comfort

No matter how much you pack into Targus’ Legend IQ Backpack, it’s comfortable to wear — even for hours — thanks to its padded mesh back panel. This mesh panel increases airflow and puts space between your back and the heavy items inside the backpack. The shoulder straps are also decked out with breathable padded mesh that feels soft against bare skin.

Like many backpacks, the Legend IQ can be raised or lowered on your back using the adjustable shoulder straps. To position the bag higher on your back, you have to pull down on the shoulder strap tails. If you need the bag to be lower on your back, you can pull up on the plastic strap clips until it’s in the right spot.

Targus Legend IQ Laptop Backpack special features

One of the most notable features of the Legend IQ Backpack is how much attention to detail there is in every pocket. The side pockets are expandable to accommodate items of any size, the spaces for your sunglasses or a tablet are fleece-lined to prevent scratches, and the many built-in pockets help keep your little stuff tucked away.

There’s also a special media pocket at the top of the backpack with a built-in cord and a headphone jack built into the shoulder strap. You can put your smartphone or an MP3 player in the media pocket, connect it to the built-in cord, and then plug your wired headphones or earbuds into the headphone jack on the right shoulder strap.

Bottom line

The Targus Legend IQ Backpack is the perfect option for anyone who needs a lot of storage for little things, whether you use the backpack for work, school, hobbies, travel, or all of the above. There are dedicated pockets for your smartphone, laptop, tablet, sunglasses, and water bottles, as well as plenty of open storage for everything else. For the right person, the high number of zipper compartments and slip pockets are the perfect way to stay organized.

If you intend to use your laptop backpack for a single use or you don’t need that many compartments, this backpack could feel overwhelming. Or you could just temporarily ignore the pockets you don’t need until you find a use for them and still benefit from this backpack’s durable fabric and comfortable padded mesh back panel and shoulder straps.

As an ergonomic update to one of the company’s best-selling laptop bags, the Timbuk2 Spire Laptop Backpack 2.0 represents the next generation of premium outdoor totes. This top-loading pack features a water-resistant front exterior (and bottom boot) for boldly battling the elements — or at least the occasional raccoon. Looking for a rugged laptop backpack that can go the distance? Look no further, my friend. 

Timbuk2 was founded more than 30 years ago, and they’ve made a name for themselves in the wide world of quality travel gear. Building off the popularity of its predecessor, the Spire Laptop Backpack 2.0 has a refreshed design that’s filled to the gills with future-friendly functionality, including daisy-chain tactical webbing for exterior carry.

Long-story-short: the Timbuk2 Spire Laptop Backpack 2.0 is ideal for mobile mavericks who are mostly on the move and like to keep things light. Read on to find out why this pack is one of my top picks.

Timbuk2 Spire Laptop Backpack 2.0 price and availability

The Timbuk2 Spire Laptop Backpack 2.0 costs $109 on Amazon and Timbuk2’s website, but you can snag it for just $99 at Dell. How much does Timbuk2 believe in their bags? Enough to offer a lifetime warranty. If your bag starts falling apart at the seams someday, you can get it repaired at the company’s discretion. 

Uniquely, the Timbuk2 Spire Laptop Backpack 2.0 features a flap-top enclosure for easy access to all your gear, and a hidden zipper in the back for even easier access to the laptop compartment itself. You also get daisy-chain tactical webbing on the front front to attach keychains, blinky lights (for increased visibility at night), or even a bike lock. 

Somewhat disappointingly, there are only two color choices for this laptop backpack: Jet Black or Steel. The inner lining is bright yellow, which might be polarizing for some, but pleasing for others. For my part, I appreciate this reflective contrast, since it makes the bag easier to spot from a distance if any of the main compartments are open. And not for nothing, but I think John Wick would agree.

Timbuk2 Spire Laptop Backpack 2.0 design

Measuring 18.5 x 12.2 x 5.7 inches and weighing in at just 2 pounds, the Timbuk2 Spire Laptop Backpack 2.0 is roughly the same size (and weight) as the Herschel Kaslo Backpack Tech, which is rated for 16-inch laptops. Timbuk2’s offering, however, is rated for screens up to 17 inches, which might appeal to mobile gamers and content creators. 

Up front, you’ll find a modest Napoleon pocket accessible via vertical zipper, with a larger compartment below for organized storage (more on that below). While the entire bag feels rugged as hell, the front exterior and bottom boot sections have an additional water-resistant coating to protect your gear from the elements, should you set it down in the mud. The front of the backpack is adorned with that aforementioned daisy-chain webbing, which lets you clip stuff to the outer bag, should you desire. There’s a handy velcro strip, too.

The top flap has a velcro-and-snap enclosure, along with a vertical side zipper for easy access to the main compartment. There’s also a vertical zipper on the back for exclusive side access to the laptop sleeve, which lets you quickly retrieve your notebook without having to rummage through the rest of your belongings from top to bottom. 

Timbuk2 Spire Laptop Backpack 2.0 pockets and organization

As far as I’m concerned, the primary purpose of any good laptop backpack is to keep everything inside organized as a binary beehive, and the Timbuk2 Spire Laptop Backpack 2.0 isn’t lacking in that department. 

Up top, you’ll find a discrete Napoleon pocket paired with a larger compartment below that includes six smaller sleeves inside — including a zippered one. This was the perfect spot to stash my Techy Trifecta (ie, Kindle, keys, headphones) when I went for a walk.

Open the upper flap and you’ll find the main storage area, which houses the padded laptop sleeve in back (meant for 15- to 17-inch machines). Uniquely, this inner sleeve is accessible from the side via another vertical zipper, making it super simple to snag my Chromebook at will without having to dig around — or even open — that main compartment.

Lastly, there’s a side stretch pocket to carry a water bottle or umbrella, with an extra row of daisy-chain webbing stitched into the side. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a perfectly placed pocket, but it’s also a bit narrow for my liking. A persnickety quibble, but a quibble nonetheless.

Timbuk2 Spire Laptop Backpack 2.0 adjustability and comfort

Flip the bag over, and you’ll find a handle on top (for carrying or hanging), and two shoulder straps padded with an air mesh fabric to minimize sweat when the weather heats up. Which seems to be a thing now. There’s also an adjustable (and removable) sternum strap to cinch the whole bag tightly to your chest at a moment’s notice. 

Of all the laptop backpacks I’ve tested lately, the Timbuk2 Spire Laptop Backpack 2.0 had the best ergonomics, hands-down. It sits lower than the Herschel Kaslo Backpack Tech or Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 30L, with a slimmer frame that hugged my torso like a nylon monkey. 

I tossed some tech inside the Timbuk2 Spire Laptop Backpack 2.0, and then walked around my neighborhood for an hour or so. As promised, the shoulder straps were surprisingly comfortable in my testing, with good weight distribution overall, and rounded stitching along the edges that didn’t dig into my skin. In short, when it comes to laptop backpacks, the ergonomics in this one are second-to-none. 

Timbuk2 Spire Laptop Backpack 2.0 special features

The Timbuk2 Spire Laptop Backpack 2.0 has a couple of standout features to justify the semi-premium price tag. For one, check out that daisy-chain tactical webbing on the front, which’ll be instantly familiar to any hikers, rock climbers, or urban junglers who get their paws on it. When combined with a handful of carabiners, this bag’s functionality multiplies in a hurry, letting you clip stuff to the back at will. 

Bonus: one of the shoulder straps has a built-in bottle cap opener, making this an even-more-excellent camping companion. I can see this feature being popular at festivals, too. 

Bottom line

The Timbuk2 Spire Laptop Backpack 2.0 is pretty darn perfect for students, mobile gamers, content creators, and outdoor enthusiasts who are always on the run. In fact, thanks to better-than-average ergonomics, a handful of mindfully updated features, and plenty of purposeful pockets, I’d recommend this laptop backpack to just about anyone. 

However, I’d recommend the Timbuk2 Spire Laptop Backpack 2.0 the most to outdoorsy types, who will feel right at home slipping their laptop into a carabiner-friendly tote. That daisy-chain webbing adds an awful lot of functionality once you know how to utilize it, and if you’re often trekking your tech into the great outdoors, this laptop backpack is built for the elements.

The Mancro Travel Backpack offers plenty of room for all your belongings, whether you need it for a two-night vacation, a full day of classes, or remote work in a coffee shop. Despite its roomy interior, it’s lightweight and compact, making it an awesome bag for commuters or students who walk a lot. Oh, and it’s less than $30! 

We reviewed this fun galaxy design, but if that’s a little too flashy for your taste, there are plenty of other color schemes to choose from. No matter which color you choose, Mancro’s bag is equipped with a built-in USB port so you can plug in your power bank and charge your smartphone or earbuds. With its water-resistant fabric, rain and accidental spills will just roll off instead of soaking in. 

This backpack is fitted with neat features at an affordable price, but there are some elements of the bag’s design that were a little disappointing. Read on to find out what’s great about the Mancro Backpack, and what’s not so great. 

Mancro Travel Backpack price and availability

Depending on the color scheme you go for, the Mancro Travel Backpack for 15.6-inch laptops ranges in price between $19.99 and $27.99. The Galaxy color we reviewed is $25.99 at the time of writing, the cheapest color is Grey at $19.99, and the most expensive color is Black at $27.99. 

If you’re looking for a pop of color, there’s a Yellow option for $25.99 and a Blue option for $26.99. Mancro also offers Crest Blue and Red color schemes as well, but these are currently sold out. Those with larger laptops can opt for the 17.3-inch version of Mancro’s bag, which costs $29.99 whether you opt for the Black, Blue, or Grey model. 

Despite boasting an affordable price, the Mancro Backpack is equipped with useful features you sometimes won’t find in an expensive bag. Most notably, it has water-proof fabric that’ll make accidental spills or rain just roll off, a USB port so you can charge your phone while walking, and plenty of well-organized storage space. 

Mancro Travel Backpack design

 Mancro’s Travel Backpack is made with nylon fabric that’s durable, but doesn’t feel high-quality. The bag’s fabric is roughly textured and a little loud when you run your fingers over it — both qualities that are quite common in nylon backpacks. What’s not as common in more premium bags is how thin the fabric is.

 Some sections of the backpack are slightly padded, while other parts feel as thin as a few sheets of paper. In the front zipper pocket, the black liner doesn’t cover the entire inside. Instead, around the zipper, you can see the white backing of the bag’s fabric showing through. Since this is inside the bag, it’s not a design choice that people will see on a regular basis, but it still feels like an odd choice. 

The Galaxy color scheme is a fun option, and the colors and clarity of the pattern come through nicely. The patterned fabric is continuous around the entire bag, except for the black accents, like the luggage strap, carrying handle, USB port, and slots on the shoulder straps to hold a headphone cord. All of the external fabric is water-resistant, so when you pour water on it — which I did — you’ll see droplets form and roll around, but they won’t soak into the fabric. 

Although the Galaxy color may not be for everyone, the actual style of the bag is simple, yet attractive. The slanted zipper pocket on the front gives the back a stylish edge. The only thing I’m not crazy about design-wise is the black, rubber Mancro logo on the bag’s front. Its stitching is coming out a little bit, and it’s so dark that it just looks like a black rectangle from a distance. 

Commuters will love how light this bag is, weighing in at only 1.21 pounds when it’s empty. It’s also relatively compact, measuring 19 x 12.2 x 7 inches. Because the backpack is so light and doesn’t have much padding at the bottom, it needs to be leaned up against something when it’s put down.  

Mancro Travel Backpack pockets and organization

Looking at the Mancro Backpack, you wouldn’t think there’s much room inside. It appears compact, and there’s only one main compartment for larger items. When I packed in all my daily-use items for work — two thick spiral planners, my 14-inch laptop, a paperback book, my standing pen bag, and a medium-sized journal — I was surprised to see quite a bit of extra room inside the main compartment. 

In the main compartment, there’s a thickly padded laptop sleeve with a velcro strap to keep your laptop in place. There’s a small zipper pocket in the lining across from the laptop sleeve that’s big enough for small items, like your smartphone, wallet, keys, or sunglasses. The rest of this compartment is open storage.

There’s a smaller zipper compartment with a little open storage, and a few built-in slip pockets. The medium-sized slip pocket is big enough to slide in a paperback book or a tablet, with half of it in the pocket and half poking out the top. Two slip slots are perfectly sized for individual pens or pencils, and two are small squares, great for full-size sticky notes or thicker writing utensils. 

The zipper pocket on the bag’s front is quite large, but the zipper chain size restricts what you can put inside. The pocket itself could fit a large paperback book, but the zipper chain won’t accommodate items much longer than a modern smartphone. 

Mancro’s Travel Backpack has side pockets that can fit large water bottles or umbrellas. The side pockets are made with the same thin fabric as the rest of the bag, which makes larger water bottles fit tightly. If the side pockets were made with stretchy mesh, they’d be more breathable and able to fit around larger items with more ease. One side pocket has a metal, magnetic clasp that can close if you have something shorter to store inside. 

Mancro Travel Backpack adjustability and comfort

With its padded mesh shoulder straps, the Mancro Backpack is comfortable to wear for long periods, even if you’re in a sleeveless top. If your bag is packed with heavier items, the overall comfort level goes down because of the bag’s thinly reinforced bottom. All your heavy items sink to the bottom, and the weight isn’t as evenly distributed as it should be. 

You can adjust the backpack to be higher or lower on your back by raising or lowering the shoulder straps. To lower the bag, you’d pull up on the plastic strap clips, and to raise the bag, you’d pull on the strap tails. This is usually the only adjustment you’ll see with backpacks, but Mancro has another handy adjustment. 

With buckle clasps and adjustable straps above both side pockets, you can cinch the bag. This is helpful if you don’t have that many items in the bag, or if you have heavy items that need a bit of extra support. There’s a strap tail you can pull to cinch the bag tighter. When you need to get your items out of the bag, you can just pinch the buckle to release pressure instantly. 

Mancro Travel Backpack special features

This backpack comes with a USB-A port built into the left side. The included cable stays inside the bag, where you can plug in a power bank. Then, you can plug in a USB-A cable to the stationary port on the bag’s left side to charge your phone, earbuds, or any other device while you’re walking without needing to carry your power bank too. There’s no dedicated pocket inside for your power bank, so it’ll be loose in your bag, but the included cable easily reaches the bottom of the bag. 

The Mancro Backpack comes with a combination lock that can feed through the two zippers of the main compartment. This is a great add-on in theory, but the lock feels cheap and gummy, especially when rolling the numbers to input the combination. It’d still be easy for someone to swipe the entire bag, and then cut through the lock or break into the bag through the zipper chain later. 

Bottom line

Mancro’s Travel Backpack isn’t the absolute best backpack you can buy, but for its incredibly affordable price, it’s a steal. The bag is compact and lightweight, but offers a considerable amount of well-organized space inside. It even has a USB port so you can charge your phone while walking. How is this bag only $26?!

There are downsides, like the minimally reinforced bottom and the thin, crunchy fabric — but Mancro offers additional features to combat these negatives. The heavy-item sag that results from a thinly padded bottom can be lessened with the horizontal, cinchable straps. The fabric may be lower quality, but it’s water-resistant. 

If you’re after something simple and affordable, you’ll be happy with the Mancro Backpack and its little bonus features. If you want more in-depth organization or a sturdier backpack, it’ll be smart to splurge on a backpack with a reinforced bottom, thicker fabric, and more compartments. 

The Solo New York Duane Hybrid Briefcase does double-duty as a laptop backpack and messenger bag hybrid, but it’s more affordable than most competitors. Pair that with the functionality, and you might be looking at one of the best budget laptop backpacks you can buy this summer. Students and office workers, take note of this tote! 

Solo has an impressive array of briefcases, backpacks, duffels, totes, and other versatile bags in stock, with many premium packs that hover around the $100 range. The New York Duane Hybrid Briefcase is the most affordable hybrid bag in their collection, but that doesn’t mean it’s cheap. 

Laptop backpacks are universally better for your spine than messenger-style briefcases, and this hybrid briefcase brings you the best of both worlds without breaking the bank (or your back). Are the compromises worth the price point? 

Solo New York Duane Hybrid Briefcase price and availability

The Solo New York Duane Hybrid Briefcase is available for $44 at Walmart, $58.46 at Amazon, and $64.99 on Solo’s own website, along with a variety of other online retailers. It’s backed by a five-year limited warranty to cover any defects in materials or craftsmanship, which adds some extra value to the mix. The bag only comes in two colors: black or gray. 

What makes this a “hybrid briefcase,” you ask? At first glance, you could mistake the Solo New York Duane Hybrid Briefcase for a simple messenger-style bag. Unzip the back compartment, however, and you’ll find hidden shoulder straps that instantly transform the briefcase into a backpack. This is a clutch feature when short schleps somehow turn into short treks. 

One more thing: as of this writing, the Solo New York Duane Hybrid Briefcase had an average customer rating of 4.8 (out of 150 reviews) on Solo’s website, which is nothing to sneeze at.  

Solo New York Duane Hybrid Briefcase design

Measuring 17 x 12.5 x 5 inches and weighing just 2.1 pounds, the Solo New York Duane Hybrid Briefcase shares roughly the same heft as the Herschel Kaslo Backpack Tech and Timbuk2 Spire Laptop Backpack 2.0. However, it’s rated for 15.6-inch laptops, whereas Herschel and Timbuk2’s backpacks are meant for 16- and 17-inch laptops respectively. That being said, 15-inch laptops are pretty perfect for most productivity chores, and 15-inch gaming laptops keep getting more powerful (and more mobile too). 

The polyester shell is pleasantly granular to the touch; it feels more rugged than it looks, which is a good thing.There’s a padded laptop sleeve in the main compartment meant for up to 15.6-inch laptop screens, a smaller sleeve for iPads or tablets, and a Velcro strap to keep both devices in place when you’re rummaging around the bag. The adjustable shoulder strap can hang loose or be removed when using the bag in backpack mode; it’s simple enough to unclip and stow your straps of choice. 

You won’t find a sternum strap on this bag, which is a bummer, but an expected compromise for any hybrid bag in this price range. The polyester material isn’t weatherproof, either, so you’ll want to keep it out of the elements. City-dwellers might not mind, especially if you plan on mostly using the bag indoors.

Solo New York Duane Hybrid Briefcase pockets and organization

When it comes to pockets and organization, the Solo New York Duane Hybrid Briefcase is a prime example of “you get what you pay for,” which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. The largest zippered compartment contains the laptop and tablet sleeves. There’s also a zippered enclosure on the back to store those backpack shoulder straps when using the bag in briefcase mode. True to form, my old 15.6-inch Acer Aspire E5-575 fit snugly inside the allotted sleeve, as did my 8-inch iPad and 6-inch Kindle Paperwhite, no problem. 

In front, you’ll find three more zippered compartments of varying sizes, and the largest one has six organizational sleeves on the inside for Post-It notes, pens, or anything else you’d like quick access to. A built-in keychain might have been nice, but the smallest pocket was the perfect size for my daily Trek Trifecta (ie, wallet, keys, smartphone). 

Herschel, Timbuk2, and Peak Design have plentiful pockets galore on the laptop backpacks I recently tested, but Solo lags behind in this regard. There simply aren’t many organizational options to be found on this bag, and the ones inside the front compartment feel cheap. Again, I keep my expectations low at this price range, so I wasn’t exactly surprised.

You won’t find a dedicated water bottle or umbrella pocket on the Solo New York Duane Hybrid Briefcase, but in my testing, the second-largest front pocket was just the right size for a 16-ounce water flask, with room to spare. Granted, using this pocket for water bottles in backpack mode is probably a bad idea, since they’d be tipped on their sides and liable to leak. 

Solo New York Duane Hybrid Briefcase adjustability and comfort

As an avid outdoorsman, I appreciate a good backpacking backpack, which usually includes a fully adjustable hip belt, sternum strap, and built-in lumbar support of some kind. Such bags are built for longer treks in the great outdoors, while hybrid-style backpacks are meant for much more casual excursions. To test out the Solo New York Duane Hybrid Briefcase, I tossed roughly ten pounds of tech inside and took it for a trek around town — switching between briefcase and backpack as I went. 

In briefcase mode, I preferred carrying the bag by my side half the time. The shoulder strap is kind of rough on any exposed skin when in motion, and could use more padding on the underside.

In backpack mode (my preferred method of carry), I was pleasantly surprised at how snugly the Solo New York Duane Hybrid Briefcase fit to my back, and how comfortable the padding was overall, with good weight distribution. The backpack straps are a bit narrow for my taste, however, especially when compared to the Herschel Kaslo Backpack Tech, which offered much more padding from top to bottom.

My 6-foot-3-inch frame is on the larger side, but I recommend this laptop backpack for smaller humans, too. After using it for a few errands (including a 30-minute stroll around my neighborhood), I practically forgot my laptop was strapped firmly inside. 

Solo New York Duane Hybrid Briefcase special features

The padded briefcase handles can be connected via magnetic snaps for extra security. Beyond that, you won’t find much else under the hood. As I mentioned above, you can’t expect too many extras in this price range — especially since the hybrid style of this bag is also the primary feature.

If you’re looking for water-resistant construction, built-in keychains (or bottle openers), daisy-chain tactical webbing, luggage sleeves, or other travel-friendly goodies, you’ll want to consider more premium laptop backpacks, which can cost northward of $100. 

Bottom line

For budget-conscious students, on-the-go office workers, and anyone else interested in a decent laptop backpack that’s also a messenger bag, the Solo New York Duane Hybrid Briefcase is a good value option. It’s certainly not as rugged as other laptop backpacks on the market, but it’s also more affordable, and most mobile mavericks are unlikely to be disappointed with its backpack-to-briefcase capabilities. 

That being said, if you take your tech outside much, the Herschel Kaslo Backpack Tech and Timbuk2 Spire Laptop Backpack 2.0 both offer weather-resistant construction, and a wider variety of unique organizational features — not to mention sternum straps — that bely more premium price tags. 

Pound for diminutive pound, the Solo New York Duane Hybrid Briefcase is an excellent budget laptop backpack that offers all the basics — no more, no less.

The Volher Laptop Backpack is a convenient and stylish travel companion, whether you’re in search of a bag for school, work, or random day trips. There’s plenty of open storage in the main compartment for your larger belongings, and smaller areas for odds and ends that usually get lost at the bottom of a backpack. 

Despite its roomy interior, this backpack is comfortable to wear for long periods, thanks to its breathable, padded mesh areas for your lower back and shoulders. The padded area that sits on your lower back even doubles as an anti-theft pocket for your smartphone, wallet, and keys. Plus, there’s a built-in USB charging port. There’s not much this backpack can’t do. 

With vibrant color options, a relatively affordable price, and a slew of awesome storage and quality-of-life features, the Volher Backpack is a smart option for almost everyone. It’s not entirely perfect, but it’s pretty dang close.

Volher Laptop Backpack price and availability

The Volher Laptop Backpack, which can fit up to a 15.6-inch laptop, features comfortable padded mesh throughout, and makes organization easy with its various pockets and compartments. This backpack has a price range between $31.99 and $39.99 on Amazon, depending on which color you decide to buy. 

The Rose Red color we reviewed here is $39.99, as are the Green, Khaki, Purple, Red, and Yellow color models. At the time of writing, the Black color is the cheapest at $31.99, followed by Grey at $33.99, and then Blue at $35.99. 

If you have a 17-inch laptop, there’s a larger version of this backpack. Also on Amazon, the 17-inch Volher Backpack comes in Black, Blue, and Grey color options. At the time of writing, the Black color is cheapest at $59.99, followed by both the Blue and Grey colors at $61.99.  

Volher Laptop Backpack design

This backpack has an understated and elegant design, with cleanly laid out pockets, a sleek metal logo up top, and beautifully colored fabric. The bag’s durable, tightly woven polyester fabric looks tough, but it’s surprisingly soft to the touch. Plus, it’s water-resistant. When you pour water on the colored fabric, water won’t soak in. Instead, it stays in droplet form and simply rolls off the bag. 

The Rose Red color reviewed here is a vibrant pink that looks attractive, but it’s not too flashy. There are neutral color options that look just as great, but Volher has some beautiful colors available. If you go with a colored design, it’s not going to blind anyone with how bright it is, but it’s still a vibrant, eye-catching bag that shows off your personality. 

There are smaller design elements to love as well, like the reflective strip on each shoulder strap, a sturdy luggage strap, a well-padded carrying handle, and durable metal zippers that look classy. Every zipper on the bag’s front is a dark metal surrounded by a hard plastic that extends the zipper and makes it easier to pull. As a cherry on top, a soft, water-resistant cloth surrounds every zipper chain. 

The longer you look at this bag, the clearer it is that a lot of intentional detail went into this design. The stitching is clean everywhere you look, there’s padding in multiple places, and the color dye used has a gorgeous finish.

On Amazon’s listing for the Volher Backpack, it says the bag weighs 0.65 pounds, but it felt heavier than that to me. I weighed the bag using my kitchen scale, and it actually weighs 2.5 pounds when empty. This is a slightly larger weight than most backpacks, but it feels comfortable to wear. The bag offers 8 inches of depth, and measures 18 x 13 inches in length and width, respectively. 

Volher Laptop Backpack pockets and organization

This bag has enough storage to accommodate all my daily-use items and then some. In the main compartment alone, I fit my 14-inch laptop, two thick spiral journals, one medium-sized journal, a paperback book, a standing pen bag, and a flat pencil bag. There’s still extra depth to fit an additional journal or two and plenty of extra height to fit some clothes or snacks. Next, my water bottle, sunglasses, smartphone, wallet, and keys all found roomy homes in external pockets. 

The main compartment is equipped with a padded laptop sleeve, a yellow mesh pocket that’s perfectly sized for snack bags, open storage, and a small yellow mesh pocket for a power bank that you can use with the built-in USB charging port (more on this later). 

On top of the main compartment, there’s a smaller zipper area that doesn’t offer much open storage for anything other than thin journals or tablets. This area is equipped with a zipper pocket for thin items, two built-in pockets for sticky notes or small journals, and two built-in slip slots for individual pens or pencils. On the outside of this compartment, there’s a small zipper pocket for sunglasses. 

You'll also find a zipper pouch at the very front of the backpack that could easily fit a paperback book or some snacks. This pouch contains two square pockets to fit smaller items. For water bottles or umbrellas, the backpack features two side pockets that have a stretchy band at the top and a lightly padded mesh material for the rest of the side pocket. 

The coolest pocket you’ll find on the Volher Backpack is hidden in the back. This pocket sits right on top of your lower back when you’re wearing the backpack, making it the perfect anti-theft pocket to store valuable items, like your smartphone, wallet, or keys. If there’s nothing you’d want to store in this pocket, your lower back will still benefit from the thick padded mesh on the outside of the pocket. 

Volher Laptop Backpack adjustability and comfort

Whether you’re holding the Volher backpack by its padded carrying handle or wearing it on your back, the experience is pleasant and pain-free. Even if you need to travel long distances while wearing the backpack, you’ll be comfy with all the padded mesh elements. 

The anti-theft pocket on the back of the bag is covered with thick, padded mesh that rests on your low back. There are two padded mesh areas that are positioned right above your shoulders. Both of the shoulder straps are backed with padded mesh (though this mesh can be a bit scratchy on bare skin). If you’re wearing sleeves, you won’t notice any scratchiness — only padded, breathable comfort.  

You can easily adjust the shoulder straps to bring the backpack higher or lower on your back. To make the bag sit lower on your back, you simply pull up on the plastic strap clips. Or, you can raise the bag higher on your back by pulling down on the strap tails. 

Volher Laptop Backpack special features

On the left side of the bag, there’s a built-in USB charging port connected to a cable inside. You can connect a power bank to the cable to provide charging power to your smartphone or earbuds while you’re walking. You’ll just need to plug in your device’s usual charging cord to the USB port on the outside of the bag. There’s a dedicated mesh pocket inside to store your power bank so it’s not loose among your other belongings. 

At one point, the USB cable came loose from its built-in spot. To clip it back into place, you have to get one or two fingers through a narrow hole in the bag’s siding. This tight space usually helps keep the cable in place, but if the cable comes loose, it’s a bit of a pain to put it back. 

The backpack also features a protective slot to feed your wired headphone cable through. Positioned right above the USB charging port, the headphone port is a simple slit between a thick rubber patch.

Bottom line

Volher’s 15.6-inch Laptop Backpack is a top-tier backpack that’s decked out with roomy storage compartments, vibrant fabric that’s water-resistant and durable, and a reinforced bottom that makes it stand upright for easy access to your belongings. If you’re in need of a backpack that can store your laptop and countless other items for school, work, or personal use, this backpack is a high-quality option. 

Because this bag is so well-rounded, there aren’t a lot of reasons to not recommend it. Some people may not need the USB charging port, but the backpack offers a ton of other features that make the price worth it without the port. If you wear sleeveless shirts a lot, the padded mesh is scratchy on the skin, but considering most people wear a backpack over sleeved shirts, this is a minor grievance toward an otherwise fantastic bag. 

The eBags Luxon Laptop Backpack is a premium option that’ll make you wonder why you didn’t upgrade sooner. This bag offers luxuries I didn’t even know I needed in a backpack, like a padded mesh back panel, long zipper chains for easy access, and well-organized, built-in storage areas. 

You’ll find a dedicated compartment for your laptop to completely separate and safe from the rest of your things. The front zipper panel offers extra storage for your little bits and bobs, like individual slip pockets for your favorite pens and see-through mesh zipper pockets for things you might forget easily. For your larger items, the main compartment is king, and even comes with a nifty removable sling bag. 

Whether you’re traveling or commuting to work or school, the Luxon has plenty of room, and can keep your belongings safe with its durable fabric and water-resistant coating. Don’t get me wrong, there are a few things I’d change about this bag in a perfect world. But as it stands, the cons far outweigh the pros for this gorgeous, functional backpack.  

eBags Luxon Laptop Backpack price and availability

The Luxon Laptop Backpack from eBags is a bit pricier than other bags, retailing for $149.99. Right now, there are two available color options, and they’re both discounted on the eBags website to only $99.99. 

You might not notice much variation between theBlack and Graphite (grey) color options, because the only fabric that changes is on the sides and bottom of the bag. There’s some dark grey, waterproof-coated material that stays the same whether you opt for the Black or Graphite version. 

On Amazon, the Luxon Laptop Backpack is listed for $99.99, matching the discounted price from eBag’s website. Both Black and Graphite options are available through Amazon too. 

eBags Luxon Laptop Backpack design

The Luxon Backpack from eBags has an industrial, modern look to it, with its dark grey accent fabric covered in smooth water-resistant coating on the front of the bag. The two side pockets and the top of the bag are decorated with this same smooth material — protecting the most vulnerable spots of the bag from an accidental spill or some rain. 

At the bottom of the bag and on the sides, our Graphite-colored review unit features light grey polyester fabric that’s rugged and textured. This fabric feels more durable and able to withstand scratches than the smoother, water-resistant accent fabric. Inside, the quality continues with a dark red decorative lining that feels sturdy and looks easy to clean. 

All the zipper chains are covered to hide the teeth, which gives the bag a cleaner look. The two front zipper pockets are covered with a water-resistant, leathery-feeling material. Then, other zippers are covered with soft cloth, giving the bag a clean, uniform look. All zippers are equipped with a cylindrical extender that makes them easy to open and close. 

The Luxon Backpack is fitted with a wide carrying handle that’s slightly padded for more comfortable transport, as well as a luggage strap so you can secure the bag to a suitcase when traveling. Alternative to most backpacks, which have a horizontal luggage strap to slide over the carrying handle, the Luxon has a vertical luggage strap, so you can slide the bag over your suitcase with the carrying handle pointed to the left or right. 

With dimensions of 19 x 11.5 x 7 inches, this is a standard medium-sized backpack that offers a bit more depth than many backpacks. What’s not standard about the Luxon Backpack is its weight. Many backpacks weigh between one to two pounds, but this backpack weighs just over three pounds when it’s empty. Its supportive features make this extra weight less noticeable, but more on this later. 

eBags Luxon Laptop Backpack pockets and organization

With spacious, well-organized compartments and pockets, this backpack has space for all of my belongings, and then some. I packed my 14-inch laptop, two thick spiral planners, a medium-sized journal, a paperback book, my pen bag, phone, wallet, power bank, some snacks, and two water bottles — and there was still so much room left for more. 

One of my favorite aspects of the Luxon Backpack is the separate, dedicated spaces for many items. There’s a heavily padded laptop compartment with its own zipper, a stretchy strap attached to the inside liner to hold your phone and a power bank together to charge, a hidden pocket for your wallet or passport, and a fleece-lined pocket in front for sunglasses or your phone. 

Also on the bag’s front, you’ll find another zipper pocket that features the Luxon Backpack’s signature smooth, red lining and two built-in slip pockets. Beneath these two outer zipper pockets is the front storage panel, which contains several built-in slip pockets, and features five dedicated slots for individual pens or pencils, and three zipper areas, two of which are made with mesh. 

The main compartment has quite a bit of open storage, which is primarily where I stored my journal, book, planners, and other belongings. On the fold-out flap, you’ll find the T-shaped, stretchy straps I mentioned earlier to hold your phone and a power bank stacked together, as well as a fine, stretchy mesh pocket that’s perfect for holding snacks. 

Then, in the back of the main compartment, there’s another fine mesh pocket and a removable sling bag. The sling bag has a fleece-lined pocket in the front for your sunglasses or phone, and then open storage inside for multiple pens and pencils, medication, or even a small plastic water bottle. You can leave the sling bag inside the backpack with your essentials, and then remove it when you don’t feel like bringing your entire backpack. 

Both the front compartment and the main compartment have longer zipper chains than traditional backpacks —almost reaching the bottom of the backpack, for roomier, easier access to your belongings, especially if the bag is lying horizontally on a desk. 

For water bottles or umbrellas, the eBags Luxon Backpack has two side pockets made with the same smooth, water-resistant material you’ll find on the front of the bag. The side pockets are a bit tight at first, but they can easily fit a larger plastic or stainless steel water bottle. 

eBags Luxon Laptop Backpack adjustability and comfort

The Luxon Laptop Backpack from eBags can be adjusted using the shoulder strap tails and clips. To move the bag higher on your back, you simply tug on the strap tails until it’s in the perfect position. Alternatively, you can pull up on the plastic strap clips to loosen the straps and lower the bag on your back. 

The shoulder straps are curved, decked out with padded mesh, and equipped with loops to attach accessories or feed your headphone cord through. The mesh itself is comfy on bare skin, but the bag’s fabric around the seam creates a sharp, scratchy feeling on skin. If you’re wearing something with sleeves, you’ll only notice the padded comfort. 

One of my favorite features of this laptop backpack is its padded air-mesh back panel. The mesh material makes it breathable, and the thick padding makes even a heavy backpack feel good on your back. There are two hourglass-shaped panels opposite the two shoulder straps, with thinner padding for your mid-back and thicker padding for your upper- and low-back areas. 

There’s also a slightly reinforced bottom to help support heavier items. Rather than your laptop or textbooks sinking to the bag’s bottom, they’ll stay where you want them. This makes for a more comfortable fit while walking, and it’ll also protect your things when you set the bag down on a hard surface. 

eBags Luxon Laptop Backpack special features

Everything about the Luxon Laptop Backpack feels special, but here are a few standout features. There’s a hidden RFID pocket on the back panel that’s perfect for your wallet or passport. With this,you can block potentially malicious signals from RFID scanners trying to gain access to your identity or credit cards. 

Also, the zipper sliders on the two largest compartments overlap with one another so you can push a thin lock through hole on each zipper slider, fastening them together to secure your belongings. Of course, it’s worth mentioning that someone could still pick up your backpack and run away with it, or poke something through the zipper teeth to bypass the lock. However, these lockable zippers could be enough to deter someone from trying to pickpocket you. 

Bottom line

The eBags Luxon Laptop Backpack is an excellent choice, so long as you can splurge on it. It’s incredibly comfortable to wear, offers an insane amount of storage that’s easily accessible, and has multiple special features, like a hidden RFID pocket and a removable bag you could use as a pencil bag for class or a fanny pack on vacation. 

The boxy, modern style of the Luxon Backpack may not be for everyone, but it’s made to last with its durable fabric and water-resistant coating. Though the style of this bag lends nicely to neutral color palettes, it’d be nice to see extra color options besides black and grey. 

If you’re looking for a more minimalistic or compact backpack, this probably isn’t the option for you. But if you need something with ample storage, thoughtful features, and a dedicated laptop compartment for school, work, or personal use, look no further than the Luxon Laptop Backpack from eBags. 

The Herschel Pop Quiz Laptop Backpack is beautifully designed, equipped with simple storage, a laptop sleeve, and comfortably padded shoulder straps that are fantastic for long-term wear. Whether you’re in need of a backpack to cart around supplies and books between classes or something to transport your work laptop and miscellaneous documents to a nearby coffee shop, the Pop Quiz Backpack is the perfect stylish option. 

This backpack comes in multiple fun designs to fit any personality, and the striking design elements continue on the inside. You’ll find Herschel’s signature red-and-white striped lining adorning much of the bag’s interior, as well as a fleece-lined sleeve to keep your laptop safe from scratches. 

Although there’s only one main compartment in the Pop Quiz Backpack, there’s ample storage for a laptop, two to three textbooks or stacks of files, some snacks, and much more. Plus, there are two extra zipper pockets for your smaller essentials. Despite all this high praise for Herschel’s Pop Quiz Backpack, there were a few things that could’ve been better. Let’s dive into the details.

Herschel Pop Quiz Laptop Backpack price and availability

The Herschel Pop Quiz Laptop Backpack has a starting price of $54.97 from Nordstrom for the specific color scheme reviewed here, which is called Paint Pour Black. You can also snag the Paint Pour Black color scheme from Herschel's website directly for $62.99 right now, discounted from $90. 

On Herschel’s website, you’ll find five other color schemes to choose from with fun descriptive names. There’s Nature Camo, Forest Camo, Dried Herb, Woodland Camper, Rubber, and Harvest Gold. 

No matter which decorative pattern or solid color you choose, each backpack features Herschel’s signature red and white pinstripe liner, a dedicated laptop sleeve in the main compartment, and breathable, padded mesh straps for comfortable commuting. 

Herschel Pop Quiz Laptop Backpack design

The Paint Pour Black color scheme on Herschel’s Pop Quiz Backpack is fun and bold, but it’s not too flashy. Most of the backpack is black, with swirls of white and gray marbled throughout the sturdy nylon canvas on the bag’s front, back, shoulder straps, and even the carrying handle. 

The fabric feels durable enough to withstand a considerable amount of wear and tear — exactly what I’d look for in a daily-use backpack. Despite its sturdy texture, the canvas doesn’t feel scratchy. For extra support, there’s a slightly reinforced bottom, which will help if you have to cart around a heavy laptop or large textbooks. However, if you tote the bag around by the carrying handle, it feels scratchy and uncomfortable in your hand. 

Herschel’s logo square on the bag’s front elevates the bag's look because it appears strongly sewn on and reminds you of the quality brand it comes from. Above the logo, the most visible zipper chain on the backpack’s front is covered by a smooth, waterproof material that makes it look clean and refined. 

Opening and closing this zipper (and the bag’s other zippers) doesn’t feel as smooth as I’d like. It’s difficult to open the small zipper pocket in front and the main compartment, and downright impossible at times to open the raised zipper pouch because of the stiff canvas surrounding the zipper chain. 

Looking into the backpack’s main compartment reveals the brand’s signature red-and-white striped lining. This vibrant lining could be a neat design element for some, but it might not be everyone’s cup of tea. The laptop sleeve, however, is something everyone is likely to enjoy. When you slide your laptop into the sleeve, it’s protected from scratches on both sides by a black, velvety fleece lining. The sunglasses pocket is also lined with this soft material to prevent scratches.

At about 1.7 pounds when empty, the Pop Quiz Backpack is pretty lightweight. It’s also a relatively small backpack with dimensions of 17.5 x 11.75 x 6 inches. You could easily tuck this backpack under a desk or even under the small storage area for carry-ons on an airplane. Despite its smaller size, there’s plenty of space for all your things inside. 

Herschel Pop Quiz Laptop Backpack pockets and organization

Herschel’s Pop Quiz Backpack offers straightforward storage, with only one main zipper compartment to store the majority of your belongings. Though some may not like having only one big compartment, it can be nice if you don’t have a lot of little stuff you need to keep organized (or all your little stuff is stored in separate bags already).

In the main compartment, there’s a padded laptop sleeve to keep your laptop separate, and the rest of the space is open storage. I can easily fit my 14-inch laptop, three thick spiral journals, a pen bag, on-the-go snacks, and a water bottle — and there’s still a little room left on top to bring along a sweater. 

On the backpack’s front, there’s a raised zipper pouch with red-and-white striped lining and red mesh inside. In this pouch, you’ll find a red carabiner for your keys and a large slip pocket with extra pockets on top, including a small mesh pocket that can be closed with a zipper, two pockets big enough for a few pens or some mini sticky notes, and six thin pockets for individual pens or pencils. The rest of the area is open for loose storage. 

On the raised zipper pouch, there’s an additional pocket equipped with a waterproof-lined zipper. This is a simple open pocket for items you’d need to access frequently and quickly. Heading to the top of the Pop Quiz Backpack, there’s a small zipper pocket with fleece lining for sunglasses or your wallet. Because of where it’s positioned, this is a great anti-theft pocket. 

This backpack has no side pockets for water bottles or umbrellas. However, it makes the overall size of the backpack smaller, and even with all my stuff packed inside, there was enough room for a water bottle. If you have a stainless steel water bottle or something else that doesn’t condensate, this would be fine. But you wouldn’t be able to pack a wet umbrella or cold, plastic water bottle inside the bag without fear of getting the rest of your belongings wet. 

Herschel Pop Quiz Laptop Backpack adjustability and comfort

Though the shoulder strap fronts are decorative on the Pop Quiz Backpack, the backs are decked out with padded mesh that’s both comfortable and breathable. If you’re wearing the straps on bare skin (e.g., a tank top), the breathability of the mesh outweighs the slight scratchiness you might feel from it. Wearing a jacket or a long-sleeve shirt with the backpack allows you to take advantage of the breathable, padded mesh with no scratchy discomfort. 

You can easily adjust the shoulder straps to move the backpack higher or lower on your back. To do so, you simply pull up on the bottom of the strap clips to lower the bag, putting more room between your shoulders and the bottom of the bag. Or, you can pull the bag higher on your back by pulling down on the loose tail of the shoulder strap. 

The backpack’s slightly reinforced bottom makes it easier to cart around heavy books or a large laptop. Rather than everything sagging at the bottom of the backpack, it’ll stay supported, leaving you with a much more comfortable experience.

Herschel Pop Quiz Laptop Backpack special features

The most notable features of Herschel’s Pop Quiz Laptop Backpack are in the interior details. The fleece-lined sunglasses pouch and laptop sleeve are thoughtful elements you won’t find in many modern backpacks. 

Even the red-and-white striped lining has a story to it. The signature lining made popular by some of Herschel’s earlier bags was inspired by the brand’s two cofounder siblings’ grandfather, who used to wear railroad stripe overalls to his job as a grand elevator operator. His uniform wasn’t red and white; that was the brothers’ modern twist on his uniform. The lining instantly became a crowd favorite among Herschel’s customers, and it can be found in many of the brand’s current bags. 

Herschel is also dedicated to creating bags with sustainable materials and becoming an eco-conscious brand. By Fall 2023, the company claims that 91% of Herschel’s styles will be made with EcoSystem recycled materials, including EcoSystem 600D Fabric that uses 100% recycled post-consumer water bottles and EcoSystem Hardshell that consists of 70% recycled material from post-use road barricades. 

Bottom line

The Herschel Pop Quiz Laptop Backpack is perfect for anyone who wants to show off their personality through their bag, whether you need it for school, work, or personal use. Herschel makes high-quality, eye-catching designs that make both the exterior and interior fun to look at and show off. This backpack is also a great choice if you’re in need of compact, simple storage. 

If you can’t do without side pockets for your umbrella or water bottles, this isn’t the backpack for you. Also, the zippers on the Pop Quiz Backpack aren’t very smooth to open or close, so if you think this clunky sensation would send you reeling, opt for a different bag. 

The Swissgear Getaway Laptop Backpack is the perfect bag for minimalists, designed for those who want to travel as light as possible and in style. This sleek backpack barely weighs more than a pound, and it’s an excellent option for day trips, overnight stays, or simple commutes. 

Little design elements make the bag feel high-quality, like the easy-to-pull rubber extenders on zippers, the Swissgear logo made with metal and leather, and the eye-catching pinstripe liner inside the bag. The dark grey exterior fabric looks timeless, and it feels thin and breathable, but durable.

Most importantly, the Swissgear Getaway Backpack has a dedicated sleeve for laptops up to 13 inches wide and a few simple pockets to keep your small odds and ends organized. You can fit a few changes of clothes inside, or some textbooks, a pencil bag, headphones, and other school supplies.  

This backpack certainly isn’t perfect, but for the right person, the upsides eclipse any downsides. Let’s get into what I loved about this laptop bag, and what I think could’ve been better!

Swissgear Getaway Laptop Backpack price and availability

The Swissgear Getaway Laptop Backpack is available for $48.99 from the Swissgear website. There are five color options to choose from, including Camo Two-Tone Print, Granite Winter Turq, Noir Satin, Urban Heather, and Heather Gray. At the time of writing, the only color option in stock is Heather Gray, which is the color of our review unit.

Because this backpack is a compact, lightweight option for people looking for a simple daily-use bag, it’s no wonder so many color options are sold out. It boasts a 13-inch wide laptop sleeve inside that effortlessly accommodated my 14-inch laptop, and despite having only one main compartment, it fit everything I needed it to with room on top for extra stuff. 

Swissgear Getaway Laptop Backpack design

Swissgear’s Getaway Backpack demonstrates how timeless a minimalist design can be. The bag’s simplicity makes it attractive, with a solid black strip on the bottom, textured grey fabric adorning the rest of the bag, and black accents from the zippers and their chains. The exterior polyester fabric is slightly rough to the touch and thin, but there’s padding where you need it most. 

Inside, there’s a decorative lining with a grey and white diagonal pinstripe pattern. Then, all zippers have long, rubber extenders that add fashion and function to the bag. These zipper extenders are eye-catching, but their intended purpose is to make it easier to zip and unzip the bag and its pockets. 

The best part about this backpack’s design is how incredibly light it is. It weighs just over one pound when empty, and it’s fairly compact as well, measuring 17.5 x 12.5 x 6 inches. If you have to cart around multiple textbooks or a hefty laptop, this one-pound backpack ensures you’re not carrying any more weight than you need to. The laptop compartment measures 13.5 x 11 x 1 inches. 

For the price, it would’ve been nice to see a few extra design elements. There are no side pockets for a water bottle or an umbrella, and there’s no water-resistant fabric or a luggage strap. The carrying handle is also thin and slightly scratchy, which feels like a missed opportunity when you look at the high-quality of the logo on the bag’s front and the rubber extenders on the zippers.

Swissgear Getaway Laptop Backpack pockets and organization

For some, the Getaway Laptop Backpack may not have enough storage space. There’s only one zipper compartment with open storage space, two built-in slip pockets, a thinly padded laptop sleeve for up to 13-inch wide laptops, and a small, detached zipper pouch for your phone, wallet, or keys. Others may find this amount of storage to be plenty.

Looking at this backpack, I didn’t know if all of my daily-use items for work would fit inside — but they did! I packed my 14-inch laptop, two hard-cover, spiral planners, a medium-sized journal, a paperback book, a standing pen bag, and a thin pencil bag. To my surprise, there was still a little room in the bag for an extra book or a water bottle. There was also extra room above my belongings to store something small or malleable, like snacks or a sweater.  

On the bag’s front, there are two quick-access pockets. One is big enough to hold a small- to medium-sized book or some extra pens and pencils, and the other is too small for a smartphone, so it might be better suited for sticky notes, keys, or a wallet. 

Swissgear Getaway Laptop Backpack adjustability and comfort

The shoulder straps on this bag feel thin and barely padded, but they’re soft on bare skin and provide enough support for what the bag can hold inside. It feels comfortable to wear for long periods of time, even if the bag is fully packed.

You can adjust the shoulder straps when the bag is on your back, but trying to adjust them when it’s off your back is a bit difficult. To raise the bag higher on your back, you’ll pull down on the strap tails to tighten them. To lower the bag, you can pull up on the plastic strap clips and let out some slack. 

The Getaway Laptop Backpack has a slightly reinforced bottom, so while your belongings might sag a little bit inside, they won’t completely sink. This makes the bag more comfortable to wear, and also protects your belongings when you set the bag down on a hard floor.

Swissgear Getaway Laptop Backpack special features

Whether you’re familiar with Swissgear as a brand or not, you might recognize one of the company’s first best selling products: the Swiss Army Knife. Swissgear has a history of making high-quality products, and that trend continues in the Getaway Laptop Backpack and Swissgear’s other products.

Any product purchased through Swissgear.com automatically receives a 10-year extended warranty. According to the card attached to our review unit, “the warranty applies when the product is used under normal conditions for which it is designed.”

Bottom line

Swissgear’s Getaway Laptop Backpack is perfect if you’re looking for something minimal in every way except quality. It’s super lightweight, only has one main compartment to fill, and two simple external pockets. The shoulder straps and overall fabric is thin, but it feels durable and of high-quality. 

If you need a simple bag to hold a few days worth of clothes or textbooks and school supplies, you’ll be happy with the Getaway Laptop Backpack. There’s enough organization inside to keep the important stuff separated — like your laptop, keys, and wallet — but you won’t invest in unnecessary space or pockets that you’ll never use. 

If you like having separate pockets for your belongings or you have a lot to pack inside a bag, you probably won’t like this backpack’s minimalistic design. Similarly, if you can’t do without side pockets for a water bottle or an umbrella, you should opt for a different backpack.

The Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 30L leads the *ahem* pack in terms of overall ergonomics, rugged weatherproofing, and clever compartments galore. Designed to accommodate 13- to 16-inch laptops – not to mention a slew of other gear inside – this is the best laptop backpack I’ve tested to date, and not just because it felt snug as a techie turtle shell during my terrestrial travels.  

What makes the Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 30L stand out, you ask? For one, this ultra-rugged bag has three origami-style dividers in the front compartment to separate any electronics you need protected (from each other), with instant access via symmetrical zippers on the side. Its 400D double poly-coated nylon canvas shell can stand up to the occasional squall, too.

Granted, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 30L is on the pricier side, but when it comes to guarding your gear with no fear, this premium laptop backpack is tough to beat, and it’ll keep your tech from taking a tumble.

Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 30L price and availability

The Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 30L is available for $299 at Amazon, REI, and Peak Design’s own website, along with a variety of other online retailers. (There’s a slightly smaller 20L version to choose from, which is a slightly-more-reasonable $280.) It’s a pricey laptop backpack, but the more tech you travel with, the more important it is to invest in a quality carry-all that’ll go the distance when the going gets tough. Or rainy. Or snowy. You get the idea. 

Upon inspection, I immediately appreciated the bag’s granular outer texture, which feels rugged enough to rival even the very best canvas tarp your grandaddy has in the back of his garage. Thanks to that 400D nylon canvas shell, 900D waterproof bottom liner, and anodized aluminum hardware, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 30L lives up to its brand name in terms of tip-top protection. (More on that below.)

There are four earthy colors to choose from: black, charcoal, midnight, and ash. 

Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 30L design

At first glance, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 30L looks nearly as hi-tech as the gear you’ll be putting inside. Measuring 13 x 19.1 x 10.6 inches, this expansive 30L backpack is rated to fit most laptops and tablets with screens up to 16 inches. At 4.7 pounds with the internal dividers installed, it’s one of the heavier laptop bags I’ve tested, but the extra bulk belies extra padding and weatherproofing – not to mention quality aluminum holding everything together. The main flap up top has a magnetic latch that can be adjusted on the fly with just one hand. Nice.

Once I began to explore the bag in earnest, I found plenty of travel-friendly features inside and out, including nifty magnetic closures, a luggage pass-through on the back, a quick-stash pocket inside (for your passport, wallet, etc.), and oodles of other hidden pockets on the inner walls. The main zippers form a waterproof seal when closed, which came in handy one day as I got caught in the rain without an umbrella. 

In terms of overall aesthetics, this bag is refreshingly minimalist from afar, and it was a pleasure to tow around town, whether on my back or by my side. The 400D double poly-coated nylon canvas shell felt tough as nails right from the get-go — in a future-chic kind of way. 

Uniquely, this laptop backpack is simultaneously a camera bag thanks to three origami-inspired FlexiFold inserts that turn the main compartment into an uber-organized cubby hole; these inserts can be removed and rearranged at will. 

Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 30L pockets and organization

When it comes to plentiful pockets and ergonomic organization, some laptop backpacks come up short, but the Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 30L is no slouch in terms of internal and external storage. 

Case in point: the adjustable laptop compartment in the back, where you’ll find a couple of bonus pockets inside for any peripherals or documents you have on hand. When I tossed a 15.6-inch HP Envy x360 inside, the laptop felt super snug against my back as I navigated the NYC subway system. 

In addition to the main compartment up front, which has instant-access side panels and discrete pockets lining the inner walls, you’ll find two expandable outer pockets flanking either side – perfect for water bottles, battery packs, tripods, and power cords.

Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 30L adjustability and comfort

Laptop bags aren’t traditionally known for overall comfort, but the Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 30L does a good job of adding extra ergonomics – and breathable padding – to those chest straps, which magnetize to the backpack when not in use. There’s also an adjustable sternum strap to keep the bag more secure as you zip from point A to point B (even if point B is the top of a modest mountain). In my testing, it was a cinch to adjust the shoulder straps on the fly for optimal comfort, with minimal chafing in the underarm area.

I used the Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 30L to schlep my home office to a local coffee shop, and was surprised by how comfortable those shoulder straps really were, not to mention how well the weight was distributed across my upper back. 

With the FlexiFold inserts removed, there was plenty of room inside the main compartment for my bar kit, extra shoes, and some spare clothes when I brought the Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 30L to my next bartending shift. (I used the opportunity to splash some water on the nylon shell during breakdown to test the waterproofing. Good news: liquids wick right off with aplomb.) 

Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 30L special features

As mentioned above, Peak includes three removable FlexiFold inserts for the main compartment, which attach to the inner walls via Velcro. These origami-inspired slabs essentially turn the backpack into a dual-purpose camera bag with adjustable shelving, which is ideal for mobile mavericks of every ilk. Bonus: both sides of the bag unzip for instant access to the main compartment – without unloading the whole thing from the top down. This is perfect for photographers, videographers, and drone hobbyists alike. 

Storage space aside, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 30L is pretty perfect as an everyday carry backpack, especially since their cord hook system lets you tether other stuff to the bag itself. How? A hidden pocket in the front exterior houses two durable straps, which can be wrapped around other objects (e.g., a backpacking tent, bicycle helmet, throw blanket, first aid kit) and then tethered to various attachment points around the bag. In short, if you can dream it, you can Frankenstein this thing into a customized utility bag of limitless function. Plus, thanks to all that weatherproofing, you could even use this thing on your next camping trip, no problem. Adventure journalists, rejoice! 

But that’s not all. The Anchor Link key tether will keep your keys safely attached to the bag, which is icing on the (canvas) cake. 

Bottom line

For professional journalists, photographers and drone operators who are constantly on the move, this is one of the best laptop backpacks on the market today. But really, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 30L is ideal for anyone looking to protect their stuff on the go – especially if the road is a little bumpy along the way. Just be prepared to pay a pretty penny for Peak’s premium protection.

This premium laptop bag is packed to the max with ergonomic design choices that don’t skimp on the weatherproofing, making it my top pick for laptop backpacks. If you’re on the lookout for a versatile organizational tool that can totally take a tumble, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 30L is the bag to beat. 

There's no shortage of great laptop bags to choose from in 2024, so finding the perfect one to protect your laptop can be a challenge.

Luckily, we've done that hard work for you. We spent hours researching dozens of bags to uncover the top laptop bags for students, professionals, travelers, and everyone in between. No matter your budget or style, there's a great laptop bag out there for you. These top bags combine style, function, and price to deliver good value for your money and the protection your laptop needs.

Hopefully, we already helped you find one of the best laptops, so now we'll guide you to the best laptop bag to tote that laptop around safely and in style.

The Quick List

Best laptop bag overall

Peak Design's Everyday Messenger Bag is one of the most well-thought-out products on the market today. Its magnetic MagLatch closure works like magic and ensures your bag is secure but still easy to open. Also, its customizable flex-fold dividers let you configure your storage to perfectly meet personal preferences.

Adding to its greatness is a comfy adjustable shoulder strap, additional hip straps to help balance heavy loads, and a padded laptop sleeve that will fit all but the biggest 15-inch laptops. So, while the design targets photographers, it's also one of the best bags any regular Joe can buy.

Read our full Peak Design Everyday Messenger review.

Best budget laptop bag

If you want a sturdy, stylish, and affordable bag, you can 't go wrong with a JanSport backpack. The Main Campus has a dedicated, padded, zippered laptop pocket, two main compartments, two front pockets, and a water bottle pocket. Even better, it costs less than $60.

The Main Campus's basic, no-frills design makes it highly versatile. You can take it to school, work, or the airport without looking out of place. It's also available in over a dozen colors, so you can find something that's just the right fit for your style.

If you want a laptop bag that won't break the bank but won't break on you either, the JanSport Main Campus is a fantastic choice. It's durable, roomy, and offers good protection for your laptop.

Best laptop bag for high school

The North Face is known for its durable, lightweight backpacks, and the Jester is no exception. Thanks to its stylish, durable design, which comes in dozens of different colors and patterns, it is easily one of the best laptop bags for high school students.

It's big enough to fit your laptop, books, homework, a water bottle, pens and pencils, and even a hoodie or lunch bag. The compression straps on the front allow you to carry a sweatshirt or a smaller bag with gym clothes or sports gear.

The Jester is also a great laptop bag for people with small and large frames. I found the curved, padded straps highly comfortable for hours on end, even with the Jester fully loaded with my laptop and books. It's also flat enough when empty to easily fit into a locker (yes, even the extra narrow kind).

Best laptop bag for college

The Herschel Supply Co Little America is a stylish, premium laptop backpack with a stellar laptop pocket and durable build quality. Thanks to its slightly more mature yet cool design aesthetic, it's perfect for college students. This backpack will look right at home on campus, but it's also classy enough that you can take it to an office for an internship.

Herschel backpacks also have some of the nicest laptop sleeves I've ever seen. They're well-padded and have an ultra-soft inner lining, so you can be sure your shiny new laptop isn't going to get scratched or dinged in your bag. The updated version of the Little America also conveniently has a zipper on the side for quickly accessing the laptop pocket.

It's worth noting that the Little America comes in two sizes: 30 liters and 21 liters ("mid-volume"). If you have a smaller frame or don't need to carry much, the mid-volume version is the way to go.

The only downside to the Little America is the lack of internal organization. There are a couple of small pockets, but it's mainly the one main compartment with the laptop sleeve and the small front pocket. The quality and materials are nice, though, and the style is perfect for college students.

Best laptop bag for work

The Duane Convertible may look like a standard briefcase bag, but its secrets are revealed once you turn it on its side. Solo’s hybrid carrier seamlessly converts into a backpack when your arms are tired and can flip back into a messenger bag for better maneuverability or in a more formal setting.

If you own a 15.6-inch MacBook Pro or Dell XPS 15, you can clip them into the bag’s padded compartment. A large front pocket organizes a handful of other tech products. There are even a pair of quick-access pockets for your phone, keys, and wallet.

Best laptop bag for travel

Laptops are major investments, which is why you have to be careful carrying them around in airports and the outdoors. The Timbuk2 Spire is the perfect bag for protecting your laptop when you're traveling. It's a modern canvas bag with an integrated waterproof rolltop to prevent rain and snow from leaking in. Plus, it can accompany you on airlines, and the buckled rolltop closure is a bit tougher for would-be thieves to open compared to a basic zipper.

Available in two muted colors, the Spire is designed to fit a 15.6-inch laptop and has a separate tablet pocket and internal and external pockets for other carry-on electronics. The daisy-chain webbing is also useful for bikers and outdoor adventurists who need to carry a bit extra when bag space becomes limited.

How to choose the best laptop bag for you

There are so many types of laptop backpacks out there, so to make your shopping a little bit easier, it's a good idea to narrow down your options to backpacks that fit your needs. You must consider several super-important aspects of a laptop backpack before buying, including size, compartments, and innovative designs that somehow manage to maximize space while maintaining TSA-friendly dimensions.

Size: If you're going to purchase a laptop backpack, you're going to have to make sure that your laptop fits into your chosen backpack, of course. You should measure your laptop's width (from left to right) and depth (from the hinge to the lip). When sifting through the internet for a laptop backpack, you'll have to make sure that the backpack is at least an inch longer than your laptop's width, since laptops tend to sit vertically in laptop backpacks. You should also make sure the backpack is wide enough to fit your laptop's depth.

You should also double-check to see if the backpack complies with TSA guidelines if you plan on traveling.

Compartments: Compartments are where laptop backpack makers get creative and design bags that fit certain consumers. If you tend to have a lot of small knickknacks when commuting and traveling, then you should opt for a laptop backpack with many fun hidden pockets and pouches.

If you're an on-the-go businessman or woman, you'll want to look for a backpack with a compartment that can safely store your files and folders.

Useful features: The number one thing I look for in a laptop backpack is a USB charging port in case my phone decides to run out of juice. I don't want to have to deal with outlet hoggers at the airport. Premium laptop backpacks tend to offer useful features that will make your commute and travels a lot easier.

Durability: You should also keep in mind the fabric and material of your backpack. If you're exploring rugged locations or regions with frequent inclement weather, you should consider purchasing a laptop backpack with durable fabric. For example, if you're going to a rainy climate, you may want to purchase a water-resistant backpack. I also highly recommend getting a laptop backpack

If you're a frequent flyer, you'll likely be pushing your laptop backpack beneath your seat quite often, so you'll want to choose a fabric that doesn't pick up stains and spills too easily, such as water-resistant polyester.

Why Trust Laptop Mag

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We are 100% independent and have decades of experience to help you buy with confidence. In fact, Laptop Mag has been testing and reviewing products for three decades and continues to deliver trustworthy reviews you can rely on.

Our experienced team of writers and editors scour the available information about the laptop and put it through its paces to determine which is best for you. But before they start, the testing team subjects each system to a rigorous regimen of synthetic and real-world tests to see how a system handles the type of work and games you’re most likely to throw at it.

One of the world's largest technology publishers, Future Publishing, enforces our editorial trustworthiness. As a company, we have unrivaled experience across every tech sector — and we're the group's specialist for all things mobile tech.

The best MacBook Pro cases will keep your laptop looking as good as the day you bought it for years to come. Ranging from simple fabric sleeves to military-grade heavy-duty cases, the market is overflowing with cases that deliver impressive looks and peace of mind for the safety of your MacBook Pro.

While a few scuffs or scratches aren’t the end of the world, it would be a shame to tarnish the slick frame of some of Apple’s most aesthetically pleasing (and of course expensive) laptops. Even the most basic case can protect your 13-inch MacBook Pro M2 or MacBook Pro 14 from surface-level damage, and many are available for a price that won’t break the bank. However, if you’re willing to pay a little extra, hardshell and rugged cases can protect your device against shock damage, dust particulates, and even water or heat exposure.

Of course, there’s no point in purchasing an ultra-expensive armor-plated case if all you need is something to protect your MacBook Pro from scraping against the contents of your bag or backpack during your commute. That’s why we’ve compiled our list of the best MacBook Pro cases to ensure you find the one that’s right for you.

Best cheap case for MacBook Pro

MOSISO makes some fantastic hardshell cases in a wide selection of vibrant colors and designs. Even better, MOSISO cases are available in sizes to fit most 13/14/15/16-inch MacBook Pro models, with some including an additional screen protector and a matching keyboard cover. So, whether you have the latest M2 MacBook Pro or an older model, MOSISO has you covered. Considering most of MOSISO’s covers are under $20, these hardshell cases are a fantastic value and an affordable solution to protect your MacBook Pro from day-to-day wear and tear.

MOSISO’s hardshell case is easy to fit, with two snap-on segments that result in all-over protection from scratches, scuffing, and minor knocks. The matching keyboard cover offers minor protection from spillage catastrophes and some protection against dust particulates. While keyboard-heavy users may want to pass on the keyboard cover, the case is solid enough in its own right — especially if you’re looking to add a bit of personality to your MacBook.

• Mosiso case for MacBook Pro 14 @ Amazon
• Mosiso case for MacBook Pro 15 @ Amazon
• Mosiso case for MacBook Pro 16 M1 Pro/M1 Pro Max @ Amazon
• Mosiso case for MacBook Pro 16 (2020 or earlier) @ Amazon

Best rugged case for MacBook Pro

Urban Armor Gear makes some impressive rugged cases for a wide variety of laptops, tablets, and phones, all of which offer a serious level of protection when it comes to daily usage and accident prevention. UAG’s latest series of Plyo cases for the 13/14/16-inch MacBook Pro delivers a slim and sleek minimalist design without compromising on protection. While most rugged laptop cases add significant bulk or weight to your device, UAG’s Plyo case is lightweight and low profile.

The hard polycarbonate frame is dust-repellant, non-slip, and features a soft impact-resistant core with durable air-soft corners. UAG’s Plyo case meets the military drop-test standard for surviving multiple drops from up to four feet without any damage to the laptop. MIL-STD-810G certification is the gold standard when it comes to consumer-level protection from shock damage, and will protect your MacBook Pro from just about everything your daily life has up its sleeve.

• UAG case for MacBook Pro 14 @ Amazon
• UAG case for MacBook Pro 16 M1 Pro/M1 Pro Max @ Amazon
• UAG case for MacBook Pro 16 (2020 or earlier) @ Amazon

Best protective sleeve for MacBook Pro

The Thule Gauntlet MacBook Pro sleeve is ideal if you want to keep your MacBook Pro 13 or 14 safe while in transit, giving you the peace of mind you need to pop it in your bag and go. While still a sleeve, the Thule Gauntlet offers rugged levels of protection with its rigid polyurethane exterior and enhanced corner/edge protection. You can even use your MacBook Pro inside the sleeve thanks to its clamshell design, giving you a little extra protection for your device while out and about.

Owners of a 15-inch or 16-inch MacBook Pro will need to opt for the Thule Briefcase, which despite the name boasts a nearly identical design to the smaller Gauntlet. If you’re willing to pay more, the Thule Gauntlet attaché is available in small and large sizes to accommodate any MacBook Pro and includes carrying handles and a shoulder strap for added portability.

Best travel sleeve for MacBook Pro

If wherever you go your MacBook Pro isn’t too far behind, you already know the importance of having a good shoulder bag. The tomtoc Smart A25 is a shoulder bag/sleeve hybrid that offers it all; protection, storage, versatility, and durability. Tomtoc’s travel-friendly hardshell case is an absolute steal with its sub-$35 price tag.

The tomtoc Smart A25 includes a detachable strap and reinforced handles, making it a great all-rounder that can pull triple-duty as a shoulder bag, a carry case, or as a conventional sleeve. There’s abundant space for your documents, tablet, peripherals, or chargers, with additional cushioning between compartments preventing any clashes. The EVA hardshell base is resistant to deformation, and lining the interior is a soft fleece interior to keep your device scratch-free. A final layer of protection comes from the case’s hardwearing, water-resistant fabric coating, making it an ideal go-to in any weather.

Best MacBook Pro ergonomic hardshell case

ProCase’s 13/14/16-inch Heavy Duty Bumper cases offer hard shell protection, better heat distribution, and the option of a more comfortable typing angle, all for under $35. While the wraparound bumper isn’t going to match up to a rugged case’s shock-absorbing potential, there’s enough protection to handle day-to-day bumps and knocks you’re likely to encounter. The case itself will protect your device from scratches and scuffs with relative ease, but the base houses the most interesting feature.

Two foldout legs at the bottom of the case elevate your MacBook Pro, allowing for both comfier viewing and a more ergonomically-friendly typing angle. This design decision also means that your MacBook Pro is more ventilated, with the space between your MacBook and the surface below helping to vent any heat buildup. If you’re no stranger to demanding work hours, ProCase’s Heavy Duty Bumper case is a fantastic choice. And it’s also one that your device and your wrists will thank you for making.

• ProCase Heavy Duty Case for MacBook Pro 14 @ Amazon
• ProCase Heavy Duty Case for MacBook Pro 16 M1 Pro/M1 Pro Max @ Amazon

Best faux-leather folio for MacBook Pro

If you’re looking for a lightweight case to protect against surface-level scratches and general wear and tear, the TYTX MacBook Pro Leather Case is a strong contender. TYTX’s folio features wraparound protection, a soft microfiber lining, storage for documents, and space for a writing implement of choice. While often overlooked by most folio makers, TYTX’s case is well ventilated, including a built-in stand to help prevent heat buildup.

This elevated pitch isn’t just good for heat distribution; the slight incline to your device is more ergonomically friendly, affording more comfort over long stretches of work. What’s more, the TYTX MacBook Pro Leather Case is made of premium polyurethane leather, an artificial material derived from thermoplastic polymer. It’s incredibly durable, easy to clean, water-resistant, and 100% vegan-friendly — meaning, your conscience can remain as pristine as the MacBook Pro housed within.

• TYTX case for MacBook Pro 14 @ Amazon
• TYTX Case for MacBook Pro 16 M1 Pro/M1 Pro Max @ Amazon
• TYTX case for MacBook Pro 15 @ Amazon

Best rugged case for MacBook Pro Retina

If your Australian lexicon is lacking, the term Dux refers to a high-performing student — the best in class. The STM Dux rugged case aims to live up to its namesake by delivering lightweight, form-fitting, solid body protection that is second to none. While a product’s name doesn’t necessarily imply its quality, it’s fair to say that the Dux rugged case scores top marks when it comes to protecting your 13-inch MacBook Pro.

The Dux rugged case is made of a tough, transparent polycarbonate shell that keeps your MacBook on display without the risk of scratches or scuffs tarnishing your device. The frame is light and reasonably low-key, and won’t obscure pre-existing wraps or stickers. Rubberized TPU brackets offer great protection from shock damage, and the Dux’s textured feet will cling to even the smoothest surfaces. Apple even recommends the STM Dux, and if you’re looking for a rugged case that offers fantastic protection without cramping your style, it’s easy to see why.

Best ergonomic folio for MacBook Pro

The great thing about owning a laptop is its portability, you can take it anywhere and everywhere without losing the ability to work or play. The downside to this is that most places aren’t exactly laptop-friendly. The Nillkin Laptop Sleeve Case is a great solution for those instances, offering ergonomic comfort, better viewing angles, and an extended surface for better mouse handling.

The Nillkin Laptop Sleeve is a foldout ergonomic workspace in sleeve form with the ability to raise your screen and improve wrist support. If maximum protection is what you’re looking for then Nilkin’s sleeve isn’t going to impress you much. However, as a lightweight sleeve to protect against surface-level wear and tear, while also supplying you with an adjustable laptop stand and mousepad, there’s real potential in this product. The Nillkin Laptop Sleeve Case is a perfect fit for either the 13-inch MacBook Pro (M2 or earlier) or the MacBook Pro 14-inch.

Best leather sleeve for MacBook Pro

If you’re looking to bring a little more class to the already swanky MacBook Pro, Apple’s proprietary leather sleeve has it in abundance. It’s simple, it’s elegant, and it fits your device like a glove. Thanks to the combination of a high-quality French leather exterior and soft microfibre lining, worrying about scuffs and scratches will be a thing of the past. It’s a fantastic-looking sleeve and one that will only get better with time as a beautiful patina develops. While the sleeve offers little-to-no shock protection, it will keep your MacBook safe enough within a bag during travel.

The catch here, as with most Apple products, is the price tag. If you’ve been swayed by what Apple’s leather sleeve has to offer, you’ll have to fork out so serious coin to make it your own. While cheaper options are available online, few live up to the quality and craftsmanship that Apple products are known for.

Best hardshell backpack for MacBook Pro

The best MacBook Air cases are both sturdy and stylish, and we're here to help you find something that suits your unique style.

Because of its diminutive size, the MacBook Air can easily be slipped into a large purse or briefcase. That's just one of the reasons why we rate it highly on our list of the best MacBooks.

With that said, no laptop is indestructible, so if you want something designed specifically for this Apple laptop, you should consider opting for a dedicated case. And a nice one at that.

So, if you're in the market for a new MacBook Air case, check out the following options. At least one should satisfy your quest for a compelling case to keep your Apple laptop protected.

If you're looking for a hard shell case that can keep your MacBook Air safe, the MOSISO Plastic Hard Case might be a good place to start. It comes in myriad colors, including red, black, blue and orange, and envelops the computer with a hard shell. It also comes with a screen protector to keep your screen safe. Bonus: It features full venting, so your Mac won't overheat. 

If you're not so concerned about protecting your MacBook Air's clamshell and would instead prefer a carrying case, consider the Inateck Sleeve Case Cover. It fits a variety of devices, including the MacBook Air, and features a side zipper, so you can keep it safely inside. It's also made with protective materials, so if you drop the case, it'll hold up and limit damage. The cover's even liquid-proof. 

If you're looking for something a bit more artistic, consider the pattern designs from MOSISO's MacBook Air 13 Case. It attaches to both sides of the MacBook Air's clamshell to prevent scratches and dings during use, and it comes in a slew of pattern options to suit your taste. It even offers a keyboard cover to keep your keys clean and a screen protector to limit damage. 

Ibenezer's MacBook Air 13 Case is another hard case aimed at protecting your MacBook Air from dings and scratches. And since it weighs only 8.8 ounces, it won't add too much heft to the computer itself. Better yet, the case works with Touch ID models, so you can still use this feature for accessing the machine. Ibenezer's computer case comes in a boatload of different colors, too. 

Kayond's Canvas Case is all about providing you with an elegant, protective case for your MacBook Air or iPad. It has two areas on the inside, so you can store both the MacBook Air and additional accessories, like a charger. And it zips around the device to keep it safe from dust. Plus, it's water- and shock-resistant, so you can limit the damage you'll do to Apple's computer. 

If you want a case that will provide the ultimate in protection and you don't mind the extra bulk, the Supcase TPU Bumper might be the way to go. It features a shock-absorbent wraparound design to fully envelop your MacBook Air in a protective case. It has rubber stands with full venting to limit overheating, and although it wraps around the computer, it will still let you access ports. 

Another laptop accessories maker, Se7enline, offers a hard case that wraps around your MacBook Air to keep it safe. The case comes with a hard shell, but it's soft to the touch for easier use. And since it comes with both a keyboard protector and an LCD screen protector, it can also ensure every side of your computer is kept safe and sound. Like many other options in this roundup, the Se7enline case offers dozens of colors. 

The MOSISO Polyester Vertical Style is another carrying case that goes a long way in keeping your MacBook Air safe. It offers a central area where you can zip it up to limit dust intrusion, as well as another compartment for keeping your paperwork. The case itself is made from polyester and has a fleece fabric lining. It also provides bump and shock absorption. Credit: Mosiso

If you're someone who prefers a more elegant case design, consider the Caison Genuine Leather Sleeve. It's made from genuine leather and has premium hides that are tanned and dyed to look great when it envelops your MacBook Air. Inside, it has a microfiber lining and offers some protection from what the company calls "everyday knocks." 

The best Surface Pro cases aren’t just the modern equivalent of backing your books with wrapping paper or paper bags. Of course, jazzing up the look of your Surface Pro is nothing to scoff at, but some cases can add increased protection, more storage and enhanced functionality. 

Scratches, nicks, dents, and cracks can all instantly spoil the Surface Pro’s magnesium alloy exterior, tarnishing Microsoft’s efforts of making one of the most stylish 2-in-1s available. Even the simplest of covers can go a long way to preventing damage. So, if you’re the type of person who’s prone to more drops than an EDM concert, a little extra protection can never hurt.

Not all cases are designed solely for protection; some cases allow for extra storage, or make efforts to present the Surface Pro as more of an executive device. There are many different case styles available to purchase, each with its strengths. Here at Laptop Mag, we’ve scoured through those designs to find the best Surface Pro cases so you don’t have to.

What are the best Surface Pro cases?

If you’re looking for a case that will protect your Surface Pro from everything but a direct hit from an artillery shell, the Kensington BlackBelt 2nd Degree is the rugged case of your dreams. Designed in collaboration with Microsoft and engineered to military standards against shock damage, the BlackBelt 2nd Degree is unmistakably tough. It offers fantastic protection from falls or scratches, and its MIL-STD-810G certificate is all the confirmation we need to make it our top pick as the best rugged case for Surface Pro devices.

Something a little more lightweight and colorful is the Fintie Case. This great value folio style case comes in a wide range of designs and materials. While not as protective, its fold-out design will protect the Surface Pro from scuffs and scratches across the body and screen. With prices starting as low as $14.99, the Fintie Case is a great way to add some personality to your device without stretching your bank account.

Are you and your Surface Pro more nomadic in nature? If so, you’re going to need something to keep your 2-in-1 safe along your travels. The TomToc 360 Protective Laptop Sleeve, with its ultra-cushioned interior, could be ideal for peace of mind when it comes to the safety of your device. CornerArmor gives this sleeve at least some shock protection, though only a fraction of what hardshell or rugged cases can manage. Still, for a sleeve, the available protection is impressive, as is its very affordable $19.99 price tag.

Rugged cases aim to protect your device against severe damage from shocks or drops. Case manufacturer Kensington collaborated with Microsoft to develop the BlackBelt series of rugged cases; its latest offering is the BlackBelt 2nd Degree. The goal was to supply Surface Pro users with military-grade drop protection that doesn’t sacrifice function, form, or fit.

The result is an impressively sturdy case that doesn’t have the same level of bulk as most rugged cases. It also doesn’t look overly armored or militarized, meaning your Surface Pro won’t have to cosplay as something a Call of Duty avatar might pull out after a killstreak. However, Kensington’s case will add around 380g (13.4oz) to the Surface Pro, almost half the weight of a Surface Pro 7 itself. The good news is that this extra weight translates into fantastic protection against everything from shocks to scratches.

A MIL-STD-810G drop-tested certificate indicates the case is capable of handling falls from up to 4 feet without any damage, making the BlackBelt 2nd Degree a godsend to those with butterfingers. True to its goals, the BlackBelt 2nd Degree won’t obstruct the Surface Pro’s kickstand or keyboard, and even adds a Surface Pen holder (with tether) and a self-adjusting hand strap.

The Kensington BlackBelt 2nd Degree Rugged Case has models compatible with the Surface Pro 4 through Surface Pro 7 and Surface Pro X, with prices starting at $59.99. If that seems steep at first, weigh it against the cost of having to replace your much more expensive Surface Pro due to accidental damage.

Hardshell or anti-shock cases might not offer the same level of protection as a rugged case, but they are generally lighter and less bulky. An anti-shock case is a much more practical choice for day-to-day use, especially if your Surface Pro only spends a fraction of its time away from a desk.

The Fintie Hard Case is well-reviewed and makes for great lightweight protection for Surface Pro 4 through Surface Pro 7+ devices. It may not have a MIL-STD certificate to brag about, but its strong polycarbonate frame and corner support will still offer a good degree of shock resistance. The beveled polycarbonate frame will offer some protection from nicks and scratches while letting you keep your Surface Pro on display. Which is great news for people who have a wrapped device and don’t want to have it hidden away behind a cover.

The Fintie store lists its Hard Case at $29.99, which isn’t bad for such a highly-rated product. There are also several colors available to choose from, both opaque and semi-transparent.

The TomToc 360 Protective Laptop Sleeve might blur the line between a sleeve and travel case, but it remains a fantastic solution for keeping your Surface Pro well protected when you’re on the go. Cushioned from all sides with ultra-thick padding, your Surface Pro is likely to avoid any damage from accidental knocks whilst in transit. 

CornerArmor protection handles any bumps the sleeve may encounter, absorbing the brunt of most shocks or falls. Higher falls may be an issue, but as a sleeve meant to be carried at the waist or below, the cover should be able to handle itself nicely. There’s also nothing in the rulebook that states you can’t use the TomToc 360 in conjunction with another case. Which can effectively double, if not triple the protection at hand.

The TomToc 360 Protective Laptop Sleeve is compatible with Surface Pro 3 through X devices and is currently available for $19.99 in grey, dark blue, and black. The argument about whether this is a sleeve or a case rages on, regardless, the TomToc 360 is a fantastic sleeve, case, thing for travel at a very affordable price.

iCarryAll’s folio case is much less of a padfolio and much more of a genuine portfolio. Featuring a ton of additional storage options, the iCarryAll Folio has room for pens (both regular and Surface Pro), your phone, documents, business or credit cards and more.

The iCarryAll Folio case does have room for two similarly sized 2-in-1 or tablet devices, with one tucked into a sleeve and the other mounted in the case. However, with its lack of any real protection and very little stopping the two from colliding, the proverb about not putting all of your eggs in one basket does come to mind.

While its genuine leather exterior will offer some degree of water resistance, the extended edges of the case are all you can rely on to be able to take the majority of any shock-related blows. As a desktop case, the iCarryAll has everything you could need, though as a mobile case, it’s best tucked away inside a larger bag.

You can pick up an iCarryAll Folio case compatible with Surface Pro 4 through 7+ and Surface Pro X models for $89. It may be sold at a premium price, but as a genuine leather product with such an impressive level of storage, this folio could remain your go-to carry-all for years to come.

The Fintie Case comes in a variety of materials and colors, making it one of the better folio cases for those wishing to personalize the look of their Surface Pro. Featuring a fold-out design and magnetic lock, this folio case will protect your device from any potential scuffs or scratches you may pick up through day-to-day usage.

The case itself can be folded to accommodate multiple viewing angles, and precise cutouts in the case ensure you’ll have easy access to ports and the Surface Pro’s camera. The outside of the case features a small pocket with just enough room to store notes or a USB-C adapter, though little else.

In terms of protection, the Fintie Case doesn’t offer much more than a sturdy build. Shock damage from falls won’t receive the same amount of cushioning supplied by a rugged or hardshell case, making it a wise decision to invest in a decent screen protector at the very least.

The Fintie Case is available for both Surface Pro 4 through Surface Pro 7+ models and the Surface Pro X. Prices begin at $14.99 but can increase depending on chosen colors, patterns, and materials. So, if you want a case that has a little more personality to it, all while keeping your Surface Pro looking sharp, look no further.

Add a touch of executive style to your Surface Pro 4 through Surface Pro 7+ devices — without the executive price tag. The ESR Executive Business Case is a stylish folio made from faux leather with a microfiber lining. It’ll protect your device from nicks and scratches thanks to its fold-over design and magnetic lock. There’s a built-in Surface Pen holder to help you doodle your time away in important meetings, and even an inside pocket to store away business cards, important documents, or… whatever else it is executives store away.

There’s not much protection with this case, The faux leather exterior won’t do much in the way of cushioning a blow should your Surface Pro take a tumble. However, the elongated edges of this case could reduce a portion of the shock if the case lands on its sides. It’s quite a gamble to take though, meaning you’d be best stashing your Surface Pro inside of a larger bag if you’re on the move. 

You can pick up the ESR’s classy, Rolls Royce-esque Executive Business Case for $32.99, in any color you like... so long as it’s black.

While it does a great job of accommodating the Surface Pro 3 through Surface Pro X, HYZUO’s laptop sleeve won’t be claiming MIL-STD certificates any time soon. Sleeves like this offer the least protection overall, especially when it comes to shock damage. However, it’s great for throwing in a bag and not having to worry about it while you go about your day. Plus, using a sleeve like this means that you get to enjoy your device as-is, with no additional weight or bulk.

Keeping your device safe from wear and tear are three protective layers. The first of which is a water-resistant microfiber leather surface, which is great if you’re caught in light showers or for avoiding disaster with spills. Below this is a layer of thickened shockproof felt, which will attempt to dampen any bumps or knocks. Finally, there’s a lining of high-density soft velvet making sure any friction between the sleeve and Surface Pro doesn’t result in scuffs or scratches.

The HYZUO 13 Inch Laptop Sleeve costs $17.99 and is available in more than 20 colors. It even comes with a smaller companion pouch to accommodate any cables or peripherals you may need to bring along with you. This is a welcome bonus, one that will potentially stop you from wedging these items into the Surface Pro’s sleeve and rendering all of HYZUO’s efforts moot.

Anyone and everyone with a need for more power outlets has used or owned a power strip with surge protection. Most don’t even think about the surge protection as much as the need to power multiple devices in a room. 

Most power strips will cover your needs for extra outlets but, in today's market, you not only get extra outlets and surge protection but also USB connections for your other devices, such as smartphones and tablets.  

But which one is right for your needs? We’re here to help. We put together a list of competitively priced surge protectors that are best suited to fulfill the charging needs of most people, even techies like ourselves.

 The best-surge protectors you can buy today

The Austere VII Series 8 outlet comes in a beautifully designed aluminum case measuring 8.5 x 16.3 x 2.6 inches (4.8 pounds) with a six-foot power cord that's side-mounted at an angle for better plug usage and ergonomics. The power strip is specially designed to protect against electromagnetic distortions that normally occur when devices are using the same outlets. It reduces these occurrences to help deliver undisturbed power signals to your electronics. 

The Austere VII offers up to 4,000 joules of surge protection with overcurrent protection of 1,800 Watts. With 8 outlets designed to provide maximum room for all different shapes and sizes of charges, you should be able to power up all your gadgets. The Austere VII also comes with an OmniPort section where you will find two USB Type-A ports and 3 USB-C ports. 

Austere takes Fire and Power protection seriously by ensuring their surge protectors regulate the power coming through your home or office’s powerline to prevent burnout due to a high voltage spike. The OverCurrent Protection ensures that the power circuit cannot exceed 15 amps, which could cause devices to short circuit or create dangerous temperatures that may lead to a fire. 

 This Bototek surge protector is a good choice for work, home or office. The Bototek surge protector offers up a whopping ten outlets and four USB ports. The strip also has a built-in circuit breaker to protect all devices against overload and comes with an extra-long heavy duty cord accredited by the FCC, RoHS.

This strip is wall mountable with a lighted on/off switch with integrated circuit breaker for overload protection of all the outlets. The rear mounting holes make it easy to mount the surge protector to walls, baseboards, or furniture.

 This Amazon Basic branded power strip surge protector is our choice for best affordable option while still offering solid spike protection. Lightweight for its size, at just over 1 pound, makes it easy to carry around the home or office or in a backpack. Providing up to 4,500 joules of protection for your electronic devices, this solid surge protector is a great deal for home, office or the dorm room.

Anker’s PowerPort Cube is designed to take up minimal space and to be highly portable. With three outlets and three USB ports to charge your gadgets, it makes for a great tiny surge protector for on-the-go uses, like plugging in at local coffee shops, or in college when you have limited dorm room space. 

The Anker PowerPort is a great travel buddy, allowing the user to keep all their devices and gadgets charged. With High-Speed charging capabilities thanks to Ankers Power IQ technology delivering an optimized charge to USB devices, the Power Cube is an excellent choice for those who are always on the go.

This surge protector from Powrui comes with six outlets and two USB ports for supported device charging. It can be easily mounted over any duplex outlet instead of having thick bulky power cords laying around. 

The Powrui surge protector provides three levels of surge protection using TVS, MOV and GDT to make a circuit that absorbs the energy in steps, providing the best protection of the electrical devices from voltage spikes. With intelligent built-in voltage sensing circuitry, the outlet detects and responds to your device's power needs, making the Powrui an excellent choice to shield your devices.

If you are a member of the Amazon Alexa and Echo family then the Amazon Smart Plug is a perfect addition for controlling your home electronics via voice command in combination with Alexa.  

The Amazon Smart Plug is truly plug and play. Once plugged in, all you have to do is connect it to your Wi-Fi and you're on your way to controlling your devices by simply talking. If you’re someone who is looking to use smart home products, the Amazon Smart Plug is an affordable option to get you started.

The Kasa smart plug is a plug-and-play easy-to-use smart plug that you can control with just your voice. All you need is to connect it to the Wi-Fi in your home and within a few minutes, you will be controlling the electrical appliances you have plugged in via the Kasa Smart Plug. To control the Mini, you need to download the free Kasa app from the Apple App Store or Google Play. The setup is a breeze and you can use the scene tab in the app to create custom schedules for multiple smart devices. 

The Kasa Smart Plug has an excellent form factor and can be used on duplex outlets without blocking the second outlet.

The Panamax P360-8 8 outlet surge protector takes protecting your electronics seriously with what is referred to as 360 power protection, which is indicated by a circle of blue lights on the top of the unit. These lights let you know you’re protected, that the voltage running in and out are working as they should, and it warns you if something has gone awry. 

The Panamax P360 comes with RFI/EMI AC filtering to ensure less interference from other devices and electro magnetics. The are two modular removable charging stations housing four USB ports for charging your devices.

Whether you're a student with a new college laptop or hauling around a company-issued business laptop, the best laptop backpacks have easily adjustable straps, a ventilated back, and plenty of compartments -- as well as water resistance. The bag also needs to protect your laptop and have space for peripherals, like chargers, external webcams and power adapters. But it can't be ignored that your backpack is as much a fashion statement as it is practical. Here are the best laptop backpacks on the market. 

This iconic JanSport backpack comes in more colors than Skittles, plus it holds almost anything. There is a front stash pocket for school supplies, tech accessories and important documents along with a utility pocket for keeping organized. The suede leather bottom adds some visual flair while padded shoulder straps will make sure your arms don't fall off carrying heavy books. This icon is unquestionably one of the best laptop backpacks for students. 

Another classic, the Herschel Supply Co. Heritage backpack has a timeless, refined design. It's also practical, featuring a slot big enough to hold a 15-inch laptop and another front pocket for smaller items, like keys, supplies or electronics. If you're not a fan of the traditional black-and-brown color scheme, there are dozens of other options that are sure to fit your personality.

Elegant, classy, iconic: the Nike Heritage Backpack is the best laptop backpack for Nike fans. But don't mistake the Heritage for an easy way to spread the Nike brand -- this is one well-equipped backpack. An internal laptop sleeve holds up to a 15-inch laptop, and the front zippered pockets are great for storing pens, pencils and electronics. The bag's shoulder straps and back panel are padded, so your body won't feel sore on your way back home from a long day of school. The Heritage also makes for a great sports bag because of its heavy-duty polyester material.

This backpack is pure class. The straight lines, clean surfaces and Adidas' iconic three-striped logo come together into one sleek looking backpack. I'm especially fond of the white and black color scheme, which reminds me of Copa Mundial, the legendary soccer cleat. Looks aside, there are plenty of reasons to buy your kid this backpack. For one, the main zippered pocket has plenty of room for folders and notebooks. Also, there is a padded sleeve that can fit up to 15-inch laptops.

For fashionistas of academia, we chose the Modoker Vintage backpack. The bag's fabric is a smart look of denim and brown leather accents, and it mixes practical features (roomy interior pockets, dedicated laptop pouch, exterior slots for beverages and umbrellas) with comfortable add-ons like honey-comb cushions on the straps and an out-facing USB port to charge a smartphone as you walk. 

As one of the leading backpack retailers, eBags knows its way around a good bag. So what did it do with all that expertise? Well, it made its own backpack, of course. And what a good backpack it is. Sure, the Professional Slim Junior is quite an investment, but one you'll be happy making. My favorite features of this attractive backpack include a 16-inch laptop sleeve; a crush-proof AC adapter garage; and a really clean organizational pocket on the top front half.

If you're into the latest fashion trends, then you need Fjallraven's Kanken backpack. Sporting the same iconic design since 1978, this simple, elegant bag is as practical as it is pretty. A large main compartment, front zippered space and two open side pockets give you plenty of room to store textbooks and personal items, and the backpack's Vinylon F material is dirt-resistant, water-resistant and easy to clean.

It's weird to call a backpack legendary, but if there's one that fits that description it would be the North Face Recon. Before you scoff at the brand for being the status symbol that it is, it's important to give credit where it's due. North Face makes excellent products -- and the Recon is a relatively affordable, high-quality bag that comes with tons of convenient features. Those include a large compartment with a padded laptop sleeve, some breathable shoulder straps and a front mesh pocket for storing smaller items.

If money isn't an issue and you want the biggest, baddest backpack for your massive gaming laptop, then there's only one bag in town that will fit your needs: the Everki Titan. This backpack's exhaustive list of features starts with a checkpoint-friendly design, which makes getting through TSA lines as stress-free as possible. Other additions include a detached accessories pouch, high-contrast orange trim, a large zipper and a media player outlet. Oh, and the Titan lives up to its name with a padded sleeve that can hold an 18.4-inch laptop.

Because of its diminutive size, the MacBook Air can easily be slipped into a large purse or briefcase. But if you want something designed specifically for this Apple laptop, you should consider opting for a dedicated case. And a nice one at that.

So, if you're in the market for a new case for your MacBook Air, check out the following options. At least one should satisfy your quest for a compelling case designed for Apple's machine.

If you're looking for a hard shell case that can keep your MacBook Air safe, the MOSISO Plastic Hard Case might be a good place to start. It comes in dozens of colors, including red, black, blue and orange, and envelops the computer with a hard shell. It also comes with a screen protector to keep your screen safe. It features full venting, so your Mac won't overheat. Credit: Mosiso

If you're not so concerned about protecting your MacBook Air's clamshell and would instead prefer a carrying case, consider the Inateck Sleeve Case Cover. It fits a variety of devices, including the MacBook Air, and features a side zipper, so you can keep it safely inside. It also has protective materials, so if you drop the case, it'll hold up and limit damage. The cover's even liquid-proof. Credit: Inateck

If you're looking for something a bit more artistic, consider the pattern designs from MOSISO's MacBook Air 13 Case. It attaches to both sides of the MacBook Air's clamshell to prevent scratches and dings during use and comes in a slew of pattern options to suit your taste. It even offers a keyboard cover to keep your keys clean and a screen protector to limit damage. Credit: Mosiso

Ibenezer's MacBook Air 13 Case is another hard case that aims at protecting your MacBook Air case from dings and scratches. And since it weighs only 10 ounces, it shouldn't add too much weight to the computer. Better yet, the case works with Touch ID models, so you can still use the feature for accessing the machine. Ibenezer's computer case comes in different colors. Credit: Ibenezer

Kayond's Canvas Case is all about providing you with an elegant, protective case, to use with your MacBook Air or iPad. It has two areas on the inside, so you can store both the MacBook Air and additional accessories, like a charger. And it zips around the device to keep it safe from dust. Plus, it's water- and shock-resistant, so you can limit the damage you'll do to Apple's computer. Credit: Kayond

If you want a case that will provide the ultimate in protection and don't mind the extra bulk, the Supcase TPU Bumper might be the way to go. It features a shock-absorbent wraparound design to fully envelop your MacBook Air in a protective case. It has rubber stands with full venting to limit overheating, and although it wraps around the computer, it will still let you access ports. Credit: Supcase

LuvCase combines nice looks with plenty of protection in its Leather Hard Shell Case. The accessory features a hard shell that envelops your MacBook Air to keep it safe from dings. More important, it's wrapped in a leather material, so it looks nice on the desk. Better yet, it won't add too much thickness to your MacBook Air. Credit: LuvCase

Another accessories maker, Se7enline, offers a hard case that wraps around your MacBook Air to keep it safe. The case comes with a hard shell, but it's soft to the touch for easier use. And since it comes with both a keyboard protector and an LCD screen protector, it can also ensure every side of your computer is kept safe and sound. Like many other options in this roundup, the Se7enline case offers dozens of colors. Credit: Se7enline

The MOSISO Polyester Vertical Style is another carrying case that goes a long way in keeping your MacBook Air safe. It offers a central area where you can zip it up to limit dust intrusion, as well as another compartment for keeping your paperwork. The case itself is made from polyester and has a fleece fabric lining. It also provides bump and shock absorption. Credit: Mosiso

LAS VEGAS, NV -- One of the most annoying things about traveling is having a portable charger constantly on hand to power my smartphone. And when I do need to plug in, I usually have to drag out a mess of wires out of my bag. But with Targus' Cypress+ EcoSmart Backpack, you can just toss your phone in that baby and feel the bliss of fast wireless charging.

Unveiled at CES 2020, the Cypress+ EcoSmart Backpack is an eco-friendly laptop bag that can wirelessly charge your smartphone via Qi charging. It costs a "measly" $180 (gulp) and will launch some time between Q2 and Q3. It does have the potential to be one of the best laptop bags of 2020.

Targus Cypress+ EcoSmart Backpack design

From a distance, the Targus Cypress+ EcoSmart Backpack is unassuming and discreet, as it boasts a sleek gray color on its medium-sized stature. Although it doesn't look like a super premium backpack, it seemed pretty durable when I messed around with it. 

Most importantly, the Targus Cypress+ EcoSmart Backpack is made from 26 water bottles, which is wild. The bag can fit up to a 15.6-inch laptop in its first sleeve, and the second sleeve small pockets are for notebooks, pencils and pens. There is also a larger open space for a tablet.

Targus Cypress+ EcoSmart Backpack Qi-charging

The Targus Cypress+ EcoSmart Backpack has a pouch on the right-hand side that you can open up and throw your phone into in order to wirelessly charge it, which is convenient for people always on the go. 

Targus outfitted a Qi 4.0, 10 Watt wireless charging pad into that small pouch backed by a 5,000 mAh battery. According to Targus, it can fully charge your smartphone approximately one to two times. Obviously, we'll do more in-depth testing once we get this through our lab.

The cradle in the pouch has side and front pressure holders to keep your phone stable, and thanks to its soft-touch design, it shouldn't leave any scratches on your phone. If you are worried about that, however, the pad will also work with most phone cases, so long as the battery is within 5 millimeters of the charger.

When your backpack is out of juice, you can simply charge the pad by plugging the USB Type-A port into an outlet or laptop (there's a microUSB port already connected to the pad).

Bottom line

The Targus Cypress+ EcoSmart Backpack is a pretty badass backpack, although it's just a little expensive. I'd love nothing more than to toss my phone in my backpack without a second thought. We're excited to get more hands-on time with the Targus Cypress+ EcoSmart Backpack once we get it to our office, so keep an eye out for our full review later in the year.

For news on laptops, tablets and more, check out our CES 2020 hub page. 

My philosophy on backpacks has always been the same: they’re useful but ultimately disposable, and not worth getting too attached to or spending lots of money on.

Blame it on a decade-and-a-half of schooling carried on the back of whatever was overflowing out of the discount bin at Staples, or piled right before the checkout lanes at Ikea. Until I received OnePlus’ Travel Backpack as a gift two years ago, I never really put much thought into the bag I carried every day.

That OnePlus backpack has been good to me, especially considering how little it cost — just $69. But then Bellroy’s Tokyo Totepack showed up at the Laptop Mag office, and now I never want to use anything else as my main laptop bag. Here’s why.

You pay a lot, you get a lot

Let’s get one thing straight before we go any further: at $179, the 20-liter Tokyo Totepack is not cheap. I don’t know how much backpacks should cost, though that seems like too much to me.

You get a lot for your dollar, however. The Totepack’s exterior is comprised of sturdy, water-resistant woven fabric that is resilient enough to ensure the bag holds its shape, yet has a necessary degree of give to it. There’s a soft mesh pocket on the inside that can stretch to hold more than you’d think, opposite two sleeves against the back of the bag — one lined with a thick padding that fits laptops up to 15 inches, and another smaller, thinner pocket lined in polyester.

Outside the bag, there’s one more compartment secured with a button where the shoulder straps can be tucked away. (You could presumably use this space for anything you want, so long as the straps are out.)

Don't overlook the pair of deep pop-out pockets within the Totepack, which are ideal for holding water bottles and umbrellas. These compartments are lined with the same polyester material as the rest of the inside of the bag, and sit flush against the sides when not in use. Once filled, they push out the sides, essentially like an internal replacement for exterior cylindrical pockets.

Bellroy’s backpack really won me over, though, with its two front pockets, that are split between the left and right hemispheres of the bag itself. The one on the left offers robust interior padding, whereas the one on the right instead conceals a ring for a carabiner or set of keys — though that’s not what I use it for.

Actually, on my Totepack, these compartments are each almost always filled with smartphones I’m testing. In fact, they’re the perfect size to each hold one phone independently. Working at Tom's Guide and Laptop Mag sees me carrying an average of three handsets on any given day, so it’s a godsend to be able to lug around two in separate pockets without them repeatedly clashing and scratching each other up.

There are other nifty features of the Tokyo Totepack. The two thick handles on the top don’t seem particularly special, until you realize they’re literally the reason for the bag’s name. Hold them and the backpack effectively becomes a tote, which is really useful when you need to be as slender as possible to slip out of a packed New York City subway car. I also like the fabric that guards the zipper at the top, which ensures the teeth don’t scratch up your laptop as you’re sliding it in and out.

Imperfections aside

I also have to give a shout out to the overall design of the bag. Initially, I wasn’t in love with the mix of beige, rust and navy that comprises the Desert Ochre colorway of the one I’m using — it’s a bit too preppy for my tastes — but it’s slowly grown on me over time. There are also Black, Forest and Ink Blue options for those looking for a more consistent, subdued look.

Still, as much as I like the Totepack, I have some small criticisms. Because the zipper for the main compartment doesn’t extend all the way down the sides of the bag, it can be quite difficult to put things inside. It would also be nice to have at least one or two small holsters for pens or pencils, though I’m not exactly sure where Bellroy could have put them.

MORE: Best Laptop Bags - Backpacks, Cases and Luggage

Oh, and again — it’s really expensive (at least to me).

Of course, I realize there are pricier backpacks out there. But just like a pair of $80 headphones aren’t that expensive in the context of the entire market, but are extremely expensive compared to the pack-in pair you get for free with your phone, $179 is a lot for something you ostensibly need just to haul stuff around.

It’s for that reason that I can’t in good conscience recommend everyone reading this go out and buy a Tokyo Totepack, unless you’re in the mood to splurge, or enjoy the little details of a well-made gadget or accessory. Either way, this bag won't disappoint you.

Credit: Laptop Mag

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Don't let heavy baggage weigh you down. Backpacks are practical, but they can exacerbate back problems or create new ones. Briefcases are unwieldy and keep one of your hands occupied at all times, so you’ll have to prioritize what to carry in your free hand.

Laptop roller bags not only alleviate pressure on your body, but also provide more storage room than both of the above options. Our picks for the best laptop roller bags will help you easily navigate the pitfalls of campuses, commutes and big cities and look stylish doing so.

Credit: J-World; Solo Leather; Jansport 

Fitting laptops up to 17.3 inches inside its padded compartment, the Solo Bryant is a great everyday laptop roller bag that works for casual and classy styles alike. With plenty of room for supplies, documents and binders, the Solo has you covered. Easy-glide wheels ensure speedy travel. This bag measures 17 x 15 x 8.8 inches, so you can stow it under your airplane seat or in the overhead bin with ease. Credit: Solo

Jansport is a trusted brand that offers a lifetime warranty on all of its bags. This 19 x 14 x 8-inch roller backpack comes with 80mm in-line skate wheels, a retractable two-stage handle and a padded grab handle for ultimate comfort. Discrete shoulder straps untuck from storage to turn the roller into a backpack when you need your hands free. Plenty of storage, a padded laptop compartment and a water bottle holder ensure you'll be able to enjoy your Jansport for years. The polyester material is light enough to expand when stuffed to the gills but reinforced to fight the elements. Credit: Jansport

Geared toward professionals, the Perry Ellis Mobile Office allows you to glide around the world like butter on pancakes, thanks to its fancy eight-wheel motion system. This laptop roller bag relieves your spine, knees and shoulders, so you can keep moving forward with minimal resistance. The 16 x 15.5 x 9.5-inch body is carry-on size, so you'll be good to go when traveling. Credit:Perry Ellis

Measuring 19 x 14 x 9 inches, Targus' compact laptop rolling bag offers plenty of space for your laptop and documents yet weighs 20% less than a traditional rolling bag. Targus reduces the pressure required to pull the bag by shifting its weight to its superquiet roller wheels, translating to effortless travel through the terminal. While the toned-down black design won't turn heads, we like the low price. Credit: Targus

Featuring an overnighter section, a telescoping handle and a design providing quick compartment access, this Samsonite overnight laptop roller bag will ensure that you travel efficiently. Tie-down straps hold down devices and folded clothing, so you can make the most out of your compartments. Composed of ballistic nylon, this 17 x 13 x 8-inch roller will probably outlast most of your gadgets. Credit: Samsonite

As luxurious as it is capable, the second Solo laptop roller bag on our list is made of durable leather. Premium craftsmanship, ample storage and defined organization pockets make this 17 x 13 x 7-inch roller bag a must-have for folks seeking a tidy laptop bag with a luxury flair. Just make sure your machine is 15.6 inches or smaller, or you won't be able to take advantage of the padded laptop compartment. Credit: Solo

While not recommended for overnight travel, the J World will let you strut your style day to day in the design you'd like. When night falls, you'll glow when illuminated by light sources, thanks to reflective strips on this roller bag. Breaking free from the underwhelming design mold set by other bag brands, the 20 x 13 x 9-inch J World is a unique option that offers a plethora of color choices. Credit: J World

Air travelers in U.S. airports will soon be able to pass through security with liquids and laptops intact in their carry-on bags.

In a press call Friday, the TSA announced that it has signed a $97 million contract for 300 upgraded baggage-scanning machines. As reported by Bloomberg Government, the new technology will roll out this summer, with the recipient airports to be announced.

It's akin to replacing X-ray machines with CT scanners. While an x-ray creates a single static image, a CT scan can produce a 360-degree image.

The new scanners are better able to see sizes, shape, and position of structures in your image. This new screening technology will allow officials to detect items they previously couldn't -- and allow laptops and toiletries to stay in bags.

Over the next eight years, the TSA expects to replace more than 2,000 x-ray machines with the new CT equipment. While the pilot program didn't result in decreased wait times, the agency expects that it will as staffers get used to the new process.

Image credit: Carolina K. Smith MD / Shutterstock.com

Laptop Upgrade Guide

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• How to Tell If You Can Upgrade Your Laptop
• How to Install an mSATA SSD Boot Drive
• How to Upgrade Your Laptop’s Hard Drive to an SSD
• How to Install an M.2 SSD in the Lenovo ThinkPad T440s
• How to Upgrade the RAM on the Lenovo ThinkPad T440s
• How to Upgrade the RAM (Memory) on a Laptop
• How to Upgrade the SSD in Your MacBook Pro
• How to Upgrade Your Alienware 17’s SSD and Hard Drive
• How to Upgrade Your Alienware 17's RAM
• How to Upgrade Your Dell XPS 13's SSD
• How to Upgrade Your ThinkPad 13's RAM
• How to Upgrade Your ThinkPad 13's SSD
• How to Upgrade Your ThinkPad T460s' RAM
• How to Upgrade Your ThinkPad T460s' SSD

Do you need a container that's discrete but strong enough to protect your laptop? Well, the Velomacchi Impact Laptop Sleeve is an absolute beast that can handle rain, stabbings and 4-foot drops, and it sells for only $64. It's small enough to fit into a bag and just big enough to be held with a shoulder strap. It can even transform into a backpack. As long as you can get past its uncomfortable handle and unstylish exterior, the Impact Sleeve allows you to be as clumsy as you want without putting a dent in your laptop.

Design

The Impact Sleeve is meant to act as body armor for your laptop, and it stays true to that goal in its design, but it just doesn't look good. The ballistic-nylon exterior is visually unappealing and feels rough. The gray-square pattern only makes the sleeve that much more dull and bulky.

It has only one zipper for its one compartment, but it does have four attachment points on each corner, allowing you to turn the Impact Sleeve into a small backpack. It also has a handle on the back, near the zipper.

While the sleeve is only meant to fit a laptop, I was able to shove my Galaxy S7 Edge, Attack on Titan wallet, Jackery portable charger and small bonded-leather notebook inside the Impact Sleeve and zip it up.

Durability & Comfort

The Medium Impact Sleeve measures 9 x 13.5 x 0.75 inches. While there are no 17-inch options available, Velomacchi offers a smaller, 10-inch tablet sleeve ($59) and a larger, 15-inch sleeve ($69).

The exterior consists of 1680D ballistic nylon, which is stronger than your average neoprene sleeve, and soft microfiber stretch panels line the interior. The gray-square panels are quilted over a reinforced ballistic shell, and each surface is padded with polyethylene impact foam. Even the zipper, which is pretty sturdy, has impact plates stitched inside of it.

What all those fancy words translate to is that this sleeve is pretty durable. We ran drop tests outside starting at 2 feet, which is representative of the average height the sleeve rests with the strap, and the laptop survived that drop without a dent.

We pushed the height up to 4 feet, seeing as that would be the highest the sleeve and laptop could likely fall, and the laptop survived a flat, long and corner drop at that height.

At 6 feet, the laptop pulled through on the flat and long drops but suffered some damage on the corner drop. While the chassis did take damage, the laptop still ran. Overall, this sleeve is incredibly durable for everyday use -- just don't go flinging it around.

We did test the watertight reverse-bail YKK zipper against our powerful kitchen sink, and the water didn't touch the papers inside the sleeve. It's tight enough to withstand heavy rain, but the company states that "watertight" doesn't mean the sleeve is submersible. We also stabbed it with a box cutter for fun and found no visible damage, but slicing it shredded the ballistic nylon. However, the blade did not break through the interior plating, so the laptop remained untouched.

MORE: Laptops with the Best Overall Performance

The Impact Sleeve is relatively comfortable. It's just light enough that it won't swing around while it's at your side, though the strap can easily slide across your body. My favorite thing about the strap is the adjustable cam; the way it glides up and down is simple and convenient for travel. The handle, however, is in an awkward position and irritates my knuckles when I attempt to carry the sleeve that way.

Bottom Line

The Velomacchi Impact Sleeve is strong, comfortable and handy for travel. It's a great laptop sleeve that's pretty affordable; the only downsides are its rugged-looking exterior, the weird handle and the unfortunate exclusion of 17-inch laptop users. If you simply need a safe container to throw your laptop in, not to mention other small electronic devices, the Impact Sleeve is a great deal for $64.

Credit: Laptop Mag

Unless you purposely bought a bright tangerine laptop or a rose gold laptop or something else colorful and shiny, your laptop is probably pretty boring to look at. But that’s an easy fix. There are many skins, shells, and decals available to dress up a laptop and completely change its aesthetic with aftermarket products.

There are hundreds of products available to help customize the look of your notebook, but these are our favorites. Most of these are really cheap, and all of them can be removed easily. So if you don’t like your choice, try another one! 

Who says you have to stop playing with LEGOs just because you're an adult? Decorate your Macbook with this super cool LEGO-friendly cover! It’s made it different sizes to snap onto 11-inch and 13-inch MacBook Airs, and 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Pros. Build your favorite 8-bit characters, your name, a blocky sunset, anything you can dream up! LEGO bricks are not included, however, and it’s recommended that you snap the cover off before putting bricks on.

This Speck case isn’t just colorful, it will also help protect your precious 13” MacBook Pro. Available in four colors, the Speck See Thru case has vents to help keep your MacBook cool. And since it’s made of polycarbonate plastic, it’s an extra layer of protection between your MacBook and disaster.

You just bought an expensive new Microsoft Surface Book and you’re afraid to pick it up and carry it anywhere. You need the UAG Surface Book Laptop Case! It has a dual-lock screen closure and a place for your Surface Pen. With rubberized bumpers and an impact resistant shell, it not only protects your Surface Book but also looks incredibly cool, like you have a top-secret laptop that was drafted into the military and must be protected at all costs!

Doctor Who fans can totally geek out their MacBook Airs with this incredibly well-designed decal. The light from the glowing Apple will shine right through the TARDIS’s windows! Available for the 11-inch, 13-inch, 15-inch, and 17-inch MacBook Air, it’s made of high-performance vinyl and comes in custom colors.

Make your Lenovo Yoga 900 look seriously old-school – all the way back to elementary school! The MightySkins Protective Vinyl Skin Decal will make the Lenovo case look just like one of those black and white marble composition notebooks we all had to use, and it will also protect your case from dings and scratches. As a bonus, you get a free matching wallpaper in the same pattern for your screen!

There’s something about Vincent van Gogh’s Starry Night that we just can’t get enough of. And now you can make your laptop artsy too, with the Meffort Inc. Personalized Starry Night laptop skin. It’s anti-scratch, waterproof, removable and reusable, and even comes with your name printed in the lower left corner! It’s available in a wide variety of sizes, and will help protect your laptop from surface damage while looking gorgeous.

Class up your laptop with this fancy, monogrammed skin! Available in a wide variety of colors and customizable to the exact size of your laptop, you’ll always know it’s yours because of the initials. Made from a woven polyester fabric, this skin has a matte finish and is easily removable. You can also customize the style of the monogram.

Stand out from the crowd with this happy laptop skin from LSS. It’s dustproof, waterproof, non-fading, removable and will help keep the outside of your laptop from getting scratched up. It fits laptops from 17-inches to 19-inch wide, and has cut lines and directions to help you fit it to your laptop's exact size. It’s made of PVC vinyl, and will not leave a residue on your computer.

Who doesn’t love BB-8? This all-weather vinyl decal was inspired by a combination of the adorable Star Wars character and the popular 2006 rap song Ridin' – an unlikely pairing if there ever was one, but it works here! This high-quality decal is made in the USA by Decal Serpent. It fits laptops from 11-inches to 17-inches.

This trippy, colorful geometric design is made out of vinyl, but has a leather effect when applied to your laptop. It’s designed for a 15.6-inch laptop, but can be trimmed down to fit virtually any smaller size. It will not only turn your laptop into a conversation starter, butwill also help keep it from getting scuffed up. Easy to apply and easy to remove, this skin is a great way to brighten up a boring laptop shell.

At this point, a lot of your books are probably in your laptop, so you might as well have books on your laptop too. This protective vinyl skin from MightySkins is designed to look like shelves packed with books. It fits most laptops between 11-inches and 17-inches, and comes with a matching screen saver! This removable skin will help protect your laptop from dings and scratches, and is most effective while wearing a tweed jacket and pretending to smoke a pipe.

You definitely don’t want to get your laptop wet. But with this Cover Art Decal from LSS, you can make it look like pink water drops are sliding down your laptop! This matte skin is dustproof, waterproof, removeable, and non-fading. It’s made of durable PVC vinyl and is designed to fit most laptops between 13-inches and 16.5-inches wide with cut lines to help you trim it to fit your laptop. It is non-toxic and environmentally friendly, as one would imagine a pink raindrop to be.

Have a large laptop? Like skulls? This is the laptop skin for you! The Blue Skull Laptop Skin from LSS isn’t just one skull, it’s several skulls and other dark images combined into one gruesome skull face. Designed to fit laptops from 17-inches to 19-inches wide, it’s made from the highest quality PVC vinyl and includes cut lines so that you can trim it to fit your particular laptop. Help keep your laptop scratch free, while at the same time scaring small children in coffee shops!

No, you’re not on a tropical island staring at shimmering blue water. But you can pretend with this gorgeous, sparkly skin for your Microsoft Surface Book. This laminated skin attaches to the top of your Surface Book as well as the inside, surrounding the keyboard as you type. It has a glossy finish and can be removed without leaving any residue. Don’t forget your sunscreen! Wait, you’re just going to the library – better leave the bathing suit at home.

Give your laptop some whimsical Star Wars flair with this delightful skin. The GeleSkins Big Chew Laptop Skin depicts Chewbacca blowing a big pink bubble in original artwork by Eric Fan! I shudder to think what a mess that bubble will make when it pops all over his big fuzzball face, but luckily the image is frozen in time before that sticky point. Available in a variety of sizes for both Apple and Razer Blade laptops, this fantastic skin can also be used on similarly-sized PCs.

Remember boomboxes? Lyle Owerko sure does, and he made the awesome original art that can transform your MacBook into an 80s throwback. Available for all MacBook models, they can also be used on similarly-sized PC laptops (there’s a size chart to help you choose the right one). At only a half millimeter thin, this funky skin will keep your laptop looking fresh and hip. Later skater!

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I'm incredibly hard on my gear. It gets used a lot, whether I'm working or just out on the weekend. When tools like my phone, watch or even a simple notebook don't perform well, they get replaced -- which, in my case, usually happens after about a year. So when my last bag had an unfortunate run-in with a fire, I embarked on a personal quest to find the absolute best way to carry my camera, a laptop, multiple lenses and any other gear I need for work or fun. And after trying out over a dozen bags from multiple companies, I've finally found my answer: Peak Design's $220 Everyday Messenger.

Design: Perfect for photographers; fantastic for regular folks, too

The Everyday Messenger is available in two sizes (13 inches and 15 inches) and two colors (charcoal and heritage tan). With its sleek, minimalist lines and clever hidden features, the Everyday Messenger strikes the perfect balance between form and function. It really feels like Peak Design has thought of everything. Although the bag's 500D Kodra exterior isn't fully waterproof (there are small holes on the sides where its flap folds over its main compartment), it does have a waxy coating that helps rain bead up and run off -- even on a couple of occasions when I got caught in torrential downpours. 

You might also think that its 2-inch strap -- which is narrower than what you'd get on a Chrome or Mission Industries bag -- might be a bit painful, but it's not. The strap also features an adjustable quick release so you can cinch it down and wear the bag high on your back (good for bike riders) or let it hang loose from your shoulder. It also can be reversed for people who want to wear the strap over the other shoulder, and if you have a really heavy load, you can use the hidden hip bands on each side of the bag to distribute the weight better.

Inside, the front pocket has a bunch of built-in pouches for things such as tools, spare camera batteries (which fit perfectly) and passports. There's also another zippered pocket sewn into the inside of the front flap, and a third padded pocket that is good for storing lens filters or other delicate objects. The pouches even have color-coded stitching so you won't forget which pocket contains your extra SD cards.
On the back of the bag, there's one more big, zippered pocket with two padded sleeves. The 15-inch model can hold most laptops, up to the size of a 15-inch MacBook Pro, although some 15-inch gaming systems won't quite fit. In contrast, the 13-inch Everyday Messenger is strictly for smaller ultraportable systems. My one complaint about the bag -- and it's a pretty minor one -- is that when it's fully loaded with a big camera, multiple lenses and a laptop, you can sometimes feel your computer poking into your back while you're walking around. However, that really only happens when you are carrying a large laptop closer to hitting the bag's max capacity.

Oh, and remember when I said Peak Design has thought of everything? I meant it, because the bag even comes with a stretchy silicone band that you can use to strap a tripod to the bag after you thread the legs of the tripod through the Everyday Messenger's front flap. That means the Everyday Messenger can carry pretty much everything you need for a photo shoot in a bag that measures 17 x 12 x 70 inches and weighs just 2.5 pounds (for the 15-inch model).

And this is all before we talk about the Everyday Messenger's best feature: its latch. 

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The Buckle: Superfast and supersnug

Usually, buckles on bags don't deserve more than a passing mention, but the latch on the Everyday Messenger isn't an ordinary clasp. As its name implies, the Maglatch has a built-in magnet that automatically fastens itself whenever you fold down the front flap of the bag. The Maglatch connects to a series of ladder-like metal catches that are sewn into the front of the bag, which means there's always something for it to grab onto. And if you really want to strap things down, you can pull the bag's flap down further to the next rung to create a tighter fit. Then, when you want to get back into the bag, all you need to do is tug gently on the bottom of the latch, and voilà!

For someone who is constantly annoyed by the fidgety buckles or noisy Velcro used on other bags, the Maglatch really does feel like magic. It catches every time, never gets stuck or jammed, and puts an end to worries about whether your bag is closed. It's so simple and effective that you wonder why no one had thought of it before, and it's what separates the Everyday Messenger from pretty much every other bag on the market.

Dividers: Create your own perfect fit

Even with all of the clever features on the outside, the Everyday Messenger's inside is pretty neat, too. Instead of using static compartments sewn into the sides, Peak Design created foldable inserts with Velcro tips so you can move and adjust every cubby hole to make sure your gear fits snugly. You can even fold down the dividers to create pseudo shelves inside your bag and add even more storage. The only downside is that you run the risk of stuffing more gear into the bag than your shoulder can really take. 

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Capture: Fast and secure access to your camera, at all times

Peak Design has a solution for photographers who think it takes too long to pull out their cameras. On each end of the bag, there's a loop you can use to attach the company's patented Capture quick-disconnect system. It works pretty much exactly like the quick-disconnect plates you'd get on a tripod head, except that it comes with a rotating push-button lock to ensure the camera won't fall off by accident, and an optional tether to ensure that even if it does, it won't fall all the way to the ground.

Bottom Line

After using the Everyday Messenger daily for four months and covering numerous events in multiple countries, I can safely say it's the best bag I've ever owned. Yeah, there are a couple of minor annoyances, like a back panel that could use a little more padding, and a relatively high asking price of $220. But that's OK, because this bag is totally worth it.

It's stylish, and its comfortable, easily adjustable strap and interior dividers make the bag work with me, instead of against me. With the Everyday Messenger, my bag is the anchor holding my traveling tool kit together, and I wouldn't trade it for any other tote on the market. For those who want a bag with two shoulder straps instead of one, Peak Design makes a backpack version of the Everyday Messenger, too.

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Who needs to carry a bulky bag around when you can stick a full-size laptop (or two) right into a jacket pocket? Available starting today, the ScotteVest Off the Grid (OTG) jacket has 29 different pockets, including two padded areas in front that can hold laptops as large as 14 inches.  Made in both men and women's versions, the $215 coat also has an inside pocket for a large tablet, an RFID-blocking pocket and two clear pockets that allow you to interact with your phone's touch screen through them. 

ScotteVest claims that it has been able to fit a 15-inch MacBook into the pockets and, during a live streaming demo, we saw a representative easily place a 13-inch Acer Chromebook in the jacket. While we couldn't tell how bulky the jacket feels from watching someone model it on Skype, the laptop didn't even appear to create a significant bulge in the jacket. The rep was also able to sit down comfortably, without the laptop riding up too far. 

However, the pocket capacity depends on the size of the jacket as the Women's XS and S sizes can only fit a 10-inch tablet. The L, XL and XXL sizes should provide the most pocket space. 

The OTG is the first jacket we've seen that can comfortably hold a large laptop, though it's not the first that can squeeze one in. In January, the company introduced the Enforcer, a $360 jacket that could hold smaller laptops, but was primarily designed and marketed for gun owners with concealed carry permits. 

Like other ScotteVest jackets, the OTG features the company's Personal Area Network system, which puts wire paths between the pockets. Using these paths, you can keep an external battery in one pocket and charge a device in another. You can also run a headphone wire through the pockets and up to the collar.

The OTG is made from is available in blue or black for men and black or plum for women. It is made from quilted nylon material which is both warm and water resistant. Unlike many other ScotteVest jackets, the sleeves are not removable. 

Consumers can order a men's or women's OTG directly from ScotteVest.com starting today. We look forward to testing one in the future to see just how it feels to walk around with one or two laptops in our pockets. 

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I have a stack of legal pads and notebooks half-filled with meeting notes, to-do lists and ideas in various stages. But, of course, the vast majority of my work life is spent online. So I was intrigued by the idea behind the Wacom Bamboo Folio and Bamboo Slate, two devices that sync your ink-on-paper notes with your phone and computer. The Slate ($129 to $149, depending on paper size) and the Folio ($199) might be pricey for a student or young professional, but if you're someone who moves between scribbling on a pad and typing on a device throughout your day, these devices could be well worth the cost.

How It Works

Unlike the Livescribe 3 -- another popular ink-on-paper gadget that stores your writing digitally -- Wacom's two devices don't require you to use proprietary paper for your note-taking. Rather, it's the touch-sensitive pad in the Folio or Slate that registers your strokes when it comes in contact with the pen and then sends them to your phone or tablet via Bluetooth. So, as far as the device is concerned, you're actually writing through the paper, not on the paper. Hitting a small button on the Bamboo devices lets the software know that you've flipped to a new page.

Setup

The Slate and the Folio took about 3 hours each to charge via their micro-USB outlets. Once charged, the smart pad easily connects to the Wacom Inkspace app on your iOS or Android device via Bluetooth. Then, you just start writing. Once you've completed your notes, you simply press the main button on the pad to sync and save the page to your library within the mobile app. It's a seamless and incredibly simple experience.

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Design

Both the Bamboo Folio and the larger Bamboo Slate come with a letter-size (A4) pad of paper, but you can use any pad you like. The smaller Bamboo Slate comes with a half-letter-size (A5) pad. You simply slide the pad's back cover into the slot on the smart pad and start writing. I tested it out with various kinds of paper, including a standard hotel stationery pad and college-ruled loose-leaf paper. Both worked just as well as the paper pad Wacom includes.

At 13.3 x 10.6 inches and 1.8 pounds, the Bamboo Folio is fairly heavy for its size. Once you factor in the weight of a pad of paper, you could easily be carrying around 2.5 pounds of additional weight in your bag. The larger of the two Bamboo Slate sizes weighs only 1 pound. The only real difference between the two is that the Folio has the fold-over cover, and internal slots for business cards and additional paper materials. For a student walking to classes all day, or for a professional often on the go, the weight is definitely something to consider.

Pen Feel

The included pen is thinner than other styluses I've used. It does not have a separate charging port and, at first glance, appears to be a standard ballpoint pen with a metal clip. An extra ink cartridge comes in the box. You can buy additional, proprietary cartridges from the Wacom Store for $9.99 for a pack of three. You simply twist the pen, and the ballpoint nib rotates out. The Bamboo pen actually looks so much like a standard pen that it easily could be misplaced and lost in a backpack, so the clip that attaches it to the pad really comes in handy.

Because the Bamboo Folio and the Bamboo Slate use Wacom's EMR (Electro Magnetic Resonance) technology rather than capturing data directly from the stylus, the pen is lighter and less bulky than products like the Livescribe. However, the pen still feels heavier than a traditional pen and doesn't conform to the hand as well.

The App

The Bamboo Folio and Slate work with the Wacom Inkspace app on iOS and Android. The app allows your notes to be saved and stored in your library, and to be exported as .pdf, .png, .jpg and Wacom's proprietary WILL (Wacom Ink Layer Language) files. When you open the app, you are taken to the library, where you can see all of your files. To open the files, tap on them; you can then edit or export them.

The editing feature allows you to delete notes, draw and annotate on the files, split notes into separate documents, and combine files. I found it especially satisfying to literally wipe items off my to-do lists.

You can share your documents to Google Drive, Notes, email and more while also syncing to cloud services such as Evernote, Dropbox and OneNote. The app also shows you how much battery life remains on the pen.

There are two subscriptions available for the Inkspace app: Basic and Plus. The Basic version is free; you just create a Wacom ID to sign up. It provides 5GB of storage in the cloud and allows easy sharing across different devices, including smartphones, tablets and computers.

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The Inkspace Plus subscription includes more advanced features, such as the ability to convert handwriting to rich text, vector export in SVG and the ability to search handwritten notes. It offers 50GB storage, enables professional sharing in teams and allows real-time collaboration in editable digital ink files. Owners of the Bamboo Folio and Bamboo Slate get a three-month free subscription to Inkspace Plus, after which you can get the service for a discounted rate of $2.99 per month, as opposed to the regular $4.99-per-month rate.

Handwriting to Text Transcription

While handwritten notes and drawings can be a great way to capture your creative impulses and ideas, having the ability to convert your scribbles into ASCII text is essential for editing and sharing your work. The transcription option, which provides text recognition for the Bamboo products, is available only in the paid version of the Inkspace app. In contrast, Livescribe's app converts handwriting to ASCII for free, as does Windows 10's handwriting keyboard.

I tested the app's transcription feature with a simple uppercase and lowercase alphabet, and with a grocery list. My handwriting isn't the best, but it isn't doctor-level chicken scrawl, either. The app accurately transcribed my alphabet, but it had only about an 80-percent success rate with my grocery list. That said, the mistakes were minor enough that I could easily decipher what the words were supposed to be. I was able to email the text transcription, upload it into Notes and send it via text.

Bottom Line

If you're the type of person who likes to work things out on pen and paper, a student who would rather take handwritten notes in class or a professional who prefers to jot down ideas in ink, the Wacom Bamboo Folio or Slate could be a great tool for you. The setup process and Inkspace app are quick and intuitive, there is no proprietary paper to buy, and you can easily share your notes with others.

But if you need audio recording that syncs with your notes or the ability to operate without a phone, consider the Livescribe 3 or the Livescribe Echo, both of which have thicker bodies and require expensive special paper. However, if you want the most natural writing experience, the Wacom Bamboo pads are your best choice.

Just in time for your summer vacation, the Scottevest Tropiformer Jacket conceals 22 pockets that you can use to store all your gadgets, from SD cards to iPads. This $150 water-resistant windbreaker also converts into a vest, and can be easily packed into itself. Should the Tropiformer be your new travel companion?

Design

Our review sample of the Scottevest Tropiformer Jacket came in red with gray zippers, but you can also choose an all-blue jacket, Cement, Pewter with red zippers, or green with white zippers.

The jacket comes in six sizes ranging from small to XXX-large. Ours, a large, weighed only 1.4 pounds, making it easy to stow. The back inside of the jacket is a breathable mesh that helps keep you cool, and a small hood, tucked into the collar, helps keep the rain off your head. The jacket itself is water-repellent, but not waterproof.

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Like the Fleece 7.0, the Tropiformer's sleeves are removable, so that the jacket can become a vest. Unlike the fleece, where the sleeves are attached using zippers, on the Tropiformer, they're held in place by magnets. The magnets work well, but will stick to anything metallic. We found this out the hard way when standing too close to a metal door. A warning label inside the jacket warns against wearing the Tropiformer if you have a pacemaker or similar device.

The Tropiformer comes with enough pockets to store all manner of gadgets and materials. We especially like the small icons sewn into the jacket, explaining what kind of gadget should go in each pocket.

Starting from the outside, a zipper on the left breast opens to reveal two pockets separated by a piece of fabric, which itself is held shut using a magnet. Inside the jacket, the inner pocket has a small slot through which you can thread headphone wires.

There are two hand pockets on the outside. Inside the right pocket is an elastic strip for a water bottle that was cumbersome to use, as well as a plastic cord and metal clip to which you can attach your keys.

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The lefthand pocket, like the breast pocket, divides into two. The inside half leads to a pocket designed for smartphones. Called the clear touch pocket, it has a plastic film through which you can see and control your smartphone's screen. While we could control our iPhone easily, having to angle this pocket upwards to see what we were doing was less than practical. However, from this pocket, you can snake a headphone wire up through the jacket to the collar; two small elastic loops hold the earbuds in place. If you have in-line controls, then stowing your smartphone in this pocket makes sense.

Inside, the lefthand flap of the jacket has two small sleeves for pens near the zipper. Below that is a larger zippered pocket designed to hold a point-and-shoot camera. This pocket has a small Velcro divider, as well as a smaller pocket inside it, for holding SD cards.

At the top of the righthand interior is a long vertical pocket, open at the top, for storing sunglasses. Behind it is another zippered pocket, which has a lens-cleaning cloth attached to an elastic band. The cloth itself has a diagram of all the pockets in the Tropiformer.

Below is another large zippered pocket designed to hold tablets. Though it easily accommodated the iPad and other 10-inch tablets, anything larger than that, such as the Surface Pro and Samsung ATIV, were too long.

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A pocket on the lower part of the right interior unzips to fit your wallet, passport and money. Inside this pocket is another, smaller zippered pocket.

Finally, a pocket on the back of the Tropiformer contains a small pouch into which you can stuff the jacket. Just make sure you've removed all your gadgets first.

While we like that the Tropiformer can hold nearly as many gadgets as the Fleece 7.0, the lighter weight of the Tropiformer means that you'll notice all those gadgets in your pockets a lot sooner.

Verdict

Having used the Scottevest Fleece 7.0 while going through airport security, being able to stash not only my phone, but my wallet and other documents in an article of clothing, rather than having them out in the open in a tray, is not only convenient, but added to my peace of mind. The Scottevest Tropiformer takes that concept and puts it in a lightweight jacket good for those times when a fleece is too heavy. We especially like that the jacket can be bundled up and stuffed into itself. While $150 is a little steep for what is essentially a windbreaker, road warriors with a lot of gadgets will appreciate the versatility of the Scottevest Tropiformer.

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There’s no more challenging situation for mobile technology than a business trip. As tech journalists, trade shows like Mobile World Congress and Computex are our playoffs and CES is the Superbowl. Your big game for business might be a sales trip, a conference or a visit to the West Coast office. Whatever the occasion, you need to stay connected and productive in the airplane, the hotel, the convention center and everywhere in-between.

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Whether we’re posting news on the fly, uploading 1080p hands-on videos in the middle of a convention or chatting with our toddlers via Skype, there's nothing more important than staying connected. A 3G/4G hotspot is the best way to get your laptop and other devices connected--including those brought by others in your travel party. For trips within the U.S., we love the AT&T MiFi Liberate ($99.99 w/ contract) for its blazing fast 4G LTE speeds, all-day battery life and easy-to-use touch screen interface. It can connect up to 10 Wi-Fi-enabled devices. When traveling abroad to tech shows in Europe or Asia, we always rent a hotspot or USB modem from XCom Global, which provides unlimited 3G downloads around the world for just $14.95 per day.

There’s nothing better than having a second monitor at your desk for multitasking, so why not get the same productivity on the road? I always pack the 14-inch Lenovo LT1421 in my bag and use it as a second screen. For instance, I can edit a photo on one desktop while I write a news article on the other. Because the 1366 x 768 resolution monitor weighs just 1.6 pounds and gets power and data over a single USB connection, I can carry it in my bag and use it in the press center, my hotel room or anywhere I have access to a desk. Later this spring, Lenovo is coming out with a new-and-improved model named the ThinkVision LT1423. For $349, the 13.3-inch LT1423 weighs the same as its older brother but provides a sharp 1600 x 900 display and touch / pen support. A wireless version will follow in the summer for $449.

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You can never be too rich, too thin or have too much juice. While most external batteries charge USB devices only, the Energizer XP18000 provides your laptop, phone, tablet or even your camera with a whopping 18,000 additional milliamp hours of additional energy. At 1.1-pounds, the XP18000 isn’t as light as your average phone charger, but is worth its weight in lithium ions. In our tests, the battery was able to add 8 extra hours of endurance to a ThinkPad X230. When walking around a trade show, I slip the XP18000 in my laptop bag’s internal pocket and connect its wire to my laptop so it can charge as I walk from one location to another. Even better, the battery doubles as an AC adapter, so you can charge both it and your notebook over a single connection.

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The life of a business traveler is filled with multitasking, so why buy the best phone for performing two tasks at once. Samsung’s Galaxy Note II ($299 with two-year contract) not only allows you to take accurate notes with its stylus, but enables you to use two applications at once on its huge 5.5-inch display. For example, you can compose an email while watching a movie ,or you could look at a restaurant review on one side of the screen while looking up directions in Maps on the other side. Other highlights include a quad-core processor, fast 8-MP camera and Samsung’s plethora of unique sharing features. Best of all, this superphone lasts over 9 hours on a charge, the longest of any handset we’ve tested.

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Sometimes on a trip, you just want to leave your bags in your hotel room while you go out to dinner, without leaving all of our gear behind. The Scottevest Fleece 7.0 ($160) has 23 different pockets, including one that’s deep enough for a tablet and another that holds your eye glasses. The sleeves come off to make it easier to wear in warm weather. A new Quick Draw pocket lets you access your smartphone through the Clear Touch Fabric, and there’s even a travel documents pocket with a locking zipper pull.

When someone tells me to talk to the hand, I now take them literally by activating my Martian Watch. The end result of a successful Kickstarter campaign, the Martian Watch ($299) looks like a regular analog timepiece with real physical hands and numbers, but hit a button and you can use them to make calls or send voice commands to your phone. A 12-character scrolling LED screen also shows email, Facebook and SMS alerts right on your wrist. The watch works with Siri on iOS or Google Voice / S Voice on Android, but not yet with whatever mobile OS K.I.T.T from Knight Rider is running. Martian sells its smart watches in three styles: the sporty Victory, classy Passport and colorful G2G with prices starting at $249.

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Sure you could take photos with your smartphone, but if you need quality photographs for a business presentation or, in our case, a news article, you need a serious mirrorless or DSLR camera. Sony’s mirrorless Alpha NEX-5R not only shoots high-quality 16.1-MP shots and 1080p video, but also allows you to immediately share those pictures via Wi-Fi after editing them with one of the camera’s embedded apps. Attach a zoom lens to catch close-up photos of that corporate keynote or throw on the macro lens for detailed product photography.

All those airport stops at McDonalds and late-night room service orders can take their toll on your waist. Fortunately, with the help of the Fitbit Flex ($99) wristband, you can keep better tabs on everything from your activity and diet to your sleeping patterns. Coming this spring, the Flex syncs with your iPhone, Samsung Galaxy S III, or Galaxy Note II or iPhone and stores information about how many calories you’ve burned and hours you’ve slept so you can see just how much more exercise you need to work off that McRib. We also like the silent wake alarm so you can get up on the right side of the bed.

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You don’t have to make due with your smartphone or notebook’s wimpy speakers in the hotel room. Just bust out DBEST’s London Duos, which pump out loud and clean audio via without weighing down your carry-on. Just connect to the main speaker via Bluetooth and it will transmit audio to the second unit via an audio cable. The best part is the 22 hours of battery life we saw in our testing. The two speakers magnetically attach to one another for easy travel, and they come with a travel pouch.

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The market is flooded with laptop bags: shoulder bags, rolling bags, messenger-style bags and even leather briefcases that hold a notebook. We like the backpack-style Powerbag ($179.99), because it contains a built-in 6,000 mAH battery that can charge your smartphone or tablet while they sit inside. An external battery level indicator lets you know how much juice you have left while the bag folds flat to let you go through TSA security without removing your laptop. Coming this April, the $199.99 TYLT Energi Backpack comes with a larger 10,400 mAh battery built-in and the ability to charge up to three gadgets at once, routing its wires through a series of internal pockets. A special “Protect Pocket” keeps your smartphone or glasses safe and easy to access.

The best business travelers’ laptops provide plenty of battery life in a thin and light chassis with a comfortable keyboard and sharp screen. Lenovo’s 3-pound ThinkPad X1 Carbon is the ideal choice for PC users with its generious 1600 x 900 screen, comfy keyboard, accurate pointing stick and nearly 8 hours of endurance. Mac aficionados will prefer the MacBook Air 13-inch, which weighs just 3-pounds and lasts 8 hours and 10 minutes on a charge while providing a best-in-class touchpad and colorful 1440 x 900 display. We also love the slim and sturdy unibody aluminum design.

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The most popular tablet on the market is also one of the best for business. With a slew of productivity-oriented apps such as iWork, graphics software like Adobe Photoshop Express and video editing programs like iMovie, the 4th-gen iPad is as good for work as play. To make editing documents easier, a Bluetooth keyboard and stand is essential. We prefer Belkin’s YourType Folio Keyboard because of its lightweight design and responsive keys.

More: 10 Best Tablets of CES 2013

Whether you’re showing a mockup webpage to the boss, making a sales presentation to a client or having movie night in your hotel room, you’re going to need a portable projector that’s as light as it is bright. The $299 Brookstone HDMI Pocket Projector weighs just 8 ounces, but can beam an image as large as 50 inches for up to 2 hours. With colorful images and a high-contrast presentation mode that’s ideal for reading text, the HDMI Pocket Projector works equally well for work or play.

When we travel to a hotel, there are never enough outlets by the desk for all of our gadgets. If we don’t want to charge our camera in the bathroom, our notebook under the desk and our phone on the bedside table, we need to bring a power strip along for the ride. Monster’s $54 Outlet to Go 300 provides 3 AC outlets and 2 USB charging ports in one compact wall-wart. Best of all, the “Travel” version of this device includes power adapters to keep you plugged in abroad in over 150 countries.

More: 10 Smartphones with the Longest Battery Life

Even a serious business trip can’t be all work and no play. When we’re watching a movie using our tablet on the plane, far too often the noise of the engine is so loud that we can’t even hear the words. The ultimate set of travel headphones, the < a href="http://www.parrot.com/zik/usa/">Parrot Zik uses noise-cancelling technology to help you hear your music. Better still, this Bluetooth headset connects with your phone or tablet via NFC so all you need is one tap to connect.

More: Hip-Hop Headphones Reviewed: Does Anything Beat the Dr. Dre Beats?

• Top 7 Tech Predictions for 2013
• 7 Best Smartphones of CES 2013
• 6 Waterproof Gadgets of CES 2013: No More Water Damage Worries

Kensington just unveiled an overnight bag that would've been handy for the trip out here to CES 2013. The Contour Overnight bag doesn't just have slots for all your electronic gear, it also zips open and unfolds completely, allowing passengers to keep their notebook in their bag while it goes through the airport metal detectors. With plenty of room for packing a change of clothes and lots of padding for comfort, this backpack looks like a great travel companion.

The first thing we noticed was the solid build. This backpack was meant to carry all of the essentials for the digitally-connected traveler, and it feels like it'll hold up whether you're carrying a MacBook Air or the powerful MSI GX60. There was plenty of padding in the shoulder straps and the back of the pack to help ease the comfort level when carrying a heavy load. Zippers opened and closed smoothly.

The coolest part about this bag was how it unzipped completely to lay out almost completely flat, with the padded laptop holder on one side and everything else on the other side. This is designed to work with the TSA's rules of scanning your notebook separately. Kensington claimed they've had numerous people fly with their notebooks in this bag and haven't had any issues, but mileage may vary depending on the strictness of the airport.

This backpack is designed to hold notebooks up to 15.6 inches, which covers most mainstream and ultraportable laptops. There are also plenty of pouches to store smartphones, tablets, clothing and cables and even a mesh pouch for any liquids that may need to be screened at the airport.

The Contour Overnight backpack will be available on February 1st and costs $89.99. It's only available in black with a silver lining for now, but that should be a great color for the frequent business traveler who doesn't want anything too flashy. This feels like a backpack that will last a long time.

• Top 7 Tech Predictions of 2013
• Top 15 CES 2013 Celebrity Shills 
• Top iPhone 5 Wallet Cases

The Surface is one of the most buzzed-about gadgets of the year. Not only is it the first tablet Microsoft has ever made, the Surface also boasts unique features like an integrated kickstand and an optional Touch Cover that has an integrated keyboard. But that's far from the only way to protect this Windows RT slate. The following cases and sleeves will shield your  Surface in style.

This black case adds a pop of color while keeping your Surface totally safe with a zipper enclosure. A durable nylon exterior ensures that it won't rip if you brush up against something, and a side zipper pocket lets you stash accessories such as earphones, notes and even keys. And the interior acts as a cleaner for the Surface: It's lined in faux-fur, which will wipe away scratches and scuffs while cushioning the device. Available in Cyan, Black and Red. $49.99

Incipio Padded Nylon Sleeve

This Microsoft Surface sleeve is made of a PVC-free, biodegradable neoprene-like material. Its walls are 7 millimeters thick to provide scratch protection, and leather touchpoints give the sleeve a luxe look. Plus, the interior compartment is lined with faux-fur, so your Surface will stay padded while in transport. Available in Elderberry and Black. $29.95

Brenthaven Ecco-Prene 11"

Although this sleeve fits up to 13-inch laptops, it also keeps your Microsoft Surface snug while on the go. The Crater Sleeve protects your Surface while also keeping it cool: Its high-density foam with crater holes lets it ventilate so your device doesn't overheat. A zipper enclosure makes sure it won't slide out, the crater holes keep the whole thing lightweight and it's TSA-friendly, so you don't have to remove your Surface from the case at the airport. Available in Mesh Black/Foam Gunmetal/Texture Grey, Mesh Black/Foam Gunmetal/Ballistic Nylon Black and Mesh Black/Foam Gunmetal/Ballistic Nylon Algae Green. $20.72

Timbuk2 Crater Laptop Sleeve

This sleek and professional case is perfect for business trips or even trips to the office. Fitting all 10-inch tablets, your Surface is cushioned by this neoprene sleeve with a soft fleece lining. Although the exterior is a simple black, a deep stitched accent adds a bit of professional flair. $14

Kensington Soft Sleeve for Tablets

The Trek Sleeve for Microsoft's Surface weighs a little more than a pound and has rigid wall frames and six sides of padding for the ultimate protection. A handle on the top allows for easy carrying, and a zippered enclosure ensures your Surface is safe. Plus, the sleeve features a rubberized bottom, a back removable organizer pouch for stashing keys and earphones and an ID card window on the side panel. $29.95 www.brenthaven.com

One of the reasons why we love Timbuk2 is the ability to customize many of their bags and sleeves, and the Custom Envelope Sleeve is no exception. This sleeve, which will snugly fit your Microsoft Surface, features a high-density foam that absorbs impact if you should drop your device or bump it up against a hard surface. Plus, its scratch-resistant liner ensures that your Surface won't get any bumps or bruises. And it's TSA-approved. The case has three panels, and you can choose out of 50 colors and fabrics for each panel. $39 www.timbuk2.com

This sleek case from Kensington features a black, professional design with a zippered enclosure to keep your Surface (or 10-inch tablet) safe. The neoprene sleeve's soft fleece lining protects your Surface from scratching, and you can carry other valuables such as cellphone, wallet and earphones in the zippered outer pocket without worrying about strangers snatching them up. $17.99

Kensington Soft Carrying Case for Tablets

This high-grade neoprene case is wrapped in a super-durable ballistic nylon shell, so your Microsoft Surface survives more than just the normal wear-and-tear of daily life. Its impact-resistant screen-protecting insert keeps it safe, and a screen-cleaning Ultrasuede lining cleans your device's screen so you don't have to. TSA-friendly. Plus, you can add a shoulder strap (simple or suspension) for $12 or $22, respectively. Available in Lead Indium and Brown Leather ($6 additional). $59 sfbags.com

This sleeve with a zippered enclosure and a pop of color in its zig-zag pattern fits the Microsoft Surface as well as laptops. Its layered construction of soft- and high-density foam ensure that your device has the ultimate protection, and a padded bumped along its seam protects from knocks and bumps. Plus, a faux-fur lining gives the sleeve a luxurious feel. Available in Matte Black/Bixi Red, Texture Grey/Cold Blue and Matte Algae Green/Gunmetal. $39 www.timbuk2.com

This bag for 9- to 10-inch tablets, including the Microsoft Surface, is an over-the-shoulder messenger bag that lets you transport your device hands-free. Its Velcro strap is adjustable, so you can wear it at whatever length you like, and an outside pocket with a cellphone compartment lets you stash valuables. The interior pocket for your Surface is padded, and an interior accessory pocket stashes even more valuables. $16.25

Kensington Sling Bag

• Top 10 iPhone Wallet Cases
• Microsoft Surface Review
• Forget Google, Tablet War is Now Apple vs. Microsoft

Scottevest's newest garment, the $160 Fleece 7.0, has 23 different pockets, designed to carry every electronic device you own. We took the jacket for a spin to see how much it could handle.

As the reviews editor of LAPTOP Magazine, I've got a lot--a LOT--of gadgets in my office: stacks of notebooks, smartphones, tablets, cameras, and so on. So, I donned the Fleece 7.0, opened all the zippers, and started stuffing in gadgets. How many? You'll have to watch the video to find out. 

Among other things, I was able to fit in an iPad, Sony eReader, Amazon Kindle Fire, three or so smartphones, and a Magic 8-ball. I definitely felt the weight of all those gadgets, as the Fleece 7.0 seemed to pull down on my shoulders when fully loaded. Still, it was comfortable to wear, and kept me warm in the subarctic temperatures of my office. And, when it finally warmed up, we could remove the sleeves of the Fleece 7.0 for a truly preppy look.

Psst...wanna buy a gadget? 

We're still putting the Fleece 7.0 through its paces; stay tuned for our full review. 

• Ten Future-Proof Gadgets You'll Still Love Next Year
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Show your love of Discovery Channel's Shark Week with Timbuk2's new Shark Messenger. The company's new $120 bag may, in fact, cause the Jaws theme to play in your head every time you open it.

The Shark Messenger Bag is appropriately coated in silver vinyl. The inside of its front flap depicts the open jaw of a shark ready to attack. In addition to a TPU water-proof liner, the exterior vinyl fabric is waterproof--as you would expect from shark skin.

Shark themed features aside, the bag also includes front and internal zip organizers, a True Fit cam buckle that makes strap adjustments quicker and a side-entry zipper pocket that allows for easy access to essential items such as keys and your cellphone without having to actually open your bag.

One downside is that it doesn't include an internal laptop sleeve. But it does have a slightly padded internal slash pocket, in which the description says you can store a laptop as long as it is in a laptop sleeve. While the $120 price tag may really take a bite out of your wallet, if you mark your calendar with a countdown to Shark Week, this messenger might be worth biting.

Cocoon's Sleeve², an update to the company's first sleeve, is ideal for MacBook and MacBook Pro users who have treated themselves to an iPad. This messenger bag weighs about 1.5-pounds and offers two major compartments--a big padded one for the MacBook 13-inch and another in the front sized for a 10-inch tablet such as the iPad 2. The Sleeve² is available from Cocoon for $69.99.

The included Grid-It organizer caught our attention first, thanks to its unique organizational design. A hard, curved sheet of plastic encased in padded nylon and covered on one side with a system of cross-hatched elastic bands, the organizer is a simple and elegant way to keep all your miscellaneous accessories from floating around inside your bag.

Cell phone, iPod, mouse, headphones, and powercords fit easily (just pull up a strap and slip in whatever you need), and the rubber grips hold items firmly in place. GridIt is removable, so when we wanted to drop some weight we just took it out.

The Sleeve² is not as sleek or stylish as other Apple notebooks and accessories, but it is durable and well-padded. Two straps on the back makes carrying it by hand a breeze and the iPad compartment can work as just a 'Grid' compartment. The case comes in black and red and is made of Deflexion, a shock-absorbing textile. Compartments are unlined with a soft plush material, but the 'Grid' keeps things organized.

Overall, it's a simple, roomy case with great functionality.

The Case Logic recently took the wraps off the new, slim NOX Corvus B114 backpack, which comes from the company's business-chic NOX line. While not to our taste, the bland, business-friendly bag offers a functional, roomy design that protects your gadgets while on the go. Designed to fit laptops up to 15-inches, the Corvus also features a dedicated tablet pocket that can hold slates as large as 10 inches.

The walls consist of a high-density foam that surrounds the gadget compartments. It is soft enough to conform to the shape of any laptop, but firm enough to adequately protect your gear from some impacts. It won’t keep a laptop from breaking under the weight of a car, but you won’t have to worry about damaging your system if someone stumbles and bumps into you on the subway.

On our tests, the Corvus B114 was ample enough to fit bulky laptops such as the ASUS K53E. While we were still able to squeeze an iPad 2 into the compartment next to the K53E, it was a disturbingly tight fit. The Corvus was stretched so tight that the tablet was unable to be removed without taking the laptop out first. However, when we combined the iPad 2 with the slimmer 15-inch MacBook Pro, both devices fit nicely.

The NOX line offers a slew of customary features such as a zippered expansion, stretchy nylon pockets on the sides, and an interior mesh pocket under the flap for accessories. Case Logic also incorporated an innovative security strap for tethering your backpack to tables or luggage, and a strap management system to roll up otherwise hanging straps. The bag has 10 pockets of various sizes to fit all your work-related gear, from files to notebooks to pencils.

While the PVC-free, nylon Corvus is fairly rugged, it is not very weather-proof. The bottom is made of a polyester weave, which may wear over time and puncture; we would have preferred a sturdier, rubberized bottom. The side pockets are large enough to accommodate water bottles with confidence due to the elastic nylon construction. The plush padding on the back and thick shoulder straps contributed to a comfortable and cool fit. We like that the frost-blue interior can help you locate items that have fallen to the bottom of the bag, cutting  down on time spent fumbling around for objects.

As a little Easter egg, a Quick Response (QR) code sits on the interior of the top flap. Smartphone cameras can scan it to automatically take users to the NOX information website to learn more about the NOX collection.

Overall, the Case Logic NOX Corvus B114 is a functional bag that doesn’t draw much attention to itself, but admirably fulfills its duties. Its humble aesthetics and unique features places this bag somewhere between the Mobile Edge EVO ($79) and the Everki Beacon backpack ($129). With an MSRP of $89.99 and features that neither of those bags have, the Corvus is a reasonably priced alternative for iPad and laptop-toting road warriors. Just remember to check out the similarly equipped Everki Flight EKP119 ($89) before you make your purchase.

Plastic water bottles, rescued seat belt webbing, and even shoe factory scraps can be turned into fabrics used to create something every business traveler needs: a laptop or tablet case. And with options available in every color, style, shape, and size, there’s no reason to buy a new bag that’s not eco-friendly. Here are the 10 best options for men and women.

Now that the iPad is your mobile office, you should carry it safely, in style. The EcoSmart polyester material Targus uses to manufacture this messenger is made from about ten recycled plastic bottles, and it’s PVC- and nickel-free. It’s also highly functional, featuring scratch-resistant lining for the iPad, a large mesh storage space, and a quick-access front pocket. $39.99; www.targus.com

This plain black laptop sleeve for 13- and 15-inch MacBooks may not look green, but its recyclable shell is made of a neoprene-like material that is PVC-free. Plus, the company offsets any carbon emissions created during manufacturing by purchasing carbon credits. The sleeve’s interior is supported by Brenthaven’s own high-density foam and lined with a super-soft felt. $29.95; www.brenthaven.com

Made from scraps on the shoe factory floor, each Cornell II messenger bag is colorfully unique and is made from a mix of nylon, polyester, and rubber. The front patch that explains how these scraps were saved from the landfill is fairly obtrusive, but environmentalists will wear it proudly. The interior offers a padded and lined compartment for a 15-inch laptop and a zippered pocket for smaller gear, plus plenty of space for documents and cords. $90; www.keenfootwear.com

This travel-friendly messenger is made with Sorona, a new type of polymer fabric created by Dupont using agricultural feedstocks of corn. The manufacturing process requires 30 percent less energy than traditional nylon or polyester requires, which reduces the company’s greenhouse emissions by 63 percent. The ScanFast fits a 16-inch laptop, zippers open for easier airport screenings, and comes with a shock-absorbing shoulder strap. $99.99; www.mobileedge.com

Engage Green uses 100-percent post-consumer PET repurposed into nylon to make this backpack, and it takes approximately 18 plastic bottles to make one yard of fabric. The sporty look, which includes the company’s playful penguin logo, belies its functionality as a business bag. It features an easy-access front pocket, a large center pocket with a padded compartment for your 14-inch laptop, a narrow back pocket for extra documents, and padded shoulder straps. $49; www.engagegreen.com

Accommodating notebooks up to 17 inches, Maggie Bags’ Executive Laptop Bag is proof that an accessory made of polyester seat belt webbing can look extremely classy. Color choices include black, black and tan, hot pink, navy, and red, among other colors). The purple satin lining feels luxurious, and the separate padded laptop compartment will keep your notebook safe. Four nickel-plated feet help protect the underside. $135; www.maggiebags.net

Available in 100 color combinations, this sleeve is made of 100-percent post-consumer recycled polyethylene terephthalate (also known as PET or PETE). Here that plastic is repurposed into a water-resistant tweed exterior and an eco-felt lining that’s incredibly scratch-resistant. Bonus: The high-density foam that supports your 13- or 15-inch laptop is PVC-free. $50; www.rickshawbags.com

T.O.T.E. stands for To Observe The Earth, which is apropos considering this large shoulder bag is made of organic cotton canvas and recycled PET and uses azo-free organic vegetable dyes. Inside you’ll find room for a 17-inch laptop, as well as pockets for just about everything. There’s even a zippered side pocket for your phone and a snap-off key ring. On the outside, you can choose from nine colors. Urban Junket makes a $1 donation to carbonfree.org for the sale of each bag. $152; www.urbanjunket.com

With a fabric made from weaving together recycled juice packs (think used Capri Sun containers), this briefcase/messenger will definitely make a bold and fearless style statement. Plus, it’s waterproof. This carrier can accommodate a 15.4-inch notebook and includes three small slip-in interior pockets. The adjustable shoulder strap can extend from 13 to 27 inches. $160; www.rebagz.com

Not only does this messenger bag fit a 17-inch laptop, it also has a fun, colorful sense of style. This accessory is free of azo, a chemical that has been linked to basal cell carcinoma when it gets into the environment. In addition, Hadaki shuns the use of phthalates, DEHP (added to plastics), and DBP (a flame-retardant chemical) in its bags. $40; hadakishop.com

No outfit is complete without them, and dressing up your laptop is no different. Accessories can add functionality to your notebook in the form of storage space, USB 3.0 ports, or handwriting recognition. Some add-ons, such as louder external speakers or a high-def webcam, really augment what you already have. Others can enhance your style on the go in the form of a case or backpack. We’ve gone from A to Z to help you maximize your PC.

You can increase data transfer rates up to 10 times by upgrading your notebook to USB 3.0 with this PCI ExpressCard (and buying a USB 3.0 drive). Plus, these two additional ports are backward compatible, and the device comes with a limited one-year warranty.
$49.99; www.aluratek.com

Do you know how much it costs to keep your notebook charger plugged in for a week? This power plug from Belkin can tell you that as well as the wattage used and the amount of carbon dioxide that energy creates. Simply plug in your notebook and then plug in the Conserve Insight.
$29.99; www.belkin.com

Built-in 256-bit hardware data encryption and a 4- to 10-digit PIN safeguards your data, while a rubber housing protects this device from the elements. And if this portable flash drive does end up in the wrong hands, multiple failed PIN entries lock it for 2 minutes.
$53.99 (8GB), $109 (16GB); www.corsair.com

Get stunning resolution with this 2048 x 1152-pixel display that boasts a sky-high 80,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio. Plus, make your Skype calls sharper with the integrated 2-megapixel webcam.
$219; www.dell.com

Record handwritten notes on special paper you can print yourself or buy in notebook form ($7.95), and sync the text with audio recorded during lectures or meetings. You can transfer the files to your laptop via micro-USB. Plus, Livescribe now offers an app store, including games.
$169 (4GB), $199 (8GB); www.livescribe.com

This USB-powered webcam presents you in 720p quality when making calls via Skype HD, and can go with you anywhere. It offers an autofocus lens and frame rates between 15 and 30 fps, depending on lighting conditions and connection speeds.
$49.99; shop.skype.com

YouTube stars, podcasters, performers, and even those just interested in improving their Skype conversations will need a better mic than the one built into their notebook. This USB-powered model comes with a built-in audio interface and mixer for simultaneous stereo input.
$129; www.samsontech.com

Print, scan, fax, and copy with the Officejet 4500—perfect for any home office. Connect this Energy Star all-in-one printer to your network via Ethernet or USB 2.0, and get up to 28 pages per minute in black and white or 22 ppm in color.
$129; www.hp.com

Add juice to your notebook without wasting power; iGo Green Technology shuts this charger off when your device is full. About the size of a deck of cards, this little guy is compatible with 12 of the most popular laptop brands.
$129; www.igo.com

When connected to your laptop via Bluetooth, this high-performance speaker pumps out clean, powerful sound in a sleek, black, portable design that’s powered by four AA batteries. It’s also compatible with smart phones, MP3 players, and any other device.
$199; www.harmanaudio.com

You can’t keep your eyes on your laptop at every second. Protect it with this self-coiling cable that extends from 3 inches up to 6 feet and lets you set a code from up to 10,000 unbreakable possibilities. Forget your combination? After registering online, your password will never be lost.
$24.99; us.kensington.com

Don’t have enough ports to plug in all your gear at once? This USB 2.0 hub adds four more to your notebook and is small enough to slide into your bag. Plus, it comes with a three-year warranty.
$59.95; www.logitech.com

Stow it flat, and pop it into its edgy curved form when you’re ready to work; the Arc Touch Mouse sports a touch-sensitive strip with vibration feedback for easy scrolling.
$49.95; www.microsoft.com

Keep your notebook and accessories static- and dust-free with a couple quick sprays and a wipe. It doesn’t have oil, wax, or ammonia, so it won’t harm your gear.
$2.95; www.endustelectronics.com

Featuring the performance of an internal SSD and the portability of an external hard drive, the USB 3.0 OCZ Enyo is covered in a durable anodized aluminum shell. Goes great with the Aluratek USB 3.0 ExpressCard.
$209 (64GB), $379 (128GB), $759 (256GB); www.ocztechnology.com

Use this presentation remote like a mouse in the air, thanks to its clever peripheral’s built-in gesture control. The intuitively placed buttons make the Wireless Presenter easy to use, and the receiver dongle conveniently stores inside the device when you’re on the move.
$79.99; usa.philips.com

Designed by the Mac owner community in less than 24 hours, this dead-simple product keeps the Mac power cord in a cleanly wound pile, but works for PC cords as well.
$14.99; www.quirky.com

This waterproof backpack for 15-inch laptops is available in 2,000-plus combinations of fabrics. It sports a removable laptop sleeve, and can morph from a backpack to messenger with detachable shoulder straps.
$160 (Skinny), $180 (Regular); www.rickshawbags.com

Get mobile broadband speeds up to 10 times faster than 3G in 36 cities and counting with this mini modem. The 180-degree rotating hinge fits horizontal and vertical USB ports.
Free (with two-year contract and $50 mail-in-rebate) plus $59.99 per month for unlimited 4G data and 5GB over 3G; www.sprint.com

Inside, there’s plenty of storage for all your gear, complete with a padded laptop compartment lined with a breathable mesh fabric. The exterior is lined with water-resistant black or brown fabric. The best part: a limited lifetime warranty.
$44.99; www.targus.com

Available in five sizes and three graphic designs, these earbuds feature noise-isolating technology for a comfortable fit that helps block out the din around you.
$29.99; ultimateears.com

As a central hub for storage, this 1TB network drive can hold and share tons of files, photos, songs, and videos from multiple PCs. It's also easy to access your home media when you’re away through Myverbatim.com.
$229; www.verbatim.com

It’s easier than ever to take all your data with you wherever you go with this portable hard drive. Simply choose the size and color—Arctic White, Cool Silver, Midnight Black, Pacific Blue, or Real Red—to fit your style. It comes with automatic backup software and both password protection and hardware encryption.
$69.99 (250GB), $89.99 (320GB), $109 (500GB), $139 (640GB); www.westerndigital.com

Turn any business card, document, driver’s license, or receipt into a digital file in seconds with this USB-powered portable scanner. Then export the data into Outlook, or view them as searchable PDFs.
$179; www.xeroxscanners.com

You don't have to spend a bundle to listen in comfort. These silicone caps fit on top of your existing buds for a snug fit. If you send the site a photo of your ear, Yurbuds will size the enhancers for you.
$19.99; www.yurbuds.com

Two 50-mm fans pull fresh air into a chamber inside the NC2500 Plus to help keep your laptop cool. But it’s the extra features that make this accessory special: three USB 2.0 ports and a 2.5-inch SATA hard drive mounting bay make room for extra storage while you work. $59.99; www.zalman.com

The Shed from MissionWorkshop feels like it could hold everything, and the kitchen sink, and might just be a bike messenger's wet dream. To call this messenger bag on the larger side is an understatement. It can hold a 17-inch laptop with room to spare, along with space for any other gear--shoes, lunch, household appliances, a six-pack--that you might have. Aside from the main compartment, there are an array of inside zipper and velcro pockets to store your gear, like most bags. Unlike most bags though, the front flap can be clipped shut or folded over to resist rain penetration and offer easy access to the inside pockets. MissionWorkshop calls this made-in-America case weatherproof, and the water-resistant urethane coated zippers and truck-tarp nylon liner made us a believer. The exterior is available in black, gray, Olive, red, and tan. The padded shoulder strap is reversible, and sports a removable stabilizing chest-strap. The Shed Messenger bag comes with a lifetime warranty, and can be had for $179 via MissionWorkshop's website.