When you’re a student, it seems like everything you buy has to serve more than one purpose. Students are usually on a pretty limited budget and every dollar has to stretch that extra mile. So, if like many students today, when it came time to purchase a laptop, you chose a 17 inch model so you could use it for school work, plus use it for gaming and watching videos and even TV. 17 inch laptops have their own unique challenges though – primarily when it comes to transporting them safely. In this article we’ll discuss a few tips and tricks to finding great 17 in laptop bags.
What’s Your Style?
What kind of 17″ laptop bags will work best for you? Decide what your preferences are in advance to make shopping a snap. Do you need room for folders, pens, pencils, and a cell phone? Or are you looking just for a padded way to carry just your laptop? Make a list of the features that are most important to you. If you’re travelling to and from classes on a regular basis – likely the weight of the bag should be a major consideration. 17 inch laptops are not light in and of themselves, so you probably don’t want to add to the burden by purchasing a heavy duty 17 laptop bag.
Where to Go to Get Your Gear
Local retailers will most likely have one or two 17 inch laptop bags to choose from. If you’re not picky about style and convenience is more important than price, you can probably make a quick trip to a big box retailer and pick one up. If you want to find particular laptop bags 17 inch then it will probably be better to do a little research in advance.
Browse the internet to find styles and models you like best. Note prices. If you’re curious about the features of the bag, call a few local retailers to see if they carry it so you can look at it in person. While you’ve got the salesperson on the phone, ask them what their price is. That way you can comparison shop local stores without having to go anywhere to do it.
Another great place to look is the student bookstore. Often you can get a student discount if you show your ID. Before you shop at the student bookstore however, have a good idea of the price range you can find online so you can identify right away whether buying at the student bookstore is really a better deal.
Try it Out
Whether you buy online or from a local store, be sure to test-drive your bag before you cut off the tags. Load the bag up, and carry it around your dorm for a few minutes to get the feel of it. Check for quality workmanship and look for any signs of strain at the seams. The last thing you want is for the 17″ laptop bag seams or handle to give way as you’re walking to class.
Check the padding, make sure your laptop is fully cushioned in the bag. Also, how comfortable is it to carry? If you find that it’s cutting into your shoulder or just doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to exchange it for a different style.
With the information in this article you should be able to find a wide variety of 17″ laptop bags that will fit your needs. Remember to make a list of what you want, check online and locally and test drive your bag before you remove the tags. Protect your laptop and start shopping for 17″ laptop bags today.
