An underseat laptop backpack has to solve two different fit problems at the same time: the laptop must fit securely inside, and the fully packed backpack must remain within the airline’s current personal-item rules and the practical space beneath the seat. A backpack that fits the computer perfectly can still be too tall or too deep once packed.Quick Answer: Choose an underseat laptop backpack...

One of the simplest ways to protect a laptop is to keep liquids physically separated from electronics. A well-designed exterior bottle pocket does exactly that, but the pocket still has to hold the user’s real bottle securely after the backpack is fully packed.Quick Answer: Choose a laptop backpack with a deep exterior bottle pocket positioned away from laptop zippers and tech compartments. Measure the...

Water-resistant zippers can improve weather protection around a laptop compartment, but they are only one part of the backpack’s moisture defense. Fabric, seams, zipper garages, bottom panels and the way the bag is packed all affect whether electronics stay dry.Quick Answer: Choose water-resistant zippers when you commute or travel in frequent rain and want stronger protection than ordinary exposed zipper coils provide. Look for...