Backpack vs Messenger for College

Hey All!
I was wondering what is a better option for a college student- a backpack or messenger? I will need something for a 12.1 or 15.4 inch screen and will be doing a lot of biking and walking too. Waterproofing is also a concern to me as I do not want to get my computer wet when its raining outside and i need to go from one class to another. I'll probably need to store a textbook or two in there too along with the usual supplies so Im guessing that a backpack would make more sense but I'd like any comments from people who have tried these various cases and have opinions.
Thanks!

 

I think a backpack will make more sense. Considering most messenger bags can only fit a few sheets of paper (and not a thick textbook), and you plan to be carrying textbooks around, go for a backpack.

 

I would recommend either a laptop backpack or a regular backpack paired with a notebook sleeve. Depending on what classes you're taking, you won't need the computer in some courses. I don't generally bring my laptop to classes; I feel better taking hand-written notes and copying over later. When I do bring my computer to class I use a T-shirt with the head and armholes sewn shut. Ghetto, yes; but it works to keep the finish shiney.

A messenger bag will likely not hold enough stuff, as mentioned by Sam. It's also hard to fit a case of beer in a messenger bag.

 

I would also recommend the backpack. I spent the last 2 years cycling 15 miles a day too and from college with a 5Kg laptop on my back for most of my trips. I carried a huge ring folder with me in this bag and didnt have any problems with the weight.

I also tried it with a messenger back, just about managed to get the laptop in and it realy hurt my sholder + on a bike its suicide.

Defo go for the backpack, im gettin myself a pakuma bag for University for my new laptop.

 

back pack....i just purchased the north face "surge"
http://www.ebags.com/the_north_face/surge/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=75824

 

I bought a STM large loop backpack for my future 17" laptop if that is any help. padding is decent and you even get to pad the bottom of the backpack a little more thanks to a plastic insert they give you.

For 15.4" laptops, if you ABSOLUTELY don't want the laptop to break even after some intense bashing, it would probably be good to buy a brenthaven backpack.

I have also looked at the booq python/boa backpacks and they look like they are pretty good too, albeit a little expensive... didn't look too much into it though because of the price tag (the python has a ton of space)

 

Thank you all very much for your responses. I think I will go with a backpack based laptop case. It does make much more sense compared to a messenger which might store that and a few pieces of paper. Its too bad that most of the laptop bags are in or around the neighboring price of $100. Guess I'll look around to see if there are good buys around. Maybe I'll check out targus or newegg for bags. If you guys have any other ops, please share them.
Cheers!

 

That Pakuma looks like a great bag for my Dell 1720. Hopefully it will fit all my books as well. Its a bit steep at $110 for the Akara K3, but well worth the peace of mind.

Edit:

Mistah C,
You might want to check out Sears. I was going to buy a Wegner bag from there until I found out it wouldn't fit my laptop. $50 (orig price $100) I believe it is online too.

 

The Samsonite Urbanite backpack is an option. Buy.com has it for $29 or so.

 

Check out BBP. Its a "hybrid". Luv mine. messenger bag with a "harness" system