Carrying a laptop

[tpb]

I need some help. Before this year, I was able to avoid commuting with my laptop most days. When I did need to carry it, I had a large pannier I could use. Well, got a new, small laptop (9x13 inches). Now when I put it in the pannier, there is too much extra space for it to be secure. I could add padding, but I don't want to carry anything that is unnecessary.

So, I'm looking for a different solution. I have been using a backpack, but I hate having it on my back in the heat. All the laptop panniers that I've found seem to be for larger (15 inch) laptops. Any suggestions?

Thanks!
TB

[divingbiker]

Maybe put something really lightweight like a yoga block in there?

[DebW]

My laptop fits perfectly in an Ortlieb front pannier, which I carry on the rear rack. I most often put the laptop in a padded sleeve first for a little more protection from jouncing.

[OakLeaf]

Bungie it onto your rack?

Or do like divingbiker said. Yoga block, piece of foam rubber, wad of bubble wrap, etc.

[PscyclePath]

I use a messenger bag (Chrome mini-Metro) when I need to lug my laptop around. Fits a little more comfortably than a backpack, and it avoids jouncing around in my panniers, padded or not.

[trista]

I use a messenger bag (Chrome mini-Metro) when I need to lug my laptop around. Fits a little more comfortably than a backpack, and it avoids jouncing around in my panniers, padded or not.

My DH does the same - he had used a backpack for awhile but found it uncomfortable for longer rides. So he switched to a messenger bag (knog brand) and really likes it. He has to carry his laptop to and from, and it's 20 miles each way. It goes across his shoulder and buckles around the waist for security.

[tpb]

Although I've never used a messenger bad, I'd rather have the laptop on my rack. I generally don't like the feel of bags on my body while biking.

Thanks!
TB

[kfergos]

Bubble wrap! It weighs practically nothing and keeps your laptop nice and safe. I've wrapped bananas in bubble wrap before with excellent (non-squished) results. :p

[Dannielle]

Would a hard shell laptop case work? Then the laptop would be protected even if it moved around inside the pannier.

something like this-
http://www.amazon.com/Briefcase-Carrying-Hard-Shell-Gateway-LT2104U/dp/B003BRBRXI/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&s=miscellaneous&qid=1279836070&sr=8-8