Brenthaven Executive Computer Backpack : Solid Protection

The Brenthaven Executive Computer Backpack has been my office on the road. It looks (and fits) like a regular day pack, with comfortable, adjustable padded straps, including waist and sternum straps. Inside, it's designed to protect your laptop, and provide enough room for file folders, cables, CDs, pens, business cards, and other accessories.

In the main pocket, there's a computer sleeve made out of dense foam, attached to the inside pocket with a thick velcro strap. The sleeve is suspended from the bottom of the pack by a few inches. Both the back and bottom of the pack are padded for comfort and protection. Another velcro strip wraps over the top of the sleeve, preventing the computer from falling out of the sleeve in case you drop it. In the same pocket there's a sleeve in which I store software manuals.

The other large pocket contains two pouches for cables (I use plastic fishing tackle boxes to store my phone lines, adapter plugs, and other accessories) and a large pocket for files.

The outer pocket has room for several small manuals, plus individual pen, business card, and diskette holders. I also threw in my camera, a pouch filled with my prescription drugs, and my cell phone. On the outside of this pocket, there's another pocket with a velcro seal (where I put my Filofax day planner). Finally, there's mesh of elastic on the front of the bag where you can store a water bottle.

I like that the pack looks like a day pack for safety reasons. It's rare for people to bring in laptops to internet cafes in some places (everyone uses the machines provided), so it's nice to walk around town without having people know that you're carrying around a very valuable computer.

I love that this pack comes with a luggage tag. It also has flat pockets in the smallest pocket that seal with velcro. There's also a key ring, and a thick handle (wrapped in comfy padding) for easy carrying or lifting off of the security conveyor at airports.

Bottom Line: If you're looking for a computer case that's easy to carry, provides plenty of laptop protection, and has room for your CDs, and other gadgets, this is a very durable pack. I tend to pack mine to the brim, and after months of use, I haven't noticed any strain on the zippers or seams. --E.D. (Feb '04)

Price: $199.00

Manufacturer's Site: www.brenthaven.com

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Editors Note: This model may no longer be available, but Brenthaven has several new models from $129-199.