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Home » Gear » best travel laptop bags

17 Best Travel Laptop Bags – Honest Reviews & Advice for 2024

Are you in search of a good all-around laptop bag for traveling around with?

In today’s world, travel and tech go hand in hand. You might be traveling for work or pleasure, commute or an international journey, but no matter where you’re going, chances are you’ll take your laptop or tablet with you.

If you’re reading this review, you’re probably looking for the best travel laptop bag to protect your precious computer and tech.

We agree that you should travel with a laptop and take care of it ! After all, working off a laptop gives loads of freedom to live and travel however you’d like. Plus, laptops make staying in contact with home a bit easier.

While looking through all of these laptop bags, you need to ask yourself: “which bag will work best for me and my needs?”

That’s where we come in with our detailed review of 15 of the best laptop bags for travel!

Quick Answer: What are the Best Laptop Bags for Travelers?

How to choose the best travel laptop bags, the best laptop bags for travelers, faq about the best travel laptop bags, final thoughts on the best laptop bags for travelers.

• Best Overall Travel Laptop Bag – Nomatic Messenger Bag
• Best Overall Travel Laptop Bag Runner-up – Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack
• Best Carry-on Laptop Bag – Fjallraven Kanken #02 Laptop bag
• Best Messenger-style Laptop Bag – Kodiak Buffalo Leather Messenger Bag
• Best ‘Briefcase’ Laptop Bag for Business Travel – Topo Designs Commuter Briefcase
• Best Messenger Laptop Bag for Women – Sherpani Cabo Convertible Pack – Women’s
• Best for Small Laptops – Gulu Handmade Influencer Backpack
• Best for Traveling with a Laptop and Tablet – Inateck Travel Carry-on 40L Laptop Backpack
• Best Waterproof Laptop Bag – Chrome Urban Ex 2.0 Rolltop 20L Pack
• Best Hipster Laptop Bag – Stubble & Co The Roll Top

Nomatic Messenger Bag

• Price > $259.99
• > Great ergonomics

Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack

• Price > $250
• > Lockable zippers
• > Tablet compartment

Fjallraven Kanken No. 2 Laptop Pack

• Price > $155
• > Lockable main compartment
• > Padded shoulder straps

Kodiak Buffalo Leather Messenger Bag.

• Price > $269
• > Weatherproof
• > Thoughtful pockets

MYSTERY RANCH 3-Way Expandable Briefcase

• Price > $199
• > TSA-friendly
• > Removable cross-body strap

Topo Designs Commuter Briefcase

• > Carries 15″ laptop
• > 2 exterior pockets

Sherpani Cabo Convertible Pack

• Price > $74.95
• > Flashlight-pen included!
• > Multi-use

Gulu Handmade Influencer Backpack

• Price > $129
• > Simple designs
• > Good quality materials

Stubble & Co Roll Top

• Price > $170
• > Great laptop compartments
• > Cool and stylish

Inateck Travel Carry-on 40L Laptop Backpack

• Price > $42.54
• > Two laptop compartments
• > Lockable zips

Chrome Urban Ex 2.0 Rolltop 20L Pack

• > Rugged and durable
• > Completely waterproof

Pacsafe MetroSafe LS350 ECONYL Daypack

• > RFIDsafe blocking material
• > Cut-resistant material

MYSTERY RANCH Urban Assault Pack

• > YKK Zippers
• > Comfortable Straps

K&F Concept DSLR Camera and Laptop Bag

• Price > $59.49
• > Tough nylon material
• > Internal dividers can be personalised

Estarer 17.3” Laptop Messenger Bag

• Price > $29.99
• > Made from water repellent canvas
• > RFID protection pocket

REI Co-op Ruckpack 28 Recycled Daypack

• > Plenty of additional pockets
• > Breathable

The Roll Top Stubble & Co

• > Roll top makes it expandable
• > Durable and weather resistant material

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When you think about it, there are many factors to consider when buying a laptop bag for traveling – which is why articles like this are so great of course!

You need to travel with a laptop, but is this mainly for commuting within your city, or traveling more broadly, nationally or internationally? And is this travel for work, school, or just plain travel? Do you need your laptop bag to be rugged or is it just for urban use?

Each will have an impact on the laptop bag you want to buy.

What Size Bag Do You Need?

There are some other obvious factors to take into account. You’ll need a bag that fits your particular travel laptop – and if you need to travel with more than one electronic device, you’ll need to make sure any bag you choose can comfortably fit another device.

The best travel laptop bags will include dedicated sleeves, pockets, and dedicated laptop compartments that fit your lifestyle! Also, remember there’s some great travel purses out there that you can combine with a laptop bag to keep your passport and wallet safe and organised.

Once you figure out what size and shape you want, you need to know how much extra stuff you want to carry. Is this bag for a short commute to school or work If so, you may only need a bag under 20 liters.

Are you traveling for longer periods? If so, you’re going to need space for clothes, adapters, and other miscellaneous kits. In this case, laptop backpacks might be better than a messenger bag. We have a best laptop backpacks post elsewhere on the site.

Type of Laptop Bag

There are a few different types of laptop bags in this article. We have reviewed classic messenger bags, urban backpacks, classic-style bags, and fully waterproof backpacks.

Some even switch from a messenger to a backpack for their laptops ! Depending on your style and needs, you will need to decide what type of bag you want.

Organization

Consider how you like to pack and travel. Are you a simple soul who can survive on the minimum? If so, you’ll be happy with a minimalist bag with fewer compartments, a laptop sleeve, and not much else.

Someone who prefers to travel with more kit, or likes to be more organized, will undoubtedly want a laptop travel bag with several compartments, pockets, and organization features.

The question of cost is also an important one for many, and will also have an impact on how long you’re expecting this bag to last – just a couple of weeks to cover you during an unexpected trip, or do you want a bag durable enough to last you for years.

Below is our full list of the 15 top laptop bags for travel on the market! We have reviewed bags for all styles, uses, and budgets. Whether you need a bag to travel for business, pleasure, or simply to-and-from work, we’ve got you covered below!

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#1. Nomatic Messenger Bag – Best Overall Travel Laptop Bag

Nomatic has provided us with a simple travel laptop bag. This slim over-the-shoulder is perfect for toting your laptop and necessary accessories around in an urban environment, and we love traveling with it!

This sleek laptop travel bag holds everything you need in a slim 3.5 inches. The padded straps even unbuckles so your bag can disguise itself as a professional travel briefcase. Traveling is easy with the Nomatic Laptop Bag, as it can slip right over your suitcase with its trolley sleeve.

Also, you won’t be the one holding up the line at TSA, as the bag allows quick access to those items that need extra screening.

To learn more about this awesome shoulder bag, be sure to read our full review of the Nomatic Messenger Bag!

UPDATE for 2021:  Nomatic no longer sells or does business in the European Union, which is an unfortunate development. Those living in the EU should consider the next bag instead…

• Sleek & urban
• Retractable key leash
• Detachable shoulder strap
• No additional tablet sleeve or pocket
• No cross-strap for extra comfort

Is the Nomatic Laptop Bag for me?

If you want a functional laptop bag that organizes and totes your stuff with the highest degree of style, this is your bag! However, if you need a little more storage space or are looking for a backpack, check out our other recommendations.

#2. Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack – Best Overall Travel Laptop Bag Runner-up

Regardless if you’re a commuter flying about town on an electric bike or digital nomad, you’ll need a bit more storage space in your laptop bag for all those important cords, external keyboards, and laptop mounts you’re surely carrying around (just kidding, us digital nomads are often lovers of minimalism).

The Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack provides space for all your work necessities and a few comforts as well, so it’s a great bag for weekend trips. Beyond space, the Setout’s distinct advantage is a beautifully organized interior.

This is laptop backpack has pockets for days, so you’ll never have to dig through the bag looking for that important piece that you just know you packed.

• 25L Capacity
• Comfortable to carry
• Tablet compartment
• Lockable zippers
• Only for urban use
• Not an all-in-one travel bag

Is the Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack for me?

We’ve answered this question in-depth in our Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack Review, but here’s the gist. If you want a bag to organize all your tech and a little more, this bag is perfect. If you’re looking for absolute maximum capacity to carry everything at once, we recommend the traditional Tortuga Setout.

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#3. Fjallraven Kanken No. 2 Laptop Pack – Best Carry-On Travel Laptop Bag

The combination of trendy styling, size, and resistance to dirt and water makes the Fjallraven Kanken a fine carry-on for traveling with a laptop.

Although one of the simpler laptop bags we’re covering, the double zip closure of the main compartment and its padded laptop sleeve, is lockable for peace of mind. This bag also includes several smaller pockets for keeping items organised, and useful black leather handles too.

Padded shoulder straps make this comfortable to carry while in the various queues you might well encounter at an airport.

• Beautifully styled
• Lockable main compartment
• Smaller pockets for organisation
• Padded shoulder straps
• Not fully waterproof
• 18-liter capacity

Is the Fjallraven Kanken 15” Laptop Bag for me?

If you’d rather go for a briefcase-style bag rather than a backpack, the Timbuk2 Flight Classic Messenger Bag is a great option! This bag will last you for years, through sun and rain, and for commute and business trips!

This bag also comes in multiple colors including black, army, and a neon teal.

#4. Kodiak Buffalo Leather Messenger Bag – Best Messenger-Style Laptop Bag

Enter the Kodiak Buffalo Leather Messenger Bag. A large sling bag for daily use, which not only looks totally classy AF, but also fits with a variety of work and travel situations. This bag has tons of internal pockets for your pens, small items, and even a padded, firm place to store files. It fits a 15″ laptop.

There is a removable cross-body strap for carrying. The shoulder strap includes a super comfortable air-mesh strap pad. The flap corners fold into place for weatherproofing and the waterproof thermoplastic liner keeps water out.

• Weatherproof material
• Thoughtfully distributed internal pockets
• Removable cross-body strap
• No backpack straps
• Leather is not the most weather resistant material

Is The Kodiak Messenger Bag for me?

This super snazzy, classy messenger satchel is a beauty. This bag will last you for years, through sun and rain, and for commute and business trips!

#5. MYSTERY RANCH 3-Way Expandable Briefcase – Best Briefcase-Style Bag for Business Travelers

This briefcase laptop bag is both rugged and practical! We think this is one of the best laptop bags for business travel!

It has a zippered main compartment, a laptop compartment and multiple accessory pockets. The bag can hold a 15″ laptop and an expandable zipper provides 5 extra liters of storage if you need it.

It also includes fully cushioned backpack straps when not in use. Like a briefcase, it provides adequate space for a laptop or iPad, binder, and any smaller things you may need to carry.

• TSA-friendly
• Only 18 liters
• Not much padding on the shoulder strap
• No bottle carrier

Is the MYSTERY RANCH 3-Way Expandable Briefcase for me?

This is a go-to bag for everyday and weekend use. Like a briefcase, it’s very convenient for a 15″ laptop and everyday necessities. Expanded, it can be used for a three-day business trip and will deploy the backpack straps for help with added weight.

#6. Topo Designs Commuter Briefcase – Most Stylish Briefcase-Style Laptop Bag

Looking for a stylish and modern briefcase to carry your laptop? If so, look no further than the Topo Designs Commuter Briefcase! Topo makes top quality and versatile bags. This bag is designed to carry a standard 15 in. laptop plus essentials, so it’s also a great laptop bag for business travelers.

Its double-layer bottom provides water resistance and durability.

• Carries 13″ laptop
• Exterior zipped pocket
• No water bottle pocket
• Not big enough to be a full day bag (more like a purse)

Is the Topo Designs Commuter Briefcase for me?

This is a high-quality, rugged briefcase bag that is stylish too! The internal space comfortably holds a 13″ laptop, book, and pad. The external pockets are useful. If you need a bag for your laptop and essentials, this bag is a great choice. If you want a laptop bag for commute, the gym, and travel, then it’s probably not big enough! Overall, Topo quality is hard to beat.

#7. Sherpani Cabo Convertible Pack – Women’s  – Best Messenger Laptop Bag for Women

This is stylish messenger is one of the best travel laptop bags for women (though men can use it too!). We love that it’s an all-in-one convertible backpack and cross body bag. It includes an anti-theft locking slider, anti-slashing fabric, and RFID-protected panel for added security and peace of mind.

There is a deep main zipper compartment with zipper locks. The padded internal laptop sleeve fits most 11 inch computers, and there’s an extra interior pocket for a phone and other bits.

It also has a front pocket as well as a back packet which doubles as storage for the straps when not in use. Bonus points for the included flashlight-pen!

• Super secure
• Flashlight-pen included!
• Only fits up to a 11-inch laptop
•  Tight squeeze for everything

Is the Sherpani Capo Convertible Pack Tote for me?

This is a go-to, multifunctional bag and backpack! There are a few things that can improve, but we like that it is a secure and stylish bag with a padded internal laptop sleeve and a nice array of exterior pockets. The biggest drawback, however, is that it only fits most 11 inch laptops. Get a bigger bag if you have a bigger laptop.

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#8. Gulu Handmade Influencer Backpack – Best for Small Laptops

Gulu Made isn’t just a brand, it’s a credos. Every one of this brand’s backpacks comes from a factory in Uganda, handmade by local women who survived the brutal civil war That’s impressive enough, but this brand doesn’t just do good deeds, the products are absolute class and this piece is about all comfort !

This no-frills backpack doesn’t reinvent the industry by any stretch. It just recrafts it with a handmade approach. That results in a form-fitting back cushion that helps work with your body to carry the load. At the top of the panel is chimney-style ventilation that keeps things breathable while you go about taking care of business. It has water bottle pockets (and while we are discussing H20 a good level of water resistance and is an all round excellent everyday backpack.

• Simple designs
• Ethically made
• Good quality materials
• Just one main compartment
• Water resistant but not waterproof
• 20 Liters is too small for some

Is the Gulu Handmade backpack for me?

The truth be told, if you require the use of a larger laptop then this is not the pack for you. When I tested it I was using my MacBook Pro 11″ but my girlfriend tested it using her older 14″ and it was not a comfortable fit.

Still, if you are happy with a smaller travel laptop pack then this one is hard to beat. Its the best laptop backpack for those with small laptops.

#9 Stubble & Co Roll Top – Best Laptop Bag For Daytrips

This awesome laptop backpack has fairly recently come to our attention but has impressed us very much. The Stubble & Co Roll Top backpack superbly combines functionality with performance all in a part recycled, eco-friendly package.

This  lightweight backpack  is durable and very comfortable and intended for all weather conditions making it perfect to wear on your bike. Custom built with cycling and the outdoors in mind, the Roll Top features sealed seams, water-resistant zips, reflective logos and considered compartments. It’s also very well priced.

• Great laptop compartments
• Organizational pockets
• Cool and stylish
• Eco friendly
• Pockets might not meet the needs of some
• Roll top is not for everyone
• Lacks protection from scanning technology

Is the Stubble & Co Roll Top Backpack for me?

Yes it is! Ok, so this pack is stylish, practical, is built to a high spec and as far as day-sized backpacks go, is very tough to beat.

#10.  Inateck Travel Carry-on 40 litre Laptop Backpack – Best Laptop Bag for Traveling with Laptop and Tablet

The Inateck Travel Carry-on 40 litre Laptop Backpack offers two laptop compartments, each of which has the standard protection and padded sections you have come to expect from a dedicated laptop bag.

Double zips mean these compartments are lockable if you’re looking for extra peace of mind, while an additional rain cover means all your tech will be protected even in the worst of downpours.

Additional features include a very handy change pocket and an anti-theft pocket on the back panel. What’s more, this travel laptop bag has a great range of carrying options, with shoulder straps, side handle, and band to slip over the extended handle of a wheeled backpack too!

• Two laptop compartments
• Lockable zips
• 40 liters too large for some
• Square shape

Is the Inateck Travel Carry-on 40 litre Laptop Backpack for me?

We can see that the Inateck Travel Carry-on 40 litre Laptop Backpack might not be for everyone with its square shape. But anyone looking for a larger travel bag for a laptop will like the fact this offering from Inateck has a capacity of 40 liters, in addition to its two padded laptop compartments meaning a latop and all your other digital nomad essentials will fit nicely.

#11. Chrome Urban Ex 2.0 Rolltop 20L Pack – Best Waterproof Laptop Bag

The best part about this backpack is that it is completely waterproof. If you live and work somewhere it rains a lot, then this is one of the best laptop bags for you! This laptop bag holds a standard 15 in. laptop and has an additional internal sleeve for documents as well as a stretch-mesh pocket for the accessories and doodads.

It has a padded back panel and adjustable shoulder straps for comfort. A 1-handed release buckles hold the top lid closed and offer easy access with a zippered top flkat for extra security. I do wish there was a water bottle holder, however.

• Dedicated 15-inch laptop and iPad area
• Rugged and durable
• Completely waterproof
• Color can wear out easily

Is the Chrome Urban Ex 2.0 Rolltop 20L Pack for me?

This multi-functional, waterproof laptop bag. This bag is for you if you have to deal with traveling and commuting in the rain. It’s also quite sleek and stylish, and useful for multiple situations.

#12. Pacsafe MetroSafe LS350 ECONYL Daypack  – Best Travel Laptop Bag for Safety

The Pacsafe Slingsafe LS350 is one of the best travel laptop bags with anti-theft functionality. Plus, it has plenty of space for your books and docs, and a padded sleeve for your 13 in. laptop, all in a go-anywhere, protective design. If you need to keep your laptop safe, then this may be the bag for you.

This laptop bag comes with lots of safety features, such as  RFIDsafe blocking material  to prevent your credit card and other chip data from being swiped. There are cut-resistant achor straps for securing valuables and an internal attachment point for your keys an wallet.

At only 15 liters, however, it’s much more suited to safe city excursions rather as a soiltary travel bag.

• Strong securing points for valuables
• RFIDsafe blocking material
• Cut-resistant material
• Fits laptops only up to 13″
• Quite a small capacity at only 15 liters

Is the Pacsafe MetroSafe LS350 for me?

Don’t worry about traveling with your laptop thanks to this Anti-Theft Pacsafe Daypack. This backpack is for you if you prioritize security above all else! It is a small backpack, however, and may not be for you if you need more than 15 liters of space.

#13. MYSTERY RANCH Urban Assault Pack – Best Laptop Bag for Computer and Tablet

This laptop bag does it all. Use it for rugged travel or your day-to-day commute! I can’t think of a more perfect bag. It’s minimalist yet offers lots of storage, even for an 18-liter bag. There are small, inside pockets, and it can easily fit a 13″ laptop plus a tablet/reader.  The quality is bombproof and will handle any drops.

• 2 Internal zippered pockets
• The sleeve fits up to a 15-inch laptop
• YKK Zippers
• Comfortable Straps
• Only 18 Liter Bag
• No Water Bottle Pocket

Is the Mystery Ranch Urban Assault Backpack for me?

Don’t worry again about traveling with your laptop thanks to this bomb proof backpack! It’s durable and stylish all in one. While on the smaller side, it still helps you organize your essentials. This is a great bag, but only 18 liters. If you need a laptop bag for travel, consider a bigger sized pack.

#14. K&F Concept DSLR Camera and Laptop Bag – Perfect Bag for Laptop and Camera

This laptop travel bag is surprisingly lightweight given the specific protection it gives to both camera gear and a laptop, weighing in at 1.2kg.

It can hold two cameras, five lenses, those photographic extras all semi-professional cameramen require, and a laptop up to 13.3”!

It’s made from a tough nylon material which provides additional protection from tears, bumps, and light rain too. The interior dividers can be modified to your taste, with the main compartment opening flat to 180° for easy camera and laptop access.

There’s a space to hang a lighter weight tripod on the exterior side of the bag, and a waist belt in addition to padded shoulder straps to ensure all your expensive kit stays exactly where it should on your back.

• Dedicated camera and laptop bag
• Capacity for a large amount of camera equipment
• Tough nylon material
• Internal dividers can be personalised
• Not a briefcase-style bag
• Only fits laptops up to 13.3”
• Just one colour available

Is the K&F Concept DSLR Camera and Laptop Bag for me?

If you’re an active amateur or semi-professional photographer, you’ve got more than just a laptop to carry around with you as you travel. With this equipment being so expensive to buy and replace, you don’t want to risk using a bag that isn’t dedicated to the job. Instead, hit order on the K&F Concept, you won’t regret it!

#15. Kroser 15.6” Laptop Briefcase Bag – Best Laptop Bag for Business Travelers

Made from water-repelling canvas this Kroser briefcase-style laptop bag can fit laptops up to 15.6 inches.

Although it lacks the shoulder straps you’ll find on a backpack, it has both carry handles and a single shoulder strap for a choice of carrying options.

The main compartment is TSA-friendly, meaning it meets the needs of US airport security, while there are two other small compartments for notepads, paper, and pens. This laptop bag is good for business travelers.

Perhaps the best feature of the Kroser 15.6” laptop briefcase bag is its RFID pockets, which protect your electronic data on credit cards and passports from being scanned and then stolen.

• Made from water repellent canvas
• Carry handles and single shoulder strap
• RFID protection pocket
• Won’t fit larger laptops
• Weight of just over 1 kg

Is the Kroser 15.6” laptop briefcase bag for me?

If you’d rather go for a briefcase-style bag rather than a dedicated business backpack, the Kroser 15.6” laptop bag is a good option. In addition to the main compartment that will take an average-sized laptop, there’s the additional space supplied by further compartments, as well as RFID protection for your electronic data too!

#16. REI Co-op Ruckpack 28 Recycled Daypack  – Best Budget Laptop Backpack

This heavy-duty travel laptop bag will hold not only a laptop up to 15” in size in a padded pocket, but also an interior pocket for organization and is even designed to be overstuffed! Though only 28 L in size there are also exterior pockets as well as one dedicated for your water botttle.

Designed to most airline check-in restrictions, you’ll be breezing through airports in no time. What’s more, the back panel is lined with mesh to keep wearers cool, while adjustable shoulder straps keep everything sitting right.

• Capable of carrying laptops up to 15”
• Plenty of additional pockets
• Too small to suit all kinds of travelers
• A tablet sleeve would be a nice bonus

Is the REI Co-op Ruckpack 28 Recycled Daypack for me?

While lacking in a tablet sleeve, the comfort of this pack combined with its budget price for such a sturdy beast is certainly nothing to ignore. The wealth of additional pockets and rather smart-casual stylish look only go further to accentuate this a budget pack suitable for most travelers.

#17. The Roll Top Stubble & Co – Best Hipster Laptop Backpack

The Roll Top is a great hipster-style 20L bag perfect for carrying around your laptop as well as having heaps of room for your other accessories. What really makes it stand out for a day pack is that the laptop compartment is in a separate pocket on the back of the bag. This both makes it mega secure (especially for a roll top) and also saves the massive main compartment for everything else.

Internally the main compartment is one massive space with a selection of pockets and organisers attached to the other side of the laptop compartment/ back panel. This works well giving you some level of organisation whilst also being super roomy.

• Capable of carrying laptops up to 16”
• Roll top makes it expandable
• Durable and weather resistant material
• Could do with more internal organisation
• Would like an internal zip as well as the roll top

Is Stubble & Co The Roll Top for me?

If you’re looking for something that is both stylish, functional and also super robust, the Roll Top is the perfect choice for a laptop bag. We love that it’s got that classic hipster feel whilst actually being super practical too. The black exterior also keeps water out well, is durable enough for everyday use and is smart enough for the office.

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Still have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What is the difference between a laptop bag and a laptop backpack?

A laptop backpack is carried on your back with two straps. A laptop bag only has one strap and is held on one shoulder and across your chest and back.

Which is the safest laptop bag?

The Pacsafe Slingsafe LS350 is one of the best travel laptop bags with anti-theft functionality. It is made form cut resistant material which makes it one of the safest laptop bags.

What do I need to consider when buying a laptop bag?

Keep these key-features in mind: 1. Size and Volume of the bag depending on what kind of laptop you have 2. Style and design 3. Organisation and cost

What is the best laptop bag for large laptops?

If you own a 17inch laptop, you’ll love the Estarer 17.3” Laptop Messenger Bag . It offers plenty of space and protection for your laptop.

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We’ve worked hard to sort the wheat from the chaff so that you can see the best laptop bags on the market! From large, small, stylish, messenger-style, and functional, we’re confident you’ll find a keeper among our picks!

To summarize: we think that the Nomatic Messenger Bag is currently the best that money can buy. It’s versatile, tough, and does what it’s supposed to do (protect your gear).

That being said, there are plenty of other specialized bags out there for you to consider. The waterproof Arc’teryx Granville Pack  is great for those more demanding adventures. The Tortuga Setout is probably more appropriate for those traveling long term. Finally, the Kroser 15.6” Laptop Briefcase Bag is great for those who travel frequently for business,

Whether you’re looking for a laptop bag for travel, work, or everything in between, this list has you covered!

Although you should be able to use almost all of the bags on this list as a carry-on, some airlines still like to make a fuss over an inch or two. In this case, it pays to know the airline’s own carry-on regulations. Use this convenient list of airlines and their cabin policies as a reference, if needed.

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I got a Pogoplug. An awesome piece of kit which ensures my precious photos are backed up at home on my own personal cloud. There’s no operating fees and you can attach as many drives to it as you see fit. If anything happens to my gear at least my memories are safe…

Also I ditched the laptop as a traveling companion and went for an iPad. Sure it’s not as powerful but it’s lighter and fils all the roles I need it to when I’m on the hoof.

Thanks for sharing that. iPads are certainly light but personally, I will not give up my Mac!

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Best laptop backpacks for travel 2024

Travel in style with these tested laptop backpacks

• Best Overall
• Best Budget
• Best Compact
• Best Premium
• Best Aesthetic
• Best Utility

How To Choose a Laptop Backpack for Travel

Why trust laptop mag.

1. The list in brief

2. Best Overall

3. Best Budget

4. Best Compact

5. Best Premium

6. Best Aesthetic

7. Best Utility

9. How To Choose a Backpack for Travel

11. Why Trust Laptop Mag

The best laptop backpacks for travel offer well-organized space for your belongings and convenient features like a water-resistant design, hidden pockets, or a USB charging port. Travel backpacks should also be comfortable to wear for long periods of time, especially if you’re waiting through a security line at the airport or planning to walk around a theme park all day. 

In addition to being durable and practical, the best travel backpacks should make a visual statement. You can go bold with a vibrant color or whimsical design, or stick with a classic, timeless color scheme rooted in black or grey — either way, you shouldn’t have to sacrifice style for utility when choosing a backpack for travel. 

All of the backpacks listed here are equipped with a dedicated laptop sleeve or compartment, and they’ve all been personally tested by Laptop Mag. Whether you need a simple backpack to fit one or two changes of clothes and a few other essential items, or you want a bag that you can take on a plane in lieu of a suitcase, we’ve got you covered.

If you're shopping for a new laptop, be sure to check out our best laptops page before you travel next. 

The Quick List

The best overall laptop backpack for travel

The Volher Laptop Backpack strikes the perfect balance of style, function, and comfort — it's the perfect pick for most people. 

Read more below

The best budget laptop backpack for travel

You can save a few bucks with the Mancro Travel Backpack, and still get a water-resistant design and a handy USB port.  

The best compact laptop backpack for travel

The SwissGear Getaway bag is simplistic in its design and available storage, but there's space for basic essentials.  

The best premium laptop backpack for travel

Travel in luxury with the eBags Luxon Laptop Backpack. There's plenty of space inside, and a few premium bonus features. 

The best aesthetic laptop backpack for travel

The Herschel Pop Quiz bag offers a decent amount of space inside, but its top selling point is the fun design — inside and out. 

The best utility laptop backpack for travel

You won't want for pockets with the Targus Legend IQ Laptop Backpack — there's a spot for everything. 

Best Laptop Backpack for Travel Overall

1. Volher Laptop Backpack

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

This laptop backpack from Volher is the best option for most travellers, combining practical storage with an eye-catching, vibrant design. Inside the bag’s main compartment, there’s a padded sleeve for any 15.6-inch laptop and open storage for clothes, snacks, or other travel essentials. You can store drinks in the padded mesh side pockets, and hide your valuables in the anti-theft back pocket. 

Volher’s backpack sports a water-resistant polyester fabric, so if you’re caught in the rain, water droplets just roll right off and all your belongings stay dry. Its durable fabric makes this backpack an excellent choice for hiking trips or other outdoor excursions, especially if you choose one of the bright, high-visibility color options. With padded mesh on the back and the shoulder straps, it’s comfortable to wear for long hours. 

This travel bag also has a special feature: a built-in USB charging port. The port itself is on the bag’s left side, and there’s a cable inside you can connect to a power bank. Then, while you’re hiking or walking around Disney World, you can easily charge your phone without needing to take the backpack off or hold onto a power bank. 

See our full Volher Laptop Backpack review . 

Best Budget Laptop Backpack for Travel

2. Mancro Travel Backpack

If you want many of the same features as the Volher laptop backpack but for a bit less money, check out the Mancro Travel Backpack. Starting at just $19.99, it packs a lot of value into its low price. 

The Mancro Travel Backpack features a padded sleeve for 15.6-inch laptops, a spacious main compartment with room for a few changes of clothes, a side pocket for water bottles and an integrated USB port for portable power banks. The outside is made of water-resistant polyester, which is always nice to have on a travel backpack. It also includes a little combination lock you can use on the zippers, but it's not the sturdiest and makes quick access to the main compartment inconvenient. 

See our full Mancro Travel Backpack review . 

Best Compact Laptop Backpack for Travel

3. SwissGear Getaway Laptop Backpack

Bigger isn't always better when it comes to laptop backpacks for travel. If you're looking for a day pack or simply have a smaller frame, check out the SwissGear Getaway bag. It's minimalistic, sturdy and compact, perfect for anyone traveling light. 

Inside is a padded 13-inch laptop sleeve and a main compartment with room for a day or two of clothes and some snacks. It has a few zipper pockets on the outside, but unfortunately doesn't have any side pockets. We reviewed the SwissGear Getaway in gray, but it is also available in black and camo. 

See our full SwissGear Getaway Laptop Backpack review .

Best Premium Laptop Backpack for Travel

4. eBags Luxon Laptop Backpack

If you want one of the best laptop backpacks for travel money can buy, take a look at the eBags Luxon. If you're carrying around a premium laptop, you should have an equally premium backpack to keep it safe. The eBags Luxon is a great option, complete with a dedicated zippered compartment for your laptop. 

Inside you'll find a roomy main compartment with space for two or three days' worth of clothes and a detachable sling bag that doubles as a waist pack. The sling bag has a hidden RFID pocket that's great for keeping small, valuable items safe from theft or just tucking your phone away. 

The exterior fabric of the Luxon has a smooth water-resistant coating, so your laptop and valuables will be safe from rain. The coating also adds to the sleek, premium look of the whole backpack. The thick, padded mesh back panel ensures it's comfortable all day, too. At time of writing, the Luxon is available in either black or gray. 

See our full eBags Luxon Laptop Backpack review .

Best Aesthetic Laptop Backpack for Travel

5. Herschel Pop Quiz Laptop Backpack

If you want a laptop backpack for travel that balances looks and features, check out the Herschel Pop Quiz. Herschel is known for their stylish backpacks and the Pop Quiz is not exception. It's available in a ton of different colors and patterns, including the unique paint pour pattern we reviewed. 

The real highlight of Herschel backpacks is the laptop sleeves. They're some of the softest and cushiest out there, lined with a smooth, padded black velvet that's sure to keep your laptop safe. The Pop Quiz has a 15-inch laptop sleeve and a spacious main compartment with room for two or three days of clothing, snacks and a book or two. The zipper pocket on the front was a bit hard to open in our testing, but that does make it a good anti-theft pocket since pick pocketers will have a tough time opening it, too. 

See our full Herschel Pop Quiz Laptop Backpack review .

Best Utility Laptop Backpack for Travel

6. Targus Legend IQ Laptop Backpack

If you're the type of traveler who packs with the motto "better to have and not need", you'll appreciate the wealth of pockets, space and organization on the Targus Legend IQ backpack. This is a great laptop backpack for anyone who likes to bring a lot of electronics with them or needs to pack for a longer trip. 

The Targus Legend IQ has multiple zippered compartments and a built-in media pocket with aux cable passthrough into the shoulder strap. There's plenty of room to organize charging cables, headphones, power banks, your Nintendo Switch or ASUS ROG Ally, a tablet and up to a 16-inch laptop. 

The basic, plain black design of this backpack puts practicality over fashion, but that's part of what makes it a great utility backpack. You won't have to worry about running out of packing space for all your favorite devices and travel essentials with this one. 

See our full Targus Legend IQ Laptop Backpack review .

In many ways, the search for the perfect travel laptop backpack is just like searching for a work- or school-dedicated backpack. Most importantly, consider what you’ll need in terms of total space and organizational compartments. Make sure the backpack you choose can accommodate your laptop, travel snacks and drinks, handheld gaming console or books to read for fun, however many changes of clothes you need for your trip, or anything else you’d typically bring along while traveling. 

Many backpacks will list whether they can accommodate 15.6-inch or 17-inch laptops, and some brands will list the specific dimensions of the laptop sleeve or compartment within the backpack. In addition to comparing the measurements of your laptop to those advertised by a potential backpack, consider whether you want a dedicated zipper compartment for your laptop or if a padded sleeve inside the main compartment will do. 

With laptop backpacks for travel specifically, there are two useful features to look out for: hidden pockets and a USB charging port. Some backpacks come equipped with a zipper compartment positioned on the side or the back of the bag, making it incredibly difficult or impossible for someone to pickpocket what’s inside. These pockets are perfect for your valuables, like your wallet, smartphone, or keys. 

Then, some bags include a USB charging port accessible on one side of the backpack and a cable inside that you can attach to a power bank you own. This allows you to comfortably charge your phone without needing to carry the power bank while you walk around a theme park or sit in the backseat during a road trip. With some travel backpacks, you can slip your phone into a side pocket so you don’t need to carry it, but it’s easily accessible when you need it. 

If you plan on traveling via plane, you should see if the backpack complies with TSA guidelines. Then, check with your airline to get minimum dimensions for overhead and under-seat luggage to ensure you won’t need to check your backpack at the last minute and pay a premium. 

For backpacks going under the seat in front of you on a plane, it’s a smart choice to go with a water-resistant polyester fabric that’s easy to clean and can withstand accidental spills. Durable, water-resistant fabric is also a smart choice if the place you’re traveling to gets a lot of rain or if you’re exploring outdoors at the beach or on a mountain. 

Laptop Mag reviews over a hundred different laptops every year, from paperweight ultralights to everyday workhorses to lumbering gaming notebooks that scorch the frame rates of even the hottest AAA games. We're not just experts in the laptop field, as we go one step further by meticulously testing smartphones, tablets, headphones, PC accessories, software, and even the latest in gaming. 

We are 100% independent and have decades of experience to help you buy with confidence. In fact, Laptop Mag has been testing and reviewing products for three decades, and we continue to deliver trustworthy reviews you can rely on. 

Our editorial trustworthiness is enforced by one of the world's largest technology publishers,  Future Publishing . As a company, we have unrivaled experience across every tech sector — and we're the group's specialist for all things mobile tech.

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10 Best Carry-On Suitcases With A Laptop Compartment

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If you’re a tech-savvy person who needs to travel with your laptop, whether that’s for work or entertainment, you should seriously consider getting a carry-on that comes with a laptop compartment. Not only will it keep your laptop more protected, but also make it more accessible, which is important for going through airport security because you’ll need to take it out of the bag.

In this article, we’ll share the 10 best carry-ons that come with a dedicated laptop compartment. We included many different options, both hardside and softside, as well as premium and affordable, so you can hopefully find one that ticks all of your needs.

Top-Rated Carry-on Suitcases With a Laptop Compartment

• Best for business travel: Travelpro Crew Versapack
• Best overall: Travelpro Crew Versapack 21-inch carry-on
• Best functionality: Travelpro Platinum Elite 20-inch carry-on
• Amazon’s Choice: LEVEL8 Grace 20-inch carry-on
• Best underseater: Samsonite 16-inch underseat spinner
• Most spacious: Delsey Paris Helium Aero 19-inch carry-on
• Best value: Coolife 20-inch carry-on
• Most durable: Hanke 20-inch carry-on
• Most lightweight: Delsey Paris Titanium 19-inch carry-on
• Best maneuverability: LEVEL8 Road Runner Pro 20-inch carry-on
• Most affordable: Rockland Titan 19-inch carry-on

Tips on Buying Carry-on Suitcases With a Laptop Compartment (Guide)

Selecting the correct type of suitcase, 1. softside suitcases.

Since softside suitcases are made from soft, pliable materials, it is easier to pack oddly shaped items and even squeeze in more items than you expected. Soft shell suitcases usually come with several pockets on the outside, which comes in handy when you want to pack in items that you would like to have easy access to while traveling.

Not all suitcases can survive the rough handling by airport staff, but the softside suitcase definitely has the advantage here. Hardside suitcases tend to develop cracks in the hard shell when put under pressure, but not softside bags. They can withstand being thrown around and, aside from dirt and stains, come through in good shape.

Fragile items inside the suitcase, however, are more likely to be damaged because the softshell does not provide ample protection. Fortunately, with a carry-on, this isn’t too much of a concern. You can rest assured that your laptop and other fragile items will be secure, as you will be the one handling your bag throughout the trip.

2. Hardside Suitcases

If you’re concerned about keeping your laptop dry and well-protected no matter the weather conditions while you travel, a hardside suitcase is a superior choice. These bags are made from a variety of materials, but the most commonly used are ABS and polycarbonate. While both of these are strong and durable, ABS is more prone to cracks and breaks as it isn’t very flexible. A polycarbonate shell may be slightly more expensive, but it will likely last you far longer and provide the peace of mind you need when traveling with fragile items, like laptops.

Understanding What Size Carry-on Suitcase With a Laptop Compartment You Should Get

The most important thing to remember when choosing a carry-on is that it has to comply with airline regulations concerning size and weight. 

While the maximum dimensions may differ by an inch or two among different airlines, the standard size regulation for most flights is 22 x 14 x 9 inches (55.9 x 36.6 x 22.9 cm) . This allows for the luggage to be comfortably stowed away in the overhead bin. 

Being just 1 inch over the carry-on limit usually isn’t problematic, since the airline staff doesn’t pay much attention to marginally oversized bags. However, there’s always the chance that your carry-on might have to be checked in at the gate, so if you can, get a smaller carry-on which will always be within the limits.

Size restrictions for under-seat luggage are not so specific and may vary much more between airlines because each airline has different aircraft models in its fleet, so the space under their seats is different. But generally, most personal items have to be under 16 x 12 x 6 inches (40 x 30 x 15 cm).

The weight requirements for hand luggage also vary between airlines. US airlines usually don’t have any weight requirements for hand luggage or they’re looser. European airlines and budget airlines usually allow their hand luggage to be about 15-26 lbs (7-12 kg). That’s why it’s important to choose as lightweight carry-on as your budget allows, but not sacrifice the quality too much.

A lightweight carry-on will usually weigh between 5.5-7 lbs (2.5-3.2 kg). However, ones that have a laptop pocket usually weigh a bit more, between 6-7.5 lbs (2.7-3.4 kg) because of additional materials used in the construction.

Read Next: Is It Safe to Put a Laptop in Checked Luggage?

Other Things to Look out for Before Buying Carry-on Suitcases With a Laptop Compartment

• Durability: Some hardshell suitcases are prone to cracks, dents, and scratches, while soft shell suitcases may rip and tear. The most durable hardside material is aluminum, but aluminum suitcases tend to cost a lot and also weigh pretty much, so plastic options are much more available. The best plastic is polycarbonate, as it’s lightweight and resistant to cracks. ABS is a cheaper plastic that’s also lightweight but is more likely to crack. The best fabric used in fabric suitcases is ballistic nylon, followed by regular nylon, and finally polyester. That said, some polyester bags are actually pretty durable if properly manufactured.
• Moveability: You want to move quickly and effortlessly through the airport, so make sure to check out the type of wheels in the luggage you are planning to buy. Generally, though, spinner wheels (4 wheels) are the best option for smooth surfaces, like pavement, concrete, tile, etc., and rolling wheels (2 wheels) are better on tougher surfaces, like gravel and cobblestone. Spinners are also more likely to break off because they “stick out” from the main shape of the suitcase while rolling inline wheels have a more integrated, robust design. It’s also worth checking out how many handles the suitcase comes with – it should have top and side handles, and ideally bottom handles as well so that it’s easier to pick up and lift to the overhead compartments.
• Packing capacity: Longer, leisure trips require more packing space as opposed to short business trips, so try to get a suitcase that offers enough packing space. The maximum space that carry-ons usually offer without going over the size limits, is about 40-45 liters. Also, carry-ons with two wheels instead of four usually offer a bit more space due to a more efficient design. Some other useful packing features to look out for include zipper and mesh compartments, pockets, tie-down panels, suiter compartments, hanger brackets, TSA-approved toiletry pouches, expandable zippers, and wet pockets.
• Security: So that your valuables stay safe, it’s advised to purchase a suitcase with a TSA-approved lock. If you’ll need to check it in, a TSA lock will ensure that the airport security agents will be able to get inside without breaking the lock. They also reduce the chances of theft during baggage handling. If you won’t be checking your bag, they’re still useful in public transport and cafes, because they ensure that the zippers can’t be opened by thieves while you aren’t looking at your bag.
• Brand reliability and warranty: To ensure that you are getting value for money and that you get good mileage out of your luggage, go with more reliable brands, like Travelpro, Samsonite, Briggs & Riley, Tumi, Delsey, Osprey, Eagle Creek, Thule, or others. This will ensure that the bag is made up to higher quality standards, and their customer support will most likely be easier to get in touch with and more forthcoming. It’s also necessary to look at what warranty it comes with, especially if it’s an expensive bag. Keep an eye out on the warranty terms though, as most warranties cover only basic manufacturing defects, and don’t cover airline damage, broken zippers, wheels, and other accidents.

Read Next: 12 Best 17-Inch Laptop Backpacks in 2023

Best Carry-on Suitcases With a Laptop Compartment in 2023 Compared

1. best overall: travelpro crew versapack 21-inch carry-on luggage.

The Travelpro Crew Versapack Softside Expandable 8 Spinner Wheel Luggage in Patriot Blue is a game-changer for travelers seeking a blend of style and functionality. Designed to maximize carry-on sizer bin restrictions, this 21-inch carry-on is a perfect companion for both men and women who travel frequently.

Optimized for Organization : The Versapack comes with a Zip-In Garment Organizer, ideal for neatly storing folded shirts, dresses, and jackets. For those who desire even more organization, additional Zip-In Organizers are available for purchase, including options for laundry, packing cubes, and all-in-one solutions.

Tech-Friendly Features : An external USB port, paired with an FAA-compliant exterior power bank pocket, ensures your devices stay charged on the go. The exterior also includes a padded pocket that can comfortably fit laptops up to 15.6 inches, adding to its tech-savvy appeal.

Unmatched Maneuverability : The PrecisionGlide System offers precise control and effortless movement. It features a Patented Contour Grip, reducing hand stress, and an airline-grade Patented PowerScope Extension Handle that adjusts to various heights while minimizing wobble. The self-aligning magnetic wheels ensure a straight, smooth roll in any direction.

Durable and Secure : Constructed with high-density ballistic nylon fabric and coated with DuraGuard, this luggage resists stains and abrasions. A removable, TSA-compliant toiletries bag fits perfectly in a dedicated exterior pocket, while the adjustable butterfly hold-down system secures contents. The tip-resistant zippered expansion allows for an additional 2 inches of packing space.

Comfortable Carrying Options : Cushioned, low-profile top and side carry handles, along with a bottom handle cup, provide various comfortable carrying options. This durability is backed by a lifetime limited warranty, including a trusted companion promise covering repair costs from airline or carrier damage for 3 years.

Dimensions and Warranty : The overall dimensions, including wheels and handles, are 23 x 15.5 x 10 inches, with the case itself measuring 21 x 14.75 x 10 inches and weighing 8 lbs.

The Travelpro Crew Versapack is not just a piece of luggage; it’s a comprehensive travel solution. Whether for business or leisure, this carry-on spinner is designed to meet the needs of the modern traveler, offering a perfect mix of organization, durability, and ease of use. With its customizable features and robust construction, the Versapack ensures that your travel experiences are as smooth and efficient as possible.

2. Most Durable: Travelpro Platinum Elite 20-Inch Carry-On

Quality comes at a price, so if you are willing to spend a little more on a superior carry-on suitcase, then the Travelpro Platinum Elite is for you. It is the perfect combination of style and functionality and is great for short to medium trips. Available in an attractive array of colors, this suitcase will have you turning heads with its fashionable design and genuine leather trims, and chrome zippers.

The overall dimensions of the suitcase are 22.50 x 14.50 x 9 inches ( 57.15 X 36.83 x 22.86 cm). While this may seem larger than some carry-ons, the bag fits easily into most overhead storage bins. The stylish look of this carry-on is further enhanced by the fact that it is manufactured from high-density nylon fabric and coated with a Duraguard coating, which makes the bag resistant to water, stains, and abrasions, in addition to being really durable .

The suitcase expands to provide an extra two inches of packing space, allowing you to pack more on your return trips. However, keep in mind that when it’s expanded, it will most likely be over the size restrictions for carry-on luggage. In the interior, you’ll find built-in mesh pockets to help you organize your belongings, and the interior tie-down system keeps everything in place during your trip. The removable wet pocket is also very useful for storing your toiletries.

An excellent feature for those who travel with valuable electronic devices is the padded laptop and tablet sleeve which accommodate devices up to 15.6 inches in size . There are also additional pockets to store credit cards and passports, so you do not lose them. The suitcase has a designated pocket for a power bank and a convenient USB port to ensure that you always stay connected.

You will find yourself gliding through airports with flair because of the self-aligning MagnaTrac wheels, which roll straight in any direction. These 360-degree dual-spinner wheels roll and turn effortlessly.

Travelpro promises that this suitcase is built to last a lifetime. They back up this promise with a limited worry-free warranty which, in addition to typical manufacturing defects, also covers the cost of repairs for damages incurred by airlines and other carriers . It’s better than the typical warranty terms that you get from Samsonite and Delsey.

3. Popular and Affordable: LEVEL8 Grace EXT 20-Inch Carry-On

The Level 8 Grace expandable 20-inch suitcase is a really popular and somewhat affordable carry-on. It comes with a padded laptop compartment that fits laptops up to 15.6 inches and a tablet and houses several other smaller pockets for organizing smaller items, like your mouse, external hard drive, pen, and other items .

It’s made from an ABS/PC composite plastic, with a scratch-resistant, 3-layer finish. Polycarbonate is the most durable plastic used in luggage, and ABS is the cheapest and least durable. The ABS/PC mix generally achieves the best of both worlds – providing optimal durability while keeping the total manufacturing costs low. So even though this suitcase is a bit more likely to crack than pure polycarbonate ones, it will still be durable enough to last you years .

You’ll find yourself gliding through airports as the four double, rubber-coated spinner wheels roll and turn with ease. The rubber coating ensures a better grip and quieter roll. The wheels are solid and sturdy and have the added advantage of being detachable, so they may be replaced in the unlikely event that they break. It comes with top and side handles, which will help you carry it on stairs and other places.

The spacious interior is expandable, providing you with an additional 1.57 inches of packing capacity if needed. This is really useful for return flights when you’ve bought a bit too much than initially expected. The cross straps hold your belongings firmly in place while the dividers help to organize your items easily. There are also multiple pockets which makes it possible to store your smaller items, so they do not move around during travel.

The Level 8 Grace Carry-on weighs 9 lbs, which is quite a lot. In fact, it’s 1.89 lbs heavier than the average weight of similarly-sized hardside carry-ons. It’s most likely due to a slightly more robust construction and various pockets, compartments, and organizing options that this suitcase comes with, which all add more weight. So it’s a bit too heavy if you’ll be flying with budget airlines that have stricter weight requirements for hand luggage.

Available in four elegant colors and offering friendly after-sales customer service, the Level 8 Grace is an excellent buy at a great price .

4. Best Underseater: Samsonite 16-Inch Underseat Spinner

Samsonite is well known for offering travelers luggage of distinction. They pride themselves on producing suitcases that are not only durable and reliable but also stylish and innovative. This suitcase is no exception because it’s sturdy as a rock and still looks good and professional .

The overall dimensions of this suitcase are 16.5″ x 13.75″ x 9.0″ (41.91 x 34.93 x 22.86 cm), so it fits easily under most airline seats. That said, it’s recommended that you check with the airline you are traveling with for their underseat storage capacity, as these may differ from one provider to another. Traveling only with an understater is great for short, 1-2 day business trips because you’ll need to carry less stuff.

The main compartment of the bag contains a padded laptop compartment, but it can only accommodate a laptop of up to 13.3 inches (33.78 cm) . The bag comes with a USB port which allows you to charge your devices while in transit. That said, you’ll need to use your own power bank because it isn’t included. There are additional exterior pockets on the front and side of the suitcase to accommodate smaller items like credit cards and pens.

Mobility is a breeze as the 360 degrees multi-directional spinner wheels roll effortlessly. The compact size means that this bag is lightweight, making it easy to maneuver. It is also fitted with an ergonomic push button handle that locks in different heights to accommodate people of different heights. The suitcase has a smart sleeve on the back, making it possible to place it over the handle of most upright suitcases.

The Samsonite Underseat Carry-on comes with a limited 3-year warranty , but given its affordable price point, it does offer value for money. You will have peace of mind knowing that your most essential travel items are right under your feet and easily accessible.

5. Most Popular: Delsey Paris Helium Aero 19-Inch Carry-On

For over 70 years, the Delsey brand has been using its knowledge of travel luggage to combine tradition and innovation, and the results have always been hugely successful. With the Paris Helium Aero, they have managed to produce the perfect-sized carry-on suitcase with great packing features. This hardside 19-inch carry-on will surprise you with its large capacity as it expands up to two inches providing extra space for all your packing needs.

The suitcase has two large compartments and includes additional pockets so you can ensure that your travel items are neatly organized and securely stored away. The large front compartment comes with a padded sleeve to easily accommodate a 15.6” laptop and also contains two mesh pockets with zips for convenient packing of laptop accessories and other important documents . You also have added peace of mind that your belongings are safe and secure as the luggage is fitted with a TSA-approved combination lock. That said, only the main compartment is protected, but the first one can be locked with a regular TSA-approved lock that you’ll need to buy separately.

The double spinner wheels provide good maneuverability, making movement across busy airports easy and comfortable. The additional top and side handles are designed to make picking up and storing this suitcase effortless, although given its convenient size and lightweight, this should not be too much of a problem.

The Delsey Paris Helium Hero is a number one bestseller and has received rave reviews for its outstanding features. Made from 100% polycarbonate, this carry-on is not only durable but also styled in deep metallic glossy finishes, making them modern and appealing. Available in ten attractive colors, this suitcase is suitable for anything from a formal business trip to a fun getaway with family or friends.

Backed by a ten-year warranty , this suitcase seems to cover all the bases for the frequent traveler who is looking for a good-looking, reliable suitcase that passes all airport standards. It comes highly recommended by those who have come to love the Delsey brand, as well as new fans who can’t get enough of this zippy little carry-on.

6. Best Value: Coolife 20-Inch Carry-On with Laptop Compartment

The Coolife 20-inch carry-on suitcase with a pocket compartment is made from ABS/PC composite, which provides good durability if taken care after. It’s coated with a textured finish, so you do not have to worry about your bag being scratched easily. Measuring 21 x 14 x 9.5 inches (53.34 x 35.56 x 24.13cm), this suitcase easily complies with most airline restrictions making it easy for you to stow it away in the overhead bin.

The 20-inch carry-on has a laptop pocket in which you can easily fit a laptop of up to 15.6 inches. This compartment can be opened to 180 degrees for easy access to your device during the security screening. When the front compartment is full, however, it does reduce the amount of space in the main compartment, which will now be smaller than the ordinary 20-inch suitcase. Multi-sized interior pockets help to keep small items like pens and cell phones safe and organized.

The main compartment comes with crossed-fixing bands and pockets to make your packing easy and more organized. You will also have peace of mind that your prized possessions will be safe during travel as the suitcase is fitted with a TSA lock that protects the main compartment as well as the padded laptop pocket.

The suitcase is fitted with silent and smooth multi-directional spinner wheels for easy mobility and an adjustable 3-step telescoping handle system, with an ergonomic grip lock for effortless maneuverability. With a worldwide 2-year warranty this suitcase is a great buy at a great price.

7. Most Innovative: Hanke 20-Inch Carry-On with Front Laptop Pocket

You will be hard-pressed to find a suitcase that still looks beautiful trip after trip, but the Hanke 20-inch carry-on is in a class of its own. Manufactured from durable PC material with a textured surface, your suitcase will be scratch resistant. This material is a more durable and lightweight hardshell than ABS+PC or 100% ABS. In addition, t he suitcase comes with a high-quality PVC cover which helps to keep your suitcase clean and protected during travel. This unique frosted cover will also help you to identify your luggage with ease.

The functional design provides for a front laptop compartment allowing you to safely store away your devices in a padded pocket but also making it easily reachable when you are required to remove it for security checks. The laptop compartment is big enough to fit a 15.6-inch laptop and a 9.7-inch iPad , as well as important documents and accessories. The main compartment has a large capacity and is fitted with elastic cross straps to keep your clothing and other items secure during travel. 

An innovative addition is the strong aluminum frame which reinforces the body of the suitcase and protects it against impact . The combination of the aero-grade material and reinforcing rivets improves the strength of the suitcase, so it is not easily damaged.

This carry-on is so unique, because it doesn’t have two compartments. Instead, you can access everything from the front pocket. This reduces the need of having two zippers and two separate locks – instead, it has a single TSA-approved lock to protect everything. To access the main compartment, you have to unzip the padded laptop pocket, which opens up in 180 degrees for easy access .

The eight double-spinner wheels are equipped with silent technology, which lowers friction with surfaces, thereby reducing the noise made by the rolling wheels. The 360-degree rotation makes for easy mobility on various surfaces. The 4-Step telescoping handle is adjustable for your comfort. It can be conveniently stored away when not in use and provides ease of movement when extended.

8. Durable and Affordable: Delsey Paris Titanium Hardside 19-Inch Carry-On

The Delsey Paris Titanium offers great value for money. Made from 100% polycarbonate, the suitcase is lightweight and durable, and extremely resilient to cracking or breaking. It also has a matte metallic finish which ensures that the luggage is protected from scratches. The metallic colors are striking and will make your luggage stand out at the airport. You will definitely be the envy of other travelers.

The suitcase features a front laptop compartment that easily accommodates up to a 15.6-inch laptop . The main compartment expands up to two inches to maximize your packing capacity. It has the added benefit of tie-down straps and a zippered divider which helps to prevent your belongings from moving around during travel. An additional pocket with zippers allows you to pack smaller items separately.

The suitcase is fitted with four spinner wheels which are designed to roll with ease. It’s also fitted with top and side carry handles which allow for easy lifting.

For security and protection of your valuables, there are integrated 3-dial TSA-approved combination locks recessed into the side of the suitcase. TSA agents are able to inspect your luggage without damaging the lock.

The Paris Titanium model is backed by a worldwide limited 10-year warranty , so you can be certain that you are purchasing a quality product. This ultra-light, durable trendy suitcase is perfect for a quick getaway or a short business trip.

9. Best Maneuverability: LEVEL8 Road Runner Pro 20-Inch Carry-On

If ease of movement and exceptional maneuverability is a priority for you, then look no further than the Level 8 Road Runner 20-inch carry-on with a laptop compartment. Priced a little higher than other hardside suitcases, this sleek little suitcase offers value for money. The multi-directional wheels and telescoping handle combine to offer you easy control and movement .

It’s built from 100% pure polycarbonate, which is the most durable plastic used in hardside luggage , which means that it’s very unlikely to crack from accidents. It is pretty heavy, weighing 8.7 lbs (3.94 kg), so it isn’t ideal for budget airlines, but it is is you’re from the USA, where the weight restrictions for hand luggage are much looser. You can also rest assured that your valuables will be safe as the suitcase comes fitted with built-in airline-approved TSA locks.

The spacious interior with zipper pockets and cross straps takes the hassle out of packing for those short trips. Not only will your personal belongings be neatly organized, but your laptop and accessories will be safely stored in the separate front compartment making it easily accessible during travel. Keeping your devices charged will not be a problem as this suitcase is fitted with a USB charging port for your convenience. However, a power bank is not included.

Unlike the Level 8 Grace, the Road Runner is not expandable, so it has limited packing capacity. Some customers complained that overpacking the compartments cause them to bulge. The suitcase is, therefore, best suited for short business trips. It is stylish yet practical and is available in three classic colors.

10. Most Affordable: Rockland Titan Hardside 19-Inch Carry-On

Buying Rockland luggage means buying trendy, fashionable suitcases that will stand out in a sea of other suitcases. But stylish designs are not all you will get as the Rockland brand is also committed to offering suitcases that are functional and affordable. The Rockland Titan Hardside Carry-on offers all this and more.

Made from ABS material, the suitcase is lightweight and riggid, so the contents of your luggage are protected. However, because ABS is more likely to crack under pressure (because it doesn’t flex too much), the suitcase itself might develop cracks over time. The carry-on measures 22 X 13 x 9 inches (55.88 x 33.02 x 22.86 cm) with wheels, so it complies with airline regulations for a carry-on suitcase.

It comes with a padded laptop pocket that fits a 15.6-inch laptop . Your device will be safe and protected, and easily accessible. There are multiple additional pockets for convenient and organized packing, and the expandable features allow you a greater packing capacity.

The 4 silent spinner wheels rotate 360 degrees for ease of movement, while the telescoping handle allows for easy maneuvering when extended.

Packed with great features, the Rockland Titan offers great value for money, given its low price point. It is definitely worth the buy.

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The Best Laptop Backpacks

By Zoe Vanderweide

Zoe Vanderweide is a writer focused on style and accessories. She has personally tested nearly 300 bags, jeans, bras, shoes, and more.

A backpack is our favorite way to carry and protect a laptop and other necessities on a commute. It’s more ergonomic than a tote or messenger bag, it holds more than a briefcase, and it looks more stylish than a rolling bag.

Since 2015, we’ve tested more than 75 backpacks on buses, trains, cars, bikes, and planes. The following five are the best we’ve found: a tailored professional bag , a tough pack that fits a ton of tech , a sleek traveling companion , a stylish and budget-friendly option , and an ergonomic office-to-gym workhorse .

The picks and the research

A structured, polished-looking bag: troubadour apex 3.0 backpack, a rugged backpack for wrangling tech: timbuk2 authority laptop backpack deluxe, a sleek office-to-airport travel pack: july carry all backpack series 2, a well-priced bag that’s functional and stylish: everlane the renew transit backpack, a large, ergonomic gym backpack: aer duffel pack 3, other good laptop backpacks, how we picked and tested, the competition.

Troubadour Apex 3.0 Backpack

Upscale and sophisticated.

Handsome styling, ergonomic design, and thoughtful details make this pricey backpack worth the money.

Buying Options

If you prefer a more-polished-looking backpack—think modern-briefcase vibes—the Troubadour Apex 3.0 Backpack is a terrific choice. It’s smart enough for the boardroom, yet it still offers all the convenience and comfort of a backpack.

Note: This is a newer and slightly redesigned version of our previous pick, the Troubadour Apex Backpack, which is no longer available. The Apex 3.0 is now made from 90% recycled materials, and it has a comfier, bonded neoprene top handle. It also includes a hidden pocket on the left shoulder strap. After testing the Apex 3.0, we confirmed that, like its predecessor, it is worthy of being a pick.

It’s elegant and beautifully made. The Apex is our most expensive pick, but its style and quality justify its hefty price tag. The backpack’s substantial, recycled polyester body is both durable and refined, and vegan-leather trims add extra polish. It has a tailored, softly geometric shape that remains streamlined when full, and it doesn’t collapse when empty.

The sturdily-crafted Apex keeps your cargo safe in inclement weather. Its body is coated with a fluorocarbon-free waterproofing treatment, and the smoothly operating zippers are set in a waterproof tape for additional protection.

It’s surprisingly ergonomic. Plush, ventilated back panels and contoured memory-foam shoulder straps—unusual in such an elegant, non-technical-looking backpack—make the Apex a pleasure to carry. The padding feels soft and luxurious, even with heavier loads.

The flexible top handle is lined with neoprene on its underside, so the bag is comfortable to carry by hand—a particularly nice feature for commuters on crowded buses or trains. And a luggage pass-through sleeve does a great job of stabilizing the bag on the handle of a rolling suitcase.

When the Apex isn’t very full, however, its substantial structure and padding can make it feel, in the words of one tester, “like a lot of backpack.”

It’s thoughtfully organized, inside and out. The backpack’s main compartment is roomy enough to fit larger items, and it includes an organizer panel with several slip pockets, zip pouches, and pen holders. Sitting closest to your back, the 17-inch laptop compartment is comfortably padded and has an extra sleeve for stashing a tablet. On the bag’s exterior, a deep-but-flat front-zip pocket and two spacious water-bottle pockets offer accessible storage.

An expandable pocket, tucked into the left shoulder strap, is designed for items you’ll want to grab quickly, such as a wallet, phone, or ID badge. In practice, we didn’t find it all that functional; it’s uncomfortable to stash an iPhone right against your shoulder, and when the pocket is expanded, the bag looks less sleek. This pocket is one of the new features that Troubadour added to the Apex for the updated 3.0 model, and though we don’t think it provides much function, you don’t have to use it if you don’t like it, and it’s otherwise harmless.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• This backpack’s structure, padding, and size can make it feel bulky, especially if you’re not carrying much.
• The bag has a zippered pocket on its left strap for stashing go-to items, like a phone, but its placement isn’t very comfortable for carrying a phone (or any other rigid, rectangular object).

Dimensions: 19 by 12.5 by 6 inches Weight: 2.2 pounds Capacity: 25 liters Maximum laptop size: 17 inches Warranty: Troubadour guarantees its products for five years against manufacturing faults.

Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe

Holds tons of tech, takes tons of abuse.

This tough backpack can accommodate and organize lots of tech—we fit a laptop, keyboard, tablet, and handheld gaming device in it all at once, with room to spare. But its aesthetic may be too utilitarian for some.

When you’re toting a ton of tech, keeping it all organized and safe is probably high on your list of priorities. The Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe capably contains and protects valuable cargo, and it will last you a long time. Plus, it has plenty of ergonomic and comfort features to help lighten your load.

It fits an impressive amount of gear into a slim profile. Although this 20-liter Timbuk2 bag feels compact, it can pack in plenty of tech. In our testing, we used it to carry a 13-inch laptop and its charger, a keyboard , a tablet , two power banks, a Nintendo Switch Lite and its charger, various cables, a cable stable full of accessories, a planner , a notepad , keys, and a travel mug , with room to spare.

When you have less to haul, compression straps at the lower front of the bag allow you to cinch the pack down—a major plus on crowded buses and trains. But some of our testers disliked the look of the prominent metal buckles.

It’s loaded with compartments and pockets. The Authority Deluxe’s front section is a paradise of pockets, with a stretchy mesh zippered pouch, pen holders, and two plush-lined tech compartments. Sitting just behind that section is a roomy main compartment with a nicely padded sleeve. Closest to the back, the well-padded laptop compartment—the largest among all of our picks—can fit computers up to 17 inches. Finally, two exterior front zip pockets fit quick-grab items, and a flexible side pocket snugly accommodates a 24-ounce bottle.

It’s tough. This Timbuk2 backpack’s durable recycled-nylon exterior guards against bumps and bruises, while its ample padding and waterproof boot (the bottom portion of the bag) add extra peace of mind when you’re transporting precious tech. Plus, Timbuk2 backs the Authority Deluxe with a lifetime warranty.

It’s well padded for all-day comfort. Testers found the Authority Deluxe comfortable and easy to carry thanks to the plush, breathable padding on its back panel and shoulder straps. When you’re lugging heavier gear, the adjustable-height sternum strap helps to distribute the load evenly and keep the pack secure.

• The utilitarian aesthetic won’t appeal to everyone.
• Although this Timbuk2 pack is tough and protective overall, it does not have a suspended laptop compartment (like our pick from Aer ).
• It offers only one water-bottle holder (on the right side, when worn), which can make for an uneven distribution of weight.

Dimensions: 18.9 by 11.8 by 5.1 inches Weight: 2.6 pounds Capacity: 20 liters Maximum laptop size: 17 inches Warranty: Timbuk2’s lifetime warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. It does not cover damages resulting from normal wear and tear or strictly cosmetic issues.

July Carry All Backpack Series 2

Sleek voyager.

This backpack is loaded with traveler-friendly features, including a sturdy luggage sleeve and passport pocket. Leather accents and gunmetal hardware elevate its simple silhouette, but the thick material can feel a little warm in hot climates.

Whether you’re racing to the office or to an airport gate, the July Carry All Backpack Series 2 is a trusty travel companion. It looks just as luxe and put-together as a structured tote, yet it offers the comfort and functionality of a backpack—with some especially thoughtful features thrown in to help make getting from A to B a little easier.

It’s a chic take on a classic shape. The Carry All has a simple, structured silhouette made from a sleek nylon-twill material. The bag’s leather-wrapped carry handle and zipper pulls, as well as its gleaming gunmetal hardware, add polish to the otherwise pared-down exterior.

It’s ideal for travel. The Carry All’s freestanding shape and sturdy luggage sleeve make it a great travel accessory—among our picks, this bag and the Troubadour Apex 3.0 fit the most securely on the handle of a rolling suitcase. Its hidden passport pocket, tucked beneath the top carry handle, is a nice extra.

And since globetrotting often comes with surprises, it’s reassuring to know that this bag’s exterior is sturdy, protective, and water resistant—something to which we can personally attest after getting caught in cats-and-dogs rain.

Its pockets are especially useful—delightful, even. The Carry All’s boxy main compartment has a tablet sleeve and a sleek zippered pouch. Against the back of the pack, you’ll find a top-zip laptop compartment for computers up to 16 inches, while a roomy quick-access front pocket provides a place to stash smaller items.

But the feature that tickled us the most is the Carry All’s fully enclosed, zippered water-bottle pocket, located on the left side of the pack (when worn). The clever design—which allows you to tuck your drink away in a secure chamber, out of sight—ensures that a garishly colored bottle will never clash with your tasteful backpack.

It’s perfect for carrying medium loads. With a 20-liter capacity, the Carry All is roomy enough for your essentials—it easily fits a long weekend’s worth of clothing, toiletries, and tech—but it won’t tempt you to overpack.

The adjustable straps are just right for midsize cargo, as they’re better cushioned than those on our pick from Everlane but not as substantial as the straps on our picks from Timbuk2 and Aer , so they hang more naturally over the shoulders when the bag isn’t full.

Our only knock: The Carry All lacks mesh padding at the back, so its substantial nylon material can feel warm against the body in hotter weather.

• This backpack has only one water-bottle holder (on the left side, when worn), which can create an uneven distribution of weight.
• Unlike other travel packs that we looked at, from Away and Italic , this bag doesn’t have air-mesh back panels, so it wears a little hotter.

Dimensions: 16 by 11 by 6.5 inches Weight: 2.2 pounds Capacity: 20 liters Maximum laptop size: 16 inches Warranty: July covers the Carry All Backpack with a five-year warranty . The company will repair or replace bags that have defects due to manufacturing faults within five years of purchase; cosmetic damages and general wear and tear are not covered.

Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack

Understated and versatile.

A streamlined design and welcome features—including a magnetic top closure and a plethora of pockets—make this budget-friendly, wear-anywhere bag look and feel pricier than it is. But unlike our other picks, it isn’t backed by a warranty.

Everlane’s The ReNew Transit Backpack is an effortlessly cool, feature-packed bag that excels in both form and function. It’s versatile enough to go from the workplace to a weekend getaway, and it comfortably carries midsize loads.

It has a contemporary, wear-anywhere vibe. The Transit balances its clean aesthetic with a slightly slouchy silhouette, so it looks equally at home in the office and on the go. The recycled-polyester exterior comes in an array of subtle colors.

It’s functional and feature-packed. The Transit’s main compartment is equipped with two slip pockets for notebooks or a tablet, as well as an interior water-bottle pocket. A zipper that runs along the side of the bag opens to a separate, padded laptop compartment that can accommodate computers up to 15 inches, though the side-access placement can take some getting used to.

The spacious zippered front compartment makes it easy for you to access your commuter essentials, and the external side water-bottle pocket smoothly accommodates a 24-ounce water bottle. The backpack’s fold-over top has another roomy zippered pocket and is secured with an invisible magnetic closure—a favorite feature for all of our testers, and a plus if you have reduced manual dexterity.

It’s best suited for medium-size loads. Weighing just 1.42 pounds when empty, the Transit is the lightest of our picks. Its straps are gently contoured, and while you’re on the go, you can easily make length adjustments to get the perfect fit.

Although the Transit has a spacious, 27-liter capacity, we don’t recommend filling it to the brim with your heaviest gear; its lightly padded straps make it best for more modest cargo. We were perfectly comfortable toting a laptop, water bottle, notebook, and sweater in it.

It’s a great value. The Transit is one of the most budget-friendly of our picks, but it has an upscale look—the reveal of its sub-$100 price tag prompted several “Wait, what?!” reactions from testers, friends, and colleagues.

Although the Transit is not as tough as our picks from Timbuk2 and Aer or as luxe as the Troubadour Apex 3.0 and July Carry All bags, its sturdy, water-resistant exterior and all-metal hardware hold up capably over time. One tester, who has been using the Transit regularly for a year and counting, reports that her bag isn’t showing a single sign of wear.

• The side-zip laptop compartment requires you to insert and remove your computer at an angle, rather than sliding it smoothly in and out; all of our other picks, in contrast, have easier-to-access top-zip laptop compartments. And its placement (on the right of the pack, when worn) is awkward if you’re left-handed.
• One tester noted that when the bag is especially full, the magnetic closure for the fold-over top comes undone.
• This is the only backpack we recommend that isn’t backed by a warranty.
• Due to this bag’s popularity, we’ve seen frequent stock issues.

Dimensions: 17.5 by 12 by 7.25 inches Weight: 1.42 pounds Capacity: 27 liters Maximum laptop size: 15 inches Warranty: none

Aer Duffel Pack 3

For fitness buffs.

This futuristic-looking backpack seamlessly transitions from office to gym, with ultra-comfortable straps and plenty of organization for your gadgets and gear—plus a ventilated shoe compartment. It’s over 20 inches tall, so it fits best on people with a bigger back.

Fitness-minded folks who hit the gym before or after work—and who don’t mind carrying a longer bag—will appreciate the stylish, protective, and extremely ergonomic Aer Duffel Pack 3 .

It’s the comfiest of our picks for carrying heavy loads. Among all the laptop backpacks we tested, the Duffel Pack 3 was the best at comfortably distributing weight. At 2.9 pounds, it’s also the heaviest bag we recommend—but thanks to its ergonomic design, those extra ounces aren’t noticeable.

The back panel and contoured shoulder straps are cushioned with plush, breathable mesh padding. A secure, easily adjustable sternum strap clicks across the chest to position the bag correctly—a feature that comes highly recommended by physical therapist Sarah Lloyd and is especially helpful when the bag is heavy.

It keeps gym gear separate. Cleverly designed compartments divide sweaty clothes and shoes from the rest of your stuff. True to its name, the Duffel Pack 3’s spacious, well-designed main area opens wide to allow top-to-bottom access to your duds; its interior lining is treated with an antimicrobial coating to control odors. A ventilated shoe compartment, which unzips at the base of the backpack, keeps stinky trainers away from your other gear.

It’s just as well suited for work as it is for the gym. The Duffel Pack 3 is no one-trick pony. You can stow your computer and other gadgets in its amply padded back compartment, which includes numerous slip pockets as well as a stretchy mesh zippered pouch, perfect for storing a laptop charger.

For convenient access to belongings while you’re on the go, this Aer pack has two zippered pockets on the front that blend into its pleated exterior. You’ll also find an easily reachable pocket at the top of the bag for your phone—lined with a plush material—as well as two elasticized side water-bottle pockets.

It’s the most protective of our picks. The 16-inch laptop compartment is substantially padded and has a plush lining that won’t scratch delicate surfaces. It also features a “false bottom” to keep your computer suspended safely above the base of the bag, protecting it from bumps and drops. And during our tests, the pack’s water-resistant Cordura material (a tightly woven nylon performance fabric) and sealed waterproof zippers kept gear dry in the rain.

Everything about the Duffel Pack 3 feels high quality, including its ballistic-nylon exterior, YKK-brand zippers, and Duraflex plastic hardware. Plus, Aer backs its products with a lifetime warranty.

• The substantially padded shoulder straps and back panel can feel bulky when you aren’t carrying much in the pack.
• At 20.5 inches long, the Duffel Pack 3 may overwhelm smaller frames. If you’re under 5-foot-10 or so, you may prefer the nearly identical but sized-down Aer Fit Pack 3 , which is 17.5 inches long and has a 18.7-liter capacity.
• While this bag is long and heavy, its 21.4-liter capacity is actually not as generous as that of some of our other picks, though its clever layout does make good use of the space. Much of its bulk comes from all the extra padding.

Dimensions: 20.5 by 11.75 by 8 inches Weight: 2.9 pounds Capacity: 21.4 liters Maximum laptop size: 16 inches Warranty: Aer covers the Duffel Pack 3 with a lifetime warranty , which guarantees quality and performance for the practical lifetime of the product. Aer will repair or replace products that fail due to manufacturing defects at no additional charge. General wear and tear is not covered.

If you’re looking for a stylish, smaller-scale pack for organizing tech: The Aer Day Pack 2 has tons of pockets and organization for corralling your gadgets, including a padded, suspended 16-inch laptop sleeve. It has ultra-comfortable padded straps and a breathable mesh back panel—but with a capacity of 15 liters, it’s best for those who travel light. Its exterior has a sleeker look than the Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe , our other ultra-techie pick. Note: This style has been replaced by an updated version, the Aer Day Pack 3 , which we have not yet tested. At the time of publishing, the Day Pack 2 is still being sold while inventory lasts.

If you commute mostly by bike and need a bag that can withstand the elements: The Chrome Industries Urban Ex 2.0—which comes in 20-liter and 30-liter versions—is tough, durable and comfortable. Its rugged, waterproof exterior has handy loops for hooking a helmet or U-lock, and the roll-top closure lets you shrink and expand the bag as needed. The back panel and shoulder straps are well padded, and an adjustable chest buckle keeps the pack securely in place as you whip around turns. Note: This style has been replaced by an updated version, the Urban Ex Backpack ( 20L and 30L ), which we have not tested. At the time of publishing, the Urban Ex 2.0 is still being sold on some sites while inventory lasts.

If you want a chic, affordable backpack with a silky sheen: The Lululemon New Crew Backpack 22L Logo is a sporty, stylish pack with an upscale look—making its under-$100 price tag all the more welcome (and surprising). Its water-repellent nylon fabric is lustrous and fluid, and it comes in a selection of clean, monochromatic neutrals with color-matched zippers, straps, and branding. We hoped that the New Crew would fill the hole left behind by the Lululemon Everyday Backpack 2.0, a previous (and much beloved) pick in this guide, which was discontinued in January 2024. In many ways, the New Crew fits the bill. It has a similar aesthetic and a 22-liter capacity, with lightly padded straps for comfortably toting light-to-medium loads. A dedicated laptop compartment holds a computer up to 15 inches, and a spacious main compartment ably contains bulkier items. On the exterior, there are two water bottle pockets and a shallow front pocket, which opens via an attached carabiner with a long loop. But the New Crew falls short in some ways that were tough to overlook. Its three interior slip pockets feel flimsy, and lack closures or elastic to keep belongings secure. And the plastic carabiner on the exterior pocket can come off if you pull too hard; should it become detached (or lost), the zipper is difficult to operate without it.

To find great backpacks for anyone who commutes with a laptop, we considered the following criteria:

• Comfort and fit: Our picks allow adjustments so that they sit correctly—high and close to the back—on a variety of bodies and are comfortable to wear for an entire commute. Some also have comfort-enhancing features such as contoured straps, breathable mesh padding, and sternum straps, which clip across your chest to stabilize the bag. We also consulted with physical therapist Sarah Lloyd, director of clinical education at Spear Physical Therapy , for expert guidance on how to wear a backpack ergonomically .
• Laptop protection: We wanted packs with a well-padded compartment for storing at least a 15-inch laptop. They should also keep tech dry in inclement weather.
• Organization: In addition to a main compartment, a good commuter backpack should have an easily accessible front pocket and a place to securely stash a water bottle. Many of our picks offer quite a bit more, including thoughtfully designed features for containing tech, travel documents, gym gear, and other necessities.
• Quality and durability: We examined each bag’s construction, from the stitching to the fabrics to the padding. We tested zippers, snaps, buckles, and sliders for their durability and ease of use. Most of the backpacks we recommend are also covered by warranties.
• Aesthetics: We considered bags in a variety of styles, from polished packs that could give even the sleekest totes a run for their money to rugged bags for taming tech and sweaty gym gear. All of our picks are attractive and office-appropriate.
• Price: We focused on bags that cost less than $300, and we found plenty of great options for far less.

We then put the laptop backpacks that satisfied our initial criteria to the test in the field. My Wirecutter colleagues and I have worn dozens of backpacks for commutes by train, bus, bike, and car. We’ve also schlepped through airports with them and taken them for long walks in all sorts of weather.

This is not a comprehensive list of everything we’ve tested for previous iterations of this guide, just what’s still available.

The inexpensive Amazon Basics Laptop Backpack has good reviews, but we think it’s alarmingly ugly. It was out of stock at the time of our testing, too.

We had difficulty accessing the contents of the very expensive Sandqvist Alva .

We found the straps on the travel-ready Away Front Pocket Backpack stiff and uncomfortable.

Testers liked the Bellroy Classic Backpack but not as much as they did any of our picks. The Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus was uncomfortable.

The Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack has a fun, pop-art-meets-streetwear vibe, but it’s heavy and expensive, and in our tests it felt stiflingly hot against our backs.

We used to recommend the Fjällräven Räven 28 for travel, but unlike our current travel pick, the July Carry All , it lacks a luggage pass-through.

Testers enjoyed the cute Herschel Nova Backpack Mid-Volume but said it wasn’t grown-up enough for the office. The weather-resistant Herschel Survey II Backpack hung too low on our 5-foot-6 tester—even with the straps fully tightened—and its front pocket is frustratingly hidden beneath the top flap.

The large, office-to-gym Lo & Sons Hakuba was heavy and hot to wear.

The Lululemon City Adventurer Backpack 20L is too small to be a functional work-to-gym bag. And we couldn’t even fit a full workday’s worth of stuff into the 10-liter Osprey Arcane Small Day .

The Matein Travel Laptop Backpack felt cheaply made.

For a commuter bag, the Patagonia Black Hole Pack 25L was too bulky and disorganized.

The Public Rec Pro Pack Plus is a travel backpack that looks sophisticated, but we found it uncomfortable. We’ve seen availability issues with this pack, too, though it should be restocked.

The stylish, waterproof Rains Backpack Mini doesn’t fit much (9 liters), and it’s uncomfortable for carrying a laptop—the thin straps are poorly padded and hard to adjust.

Though the State Kane Double Pocket Large is spacious and well organized, the material wears hot, and the straps are a bit stiff and under-padded.

The Topo Rover Pack is well made and comfortable. But its tall, narrow shape restricts its capacity, and its campground aesthetic can feel a little juvenile for the workplace.

This article was edited by Ingela Ratledge Amundson and Jennifer Hunter.

Meet your guide

Zoe Vanderweide

Zoe Vanderweide is a senior staff writer reporting on style and accessories at Wirecutter. She has been wearing things for over three decades, and she has spent years covering streetwear, luxury, art, and design. Off the clock, you can find her painting the town rainbow with her (devastatingly stylish) daughter.

Further reading

The Best Laptop Sleeves and MacBook Cases

by Ivy Liscomb

If you need an extra layer of protection for your pricey laptop, a sleeve is a great option that doesn’t take up a lot of extra space.

The Best Kids Backpacks for School

by Ellen Lee

A great school backpack should be comfortable to carry, durable, organized, and let kids express themselves. Here are four backpacks we think kids will love.

The Best Laptop Stands

by Melanie Pinola

The Rain Design iLevel 2 is our favorite laptop stand because it makes it easy to raise your screen to proper ergonomic height.

You’re Probably Wearing Your Backpack Wrong

by Zoe Vanderweide

Here are the secrets to avoiding back pain while rocking a backpack, including the best way to load it up and how to adjust your straps.

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Logitech MX Anywhere 3 for Mac - Bluetooth Wireless Mouse in Pale Grey

Logitech Travel Case for MX Series Mice in Grey Black

Logitech Combo Touch Keyboard Case for iPad in Oxford Grey

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Make any space modern, and multi-device with the K580 Slim Multi-Device – an ultra-thin and design-forward keyboard perfect for typing your ideas on your computer and switching to writing a text on your smartphone. The ideal companion for your everyday multitasking. | Logitech K580 Slim Multi-Device Wireless Keyboard with Bluetooth in Rose

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Logitech M240 Silent Bluetooth Mouse with Comfortable Shape in Rose

Logitech MX Keys for Mac - Wireless Illuminated Keyboard in Space Grey

Logitech Combo Touch Keyboard Case for iPad air in Oxford Grey

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Logitech M187 Mini Wireless Mouse - Ultra Portable & Light in Blossom

Logitech Ultra Portable Wireless Mouse M187. Take it wherever you take your laptop - thanks to its pocket-ready, extra-small design. Plus, setup is simple. Just plug in the nano receiver and start using your mouse. You’ll enjoy the freedom of wireless with more precision and control than your laptop’s touchpad. | Logitech M187 Mini Wireless Mouse - Ultra Portable & Light in Blossom

Logitech Buy MX Anywhere 3S Wireless Bluetooth Mouse in Black

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"Really nice functionality and sized for travel - love this mouse"

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Logitech G is a pioneer in innovative FPS gaming gear. Decades of engineering & design have resulted in renowned speed, precision, and reliability.

G305 LIGHTSPEED Wireless Gaming Mouse Next-generation LIGHTSPEED wireless now available for all gamers

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G840 XL Star Wars Gaming Mouse Pad

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Shop PRO X Superlight 2 Gaming Mouse. Features LIGHTFORCE switches, HERO 2 sensor, up to 95 hr battery life, smooth glide mouse feet, USB-C charging, POWERPLAY compatibility, and more

G705 Wireless Gaming Mouse

Shop G705 Wireless Mouse. Features new compact sculpted design, pro-grade wireless, Bluetooth, 85g weight, gliding feet, 3 RGB zones, 6 PGM buttons, and more

G840 XL Gaming Mouse Pad

Logitech G840 XL gaming mouse pad creates the ideal space for gaming with a performance-tuned surface, sturdy rubber base, and lots of room to maneuver.

Gaming Mouse Pad Hard Surface G440

G440 Gaming Mouse Pad features ultra-low friction, making it an ideal surface for subtle, quick movements. Learn more about Logitech Gaming.

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Shop G502 LIGHTSPEED Wireless Mouse. Features POWERPLAY wireless charging compatibility, HERO 25k sensor, LIGHTSYNC RGB lighting, PVC free, & more

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Logitech G502 HERO high performance gaming mouse. Featuring HERO, our best sensor, 11 programmable buttons, LIGHTSYNC RGB technology & tunable weight.

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G600 MMO Gaming Mouse

With 20 buttons, the G600 MMO Gaming Mouse is the most customizable and easy to use mouse specifically designed for your favorite MMOs. Learn more.

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Shop G740 Mouse Pad. Features a 5mm-thickness that is optimized for Logitech G gaming mouse sensors—and all the rapid movements of low-DPI gaming.

G640 Large Cloth Gaming Mouse Pad performance addition

The moderate surface friction and consistent surface texture of G640 are matched to Logitech G senors. The rubber base ensures it lays flat and states in place.

Shop G502 X Wireless Mouse. Features LIGHTFORCE hybrid optical-mechanical switch tech, POWERPLAY compatible, 68% faster response, HERO 25K sensor, and more

G502 X Plus Millennium Falcon

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G502 X Plus

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G303 Shroud

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PRO - Footloose

Shop Pro Wireless Gaming Mouse. Built with Esports pros, it features a HERO sensor, LIGHTSPEED wireless technology, ultra lightweight materials, & more.

G GAMING Headset + Mouse Carry Case

Mouse pad for g705.

Shop Mouse Pad for G705 Wireless Gaming Mouse. From the Aurora Collection - available in Pink Dawn, Green Flash and White Mist

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Padded Laptop Sleeve

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Description

• C rafted with a durable polyester exterior for long-lasting use. • W ater-resistant design provides worry-free protection. • F eatures an interior padded laptop sleeve to safeguard against bumps and scratches. • I ncludes a zippered laptop case with a back slip pocket for convenient storage of tech accessories.

Keep your most-used tech accessory protected during travel with our all-new Laptop Sleeve. Designed with a padded interior, it ensures your laptop stays safe from bumps and scratches. Available in a variety of fun prints and colors, this sleeve also offers extra pockets for storing all your laptop accessories.

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All about the Padded Laptop Sleeve

Tech Organizer

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• Multiple exterior and interior pockets
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• Fits 13-15" and 15-17" Laptops

Tablet Tech Organizer

• Double compartment with multiple pockets
• Elastic cord loops for cables and accessories
• Padded Sleeve for up to 11" tablet

Travel looks good on you.

The colors are really vibrant, and it fits a lot of stuff. I was traveling, and in addition to my laptop, I was able to fit a travel makeup mirror inside the laptop sleeve. It feels secure, and has a good amount of padding, everything you could want in a laptop sleeve!

This is a great laptop sleeve. It has a nice structure, good zipper and the padding is just right. Such a cute pattern as well!

Fits my MacBook Air perfectly with a little extra room all around, I can even fit my iPad Pro in there at the same time; my iPad mini even fits in the front zipper!

I got it to match my tech organizer for all my cords and I love the coordination!

I bought the cheetah print and I love this new laptop sleeve. Nicely padded with a canvas like material.

I’m so delighted with my Calpack laptop sleeve (13”-14”)! It safeguards my iPad Pro 12.9” flawlessly, even with the Magic Keyboard. The front zipper compartment is handy for storing my Apple Pencil and accessories. I highly recommend for tablet and laptop protection.

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The 8 Best Carry-on Suitcases With a Separate Laptop Compartment, Tested and Reviewed

Keep your laptop protected and easy to access when you use one of these carry-on suitcases.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Our Testing Process

• Tips For Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Traveling with a laptop gives you the freedom to get work done or enjoy entertainment on the go, but they can be tricky to safely store when flying. With so many varying restrictions on carry-on luggage sizing, bringing your laptop along on a trip can become a bit of a headache if you don’t have a solid spot to house it, particularly if it doesn’t fit within your one personal item bag. Cabin-friendly suitcases with a separate laptop compartment are the perfect solution, providing a designated space specifically designed to protect your computer.

With so many choices for carry-on suitcases with laptop compartments on the market, we helped narrow down the options with a series of tests conducted in our New York City lab, including on an airplane set we designed as well as out in the real world. We tried out more than 150 carry-on suitcases and researched dozens of additional products. After packing each suitcase for a four-day trip, we maneuvered them through obstacle courses to test the agility of the wheels and sturdiness of the handles. We also dropped them off tables and hit them with baseball bats to test durability. All bags were evaluated based on their capacity, value, design, and durability, as well as the ease of maneuverability, comfort, and portability.

Best Overall

Carl friedrik the carry-on x.

Carl Friedrik

• Maneuverability 5 /5
• Durability 4.8 /5
• Value 4.5 /5
• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5

It comes with a compression pad to maximize the capacity and a hardside laptop sleeve.

It’s a few hundred dollars pricier than most of the other models we tested, but the luxe design and built-in organization is worth it.

We love the high-quality materials and intuitive design of the Carl Friedrik The Carry-on X suitcase. Crafted from a polycarbonate shell with a sleek gunmetal gray finish and Italian leather details, this case is compliant with most airline restrictions and features a stylish, zipperless aesthetic . The aluminum locking mechanism for the main compartment keeps your belongings secure as well.

This carry-on suitcase is ideal for the regular traveler who needs durability and functionality and prefers not to check a bag. We think the standout feature is that the hardside laptop compartment is located in a separate section at the front of the bag so it doesn’t eat into the real estate of the main compartment. No matter how fully packed the interior of the bag is, travelers will still be able to fit their laptop in the roomy front pocket. The flat pocket on the compression straps assist in maximizing this space and extra organization is possible with smaller zipped pockets. Thanks to a pocket with a USB cord inside, you can charge the computer from the exterior via a portable power bank, too. You can feel confident storing your electronics inside the hearty laptop compartment while wheeling this carry-on around and putting in the overhead compartment for your flight.

The Details: Fits laptops up to 16 inches | 21.7 x 15 x 10.6 inches (expanded) | 9.5 pounds

Monos Carry-on Pro

• Capacity 4.8 /5

It rolls well over all types of surfaces and is lightweight, making it easy to lift overhead even when full.

It tends to scuff easily.

We love the upgraded Monos Carry-on with this “Pro” version’s secure laptop storage, designed to fit in almost any overhead compartment, on any flight. It’s a very sturdy and durable, dent-resistant case that houses your laptop behind an all-over, aerospace-grade polycarbonate shell. Quiet, spinnable wheels and vegan leather are just some of the high-end materials used in crafting this cabin-friendly suitcase. We noticed the wheels roll easily over a wide array of surfaces during our tests, including gravel, cobblestones, dirt, grass, and asphalt on a trip to Japan. The wheels have an impressive weight capacity, too, enduring when we used the carry-on as a scooter to roll down a hill. The fact that the carry-on comes with a laundry and shoe bag is an added bonus. The front laptop compartment does infringe on one side of interior space, but offers zippered pocket storage for additional items such as your passport, charging cords, e-reader, and more, while giving you quick access to those things. Although the outside scuffs easily, we found the material easy to clean with soap and a sponge.

The Details: Fits laptops up to 16 inches | 22 × 14 × 9 inches | 7.8 pounds

Best Budget

Coolife abs+pc spinner trolley.

• Capacity 4 /5
• Design 4 /5
• Maneuverability 4 /5
• Durability 5 /5

The exterior is very durable, standing up to potential scratches and dents.

The interior material is lower quality than other models and the wheels are not always easy to maneuver.

For a carry-on with a front tech pocket that offers solid value, the Coolife Carry On with Pocket fits the bill. It’s one of the more lightweight bags we tested, and it's durable as well. We noticed the exterior materials were flexible and hearty enough to stand up to multiple tests, like hitting it with a baseball bat and shoving it off tabletops without paint chipping, denting, or scratching. While the price is the lowest of all our picks, we found that the 360-degree spinner wheels were not as easy to maneuver when compared to other bags we tested. The bag rotated smoothly around tight corners only when all four wheels were used, but had some issues traveling smoothly over bumps unless only two wheels were used. The interior materials for the zip pockets don’t have much flexibility, so there could be a risk of ripping them if the bag was overpacked. The laptop compartment only fits a computer or tablet up to 13.3 inches, and if the interior is overpacked, it’s possible it’d be too tight to fit the laptop safely.

The Details: Fits laptops up to 13.3 inches | 19.29 x 30.71 x 12.6 inches | 6.7 pounds

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Best Underseat

Travelpro x travel + leisure underseat tote.

• Design 4.5 /5
• Value 3.5 /5

This bag is large enough to fit a few days worth of items yet small enough to fit under the seat.

This bag may get heavy to carry since it does not have wheels.

Skip using the overhead compartment when you pack light in the underseat-friendly, 22-liter Travelpro x Travel + Leisure UnderSeat Tote, ideal for weekend trips. The built-in padded sleeve is perfect for storing laptops up to 15 inches, and the zippered opening allows for quick access, with enough room for 2-3 days of clothing. The bag is sleek and functional, with leather details and ample pocket organization, including two interior pockets inside the main compartment, as well as the exterior front pocket and luggage sleeve for attaching to a suitcase. It is versatile, with the option to carry it with the removable shoulder strap or handles. We love the magnetic closure of the front pocket, great for securely storing your passport or cell phone while keeping it easy to access. While it is compact enough to fit under a seat, it’s worth noting that this bag is significantly smaller in size than our other picks, so it won’t fit as much, especially if you want to carry a laptop inside. However, it does make a more stylish alternative to a duffel bag and works well for a weekend trip.

The Details: Fits laptops up to 15 inches | 9.25 x 16.5 x 9 inches | 2.3 pounds

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Colors

Arlo skye the zipper carry-on max.

• Capacity 4.3 /5
• Maneuverability 4.3 /5

It has a large capacity of 47 liters, one of the largest on this list.

It won’t fit in the overhead bins of a smaller aircraft.

We love the Arlo Skye The Zipper Carry-on Max with Front Pocket for its spacious interior as well as its spectrum of appealing colors. The hardside smart suitcase is equipped with a speedy, removable charger, compatible with USB-C and A ports — a thoughtful design feature found in several of our favorite Arlo Skye luggage pieces . This model allows you to overpack a little (because we’ve all been there) with its flexible zipper technology. The included laundry and shoe bags help keep those items separate from the rest of your belongings, which you can expertly organize in the main compartments, complete with anti-microbial interior fabric to keep odors and germs at bay. We noticed that the compression straps helped with packing puffier clothes. The front hardside laptop compartment stores your computer and other fragile items safely and securely so if you do overpack and have to gate-check your luggage, you can feel confident.

The Details: Fits laptops up to 15 inches | 23 x 15 x 10.3 inches | 8.1 pounds | Smart

Best With Removable Sleeve

July carry on pro snapsleeve.

• Capacity 4.5 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5

It comes with a detachable, padded laptop sleeve.

During our tests, it took some time to figure out how to remove the laptop sleeve.

We love the sturdy yet lightweight July Carry On Pro SnapSleeve for its fantastic maneuverability, detachable laptop sleeve, and internal pockets for chargers and other cords. While it did take a few minutes to figure out how to remove the laptop sleeve (it slides upward as opposed to snapping off), it was easy to use once we knew how it worked, and it would make accessing your laptop a breeze during security checks or in case you need to check your bag due to full overhead bins. The sleeve is well padded and protected the laptop throughout our drop tests, but the whole sleeve did slide off during one drop, so we recommend you move your laptop to your personal item before placing the suitcase in the overhead bin.

It comes with a removable power bank, which is great for charging on the go via USB-C or USB ports. Other highlights include the twin strap compression system and hidden laundry bag inside. You won’t have to struggle to wheel this bag around either; the quiet spinner wheels and multi-stop telescopic handle with comfortable grip are a real treat — it has the makings of a great international carry-on .

The Details: Fits laptops up to 16 inches | 21.5 x 15 x 8.5 inches | 8.6 pounds | Smart

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Softside

Calpak luka carry-on.

• Organization 3.5 /5
• Maneuverability 3.5 /5
• Durability 4 /5

The compartment is large enough to fit larger laptops up to 17 inches.

We found the handle to be a bit flimsy.

The Calpak Luka Carry-on gives softside luggage lovers the lightweight benefits of this style with the addition of a padded laptop sleeve for safe transport — and it's the largest laptop compartment of all the bags we tested. Multiple exterior pockets, in addition to the laptop compartment, make organizing your items a breeze, and with a 41-liter capacity, you’ll have the opportunity to fit belongings for up to a week inside (depending). Everything will stay secured thanks to the TSA-approved lock, too. After hitting the suitcase with a bat multiple times, the exterior only showed minor scuffing that was then easily buffed out. The 360-degree spinner wheels easily navigate the airport, so you don’t have to struggle as you make your way to your gate. Despite offering a spacious capacity, it’ll fit in most overhead bins, with the extra flexibility for squeezing it up there that a hardside case just can’t offer.

The Details: Fits laptops up to 17 inches | 21 x 14 x 8.5 inches | 6.6 pounds

People / Joy Kim

People / Alexander Huang

Best for Organization

Samsonite just right carry-on spinner.

Samsonite 

• Organization 5 /5

It was one of the easiest bags to maneuver throughout our tests.

This is quite a heavy carry-on.

This spacious bag packs everything you'll need for a weekend trip or long vacation alike. We love that it's expandable, so you don't necessarily have to be too strategic about your organization (especially on the return journey). The external laptop compartment is large enough to fit three devices, so you can store your laptop, tablet, and even an extra item, knowing they're well-protected. We love how easy the suitcase is to maneuver through crowds and over various surfaces. Even on just two wheels, it glides smoothly. After we tossed it over a counter and hit it with a bat numerous times, the external shell is a bit scratched up, but all of the items inside remained completely protected, making this a great carry-on option.

The Details: Fits laptops up to 15 inches | 22 x 14 x 9.3 inches | 7.9 pounds

The Travel + Leisure team tested more than 150 carry-on suitcases in our New York City lab and in real-world travel situations. We also built an airplane set featuring a real row of airplane seats and real overhead bins, performing a range of tests to evaluate capacity, maneuverability, portability, design, and functionality of each bag. First, we packed each suitcase with enough essentials for a four-day trip, including multiple outfits, two pairs of shoes, and two toiletry bags. We took care to observe storage and organizational features, including the front laptop compartment, pockets, expanders, and compression straps. Next, we zipped up each suitcase and rolled it through a variety of surfaces and an obstacle course to test how easily the wheels maneuvered. After, other tests like lifting and storing it in the overhead bin and subjecting it to potentially damaging situations (throwing it off a table and hitting it with a metal baseball bat in the lab) were performed to see how durable the case was. Using the insights and scores from these tests, the carry-on suitcases with the highest ratings were chosen for this roundup.

Tips for Buying a Carry-on With a Laptop Compartment

Be sure your laptop model will fit in the suitcase.

One of the main things to consider when shopping for a carry-on suitcase with a laptop compartment is the sizing that it will accommodate. You don’t want to end up squishing your laptop inside, potentially damaging it or not having it fit at all. It’s wise to leave some extra room; if you have a 13-inch laptop, perhaps look into suitcase models that can hold laptops up to 15 inches, just to give yourself a little wiggle room.

Consider additional organization and access needs 

Laptop compartments naturally allow us to access our computer and other items stored up front quickly and easily, though some models are designed for this better than others. A suitcase in which you can access important items quickly without having to completely open the main compartment is paramount, particularly for business travelers. Consider your need to store other small items as well, such as notebooks, pens, your passport, and charging cords, when you assess the front pocket’s organization. It never hurts to look for additional pockets, too.

Frequently Asked Questions

The first thing to do when shopping for a bag with a laptop compartment is to measure your laptop to make sure it’ll fit. You can do this quickly and easily by measuring it diagonally, from edge to edge, as well as measuring the height, width, and depth. Make sure the bag you purchase allows for a little extra room, as you don’t want a 15-inch laptop in a bag that fits only a 15-inch laptop, since it’ll be too tight a fit.

Yes, though it depends on how protected your laptop is inside the compartment. You will need to make sure to remove any spare lithium batteries, as those are not allowed in checked luggage. Although the TSA allows travelers to transport laptops in checked luggage, it’s still highly recommended to keep it with you in a carry-on bag or your personal item for protection against possible damage and theft, as well as lost luggage. Landing at your destination only to find out your suitcase has been lost or left behind when your laptop is in there is hardly ideal. Even in a hardside suitcase with a padded laptop compartment, you could end up with a cracked screen or other damage with all of the rough handling and heavy bag stacking that takes place.

If your bag has a separate, padded compartment for a laptop, then it's okay to pack it without an additional case. If you prefer to use a case as well as the dedicated laptop sleeve, it’s important to factor in the extra room that case will take up in your bag and whether it will fit in the sleeve or not. Make sure to measure well beforehand if you choose to use an additional case.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L contributor Lauren Breedlove scoured our testing insights to find the best carry-on suitcases with laptop compartments. She also tapped into her own experience with traveling regularly with a laptop in tow and working on the go. Using these factors, she curated this list of top carry-on bags with separate laptop storage.

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Travel With a Laptop: Pros and Cons and How to Pack

By: Author Zachary Friedman

Posted on Last updated: February 8, 2024

Categories Travel , Travel Gear , Travel Tips

Home » Travel » Travel With a Laptop: Pros and Cons and How to Pack

While preparing for your next big trip, one of the more difficult decisions you’ll need to make is whether or not you want to travel with a laptop. If you do decide to pack your laptop, how will you protect it from damage and theft? How will you protect your privacy and keep your data safe from online criminals?

To help you decide, this guide outlines the pros and cons of travel with a laptop. We’ll cover productivity, weight and bulk, security, privacy, entertainment, and more. I’ll also explain exactly how to pack your laptop to prevent damage and how to secure your laptop from thieves and online criminals. In addition, I’ll also share a few tips for flying with a laptop to help make your trip a bit smoother. I’ll also recommend a few of the best travel laptops. You can’t eliminate the risk of damage, theft, or cybercrime but you can reduce it by taking some simple precautions.

For some travelers, the decision to pack a laptop is easy. For example, if you run an online business, create content, freelance, or if you’re on a business trip, the decision is made for you. I always have to pack my laptop because I work while I travel. I have no other choice. If you just want to stay up to date with your favorite TV show and post to social media once in a while, the decision becomes a bit more difficult. I’ll share some laptop alternatives for those who may not need a full computer.

Table of Contents

• Pros and Cons of Traveling With a Laptop
• How to Protect Your Laptop from Damage
• How to Protect Your Laptop from Theft
• Keeping Personal Information Secure
• Packing a Laptop for Travel
• Flying or Taking a Bus or Train with a Laptop
• Tips for Traveling with your Laptop

Laptop Alternatives for Travel

• How to Choose a Laptop
• Laptop Travel Accessories
• The Best Travel Laptops

Should I Travel With a Laptop? Pros and Cons

Ideally, you want to travel as light as possible. This means leaving unnecessary items at home. Whether or not your laptop is necessary depends on a number of factors including your job, the types of tasks you need to perform, where you’re traveling, and how long you’re traveling. Sometimes a smartphone, tablet, or other portable device is a sufficient replacement.

Pros of Traveling With a Laptop

• Packing a laptop increases productivity- With a laptop, you can quickly and efficiently write emails, blog posts, journals, code, reports, or whatever else you need to type. You can type much faster on a physical laptop keyboard than you can on a phone or tablet touch screen. A laptop also allows you to perform tasks that require large amounts of computing power such as editing videos and photos. A laptop can also run all of the software that you need for your job including Microsoft office, code editing software, accounting software, video and photo editing software, and whatever else you may need. Even though mobile versions of these programs exist, the full desktop version is always more powerful. The larger screen also increases productivity by allowing you to use two applications at once. There are some tasks you just can’t do without the power and screen real estate of a laptop. In addition, you can also use your laptop to upload, sort, and store as many photos and videos as you can take. You can do all of this work in a hostel, coffee shop, or even on a bus, train, or plane.
• Laptops offer plenty of computing power- A good laptop has plenty of power for editing videos and photos, running multiple programs and browser tabs at once, and even gaming. A phone or tablet just can’t offer the same level of processing power.
• Entertainment options- With a laptop, you can comfortably keep up to date on your favorite TV shows and movies while you’re traveling. Most modern laptops feature a 13-1 inch HD screen and decent quality speakers. Watching a movie is a great way to pass the time on a flight, bus ride, or train ride. If you’re into gaming, you can pack a gaming laptop and play whenever you get a decent internet connection. If you’re traveling somewhere remote where you may not have internet access, you can download all of your favorite movies, TV shows, music, and games and store them on your hard drive.
• Your laptop gives you more storage space for travel photos and videos- Laptops generally have more storage space than a phone or camera SD card. For example, most base model laptops come with a 256GB SSD drive. Higher-end models have a terabyte or more. If you take a lot of video or photos when you travel, you may need to move them to your laptop to free up some more space on your phone or camera SD card. Of course, you could achieve the same thing with an external hard drive or multiple SD cards. You could also back your data up to the cloud. This is only an option when you get a good internet connection. After moving your photos and videos to your laptop, you can easily sort and organize them and edit them.
• Laptops offer better security and privacy options- If you don’t pack a laptop, you can visit an internet cafe if you need to use a computer during your trip. Some hostels also still have computers for guests to use. The problem is that these computers may not be secure. For example, they could contain keylogging software and steal your login information. They could be infected with various viruses that can steal or destroy your data. Identity theft is a serious concern while using a random computer. The last thing you want is for criminals to access your bank account, email, or social media accounts. When you travel with your own laptop, you can take extra steps to make sure that your connection is secure. For example, you can use a VPN (virtual private network). You can encrypt your data. You can also pick and choose where you connect to the internet. For example instead of logging into your online banking or email on a random computer, you can wait and log in on your own secure computer on a secure network at a public library or airport. This is much safer.
• Laptops offer plenty of software options- On your laptop, you can run powerful programs that are designed for productivity. Smartphones and mobile apps are great and continue to get more powerful. They still can’t compare to full desktop programs in most cases. If you need to edit photos or videos, code, or do a lot of word processing, you’ll be happy you packed your laptop.
• You can work from anywhere- With a laptop, you can get work done in a hostel, hotel, train, bus, airplane, cafe, restaurant, library, or even a city park. These days, wifi is everywhere. The only place I had trouble finding wifi was in parts of Africa. Sometimes I’d have to search for a cafe with working wifi. If you can’t get a wifi connection, you can buy a local sim card with some data and use your phone as a mobile hotspot and tether.
• More efficient- A laptop allows you to get work done on your downtime, even if you don’t have an internet connection. For example, during a long bus ride you could sort photos, draft emails, or write a blog post instead of just sitting there. Once you arrive at your destination you’ll have more free time to explore because you already got some of your work done.
• You have your own computer set up the way you like it- When you pack a laptop, you have all of your files with you. They are exactly where you want them. All of the software you need is already installed. You can run whatever operating system, editing software, or accounting software you like. You don’t have to wait for files to download or install any programs. Everything is ready to go. You can’t get this experience at an internet cafe.
• You can charge your other electronic devices with your laptop battery- You can use your laptop’s large battery to charge your phone, camera, e-reader, headlamp, smartwatch, or any other device that charges through USB. This comes in handy when you’re traveling somewhere where you don’t have access to electricity. You can treat your laptop like a big external battery.
• You don’t have to go to internet cafes- If you don’t travel with a laptop and you find yourself needing to use a computer, you may need to go an internet cafe. This has two drawbacks. First, it costs money. Over the course of a multi-month trip, you could spend a couple of hundred dollars in internet cafes if you go a couple of times per week. You also have to find one. In much of the world, they aren’t as common as they were 10 years ago. If you have your own laptop, you can almost always find free wifi.

Cons of Traveling With a Laptop

• Passing through airport security is a hassle- This is the biggest annoyance to me. At most airports, you’ll have to remove your laptop when you pass through security. During an international flight, you might pass through security 2-3 times. You have to put your laptop in a separate bin. Having to remove your laptop from its case isn’t a big deal but it is kind of annoying. When you’re going to fly, make sure your laptop is easily accessible.
• Laptops are heavy- A standard 15” laptop weighs around 5 pounds (around 2.25kg). A lightweight ultrabook style laptop with a 13” screen weighs around 2.5-3 pounds (around 1.3kg). This is a significant amount of extra weight to carry around in your backpack. Particularly while hiking, walking to hostels, and chasing down buses when you’re running late. The more weight you have to carry around, the less happy you’ll be while traveling from one city to the next. Also, if you’re trying to pack only a carry-on bag, a laptop takes up almost a quarter of your carry-on allowed weight. Most airlines allow 10 kilos or 22 pounds in a carry-on bag. If you’re carrying a laptop, you can’t really consider yourself an ultralight traveler.
• Laptops are bulky- Your laptop, case, charger, and accessories eat up a big chunk of space in your pack. It can be difficult to stay within carry-on size limits if you are the type of traveler who doesn’t like to check a bag. For example, when I travel without a laptop, I can easily fit everything in my 40-liter backpack. When I pack my laptop, I usually use a 60-liter pack. Having a bulky pack makes travel a bit more difficult. You’ll have to check your bag when you fly. You may not be able to take your bag with you on a bus. Carrying a large bag also draws more attention to you while walking around a city. It’s harder to blend in. Large backpacks are also cumbersome.
• You’ll worry about your laptop getting stolen or damaged- Because a laptop is such an expensive and fragile item, you may feel nervous about leaving it in your hotel room or hostel dorm. While taking the bus or train to your next destination, you constantly have to keep an eye on your bag out of fear that someone will rummage through it and take your laptop. In a way, your laptop holds you back and makes you a bit less spontaneous. Traveling with a laptop can also add unnecessary stress to your trip. Even if it’s locked up safely in your hotel, you’ll still worry. When you’re in transit, you’ll worry about your laptop getting bumped, dropped, or crushed under someone else’s luggage. To relieve some of this stress, consider traveling with an old, cheap, or used laptop rather than a brand new high-end Macbook.
• Privacy concerns- These days, there are a handful of countries that can require you to hand over your laptop and your passwords before they allow you to enter the country. They could search through your files, copy the contents of your hard drive, install spyware, and who knows what else. Countries that may request to search your electronic devices include the US, Canada, UK, China, Israel, and probably others. Really, any country could make this request before you enter. Of course, they will want to search your phone or tablet as well. One solution to this is to wipe your device of any sensitive data before traveling then reinstall everything before you arrive. Of course, this is a hassle. If you have sensitive documents on your laptop, you may not want to travel with it.
• Wear and tear on your laptop- While traveling, you may expose your laptop to humidity, extreme temperatures, dirt and dust, and shocks and vibrations. These conditions can cause damage to your laptop or can cause it to fail prematurely. Particularly if it has moving parts such as a disc style hard drive or fans. HDDs can fail if they’re bumped while spinning. Fans can suck contaminants into your laptop which can cause it to overheat. If you travel with your laptop regularly, you’ll probably have to replace it sooner than you would if you only used it at home. Many travelers only get a couple of years out of their laptops.
• Laptops are a target for thieves- A laptop is an expensive item that you have to worry about everywhere you go. If it’s not properly locked up in your hotel room or hostel locker, it could easily get stolen. If a thief accesses your bag in your hostel dorm, on the street, or on a bus or train, your laptop is the first thing they’ll take. I met one traveler who had his laptop stolen right out of a hostel locker. Evidently, another guest saw him using it, waited for him to leave, then broke into the locker to steal the device. There are a couple of ways to reduce the likelihood of theft. I’ll explain how to keep your laptop safe in a later section of this guide.
• You’ll spend more time online- It’s easy to sit down and burn up a whole afternoon on your computer and not really accomplish anything. We’ve all done this in the past. That time could have been spent siteseeing, meeting people, exploring, or actually traveling. You don’t want to waste your precious vacation time on social media. While traveling, I try my best to limit the amount of time I spend on my computer.
• Using a laptop while traveling can be hard on your body- It’s difficult to achieve an ergonomic position while using your laptop while traveling. You won’t have an office chair or desk most of the time. Chances are, you’ll be typing on your laptop while laying in bed. Oftentimes you’ll sit hunched over with your laptop or on your lap. This isn’t the ideal ergonomic position and can lead to issues like carpel tunnel. It can also lead to poor posture and back pain. The solution is to pack a stand, mouse, and maybe even a keyboard. Of course, this takes up more space in your pack and adds more weight. Ergonomics are really only a concern for very heavy users. If you only use your laptop for an hour per day, you don’t need to worry about it. If you’re working full 8 hour days while traveling, you need to be a bit more careful.
• Packing a laptop can be redundant- Most likely, you’re going to bring a smartphone with you whether you pack your laptop or not. These days, phones are powerful enough to do almost everything that a laptop can. You can even do basic video and photo editing on a phone. You can also pack a wireless keyboard and mouse and use your phone like a small desktop. The only drawback to using your phone as your only computer is that the screen is too small for some tasks. The lack of a physical keyboard makes typing long notes or emails kind of tedious.
• You’ll need a VPN- A VPN serves a couple of purposes. First, it helps keep your connections secure by encrypting the data that you send over the internet. It also hides your IP address by sending your data through a series of different servers. This makes your online activity much harder to track. Having a secure connection helps to keep your data safe and helps to prevent you from falling victim to crimes such identity theft. A VPN also allows you to access websites that aren’t available in the country you’re traveling in. For example, Facebook is banned in China. Many travelers get around this ban by using a VPN. The VPN essentially makes it look as if they’re in another country where Facebook isn’t blocked. VPN service costs around $20-$50 per year.

How to Travel With a Laptop

If you decide to pack your laptop, the next step is to think about how you’re going to protect it from damage and theft. A laptop is a fragile and valuable piece of gear. Laptops are easy to damage. They are also a target for thieves.

You’ll also want to take some steps to secure your data and protect your privacy so your personal information doesn’t fall into the wrong hands. Identity theft is a concern while traveling with your laptop.

In this section, I’ll detail the risks of traveling with a laptop and explain how to keep your laptop and your data safe. You can’t eliminate the risk of damage or theft but you can reduce the likelihood by taking a few simple precautions.

How to Protect Your Laptop from Damage While Traveling

Laptops are fragile. They are sensitive to moisture, contamination, and shocks and vibrations. You want to pack your laptop carefully to avoid damage, failure of components, and premature wear and tear.

Humidity can cause internal parts to corrode and fail prematurely. This is a major concern while traveling in wet regions such as the tropics. Laptops don’t last as long when they’re used in humid regions. Obviously, moisture from rain and spills can also damage your laptop. Water and electronics don’t mix. You’ll want to pack your laptop in a way that keeps it dry. Ideally, you’ll store your laptop in a water-resistant or waterproof backpack, sack, or case. You should also store your laptop in a waterproof bag or dry sack for extra protection from the elements.

Dust, dirt, lint, hair, sand, and other contaminants can also damage your laptop. These contaminants can make their way inside of your laptop and clog fans, vents, and heat sinks. This prevents your laptop from cooling properly. Eventually, your laptop can overheat. This can damage the components and cause your laptop to fail. You’ll want to pack your laptop in a way that keeps it clean and protected from contaminants. You’ll also want to avoid using your laptop in dirty environments. If you do end up using your laptop in a dirty environment, you should open it up and clean it out periodically. You can remove dust and dirt with a can of compressed air. Keep in mind that some modern laptops can’t be opened up. Some have no moving parts.

Shocks and vibrations can also damage your laptop. A hard bump could crack the screen. Obviously, dropping your laptop could break it. Excessive vibrations could damage your hard drive if your laptop comes with a spinning-style HDD. You’ll want to pack your laptop so that it has some cushioning to protect it from bumps and vibrations. While traveling, you should always carry your laptop on your person. Never put it in your checked bag. Baggage handlers could throw it around, drop it, and cause damage.

The best way to protect your laptop from moisture, contamination, and shocks is by storing it in a quality laptop backpack or case. I’ll share some suggestions in the following section.

If you’re really worried about damage, you can buy a rugged laptop. These are laptops that are designed to be used in wet and dirty conditions. They are also designed to handle shocks and drops. For most travelers, these are unnecessary but they are an option. The main drawbacks to rugged laptops are that they are expensive and bulky.

How to Protect Your Laptop from Theft While Traveling

Your laptop will be exposed to theft when you travel with it. A hotel employee could enter your room and steal your laptop while you’re out. A criminal could steal your laptop bag while you’re sleeping on a bus or train. If you leave your laptop unattended at a cafe or library, someone could walk up and take it. A fellow guest could steal your laptop out of your backpack in a hostel. A bus company employee could go through your bag while loading the bus and take your laptop. You could also get mugged while walking through a rough part of town.

Opportunities for theft are endless. Every criminal would be happy to steal a laptop. They could easily sell your new Macbook for over $1000 at any pawn shop or used computer store.

The best way to protect your laptop from thieves is to keep it close at all times while traveling. Never leave your laptop unattended. Never store it in the luggage compartment under a bus or in an overhead bin on a train or plane. Always carry your laptop on your lap or by your feet while in transit.

While sleeping on a bus or train, consider tying or wrapping one of your backpack straps around your ankle or wrist. If someone tries to take your bag or go through it, you’ll feel it and hopefully wake up.

For even more security, you can lock the backpack using luggage locks and use a cable lock to secure your laptop backpack to part of the bus or train. some backpacks have built-in locking mechanisms.

While you’re out and about, lock your laptop up. If you’re staying in a hostel or guesthouse, lock it in your locker. If you’re staying in a hotel, store it in the safe, if it will fit. When there is no locker or safe, use a laptop lock to secure your laptop to a piece of furniture.

Alternatively, use luggage locks to lock your laptop in your backpack. Lock your backpack to a piece of furniture with a cable lock.

While working on your laptop in a public space such as a coffee shop, library, or hostel common area, consider using a laptop lock like the one above to secure your laptop to the table or your chair. This will prevent someone from running off with your laptop if have to get up to order a drink or use the restroom.

It can also help to make your laptop look unappealing. Put stickers or duct tape on your laptop to make it look ugly and broken. Carry an old laptop rather than a new model. Use a Windows PC instead of a Mac. Apple products hold their value better so they are more valuable to thieves.

Probably the best way to secure your laptop is to store it in an anti-theft backpack. These offer additional built-in security features such as a slash-proof metal mesh layer. This prevents thieves from cutting through your backpack to get to your laptop. Some models also feature built-in locks. More on this in the next section.

How to Keep Your Personal Information Secure from Cyber Criminals While Traveling

Using a laptop while traveling opens you up to identity theft and fraud. If you connect to an insecure network, criminals could potentially hack into your system to steal your personal information and eventually your money. A few steps you can take to reduce the risk of cybercrime include:

• Use a VPN- This helps you maintain your privacy while you’re online. A VPN makes you anonymous so people can’t see what sites you’re visiting or what you are doing online. This is achieved by sending your data through multiple servers, making you harder to track. This makes it more difficult for a criminal to steal your personal information while you’re connected to a network that might not be secure. They can’t snoop on you and see what you’re doing as easily.
• Make sure all of your passwords are strong- If someone gets their hands on your laptop, you don’t want them to be able to log into your email, online banking, social media, etc. Use long passwords. Particularly for logging into your computer and email. If someone gets accesso to your email, they could access many of your other accounts by resetting your passwords.
• Use a password manager- Password managers remember all of your passwords for you. All you have to remember is the password to your password manager. This allows you to use longer and stronger passwords for your online accounts. You can use passwords that would be impossible for a human to predict or remember. Most password managers can generate incredibly secure passwords for you that are almost impossible to hack.
• Keep your computer clean- Delete personal information from your computer. Never save your passwords in your browser. If there is anything that is potentially illegal in the country you’re traveling to, delete it.
• Set up remote wipe- This allows you to wipe data from your laptop if it gets stolen. You can even remotely wipe the entire OS, rendering the laptop unusable. This would come in handy if your laptop was stolen and unrecoverable.
• Use a privacy screen cover- These prevent people from seeing what’s on your laptop screen. This way, a criminal or nosy person can’t see your username, bank balance, or other private information that may be displayed on your screen while you’re sitting in a cafe.
• Use 2-factor authentication for your important accounts- 2-factor authentication increases security by requiring two different types of identification before you are granted access. This usually means a password and authentication code. For extra security, use an authentication app on your phone such as Authy or Google Authenticator. Avoid using email for your second mode of authentication.
• Log out of all accounts- When you’re done checking your email, bank balance, or social media profile, log out. Make sure your password isn’t saved in the browser. This way, a criminal won’t be able to easily access your accounts if they get their hands on your laptop. It’s a hassle having to log in every time but it’s worth it for the added security.
• Pack a travel laptop- Some travelers buy a laptop specifically for travel. They keep this machine free of personal information. This way, if it’s stolen or hacked the security risk is minimal.

How to Pack Your Laptop For Travel

You need to pack your laptop carefully to protect it from damage and theft. There are two ways to go about packing your laptop for travel.

• Carry your laptop in an anti-theft laptop backpack- An anti-theft backpack offers a number of security features to protect your laptop and keep it safe. This backpack will also double as your day pack and carry-on bag on travel days. This is the most popular, simplest, and most secure option.
• Store your laptop in a case in your main backpack or suitcase – This works well if you only travel with carry on baggage. This method is a little less secure. The main benefit is that it eliminates the need to carry two separate pieces of luggage (a big backpack and a smaller backpack). This cuts weight and bulk significantly. Ultralight travelers prefer this option. If you end up having to check your main bag or store it in a luggage compartment, you’ll want to remove your laptop and take it with you to avoid damage or theft.

Personally, I like to store my laptop in my main backpack and carry a packable day pack. When I need to check my main backpack for a flight or store it under a bus, I move my laptop into my packable day pack and carry it with me. When I’m walking from a bus or train station to a hostel, I put my laptop and day pack inside of my main backpack. This way, I only have 1 backpack to carry.

I pack this way mainly because it saves weight and space. I also prefer this method for aesthetic reasons. Carrying 2 backpacks with one on the front and one on the back looks goofy. It also draws attention. I prefer to blend in a bit more.

You should always pack your laptop in your carry-on. Laptops are allowed in checked bags. The problem is that checked luggage is not treated gently. It gets tossed around, dropped, stacked, and compressed. Your laptop is more likely to get damaged if you check it. To be safe, always pack it in your carry-on.

How to Choose a Laptop Backpack for Travel

The safest way to pack a laptop for travel is to carry it in a backpack that is specifically designed for carrying a laptop. When choosing a laptop backpack, look for one that has a built-in padded sleeve. The sleeve should secure the laptop so it sits against your back while you wear the backpack. A laptop is a heavy item. You want to carry it as close to your body as possible to reduce strain on your shoulders and back.

Ideally, the sleeve should also suspend the laptop. This way, your laptop doesn’t hit the ground when you set the backpack down or if you drop the backpack. A suspended sleeve also helps to protect your laptop from moisture. If something spills inside of your backpack or if you drop your backpack in a puddle, the liquid will pool in the bottom away from your laptop. The backpack itself should also offer some water resistance to protect your laptop in case you get caught in the rain.

Your laptop backpack also needs to be comfortable to wear and easy to carry. Remember, you will be wearing this backpack while walking through airports and bus and train stations. You may wear it while sightseeing if you don’t feel comfortable leaving your laptop in your guesthouse or hostel. This backpack will also be your day pack. Look for a backpack with thick, comfortable straps. A chest or hip strap is also a nice feature. These straps can reduce the load on your shoulders. If you’re traveling to a warm region, you might look for a backpack with good airflow so your back doesn’t sweat too much.

You should also try to choose a laptop backpack that is inconspicuous. You don’t want to stick out and you don’t want people to know you’re carrying a laptop. Avoid colorful or flashy backpacks with fancy features.

Avoid messenger bags and briefcases. They aren’t comfortable or practical for carrying around all day. When carrying these bags, your arms aren’t always free. You have to use one hand to hold the bag in place. They aren’t quite as secure because everyone knows you’re carrying a laptop. If you carry a backpack, nobody knows what’s inside.

Anti Theft Laptop Backpacks for Travel

Ideally, your laptop backpack should also offer some anti-theft features. A few important anti-theft features to look for when choosing a travel backpack include:

• Locking zippers- Some laptop backpacks have built-in zipper locks. Most are designed to be compatible with luggage locks. Locking the zippers prevents thieves from opening your backpack while you’re not looking. This eliminates the risk of getting pickpocketed while traveling.
• Cut resistant fabric- This fabric contains a layer of steel mesh. The steel mesh prevents thieves from cutting through the backpack to access your laptop. A knife or scissors can’t easily cut through the steel-reinforced fabric. This reduces the risk of slash and grab theft. (This is when a thief uses a knife to cut open your backpack while you’re wearing it and steals whatever falls out.)
• Detachable shoulder strap- Some anti-theft laptops allow you to detach one shoulder strap at the bottom, wrap it around a pole or piece of furniture, then lock it back in place. This prevents thieves from grabbing your backpack and running off with it. If your backpack doesn’t have this feature, you could use a cable lock and loop it through one of the straps.
• RFID blocking- This is a special pocket for storing your credit cards and debit cards. It prevents criminals from scanning your cards through the backpack.

You’ll also want to choose a backpack that is designed for your laptop size. For example, if your laptop has a 13” screen, you want to choose a backpack that is designed to accommodate a 13” laptop.

The ideal size for your anti-theft laptop backpack depends on whether you’re going to carry a separate laptop backpack or carry your laptop in your main backpack. For laptop backpacks, I have found that 20-30 liter models are ideal. This size gives you plenty of space for storing a laptop, camera, accessories, and other valuables as well as a change of clothes and some snacks. Remember, you’ll be using this backpack as a carry-on bag and day pack. It needs to be big enough to haul at least a day’s worth of gear. If you’re only traveling for a couple of days, you may even be able to fit everything in a backpack of this size. For ultralight travelers, you may prefer a smaller anti-theft laptop backpack in the 15 liter range.

If you plan to store your laptop in your main backpack, you may want to travel with a large laptop backpack. These are available in 40-65 liter sizes. These offer the same security features as smaller bags and can accommodate all of your travel gear including your clothing.

How to Pick a Good Laptop Case for Travel

As an alternative to packing a dedicated laptop backpack, you simply put your laptop in a case and carry it in your main backpack or suitcase. Remember, this option is a bit less secure.

When selecting a case, look for one that offers shock protection as well as water and dust resistance. This way, if your backpack or suitcase gets thrown around a bit or you get caught in the rain, your laptop will be protected.

If you choose a case that isn’t waterproof, consider storing the case inside of some kind of waterproof bag. A dry sack works well for this. You could also simply store the case in a large plastic bag like a trash bag. Simply roll or twist the top closed. This provides excellent waterproofing. It’s cheap too.

If you’re going to store your laptop in a case in your main luggage, you’ll want to choose a backpack or suitcase with some security features. Ideally, you should be able to lock your backpack with luggage locks. You might also want to carry a cable lock so you can lock your backpack to solid fixtures like a piece of furniture or a pole.

When you have to check your main luggage for a flight or store it under a bus, you’ll want to take your laptop out and keep it with you to avoid theft.

Tips for Flying or Taking the Bus or Train With Your Laptop

Traveling with a laptop is completely normal these days. In fact, I would guess that the majority of travelers pack their laptop. In this section, I’ll share some tips for flying or taking the bus or train with your laptop. We’ll cover luggage allowances, how to store your laptop while in transit, keeping your laptop secure, and more.

Luggage Allowances: Packing a Laptop in a Carry-On Bag

Most airlines allow you to bring one large piece of luggage and one personal item onto the plane with you. Your large carry-on must measure 22″ x 14″ x 9″ or smaller. Your personal item must be smaller yet. Most airlines limit the weight of your carry-on bags to 15-20 lbs. Some weigh your bags and others don’t. Generally, bus and train companies have a slightly larger carry-on luggage allowance than airlines.

Your laptop backpack or case is usually considered a personal item. You can bring this in addition to a larger piece of luggage such as your main backpack or suitcase. If you want to bring more bags, you’ll end up having to pay an extra luggage fee. If your main bag is too large or heavy, you’ll have to check it.

You’ll want to check the luggage allowance before your trip. When you travel with a laptop, you can easily go over. Laptops are fairly heavy. A 15” laptop, charger, case, and a few accessories can easily weigh 4-8lbs. On some airlines, this could be half of your carry-on limit.

If you’re unsure as to whether or not your luggage is overweight, check out my guide to weighing luggage without a scale.

Keeping Your Laptop Safe While In Transit

While you’re in the airport, bus, and train station, always keep a close eye on your laptop. Theft is a risk in these places. Someone cold easily snag your laptop bag while you’re not looking, hop on a bus or train, and disappear forever. Security is also pretty lax in bus and train stations. Oftentimes seedy people hang around these places as well. Theft is much less likely in an airport but is still a risk. Never leave your luggage unattended while in transit.

When passing through airport security, you’ll have to remove your laptop from its case and place it in a bin along with your other electronics, toiletries, shoes, etc. Be sure to keep a close eye on your laptop during this time. It would be easy for a thief to snag your laptop while you’re putting your shoes back on. After passing through security, store your laptop back in your backpack or case.

Security is usually a bit more lax at bus and train stations. Some have an x-ray machine and metal detectors and others don’t. Your laptop should never leave your possession.

You will want to keep an eye on security guards and bus and train company employees. In some parts of the world, these guys aren’t the most honest. If you check your laptop bag, it could get stolen.

You should always carry your laptop onto the plane, bus, or train with you rather than checking it. If the plane is completely full and there isn’t room for your carry-on bag, take your laptop out, carry it on with you, and check your bag. Never check your laptop in your luggage on a flight or place it in the luggage storage compartment in a bus or train.

There are several reasons that you shouldn’t check your laptop. First, it’s less likely to get damaged because you will be the only one handling it. Your laptop could easily get damaged by a careless baggage handler if you carry it in your checked luggage. These guys toss and stack luggage. They don’t care. Your screen could easily get broken this way. The temperature in airplane baggage holds often falls below freezing. This could potentially cause damage to your laptop. Your laptop is also less likely to get stolen when you carry it with you because you can keep an eye on it at all times. When you carry your laptop as a carry-on, it never leaves your possession.

When you’re on the plane, you can usually store your backpack either under the seat in front of you. It’s also safe to store your laptop bag in the overhead bin if you prefer. I avoid this because there is a risk that another passenger will jam their luggage into the compartment and crush my laptop. Storing your laptop under the seat also makes it easier to access if you want to get some work done while traveling. When booking tickets, try to avoid booking a seat with a bulkhead in front of it. These seats don’t have under seat storage.

While traveling on a train or bus, you can store your laptop under the seat in front of you, between your legs, or on your lap. It’s best not to place your laptop in the overhead storage space. It’s too easy for someone to grab it and get off the bus or train while you’re not looking.

If you plan to work on your laptop during your flight, try to book a window seat. This way, you can control the shade so you don’t have to deal with glare. Fewer passengers can see your screen as well when you’re seated near the window.

Tips For Traveling With Your Laptop

The biggest risks of traveling with a laptop include theft, damage, data loss, and identity theft. In this section, I’ll outline a few additional tips to help keep you and your laptop safe.

1. Back Up All Your Data

If your laptop gets lost, stolen, or broken, you’ll lose all your data. The only way to keep this data safe is to plan ahead and make regular backups while you travel.

There are a number of ways to back up your data. The easiest option is to back everything up to the cloud. You can back up your entire computer or choose which files and folders are backed up. Every time you connect your laptop to wifi, your files automatically start uploading.

I use Google Drive to back up select files. You could also pay for a backup service such as IDrive or Backblaze.

You will need a decent and unlimited internet connection in order to make cloud backups quickly and affordably. In some parts of the world, the internet infrastructure is still poor. For example, while traveling in Africa, I only found a fast enough connection to back up my travel photos and videos once every couple of weeks. Uploading multiple gigabytes of video from a cafe in a Ugandan village can take hours.

If you’re unable to back up to the cloud, you’ll want to make local backups. Pack an external hard drive or thumb drive and back your files up once in a while. This is particularly important if you’re traveling somewhere without internet or with poor internet. If your laptop gets damaged or stolen, you still have your files.

Be sure to store your backup drive separately from your laptop. You don’t want to lose both at the same time. If you’re traveling long-term or if your backup drive fills up, you might consider shipping it home and buying a second backup hard drive. Before you leave home, you might also want to take a full backup to store somewhere safe.

Backups are extremely important while traveling. For most travelers, the data is more valuable than the laptop. Imagine losing all of your travel photos and videos because you were careless with backups. That could ruin your whole trip.

2. Don’t Travel With a Laptop if You Can’t Face Losing It

There is a very real chance that your laptop will get lost, destroyed, or stolen when you travel with it. You could leave it on a bus. You could drop it and break it. If you’re unlucky, you could get robbed while traveling . If you can’t accept this risk, you probably shouldn’t travel with a laptop.

There are a couple of alternative options for those who can’t risk losing their laptop. One popular option is to buy a second laptop for travel only. This could be an entry-level model, a used laptop, or an old laptop. If it gets broken or stolen, you won’t care as much. For example, you could buy a basic Chromebook or a decent used laptop for less than $250. Of course, this isn’t an option for those traveling long term, those who work while they travel, or those who need lots of computing power.

Another good option is to buy insurance for your laptop. This can bring you peace of mind. If your laptop gets stolen or destroyed, you can file a claim and buy a new laptop with the payout. Some travel insurance policies automatically cover your laptop. You can also buy insurance specifically for your laptop. If you buy insurance, you’ll want to be sure to keep your laptop receipt so you can prove the value of the laptop if you have to file a claim.

If your main concern is damaging your laptop, you could consider buying a ruggedized model. These feature waterproofing and shock resistance. These laptops can survive spills and drops. This extra protection comes at a cost. Ruggedized laptops are expensive, heavy, and bulky. Of course, the rugged design does nothing to protect your laptop from theft or loss.

3. Pack Your Laptop in a Quality Laptop Backpack

As outlined above, a quality laptop backpack can protect your laptop from damage and theft. Padding can protect your laptop from bumps and vibrations. Water-resistant fabric can protect your laptop from moisture. Anti-theft features such as locking zippers and slash-proof fabric can protect your laptop from pickpockets, thieves, and robbers.

Laptop backpacks are also more comfortable to wear than regular day packs. They often feature extra padding and support straps. These are necessary to support the extra weight of a heavy laptop and accessories. You’ll be happy you have these features when you’re walking a mile from the train station to your hotel with your laptop in your pack.

4. Use a Surge Protector

In many parts of the world, the electrical infrastructure is unreliable. Power surges can happen when the power flow is interrupted briefly, when there is a short in the system, or when there is a sudden increase in voltage. A power surge can fry your laptop and destroy it. This is a rare event but it can happen.

To prevent this, you’ll want to use a surge protector. This is a device that you plug between your laptop and the wall. It protects your laptop from power surges.

5. Store Your Laptop in a Waterproof Bag

Most laptop backpacks and cases are water-resistant, not waterproof. Heavy rain or a spill could easily soak through your pack or case and get your laptop wet.

To prevent water damage, be sure to store your laptop in some kind of waterproof case. This could be a simple as a plastic trash bag with the top rolled up tight. You could also store your laptop in a dry sack. You can also purchase waterproof laptop sleeves.

If you’re still unsure about whether or not you need to travel with your laptop, there are a few alternative options to consider. These are great options for those who are not working from the road. By leaving your laptop at home, you cut weight from your pack, save space, and eliminate the risk of damaging or losing your laptop.

These days, smartphones are powerful enough to do pretty much everything a laptop can. Getting work done is just a bit more time-consuming and tedious due to the smaller screen and lack of a physical keyboard.

If all you need a computer for is to use social media, send emails, watch videos, research your destinations, book hotels and flights, and keep in contact with friends and family, a smartphone is all you really need. For trips shorter than a month, I usually just bring my phone and don’t bother with a laptop.

Mobile apps are so good these days that the experience is almost better than using a laptop for performing basic tasks. All of the major travel companies including Airbnb, Kayak, Booking.com, TripAdvisor, Hostelworld, airlines, bus companies, etc. all have mobile-optimized websites and apps that work great on your phone. There is no need for a laptop to make bookings. Social media apps work better on a smartphone than they do on a laptop.

It’s also possible to increase the productivity of your phone by packing a few accessories. For example, you can pack a small Bluetooth keyboard, mouse, and phone stand and use your phone like a small desktop. I’ve written and posted many blog posts this way. It is also possible to do basic photo and video editing on a modern smartphone. There are some surprisingly powerful apps these days.

Packing a smartphone only cuts at least 3 lbs from your luggage. It saves space too. Your phone fits in your pocket. You also don’t have to worry about your laptop getting damaged or stolen.

Both iPhones and Android phones both work fine for travel. Personally, I’m an android guy. The operating system offers a bit more functionality. iOS has some limitations. Android phones are also less of a target for thieves. They’re cheaper as well. That said, most travelers seem to prefer iPhones.

If you want a bigger screen but don’t want to carry a laptop, a tablet makes for a great alternative. Functionally, a tablet works about the same as a smartphone. The operating system and apps are all the same. A tablet might allow for a bit more productivity than a phone due to the bigger screen.

The main benefit of using a tablet instead of a laptop is that tablets are significantly lighter and more compact than laptops. For example, a base model iPad weighs just over 1lb. It takes up less space than a book. Tablets are also cheaper than laptops. They are a bit less powerful. You’re not going to do any serious gaming or editing on a tablet.

Tablets are excellent for those who mostly use their device for entertainment purposes. The screen is big enough to comfortably watch your favorite movies and TV shows. Your favorite entertainment apps such as Netflix, YouTube, and Kindle all work great on tablets. Battery life is usually pretty good as well.

With the right accessories, a tablet can also be used to get some actual work done. For example, if you pair your tablet with a wireless keyboard and mouse, you can type just as well as with a laptop. The WordPress app works great for bloggers. You can also use your tablet to do basic photo and video editing.

High-end tablets such as the iPad Pro and Microsoft Surface Pro are getting to a point that they are almost laptop replacements. They can do almost everything that a laptop can. For trips shorter than 3 months, a tablet is sufficient for most travelers.

Chromebooks and Netbooks

These days, a number of companies offer 11 inch laptops. A wide range of Chromebooks are available in this small size. 11 inch Windows laptops are also available. In the past, these were called netbooks. That term has kind of fallen out of style. Small laptops are sometimes called ultraportables these days.

These small laptops are kind of a cross between a tablet and a full-sized laptop. They offer the same form factor as a laptop but take up much less space in your pack due to the smaller screen size. They also have a full-sized keyboard and built-in touchpad, just like a laptop. In addition, they offer excellent battery life.

Most small laptops these days run Chrome OS. This is a lightweight, fast, and simple operating system developed by Google. It works great for those who do most of their work in the browser. Small Windows laptops are also available. These are ideal for those who need a full operating system.

Prices for these small laptops start at around $200. These offer a great alternative to a full-sized laptop for someone who doesn’t need a lot of computing power. They are also cheap enough that it doesn’t hurt so bad if they get stolen or broken. They are also pretty good for productivity. These days, you can accomplish a lot with just a web browser and some basic apps.

The drawback to Chromebooks and small Windows laptops is that they are generally not very powerful. They come with slow processors and insufficient RAM. They also lack storage space. Higher-end options are available but you’d probably be better off with a full-sized laptop at that price point.

How to Chose a Laptop for Travel

The ideal travel laptop depends on what you use your laptop for, how much computing power you need, your budget, and your personal preference. In this section, I’ll outline a few important considerations when choosing a laptop to travel with including screen size, operating system, repairability, durability, cost, size and weight, software options, and more.

• Screen Size- For most travelers, a 13” screen is ideal. If you need to do extensive photo or video editing or programming, you might be better off with a 15” laptop. If you just use your computer for social media and web browsing, you could get away with an 11” laptop or tablet and keyboard. 17” laptops are too bulky and heavy for travel. They won’t fit in most backpacks.
• Laptop size and weight- For travel, you want to choose the smallest and lightest laptop you can get away with. Remember, you’re going to be carrying it around with you much of the time. Ideally, it should weigh less than 3 lbs. It should also have a narrow profile so it doesn’t take up too much space in your pack. You don’t want to walk around with a 7 pound brick of a laptop strapped to your back.
• Screen resolution- For most travelers, a 1080p screen is fine. If you do lots of visual work such as photo or video editing or gaming, you may prefer a 2k or 4k screen.
• Specs (processor, RAM, storage space, graphics)- At a minimum, your laptop should have 8GB of RAM, 256GB SSD drive, and a mid-range processor such as an Intel i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 series. If you plan to game or edit photos and videos on your laptop, you might want to choose a laptop with a dedicated graphics card. If you only need your laptop for word processing, web browsing, and social media, you could get away with less power.
• Operating system- The best operating system depends on what you need to do with your laptop and what software you need to run. You can choose from Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, and Linux. For most travelers, Windows or macOS will be best. Both are pretty much equivalent these days. Which one you choose depends on personal preference. There are some programs that can run on one but not the other. If you only need to use your computer for social media and entertainment, you might consider ChromeOS. If you’re technically advanced, you might prefer Linux.
• Repairability- Travel is hard on laptops. You could drop your pack and break your screen. A component could overheat and fail. Your battery could die. Ideally, you want to pack a laptop with standard-sized parts that can be easily replaced. In general, Windows laptops are more repairable than Macbooks because they are more modular use more standard-sized parts. If you need a new hard drive, RAM, SSD, screen, fan, battery, etc. you can usually find one. Almost every city has a computer repair shop that can work on Windows laptops. Macbooks are a bit less repairable. The RAM and SSD are often soldered in place and the battery is often glued in. There are more proprietary parts as well. For most repairs, you’ll have to go to an Apple store. Many countries don’t have an Apple store so you’ll have to wait until you get home to repair your computer.
• Durability and longevity- Your travel laptop is going to take a beating. It will get tossed around. It will be exposed to humidity and heat. You want to choose a laptop that can handle the abuse. Look for a laptop with as few of moving parts as possible. Choose a model with a solid-state drive instead of a spinning hard drive. Consider choosing a fanless laptop. These are less likely to suck in dirt and overheat. Also, consider choosing a laptop that is upgradeable. After a few years, you might find that you need more RAM or hard drive space. It’s nice to be able to upgrade.
• Battery life- While traveling, you won’t always have an outlet nearby. Particularly while you’re on a bus, train, or plane. For travel, try to choose a laptop with at least 8 hours of battery life. Generally, Apple laptops offer more battery life than Windows PCs because they run a bit more efficiently.
• Cost- Because there is a chance that your laptop will get stolen or destroyed while you’re traveling, you’ll want to spend as little as possible on it. For basic web browsing, entertainment, and social media, you can get away with a $250-$500 computer. You can save money by buying a low-end or used model. Chromebooks start at around $250. You can buy nice used business laptops on eBay for less than $500. Personally, I wouldn’t want to travel with a laptop that’s worth more than around $1000. I certainly wouldn’t feel safe walking around with a $3000 maxed-out Macbook Pro. Of course, if you need a high-end laptop for work, the cost doesn’t matter as much. The laptop is a necessary business expense.
• Compatibility- Some software and accessories aren’t cross-compatible between Windows laptops, Macbooks, Chromebooks, and Linux laptops. While traveling, you’re more likely to find Windows laptop parts and accessories. There are also more software options for Windows computers. These days, compatibility problems are less common. You could run into issues if you’re using older hardware.
• Mac Vs Windows PC for travel- This choice comes down to personal preference. Macbooks make excellent travel laptops due to the long battery life, compact size, excellent keyboard, beautiful display, and premium build quality. macOS is a stable, reliable, and user-friendly operating system. Personally, I think Windows PCs make better travel laptops because they are cheaper, easier to repair, upgradeable, and offer better compatibility with software and accessories.

Accessories to Improve Productivity When Traveling With a Laptop

If you decide to travel with a laptop, you may also want to pack a few small accessories to make life a bit easier. Accessories you might want to pack include:

• Outlet adapters- Different regions use different types of outlets. Make sure you have the appropriate adapter for the region you plan to visit. For example, if you’re traveling to Europe from North America, You’ll need to pack a European-style outlet adapter. For world travel, a universal adapter is a good choice.
• Wireless mouse- Using a mouse is more ergonomic than using a touchpad. It reduces the risk of developing carpal tunnel. It can also make you more productive.
• Wireless keyboard- If your laptop has a poorly designed keyboard, you may find it more comfortable to type on a wireless keyboard. You can improve ergonomics by typing on a wireless keyboard as well.
• Laptop lock- These can lock your laptop to a piece of furniture or another solid object so a criminal can’t easily pick up your laptop and run away with it. Most laptops have a built-in Kensington security slot.
• Headphones- Don’t be that annoying guy that plays music on the bus, train, or in the hostel dorm room. Use headphones instead. Headphones can also come in handy when you’re trying to work in a noisy environment. You can play some white noise to drown out the sound so you can concentrate.
• Privacy screen or privacy filter- This is a thin piece of plastic that you place over your laptop screen. It prevents people from looking at your screen from the side while you’re working. You must view the screen head on to see what’s displayed. This helps to protect your private information.
• External hard drive or thumb drive- You need to be able to back up your documents, photos, and videos, even when you don’t have internet access to upload them to the cloud. This is particularly important if you shoot travel videos because video takes up so much space. Store your hard drive and thumb drive separately from your laptop. That way, if your laptop gets stolen or destroyed you still have a backup.
• Stylus- This is nice to have if your device has a touch screen. Styluses are great for those who work in graphic design. They allow you to touch your device’s screen much more accurately than you can with your finger. Some people just prefer using a stylus.
• Laptop stand- This can help you achieve a more ergonomic position so you’re not bending your neck and back in an uncomfortable and unnatural position. A stand adds weight and bulk but is worth it for those who need to work long hours while traveling.
• Cloud storage- This is really a must if you plan to take photos and videos while traveling. Even if you back everything up to multiple devices, there is still a chance that everything gets lost, stolen, or destroyed while you’re traveling. The only solution is to periodically back everything up to the cloud. I like Google Drive.
• Laptop case or backpack- As outlined above, you need a quality case or backpack to protect your laptop from moisture, dirt, shocks, and theft.
• Surge protector- This prevents your laptop from getting fried in the event of a power surge. This is particularly important if you’re traveling somewhere with frequent power outages.
• Spare batteries- Some laptops have swappable batteries. This allows you to work longer when you don’t have access to an electrical outlet. You may also need spare batteries for your wireless mouse and keyboard if you use them.
• Extension cord- Most laptops come with a 2 meter cord. Sometimes this isn’t long enough. An extension cord allows you to plug your laptop in when the outlet is on the other side of the room.

Travel Insurance

When traveling with a laptop, you’ll want to insure it. After all, it’s probably the most expensive individual piece of gear that you’re carrying. Having insurance gives you peace of mind. If your laptop gets stolen or broken, you can recover from the loss more easily if you were insured.

Before buying travel insurance, make sure the policy you’re buying covers your laptop in the event of theft or damage. Some travel insurance companies are better than others.

Before leaving for your trip, scan your laptop’s receipt and save it on your phone, to the cloud, and email it to yourself. You should also take a photo of your laptop and save it online. This way, you have proof to send to the insurance company if you need to use your travel insurance.

If you don’t want to buy travel insurance or you already have a policy that doesn’t cover your laptop, you can buy an insurance policy specifically for your laptop or other electronic device.

One thing to remember is that having travel insurance doesn’t automatically mean your laptop will be replaced if it gets lost or stolen. There is a very real chance that the insurance company will deny your claim. Particularly if you were traveling with a very high-end computer. After all, they are a business and will try to get out of paying for whatever they can. You’ll have a hard time getting $2500 out of an insurance company for a stolen laptop. Collecting insurance money on a $400 laptop may be easier.

My Experience

Before starting this blog, I never carried a laptop while traveling. My phone was good enough for all of my internet needs. When I needed to use a computer, I would go to an internet cafe. Back when hostels offered common computers, I just used those.

I traveled for multiple months at a time and never really missed my laptop. It was kind of freeing not having to worry about having such an expensive and fragile electronic device in my bag. Not having to carry around the extra weight was nice as well. Without a laptop, I could usually pack a carry-on bag only.

These days, I pretty much need to carry a laptop to keep this blog going. I type thousands of words per day and edit photos and videos frequently. I need a decent keyboard and a relatively powerful computer to achieve that. For these reasons, I always travel with a laptop.

My biggest complaint when it comes to traveling with a laptop is the extra weight and bulk that I have to carry around all the time. I like packing light and can’t really do that with 5 pounds worth of laptop and accessories in my pack. I also worry about my laptop getting stolen, even though I take as many precautions as possible to keep it secure. There is no way to eliminate the risk of getting robbed.

My current laptop is too heavy for travel. I carry an 8 year old 15″ Asus laptop that weighs over 4 lbs. When the time comes to upgrade, I will look for a lighter laptop. Hopefully something less than 3 lbs.

Final Thoughts

When I first started traveling, nobody carried a laptop or even a smartphone. Every hostel had several computers that you could use for free. Internet cafes were common. These days, pretty much every traveler carries a phone and laptop. Times change.

If you don’t absolutely need your laptop to work during your trip, you should probably leave it at home. If you’re traveling for less than about 1 month, consider just using your phone. For those traveling for 1-3 months, consider a tablet or Chromebook instead of a full-sized laptop.

For long-term travel, you’ll probably want to pack your laptop, even if you don’t need it for work. Over the months, you’ll get a lot of use out of it for entertainment purposes and for researching your next destination. Of course, if you’re on a business trip or if you work while you travel, you need a laptop.

Whether or not you need a laptop also depends on what kind of internet user you are. These days, some people use mobile internet only. They don’t own or use a desktop or laptop at all. If that’s the case, you’ll get by just fine without packing a laptop. A tablet or phone will do.

Do you travel with a laptop? Share your experience in the comments below!

More from Where the Road Forks

• 25 Common Travel Scams and How to Avoid Them
• The Pros and Cons of Living Abroad
• 35 Types of Tourism
• My First Solo Trip Review: Backpacking Europe
• How to Plan a Trip Around the World
• 30 Free Things to do While Traveling
• Are Packing Cubes Worth It? Pros and Cons

Zachary Friedman is an accomplished travel writer and professional blogger. Since 2011, he has traveled to 66 countries and 6 continents. He founded ‘Where The Road Forks’ in 2017 to provide readers with information and insights based on his travel and outdoor recreation experience and expertise. Zachary is also an avid cyclist and hiker. Living as a digital nomad, Zachary balances his professional life with his passions for hiking, camping, cycling, and worldwide exploration. For a deeper dive into his journey and background, visit the About page. For inquiries and collaborations, please reach out through the Contact page. You can also follow him on Facebook.

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7 Best Travel Cases for Cameras, Tested by Experts

We asked travel enthusiasts and professional photographers to share the best bags to keep your camera safe and easily accessible on all your adventures.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Best Overall

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

TARION Camera Backpack

Best Backpack

Brevite the jumper.

Most Stylish

Lo & sons claremont.

Best Waterproof

More than a backpack waterproof outdoor photography backpack.

Best Carry-On

Tenba roadie roller 18.

Best Shoulder Bag

Lowepro nova 200 aw ii.

To help you find the best travel cases for cameras to protect your gear, we turned to professional photographers, videographers and content creators for their go-to picks when taking their equipment on the road (or through busy airports). The picks below include travel backpacks with padding and dividers made to secure your camera despite bumpy roads and turbulence, as well as carry-on camera cases, purses and bags.

At the Good Housekeeping Institute , our team of experts has been testing travel and tech essentials for decades, from must-have travel gear to travel backpacks , portable tablets , smartphones and more. When selecting the best travel cases for cameras, we reviewed each pick for factors like design, materials, weight and extra features like easy access points and extra pockets.

Designed for trips four days or longer, this carry-on size 45-liter backpack is all you need on your next adventure. Not only is it roomy enough to store your camera equipment, but it has enough space for other essentials like clothing, tablets and much more thanks to tons of access points, pockets and straps.

"I carry a lot of differently sized cameras and films on any given trip,” said one photographer. “The inserts they sell for it are great for moving a variety of cameras while keeping them safe and it’s quick to open once you get to a location and start shooting .” Just keep in mind that accessories like the camera packing cube are sold separately, making it a bit of a splurge.

Our pros love that the backpack comes with a luggage pass-through so you can stack it on a carry-on suitcase, or you can store the padded shoulder and waist straps away if you plan on checking. For heavier loads, it even features an expansion zip so you can squeeze a bit more into your bag (45-liter capacity) or you can compress it down to 30 liters when needed.

But what we really love most is that the backpack's nylon material is weatherproof, according to the brand, and the bottom of the bag contains a waterproof liner so you don't have to fret too much about where you set it down or what weather comes your way.

Need something to store your new camera and need it quickly? Our pros like this super affordable backpack that you can get on Amazon for under $50 . It features nearly 2,000 five-star reviews, but what makes it so great are its six removable dividers, a tripod strap (if needed) and a 13-inch laptop sleeve so you can carry everything in one spot. Plus, there are mesh pockets on the sides for quick access to umbrellas or water bottles, as well as zippered pockets for accessories.

A waterproof rain cover also comes included should you get stuck in a downpour. "It's large enough for a camera body and several lenses and other stuff!" said one online reviewer. "The sturdy sides make it a good choice to protect my equipment."

You’d never guess that this inconspicuous backpack is actually a travel case for cameras. Compact, lightweight and available in a variety of colors, our pros love that it comes with five dividers so you can configure it to your camera equipment. In addition to the zip-top closure, we also appreciate that a laptop pocket is included along with a quick access pocket so you can quickly snap a shot when needed — and that’s not to mention the passport pocket and hidden pocket.

For those who plan on traveling extensively with it, rest assured that it’s machine washable and even comes with a lifetime warranty. “I like that it has padded compartments that I can customize for my camera stuff but also looks like a normal backpack,” said one photographer. “It just looks good. It’s great when traveling internationally so I don’t draw attention to myself by looking like I have camera gear on me .” For those who need a bit more space, consider sizing up and option for the large model that’s 22 liters.

Lo & Sons Claremont

Travel cases for cameras don’t have to be bulky, unattractive or blatantly obvious. Our experts absolutely love this stylish camera purse made from full grain leather that’s available in four shades. It’s designed to protect a DSLR camera as well as a small extra lens among other essentials like your wallet. (For more compatibility information, you can refer to the brand’s size and fit guide via the product page .)

While we haven’t yet tested this exact model, our fiber scientists like the brand’s oversized weekender bag and expect no less from this pick. We especially love that it’s built with two little pockets for SD cards and a handy zippered pocket to squeeze in a passport. Plus, the straps are adjustable so you can find the best length for your height.

Bring this rugged backpack with you on all your outdoor adventures. Not only do our travel experts love its attractive design that comes in three shades, but we appreciate that it’s made from a water-resistant canvas material and features padding and insulation to keep your gear safe . You can store other essentials like wallets, cash and a phone in its many pockets, as well as a 15-inch laptop. We especially love the side pocket that opens up so you can quickly access your camera without having to take the entire backpack off.

One of our photographers, Philip Friedman , uses this carry-on camera bag for whenever he needs to travel with a lot of camera equipment. Unlike other backpacks or bags featured on this list, the Roadie Roller can fit two mirrorless or DSLR cameras and up to five to six lenses as well as a laptop . For those who need more space, you can also opt for the Roller 21, 24 or other sizes.

According to the brand, this camera case complies with most international and U.S. domestic carry-on regulations, meaning that you should be able to bring it onboard with you but always consult with your airline first. GH luggage experts appreciate the bag’s sleek look and like that a removable camera module is included so you can feel good about packing up your gear, though the bag itself is on the heavier side.

Another Hearst staff favorite, we love this shoulder bag for those who don't like wearing backpacks or may already have one. Because of its design, it should be super easy to access your camera as well as any extra lenses (according to the brand, the bag can fit from three to five extra lenses and up to two DSLR cameras). Though it’s not made for storing many other bulky travel essentials like a laptop, we appreciate that the bag features several pockets, storage compartments and a weather cover plus padding to protect from the elements.

Also notable is that interior dividers are customizable so you can organize your gear however suits you best. "As everyone knows, inevitably the amount of gear we carry expands to immediately fill all available space," one online reviewer shares. "This bag met my goals nicely and it is a very nicely made bag. I love the rain cover feature and have already put it to work when we got caught out in a heavy downpour."

How we chose the best travel cases for cameras

When narrowing down the best travel cases for cameras, the GH Institute product analysts and experts extensively research the most popular picks on the market. We then reached out to photographers, videographers and content creators to learn more about the travel camera cases they use and love and reviewed specs for at least 10 models. To make our final selections, we assessed each pick for factors such as design, materials, weight and extra features like easy access points, extra pockets and more.

What to look for when shopping for a travel case for cameras

Below you'll find tips from real photographers on what to look for when shopping for a travel camera case:

✔️ Material: As you shop for a camera case, make sure that you choose one made from sturdy, durable materials that will protect your equipment. If possible, our pros suggest opting for a water-resistant or waterproof case. "I like something waterproof or water-resistant because you never know what scenario you will be waking into while traveling," says Good Housekeeping 's lead photographer, Mike Garten . "No one wanted expensive camera gear to become saturated with rain or spray from a pretty waterfall."

✔️ Type: You'll want to decide whether you prefer a backpack, shoulder bag or a rolling carry-on as your travel camera case. While backpacks tend to be more comfortable, a shoulder bag is a bit easier to access. Carry-ons are a great choice for anyone who needs to transport a lot of equipment at once. ✔️ Design: Pay careful attention to your camera case's design both inside and out. Not only do you want to be satisfied with how it looks on the outside, but the interior organizational features should be customizable and compatible with the gear you'll carry. Look for removable dividers so you can shift things around as necessary. ✔️Access points: Look for several access points if you want to be able to access your camera quickly. "A side access portal or panel is crucial so that you can swing the bag off one shoulder and access the camera quickly to get the shot," says Garten. ✔️ Extra features: Look for extra features that come with your camera case, like zippered or mesh pockets so you can squeeze other essentials in your bag like a water bottle or wallet. Tripod straps are handy as well if you plan on bringing one, and a rain cover can save the day should you get caught in bad weather. "A laptop pocket is great so that you have everything in one," suggests Garten. "If you’re out taking lots of pictures you will likely need to download images onto a computer to make space for more!"

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

GH Institute Writer and Product Analyst Olivia Lipski covers everything from tech to travel, fitness, outdoor, home and more. Not only does she have years of product review experience under her belt, but she’s also a travel enthusiast who evaluates must-have travel gear on all her adventures, including travel shoes , travel electronics and more.

Olivia (she/her) is a media and tech product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute , covering tech, home, auto, health and more. She has more than five years of experience writing about tech trends and innovation and, prior to joining GH in 2021, was a writer for Android Central, Lifewire and other media outlets. Olivia is a graduate of George Washington University, with a bachelor's degree in journalism, political science and French, and she holds a master’s degree in communications from Sciences Po Paris.

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American Airlines: Attempt to blame 9-year-old for being recorded in lavatory is 'an error'

American Airlines is changing direction after saying that a young girl was negligent after being recorded by a flight attendant in the lavatory.

In the filing on May 21 the airline claimed that one of the plaintiffs, a 9-year-old girl, was recorded in the bathroom through her “own fault and negligence.”

“[The] Plaintiff’s use of the compromised lavatory, which she knew or should have known contained a visible and illuminated recording device,” American Airlines response to the petition said.

American Airlines flight attendant: Accused of filming girls in plane bathroom arrested

Attorney Paul Llewellyn is representing two young girls who were recorded on separate flights, including the 9-year-old.

“I was both shocked and outraged,” Llewellyn told USA TODAY. “As a lawyer I understand that you have to assert possible defenses, but I cannot even imagine a world where it would ever be appropriate to blame a 9-year-old for being filmed in an airplane bathroom.”

In a statement to USA TODAY, American Airlines said that there was an error in the filing.

“Our outside legal counsel retained with our insurance company made an error in this filing. The included defense is not representative of our airline and we have directed it be amended this morning," an American Airlines spokesperson said in a statement. “We do not believe this child is at fault and we take the allegations involving a former team member very seriously. Our core mission is to care for people — and the foundation of that is the safety and security of our customers and team.”

Llewellyn said that this situation has greatly impacted the victims, especially since the images were not ever located.

“As a result of this has had a significant impact on them,” he said, “These images they could be on the dark web forever. These poor young girls for the rest of their lives will have this hanging over their heads and these intimate images of them exist out there and we don't know who has possession of them.”

Former American Airlines flight attendant was charged for allegedly recording minors on board several flights

On April 26, former American Airlines flight attendant Estes Thompson, 36, a Charlotte, North Carolina resident, was charged after prosecutors said he secretly recorded minors while they used the plane's lavatory.

Thompson allegedly has the recordings of four minors, ages 7, 9, 11 and 14 years old, that had been using the bathroom while he worked on the aircraft, a press release from the Department of Justice said.

Over 50 images of the 9-year-old victim were found in Thompson’s iCloud. In addition, the photos of the victim included images of her seated pre-flight and close-ups of her face while she slept on board, the press release said.

Flight attendant: Caught for allegedly filming a girl in the plane bathroom

14-year-old girl provided evidence of the encounter

According to a criminal complainant filed on Dec. 1, 2023, the family of a 14-year-old girl filed a lawsuit alleging that Thompson secretly recorded her while she utilized the lavatory.

On a flight from North Carolina to Boston on Sept. 2, 2023, the young girl needed to go the bathroom and Thompson told her to use the first-class facility. Thompson said he needed to wash his hands before the girl used the facility, the complaint said.

After using the bathroom, the girl noticed that a phone was hidden beneath the seat's broken sign. The victim then pulled out her phone to take a picture of what she saw to show to her parents, the complaint said.

When she unlocked the lavatory door, Thompson was standing there and entered the bathroom again. The victim’s father then confronted Thompson about the photo. After taking a while to show his phone to the father, no intimate photos of the girl were visible, the complaint said.

Thompson’s charges

Following the incident with the 14-year-old girl, Thompson was arrested on Jan. 9 and charged with:

• one count of attempted sexual exploitation of children
• one count of possession of images of child sexual abuse depicting a prepubescent minor

"I think it is time for American Airlines to finally stand up and take responsibility for what happened instead of pursuing these frivolous legal defenses," Llewellyn said. "Why don't they take responsibility they claim to care about passengers they claim to take this case very seriously well actions speak louder than words."

Ahjané Forbes is a reporter on the National Trending Team at USA TODAY. Ahjané covers breaking news, car recalls, crime, health, lottery and public policy stories. Email her at  [email protected] . Follow her on  Instagram ,  Threads  and  X (Twitter) .

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Geographic coordinates of Elektrostal, Moscow Oblast, Russia

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Coordinates of Elektrostal in decimal degrees

Coordinates of elektrostal in degrees and decimal minutes, utm coordinates of elektrostal, geographic coordinate systems.

WGS 84 coordinate reference system is the latest revision of the World Geodetic System, which is used in mapping and navigation, including GPS satellite navigation system (the Global Positioning System).

Geographic coordinates (latitude and longitude) define a position on the Earth’s surface. Coordinates are angular units. The canonical form of latitude and longitude representation uses degrees (°), minutes (′), and seconds (″). GPS systems widely use coordinates in degrees and decimal minutes, or in decimal degrees.

Latitude varies from −90° to 90°. The latitude of the Equator is 0°; the latitude of the South Pole is −90°; the latitude of the North Pole is 90°. Positive latitude values correspond to the geographic locations north of the Equator (abbrev. N). Negative latitude values correspond to the geographic locations south of the Equator (abbrev. S).

Longitude is counted from the prime meridian ( IERS Reference Meridian for WGS 84) and varies from −180° to 180°. Positive longitude values correspond to the geographic locations east of the prime meridian (abbrev. E). Negative longitude values correspond to the geographic locations west of the prime meridian (abbrev. W).

UTM or Universal Transverse Mercator coordinate system divides the Earth’s surface into 60 longitudinal zones. The coordinates of a location within each zone are defined as a planar coordinate pair related to the intersection of the equator and the zone’s central meridian, and measured in meters.

Elevation above sea level is a measure of a geographic location’s height. We are using the global digital elevation model GTOPO30 .

Elektrostal , Moscow Oblast, Russia