<p>I'm looking to buy something where I could carry my laptop in. I'm commuting presumably I'd be interested in something that could carry the laptop and a few extra books if I need to. Would you guys recommend a backpack or a one of those shoulder/carrying case (the ones with the strap across your chest)?</p>
<p>they're called messenger bags. </p>
<p>um, i don't have a specific brand or anything to suggest. i have a targus backpack. swiss bags are nice. just go to office depot or a tech store and they should have plenty to chose from.</p>
<p>Ahh yes. Well I was looking online thru newegg. Rarely do I buy anything at the store nowadays since I can find it cheaper online. I just don't know what would be better, a messenger bag or a backpack. Or is there no difference at all?</p>
<p>"swiss bags are nice" -current_studnet
i agree.mine's pink.what about urs?</p>
<p>i don't have one. i have targus. i was gonna get a swiis but the one i wanted was kind of expensive.</p>
<p>BP,</p>
<p>i find messenger backs for books and laptops and other heavier materials are annyoing. and you can't ride a bike comfortable with one. so i have a backpack with a laptop compartment built in. also, i know people say back packs are bad for you, but mesenger bags are actually worse b/c the weight is concentrated and uneven...for heavy loads. </p>
<p>i find backpacks more comfy, but i guess messenger bags or more fashionable at time. eh.</p>
<p>I like messenger bags, but they are a lot harder to carry heavy loads. if it's just for your laptop or a couple books try one, but if you'll be carrying a lot of books around with the laptop get a backpack.</p>
<p>Get a backpack. Messanger bags are not good for your back, especially with a heavy load in them
Around here Northface and Jansport seem to be the popular brands
I have a laptop sleeve for my laptop. I just zip the laptop into it and it provides a little extra support for it, before I slide it into my backpack with other stuff.</p>
<p>Timbuktu have the best messenger bags and they are always on sale at <a href="http://www.ebags.com%5B/url%5D">www.ebags.com</a> I got both of my kids the classic for them to use at their colleges this fall. My son got the medium and my daughter got the small. They have a nice computer bag with padding. Just look at the reviews!</p>
<p>BP, get this:
<a href="http://www.targus.com/us/product_details.asp?sku=TVS200%5B/url%5D">http://www.targus.com/us/product_details.asp?sku=TVS200</a></p>
<p>This bag is a dream come true. It's soft and squishy and holds the bare essentials for your laptop (ie, your laptop and its charger). It can fit easily and safely into a backpack because it's light but cushioning. This is much easier to carry than a messenger in my opinion.</p>
<p>Backpacks are far more practical and useful, messenger bags look much cooler and are funner to carry (until it gets too heavy and the shoulder its on begins to ache). </p>
<p>There are many threads that are like this if you'd like to take a trip back into CC messageboard history. I remember the consesus on them being that backpacks are preferable, for ease, usefulness and comfort. Messenger bags got points mostly just for their look.</p>
<p>I have a messenger bag, myself. I don't care if its not as pragmatic as a backpack. It looks good.</p>