Laptop Carrying Cases and Bags

Sleeve, shoulder bag or backpack: how you carry decides

A sleeve is a slim padded envelope that slides into a bigger bag; it guards against scratches but offers little protection on its own. A shoulder or messenger bag adds pockets and suits short commutes. A backpack spreads weight across both shoulders and is the better choice for a long walk or a heavy charger and books. Hard cases resist impact and crushing, but add bulk. Some bags have a checkpoint-friendly section that unzips and lays flat, which helps when you travel through airport security.

Fit by screen diagonal, then check the body and the materials

Start with the screen size, but treat it as a range: a case for 15.6 inch laptops may take 15 to 16 inch models, while a thick or large-bezel machine needs more room. Compare the inside dimensions with your laptop's width, depth and thickness, and allow space for the charger. Polyester and nylon are light and usually resist light rain, and neoprene stretches around the laptop but cushions less. Look for padded corners and a laptop pocket raised off the base. Some listings are tablet cases, so confirm the size refers to a laptop.

Questions about Laptop Carrying Cases and Bags

How do I size a laptop case?

Start with your laptop's screen size, then compare the case's inside dimensions with the laptop's width, depth and thickness. Cases list ranges such as 14 to 15.6 inch, and a thick or large-bezel model may need the larger size.

Is a sleeve enough protection?

A sleeve protects against scratches and light knocks and works well inside a backpack or briefcase. On its own it gives little protection from drops, so choose a padded bag or hard case if you carry the laptop loose.

What does a checkpoint-friendly laptop bag mean?

It is a bag whose laptop section unzips and lies flat, so the laptop can be scanned without taking it out at some airport checkpoints. Rules differ between airports, so you may still be asked to remove the laptop.