Laptops can range from ultra-portable models that weigh only around a pound or two, to

desktop replacements that can weigh 10 pounds or more! Laptops of all sizes and weights can be clunky and difficult to carry. They dont usually fit into a purse, and putting them in a briefcase with other stuff can damage them.

Carrying a standard laptop case isnt always a good option, either. For one thing, these bags often arent as secure as youd like. They can easily be snatched off of your shoulder if you arent cautious, and a thief could make off with your computer very quickly.

They can also be very uncomfortable on your shoulder. When you carry a heavy burden on a single shoulder, it can become painful pretty quickly. The load shouldnt be carried on one side. This can throw you off balance and also be damaging to your shoulder.

A better idea is to use a computer backpack. If youre going to be carrying your computer around all day, this is even more essential. You need something that will distribute the weight of the computer more evenly, and a backpack does that.

Since a backpack has two straps, the weight of the computer and its accessories is spread over two shoulders rather than one. This helps keep you balanced, and also helps keep your shoulders safe.

Standard laptop cases are also much easier to steal than backpacks. This is another major concern. Many people have had their cases snatched right off of their shoulders by a thief who then ran quickly into a crowd and disappeared. With a backpack, the thief would have to snatch the bag off of two shoulders. This would be nearly impossible to do without being caught, and most thieves wouldnt bother.

If youre going to buy a backpack for your computer, you might want to get some sort of additional protection for the laptop itself. Backpacks dont offer as much protection against bumps and drops as thicker leather or vinyl cases. You can buy sleeves for many models of laptop. These sleeves offer additional padding, and they offer additional protection against damage while inside the backpack.

When shopping for a backpack for your laptop, you should look for a few key elements. Youll want a roomy backpack that can carry your computer and its accessories. Youll need something that will hold your computer, your adapter, and any accessories like a mouse, external hard drive, alternate keyboard, and other accessories. Plus, you may also want to carry books, your cell phone, cosmetics, or other items.

You may also want to look for a backpack that has a locking mechanism so people cant unzip your backpack and remove items from it while its on your back. Skilled thieves can take items from a backpack without the owner even noticing.

Some backpacks come with a method for securing them built in, but others can be locked with a small padlock. Look for a backpack with two zippers on the same track. These two zippers can meet in the middle and be locked with a padlock that is attached to the holes in the end of each zipper.

Backpacks are a great option for carrying a laptop. They offer casual style for people who may not want the more professional style of a standard laptop case, and they are generally far more comfortable to carry because of their ability to split the weight between both shoulders.



Thanks to David Webb for contributing this article to our backpacks blog:

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