Quick question about laptop bags

They fall into couple categories. Laptop bag you carry with one hand...messenger bags...and backpacks. I ruled out backpacks because it isn't really suitable in my profession. I like messenger bags but with a 6 pound laptop, I'm worried it sways too much and bounces off of my body (which it does with my current messenger bag (not made for laptops though). Is it better to carry it with your hand? Or are laptop messenger bags supposed to be tighter against the body and I'm using it too low.

Any reccomendations? I'm eyeing this one right now.

Amazon.com : Samsonite Classic Three Gusset Lg Toploader (Black) : Laptop & Netbook Computer Messenger Bags : Electronics

or

Amazon.com: Samsonite Classic Two Gusset 17" Toploader (Black): Computers & Accessories

Laptop I'm using is Lenovo Y510 15.6 inch. Don't really know the difference between three and two gusset either, or what a gusset is, even after googling it.

 

They will always bounce somewhat, but with the padding of a laptop messenger bag, it isn't an issue. The only way it would be an issue is if the laptop was on with the hard drive spinning when it's in the bag. At 6lbs, I'd switch which should you carry the bag on each week. I'd get a shoulder bag for a 15" or 16" laptop, not a 17", you'd be surprised at how long those things can be. They just look awkward. The other option open to you is to find a sleeve that you can use for your laptop and use that in any messenger bag that you like.

I carried notebooks in a messenger bag for years and they never broke because of that.

 

Look at Hazard 4 messenger bags. They have several options with various shoulder straps combinations.

 

I have also used messenger bags for years and the bouncing/swaying has never affected it. I even used a cheap aeropostale one from when i was in high school for 2 years of college... lol

 

The solution is partially to carry it higher up - this also means less shoulder / backstrain with a heavier notebook than letting it dangle. Actual messenger bags will allow you to do this but not the types you linked.



Gusset = probably number of expanding internal compartments.

 

Messenger bags are versatile. Messenger bags typically feature a long, adjustable shoulder strap that can be worn over one shoulder or over the head diagonally across the body. They can be used for many purposes and carried in several different ways.

 

Ok, what I'm getting here is that I'm wearing it wrong, and that the bags I've linked won't be worn well, but not many people have had problems with messenger bags.

Also, with a 15.6 inch laptop, i SHOULD get a 15.6 inch bag, since 17 inch will be way too big. Any recommendations? Willing to spend ~$50

 

Amazon.com : Samsonite Classic Three Gusset Lg Toploader (Black) : Laptop & Netbook Computer Messenger Bags : Electronics

or

Amazon.com: Samsonite Classic Two Gusset 17" Toploader (Black): Computers & Accessories

Laptop I'm using is Lenovo Y510 15.6 inch. Don't really know the difference between three and two gusset either, or what a gusset is, even after googling it.[/QUOTE]

I like the bags that you`ve chosen. Cool. Different handle options, nice fabric.

 

Interesting bag. What's the name of those "real" messenger bags? Or have any you suggest?

 

Chrome make very popular 'actual messenger' bags. Men's Messenger Bags | Laptop Messenger Bag | Chrome Industries
A little outside of your budget, but likely worth it.

A little more expensive still in some cases, but Mission Workshop is a brand I like and they're formed of the original guys who started Chrome, who apparently felt the new buyers had gone a little 'corporate' - so as soon as their noncompete expired, they started another business. Weatherproof messenger bags made in the USA with a lifetime warranty.

The pic I linked to is the Acronym 3A-5TSR - I have a couple as my ready bags outfitted with different accessories (and different NFC tags), along with the less garish 3A-5TS. However pockets alone for the 3A-5TSR can be >$150, the detachable laptop sleeve is a >$200 extra, and the 5TSR's themselves are ~$800 each - so probably not what you're interested in.

For any all-day portages of heavier notebooks with everyday detritus though I do think a backpack is a better prospect - better for your back and shoulders after a long day. There are some out there which don't look too terrible in a 'professional' element, such as the GR1 (but again, not that cheap).

Messengers are more for where you value quick access throughout the day, especially on the Acronyms which have many cool features to help in this regard.