25 Best Laptop Bags to Carry Everywhere
Dotdash Meredith and Yahoo Inc. may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below.
Find expert-approved options here.
InStyle / Brian Kopinski
Whether it be a simple, daily commute or a business trip that lasts an extended period, for those who are often on the go, protecting your laptop can be one of the number one priorities during travel of any kind. Whether used for work or not, most people can’t go anywhere without their computers, so finding a laptop bag that will keep one of your most prized possessions secure is of utmost importance. Not only do the best laptop bags need to function, but they also have to keep up with your busy lifestyle.
Keeping in mind versatility, aesthetics, and purpose, we tapped three experts to give their useful tips on what is important to look for when searching for the best laptop bags (hint: high-quality materials and organizational details are all high on their lists), along with their go-to styles and a few InStyle favorites in between. Below, find the 25 best laptop bag styles that work for every office environment, commute, or travel destination.
Best Overall: Quince Italian Leather Triple Compartment Work Tote
What We Love: This is made from high-quality leather without the retail markup.
What We Don’t Love: The padded compartment only fits a 13-inch laptop.
Quince was founded with the belief that everyone should have access to nice things without spending a fortune. It’s no surprise that the generously-sized leather tote is made from top-grain, Italian leather, that has been Leather Working Group-certified, without the retail markup that you’d find at top competitors. The minimalist-friendly design has long, shoulder straps so the weight can be balanced across your shoulders, while inside, you’ll find a designated, padded pocket that fits a 13-inch laptop and other organizational compartments to store everything you need for a day out and about.
Actor and content creator Courtney Halverson is a fan of this bag, as well. “This one has a bit more of a softness to it, and I imagine the leather would wear beautifully over time,” she says. “I like that there is no overt branding and the external large pouch pockets would be perfect for packing along a Kindle, sunglasses, and other essentials.”
Material: Leather | Dimensions: 15 (W) x 10.5 (H) x 5 (D) inches | Weight: 1.93 pounds | Closure: Snap, zipper | Colors: 3
Best Size Range: Marc Jacobs The Leather Medium Tote Bag
What We Love: The classic yet contemporary design in high-quality leather.
What We Don’t Love: The crossbody strap is on the thinner side and might be uncomfortable after long hours of wear.
The Tote Bag is one of Marc Jacobs’ most iconic handbags and is also a great fit for carrying around your laptop. “Perfect for those who want to be cute but have to carry around their laptops and need something that fits their style,” tech content creator Tayllor Lloyd recommends. “These come in a ton of different styles and sizes.” Both Lloyd and one of our other experts prefer the medium size.
The spacious design is complimented by a sturdy, leather fabrication that will wear supremely well over time. “This is a classic tote bag that won't go out of style,” content creator and influencer Sarah Lapierre says. “It has a detachable strap and multiple pockets and compartments for organizing. Made to last and great color options, as well.” The embossed “The Tote Bag” on the front proves this is the real deal. Additional design details include an extra-long strap that can be worn crossbody instead of the two top handles.
Material: Leather | Dimensions: 13 (W) x 10 (H) x 5 (D) inches | Weight: 2.3 pounds | Closure: Zipper | Colors: 6
Best for Travel: Béis Croc Embossed Work Tote
What We Love: The additional, crossbody strap that allows for multiple ways to carry.
What We Don’t Love: Vegan leather generally doesn’t wear as well as real leather over time.
Two of our experts also recommended Béis’ Croc Embossed Work Tote. The brand was founded by Shay Mitchell to make travel smarter and easier. “This one is so chic, and I love that it has a sleeve to attach to your luggage for travel,” Halverson says. “Multiple strap options make it a more comfortable choice, and it comes in a few colors, although I'm partial to the croc.”
The widened shoulder straps make for a more comfortable hold, while a trolley pass-through allows you to fit this perfectly on the handles of any suitcase when in transit. Lapierre also enjoys the function of multiple straps but calls out the many organizational features this bag has to offer, as well. “[This] has interior and exterior zippers, a smartphone pocket, a key ring — so you never lose them in your bag — and a back, slip pocket for easy travel,” she says.
Material: Vegan leather | Dimensions: 14.25 (W) x 11 (H) x 6 (D) inches | Weight: 2.7 pounds | Closure: Zipper | Colors: 3
Best Fashion-Forward: Cuyana Sling Bag
What We Love: The bag is machine-washable.
What We Don’t Love: There are minimal organizational pockets on the inside.
Style and function can coexist when you are using Cuyana’s oversized, sling bag. This canvas crossbody is not your typical laptop briefcase — but when put to the test, we found that it holds up ideally in the category. The sleek design is simple, but with plenty of functional details and the use of smart, eco-friendly materials, it makes it a must-try on our list.
We found that the wider shoulder strap doesn’t slip off the shoulder, and since it isn’t a heavy bag, even when stuffed, it doesn’t feel terribly uncomfortable. The zipper opens and closes with ease thanks to a larger pull, and doesn’t get stuck when in use, which can be a major deal breaker during testing, in our opinion. Although lacking in lots of internal pockets, a laptop fits comfortably and safely inside. The best part is the bag is entirely machine-washable. So, when accidental spills and stains arise, it can be cleaned in an hour without a specialist. Be sure to opt for the oversized option, since there is also a small and medium size, to ensure your laptop will fit comfortably.
Material: Knitted from recycled landfill plastic | Dimensions: 18 (W) x 12.5 (H) x 6 (D) inches | Weight: 2.11 pounds | Closure: Zipper | Colors: 2
Best Waterproof: The North Face Base Camp Voyager Messenger Bag
What We Love: The fabric is made from recycled materials.
What We Don’t Love: It only comes in two colors.
Whether you are headed to the office or out on a weekend excursion, The North Face Base Camp Voyager bag is going to keep your goods dry (believe us, we tested it and liquid beads off). Rather than having an open top like a tote shape, your computer and more will keep dry with the help of the foldover flap. The recycled fabrication is also abrasion-resistant, so regular wear and tear will not affect the life of the bag.
Pockets and functionality were considered with high regard here. We liked the numerous external pockets on the exterior, for easy access to your phone, wallet, and more. Inside, the main compartment that was designed for your laptop, is lined with a soft, fleece material to keep it protected. There is even a little clip for your keys inside, too. The wide, shoulder strap is heavily padded, and with testing, we found it to be very comfortable — cushioning the body and snug while walking around. All in all, you won’t be disappointed.
Material: Recycled polyester tarpaulin with TPU laminate | Dimension: 16.5 (W) x 10.8 (H) x 4.5 (D) inches | Weight: 1.9 pounds | Closure: Buckled flap fold | Colors: 4
Best Budget: CYUREAY Women's Convertible Daypack
What We Love: The built-in USB port allows for charging on the go.
What We Don’t Love: The bag does not stand up on its own, as the images suggest.
Cyureay’s Convertible Daypack is a great option for those who like the practicality of a backpack, with a slightly more elegant look, and ringing in at just $30, it is one of the most affordable options on our list. “Great, affordable, and you can carry this bag multiple different ways — so if you're looking for versatility this is a great option,” Lloyd recommends.
Featuring both top handles as well as backpack straps and a trolley sleeve, it’s made from water-resistant fabric, so your laptop and belongings will keep safe through a rainy commute or impromptu shower. A large, main inner pocket can fit a 15.6-inch laptop comfortably, while multiple, zippered front and side pockets can store all the little extras — including your phone, chargers, keys, and more. The main, tech-friendly feature here is the built-in USB port that allows you to connect cellular devices to a battery pack (note: that the battery pack is not included, though).
Material: Waterproof nylon | Dimensions: 4.7 (W) x 12.2 (H) x 16.5 (D) inches | Weight: 1 lb | Closure: Zipper | Colors: 4
Best Messenger: Lands' End All Purpose Messenger Bag
What We Love: The padded shoulder strap is functional and comfortable.
What We Don’t Love: The canvas material is fairly thin.
If you prefer a messenger-style, crossbody shape, this Lands’ End option offers a great solution for those on the go. Although compact, we found the bag to pack a lot, without feeling overburdened when filled. The zippered interior has a padded, laptop pocket specifically designed to keep yours secure, along with three small pockets and a large, mesh pocket. Outside, you will find three snap pockets for storing all the little extras that you want to access easily and quickly.
The shoulder strap is easily adjustable but also has ample padding to make it feel extremely comfortable when in use. This bag is also made from durable canvas, which we found to be waterproof during a spray test. And for those on a budget, this option is surprisingly affordable, especially if you can snag it while on sale.
Material: Polyester | Dimensions: 14.75 (W) x 11 (H) x 5.5 (D) inches | Closure: Zipper | Colors: 1
Best on Amazon: BROMEN Laptop Tote Bag
What We Love: This bag is available in 15 colors.
What We Don’t Love: The vegan leather fabrication might not hold up over time.
Bromen’s Laptop Tote Bag combines the look of a handbag with the capabilities of a laptop tote, allowing you to carry just one bag, rather than the inconvenience of multiple. “I love the classic, clean style of this bag,” Lapierre explains. “It's vegan leather, sturdy, and stands upright on its own.” The structured design also has little feet at the bottom to keep it standing — so your belongings won’t mistakenly dump out when set down.
Both customers and Lapierre call out the multiple strap features. “The strap length is adjustable and has the option to be a crossbody or shoulder bag,” she notes. “Also, super durable for long-term wear!” In addition, there is a separate, padded pocket to keep your laptop protected, along with two slip pockets and a zippered main area. There is plenty of extra room for notebooks, files, and even an umbrella.
Material: Vegan leather | Dimensions: 14.96 (W) x 12.6 (H) x 4.72 (D) inches| Weight: 1.6 pounds | Closure: Zipper | Colors: 15
Best Vintage-Inspired: J.Crew Edie Structured Bag
What We Love: The leather is certified by the Leather Working Group (LWG).
What We Don’t Love: There are no additional pockets for internal organization.
“This one is easily my favorite for how classic and vintage it looks,” Halverson comments. “You’d almost never guess that it’s meant for a computer, and the simplicity of it is gorgeous.” Inspired by vintage briefcases, the shape nods to a heritage handbag silhouette, while remaining modern-feeling. Two shoulder straps with a 9.5-inch drop sit atop a slim, zippered case, which will fit up to a 14-inch laptop and maybe a few other folders and small personal items. If beautiful craftsmanship is what you are looking for — this very minimal design offers quality, without many other extras, such as an additional, crossbody strap or internal pockets.
Still, the Italian leather has a lacquered shine, giving it a patent feel, aligning with the retro feel, and making it feel very special. Since this is LWG-certified, the leather has been sourced from a tannery where responsible production is maintained. When it comes to styling, the shape is incredibly versatile, as well. “I know this one would fit with nearly everything in my wardrobe,” Halverson adds.
Material: Leather | Dimensions: 13.5 (W) x 10.125 (H) x 4.25 (D) inches | Closure: Zipper | Colors: 1
Best Splurge: Kaai Pyramid Bag
What We Love: The 100 percent Italian cow leather material is water, scratch, and color fading resistant.
What We Don’t Love: This bag weighs on the heavier side.
Investing in a luxury bag might seem daunting, but researching all the little details on what makes it special, like where and how it is made, makes all the difference. Kaai is a Belgium-based, female-founded brand that specializes in leather goods. The Pyramid Bag checks off all the boxes for what a great laptop bag should offer. The high-quality, traceable leather used for production will be scratch-proof, waterproof, and UV-resistant for years to come, making this investment all worthwhile.
Other highlights include special seams that have been custom-fit specifically so that a laptop actually fits (if this has been a problem for you with other purchases), as well as reinforced handles to support the weight of the bag as you carry it. The base is also reinforced for added support, while metal feet allow the band to stand up. Multiple inner pockets fit more than just your computer and can be closed snuggly with a zipper-top closure. The best part is all this is within the clean, folded design that gives the bag its signature, pyramid-like shape.
Material: Leather | Dimensions: 5.5 (W) x 12.2 (H) x 14.6 (D) inches | Weight: 3 pounds | Closure: Zipper | Colors: 8
Best Daypack: Nobleman Backpack
What We Love: It comes in lots of colors.
What We Don’t Love: The structured shape can feel a little stiff.
No matter how you need to get around, having a daypack designed to fit and protect your laptop is essential. The Nobleman backpack has a structured design that is clean and modern-looking. The uniqueness is in the simple, minimalist approach that's free from statement patterns or fussy design elements. Three zippered pockets are piped with faux leather, offering an aesthetically pleasing look.
One zipped pocket holds up to a 15.6-inch laptop, while the others can stow everyday needs and ready-to-grab items. The fabrication is waterproof, tear-resistant, and scratch-resistant, so whether you are tucking this into your overhead bin on a flight or the backseat of your car, damage will be minimal with regular use. “This backpack is a little more sleek and the straps are super comfortable, too,” Lloyd says. It also comes in 10 colors, including black, gray, beige, pink, and light blue.
Material: Polyester | Dimensions: 16.5 (W) x 11.8 (H) x 7 (D) inches | Weight: 1.9 pounds | Closure: Zipper | Colors: 10
Best Soft: July Juliette Soft Large Tote
What We Love: The sturdy base allows it to sit upright without support.
What We Don’t Love: The laptop sleeve only fits up to a 14-inch computer.
July’s Juliette Large Tote is a multifunctional bag that was designed with the laptop user in mind. So much more than a regular tote bag, the folded exterior gives this option a fashionable flair but also allows for even more extra room with an extra-wide diameter. The sturdy, double handle has thicker straps that will hold the weight of your bag’s contents.
The bag comes with a removable, laptop sleeve wristlet that fits up to a 14-inch laptop however the interior, zipped pocket can fit up to a 16-inch computer, with room to spare for a water bottle, your lunch container, and more. There is also a magnetic closure exterior pocket for those items you want to quickly reach and we can’t not mention the band that slides over luggage handles without a hitch. We recommend investing in this large tote, but the collection also has a smaller version with a detachable crossbody strap, should you prefer.
Material: GRS-certified PU coated fabric | Dimensions: 21.85 (W) x 12.01 (H) x 5.91 (D) inches | Weight: 2.2 pounds | Closure: Zipper | Colors: 3
Best Backpack: Calpak Kaya Laptop Backpack
What We Love: The whipstitched seam design is aesthetically pleasing.
What We Don’t Love: The structure can be dented if heavier items are not organized on the bottom.
Another style that doesn’t sacrifice style over substance is the Kaya backpack from Calpak. This one is both expert-recommended as well as customer-favorite, based on the sleek, stylish design and practical elements. Stow your 15-inch laptop in the zippered pocket, made especially for a computer, and featuring a latch to keep it in place. The structured, flat shape of this design also lends itself to being ideal for fitting a notebook or an iPad, too. Don’t sleep on the handy, luggage trolley sleeve, either, which fits perfectly over the handles of a suitcase.
The faux leather fabrication, exterior sleeve for travel, and multiple inside compartments for organization are Lapierre’s key takeaways from this design, which make it a top contender on her list. “I love the stitching style around the frame of the bag,” she adds.
Material: Faux leather | Dimensions: 11.5 (W) x 15.5 (H) x 4.5 (D) inches | Weight: 2.9 pounds | Closure: Zipper | Colors: 2
Best Smart Bag: Nordace Siena Smart Backpack
What We Love: It has a USB port for on-the-move charging.
What We Don’t Love: There is only one color option.
“If you’re looking for more of a traditional-style backpack, this is a great option and it fits a ton of other gear, so this would be perfect for those of you who have a little more to carry around,” Lloyd tells InStyle. The lightweight and adjustable ergonomic straps have been designed for comfort, whether on a lengthy adventure or a short trip. The polyester fabrication is also lightweight, so when you load this backpack up, it won’t feel extremely heavy.
A special, hidden pocket on the back of the pack ensures that important personal belongings, such as a passport or wallet, remain safe, secure, and far away from potential pickpocket’s hands. Plenty of internal pockets make for easy organization, and a discreet, luggage loop will give your back a break when necessary. Use this backpack as a smart tool whenever traveling.
Material: Polyester | Dimensions: 11.42 (W) x 16.54 (H) x 6.3 (D) inches | Weight: 0.031 lb | Closure: Zipper | Colors: 9
Best Pouch: Benfan Laptop Sleeve 13-Inch
What We Love: This is a useful option for those who don’t want to carry a large bag.
What We Don’t Love: Some customers complained about the odor of the faux leather.
“This laptop sleeve is a great option if you go the tote route with [fewer] pockets,” Lapierre says. The no-frills version of a laptop bag, this organizational pouch boasts a simple, envelope design that feels like a clutch but tends to your tech carefully. Within the laptop sleeve, you will find a mouse pad, a small charger pouch, and a cord organizer to keep it all in check. Choose from four sizes depending on your laptop’s dimensions (there are options to accommodate 13-, 14-, and 15-inch sizes). The water and scratch-resistant faux leather also has a soft lining inside that will grip and cradle your computer.
Whether used as an added form of protection in a bag sans pockets or you simply prefer to carry your laptop in an uncomplicated manner (zippers can sometimes feel like a hassle), this snap-closure sleeve will be a great companion.
Material: Faux leather | Dimensions: 9.06 (W) x 13.39 (H) x 0.2 (D) inches | Weight: 1.26 pounds | Closure: Snap | Colors: 8
Best Organized: Monos Metro Tote
What We Love: The professional look works for both travel and the office.
What We Don’t Love: The style sells out quickly and regularly has low stock.
Although Monos is a travel-forward company, the Metro Tote doesn’t just have to be for planes, trains, and other methods of transportation. This classic, zippered design also makes a great work bag for daily commutes and protecting your most important asset — your laptop. The vegan leather fabrication is both water and scratch-resistant and has a soft, cotton-twill lining for easy clean up, in the case of potential spills or pen explosions.
The delegated laptop compartment measures 14 inches, so be sure to check your personal laptop’s measurements first before purchasing. Another feature customers love is the interior water bottle pocket which makes sustainable hydration a breeze. True to the brand’s ethos, the bag is of course compatible with any of the suitcases using the built-in trolley sleeve to make travel easier.
Material: Vegan leather | Dimensions: 15 (W) x 12 (H) x 7.2 (D) inches | Weight: 2.74 pounds | Closure: Zipper | Colors: 4
Best Versatile: Bromen Laptop Backpack
What We Love: It looks more expensive than what it costs.
What We Don’t Love: Some reviewers note the leather is shinier in person than in the photos.
“This backpack is so versatile from the adjustable straps to the multiple pockets and compartments,” says Lapierre. “The clean design makes it look more expensive than it is and it comes in many color options based on season or your preference.” She adds that it comes at a great price for the quality, too.
In addition to these facets, the waxed exterior makes this option water-resistant while giving a stylish facade. A foam-padded panel fits a laptop up to 15.6 inches in a separate, velcro pocket. Pen slots and other little slots are also included throughout, so organizational attention is no issue. The adjustable back straps ensure the right length can be found for any body type, making it somewhat ergonomic, while a top handle offers variety in carrying capabilities.
Material: Vegan leather | Dimensions: 11.81 (W) x 15.75 (H) x 5.51 (D) inches | Weight: 1.94 pounds | Closure: Zipper | Colors: 12
Best Leather: Il Bisonte Talamone Leather Tote
What We Love: The bag is handmade and finely crafted in Italy.
What We Don’t Love: There is no top closure for security.
If you are looking to invest in a bag that will hold up over time, leather is a smart choice. The best leather comes from Italy and Il Bisonte has been hand-crafting its designs for years in Tuscany, using superior quality leather in close-knit production facilities.
The Talamone is a roomy tote bag shape, made from cowhide leather, and is both sturdy and stylish. The thicker, two-strap design ensures that carrying this on the shoulders will be comfortable. Although the tote bag is very simple in design, without a ton of pockets and padding, it does make for an aesthetically pleasing approach. Those who prefer to use something closer to a purse to carry everything will find their best match. And inside, a removable, zipped pouch can store personal belongings or even a charging cord when needed.
Material: Leather | Dimensions: 16.5 (W) x 12 (H) x 4.75 (D) inches | Closure: None | Colors: 4
Best Convertible: Bobobark Convertible Backpack
What We Love: It has a vintage-inspired shape that feels unique to the laptop bag market.
What We Don’t Love: The clamshell clasp might be finicky to open when on the move.
“This one feels really unexpected to me, in that it can be styled as a backpack but still has a chic shape to it,” Halverson explains. “The metal frame feels so timeless and I feel it would be a great one for travel too.” Whether carried as a top-handle bag, on the shoulder, as a backpack, or even a briefcase, the Bobobark Convertible Backpack gives you options. It’s made from eco-friendly, cork skin, which is lightweight but also durable, strong, and waterproof.
The clamshell clasp gives the effect of a vintage bag but opens to reveal a deep sack that has multiple compartments and pockets for organizational needs, one that will fit up to a 15-inch laptop and is also padded for protection. On the exterior, you will find one easy-access pocket for your phone or necessities that need to be reached quickly. A built-in port will also help you charge on the go, no matter where you are when the low battery hits.
Material: Cork skin | Dimensions: 16.5 (W) x 16.5 (H) x 2.7 (D) inches | Weight: 3.3 pounds | Closure: Clamshell clasp | Colors: 6
Best Monogrammable: Away The Everywhere Tote
What We Love: The bag can be personalized with embroidered letters.
What We Don’t Love: It sells out quickly.
You might be already familiar with Away’s social media-approved luggage, but have you checked out the expanded bag line? The Everywhere Tote will take you, literally anywhere, as the name suggests — not just the security line for your next flight, although it works great for that as well. The clean, nylon fabrication is water resistant and features real leather straps as a functional design touch.
The bag fully zips so your laptop and any other personal items you’re carrying remain secure. Inside, the organization is easy with multiple pockets and a padded laptop pouch that snaps and fits up to a 15-inch device. One exterior pocket keeps your passport, wallet, and boarding pass readily available, while the back has a hidden placket that ensures the bag will fit over any Away luggage. For those frequent fliers, the size measurements are complacent with airline requirements for personal items, as well.
Material: Nylon, leather | Dimensions: 16 (W) x 12.6 (H) x 7.9 (D) inches | Weight: 1.57 pounds | Closure: Zipper | Colors: 3
Best Professional: Ted Baker London Andreaz Herringbone Messenger Bag
What We Love: The herringbone fabrication is classic and professional looking.
What We Don’t Love: The trim is not real leather.
Ted Baker’s Andreaz bag is the one that won’t look like everyone else’s bag. The untraditional fabrication is made from a woven herringbone — a classic material generally used for suiting and outerwear. The design takes on a more standard, briefcase style — with a top, zip closure, two short handles, and a crossbody, messenger-style strap. Inside, the interior is straightforward, but there is a padded pocket that fits a laptop up to 15 inches. Another detail of note is the raised feet on the bottom of the bag, that allow the bag to stand upright and not directly touch the surface that it is laid on.
We recommend styling this one for the workplace since it takes on a more professional tone due to the fabrication. Pair with your favorite suit, shirt, and a sleek loafer for everyday elegance.
Material: Polyester, acrylic, wool, cotton, polyamide | Dimensions: 14 (W) x 12 (H) x 3 (D) inches | Closure: Zipper | Colors: 1
Best Quality: Coach Rogue Brief in Regenerative Leather
What We Love: It’s crafted from regenerative leather.
What We Don’t Love: Some reviewers had issues with the measurements.
If you are going to be carrying a laptop bag every day, splurging on a well-crafted option makes for a smart investment. Coach is renowned for its decades-long work creating leather goods, so you can count on the maker’s expertise to create a bag that will be heirloom-worthy. However, what we love most is that this briefcase is made with regenerative leather. This means that the leather is sourced from farms that are committed to sustainability and use practices that increase biodiversity and soil health, in turn reducing the often damaging impact that fashion production and consumption have on the planet.
The bag takes the shape of a classic briefcase, yet has modern elements to make it work for the present day — such as a detachable, crossbody strap, secure, inside sleeve for a laptop, and protective feet at the base. However, readers should note that the laptop sleeve only fits up to a 13-inch computer, in case you own a larger one.
Material: Leather | Dimensions: 11 (W) x 16.25 (H) x 4 (D) inches | Closure: Zipper | Colors: 1
Best Traditional: Thule Subterra 15 Inch Laptop Bag
What We Love: It’s durable and water-resistant.
What We Don’t Love: There are minimal pockets for organization.
When it comes to the best laptop bags, this no-frills option is about as classic as you can get. Made from a nylon fabrication, which is naturally water-resistant, Thule’s Subterra bag is thin and lightweight, making everyday errands and commutes all the easier without excessive shoulder weight. It comes in just one color, black, but often that is all you need to be able to style back to everything you own.
Depending on your needs, this bag is available in both a 13- or 15-inch width. The zippered compartments are minimal. There is a pocket for your laptop, then a few other organizational elements, a padded shoulder strap for comfy carrying, and a top handle for variation. Since the nylon gives it a more relaxed feel, we recommend this one for casual office environments or travel.
Material: Nylon | Dimensions: 15.75 (W) x 10.5 (H) x 2.75 (D) inches | Weight: 1.1 pounds | Closure: Zipper | Colors: 1
Best Commuter: Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack
What We Love: There is a designated bottle holder in the interior.
What We Don’t Love: Some reviewers found the flap closure to be cumbersome.
If you’re a city dweller or an avid traveler, a backpack is your best bet. We found Everlane’s Renew pack to be a favorite among customers, coming in at under $100 and multifunctional. The design is simple but smart. A 15-inch exterior pocket offers a safe place to store your laptop while in transit and is easily accessible in TSA security lines. Interior pockets include organizational tools for magazines, notebooks, and even designated water bottle holders.
True to Everlane’s sustainability commitments, this backpack has a few ecocentric elements. It is made from recycled polyester that was derived from water bottles, which helps divert waste from landfills, dyed with Bluesign-approved dyes that are safer for those handling and the environment, and the finish is fluorine-free. Choose from five color palettes, all in earthy, neutral tones.
Material: Recycled polyester | Dimensions: 12 (W) x 17.5 (H) x 7.25 (D) inches | Closure: Zipper | Colors: 5
Best Color Options: Lovevook Laptop Tote Bag for Women 15.6 Inch Waterproof
What We Love: It is extremely affordable in price.
What We Don’t Love: It doesn’t have a lot of structure allowing for it to stand on its own.
This laptop bag looks more like a handbag, making it a great option for corporate workplaces. The minimal front has a crossover, magnetized pocket, that can hold important documents, a notebook, book, or other slim items and there is a small exterior back pocket for your cell phone. It’s made from polyurethane, a durable material that is naturally water and scratch-resistant, and makes the price point much more affordable, as well. The straps also have a protective foam pad, for a more comfortable handle.
A smooth, top zipper opens to reveal an organized interior, complete with pockets that will fit a laptop up to size 15 inches, and a few other folder placements and pocket slots. The best part is it comes in 32 colors and colorways, so you can take your pick from classic neutrals such as black and cognac, or go for something brighter in the realm of greenish blue or pale pink.
Material: Polyurethane | Dimensions: 16.5 (W) x 10.4 (H) x 6.1 (D) inches | Weight: 2.2 pounds | Closure: Zipper | Colors: 32
What to Keep in Mind
Versatility: “A laptop bag to me is the ultimate workhorse, and often the bag you will carry with you most frequently,” Halverson explains. “For that reason, I love ones that feel like a seamless fit into my wardrobe — something that looks polished and timeless, rather than an afterthought.” As a commuter a few days out of the week, Halverson stresses the importance of choosing a design that feels like it is part of your outfit. “When you carry a laptop bag to work, you don't want to have to carry a purse as well so for me, it needs to do double duty,” Lapierre adds.
Pockets: Organizational tools, such as pockets, are one of the main design details to consider. Lloyd recommends always looking for a pocket to keep all the small things you need to take along with you. “A lot of times I'll bring AirPods, my Apple pencil, a portable charger, and having a pocket to keep your accessories in is nice and needed,” she says.
Straps: A strap that won’t weigh you down is also important during the testing process. “There’s nothing worse than packing your bag and the straps digging into your shoulder — it's the worst!” Lloyd says, pointing out that comfortable straps should be a high priority. “The length of the strap is also important based on your size,” Lapierre explains. “You want to make sure it's not too long for your body, so it doesn't weigh you down or too short where it may not fit over a jacket and you have to carry it on your forearm.”
Your Questions, Answered
What is a laptop bag?
“I would consider a laptop bag any kind of bag that can fit an average-sized laptop,” Lapierre explains. “Of course, there are those made for laptops only and those with more versatility but if it can fit a laptop in it safely, it gets the job done. That could be anything from a tote bag, to a backpack depending on what you're looking for.”
Lloyd agrees that a laptop bag doesn’t have to be made just for a computer. “For me, a laptop bag is really anything that can fit my laptop securely and comfortably,” she says. I don't always go by the standard — there are lots of times when I'll find a cute tote and make it work!”
How do you find a laptop bag that won't weigh your shoulders down?
“The best way to protect your shoulders while carrying a laptop bag is to find something with multiple straps like a crossbody or a work backpack,” Lapierre recommends. “Personally, my bags get heavy quickly with all the things I carry and there's nothing worse than walking with your coffee in one hand, phone in the other, and your shoulder bag slides down off your shoulder.” If this sounds familiar, she recommends looking for something with a grip on the shoulder or backpack straps, so that you’re more hands-free and the weight can be distributed more evenly.
Lloyd stresses the importance of picking the right size back and also packing efficiently. “A lot of times, we over-pack, making the bag overweight and that doesn't help at all,” she explains. Consider function when choosing your bag and also what needs to be carried when in use. “Also, you can fit the bag to your body making sure you adjust the straps to disperse the weight evenly. That helps a ton,” she recommends.
How do you care for a laptop bag to prolong its life?
“Take your laptop out of the bag and hang it when you can, instead of putting it on the ground everywhere you go,” Lapierre suggests. “Or find a bag that has pegs on the bottom so it can stand up without having the fabric touch the ground.” She also highlights the importance of not overstuffing the bag — which will create more weight on the straps — and to make sure to clean it out often, so things don’t build up and get too messy internally.
For Halverson, simple cleaning practices make all the difference in extending the laptop bag’s life. “A little bit of a wipe down with a leather care wipe goes a long way, as does hanging it up at the end of the day so it's not just flopped over on the ground or on a chair.” These are all relevant tips to follow to keep your bag looking brand new.
Why Shop with Us
Full-time freelance writer and fashion editor Kristina Rutkowski has been covering all things style, trend, and shopping for over 10 years. Living in New York City, she is often able to see and try out brands firsthand, directly through the designer showrooms, which has provided ample research opportunities for this story.
She also spoke to experts to discuss what to look for when selecting the best laptop bags. They included content creator and influencer Sarah Lapierre, tech content creator Tayllor Lloyd, and actor and content creator Courtney Halverson.
For more InStyle news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!
Read the original article on InStyle.
