11 best laptop backpacks to make commuting to the office a total breeze
All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn how we test.
1. Best Women's Laptop Backpack Overall: Chelsea BackpackChelsea BackpackRead more
2. Laptop Backpack For Organisation: Stackers Plain Laptop BackpackStackers Plain Laptop BackpackRead more
3. Best Laptop Backpack For Travelling/Business Trips: The Roll Top BackpackThe Roll Top BackpackRead more
All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn how we test.
It's time I came clean: owning one of the best laptop backpacks has changed my life. No exaggeration. I used to be tote bag girly, nothing could ever change my mind (they're the most stylish option, right?) – until my shoulder felt like it was going to fall off.
Turns out lugging around your Macbook, notepad, water bottle (Stanley, of course), makeup and lunch actually wears on your spine more than you'd think. Posture aside, now I own a laptop backpack I've been awoken to their many other benefits too.
While it's true that very little can be done to improve the whole commuting experience (though less train strikes would be fab), a rucksack that'll fit everything but your kitchen sink inside is a step in the right direction. Trust me; they're a must-have item for anyone who travels to and from the office every day.
Unaccustomed to laptop backpacks? While work bags, travel backpacks and briefcase-style handbags often feature pockets that'll happily fit a 15-inch screen size, laptop backpacks have padded, secure compartments specifically for storing them. The best part is that they're surprisingly chic, too – no velcro in sight. So much so that you'd be happy to be seen out with them on the weekends (though maybe sans anything work-related).
SKIP TO: How to choose a laptop backpack | The difference between a laptop bag and a laptop backpack | How we tested them | Shop the best laptop backpacks.
What should you look for when it comes to choosing a laptop backpack?
After you've found a design that will fit the dimensions of your device, the next thing to think about is fabric. Opting for waterproof or roll-top design is a good place to start – the last thing you want is soggy, malfunctioning tech. This sand-coloured iteration from Stubble & Co offers exactly that, plus capacity of up to 20L, with added features such as a cushioned air-flow back panel with fully adjustable straps.
“I love the fact that the external laptop pocket means you can keep it separate from everything else. It means that, when I need to send a last-minute email on the train (we've all been there), I can get to it without having to open everything else up completely,” says Denise Primbet, GLAMOUR's Commerce Writer.
Don't forget about the overall style of your new accessory, too. You want it to last, yes, but you also want it to fit in with the rest of your bag collection and ultimately go with your daily outfits – so go for something classic that'll complement your workwear and beyond.
Our other two favourites include Antler's Chelsea Backpack which fits a 13-inch laptop and is consequently one of the best travel backpacks, and Away's The Everywhere Zip Backpack.
What is the difference between a laptop bag and laptop backpack?
If you have a long daily commute and/or have a bit of a walk to get to the office, you're better off with a backpack than you are with a laptop case or pouch. They're much better for your spine and shoulders for everyday use thanks to the double (and adjustable) straps, and spread the weight more evenly so you don't get an achy arm. Don't worry, though, you don't have to go full-on hiker style with one that features a sternum strap.
Pre-2020 a lot of us didn't even have laptops, but if we did they'd be left at our desks when we went home each night. Now, since hybrid working is a more permanent thing, taking your valuables with you wherever you go is somewhat of a non-negotiable, so it's important you acquire the correct protection for carrying them around. Yes, we're making direct eye contact with those of you who think one of those free cotton tote bags you get from the bookstore is a suitable method of transportation for your worldly goods.
How we tested the best laptop backpacks in this round-up:
We at GLAMOUR all work in London at least three days a week and travel in from various areas in England, so we've been hunting for something that'll help those early starts feel a little less stressful – and that's where laptop backpacks come in. We've tested our faves (see the above three) and rated the below designs out of five stars in terms of their durability, price, capacity and style credentials. We've also provided specifications to save you the time of searching for them yourself, alongside pros and cons to consider before purchasing. Read more about how we test here.
For more from GLAMOUR UK's Senior Commerce Writer Georgia Trodd, follow her on Instagram @georgiatrodd.
Which brand is good for laptop backpacks? Continue down to find the top picks.
1/111. Best Women's Laptop Backpack Overall: Chelsea Backpack
Durability: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐⭐️
Price: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Capacity: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐⭐️
Style: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐⭐️Why we love it: “This daypack comes in a range of five colours currently, so there's plenty of choice – I just loved how the taupe goes with everything. It's really lightweight on its own, so you can add as much or as little as you like without it already slowing you down, but my favourite feature has got to be the key clip because I'm always rummaging around for mine!” – Mayola Fernandes, Commerce Writer.
Specifications: Measuring at 37cm x 26cm x 12cm, this laptop backpack is designed to coordinate with, and work alongside, the brand's Clifton cases courtesy of a trolley sleeve. It has a zippered pocket laptop compartment to fit up to 13 inches, and is made from water-resistant/weather-resistant and durable nylon with premium leather details with adjustable straps.
Pros: It's water-repellent (so no need for a rain cover) and comes with a detachable internal packing pocket for shoes or a change of clothes/toiletries.
Cons: If you own a large laptop (i.e. a 17-inch laptop), you'll have to squeeze to get it in. It's better suited to a 16.5" laptop size.
See more of the best travel packs and backpacks here.
2/112. Laptop Backpack For Organisation: Stackers Plain Laptop Backpack
Durability: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐
Price: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Capacity: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Style: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐Why we love it: Stackers are pros when it comes to organisation and storage, and this laptop bag is exemplary of their know-how. It keeps everything neat and tidy thanks to multiple dividers and mesh pockets, making it the perfect school bag/rucksack.
Specifications: Find not one but two zipped pockets on the exterior of this bag, as well as over five internal pockets and sleeves for various devices and accessories (even a water bottle holder). Inside one pocket you'll find elasticated strips for holding things like makeup and charging leads safe. It measures at 15cm x 34.5cm x 31cm.
Pros: The padded laptop compartment is quilted as well for extra protection.
Cons: It sells out all the time.
Save some GBP when you shop for laptop backpacks with these John Lewis discount codes at checkout.
- 3/11
3. Best Laptop Backpack For Travelling/Business Trips: The Roll Top Backpack
Durability: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Price: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Capacity: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Style: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐Why we love it: “Functionality meets performance with this roomy roll-top laptop backpack for outdoors, as it's literally designed for adventures. From its reflective details to the fact it comes in nine different colourways, I can't fault it. The sand colour makes it a little less tech-y and a bit more fashion-y too, IMO.” – Denise Primbet, Commerce Writer.
Specifications: With plenty of room (up to 20L) and a designated and, crucially, padded section for 15.6-inch laptops to 16-inch laptops, this silhouette is also fully waterproof. It features weatherproof bound seams, water-resistant zips, side pockets, reflective logos and considered compartments for all your daily essentials. From the bike light anchor to the compression straps, there's not much it doesn't have. It measures at 63cm x 30cm x 15cm.
Pros: It's crafted with a lot of recycled materials and the roll-top design means it's expandable.
Cons: One review says it scratches easily.
4/114. Bestseller Laptop Backpack: The ReNew Transit Backpack
Durability: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐⭐
Price: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Capacity: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐⭐
Style: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐Why we love it: The ReNew 15" Transit Backpack features an exterior laptop pocket for easy access at airport security, zip pockets for passports and tickets, interior slip pockets for magazines and notebooks, two water bottle holders, a magnetic closure, and a pass-through strap that attaches to rolling luggage.
Specifications: Crafted with a water-resistant finish, this brown laptop backpack measures at 44.4cm x 30.4cm x 18.4cm. It's made from 100% recycled polyester bar the zipper teeth (which unzip super smoothly, FYI).
Pros: It has 27l capacity.
Cons: The textured fabric means that it's less easy to wipe clean.
- 5/11
5. Best Laptop Backpack Under £100: Herschel Supply Co. Nova Recycled Polyester Backpack
Durability: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Price: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Capacity: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Style: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Why we love it: Road trip? Commute? Gap year? Weekend stay? There's not much this laptop backpack can't cater to.
Specifications: With a zip-fastened main compartment and neat front pocket (also zip-fastened), this silhouette caters to laptops up to 13" in size courtesy of a sleeve at the back (which is lightly padded, FYI). You'll also find a key clip, two water bottle pockets, adjustable shoulder straps, and dual top handles. 41cm x 30cm x 14cm.
Pros: It'll carry all your belongings and comes in several colours and you can also find them at other online retailers (Nordstrom, we're looking at you).
Cons: The bright colours often sell out.
Save when you shop for the best laptop backpacks with these Selfridges discount codes at checkout.
6/116. Laptop Bags For Business Travel: The Everywhere Zip Backpack
Durability: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐⭐
Price: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Capacity: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐
Style: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐Why we love it: “I wanted something sleek and unpretentious and I feel like this style hits the nail on the head. It's also made from water-resistant nylon, so it has my back (and my worldly goods) when the weather takes a turn.” – Chrissie Moncrieffe, Creative Producer.
Specifications: This laptop backpack has an extended zipper clamshell opening for easy access and visibility. The interior organisation system features zipper and slip pockets, a water bottle pocket, and a detachable key clip keep your TSA-approved keys to your carry-on safe. The padded straps ensure comfort is maintained when worn as a shoulder bag, and the added zip laptop compartment has an iPad slip pocket that fits laptops up to 15-inches with magnetic locking zipper. It measures at 30.5cm x 15cm x 45cm and is made from nylon with leather (despite its neoprene appearance).
Pros: It packs flat in suitcases, making it a great travel bag.
Cons: The colours it comes in are all quite similar/plain.
- 7/11
7. Slim Laptop Backpacks/Commuter Backpack: Oslo Backpack
Durability: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Price: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Capacity: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Style: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐Why we love it: Slim in structure but with plenty of space inside, with enough room for your daily essentials (plus a few extras), this style is made with durable water-resistant recycled fabric and soft microfibre trims. A win on the eco-friendly front.
Specifications: With a capacity of 16L and a weight of 650g, this 30cm x 4.4cm x 16cm laptop backpack holds a lot more than it looks capable of. It has a 13" padded laptop sleeve, a designated pocket for cables and chargers, a document slip, a quick access pocket (for keys), and its made from 100% recycled and water-resistant fabric.
Pros: It comes with a three year warranty.
Cons: Although there are five colour options, they're all quite plain.
8/118. Best Leather Laptop Backpack: Zip Around Backpack in Panama
Durability: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Price: ⭐️
Capacity: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Style: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐⭐Why we love it: While this high quality laptop backpack is certainly an investment, it has also been made in Italy – so you know it's going to last a lifetime.
Specifications: Complete with adjustable shoulder straps, this pure leather bag features a fleece-lined interior where you'll find a main compartment and a padded laptop sleeve which fits a 13-inch computer (or Macbook Pro). It's complete with zipped front pocket and two further interior pockets inside for further storage, and measures at 40cm x 30cm x 11cm.
Pros: It ticks both boxes of being stylish and practical, and makes for a great gift idea for her.
Cons: As a wishlist designer laptop bag, it's the most expensive style in this round-up.
9/119. Minimalist/Fashionable Laptop Bags: Book Dayback
Durability: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Price: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Capacity: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Style: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Why we love it: From the quiet luxury look to the sleek fabric, there's not much we can find to fault about this pistachio green design.
Specifications: Made from 100% polyester with a polyurethane coating and multiple pockets, this laptop backpack fits devices up to 15" courtesy of a designated padded sleeve.
Pros: It's incredibly lightweight and has a W3 waterproof level (light rain protection).
Cons: One review says it “just” fit their 15-inch laptop, so the fit may be snug.
10/1110. Best Laptop Backpack For Women: Ki Backpack
Durability: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Price: ⭐️⭐️
Capacity: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Style: ⭐️⭐️⭐️Why we love it: This super slimline design is great for wearing on busy tubes because it keeps snug to your body without bashing into fellow commuters, but it still fits everything you could possibly need inside.
Specifications: Recycled polyester and vegan leather is what makes up this design, and it fits up to a 16" device in the dedicated laptop compartment with cushioning. Measuring at 26.8cm x 39cm x 10cm, it's complete with multiple slip pockets for all your gadgets to the interior plus a zipped outer pocket for personal items you might need in a rush.
Pros: It features a safety flap as well as a zip fastening for the ultimate laptop protection and anti-theft benefits.
Cons: It's relatively expensive – even when it's on sale.
- 11/11
11. Best Unisex Laptop Bag/Everyday Backpack: Fjällräven Kånken 17" Laptop Backpack
Durability: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Price: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Capacity: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Style: ⭐️⭐️Why we love it: It can be a backpack when riding your bike, or a messenger bag/top-handle bag when getting on a crowded bus - two bags in one. People who are familiar with Herschel will also appreciate this brand.
Specifications: Made from 100% vinyl, this bag measures at
42cm x 30cm x 18cm. The contents are accessed via a zipper at the top and there's an exterior zippered compartment (great for storing your earbuds/headphones) as well as an inside sleeve pocket with a padded base for up to an 18-inch laptop.Pros: It has great versatility and functionality, and is easy to attach carabiners to.
Cons: It's not the smartest in comparison to the other styles.
Save when you shop for the best laptop backpacks for women, including The North Face, Patagonia and Timbuk2 designs with these Amazon discount codes at checkout.
