Posted: 10/9/2009 7:58:45 AM EDT
|
I'm a University student in an urban area and therefore walk/bike or take trains around the city. I also travel frequently by plane and would like a pack that is large enough to fit a weekend's worth of clothing while still being a carry-on bag. And lastly, a laptop compartment would be very nice. My cheap 'ol bookbag does alright for now, but its too small for the weekend trips and is pretty beat up by now.
Budget is in the 100 dollar range, though saving money is always nice. But I also don't mind spending a few more dollars if its really worth it. Thanks for the help. |
|
You can get a laptop-oriented bag or get a bag that you can stuff a laptop in.
I carry my laptop in a padded sleeve that fits well inside just about any backpack, offers more (IMO) padding than many laptop-specific compartments, and doesn't commit the bag to being a "laptop bag" Look at Maxpedition, particularly the Falcon, or Kelty (I like the Map 3500) |
|
I use a North Face Big Shot. It will fit up to a 17" laptop and has internal dividers that would work well for a school bag.
The pack has got more of an athletic fit than most laptop bags, if that makes sense. It will stay pretty secure when you're biking. I actually ran all the way across O'Hare with it last night; the looooong fucking hallway to customs, customs, terminal change, security, and to the gate in just under 30 min. 
|
|
Camelbak, take out the water bag and store your laptop in its compartment. My 15" macbook fits in there securely and the bag doesnt scream "laptop inside, steal me!"
I have a motherlode, works great as a go to school, work or weekend bag. I took off the waist and chest harnesses since Im not using it for hiking. |
|
For around $100, if you want true "urban camouflage", try a TIMBUK2 bicycle messenger bag. You can have them made with a built-in padded laptop compartment, and the large bag is LARGE. I can carry a laptop, associated work gear (notes, adapters, etc), 1911, and 2 days worth of extra clothing with little difficulty. Plus, you can have them custom made from a selection of materials/colors.
/TCP |
|
RAID Pack by ATS. Or their COBRA pack if you want something smaller. ACU ones are on clearance for $55. |
|
DAKINE Tactic Backpack - 1500cu in
$49.99 http://www.steepandcheap.com/ 
|