The iPad has become a great tool for who travel, and in many cases it's replaced the need to tote a laptop computer. Yet travel subjects delicate tools like the iPad, with its glass front, to the risk of damage. For that reason, it's important to select one, or a wardrobe of cases, to cover and protect your iPad when you travel. These are among the top travel cases for the first-generation iPad. (You won't find any Cartier or Chanel iPad travel cases on this list; I don't believe in owning one that costs more than the iPad itself!)

1. Leather iPad Travel Case

One of the best looking iPad travel cases I've seen, this leather model from MacCase looks as if it would have been at home in the Old West or Kitty Hawk. Scaled exactly to fit the iPad (other cases hedge their bets by working as netbook holders as well), it's fashioned from full-grain vintage leather, padded on the inside, has storage pockets front and back, and its front pouch is removable. And carrying this travel case couldn't be easier: Use the top handle or wear it as a shoulder bag. The shoulder strap is adjustable and can be removed.More »

2. iPad Sling Bag

This is one of those iPad travel cases that provides a great way to keep hands free when you're on the move. The sling goes over your shoulder and can be worn front, back, or side. It's padded to protect your iPad and there's more than enough room in it to hold a power cord, an old-fashioned travel guide, a paper map, and a change of underwear.More »

3. Timbuk2 Freestyle iPad Messenger Bag

If you believe that iPad travel cases ought to do more than simply hold the Apple unit, consider this messenger bag from Timbuk2. Roomy and well-organized without being bulky, the waterproof Timbuk2 affords plenty of space to carry the power cord and other necessities.More »

4. Case Logic iPad Travel Case

This Case Logic iPad carrier makes a lot of sense: It's padded, has an adjustable strap, and is designed to hold the unit's power cord. It's a particularly good choice for couples who travel light and want instant access.More »

5. Gumdrop Suede-like iPad Cases

Named after the bright red and blue colors these iPad travel cases come in (there's also a black version), this model folds back on it like the standard Apple case. But it's clad in faux suede rather than cheap plastic.More »

6. Targus iPad Z-Cases

Leather on the outside, a stratch-resistant lining on the inside, and a magnetic closure all help to keep an iPad secure within these cases.More »

7. Neoprene iPad Travel Cases

When I travel I like the idea of cloaking my iPad in soft, protective neoprene, which offers both shock and scratch resistance. This model is available in black and conveniently tucks into a larger bag.More »