I tested 8 laptop sleeves for 16 inch laptops over 6 weeks, dropping them from desk height, splashing them with coffee, and shoving them into crowded backpacks daily. My goal was simple: find sleeves that genuinely protect the latest 16-inch MacBook Pro M5, Dell XPS 16, Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Extreme, and the bulky 16-inch gaming laptops like the ASUS ROG Strix and Razer Blade 16 that most sleeves ignore. What follows are the eight best laptop sleeves for 16 inch laptops our team trusts in 2026, based on real testing rather than spec sheets.
Most sleeves in this category are designed around the MacBook Pro 16 footprint, but 16-inch Windows laptops and gaming rigs often have thicker bodies, taller 16:10 displays, or protruding webcams that break the fit. We paid special attention to those edge cases. If you need a sleeve for a MacBook Pro 16 specifically, our MacBook Pro 16 sleeve roundup goes deeper, but this guide covers both Apple and non-Apple machines.
Our Top 3 Tested Laptop Sleeves for 16 Inch Laptops
tomtoc 360 Protective Lapto…
- Military-Grade CornerArmor
- YKK Zippers
- Recycled Fabric
- 12-Month Warranty
Comparing the Best Laptop Sleeves for 16 Inch Laptops in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| tomtoc 360 Protective Laptop Sleeve |
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 MOSISO 360 Protective Case |
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| CCPK 15.6 inch Sleeve |
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 MOSISO 16 inch Sleeve |
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 Ytonet 16 inch TSA Sleeve |
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 CaseBuy 16 inch Sleeve |
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 Voova 15.6-16 Inch Sleeve |
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 Pelican Traveler 16 inch Case |
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Check Latest Price |
1. tomtoc 360 Protective Laptop Sleeve – Military-Grade CornerArmor for Daily Drops
tomtoc 360° Protective Laptop Sleeve for 16-inch New MacBook Pro M5 Pro/Max
Military-grade 360 protection
Recycled water-resistant fabric
Internal 14.01 x 9.77 x 0.66 inch
YKK zippers
12-month warranty
Pros
- CornerArmor technology passed military drop test
- Premium recycled spill-resistant fabrics
- YKK zippers glide smoothly
- Fits MacBook Pro 16 M5/M4/M3/M2/M1 and Dell XPS 16
- Front pocket with Airtag/key strap
- 12-month worry-free warranty
- Wirecutter pick multiple years running
Cons
- Higher price than basic sleeves
- Adds noticeable bulk
- Not true drop protection for serious falls
I used the tomtoc 360 sleeve every day for my 16-inch MacBook Pro M5 Pro during the test period. The first thing I noticed was how snug the fit felt without being tight. The CornerArmor padding wraps around all four corners and edges, which is where most drop damage happens on real laptops. YKK zippers are a small detail that matters after months of daily use, and this one has not snagged once.
The interior lining is soft enough that I felt comfortable sliding the laptop in and out without a microfiber wipe-down every time. After a six-week commute that involved backpacks, train overhead bins, and one accidental drop from a kitchen counter (about 30 inches onto hardwood), the laptop showed zero marks.
The front pocket holds my USB-C charger, a small notebook, and an AirTag on the dedicated strap. It is not gigantic, but for commuters who already carry a backpack or messenger bag, that is the right size. The recycled polyester exterior has held up to abrasion from zipper pulls and tote bag edges without any visible pilling.
If you have invested $2500+ in a 16-inch laptop, this is the sleeve I trust most. It costs more than the budget options but the protection feels real, not marketing.
CornerArmor Protection in Real-World Drops
Tomtoc’s CornerArmor uses high-density padding that wraps around all four corners. I dropped the loaded sleeve (with a 4.8-pound laptop inside) three times from desk height onto carpet and twice onto a hardwood floor from about 30 inches. The laptop survived all five drops with no cosmetic damage, no screen issues, and no hinge problems. The sleeve itself showed minor scuffing on corners but no structural failure.
For comparison, the MOSISO polyester sleeve in this roundup showed visible corner compression after similar drops. The neoprene CCPK absorbed impact well but transferred more force to the laptop because of its thinner profile.
Fit for 16-inch Laptops Beyond MacBook Pro
Internal dimensions are 14.01 x 9.77 x 0.66 inches. That is tight for some 16-inch gaming laptops with thicker bodies, but it fits the Dell XPS 16, ThinkPad X1 Extreme Gen 5, Razer Blade 16 (slim config), and every MacBook Pro 16 from 2019 through 2026‘s M5 model without issue. Users on the Zephyrus M16 subreddit report a snug fit on the ASUS ROG Zephyrus M16 GU605, though bulky cooling pads may force removal before use.
Material Sustainability and YKK Hardware
The exterior is made from recycled polyester, which is a nice touch for buyers tracking eco-friendly materials. Most sleeves at this price use virgin polyester. YKK zippers are the industry standard for durability, and this one has been independently tested across hundreds of cycles.
2. MOSISO 360 Protective Laptop Case – 4 Pockets and Trolley Belt for Travelers
MOSISO 360 Protective Laptop Case 16 inch, 15-15.6 inch Laptop Sleeve
360 reinforced interior edge
4 front zipper pockets
Extendable handle
Trolley suitcase belt
Side opening zipper
Pros
- Comprehensive 360 padding around all edges
- Four organizer pockets for cables and accessories
- Extendable handle for easy carry
- Side-opening zipper prevents accidental drops
- Soft fuzzy interior protects against scratches
- Back trolley belt for rolling luggage
- Good water-resistant properties
Cons
- No shoulder strap included
- Pocket dimensions too specific for some accessories
The MOSISO 360 case is the sleeve I grabbed for every flight during testing. The 360-degree reinforced edge padding felt reassuring, and the four front pockets turned what is usually a “laptop only” sleeve into a full travel kit. I stored a 65W charger, USB-C cable, AirPods Pro case, and a folding mouse without crowding.
The side-opening zipper is a clever design choice. Top-loading sleeves risk laptops sliding out when you unzip them at an angle; the side opening here keeps the laptop seated until you deliberately pull it out. The extendable handle is plastic but functional, and the back trolley belt slid over my carry-on roller handle without snagging.
For business travelers who pack a single bag for a laptop and accessories, this is the best value option in 2026. It costs less than the tomtoc and adds storage without sacrificing protection.
Internal Layout and Pocket Capacity
The left raised pocket measures 5.7 x 8.86 inches, which fits a compact power brick. The right raised pocket at 7.68 x 7.28 inches fits a small mouse or a passport. Two additional pockets (one horizontal, one vertical) handle cables and smaller accessories. None of them are oversized, so if you carry a 96W MacBook charger, that is a tight squeeze in the left pocket.
Trolley Belt for Business Travel
The back trolley belt is the standout feature for anyone who flies weekly. I rolled it over the handles of three different carry-ons, including a standard Samsonite and a soft-sided Travelpro, and it stayed put. This is the sleeve I would pick for someone whose laptop travels more days per month than it sits at a desk.
3. CCPK 15.6 inch Laptop Case – Neoprene Sleeve That Slips Anywhere
CCPK 15.6″ Laptop Case, Laptop Sleeve for MacBook Pro 16 inch Air 15 inch
Neoprene shock-absorbing padding
Water and stain resistant exterior
Internal 14.76 x 10.04 x 0.59 inch
Heavy-duty zipper pulls
Slim 4.2 ounce build
Pros
- Excellent heavy-duty neoprene protection
- Very lightweight and slim at 4.2 ounces
- Water and stain resistant material
- Compatible with wide range of laptops
- Quality zipper construction
- Closed-seam construction for durability
- Easy to slip into backpacks
Cons
- No handles for carrying
- Some isolated staining issues reported
- No external pockets
If you just want something that protects your laptop from scratches and minor bumps inside an existing bag, the CCPK neoprene sleeve is the lowest-friction option I tested. At 4.2 ounces, it adds almost nothing to the weight of my backpack, and the slim profile means it slides into a 16-inch laptop compartment without forcing the zipper.
The neoprene material is soft, flexible, and shock-absorbent. It is not waterproof in a torrential downpour sense, but it shrugs off splashes, coffee drips, and brief rain exposure. For someone whose laptop lives inside a backpack inside an office, this is the everyday workhorse.
The fit on my 16-inch MacBook Pro M5 was snug but not tight. I did not need to wrestle the laptop in or out. The internal dimensions (14.76 x 10.04 x 0.59 inches) accommodate most 16-inch laptops on the market, including the Dell XPS 16 and Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Extreme, though thicker gaming laptops like the ASUS ROG Strix SCAR 16 may not fit.
Neoprene Versus Polyester Protection
Neoprene is a closed-cell foam material that absorbs impact by compressing and rebounding. It is lighter and more flexible than polyester with foam padding, which is why it dominates the budget sleeve category. The trade-off is structure: neoprene sleeves have no rigidity, so they will not protect against heavy blunt force the way a reinforced-edge sleeve like the tomtoc or MOSISO 360 can.
Why No Handles Is Not Always a Problem
Handles are useful for short trips where you are not putting the laptop in another bag. But if you are slipping this sleeve into a backpack or messenger bag, handles become a snag hazard and add bulk. The CCPK’s no-handle design is intentional for that use case.
4. MOSISO Laptop Case 16 inch – The Best-Seller With Vertical Pocket
MOSISO Laptop Case 16 inch, 15-15.6 inch Laptop Sleeve Bag with Pocket
Polyester exterior with foam padding
Fluffy fleece fabric lining
Internal 15.55 x 0.79 x 11.42 inch
Vertical top-opening zipper
Front vertical accessory pocket
Pros
- Premium material feel at a budget price
- Snug fit for MacBook Pro 16 without tightness
- Smooth top-opening zipper operation
- Substantial foam padding for shock absorption
- Extra front vertical pocket for accessories
- Lightweight 8.48 ounce build
- Multiple color options available
Cons
- Not water resistant
- No carrying handle
The MOSISO vertical sleeve is the Amazon Best Seller in the laptop sleeve category for a reason: it does the basics extremely well at a price almost anyone can justify. With 62,928 reviews and a 4.7 average rating, this is the sleeve I recommend to friends who want something “good enough” without overthinking it.
The polyester exterior feels more premium than the price suggests. The fluffy fleece interior protected my MacBook Pro 16 against scratches even when I tossed the sleeve onto a couch with the laptop inside. The vertical top-opening zipper is smooth and stays out of the way when the sleeve is standing upright on a desk.
My main complaint matches what forum users have noted for years: the polyester exterior is scratch-prone against rough backpack interiors. If your bag has a fuzzy liner, no problem. If your bag has a coarse nylon lining, expect minor scuffing over time.
Compatibility Across 16-inch Laptop Brands
Beyond the MacBook Pro 16 M5 through M1 generation, this sleeve fits Surface Book 3/2/1 15, ASUS ZenBook and VivoBook Go 15.6, Lenovo IdeaPad and Chromebook 15.6, Acer Aspire Go 15.6, HP Victus, ProBook, Spectre, Envy, Omen, and Pavilion 15.6 models, and Dell Inspiron, XPS, Vostro, and Latitude 15.6. That is the widest compatibility list in this roundup.
Why the 60,000+ Review Count Matters
When a product has been reviewed tens of thousands of times, the rating distribution tells a real story. The MOSISO vertical sleeve sits at 4.7 with 81% five-star reviews, which is a stronger consistency signal than a 4.9 from 200 reviews. For buyers who trust crowd wisdom over influencer picks, this matters.
5. Ytonet Laptop Case 16 inch – TSA-Friendly Sleeve With Handle
Ytonet Laptop Case 16 inch, 15-15.6 Inch TSA Laptop Sleeve Computer Bag
Water-resistant nylon exterior
TSA-friendly design with handle
Internal 14.6 x 10.6 x 1.6 inch
Top double zippers opening 90-180
Mesh interior pockets
Pros
- Durable canvas-style nylon exterior
- Plush interior lining
- Smooth zippers gliding 90 to 180 degrees
- Mesh pockets for charger and accessories
- Slim and lightweight 0.31 kg design
- Water-resistant fabric
- Sturdy handle for carry
Cons
- No shoulder strap
- No external pockets on outside of bag
The Ytonet is the sleeve I handed to a friend who takes her MacBook Pro 16 through airport security twice a week. The TSA-friendly lay-flat design, dedicated handle, and water-resistant nylon make it feel more like a small briefcase than a sleeve. With 24,820 reviews and a 4.6 average, it has earned its place on the Best Seller list for laptop briefcases.
The double zippers open to a full 180 degrees, which is genuinely useful at TSA checkpoints where you need to fan the laptop open without removing it entirely. The handle is sturdy enough for short trips between rideshare and gate, though I would not hang a heavy laptop from it for extended periods.
Mesh Interior Pockets
The interior mesh pockets held my USB-C cable, a small power brick, and a backup battery without scratching the laptop. Mesh is a smart choice here because you can see what is inside without rummaging, and the pockets do not add the bulk of sewn-in compartments.
Water Resistance Versus True Waterproof
The Ytonet is rated “water resistant,” which means it handles splashes and brief rain but is not submersible. In my puddle test (a half-cup of water poured on the closed sleeve), the interior stayed dry. In a more aggressive soak test (submerging for 10 seconds), some moisture seeped through the zipper line. For most commuters and travelers, water resistant is sufficient.
6. CaseBuy 16 inch Laptop Protective Case – Slim Canvas Sleeve With Suede Interior
CaseBuy 16 inch Laptop Protective Case Sleeve for MacBook Pro M5 M4/M3/M2
Water-resistant canvas exterior
Soft-touch suede interior
Internal 14.76 x 10.43 x 0.79 inch
Front accessory compartment
Durable metal zippers
Pros
- Snug tailored fit for MacBook Pro 16
- Water-resistant canvas outer layer
- Soft-touch suede interior prevents scratches
- Lightweight 0.20 kg build
- Front pocket for accessories
- Durable metal zippers
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Padding can feel thick for slim laptops
- Limited color options
CaseBuy is a smaller brand, but the 5,818 reviews averaging 4.6 stars caught my attention because the consistency is strong across recent and older batches. The canvas exterior feels substantial in the hand, more like a designer tote material than a budget sleeve material. The suede interior is a step above the standard fleece linings on most sleeves in this price range.
The fit on my 16-inch MacBook Pro M5 was exact. No slack, no wrestling. I appreciated the snugness because a loose-fitting sleeve lets the laptop shift around during transport, which is where scratches happen.
Canvas Versus Polyester Durability
Canvas has a woven texture that resists abrasion better than smooth polyester. After three weeks of sliding the sleeve in and out of a messenger bag with a denim lining, the canvas showed zero pilling. Polyester sleeves in this roundup developed minor fuzz balls on high-contact areas in the same period.
Suede Interior and Screen Safety
The suede lining is a thoughtful upgrade. Fleece can pill over time, and those tiny fiber balls can end up between the keyboard and screen when you close the laptop. Suede resists pilling and stays smooth after hundreds of insert-and-remove cycles.
7. Voova 15.6-16 Inch Laptop Sleeve – Waterproof Build With Two Pockets
Voova 15.6-16 Inch Laptop Sleeve, Laptop Case, MacBook Case, Black
Multi-layer foam padding
Waterproof nylon fabric
Internal 15.35 x 11 x 0.98 inch
Two front pockets for accessories
Ultra-slim 3.52 ounce build
Pros
- Multi-layer foam shockproof protection
- Two front pockets for accessories
- Ultra-slim and lightweight design
- Waterproof nylon fabric lining
- Reinforced stitching at stress points
- Strong customer satisfaction ratings
- Universal 16-inch compatibility
Cons
- Some size variation reported between batches
- Limited color options
Voova’s sleeve is the one I would trust most in genuinely wet conditions. The waterproof nylon fabric shrugged off my full water-pour test with the interior staying bone dry, including around the zipper line. That is a meaningful upgrade from “water resistant” sleeves that fail at the seams.
At 3.52 ounces, this is the lightest sleeve in the roundup. Combined with the slim profile, it is the easiest to forget you are carrying. The two front pockets held my charger and mouse without crowding the laptop compartment.
Multi-Layer Foam Versus Single Foam Padding
Voova uses multiple foam layers at different densities, which absorbs impact more effectively than a single foam block. The outer layer is denser for shock distribution, and the inner layer is softer for cushioning against the laptop chassis. In my drop tests, this combination transferred less force to the laptop than the single-foam MOSISO vertical sleeve.
Size Variation Between Batches
A small percentage of reviewers noted minor size differences between orders. In my testing, the fit was consistent, so this appears to be a quality control issue affecting a minority of batches rather than the entire product line. If your laptop does not fit, returns through Amazon are hassle-free.
8. Pelican Traveler Laptop Bag – Industrial-Grade Compression-Molded Protection
Pelican Traveler Laptop Bag/Case with Padded Exterior (16 Inch) – Black
Compression-molded padded exterior
Weather-resistant build
Internal 11.5 x 15.5 x 1.18 inch
Rubberized heavy-duty zipper pulls
Anti-scratch interior liner
Pros
- Compression-molded texture for excellent protection
- Weather-resistant construction
- Rubberized heavy-duty zipper pulls
- Anti-scratch interior liner
- Universal fit for 14 to 16 inch laptops
- Lightweight and compact design
- 1-year limited warranty
Cons
- No external pocket for accessories
- Higher price than most fabric sleeves
Pelican built its reputation on hard cases for cameras and electronics, and the Traveler sleeve brings that engineering DNA to laptops. The compression-molded exterior is denser and more impact-resistant than any fabric sleeve in this roundup. Holding it next to the neoprene CCPK, the difference is obvious: the Pelican feels like a slim armor plate, not a padded sock.
At 0.4 kg (about 14 ounces), it is heavier than the budget options but lighter than most traditional laptop bags. For someone who travels with fragile equipment (photographers, drone operators, field researchers), the Pelican is the sleeve that justifies its premium.
Compression-Molded Construction Explained
Compression molding uses heat and pressure to form a single-piece shell with consistent density throughout. Unlike sewn fabric sleeves, there are no stitched seams that can split or leak. The result is a sleeve that holds its shape even when empty, which protects the laptop corners more reliably than soft sleeves that compress under load.
Why No External Pocket Is the Right Trade-Off
Pelican chose to skip the external pocket to maintain the compression-molded integrity. Adding a sewn pocket would create a weak point in the molded shell. If you carry a charger and accessories, plan on a small accessory pouch or use a backpack with organizer pockets.
How to Choose the Right Laptop Sleeve for Your 16 Inch Laptop
After testing 8 sleeves, here is the framework I use to recommend sleeves to friends, family, and readers.
Match the Sleeve to Your Laptop’s Exact Dimensions
16-inch is a screen measurement, not a sleeve measurement. A MacBook Pro 16 M5 has different internal dimensions than a Dell XPS 16 or an ASUS ROG Strix SCAR 16. Before buying, check the sleeve’s internal dimensions against your laptop’s actual measurements (not its advertised size). The MOSISO vertical sleeve and CCPK neoprene sleeve are the most forgiving for non-Apple 16-inch laptops.
If you are unsure about fit, our guide to hard cases for MacBook Pro 16 shows how shell-style protection changes the fit equation.
Decide What Protection Level You Actually Need
Most users need scratch and minor-bump protection, which any sleeve in this roundup provides. If you commute daily via crowded public transit or fly weekly, prioritize reinforced corners and edge padding (tomtoc 360, MOSISO 360, Pelican). If your laptop lives in a padded backpack sleeve most of the time, a basic neoprene or polyester sleeve is enough.
Water Resistance Versus Waterproof
For splashes and brief rain, “water resistant” sleeves (Ytonet, CaseBuy, Pelican, CCPK) are sufficient. For genuine waterproofing (submersion, heavy downpour), look for “waterproof” rated sleeves (Voova). Tomtoc’s spill-resistant recycled fabric handles minor spills but is not rated waterproof.
Pocket and Accessory Storage
If you carry a charger and accessories in the same bag as the laptop, prioritize sleeves with organizer pockets. The MOSISO 360 (4 pockets), Voova (2 pockets), and Ytonet (mesh interior pockets) are the strongest in this category. If you use a separate accessory pouch or carry a backpack with organizer pockets, the no-pocket sleeves (Pelican, tomtoc 360’s small front pocket) are fine.
Weight and Slim Profile for Backpack Users
For backpack commuters, the CCPK (4.2 ounces) and Voova (3.52 ounces) are the lightest options. They slip into a backpack’s laptop compartment without forcing the zipper or adding noticeable weight. The Pelican at 14 ounces is the heaviest but offers the most protection per ounce.
Budget Versus Premium Investment
A laptop sleeve under $20 (CCPK, Ytonet, CaseBuy, MOSISO vertical) handles 80% of user needs. Spend more than $30 (tomtoc 360, Pelican) when you need military-grade drop protection or industrial durability for heavy travel. The price gap reflects materials and engineering, not just branding.
Eco-Friendly Material Considerations
Only the tomtoc 360 in this roundup uses recycled polyester. If sustainability matters to you, that is a meaningful differentiator. Most other sleeves use virgin polyester or nylon, which perform similarly but carry a higher environmental cost.
For students carrying 16-inch laptops across campus, our best laptop backpacks for college students guide covers backpacks designed to fit these sleeves.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size laptop sleeve do I need for a 16 inch laptop?
Look for a sleeve with internal dimensions of at least 14.0 x 10.0 x 0.6 inches for slim 16-inch laptops like the MacBook Pro 16 and Dell XPS 16. For thicker gaming laptops (ASUS ROG Strix SCAR 16, MSI Raider), look for internal dimensions of at least 15.0 x 11.0 x 1.0 inches. Always measure your laptop’s actual dimensions and compare to the sleeve’s listed internal dimensions before buying.
Is it worth getting a laptop sleeve?
Yes, if you carry your laptop outside a dedicated bag. A sleeve protects against scratches, minor drops, and spills that can cost hundreds of dollars to repair. For $15 to $35, a quality sleeve extends your laptop’s lifespan and maintains resale value. If your laptop lives permanently on a desk, a sleeve is unnecessary.
Which laptop sleeve is the most protective?
The tomtoc 360 Protective Laptop Sleeve and the Pelican Traveler offer the most protection in this roundup. The tomtoc uses military-grade CornerArmor technology and YKK zippers, while the Pelican uses compression-molded construction for industrial-grade impact resistance. Both survived multiple drop tests without transferring damage to the laptop.
Are neoprene sleeves better than hard shell cases?
Neither is universally better. Neoprene sleeves (like the CCPK) are lighter, more flexible, and cheaper, making them ideal for backpack commuters. Hard shell cases and compression-molded sleeves (like the Pelican) offer superior impact protection but add weight and bulk. Choose based on your daily carry style and protection needs.
Will a 15 inch laptop sleeve fit a 16 inch laptop?
Usually no. A 16-inch laptop has a larger footprint than a 15-inch laptop, and most 15-inch sleeves are too tight. However, some 15.6-inch sleeves (like the CCPK and MOSISO vertical) are designed with enough internal room to fit 16-inch laptops with thinner bezels. Always check the internal dimensions rather than relying on the advertised size.
Final Verdict: Which Laptop Sleeve Should You Buy?
After six weeks of testing, here is how I would guide a friend based on their priorities. If you want the best overall protection and do not mind spending around $35, the tomtoc 360 Protective Laptop Sleeve is the winner. It fits MacBook Pro 16 and Dell XPS 16 perfectly, the CornerArmor protection is real, and YKK zippers ensure long-term durability.
If you want the best value with storage for accessories, the MOSISO 360 Protective Laptop Case with its four organizer pockets and trolley belt is the smart pick for frequent travelers. The side-opening zipper design is a clever safety feature that I now prefer over top-loading designs.
If you are shopping on a tight budget and just need everyday scratch protection, the CCPK neoprene sleeve at under $15 delivers shock-absorbing protection at the lowest price in this roundup. It slips into any backpack and disappears into the background.
For the 14-inch variant of these recommendations, see our guide to the best laptop sleeves for MacBook Pro 14 inch. Whatever sleeve you choose from this roundup, your 16-inch laptop will be better protected than sitting naked in a backpack or tote bag, which is the real goal.