I am shopping for a new backpack. The one I have is completely worn out and the right side shoulder strap has lost all of its padding.

So the question is: where to buy laptop backpacks? I really don’t want to go to the mall or big box stores.

Online is where I’m headed to shop for my new laptop bag.

What has really got me thinking about a new backpack was my friend Brad who was showing me his new backpack that he could use to carry all of his professional camera equipment, tripod and his notebook computer.

More Space and Protection with a Laptop Backpack

I prefer a backpack over a traditional laptop bag as there is a lot more room for books and additional equipment like your power supply and extra batteries.

Make sure the pack you pick has a least an inch and a half of padding that will surround the outside edge of your portable computer to protect it when it is tossed in the back of your car or stuff under an airplane seat. And there should be plenty of padding for the top and bottom of you laptop as well.

With a backpack you also get all the extra compartments for things like your cell phone, pda, digital camera and other tech gear.

Shopping Tips: Shop by Brand and Look for Free Shipping

You can find any to the big name brand names online like Targus or Case Logic but just like with other equipment you may have to pay for shipping.  So the 20 percent discount my not be as good of a deal for you’re the new notebook backpack if you have to pay 50 bucks in shipping charges.

Plenty of online merchants will ship for free if you have a large enough order.