Guide

How to Choose a Laptop Bag

When purchasing a new laptop, you might not realize how important it is for you to consider appropriate accessories. One of them is a stylish laptop bag, which promises to protect your precious possession when you are on the go. Without a bag, your laptop is exposed to potential risks such as theft and physical damage.

Do not rush into the decision and think about the features you value in accessories. Our guide will explore these details and help you choose the right laptop bag.

Which Style of Laptop Bag Should I Choose?

Depending on your lifestyle and personal taste, you will have to choose a laptop bag to match it:

  • People who commute a lot daily will benefit the most from a backpack or shoulder bag, which can be easily carried around. If you commute by bike, it is better to choose a shoulder bag because it is easier to access on and off the bike. You will also not feel the heat on your back as compared to a backpack.

  • Travelers should look for an oversized backpack with a secure laptop compartment since you will have more storage capacity.

  • When it comes to gender preference, men might prefer a leather messenger bag or briefcase for work-related occasions. For a more casual look, you should pick a softer material such as canvas.

  • Women, on the other hand, might want something, which will go with all their outfits. A good choice is a stylish laptop tote bag, which is considered more elegant.

Classic Black Laptop Shoulder Bag
Business Briefcase Laptop Bag
Leather Canvas Laptop Messenger Bag
Slim Laptop Shoulder Bag with Handle
Pink Laptop Briefcase Bag
Slim Handbag Laptop Sleeve in Grey

What Size Should the Laptop Bag be?

The most crucial mistake you can make is choosing the wrong dimensions for your laptop bag. It is important because the better your laptop fits in the bag, the better protection it has. Here are a few tips to consider:

  • Do not look at the overall size of the bag. Notice the dimensions of the laptop compartment.

  • If you are planning to purchase a laptop bag in a store, all you need to do is bring your laptop with you.

  • However, buying a bag online can be trickier if you cannot measure your laptop. In this case look up the specific model of laptop you have and check the dimensions the retailer has given.

  • Sometimes, retailers state in the description that the bag would fit any 15.6-inch model laptop, but you should always check if they have included exceptions.

  • Sellers will include information such as the internal and external dimensions of the bag. The internal dimensions refer to the actual internal size without the foam. As for external ones, they refer to the size including the foam and the overall size. These measurements are important if you consider traveling by plane.

12 inch White Laptop Case
Pink Shoulder Laptop Bag 16 inch
Large 17 Inch Laptop Briefcase Bag in Black

Which Materials are Most Durable for Laptop Bags?

A high-quality laptop bag is constructed with durable materials:

Nylon

To create nylon, it needs to go through the process called synthetic polymers, which makes for its natural characteristics such as resistance to abrasion and water-resistance. Its only drawback is that if exposed to the sun for long periods of time, the colors fade. You need to also notice the denier rating of nylon. Denier measures the thickness of the material and the higher the denier is, the more durable nylon is.

Canvas

Canvas is an extremely durable plain-woven fabric, but it is not water-resistant naturally. However, it can have that feature when wax is added to the topcoat. Canvas is preferred material for laptop tote bags because it makes for a lightweight bag.

Polyester

Polyester is commonly used for bags; however, it is not as durable as nylon. The material might be a cheaper alternative, but it will still hold the color well, dry quickly and withstand minor damage.

Neoprene

Neoprene is a type of synthetic rubber and can withstand a wide range of temperatures. It has gained more popularity nowadays and has become a favorite amongst laptop users.

Leather

Genuine leather and faux leather laptop bags are both tough and can last you a long time if cared for properly. Leather offers excellent protection and add an extra touch of style to your outfit. The only drawback is that leather cannot be waterproof.

Black Nylon Slim Laptop Bag
Nylon Water Resistant Briefcase Laptop Case
Polyester Grey Laptop Bag
Black Leather Laptop Messenger Bag
Rustic Brown Leather Laptop Messenger Bag
Fabric Canvas Laptop Sleeve Case in Light Grey

What are the best Laptop Bag Designs?

There is a reason behind people's back and shoulder pain when it comes to backpacks. For you to minimize this stress, you need to look for ergonomic features:

  • A curved line at the back of your backpack will help support your back.

  • Shoulder straps should be wide and padded to reduce the stress on your shoulders.

  • A good weight balance distribution means the laptop compartment should be at the back, which will help you with your posture.

  • A mesh back panel allows air to circulate and provides comfort when sweating occurs.

  • Many retailers would claim a laptop messenger bag or tote bag can be ergonomic, however, it will still lack a good weight balance distribution. A few ways to make a shoulder laptop bag ergonomic is to choose one made of lightweight materials and wide padded shoulder straps.

Shoulder Messenger Laptop Bag with Pocket
Rolling Protective Laptop Bag
Premium Leather Laptop Sleeve Case with Handle
Floral Shoulder Laptop Bag
Shoulder Bag for Laptop with Handle
Handbag Sleeve Case with Shoulder Strap

What Features Should a Laptop bag Possess?

  • A waterproof bag is labeled that ways since a single drop of water cannot penetrate through the material. These bags are the most expensive and limited but provide the best waterproof features.

  • A water-repelled or water-resistant bag is a cheaper alternative and is created by fabrics, which are tightly woven and coated with a finish. However, if there is a downpour, water can seep through the zippers or holes in the seams.

  • You should also look for anti-theft features. Choose a laptop bag with lockable and durable metal zippers and hidden pockets to keep your valuables safe. A new digital anti-theft feature you can benefit from isan RPID blocking compartment, which will block thieves from scanning your documents and credit cards.

  • Other technology-related features you can take advantage of are an external USB charging port and a headphone port.

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