10 Best Laptop Backpacks That Are Lightweight, Sleek & Protective
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Tossing your laptop into your daily tote bag is the easiest way to take your computer on the go, but it’s not the safest. How many times have you pulled your laptop out of your bag to discover it’s soaked thanks to the water bottle left in it, or all the times you accidentally sat it down too hard on the coffee shop table? We’ve all been there, and that’s why it’s best to invest in a laptop backpack. These bags protect your laptop and offer a comfortable way to carry it, saving your back and shoulders while looking sleek. We spoke with experts on what makes the best laptop bags and rounded up 10 laptop backpacks you can add to your cart right now.
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Laptop Backpacks at a Glance
Best Overall: Kipling Seoul Large Backpack, $124
Best Slim Laptop Backpack: Samsonite Classic Leather Slim Backpack, $135, was $170
Most Affordable: Ozark Trail Dual-Carry Backpack, $25, was $35
Best Modern Laptop Backpack: Open Story Signature Commuter Backpack, $50
Most Popular: Lululemon New Crew Backpack 22L, $98
Best Splurge: Calpak Luka 15 inch Laptop Backpack, $115
Best for All Ages: Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack, $109, was $195
Best Work Laptop Backpack: Calia Work Backpack, $47, was $65
Best Travel Laptop Backpack: Béis The Backpack, $88
Best Sized Laptop Backpack: Golf Supags Laptop Backpack, $40, was $44
What to Look for in a Laptop Backpack
If you’re shopping for a laptop bag, there are a few things to look for. “I love a laptop bag that doesn’t look like a laptop bag,” says Elisabeth Kassab, wardrobe stylist and personal shopper. “I usually go for a tote style that has a compartment for your laptop and other accessories. Something leather or faux leather like this one from Beis.”
Another factor to consider is the bag’s comfort, according to Diana Zheng, head of marketing for Stallion Express. “Padded shoulder straps and padded back panels are a great way to reduce the strain on your shoulders while carrying your laptop.”
“You’ll also want to look for a backpack with multiple compartments to store your laptop in one place while still being able to access other items, such as chargers, laptops, and even water bottles,” Zheng adds. Lastly, look for laptop bags that are protective and water resistant.
Are Laptop Backpacks Worth It?
Even though you can toss your laptop in your favorite tote bag or in a traditional backpack, it’s probably not the best bet for keeping it protected. That’s why the experts say adding a laptop backpack to your collection is best. “From my experience, investing in a quality laptop backpack is a no-brainer,” explains George Yang, founder of Yanre Fitness. “I’ve had laptops survive accidental drops and spills, all thanks to the sturdy construction and padded compartments of my trusty backpacks.”
What’s the Difference Between a Laptop Bag and a Laptop Backpack?
Kassab explains that the key difference between the laptop bag and the laptop backpack is that the bag “is designed to be more fashion forward. Whereas a laptop backpack prioritizes comfort and versatility by being hands-free.” Plus, a laptop backpacks offers more padding for more protection.
What’s the Most Comfortable Way to Carry a Laptop?
Zheng explains that the best way to carry your laptop is by evenly distributing the weight across your body. “Choose a laptop backpack with padded shoulder straps and a cushioned back panel to reduce strain on the shoulders and back,” she adds.
How Do You Pad a Backpack for a Laptop?
Although it’s best to purchase a bag with a dedicated space for your laptop, you can DIY a padding for your backpack. Start by buying foam or padded fabric, and cut it to comfortably to fit around your laptop. Another option is to keep your computer in a laptop case that fits into your backpack.
Ahead, shop 10 of the best stylish laptop backpacks that keep your electronics safe and sound.
Our mission at SheKnows is to empower and inspire women, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Kipling is a SheKnows sponsor, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.
BEST OVERALL
Kipling Seoul Large Backpack
$124
Kipling has a ton of great luggage and handbags to choose from, but where they really stand out is their backpack selection, which thousands of reviewers have raved about. “Daughter loves it! Actually she has had several Kipling backpacks for school throughout the years, and the quality is amazing,” one shopper says. We especially love the Seoul backpack, which fits a 15-inch laptop, no problem — plus some (think: your lunch, books, planner, etc.). The padded straps are fully adjustable and plush enough for hours of wear (sore shoulders and ache-y lower back be gone!).
Dimensions: 12.75″ L x 17.25″ H x 9″ D
Colorways: 5
Pocket situation: 2 front zip pockets, water bottle pocket, separate sleeve for laptop
Weight: 1.41 lbs
Style: Regular backpack
Maximum Laptop Size: 15″
Pros:
Lightweight
Roomy
Padded straps
Cons:
Pricey
BEST SLIM LAPTOP BACKPACK
Samsonite Classic Leather Slim Backpack
$135 $170 21% off
This leather backpack is sleek and functional. It has an ample amount of space, which fits up to two laptops. The bag also includes a front organizer pocket with a tablet pocket, two phone pockets, a pen pocket, and a mesh zip pocket. There is also a SmartSleeve to protect your computer as you travel. Better yet, there’s still enough space to carry notebooks, files, and more!
Dimensions: 5.51″ x 10.63″ x 16.14″
Colorways: 2
Pocket situation: 2 front
Weight: 2.5 lbs
Style: Backpack
Maximum Laptop Size: 14.1″
Pros:
Stylish leather design
Full size
Fits up to 2 laptops
Cons:
Can show wear and tear easily
MOST AFFORDABLE
Ozark Trail Dual-Carry Backpack
$25 $35 29% off
The Ozark Trail Dual-Carry Backpack is “fantastic,” according to shoppers. It’s lightweight to carry, but don’t let its simple design fool you — there is 22 liters of space for your stuff. The backpack features multiple pockets for your daily essentials, including your laptop. Plus, there are a few different ways you can carry the bag thanks to the top handles and back straps.
Dimensions: 15″ x 10″ x 6.1″
Colorways: 4
Pocket situation: 1 front, 2 sides
Weight: 1.28 lbs
Style: Backpack
Maximum Laptop Size: 15″
Pros:
Affordable
Lightweight
Hold laptops up to 15″
Cons:
Not waterproof
BEST MODERN LAPTOP BACKPACK
Open Story Signature Commuter Backpack
$50
This modern and sleek laptop backpack from Open Story, available at Target, is another top pick to consider while shopping for a new bag. It has two ways to carry it: As a backpack or like a tote. Inside, you’ll find a dedicated laptop compartment, and a large interior compartment. Plus an an exterior zip pocket and an elastic side pocket. The best part? The sleeve on the back of the pack slips over your luggage for easy carrying when you’re traveling.
Dimensions: 16″ x 12″ x 6″
Colorways: 4
Pocket situation: 1 front, 2 sides
Weight: 1.76 lbs
Style: Tote style
Maximum Laptop Size: 15″
Pros:
Sleeve that fits over luggage handle
2 ways to carry
Streamline design
Cons:
Some shoppers report the bag is narrow inside
MOST POPULAR
Lululemon New Crew Backpack 22L
$98
Shoppers love this bag for commuting with their work and gym items. The backpack has plenty of interior room for a 15-inch laptop and additional room for a change of clothes and other items. It’s also water resistant and has a trolley-compatible sleeve.
“I typically also lug my MBA 13 inch to do some work in the coffeeshop post gym and this bag streamlined my routine and keeping me organized,” a Lululemon shopper wrote.
Dimensions: 11.4″ x 7.3″ x 16.5″
Colorways: 3
Pocket situation: Front and side
Weight:
Style: Backpack
Maximum Laptop Size: 15″
Pros:
Water resistant
Multiple colors
Interior padded pocket
Cons:
Smaller interior
BEST SPLURGE
Calpak Luka 15 inch Laptop Backpack
$115
It’s tough to shop for the best laptop backpacks without coming across the Calpak Luka Backpack, and for good reason. The bag includes a laundry list of features like multiple exterior and interior pockets, and a hidden zippered pocket in luggage sleeve.
Dimensions: 16″ x 12″ x 7″
Colorways: 20
Pocket situation: Front and sides
Weight: 1.75 lbs
Style: Backpack
Maximum Laptop Size: 15″
Pros:
Many colorways
Soft materials
Cons:
Not as durable as other options
BEST FOR ALL AGES
Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack
$109 $195 44% off
Shoppers often praise this backpack for being the perfect size for toting laptops around. The Dagne Dover bag has multiple compartments for keeping everything organized and easy to take out. The exterior of the backpack is crafted with adjustable straps, two exterior side pockets, a zip top pocket, and a zipper front pocket. You also get a complimentary shoe bag.
Dimensions: 11.5” x 5” x 17”
Colorways: 13
Pocket situation: 1 front, 2 sides, 2 backs
Weight: 2.3 lbs
Style: Backpack
Maximum Laptop Size: 13″
Pros:
Highly rated
Suitable for all ages
Unique and durable materials
Cons:
Expensive
BEST WORK LAPTOP BACKPACK
Calia Work Backpack
$47 $65 28% off
Calia’s Work Backpack houses your essential belongings you need for a productive work day. This bag keeps you seamlessly organized from the padded laptop sleeve to protect your electronics to the included exterior side pockets, perfect for water bottles.
Dimensions: 15” x 14” x 8”
Colorways: 2
Pocket situation: 2 front, 2 sides
Weight: Unknown
Style: Backpack
Maximum Laptop Size: 15″
Pros:
Dedicated work bag
Luggage sleeve
Affordable
Cons:
Some shoppers say hems on the bag fray quickly
BEST TRAVEL LAPTOP BACKPACK
Béis The Backpack
$88
The Béis laptop backpack features a stunning design that’s simple and functional. This bag showcases a classic debossed Béis logo on the front pocket, padded shoulders, multiple pockets, and, most importantly, a padded laptop pocket to keep your computer safe. You can carry the bag over your shoulders or use the vegan leather short handle.
Dimensions: 13″ x 19″ x 5.5″
Colorways: 8
Pocket situation: 1 front, 2 sides
Weight: 1.8 lbs
Style: Backpack
Maximum Laptop Size: 15″
Pros:
Excellent for travel
Full-zip opening
Cons:
Some water bottles do not fit
BEST SIZED LAPTOP BACKPACK
Golf Supags Laptop Backpack
$40 $42 5% off
One Amazon shopper said this backpack is “not too big and not too small.” The bag is made with water-resistant nylon and faux leather, making it easy to clean and maintain. It includes adjustable shoulder straps, laptop compartment, a front zipper pocket, and more.
Dimensions: 17.7″ x 12.2″ x 5.2″
Colorways: 3
Pocket situation: 2 front, 2 sides
Weight: 1.39 lbs
Style: Backpack
Maximum Laptop Size: 15.6”
Pros:
Not bulky
Easy to close zippers
Cons:
Side pockets are smaller
EXPERTS IN THIS ARTICLE
Elisabeth Kassab: Wardrobe stylist and personal shopper
Diana Zheng: Head of marketing for Stallion Express
George Yang: Founder of Yanre Fitness
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