I frequently carry the computer. The alternative is that I take the train or don't take my computer home, neither appeals. I figure I could wreck it in a car accident, slip on the ice coming out of the T station, knock it off my desk, spill about a quart of coffee on the keyboard (oops, did that one)... Life's full of risks. Unless you do a lot of falling, I wouldn't sweat it. Get some padding if your concerned.