Carry Cases

A carry case is chosen when padding alone is not enough — equipment that travels regularly, gets handled by other people, or would be expensive to replace.

The distinction worth understanding is rigidity. A soft case or sleeve absorbs knocks but deforms under pressure, so anything stacked on top reaches the contents. A semi-rigid or hard shell holds its shape, which is what protects against crushing in a car boot, an overhead locker or a van.

Where that matters: projectors, cameras, headsets, test equipment, demonstration kit and any laptop that gets carried to sites rather than between desks.

What to check: internal dimensions against the actual item rather than its nominal size; whether the interior is foam-lined or divided, which stops contents moving in transit; and the closure, since latches survive repeated use better than zips on heavy cases.

For a laptop carried between home and office, a padded briefcase or backpack is usually the more practical choice.

See all bags and cases.