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The 15 Best Laptop Cases For Your Traveling and Commuting

Our top picks span hardside cases to soft sleeves.

Best Laptop Cases
Photo:

Travel + Leisure / David Hattan

Laptops might be powerful work tools, but they aren't exactly invincible from wear and tear. And that's where a laptop case comes in. Laptop cases range from ornamental laptop skins to simple hard shells to padded sleeves — and the best one depends on your specific laptop model and protection needs. 

A laptop case must, first and foremost, be able to fit your laptop. But it should also be suitable for whatever environments your laptop might be exposed to, whether it be a desk, a hotel room, or even out in the middle of mother nature (looking at you, photographers!). To that end, we have selected the best laptop cases across 15 different categories to help you find your perfect fit. 

Why We Love It
  • It's a reasonably priced sleeve-style case with an accessory pocket.

What to Consider
  • It doesn't have a handle or strap.

The ideal laptop or tablet case should provide a bit of everything that might come in handy: shock resistance to protect from bumps or drops, some amount of defense against liquids, and an extra pocket for the safekeeping of accessories. And perhaps most importantly, this case should be sold at a reasonable price that doesn't break the bank. As you might've guessed, the zip-closing JETech laptop sleeve delivers all this and more. It's the best overall because it's the easiest to recommend to just about anyone looking for a laptop case — this case comes in multiple sizes to fit any notebook or tablet between 11.2 and 15.4 inches. (This specific model is tailored to 13- to 13.6-inch laptops). Plus, it comes in eleven colors. The only downside is it doesn't have a strap or handle, so you'll have to carry it around in your arms or in another bag.

The Details: 13.78 x 10.24 x 1.5 inches | Polyurethane | Splash-proof

Why We Love It
  • You can choose from 45 color options.

What to Consider
  • You must pick the model that is designed for your specific laptop.

A hardshell case is a simple, no-frills item that should add virtually no noticeable weight or bulk to your laptop while protecting it from scratches and some drops. The Mosiso protective hardshell does just that. It comes in 45 color choices with varying degrees of transparency, allowing for maximum customization. We also like the open vents in the bottom that allow your computer to "breathe" and not overheat. Assembly is easy — simply snap the shell into place with its clips. Buyers should note that this specific shell will cover both the 2022 and 2023 13.6-inch MacBook Air, but there are options for other models, too.

The Details: ‎12.28 x 9.09 x 0.79 inches | Plastic 

Amazon AquaQuest Storm Laptop Sleeve
PHOTO:

Amazon

Why We Love It
  • It's very lightweight and not bulky.

What to Consider
  • This is a practical case that doesn't exactly impress in terms of appearance.

There are many laptop cases boasting various degrees of protection against liquids, but when you need a case that will ensure your laptop won't be touched by a single drop of water, AquaQuest Storm is your best bet. There are two ways to close this case, either via a simple velcro for everyday situations, or a double ziplock seal for when things get serious (say, you're traveling by kayak with your laptop and don't want it to get wet if you capsize). And it fits just about every laptop, coming in four different sizes (11, 13, 15, and 17 inches). We also love that this model comes with a lifetime warranty, which is a relative rarity in the laptop case world.

The Details: 11.57 x 10 x 1.22 inches | Nylon | Waterproof

Best Convertible Stand

Moft Laptop Carry Sleeve

Amazon Moft Laptop Bag Sleeve
PHOTO:

Amazon

Why We Love It
  • A beautiful faux leather adds elegance to this case.

What to Consider
  • It's pricier than most cases on this list. 

Moft's elegant-looking premium faux leather sleeve can accommodate all laptop models between 14 and 16 inches (it's sold in two different sizes), but it goes one step further than simply holding and protecting your laptop. It also serves as a laptop stand, displaying your laptop at two different angles to adapt to your viewing needs. It also has a helpful storage pouch that is deceptively roomy, capable of holding a power cable, mouse, or cell phone. With its high-quality materials and design comes a somewhat high price tag compared to most similar models, but we think the extra cost is worth it.

The Details: 14.2 x 10 x 0.3 inches | Polyurethane leather | Water resistant

Why We Love It
  • A 180-degree opening makes it easy to slip your laptop into and out of this case.

What to Consider
  • This model lacks the style and color options of other cases. 

This ultra-secure laptop case comes in six size options, covering devices from 11 inches to 15.6 inches. And that's particularly good news because the Sithon hard shell case offers the best protection of the cases on this list. It boasts four layers of protection, each with a specific purpose, ranging from repelling water to absorbing blows. We also like the no-slip grip and hand strap on the exterior, which make this case especially valuable for traveling and the outdoors. There's not much to dislike about this case but if we were to nitpick, it is more practical than stylish — there aren't color choices or different patterns.

The Details: 13.98 x 10 x 1.38 inches | Polyester, plastic | Water resistant

Why We Love It
  • It's technically universal in size.

What to Consider
  • You still may need to trim the skin to fit your laptop.

A skin laptop case is probably the least protective of all case types but the most customizable and least intrusive. Aortdes has designed a sticker-like skin that can be removed and reapplied multiple times, allowing you to easily change out the skin when you feel like switching up your laptop's look. This skin is considered universal in size, but if its dimensions are too big for your computer, you'll have to manually trim it to the correct size. There are 36 colorful (and monochromatic) patterns that give you plenty of style options. Although advertised as dustproof and waterproof, this skin does not cover your entire laptop, so some areas of your device will still be vulnerable to the elements. It will, however, protect your laptop's lid from light scratches.

The Details: 15 x 10.63 x 0.08 inches | Plastic | Waterproof

Why We Love It
  • This elegant sleeve is water resistant.

What to Consider
  • There's a limited color selection.

Bagsmart's sleeve bag bests its competitors due to its multi-layer foam design that manages to be soft on the inside, shock absorbent, and water resistant on the outside. It also has a two-way zipper and a wide-mouth opening that allows for easy insertion and removal of your laptop. We love its textured water-resistant exterior, as well as its low price among competitors. The zippered exterior pocket is a nice little cherry on top, allowing for the storage of cords and accessories in a secure location. This sleeve is compatible with any laptop between 13 and 13.3 inches, including the MacBook Pro, Dell Latitude, and HP Elitebook. 

The Details: 13.8 x 0.8 x 10 inches | Polyester | Water resistant

Best Organization

iCozzier Laptop Organizer

Amazon iCozzier Laptop Organizer
PHOTO:

Amazon

Why We Love It
  • It has enough pockets to fit all your gadgets — not just your laptop charger.

What to Consider
  • It doesn't fit laptops larger than 15.6 inches.

Despite the fact that most laptops require some sort of extra accessory, like a power cable or mouse, laptop cases often lack additional pockets to help keep all your items secure and organized. This case by iCozzier, however, has helpful mesh pockets to keep all your accessories in place. It also has a soft velvet interior to swaddle your laptop, along with a water-repellent exterior to protect it from spills or splashes. Although the iCozzier organizer is technically a case, it also has leather handles so you can carry it like a briefcase, which is ideal for both travelers and commuters. It's available in four sizes, ranging from 11 to 15.6 inches so it can accommodate many different laptop models.

The Details: 14.96 x 11.02 x 1.57 inches | Polyester | Water-repellent 

Why We Love It
  • This is one of the most elegant cases on our list.

What to Consider
  • This model probably has a higher price than most consumers are willing to pay.

An envelope is a simple solution for keeping your laptop protected during transportation. Senreve's version of this classic design is as good as it gets. This sleeve has a beautiful, scratch- and water-resistant Italian leather exterior with helpful bonus compartments for storing notebooks, pens, and travel documents. And rather than having an unsightly zipper, the cover simply and securely snaps into place with small magnets. In a perfect world, more sizes would be available — this one just fits laptops up to 13 inches — but we do love that you can choose from six colors and two materials. Simply put, you won't find any sleeve more elegant than this one. 

The Details: 14.3 x 9.75 x 0.5 inches | Italian leather | Water resistant

Why We Love It
  • It's exceptionally easy to carry, and it’s not bulky like other laptop bags.

What to Consider
  • There are no solid colors available, only patterns.

Dachee's waterproof messenger bag is the perfect blend of a bag and a laptop case — the laptop case has a shoulder strap for hands-free carrying, as well as two handles. Beyond the main compartment for your laptop, there are storage pockets for your phone, power cable, and other accessories. But there's also not too much extra space, which ensures that this is indeed a laptop-focused bag that isn't bulkier than necessary. It's definitely a great case to use as a personal item on a flight — you can store all your essentials in it and easily fit it beneath the seat in front of you for easy access. We also love the number of options provided by Dachee: there are two different bag sizes (13 and 15 inches) and 34 patterns from which to choose.

The Details: 16.54 x 11.81 x 0.98 inches | Canvas | Waterproof

Why We Love It
  •  It fits up to a 17.3-inch laptop.

What to Consider
  • It lacks the water protection and shock absorption of more expensive cases.

If you're in the market for an inexpensive laptop case that's simple yet effective, behold the Amazon Basics sleeve. It has five size options that can fit any laptop between 11 and 17.3 inches, which pretty much covers everything on the market. Plus, there's enough room inside to fit a few necessary accessories, like your charger. While we think this is the best choice on a budget, the savings do cost you the added benefits of water protection and shock absorption that more expensive cases provide. And despite the variety of size options, there's only one color available for this sleeve.

The Details: 12.17 x 9.09 x 0.79 inches | Polyester

Why We Love It
  • It's made of handcrafted leather.

What to Consider
  • Its size demands a strap or handle, both of which it unfortunately lacks.

If you're into a more traditional aesthetic, consider this luxe 15-inch sleeve from Maxwell Scott that is made from full-grain Italian leather. It can fit any device up to 15 inches in size, although smaller items will shift around in the sleeve a bit, making it better suited for larger laptops. (There are also versions to fit 13-inch, 14-inch, and 17-inch laptops.) Plus, it has an external pocket large enough to fit some papers or a magazine. Despite its slightly larger size, it's not too heavy and can fit comfortably under your arm or inside another bag. The laptop case has a 25-year warranty, too — that's plenty of time for your laptop case to develop a lovely worn-in patina.

The Details: 17.7 x 13 x 1.8 inches | Italian leather

Why We Love It
  • A subtle yet appealing design is supported by a durable rubber material.

What to Consider
  • The lack of storage could be a deal-breaker for some.

Kate Spade's slim laptop sleeve is quiet yet stylish, with a subtle black matte Hollyhock pattern punctuated by a gold logo and zipper. It's the proper balance between giving your case some pizazz and not going over the top. This model, which comfortably fits a 13-inch MacBook Pro, is made from a synthetic rubber that provides sufficient protection against scrapes and bumps — a soft interior lining ensures your device isn't scratched. While undeniably sleek, Kate Spade's sleeve lacks the extra pockets that help keep all your accessories tidy. And although we love the look of this case, it does only come in one pattern/color option.

The Details: 14.21 x 10.24 x 1.26 inches | Neoprene 

Why We Love It
  • This case's 45 different color and design options allow for maximum choice.

What to Consider
  • It only provides limited defense against liquids and accidental drops.

For those who are extremely picky about the color of their laptop case, this model comes in 45 options, from neutrals to multichromatic gradients. There are varying degrees of transparency as well, which allows you to either proudly display or conceal your laptop's Apple logo. The case is designed specifically for the MacBook Air 13.6-inch 2022 model — it simply snaps on and is molded to provide access to your MacBook's ports. It also has some ventilation openings to ensure your device doesn't overheat. The only downside we found with this case is that its slim shell helps protect your laptop to some degree, but doesn't offer the water resistance or shock absorption of more durable models.

The Details: 12.17 x 8.54 x 0.94 inches | Plastic

Amazon Comfyable Slim Protective Laptop Sleeve
PHOTO:

Amazon

Why We Love It
  • It's water resistant and shock-absorbing.

What to Consider
  • It lacks extra storage pockets.

Unlike many cases made with genuine leather, this artificial leather case has layers of foam and microfiber that allow it to be more protective. So when you slip your 13- and 14-inch MacBooks into the zippered compartment, it'll be protected from accidental spills, rain, bumps, and drops. We love that it's available in seven different colors, each of which maintains a professional look thanks to the faux leather. The one thing that's a big miss here is there are no extra pockets, so you can't store your laptop charger in the bag. Also, keep in mind that the faux leather is pretty slick, and it won't develop a patina the way genuine leather would.

The Details: 13.5 x 9.5 x 0.39 inches | Polyurethane leather | Water resistant

Tips for Buying a Laptop Case

Make sure the case fits your laptop

Perhaps the biggest mistake you might make while purchasing a laptop case is picking a model that doesn't fit your laptop. Many cases, especially sleeves, can accommodate a variety of laptop brands as long as the overall size fits into the case. To double-check your laptop size, you can either look up the precise model online or just quickly measure it yourself, doing so diagonally from the top corner to the opposite bottom corner.

Balance protection and style

When selecting a laptop case, you'll want to weigh both the protective features of the case with its appearance, ultimately choosing a model that works for your specific needs. If you plan on taking your laptop case with you while you are outdoors or traveling, durability and protection should be higher on your priority list. That being said, carrying a big hunk of extra-tough plastic around an office isn't necessarily the most professional way to protect your computer. Consider where you'll be carrying your laptop case, then determine what balance of protection and style is right for you.

Consider your travel needs

If you plan on bringing your laptop case along with you on your adventures, you might want to prioritize travel-friendly features, such as easy access via a top-loading zipper or flap, exterior pockets for stashing boarding passes and passports, and some level of protection against water and liquids. (You never know if the passenger next to you on the plane might spill their drink!) Also consider the type of environments you typically travel to. For example, photographers who take their laptops on camping trips or long treks should prioritize durability and protection more than those who are staying in a hotel for a week.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What kind of case best protects a laptop?

    The most secure laptop case is one with a hard, durable exterior (likely made of plastic) with a soft interior lining. This type of construction absorbs impact while also being gentle enough to not scratch your laptop. Straps and handles can also be an underrated safety feature, as they give you a better, more stable grip on your case. Some level of safekeeping from liquids is also ideal, whether the case is splash-proof, water resistant, or full-on waterproof. Splash-proof indicates that your laptop will be safe from — you guessed it — small splashes, while water resistance indicates even more protection against water. But waterproof is the top dog, essentially guaranteeing that your device will stay dry.

  • Does a sleeve protect a laptop as well as a hardside case?

    Both sleeves and hardside cases can provide solid protection. The big difference is hardside cases offer round-the-clock protection, while sleeves only protect your laptop when they're inside the case. You'll have to decide which option suits your needs better. For instance, if you primarily use your laptop at a desk with little risk of damage — say, you just use it at home and at work — a sleeve is probably all the protection you'll need. But if you're using your laptop in less stable environments, a hardside case might be the better option. Of course, you can always double up and use one of each!


    One thing to note with sleeves is that stuffing hard items, such as a phone or power cable, into your sleeve in the same pocket as your laptop can end up damaging your laptop. If you intend on storing additional items inside your case, it's best to find one with exterior pockets.

  • How do I care for a laptop case?

    The proper cleaning method for a laptop case depends on the type of case — and you should always follow the manufacturer's instructions. Generally speaking, a plastic shell can be periodically removed from your computer and brushed lightly to keep it free from dust and detritus. A sleeve case with a soft interior lining should also be periodically brushed or vacuumed to keep it clean.

  • What is the difference between a laptop sleeve and a laptop case?

    Laptop sleeves are similar to laptop bags in that you slide your laptop inside and (usually) zip shut. They are best used for frequent travel since they are more protective and often padded. Laptop cases generally clip onto your computer like a phone case for more or less permanent protection from scratches and other minor damage.

  • How much should I expect to pay for a laptop case?

    Basic laptop cases including skins, covers, and sleeves tend to run in the range of $10 to $30. More sophisticated cases, such as ultra-durable models or designer brands, will definitely cost you more — potentially hundreds of dollars more. Cases made with materials such as genuine leather also tend to be more expensive.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L contributor Stefanie Waldek is a freelance travel writer with a decade of experience, and she always brings her laptop on the go. For this article, she evaluated laptop cases based on their features and appearance, and she read dozens of customer reviews.

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Edited by
Hillary Maglin
Hillary Maglin, Associate Commerce Editor
Hillary Maglin is an associate commerce editor at Travel + Leisure who’s been covering travel products since 2018. Her work has also been featured in publications such as People, InStyle, and more.
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