Shoulder bag vs Backpack ?

[xPismo]

If you are going to be carrying heavy stuff around w/you (like text books or something) I'd go for the backpack...

As would I. I'm looking at a good shoulder bag but really, with all the stuff I have to carry for school, it would either be huge and dig into my neck or to small and I'd have to hand carry some books.... probably with a leather belt around them.

That would be kinda cool.

Anyway, yeah. Kelty Redwing 2900 backpack for me. Its the business.

 

[mattster16]

I've always used a backpack, but just yesterday I got my TIMBUK2 Commute and I really like it a lot, it's much nicer and better looking than it appears online. It has a built in corduroy lined, padded laptop compartment. I've only carried it for a day but I just walked 20 min to and from a class with it.

Messenger bags do look better and more stylish, but a backpack is much better for your back as it distributes the weight.

Haven't yet decided which protects your laptop better...but I am concerned about it bouncing against me as I walk.

If, like me, you carry a couple notebooks, your laptop, and a textbook (and of course your essential TI-89) then I'd go with a messenger. Otherwise go with a backpack.

Whichever you get try to find something with a built in computer compartment, then you don't have to worry about purchasing a sleeve.