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AIBU?

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Original poster

To think it’s unprofessional for an employer to give me a work laptop without a case?

155 replies

BusyEagle · 08/02/2025 20:21

I started a new job this week and I was issued a work laptop, but it didn’t come with a case or sleeve for protection. AIBU to think that’s a bit improper or unprofessional? Surely, if they expect me to take care of it, they should provide something to keep it safe?

OP posts:
notvirginiawoolf · 09/02/2025 08:49

Is it unreasonable for your workplace to not provide a laptop. Even during a time when we had to do online lessons.

Justalittlehandhold · 09/02/2025 08:45

charabang · 09/02/2025 08:36

YANBU. I've always been given a case and I've always used it. I'll be buggered if I'm buying my own.

Excellent work ethic, you must be a real asset to any employer! 🙄

charabang · 09/02/2025 08:36

YANBU. I've always been given a case and I've always used it. I'll be buggered if I'm buying my own.

DoodleDig · 09/02/2025 08:33

Same thing happened to me last week. So I bought a laptop sleeve for £10. Problem solved.

Chicheguevara · 09/02/2025 08:30

I don’t have a works laptop case. I just use my own laptop rucksack. The last time I had a carrying case provided, was over a decade ago.

Newbie8918 · 09/02/2025 08:30

I'm just going to leave this here. It's a list of 'real' problems and whilst it's a tough read, it may give you some perspective.

To ask the hardest thing you have ever been through http://www.mumsnet.com/Talk/amiibeingunreasonable/5266531-to-ask-the-hardest-thing-you-have-ever-been-through

GoldenSunflowers · 09/02/2025 08:28

All that waste. Some 20 years ago you’d get them at conferences and the kids would get them when you got home.

certainagedwoman · 09/02/2025 08:22

In 20 years of using laptops for work, I've never had a case, and never had a problem which a case would've helped with

GoodVibesHere · 09/02/2025 08:11

ItGhoul · 08/02/2025 20:52

Who uses a laptop case these days? It’s not 2002. Just put your laptop in your usual bag or backpack or whatever you use.

This!

WonderingWanda · 09/02/2025 08:03

Did you not say " Does it come with a case?" When they gave it to you? Have they clearly stated they don't provide the case?

I don't think it's unprofessional but it might be a bit short sighted of them if they refuse and then your laptop gets wet or damaged. By the way, I just looked and there are lots of used laptop bags on marketplace for under a fiver, some even free if money is the issue.

hopeishere · 09/02/2025 08:02

We don't get issued with them. I found one in the office and used it for a while now I just put it in my work bag. We can expense phone covers and probably a cheap bag for a laptop if you were going to be out and about a lot.

TestingTestingWonTooFree · 09/02/2025 08:01

They’ve probably got a cupboard full of regulation ones that no one wanted to use. I prefer to use my own bag.

Randomsabreur · 09/02/2025 07:58

I have laptop and I pad and was given a sleeve which I use inside my rucksack which has a laptop pocket if the weather is rubbish and I'm doing public transport as it is something else between expensive IT kit and the rain (nothing is truly waterproof). Unfortunately I'm tied to pick up times so I can't wait out a shower on the way back...

IroningBoardAgainstTheWall · 09/02/2025 07:54

I wouldn't worry about it. If it broke that's their problem.

SnowdropPancake · 09/02/2025 07:53

I work in IT and I don't think anywhere I've worked has issued a laptop bag as standard for at least 10 years or so now.

As others have said, they are most often wasted because people don't like them and prefer to use their own.

There has always been some bags available if you ask, though.

denhaag · 09/02/2025 07:52

Idontjetwashthefucker · 09/02/2025 07:44

I started my new job last year, I received laptop in a case, laptop bag, phone in a case and iPad in a case, same in my previous job 20 odd years ago. I thought that was pretty standard to be fair to the OP

What industry are you in?
Bet you a mousepad it's not academia!

InDogweRust · 09/02/2025 07:51

Ive been given about 12 bloody laptop bags/cases over the years, none of which i use at all.

Its been a complete waste of money and resource. They are usually either ugly or poor quality, so most people choose to use their own bag.

Bouledeneige · 09/02/2025 07:48

The head of IT is very opinionated (and judgy about my poor IT etiquette) - he would be more than happy to tell me if a laptop case was required for everyone for everyone. Just as a week before I started in my job 2 years ago he had delivered my office chair, laptop, headphones, keyboard, two screens and mobile to my house! I'm sure he would have sent a laptop case too if required.

pd339 · 09/02/2025 07:47

Yawn

Idontjetwashthefucker · 09/02/2025 07:44

I started my new job last year, I received laptop in a case, laptop bag, phone in a case and iPad in a case, same in my previous job 20 odd years ago. I thought that was pretty standard to be fair to the OP

TheyAreNotAngelsTheyDontCareAtAll · 09/02/2025 07:41

BusyEagle · 08/02/2025 20:21

I started a new job this week and I was issued a work laptop, but it didn’t come with a case or sleeve for protection. AIBU to think that’s a bit improper or unprofessional? Surely, if they expect me to take care of it, they should provide something to keep it safe?

Did they supply you with a pencil case? I mean, if not, I'd be handing in my notice immediately.

Justalittlehandhold · 09/02/2025 07:37

Bouledeneige · 09/02/2025 07:33

Not had a laptop case in 20 years. I'm a CEO. Can't say anyone in my very professional organisation does.

Do you know what all your employees are saying behind your back because of lack of laptop cases?

Bouledeneige · 09/02/2025 07:33

Not had a laptop case in 20 years. I'm a CEO. Can't say anyone in my very professional organisation does.

Glittertwins · 09/02/2025 07:02

I've never had one and I've had work place issued laptops for over 25 years. Never managed to damage a laptop either.

KimberleyClark · 09/02/2025 06:56

The last place Iworked didn’t provide laptop cases. Your department’s stationery budget holder might order one for you?