You need a proper laptop case, not because carrying a laptop computer by itself makes you look like a nerd, but because the laptop is only one part of a larger collection of stuff that you need to take on the road with you. Further, the laptop needs a comfy storage place to protect it from damage and disguise it from thieves. Getting the proper laptop case is just a darn good idea.
Avoid the manufacturer's case
Many laptop manufacturers provide a case for their laptop systems as a bonus or extra. Generally speaking, such a case is probably the worst choice you can make.
Manufacturers generally give you a case in either of two extremes. They may provide you with something that they call a "case" but is really little more than a zippered pouch. That's just cheap and shameful. If they don't give you too little, manufacturers give you too much case. They go overboard on size and give you something hulking and huge.
The bottom line with manufacturer's laptop cases is that they just don't give you any choice. Unless you research laptop cases and the manufacturer happens to offer one of the brand-name cases that agrees with you, just set aside any notion of getting a name-brand computer manufacturer's case.
Features to look for in a case
So, what features do you want to look for when buying a laptop case? Here's a list:
- Does your laptop fit into the case? The case doesn't need a compartment designed to fit your specific laptop. Instead, you want to make sure that your laptop does fit comfortably inside the case and that the case can close easily with the laptop inside.
- Get a soft case. Not something hard like the traditional briefcase. The soft cases tend to hold the laptop more securely, whereas a laptop can get jostled around inside a hard case.
- Does the case have plenty of pouches? You need pouches for storing accessories, office supplies, discs, manuals, Altoids, year-old receipts, and other things that you plan on carrying around with you.
- Consider a case that opens to display two large and separate areas. You can slide your laptop into one and put paper, notepads, or computer accessories into the other area.
- Look for extras. Extra pouches, clips, and such work well for holding various office supplies. You can also use them for smuggling.
- Zippers! Zippers work better than snaps, buckles, or latches.
- Look into an easy-access pouch. Having this pouch on the case's outside helps with storing important documents and other information that you may need to grab quickly.
- A carrying handle is a must. Also consider a shoulder strap.
- A backpack can also make a great laptop carrying case. And shouldering the backpack keeps both your arms and hands free. That way, you can hold your boarding pass in one hand and slap-up the airport counter help with the other.
The idea behind your laptop bag is to safely carry and protect the laptop while you're traveling, plus it needs to carry all your laptop toys and other related goodies. Go nuts on the extra features if you must. But, honestly, if you can find a solidly made case, bag, or backpack that does what you need, you're set.
