Top 5 Laptop Backpacks: Your Essential Buying Guide

Ever feel like your laptop is taking a beating just trying to get from point A to point B? We rely on our laptops for work, school, and fun, but hauling them around can be a real pain. Finding the perfect backpack to keep your precious tech safe and sound isn’t always easy. There are so many styles, sizes, and features, and it’s tough to know which one is actually worth your money.

You want something that protects your computer from bumps and spills, feels comfortable on your back, and has enough room for everything else you need. Nobody likes a bulky, awkward bag that digs into their shoulders! This post is here to cut through the confusion. We will break down what really matters in a laptop backpack, from padding to pockets.

By the end of this guide, you will know exactly what features to look for. You’ll be ready to choose a backpack that perfectly fits your lifestyle and keeps your technology secure. Let’s dive in and find your next great travel companion!

Top Laptop Backpacks Recommendations

Bestseller No. 1
MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack, Business Anti Theft Slim Sturdy Laptops Backpack with USB Charging Port, Water Resistant College School Computer Bag Gift for Men & Women Fits 15.6 Inch Notebook, Grey
  • LOTS OF STORAGE SPACE&POCKETS: One separate laptop compartment hold 15.6 Inch Laptop as well as 15 Inch,14 Inch and 13 Inch Laptop. One spacious packing compartment roomy for daily necessities,tech electronics accessories. Front compartment with many pockets, pen pockets and key fob hook, makes your item organized and easier to find
  • COMFY & STURDY: Comfortable soft padded back design with thick but soft multi-panel ventilated padding, gives you maximum back support. Breathable and adjustable shoulder straps relieve the stress of shoulder. Foam padded top handle for the long time carry on using
  • FUNCTIONAL & SAFE: A luggage strap allows backpack fit on luggage/suitcase, slide over the luggage upright handle tube for easier carrying. With a hidden anti theft pocket on the back protect your valuable items from thieves. Well made for international airplane travel and day trip as a travel gift for men
  • USB PORT DESIGN: With built in USB charger outside and built in charging cable inside,this usb backpack offers you a more convenient way to charge your phone while walking. It's a great tech gift for him from wife, daughter and son. Please noted that this backpack doesn't power itself, usb charging port only offers an easy access to charge
  • STURDY MATERIAL & SOLID: Made of Water Resistant and Sturdy Polyester Fabric with metal zippers. Ensure a secure & long-lasting usage everyday & weekend.Serve you well as professional office work bag,slim USB charging bagpack, back to college backpacks. 15.6 inch travel laptop backpack for daily using and organize
Bestseller No. 2
DUSLANG 17 Inch Laptop Backpack for Travel Water Resistant College Backpack for Men/Women Laptop Bag with USB Charging Port,Black
  • COMPARTMENT CAPACITY & POCKETS:Separate laptop compartment fits 17/15/14/13 Inch Macbook/Laptop.Separate compartment Fits Maximum 9.7” iPad.Main compartment roomy for tech electronics accessories,3-5 days clothing,5 A4 Books.Front compartment with 2 Pockets for power Bank and Shaver,2 Pen pockets and key fob hook.Pocket for socks and gloves.Front hidden zipper pocket fits papers.2 mesh pockets for water bottle and compact umbrella.Strap pocket fits bus card and Metro Card,One glasses hold strip.
  • COMFY&STURDY: Comfortable airflow back design with thick but soft multi-panel ventilated paddingand Lightweight material, gives you maximum back support. Breathable and adjustable shoulder straps relieve the stress of shoulder. Foam padded top handle for a long time carry on.
  • FUNCTIONAL&SAFE: A luggage strap allows backpack fit on luggage/suitcase, slide over the luggage upright handle tube for easier carrying. With a hidden anti theft pocket on the back protect your valuable items from thieves. Well made for international airplane travel and day trip as a travel gift for men .
  • BUILD-IN USB PORT : The backpack comes with built in USB charger outside , built in charging cable inside, offers you a convenient way to charge your phone when you are walking, riding.
  • DURABLE MATERIAL&SOLID: Made of Water Resistant and Durable Polyester Fabric with metal zippers. Ensure a secure & long-lasting usage everyday & weekend.Serve you well as professional office work bag,slim USB charging bagpack,college backpacks for men women.THIS ITEM IS NOT INTENDED FOR USE BY CHILDREN 12 AND UNDER.
Bestseller No. 3
LOVEVOOK Laptop Backpack for Women with Large Cup Holder,15.6 Inch Work Computer Bag with Chest Buckle Back Pad Shoulder Buckle,Waterproof Business Backpack College Teacher Bag for Gift Travel
  • Thoughtfully designed interior: This laptop backpack features four compartments and fourteen pockets for easy storage of your laptop, books, documents, and other study/work supplies. The front mesh pocket can be customized to your preferences, and the independent, thickened laptop compartment at the back provides better protection for your computer. The stylish, multi-pocket design meets the storage needs of daily outings and short trips.
  • Widened trendy large water bottle side pocket design: This backpack follows the current trend of travel gear. The pocket opening has moderate elasticity and can easily accommodate a 60-ounce large-capacity water bottle. It also has a water bottle buckle to protect the water bottle from falling off. It can also hold items such as folded umbrellas, which can be easily grabbed.
  • The back is equipped with a thickened breathable back pad: the back pad is made of breathable mesh material, which effectively enhances the air circulation between the back and the backpack, so you won't feel stuffy or sweaty even after carrying it for a long time, greatly improving the overall carrying comfort and reducing the pressure on your back.
  • Scientific pressure relief system, comfortable for long-term use: The thoughtfully designed double pressure relief structure of chest buckle + shoulder buckle. The chest buckle can fix the position of the backpack and prevent it from shaking when walking, while the shoulder buckle can effectively distribute the pressure on the shoulders, evenly distributing the pressure. No matter how long you carry it, it will not hurt your shoulders, making it especially suitable for long commutes and travel.
  • Premium quality fabric: Made of lightweight and waterproof fabric, the overall weight is light and easy to carry, while also having a good splash-proof effect. It can easily handle light rain or accidental water stains, and is very easy to care for, saving you the trouble of frequent cleaning.
Bestseller No. 4
MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack, 17 Inch Work TSA Approved Carry on Backpack, Large Computer Business Bag for Men Women with USB Port and Trolley Sleeve, College School Rucksack Book Bag, Grey
  • Travel Gifts Idea: 17 inch laptop backpack for men is the great gifts choice for college teachers school students. Work commute gifts designed for adult men or women as office tech gifts, travel gifts or Birthday gifts. Special holiday gifts for him or her, your husband, wife, son, daughter, father, mother and friends coworker
  • TSA Approved Backpack: Laptop compartments' tsa function is designed for airplane flight travel. large laptop travel backpack can unfold 90 to 180 degrees, making the laptop bookbag 17 inch get through airport security checkpoint more easily and quickly. This 17 inch laptop backpack is large enough for daily office work, weekend getaway, overnight trip, college school, business travel
  • USB Charging Port & Luggage Sleeve: 17 inch computer backpack for men with external USB charger port and built in charging cable can conveniently charge your phone, tablet and other electronic devices while walking or hiking. Featuring the trolley sleeve on large backpack for men breathable back, business traveler could fit laptop backpack men right on the luggage suitcase, which free your hands
  • Multiple Pockets: Slim backpack for men has a separated laptop compartment for 15.6, 16, 17 inch notebook and tablet. Main compartment is roomy for office work files, travel clothes, school books. Front compartment storage daily tech accessories. Side mesh pockets hold water bottle or umbrellas. Back anti theft pocket protect wallets, passport. Ensuring the zipper is fully down with the puller at the bottom. This keeps your belongings safe from unexpected openings when you're walking
  • Water Resistant & Multipurpose: Laptop backpack 30 L is made of water resistant 600D polyester fabric. Comfortable handle and adjustable breathable shoulder straps, which perfects for 3 days business short trip, professional office work backpack or outdoor activities, backpacks for college men women. Recommended age range: 5 years old and up
Bestseller No. 5
LOVEVOOK Laptop Backpack for Women with Pouch Pocket for Large Capacity Cup,15.6 Inch Laptop Computer Bag Travel Backpack Purse,Waterproof Work Business Backpack College Teacher Bags,Beige-Black-Brown
  • ✊【Upgraded LOVEVOOK Laptop Backpack for Women】: Smooth double LOVEVOOK no-slip metal zippers.NON-STAIN,water-resistant and durable polyester fabric.Cute and stylish color combination.FASHIONABLE AND FUNCTIONAL.Total of 4 compartments and 14 pockets for your computer,A4 folder,bottles,umbrellas,clothes,work supplies,college supplies and travel essentials.size: 12”L 17.5”H 8”D, weight: 1.85lb.
  • ❤【Design for Large Capacity Cup】: Adjustable elastic strap, designed for convenience, custom-designed for Large Capacity Cups. With this water bottle pouch, you can easily carry your cup. Free your hands and take your water bottle accessories anywhere with ease. Well designed backpack purse for women.
  • 💻【Padded Work Bags College Backpack】: The dedicated separate laptop compartment with cushioned cotton sewn around, has a dedicated separate 15.6-inch laptop pocket, a 9.7-inch iPad slot, fits your laptop perfectly and is padded for extra protection. It makes carrying your laptop so much easier.Professional and well made for work, business, travel, commuting, college, teacher, nurse, daily use as a practical gift for women.
  • 🚀【Personal Item Travel Backpack】: Backpack for traveling on airplane,fits great under the seat on the plane! The adjustable and mesh airflow WELL-PADDED SHOULDER STRAPS are nice and cushioned so they don’t hurt your shoulders. The ANTI-THEFT POCKET on the back design and waterproof material give you peace of mind while traveling.The LUGGAGE STRAP DESIGN on the back that allows it to ship over your suitcase handle for an easy push through the airport!
  • ✅【Practical Gifts & Quality warranty】: Super cute and stylish LOVEVOOK laptop bag for women.Practical gifts for all people you care about.Users'feelings are what we care about most.We LOVEVOOK backpack provide a 12-hour customer service, 30-day no-reason return and 1-year warranty policy.
Bestseller No. 6
Laptop Backpack,Business Travel Anti Theft Slim Durable Laptops Backpack with USB Charging Port,Water Resistant College Computer Bag for Women & Men Fits 15.6 Inch Laptop and Notebook - Black
  • Storage Space & Pockets:One separate laptop compartment hold 15.6 Inch Laptop as well as 15 Inch,14 Inch and 13 Inch Macbook/Laptop.One spacious packing compartment roomy for iPad,mouse,charger,binders,clothes,ect.Mesh pockets at side for water bottle and compact umbrellamake your items organized and easier to find.
  • COMFY&STURDY: Comfortable airflow back design with thick but soft multi-panel ventilated padding, gives you maximum back support. Breathable and adjustable shoulder straps relieve the stress of shoulder. Foam padded top handle for a long time carry on
  • FUNCTIONAL&SAFE: A luggage strap allows backpack fit on luggage/suitcase, slide over the luggage upright handle tube for easier carrying. With a hidden anti theft pocket on the back protect your valuable items from thieves. making your journey and travelling more convenient wherever you go.
  • USB PORT DESIGN: With built in USB charger outside and built in charging cable inside,this usb backpack offers you a more convenient way to charge your phone while walking. Headphone Jack: you can listen to your favorite music on the go hands-free.
  • DURABLE MATERIAL&SOLID: Made of Water Resistant and Durable Polyester Fabric with metal zippers.Ensure a secure & long-lasting usage everyday & weekend.Serve you well as professional office work bag,slim USB charging bagpack, perfects for business traveling, weekend getaways, shopping & outdoor activities in daily life. Good Gift for college.
Bestseller No. 7
Everlane - The ReNew 15" Transit Backpack - Warm Charcoal One Size
  • TRANSIT-READY DESIGN: Exterior 15" laptop pocket lets you slide out your tech fast at security while keeping it protected on the move
  • SMART ORGANIZATION: Multiple zip and slip pockets plus interior and exterior water bottle holders keep travel essentials easy to find
  • TRAVEL-FRIENDLY DETAILS: Sleek shape, secure magnetic closure, and a pass-through strap that attaches to rolling luggage for smoother connections
  • RECYCLED MATERIALS: Durable shell made from 100% recycled polyester from plastic bottles for a lower-impact everyday backpack
  • MADE FOR REAL LIFE: Clean, minimalist construction with sturdy hardware and easy-care fabric you can simply wipe down after your commute
Bestseller No. 8
SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart 17” Laptop Backpack Black/Black – Reflective Tech Backpack with ScanSmart Compartment – Multiple Organizer Pockets & RFID Scan Blocking Technology
  • Tech Backpack: Pack all your essentials in the 1900 ScanSmart 17-inch laptop backpack specifically designed to speed you through airport security by allowing laptop-in-case scanning
  • Secure Storage: This laptop backpack for men and women features an enhanced laptop compartment with zippered access for a 17-inch laptop and a padded TabletSafe tablet pocket
  • Effortless Organization: Computer bag includes a main compartment with an accordion file holder and a RFID-protected organizer compartment with a removable key/fob clip and multiple divider pockets
  • Multiple Pockets: Add-a-bag trolley strap slides over telescopic handles, 1 front and 2 side quick-access pocket secure essentials, and 2 mesh side pockets accommodate water bottles and umbrellas
  • Comfortable To Carry: Lay-flat laptop bag includes ergonomically contoured, padded shoulder straps, adjustable compression straps, airflow back padding, and a reinforced, molded top handle

Your Essential Guide to Choosing the Perfect Laptop Backpack

A laptop backpack is more than just a bag. It is a mobile office, a protective shield for your expensive tech, and a daily companion. Choosing the right one makes a huge difference in comfort and security. This guide helps you find the best fit for your needs.

Key Features to Look For

When shopping, focus on these important features first. They determine how well the backpack works for you.

Laptop Protection & Sizing

  • Padded Compartment: Always check for thick padding around the dedicated laptop sleeve. Good padding stops bumps from damaging your computer.
  • Size Match: Measure your laptop (length, width, and thickness). Buy a backpack rated for that specific screen size (e.g., 15.6-inch or 17-inch). A tight fit is good, but too tight is bad.

Organization and Accessibility

  • Multiple Pockets: Look for specialized spots for your mouse, chargers, pens, and water bottle. Organization saves time.
  • Quick-Access Pockets: These small pockets on the top or side let you grab your phone or transit pass without taking the whole bag off.

Comfort and Ergonomics

  • Shoulder Straps: They must be wide and well-padded. Thin straps dig into your shoulders when the bag is heavy.
  • Back Panel Ventilation: Mesh or channeled padding on the back allows air to flow. This keeps your back cooler, especially during long walks.

Important Materials That Matter

The material determines durability, weight, and water resistance. Think about where you use your backpack most often.

Durability Champions

  • Nylon (Especially Ballistic Nylon): This is very tough and resists tearing well. It is a popular choice for heavy use.
  • Polyester: This is often lighter than nylon but still offers good resistance to wear and tear.
  • Hardware: Check the zippers. Strong metal zippers (like YKK brand) last much longer than cheap plastic ones.

Weather Protection

  • Water Resistance: Most quality backpacks use a tightly woven fabric treated to shed water. If you walk in the rain often, look for “water-resistant” or check if a rain cover is included.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Quality isn’t just about the fabric; it’s about how everything is put together.

Quality Boosters

  • Double Stitching: High-stress areas, like where straps connect to the bag, should have extra rows of stitching. This prevents blowouts.
  • Weight Distribution: Higher quality bags often include a sternum strap (chest strap) or a waist belt. These features distribute heavy loads away from your shoulders.

Quality Reducers (Watch Outs)

  • Flimsy Linings: If the inside fabric feels thin and tears easily, the bag won’t last long.
  • Overstuffing: Even the best bag can fail if you pack it beyond its capacity. Don’t try to force too much into a slim bag.

User Experience and Use Cases

Your daily routine should guide your final choice.

The Commuter/Student

You need quick access and security. Look for bags that open wide for easy packing at home, but have lockable zippers for public transit. Many students prefer bags with a separate compartment for books, keeping the laptop area clean.

The Business Traveler

Travelers need efficiency. Seek out features like a trolley sleeve (a strap that slides over rolling luggage handles) and TSA-friendly designs that let you lay the laptop section flat without unpacking everything.

The Tech Enthusiast/Gamer

These users carry bulky items (large power bricks, multiple accessories). You need depth and strong structure. Look for reinforced bases so the bag stands upright even when full.


10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Laptop Backpacks

Q: How do I know if the backpack fits my laptop size?

A: Always check the “laptop sleeve size” listed by the manufacturer. Match that number (usually in inches) to your laptop’s screen size. Measure the actual thickness too, especially if you have a thick gaming laptop.

Q: Are all “water-resistant” bags truly waterproof?

A: No. Water-resistant means it sheds light rain. Truly waterproof bags usually have sealed seams or rubberized material. For heavy downpours, look for a bag that includes a built-in rain cover.

Q: Should I choose a backpack with wheels or not?

A: Wheeled backpacks are great for airports and hard floors, but they are heavier and bulkier when you need to carry them up stairs. If you walk more than you roll, stick to a standard backpack.

Q: What is a “clamshell opening”?

A: This means the main compartment opens completely flat, like a suitcase. This feature is excellent for packing bulky items or going through airport security checks easily.

Q: How important is the sternum strap?

A: It is very important if you carry more than 10 pounds regularly. The sternum strap keeps the shoulder straps from slipping off and helps balance the weight across your chest, reducing shoulder strain.

Q: What is the best material for a lightweight backpack?

A: High-density Polyester tends to be lighter than heavy ballistic nylon. However, lighter materials can sometimes mean less padding, so you must balance weight against protection.

Q: Can I wash my laptop backpack?

A: Generally, you should spot-clean them with mild soap and water. Never put a backpack with electronics compartments in a washing machine, as the heat and agitation can damage internal padding and glue.

Q: What makes a backpack good for everyday carry (EDC)?

A: EDC bags focus on easy organization and quick access. Look for many small pockets, easy-to-grab zipper pulls, and a durable exterior that handles daily abuse.

Q: How can I prevent my laptop from hitting the bottom when I set the bag down?

A: Look for a laptop sleeve that is suspended off the floor of the bag. This means the bottom of the sleeve sits several inches above the actual bottom of the backpack, protecting your tech from impact when the bag is dropped.

Q: Are bright colors less durable?

A: No, color does not affect durability. However, darker colors like black or navy show dirt and scuffs less easily than lighter colors.