5 Tips for Choosing the Best iPad Pro Messenger Bag (Expert Advice)

Updated Dec, 2023 -

iPad bags come in all shapes, sizes and materials. From nylon iPad Pro bags to compact, leather iPad bags to iPad briefcases, there is something for everyone.

If you're looking for how to choose the best iPad messenger bag, you've come to the right place. In this article, we're going to cover 7 of the most important things to consider when looking to transport and protect your Apple tablet in an iPad travel bag.

We'll review some of the "must-have" features along with some of the details you may never have thought about. The goal is for you to come away from this post with some concrete knowledge about what to look for when choosing the best iPad Pro messenger bag for you.

If you are an owner of a 12.9 iPad Pro, you know that the tablet is big. It can be somewhat cumbersome at times. A big piece of fragile glass. When you combine this with the vulnerable aluminum edges, you have a recipe for an accident waiting to happen.

Unless you know what to look for when shopping.

ipad messenger bag

Searching for an iPad Shoulder Bag

Let's start out by looking at why someone would choose an iPad shoulder bag over a smaller, more compact cross-body bag or tablet briefcase. The reason comes down to needing to carry a lot more than just your Apple tablet. If you need to carry your 12.9 iPad Pro and things like gym clothes, headphones, lunch, other personal items, etc. then an iPad shoulder bag like this is a great option.

The features we'll be reviewing can be found on bags between $100-$150. Bags under $100 will tend to be short on features, quality or both. We would suggest excluding models in the sub-$100 range for this reason. While they might offer a low buy-in price, they probably offer little long-term value.

Along with protecting your Apple tablet, the bag should protect everything else you want to carry. Look for waterproof fabrics to keep out the rain and snow. A zippered closure will do the same. Look for a padded and lined interior space.

Padding between the liner and the exterior fabrics will help absorb impacts keeping contents safe. This is especially important if you're traveling on public transportation on a regular basis.

Crowded buses and trains are "high impact zones", notorious for making things difficult on your bags and their contents.

The Foundation of the Best iPad Messenger Bag

Let's talk about the bottom panel. This aspect of messenger bag design is often overlooked by potential shoppers until after it's too late. One of the most important panels on any bag especially nylon or polyester messenger bags is the bottom panel.

Why?

Because for most of its life, the bottom panel is going to be the contact point between the world and your bag. It's going to take a beating. It's also the first point of wear for most models.

Once this part wears out, you'll once again be shopping for a new bag. Look for durable materials and padding for this area. A leather iPad messenger bag will not have this issue if the bag is made from high-quality hides.

In addition, look for designs that feature a padded rear panel of some kind. If you live someplace that has warm summers, look for a breathable, padded rear panel. Having a material that will breathe and allow for the heat to transfer from your body out and away from the bag can be priceless in the hot dog days of summer.

This might not be something you're thinking about if you're searching for an iPad 12.9 bag to purchase in the middle of winter. This is why we mentioned it here.

Along with a padded rear panel, look for a wide shoulder strap with some sort of pad that can minimize the pressure. A small pad that will spread the load will also go a long way to making sure your bag is comfortable to use in the long term.

ipad pro messenger bag

The iPad Pro Bag for Me?

Choosing the right design to transport and carry your Apple tablet is not hard if you know what features to look for.

• Good, lightweight designs featuring man-made materials can be found in the $100-$150 price range.

• The design you choose should offer excellent protection for your 12.9 plus solid protection for anything else you want to carry.

• Materials should be weatherproof and offer a zippered main compartment for even more security.

• It should have a bottom panel made of a tough, ultra-durable material for long life.

•The rear panel should be padded, preferably with a breathable material so it will be comfortable even in summer.

• The iPad carry bag should offer multiple storage options in addition to a safe place for the table.

• For a more upscale or professional appearance, choose a choose a leather iPad messenger bag.

Taking these top tips into consideration when shopping for a new iPad Pro 12.9 messenger bag should ensure you'll find the best design to meet your needs.

"The best iPad Pro messenger bag is the one that best meets your needs..."

ipad messenger bag

Jody K. Deane
by Jody K. Deane September 30, 2016

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