The Best Laptop Backpacks for Work (and Life) (2024)

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Adrienne So Medea Giordano

Gear

Whether you’re biking to the office or schlepping a camera to a shoot, a laptop bag is your constant companion. These WIRED-reviewed packs do the job.

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A backpack is the best, most efficient, and most comfortable way to carry your stuff—there's a reason why you don't see people hiking on the Appalachian Trail with a tote. But finding the right one that works for you and your lifestyle isn't easy. Whether you're commuting to an office or school, running to your local coffee shop, or going on a weekend trip, a good backpack will look good and keep your stuff organized. It's easier on your neck and shoulders than an overstuffed purse or briefcase (and miles better than trying to hold everything in your hands).

Whatever your needs, we have a fit and functional backpack for you. We inspect backpacks for a suspended, padded laptop sleeve; durable fabrics and high-quality zippers; and versatile storage options. Don't see anything you like here? Check out our other guides, including the Best Recycled Bags, Best Laptop Totes and Purses, Best Messenger Bags, Best Camera Bags, and the Best Travel Bags.

Updated January 2024: We added the North Face Jester, the Road Runner Slacker Day Pack, the Solo machine washable backpack, the Cariuma laptop backpack, and the Patagonia Ultralight Tote Pack. We also added some accessories.

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Adrienne So is a senior associate reviews editor for WIRED, where she reviews consumer technology. She graduated from the University of Virginia with bachelor’s degrees in English and Spanish, and she previously worked as a freelance writer for Cool Hunting, Paste, Slate, and other publications. She lives in Portland, Oregon.

Senior Associate Reviews Editor

Medea Giordano turned her shopping problem into a career as a product writer for WIRED. She covers a little bit of everything but loves health, beauty, and pet tech. Prior to WIRED, she was an assistant editor at Wirecutter and an assistant in the newsroom of The New York Times.... Read more

Writer and Reviewer

TopicsShoppingbackpackbuying guidesBagsOfficeAccessories and Peripherals

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The Best Laptop Backpacks for Work (and Life) (2024)

FAQs

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

Laptop bags are typically designed for a professional appearance and offer organized compartments for laptops and documents, making them ideal for business settings. Backpacks, on the other hand, provide ergonomic comfort, more space, and are versatile for various settings, including travel and education.

What is the best way to carry a heavy laptop? ›

Backpack style laptop bags with wide, adjustable and padded straps are an excellent option because they distribute the weight evenly. Bags with a single shoulder strap are not ideal. However, if you choose this option, ensure the strap is long, wide, adjustable and padded if possible.

What is the best material for a laptop backpack? ›

However, when it comes to materials, nylon or polyester are your best option if you want to ensure your backpack will last for years. The Kipling crinkle nylon bags are your best bet, as they are not only durable and functional but also stylish.

What is the best size backpack for work? ›

Assuming you don't carry much to work everyday and have a small computer, you could use a 24-liter backpack. If you carry a 15.6-inch laptop and want room for just about anything you may need for work, you could use a backpack up to 35 liters.

What is the best size backpack for office? ›

24-26 liters is considered a medium-size backpack and is probably the most popular bag capacity out there. It's great for taking to school or work, depending on the styling, and can also be a great travel pack for taking on a plane.

Is it professional to wear a backpack to work? ›

Wearing a backpack to work or an interview is not unprofessional. It can be seen as a sign of preparedness and efficiency. However, choosing a backpack appropriate for the workplace or interview setting is important. A too large or bulky backpack can be distracting and make it difficult to move around.

What is the number 1 bag brand? ›

1. Louis Vuitton. Louis Vuitton is one of the world's most well-known and respected designer handbag brands. Founded in 1854 by Louis Vuitton, this French luxury fashion house is most known for its iconic LV monogram prints and sleek, sophisticated handbags.

What is the most important factor when choosing a laptop bag? ›

Quality and Durability

Fabric is the most important aspect that you need to worry about. Everyday usage should not make the bag worn out in a short period. The material is the key component that protects your device from every accident. It should be lightweight and durable.

How do I buy a good laptop bag? ›

If you often travel long distances with your laptop bag, it is important that it is comfortable to carry. Look at the width of the shoulder straps, whether the bag has a chest strap to distribute the weight, and the material of the bag. A good laptop bag is durable and will last a long time.

Is 4 pounds too heavy for a laptop? ›

For optimal portability and usability, a 15-inch laptop should ideally weigh around 4 to 6 pounds. This weight range strikes a balance between screen real estate and ease of transport, catering well to various needs and use cases.

How to carry a heavy laptop every day? ›

Use a Well-Padded Laptop Bag with a Dedicated Compartment

Also, don't forget to check the bottom for padding. It's frequently overlooked, but a crucial consideration. You also need to make sure the backpack or bag has a compartment large enough for your laptop but not so large that your laptop can move around too much.

Should I put my laptop in hold or carry on? ›

Laptops are allowed in your checked baggage, however, many passengers prefer to keep their laptops in their carry-on baggage in order to be sure they are not damaged during transit. Do airport scanners damage laptops? Computers, laptops and tablets are not damaged by the x-ray radiation emitted by airport scanners.

Can a laptop backpack be used as a school bag? ›

Not only are laptop backpacks the perfect size for the books and supplies needed for school, but they also provide an extra layer of protection for valuable devices. In addition, many laptop backpacks come with additional compartments to keep items organized, making them an ideal choice for students.

Does a laptop bag count as a backpack? ›

A personal item is any type of luggage that fits underneath the plane seat in front of you. Most domestic airlines in the United States require a personal item to be 18” x 14” x 8” or smaller in size. Personal items can include a purse, briefcase, small backpack, laptop bag, weekender or small duffel bag.

Can a backpack be a laptop bag? ›

Since a laptop usually comes at a high price, it's well worth it to invest in a backpack designed to protect your technology when you're on the go. Whether you're traveling on an airplane or trekking through campus, a comfortable, well-made backpack with a padded laptop pocket is a must-have.

Is it safe to carry a laptop in a backpack? ›

Not ideal. You can protect your laptop by making sure you've stored it in a protective case, and even better, in a bag designed with a special laptop compartment. This will be a padded type of sleeve built into the bag that secures your device by stopping it from moving around too much.

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