A laptop is a necessary tool for any working professional. But your computer is not the only item that needs to reside in your bag. Several other essentials must also be in there, including other electronics (such as the wireless mouse and digital pen), papers and other items that you might need during a day out in the field.
When choosing a laptop bag must-haves, look for one with dedicated pockets and compartments that keep your tech organized. This will help you to find what you need quickly and prevent you from wasting time searching for things. You’ll also want to consider the material and quality of the zippers and closures. You’ll want a bag that can withstand wear and tear.
Another key consideration is how easy it is to get to your laptop. If you fly frequently, for example, then having a bag with an external access point for the laptop pocket is important so that you can easily pass through TSA security and avoid the hassle of taking everything out of the main compartment before you board the plane or train. An extra-padded laptop pocket and a sleeve that can fit a tablet are also nice features to have.
The Incase Icon is a great laptop bag option that offers plenty of protection and organization for your gear. Its dedicated laptop pocket includes a suspension system, which means that the bottom of the sleeve sits elevated above the back of the pack to prevent impact damage. It also includes a secondary, moderately padded sleeve for a tablet. If you want a backpack that offers similar protection but in a more traditional design, then the Timbuk2 Authority Deluxe is a solid choice.
An external USB-C port is a useful feature to have in your laptop bag, especially if you’re using an external monitor or want to connect a portable hard drive or keyboard. Most modern bags offer a spot for an external USB-C, and the Icon’s does as well.
A small flashlight is a handy item to have in your laptop bag, particularly if you’re working outdoors or in dimly lit spaces. You never know when you’ll need it, and a small flashlight can help to light your way in an emergency.
Headphones are an indispensable accessory to have in your laptop bag, especially a pair with noise-canceling capability. You can use them to block out distracting background noise or to make calls and video conferences more private.
While it might sound counterintuitive in this “paperless age,” you should always have a pad of paper and a writing implement in your bag, just in case. It’s good to have this on hand when you need to take notes or write up a report or presentation on the go.
Finally, you’ll need a power cord and its adapter in your laptop bag, so that you can plug in and get to work. A spare battery is also a good idea, as are some extra cables, such as a USB-C to USB-C cable and an HDMI to USB-C adapter.