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The 12 Best Laptop Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Whether you're a business traveler or a student, these backpacks, duffel bags, and carry-ons will protect your laptop while on the go.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

A laptop is often the priciest tech investment travelers will pack for their journeys. And, with the rise of digital nomadism and working vacations, more and more travelers face the same dilemma: how to protect their laptops while on the road. This is where a durable, padded laptop bag comes in handy.

Traveling with a laptop requires a well-made, durable, and padded bag to keep it safe and secure. After testing hundreds of messenger bags , weekenders , backpacks , duffel bags , and carry-ons , we selected the best laptop bags for commuting and traveling. But we didn't stop there. After our initial tests, we continued to use the bags for at least six months to ensure durability and consistently high performance under different circumstances and settings.

Our list features laptop bags for every type of traveler and trip — from your daily commute to the office or school to overnight business trips or long-haul flights.

Best Overall

Solo re:define backpack.

It has a lot of storage space.

It only comes in black and gray.

This may look like a small backpack, but we actually found it to be more like Mary Poppins' magic bag as the capacity just keeps on going when we put it to the test. The padded tech sleeve can fit a 15.6-inch laptop and a tablet (there are two separate slots), while the main compartment has plenty of room for shoes, toiletries, and a change of clothes (which also makes this a great carry-on or overnight bag option). Another feature we love is the excellent organization: there are two water bottle pockets, a battery slot that enables you to charge your devices on the go, a key leash, and plenty more small pockets for all the essentials. 

This backpack also aced our durability tests. It’s made from recycled plastic bottles, and the exterior is treated with an anti-microbial coating that’s easy to clean with wipes to keep it looking new. Business and leisure travelers will get plenty of mileage out of this sleek, sturdy Solo backpack. It's also a must-have that can make working anywhere a breeze.

The Details: 18 x 13 x 7 inches | 1.43 pounds | Recycled PET Polyester | Fits 15.6 inch laptop

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Weekender

Away everywhere bag.

This weekender bag is extra spacious thanks to its clamshell-style opening.

The shoulder straps are not padded and may dig into your shoulder if the bag is packed full.

This may be a weekender, but we found it was able to fit more than just a couple days worth of clothing and accessories during our tests. It’s also designed like a suitcase with a clamshell-style opening, so packing and accessing your belongings is super convenient. Keep your laptop and an additional tech device in the padded pocket with a magnetic opening, and stow your phone wallet or passport holder in the small outer pocket secured with a strap. There are also plenty more pockets and compartments inside, so your belongings will not end up in a messy pile. While this Away weekender does come with a shoulder strap, it’s not padded, and carrying the bag by the handles can get a little uncomfortable after a while. But this is why the trolley strap is handy — just slip the backpack right over your carry-on’s telescoping handle instead.

The Details: 20.9 x 11.8 x 9.4 inches | 3.8 pounds | Nylon, leather | Fits up to 15-inch laptop

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Carry-on

July carry on pro snapsleeve.

You can detach the laptop sleeve from the suitcase if you want to store the larger bag in an overhead bin (or if you are forced to check it at the gate).

This carry-on is larger than other options on this list.

Most carry-on suitcases do not have a dedicated laptop sleeve, and we love that this one has a removable one that directly attaches to the suitcase via magnets and clips. Once you do a couple of practice runs on how to correctly do that (there is an audible click when it's in place), it's smooth sailing from then on. The mechanism seemed to work really well in holding the sleeve in place. We only saw it fly off the shell after we threw the carry-on several times off a counter in our testing lab.

We were impressed with the suitcase’s internal compression panels because the carry-on itself is pretty sleek and compact (it would easily fit in the overhead bin), but that didn't result in any less storage space. Since the laptop sleeve is located on the front of the bag, it doesn’t intervene with any of your interior packing space. It also features a sleeve within the laptop case, so you are left with extra space for other items like magazines or documents.

The Details: 21.5 x 15 x 8.5 inches | 9.5 pounds | Polycarbonate | Fits up to 16-inch laptop

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Compact Carry-on

Tumi oxford compact carry-on.

It is an excellent under-the-seat option if you're looking for a smaller wheeled carry-on.

The media pockets may be difficult to zip if the bag is too full.

Tumi's mini carry-on is a good choice for travelers heading for a quick business trip who want to travel light and upgrade to a premium option. The bag is designed to fit under the seat in front of you and can fit a couple of days’ worth of clothing, including a laptop and a travel tablet. The designated media pocket is at the front of the bag, making it very convenient to access. We did find the laptop sleeve was difficult to zip when the bag was packed with a heavier jacket (and the case needed to be squished under the seat), but if you don't overpack it, it works without a glitch. In terms of construction and maneuverability, this Tumi carry-on moved flawlessly on both four and two wheels with little-to-no resistance. 

The Details: 16 x 14 x 8 inches | 6.6 pounds | Nylon

Best Personal Item

Mz wallace nik.

The organizational features and multiple storage compartments are a highlight so you can make the most out of this personal item.

The shoulder strap has no padding.

This stylish bag's storage system blew us away: from the laptop pocket with a snap closure to the many smaller compartments and pockets, this bag really helps you stay organized while maximizing the available packing space. You can easily fit a two- or four-day worth of essentials in it and still be able to carry it around with ease. The reason? The quilted material is lightweight and provides cushioning for the items inside, ensuring their protection and your comfort on the go. You can also fit it underneath an airplane set, making this your personal item bag to supplement a carry-on or checked suitcase.

The extra long handles allow you to carry it on your shoulder, but there's also a removable shoulder strap and a back strap that helps you attach it to a suitcase. This bag is a multitasker that deserves a spot in your luggage collection, but most importantly, it is so well-made and durable that it's definitely worth the investment. 

The Details: 17 x 7 x 12 inches | 2.1 pounds | REC Oxford | Fits up to 16-inch laptop

Best Backpack

Troubadour orbis 1-pocket backpack.

This backpack allows you to go hands-free, with many pockets and slots for quick-access to your belongings.

The material is not very breathable and may feel hot on your back. 

When it comes to padding, this backpack is in a league of its own. We found the cushioned straps and back panel made it the most comfortable backpack we have ever carried. Additionally, the padding provides extra protection for your laptop or tablet. This bag has a tapered design on top, which some may find challenging to pack, but the sides have fabric expanders to help with that. 

The exterior is sleek and minimalist, with leather accents that elevate its look. Inside, there are plenty of pockets to keep travelers organized, including a designated media pocket that can easily fit a 17-inch laptop. But we’re perhaps most impressed with the bag’s sustainability: it’s made from recycled polyester, including the lining.

The Details: 11.8 x 16.5 x 5.5 inches | 3.3 pounds | Recycled polyester | Fits up to 17-inch laptop

Best Waterproof

Rains texel tech bag.

It's exceptionally lightweight and waterproof, which makes it the perfect commute bag.

The straps don't have padding, and the zippers don't always run smoothly.

If you're looking for a sturdy commute bag to go to work or school, this one will not disappoint. Though the waterproof zippers were a bit bulky and needed a tug from time to time to run smoothly, that’s a small price to pay to ensure that all of your belongings stay dry if you get caught in the rain. And, trust us, they will. During our long-term testing period, one of our team members brought this bag on multiple commutes through New York City in the rain, and it kept her laptop perfectly dry. The water just beads right off without soaking the fabric at all.

This bag was clearly designed to help travelers stay organized. Its outer pockets and compartments have waterproof zippers for protection and ease of use, in addition to multiple interior pockets and a spacious capacity. There isn't any padding on the adjustable shoulder strap, so it does get a little uncomfortable if you’re carrying a full bag long distances, but the strap is adjustable, and there are shorter carrying handles with a wrap if you choose to carry it by hand.

The Details: 11.8 x 15 x 3.5 inches | 2.09 pounds | Polyester with polyurethane coating | Fits up to 15-inch laptop | Waterproof

Travel + Leisure / Leticia Almeida

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Duffel

Dagne dover landon carryall bag.

The duffel bag has several accessories that help organize your belongings.

The fabric may show stains and spills easily.

We found this to be the ultimate travel duffel that also happens to be the perfect bag to store your laptop as it has a roomy media compartment that closes with a Velcro strap so it stays flat when not in use. This style comes in five sizes, but only the medium, large, and extra large can fit a laptop. The top zipper opens wide so packing is a breeze, and inside are multiple pockets for smaller items. The great thing about this duffel is it has an additional shoe zip bag, a mesh pouch for cables and earbuds, and a detachable key leash to help you stay organized.

You can also attach the duffel to wheeled luggage thanks to a trolley sleeve on its backside. The neoprene material is durable and held up very well during our wear and tear tests. However, neoprene is known to show creases with time. 

The Details: 14.5 x 7.5 x 9 inches | 2.08 pounds | Neoprene | Fits a 13-inch laptop in a medium

Travel + Leisure / Nick Kova

Bandolier Tote Bag

This tote is elegant, lightweight, and perfect for everyday use.

The bag has an open top rather than a zipper.

While this chic leather tote is the ideal laptop bag for travel, it is also a great commuter bag. Its pebbled leather holds up excellently to daily use, and its timeless silhouette makes it perfect for the office, subway, or restaurant. The size is also convenient for frequent use, as it can hold a water bottle or cup, notepads, cosmetics, sunglasses, and a jacket. The laptop sleeve accommodates devices up to 15 inches long and closes with a snap. We would love a secure top closure, especially if using this bag as a personal item, since the bag features an open top. However, if easy and quick access to your belongings is a priority day to day, then this is definitely the right tote for you. The handles are long enough to carry it as either a shoulder bag or a handbag for an added touch of versatility.

The Details: 18 x 12 x 6 inches | Leather | Fits up to 15-inch laptop

Best Briefcase

Briggs & riley medium expandable briefcase.

It has a sturdy, durable construction and expandable design that would be useful for business trips.

The depth is larger than standard bags.

This briefcase will be a hit with business travelers and those looking for superior organization. While the bag itself is compact in height and width, the expandable zippers allow you to fit more if needed without making it uncomfortable to carry. We packed everything on our list except a jacket, which fit a little awkwardly. However, this bag has so many pockets (at times more than we knew what to do with) that during our drop test, all of the items were kept from being displaced or damaged because there was a slot for everything. The 15.6-inch padded laptop compartment also did its job exceptionally well.

The classic black design (there is some pop of color on the inside) also features a trolley pass-through sleeve to carry on top of a suitcase and a duo of sleek handles with leather accents. Last but not least, the sturdy fabric is made from recycled plastic bottles, so you can also feel good that your purchase is keeping trash out of landfills.

The Details: 15.75 x 11 x 6 inches | 2.55 pounds | Recycled poly/nylon ballistic | Fits up to 15.6-inch laptop

Best Budget

Lands' end all purpose messenger bag.

It's a compact bag that is comfortable to carry while being the most affordable option on this list.

The material is thin and there's no padding.

This messenger may come with a low price tag, but that doesn't mean you'll be compromising on quality, storage potential, or features. Quite on the contrary. The polyester material and the easily adjustable padded shoulder strap make it super lightweight and easy to carry, even when full. The waterproof coating held up really well during our tests, however, two of the exterior pockets have snap closures and don't close all the way, so we would avoid carrying anything of value there (or anything you wouldn't want to get soaked in a downpour). 

We also noticed that the canvas material, though thin, performed exceptionally well during drop and spray tests (the laptop compartment is padded), and the messenger still looks like new months after we first tested it — and the same is true for the hardware. Lastly, while the bag is only available in blue, it is certainly worth considering if you're in need of a well-made, budget-friendly commute bag.

The Details: 14.75 x 11 x 5.5 inches | Polyester | Fits up to 14-inch laptop | Waterproof

Best Organization

Quince revive nylon large tote.

It's an excellent all-season option to keep you organized on the road.

While it has a magnetic top closure, it doesn’t zip closed.

Thanks to a combination of smart storage organization and a spacious interior, we found this carry-all was a total dream when it comes to packing. With so many pockets, dividers, and compartments, it's easy to see and access keys, lip balm, shoes, travel documents, and your laptop, for which there’s a padded pocket with a Velcro closure.

This Quince bag is also quite versatile — travelers can easily use it as an everyday bag, a weekender, or even a diaper bag (the nylon fabric is super easy to clean). The latest, updated version of the tote has a magnetic closure, providing a little extra security for your belongings.

The Details: 13 x 17 x 5 inches | 1.76 pounds | Nylon | Fits up to 15-inch laptop

For this article, our Travel + Leisure team sorted through testing results from multiple lab and real-world tests for messenger bags, weekenders, duffels, backpacks, carry-on suitcases, and more — specifically looking for bags with designated laptop pockets or pouches. Each bag was tested in our New York City lab (with the exception of the best tote option, which is personally owned and recommended by one of our team members).

During testing, we examined each bag for the quality of its construction, hardware, and features, packing the bag with a predetermined list of items to analyze its storage capacity and organizational features. We also tested water-resistant or waterproof bags by spraying them with water to ensure the contents would remain dry and the fabric would not absorb any water.

Travel + Leisure/Jhett Thompson

We carried or rolled the fully packed bags through obstacle courses and around our office to assess the maneuverability and comfort. To test for durability, we threw the bags off of counters with a dummy laptop inside to see if it was protected through falls. For suitcases, we also hit them with a baseball bat to check the strength of the outer shell. We continued using the products for at least six months after our initial tests to make sure they stand up to real travels over longer periods of time, and we will continue to update this article as we test even more bags we love.

Tips for Buying a Laptop Bag

Determine your ideal size.

Since laptops come in multiple sizes, so do laptop bags. The most common sizes accommodate devices that measure up to 14, 16, or 18 inches. If you own a 14-inch laptop, don't be tempted to buy a much larger bag (usually, anything more than half an inch is considered too big) because it won't protect your device against bumps and drops that well if the pocket doesn't hold it snugly. And if you prefer a larger bag to also accommodate things like clothes and gear, consider buying an additional laptop case for extra protection.

Look for built-in organization

Most travelers who carry a laptop also need room to store additional tech accessories such as chargers, cables, headphones, and memory cards. Some laptop users may even travel with an extra keyboard and mouse. That's why your laptop bag should have a well-designed interior with multiple pockets, slots, and compartments. This will keep your belongings organized and easily accessible whenever you need them. If you plan on packing clothes and toiletries in the same bag, then look for styles with at least two roomy compartments, ideally zippered, so your laptop and tech gadgets are protected from accidental spills. You can also buy a tech pouch separately if you need that extra level of organization to keep all of your chargers and accessories together.

Consider the best material for your needs

Laptop bags are made from a variety of materials ranging from leather to synthetic fabrics to PVC, and each has its pros and cons. Natural materials like canvas are lightweight, but they easily absorb moisture. However, some companies treat the exterior canvas with a waterproof coating that adds a water-resistant, easy-to-clean layer.

Synthetic fabrics such as nylon and polyester are a preferred material for backpacks. They are lightweight and flexible so you can easily place them under the seat, and they protect from the elements. On the flip side, nylon and polyester are very thin, so look for bags with additional padding in the laptop compartment.  Leather messengers , backpacks, and totes all look beautiful and provide good protection. While leather has a degree of natural water-resistance, it can still get soaked through, and the material tends to be heavier.

Finally, hardside bags and carry-ons are an excellent option for those who like to travel light — after all, traveling with a carry-on suitcase with a laptop compartment means you don’t need to carry a separate laptop bag.

Frequently Asked Questions

Generally, laptops are measured by the distance between the diagonal edges of their screens. However, this size does not account for any additional material that encases the screen. So when choosing a bag, close your laptop and measure it diagonally from edge to edge — you will probably end up with a number that’s higher by a quarter-to-full inch than its screen size. Considering this number, choose a laptop bag that can accommodate it. 

If your laptop is thicker than the average computer, check the width of the bag's laptop compartment to ensure it can fit comfortably inside.

Most airlines' carry-on allowance includes a personal item that you can store under the seat in front of you. So, many travelers pack a laptop into that bag — it’s easily accessible and always with you. However, if you know you won't need your laptop and your hardside carry-on provides good protection for fragile items, you can also store it in there and place it in the overhead bin during a flight.

We would never recommend you store your laptop in checked luggage because it might get damaged, lost, or even stolen during your trip. Baggage handlers aren’t exactly known for being delicate, and with more than 50 percent of travelers admitting to having luggage lost by an airline, you’ll want to avoid storing expensive items in your checked luggage. Additionally, if you're headed on a multi-leg trip, it's a good idea to have your laptop with you in case you need to use it.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Contributor Dobrina Zhekova is a lifestyle journalist with over a decade of editorial experience in print and digital media in the U.S. and Europe. For this story, she worked with T+L's editors to curate a list of the best laptop bags with insights from T+L’s real-world and lab tests, along with additional product research as necessary.

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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 limited 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 Laptop Tote Bags

by Kaitlyn Wells

Our favorite laptop bags are not only a stylish step up from utilitarian messenger bags but also more refined and work-appropriate than classic canvas totes.

Our Favorite Messenger Bags

by Sri Rain Stewart

Stylish and practical, a great messenger bag can be a commuter’s best friend. We found five great options that will suit a range of budgets, tastes, and lifestyles.

The Best Briefcases

by Zoe Vanderweide

Elegant and professional, a great briefcase never goes out of style. These timeless picks will serve you well, from internship to retirement party.

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Home » Gear » best laptop backpacks

The TOP Laptop Backpacks for Travel – UPDATED For 2024

With the rise in digital nomadism, business travel, bloggers, content creators or just those who can’t quite bring themselves to switch off, more and more people are traveling with laptops. When it comes to keeping their precious and expensive computer gear safe, it seem that many of these people take it for granted. Haphazardly shoving their laptop into their bag without any thought of what could be happening to it…

Well, this is a great way to destroy a laptop. And when you rely on that laptop for everything from making a living to editing photos of your dog in a hat, that’s a serious inconvenience, especially if you find yourself miles away from the nearest Apple Store!

If you travel a lot with your computer, you’re going to need the best travel laptop backpack possible. That way, you can keep your computer safe from harm while moving around. This article will help you pick from the best laptop backpacks for travel depending on your needs and preferences.

Whether you are bringing your laptop on a backpacking trip, a weekend getaway, or your regular commute, each of these backpacks prioritizes quality, versatility, organization, and comfort! Every rucksack on this list is a TSA approved, has a specific laptop compartment, and the correct dimensions to carry onto any flight.

Read on to find the best traveling laptop backpack for your next digital adventure!

Quick Answer: What are the Best Laptop Backpacks for Travel in 2024?

• Nomatic Travel Bag 40L –  Top Pick: Best Laptop Backpack for Travel
• Tortuga Laptop Backpack – Runner Up – Best Travel Laptop Backpack
• Osprey Metron – Best Laptop Backpack for Commutes
• Gulu Made Inspire – Most Ethical Laptop Backpack
• TimBuk 2 Lane Commuter  –  Best Small Laptop Backpack for Travel
• AER City Travel Sling 2 X-Pac  –  Best Laptop Messenger Bag
• Harber London Leather Backpack – Best Leather Laptop Backpack
• Incase EO Travel Backpack  –  Best Backpack for 17-Inch Laptops
• Stubble & Co The Roll Top – Best Hipster Laptop Bag
• Tom Toc – Hottest New Laptop Backpack

What Makes a Good Travel Laptop Backpack?

Our top picks for the best laptop backpack, frequently asked questions about the best laptop backpacks, final thoughts on backpacks for laptops.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

For this article, we are focusing on travel backpacks that can accommodate laptops.

All of the bags listed below are travel backpacks with laptop compartments and are well equipped to organize your technical gear while you’re traveling.

Here are some features of the top laptop backpacks:

• Backpack with a laptop compartment: Obviously, a good laptop backpack kind of needs a separate padded compartment keeps your electronics secure. Of course, you can also use these zipped compartments for books, your travel journal, or many other things.
• Accessibility:  In order to qualify as a good laptop bag, accessibility is very important. After all, its a royal pain in the arse if you have to dig deep and half unpack just to het your laptop out right?
• Weather-resistant: If you are going to be carrying your laptop and other valuables, you want a backpack that will protect your valuables! Make sure it’s weather-sealed or maybe includes a rain cover.
• Carry-on size:  Carry-on travel backpacks save you from having to deal with lost bags and luggage fees. Most of the backpacks on this list are carry-on sized and abide by TSA guidelines.

As I mentioned earlier, this article is going to focus on laptop backpacks that are specifically good for traveling with. I have reviewed our favorite backpacks below, categorized by different types of travels to accommodate your travel needs.

#1. Nomatic Travel Bag 40L

Best overall travel laptop backpack.

• Capacity: 40L
• Dimensions: 53.34 x 35.56 x 22.86 cm (21 x 14 x 9 in)
• Weight: 1.5 kg (3.25 lbs)
• Main Material: Durable water-resistant tarpaulin and ballistic nylon
• Size of Laptop Compartment: 15″

Nomatic is the ultimate bag for nomadic travelers, featuring a plethora of pockets and functional features. Now, this is a 40L bag which Nomatic advertise for 3-7 day trips so you will be able to fit an entire desktop computer with screen inside, not just a laptop! It includes detachable waist straps with water-resistant pockets, a 15″ laptop pocket, and a roller bag sleeve. Additionally, the Nomatic bag is proper weather-resistant, ensuring your previous previous laptop stays well protected.

While not recommended for extreme weather conditions, the Nomatic is perfect for casual adventurers. The bag is praised for its versatility and ease of organization, with its numerous pockets and zippers making it effortless to organize different gear for various trips.

To learn more about this sick piece of kit, be sure to read our in-depth review of the Nomatic Travel Bag to find out how it performed when we took it along with us on a 2 week jolly! By the end, you’ll see why we think it’s the best computer backpack for travel.

UPDATE for 2024:   Nomatic sells in the EU as Gomatic owing to licensing issues.

• One of the best-crafted bags on the market
• 40L = lots of room
• Sleek and stylish
• Water resistant
• Tons of pockets and features
• Mixed reviews on straps/comfort

#2. Tortuga Laptop Backpack

Runner up – best travel laptop backpack.

• Capacity: 24L
• Dimensions: 48.5 x 27.5 x 18 cm (19.1 x 10.8 x 7.1 in)
• Weight: 2.1 lb (0.95 kg)
• Main Material: Shell 200
• Size of Laptop Compartment: 16″

The Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack is the smaller version of their original Setout pack. This bag is a 24-liter masterpiece for anyone looking for a smaller laptop bag that feels and looks great. We might have rated it second best travel computer backpack but for many this will come out on top. The Setout Laptop Backpack has plenty of organisational features including mesh pockets and a super-secure area for your laptop. The Setout Laptop is marketed as a laptop bag for those who do lots of air travel and we find it to be a great bag to take onto planes as its easy to find our stuff, and it fits snuggly under seats (even on Ryanair).

Personally I love how compact this bag is – 24L is normally a little small for me but I make an exception for this. While I personally miss having a water bottle pocket on the side, the grab handle is a nice touch for those occasions when my back and neck needs a rest. The zips also open really smoothly. Its size made it feel great to wear day in day out and the quality of the materials felt like it would cope well with daily abuse!

Read our complete Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack Review here.

• Sexy, minimalist design
• Tons of features
• Might be too small for some

#3. Harber London Slim Laptop Pack

Leather laptop backpack.

• Capacity: 18l
• Dimensions: 43 x 29 x 9 cm (16.9 x 11.4 x 3.5 in)
• Weight: 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs)
• Main Material: Full-grain vegetable-tanned leather and waterproof cotton canvas

The Harber London Slim Laptop backpack is stylish and functional. It is quite literally a laptop backpack and won’t fit too much more in (although they do make bigger packs so take a look at their site) and just perfect for minimalists who want something a little bit special. The pack is crafted from Premium Full Grain Leather which feels really classy, soft and supple to touch. The interior is nicely padded, there are loads of pockets for you cables as well as a handle if you want to carry it.

This pack is very different to the other pack on our list and isn’t really comparable to say the more versatile Tortuga. It is however perhaps the most classy and stylish and I felt pretty hip when testing out in my home city; it certainly has more sex appeal than the functional North Face.When they sent me this to try I was impressed. It is a niche product but that for the right person this would be the absolute perfect choice. What I really like is how minimalist it is – no unnecessary bulk and will look good if you’ve got a meeting to attend but want something more practical than a briefcase.

• Durable and comfortable
• High Quality Material
• Not cheap…

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4#. Osprey Metron

Best commuter laptop bag.

• Dimensions: 19.29H X 12.99W X 11.02D IN
• Weight: 2.739 LBS
• Main Material: 500D recycled high tenacity nylon

At 24l, the Osprey Metron is a well sized daypack which will accommodate your laptop, and lunch quite nicely. There is of course a padded laptop pouch along with enough pockets and pouches for keys, cards and pens. The compression straps are also a nice touch and we appreciated the way we could fasten the backpack down so it deint you won’t stick out like a tortoise and barge into people (as much) when you crowd onto the morning train.

TI personally used this backpack for day to use for a good while before I replaced it with an Osprey Quasar – the latter I found could also be used to double up as a hiking backpack. Though we’ve included it here as the best bag for commuters, our team really loved how versatile this bag felt. Osprey is known for their outdoor bags and our team felt this one was suited to just about anything you could throw at it, from hiking to biking into the office. All in, the quality of the materials, the solid build and integrated rain cover make this daypack tough enough for any adventure!

• Osprey offer a robust guarantee
• There aren’t any cons

5#. Gulu Made Inspire Backpack

Most ethical laptop backpack.

• Capacity: 25 liters
• Dimensions: 19 x 12 x 9 in
• Weight: 2.0 lbs
• Main Material: 500D nylon
• Laptop compartment size: 15.6 inches

The Gulu Made brand set up shop building a backpacking factory in Uganda and has entrusted the local community with making sustainable backpacks built to last. These bags are designed and built by local tribes. The women of Gulu took modern comfort features into account, adding on water bottle holders and ten different organization pockets with an extra computer sleeve. 

Not only is this pack amongst the most stylish I have tried, it is also genuinely well made and the organisational potential is great – the Inspire is the most spacious Gulu-made pack on the market and offers everything you need to commute in a sustainable style. If you are after an ethical product , this is a good on and if you love ethical travel gear, we have a cracking vegan backpack round-up on the site.

• Ethical brand
• Pretty inner lining
• Good organisational potential
• Not waterproof

#6. Incase Compass Backpack

Best backpack for 17-inch laptops.

• Capacity: 27 liters
• Dimensions: 18 x 11.75 x 5.25 in
• Weight: 1.39 lbs
• Main Material: Light-weight Flight Nylon
• Laptop compartment size: 16 inches

Incase is known for making stylish business and laptop backpacks. Expandable, easy to travel with, and well-padded, the Incase Compass is also our choice for the best 17-inch laptop backpack! The bag itself is made out of 300D polyester, and the black option has a triple-coated weather-resistant front panel. The shoulder straps are made with breathable mesh, and the back panels are padded too. The main compartment has plenty of storage space, and it expands by 35% to fit all of the clothes you may need. You can also maintain a slimmer profile if you are just using it for layovers and day trips.

While I personally don’t like the look of this one, we found it to be one of the best laptop bags for travel because of the way the laptop sleeve is set up. This backpack is smaller than others on this list, but the Incase Compass makes use of its space and we hardly felt the limitations. All in, what we loved most about this bag was how the laptop had its own dedicated pocket away from everything else.

• Great for on-the-go travel
• Fits up to a 16-inch laptop
• Padded back panels
• Zippable laptop compartment makes security checks a breeze
• Might be too small for long term travelers

#7. Gregory Rune

Best commuter laptop backpack.

• Capacity: 28 liters
• Dimensions: 19″ x 11″ x 9″
• Weight: 2.74 lbs
• Main Material: 210D nylon and 420D high-density nylon
• Laptop compartment size: 15 inches

The Gregory Rhune brings a durable and sustainable approach to the everyday backpack concept. All fabrics used in this pack are made from recycled materials resulting in a 51% in the production cycles carbon footprint.  However, eco-credentials aside, this is a genuinely bloody good pack with an excellent  attention to details. Designed for an active user the Rhune packs have an integrated shoulder harness pocket that is perfect for ear buds, transit passes, or mints.

The pack is accessed by a top-lid opening that pulls back – that’s not an opening style that I am too used to but it’s fine and actually makes packing and unpacking very easy. Inside the pack, the main compartment is split into 3 handy compartments including a very generous laptop compartment. To the touch, the material used in construction of the Gregory Rhune feels quite strong and durable and yet, the pack feels very light to carry. Overall, this is a great backpack for commutes and for day travel.

• Mid-Weight 0.925 kg
• Made from recycled materials
• Not great for hiking
• Small water bottle pocket

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#8. Timbuk 2 Lane Commuter

Best small laptop backpack for travel.

• Capacity: 18 liters
• Dimensions: 10.8″ x 5.91″ x 17.7″
• Weight: 2.4 lb
• Main Material: 400D nylon faille

The Timbuk 2 is quite similar to the Incase above. It’s a smaller laptop TSA-friendly backpack that works great for both travel and work, and is one of the best lightweight laptop backpacks. There is a side pocket for your water bottle and a front pocket that is useful for your passport and boarding pass so I would gladly take this onto a flight. The main compartment has plenty of space, and the one in front of it has three smaller compartments for organization.

This backpack is comfortable too – it feels nice against the back and on the shoulders. The drawback about this bag is that it’s not big enough to take on most long backpacking trips; however, if you are just looking for a bag for everyday use, and quick weekend trips, this is a sleek, low-profile backpack that will keep all your stuff organized. Our team loved how balanced the weight felt in this pack when their laptops were stowed.

• Laptop compartment zips away for easy security checks
• Dedicated tablet pocket
• 5-year warranty
• Great for weekend trips or quick getaways (or super light travelers)

#9. LowePro ProTactic 450

Best laptop backpack for travel photographers.

• Capacity: Not specified
• Dimensions: 13.78″ x 9.06″ x 20.08″
• Weight: 6.28 lbs
• Main Material: 900D and 1680D nylon

If you are a serious photographer or have aspirations to be – this bag is next-level.

The LowePro ProTactic 450 is far and away the most functional and stylish backpack for photographers and videographers. The most impressive thing of the ProTactic is how big it is and how well organized the compartments are. Fitting up to two DSLR’s, a 15″ laptop and some drones, this bag is versatile and able to handle all of your tech needs . It’s practically a mobile office! You can go out shooting, pull out your laptop, and begin editing right then and there.

I don’t use a DSLR and so didn’t actually use this as a camera bag. Still, it is one of the best laptop backpacks for many, many reasons. If you want to learn more about the Lowpro, be sure to visit our post on the best camera bags , where we go into more detail.

• Fits 1 or 2 DSLRs
• Four camera-access points
• Ventilation and back support
• Laptop pocket and additional accessories
• Only useful for photographers

#10. AER Travel Sling 2 X-Pac

Best laptop messenger bag.

• Capacity: 12 liters
• Dimensions: 16″ x 11″ x 4.5″
• Weight: 1.8 lbs
• Main Material: VX-42 X-Pac™ sailcloth exterior by Dimension-Polyant

AER has done it again! They’ve taken the same ergonomic principles that were used for their laptop backpack and applied them to a messenger bag. The result: an amazing laptop messenger bag that is very efficient, effective, and, above all, useful. The AER Travel Sling 2 X-Pac is very useful. It comfortably holds a 16-inch MacBook and can even hold a camera kit with a few lenses after some rearranging. The fact that the interior of this bag can be rearranged, much like a camera bag, makes it stand out from the rest as well. At the end of the day, this is more than a messenger bag.

We were quite intrigued about giving this a go as many are used to the traditional backpack setup. To be honest, this is a great bag but after a while I did start to feel the weight of my laptop handing around my neck. Still, I loved how compact and lowkey the bag was whilst also providing a surprising amount of storage and organisation and I was also impressed with how comfortable the padded strap felt on one shoulder.

• Customizable interior.
• Sleek, ergonomic design.
• Top-quality manufacturing.
• Not as big as the backpack.
• Like the backpack, straps can be awkward.

#11. Minaal Carry On 2.0 Backpack

Best travel backpack for europe.

• Capacity: 9.8 liters
• Dimensions: 16.5″ x 10.6″ x 4.7″
• Weight: 1.76 lbs
• Main Material: 1680D Cordura ballistic nylon
• Laptop compartment size: 13 inches

The Minaal Carry On has updated their original travel backpack to the 2.0, and it’s loaded with new features that improve its functionality, and make it one of the best laptop backpacks for travel! This backpack has the perfect dimensions carry-on any flight (22 x 14 x 9 inches), including those strict European budget airlines, which is one of the reasons why we chose it as one of the best backpacks for travel in Europe. The main compartment zips all the way open like a suitcase which I find some getting used to, but then found to be absolutely great. The larger side is perfect for packing your clothes, shoes, and other items.

All in, we loved this sleek and professional-looking bag, but one of the standout features they told us about what they particularly loved was the zippers. Not only are they super strong and smooth, but they’ve got built-in loops for locking them and keeping your laptop secure. The Minaal Carry-On is made from heavy-duty nylon, so the fabric does a solid job repelling water. The shoulder straps and removable hip straps pack away easily for transit, and the strap system and cushioned back panel foam allow for ultimate comfort.

• Perfect carry on dimensions
• Removable hip strap
• Rain cover that packs into itself
• Locking zippers
• Suspended laptop sleeve helps protect laptop if you drop your bag

#12. GoRuck GR1

Most durable travel laptop backpack.

• Capacity: 35 liters
• Dimensions: 21.5″ x 13.5″ x 7.5″
• Weight: 3.4 lbs
• Main Material: Waterproof sailcloth and ballistic

Another one of the best-organized backpacks, 26-litre GoRuck GR1 was designed and built for war zones and cities alike by a former Army Green Beret to be extremely durable and adaptable. For one, this is the most durable backpack on this list, designed for any weather and climate. The YKK zippers perform in sandstorms, and the 1000 Cordura material is rainproof.

This bag is also extremely comfortable. The shoulder straps are padded to handle heavy loads (like 400 pounds), and this backpack is designed to sit high so the weight doesn’t hang on your shoulders. Above all we loved what just how bloody hard wearing these beasts are. What I loved less was the price tag though.

• Most durable backpack for laptops
• Waterproof and weatherproof
• Strength tested
• Can fit 17 inch laptop

#13. Fjallraven Kanken Laptop Backpack

A simple and easy to use laptop backpack.

Fjallraven is one of the most recognizable backpack brands out there. Seriously, you can’t walk a mile in the city and not see someone sporting one of these boxy bags as they appeal to just about every type of person. The Fjallraven Kanken, one of the company’s flagship models, can also be used as a traveling laptop backpack. They are spacious enough to a hold a 15″ computer, include a nice dedicated laptop sleeve, and are pretty resistant to the elements. If you’re looking for something quick and easy, not to mention in-vogue, then buying all Fjallraven Kanken wouldn’t be a bad idea.

Fjallraven’s do have their limits though. I personally find their boxy design is a little awkward sometimes, although these bags are still comfortable to wear. If you need an everyday backpack, and not JUST a backpack for traveling, it’s hard to go wrong with the Fjallraven Kanken. It’s proven itself over and over and will probably keep on doing just that.

• Rugged, water-resistant material
• Very easy to use
• Great for everyday use
• Less protective padding

#14. The Roll Top Stubble & Co

Best hipster laptop backpack.

We recently came across Stubble & Co and tried a bunch of their packs for ourselves – honestly we were seriously impressed by most of them. 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

#15 Tom Toc T73-x

Hottest new laptop pack.

The Navigator-T66 Travel Laptop Backpack is the perfect travel companion for digital nomads. It offers a large capacity along with many compartments for organisation. The size is generally perfect for 5-7 days of light packing and has fast become one of my favourite bits of travel gear .

I chose this backpack as my travel bag for all my weekend getaway trips while backpacking through Southeast Asia. It comfortably fits my stuff for weekend getaways and helps me stay organised with the handy laptop sleeve.

I really love all the compartments included; they help me stay extremely organised. It has a large capacity for longer trips and It’s easy to find most of my belongings.The only downside is its build for a woman. I find the bag to be a bit big and bulky on me. But I love the large capacity for longer trips. I find it easy to find most of my belongings.

• Ace organisation capacity
• Durable, high quality and stylish
• Not large enough for long trips
• Maybe kinda bulky

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

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 qualities do laptop backpacks need?

Obviously, they need to keep your laptop safe. A protected laptop compartment is essential. And a bit of style doesn’t do any harm either.

What is the best slim laptop backpack?

The Harber London Slim Laptop Pack is one of the slimmest, yet most stylish backpacks on the market. The Incase EO Travel Backpack is also pretty slim, yet fits even a 17-inch laptop.

How do I choose a backpack for my laptop?

Knowing the size of your laptop should be the first step of determing which backpack is right for you. Then you need to figure out things like: capacity, your budget, style and material.

What is the best brand of laptop backpacks?

There is no perfect answer to this question, but we absolutely love the quality and value of Nomatic backpacks .

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

There are countless travel backpacks on the market for every type of travel use, but these are the best backpacks for travelers bringing along their laptop and technical gear. Maybe you’ve already fallen in love with one of our top travel bags, but if you need us to make the choice, pick the best travel laptop backpack that best fits your purpose.

If you want a versatile backpack for a long-term travel vacation, look no further than the Nomatic Travel Pack 40L . If you are based in Europe, or on a multi-month adventure there, the AER Travel Pack 3 is an awesome bag. For us, these are the laptop backpacks for travel for most people.

For traveling minimalists, who still carry some gear, the Incase EO travel backpack  and Timbuk 2 Lane Commuter are both great bags. Photographers should look at the Emblem V4, and outdoor enthusiasts should definitely get the NorthFace Recon .

No matter what your travel style is, there is a bag on this list to cover all of your needs!

Is there a laptop backpack that you particularly enjoy? Think that we’d enjoy it as well? Leave a comment below and tell us about it so we can try the backpack out too!

Ana Pereira

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I came here thinking there would be cheap backpacks cuz of the website name “thebrokebackpacker.com”. Hahah people get broke after buying these lol. But thanks regardless, I’ll come back when i have some more money i guess.

Hey Ana, I really thankuful for guiding to buy the best laptop cases. It’s really helpful for me. I am such a big fan of your blog I ever found great information here!!

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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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Best laptop backpack for college 2024

Best laptop cases 2024

You don't need a massive budget to get a massive gaming laptop — here's the proof.

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How To Choose The

Best Laptop Bag

The ultimate guide to selecting the best laptop backpack, tote, messenger, and more.

• 01. Introduction
• 02. Our Picks
• 03. Considerations
• 05. Protection
• 06. Organization
• 07. Conclusion

There’s more to a laptop bag than simply being able to carry a laptop.

Find your adventure essentials at Public Lands. Check it out →

A Preview of The Best Laptop Bags

Click for more info on each of these top picks to see why we love them.

• 8.8/10: EVERGOODS Civic Panel Loader 24L
• 8.7/10: TOM BIHN Synapse 25
• 8.6/10: Aer Fit Pack 3
• 8.6/10: GORUCK GR1
• 8.5/10: The North Face Recon
• 8.4/10: Mystery Ranch Rip Ruck 24
• 8.4/10: Peak Design Everyday Backpack 30L
• 8.3/10: Bellroy Venture Ready Pack 26L
• 8.3/10: Osprey METRON
• 8.3/10: Osprey Arcane Large Day Pack
• 8.2/10: Tortuga Laptop Backpack

See all reviews: Daypacks

Finding the Best Laptop Bag for You

If you want to leave your house with your laptop, then you’re probably going to want a laptop bag. Of course, you probably already know this. But you may not know which laptop bag you should buy. There seem to be a million (approximately) options out there.

Unfortunately, we can’t tell you what the best laptop bag is. We wish we could, because let’s be real, it would be a lot easier to simply write the name of a single bag than an entire guide about a bunch of them. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as the “best” laptop bag because everybody has different needs and preferences.

So, in this guide, we’re going to walk you through how to choose the best laptop bag for you.

What You Can Expect From This Guide Here at Pack Hacker, we’re all about putting gear to the test, noting all strengths and weaknesses as we go. (We’ve written about our testing and reviewing process here if you would like to learn more.)

For this guide, our team of gearheads has gotten our hands on over 100 laptop bags. We’ve looked at each one, even fully testing and reviewing several of them. Based on months—sometimes years—of using these bags, we’re going to take you through everything you need to consider when choosing the best laptop bag for you. That means diving into all the different components of laptop bags and explaining what works best for a variety of situations. Throughout this guide, we’ll also provide laptop bag recommendations that are, once again, based on our rigorous testing.

Now, we understand that you’re a busy person and may not have time to read every single word of this guide. So, we’ve recommended ten laptop bags below that cover a wide range of use cases. Keep in mind, everybody has different needs and lifestyles, so your future favorite may not have made the list. That’s why we recommend you read the full guide—or, at the very least—skim it while enjoying your morning cup o’ joe.

What is a Laptop Bag?

Before we get going on this guide, let’s make sure we’re on the same page about what a laptop bag is. Sure, you can shove a laptop into whatever you have on hand and call it a laptop bag. We’re not going to stop you.

That said, we define a laptop bag as a bag that has specifically been designed to hold a laptop. To put it another way: a laptop bag is a laptop bag first and a camera, travel, hiking, makeup, dog, etc., bag second.

Conversely, you can have a bag that just so happens to be able to hold a laptop. Take travel backpacks —they’re designed for travel, but many of them have a laptop sleeve, too. See the difference?

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A taste of some of our favorite laptop bags.

As a brand, EVERGOODS has some of the most versatile wholesale organizational features in its daypacks and travel backpacks. Every piece of gear has a home, but the segmentation isn’t limiting, and their packs can be used for everything from hikes in the foothills to long days traversing an unfamiliar city. The CPL24 is the perfect size for a minimalist carry personal item or a daypack you stow inside your rolling luggage to use when you arrive.

The clamshell-style opening offers excellent access to the main compartment, there’s a separate compartment to stow up to a 17-inch computer safely, and you can even use a water bladder with this pack. We’ve found the harness system comfortable; however, if your torso is shorter than 16 or longer than 23 inches, we’ve noticed it can feel too large or too small to fit comfortably.

Because of how versatile the internal organization is and how comfortable this pack is for most travelers, it’s a solid option for people who want a pack that can do it all. Whether you’re looking for a pack to take to the city, the trail, or both, the EVERGOODS CPL24 V3 might be the best laptop bag for you.

Why We Like It

• The materials are durable, and the hardware is rugged
• The organization is well-thought-out but doesn’t get in your way

What You Should Know

• It’s not the lightest pack on this list
• The pack only comes in black

If you’ve been on your journey to find the best laptop bag for a while, odds are, someone has recommended the TOM BIHN Synapse 25 to you already (we’re looking at you, r/OneBag). If you weren’t impressed by what you saw or you’ve never heard of this pack, let’s dive into what we’ve found in testing to shed some light on this dad-like pack.

When you pop open most TOM BIHN packs, internal organization is king. Seriously—they put time and thought into everything inside this pack, including the laptop compartment, which uses a cache system that perfectly molds to your computer’s size. We like this method; however, you’ll need to upgrade the system if you get a different-sized laptop. Additionally, it can be hard to slide your laptop back into place when the pack is completely full; however, that’s often an issue with travel packs.

If internal organization is king, high-quality materials are the Ace. There are numerous options regarding what fabrics you’ll receive from TOM BIHN, which will affect the colorway you get, too. On their product page, you can explore the different options and find which one will make the best laptop bag for you and your next trip!

• The laptop cache system is innovative and easy to use
• The materials and hardware are durable, versatile, and customizable
• If you upgrade your computer, you’ll need to change the laptop cache system
• The bag’s style isn’t for everyone

When you think about the best laptop bag, you probably don’t think about a gym bag. Well, the Aer Fit Pack 3 can change that. They’ve combined the organizational features we’re used to seeing from Aer with a large main compartment that can handle (and wrangle the smells from) your gym gear.

The laptop compartment can handle up to a 16-inch computer and is well-protected with a false bottom and dense padding. There are numerous pockets for stowing tech, snacks, and everyday items.

On top of that, there’s a large compartment that you can use to stow travel gear, like packing cubes and organization pouches, gym gear, or whatever else you can fit inside. With a capacity of 18.7 liters and a comfortable harness system, you can use the Aer Fit Pack 3 for nearly anything within the space restrictions of its smaller size.

After all, is it really the best laptop backpack if you can’t go to the gym with it?

• The materials are top-notch and will last ages
• We dig the duality of the tech compartment and the large top storage area
• It’s heavy for its 18.7-liter capacity
• The heavy look isn’t for everyone

The GORUCK GR1 is one of the most durable packs on this list, making it a solid contender for travelers who are rough on their gear. After all, if the elements can’t get through the outside payer of your pack, they can’t get your computer, right?

Whereas that last sentiment isn’t always true, the laptop compartment can handle models up to 15 inches, has a false bottom to protect the bottom and corners of your laptop, and ample padding to protect it from anything you might throw at it. Whether you’re clumsily walking the streets of Boston or trekking through the wilderness of Washington, you can count on this pack to keep your gear safe, from your laptop to your toiletries.

There are 26 and 21-liter models available; however, if you want something bigger, you can opt for the GR2 , a travel backpack with 40 liters, which is one of the highest-rated packs on Pack Hacker. Because of the ruggedness offered by their packs, almost anything they make that has a laptop compartment will do well at protecting your computer!

For the rugged adventurer reading this from the top of a mountain, this might be the best laptop bag for you! How’s the weather up there?

• The materials are incredibly durable and well-padded
• The clamshell-style opening is handy for stowing travel and tech gear
• It’s one of the heavier packs on this list
• The look feels more military than travel

The North Face Recon’s laptop compartment isn’t raised as high as we’d like it to be; however, in weeks of testing, we haven’t had any issues with it crashing too hard onto the floor, so we’re happy with its performance! Apart from that minor gripe, this is one of the best laptop bags on the market, and it comes in at a budget-friendly price, comparatively speaking.

At 30L, this can be used as a travel backpack, daypack, or hiking pack. The shoulder straps are flexible and comfortable, the materials are durable and water resistant, and there are multiple compartments to stow gear, from tech to packing cubes and shoes.

In testing, the lack of strap keepers can be annoying. That said, you can craft your own or get used to it, so this isn’t the biggest deal. Multiple colorways are available, so you can snag a pack that matches the vibes of your next trip or your wardrobe. Plus, it isn’t too sporty or business-focused, making it a solid middle ground for travelers who like to change things up now and then.

• The pack is budget-friendly
• There’s ample space to stow various kinds of gear
• It looks a little sporty
• The materials aren’t as structured as some tech packs

The Mystery Ranch Rip Ruck 24 has some of the most unique storage of any laptop bag on this list, and we’re here for it. You can access all your tech gear quickly, from a mouse to your external keyboard.

The computer storage area can handle up to a 15-inch laptop, which is more than capable for most travelers. It’s inside the main compartment, which isn’t as quick to access as some of the external sleeves on this list; however, we dig how much protection it offers. Plus, you can bend the back of the pack out of the way to get easier access so that the computer doesn’t hit any snags on the way out of the bag.

In typical Mystery Ranch fashion, the materials on this pack are durable, and the harness system is capable. There’s enough padding to sustain long journeys, and the pack is water-resistant enough to handle walks in the rain. The pack can get a bit hot, especially on sunny days, but we can get used to that, especially considering that our laptop will arrive safely!

• The laptop compartment offers ample protection for your computer
• The external materials are incredibly durable
• It doesn’t handle large gear as well as other bags on this list
• You can’t access your laptop super quickly

Just because you’re looking for the best laptop bag for you doesn’t mean that you won’t carry other gear inside, too. The second iteration of the Peak Design Everyday Backpack 30L isn’t just one of the best laptop backpacks around; it also excels for your EDC and photography needs. The pack is compatible with Peak Design’s camera cubes, which quickly transform this into a photography backpack.

The laptop compartment can handle up to a 15-inch device, which is more than optimal for most travelers. It’s on the backside of the pack, which is handy because you can access it quickly. The compartment is entirely adjustable, so you can change it to fit your computer size. Our full review of the pack describes it as a laptop hammock. The smaller the computer, the higher it rests inside the pack, offering more protection from the ground.

At just 30 liters, some users may find that this pack isn’t large enough for their one bag travel goals. However, if you pack smarter for a weekend trip or even a week-long adventure, this is one of the best laptop backpacks!

• It can be easily transformed into a photography backpack
• The materials are highly weatherproof
• The capacity might not be large enough for one bag travel
• Not all users will like the style

The Bellroy Venture Ready Pack 26L is an excellent daily carry backpack that offers stellar protection for laptops up to 16 inches. In addition to the durable and lightweight Canva Ripstop, this pack utilizes YKK zippers and Woojin hardware, two of the best brands in the world at what they do. What’s not to love about that?

The laptop sleeve has a false bottom and is well-padded, so you can feel safe that your computer is safe while exploring a new city or taking a day hike on the outskirts of town. It’s inside the main compartment, which isn’t as quick to access as if it were inside a dedicated pocket. That said, the main compartment has a wide opening, so it’s relatively easy to get your computer when you need it at the local coffee shop or while waiting for your flight at the airport.

The pack has thoughtful organization for your laptop accessories, travel gear, and clothing. Whether you’re crossing the city or heading across the region, this might be the best laptop bag to get you there.

• The laptop compartment is well-padded and has a false bottom
• There’s ample organization for your tech accessories
• The laptop doesn’t have a dedicated compartment
• The design is a little sporty

This is the best laptop bag for bike commuters because of one handy feature missing from many bags—a helmet strap! In addition to the Lidlock attachment point, a bike light loop, U-lock slot, built-in rainfly, and a compartment for shoes and dirty clothing add up to a bag cyclists love. It has an aerodynamic shape, thanks to a straightjacket compression system that keeps the bag close to your body, although there are no keepers to keep some slack in check. We dig the comprehensive harness system. The straps, padding, and mesh material combine with Osprey’s Airscape back panel to feel like it’s holding on tight for the ride ahead, just like a friend. It includes a sternum strap, load lifters, and a hip belt to help you dial in the fit.

There are several pockets for gear outside the bag, and the 26L main compartment is accessible via a clamshell design once you undo the compression system. Be sure to put the gear you need to grab during your commute near the top, though, because that’s the only place you can reach when the straightjacket is in place. There’s space for up to a 15-inch laptop in a padded sleeve with a false bottom and a hook-and-loop fastener to hold it in place, and there’s another sleeve in front for documents or a tablet, so you should have no issue bringing the daily essentials you need wherever you roll.

• It has an aerodynamic, bike-focused design
• The harness system is comfortable to wear for miles
• We wish there were strap keepers for all the danglers
• The straightjacket compression limits main compartment access

Sometimes, the best laptop backpack is simple, with a no-nonsense design and a clean look. The Osprey Arcane Large Day Pack is just that: a comfortably-built bag that looks great wherever it goes and will take you smoothly throughout the day. It includes a nicely padded harness system with breathable mesh that doesn’t pull at the traps despite the yoked attachment. It’s just right for a bag of this size, and there’s a G-hook at the bottom of one strap that you can undo to wrap it around a chair leg for security. There is also a mesh pocket on the strap for small gear like a card or lip balm, though it’s too small for a phone.

There’s a good amount of organization to help you make it through the day, too. We pack our minimalist wallet , AirPods, and keys in the horizontal front pocket. An offset opening runs all the way down the left side and partially down the right to get into the main compartment, giving you clear access to your laptop and everyday essentials. There’s a padded sleeve for a tablet, as well, and a zippered pocket for small accessories, plus a pen slot and a slip pocket for a battery bank or travel mouse . A key clip on a leash is attached here, as well, in case you want to store them here instead of in the front pocket. There’s room remaining for a tech pouch —if you have more accessories—or a packing cube if you want to use it as a personal item bag on the plane. Wherever you bring it, we think you’ll appreciate its simple design, organization, and comfortable harness system.

• Water bottle pocket lays flat for a clean profile
• Suspended laptop and tablet sleeves add protection for your gear
• The packcloth material can get marked up easily, though we otherwise dig the look
• It’s cumbersome to access the key clip quickly

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With durable yet lightweight materials, good organization, and a well-padded harness system, this bag is a great travel laptop backpack for your next trip. Tortuga uses SHELL200, a recycled water-resistant sailcloth fabric, for its Laptop Backpack, quality YKK AquaGuard zippers, and Woojin hardware. The main and laptop compartment zippers are lockable to protect your gear from prying hands, and it has a polished look that meshes well with many situations, whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure.

There’s a shallow pocket that opens via a vertical zipper on the front for your phone, wallet, and travel documents, two stretchy mesh water bottle pockets, and a top pocket that’s also accessible from the bag’s interior. That’s where we pack a toiletry bag for the plane since we can get at it before heading through security. The laptop sleeve is inside the main compartment, but you can also access it via a zipper on the right side to avoid having to dislodge everything else you’ve packed to get it out. There’s another padded sleeve in front of it to hold a tablet and an admin panel with pen slots, card pockets, and a stretchy pocket for more bulky gear. Then, there is plenty of room left for packing cubes , pouches, packable travel jackets , and more.

It’s a great personal item bag for the plane, as it slides nicely under the seat in front of you. That gives you access to everything you need during your flight, whether a laptop and your notes so you can finish a term paper on your way home from spring break or a tablet and an extra layer to get cozy and watch your favorite show. Plus, the design places more bag components at the top to make it easier to access while lying on the ground, making it easy to grab your toiletry bag at security or your snack on board.

• The recycled fabric repels water and dirt easily
• Cushioned shoulder straps and the EVA-molded back panel are covered in a spandex-like material for breathability
• Packing heavy gear in the top pocket can make the front panel fall forward when you open the main compartment
• While the harness system is well-padded, you can feel it dig somewhat into the top of your shoulders when using the sternum strap

Overwhelmed by all of the laptop bags out there? We’ve got your back.

What to Consider Before You Buy a Laptop Bag

Finding the perfect laptop bag can be as overwhelming as finding the perfect pasta sauce. There are just so many options. Marinara, pesto, Alfredo, vodka, oil, and garlic…Whoops, went off on a tangent there. The point is there are so many laptop bags—and pasta sauces—to choose from.

The best way to combat overwhelm is to think through a few key considerations, which we’ve listed below. If you’re able to think through these points and clearly understand your needs, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect laptop bag for you. So, let’s get into it.

You may be thinking to yourself, “Obviously, I’m planning on using my laptop bag to carry my laptop. Next consideration.” But we challenge you to dig a little bit deeper here. Consider:

Your Commute

It’s worth spending time figuring out the challenges of your commute and how your bag will meet those challenges. Take public transportation, for example. If you ride the subway to work, school, or wherever else you want to bring your laptop bag, a challenge may be limited legroom and space. If that’s the case, you’ll want a bag that’s compact enough to not crowd your legs, annoy your seat partner, accidentally whack people in the face while you’re standing, or take up a whole extra body’s worth of space.

Or maybe you take a bus that has plenty of legroom, but your bus stop is over a mile away from your destination. You’ll want a bag that’s comfortable enough to carry that distance.

If you ride a bike to work or school, you’ll want something with solid weather resistance, whereas if you drive, you may want a tote or briefcase for convenience and accessibility. You can easily grab something from an open tote hanging off of your shoulder, which isn’t necessarily true with a backpack. You get the idea.

Now, make sure you think about all of the ways you get to the office/coworking space/coffee shop/school/laptop bag convention. Even if you only scooter to work for the summer months, you’ll want a laptop bag that can keep up with your epic scootering.

Your Workspace

You may work at a traditional office, a coworking space, a coffee shop, the pool at your apartment complex, your father-in-law’s attic, and so on. In the modern world, it seems like you can work anywhere (particularly if you work on a laptop).

Different laptop bags work better or worse for different workspaces. For example, if you regularly work at a coffee shop it’s nice to have a laptop bag that stands up on its own. That way, it won’t slide down the table legs to the floor and get in everyone’s way. If you work in a cubicle at a traditional office, it’s nice to have a laptop bag that’s small enough to easily slide beneath your desk. If you go to school, you’ll probably appreciate a laptop bag that’s comfortable enough to carry between classes.

Also, consider the dress code at your work. Some workspaces are dressier than others and may prefer more professional messenger bags or briefcases over laptop backpacks. That’s important to keep in mind unless you’re a #rebel who likes to break the rules.

Additional Activities A laptop bag can do more than hold a laptop so consider any secondary activities you would like to use your it for. They may include:

• Carrying camera equipment (try the Peak Design Everyday Backpack Zip 15L )
• Heading to the gym before or after work (try the Aer Fit Pack 3)
• Short-term travel (try the GORUCK GR1 )
• Going on day hikes (try the Mystery Ranch UA21 )

You may find yourself in other scenarios outside of the ones on this list, but we hope that we’ve sparked your imagination. Of course, laptop bags won’t work for every single occasion. Activities like backpacking or long-term travel will likely require that you pick up a separate bag. But some versatility is a plus, so look out for:

• A larger size: Increasing the capacity gives you more space to work with, allowing you to use it for short trips, groceries, beach excursions, etc. Of course, the downside to a larger laptop bag is that it will be more cumbersome to carry for everyday life. (We’ll discuss size more in a bit.)
• Minimal organization: A big bucket of a compartment will fit a larger diversity of gear than one that’s filled with pockets or otherwise sectioned off. Too much organization—especially specific organization designed for specific gear—can feel limiting.
• A separate laptop compartment: If there’s a specific compartment for your laptop, you can use the remaining compartment(s) for other stuff. We’ll talk about this concept more in the Organization section of this guide.

You should take into consideration not only the size of the laptop bag, but the size of its laptop compartment, sleeve, and/or pocket. Brands call the dedicated laptop spot inside of their bags by different names. For simplicity’s sake, we’re going to refer to these spots as laptop sleeves throughout the rest of this guide.

Sleeve Size This goes without saying, but make sure to choose a pack that has a laptop sleeve that will fit your laptop. You don’t want a sleeve that’s too small, and you don’t want anything too big, either. Your laptop may move around during transit, which opens up more opportunities for damage.

Unfortunately, this isn’t as simple as it sounds. The advertised laptop sleeve size can vary from company to company. One brand’s 13’’ sleeve will easily fit a 16’’ laptop while another’s 13’’ sleeve will barely fit a 13’’ laptop. (Exasperating, right? Get it together, brands!). To be extra sure, it’s probably best to size up. If the sleeve ends up being too big, you can always stick your laptop inside of a case or an additional padded sleeve first. We’ll talk about laptop protection more in the Protection section of this guide.

On a similar note, if you plan to put your laptop inside of a separate sleeve or case before putting it into your bag, make sure you consider that when looking at the laptop size limitations. If your additional protection is too bulky, it may not fit inside.

Bag Size By our definition, laptop bags are usually between 15 and 30L. Keep in mind, that 1) there are many exceptions to this “rule” and 2) there is no standard backpack liter measurement. One company’s 20L can be another company’s 15L. (Again, get it together, brands!).

You may want a laptop bag that can hold your lunchbox, change of clothes, and go-to encyclopedia as well as your laptop. As we mentioned earlier, larger capacities do tend to make for more versatile bags, but they can be a pain to carry around.

Or, you may want a laptop bag that will hold a laptop, a pen, and nothing else. If that’s the case, you could probably even size down to an 8L bag. Smaller laptop bags tend to be easier to lug around and can work as lightweight daypacks when you want to carry a little more than your pockets allow. But, if you ever do need to haul your go-to encyclopedia to work, you may run into problems.

We probably don’t need to tell you that aesthetic is a key factor when it comes to choosing a laptop bag. You’ll likely use it frequently—maybe even daily—so you should love how it looks. Luckily, there are so many high-quality laptop bags that you should be able to find one that’s not only your style but also durable with thoughtful organization and adequate laptop protection.

We’re not here to tell you what a fashionable laptop bag looks like—beauty is in the eye of the beholder, after all—but we’ve noticed the most common styles you’re likely to come across, including:

• Business Casual (the bag version of a button-down and khakis)
• Classic (a slightly elevated version of your elementary school bag)
• Fashion/Slick

Materials, Durability, & Craftsmanship

We suggest investing in a bag that’s made from high-quality materials with excellent craftsmanship. In your search for a laptop bag, you’ll probably come across materials like:

• Standard Nylon
• Ballistic Nylon and/or Ripstop Nylon
• Various types of CORDURA® branded fabrics
• Tarpaulin or TPE Fabric Laminate

We’re not going to take a deep dive into all of these fabrics in this guide (check out our Travel Backpack Guide if that’s what you’re looking for.) As a general rule of thumb, Ballistic and Ripstop Nylon as well as CORDURA® branded fabrics are going to be your most durable. Leather and canvas laptop bags look classy and professional, although they’ll be heavier and more susceptible to the elements than the synthetic options. For that reason, we don’t generally recommend them for travel or if your commute involves a lot of walking. But, if you’ll primarily be driving to and from work, a leather or canvas laptop bag could treat you well (and impress your fashionista coworkers). Bags made from Tarpaulin or TPE Fabric Laminate will be highly water-resistant but will also pick up marks and scratches quite easily. Finally, Dyneema and X-Pac provide some nice weather resistance and are typically lighter weight, but they tend to be expensive fabrics.

Of course, the durability of your laptop bag should depend on personal preference and/or how often you’ll be using it. Daily use is going to be tougher on your bag than if you work from home and only go to the neighborhood coffee shop occasionally.

Also, consider zippers and hardware. They may seem like a small thing, but a broken zipper or buckle can render some bags inoperable. Do your best to avoid unbranded zippers and hardware (we’ve had some bad experiences). We’ve had great luck with YKK and Riri. Zoom and SBS zippers are decent, but we’ve generally found them to be less desirable. Duraflex, YKK, Woojin, Nifco, and ITW are all solid brands when it comes to other hardware on bags like buckles and strap-adjustment sliders. Note that zippers come in sizes on a scale from one (small) to ten (large). We’d recommend looking for something above a #5 for all exterior zippers, although #8-#10 will treat you the best. Smaller sizes work fine for internal pockets.

The EVERGOODS CPL28 feels like it has been built to withstand a hurricane. That’s to say, it’s super durable with exceptional craftsmanship. The exterior of the pack is made of some durable stuff—840d ballistic nylon 6 to be exact—that has been finished with a DWR coating for water and abrasion resistance. While the massive zippers can be a little sticky around the corners, they will (probably) last you decades to come. In fact, we wouldn’t be surprised if you passed your EVERGOODS CPL28 down to your favorite grandchild.

You should keep your budget in mind. If you can afford it, we suggest investing in a laptop bag that will last you for years instead of continually needing to replace a cheaper one. In the long run, purchasing a more expensive, yet higher-quality bag will probably save you money. Plus, it’ll have a better environmental impact, keeping broken bags out of the landfill. As the saying goes, “buy nice or buy twice.” Of course, this requires that you have the initial money to invest in a pricier bag, which we understand not everyone has.

Now, keep in mind that expensive doesn’t always translate to durable. Sometimes, you’re paying for style, brand, or clever marketing. A good rule-of-thumb is to look for brands that proudly back their gear with generous warranties. That usually means a brand makes quality products that they’re happy to guarantee. You can also read through our detailed reviews , as we’re dedicated to helping you decide whether or not a bag is worth the money.

The North Face Daypack is a great budget laptop bag as it’s intelligently designed and durable enough, yet clocks in at an affordable price point. It’s solid all around—good harness system, good organization, and good laptop protection. Plus, it’s available in several fun colorways to give your daily routine a splash of style.

A question of the ages: should you carry a laptop messenger, tote, or backpack? Let’s break it down.

Laptop Backpack, Tote, or Messenger? How to Choose the Right Laptop Carry for You.

While searching for the best laptop bag, you’ll probably run into the same modes of carry again and again. There are different pros and cons to each mode—which we’ll discuss below—but it’s also one of those things that’s a personal preference. Maybe you’re a huge fan of tote bags, although you can’t put your finger on why. If that’s the case, don’t let us stop you from buying a tote. You do you.

The Good: First of all, if you haven’t already gathered from what you’ve read thus far, there are a ton of laptop backpacks on the market these days, so, you have a ton to choose from.

Two straps also evenly distribute weight better than a single strap, meaning backpacks are likely going to be more comfortable to carry over long distances than other styles. Additionally, wearing a backpack frees up both of your hands, allowing you to do all sorts of two-handed activities (juggling, miming, and hand-clap games, to name a few). Backpacks can also be more versatile than some of the other options—you can take your laptop backpack on a hike, whereas a laptop briefcase probably won’t hold up so well on the trails.

Compared to some of the other styles in this list, a backpack may look the least professional. Of course, you can find polished and stylish laptop backpacks, but they may not scream “office” as much as a tote or briefcase will. Additionally, backpacks can sometimes feel cumbersome if your commute primarily involves driving; throwing a backpack over your shoulder(s) for a 30-second walk into the office or your house can be annoying. Finally, getting inside a backpack may take a little bit longer than getting inside one of the other bag styles. You can’t just leave the top of the backpack unzipped (unless you want to risk things falling out) like you can with a tote so it may be frustrating if you need to frequently get in and out of it.

The TOM BIHN Daylight Backpack is made of durable materials that should hold up against the test of time (and the company has a great warranty, if not). Plus, it has a decently comfortable harness system. The organization is relatively DIY compared to other TOM BIHN bags, but we don’t mind having the freedom to add pouches to the built-in O-rings. Our main gripe is that, when the main compartment is full, it can be difficult to slide the laptop cache in and out.

You’re probably familiar with the Fjallraven Kanken—at least in look if not in name. This boxy laptop bag is globally popular, but it’s more than a fashion statement. We’ve been testing the Kanken 13″ Laptop Backpack for over three years (!) across three continents (!). Overall, we’ve been impressed with how well it’s been holding up. We’re also digging its super minimal organization, versatility, and how easy it is to grab your laptop. However, the harness system isn’t super comfortable since the straps have minimal padding and there’s no sternum strap (note that the straps on the original Kanken do not have any padding). There are multiple iterations of the Kanken—including a version made of recycled plastic bottles—and multiple sizes, so you can pick up one that suits your needs.

The Osprey Radial has a solid amount of organization and features a specific spot to store a helmet on the outside, making it a great option to consider if you’re into bike commuting. Though it it’s a bit on the larger side and lacks our preferred amount of strap keepers for a backpack you use while cycling, the aerodynamic, sleek design makes riding a breeze and looks good in and out of the saddle. On top of that, the harness system is comfortable and comprehensive, so you’re in good hands.

The Good: Some totes close at the top, while others don’t have a closure at all. Even totes that do close can usually be left open, so they’re a great option if you’re always pawing through your bag. And because of the possibility of an open top, you can stick in longer items whenever the need arises—say if you need to pack a tripod or want to pick up a baguette on your way home. Plus, they’re a step up from a backpack as far as professionalism is concerned. (Of course, you can find an unprofessional tote. We’re speaking in generalizations here.) The handles on a tote are also frequently large enough to toss over your shoulder, so you can have the hands-free carry that we love.

The Bad: Totes can be uncomfortable to carry over long distances or when you load them up with heavy gear. Even well-padded handles can’t stop your shoulder from aching after an hour of lugging your tote around. And, while you can toss those handles over your shoulder for that hands-free carry as we mentioned above, they can easily slip off your shoulder as you walk or bend down. Finally, when it comes to totes that don’t close, it only takes one accident for all of your gear to be splayed all over the ground. So, clumsy folks beware.

The Mission Workshop Drift Tote has a clean, thoughtful design. It feels like the tote’s designers really took their time creating the bag, putting in thoughtful details like the metal key clip and highly water-resistant bottom. There’s a separate laptop compartment for your laptop (duh), which is a nice touch and something you don’t frequently see with laptop totes. The bag itself is large for a tote, meaning you can load it up with a ton of your gear. That said, it will get heavy. Keep in mind that the carry isn’t especially comfortable. While wide, the shoulder strap isn’t well-padded.

If you’re a photographer, videographer, or otherwise like to carry around camera equipment, then you’ll probably like what the Peak Design Everyday Tote 15L (V2) has to offer. You can use the two included FlexFold dividers to customize the tote’s main space to fit your camera or other gear. Plus, the bag is made from durable, weather-resistant materials. However, we do wish that the laptop sleeve had a false bottom and could accommodate laptops over 13’’.

If you’re not familiar, a tote pack is the combination of a tote and a backpack (tote pack, get it?). Basically, it’s a bag that has stowable straps you can pull out whenever you’d like to have a backpack and hide whenever you’d like to have a tote.

The Good: Tote packs combine the professionalism and accessibility of a tote with the comfort of a backpack. You can walk into a meeting with a tote pack in your hands and then when the business talk is over, throw it on your back and ride on home. Getting in and out of them is usually quick and easy, although not as much as with a regular tote.

The Bad: While tote packs are more comfortable to carry long distances than a regular tote, they usually aren’t as comfortable when worn as a backpack. That’s because the harness system often isn’t as robust or breathable. The back panels of tote packs frequently don’t have any air channels or mesh for ventilation (this helps give the bag a clean look, but isn’t ideal if you’re a sweaty person). Moreover, they can also be cumbersome to convert from tote to backpack and back again. This isn’t a huge deal if you don’t need to convert between modes frequently, but it can get annoying if you’re doing it every day.

The Osprey Arcane Tote Pack works well as both a tote and a backpack. While there are no real air channels on the back panel, it has a ribbed texture beneath a layer of mesh that helps with ventilation (something you frequently don’t see with tote packs). The bag has enough space for all the daily essentials—and it expands via a roll-top—although we’re disappointed in the lack of water bottle pockets. Still, the thoughtful design, comfortable carry, and overall durability make the Tote Pack worth considering.

The most sophisticated-looking totepack on our list, the Bellroy Via Workpack will be at home at whatever professional events you have on the docket. That said, its slim design means it’s best to load up the bag with thinner items. The harness system is nice enough for an 18L bag, but there’s nothing particularly fancy going on (no sternum strap, load lifters, mesh, air channels, etc). Of course, this helps the bag look sleek and tidy, but may not be a worthwhile tradeoff for you.

The Peak Design Everyday Totepack 20L has all the same features we’ve come to expect from Peak Design—customizable organization (in the form of FlexFold dividers), a durable build, clever detailing, and a sleek aesthetic. Its exterior also has a good amount of water-resistance. Now, the handles aren’t large enough to toss over your shoulder—you have to carry them in the hand, which is only comfortable for so long. Luckily, it’s quite comfortable to carry as a backpack as the adjustable shoulder straps are anchored to the bag in a way that lets them rotate, so they move with your body.

Messenger Bag

The Good: Typically, messenger bags have been designed for laptop and office gear, meaning they’re usually more mindful of organization and aren’t often too bulky or oversized. They’re also professional. You can easily find messengers sophisticated enough to rock at your law firm. Of course, you can also find more casual messengers.

Though they’re not often as comfortable as a backpack, messenger bags can be enjoyable to carry for short periods. Just look for a well-padded shoulder strap that’s properly anchored to the bag. Some messengers even have an extra stability strap to secure the bag to your body for better weight distribution and security while commuting. Lastly, like a tote, it’s easy to get in and out of a messenger. You can simply reach into your bag hanging at your side instead of swinging a backpack off of one shoulder.

The Bad: Yes, messengers can be comfortable to carry, but they’re still dumping a ton of weight onto just one shoulder, which gets painful with time and can also make you walk unevenly. They’re also generally more unwieldy and less secure than other bags, swinging around when you’re walking or biking. (Unless a messenger bag has a stability strap, it’s not ideal for bike commuting.) Finally, wearing a fully-packed messenger can wrinkle up your shirt, which may impact the professional aesthetic you’re looking to achieve.

The Timbuk2 Closer Laptop Briefcase has an adjustable, well-padded shoulder strap you can throw over one shoulder or crossbody. The bag sits relatively close to your body as you’re wearing it, so it feels secure. All that said, it does not have much structure. Putting a laptop inside helps some, but we don’t like it when a laptop has to act as a bag’s frame sheet. Because of this—and the design of the interior organization—it’s definitely best for lighter loads.

The Tenba DNA 16 Slim Messenger Bag is durable, sleek, and has built-in organization to carry your camera gear (if that’s something you’re into). If you remove the dividers, there’s enough capacity to even act as a travel bag if you’re in need of something for an overnight or two. This brief’s organization makes it easy to keep all of your gear in place so that quick grabs can stay, well, quick.

The Aer Tech Brief stands up on its own (at least in our testing), which is a unique feature for any bag let alone a messenger bag. You can simply pop it by your side at school, work, the coffee shop, wherever. It’s super handy. The organization is on the more detailed side, which may not be your cup of tea. That said, it’s laid out in an intuitive way that’s worked really well for our daily setup. The laptop sleeve is also super padded, offering great protection. Our biggest grievance is with the snap fastener handles, which slow down access.

Alternative:

There are some laptop bags available that don’t fit neatly into the above categories, including hybrid bags that you can carry in multiple ways. We’re not going to take a detailed look at these bags—since they have pros and cons unique to the specific bags—but we wanted to point out that they exist in case you’re less than impressed with the above options.

The Topo Designs Global Briefcase 3-Day is a triple threat—a briefcase, messenger bag, and backpack rolled into one sleek and cheerful profile. The 3-Day name comes into play because the bag has been designed to work as a solid weekender. It has plenty of space—and organization—for everything you need for a long weekend away (well, within reason). We do think the laptop sleeve could be improved as it lacks both substantial padding and a false bottom. As it stands, we suggest using a separate laptop sleeve for proper protection.

The Mystery Ranch 3 Way Briefcase (Expandable) is a briefcase, messenger bag, and backpack, although it has clearly been designed to work as a briefcase first (due to the layout of the pockets). The Rip Zip style of opening on the front compartment is a clever design, allowing you to “rip” open the compartment and access whatever’s inside within seconds. The interior organization is extensive, which may be right up your alley…or not so much. Its expandability also means that it works for quick trips.

Padding is only the beginning.

Choosing a Laptop Bag That Will Protect Your Laptop and Fragile Gear

Arguably, one of the most important aspects of a laptop bag is how well it protects your laptop. Here’s what you should look for:

Padding will protect your laptop from other items in your bag, but our team is split on how important we think padding is. Some of us prefer to stick our laptop in a separate case or sleeve before putting it in a laptop bag, which means it’s not as important to have a heavily padded internal sleeve. Members of the Seperate Laptop Sleeve Club say that they give extra peace-of-mind, plus they’re portable from bag to bag and add protection when you’re carrying the laptop by itself.

On the other hand, some of our team members appreciate laptop bags that feature enough padding that you don’t feel like you need to put your laptop in a separate sleeve and/or case first. These members of the Dedicated Laptop Sleeve Club like bags with consistent, dense padding on all sides of the internal sleeve.

Now, all of us here at Pack Hacker think that an optimal laptop bag has more than just padding. In fact, we think that too much padding can lure you into a false sense of security. So, look out for other security features, which we’ll talk about next.

The NOMATIC Travel Pack 14L has a separate laptop compartment that opens completely flat and features a well-padded laptop sleeve. The thick padding makes it feel like your laptop is cradled inside of a fluffy cloud, and the loop on top keeps it from slipping out. Not only is this great for your expensive machine, but because the laptop compartment is against your back, it makes for a comfortable carry to boot.

False Bottom

A false bottom is exactly what it sounds like—the laptop sleeve or compartment ends before the bottom of the backpack. Basically, it suspends your laptop off the bottom of the bag. Why is this important? Because this means that if your pack hits the ground abruptly, your laptop won’t smack the ground as well, which goes a long way in protecting your tech. Unless you can guarantee that you will never drop your laptop bag—or set it on the ground with a little too much oomph—then you’re going to want a false bottom.

Now, not all false bottoms are created equal. Some laptop sleeves will have a very small one, which is basically like not having it at all. We recommend looking for a false bottom that sits approximately an inch minimum off of the bottom of the bag.

Soft Lining

We appreciate laptop sleeves that feature a soft lining, which will help prevent your laptop from getting scratched up. We don’t think this is as necessary as a false bottom or padding, but it’s just one of those things that’s nice to have. Like one of those mini cocktail umbrellas. Do you need it? No. But is life better with it? Absolutely. The fuzzy lining will protect your laptop from scratches. Plus, it’s just fun to run your fingers over.

Alternative Protection

Some bag brands are starting to get clever with how they design their laptop compartments, going beyond padding and even false bottoms. Brands like Minaal and Tom Bihn have nests and caches respectively that suspend your laptop in the center of the sleeve and are adjustable to the exact size of your laptop. This means that your laptop is not only securely held in place, but lifted away from all sides of the bag, which adds protection no matter what angle you drop your bag at.

The Minaal Daily 3.0 Bag is a solid pick if you’re looking for a laptop bag with premium protection. Minaal calls its laptop sleeve the “patented DeviceNest™ shock-proof device sleeve.” Despite this super jargon-y name, this device sleeve is amazing. It securely holds your laptop and tablet in a soft, padded embrace. The sleeve also sits in the center of the compartment, meaning the laptop will be protected on all sides (and regardless of the angle you drop it from). Plus, it’s adjustable, so you can ensure your laptop is being held firmly.

Weather Resistance

A little bit of weather and water resistance is nice to have—after all, laptops + water = not a good time (to put it lightly). But you don’t need anything overkill. We tend to look for bags that are weather-resistant and designed to hold up in ordinary inclement weather (think rain shower, not hurricane). Note that we said weather- resistant , which is not the same thing as waterproof . You can find both—and there’s a big difference between them!

If you plan to go whitewater rafting with your laptop bag—maybe that’s your commute?—then you’ll want a waterproof bag. Most people should be okay with a water-resistant laptop bag as opposed to a completely waterproof bag. Here’s what to look for when scrutinizing a laptop bag’s weather-resistance:

Coatings Weather resistance is almost always achieved through some kind of coating. Whether that be a DWR (durable water repellent) coating, waxed canvas, polyurethane, or something else. These coatings will wear off with time, reducing the water resistance of your bag, but there are some things you can do to help with longevity. These care tips differ from coating to coating, so be sure to look into the specific care tips of your bag—and follow them!

You will also find bags with covered zippers (i.e. there’s a strip of fabric over the zipper track), called a fabric welt, which gives the bag more water protection.

Roll-Tops As zippers tend to be the first place water will leak through a bag, choosing a laptop bag with a roll top will help add water resistance to that compartment (as long as the fabric is weather-resistant too). Keep in mind that a roll top backpack isn’t as quick to get in and out of as traditional zippered compartments.

Rain Shells Some laptop bags may include a packable rain shell that you can throw over your bag when you need serious weather protection. They’re usually small enough to stick in your bag on the daily, which comes in handy if you get caught in a storm on the way home from work. Looking for a laptop bag with a rain shell—or buying one separately—is great if you need hefty water protection sometimes, but not always. If you walk to work every day, but live in a climate that rarely has inclement weather (lucky you!), you may want to look for something with additional weatherproofing as we mentioned above.

If you’re looking for a laptop bag that’s highly weather-resistant then the Timbuk2 Parker Commuter should be on your radar. To get technical for a second, the main exterior is polyethylene vinyl acetate. Rain will simply bead and run off of this material. Plus, there’s also welted fabric over the zipper of the main compartment for even more water resistance. If that’s not enough—say you frequently bike to work in the rain— the pack comes with a rainfly, which tucks away into a zippered compartment at the bottom of the pack.

Hint: It’s somewhere between 0 pockets and 1,000.

Finding the Best Laptop Bag Organization for You

As gear reviewers, we’ve concluded that organization is personal, like how you take your coffee (or don’t). You may like a laptop bag with large, empty compartments, or you may like to have a spot for everything. Even our team differs.

Laptop bags run the gamut of organization—simple, complex, or anything in between. Plus, you can find bags with exterior organization if that’s your thing. But beyond how much organization a bag has, there’s the question on how easy said organization is to access. There’s a lot to unpack here, so let’s break it down.

Interior Organization

Simple As we mentioned oh-so-long ago (read: toward the beginning of this guide), bags with simple organization tend to be more versatile. You aren’t limited by all of the pockets and can use the bag for travel, picnicking, carrying around your rock collection, etc.

These bags also allow you to take organization into your own hands by utilizing packing cubes and pouches. You can get as intense as you want here, organizing your gear in color-coded pouches that you evenly distribute throughout the various compartments in your bag, or just throw most of your gear into one pouch, toss it in the main compartment, and call it a day. Plus, you can take the whole thing out of your laptop bag and keep it on your desk for easy access too all your tech.

While there is some organization inside of the GORUCK GR2, the main compartment is basically one giant bucket. There’s a ton of space to throw tech pouches or additional organizational systems, so you can customize to your heart’s content. We’re also digging the MOLLE webbing, which makes it easy to store your stuff. But, keep in mind, smaller things may disappear into the Bottom of the Backpack Blackhole (a.k.a fall to the compartment’s bottom never to be seen again).

Modular Some bags make it super easy to customize your organization, going beyond simply having empty compartments where you can dump accessory pouches. You’ll see things like hooks where you can attach a MOLLE panel to strips of velcro to connect sold-separately organizers to dividers you can fold up to create a unique interior layout. Another example comes from the brand Tom Bihn. The folks there put O-rings in most of their bags— a lot of O-rings—so you can create a complex organizational system with pouches and other accessories. Note that most brands who design bags with modular organizational systems sell accessories and pouches they think would work inside the bag.

While these bags are great if you want to really optimize your organizational setup, they aren’t as cost-effective as having a bag with built-in organization already. Plus, you’ll have to put a lot of time and thought in to creating your modular system.

The Tom Bihn Cadet is as durable, well-constructed, and intelligently designed as most Tom Bihn gear. It’s a minimalist bag designed to fit your laptop and some daily essentials…and not much more. It also features O-rings for some customizable organization. The carry is relatively comfortable—you can wear it over one shoulder, crossbody, or hold the handles—but you should upgrade to the Absolute Strap if you’re looking for some primo comfort. Our main gripe with the Cadet is that the laptop compartment does not have a false bottom.

Complex You may prefer more organization if you like to have a dedicated spot for all of your gear, including notebooks, pens, and love letters from your crush. If you opt for a laptop bag with a more robust amount of organization, then you don’t need to buy tech pouches separately, which can be more cost-effective. It’s also nice when bag companies do all of the thinking for you. The organization is already there; you don’t have to think about it and plan a system of your own.

Note that the organization inside of these laptop bags has been designed for the average person (and thus for average gear). It’s great at organizing pens and notebooks. But if you carry things that vary in size and shape from product to product, like a battery bank, you may feel limited by built-in organization.

The two front compartments of the Pacsafe Metrosafe LS450 Anti-Theft Backpack feature several pockets to help you organize your tech gear. There are pen holders, zippered mesh pockets for cords and chargers, liner pockets, and more. All in all, it has a pocket for all the “typical” EDC gear (including a laptop and tablet, of course) while leaving the rest of the backpack open to pack as you please.

All that said, most people will probably want organization that’s somewhere between simple and complicated with a few specific pockets, but nothing over the top.

Exterior Organization

Some people prefer bags that have a more minimal, sleek look without much going on externally, while others don’t care about that clean aesthetic and prioritize external pockets or attachment points for quick-and-easy access. External attachment points also allow you to carry gear externally that you wouldn’t want to put inside your bag, like a rain jacket, which could get all of your other stuff wet.

Your use-case comes into play here. Do you have a long commute on a bus or train? If so, you might want more external pockets to be able to quickly grab a book or a snack. Do you walk to work? You might appreciate having easy access to water via external water bottle pockets. Do you frequently find yourself outside while it’s raining? Keep an eye out for external attachment points.

The external bungee cord that stretches across the face of the North Face Borealis backpack is perfect for lashing on additional gear you don’t want to carry inside the bag. You can tie a handkerchief to it (for those days on the trail), tuck a rain jacket beneath it, or use a carabiner to attach a good luck charm. It also stays flat against the bag whenever you don’t need it. On either side of this bungee system, you’ll find daisy chains to attach any gear you want to keep close by. There’s also a bonus attachment point at the bottom of the bag to secure a bike light. Finally, the bag also features two external water bottle pockets, which are stretchy enough to accommodate oversized bottles (and a great place to stash snacks).

You’re likely going to be accessing the laptop sleeve/compartment at least twice a day, so it’s worth paying attention to how easy it is to get to. We prefer quick access because time is money and all that. Plus, it’s just a huge hassle to have to work your laptop around tough angles or annoying straps.

You’ll usually find one of two things: the laptop sleeve is inside the main compartment or the laptop sleeve in its own compartment accessible from the outside of the bag. Let’s take a closer look.

Laptop inside the main compartment First of all, you need to consider how easy it is to get inside the main compartment. Are there compression straps that block the zipper? Rounded edges that make it difficult to zip a square laptop inside? Roll tops will slow down access, although they add water-resistance and expandability, as we mentioned earlier.

Additionally, look for side access points that give you direct access to the laptop sleeve in addition to the top access via the main compartment. We’re fans of secondary access points as they make it easy to quickly grab your laptop. Plus, you don’t have to sort through all your stuff to get to it.

Next, look at the laptop sleeve itself. Is it tight to the back compartment? Does it close with a buckle, velcro, or magnets? A closure may help keep your tech firmly in place, but it will take longer to grab if there’s a flap in the way.

We know that these may seem like small details, but they matter. Put on your glasses, pull out your calculator, and let’s do some math. Let’s say it takes 15 extra seconds to grab and put away your laptop because of a quirk in the design. If you access and put away your laptop twice a day that’s 15 x 2 = 30 seconds per day. Multiply that by 5 days a week = 150 seconds per week. Multiply that by 50 weeks—taking into account two weeks of vacation— and you get 7,500 seconds. That’s a lot of seconds, people! Not to mention all the frustration it will cause you.

Laptop inside its own compartment With a dedicated compartment, never again will you have to slowly and discreetly unpack your random assortment of gear onto the floor of a coffee shop while trying to grab your laptop from its interior sleeve (or is that just us?). And you can easily slide the laptop into its compartment while the rest of the bag is stuffed to the brim. What we’re trying to say is that we’re usually fans of laptop bags that have a dedicated laptop compartment.

The way these compartments are implemented on bags differs from company to company, of course. Some are designed only to fit a laptop, while others have a little more room and bill themselves as a “tech compartment.”

Be sure to look at the access to this compartment. Can you get to the compartment from the top, side, or both? This seems like a small thing, but it matters in context. Take plane travel, for example. Side access will be annoying if you frequently fly. That’s because if your bag is underneath the seat in front of you, you’ll have to fully pull it out to grab your laptop—a problem you wouldn’t have with top access.

The laptop compartment in the Tom Bihn Synik is accessible from both the top and side. The top access is great if you’re pulling the bag from under your airplane or bus seat, especially if you’re a bit constrained in a middle seat. But the side access is great when you want to quickly and easily grab your laptop. We’ve found that laptops glide in and out of this side access oh-so smoothly. Plus, the entire pocket is lined with a lightly-padded mesh material.

Look for a bright lining

Regardless of whether or not a laptop sleeve is in its own compartment, we appreciate laptop bags that have bright interior linings.

A bright lining really “turns on the lights” inside of a bag, helping you see what’s going on (anyone else start singing Marvin Gaye? No?). These linings are particularly helpful with bags like roll tops that can often become a deep, dark pit of gear.

In true Topo Designs fashion, the interior of the Topo Designs Rover Pack Tech is a cheery, neon yellow that helps with visibility (and style, of course!). This yellow liner really allows you to see the gear you’ve tossed inside your bag, so you don’t waste valuable seconds looking for whatever it is you need.

That’s a wrap, folks.

Congratulations. You’re Ready to Choose the Best Laptop Bag for You!

Phew , you’ve made it to the end of our guide. Congratulations on becoming an official laptop bag expert! Hopefully you know enough to go out into the world and find the best laptop bag for you. If you do find The One, snap a picture and tag us @packhacker on Instagram . If you haven’t already guessed, we love looking at and obsessing over bags. And if you need more information, be sure to check out our gear reviews and Youtube channel .

We’d like to close by reminding you that there is no such thing as the best laptop bag. Remember, it all comes down to personal preference and use-case. Of course, you’ll also want to assess quality, laptop protection, and organization (which is why we wrote this guide in the first place.) So, good luck, and happy shopping!

Author: Tom Wahlin

Tom has lived out of a 40L backpack for 2 years of travel, helping him learn what to pack and what to leave behind. His top achievements include designing for Apple and eating large quantities of ramen (ongoing).

15 best laptop travel bags & backpacks for 2024

As someone who is lucky to be able to work from anywhere in the world, I understand the importance of having a good laptop travel bag.

Finding the right laptop travel bag for your needs and individual style can be tricky – but my guide is here to make light work of carrying everything you need.

Whether you want a travel laptop backpack for a one-off business trip or would like to find a bag to use on a daily basis, I’m sure that the one for you will be listed here somewhere. 

From Scandi-style, sporty backpacks to businesslike briefcases or comfortable, geek-chic messenger bags, I’ve picked out 15 of the best laptop travel bags.

There’s something here for everyone, no matter how big or small your budget is. Nor what sort of style or colour appeals to you most. 

Continue reading to discover the best laptop bags and backpacks for travel, based on my own personal favourites and recommendations from fellow travellers.

Author Bio: Jessie Moore

Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

1. Nordace Siena backpack

Best for: A glamorous look

Buy here: Amazon

If subtle colours are your thing, then you’ll love the Nordace Siena. This backpack comes in pastel shades of blue or pink, or you can choose a gorgeous gold for a more glamorous look. 

I love the rectangular look and the beauty of this pack is more than skin deep. It’s got a 19 litre capacity to hold all you need. There’s also adjustable ergonomic shoulder straps and an anti-theft rear pocket. 

2. Solo Duane Convertible Briefcase

Best for: A convertible briefcase

Buy here: John Lewis , Amazon

When you’d prefer a travel laptop bag that isn’t a backpack at all, this convertible briefcase style bag is perfect. I like that it can look nothing like a backpack, yet can be converted to one whenever you like for easy carrying. 

This briefcase bag has compartments for a tablet and a laptop that’s up to 15.6 inches in size, and has a spacious storage compartment for stationery, cables, books and so on. There’s also a couple of handy exterior pockets for smaller items. 

3. Timbuk2 Division Laptop Backpack 

Best for: Reflective detailing

If you want to ensure you’re seen when heading home from work, the airport or the gym after dark, then you’ll appreciate the reflective trim on this Timbuk2 Division backpack. It’s another contender as the best travel laptop backpack with a water bottle pocket too. 

Compression straps to the outer give this backpack a streamlined look even when it’s full to the brim. While the design means it looks equally at home in the boardroom or when you’re taking a break away from work and everyday life. 

4. Antler Chelsea backpack

Best for: Suitcase compatibility

Buy here: Antler , John Lewis , Amazon

This travel bag with a laptop compartment comes from one of the best brands in the business. I’m a big fan of Antler, as they manage to make practical bags look impossibly stylish.

It comes in a range of neutral and stylish colours, and has a sleeve for placing it over a rolling case with a telescopic handle.

Other great features include a water bottle pocket, a front section with a key clip and card slots, a 16.5 inch laptop sleeve and compression straps to help you pack neatly. 

5. Rains Backpack Mini 

Best for: Wet weather

There’s a good reason why this Rains backpack is so-called. These waterproof travel bags for laptops are ideal for protecting your precious tech during wet weather.

If, like me, you can’t bear to be parted from your smartphone, you’ll be pleased to know that there’s a quick access pocket to store this safely in. 

A selection of colours are available, including some subtle, slightly shimmery metallic shades. This one can accommodate a 13 or 15 inch laptop. 

6. Herschel Supply Unisex Tech Daypack Backpack

Best for: Slick minimalism

If you want a laptop travel bag for all occasions, I’d really recommend this top quality one from Herschel as a great place to start. It’s sleek, with a minimalist look that is equally suited to leisure or business travel.

A smart pinstripe lining ensures it’s never dull, and it has a soft grab handle to the top as well as backpack straps. 

This travel laptop backpack comes in several colours and has some great practical features. These include a front section with key clips and organisational pockets, plus cases for a 16 inch tablet and a laptop. 

7. Fjallraven Unisex Kånken Laptop 17″ backpack

Best for: Sporty types

For a more sporty look, I’d recommend this Scandi-style laptop backpack from Fjallraven. It’s ideally suited to everyday activities, and has a more casual look than other laptop travel bags. You can go monochrome with this one, or add a pop of bold colour. 

You can carry this Fjallraven backpack via twin grab handles at the top or the backpack straps. Weighing only half a kilo, this is a lightweight, casual and classic choice that’s ideal for active types. 

8. Harber London Slim Leather Folio Laptop Case No. 7

Best for: City slickers

You don’t have to carry your laptop around in a backpack or briefcase. Instead, a smart real leather folio case could be just the (travel) ticket – I adore the sleek, sophisticated look of this option.

Available in tan, black, navy or a delicious shade of chocolate brown, this is the ideal solution for city slickers. 

This is one classy case, being made in Spain by skilled craftspersons. It has anti-snag teeth on the zipper to protect items like a silk scarf, and has a felt lining for added laptop protection and padding. 

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9. AmazonBasics Shoulder Bag Carrying Case 

Best for: Budget buy

When you want a men’s or women’s travel laptop bag on a budget, this one from AmazonBasics does everything you need it to and more. It comes in classic black, and a range of sizes so you can fit your tech inside snugly. 

You can carry this as a shoulder bag or briefcase, and the 600 denier polyester gives adequate protection for your computer. Plenty of pockets for storage might just seal the deal.

10. Estarer Laptop Messenger Bag 17 -17.3 Inch

Best for: An industrial look

If you prefer more of an industrial look, this messenger bag from Estarer aims to please. It’s available in cool or deeper grey with tan leather-look trim. The large laptop section can accommodate a computer up to 17.3 inches in size. 

You can wear this bag cross-body style, which is the more ergonomic choice, or grab it on the move for carrying via the shoulder strap. I love that there are plenty of pockets here for organising everything from your passport or business cards to a water bottle. 

11. BanGe Business Smart Backpack

Best for: Withstanding scuffs

Laptop bags that can withstand a few knocks and scrapes don’t come any better than this BanGe backpack. The tough outer shell is both waterproof and abrasion resistant, and it offers lots of space for larger and smaller items. 

This bag is also set up for charging via USB, and has a sleeve for securing it onto your main suitcase while waiting at the airport. It’s available in contemporary grey or classic black. 

12. AmazonBasics Laptop and Tablet Case, Black

Best for: Affordable versatility

Another top option from AmazonBasics is this tablet and laptop case. This one is also very affordable, and is styled like a messenger bag and briefcase in one. Two sizes are available. 

There is a strap here for attaching the bag to your main luggage, and you can also remove the shoulder strap when required.

It’s lightweight yet practical and tough, and looks the part whether you’re a student or on your way to the boardroom. 

13. LANDICI Laptop Bag Carry case 

Best for: All the colours

If you want to get hold of a bag for your laptop in your favourite hue, then I’d suggest looking at this one first. It comes in pink, blue, red and purple as well as monochrome shades, and also has a very attractive price tag. 

The bag has a scratch resistant finish, and comes with a padded laptop sleeve to protect costly equipment. There’s also a range of inner and outer pockets and compartments, providing great storage for all your things – making this one of the best travel laptop bags available.

14. New Crew Backpack 22

Best for: Multi-tasking

Buy here: Lulu Lemon

The 22 litre backpack from New Crew makes the perfect laptop travel case. It comes in smart shades of silver, caramel or black.

I think its design is really clever as it’s been made to take along all you need for the day – from your laptop to your gym kit and a water bottle. 

The handy compartments and pockets include a padded laptop sleeve, a large interior section, a water bottle pocket and an outer pocket for items you need to grab on the go.

Why buy a bag for occasional use when you could get one to see you through everyday life? 

15. Targus Classic Clamshell Business Travel Laptop Bag

Best for: Affordable luxury

This slick travel laptop bag is among the best laptop bags for business travel or leisure trips. Yet again, the affordable price tag comes as a pleasant surprise.

It looks and works like something more expensive, and has an inside strap to secure your laptop in place while on the move. 

The Targus clamshell bag is great when you need to find items quickly, as there are different sized storage pockets within for storing all your kit.

It comes with an adjustable, detachable shoulder strap and a trolley strap for securing to a suitcase. The padding also provides plenty of protection for your laptop. 

If you have any travel laptop bag favourites of your own, do let me know in the comments. In the market for a new laptop? Read my guide to the best travel laptops .

Jessie is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

Find me on: Web | Instagram

Pocket Wanderings is a luxury travel and lifestyle brand run by London-based content creator, Jessie Moore. Here you’ll find a community of fellow wanderlusters and adventurers.

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The 13 Best Laptop Backpacks To Buy for Travel in 2024

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Table of Contents

Things to consider when buying a laptop backpack, the 13 best laptop backpacks for travel, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

In order to safely transport your laptop from place to place, you need a protective vessel that not only works hard to keep your tech safe but is also comfortable to carry around with you.

Backpacks are the preferred bag type of students, commuters, and frequent flyers. Finding one that will fit your laptop as well as your day-to-day belongings will make travel just a little bit easier.

The size of your backpack should be large enough to comfortably accommodate your laptop and accessories, yet small enough to fit in an overhead bin.

Internal compartments should be roomy enough to fit not just your laptop and charger, but also all your vital necessities, including your wallet , cell phone, glasses, keys, and all the other things you rely on, to prevent you from needing to carry yet another purse or shoulder bag with you.

The size of your laptop will dictate the size of your backpack. Laptop backpacks have a dedicated, padded compartment to slip your laptop into, so it’s important to make sure that the pocket is large enough to fit your laptop.

Standard size dimensions include 15-, 16-, and 17-inch laptop compartments. The thickness of your laptop can make a difference in whether or not it fits, so be sure to take that into account.

Because laptops and all of their necessary paraphernalia can be heavy to carry around, your laptop backpack needs to be as lightweight as possible.

You want to be able to work on the move, but not be so weighed down that you suffer back strain while getting there. Laptops are designed to be portable, so the backpack that you carry it in should be easy and comfortable to carry as well.

Material and Durability

The level of protection your laptop backpack offers is one of the most vital aspects of its purpose. Your laptop needs protection not just from knocks and drops, but also from wet weather.

Some of the very best laptop backpacks on the market are made using waterproof (or at least water-resistant) material that will protect your laptop from the elements and is easy to clean.

Make sure that the material your laptop backpack is made out of is durable, resistant to abrasions, and won’t rip or tear, leaving your laptop vulnerable to the outside.

Meshed backs, curved back systems, and padded through-flows are also useful backpack design features that stop you from getting a sweaty back when carrying your backpack for long periods of time or in hot weather.

Handles and Straps

The beauty of a backpack is that it leaves your hands free for carrying coffee, checking social media on your phone, or holding on to your plane ticket. It’s essential that your backpack have strong, durable straps that will carry all the weight you put in it without tiring out your shoulders.

Comfort is also key.  Handles and straps should sit comfortably on your shoulders. They should be able to carry the weight of the bag with ease and not start to come loose or strain at the seams.

Backpack straps and handles should also be adjustable so you can find the most comfortable position that doesn’t cause back strain.

Laptop Compartment and Pockets

A superb laptop backpack should have multiple pockets and spaces to store all of your items.

The laptop compartment itself must be well-padded to ensure that your device is kept safe from knocks and damage at all times.

Additional pockets should be carefully devised to ensure that they can hold your chargers and cables without squashing or tangling them. There should also be a good variety of internal pockets that can be zipped up tight to keep USB sticks and other peripherals safe.

There should be plenty of room for your wallet, keys, and phone, all kept safely away from the laptop compartment to avoid scratching or damage as you reach in to grab what you need.

Smart Luggage

When it was first invented, smart luggage was considered to be the most exciting thing to happen in the world of carry-on bags . Cabin bags and laptop cases fitted with this type of technology were a real game-changer.

That was until airlines banned them due to the risk of carrying lithium batteries on packed commuter flights.

You can still take your smart luggage into the cabin, but there are very strict rules that apply. You must be able to remove the battery from the smart luggage in case it needs to be checked. This news may change your mind about paying the extra dollar for these handy features.

But fear not, dear flyer, for there are plenty of excellent laptop backpacks on the market without lithium batteries that will keep your beloved laptop safe and sound while you travel.

While there are many, many laptop backpacks on the market to choose from, only a few of them really make the grade. Here are some of our favorites.

1. Best for Frequent Flyers

• Swissgear Travel Gear 1900 Scansmart TSA Laptop Backpack

Weight: 3.3 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 9 x 18.5 x 13.5 inches

Made from superior quality, durable, and weather-resistant 1200D ballistic polyester, the Scansmart from Swissgear offers lie-flat technology to protect up to 17-inch laptops when traveling.

For your convenience, the easy-open compartments are designed to ensure hassle-free, laptop-in-bag TSA scans.

The main laptop compartment is easy to access and is separated from the additional iPad or tablet pocket. Both are fully padded and lined with scratch-free, soft material to help avoid damage during transit.

An additional large U-zip pocket on the front is perfect for keeping all of your pens, notebooks, wallet , and keys safe and within easy reach. The contoured shoulder straps are easily adjustable and the mesh panel with Airflow ventilation prevents sweating.

Packed full of useful features, this backpack not only performs well but also looks professional.

If you’re looking for a quality backpack to carry your laptop from one place to another, this a great option for frequent flyers who want to keep their tech safe and secure wherever they may be.

What We Like

• Can leave your laptop inside your bag going through airport security

What We Don’t Like

• No chest strap for extra support

2. Best for Those Who Want To Travel in Style

• Incase Icon Pack

Weight:  2.8 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 13 x 9 x 19 inches

This design-conscious laptop backpack is made from patented Woolenex, abrasion-resistant fabric that’s woven from 2 different thicknesses of polyester fiber.

Durable and weather-resistant, this backpack looks chic and understated, while offering practical and versatile storage options.

The main compartment is large enough to carry a 16-inch MacBook, while the front pocket offers just the right size storage for your iPad or tablet.

Both compartments are padded and offer plenty of protection for your most valued devices, as well as being lined with soft, velour-like material that will keep your screens scratch-free wherever you take them.

In terms of extras, there’s a multitude of storage pockets and zippered compartments that are designed to keep all of your day-to-day necessities safe by your side.

There are even 2 side-access pockets that make it easy to get what you need without taking the backpack completely off. A pocket also features a headphone cable hole for easy listening on the go.

The stylish, minimalist design is low-key and label-free, meaning that you can safely carry around your expensive equipment without drawing too much attention to yourself.

• Headphone cable pocket
• Zippers are not water-resistant

3. Best for the Born Organizer

• Timbuk2 – The Authority Pack

Weight:  2.4 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 11.4 x 18.1 x 5.9 inches

If you’re the kind of traveler who needs to take a lot of stuff with you, then this is the perfect laptop backpack for you.

Designed to comfortably carry all of your office necessities, this strong, durable, and well-thought-out backpack has plenty of room to accommodate your laptop and lots of extra items with ease.

The Authority Pack from Timbuk2 has strong adjustable straps that can be adjusted to suit your height and width, and a grab handle for easy lifting and carrying.

The fabric is designed to not only keep your gear safe and well-protected from the elements, but also to prevent sweating.

With the main compartment that can hold up to a 17-inch laptop and a wealth of additional pockets, you’ll be able to take everything you need on the road.

It also offers a neoprene water bottle pocket, compression straps (that also add a useful hanging function), a dedicated key keeper fob so you’ll never lose your keys in the bottom again, and internal pockets perfectly sized for cell phones, pens, chargers, and cables.

Whatever you’re taking with you, The Authority Pack backpack has the perfect space to keep it safe.

• Rear-positioned laptop for weight balancing
• Backpack straps are a little short

4. Best for the Everyday Commuter

Thule Subterra Daypack 25L

Weight:  2.18 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 13 x 11 x 18.5 inches

The Subterra Daypack from sports luggage giant Thule is perfect for those who want to combine the sporting life with the everyday commute.

Made from the highest quality materials, the quick access compartment is large enough to hold a 15-inch MacBook as well as your iPad or tablet. This backpack also offers superior bumper protection with a soft, snuggly lining and 2-way access through the top-loading compartment or side zipper.

A useful addition to the Subterra backpack is the patented SafeZone compartment that can hold your sunglasses, smartphone, or other fragile items and can be removed for carrying separately.

There’s also a quick-access front pocket that expands to hold your charging cables or power bank , as well as a hidden vertical pocket that’s perfect for your headphones or wallet and includes a clip for keeping your keys safe.

Made from strong, durable nylon with the subtle Thule branding, this backpack is a good choice for those looking for practical and protective storage for everyday journeys.

Whether you’re traveling to work, the airport, or somewhere else entirely, this is a good-size backpack that will protect your laptop and stow everything else you need for the hard day’s work ahead.

• Molded side pocket to protect valuable items such as a cell phone or sunglasses
• Straps don’t tighten that much for smaller people

5. Best for the Money-conscious Laptop Owner

Solo Duane 15.6 Inch Laptop Hybrid Briefcase, Converts to Backpack

Weight: 2.05 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 12.5 x 5.5 x 17.3 inches

This laptop backpack may look like a simple backpack, but the hidden, convertible straps can instantly transform it into a briefcase. This unique function makes the Solo Duane perfect for business travelers who like the convenience of a backpack but the professional look of a briefcase.

The interior is roomy and well-padded. The dedicated laptop compartment will hold any of the most popular devices measuring up to 15.6-inches — including MacBooks, laptops, and Chromebooks. There’s also a dedicated pocket for keeping your iPad, tablet, or e-reader safe during transit.

There are plenty of additional storage compartments, including a large exterior pocket that can comfortably hold your charging cables, and 2 quick-access front pockets for phones, keys, wallets, and credit cards .

For the price you pay, this backpack is an absolute bargain! With plenty of space to hold everything you need to work or study, the price is right on point.

Complete with a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty , this backpack is great for a professional looking to impress, students who are serious about school work, or those who want an affordable laptop bag they can rely on.

• 3 different options to carry this bag
• No water bottle pocket

6. Best for the Security Conscious Traveler

• Mancro Slim Backpack with USB Charging Port

Weight: 1.5 pounds

Overall Dimensions:  20 x 14 x 8 inches

This functional backpack offers really useful security protection for your laptop and your cards, including an anti-theft metal shackle and RFID-blocking compartments to keep your belongings safe from fraudulent use.

The dedicated laptop compartment fits up to a 17-inch laptop, while there’s a separate spacious compartment suitable for iPads and other tablets.

Made from durable, water-resistant polyester with metal zippers, the Manco Slim backpack is perfect for business users, commuters, or students. Another bonus is the built-in USB charger and charging cable which means you can charge your phone when you’re on the go.

The padded shoulder straps make this bag incredibly comfortable to carry on your back, and the grab handle is perfect for quick movements while on the go. The slim design makes it a good-looking piece that will also keep your laptop safe and secure wherever you are.

There’s plenty of space to carry everything you need on a daily basis, and the affordable price makes this a great addition to your travel gear.

• RFID-blocking compartments to prevent identity theft
• Not much space for other items with a laptop in the main compartment

7. A Clever Use of Space in a Sleek Design

eBags Professional Slim Laptop Backpack

Overall Dimensions: 8.5 x 18 x 12.8 inches

eBags is known for its clever use of space and the Professional Slim Laptop Backpack is no exception.

With a wealth of handy compartments and clever features, you’ll never be short of usable space with this strong, durable, and practical laptop backpack.

Made from twisted-poly fabric, the streamlined shape, and sophisticated design make this perfect for day-to-day use. The vented Airmesh back panel and contoured straps make this backpack super comfortable to carry around. The crush-proof pocket will keep your charger and other peripherals safe.

The dedicated laptop compartment will fit up to a 17-inch laptop, and the separate tablet pocket will also keep your entertainment gear safe on the move.

There are plenty of additional pockets for key chains, business cards, pens, and even a patented removable, crush-proof case that allows you to keep your cables safe no matter what . Genius!

If you’re not carrying something fragile, simply remove the crush-proof case and you have more space in the main pocket for large items — and you still have your laptop compartment free for a large laptop.

The slim design makes this backpack super easy to keep by your side at all times, and will help relieve the dreaded separation anxiety of worrying where your laptop is when you’re on the move.

At work or even while you travel, this slim backpack from eBags has got your back.

• Colorful internal lining helps to locate items quickly
• Quite a heavy backpack

8. The Laptop Backpack Designed Specifically for Women

The North Face Recon Backpack

Weight: 2.6 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 18.9 x 10.8 x 7.5 inches

Not only does The North Face make fantastic gear for intrepid explorers, but it also make pretty decent laptop luggage, too. This particular model would be as at home on a commuter train as it would be on a mountain top.

Designed specifically to suit the female frame, the shoulder straps, sternum strap, and hip belt are all adjustable.

When it comes to internal storage, the Recon offers a large main compartment that’s perfect for stashing books, folders, and other important documents, while the front compartment has a padded sleeve that can hold a small laptop.

There’s also a fleece-lined pocket for your sunglasses or phone, an extendable mesh water bottle holder, and added lash points. This backpack can be used as a laptop bag or just a regular backpack depending on your needs.

Made from high-grade nylon, the Recon boasts a range of features that are standard across The North Face line, including the patented FlexVent suspension system, a padded mesh back panel, and a highly breathable lumbar panel for increased airflow around your body as you travel.

• Comfortable and breathable back panel
• Backpack doesn’t stand up by itself

9. A Comfortable and Lightweight Backpack

Incase Compass Backpack with Flight Nylon

Weight: 1.9 pounds

Overall Dimensions:  11.75 x 18 x 5.25 inches

Updated to use flight nylon, the Compass Backpack from Incase is designed to be compact and incredibly practical. You can fit up to a 15-inch MacBook Pro in the laptop compartment at the rear to ensure comfortable weight distribution on your back.

The double zippers allow you to open the main compartment only as far as you need , without risking any of your belongings falling out. Inside are a variety of internal compartments to keep all your day-to-day paraphernalia safe and sound, as well as a couple of quick-access pockets on the outside.

The backpack is made from premium lightweight flight nylon, meaning the bag is durable but won’t take up much of your weight allowance . The padded back panel and straps allow for comfortable and stable carrying wherever you’re headed.

The many different internal compartments provide the perfect hideaways for your keys, cards, cell phone, and books or documents. Whether you’re traveling for business, study, or just for fun, the Incase Compass Backpack  is good to go, whatever you need it for.

• Double zippers for easy access
• No sternum strap to alleviate the weight on your shoulders

10. A Savvy Budget Option

Travel Laptop Backpack by Matein

Weight: 1.56 pounds

Overall Dimensions:  18 x 12 x 7.8 inches

Made from water-resistant, durable polyester fabric, this travel laptop backpack is great for laptop users on a budget.

With lots of lovely storage pockets and a separate laptop compartment, you can carry around your daily necessities with ease. What’s more, the comfortable airflow design with multi-panel ventilated padding makes this laptop back super comfortable to carry at all times.

The laptop sleeve comes with enough space to hold up to a 15.6-inch laptop. This backpack also comes with a cleverly designed, anti-theft pocket on the back of the bag so you can keep your valuables close and protected from theft.

Perhaps the most useful function of this particular backpack is the built-in USB charger and charging cable.

Attach your backpack to your rolling luggage using the back strap so moving through airports is a cinch. You can even tuck this bag under the seat in front of you, so there’s no need to worry about putting it in the overhead compartment.

Compact and well-designed, this is a great backpack for the price you pay.

• Lots of internal pockets to stay organized
• No bottom padding beneath the laptop compartment

11. For Those Who Have a Lot To Take With Them

Everki Atlas Business Laptop Backpack

Weight: 4 pounds

Overall Dimensions:  13.4 x 9.1 x 18.9 inches

This supercool laptop backpack benefits from a ton of extra features, making it perfect for anyone who needs to take a lot of stuff with them. Made using high-quality materials, your equipment will be well-protected wherever you may go.

Large enough for any adventure, this backpack will comfortably hold laptops from 13- to 17.3-inches in size , in the adjustable padded and felt-lined compartment that opens a full 180 degrees for easy access at airport security checkpoints .

Even when it’s fully loaded, the 5-point strap system means that this backpack is always comfortable to carry.

Aside from the main spacious storage area, there are also large, zippered pockets that are perfect for holding your iPad, tablet, or e-reader, as well as plenty of extra space for stashing your business cards, writing utensils, and other daily accessories you may need. There’s even a separate small stowaway pocket that’s perfect for storing your phone.

An investment piece for sure, but this is a great backpack that offers excellent protection for your laptop, as well as plenty of extra storage space for anything else you could want to take with you .

• Checkpoint-friendly compartment that opens 180-degrees
• Side pockets don’t fit a tall water bottle

12. For the Value Happy Traveler

AmazonBasics Backpack for Laptops

Weight: 1.98 pounds

Overall Dimensions:  13.39 x 7 x 19.29 inches

This laptop backpack from the AmazonBasics line of products has been cleverly designed to protect and hold your laptop while you’re on the move. With multiple storage compartments, you can carry your laptop and work accessories with you everywhere you go.

Made from heavy-duty material that offers some weather resistance, this backpack looks way more expensive than it actually is.

There are plenty of internal pockets to store your pens, keys, wallet, and smartphone, and the bag holds up to a 17-inch laptop in a padded, dedicated laptop compartment. There’s even a separate handy compartment in which to store your iPad or tablet.

The adjustable and heavily padded shoulder straps make the backpack comfortable to wear, even when loaded with all your gear. There’s also a mesh water bottle compartment on the side.

While there are other, more expensive laptop backpacks available on the market, this one is both affordable and practical, making it perfectly suited for use as a budget laptop backpack.

• Lots of internal and external pockets
• Zippers can sometimes get stuck

13. Doubles up as an Activity Backpack

Osprey Nebula 32 Commuter Backpack

Weight: 2.12 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 11.42 x 12.2 x 19.29 inches

This bag is loaded with features that make it a great option for traveling with a laptop. Featuring a specially designed harness and suspension system, this backpack moves with you and provides incredible ventilation and comfort, even when you’re packing a heavy load. You’ll certainly stay cool with this ventilation system, making it perfect for warmer climates.

Made from strong and durable material, this clever, TSA-compatible backpack even has a blinky-light attachment point

The dedicated laptop sleeve will keep a 16-inch laptop protected. There are plenty of additional zippered pockets and mesh organizers to keep your cell phone, credit cards, notebooks, and other daily necessities organized, and dual stretch mesh water bottle pockets. It has a capacity of 32 liters.

Made by luggage giant Osprey , this is a backpack that’s perfectly designed for those who like to stay active while keeping their laptop safe and well-protected. However, as such a comfortable and well-designed backpack, it’s well-suited to double up as a professional backpack for travelers who work and play.

• Protects larger laptops than many laptop bags
• No lockable zippers

If you’re looking for a backpack that will sit comfortably on your shoulders, provide ample protection, and look good, any of the above will fit the bill. While some of the big-name brands do offer superior quality at a higher price point, there are some great budget options, too.

One thing is for certain, a laptop backpack is a must for anyone on the go with a laptop. Keep your gear safe, look professional, and keep your back comfortable by choosing the right laptop backpack for your travel style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to pack your laptop in your suitcase.

It is strongly recommended that you do not pack your laptop in your suitcase. A suitcase will be subject to many bumps and knocks between check-in, loading, and unloading at your next destination. Invest in a laptop backpack that you can take as carry-on and keep your laptop protected and on your person.

Can I carry 2 laptops in carry-on baggage?

Most laptop backpacks will only have 1 laptop compartment designed to fit a single laptop but many laptop backpacks will be large enough to fit 2 overall. Provided you have the batteries installed in the laptops and they are charged enough to prove they work, you should not have a problem taking 2 laptops in a carry-on. It is recommended you check with your airline in case they have specific requirements.

Which laptop backpack is the best for travel?

While there are many, many laptop backpacks on the market to choose from, only a few of them really make the grade. Here are some of our favorites:

What size backpack do I need for my laptop?

The size of your laptop will dictate the size of your backpack. Laptop backpacks have a dedicated, padded compartment to slip your laptop in to, so it’s important to make sure that the pocket is large enough to fit your laptop.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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23 Best Laptop Bags for Women Travelers On the Go

Best Suitcases , Handbags , LUGGAGE

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Hittin’ the road and need to bring your laptop? A laptop bag is a must to keep it secure and avoid damage. Keep reading for the most functional and cute laptop bags that women use again and again! 

Best Laptop Bag for Women

Table of contents.

Travel Fashion Girl help! A reader asks:

I am looking for a good laptop tote or bag for travel. Most work totes have thin straps that get uncomfortable after a while. I am looking for something spacious, elegant, but not too heavy or big. Any ideas?

If you’re traveling for work or pleasure, there are times when you may need to bring your laptop. It’s important to pack your laptop securely in a bag to avoid any damage . There are so many great designs out there that will keep your laptop safe and secure while you’re on the go, and that will look stylish, too! 

Whether you opt for a laptop tote bag , backpack, or any other style, it should be practical, durable, and easy to carry. 

TFG readers have shared their favorite functional and fashionable laptop bags they swear by for travel. See below! 

Best Womens Laptop Bag for Travel

Nomad Lane Bento Bag

Nomad Lane Bento Laptop Travel Bag With Trolley Sleeve

TFG readers have been loving this Nomad Lane Bento 16 inch laptop bag ! It’s a fantastic choice for business travel, or it can even be used as a weekender bag! 

It opens up like a suitcase and has amazing organizational features, including various pockets to store chargers, headphones , or other essentials, and, of course, a cushioned laptop sleeve. It also features a shoulder strap, so it can be worn over your shoulder or as a crossbody.

About to travel with my Nomad Lane Bento Bag

Travelers really appreciate the trolley sleeve that allows you to slide it over your luggage handle for easy carrying and it’s compact enough to fit under your airline seat! 

One reader shares, “I just used mine for my personal item for two weeks in Italy . Just love all the compartments and dedicated space for my computer.” Buy it here!  

If you’re keen to know more about the Nomad Lane Bag, read our review on this favorite traveler’s bag!

Lo & Sons The Rowledge

Lo & Sons Rowledge Laptop Tote Backpack With Trolley Sleeve

While the price is a bit higher than other options, readers absolutely ADORE the Lo & Sons backpack and laptop tote for women , and consider it a worthwhile investment for their travels! 

It can be carried as a tote with the top handles or worn as a backpack, and the shoulder straps tuck neatly into a back pocket when not in use. The interior features luxurious fabric, ample storage and organization, and a separate laptop compartment to make your travels easier. It’s also available in a small and large size. 1 3″ laptops can fit in the Large (21L) and some 13″ laptops are able to fit into the Small (17L).

One satisfied TFG reader shares their travel experience with this backpack, “It’s structured, but still soft enough to cram things in when I’m flying, and I love the feet on the bottom, keeps it upright and it doesn’t get super dirty. The look is very clean and professional, while still feeling high-end and it fits well under an airplane seat without taking up leg room.”  Buy it here!

Find out why our readers love their Lo & Sons bags in this review !

Lo & Sons O.G. 2

Lo & Sons O.G.2 Tote Bag With Laptop Sleeve and Trolley Sleeve 

If you’re looking for strictly laptop totes for women , the Lo & Sons O.G. 2  is a fantastic personal item or overnight bag. You can get two sizes! The medium size which fits a 10 to 12” laptop, while the large size accommodates a 13” laptop.

Traveling with my latest personal item, the Lo & Son’s O.G.2 Tote !

It comes equipped with a trolley sleeve, comfy shoulder straps, great organization, and a sleek look! And there are so many gorgeous colors offered, you’ll travel in style and functionality easily with this beauty! 

One happy business traveler says, “ I love this bag for travel! It fits easily over my luggage handle, it’s HUGE and fits so much. Plus all the pockets and compartments are a dream come true. The laptop pocket fits my 13” Dell laptop perfectly. I love the option to wear it cross body or over my shoulder as well. The design is beautiful and the gold hardware seems very high quality.” Buy it here!

The Everywhere Zip Backpack

Away Everywhere Laptop Travel Bag With Trolley Sleeve

Away is highly popular in the TFG Community, and the Everywhere Zip 15 inch laptop bag has been highly recommended for storing your things and staying super organized! This backpack is made of durable and water-resistant nylon, so you’ll have the utmost peace of mind with your valuables inside! 

The main compartment is super spacious. The shoulder straps are padded and comfy, and when you want to take the weight off, the trolley sleeve will have your back (literally)!

One traveler reports, “This backpack is so well designed and thought out. Perfectly placed pockets while maximizing every space. It’s so lightweight and easy to travel with.” Buy it here!

We recommend the best travel bags with trolley sleeve , because a trolley sleeve is one of the most helpful features a bag can have for travel!

ECOSUSI Vegan Leather Convertible Backpack

Ecosusi Vegan Leather Laptop Bag  

Ecosusi makes pretty bags that TFG readers love! This convertible vegan leather laptop tote is so cute and can be worn as a shoulder bag, tote bag, or backpack! Inside the roomy main compartment,  there are two pockets, two pen loops, and a padded sleeve for laptops up to 14”. 

It’s made from vegan leather, so it’s an excellent eco option. You simply can’t go wrong with the quality, functionality, and beautiful design! You can also grab this similar design in a pretty tote too! 

One user raves, “Best bag for a girl on the go! I can’t tell you how many compliments I’ve received on this stylish backpack. I can fit my laptop, iPad, pens, notebook, files, and a pair of flats without sacrificing the aesthetic.” Buy it here!

If you’re bringing your camera along on your travels, make sure to keep your equipment protected with our readers tip picks for the functional and cute camera bags !

Fjallraven Kanken Laptop Backpack

Fjallraven Kanken Backpack Tote Laptop Bag  

Both us and the readers love the Kanken womens laptop bags for travel. This bag features a large main compartment, a handy front compartment for easy-to-reach essentials, and a protective laptop sleeve for laptops up to 15”. Tote it around with the top handles, or wear as a backpack! 

One reader says, “I love my Kanken for travel. There is a separate padded pocket near the back for the laptop and then a very spacious main compartment! Best of all the whole bag weighs about a pound.” Buy it here!

Prefer traveling with a backpack? These are the best business backpacks that will keep your laptop protected.

Osprey Arcane Tote Backpack

Osprey Arcane Tote Bags With Laptop Compartment  

Long time readers know that TFG is a bit obsessed with Osprey, and it’s often a go-to for readers as well! The Arcane womens laptop tote bag is a major fave. This bag can hold a TON, including a laptop up to 15” in its protective compartment! You can wear it over the shoulder with the top handles, or tuck those away to wear it as a backpack. It’s durable and water-resistant as well!

One TFG reader says, “It makes a great carry-on and laptop bag, and it has a lot of structure.” Buy it here!

Lily & Drew Casual Travel Bag (sold out)

Lily & Drew Laptop Shoulder Bag With Trolley Sleeve

With these Lily & Drew stylish ladies laptop bags , there’s truly a place for everything and fits a 13” laptop! This convertible backpack has a ton of internal and external pockets, two side water bottle pockets, a padded laptop sleeve, and a generous main compartment. 

It’s a practical and cute option for a business trip or a weekend getaway, and it’s small enough to fit under airline seats! You can wear it over your shoulder or as a backpack, and as a bonus, it comes with a handy trolley sleeve. 

One TFG reader says, “I use it on all of my trips! It’s the perfect size, holds so much (I’m a mom of four and holder of all things), love the trolley sleeve, it’s been absolutely drenched in rainy weather and it still holds up! And a great price!”

Learn how to choose a  carry-on personal item !

BAGSMART Travel Backpack

BAGSMART Waterproof Laptop Bag With Trolley Sleeve

These stylish laptop bags from BAGSMART have some serious storage capabilities! Users love that after snugly fitting their laptops (up to 15.6”), there’s still plenty of room for electronics, books, clothes, and other travel essentials. 

The top handles have a good grip, and it can also be worn as a backpack with super comfortable straps and a back panel that relieves shoulder stress. The material is water resistant and extremely long-lasting, and the overall look is super cute! 

A traveler says, “It has so many pockets to put cords, chargers, and other work items. My laptop fits well and it has a cushion to protect it. I also like the side pockets to put my phone and water bottle. Very convenient backpack!” Buy it here!

Herschel Little America Laptop Backpack

Herschel Little America Large Laptop Bag  

Whether you’re a techie, business traveler, or simply like having your laptop on hand while on the road, the Little America laptop shoulder bags f rom Herschel are super sturdy and come with all the features you could need! The various compartments are functional, such as the front pocket which has a key clip and there’s a hidden zipper for anti-theft protection, and the tech-safe laptop sleeve fits up to 15”. 

Users say this bag makes a perfect carry-on! It’s spacious enough to use for shorter trips, though one reader was able to pack everything for a 21-day trip in this bag! 

A traveler shares more: “This bag feels premium, the outer material feels sturdy and it’s easy to clean. The laptop pocket is so soft! This is a huge backpack storage wise. I have my camera case in the bottom and a jacket condensed in a pouch and could still pack three days worth of clothes and travel toiletries!” Buy it here!

Eddie Bauer Adventurer Backpack

Eddie Bauer Adventurer Laptop Bag Backpack  

If you’re a digital nomad who loves to see the world and still have their electronics on hand, the Adventurer 17 inch laptop bag comes with top-notch features to keep your laptop and other tech organized and protected, and it can fit large laptops, up to 17”!

This bag is super rugged, water-repellent, has fleece-lined pockets for a laptop, electronics, sunglasses, and other fragile items. It also has super comfy, padded straps that are designed to fit a woman’s body. No matter where you end up, this bag seriously has you covered! 

A happy traveler shares a review, “Used this backpack while flying and hiking around the US with family and friends. It holds everything I need- essentials, computer, snacks, and paperwork.” Buy it here!

Kenneth Cole Reaction Tote Bag

Kenneth Cole Reaction Chelsea Tote Bag With Laptop Compartment (And Trolley Sleeve)

So cute! This 17” Kenneth Cole tote with laptop pocket also has a shoulder strap and trolley sleeve to fit nicely over luggage. It accommodates a laptop and has a separate tablet compartment, too! 

With tons of slip pockets and an exterior pocket that can hold a passport and boarding pass, this chic choice works well for business travel or a short jaunt! Buy it here !

Read how to choose the best  travel purse !

Kenneth Cole Reaction Laptop Backpack

Kenneth Cole Reaction Chelsea Backpack Laptop Bag With Trolley Sleeve

If you’d rather stick to a backpack, this Kenneth Cole small laptop bag is super chic for a quick business trip or a fun overnight getaway! It has a padded 15” laptop sleeve, and is super packable yet just the right size to fit under your airline seat as a personal item! 

The front pocket has sections for a phone, wallet, sunglasses, and other small items, and the shoulder straps are breathable and adjustable for maximum comfort. Users love this women laptop bag for how fashionable, professional-looking, and super durable it is. 

One user says, “I really love this backpack. I use it for work and for travel for my laptop and all my stuff that goes with it. It’s comfortable to wear. I also traveled abroad with it and used it to hold my shopping items when going through markets.” Buy it here!

PacSafe Citysafe CX 17L Anti Theft Backpack

Pacsafe Anti-Theft Laptop Crossbody Bag With Trolley Sleeve 

Pacsafe is adored by TFG readers and female travelers for its stylish and practical anti-theft products. The Citysafe women’s laptop bag checks all the boxes, with a clean look and functional features, including slash-proof material, interlocking zippers, a padded laptop sleeve, and RFID blocking pockets!

Plus, it’s an organizational dream! It can be worn as a tote, crossbody, or backpack, and the luggage sleeve makes for easy navigating through an airport. 

A user shares, “I can fit my laptop, iPad, and many other things in this backpack and it fits easily under an airplane seat. Thoughtfully designed with lots of great security features.” Buy it here!

Himawari Travel Tote Backpack

Himawari Traveller Laptop Bag Backpack

This super functionali women’s laptop tote backpack from Himawari is not only crazy cute but will easily hold all of your essentials for business travels or overnight trips. The main compartment opens wide for easy packing, with a cushy laptop slot in the back that fits a 15”. 

It has plenty of pockets, including side pockets for water bottles. The straps are padded, and the outer material is waterproof! A user raves, “This backpack is amazing for traveling! You can fit clothes and a laptop and still have space. Love it!” Buy it here!

Sherpani Camden Tote Bag

Sherpani Camden Convertible Crossbody Laptop Bag With Trolley Sleeve 

The Sherpani laptop tote bags for women have become reader favorites! You’ll feel assured with your valuable laptop and other electronics in this bag, as it has plenty of padding, secure zippers, and RFID blockers! 

You can carry it three ways, as a crossbody, a tote, or a backpack, or slide it over your luggage handle, so it’s super versatile. It has many compartments, including a 15” laptop sleeve, and overall has a very stylish, modern look! 

One user shares, “I travel with it every week. I’ve had lots of compliments on its design and appearance. Pockets for everything. Laptop, makeup, water, external zipper areas for keys, phone. And the backpack option is available but hidden if you don’t want the straps hanging out. Great design!” Buy it here!

Find out what our readers have to say about their Sherpani bags in this review !

Tumi Voyageur Calais Backpack

Tumi Voyageur Calais Travel Laptop Bag With Trolley Sleeve

Tumi makes one of the most popular carry-on suitcases , so it’s no surprise their laptop backpack is equally as popular! The Voyageur Calais chic laptop bags have high quality interiors where you’ll find lots of space, a padded laptop compartment, and multiple pockets (including one with a Tumi tracer in case it gets lost or stolen!). 

There are plenty of exterior pockets, too. It’s lightweight, and can sit snugly on your suitcase with the trolley sleeve!  

One reader says, “I like this particular backpack as it’s lightweight and a good size. Great organization possibilities and I like that there is a dedicated laptop/tablet pocket.” Buy it here!

Find out what our readers have to say about their Tumi Bags in  this review !

Calpak Luka 15 inch Laptop Backpack

Calpak Luka Laptop Tote Bag

Decked out with killer organization, the Calpak Luka laptop backpack is amazing for travelers who want to keep all their devices and travel essentials neat and protected. The 15” laptop compartment is amply padded and features a roomy zippered pocket, and there are plenty of inner and outer pockets of all sizes. 

One traveler loves that it’s simple yet elegant and versatile enough to use for all kinds of different travel scenarios! Function aside, this bag is sleek and modern, with a scratch-resistant exterior that comes in a range of fun matte shades.

Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack

Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Backpack

Striking in appearance and adaptable to whatever your travel day entails, the Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack has it all! This dual-purpose travel bag has a clamshell opening, tons of interior packing space, compression straps, a padded 17” laptop pocket, and multiple interior and exterior pockets. Sleek and shiny, this bag is rugged and water-resistant, spacious yet not bulky, and weighs under 3 lbs! 

A happy traveler shares that it’s super lightweight and works as a personal item even on smaller planes, adding that she has gotten a ton of use out of it and receives so many compliments!

Antler Chelsea Backpack

Antler Chelsea Laptop Bag Pack

The  Chelsea backpack by Antler  is a beautiful option with a streamlined design that gives you ample interior packing space. It’s decked out with great features, including a convenient trolley sleeve, a padded 16.5” laptop pocket, a removable packing pocket for laundry or shoes, compression straps, a side water bottle pocket, and a zipped front pocket. It’s incredibly lightweight, durable, and has a water-resistant exterior, too.

One user says it’s very nice quality, perfect for business trips, and looks stylish!

Antler’s Bamburgh Expandable Backpack

Antler Bamburgh Expandable Laptop Backpack

Antler’s Bamburgh expandable backpack checks all the boxes, with lightweight yet robust construction, a comfortable and breathable fit, and excellent organization. Its clamshell opening is what makes this bag ultra-popular, as it makes packing super easy. It features a 16.5” laptop pocket, an interior divider, multiple inner and outer pockets, and compression straps to keep everything efficient and ultra-organized. 

From city breaks to outdoor adventures, this backpack will support you through any adventure! One wearer praises its high quality and thoughtful design, sharing that she’s used it as an underseat bag, a weekender bag, and for hiking the Scottish highlands!

Swissgear Scan Smart TSA Laptop 17.5″ Backpack

Swissgear Scan Smart Laptop Backpack 

If you’re looking for a spacious backpack that you can load up but still carry comfortably, look no further than this Swissgear Scan Smart backpack . This bag is full of handy pockets, including an exterior, fleece-lined glasses pocket, and an organizer compartment with sleeves for pens, cards, and chargers. It’s lightweight at 3 lbs, and it boasts ergonomic, padded shoulder straps with breathable fabric and an adjustable sternum strap for supreme comfort. 

It also has a padded laptop sleeve! One traveler who used this backpack as a carry-on to Spain reports that it was steady, had a perfect amount of pockets, felt secure, and was an amazing travel bag overall.

LL Bean 28L Comfort Carry Laptop Pack

L.L. Bean Comfort Carry Laptop Bag

Designed to work for every adventure from hiking to city sightseeing to travel days, L.L. Bean’s Comfort Carry backpack is a classic! This mid-size backpack is a great personal item and day bag, with a laptop sleeve, water bottle pockets, and multiple zippered pockets for easy organizing. It’s made with extra-durable nylon fabric, so it’ll hold up to years and years of wear and tear, too! 

One traveler says it’s the perfect travel bag that’s a great size, keeps things organized, and is super comfortable to carry.

Ladies Laptop Bag Comparison Chart

Do you have a recommendation for the best laptop bag for travel? Comment and share!

For more travel bags, please read:

• Cute Backpacks for Travel
• Best Business Backpacks
• Rebecca Minkoff Julian Backpack
• Longchamp Le Pliage Backpack Review

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41 comments.

I recently purchased Lo & Sons O.G. 2. It’s a beautiful bag with great pockets organization and nice zippers.

My only negative with this bag is that the main zipper is too small / shallow of opening making it hard to see what’s in the bag.

I give a “10” for the Tumi backpack here = not only does it look sleek, it is bigger than it looks and fits my laptop perfectly. Mine has traveled for mulitple weeks to Italy, Portugal, Japan, and Argentina and has weathered rain, sweat from hiking, snow, and scorching hot weather. Best backpack ever!

This a great list of laptop bags – right when I needed one! Thanks!

Just the review post I was looking for! Thank you 🙂

A new travel laptop bag was my first TFG recommended purchase a few years ago! My bag, which looks closest to the Lily & Drew profiled in this article (but was a different brand), has been perfect! It’s affordable, roomy and sleek. My favorite features are the trolley sleeve and roomy interior. The bag has been to several countries and dozens of US states and still looks great. Fits really well under seat.

I have found it quite challenging to find a bag that meets all my needs. Thank you for this review.

Thank you! You’ve provided lots of options to review. I’m on the continual lookout for the perfect personal item carryon!

Love the TravelPro Tote, roomy with padded sleeve and a zipper.

I have been looking for a new laptop bag that will be good for both travel and work. These are great options. Thank you!

Love any back pack with the trolley sleeve! Thank you for putting all this together!

I am looking for my next laptop bag, and this was so helpful. I’ve been using my hydration backpack from REI for too many years now (minus the bladder, of course) as a laptop backpack. It’s time to upgrade! My daughter has a couple different Fjallraven bags, and they are top of my list. But the Sherpani looks interesting as well.

Decisions, decisions!

Thank you for all the research and information, I leave for Italy in 3 days and feel so prepared due to following you! I will be using only carry on and found the best back pack for me by comparing the ones you listed.

I love these reviews. It really helps a lot when I am doing my shopping online.

Love the Bento bag which I got after reading TFG review. Holds so much and yet zips up nicely. Even holds my purse in addition to laptop, files, a shawl if I get cold, cords, chargers, battery pack. Has so many compartments to stay organized. And still fits under the seat! Best personal item ever!

Love the look of the bento bag! Keeping my eye on that one for an upcoming trip!

Do the Away bags ever go on sale?? They look amazing!

I trust TFG for pretty much everything travel. A couple years back she led me straight to my Tumi everyday back pack which is my go to for all of my trips. It’s great for day trips and city trekking. Now I have the laptop back pack bag and I take that with me now too. Great storage, can hold a lot of other things besides computer. I especially love the cushioned computer pocket. Easy to open and to access computer. Thanks, TFG

Now that we are going back in the office some days I am on the hunt for the perfect laptop bag. These are some great options!

Left a look of the Kenneth Cole bag but alas it’s too big for Lufthansa. Still have my eyes on the bento bag!

When Alex first introduced the Lo & Sons OMG bag in the early years of the website, I fell in love and never looked back! The idea of a bag that is travel perfect in every feature, can be work and gym friendly, AND pairs with a dress, heels, and be taken to a resto for dinner was PERFECT! I drooled over the photos and videos for 3 years before splurging on it, and I still love it after all this time (~8+ years). I often worry that I overload it or it’s too heavy and will be damaged in some way….nope. I LOVE that your webpage recommends tried & true original items and opens new concepts for us readers! I never considered the need for a bag with a secret shoe compartment before (it’s genius!) and can’t imagine travelling without it. THANKS & LOVE YOU TFG (& Alex!)!!!

I have the original low and Sons OMG bag (large) based on a recommendation from the TFG FB page. It is roomy and more sophisticated for work that the normal backpack. I have used it for business and personal trips and love the different pockets for organization. I went with the red color to add a pop of color. – love it!

This is exactly what I have been looking for! Thank you for all the research you do so I don’t have to!

I have had my lo and co omg (original bag) for years and love how organized it is. I like that they have moved the laptop to a separate space and added a water bottle sleeve. It is quite bulkey but havent found anything better

I discovered your blog earlier this year while planning for our trip to Dubai and the Maldives. I feel so much more prepared now! Flying Gulfair for a leg of our trip had me searching for the perfect small personal bag. Your blog and Facebook group have so much information and have become my bible! Thank you so much!

I love the Tumi Voyageur Calais Backpack! It’s lightweight and good looking. Even professional enough to go to work with!

This is great – I’m looking for a new bag for work!

Perfect. I’ve been looking for a backpack that can accommodate a laptop.

Wish the Herschel bag came with a trolley sleeve! I bought something similar to the lily & drew backpack to also double as a laptop/overnight bag for work, so I’m hopeful it’ll simplify my work travels!

Great options! I’m obsessed with travel bags!

I love the Nomad Bento Bag! I use it for travel as a carry on all the time.

Also love the Sherpani Sojourn — similar to the Camden.

I love the Nomad Bento Bag

I found a great one on Amazon that was recommended by the TFG community. Can’t wait to use it on my trip to Greece in three days!! Happy Anniversary. Thank you for 10 years of great posts/ideas/travel love!

great content and advice!

I absolutely love my Bento bag. It’s my go to personal item for all travel. Great for a stand alone bag for a minimalist approach to travel.

As.i hunt for the perfect personal item, this is very helpful. I’m thinking the O.G.2 Tote will work for me! I have so much faith in your recommendations after my Julian bag arrived the night before leaving for Europe in 2019 and has been the perfect bag ever since. Love the way you do all the homework for us!

How am I going to pick only one!? Ok let’s be real, I won’t 😉 A woman has to have choices!

Lo & Sons is the best! Thx for sharing these fantastic products & brands to make my traveling more easier!

I travel weekly for my job. I always carry on my Club Glove rolling mini duffle and my computer bag is my personal item. I need a computer bag that is large enough to stuff my cross body bag into at the airport since I’m limited to one personal item. I’ve used a Tumi Alpha Bravo backpack for the past 7 years. I love it. Just wish it had a water bottle pocket.

BAGSMART Waterproof Laptop Bag With Trolley Sleeve is a GREAT bag. The top opens so wide, so easy to find things on the bottom. Plus its so reasonable! Thanks for the tip!

I’ve been looking at laptop bags. Not necessarily for travel, but more for work.And happy anniversary!!!!

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The 13 best carry-on backpacks of 2024, tested & reviewed.

Enjoy hands-free travel with a versatile carry-on backpack.

The Best Carry-on Backpacks

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

Not sure whether to take a rolling suitcase or a travel backpack on the plane? Both types of carry-on luggage certainly have their merits, but if you like keeping your arms and hands free when traveling, a backpack is the right choice for you. Furthermore, compared to a hard-sided suitcase , it's easier to squeeze a malleable backpack into an overhead bin or under the seat. And if your vacation is focused on adventure travel, you might value a durable pack on your back over wheels on the ground.

U.S. News compiled this list from extensive research and testing along with consumer reviews. Whatever your reason for choosing a backpack, there are plenty on the market to satisfy your needs. Read on for the best carry-on travel backpacks.

Best Overall: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

• Jump to features and expert insights ↓

Best Budget: ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Hiking Backpack 20L

Best lightweight: mz wallace metro utility backpack.

• Best for Business Travel (tie): Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack – Large
• Best for Business Travel (tie): Aer Travel Pack 3

Best for International Travel: Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Pack

Best for weekend getaways: solo grand travel tsa backpack, best for women: tumi voyageur celina backpack, best for men: peak design travel backpack 45l, best for adventure travel: kelty redwing 36, best with wheels: samsonite tectonic nutech wheeled backpack, best organization: augustnoa classic noa, best leather: monos metro backpack in vegan leather.

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand and other factors. Dimensions of backpacks are height by width by depth.)

Price: $200 or less

When it comes to bag travel, the Cotopaxi Allpa packs a serious punch. The carry-on backpack is available in three sizes – 42L, 35L and 28L – and a variety of colors, including the vibrant multicolor Del Día style. The 35L size not only fits everything you need for your next getaway, but it's also TSA-compliant as a carry-on item . On the outside, the Allpa features a removable waist belt, a padded laptop sleeve on the side, anti-theft zippers, carabiner lash loops for extra gear, a sternum strap and a front zippered pocket. The backpack straps can be tucked away if you're looking to save more room in the overhead bin or you want to carry the bag via its grab handles.

The bag opens suitcase-style; inside, you'll find one large zippered mesh compartment on the right and a subdivided zippered mesh compartment on the left, providing ample space for all your clothes, shoes and accessories. What's more, the bag comes with a rain cover (though it's already water-resistant).

What our editors say:

I've taken my Cotopaxi Allpa on countless adventures, from a road trip around Iceland to camping all over Colorado. It fits more than expected, is comfortable to wear (especially if using the waist belt) and is extremely durable. I just wish the 35L had an exterior water bottle pocket like the 42L does! – Leilani Osmundson, Senior Digital Producer

Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: $15.99 or less

This backpack has three excellent things going for it: It's affordable, lightweight and durable. It's a great option for a weekend getaway bag and is an excellent little backpack to have on hand for tours and day trips once you make it to your destination. If you're planning to hike or kayak on your next getaway, you'll definitely want to have the ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Backpack in your back pocket – literally. It can be folded into a compact pouch and tucked away in a larger carry-on bag if you're planning to only use it as a daypack.

The lightweight travel bag is both tear- and water-resistant. With all of its pockets – including one on each side for water bottles or umbrellas – you'll be able to fit everything you need for an adventure-filled trip.

It can fit enough for a weekend trip, plus it's super useful for hiking, boat excursions and more once you're in your destination because it's so light and water-resistant. I've used it for years and it has held up incredibly well; it comes in so many fun colors, too. I love it so much, I bought two so my husband has one he can use as well. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

Rachael Hood | U.S. News

Price: $345 or less

Constructed with recycled bluesign-approved quilted nylon, this chic bag is packed with pockets and organizational details. The interior has a padded 15-inch laptop sleeve, a large zip pocket with two slip pockets, two water bottle pockets and two removable pouches. On the front of the bag there's a deep phone pocket and multiple zippered pockets of various sizes, including a small one that's ideal for a boarding pass, earbuds or wipes.

A water bottle pocket sits on each side of the bag, and the back of the bag has a luggage trolley sleeve that can be zipped shut on the bottom to be a pocket when not attached to your suitcase. This backpack has a top-zip design, and can be carried by the two top handles or the adjustable padded backpack straps.

This bag has completely changed my mind about backpacks. It's extremely spacious and works so well for my laptop, change of clothes, toiletry bag and other carry-on essentials. I love all of the pockets and that I can carry this like a north-south tote in addition to using the trolley sleeve or backpack straps. But what truly sets this apart is the beautiful fabrication that is so soft and the luxurious Italian leather details. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Best for Business Travel: Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack and Aer Travel Pack 3 (tie)

Dagne dover dakota neoprene backpack – large.

Catriona Kendall | U.S. News

Price: $215 or less

This sleek, professional backpack by Dagne Dover is perfect for professional and casual settings alike, with a vast array of organizational features and a 20-liter capacity for the large size. On the outside, you'll find a zippered padded pocket for up to 16-inch laptops and a slip pocket for your phone, while an interior sleeve can fit a tablet or a second laptop, allowing you to travel with multiple devices. The inside of the bag has two mesh slip pockets and a zip-top pouch attached with a leash, as well as three zippered pockets in the front panel.

To help you stay even more organized, the exterior also features a zippered front pocket with pen loops and a key clip; two zippered side pockets; two slip side pockets; and straps to secure a small bottle. The water-resistant bag comes with adjustable shoulder straps, a luggage sleeve and a separate shoe bag.

I adore bringing this bag to work and using it as a personal item on flights. I don't think I've ever used a backpack with better organization than this one – there's a dedicated place for every little thing, from keys to pens to my devices. I also love that the neoprene material is extremely lightweight and water-resistant. – Catriona Kendall, Editor

Aer Travel Pack 3

Price: $249 or less

With a pocket for everything, the clamshell-style Aer Travel Pack 3 keeps you organized to the max on business trips. Keep your laptop (up to 16 inches) safe in the padded, zippered laptop sleeve, and stow your passport in the quick-access side pocket. The front compartment features several sizes of pockets perfect for chargers, notepads, pens and more. Along with the lay-flat main compartment for clothes, there's also an interior pocket for small accessories as well as a hidden luggage tracker pocket.

Designed for one-bag travel, the durable Aer Travel Pack 3 also features a water-resistant nylon exterior along with load lifters for a more comfortable fit. You can purchase a hip belt separately.

The Aer Travel Pack 3 has one of the sleekest designs when it comes to carry-on backpacks. I also appreciate all the pockets: The sizable laptop pocket is perfect for someone like me who uses a huge laptop; the eight pockets in just the front compartment are so handy for everything you could need while traveling; and the bag even comes with a zippered water bottle pocket on the side. – Leilani Osmundson

Price: $185 or less

The Osprey Farpoint is truly an all-in-one travel pack that combines quality with minimal weight. The clamshell-style carry-on bag features a substantial main compartment across from a large mesh pocket. There's an easy-to-access zippered laptop sleeve on the side for devices up to 16 inches.

For extra support and comfort, the backpack includes a sternum strap, back panel, harness and hip belt; the latter three can be zipped up for fully streamlined travel, and compression straps help slim the bag down even more. The Osprey Farpoint 40 meets most domestic carry-on size requirements and is compatible with the Farpoint/Fairview Travel Daypack , which can be brought onto the plane as a personal item .

This is one of my favorite backpacks. I love how the back can be zipped up so the bag more resembles a duffel; this makes it easy to stow away without having to deal with a lot of straps. Additionally, the interior compression straps can really help cinch down belongings, especially if you're using packing cubes . – Leilani Osmundson

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Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Price: $117.99 or less

Perfect for weekend getaways , the Solo Grand TSA Travel Backpack opens like a regular suitcase. In the main compartment, you can secure several outfits with compression straps and store accessories and toiletries in two zippered mesh pockets. In the back, a padded compartment protects laptops up to 17.3 inches in size, and on the front there are a variety of pockets – even pockets within pockets – for your phone and other essentials. This backpack is also equipped with two side mesh pockets, a trolley sleeve, and side and top carry handles.

This backpack is flawless. It's big without the bulk and has plenty of pockets, which not only makes it ideal for weekend getaways but also prevents me from having to awkwardly rummage through my bag when I need something on the plane. – Amanda Norcross, Senior Content & SEO Strategist

Price: $475 or less

This backpack blends function and fashion with a compact design. On the front of the bag are two zip compartments and a U-zip pocket with a card slot, a slip pocket and a pen holder. The interior of the bag is divided into two separate compartments: one zippered section with a padded laptop compartment (holds up to a 15-inch PC or 16-inch MacBook), and another large compartment with a zippered pocket and two slip pockets (ideal for glasses or charging cords).

There is also a zippered compartment on each side of the bag, one of which has a water-resistant lining for a water bottle. On the back of the bag you'll find a hidden phone compartment and a trolley sleeve to attach to a roller bag.

This style oozes sophistication, especially the black with the gold hardware. From its sleek material to its many pockets and details, this backpack looks and feels like a chic handbag that can go from the office to a beach resort with ease. I especially like that there are two places you can access the front compartment of the bag, and I like that the laptop section is separate from the rest of the backpack so it's easier to take out my computer and go through airport security (which makes me less likely to drop something from inside my bag). – Rachael Hood

Price: $299.95 or less

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a solid, rugged choice that will last. The nylon canvas shell of the backpack is weatherproof and water-resistant, with a waterproof bottom liner as well. You can unzip the back panel to access the main packing compartment, which is also accessible via zippers along each side of the bag and can be divided in two by a mesh sleeve. To keep you organized, this backpack has quick-access pockets for small items like passports and glasses, plus expandable side pockets for water bottles, tripods or umbrellas.

The bag meets carry-on size requirements but can expand by 1.5 inches if you need the extra room; the shoulder straps and hip belt tuck away if you plan to check it instead. If you prefer a smaller bag, the Peak Design Travel Backpack also comes in a 30-liter size .

If you only want to bring one bag on a short trip, you can't go wrong with this backpack. It's sturdy, reliable and able to fit a ton while still being carry-on-sized. It served me well on a recent trip to New Zealand, and I'd definitely recommend it for travelers who like hands-free luggage. – Catriona Kendall

Price: $134.95 or less

If you'll be adventuring in the great outdoors for your next trip, consider purchasing the Kelty Redwing 36 backpack. You'll find two exterior water bottle pockets as well as a hydration-friendly inner pocket (for storing a water bladder). Tool loops can hold hiking poles, fishing poles, ice axes or other adventure gear. Organization is made easy with plenty of zippered pockets, including one on each side of the bag, a large one on the front and one on top that's perfect for storing travel documents such as a passport. Plus, a ventilated back panel helps keep you cool when you're hurrying through airports or hiking up a mountain.

If you need a bigger backpack, the Kelty Redwing 50 Tactical is a great checked bag option and has many of the same features as the Redwing 36 along with more straps and pockets.

The Kelty Redwing 36 can be cinched down quite a bit for truly streamlined travel and to better meet carry-on size guidelines. However, I'll caution that the waist belt is difficult to remove. – Leilani Osmundson

Price: $159.99 or less

If you want the flexibility to either carry or wheel your luggage, a wheeled backpack style may work best for you. The Samsonite Tectonic NuTech Wheeled Backpack transforms from a rolling bag into a backpack by just tucking in the handle, pulling out the stowed straps and using the wheel cover. The durable polyester material is water-repellent and has red accents.

There are three sections to this bag: a main compartment with space to pack for a weekend trip, a dedicated sleeve for both a laptop up to 15.6 inches and a tablet up to 11 inches, and a front pocket equipped with various organizational features. There are various small pockets, pen sleeves, card slots and a key leash within. You can tuck a water bottle and umbrella into the exterior pockets on either side of the bag. Just keep in mind that this bag may slightly exceed carry-on size restrictions on some airlines with stricter rules.

I expected a wheeled backpack to be uncomfortable to carry, but this convertible bag has proved surprisingly convenient. I like having both the rolling and hands-free options for different circumstances, and it has ample packing space. – Catriona Kendall

Price: $148 or less

This sustainable water-resistant backpack is constructed with 100% recycled materials and has 10 pockets to organize everything. The spacious interior compartment has a 17-inch padded laptop sleeve and a tablet sleeve with a strap to secure it in place, as well as an interior mesh pocket for small items or charging cords and a removable shoe bag.

On the exterior, the front pocket has a built-in mesh organizer for pens, and there are mesh water bottle holders on each side of the backpack. The back of the bag has two adjustable padded straps, each with a built-in zippered compartment ideal for keys, ID or tickets. A hidden zip pocket makes for a secure space for a wallet or passport, and the trolley sleeve provides added versatility.

This backpack is great for travel or everyday use. I especially appreciate the comfortable backpack straps with the small zip pockets. They are easy to reach and perfect for small items like lip gloss, cash or a transit card. Durably constructed, the water-resistant exterior performs well in any weather, and I love that there's a padded space for both my laptop and iPad. – Rachael Hood

Price: $230 or less

For an upscale backpack that can be dressed up or down, this Monos style is an ideal choice. Constructed with sustainable vegan leather (there's also a nylon version with vegan leather accents), this structured style is both water- and scratch-resistant. The 15-inch laptop sleeve is separate from the main packing compartment so you can access your device easily. The brand's QuickSnap Modular Kit System means you'll have a detachable Metro Kit for small items that attaches magnetically to the front of the bag; this kit is interchangeable between Metro bags and can be swapped out for a different kit or removed entirely, depending on your needs.

The backpack's main compartment is designed for maximum functionality with a felt-lined document sleeve, a large zippered pocket, two slip pockets, and a waterproof zippered privacy compartment for a rain jacket or gym clothes. On the back, you can make use of a hidden slip pocket for your phone, a trolley sleeve and adjustable padded straps. There's also two top carry handles if you'd prefer to carry this backpack like a tote.

I really like the elevated styling and durability of this vegan leather bag. But what sets it apart is the separate laptop compartment (I don't like to have to open my entire bag to get out my laptop while on the go), and the modular Metro Kit system that can be removed when it's not needed. It's full of value-added design elements, and the material looks classic and appropriate with any attire. – Rachael Hood

Frequently Asked Questions

Depending on its size, a backpack is considered a carry-on item. To be able to put it in the overhead bin, you generally don't want it to exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches, but that sizing varies by airline, and since backpacks are soft-sided, the dimensions can be somewhat malleable. If it fits under the seat in front of you on the plane ( check your airline's specific size requirements ), it is typically considered a personal item. If the backpack can fit under the seat, then you can often bring it in addition to a larger carry-on bag (based on your airline ticket type and inclusions).

For a backpack to be a carry-on for most domestic airlines, it should not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches (or should be able to be squished to approximately those dimensions). To be considered a personal item, it must fit under the seat in front of you. Underseat size and space varies by airline and airplane type, so it's best to check with your airline's size restrictions.

How We Tested

From the comfort of the straps to the capacity of each bag, our team tested more than 20 carry-on backpacks from a variety of brands at a range of price points. We tested to see how the overall structure of the bag works for travel needs, along with the durability and details that make a difference. After taking these backpacks on a variety of adventures, we've selected these carry-on backpacks as the best for 2024.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Luggage Sets
• The Best Rolling Duffel Bags
• The Best Toiletry Bags
• The Best Fanny Packs
• The Best Travel Insurance

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14 Best Laptop Bags of 2024, Tested & Reviewed

Protect your laptop in one of these chic bags.

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

Calpak luka expandable laptop tote.

Nubily Laptop Messenger Bag

Most Versatile

Dagne dover signature tote.

The Luka tote impressed GH analysts immediately. We love that it's available in a range of colors from bright hues to classic neutrals so all of our testers were able to find a look they loved . This bag has convenient zippered pockets on the top and side so you can easily access your phone, keys or wallet on the go, and you can even unzip the bottom of the bag to make it up to 4 inches larger for storing more accessories, like chargers or notepads.

In Lab tests, the laptop sleeve was suitable for devices anywhere between 13 to 17 inches. Our pros also love the bag's lightweight design and soft material, which makes it convenient to carry around whether you're traveling or commuting to the office. Plus, there's a luggage sleeve so you can slip it onto your carry-on for even easier transportation.

Laptop size: Up to 17", according to tests

This sleek and simple laptop bag can be carried as a messenger bag or tote making it particularly versatile. It features a padded, built-in laptop sleeve as well as separate compartments and pockets to keep all your essentials organized. It’s also lightweight at just 1.9 pounds when empty. We love that this pick is available in 10 different colors, and it's affordable enough to grab in multiple shades to match your whole wardrobe.

With over 11,000 reviews on Amazon, shoppers love that it’s sturdy — but not bulky — and fits everything they need. It also has a top zipper closure and a water-resistant outer fabric for extra protection.

Laptop size: 15.6"

Perfect for work, travel, running errands and more, we can't get enough of this super versatile laptop bag that fits everything you need, all while looking both chic and professional . Our analysts love that it features rounded shoulder straps for comfortable carrying, as well as a zippered top, a small storage compartment and a hook for your keys. Bonus: There's a water bottle holder inside so you stay hydrated!

In Lab tests, we were able to fit a 13-inch laptop into the dedicated laptop sleeve easily, though larger laptops still fit inside the bag (just not inside the sleeve). Although we wish it were available in more than three colors, the bag's professional, timeless design more than makes up for it.

Laptop size: 13"

Baggallini Essential Laptop Tote

For under $100, you can wear this simple laptop tote as a crossbody or shoulder bag. But what we love most is that it comes with tons of organizational features, including credit card holders, zippered compartments and a laptop sleeve suitable for larger devices (though in Lab tests we noted that the Velcro wasn’t fully secure with 17” computers). It also has two easy-access pockets on the front, one zippered and one opened, as well as a luggage sleeve on the back that can be zippered shut and used as a pocket.

Made of synthetic materials, the bag is easy to wipe clean when needed, and unlike other laptop bags, it comes with two water bottle holders on the sides. It's both functional and practical, weighing in at just over 1 pound.

EaseGave Multi-Pocket Work Tote

Finally! A stylish laptop bag that doesn't cost a fortune. This popular pick on Amazon has adjustable straps and comes in four colors (including black and a pretty soft pink), and it fits laptops up to 15.6 inches in its padded laptop sleeve. We love the chic stitching and buckle details.

One GH Textiles Lab analyst used this laptop bag throughout college. She says the structured, professional look makes it perfect for interviews, and over 1,500 Amazon reviewers agree that it's worth the buy. Just note that it's a bit heavy at 2.6 pounds, so this pick might feel heavy for some, especially once you add a laptop.

Calpak Kaya 15 inch Laptop Backpack

If you'd rather carry everything on your back but hate the traditional look of backpacks, then try this fashionable laptop bag made of faux leather. Not only is it one of Calpak’s most popular styles, but it's also a favorite among GH Lab analysts.

The laptop sleeve is located in a totally separate compartment in the back, so you don't have to worry about anything scratching it when you're digging for other items. It also has a trolley sleeve so you can secure it on the handle of your suitcase for easy traveling. In testing, we loved its appearance and appreciated the roomy interior that holds an impressive amount without looking like a traditional travel backpack. Note that the backpack straps aren't padded, so it's not ideal to wear it for long periods of time.

Laptop size: 15"

Cuyana System Tote

Known as a sustainable fashion brand , Cuyana is popular for its versatile totes designed to be classic and long-lasting . The System Tote uses Italian leather and features a timeless design that our testers loved.

For ultimate organization, you can pair this bag with the brand's tote organizational system or sleek laptop sleeve , but note that these items cost extra. One tester shared, "I love the functional design of this bag! It always surprises me how protected my laptop feels once I place it in Cuyana's laptop sleeve, which actually snaps into the bag for a secure fit." While it is on the pricier side compared to other totes, its classic design and elegant colors ensure that it will never go out of style. But if you do have some extra wiggle room in your budget, we also love the brand's Double Loop Satchel bag, which features a built-in laptop sleeve and elevated design.

Laptop size: 13" or 16" options

Beis The Work Tote

Beis Travel is popular for offering smart solutions with trendy designs, and multiple GH staffers swear by this tote for work thanks to its stylish appearance and functional design. One said they "especially love the zipped top and metal feet on the bottom" that protect the bottom of the bag from touching the floor. This pick maintains its shape even when empty and has a luggage sleeve to fit nicely on top of a suitcase.

Testers loved its "classy and sleek" design and one said, "The design of this tote works really well," and it's "surprisingly lightweight for such a spacious bag." Note that testers did find the straps quite thin, making it less comfortable to carry heavy loads.

Laptop size: 13" ( larger option is available for 16" laptops)

Lo & Sons O.G. 2

It's a challenge to keep your laptop safe while traveling, so we love that this pick from Lo & Sons has a built-in padded laptop sleeve to keep your tech secure when on the go. It's nearly the size of a weekender bag, so this pick has a roomy interior to fit everything you need when jetting off on a work trip or vacation.

One Textiles Analyst swears that this is the ultimate overnight bag. It features a separate shoe compartment, convenient zippered pockets and a sleek nylon exterior that's easy to keep clean. "I especially love the built-in water bottle holder and luggage sleeve to fit on top of my suitcase," she said.

Laptop size: 13" in medium and large sizes

Quince Classic Italian Leather Tote

For a 100% leather bag, this tote is a total steal at just $100. The Quince laptop bag features a laptop sleeve, open compartments and zippered pockets. The top of the bag doesn't zip closed, but testers appreciated its structured shape.

"I like the look of the tote bag and how easy it is to pack: roomy in the center with a separate section for my laptop," said one tester. "Also, the roomy pockets inside are convenient and make sorting and separating contents easy so they are easier to find." Although this bag stands up on its own, testers wish the bottom had little feet to keep the base from touching the floor.

Laptop size : 13"

Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack

A backpack is often a more comfortable option than a tote, especially if you tend to carry a heavy load because it balances the weight on two shoulders instead of one. There are many laptop backpacks out there but we find this one extra comfortable thanks to the padded straps and smooth neoprene fabric. We love that this Dagne Dover bag is available in a range of colors . When we tested this at home, the straps felt soft and squishy, unlike some other backpack straps that can feel stiff or rough, making it feel luxurious to tote around.

It also has a laptop sleeve and an interior organization pocket. It comes with a pouch that can be attached to a leash to hold smaller items like lip balm or keys as well as a dust bag to keep shoes separate. One thing to note: GH Executive Director, Lexie Sachs , found her Dagne Dover neoprene bag tends to pill but she says she’s also very rough with her bags. Pro tip: To easily remove pills you can use a fabric shaver .

Laptop size: 13" (Medium), 16" (Large)

Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote

This roomy tote bag from Longchamp has been a favorite among students for years, thanks to its simple design that holds everything they need while looking stylish. Its classic look makes it versatile, and many online reviewers say they have used this bag through college and beyond.

"I LOVE how spacious this bag is and how many items I can fit in the bag without it feeling bulky or overfilled," said one GH Analyst. "I can comfortably fit my laptop, toiletries bag, lunch Tupperware and so much more in this bag daily." She notes that the bag easily folds up for simple storage when not in use. The only thing she wishes is that the bag offered more organizational features like pockets or compartments. "I cannot boast enough about this bag, and absolutely will be using it for many years to come and convincing all of my friends to get one for themselves!"

Leatherology Aleena Soft Zippered Tote

When traveling on public transit or storing your bag in an overhead compartment, a zippered top is a must to keep your belongings safe. Leatherology is a favorite brand among GH staffers for creating high-quality pieces with a range of customization options like hand-painting and debossing, which cost extra. This pick is available in seven shades of supple, full-grain leather with a non-structured shape . Although there is no specific laptop compartment, we appreciate that this bag is over 20 inches wide to accommodate larger computers.

Laptop size: 16"

Madewell The Transport Tote

With many of us working from coffee shops and coworking spaces, a laptop bag no longer needs to be professional enough for office wear. The Transport Tote line from Madewell has a more casual, lived-in look while still using durable leather materials. This tote was a tester favorite for being ideal to use whether heading to work, running errands or traveling. Madewell also offers this bag in different sizes and materials too.

One tester said, "I have other leather totes that are more saggy and flexible, but I like how this one kept its shape. It really has been so versatile for me — I've used it for work, with my kids and going to events, and it always fits everything I've needed." Some GH staffers have even noted that their Transport Totes have stayed in great shape even after years of use.

How we test laptop bags for women

Lab analysts at the Good Housekeeping Institute have tested hundreds of bags, from all types of luggage to backpacks for college students to tote bags and more. When we test laptop bags, we first evaluate them in our Textiles Lab, rating how well they fit a laptop, the number of pockets present and if there's a padded laptop sleeve included or built-in. Next, we ask testers to try out laptop bags during their everyday routines, commuting to the office, traveling and more. These picks are based on a recent test where we evaluated more than 20 styles as well as expertise from previous backpack and luggage testing.

Senior Textiles Lab Analyst, Emma Seymour , loading samples into an abrasion tester to evaluate fabric durability.

Amanda Constantine , Home & Apparel Reviews Analyst, evaluates a backpack's shape, organizational components and laptop compartment to score the bag's overall design features.

What to look for when shopping for the best laptop bags

✔️ Pockets: To conveniently grab items on the go, look for bags with a sufficient amount of pockets. We like styles that have a mix of open compartments and zippered pockets to keep items accessible and safe.

✔️ Laptop size: Before buying a laptop bag, consider the size of your laptop. Most bags will list what size computers they can accommodate, but if it's not listed, look at the bag's dimensions to ensure a good fit. While many laptop bags have a built-in or included laptop sleeve, not all do, so you may need to purchase a laptop sleeve separately.

✔️ Materials: Leather, faux leather and nylon are popular materials for laptop bags. While leather is more durable, faux leather is a more affordable option. Synthetic materials like nylon are easier to clean compared to leather styles.

✔️ Straps and handles: Tote bags feature shorter shoulder straps, but some also have a longer crossbody strap. If you plan to carry a heavier load, a padded crossbody strap can make it more comfortable to wear.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Emma Seymour is a senior textiles product analyst in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab where has been testing all types of bags, luggage and backpacks for over four years. She recently tested nearly 20 different tote bags for this story. With a degree in Fiber Science and Apparel Design from Cornell University, she has extensive research experience and product quality assessment expertise.

This story was most recently updated by GH Institute writer and analyst, Olivia Lipski , who covers everything from tech to travel, home, fitness and more. She frequently collaborates with the Textiles Lab and updated the picks above based on the Lab's most recent evaluations and feedback.

Emma Seymour (she/her) is a senior product analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance. 

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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What’s the Best Personal-Item Bag for Flying?

Between finding a carry-on that will fit in most overhead compartments, a toiletry bag or Dopp kit for your tiny bottles of shampoo, and an under-the-seat personal item to hold everything you’ll need for in-flight comfort and entertainment, solving the packing equation isn’t easy. To make things even more complicated, there aren’t even standard regulations for what counts as a “personal item” — as my fellow writer Rachael Griffiths explains here , each airline has its own particular requirements. If you’ve purchased a basic fare on a no-frills carrier like Frontier or Spirit, you’ll generally want to stick with a bag measuring 8 x 18 x 14 inches or smaller (and if you’ve purchased a personal-item-only fare, I’ve written a minimalist packing guide to help you figure out how to travel with just one small bag). On most other airlines, there’s a lot more you can get away with. Below, find advice from stylish frequent fliers (and Strategist staffers) about the totes, duffels, and backpacks they slip over the handles of their suitcases.

The best personal-item tote bags

Yolo Journal ’s Yolanda Edwards likes travel bags that don’t look like travel bags and can therefore be used for everyday sightseeing and shopping upon reaching your destination. Parker Thatch’s roomy totes fit the bill, and while they don’t have a luggage sleeve, Edwards has no problem slipping the handles of this one over her Rimowa suitcase. “And it’s great for going to the farmers’ market once I arrive where I’m going,” she adds.

“I look for a bag that can sit on top of my carry-on, fit a lot of items, and be easily stored when not in use,” says Daniela Velasco, the creative director of Drift magazine. That bag, for her, is Longchamp’s forever classic Le Pliage tote, which flattens and folds up for storage. Strategist senior editor Hilary Reid owns one in orange and is also “always surprised by how much fits inside.”

Is there a more quintessential carry-all than the L.L.Bean Boat and Tote? Writer and influencer Harry Hill doesn’t think so. “As someone who is usually drawn to more uppity travel bags, this trusty tote is a delight because of how unfussy it is,” Hill tells us. “It fits a ton, it’s super-lightweight, and I don’t have to worry about spilling coffee on the vachetta or putting it on the ground.” Hill suggests monogramming your name — or a crude joke, depending on personal preference. For additional customization, “the colorways are constantly changing, so keep an eye out if you have a specific vision for your tote.” While Hill adds that it’s impossible to go wrong, because any L.L.Bean “will make you look like a Kennedy skipping town,” the zip-up version of the bag will give more peace of mind at the airport.

Strategist contributing writer Mya Gelber spent a day asking stylish strangers on the subway about their work bags, and Cuyana’s Classic Easy Zipper Tote was the one she ended up purchasing for herself. So when the brand announced this larger travel-friendly version of the popular bag, I immediately ordered one to test out. Made from soft and slouchy leather, it’s a big bag that can definitely fit an outfit or two alongside your laptop, passport, and other essentials. While it can’t be worn as a cross-body, the tote’s shoulder straps are long and thick enough to be comfortable for long periods of time. There’s no luggage sleeve, either, but this means that the bag can be used more seamlessly in everyday life — it would be an excellent investment for anyone who is commuting gym-to-office.

Sewn in California from leftover sailing canvas, Pacific Tote Company’s bags are similar to L.L. Bean boat totes, except more brightly colored. The company is co-owned by director Roman Coppola (brother to Sofia, who carries Pacific Tote bags on set ) and beloved by bi-coastal film industry insiders. If you work in film and fly between L.A. and New York every other week, you carry your laptop in this pleasingly sturdy bag . Strategist style columnist Chris Black is also a fan .

When she’s not traveling with her Parker Thatch bag, Edwards also likes to use Kule’s roomy totes as personal items. Saturday Night Live ’s Chloe Fineman travels with one of these too, and says it fits both a laptop and extra outfit inside. She adds that the New York brand’s designs are “a little cheeky and a little funny,” as well as a nice reminder of home when she’s on the road.

Here’s another professional-looking, multi-purpose travel tote, as recommended by Strategist writer Lauren Ro. She says it makes a great carry-on personal item because it’s lightweight and custom-designed for air travel, with a luggage sleeve and exterior pockets for stashing chargers and tidbits, as well as a removable crossbody strap.

At least two friends that I know of ended up immediately purchasing a Baggu Cloud Carry-on after I flaunted mine at a destination wedding this past May. Made from weightless but durable nylon, the airplane-friendly version of the brand’s original Cloud Bag can hold a lot of stuff, and the bright colorways stand out in a sea of boring navy duffels at the airport. Puffy shoulder straps make standing in line at security a bit more tolerable, and generous external pockets are handy for stashing a book or water bottle. This bag’s dimensions are actually rather large (14 × 20 × 8 inches) for a personal item, but its bulkiness really depends on how much stuff you pack inside. I’ve taken mine on a personal-item-only Spirit flight with no issues at all, and on longer trips I have also slipped it over the handle of a Samsonite carry-on suitcase using the attached luggage sleeve.

The best personal-item duffel bags

Former Strategist associate editor Louis Cheslaw calls this Patagonia duffel his “ secret second suitcase ,” because its unassuming-yet-roomy interior lets him pack heavy without checking a bag. The Black Hole’s 30-liter capacity is about as large as a bag can be while still qualifying as the “personal item” you can bring onboard with your main carry-on suitcase and slide under the seat in front of you, Cheslaw notes. “Within that capacity, I can easily fit two pairs of shoes as well as a week’s worth of underwear, socks, and thin shirts, relieving a ton of pressure on my suitcase.”

This new-school garment bag, which made our Travel 100 list of the best products to take on the road, can keep a suit or gown unwrinkled while also cleverly storing several other outfits. My fellow Strategist writer Rachael Griffiths loves taking hers on weekend trips with friends, especially when packing satin dresses and pleated shirts for nights out. It’s ideal for destination weddings, and Moonflower wine bar co-owner Rebecca Johnson even took one all the way to Tasmania for a romantic antipodean getaway with her husband. Going ’s travel spokesperson, Katy Nastro, told me that it’s very popular among her exceedingly well-traveled colleagues.

For both carry-on backpacks and duffels, former Paper fashion editor Mario Abad turns to Dagne Dover’s neoprene travel bags. “They’re the best,” he says. “They’re really lightweight, and they’re made of this scuba material that looks sleek and modern and is nice to the touch.” The bags aren’t just aesthetically pleasing, though. “You can fit a lot of stuff inside — it’s a minimal aesthetic, no busy details or anything, just all the compartments you need.” Jessica Morrobel of  Traveling With Jessica agrees that the Landon is an “absolute lifesaver,” and  Going ’s travel spokesperson, Katy Nastro, is also a fan, especially for quick overnights. The duffel comes in five sizes, but medium is the best option if you know you’ll be flying on budget carriers with strict rules.

The best personal-item backpacks

This is my current personal item backpack of choice. It is designed to slip over the handles of a carry-on suitcase, but over Christmas I took it as my only luggage on a weeklong train trip across Turkey and Georgia and it fit everything I needed, including an extra pair of shoes. The neutral design is as appropriate for day hiking and office commuting as it is flying. But the capacity is the biggest drawcard. Creator Jessica Wright of Bon Traveler is a longtime user and says she is “shocked” by how much it can hold. Great for packers who like to compartmentalize, the interior is separated into various sleeves and sections for a laptop, clothing, and tech items. But you can also remove these compartments and just use it as a black hole bag if needed.

My fellow Strategist travel writer Rachael Griffiths prefers this sleek Timbuk2 backpack with even more sleeves and compartments for organizing items on the move. It, too, can store “a week away’s worth of clothes and a fat beach read if you’re strategic,” she says. Which is ideal if you’re traveling personal-item-only .

The “clown car of personal items” is what writer and film wrangler Maggie Slepian calls this top-loading backpack from hiker-beloved brand Gregory. When she used it as her only luggage item for a four-day trip to the East Coast last fall, it fit a laptop, notebook, sandals, running shoes, rain jacket, jumpsuit, two pairs of leggings, two pairs of shorts, several shirts, toiletries, socks, undergarments, five pairs of headphones (over-ear, noise-canceling earbuds, white-noise only, corded for the plane, and AirPods for Zoom calls), and snacks. Her water bottle was stashed in the stretchy side pocket.

Patagonia’s Ultralight Black Hole Tote Pack is “a really good bag,” as Strategist contributing writer Molly Dektar observes . Popular among globe-trotting art world types, it can be carried as either a tote or a backpack, depending on the situation, and it folds into its own internal pocket, for easy storage. It is practical without sacrificing style: “Though it is crafted of black ripstop, it does not scream, ‘I hike!’ and though it has a large number of pockets and adjustable straps, it does not scream, ‘I code!’”

Strategist senior editor Simone Kitchens is a fan of Patagonia’s Black Hole bags too — but she uses this more traditional-looking one. “ There are one zillion separate little pockets and perfectly sized compartments for things like chargers and night guards and passports and AirPods,” she explains, “as well as slim sleeves for a laptop and magazines.” The bag opens at the top, which means things won’t come tumbling out when you need to grab something. And while there’s a high level of organization happening on the inside, the bag has a smooth exterior: “ I quite like that the outside doesn’t look all that tricked out. ”

Despite fears of looking like a Scandinavian school child or 2012-era hipster, Strategist writer Dominique Pariso is loyal to her Kanken — and she’s not alone among our staff . “This backpack is so light, so compact, and so durable it really is ideal for stuffing under tiny airplane seats,” she explains. “Plus, you can fit way more stuff inside than seems humanly possible given its petite size.”

The best personal-item cross-bodies and fanny packs

Crescent-shaped bags have been everywhere over the past couple of years, but here’s one that’ll stand out from the crowd. Writer and artist Ludwig Hurtado says it’s big enough to fit your phone, headphones, passport, sunglasses, snacks, and even a book or two. And the cross-body strap makes it ideal for travel: “In theory, I love the look of a large tote bag, but when I’m running around the city or the airport, they tend to fall off my shoulder way too easily.” He took his to Paris Fashion Week as well as on a quick trip to Berlin, where it successfully helped him gain entry to Berghain.

On the more affordable side of things, Baggu’s take on the crescent trend is excellent for travel. I’ve had mine for a couple of years now and would be lost without it at the airport. It’s comfortable to wear, with a highly adjustable strap and two zippered internal pockets for securing your phone, passport, and wallet. The capacity is huge: I can fit a book and water bottle inside and still have room left over for other items. I’ve machine washed it several times with no issue. And while the bag looks smart, especially in the black colorway, it’s also low-key enough to avoid the attention of pickpockets. Hairstylist Teddi Cranford, who has visited Marrakech five times , says that it’s “essential for the souk,” because you can “just easily grab stuff out and zip it back up.”

Less sporty-looking than the ubiquitous Lululemon belt bag, and constructed from stretchy neoprene fabric that lets you stuff it full if you need to, our favorite fanny pack is perfect for the plane. As Strategist editor Maxine Builder explains, it’s made of “forgiving, easy-to-clean” neoprene, and “it expands a fair bit” so she can stuff more into it.

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Safari Omega spacious/large laptop backpack with Raincover, college bag, travel bag for men and women, Black, 30 Litre

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About this item.

• 2 spacious compartments with 2 front pockets and an organizer compartment
• Padded Laptop compartment
• Compression straps and reflective strips for better travelling experience
• Bottle and umbrella holder pockets, Padded shoulder straps

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Product description

Safari Omega is a multi-purpose 2 compartment spacious laptop backpack suitable for office, travel, school. It comes with 2 front pockets and an organizer. The compression straps make your travelling comfortable by restricting the movement of items inside the backpack. It also comes with a rain cover ensuring protection throughout the year. Reflective strips will provide assistance during night travel. All in all it's a fully packed product that caters to all your daily travel needs.

Product details

• Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 19 x 32 x 48.5 cm; 530 g
• Date First Available ‏ : ‎ 6 July 2023
• Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Safari
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B097JJ2CK6
• Item model number ‏ : ‎ OMEGA19FBBLK
• Country of Origin ‏ : ‎ India
• Department ‏ : ‎ unisex-adult
• Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Safari, Safari Industries Ltd 301/302, A-Wing, The Qube, M.V.Road, Marol, Andheri(East), Near international Airport Mumbai- 400059 +91-22-40381851/838
• Packer ‏ : ‎ Safari Industries Ltd 301/302, A-Wing, The Qube, M.V.Road, Marol, Andheri(East), Near international Airport Mumbai- 400059 +91-22-40381851/838
• Importer ‏ : ‎ Imported and Marketed by Safari Industries Ltd 301/302, A-Wing, The Qube, M.V.Road, Marol, Andheri(East), Near international Airport Mumbai- 400059 +91-22-40381851/838
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 530 g
• Item Dimensions LxWxH ‏ : ‎ 19 x 32 x 48.5 Centimeters
• Net Quantity ‏ : ‎ 1 Count
• Generic Name ‏ : ‎ Backpack
• #1 in Laptop Backpacks

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87% positive ratings from 10K+ customers

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Customers say

Customers like the appearance and comfort of the backpack. For example, they say it has a beautiful compartment and the shoulder straps have good cushioning. Customers are also satisfied with the space. That said, some complain about the rain cover. Opinions are mixed on the zipper, quality, and value.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers are satisfied with the appearance of the backpack. For example, they mention it has a beautiful compartment, and is a perfect blend of style and utility. Some appreciate the quality and color of the bag. Overall, most are happy with the design and functionality of the product.

"More than worth the price. Looks are superb . Sturdy . Zips are v v smooth. Extra buckles provides additional safety. Been using extensively...." Read more

"Very good quality in this price and also look so nice ...." Read more

"...Worth of money good space inside my laptop goes easily Colour is perfect weight is not as I expected it’s low" Read more

" Colour is excellent and spacious compartments gives us to occupy more space it is good for money" Read more

Customers are satisfied with the space provided by the backpack. They mention that it has very useful and spacious compartments that can accommodate all of their teaching materials. The bag has an attractive design and an ample number of pockets. Overall, customers are happy with the quality and functionality of the product.

"The bag is of exceptional quality and can accommodate all of my teaching materials ...." Read more

"...but stitching is not good and chain quality is also very bad, size and weight is good " Read more

"...tincture of oorang with black is the perfect combo it has a good spacious environment and has four department...." Read more

"The compartments are designed well and the build quality is good. Could be used as laptop bag or school bag." Read more

Customers like the comfort of the backpack. They mention that it's the best comfort for traveling, has a nice feel, and the shoulder strap has good cushioning. Some say that the size and weight are ok, but it is not a water resistant bag.

"...It handles load well also shoulder strap have good cushioning . Liked it." Read more

"...This is good for laptop and books.the bag is very comfortable in shoulder ." Read more

"Size is goodLess weight Comfort is nice But the mess can be improved and the hanging handle can be improved..." Read more

" Size and comfort weight are ok but it is not a water resistance bag" Read more

Customers are mixed about the quality of the backpack. Some mention that it's a good quality bag with heavy chains and stitching, while others say that it isn't good and the material is very thin.

"More than worth the price. Looks are superb. Sturdy . Zips are v v smooth. Extra buckles provides additional safety. Been using extensively...." Read more

"The bag is of exceptional quality and can accommodate all of my teaching materials...." Read more

"Nice durability and good material but stitches are weak and rain cover is shorter than the bag ." Read more

" Quality is good . Very Good pick at this price range." Read more

Customers are mixed about the value of the backpack. Some mention that it's good for money, offers great quality, and is well worth it; while others say that the price is not worth of quality, it'll be a waste of money, and not worth for college students.

"More than worth the price . Looks are superb. Sturdy . Zips are v v smooth. Extra buckles provides additional safety. Been using extensively...." Read more

"Overall good but stiching not gud value for money " Read more

"Quality is good. Very Good pick at this price range ." Read more

"Product quality is good, value for money ." Read more

Customers have mixed opinions about the zipper of the backpack. Some find it well-made, smooth, and strong, while others say that it starts to peel off and tear up after a few weeks.

"Bag quality is not good enough my bag tear up from the zipper side after 1-2 week" Read more

"More than worth the price. Looks are superb. Sturdy . Zips are v v smooth . Extra buckles provides additional safety. Been using extensively...." Read more

"I have been using this bag for about 6 months and it have started to tear " Read more

"...They are tearing apart automatically ." Read more

Customers are mixed about the size of the backpack. Some mention that it perfectly fits their laptop, is big in size, and has spacious compartments. The adjustable size is a particularly useful feature, allowing it to expand or contract as needed. However, others say that the size is small and the straps are way too small.

" It's small and definitely not 30L.The straps are way too small not even students from highschool (9th/10th) can't wear it" Read more

"...Its adjustable size is a particularly useful feature , allowing it to expand or contract as needed...." Read more

"But small in size it's only for laptop not for school" Read more

"...Not only does it comfortably fit a laptop , but it also has ample storage space for all your other essentials...." Read more

Customers are dissatisfied with the rain cover of the backpack. They mention that it's missing or not delivered. Some say that the cover is not even attached to the bag.

" Could not find rain cover in the delivered product as was mentioned at the time of purchase." Read more

" Rain cover is not even attached to bag .Ther is no way to attach to bag .So not for laptops...." Read more

"...The added rain cover is a great bonus , as it ensures the safety of your belongings during unexpected weather...." Read more

" Didn't receive bag cover " Read more

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The bottom line

Monos carry-on luggage review 2024: our thoughts on 3 bags.

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A good carry-on bag should be durable, highly maneuverable, and easy to pack. Of course, size is also a key factor. If your suitcase doesn't fit in the allotted overhead bin space, it quickly goes from a carry-on to a dreaded last-minute checked bag. 

Monos is a newer luggage brand that has quickly risen up the ranks to become one of the best luggage brands — we even named the Carry-On Pro Plus model the best for extra space in our guide to the best carry-on suitcases . The company makes simple yet sleek bags in chic colors that stand out at the airport and are worthy of posting on your Instagram feed.

Monos' carry-on options come in two sizes: standard and "plus," with the plus being slightly larger. Both sizes have the option to add a front pocket; a feature that upgrades the model to "Pro". Once you mix and match the available features and sizes, you end up with four carry-on models to choose from: the Carry-On, Carry-On Plus, Carry-On Pro, and Carry-On Pro Plus. 

Former travel editor Hannah Freedman first tested the Carry-On Pro and the Carry-On Pro Plus in 2021. This year, we revisited the Carry-On Pro and also tested the Carry-On Plus . You can find my thoughts, combined with Freedman's original review, below.

Our favorite Monos suitcase: the Carry-On Pro Plus

This suitcase is great for longer trips. The super handy front pocket fits a laptop and easily organizes accessories.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Significantly more packable space
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Smartly designed telescoping handle
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Smart front pocket that doesn't protrude when packed
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Marks up easily
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Doesn't meet all carry-on size requirements
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Pocket cuts into interior packing space

Freedman first tried out the Carry-On Pro Plus and was immediately impressed with the extra organization and room it provided. However, the Pro Plus comes in at 23 inches when measured from wheels to fixed handle, which puts it slightly over many airlines' regulation size limit for a carry-on bag. It also weighs 8.38 pounds, which is quite heavy for a carry-on suitcase. While our tester didn't have an issue with this, those who have a hard time lifting bags into the overhead bins may find the extra couple of pounds really make a difference. If you frequently take flights with very strict weight limits for carry-ons (like some budget and European airlines), the extra weight of the bags will cut into how much you can pack. 

That said, it holds a whopping 46 liters, and Freedman was easily able to pack a week's worth of clothes in it, plus use the front pocket for items that she typically had to put in her purse or under-seat bag. The handy front pocket is great for organizing smaller essentials and holding a laptop. Even when packed, the pocket doesn't add any additional inches to the carry-on once it's zipped back up.

The Carry-On Pro Plus has an elegant exterior with simple horizontal lines that add some dimension. It comes in eight standard colors ranging from midnight black to olive green, and also features four smooth, multi-directional wheels, an adjustable handle, and YKK zippers. 

When Freedman originally tested this suitcase during the pandemic, she used it for weekend driving trips rather than on planes. She notes that she still rigorously tested the Pro Plus (and its smaller counterpart, the Carry-On Pro) to mimic a typical airport trip, including wheeling them across multiple surfaces, lifting them overhead when fully packed, and even using them to help move apartments.

Overall, the bag held up remarkably well and was incredibly easy to use. It wheeled well on surfaces from concrete to carpet, and the zippers were smooth and didn't catch. The adjustable handle was fairly sturdy, though it did wobble just slightly. Freedman also noticed several white marks on the suitcases' colorful surface after just a few uses. The company includes an eraser sponge with the bag and Freedman was pleasantly surprised to find most of the marks came off when she used it on the exterior.

Freedman was also a big fan of the zippered front pocket made out of the same polycarbonate shell as the rest of the bag's exterior. Unlike the front pocket of a soft-sided carry-on that usually protrudes and adds significant size to a bag when fully packed, the Monos front pocket zips right back to its standard size unless you really cram it to the gills, in which case zipping it also becomes a challenge. It was easy to fit her 15-inch laptop, headphones, charging cords, lip gloss, and a lotion tin into its multiple smaller pockets.

The Pro Plus interior opens to reveal two packing spaces — one that can be secured by a zippered flap and the other by two strong buckles. The Pro Plus is larger than the Carry-On Pro by a little over an inch each way. While this may not sound like a lot, it adds up to 10 extra liters of packable space. Freedman was impressed by the Pro Plus's packing space, noting that it was roomy enough weeklong trip. However, as previously noted, that extra space comes at the cost of fitting in many standard overhead compartments. That said, if you were taking a longer trip on a cross-country or transatlantic flight where overhead bins are larger, that extra space would be a serious boon.

Also great: the Carry-On Plus

The Carry-On Plus offers the most packing space of any Monos carry-ons. Just be prepared for the possibility that you may be asked to check it on some airlines.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Roomiest carry-on bag from Monos
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Durable, protective shell
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Premium features like YKK zippers, integrated locks, and interior compression
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Does not meet carry-on regulations for some major airlines
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No exterior storage like other Monos bags

One con of the Carry-On Pro Plus is that the exterior pocket cuts into the interior packing space. The Carry-On Plus without the pocket is actually Monos' most spacious bag, with an astounding 48 liters of room to pack your belongings. I was easily able to pack a week's worth of clothes in this bag with room to spare. If you're an overpacker like I am, you know that extra space is hard to come by in a carry-on bag. 

Like Monos' other larger model, though, the Carry-On Plus is 23 inches long, meaning that it is too big for some airlines. This bag is technically too large for Delta, American, or United's sizers, but you'll likely be able to get away with carrying it on. You'll be just fine on Southwest and some larger international airlines. Keep in mind, too, that this bag weighs 7.38 pounds empty, so it is a little hefty when compared to its competitors. I had no problems lifting it overhead or carrying it up stairs, but its size could pose a problem for some travelers. 

If you can handle a larger bag, though, the Carry-On Plus is a great option. In both the interior and exterior, you'll find all of the typical Monos features: YKK zippers, interior compression, integrated locks, and an adjustable handle. It comes in the same color range as other Monos bags, too, so you can match your luggage for a truly aesthetically pleasing set. When not in use, you can easily nest this bag inside any of Monos' Check-In sizes. 

The Carry-On Plus held up remarkably well in our testing. Most scratches were easily wiped away with the included sponge, and there were no major dents or dings. The bag's handles, locks, and zippers still functioned as good as new.

What we'd skip: the Carry-On Pro

The Carry-On Pro has the smallest interior packing space of Monos' carry-on bags. What you sacrifice in interior space, you gain with an exterior pocket, but we're not sure it's worth the tradeoff.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Will fit on all airlines
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Front pocket for storing electronics and small items
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Minimal interior packing space

Based on several reviews and feedback similar to Freedman's issues with the size of the Pro Plus, the company came out with the Carry-On Pro. This suitcase has the same useful front pocket but measures 22 inches instead, which means it will fit in almost all standard overhead bins. However, you do lose 10 liters of packable space, so this bag is best for shorter trips of three or four days. It's also still on the heavier side at 7.8 pounds.

The Carry-On Pro includes the typical high-quality Monos features like smooth YKK zippers, a TSA-approved lock, and a 4-stop telescoping handle. Inside, you'll find compression straps, zippered pockets, and a handy luggage bag. The Carry-On Pro comes in eight standard colors, plus you'll usually be able to find a handful of limited edition colors. I got the bag in Ocean Blue, which is subtle but still stands out from the crowd. 

Like the Carry-On Pro Plus, the Carry-On Pro comes equipped with an extra exterior pocket, which is the perfect size for a 15-inch laptop. Since the exterior pocket is inlaid, it doesn't make the bag any bigger once packed. The tradeoff, though, is that the pocket cuts into the main compartment, so there is less packing room overall. The Carry-On Pro Plus is similarly designed, with the pocket taking away some of the interior space, but the Carry-On Pro is considerably smaller, so it was definitely more noticeable in this bag. Personally, I would rather have the space in the main compartment than the additional exterior pocket. 

What makes Monos stand out Monos bags are best known for their front pocket option, which features several easy-access organizational pockets. Hannah Freedman / Business Insider

What makes Monos luggage unique is its high-quality materials and the option for a hard front pocket that unzips on the front of the bag. The bags themselves are durable and have features that make packing a breeze. The pocket holds a laptop and is an excellent place to organize other small essentials, from headphones to charging cords. Plus, the fact that the pocket is also made of sturdy polycarbonate helps better protect those accessories.  

To be clear, Monos is not the sole suitcase brand with a hard front pocket option. However, it couples the front pocket with an excellent overall bag at a great price point. Arlo Skye and Rimowa are also excellent luggage brands with carry-ons with front pockets, but they will set you back $375 and a whopping $1,100, respectively. On the flip side, we found the overall suitcase to be superior to lower-cost options like CoolLife ($120).   

The stylish exteriors in fun, chic colors of Monos suitcases will surely draw comparisons to Away , another buzzy luggage brand popular with millennials and Gen Z. Both brands are similar, so preference depends on the person. Freedman said she preferred the sleeker look of the Monos bag and was impressed that the pocket includes zippered compartments — a feature Away bags don't have. However, I personally prefer Away, as I found they Away bags I tested had smoother wheels and more space overall. You can read my full thoughts in my Away Carry On review .

These carry-ons fall squarely in the mid-tier range of luggage. For the price, they are some of the best options on the market, and Freedman and I were both impressed with each bag we tested. Freedman particularly loved the smart front pocket feature, which is easily accessible and makes organizing a breeze, while I am a huge fan of the bag's stylish design and impressive durability.  

Whether you prefer extra packing space or want to ensure your bag fits in all overhead bins will determine whether the Plus or the Pro Plus is the better option for you. However, we recommend skipping the regular Pro in favor of one of Monos' more spacious bags. 

You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here . Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

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ECOHUB 16'' Travel Backpack Carry On Underseat Airline Approved Personal Item Travel Bag with Multi-Pockets Laptop Backpack Casual Daypack Small Backpack Lightweight for Women Men, Grey

Purchase options and add-ons

• 【APPROVED FOR ALL FLIGHTS】: ECOHUB backpack is suitable for carry-on luggage when flying with Spirit, which will save you a fortune. The underseat bag measures 15.7x9.8x7.8（in）and has a capacity of 20L, with a weight of 1.25ib. In addition to Spirit, also suitable for Easyjet, British Airways, Etihad, Emirates and other airlines.（PATENT PENDING）
• 【SPACIOUS AND EASY TO USE】: The spacious main compartment can be opened like a suitcase and elastic straps are perfect for bulky items like shoes and clothes. Side compression straps adjust the backpack space so you can pack more. The side handle allows us to easily carry it as a holdall.Expandable water bottle pocket.
• 【ORGANISED】: Computer compartment with padded and elastic strap in the back pocket. 16" personal item travel bag has a dedicated small power bank pocket. And front pocket can hold ipad and notebooks, pens, passports. Small top pocket can hold phone and ticket. It is convenient for anyone who wants to travel to get on the plane quickly. The inner pocket can hold important items such as mobile phone, ID card and so on. The mesh pocket can also hold toiletries.
• 【RECYCLED PET HIGH QUALITY FABRIC】: ECOHUB carry on backpack is 100% eco-friendly because it is made from 30 PLASTIC PET bottles! Recycled fabric is water-resistant and lightweight and certified by GRS. Also built with Heavy Duty SBS brand zippers, reinforced ripstop stitching. ECOHUB travel bag guarantees the top quality.
• 【USB PORT DESIGN】: Built with a USB charging port, the ECOHUB 16" Smart Backpack will keep your phone fully powered and ensure you’ll never lose connection when out and about. This laptop backpack is not only built for daily needs, but also for air travel, such as overnight and weekend trips, outdoor activities, gym, offices.（PATENT PENDING）

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Special Note:

• This 16" person item backpack is born for United Airline. To prevent oversize when full filled, it is a slightly smaller than traditional 16".
• As a laptop backpack, it supports up to 14.4" standard laptops, and 15.6" thin laptops.

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Customers say

Customers like the size, ease of use, sturdiness, and straps of the backpack. For example, they mention it has lots of convenient spaces, easy access, and is well made. Some appreciate the shoulder straps, hand grips, and compression straps. Overall, most are happy with the quality and functionality of the product.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the size of the backpack. They mention it has lots of convenient spaces, including an oversized mesh water bottle pocket and laptop pocket. It comfortably holds two days worth of clothes plus personal items like medications. They also love the passport pocket and say it's the perfect size for under the seat.

"...They are small enough to be free on every airline, but are thoughtfully designed and able to hold a lot...." Read more

"...Lots of pockets and compartments. It was the perfect size for under the seat even in economy class winds seats which have less space...." Read more

"...It's not too big to be a burden when you're out and about... easy to slip under a table at a cafe, without looking like you're headed to the airport." Read more

"...There are also multiple pockets in this backpack which also greatly helps with organizing. TIP- everything needs a home when you travel!..." Read more

Customers like the sturdiness of the backpack. For example, they say it's well constructed, holds up well, and is made of heavy duty fabric. Some are impressed with the quality and functionality. That said, they mention that the contents were still secure.

"...suitcase/backpack hybrid made from recycled plastics, with quality backpack straps and plenty of sensibly placed pockets...." Read more

"...It looks well constructed and will probably last but it is too soon to tell for this review. Fits an iPad well. Lots of pockets and compartments...." Read more

"... Decent quality , opens like a suitcase (it really feels like a mini one) zippers in the convenient spots, can carry it different ways, aesthetically..." Read more

"...All of the zippers still work, but it seems like the seams are about ready to give in a couple spots..." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the quality of the backpack. They mention that it works great, has great functionality, and is durable. They also say that it's very useful on any excursion and sightseeing tours. Customers also appreciate the thoughtful, practical design and handles. Overall, most are happy with the product's quality and functionality.

"... Back pack is also nice and light weight for hiking and includes bottle holder. Light weight but looks and feels durable." Read more

"...This has a stretchable cloth which is functional and better than some that had mesh ones. I wonder how it will hold up down the road...." Read more

"...It has plenty of pockets. Overall, it is a practical and comfortable backpack for short travel if you are able to pack light...." Read more

"...Strangely, it holds more than my slightly larger bag. Worked great going from CA to DC, around a conference with my laptop and food..." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the appearance of the backpack. They mention that it is well-designed, clever, and has more room than expected. Some appreciate the color and material used in the bag. Overall, most are happy with the purchase and recommend it to others.

"This is a incredibly well-designed soft shell suitcase/backpack hybrid made from recycled plastics, with quality backpack straps and plenty of..." Read more

"...zippers in the convenient spots, can carry it different ways, aesthetically pleasing , and not just the right size for all airlines, but also great..." Read more

"...but I can't emphasize enough how much you can get in there and how stylish it is! I used packing cubes for this bag which I HIGHLY recommend...." Read more

Customers like the ease of opening the backpack. They say the fully zippered opening with crossstraps to hold clothes works like a suitcase. They also say the zippers are flawless, perfectly sewn, and smooth to operate. Customers also mention the zipper compartments all operate without problems. They appreciate the sturdy construction and the zipper pulls have holes for padlocks.

"...This whole thing is pockets and sturdy zippers for them (not YYK, but after a week+ of heavy use, they were never an issue)...." Read more

"...Decent quality, opens like a suitcase (it really feels like a mini one) zippers in the convenient spots, can carry it different ways, aesthetically..." Read more

"...holder/chest strap/ strap to slide on my suitcase handle and zippered security pocket so I don't have to carry a handbag...." Read more

"Too small for all the things I travel with. The zippers don’t seem sturdy enough and automatically open if you load heavy items in the backpack...." Read more

Customers like the straps of the backpack. They mention that it has well-padded straps, four compression straps on the outside, and functional tie-down straps. They also appreciate the adjustable shoulder straps and the side and top padded carry handles.

"...They are comfortable to wear fully loaded and the additional strap on the back makes them super easy to attach to a rolling suitcase for longer trips..." Read more

"... Four compression straps on the outside , and a meshy pocket on one side for whatever else you have left to pack?..." Read more

"...pockets to keep you organized, opens like a suitcase, strap on the inside to hold everything in place, laptop pocket (perfect for my kindle), straps..." Read more

"This bag meets all the requirements. It fits under the seat, has a luggage strap , is a backpack, and is easy to pack. I love the pockets...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the value of the backpack. They mention that it's worth the price, saves them a ton of money, and is a great product.

"...We can pack for a long weekend in just these and save tons on baggage fees ...." Read more

"...Also slips over the handle of rolling carry on. Great buy !" Read more

"My new favorite small carry-on. Best bang for the buck ." Read more

"...5. For the money, I think this is one of the most thoughtful and reasonably priced personal item bags on Amazon." Read more

Customers like the ease of use of the backpack. They say it's convenient, has many options for storage, and is easy to get to. They also say it is simple and easy to manage. Customers also mention that the strap on the back makes it super easy to attach to a rolling suitcase for longer trips.

"...and the additional strap on the back makes them super easy to attach to a rolling suitcase for longer trips...." Read more

"...Under the top handle is another big, flat pocket, perfect for quick access stuff ...." Read more

"...Love the backpack which is easier to manage than a hand held or shoulder bag when going down narrow isles...." Read more

"...Good: I really like the top little passport/ticket pocket. It's easy to get to whether carrying the bag around or having it strapped to your carry-..." Read more

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