Notebook bags and sleeves

Buying guide

Start with your laptop's screen size, but bear in mind that a 15.6" bag won't fit every 15.6" laptop equally well – compare the actual length and width of the body, especially if the machine is older and thicker. A backpack spreads the weight across both shoulders and suits everyday carrying; a shoulder bag looks more formal but loads one side. The inner compartment should be softly padded and raised off the bottom so the laptop never takes a direct hit from the pavement. "Water-resistant" usually means "survives the rain", not "survives a dunk".