Michael Turner
Recommendation: For client-facing meetings, carry a slim leather portfolio with a padded sleeve sized for 13–16″ laptops and an A4 document compartment; switch to a compact messenger or technical backpack (15–20 L) with a rain cover for bike or transit commutes.
Sizing and materials: A4 documents require 21×29.7 cm (8.3×11.7 in). Laptop-sleeve internal dimensions: 13″ ≈ 33×23 cm, 15″ ≈ 38×26 cm, 16″ ≈ 40×28 cm. Aim for overall depth 3–7 cm for minimal daily carry, 7–12 cm when carrying chargers, notebooks and folders. Full-grain leather pieces typically weigh 1.1–1.5 kg; nylon/canvas alternatives range 0.6–0.9 kg.
Tech and security features to prioritize: a padded sleeve, a dedicated pocket for a 7×12×2.5 cm power bank (10,000–20,000 mAh), an RFID-lined card/passport slot, and a zipper compatible with small TSA locks. Specify YKK zippers and metal hardware rated for 50–100 kg pull strength for longevity.
Work contexts where portfolios remain common: legal counsel, senior executives, consultants and client-facing sales professionals typically prefer leather portfolios or attaché-style document cases for formal meetings; field technicians and delivery riders favor backpacks or roll-top satchels for hands-free mobility.
Care and lifespan: apply leather conditioner every 6–12 months and store on a flat surface or padded hanger to avoid creases; treat synthetics with a DWR spray annually. Expected service life: maintained leather 5–15 years; reinforced recycled polyester 3–8 years. For lower environmental impact, choose vegetable-tanned hides or recycled PET fabrics and repair stitching before replacing.
Decision rule: attend more than three formal meetings per week → select a slim portfolio; commute by bike or carry loads above 8 kg → select a technical backpack; balance both by keeping a compact portfolio inside a padded backpack for transfers between transit and meeting rooms.
Which professions continue to carry attaché cases?
Select a hard-sided attaché with a keyed or combination lock and padded laptop sleeve; common carriers include litigators and trial attorneys, corporate counsel, investment bankers, external auditors, diplomats and consular officers, senior executives, patent agents, and real estate closers.
Litigators: require legal-size (8.5×14 in) file capacity, flat-open layout for exhibit access, waterproof interior, and quick-release document folders; recommended exterior dimensions ~15×11×4 in, weight under 3.5 lb, room for a 13–15″ laptop plus a 1–2″ exhibit binder.
Investment bankers and corporate executives: prefer a professional finish (full-grain leather or matte aluminum), compartmentalized pockets for pitchbooks and contracts, discrete cash or signature pockets, padded 15–16″ laptop sleeve, and an integrated power-bank pocket for on-site presentations.
Auditors and consultants: benefit from accordion file sections for multiple client folders, detachable document trays, dedicated pen/calculator slots, RFID-shielded card pocket for corporate cards, and lockable zippers when transporting client records.
Diplomats and government officers: opt for tamper-evident seals, passport and secure-ID compartments, TSA-approved lock for air travel, flame-resistant lining where required, and biometric-lock options in high-security environments.
Patent attorneys and technical agents: need an oversized inner pocket for drawings and blueprints, stiffboard protection to prevent creasing, a separate tube carrier when necessary, and indexed tabbing for sequential filings.
Selection checklist: legal-size compatibility, lock type (key, combination, TSA), material (aluminum for impact resistance, leather for formal settings, ballistic nylon for lighter weight), laptop-sleeve dimensions, target weight below 4 lb, dedicated power and cable pockets, and replaceable shoulder strap. For frequent flyers, verify carry-on compatibility (typical airline allowance ~22×14×9 in) so the attaché nests inside larger cabin luggage.
Maintenance and security practices: service locks annually, condition leather every 6–12 months, inspect seams and hardware before critical transfers, and store a duplicate key or combination in a secure offsite location.
Selecting a business case: choosing size, laptop fit, and compartment layout
Choose an interior laptop compartment 1–2 in (2.5–5 cm) larger than the device’s width and height and provide 0.5–1 in (1.3–2.5 cm) of foam or neoprene padding around the edges.
Sizing and laptop fit
Measure the laptop’s length × width × thickness (not diagonal). Typical device footprints and recommended internal compartment dimensions:
13-inch ultrabooks: device ≈ 12.0 × 8.3 × 0.6 in (30.5 × 21 × 1.5 cm); compartment ≈ 13.5 × 9.5 × 1.5 in (34 × 24 × 3.8 cm).
14-inch mainstream: device ≈ 12.8 × 8.7 × 0.7 in (32.5 × 22 × 1.8 cm); compartment ≈ 14.0 × 10.0 × 1.5 in (35.5 × 25.5 × 3.8 cm).
15–16-inch laptops: device ≈ 13.6–14.2 × 9.5–10.0 × 0.8–1.2 in (34.5–36 × 24–25.5 × 2–3 cm); compartment ≈ 15.5 × 11.0 × 2.0 in (39 × 28 × 5 cm) to accommodate thicker chargers and sleeves.
Account for bulky protective cases, docking stations, or cooling pads by adding 0.5–1 in (1.3–2.5 cm) to thickness. For A4/US Letter documents, ensure a flat document pocket at least 12.4 × 9.0 in (31.5 × 23 cm).
Compartment layout and organization
Recommended internal architecture: a dedicated padded laptop sleeve (suspended or rear-mounted), a tablet pocket with softer lining, a zippered mesh compartment for cables and power brick, elastic loops for charging leads, and divided document sleeves. Place a quick-access pocket at the front for phone, boarding pass, and keys; that pocket should close securely (zip or flap) to prevent items falling out.
Gusset width options by carrying needs: 1–2.5 in (2.5–6.5 cm) for slim daily loads, 3–4 in (7.5–10 cm) for paperwork and accessories, 5–7 in (12–18 cm) for overnight or thicker files. Choose a removable padded shoulder strap ~1.5–2 in (3.8–5 cm) wide and a trolley sleeve for travel convenience.
Closure preferences: full-length zippers provide weather resistance and security; flap-and-clasp designs offer sleeker aesthetics but require internal zippered pockets for valuables. Prioritize materials with a water-resistant coating or treated leather for protection of electronics. Target empty weight under ~3 lb (1.4 kg) for leather alternatives and under ~2 lb (0.9 kg) for nylon/synthetic models to keep total carry weight manageable when loaded.
Daily commute tips: carrying attachés on public transit and airplanes
Carry a wheeled leather satchel as your personal item under the seat with total carry weight ≤7 kg; keep laptop in a padded sleeve, power bank ≤100 Wh in carry-on, and liquids in 100 ml containers inside a single 1‑litre clear bag.
Public transit – fast, crowded trips
- Optimal size: 35–40 cm wide × 25–30 cm high × 8–12 cm deep for standing commutes; fits against the hip and slides between seats on buses/trams.
- Weight guidance: ≤5 kg for shoulder or crossbody carry on journeys >20 minutes; switch to a wheeled carrycase if load exceeds 8–10 kg.
- Strap and wear: crossbody strap length set so bag rests at hip; quick-release clasp for rapid removal in busy stations.
- Security features: lockable zippers, slash-resistant strap or steel-cored strap, inner zip pockets for phone/passport, and RFID-blocking sleeve for cards.
- Weather protection: seam-sealed nylon or waxed leather; pack important documents in a waterproof pouch inside the main compartment.
- Organisation: front quick-access pocket for transit pass, cord pouch for earbuds/charger, flat folder for documents to avoid creasing.
- Theft-reduction: keep bag worn on the front during peak hours and clip a small carabiner between two zipper pulls.
Airplanes – checkpoints and storage
- Size limits: personal item target ≤45×35×20 cm (18×14×8 in) to fit under most seats; overhead cabin dimensions commonly ≤56×36×23 cm (22×14×9 in) – verify with the carrier.
- Weight planning: aim for ≤7 kg for the personal item; many low-cost carriers enforce 7–10 kg for carry-on–check the airline before packing.
- Electronics & batteries: power banks allowed only in cabin; ≤100 Wh no airline approval, 100–160 Wh requires airline approval, >160 Wh forbidden. Protect spare lithium batteries from shorting with tape or original caps.
- Security screening: place laptop and large electronics in the top compartment or a dedicated quick-access sleeve for removal if requested by the checkpoint (some airports accept laptops inside cases with CT scanners; confirm local practice).
- Stowage strategy: place heavier items under the seat to reduce overhead lifting; use a trolley sleeve to secure the satchel on top of a rolling suitcase during gate-to-gate transfers.
- Carry-on packing list (compact): laptop/tablet in padded compartment, charger + cable, power bank ≤100 Wh, travel documents, small toiletry bag (3-1-1 rule), noise-cancelling earplugs, one set of spare clothes for flights >4 hours.
- Damage prevention: hard-sided or semi-rigid shells protect screens; pack cables and pens in separated pockets to avoid scratches.
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Material care: cleaning, waterproofing, and simple repairs for leather and heavy-duty cotton fabric
Wipe leather weekly with a slightly damp microfiber cloth; dry immediately with a soft towel and apply a cream conditioner every 3–6 months (Saphir Renovateur recommended for smooth leather).
Leather – cleaning, protection, small repairs
Cleaning: remove surface dirt with a soft brush or vacuum brush attachment. For deeper cleaning, mix 3–5 drops of mild liquid soap (unscented Castile) into 250 ml warm water, dampen a microfiber cloth, wring until just damp, wipe in small sections and dry instantly. Spot-test on an inconspicuous area first. For salt stains, dab once with a 1:1 solution of white vinegar and water, then condition after full drying. For mold, wipe with 70% isopropyl alcohol diluted 1:1 with water, dry outdoors in shade, then condition.
Waterproofing: apply a thin coat of beeswax or a dedicated leather wax (Otter Wax Leather Salve, Fiebing’s Wax) or a silicone-based spray for full-grain items. For wax paste: rub evenly, heat gently with a hairdryer to work wax into pores, buff after cooling. Reapply before wet seasons or every 6–12 months depending on exposure.
Minor scratches and scuffs: massage neutral leather balm into the mark; for color loss, apply a color-matched cream (Saphir Pate de Luxe) in thin layers, allow 10–15 minutes to penetrate, then buff. Split edges: clean, apply flexible leather adhesive (Barge All-Purpose Cement), align edges, clamp with small binder clips and allow 24 hours to cure. For loose stitching, replace with waxed polyester thread and saddle stitching after punching holes with a pricking iron; needle size 2.0–2.5 mm for medium leather.
Hardware repair: tighten loose rivets with a 4–5 mm rivet set and mallet; replace corroded snaps with stainless steel snap kits. For worn edge paint, sand lightly with 400–600 grit, apply Tandy Edge Kote thinly, let dry 30–60 minutes, repeat two thin coats.
Heavy-duty cotton fabric – cleaning, reproofing, and patching
Cleaning: brush off dry dirt, then spot-clean with 1 tsp mild detergent per 250 ml warm water. Blot stains; avoid vigorous rubbing to prevent fiber fuzz. For oil stains, sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda, leave 30–60 minutes, brush off, then treat with mild detergent solution. Machine washing allowed only if manufacturer label confirms; air-dry flat away from direct sun.
Reproofing: for standard woven cotton, apply spray-on water repellent (Nikwax TX.Direct, Atsko Silicone Water-Guard) from 20–30 cm in even passes; allow 12 hours between coats and 24–48 hours cure time. For waxed cotton alternative, apply bar wax (Otter Wax or beeswax blend) in small patches, melt evenly with a hairdryer or iron covered by a cotton cloth on low heat, smooth with gloved hands, then cool. Reproof before the wet season or after machine washing.
Small tears and seam leaks: patch from the inside with Tenacious Tape or a matching fabric patch using fabric glue (Gear Aid Weldwood replacement) and press firmly; for seams, apply urethane seam sealer (Gear Aid Seam Grip) along the stitch line, allow 24 hours cure. For heavy-duty repairs, sew with heavy nylon thread and a strong needle, then seal stitches with a thin bead of seam sealer.
Storage and inspection checklist: store in breathable cotton bag, maintain shape with crumpled acid-free paper, keep at 40–60% humidity and away from radiators and direct sunlight. Monthly quick inspection: check stitching, rivets, zipper function, and split areas; perform minor fixes immediately to prevent escalation.
Budgeting a purchase: price ranges, materials, and expected lifespan
Allocate a minimum of $150 for a practical business case; plan $300–700 for genuine leather or high-performance textile constructions that commonly last 7–12 years with routine care.
Price brackets and expected returns
| Price range (USD) | Typical materials | Common features | Expected lifespan (years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| <$100 | Bonded leather, low-density polyester, glued trims | Minimal padding, basic zipper, no hardware warranty | 1–3 |
| $100–$250 | PU leather, mid-weight polyester, stitched seams | Padded laptop sleeve, modest compartments, short warranty (1–2 yr) | 2–5 |
| $250–$600 | Top-grain leather, ballistic nylon/Cordura, metal zippers | Removable laptop compartment, reinforced handles, 2–5 yr warranty | 5–12 |
| $600–$1,500 | Full-grain leather, heavy-duty ballistic textile, aluminum trim options | Replaceable parts, lifetime limited or extended warranty, repair network | 10–25 |
| >$1,500 | Premium full-grain or vegetable-tanned leather, bespoke hardware | Custom builds, lifetime service, restorability | 15–30+ |
Materials, maintenance costs, and practical longevity
Full-grain leather: 10–30 years. Typical annual maintenance: conditioning every 6–12 months ($15–40 for conditioner) and professional reconditioning every 3–7 years ($60–200). Expect scuff repair or edge retouching $40–120.
Top-grain leather: 5–15 years. Lower thickness and surface treatments reduce lifetime versus full-grain; professional repair similar but less often needed.
Vegetable-tanned leather: 8–25 years. Patina develops; avoid harsh cleaners. Reconditioning costs align with full-grain ranges.
Bonded leather / PU leather: 1–4 years. Peeling and delamination common; replacement usually more economical than repair.
Ballistic nylon / Cordura: 5–15 years. High abrasion resistance; expect zipper and seam repairs ($30–120) rather than full replacement. Waterproof coatings may need renewal ($10–30 spray).
High-density polyester/textile: 3–8 years. Lifespan depends on weave and coating; reinforced stitching extends usable life.
Aluminum and composite frames: 10–25 years if hardware remains serviceable. Frame dent repair and hinge replacement can cost $80–300.
Repair and accessory price benchmarks: zipper replacement $30–80; handle or strap replacement $25–150; lining replacement $100–300; full restoration $200–600. Padded laptop sleeves: $20–60. Spare parts availability often found for mid and premium brands; budget labels rarely offer replacements.
Buying guidance: for a 10-year horizon target mid-to-premium materials and confirm a minimum 2-year warranty plus available spare parts. For a 3-year horizon, low-cost textile or PU options are acceptable but plan on full replacement rather than repair.
Where to buy: reputable brands, local craftsmen, and safe secondhand marketplaces
For guaranteed build quality and after-sales support, prioritize these manufacturers: Tumi (structured carry items with lifetime warranties), Filson (waxed-cotton-look alternatives and rugged leather), Saddleback Leather (thick full-grain hides, 3–3.5 mm recommended for structure), Briggs & Riley (flight-friendly warranties), Aspinal of London and Ghurka (classic leather styling), and Troubadour (modern, slim profiles). Expect factory-new pricing from roughly $250–$2,000 depending on material and warranty level.
Commissioning a local leatherworker yields tailored dimensions and repairability. Before committing, request: hide origin, thickness in millimetres (2–3.5 mm for panels and 3.5–4.5 mm for reinforced bases/handles), stitch method (saddle stitch preferred), stitch density (7–9 stitches per inch), hardware metal type (solid brass over plated alloys), zipper brand (YKK or RiRi), and edge finishing technique (burnishing or edge paint). Ask to inspect samples in person or receive close-up photos of joins, handle attachments, and edgework.
Safe secondhand sources for higher-value items: TheRealReal and Vestiaire Collective (authentication before listing), 1stDibs (curated vintage and dealer-verified), Grailed and eBay (pick sellers with >98% positive feedback and recent sales history), and specialty consignment shops local to major cities. For lower-cost local finds, check reputable brick-and-mortar thrift or consignment stores rather than anonymous classifieds. For outdoor maker markets bring sun protection; a practical reference: best color umbrella to protect from sun.
Authentication checklist for used purchases: clear serial numbers or maker stamps photographed against a ruler; interior tags and lining condition; zipper branding; solid brass hardware with minimal flaking; stitch count and consistency; edge finishing without glue residue; corner wear and handle flex; and smell (genuine leather versus chemical odor). For luxury logos, consider a paid verification service such as Entrupy for items above about $800.
Payments and shipping: prefer card payments or PayPal Goods & Services for buyer protection; require tracked, insured shipping with signature on delivery; insist on a 7–14 day return window for high-value buys. For private sales over $1,000, use an escrow service or meet at a bank branch to inspect and complete payment. Keep all seller correspondence and serial-numbered photos for future service or resale.
When evaluating a purchase channel, weigh repair accessibility (local artisan vs. factory service), warranty terms, and long-term value retention. For small repairs or customization, confirm the seller’s repair policy and check whether spare hardware (buckles, feet, replacement handles) is readily available.
