The following review is part of the Back to Business special.
i-Stay Launch Tablet/Notebook Bag (13.3″)
If you are unfamiliar with the i-Stayput brand, they produce a range of bags featuring their unique i-Stay Strap.
A shoulder strap that remains on your shoulders and does not slide down your arm! Add this to the slim line, but well stocked Launch Bag and business travel will become just a little less stressful with one fewer annoying thing to worry about!
Features
The hard rubber web designed middle section of the i-Stay strap grips firmly onto your shoulder and stops the bag sliding off ,irrespective of how light or heavy it may be; and it really does work!
I assume everyone who uses an over the shoulder messenger bag or Backpack may experience some type of slip from their bags depending on their build/shoulders. At conferences or when needing to travel light, I have preferred to use messenger bags but have never found one that stays put…. until now!
It is surprisingly comfortable to use and does not dig in to your skin, which was my first thought on it when you have a heavy bag. Instead, it sits firmly where you put and distributes the weight of your bag evenly.
The Royal College of Chiropractors commends the i-Stay range for their sound ergonomic design and for the health benefits likely to be gained from using the products.
-The Royal College of Chiropractors.
The 13.3″ Launch is the perfect size for travelling light while protecting the devices you need for work! In the main section is a padded sleeve designed to hold any tablet or notebook up to 13.3″.
While testing for this series of reviews, I was working only from the iPad Pro but continued to need my trusty MacBook Pro with me incase I was caught short. I was able to comfortably store my iPad in the intended pocket and then the MacBook Pro in the open area next to it.
There are two front pouches. The first has 3 pockets, 2 pen holders, a USB drive compartment and a protective Anti RFID zipper section.
At the very front is a concealed zip pocket. I would not describe it as a theft prevention pocket as you can gain access to it, but it would be very tricky for someone to open it without you knowing. The fabric of the bag hangs over the zip from above and below. I’d feel confident keeping my Tumi ID lock Passport holder here for fast access when needed!
Finally, at the rear is a suitcase strap. This allows you to drop your i-Stay bag over the telescopic handles of your carry-on so you don’t even need to worry about carrying it all!
Specifications
- i-Stay Non slip strap
- 34 x 27.5 x 6cm
- Colour – Black/Purple/Red
- 13.3″ Padded Laptop/Notebook/Tablet Compartment
- Weight 0.75KG
- Anti RFID Compartment to Protect Cards
- Can Carry up to 12KG
- Suitcase Retainer Strap
Price
The i-stay Launch Tablet/Netbook Bag in black is £32.99 direct from i-Stay with free shipping. If you are an Amazon Prime member you can shop there with the Black & Purple options costing £37.99 and the Red at £32.99; all are Prime eligible.
If you are content with your current bag but like the sound of the i-Stay Strap you can buy these on their own. They come in Black/Grey/Red/Purple/White and are £13.50.
In Summary
When I first started travelling for business, my backpack was nearly the size of my carry on! I liked to be prepared for any eventuality and had an abundance of devices with me at all times. As the years moved on I eventually grew tired of emptying my bag at every airport security line and got smart with how I pack and travel.
The i-Stay is a perfectly sized and designed bag for those who travel with a Notebook or Tablet. Along with my MacBook Pro, the i-Stay carried everything from this Specials Review at the same time, with ease! The case is functional and gives me access to everything without having to move kit around.
As for the i-Stay strap? Well it really does work. When I first saw and felt the strap, I thought it was going to be uncomfortable to wear, but it isn’t. In fact it feels light even with a heavy load.
If you are looking for a smart, practical and comfortable business case for your devices, start with i-Stay!
