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The SwissGear 5358 USB ScanSmart is a laptop backpack built for flying: its padded laptop compartment lays flat for airport security scanners, and a built-in USB port lets you charge your phone on the go. It’s well organized and comfortable, though the pocket layout isn’t ideal for small items and the water bottle pocket is short.
- Best for
- Frequent flyers, commuters and students who carry a laptop of up to 16 inches.
- Main advantage
- TSA-friendly lay-flat laptop compartment, built-in USB port and plenty of specialized pockets.
- Main drawback
- Few small compartments, a short water bottle pocket and an awkwardly placed glasses pocket.
- Verdict
- A practical, comfortable travel backpack at a reasonable price, with a few minor design flaws.
Price and availability may change.
Key features of the SwissGear 5358 ScanSmart
Design and organization
The backpack has a contemporary look and a spacious interior that fits a laptop, a tablet, books and other everyday items, with multiple pockets to keep it all in order.
ScanSmart laptop compartment and USB port
Its stand-out feature is the TSA-friendly, padded lay-flat compartment for a laptop or tablet of up to 16 inches. It’s designed so you can lay the bag flat at airport security instead of taking your laptop out, which saved me time when traveling. Security rules differ between airports, so follow the instructions of the officers on the day. A built-in USB port lets you charge your devices on the go.
Essentials organizer
An included essentials organizer keeps power cords, chargers and business cards in one place, so you don’t have to dig through the bag.
Specialized pockets
- Add-a-bag trolley sleeve: slides over the handle of your carry-on suitcase.
- Quick pocket: for essentials you need to reach fast.
- Insulated side pocket: helps keep a water bottle cool.
- Crush-resistant pocket: protects your glasses or sunglasses.
Comfort
Ergonomically contoured mesh shoulder straps and airflow back padding keep it comfortable on long commutes, and a wire-reinforced grab handle gives you a sturdy grip.
Construction
The backpack is built for daily use and travel, whether you’re a student with heavy textbooks or a professional on the go. The zippers have security loops so you can add a lock, and there’s an attachment tab for a safety light.
Pros and cons
What we like
- TSA-friendly lay-flat, padded compartment for up to a 16″ laptop or tablet
- Built-in USB charging port
- Insulated water bottle pocket and crush-resistant glasses pocket
- Add-a-bag sleeve for rolling luggage
- Comfortable mesh straps and airflow back padding
Watch out for
- Pocket layout isn’t ideal for small items
- Water bottle pocket may be too short for larger bottles
- Glasses pocket placement is awkward
- Check the shoulder stabilizer straps when it arrives; some have had length issues
Price and availability may change.
Who should buy it, and who should skip it
Buy it if…
- You fly often and want a lay-flat laptop compartment for security checks.
- You want to charge your phone on the go.
- You travel with a rolling carry-on and want to stack the backpack on it.
Skip it if…
- You carry lots of small items and want many small compartments.
- You use a tall water bottle.
- Your laptop is larger than 16 inches.
For a more premium business option, see our Briggs & Riley @Work backpack review. Want even more pockets? Browse our top backpacks with lots of pockets.
Is the SwissGear ScanSmart worth it?
For frequent travelers and commuters, yes. The lay-flat ScanSmart compartment, USB port, insulated bottle pocket and add-a-bag sleeve make it a very practical travel backpack, and it’s comfortable to carry. The pocket layout and short bottle pocket are minor flaws rather than deal-breakers.
FAQ
What size laptop fits in the SwissGear 5358 ScanSmart?
The padded lay-flat compartment is designed for a laptop or tablet of up to 16 inches.
How does the ScanSmart design work at airport security?
You lay the backpack flat and the laptop compartment opens out, so in many cases you don’t need to take the laptop out separately. Always follow the security officers’ instructions.
Can I charge any device with the USB port?
The built-in port works with most standard USB devices, such as phones, tablets and e-readers, as long as you have the right charging cable.
Is it waterproof?
No. It handles light rain, but use a rain cover in heavy downpours.
Can I use it as a carry-on?
Carry-on and personal-item size limits vary by airline, so check your airline’s rules before you fly.
How do I clean it?
Wipe it with a damp cloth.
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