Any more bag recommendations?
Timbuk2 has a real nice line up for those... I got this one and I love it.
It's called the Command. I use it for school and it's the best bag I've ever had... The thing that sold me about this particular bag is that its made with the same material they make bomb suits with and it has the TSA friendly zipper where you don't need to take your laptop out at airport security. I can put a good 20-32oz sports water bottle in the medium size. And something unique for me is that it has an easy access pocket perfect for keys, passport, wallet or map when traveling.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pTWeDanhwhQ <-- review on Timbuk2 Command, I love this bag.
Here's my rig. It's a lot but this bag has potential. Just remember you have to organize it to fit well, and be realistic. I wouldn't recommend stuffing it, it can easily get bloated. I managed to put all of these things without making my bag too bloated or making the zippers too tight to close. And in some parts, I still have space for more stuff.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/99006198@N00/5478428046/ <-- all the stuff I bring to class... this is NOT including my laptop and water bottle.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/99006198@N00/5477831113/in/photostream/ <-- open view. The case adds a few millimeters, maybe 1-3 and makes it more comfortable.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/99006198@N00/5477831267/in/photostream/ <-- backside... you can still see the apple logo when its on.
I have my MBP with a Speck Satin case, it's very comfortable, keeps the aluminum from getting scratched and is stable since it has non-slip pads on the corners. One thing you'll notice is that it saves your wrists from the "sharp" edge by adding a softer rim. For the few weeks of usage, I've seen large nasty scratch marks on it already and it will help keep the resale value higher. Lastly, the case has a "matte" look and its very slick, modern and compliments an already beautiful machine.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/99006198@N00/5477831399/in/photostream/ <--- got this for $0.01 at Amazon.
And to add even more protection (I care about my investments), I have a Silicone keyboard cover. It's comfortable and keeps the noise level down when typing essays. I noticed it prevents more heat from touching my hands. Very important if you are always touching your laptop. I've also seen a lot of crumbs or small debris land on it and keep it from flying in between the keys. This also helps keep resale value high.
I dislike the "clammy" hands and looking at my MBP and seeing my dirty paw marks all over them. I hope I'm not overkill, but it's always better to be safe than sorry.. I'm a college student and I can't afford being careless since I bring the laptop with me everywhere I go. It has to withstand the stress from walking, running late to class, sitting on the side, upside down, flat on a table, in my messenger bag with all my gear on top of it and the occasional drop or fall. It's always a good idea to protect your stuff. A wise man once told me, if you take care of it.. It will take care of you.
And if I don't need my bag, I have a sleeve from CaseLogic which has a cool external pouch where I can put my USB drives, cloths or charger in.