a backpack that won't warp or crumple paperbacks

May 16, 2009 12:25 PM

I need a backpack that won't warp or crumple paperbacks. Cheap, plain, no frills. Should simply hold books in place and maybe a binder. I don't carry a laptop or any fancy accessories. Bonus if it doesn't make me (25 y/o grad student) look silly.
posted by limon to education (4 comments total)

I've found that the computer compartment for backpacks makes an excellent receptical for books/binders when not storing a computer. You may want to look at a computer pack that's heavy on the computer space and light on the rest of the storage (if you were looking to keep it lean).
posted by qwip at 12:32 PM on May 16

Exactly. Get a laptop backpack anyway, because they have the structure you need to keep your paperbacks unmolested.
posted by rhizome at 12:35 PM on May 16

Have you tried putting your books in a laptop sleeve? Depending on the thickness of your books, that should work.

I have a Timbuk2 laptop bag, and paperback books (and my kindle) are fine when they live in the narrow space between the laptop sleeve and the pockets. If you get a messenger bag without the sleeve, there might be too much open space for your books. Putting your books in a laptop sleeve might do the trick.
posted by b1tr0t at 12:35 PM on May 16

Ugh I hate how books get all smushed in backpacks! Get yourself some book bungees!
posted by radioamy at 12:36 PM on May 17