A laptop is not just a reliable assistant during work hours but also a great companion during leisure. If you plan to take your laptop on trips for work or just playing Dragon Slots in the evening, it’s important to ensure its safety and avoid unintentional crash tests during the journey. Laptop bags or specialized backpacks can help with this.
Let’s explore how to choose the right option, what to consider when buying, and some useful tips.
Types of Laptop Bags
Sleeves and Folders: Minimalist and Compact
The most common and straightforward option is sleeves or folders, which are convenient for carrying your laptop in hand. These are compact and lightweight but usually provide minimal protection. Some options come in denser or waterproof materials, offering better safety. Leather or faux leather versions provide decent protection and are affordable, though the price often depends on the material and brand.
Downside: Most folders don’t have space for accessories like a USB mouse or charger.
If the model has a pocket or some extra space, it can fit a USB Type-C cable with a small plug. However, a standard charger will likely need to be carried separately.
Classic Laptop Bags: Practical and Spacious
Another popular option is classic laptop bags with pockets or additional compartments. These can come in briefcase styles with small handles or messenger bags with shoulder straps. They usually provide more protection than folders, but the level of safety depends on the material, presence of securing straps, and padding for edges and corners.
For extra durability, consider hard-shell bags made of plastic. These resemble small suitcases with reinforced frames, shock-resistant designs, and straps to secure the device. Many models also feature zippered compartments for accessories or documents.
Camera Backpacks: Versatile and Safe
Another innovative idea for safe laptop storage is camera backpacks. Originally designed for transporting fragile gadgets like cameras, flashes, tripods, and lenses, these bags often have compartments that can fit laptops, small notebooks, or tablets.
Rolling Bags: Hybrid Option
Although not specifically designed for laptops, rolling bags with extendable handles can be a great choice for gadget transportation.
Important Tip: Look for models with flat, wide compartments where your laptop fits snugly without moving around.
Main Advantage: These bags can carry both your laptop and luggage. By combining them with a sturdy sleeve or folder, you can achieve high levels of protection. This is particularly useful for bumpy bus rides or when your bag is handled on airport conveyor belts.
How to Choose the Right Bag
Size Matters
No matter the type or material, the most important parameter is the size. The most common bags are designed for 15- and 16-inch laptops, as these sizes dominate the market.
Check your laptop’s documentation or search for its dimensions online to find a bag that fits perfectly. A loose bag won’t protect your device effectively.
Combined Protection
For extra safety, consider combining options — for example, placing your laptop in a sleeve or shock-resistant case before storing it in a backpack with suitable compartments.
Climate Considerations
Think about the climate of your destination.
- If you expect high humidity, such as during a rainy season or near the sea, opt for waterproof materials.
- Sand and dust can damage your laptop too, so a hard-shell case that closes tightly is ideal in such conditions.
- For long trips with multiple stops or uneven roads, shock-resistant options are your best bet.
Extra Tips
- Dust Protection: Invest in dust plugs for your laptop’s ports. These small accessories prevent sand, dust, and accidental splashes from causing damage when you’re near the beach or pool.
- Separate Storage for Gadgets: If you’re carrying multiple devices like cameras, tablets, or external hard drives, keep each in its own case or bag. Even a plastic power bank in the same bag as your laptop can cause scratches or dents.
- Accessory Placement: Place accessories like chargers and cables in your main luggage, away from gadgets. This protects both the accessories and your laptop.
- Emergency Packing Hack: If you’re short on time and don’t have the right bag, use a simple trick: wrap your laptop in a clean, dry towel and place it in a backpack or laptop bag that doesn’t quite fit your model. This minimizes movement and provides a soft protective layer against accidental bumps or falls.