MatthewA laptop bag includes one of the most critical pieces of equipment you will ever buy. A good laptop bag can also be a lot of work. To help, this article provides features to look for when shopping for your next laptop bag.
Quality construction
Quality construction is the most crucial feature of a laptop bag. It’s not enough that a bag looks the part; it needs to hold up after long use. That means that the material should be sturdy and weatherproof, able to withstand being thrown around and drenched with rain if you’re caught in an unexpected storm on your commute from work. Buttons, zippers, and webbing should be functional and ideally made of metal or plastic instead of flimsy synthetic fabrics prone to ripping and fraying.
Padded compartments
A laptop bag is undoubtedly more than just a box to store your computer in, but that doesn’t mean it can’t double as such when needed. Look for a bag with padding along the sides and back, ensuring that your laptop is safely cushioned and won’t be damaged by other items in your bag if you set it down unexpectedly on the ground. Stylish bags should also have compartments or slots for carrying other accessories like cell phones and chargers, as well as pens, papers, and other work-related knick-knacks you don’t want to lose track of.
Deep front pockets
Beyond the padded compartments for your laptop and other items, look for bags with deep front pockets so you can stash smaller accessories or bulky but essential items like extra AC adapter cords, external hard drives, or a road-worthy mouse pad. Having these essentials at the ready will save you time and frustration when you’re unloading your bag during a hectic day at work.
Comfortable straps and back support
A laptop bag is an accessory you wear on your back, so it needs to be comfortable no matter how heavy the load. Look for bags with comfortable straps that are wide enough to distribute weight evenly across your shoulders but not too wide to slip off when you bend over. The bag should also have a rigid or stand-up back, keeping it in place when you’re on the go.
Waterproof material
A laptop bag can double as a raincoat or keep your computer dry, depending on how often and heavily you use it. Look for bags made of waterproof material to protect your hardware from the elements when you’re stepping out of the door with wet hair or no umbrella in hand.
A good laptop bag is more than a pocket space for transporting your computer and accessories. A great bag should protect your hardware from the elements, have ample storage for your essentials when you’re on the go, and last you for years without breaking or fraying.
