Why I always use a backpack instead of notebook case.

There are several reasons I use a backpack over a notebook case:

1. Theft-proof! Well, almost. I use a general UW university purple backpack for transporting my notebook all the time as it is less likely to be stolen than a actual "look at me" notebook case! They steal notebooks all the time, some crooks work in teams. Why let them "case" you out?

2. Convenience! Carrying your laptop and other mobile gear in a laptop backpack frees up your hands and can make it easier to get through crowded areas.

3. For motorbikes/petal bikes. I had an accident once with a motorbike, (car pulled out in front of me, I went over car) in the Philippines, landed on backpack, saved me, not the notebook. Another time, I had a mountain bike accident in USA, again fell on backpack, this time the area in the front where I kept the mouse etc was smashed, but notebook survived.

4. Personalize! There are thousands of backpack styles/colors. You can pick out one that fits what you like and your personality. This is the one I'm thinking of getting for my next backpack: Maxxum Computer Backpack (RED) by Wenger SwissGear - Maker of the Genuine Swiss Army Knife:
http://www.buy.com/prod/maxxum-comp...ker-of-the-genuine/q/loc/16234/202080044.html

5. Waterproof it!!! Oh yes you will get caught in rain sometime! Unless you pay well over $100, there is no such thing as a 'water-resistant' fabric (what a joke). My solution?
A Raincoat for your notebook-toting backpack
https://www.radtech.us/Products/Backpacks/RainCoat.aspx

My backpack? I've had this backpack for 5 years now! I can put in my notebook, books, clearwire router, mouse, cleaning gear and more!

 

Its nice to see someone from the seattle area on this forum.
do you still go to the UW? i was thinking of going there next fall.

anyways, i agree. i have always used my backpack for carrying my laptops, its alot easier and can fit alot more stuff

 

Yep, I prefer backpacks over carrying cases and sling bags etc. They just aren't as convenient.

 

Aww... now I gotta give away my age!
I went to UW back in 74-78. Loved it. I still go to the Husky football games.
I lived in Lynnwood for awhile a few years ago. Nice area. I like their Mall. I bought a house in Tacoma a couple years ago.

 

I also like the backpack idea too. That why I always been using a backpack instead of the case. I used one from work but is enough to fit my lappy.

 

I like the backpack as well, it's much more comfortable and you seem less suspicious than with an actual briefcase type bag.

jack.. I like that link you posted from maxxum - thinking about grabbing it!

 

I love using a backpack instead also. I ride my bike to uni and back daily, and have tried with a laptop bag type thing. terrible, and it got soaked from the back tyre in rain.

Now with a backpack (just a cheap, ebay black rucksack), I can fit everything i need, and no need for an extra bag for books etc, and its closer to my body with less moveemnt infuenced by legs.

 

I use a Pelican Case as it holds up much better than a soft case or a backpack against the bicyclists and taxicabs.

 

I really hope someone from your school is reading this and steal your notebook LMAO jking

 

Not funny!

I'm safe as I graduated in 1978.

 

wow you're old. found the fountain of youth?

 

Mostly true.

The same can be said for messenger-type bags. In fact, those are easier to get around, since you don't have your bag smashing into people around you when you turn around.

Only if you land on your back, and it's more comfortable to ride with a messenger bag.

Other notebbok cases/bags are customizable too. Check out Timbuk2's bags.

Personally, I'd be embarrassed to travel with something like that, lol.

 

WOW! that would make you 130 year old.....o assume that was a typo

 

When your on a bike and it is pouring rain... who cares what you or the bag looks like! LOL

 

Well, I broke down and got me a backpack since my other one is 5 years old and purple don't match my notebook. LOL

 

Didn't get the Maxxum I see.

Anyway +1 on backpacks and +1 for Swiss Gear...great quality bags and reasonable price. I have a Synergy myself which is a little more low key IMHO (no bright red).

http://www.buy.com/prod/synergy-lap...aker-of-the-genuine/q/loc/16234/10393071.html

 

First choice was the black/red Wenger SwissGear one, but I got mine on sale locally for $20... couldn't beat that.

 

http://www.mec.ca/Products/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524442545299&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302699713&bmUID=1205790945476
That's what I have, and I honestly believe it is the best backpack available, considering price, utility, and style. MEC only though.