15 Grown-Up Backpacks That Also Fit a Laptop (2024)

Cuyana Leather Backpack

Shah says that Cuyana’s Leather Backpack has been her “go-to for years." The bag is available in three sizes— mini ($328), 13-inch ($478), and 16-inch ($498)—and the two larger sizes come with a laptop sleeve built-in alongside a larger slip pocket on the inside. “This bag was truly designed with comfort in mind, with wider back straps and adjustable notches to help you carry your necessities with ease,” she says. You can shop it in multiple colors if this clay shade is too hard for you to keep clean.

Pros: Comes in several colors; Comes in three sizes (mini, 13", and 16"); Fits a 16" laptop; Sustainably-made; Has a dedicated laptop sleeve inside; Has two interior pockets.

Cons: Some reviewers say the top handle is a bit too large.

Customer Review: "Exactly what I was looking for! High quality, thoughtful details, and luxurious without being flashy. I love the two sets of snaps on each side to widen or cinch in the opening. I bought the sand color and feel like it's a great neutral that will span the seasons." –Cuyana

Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack

Contributing Syndications Editor Katherine J. Igoe calls this laptop backpack an absolute star for her morning and evening commutes. "It fits my (ginormous) laptop via a side compartment—which, by the way, is great for when I need to access it without rifling through the rest of my bag," she explains. "It’s also got a bunch of zip pockets, slip pockets, two water bottle holders, and a strap for luggage. Apparently this is great for the organized traveler, but it’s equally great for when I need to shove a bunch of things into it before I run out of the house." When you're en route to vacation and headed to the airport, Igoe reports that the exterior pocket is so convenient for removing electronics before the TSA checkpoint.

Pros: Holds a 15" laptop; Has two water bottle containers; An interior zip pocket for security; Several exterior pockets for easy access

Cons: The water bottle pocket is designed for slim bottles.

Customer Review: "Very comfortable. Structured so it doesn’t like like a drawstring bag but not too structured as to be unforgiving for oblong objects like a keyboard. Lightweight with large capacity. Zippers are good quality and I love the khaki color. I love wearing it into work and feel polished but not too feminine. Love avoiding leather (real or vegan) when possible too. Also- pockets galore." – Everlane

Madewell The Lorimer Backpack

If you're looking for an option that won't cost you a fortune, looks like luxury, and works for everyday use, consider this 100% leather laptop backpack from fan-favorite brand Madewell. The buttery soft leather will wear with time, giving it the perfect lived-in feel. Plus, it’s packed with tiny design details that make it great for gifting (you can even have it monogrammed). It doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of other laptop backpacks on this list, but it gets the job done.

Pros: Comes in two colors; Is monogrammable;

Cons: Users say the zipper breaks easily.

Customer Review: "Love this bag! Would fit a 13-inch Mac Book Pro with no problem. I have a 15-inch Mac Book that I can wedge in there but it's a tight squeeze. Hoping it will stretch out a bit over time to add a bit more flexibility. This is definitely the nicest backpack I've ever owned!" – Madewell

Bellroy Tokyo Totepack

"The Tokyo Tote Compact is perfect for carrying a few things with really quick access in a tote format where you don’t have to compromise on organization," Calabria says. The sporty design is available to shop in six shades including red, green, and black, and has plenty of design details that prove it's worth the price tag. Those include padded shoulder straps and vertical front pockets for easy access to all of your essentials—plus, it's made from water-resistant nylon for all-season travel.

Pros: Has padded shoulder straps; Made from water-resistant nylon; Fits most 15" laptops; Backed by three-year warranty; Has interior pop-pockets for water bottle storage.

Cons: Some reviewers say the zippers are hard to open and close.

Customer Review: High quality, multiple pockets, easy to keep clean, easy to convert from carrying handles to backpack style." – Nordstrom

Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack in Medium

If you tend to overpack, this backpack is for you. The main compartment is roomy enough for shoes and clothes, planner books, makeup bags—you name it. There's even an exterior side pocket that can accommodate a water bottle. Also, the interior features a laptop sleeve with an elastic enclosure to keep your laptop or tablet in place—safe and separate from your other belongings. If you’re worried that carrying all your belongings might put a strain on your back, don’t stress. The adjustable straps are made of neoprene, so the design is easy on the shoulders.

Pros: Comes in multiple colors; Has an interior laptop sleeve; Has adjustable shoulder straps; Is water-resistant; Machine-washable; Comes in three sizes; Top-rated; Fits over a suitcase handle.

Cons: Not stain resistant

Customer Review: "I use this backpack as my work bag. All the pockets help me keep my laptop, tablet and chargers, pens etc organized. The padded straps are comfortable and do not dig into my shoulders when the bag is full. It looks great and can be cleaned. I excited to use it as my carry on bag when I fly!" – Dagne Dover

Senreve Maestra Bag

This stylish (and convertible) accessory from Senreve works as a tote bag and a backpack thanks to its four-way wearability. Whether you decide to wear it on your back or over your shoulder, it's endlessly chic (and can be worn with a range of outfits). The stain-resistant texture also means that it will be super durable for years of constant use. However, it only has one exterior pocket and one interior pocket, so it’s suitable for someone who travels light.

Pros:Comes in several colors; Can be worn four ways; Water-resistant; The main pocket fits up to a 15" laptop; Has a dedicated laptop compartment; Has seven interior pockets; has one zippered pocket.

Cons: The dedicated laptop compartment only fits an 11"or 13" laptop.

Customer Review: "I bought the Maestra in Pine in the Mimosa leather. The bag is stunning, very well made. I wanted a computer bag for work that actually had a computer pocket. Most totes advertised as work bags are very thin and offer no protection for the laptop. I also wanted a backpack so this bag is perfect." – Senreve

MZ Wallace Metro Deluxe Backpack

This plush, quilted nylon backpack from MZ Wallace is polished, sophisticated, and versatile for day or night use. The backpack has tons of smart features that make it well worth the investment: It comes with a removable pouch for smaller essentials and two interior cell phone pockets—one for your work phone and one for your personal—and has padded shoulder straps for all-day comfort. Plus, you can pick from either black or navy blue. The real essential for any great laptop backpack? It holds most 15” laptops inside.

Pros: Fits most 15" laptops; Has a dedicated laptop compartment; Has padded straps; Has a removable pouch .

Cons: The water bottle compartment is relatively small.

Customer Review: "If you’re debating on getting this backpack, the answer is YES! I use it for work -I put my laptop, lunch, and commuter shoes in it. If you really wanted to, you could probably fit more." – Nordstrom

Calpak Kaya Laptop Backpack

If you need a no-fuss backpack that won't look super out-of-place at your next happy hour session with your colleagues, Calpak's is a must-buy. The simple square silhouette and black detailing are as versatile as it gets, and it comes in a wide range of colors like pale pink, lavender, and black. With a dedicated laptop zippered compartment at the back, it’s sleek in design and won’t weigh you down. Plus, it comes complete with several interior compartments to keep you organized while you’re on the go.

Pros: Comes in several colors; Has a dedicated laptop sleeve; Has multiple interior pockets; Fits over a suitcase.

Cons: Heavier than similar backpacks at 3lbs; Some reviewers said it looked bulky.

Customer Review: "If anyone is wondering if you can fit a 16 inch MacBook Pro in here, yes you can! It doesn’t quite fit in the actual laptop sleeve but the pocket in the main compartment holds it perfectly. So many compliments on this backpack and it seems really high quality. The luggage sleeve thing makes it a great carry on item too. No regrets on the purchase. Please come out with more colors with silver/gunmetal hardware!!" –Calpak

Herschel Little America Laptop Backpack

"This is my go-to backpack for extended trips or long subway rides where I can't be bothered to carry a regular bag," reports Freelance Beauty Writer Alexis Gaskin. "The interior laptop pocket is large enough to fit my 14-inch computer while also having a padded cushion that keeps my very expensive piece of tech safe."

The generous proportions played a big role in convincing Gaskin to carry this laptop backpack. "Mary Poppins and I have one thing and common, and that is carrying a bag that seems endless with the most random things in it," she says. "I usually tote a lot with me and this bag from Hershel is large enough to carry what I need, with an exterior that doesn't clash with what I'm wearing."

Pros: Fits up to a 15" laptop; Has padded shoulder straps; Has multiple interior pockets; Has a drawstring and leather straps closure; Top-Rated on Amazon.

Cons: Doesn't have a dedicated water bottle compartment; Not waterproof.

Customer Review: "I've had this backpack for a couple of years now. It's my personal item whenever I travel by plane and it fits so much! I've also used it for weekend trips. I really like the laptop sleeve as it protects my MacBook and I don't have to worry about it when I travel.The quality of the bag is really great, like I said I've had it for a couple years already but still looks good!" – Amazon

AWAY The Front Pocket Backpack

This sleek laptop backpack from universally adored luggage brand AWAY was designed for hands-free travel. It's made from a water-resistant nylon fabric, comes in tons of colors, contains three main compartments, and can hold up to a 15" computer. If you have a suitcase from AWAY, this backpack comes with a trolley sleeve that attaches to all of the brand's wheeled options, so all your luggage can coordinate while you're in the airport. However, it doesn’t have a dedicated compartment for a water bottle.

Pros: Water-resistant; Comes in several colors; Has a dedicated laptop pocket; Can fit a 15" laptop; Can fit onto a suitcase; Has several interior pocket.

Cons: No dedicated water bottle pocket.

Customer Review: "Could not love this backpack more! I travel weekly and this backpack securely rides on top of my carry one. My laptop slides in and out of the back pocket. The big pocket can actually fit my smaller purse, plus all the things. The front pocket is great for your phone, earbuds etc. great for quick access. Couldn’t recommend this more." – AWAY

Best Laptop Backpacks 2024 - Longchamp Le Pliage Club Nylon Backpack

Jenny Hollander, Site Director at Marie Claire, calls herself a Le Pliage girl through and through. "I faithfully replace mine every couple of years, but recently I've had my eye on the Le Pliage Club," she says. "The collector's version of Le Pliage—and I am nothing if not a Le Pliage collector—is the same size, but features a few updated details (colored buttons! Logo embroidery!). It'll fit a small 11-inch laptop."

Also worth noting? Longchamp’s Le Pliage backpack is constructed with a sophisticated leather trim that gives the bag an elevated feel.

Pros: Comes in several colors; Zip-top and latch-style closure; Can be folded up; Has water-resistant lining; Made from easy-to-clean nylon.

Cons: Doesn't fit laptops bigger than 11".

Customer Review: "This is a fantastic bag to carry a lot of things. It is very comfortable to wear on your back. I love the color. It is part of Le Pliage range so it folds down and can be easily packed in a suitcase. There is only one side pocket inside, so can be a little difficult to keep things organized, but overall it is a great bag." – Neiman Marcus

Paravel Fold-Up Backpack

Made from 15 recycled plastic water bottles, this backpack from travel brand Paravel can be folded flat and zipped into a small pouch when it’s not in use, making it great if you’re someone who travels frequently. I would also recommend keeping it in your work bag if you’re the kind of person who hits the gym after or before a day in the office. That said, when it’s go-time, the backpack easily expands, and it’ll hold your must-have items and up to a 15-inch laptop. Plus, you can personalize it with your monogram for a custom look.

Pros: Sustainably-made; Comes in several colors; Folds up to fit into your other bag; Lightweight; Fits up to a 15" laptop; Can fit a change of clothes.

Cons: Doesn't keep its shape.

Customer Review: "I ordered this lightweight backpack in the color black. It is excellent quality. I couldn’t believe that a roomy backpack could zip up very easily into a pouch! It is very roomy with several zip up compartments for extra storage. It looks very nice. I am going to Europe and was searching for a lightweight backpack. This is perfect!" – Paravel

TUMI Just in Case Nylon Travel Backpack

If you're someone who likes to keep things close to your chest—or your back—then this Nylon Travel Backpack from luxury travel brand Tumi should be your go-to. Available in four colors, it’s made from a lightweight material and measures only 4.5 inches in depth. It has one larger pocket in the back, plus a smaller one in the front for easy access. When you're traveling further than your office, it has a trolley sleeve at the back to fit over the handle of your carry-on suitcase.

Pros: Slim design; Comes in several colors; Lightweight; Has interior and exterior pockets; Has a sleeve to fit over a suitcase handle.

Cons: Some reviewers said it was not big enough to use as a carry-on or a weekender bag.

Customer Review: “This is such an elegant solution to hands-free travel. Lightweight, streamlined, and convenient. Far from a being a bulky backpack, this is body-hugging but comfortably holds a sweater or light jacket, water bottle, lunch, and personal items. I love mine!” – Nordstrom

Kate Spade New York Sam KSNYL Nylon Laptop Backpack

This nylon laptop backpack from Kate Spade New York only comes in one color, but don't let that stop you from investing in it. The low-profile design easily translates from outfit to outfit, and it’s made from a 100 percent recycled nylon shell as well as a 100 percent polyester nylon interior. The padded dedicated laptop sleeve on the inside will keep your computer safe, and the three other interior zip-top pockets will make sure that you stay as organized as possible when you’re on the go.

Pros: Lightweight; Has a dedicated laptop compartment; Fits up to 15" laptop; Has three interior pockets.

Cons: Only comes in one color.

Customer Review: "Perfectly fits my agenda or 15" Macbook Air laptop! And, isn't heavy!" – Kate Spade

L.L. Bean Waxed Canvas Travel Backpack

“I’m not much of a backpack carrier on a day-to-day basis, but whenever I embark on a long-haul journey, I like to take my L.L. Bean backpack for a spin," fashion editor Lauren K. Tappan says. "This sturdy accessory has been by my side through all of my recent vacations over the past few years. My favorite of this laptop backpack's many features? It’s crafted from weather-resistant waxed cotton canvas, which means that not only can it last through rain or shine, but it’s also extremely easy to clean. ”

Pros: Made with weather-resistant waxed cotton canvas; Holds a 15" laptop; Zip pockets can store small belongings.

Cons: There’s not a wide range of color options.

Customer Review: “I've been looking for an old school-looking waxed canvas backpack for a while. It's exactly what I needed for a daily bag. It has a perfectly sized sleeve for a laptop and the main compartment is very spacious. Comfortable, functional, and looks awesome in olive." – L.L. Bean

Shilpa was drawn to Cuyana for the opportunity to enhance women’s lives by creating high quality products that were produced responsibly, priced accessibly, and that carried a story and a soul that could be delivered through human connection.

Beginning her career in Interaction Design, Shilpa has over 20 years of designing customer experiences, designing web and mobile interfaces for Fortune 500 companies such as Disney and AT&T. Before starting Cuyana, Shilpa added business expertise to her design and technical background by completing her MBA at the UC Berkeley Haas School of Business. Today Shilpa leads the company as its CXO, the Chief Experience Officer, crafting a branded omni-channel journey across digital and physical touchpoints.

Lina Calabria