What Is The Best Laptop Backpack 

For anyone who travels or commutes frequently with a laptop in tow, the best way to protect it is by using the appropriate laptop backpack These types of bags are specifically designed to protect your laptop from bumps or scratches There are countless laptop backpacks out there, so how do you choose the right one

There are several things to consider when shopping around for a laptop backpack It should fit the size of your backpack and have ample padding for protection A good laptop backpack is comfortable to wear, spacious, durable, and has pockets for organizing your other essentials

Before you decide on a laptop backpack, it’s helpful to understand the many features available in different models so you can choose the right one Read on below to learn more

Features Of The Best Laptop Backpacks

Laptop backpacks are the most practical and convenient way to travel while protecting your laptop Whether you’re a student, business traveler, entrepreneur, or someone who needs to have their electronics with them at all times, a functional and high-quality laptop backpack makes all the difference

The main feature that sets laptop backpacks apart from traditional backpacks is the padded and sometimes cushioned laptop compartment These ensure your computer investments are always protected from accidental falls or scratches from your other belongings

So what exactly should you be looking for in a laptop backpack Read on below:

Backpack Size

Laptop backpacks vary in size There are slimline laptop backpacks that have a thin silhouette, designed to carry your laptop and a few other essentials you’ll need for a few hours Their capacity ranges from 15L to 25L

Slimline laptop backpacks are ideal for minimalists who need only a handful of other things in a backpack aside from their laptops However, if you need more storage space for other items such as a camera, textbooks, and spare clothes, it’s a better option to use a backpack whose capacity ranges from 25L to 35L Carefully think about what else you need to pack in your backpack, so you can be sure that there is space for everything

Laptop Sleeve Size

The most common laptop sizes range from 13 to 15 inches, particularly popular models such as the MacBook Pro However, mini laptops can be as small as 11-12 inches, while larger laptops up to 17” are available too

Before you buy a laptop backpack, be sure that the laptop sleeve can fit your laptop A padded laptop compartment that’s around an inch bigger than your actual laptop is fine, but don’t use one that’s far bigger than your actual laptop This increases the risk of your laptop moving around while you are traveling or commuting, which can cause damage

You can also use a separate padded laptop sleeve to add bulk and extra protection if the backpack you want to buy is slightly larger

Laptop Compartment

Backpack laptop compartments should always be padded Because of the fragile nature of most laptops, a single accidental drop can cause serious, expensive, and sometimes irreparable damage Padding is the ultimate laptop protection feature you should look out for in a backpack

The best way to keep your laptop safe is to use a backpack with a padded laptop compartment Even better if the laptop compartment is suspended, because this is the only feature that will dramatically decrease the risk of your computer’s edges touching hard surfaces in case of an accidental fall

Keep in mind that the thickness of the bottom and the padding vary according to different brands and models

Generally speaking, the thicker the better at all times The padding used in a laptop backpack is often related to its price; cheap laptop backpacks usually have little to no padding, though any brand worth it's salt will usually include some kind of protection for your computer

It also helps when the laptop compartment can be further secured, either by a zipper or a Velcro strip

Padded Bottom

For anyone who is constantly putting their backpack on the ground, a padded bottom is essential for a backpack carrying expensive electronics This provides protection from bumps and scratches, which may damage your laptop

Compartments

Your laptop backpack should have pockets that make your life easier and more organized Tech and laptop backpacks may have strategically-designed sleeves and pockets for your other electronics, such as a tablet, cables, headphones, chargers, and other accessories Small pockets are important, so you can quickly locate small things such as your keys and pens

For travel, you may find it more convenient to have an array of different-sized pockets inside and outside the bag A front access pocket is essential for keeping items you need easy access to, while side stretch pockets are ideal for storing your water bottles

At the end of the day, the most important factor in choosing a backpack based on its compartments and pockets is ensuring that it complements your lifestyle

Durable

Durability is important for a laptop backpack, especially if you are using it every day Daily use can make a backpack more prone to damage caused by wear and tear, such as abrasions, scratches, and tears

There are several aspects of a bag’s construction that can tell you how durable it is:

Material

The type of material used in the construction of a laptop backpack plays a critical role in its durability The last thing you want is for your backpack to develop a tear while you’re at school or commuting, which can cause your valuables to fall out unknowingly Choose backpacks made from nylon or polyester, or a version of these fabrics, because they are the most durable for laptop backpacks

You can also check for the material’s denier (D) rating The denier rating measures the thickness and weight of individual threads A higher denier rating, such as one that’s 250D and up, means that the product is more durable and can carry a heavier weight without breaking If you need to carry heavier loads we'd advise to use laptop backpacks with a denier rating of at least 400D

Leather backpacks are also popular for their durability However, authentic leather will definitely drive up the price tag Vegan leather is a cost-effective alternative, which can be just as durable as genuine leather

Zippers

The safety and security of your belongings lie in the quality of the zippers used Faulty zippers that are unable to close or open properly are a serious inconvenience – but one that’s avoidable, as long as you use a bag made with reputable zippers The YKK zipper brand is renowned worldwide for its sturdiness and longevity

Hardware

The hardware used in a backpack helps to keep it secure and hold it together Quality hardware, such as buckles, hooks, and closures, should be heavy-duty and solid High-end brands use brass or nickel hardware, though other durable and more affordable options include PVC, Polypropylene, nylon, or other metals

Stitching

Quality double stitches are effective for holding up a laptop backpack well The stitches should look precise and clean, without any overlaps This is especially crucial in the shoulder straps and other pressure points, where stitches should be dense

Comfort

It doesn’t matter if you spend money on the most expensive laptop backpack out there if it isn’t comfortable to wear Comfort should always be a priority when choosing backpacks, particularly if it’s used to carry heavy items including your laptop and other electronics A backpack that doesn’t have many features to make you comfortable will be unpleasant to wear; it can make you prone to neck and shoulder pain or back problems later on

The golden rule of thumb is to always choose a backpack that has thick, padded, and adjustable straps No other backpack feature makes carrying a pack more comfortable than quality shoulder straps This is because the entire weight of your backpack pushes down onto your shoulders, and without adequate padding, the straps can dig into your skin and be extremely uncomfortable

Contoured and ergonomic backs are ideal, whenever possible This backpack design is more effective for comfort and weight distribution because it follows the natural arch of your back Furthermore, a contoured backpack design reduces the space between the backpack and your back, promoting airflow to keep you cool

Style

Laptop backpacks come in many styles to suit people from all walks of life Formal, professional designs are ideal for those who need to take their backpack to the office and the boardroom, while there are also more casual styles that are appropriate for students Meanwhile, travelers will fare well with a more rugged design, and one with several compartments for helping you organize your tech while you’re on the road

Understanding when and where you plan to use your backpack will help you narrow down the appropriate style for your needs What may be stylish to you may not be to others, so it’s a purely personal preference You may also benefit from versatile backpack styles that are designed with detachable straps, allowing you to switch them up by wearing them as a tote or shoulder bag too

Other Optional Features

The features below aren’t necessary for all laptop users, though they may be nice to have for some Check out these optional features which you may appreciate in a laptop backpack:

Soft lining

Some laptop backpack sleeves and interiors may be made with a soft lining These are effective for preventing scratches, especially if you are also carrying around a tablet It’s not necessary in all cases, especially if you are already using a separate laptop sleeve or if the compartment is generously padded, but it’s just something that’s nice to have

Weather resistance 

Water and electronics simply do not mix If your lifestyle involves a lot of outdoor commuting and traveling, protect your laptop from rain by using a backpack that is waterproof or has a weather-resistant coating Similarly, if you live in a location that’s prone to a lot of rainfall, weatherproofing will keep your laptop safe from the elements

Just be sure to check the level of water resistance or waterproofing; some bags are only resistant to water, while higher-end models offer complete waterproofing – though at a pricier cost The investment in a waterproof laptop bag is worth it if you need to protect your laptop from regular rain exposure

Also, take note: some manufacturers may claim that their bags are waterproof, but hardly any backpack is completely waterproof However, bags with DWR finishes do offer superior waterproof protection than those without them Using a rainfly also lends an extra layer of protection for peace of mind

Anti-theft features

If you live in, or will be traveling to a destination that is known for high rates of theft, then the best laptop backpack for your needs is one with anti-theft features Common anti-theft features used in backpacks include slash-proof material, which prevents thieves from discreetly cutting your bag open with a knife to access your valuables Other effective anti-theft features include lockable zippers, hidden pockets, anchor straps, or locking cables

Warranty

Being selective about the laptop backpacks you purchase based on the warranty is helpful in ensuring that in the event that it arrives damaged or isn’t as functional as the manufacturer promised, then you can get it replaced or refunded Backpack manufacturers offer different types of warranties, so it’s best to read up on it before spending your cash on a backpack, especially if it’s on the more expensive side Many consumers find that warranties are particularly important when buying a product online, because after testing the bag in real life, sometimes it just doesn’t stand up to what the manufacturer claims or your own expectations

Luggage sleeve

A luggage sleeve is a great feature for individuals who travel frequently with a suitcase This nifty feature allows you to slide the backpack into trolley handles for hands-free traveling It comes in handy when you want to give your back and shoulders a rest

Wheeled backpack 

Frequent travelers as well as business travelers may find that wheeled laptop backpacks are a better choice for their lifestyle These types of laptop backpacks can be converted into a wheeled suitcase whenever you need to, such as when you are in crowded places and airports It’s also a more comfortable option after carrying your backpack for long periods of time

Reflective straps 

Bike commuters are recommended to use a backpack with reflective straps These are critical for safety when cycling during low-light hours, such as in the evening or dawn Reflective straps help keep you visible to drivers on the road

Our Recommendations For The Best Laptop Backpacks

Finding the best laptop backpack can take a lot of time and research To save you the hassle, below is a list of several popular laptop backpacks that that we personally recommend:

Best Laptop Backpack For Men

BOPAI 15-Inch Super Slim Laptop Backpack: Sleek, practical, and functional: the BOPAI Super Slim Laptop Backpack is a simple and fuss-free model A great laptop backpack with a price that’s friendly for the pocket, how can you be disappointed with this bag

This bag is so slim that its side is only 3 inches wide Inside, the double-sided soft and padded flannel laptop sleeve can fit computers up to 15 inches The materials used for the interior are chosen specifically to protect your computer while providing adequate space between the laptop and your bag

The BOPAI Super Slim Laptop Backpack also has fantastic anti-theft features, including hidden pockets, where you can store valuables such as your passport, wallet, and checks Despite the thin design, its shoulder straps are anything but thin: this bag has thicker shoulder straps than many other laptop backpacks out there

Other great features include a breathable back panel, an interior key chain, and a card pocket If you are looking for a compact laptop backpack that’s also value for money, look no further than this option

However, some people may find that its compact size can actually be a disadvantage It’s only ideal if you plan to pack a laptop and a few other things, but if you need to pack a jacket, water bottle, and other bulky items, it can be challenging to get them in and out of the pack Hopefully, future models can improve on this with a more spacious opening

Even then, the BOPAI Super Slim Laptop Backpack is still a great buy, especially for men who want a simple design without too many bells and whistles

Travelpro Maxlite Lightweight Laptop Backpack: Men who are always on the go need a lightweight yet sturdy laptop backpack The Travelpro Maxlight Lightweight Laptop Backpack is the right backpack for those who commute and travel frequently

The Maxlite series is the lightest collection of Travelpro, a renowned backpack brand known for affordable and durable bags It weighs 3 pounds and can carry up to 33L of your stuff in the spacious main compartment plus the many compartments and pockets found inside and outside of the bag One of the best aspects of this backpack is that it remains light despite having a heavy-duty feel to it, and it can definitely stand up to the abuse of everyday wear

The Travelpro Maxlite Lightweight Laptop Backpack is recommended for anyone who prioritizes organization The laptop sleeve is constructed with thick padding, and so is the tablet sleeve It provides easy and quick access to your belongings, thanks to the dual access opening to both the main compartment and the laptop sleeve

There are enough pockets for segregating your power bank, cables, chargers, and a variety of tech gear The side pockets are perfect for stashing your umbrella or a water bottle, though it doesn’t expand When traveling through airport security, the QuickSlip front pocket makes it convenient to keep items such as your mobile phone, passport, and wallet because it closes off with a simple magnet

Excellent craftsmanship can be seen throughout this bag And given its price, this is a steal Travelpro also offers a lifetime limited warranty

Best Laptop Backpack For Women 

Kroser Laptop Backpack For Women: Female business travelers and students alike can make use of the convenient and practical features of the Kroser Laptop Backpack It may have a dainty style, though this bag is one of the best laptop backpacks for women It also has an unbeatable price point!

This backpack is available in dusty pink and black, two colors that are popular among women of all ages It’s constructed with eco-friendly canvas polyester fabric that’s also water-repellent, so your electronics are always protected The integrated USB port is a great feature to have, ensuring you can connect to your power bank and never run out of battery

The Kroser Laptop Backpack has a roomy compartment for laptops up to 156 inches There are separate pockets for your iPad, power bank, a change of clothes, shoes, and other items inside the main compartment In the front, a zippered pocket can safely store things you need easy access to

It also comes with a built-in USB port for conveniently charging your electronics anytime Additionally, the thick, padded and adjustable shoulder straps make this laptop backpack a delight to wear It’s casual enough for school and work, though it’s stylish too

However, this isn’t the most durable laptop backpack The sewing leaves much to be desired, so be warned not to overpack this bag or it can be vulnerable to breakage But given its low price, this can be a good choice for a casual laptop bag

Kipling Curtis Extra Large 17” Laptop Backpack: Women with busy and active lifestyles will appreciate the sporty look and excellent durability of the Kipling Curtis Extra Large 17” Laptop Backpack It’s extremely lightweight too: in fact, it’s the lightest laptop backpack out of all these recommendations

Even then, this backpack can pack an impressive amount of belongings It has a 24L capacity with a padded laptop sleeve The voluminous main compartment is easy to pack: there is ample room for lunch, spare clothes, notebooks, accessories, and other stuff

The bag has a simplistic yet functional design It may not have additional pockets, sleeves, or compartments inside its main compartment, though you can efficiently segregate your belongings with the use of a pouch or organizers

If you have a particually large computer, such as a 17 gaming laptop, this bag may be too small, so it would be better suited for 15” laptops or smaller Best to err on the side of caution regarding size, as this is a design issue that Kipling likely misjudged

That said, this is still an excellent backpack for day trips, school, errands, and even work The Kipling Curtis Extra Large 17” Laptop Backpack is made from durable nylon for longevity

Best Tech Backpack

Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe: Anyone who always carries different kinds of electronics would be wise to invest in a bag that takes tech protection seriously The Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack was made precisely for that, evident in the rich array of organizational features for various types of tech The roomy 28L capacity is plenty of space for a day or two’s worth of essentials, even though the bag actually looks slim and compact

The padded laptop pocket can fit computers from 15 to 17 inches, and it’s one of the biggest laptop pockets among these picks although it isn’t suspended The well-organized pockets include an internal organizer where you can store small items including pens,  a mobile phone, charger, cables, keys, and much more The spacious main compartment is capable of keeping larger, bulkier goods such as a sweaters, books, and notebooks

The Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe also comes with several more useful features For example, the compression straps found in the bottom of the pack are extremely convenient for cinching the backpack when you aren’t using it to its full capacity

Next, the luggage sleeve enables this bag to double as a travel backpack Simply slide it over the handle of your trolley or wheeled luggage to give your back and shoulders a temporary break from carrying it

It’s worth noting that even if you’re carrying a heavy load in this laptop backpack, you’ll still be comfortable That’s because they have integrated thick, breathable padding in the shoulder straps as well as the back panel The adjustable sternum strap also does a great job at helping to distribute the load

Even more items can be kept in the exterior pockets, which open up to several other mesh sleeves and zippered compartments for terrific organization

It’s rather odd that this backpack only comes with one water bottle holder instead of two Overall, the Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe is still one of the best laptop backpacks out there – and it comes with a lifetime warranty

Best Commuter Backpack

Troubadour Apex Backpack: Slim, elegant, and stylish: the Troubador Apex Backpack ticks all the boxes when it comes to the ideal laptop backpack for commuting to work Because of its professional appearance and high-performance abilities, you can easily take this to the boardroom in place of a briefcase; it’s more comfortable to carry too

Troubadour, an eco-conscious bag company, is known for their quality sustainable materials and ethical manufacturing practices In this backpack, they make use of repurposed polyester canvas fabrics and quality vegan leather All your electronics will stay dry at all times because of the waterproof exterior and lining

It can fit laptops up to 17 inches inside the padded laptop sleeve, and the 25L capacity is voluminous storage There’s enough space for gym clothes, jackets, snacks, notebooks, and gadgets The slim silhouette and lightweight construction are convenient for commuters

There are several thoughtful pockets, including a water bottle pocket on each side (though they are shallow), mesh zippered interior pockets for cables and chargers, plus several other sleeves that can be used for your mobile phone, pens, passport, and much more If you like all the features of the Troubador Apex Backpack but prefer a smaller one, you’ll be glad to know that a compact version is available too This bag’s dimensions are 125 x 19 x 6 (width, height, depth), but the compact version is 115 x 16 x 55; suitable for women with smaller frames

Either way, this bag is a top choice for commuting, traveling, and everyday use They make use of beautiful textures and it’s lightweight, though it’s one of the pricier laptop bags and it comes with a warranty If you are ready to invest in a laptop backpack that will last you a long time, this is the way to go

Best Laptop Backpack For Travel

Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack: Travelers looking for a casual mid-range capacity laptop backpack for use during weekend excursions will appreciate the features of the Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack This is one of the most versatile laptop bags out there since its elegant and utilitarian aesthetic allows you to use it in multiple situations, such as for work and school

This TSA-friendly laptop bag includes a 15” exterior laptop pocket for easy navigation in airports The bag has numerous other pockets to help you organize your travel essentials, such as catch-all zip pockets which are perfect for storing your tickets, passports, identification, and wallet safely In addition, it has two side pockets for water bottles outside, and interior slip pockets for segregating documents, notebooks, or magazines

The Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack is extremely functional and practical It’s affordable considering all its superior features and high-quality materials The backpack is constructed from water-resistant 100% recycled polyester, while the zipper pulls are made from recycled polyester as well

That said, this bag may not feel as tough as other models on this list, but it’s more than capable to withstand the rigors that come with traveling The padding on the shoulder straps could have been thicker too Also, keep in mind that this bag doesn’t come with a warranty

Best Laptop Backpack For Students

Fjallraven Vardag 28 Laptop Backpack: High school or college boys and girls are always drawn to the Fjallraven series of backpacks, and it’s easy to see why Their collections always feature vibrant, durable, and high-quality backpacks in classic silhouettes and beautiful colors that are a favorite of students

The Fjallraven Vardag 28 Laptop Backpack is the biggest bag in the brand’s well-loved Vardag series The 28L capacity is just right for high school or college students; the padded and zippered computer sleeve can fit laptops up to 15 inches Meanwhile, the roomy main compartment has enough space for everything students need: snacks, notebooks, a light jacket, and a small water bottle

There is one exterior side pocket for an umbrella, though it’s far too narrow for most water bottles today The sleek zippered pockets on the front section are the ideal spot for students to store their IDs, wallets, and keys When it’s time to wash your backpack, simply use a soft brush dipped in lukewarm water to get rid of dirt and stains

Students may need to use extra organizers inside the backpack, though The lack of smaller sleeves and pockets for tiny items such as pens, and hooks for keys means you need a few organizational accessories to keep things segregated

Despite that, the Fjallraven Vardag 28 is an excellent all-around backpack for students You can take this with you during weekend trips and use it for extra-curricular activities too

Conclusion

Laptop protection doesn’t have to come at the cost of comfort, style, and durability Understanding the many factors that make up the best laptop backpack can help you make a well-informed decision Hopefully, this guide has imparted valuable information to help you find the right laptop backpack for your lifestyle