Given the security changes regarding laptops, there’s been a request on an internal thread requesting recommended backpacks. I plan to update this particular post with anything I hear from the thread since the folks responding have battle-tested their preferences. I believe real-world experiences are worth something above and beyond the academic reviews we typically see on the syndicated travel blogs. Hopefully you find this useful. Keep your eyes on this post if you’re in the market for a new laptop bag.
The first request makes references to the old Tumi standard, Ogio, Lowe Pro and Spire (http://www.spireusa.com/products/laptop-backpacks.htm) as highly recommended from some friends. The initial guidelines for key requirements were as follows:
Must haves:
- Heavy duty zippers and reinforced seams
- Comes in all black
- TSA friendly (quick release sleeve or foldout)
- Good pocket organization for paper and electrical accessories
Nice to haves:
- Side handle to carry like a brief case
- Cell phone pocket
- Soft iPod/Phone pocket
- Padded straps
Responses:
I’m in love with my Brenthaven backpack: http://www.brenthaven.com/catalog-prostyle-bp-xf.html
Pros: all the features you were looking for, and a lifetime warranty to boot. I had my last Brenthaven for over 9 years, and I got this one for "free" when my old one died.
Cons: quite weighty, even when empty (but you could consider it a workout substitute)
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I currently use an Acegene backpack (http://en.acegene.jp/spec_ev106.html - I have the black version). It fits the majority of the “have’s” listed; however, I’d suggest getting a slightly larger version – the T400 fits inside the backpack but not the padded laptop-designated pocket. It’s worked out fine for me because I end up putting my notebooks/papers in that pocket and laptop outside of it – allows for easier access to my laptop at airport security and such.
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