Case Logic iPad and 11.6” Laptop Messenger bag review

Case Logic are a well known brand when it comes to making laptop sleeves and carriers, and we’ve been putting one of their latest products through the mill on the bike as well.

Messenger bags – or at least the sort used by couriers through London – are pretty sizeable things, and they need to be considering the carrying they’re designed for. But the iPad and 11.6” Laptop Messenger bag by Case Logic is anything but hefty: on first thoughts it seems small, slim and sleek, and it looks good as well.

A good, small bag for cycling with – but not cycling specific

While not designed specifically for cycling, this bag – we won’t use its full name as it hardly rolls off the tongue – works well for a certain type of cyclist – but not for others.

If like me, you don’t have the luxury of being able to store your clothes and towel in the office and therefore have to carry everything in with you on a daily basis, then the reality is that this probably isn’t the bag for you – it’s not what it’s designed for.

However, if you are a lucky cyclist with a wardrobe or similar in the office, then the Case Logic bag could be a great option for your ride in. Its name gives some clues away about what it can carry, but it works equally well carrying your lunch, phone, earphones and wallet.

Magnetic cover

If you’re not a big sweater and don’t need to carry a change of clothes, or if you only have a short ride in to the workplace, then this could be a great travelling companion. It’s neatly and simply organised, but nothing too complicated, but has an innovative feature that makes accessing your belongings while on the bike very easy: a magnet.

There is a magnet in the bag flap that makes opening the bag easy, with just a tug needed, while a gentle push will ‘snap’ it back into place, meaning you can continue to cycle along without the risk of your belongings falling out, for example. This is a great way to carry a waterproof cover on one of those will-it-or-won’t-it chuck it down days.

Good points:

•  Magnetic cover keeps your belongings secure
•  Comfortable to carry with a shoulder pad on the strap
•  Sleek design and easy to access on the bike

Not so good points:

• Only holds small laptops (chromebooks and iPads really)
• Not a cycling specific bag so strap can slip while riding

Overall, the Case Logic iPad and 11.6” Laptop Bag scores 4/5 – Available for around £31 from the Case Logic site.