The 16 Best Backpacks for Work of 2024 for Every Type of Commuter
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These bags will have your back in and out of the office
People / Marcus Millan
Editors' Picks
Monos Metro Backpack, $200
Now that it's spring, you’re ready to swap your sweatpants for work attire (or new back-to-the-office policies are nudging you there), but lengthening your commute from 5 steps to 50 minutes can leave you scrambling to find a work-appropriate bag.
Carrying a laptop, notebook, and headphones on your commute can take a toll on the body, so experts say a backpack is the most ergonomic (think comfortable) option for toting around your work essentials. “Backpacks distribute the weight evenly across the body," explains Charla Fischer, MD, director of quality and patient safety for the Division of Spine Surgery at NYU Langone Health. "Most other bags are one-sided, so they put pressure on one side versus the other and can lead to muscle strain.”
We interviewed experts and researched the very best work backpacks, from editor picks to Amazon faves. Keep reading to discover the best work backpacks of 2024.
Best Budget: A New Day Athleisure Square Backpack
Who It’s Good For
If you’re looking for a stylish but budget-friendly bag, this one is adorable and costs less than most others we’ve seen.
Who It’s Not Good For
Anyone wanting a more classic, traditional silhouette in a work bag should check out other recommendations.
The days of traditional workwear defined as suits, dress shirts, and briefcases are over. Athleisure is a staple in most of our wardrobes, and this Athleisure Square Backpack is a fun way to incorporate a casual aesthetic into your work look. The puffy silhouette and shiny polyester give a trendy take on the square backpack design, and the double top handles allow this backpack to double as a tote bag.
This backpack can fit your laptop plus other work supplies with ease thanks to its generous 20-liter capacity. There isn’t a designated laptop sleeve, so we suggest avoiding any rough handling of this softer, unstructured backpack. Multiple external pockets and an interior slip pocket will keep everything in its place and adjustable straps allow for a customized fit. You can’t go wrong with this low-price statement backpack that’s certain to be a topic of water cooler conversation.
Size: 16.25 x 12.25 x 6.25 inches | Capacity: 20 liter | Materials: Recycled polyester | Laptop size: 15 inches | Weight: 1.4 lbs.
Related: The Best Lululemon Leggings of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
Best Value: Open Story Commuter Backpack
Who It’s Good For
Folks looking for a solid work backpack that combines simple aesthetic and function with affordability will love this well-priced bag.
Who It’s Not Good For
This is not for those wanting a bag made with sturdier and higher-end materials like leather, suede, or a waterproof fabric.
The simple, clean aesthetic of the Open Story Commuter Backpack makes it a stylish neutral option — and since it has a lot of the organizational details of more expensive bags at about half the price, it's also a great value.
Top handles allow the bag to be carried two ways, and an external zip pocket keeps essentials within reach. We love that the external bottle holder keeps water or caffeine handy and can double as an umbrella holder, too. Plus, a trolly sleeve can attach to your luggage.
This affordable bag basically ticks all the boxes of what you need in a work backpack. The one downside we could find is that the soft structure of the backpack doesn’t quite retain the shape on its own, but that also makes it easier to fold up and pack away.
Size: 16 x 12 x 6 inches | Capacity: 18 liters | Materials: Nylon | Laptop size: 15 inches | Weight: 1.76 lbs.
Best for Work and Gym: Bange Business Smart Backpack
Who It’s Good For
This is great for gym enthusiasts getting that workout in before or after work.
Who It’s Not Good For
Those looking for more style and flair in a backpack should keep scrolling; this industrial-looking bag only comes in black or gray,
Featuring three main compartments, this bag lets you keep gym and work essentials separate. The front pocket is the perfect size for gym shoes, and a mesh pocket would be ideal storage for sweaty workout clothes. Side pockets and an anti-theft back zipper pocket keep essentials easily accessible. The middle compartment has ample room for workout clothes, a water bottle, and more pockets for additional storage.
The final compartment is for the work essentials. It has two padded sleeves that can fit up to a 15.6-inch laptop and a tablet, along with additional pockets for notebooks, folders, etc, and a strap secures everything inside the sleeves in place. Being able to pack gym gear along with work supplies will leave you zero excuses to skip the gym. You’re welcome.
Size: 12.6 x 18.9 x 6.3 inches | Materials: Coated oxford fabric, polyester | Laptop size: 15.6 inches | Weight: 2.98 lbs.
Best Expandable: Béis The Expandable Backpack
Who It’s Good For
This is a great choice for anyone who prioritizes organization in their backpack (and life).
Who It’s Not Good For
Minimalists who only ever bring the bare minimum might not need this much space.
Shay Mitchell’s Béis brand does it again: The Expandable Backpack is an overpacker’s delight. If you’re someone who thinks, “But what if I need ____, ” this bag will ease your packing anxieties. Its design is similar to expandable luggage: Unzip the hidden gusset, and voila, two whole inches of extra space.
This bag is loaded with compartments for ultimate organization. Two front pockets and a key leash keep important items within reach, and the main compartment has several pockets, including slip, zipper, and mesh sections. A unique feature of this backpack is an internal bottle holder that can, wait for it, be converted into an external bottle holder. A trolley pass-through sleeve helps secure this bag to luggage, such as the Béis roller if you like to stay in the same brand family.
Size: Non-expanded: 12.9 x 14.9 x 5.9 inches; expanded: 12.9 x 14.9 x 7.8 inches | Capacity: Non-expanded: 13.5 liters; expanded: 17 liters | Materials: Recycled polyester, recycled faux leather | Laptop size: 15 inches | Weight: 1.7 lbs.
Best for Travel: Coofay Travel Backpack
Who It’s Good For
Jet-setters traveling for work and working while they travel will appreciate this bag designed with travel in mind.
Who It’s Not Good For
Those looking for a sleeker, more minimalist design should keep scrolling.
This bag has so many discreet compartments; it’s like the Batmobile of backpacks. Two external zipper pockets keep the essentials at your fingertips.
A separate waterproof ‘wet’ pocket will keep the rest of your things dry in case you couldn’t resist that one last dip in the hotel pool before heading home. One side features an external pocket for a bottle or umbrella, and the other, a USB charging port (power bank not included). But wait, there’s more: A separate, ventilated shoe compartment opens up from the bottom of the backpack like a trapdoor.
The only downside of this backpack is having to choose which one of the nine available colors to buy. Oh, and don’t worry; this backpack can fit both underneath your airplane seat and in the overhead compartment. Phew.
Size: 16 x 11.4 x 5.5 inches | Laptop size: 15.6 inches | Weight: 2 lbs.
Best Leather: Cluci Women's Backpack Purse
Who It’s Good For
Leather lovers seeking a work backpack with plenty of interior organization.
Who It’s Not Good For
If you’re not a fan of leather and are seeking more external pockets and padded straps, then look elsewhere.
This Cluci leather backpack elevates the traditionally sporty backpack to a stylish and professional work option. The clean lines of this bag’s design pair well with tailored work attire. We love leather because of its durability and the lovely patina that comes with use over time.
This backpack is where style meets function. It has three main compartments that open up accordion style: a middle magnetic section and two zippered compartments. With a padded laptop sleeve, pen loops, and various zippered pockets, this backpack fits everything on your desk into one cute and stylish bag.
Important to note: This bag has adjustable straps, but they lack additional padding. Also, it doesn’t have a designated external water bottle holder.
Size: 11.81 x 3.93 x 16.53 inches | Materials: Cowhide leather, polyester lining | Laptop size: 15.6 inches | Weight: 3.17 lbs.
Best Vegan Leather: Pixie Mood Kylie Backpack
Who It’s Good For
For those wanting the chic look of a leather backpack without the price tag, this vegan-leather choice is a more affordable option.
Who It’s Not Good For
Those in need of padded traps or an external water bottle holder should look elsewhere.
The minimalist Kylie backpack is a generous size, fitting a 16-inch laptop, which is larger than many of our picks. Designated pen holders, several pockets, and a laptop sleeve keep the inside of this bag impeccably organized. This bag includes an interior key chain strap, which keeps keys both secure and easily accessible. The structured rectangle shape with a wider base allows it to stand upright on its own.
There isn’t an external water bottle holder, unfortunately, but you could easily fit one inside. A hidden back zipper pocket is perfect for valuables and also serves as a trolley pass-through for a luggage handle on your favorite carry-on. Gold hardware elevates this backpack to a luxurious aesthetic, and for under $150, this bag is a reasonable price for its high-end look and practical features.
Size: 12.4 x 16.53 x 5.51 inches | Materials: Vegan leather, recycled plastic bottle lining | Laptop size: 16 inches
Best for Train Commuters: Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack
Who It’s Good For
Commuters needing organization and lots of compartments should check out this well-organized bag.
Who It’s Not Good For
Those looking for a more streamlined design with fewer pockets and zippers might prefer a different option.
The Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack keeps all your commuting essentials within reach for ease and peace of mind. (No need to dig to the bottom of your bag to find whatever you need.) Separate compartments keep your essentials neatly separated, and a separate exterior pocket for your laptop is great for easy access and protection from any bumps or scratches against other items. The top zipper pocket is a magnetic flap that conceals the main compartment zipper for extra security during travel.
This backpack has not one but two bottle holders — a commuter’s dream come true. An internal mesh bottle holder will keep your drink from spilling, and an external bottle holder keeps hydration or caffeine (thank goodness) within reach at all times during your commute. Bonus: the ReNew Transit Backpack is made of 100 percent water-resistant recycled polyester.
Size: 17.5 x 7.25 x 12 inches | Capacity: 27 liters | Materials: Recycled polyester | Laptop size: 15 inches
Best Investment: Monos Metro Backpack
Who It’s Good For
This is a great choice for minimalists wanting simple, chic design built with high-quality materials.
Who It’s Not Good For
Those on a budget and in need more external pockets should keep browsing.
This Monos Metro Backpack is, in a word, chic, according to PEOPLE associate commerce editorial director Erin Johnson. The sleek silhouette available in vegan leather or nylon twill oozes understated luxury.
Johnson appreciates its separate compartment for her laptop, plenty of interior pockets, and the detachable front zipper pouch. Some interior pockets are felt-lined for added luxury (and protection). Another pocket even fits an extra pair of shoes or a change of clothes. The customizable additional external storage option is great for keeping essentials handy. When detached, it can become a cute clutch perfect for when you’re running out for a matcha between meetings. It’s practically two bags in one.
Size: 11.5 x 16.5 x 6 inches | Capacity: 18 liters | Materials: Ultra microfibre, vegan leather, nylon twill | Laptop size: 15 inches | Weight: Vegan leather: 3 lbs.; Nylon twill: 2.4 lbs.
Our Editors Say
“It's expensive, but I've been using it for about a year, and it still looks fantastic (no scuffs or signs of damage). If anything, it's too big for my needs, but I'm not complaining about the extra room." — Erin Johnson, Associate Commerce Editorial Director
Best for Larger Laptops: Kroser Laptop Backpack with Charger
Who It’s Good For
Those carrying a larger laptop (bigger than 15.6 inches) or multiple laptops to and from work can fit everything they need in this one bag.
Who It’s Not Good For
Someone who doesn’t use a larger laptop might find this bag to be too large to comfortably carry.
To our friends lugging around larger laptops at 16 or 17 inches, this backpack is for you. The Kroser Laptop Backpack is built for these bigger computers (and everything else you’re toting around for work), and still looks put together and polished. The streamlined design and subtle logo make this an unassuming backpack despite its impressive size.
A USB charging port (battery bank not included) allows for portable charging for your devices, and the back of has substantial padding along the shoulders and lower back for support. (A neat detail is a glasses hook on the bottom of one of the straps.)
Size: 18.5 x 13.3 x 7.8 inches | Capacity: 31 liters | Materials: Polyester | Laptop size: 17.3 inches | Weight: 2.64 lbs.
Best Ergonomic: Swissgear 1900 ScanSmart Laptop Backpack
Who It’s Good For
This is a great choice for anyone prioritizing ergonomics who needs a quality, sturdy, and supportive work backpack.
Who It’s Not Good For
Anyone wanting a more trendy, stylish aesthetic for a work bag. (This bag has a more of utilitarian look.)
SwissGear is known for its high-quality, utilitarian bags built to last. This 1900 Scansmart Backpack has more than 19,500 five-star ratings on Amazon for a reason. If ergonomics and durability are a priority, this bag is the one. At closer to $100, this isn’t the cheapest backpack on our list, but it’s a worth it for the quality and features of a trusted brand.
Not only does it have ergonomically contoured and padded shoulder straps that are adjustable with built-in suspension, but the generously padded back with airflow venting technology allows for maximum breathability. The reinforced, molded top handle is one of the sturdiest top handles we’ve seen on a backpack.
Another unique feature is an elevated phone pocket with a built-in headphone port near the top of the backpack for easy access. More external zip pockets hold smaller, important items in a convenient place, and side pockets can hold a water bottle and umbrella.
Size: 19 x 14 x 9 inches | Capacity: 31 liter | Materials: Ballistic polyester fabric | Laptop size: 17 inches | Weight: 3.3 lbs.
Best with Built-In Lunchbox: Matein Lunch Backpack
Who It’s Good For
Those bringing lunch and snacks from home should check out this option with an insulated built-in lunchbox.
Who It’s Not Good For
Anyone looking for more internal pockets for organization should consider a larger bag.
For the BYOL (Brought Your Own Lunch) crowd, the Matein Lunch Backpack will be a life (and lunch) saver. A special insulated lunch box compartment blends seamlessly with the rest of the backpack and will keep food hot or cold for at least four hours. You can also fit two small glass storage containers plus one canned beverage in the insulated lunch compartment.
Besides its special lunchbox feature, this backpack ticks all the boxes of an all-around great work backpack. An external USB charging port (power bank not included) lets you charge your devices on the go. Several external pockets, including a unique tissue pocket, keep important items more accessible.
Size: Whole backpack: 11.8 x 7.5 x 16 inches; lunchbox: 11 x 7.8 x 5 inches | Capacity: 23 liters | Laptop size: 15.6 inches | Weight: 1.92 lbs.
Best Waterproof: Rains Backpack Mini
Who It’s Good For
Commuters riding bikes or walking long distances to and from work will appreciate the waterproof design.
Who It’s Not Good For
Those wanting external pockets and more room for storage might prefer a different bag on the list.
The Rains brand is known for its waterproof minimalist design and neo-Scandinavian aesthetic. This mini backpack is made with a coated waterproof fabric that’ll keep your things dry on your commute and looks über fashionable.
This bag features the Rains signature carabiner closure and magnet snap fastening. With one main compartment and only two zip pockets (internal and external), this bag is best for light packers. Even though it’s labeled the “mini backpack,” it can fit up to a 15-inch laptop along with a few other essentials. It has no external water bottle holder, however, so that’ll have to fit inside, but for around $100, this is a solid, waterproof choice that won’t compromise on style.
Size: 15.7 x 11.4 x 3.9 inches | Capacity: 9 liters | Materials: Polyester with polyurethane coating | Laptop size: 15 inches | Weight: 1.96 lbs.
Best Tech: Tzowla Laptop Backpack
Who It’s Good For
Tech-savvy people wanting a work backpack that’ll keep up with them and all their devices.
Who It’s Not Good For
Those who have minimal devices and don’t need all the bells and whistles might prefer a simpler bag.
The Tzowla Backpack is a techie's dream. It’ll keep you and all your devices protected, organized, and charged while commuting to and from work. A fixed password lock secures the durable metal zippers in place, and a padded laptop sleeve prevents damage from any bumps or drops. On top of that, a hidden back zipper pocket conceals any valuables.
Beyond the protective measures, this is a solid backpack with plenty of storage and organization for your everyday needs. This backpack comes with padded adjustable straps and breathable mesh for comfort, and it comes in sleek grey and black colors of durable, water-resistant nylon or a fun floral pattern. All in all, it's a great option for folks working on the go or traveling between work sites and want to safeguard their equipment.
Size: 18.5 x 11.8 x 5.5 inches | Materials: Nylon, polyester | Laptop size: 15.6 inches | Weight: 2.2 lbs.
Best Convertible: Cyureay Convertible Daypack Laptop Backpack
Who It’s Good For
For those two-for-one lovers who can’t decide between a tote or backpack for work, this is the best of both worlds.
Who It’s Not Good For
Those who would rarely use this bag as a tote. (The top carry straps would feel unnecessary and maybe cumbersome.)
For a balance between the style of a work tote and the ergonomics of a backpack, the Cyureay Convertible Tote Backpack delivers both in one. This bag really delivers on the storage with pockets galore, and the large main compartment provides ample packing space and a designated laptop sleeve with a velcro strap to secure it in place.
Longer top handles allow this backpack to be carried like a classic shopper tote bag, and adjustable padded backpack straps provide a more supportive fit. Extra perks include water-resistant fabric, a USB charging port (power bank not included), and a relatively low price point.
Size: 16.5 x 12.2 x 4.7 inches | Capacity: 25.39 liters | Materials: Nylon | Laptop size: 15.6 inches | Weight: 1 lb.
Best Updated Classic: Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack
Who It’s Good For
If you’re looking for a classic backpack silhouette that can transition from work and beyond, check out this sleek option.
Who It’s Not Good For
Those on a budget seeking a less casual aesthetic should look at other bags on our list.
Dagne Dover has a loyal following for their trendy bags. The Dakota Backpack is a hip update on the classic backpack silhouette we know and love from our school days. The neoprene fabric is not only fun and soft to the touch, but it’s also water-resistant, hand-washable, insulating, and shock-absorbent.
PEOPLE Shopping Editor Madison Yauger recommends the Dakota backpack to anyone who will listen. This bag will hold more than just your work essentials thanks to a laptop sleeve and several designated internal and external pockets. An included shoe bag and zipper pouch offer additional storage for after-work activities.
Size: 11.5 x 5 x 17 inches | Capacity: 16 liters | Materials: Neoprene, performance air mesh, recycled Repreve | Laptop size: 13 inches | Weight: 2 lbs.
Our Editors Say
“The quality, material, capacity, and durability are unbelievable. This backpack will be your go-to for office commutes, park days, travel, and literally everything else." — Madison Yauger, Shopping Editor
How to Pick the Right Backpack for Work
Capacity and Storage
Finding the right backpack for work begins with deciding how much you’ll need to carry every day. If you only need the essentials (laptop, wallet, keys, maybe a pen), a slim, minimalist backpack, like the A New Day Modern Mid-Size Backpack, will do.
Consider the size of the devices you’re carrying, too. If you also want to carry your workout clothes, lunch, water bottle, etc., you’ll need even more space. You also want to find the best way to store all your items in an organized and accessible way. Decide how many compartments you’ll need and other organizational details like internal and external pockets. This part is a bit like Goldilocks — you want to find what’s just right for you.
Style
When it comes to deeming a backpack “work appropriate,” Adrian Causing, an NYC personal stylist to professionals who work for Fortune 500 companies, suggests weighing your personal preference of utility versus style and then comparing that with your workplace norms. “If your workplace is uber casual and relaxed, you probably can get away with a more functional, utility backpack,” Causing tells PEOPLE. “If your image is key in your workplace, then opt for more style than function.”
“Simple upgrades in fabric or versatility may be worth the price point to get that elevated look," Causing tells PEOPLE. "Leather, suede, or coated canvas are my go-tos that give a more elevated and professional look to any accessory.” He recommends the Kylie from Pixie Mood as an affordable version of a luxury-looking work bag.
Comfort
If you’re carrying your backpack on a longer commute, you’ll want it to feel good and not just look good. Dr. Fischer recommends finding a backpack that's lightweight. “Also helpful are thick and padded straps to reduce strain on the superior trapezius muscle which is between the shoulder and the neck,” Fischer says.
Price
There are backpacks for every budget, thankfully. Your budget will dictate how much you want to invest in a work backpack. Shopping at Target or Amazon, you can find a solid (and cute) backpack for around $30 to $40. If you’re able to spend more, high-quality vegan leather options will run you around $100 to 200, depending on the brand and the features.
Take Our Word For It
L.A. Hubilla is a freelance commerce writer for PEOPLE and backpack enthusiast ever since the 7th grade when she started commuting on public transportation. For this piece, she consulted Charla Fischer, MD, of the Division of Spine Surgery at NYU Langone Health for insight on backpacks and ergonomics. Adrian Causing, an NYC-based personal stylist for professionals working at Fortune 500 companies, provided advice on styling clients in work-appropriate attire and accessories.
Meet Our Experts
Charla Fischer, MD, is the chief of orthopedics for Tisch Hospital and Kimmel Pavilion and an orthopedic surgeon at NYU Langone’s Spine Center.
Adrian Causing is an NYC-based personal stylist for professionals working at Fortune 500 companies.
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