What bag to get
 

Hi there,
I will go on my first big trip pretty soon in may and already getting all my gear together,

I will travel fairly lightly with just a small backpack for all my stuff but will take my laptop with me as I need it. So now I was wondering if anyone could give me a hint on what kind of bag I should get for my laptop?
It will obviously get around a lot and needs to be padded and and easily to be carried around. Not to heavy either. I had a look on sites like this one but not too sure what to get.
What do you think?
Andy recommendations or suggestions?
Cheers.

I don't think it really matters. Any "messenger bag" styled padded case meant for a laptop will be fine. I would shop in person, not online to be able to handle the bag, check the zippers and closers, actually "try it on" like you would clothes, make sure it's comfortable.

I have a small Targus backpack has been around the world with me the last few years. It fits in even the small jet overheads and has been very long wearing.

I think one of the mistakes that people make is buying a huge bag that weighs several pounds empty and is really unyieldy.

Personally, I don't care for messenger-style bags. For me, the backpacks afford better balance and are comfortable for longer periods. I carry two for international trips, one worn on my back and one on my chest.

If you have Marshall's, Ross or TJ Maxx, they often have some nice computer bags at great prices. I agree that you should try to get something that is lightweight.

What do you use now?

It's a good idea to look at ross, tjmax etc, I found a beautiful messenger bag, leather that goes across my body, very comfortable and I use a sleeve with for my laptop. I would take it on vacation with me, if I took my laptop. I don't but it's very handy.

I like wearing what I wear at home and resist buying anything "for travel" as far as a bag or purse. Other than a suitcase, if it's made specifically for travel, I'm not interested.

Not because I'm afraid to look like a tourist, I look like a tourist anyway. Who doesn't? I just think that most bags made for travel are ugly and if I wouldn't carry it at home, why would I carry it when my husband will certainly take my picture holding the thing?

Interesting idea about using 2 backpacks. I would have never thought of that solution.

I agree with L Sky about female and purse/pocketbook. I carry the same one when I travel as I use at home. I hate those "safety travel bags" with the metal-lined straps, a million zippers and pockets, locks, etc. I don't see the point.

I recently bought a Baggalini purse at TJ Maxx. It's very stylish, lightweight and has just enough zipper pockets. At home, I carry smaller purses but when I travel I need a bag with a little more room.

Women and purses! It's so personal, isn't it? When I'm at home I need a larger bag :) I don't have my hubbymule to pack stuff around for me.

I bought a Briggs and Riley bag 9 years ago and it still looks like new. It's a little heavier but nothing terrible (about 3 lbs empty) but the straps (it converts from a rucksack to a messenger bag) are padded and extremely comfortable.

They are fairly expensive but they have an all inclusive warranty for the lifetime of the bag.