Although laptop briefcases are specifically designed to carry all of the laptops we use today, there are many other uses that can be found for them. And with the plethora of laptop cases on the market and in our homes, you may find yourself with a spare laptop case sitting around or taking up space in a closet. Why let it waste space when you can use it?
1. Writing portfolio. When you’re rushing from meeting to meeting or carrying your latest batch of items to the doctor’s office, a laptop sleeve can make a great bag. It will keep your work organized and together and might even have a couple of pockets for notepads and pens.
2. Carrier of art. Whether you are a student or a professional illustrator, you need to keep your artwork clean and free of blemishes. A waterproof laptop sleeve can do just that and provide an easy way to transport your art.
3. Container for important documents. If you don’t already have enough important documents to warrant a fireproof safe or filing cabinet, a good quality laptop sleeve will protect your documents from the elements. Some laptop cases may even be built to withstand a fire! Documents to include in a secure container include social security documents, birth certificates, and any titles you may have.
4. Portable photo holder. Nothing is as discouraging as seeing the only copy of a photograph ruined or destroyed. So if you need to transport multiple photos, consider using a laptop sleeve to protect them on your trip. Protecting your photos is particularly important if they are old and fragile, or if they are the only copy and you don’t have a digital backup.
5. Student book bag. Any type of laptop bag can easily be converted into a backpack for college use. Rigid laptop briefcases with straps can be used to hold a book or two and all your notes, providing waterproof support for these valuable bits of information. With your notes safely tucked away in this case, you won’t have to worry about what kind of pen you used to take your stat notes when you get caught in a sudden downpour on the way to the story. Your notes will be safely protected from the rain, with a no-bleed guarantee!
6. Modernized briefcase. The days of the brown or black leather briefcase have come and gone, but if you are a briefcase type of person, you can go for a metallic laptop briefcase for a sleek modern look. You can house all your files or work, as well as supplies and even your Blackberry in one of these cases.
7. Art station for children. You can buy portable art stations for kids, but often these stations are anything but portable. They are usually made of thin plastic with cheap snaps that pop open at the worst possible time. If you’ve ever had to pick up six dozen crayons and a foot of scratch paper while trying to board a plane, then you know what I mean. But a good-quality laptop sleeve is made for portability and can also hold paper, markers, crayons, and more. Also, a hard-shell laptop case makes a great “table” for the little artist on the go.
8. Seam carrier. Whether you crochet, knit, or embroider, a laptop sleeve is a great way to carry your current work in progress. The case will keep your materials safe and dry, and protect your tools and project from bumps and knocks. Unlike the bags and baskets you might find for these supplies, a laptop sleeve won’t let loose thread get tangled in items when you set it down or move it.
9. Magazine rack. If you’re going on a long car ride or flight and you’re a magazine reader, a laptop sleeve is the perfect way to organize and transport your magazines without them falling out, breaking, or getting lost. When you’re waiting in a crowded airport, the last thing you want to do is keep track of a stack of loose magazines, and with a laptop bag, you can simply lift the handle and be on your way.
10. Companion portable DVD. Portable DVD players come with their own variety of carrying cases, but rarely do you have enough room to carry all the things that come with a portable DVD player. Why not use your laptop sleeve to carry movies, cables, and other extra accessories that come with your DVD player?