Selecting a brand new backpack is a really private resolution that it’s best to take time over.
There are literally thousands of backpacks on the market, however the alternative turns into even trickier when you additionally need a bag that may handle your laptop computer and never weigh you down.
Fortunately in recent times laptops have gotten slimmer and lighter usually, saving our poor our bodies from having to lug round 3kg monsters together with massive heavy energy bricks. However regardless of this, you’ll nonetheless wish to go for a supportive new bag in case you are carrying round your laptop computer all day, in addition to the rest that provides further weight.
Whether or not it’s the charger or your mouse, or different stuff like your lunch or a coat, backpacks are available in each conceivable form and dimension. We’ve made certain to incorporate numerous selection right here, however every bag included on this article has a devoted slot or sleeve inside to carry a laptop computer.
It’s clever to choose a bag that doesn’t promote you’ve received an costly laptop computer in your individual, so bear that in thoughts. We reckon most of those luggage are fairly refined.
We have now personally examined every backpack included for a number of months to make sure they should be beneficial as one of the best round. Whether or not you prioritise design, consolation or laptop computer safety, there’s one thing right here for everybody at a spread of various costs.
We have now listed the utmost dimension of laptop computer that every bag will take, and in addition the general capability (measured in litres).
Want a laptop computer to place in your new bag? Check out one of the best laptops to purchase in addition to one of the best funds laptops.
Greatest laptop computer backpacks 2023
WaterField Important Laptop computer Backpack – Greatest laptop computer backpack
Worth When Reviewed:
$189
Laptop computer dimension: as much as 16in
Capability: 17L
The ‘Important’ laptop computer bag from WaterField is, effectively, focussed on the necessities – but it surely actually nails them.
The aesthetic is easy, however modern, with a alternative of vibrant accents under the black physique. Constructed from waterproof nylon, with waterproof seals across the zips, that is sturdy sufficient to outlive the weather, with a structured physique that holds its form even when the bag is empty.
Outer pockets on all sides will maintain water bottles or small umbrellas, and there are zipped compartments on each the within and outdoors for maintaining monitor of your free bits and items.
The only padded and fleece-lined laptop computer pouch is sufficiently big for 14in and even some 16in units, with a easy velcro strap to carry issues in place.
There’s additionally a well-made messenger bag model when you choose a shoulder bag. This spherical up is principally for two-strap backpacks, however the high quality of the Waterfield Important messenger is so good we additionally wished to offer it a shout out. Its simplicity is its secret – a slender bag with stunning capability that matches as much as 14in laptops together with books, chargers, water bottle and extra.
It has intelligent magnetic snap-shut buckles that slide open and a intelligent orange lining—as a substitute of black—that helps you simpler rapidly look and see what’s inside.
Aer Metropolis Pack – Very good construct high quality
Professionals
- Strong supplies
- Suspended laptop computer pocket
Worth When Reviewed:
$149
Laptop computer dimension: as much as 16in
Capability: 14L
One of many perfect laptop computer backpacks is the Metropolis Pack made by San Francisco firm Aer. The bag is well-designed and of wonderful high quality with high supplies, zippers, and compartments.
The outer materials is a really hardy 1680D Cordura ballistic nylon full with YKK zipper and Duraflex plastic on the tag pulls that makes for a premium feeling product. Importantly, the padded laptop computer pocket (as much as 16in) is suspended so your laptop computer gained’t hit the bottom once you put the bag down. The straps are additionally very snug for all-day put on.
There are tons of storage pockets to organise your stuff within the entrance compartment, in addition to two exterior pockets, considered one of which has a tender lining in your cellphone or glasses. With a tiny pocket contained in the bag to fit an AirTag, this can be a fashionable backpack with very good consideration to design element.
The one draw back is the bag solely has a 14L capability regardless of being comparatively massive and boxy. That’s as a result of the principle compartment has good size and width however not a lot depth at solely 5in (12.5cm). It means it’s essential to stack objects resembling coats, footwear, lunch field or headphones on high of one another, tower fashion, and also you run out of room surprisingly rapidly.
In any other case this can be a stellar alternative.
Stubble & Co – Trendy & top quality
Worth When Reviewed:
From $140
Laptop computer dimension: as much as 16in
Capability: 21L
We’ve little doubt that Stubble & Co is making a number of the most fashionable and well-made luggage round. And we’ve included two right here as a result of they’re each so good.
First up is ‘The Backpack‘, which isn’t a very difficult rucksack with extra pockets than you’ll be able to keep in mind. As an alternative, it’s easy and efficient with only a pocket on the entrance and a small one inside. You additionally get facet pockets for objects like water bottles.
This up to date mannequin has a 21L essential compartment and you may match as much as a 16in laptop computer within the protected part on the again. Moreover, the fabric is now waterproof premium Tekwax canvas (additionally discovered on the brand new The Weekender – a holdall with a laptop computer compartment). In case you want a completely waterproof bag then look to The Roll Prime.
Not solely does The Backpack look nice—obtainable in All Black and Pirate colors—the craftsmanship is phenomenal. The magnets on the lid have been changed with a safer G clip.
The Commuter (pictured on the left, $155/£125) is on the market in two colors and can be comprised of British Millerain premium Tekwax canvas. It’s a extra conventional form with comparable 20L capability together with extra sections–particularly a devoted laptop computer compartment with its personal zip–and pockets if that’s extra the type of factor you want.
Bellroy Tokyo Totepack – Tote and backpack in a single
Cons
- Not fully waterproof
Worth When Reviewed:
$189
Laptop computer dimension: as much as 15in
Capability: 14L or 20L
This backpack has massive tote handles on the highest so it may be carried as a tote if you wish to, and the again straps fold neatly away.
However this bag continues to be greatest when used as a backpack and is pleasingly protecting and cozy regardless of the marginally uncommon design. We examined the bigger 20L model (there’s a smaller 14L too) and managed to slot in excess of anticipated with a 15in laptop computer, books, headphones, keys, lunch, and spare footwear all becoming in there with room to spare. It’s a little bit of a Mary Poppins bag.
There are intelligent touches like the 2 inner pockets for water bottle, umbrella, or footwear in addition to two exterior zip pockets for straightforward entry to smaller objects. The highest zipper has a climate flap beneath to make up for the very fact the zippers and supplies used right here aren’t waterproof. However this is a wonderful and excellently well-made laptop computer backpack from Bellroy that manages to be light-weight however sturdy.
Osprey Talon Earth 22
Professionals
- Very light-weight
- Nice for biking or strolling
Cons
- Not many inner pockets
Worth When Reviewed:
$200
If you’d like a backpack you’ll be able to carry your laptop computer to work through the week but in addition wish to use the identical backpack on the weekend to hit the paths, that is the one to go for. In reality, it’s an excellent unisex commuter bag both manner due to a light-weight however supportive 1.1kg design with an adjustable again relying in your peak. It additionally suits a water reservoir for consuming on the go.
The design is sort of daring whether or not you go for the blue, brown, or inexperienced, and positively screams ‘outdoor’, but when this doesn’t hassle you then there’s a zipped, padded laptop computer sleeve that can comfortably match a 15in machine. There’s additionally a small top-load pocket and a big 22L essential compartment, although this solely has one small internet pocket inside. That’s all of the pockets you get, so this isn’t best choice when you prefer to stow devices and cables in little compartments, however there are two hip belt pockets and two stretchy ones on the edges.
It’s greatest when you lug lunch, a rain jacket, water bottle, or gymnasium garments to work, as that essential compartment has a little bit of a Mary Poppins vibe the place you’ll be able to stuff much more in there than you suppose. There’s additionally Osprey’s intelligent LidLock clip on the surface for securing a motorbike helmet to, in addition to a clip for a blinking mild. There’s even an ice axe attachment that you just’ll (in all probability) by no means use.
However with a supportive belt and chest clip (with whistle) this is a wonderful pack that you could put on to the workplace or on the hill, and saves you having to purchase two luggage. A restricted version, it’s additionally Bluesign accredited so it’s made with recycled and sustainable supplies.
Timbuk2 customized traditional messenger bag
Professionals
- Very roomy
- Good customized choices
- Left-handed carry choice
Cons
- Floppy except full
- Uncomfortable when very heavy
Worth When Reviewed:
From $124
Laptop computer dimension: as much as 17in (Massive dimension)
Capability: 9L (XS), 14L (S), 21 (M), or 28 (L)
Timbuk2 is a well-established San Francisco bag model initially designed for bike messengers to hold stuff in. That’s the place the time period ‘messenger bag’ comes from within the first place.
OK, OK, so this isn’t technically a backpack. But it surely’s adequate to make our checklist of one of the best laptop computer luggage due to how customisable it’s at buy, and the way versatile it’s in day after day use. You’ll be able to go for the common traditional messenger bag in an array of colors at costs from $99/£117 for the medium dimension we advocate (it is available in a number of), however you would possibly wish to try the corporate’s customized traditional messenger buying choice as a substitute.
The customized mannequin is just on the US web site, so when you stay in a foreign country you may need to pay import tax. However that apart, it prices from $124 for the smallest dimension and offers you tons of choices to construct your bag. Importantly, it helps you to decide in case you are a left-handed wearer of a messenger bag so would wish to put on it over your proper shoulder. Common Timbuk2 messengers are for right-handed left shoulder carry solely because the straps will not be reversible.
You too can select so as to add totally different color panels, rain resistant or different supplies relatively than the conventional Cordura material, and inner divider, or at further price inside water bottle pockets and a padded laptop computer sleeve. We examined a bag with all of the trimmings and suppose it’s best to get the interior dividers as a result of with out them even the medium dimension is a really massive bucket of a bag. In case you don’t fill it then it may be fairly floppy and saggy – it’s extra snug when bulked out.
It’s a disgrace that it’s a little uncomfortable when you’re lugging round very heavy masses (an elective shoulder pad straps helps to an extent) but when you could find the correct quantity of drugs to hold, this can be a very good wanting and well-made bag with intelligent design decisions like an easy-wipe inner lining in case of spillages and an excellent fast launch strap to rapidly tighten or loosen the match.
STM Banks – Plenty of area
Professionals
- Particular laptop computer safety options
Cons
- Smallish capability
- Awkward openings
Worth When Reviewed:
$129.99
Laptop computer dimension: as much as 15in
Capability: 18L
STM Banks is the newest laptop computer bag from Australia-based STM, providing a accepatible 18L capability with out compromising the slimline design. There’s additionally breathable mesh material on the again, serving to to keep away from the awkward again sweat when carrying a rucksack.
It’s designed to be an on a regular basis bag in addition to a laptop computer bag, with loads of area in your laptop computer (as much as 15in), charger, cellphone, lunch and even a jacket – imagine me, I’ve tried. There are many pockets of all styles and sizes that’ll maintain every little thing from sun shades to telephones to battery packs and extra.
That’s to not say that it doesn’t have some spectacular laptop-specific options together with the corporate’s personal Slingtech safety that suspends the laptop computer sleeve from the bottom to guard it from drops, whereas additionally offering further cushioning on the corners.
It additionally options the all-new CableReady routing system that lets you retailer run cables by way of totally different sections of the bag, good for maintaining your smartphone or laptop computer topped up whereas on the go.
Our solely criticism? Whereas there’s loads of storage, we discovered that the openings had been slightly tight for our liking, making peering into the contents of the bag a barely awkward course of. It’s the same story with the entrance pockets, which means you’ll be relying extra in your sense of contact than sight when fishing in your iPhone cable or headphones.
Chrome Industries City Ex 2.0 Rolltop – Greatest for rain
Cons
- No exterior pockets or bottle holder
Worth When Reviewed:
$140
Laptop computer dimension: as much as 15in
Capability: 20L or 30L
In case you cycle and want to hold your laptop computer then look no additional than this superior light-weight, totally waterproof rolltop backpack from Chrome Industries.
The knurled welded materials means this appears like a dry bag, and it just about is one – but it surely’s received extra form and organisation. A padded laptop computer sleeve on the within suits as much as 15in computer systems, and two different pockets allow you to slip a guide, cellphone and pens into place in order that they don’t clang round the principle a part of the bag together with your bigger objects.
As this can be a rolltop with clip-down closure there are not any exterior zippers (no zips in any respect in actual fact) and no water bottle pockets. That is price allowing for in case you are one to be taking issues out and in of your bag rather a lot, however keep in mind you might be gaining full waterproofing by making that sacrifice – giving nice peace of thoughts when lugging your laptop computer by way of the rain.
The U-loops on the again for a U-lock are cleverly reflective, and the straps with a chest strap are very snug. For a modern minimalist look with sufficient laptop computer and climate safety to not fear, this can be a nice alternative. You’ll be able to even put bigger, taller objects within the bag when unrolled as the fabric stays upright and stiff, and there are carry handles for once you do.
We examined the 20L model however there’s a bigger 30L one when you carry round quite a lot of gear.
Moshi Muto – Compact, safe & fashionable
Worth When Reviewed:
$149.95
Laptop computer dimension: as much as 13in
The Moshi Muto is a splendidly fashionable and practical bag for 11in to 13in laptops. As a three-way convertible bag, you need to use it as a backpack, a crossbody sling, or briefcase.
It’s effectively made and designed with each anti-theft and RFID safety. It’s additionally snug to put on with padded straps.
Clipping within the staps to make use of the Muto as a backpack was fairly apparent, barely much less apparent was understanding methods to re-orienting the straps to make use of the bag as a sling. Trace: you’ll want to attach one of many straps diagonally and tuck the opposite one away below the flap on the again.
In case you’re utilizing the bag as a briefcase, you’ll must tuck each straps away below the again flap. A quick instruction observe would have been helpful — however that’s about the one criticism I’ve in the direction of the Muto.
I actually appreciated the clear minimalist design. It’s an excellent alternative for the workplace or a wander across the metropolis. You’ll be able to preserve all of your necessities in a single place with peace of thoughts. There’s additionally a pocket in your water bottle.
Stubble & Co The Journey Bag – Greatest laptop computer backpack for journey
Professionals
- Large 42L capability
- Suits (most) airline cabin limits
- Clam shell flat opening
- Loads of pockets
Cons
- Costly
- Examine your airline limits
Worth When Reviewed:
$275
Laptop computer dimension: as much as 16in
Capability: 42L
Sneaking as massive a carry-on bag as attainable when taking a flight is now customary observe for many of us. It saves some huge cash on placing one other bag within the maintain and might get you out of the airport a lot sooner—leaving these unhappy baggage carousel waiters within the mud. And there’s a lot much less probability of the airline dropping your gear.
The light-weight (1.7kg; 3.7lb) and cozy Journey Bag from premium baggage maker Stubble & Co (see above) has been praised in lots of locations as the final word flight carry-on baggage because it has an enormous 42L capability however nonetheless suits inside most airways’ carry-on baggage dimension limits.
It options a big and simply accessible side-opening, padded laptop computer compartment that can simply match a 16-inch laptop computer, though possibly not if it’s in its personal protecting case. Different laptops needs to be tremendous, and effectively protected inside.
Its Top/Width/Depth dimensions are 55 x 38 x 24cm (22 x 15 x 9 inches). That’s just about bang on or fractionally over the restrict, which is extensively thought to be 55.9 x 35.6 x 22.9cm (22 x 14 x 9 inches) for home flights. Because it’s a backpack, you don’t must issue a deal with or wheels into that restrict. It’s inside BA’s 55 x 40 x 23cm restrict however over United’s 56 x 35 x 22cm. the preferred airways, we expect the Journey Bag ought to simply match when you don’t overfill it—put that coat on when checking in or going by way of the gate. The bag’s tender sides and facet compression straps additionally permit a little bit of squidging in case you are made to load the bag into one of many dreaded Departures dimension cages.
If travelling by prepare or coach, you have got fewer size-limit fears, and the 42L capability needs to be sufficient for a brief break with out requiring a suitcase.
Like all one of the best luggage, the Journey Bag opens out flat in a ‘clamshell’ format, making entry to even deep objects a lot simpler than with a extra closed design.
There are ten sturdy pockets—4 exterior for accessibility. Beneficiant inside pockets are meshed so you’ll be able to rapidly see the place all of your objects are saved. An elasticated water-bottle pocket suits an honest sized flask and an ordinary plastic bottle. And there’s a hidden pocket on the again in your valuables.
Some airways cost over $100 per flight for a bag within the maintain, so whereas The Journey Bag is dear it might save a frequent flyer that buy worth a number of instances over.
Harber Commuter Backpack – Style-focussed
Professionals
- Tremendous fashionable
- Particular pill part
Cons
- Small capability
- No pockets
Worth When Reviewed:
$220
Laptop computer dimension: as much as 16in
Capability: 17L
Harber’s Commuter is a backpack for the fashion over substance crowd. Handmade in Spain from a mixture of recycled material and full grain leather-based, that is undoubtedly a looker, and oozes high quality from high to backside.
Constructed for laptops from 13in as much as 16in, you get a padded compartment in your PC – with a false backside in order that it gained’t thud into the ground once you drop your bag down. A further pill part is good for these of us wielding twin units, however be warned: that’s all you get.
There aren’t some other pouches or pockets, inside or out, which suggests this solely fits minimalist tastes – when you have a tendency to hold a load spherical with you, it’ll all must go free into the principle compartment.
Troubadour Apex
Professionals
- Luxurious really feel
- Suits as much as a 17in laptop computer
Worth When Reviewed:
$250
Laptop computer dimension: as much as 17in
Capability: 25L
This backpack is slightly on the dear facet, however we included it right here due to the sheer high quality of supplies and the very fact it’s one of many few backpacks on the market we expect genuinely seems good with a go well with, if you should costume up your laptop-carrying look.
The Apex’s 25L capability is well-spaced out sufficient to slot in a 17in laptop computer in addition to lunch and gymnasium gear (belief us we’ve accomplished it), which is protected against the weather with waterproof outer material, lining and zippers.
A really snug again panel holds the pack barely off your again to make it extra breathable, whereas the leather-based accents on the black, inexperienced or blue colourways assist so as to add a bit of sophistication to the bag.
For travelling there’s a trolley sleeve on the again to connect to a wheelie bag’s deal with, and there are tons of inner and exterior pockets to please even the fussiest of organisers.
Laptop computer bag shopping for recommendation
Each laptop computer bag has a devoted compartment in your pc, and luggage often promote the most important laptop computer you’ll be able to carry by giving a display dimension in inches. You would possibly discover {that a} laptop computer with a 16in display will match because of its dimensions, even when the bag says ‘as much as 15in’ – though it might be a good match.
Pockets and flaps for straightforward entry
Frequent travellers ought to search for a bag with an easy-access laptop computer pocket, so you’ll be able to rapidly whip out your machine at airport safety. A baggage pass-through flap may also make it easier to connect the bag to your suitcase’s telescopic drag deal with.
The quantity of safety varies from bag to bag, with some producers offering all-around padding (with double on the backside) and others simply an inner pouch with no high cowl. Learn our evaluations to seek out out what stage of safety every bag affords.
In addition to your laptop computer, you’ll want room for the facility provide, different equipment and your individual gear, whether or not that’s a gymnasium package, water bottle, paperwork, keys, cellphone and different devices. Most luggage have a nominal capability, however that is often the whole quantity, relatively than a single area for stuff moreover a laptop computer.
A number of pockets are helpful as they assist preserve every little thing separate and organise, whereas a bag with a big further compartment is sweet for cumbersome objects resembling footwear. Search for a capability in litres, however keep in mind that the bigger the capability, the larger (and often heavier) the bag you’ll have to hold all over the place.
Some luggage have a devoted pocket for tablets and one other for smartphones or media gamers. The latter typically have a gap by way of which you’ll be able to route your headphones.
It’s helpful to have a number of zipped pockets which will be accessed independently, relatively than having to open the principle zip to get at inner pockets. That offers would-be thieves a view of what you’re carrying and isn’t practically as handy.
Strap high quality: consolation, consolation, consolation!
In case you’re sporting your backpack for a number of hours at a time, you’ll wish to keep snug. Search for one with well-padded straps and – when you’ll be strolling lengthy distances – a chest strap to assist stabilise the load. Some luggage actually have a hiking-style waist strap, however that’s overkill on a laptop computer service.
Many may also be designed to assist with airflow so that you’re not a sweaty mess after slightly exertion.
Safety: Water, RFID and antibacterial
Many laptop computer luggage use waterproof materials both on the surface or within the lining. If this can be a precedence, keep in mind that solely luggage marked as waterproof will guarantee your package stays dry. Some luggage include a separate rain cowl which you’ll be able to pop over the rucksack in a downpour to maintain your package bone dry.
Water resistance doesn’t imply the identical factor as waterproof. In case you’re biking within the rain, it’s clever to make use of further safety resembling a correct rain cowl or preserve some massive freezer luggage to seal in your devices.
Now that lockdowns are starting to ease, you may additionally wish to take into consideration added antibacterial safety – particularly when you’re one to maintain your backpack on soiled tube flooring or on the bottom. Some manufacturers like The Pure Bag even use silver-ion materials that stop micro organism progress. Although a better resolution could also be to go for a backpack made with easy-to-wipe materials or plastics.
Moreover, when you preserve your pockets, bank cards, and even Oyster card in your backpack, you may additionally wish to think about a bag with RFID safety to maintain the baddies from getting their palms in your funds. Or get your self a sensible pockets.
Costs
Costs differ extensively, and also you don’t all the time get what you pay for. Shopping for a laptop computer bag from a trend model, for instance, is likely to be extra expensive, however doesn’t assure higher high quality zips or fasteners than a less expensive bag. That’s the place our evaluations are available in, after all.