backpack recommendations?

I personally, would suggest you check out www.booq.com while the bags are on the expensive side compared to most, I would have to say that the quality is top notch. They have the most amazing protection I have seen for a laptop bag and look rather snazzy. Plus, since it's a lesser known company from what I can tell, it will set you a part from everyone elses laptop cases.

Are you specifically looking for a backpack made to carry a laptop?
I tote my 15" MBP in a JanSport backpack. It was not specifically designed for laptops, so I keep my MBP in an Incase case which I picked up at the Apple store.

(backpack) http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000E3F1A2
(case) http://store.apple.com/1-800-MY-APPLE/WebObjects/AppleStore.woa/wa/RSLID?mco=E17 1536E&fnode=home/shopmac/mac_accessories/notebookcases&nplm=TL991LL/A

The Incase case is soft and provides a good amount of protection... probably equivalent to the extra padding found in made-for-laptop backpacks. This backpack is very spacious. It has two large compartment, a smaller compartment which has a built-in organizer, two even smaller compartments, and a mesh pocket on the side. The MBP (in the case) can fit nicely in the large compartment closest to your back. The books, magazines, and maybe plane tickets can be placed in either of the large compartments. On the front of the backpack, the 3rd largest compartment has an organizer (a couple of really small pockets) where you can place your MP3 player, cell phone, & headphones. (Note: there isn't a convenient place to store your MP3 player while using it). There's then a pocket above that one (refer to the picture) which I have used to store my power adapter. The mesh pocket on the side can fit a 24oz. water bottle (Note: this mesh pocket does not appear in the photograph. If it no longer has one, the large compartments are big enough to fit 2-3 water bottles). I don't know about a good place to place your hard drive, but there's certainly lots of space in the backpack. You can probably place it in the other large compartment. I have a dark blue one and I think it looks nice, but I think it would look nicer/ more professional in black. JanSport backpacks are very reliable; even with daily use, it can last for 3+ years. Better yet, the total price of both is ~$70 plus shipping ($35 for the case & $35 for backpack).

PS. Whatever backpack you end up purchasing, I would recommend the Incase case!

I was impressed with these rugged Brenthaven models. Check them out.

http://www.brenthaven.com/ (Click on 'Apple Cases' on top left)

Video: http://www.brenthaven.com/video-all-products-cust.html#

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I concur. After purchasing my first MAC (MBP) I looked around (online) for a good backpack. I needed something to carry not only the laptop but also the mouse, broadband card, books, PSP, tools, etc. I heard nothing but good things about the Brenthaven line. I purchased this one http://www.brenthaven.com/catalog-apple-pro-15-17.html and have been extremely happy with it. I walk to work (55 minutes) occasionally and carrying the laptop is a breeze with this backpack.

Paul.

I suggest either the Ogio Metro or Ogio Politan. I used the Metro daily for about three years and it's still in near perfect shape, and now I'm using the Politan with my 17" MBP. The laptop pocket is very well padded, and there are other various pockets like one for an MP3 player. The Ogio bags are well balanced, so you'll almost forget you're even carrying your laptop, and they're stylish bags with no weird pockets or protrusions like I've seen with so many other laptop backpacks.

Message was edited by: OneChance

I adore my Wenger MAXXUM. Bringing a new MBP to Tokyo was nerve-wracking, but the backpack did a great job, and the foam air-channels made wearing it while walking through tropical heat and humidity fairly comfortable.

Though I did have a tendency to turn around too fast and whack people with it...

I have a Crumpler Sinking Barge: <http://www.crumplerbags.com/Cart/index.php?catId=22> which has worked out very nicely. My Mac Book Pro has been all around the US many times since May as I am a traveling musician and it has held a lot of stuff beside the MBP. It's designed as a camera bag as well, but I removed the camera section, not that I haven't put a camera in there as well. It also doesn't scream COMPUTER, so I am hoping it's a little less attractive to thieves.

Edwin

I like Mac-case.
http://www.mac-case.com/index.html?gclid=CNGguPXHqpACFRuhFQod9Hac7w

There are a bunch of great Oakley bags for sale too. They are a tiny bit over your budget for some models, but are really amazing and versatile.

This will take you straight to the computer bags.