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It comes for all of us eventually—the creeping realization that you need to graduate from your backpack to (gulp) a briefcase. But only the best briefcases for men will ensure that you don't just shuffle your way into the real world, but burst into it like you own the place (or at least look like you kind of, sort of belong). Sure, your beloved book bag can haul your laptop just fine, but if you're gearing up to fly the coop, you should probably dress like it, too.

The Best Briefcases for Men, According to GQ

• The Everyday Pick: Bellroy Via Work Bag , $129
• The Mega-Value Pick: Time Resistance Full-Grain Leather Briefcase , $233
• The Rugged-but-Refined Pick: Filson Rugged Twill Original Briefcase , $495
• The Leather Pick: Carl Friedrik Palissy Briefcase , $745
• The Convertible Pick: Porter-Yoshida & Co. Tanker 3Way Briefcase , $674
• The Travel-Ready Pick: L.L.Bean Stonington Daily Carry Work Bag , $119
• The Rolling Pick: Tumi Alpha 3 Collection Compact 4-Wheel Briefcase , $825
• The Large-and-In-Charge Pick: Thom Browne Mr. Browne Briefcase , $3690
• The Splurge-Worthy Pick: Goyard Ambassade Briefcase , Price upon request

Take to me to : How to Choose the Right Briefcase for You | How We Made Our Picks

Investing in a briefcase might feel a bit, uh, old old-fashioned . But your daily work bag doesn't have to look so dusty. After all, our modern-day working experience isn't so tied to stuffy cubicles as it is a local cafe or shared workspaces…or our own kitchen. And briefcases have morphed accordingly. These days they're lighter, but no less well-constructed, more adaptable to the many environments and “offices” we inhabit. And, crucially, they're a lot more stylish. That’s not to say the bags aren’t still elegant (they very much are), but they’re capable of taking a licking and still ticking. But only the best briefcases will look better the more you use them. Briefcases also help you focus on the essentials, ensuring that you’re not overpacking while providing plenty of storage. Dedicated laptop sleeves provide safe and secure storage with siloed zipper pockets for tablets, notebooks, and even smartphone pockets. Having everything organized in one place can help eliminate the digging around that sometimes happens in larger-sized bags, as everything is essentially all right at your fingertips.  So it's time to grow up, but if you're not sure where to begin, we’ve got you covered with a veritable A-team of options. From the hyper-technical to the rugged workhorses to the classically elegant, the high-end flexes to the affordable entry points. So, yes. Investing in a briefcase might feel like the turning of a page to being slightly more serious—but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun considering all the new options in the process.

The Best Everyday Briefcase: Bellroy Via Work Bag

Via Work Bag

Bellroy's got a knack for minimalist design with maximalist functionality and its Tech Briefcase is a deceptively simple bag that belies its many features. The strategically-designed interior delivers maximum storage capacity in a handsome minimalist package. Unzip the sturdy nylon shell to pack in everything you need for a day at the grind: a laptop, water bottle, and a spare sweater to battle office AC extremes. Inside you'll find a padded laptop sleeve, a mesh zip pocket for keeping your smaller items like keys and sunglasses protected, and a generous center cavity for anything else you may need to haul to and from the office. On the outside, it's got a cleverly hidden zip pocket for easy-access items like a book or an iPad as well as a luggage pass-through feature that lets you attach it to luggage. Its weather resistant fabric and coated zippers help protect your goods from the weather, too. But the most clever feature might be the hidden AirTag slip pocket so you can feel safe and secure.

The Best Value Briefcase: Time Resistance Leather Briefcase

Time Resistance

Full-Grain Leather Briefcase

Amazon might not be the first place you look for a top-shelf briefcase, but we'll forgive the oversight. Crafted in Italy from fine full-grain leather with heavy brass hardware, this classic design by Time Resistance is fit to pair with your sharpest suits. Got an important meeting coming up first thing…Monday? Don't sweat it, that's what Prime is for.

The Best Rugged-but-Refined Briefcase: Filson Original Briefcase

Rugged Twill Original Briefcase

Filson has a storied legacy going back to the Gold Rush days as a manufacturer of quality and dependable goods and clothing, which is to say that their Original Briefcase is built to last. Constructed from a heavy-duty twill fabric that’s similar to what you’d find on a sturdy work or chore coat , the exterior will stay together no matter how rough on it you are. It’s also lightly waxed so that it’s water-resistant if it gets caught in the rain. Critically, the bottom is super reinforced so that when you’re loading up the two wide stow interior pockets, the fabric won’t rip or shred. Plus, the interior pockets keep everything organized and at a glance when you need it most. Rugged yet refined, the Original Briefcase is pretty much exactly what you’d want from a bag nowadays: something capable yet timeless and with plenty of functionality so that you buy it once and hold onto it forever.

The Best Leather Briefcase: Carl Friedrik Palissy Briefcase

Carl Friedrik

Palissy Briefecase

Briefcases are so inherently utilitarian that it might be odd to think of something so functional as sexy. And yet, that’s exactly the first thing that comes to mind when you see Carl Friedrik’s Palissy Briefcase. It feels like the briefcase you’d see the employees of Sterling Cooper carrying back in the ‘60s, thanks to an extremely elegant vachetta leather, which is the de-facto go-to material for high-end bags. But it’s not just that gloriously smooth, blemish-free exterior that will age gracefully. The gorgeous nickel-silver hardware really pops and will only look better the more you use the bag. Plus, it’s on the slimmer side of things, while still ensuring you’ve got enough room for a laptop, a tablet, and multiple other essentials thanks to a handful of interior zipper pockets. So, yes, this is a sexy bag, thank you very much!

The Best Rolling Briefcase for Travel: Tumi Alpha 3 Briefcase

Alpha 3 Collection Compact 4-wheel Laptop Briefcase

A rolling briefcase is a briefcase in the same way that a flying car is a car. And we'll admit that, personally, collectively, we'd probably opt for any other briefcase on this page, paired with some of our favorite carry-on luggage , to handle our business class needs. But with those confessions out of the way, we recognize that some of you are living that Up In the Air life, and optimization trumps vibes. So cash in those credit card points and get Tumi's Alpha 3 Collection rolling briefcase.

It's a softshell briefcase that holds laptops up to 15" and lets you knock out a 2-day trade show without subjecting your spine to 12-hour days lugging presentations and paperwork. Since there's no need to stay svelte, the Tumi brings a removable accordion folder, mesh panels, a gang of media pockets, a USB-A port (though it's BYO battery), and enough room for a change of clothes. Maneuvering through the airport is easy, too, thanks to its 360-degree spinner wheels and a sleeve that easily attaches to your other luggage, making for a kind of rolling luggage totem pole. Of course, it passes muster as a carry-on, so you don't have to worry about checking your work essentials. After that, your only concerns are figuring out in-flight WiFi and how to expense those in-flight whiskeys.

The Best Convertible Briefcase: Porter-Yoshida & Co. 3Way Briefcase

Porter-Yoshida & Co.

3Way Tank Briefcase

Todd Snyder

Porter-Yoshida & Co.'s Tanker bag is inspired by military flight jackets: you can see it in the standard-issue sateen fabric with contrasting orange interior, which makes finding your goods easy. Visibility gets even easier: the main compartment hinges open from one side, lying flat like luggage. Technically there's no laptop sleeve, but the slimmer zipped pocket is where you'd stash your MacBook. (We'd recommend bringing your own protective sleeve.) But we haven't gotten to the “3Way” part of the Tanker's name—and why we love this brief. It can go from tote to cross-body to backpack in a flash, with integrated backpack straps flipping out of a zipped pocket and clipping into place in seconds. Which makes running around town (or the terminal) a lot easier on your spine.

The Best Briefcase for a Weekend Away: L.L.Bean Stonington Work Bag

Stonington Daily Carry Work Bag

If you need to carry a change of clothes—maybe because work's taking you on an overnighter, or you're hitting the gym before clocking in—you want a bag that can handle the extra gear without looking like you dragged your weekender into an executive meeting. Bean's hybrid is simple enough to blend in everywhere, but has enough structure to keep things looking put together. Canvas, leather handles and zip pulls, and L.L.Bean's classic Northeastern style bring a vintage (but not old-timey) style. We'd probably opt for one of the two darker colors; they look a little more serious, and since this is untreated cotton canvas, they'll hide the inevitable coffee spills and accumulated dirt better.

The Best Splurge-Worthy Briefcase: Goyard Ambassade Briefcase

Goyard Ambassade briefcase

There's a reason your favorite rappers all name-drop Goyard a dozen times an album. The French luggage and bag house deals only in absolute grails, the type designed specifically for flaunting at your side as you descend the stairs of a private jet. This soft-sided briefcase allows you to bring all that pure opulence with you into work every day, with its iconic hand-painted, coated-canvas exterior and calfskin trims practically screaming, “I'VE MADE IT!” And honestly, if you've hustled hard enough to afford a bag this beautiful, you really have. (Speaking of price, we should clarify: Goyard's Ambassade is, obviously, not $0. Goyard doesn't sell this bag online. You'll need to call or visit a shop to get yourself hooked up. Prepare to spend four figures.)

The Best Large-and-In-Charge Briefcase

Thom Browne

Mr. Thom Briefcase

Office attire had been in the doldrums before Thom Browne came along to shift it into high-fashion territory . Of course, his brief is going to do the same. The elegant bell shape pays homage to vintage luggage, opening like a doctor's bag so you can dig around inside easily. Brass hardware against the lightly pebbled leather, with a small hit of Browne's signature red-white-and-blue grosgrain on the hang tag feels very now . There's only a single zip pocket built into the lining, but acres of space in there—at eight inches front-to-back, this brief's double the depth of almost every other briefcase option here. That means it'll happily fit your laptop, documents, and everything else during the workweek, then swallow a couple Oxford cloth button downs and some underwear as a chic weekender bag.

Your Briefcase-Related FAQs, Answered

There are a few non-negotiables when it comes to a quality briefcase, in our eyes: A laptop sleeve, ideally padded. At least two compartments for stashing chargers and things like keys, pens, and a granola bar for the midday lull. It should close so people can't dash off with your MacBook while you're ordering a half-calf.

From there, we get into matters of priority. Personally, we want enough space to stash a water bottle (hydration, so important). We also want the option to carry it with handles or sling it over our shoulder with an (ideally removable, definitely comfortable) strap, because not every day needs to be arm day. But we have a fashion-forward model or two that don't have either, and one Platinum Club-ready model that swaps straps for wheels. You gotta know what works for your work.

Finally, you gotta decide what looks right. You don't want to be hauling around a briefcase that makes you feel like a kid in his dad's clothes, nor do you want a brief that puts you at a disadvantage in the room. A big fashion flex might be your personal dream, but may send the wrong message if your weekdays are spent soliciting charitable donations. On the flip side, you can absolutely make a rugged Filson work with your power suit. Ultimately, you're the best judge of where cool and crushing it come together in the best briefcase for your situation.

Construction: A briefcase gets used and abused for 5/7ths of the week—more if you're a weekend road warrior. As a result, we look for top-quality fabrics, supple leather, well-sewn seams, hardy carry handles and straps, and zippers that don't bind or feel ready to blow out the first time you get a little overzealous packing for the day. Quality isn't always proportional to price, though up to about $1,000, every extra hundo or two tends to bring upgrades on the specs.

Style: We're past the Mad Men era of uniformly dark suits and boxy leather briefs; briefcases are now as aesthetically varied as the jobs you'd use them for. You can go sleek or fashion-forward, simple or rugged. But whatever briefcase you carry (or sling over your shoulder), it should feel like it means business in the way you need it to.

Storage: We're looking for a well-organized, adaptable interior that'll protect your laptop in its own sleeve and let you stash both odds-and-ends (from keys to keycards to headphones) and bigger stuff (maybe even gym gear) in smart, accessible ways. And we like exterior pockets on soft-sided briefs for easy grab-n-go gear.

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The 15 Best Travel Briefcases for Men & Women [2023]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

817 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

38 Published Articles 3344 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 48 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

Things to consider with briefcases, the 8 best briefcases for men, the 7 best briefcases for women, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

A briefcase offers a practical and stylish way to carry your laptop, files, notebooks, and other essentials with you on your daily commute. Some are spacious enough to carry extra items you might need for a night or 2 away, while others are lightweight and versatile enough to be used on a daily basis.

Available in a wide range of styles, colors, and designs, finding the right briefcase to suit your needs doesn’t have to feel like a chore.

Before you buy your next briefcase, consider the following:

Size and Capacity

If you are planning on using your briefcase for school, college, or work, you will need to be able to fit your laptop , work files, textbooks, and other must-have work essentials in with ease.

Depending on the size of your laptop, the padded compartment will need to be able to accommodate it , so be sure to carefully read the description before you buy. You should also be sure that it can fit full-size folders or documents if you intend to use it while working.

Hot Tip: Some briefcases offer the ability to expand a few extra inches, giving you extra interior space to store your files or fit a change of clothing in.

If your briefcase is simply for carrying your laptop to work and back, it just needs to offer excellent protection and space for a few extra essentials.

However, if you are headed away on a business trip or need to carry your gym gear, lunch bag, and other day-to-day items, look for a briefcase that offers expandable compartments or extra space to ensure that you don’t need to carry extra bags with you.

Briefcases often feature a structured design, which can make them heavier than a comparable tote or duffel bag. While this won’t be so noticeable while the bag is empty, briefcases can feel quite heavy when fully loaded.

Material and Durability

Briefcases are usually made from heavy-duty material as they are designed to offer increased protection. Polyester, canvas, leather, and vegan leather (PU) are all popular choices, and all have their own distinct advantages.

Suppose you are doing a lot of traveling with your briefcase. In that case, you may want to look for materials that offer some resistance to water and always check that the hardware and zippers are high-quality to ensure that they stay stronger for longer.

While your working life may be stressful, there is no reason that your briefcase should put any additional stress on your body. On the contrary, ergonomic shoulder straps can help distribute your belongings’ weight , and wheeled briefcases can make light work of longer journeys.

Also, consider how you access your belongings. For example, front flap pockets make it easy to grab your passport, cell phone, and other essentials in a hurry, and wide-mouth zippers ensure that you can easily slip your laptop and files in without a fight.

Wheels vs. No Wheels

Some briefcases come with wheels and a telescoping handle, making it easy to pull your belongings along beside you.

These types of suitcases are great if you need to carry lots of files and documents with you and can also be used as a carry-on when flying.

Bottom Line: Wheeled briefcases can be super useful and will make it much more comfortable to carry lots of gear, but they are generally larger and heavier than a regular briefcase, so only buy one if you need the extra capacity.

1. Water-resistant Briefcase for Your Daily Commute

Ytonet 17 inch laptop bag.

This smart-looking laptop briefcase is made from high-quality, water-resistant polyester and is perfect for business trips.

Offering plenty of multi-functional compartments, it comes with 2 front zipper pockets, a main compartment that can comfortably house most 15.6-inch laptops, a file compartment, and a back zipper pocket to keep your valuables safe.

Offering a super-useful expansion zipper, this roomy laptop briefcase can also be used to store clothes and other essentials for overnight stays. With a padded shoulder strap, grab handles, and a back panel that can be looped over the handle of your suitcase, this is the perfect choice for frequent flyers.

What We Like

• This briefcase looks much more expensive than it is

What We Don’t Like

• 17-inch devices can be a squeeze if they are thick

2. Nylon Briefcase From a Reputable Luggage Brand

Samsonite classic multi gusset toploader briefcase.

This smart-looking briefcase from Samsonite is packed full of useful compartments, and the sleek good looks make it a practical choice for stylish commuters.

Made from durable ballistic nylon, it comes with a padded laptop compartment that is suitable for devices measuring up to 15.6 inches , and the gusset feature opens wide to hold your files and folders.

With additional compartments for your laptop peripherals and zippered mesh pockets to hold your pens and other accessories, it offers all the space you need to work on the move.

With a padded shoulder strap, wrapped grab handle, and a trolley sleeve, it is easy to carry, and the front zipper pocket offers easy access to your passport and other essentials in transit.

• Designed to fit everything you need
• The shoulder strap is surprisingly narrow

3. Big Size Briefcase With Carrying Options

Coolbell convertible backpack messenger bag.

This versatile travel bag is plenty big enough to hold your 17.3-inch laptop, and the spacious design still offers room for extra clothing.

Offering 3 different ways to carry your gear, the straps can be used as a backpack, a messenger bag, or a shoulder bag , and with 4 outside pockets, you can easily organize your essentials.

Made from high-quality materials, it comes with a padded laptop compartment and extra pockets for your files and peripherals, and the ergonomic design ensures that it remains lightweight and easy to carry, even when full.

• This is a versatile briefcase with lots of pockets
• It doesn’t feel particularly durable

4. Expandable Briefcase for Large Laptops

Kroser premium laptop bag.

Made from environmentally-friendly canvas poly fabric, this is a durable and water-repellent laptop bag that looks smart and performs brilliantly.

With a roomy laptop compartment that can house up to a 17.3 laptop , you can take your work with you, and the expandable capacity offers extra space for files, folders, or even a change of clothes.

The easy-to-reach zippered front pocket lets you access your most important documents easily, and the adjustable carry handle, sturdy PU handles, and luggage strap on the back ensure a comfortable carry, even when full.

• This bag fits everything you need and even more.
• It could do with more padding

5. Briefcase on Wheels for Frequent Flyers

Alpine swiss rolling 17″ laptop briefcase.

This awesome rolling briefcase measures 19 x 14 x 9 inches, making it just right to use as a TSA-approved carry-on , and will the ability to hold a 17-inch laptop, it is a great choice for regular business users.

Organized and secured, the main section comes with various compartments for all of your essentials , and the zipper closure has secure dual combination locks that can be set individually to keep your belongings well-protected.

With side pockets that are spacious enough for legal files and the ability to expand up to 2 inches, you will have all the space you need for your important work documents. This briefcase also features a telescopic handle, 4 in-line skate wheels, and a detachable carry handle to make light work of longer commutes.

• This is a really durable briefcase
• The wheels seem a little small for the size of the case

6. The Best-designed Briefcase for Stylish Commuters

Kenneth cole reaction keystone 17″ laptop business portfolio.

Offering designer good looks and a practical interior, this awesome briefcase from Kenneth Cole is made from durable 1680D ballistic polyester and has a fully-lined interior.

The front compartments offer easy access to your passport, cell phone, and other essentials, and on the inside, the main compartment is designed with a checkpoint-friendly/EZ-scan feature that lets you keep it safely tucked away while going through airport security .

The dual top handles and padded shoulder strap ensure that it is always easy to carry, and the rear exterior trolley strap allows you to slip the briefcase over the handle of your spinner suitcase to create the perfect travel system for business trips and longer stays away.

• Genuinely has enough room for your 17.3-inch laptop plus files and accessories
• The shoulder strap feels surprisingly flimsy

7. Upscale Leather Briefcase for the Discerning Traveler

Samsonite leather expandable briefcase.

This finely-crafted briefcase is made from smooth and supple genuine leather, and the spacious design is an awesome choice for everyday use.

With a padded laptop compartment that can comfortably house up to a 15.6-inch laptop computer, it also offers a variety of compartments and pockets for keeping your files and accessories well-organized.

The comfortable carry handles are sturdy enough to support the weight of the bag , even when full, and with an expandable compartment, you can even squeeze in a few extras for overnight stays.

This bag also features a SmartPocket design that can be slipped over the handle of your spinner suitcase for more convenient transportation.

• It really has been built to last
• The shiny surface makes it look more like faux leather

8. Carry-on Briefcase Bag With a Built-in USB

Matein rolling laptop bag.

This awesome rolling briefcase comes with a USB interface and built-in cable that allows you to charge your devices (using your own choice of power bank ).

With a spacious front zippered pocket, you can enjoy easy access to your most used documents and essentials while you travel, and the spacious main compartment is large enough to carry your clothes, shoes, and other much-needed items.

With a padded compartment that will keep your 15.6-inch laptop well-protected and a zippered accordion-style file holder, this case offers all the space you need for business trips and overnight stays.

With 4 in-line skate wheels and a retractable handle , this bag is easy to pull along behind you, and the compact 17.7 x 9.5 x 13.7-inch dimensions make it carry-on-compatible for most airlines.

• Practical and super spacious
• The laptop compartment is towards the front of the bag, meaning it can tip over

1. The Best Eco-leather Ladies Briefcase

Easegave laptop bag for women.

Available in a choice of 10 stunning colors, this beautiful Suffiano eco-leather briefcase offers plenty of space for all of your daily business essentials.

With a dedicated and well-padded compartment to hold your 15.6-inch laptop, it also features further structured interior compartments, as well as 2 slip pockets and a zip-fastening pocket for smaller items.

Understated and incredibly chic, this laptop briefcase also comes with a turn-lock flap closure to keep your belongings secure , and with a lined interior and adjustable strap, it offers a stylish way to carry your work around with you.

• This briefcase bag looks and feels gorgeous
• The strap isn’t particularly strong

2. Great-looking Briefcase for Fashion-conscious Travelers

Ecosusi women’s briefcase.

Made from smooth and luxurious vegan leather, this gorgeous women’s briefcase looks pretty as a picture. With elegant, vintage styling, it comes in a selection of colorways, and the spacious interior offers all the space you need for your day-to-day essentials.

On the inside, it has room to carry a laptop measuring up to 15.6 inches, and the additional zipper pockets are perfect for keeping your wallet, cell phone, and other items safe on the move.

The adjustable strap makes it easy to sling the briefcase over your shoulder , and the unusual cut-out design with an oversize bow and magnetic closure makes this an excellent choice for fashionable commuters and students.

• Extremely high quality for the price
• It’s not big enough for large folders

3. Functional Women’s Briefcase on Wheels

Solo new york bryant rolling bag with wheels.

Versatile enough to be used for work, school, or even nights away, this rolling briefcase bag is spacious enough to carry plenty of your business essentials.

Made from high-quality materials, it comes with a fully-padded 17.3-inch laptop compartment and features a zip-down organizer section and file dividers to ensure that you stay well-organized.

With a push-button telescoping handle and 4 smooth-rolling wheels, you can pull your belongings along behind you, making light work of long journeys and business trips away.

• Plenty of storage space and padded protection
• A 17-inch laptop is a bit of a squeeze

4. Super Water-resistant Ladies Briefcase

Bagsmart 17.3 inch laptop bag.

Offering excellent value for money, this versatile and practical women’s briefcase bag comes in a selection of fashionable colors.

Made from durable and water-resistant polyester fabric, it comes complete with metal hooks and zippers, and the well-thought-out design offers plenty of space for your laptop, files, pens, and other essentials.

The padded laptop compartment can comfortably house devices measuring up to 17 inches, and the expansion zipper offers extra inches for clothing, files, textbooks, and so much more.

With an ergonomic shoulder strap, this bag is comfortable to carry, even when full , and the back slip pocket slides over the handle of your spinner suitcase for increased convenience on longer journeys.

• It will let your larger laptop slip in and out easy
• It can feel quite heavy when fully loaded

5. Practical PU Leather Ladies Briefcase

Lovevook laptop bag for women.

Fashionable and full of character, this gorgeous satchel-style bag comes with a padded computer compartment that fits devices measuring up to 15.6 inches.

With lots of lovely interior pockets, this is a practical bag for everyday use , and the 2 large pockets on the front make for easy access to your most essential items.

Made from high-quality PU leather, it has a distinctive design and gorgeous hardware, and the zippered back pocket offers a safe place to quickly access your valuables.

With a sturdy carry handle and an adjustable shoulder strap, this briefcase provides a stylish and practical way to haul your work, school, or college essentials with you, everywhere you go.

• It will easily fit your laptop and peripherals
• More for fashion than it is for durability

6. The Best Vintage Ladies Briefcase

Cluci women oil wax leather briefcase.

Available in a selection of stylish colorways, this upscale briefcase is made from soft, 2-toned cowhide leather . It has a super-stylish look with a durable fabric lining and high-quality hardware.

The large capacity interior has a padded laptop compartment for 15.6-inch devices, and the further inner pockets, card and pen slots, front magnetic pocket, and hidden back pocket offer plenty of space for all of your school or workplace essentials.

With an external U-shaped zipper, you can easily access your items, and the adjustable handle and attach-a-bag strap make it easy to carry or attach to your suitcase for increased convenience.

• It feels soft and supple
• The design makes it feel quite heavy

7. Roller Briefcase for Ladies on the Move

Kensington contour balance notebook.

This incredible carry-on bag comes with super smooth, inline skate wheels that make it easy to maneuver.

With the look and feel of a regular tote bag, it hides a multitude of clever design features , and the laptop compartment with built-in drop protection ensures that your 15.4-inch laptop will remain well-protected in transit.

The ergonomic design hugs the body and shifts the center of gravity for a more comfortable carry, and being 25% lighter than traditional rollers, you won’t need to worry about lifting it into the overhead compartment. With an organizer front pocket and additional zipper pockets, it offers all the storage space you need for business trips and busy days.

• The super-smooth wheels
• The grab handles can get in the way of accessing the compartments

From colorful cases to luxury wheeled options, there are a ton of great briefcases to suit every kind of traveler. With padded laptop compartments, organizer pockets, expandable zippers, and lots of useful extra storage, a modern-day briefcase offers so much more than just a portable file holder.

With options to suit school kids, college students, and business users alike, and available in a wealth of styles for every budget, a laptop briefcase is an investment in your day-to-day success.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a suitcase and a briefcase.

Business professionals typically use a briefcase to hold documents, whereas a suitcase is larger and used to hold clothes and toiletries.

Are briefcases bad for your back?

Briefcases could be bad for your back, but only if they are too heavy. Briefcases are usually carried in one hand or over your shoulder using a strap, which means that the weight is not evenly distributed. If your briefcase is lightweight and not full, you should be able to carry it without any back issues.

Do people still use hard briefcases?

The use of hard briefcases has been on a hard decline over the last couple of decades as they have fallen out of fashion. However, soft briefcases are still widely used and both a practical and stylish option for business professionals.

Can you put a laptop in a briefcase?

A lot of modern-day briefcases will have a dedicated laptop compartment. Most will comfortably fit a 15-inch laptop, but some have been designed to accommodate a 17-inch laptop.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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The 20 Best Briefcases for Men, Tested by Style Experts

If you are going places, you need one of these.

Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site. Why Trust Us?

THE PERFECT accessory needed for your professional life is a briefcase. Whether you're a seasoned executive or a young, up-and-coming professional, choosing the right briefcase is a decision that should not be taken lightly. In fact, with the best briefcase for men at hand, you're not just a businessman—you are the business, man.

Best affordable briefcase

Ytonet expandable travel briefcase with organizer.

Best rugged briefcase

Filson dryden briefcase.

Most Versatile briefcase

Mack weldon ion briefcase.

A true gentleman's essential, the best briefcases for men will not only complete your business or office attire but also keep your belongings organized in impeccable fashion. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. The best briefcases for men need to be crafted from high-quality, durable materials—from leather to ripstop nylon to waxed canvas—that can withstand the rigors of daily use, wherever you’re headed. The best briefcases for men also should have ample space and smartly organized compartments inside to accommodate your laptop, gadgets, documents, and other essentials, keeping them orderly and easily accessible.

Lastly, from classic leather designs to modern sleek options, the best briefcases for men will make a lasting impression in any business-friendly setting to make you look professional as well. With these factors in mind, our team has tried on and tested different briefcases on real-life occasions to find the 20 best that will instantly elevate your professional image. Refined, rugged, and ready for anything, our 20 best briefcases for men will not only meet but also exceed your expectations.

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This Amazon bestseller has amassed over 6,000 five-star ratings. Customers love its no-frills design and polyester exterior that's stain and scratch-resistant, so it can take a licking during your daily commute.

Plus, it's expandable with plenty of compartments to hold your computer, water bottle, and everyday carry. We love that this spacious laptop bag in fact offers independent compartments for all your essentials with front zipper pockets to file compartment to a foam-padded sleeve accommodating even large laptops

But that's not all: the expansion zipper allows you to increase the capacity so that it'll be able to carry as much stuff as a duffle bag! We also love how the strap lets you attach the briefcase securely to our luggage, freeing our hands during travels. Switch between the removable shoulder strap and soft carry handle for the most comfortable way to carry it.

These days, you can take a briefcase to less manicured offices like, say, a construction zone. This one from Filson checks all the boxes of a work brief, and it's infused with the outerwear brand's all-weather features like a water-repellent nylon fabric and slotted pockets to hold small multi-tools.

Firstly, we love how crazy comfortable it is to carry: it is light, with handles made of bridle leather that'll soften up and mold to your hand over time. There's a strap for slinging it across your back, and even a trolley strap to slide over the handle of your rolling luggage.

Secondly, it looks very tough. Made from water-repellent, abrasion-resistant nylon, this briefcase case held up to our heavy use and even comes with a double layer over the bottom to last even longer. Lastly, it just looks good. While you might not sport it to some fancy skyscraper office, it's hella everyday-friendly and makes you look rugged and professional at the same time.

Mack Weldon bills this as a hybrid briefcase that works like a portable desk, and we have to agree. It's loaded with functional compartments, and a padded organizer panel to keep charging cords, headphones, and your wallet safely in place. Plus it even comes with an adjustable strap to clip on like a mini messenger bag.

Crafted with 100% industrial twill, this lightweight, ultra-portable briefcase is built to last and designed to revolutionize your work life. Equipped with two padded tech compartments, your valuable devices stay safe and secure inside the Ion. Our favorite part is that it's got a non-slip laptop rest that ensures stability while you work on the move. There's even a handy organizer panel for cords, pens, and more, which has helped us organize our essentials effortlessly and effectively.

Bellroy Tokyo Work Bag

Frequent flyers will love this brief with tons of travel-friendly details like a clamshell opening that lays flat in an overhead bin, water- and scratch-resistant fabric made from recycled materials, and an internal mesh divider to hold and separate your electronics and underwear. A perfect carry-on for those last-minute business trips.

All in all, this professional commuter briefcase gives us ingenious use of space and smart compartments. Inside, you'll find a well-organized sanctuary for all your essentials, from a laptop sleeve to a tablet slip to raised mesh sunglasses and elastic slip pockets. We also love that it's got a quick-access front pocket and a hidden water bottle pocket to ensure we stay hydrated while traveling. The zip opening is also very wide, allowing for easy access. Plus, the luggage pass-through slides effortlessly over a suitcase handle, making travel a breeze.

Time Resistance Leather Briefcase

Another Amazon bestseller, this one receives top marks for its classic buckle design and its premium leather construction at a relatively affordable price point. Beyond its value, customers love how sturdy it is, holding up even after years of use.

Crafted to withstand the test of time, this leather briefcase uses durable hardware, tear-resistant lining, and reliable YKK zippers to ensure a look that will get better with age, and we love how the shell has already developed a nice patina after one year of usage. In addition, this briefcase is also designed with your comfort and everyday practicality in mind, featuring multiple pockets inside and outside, a convenient key lock closure, and a padded, adjustable shoulder strap. Overall, we found that its spacious dimension plus timeless look easily cater to your professional needs while providing a striking presence.

Troubadour Pathfinder Slim Briefcase

This is really a smart, well-designed briefcase, and I have been recommending it to a lot of folks. It’s fancy and sustainable and does not look cheap at all. Crafted from premium lightweight and waterproof fabric, it has been able to keep my valuable contents safe and dry, even on rainy, snowy days. Inside, you'll find a large external pocket and a padded compartment specifically designed to cradle your MacBook with care, not to mention a handful of pockets and slips and compartments here and there (and probably too many paper-type compartments than you might actually use).

We also love its big outer sleeve, which lets us store really essential stuff and keeps them easily and readily accessible. For the avid traveler, this briefcase comes with a trolley sleeve as well that slides effortlessly over luggage handles. If you're searching for a travel/work bag that blended low-profile, high-quality, and solid utility, this is it.

Longchamp Boxford L Crossbody bag

This is my go-to briefcase for a workday in the office or a casual day out with friends or a work-filled weekend when I need to carry a laptop with me to grind in a nearby Starbucks. I personally am a fan of its flap close: crafted with both zip closure and a flap closure with magnetic buttons, it has ensured my belongings are securely stowed to provide me some peace of mind on the go. And I love how adjustable the shoulder strap is to offer me the perfect fit for my comfort, whether I carry it over one shoulder or crossbody-style.

Inside, you’ll find spacious tablet and laptop pockets that cater to your modern tech needs, and the multiple internal pockets will keep your other essentials tidy and within reach as well. And the look roams somewhere between rugged and professional, with a shell fabric that has been able to withstand any wear or tear for over two years so far for me.

Briggs & Riley Expandable Work-Brief

Budget-friendly, Briggs and Riley's bestselling brief is crafted from 1600D ballistic nylon to be water- and abrasion-resistant so it can last through years of commuting. Customers love how lightweight it is given its ample storage. More importantly, it is expandable on demand, providing an additional 2.5 inches of packing space for those spontaneous travel needs.

Inside, you'll find a monstrosity of organization: the three-section layout comprising an organizer, main compartment, and laptop compartment. And your effortless everyday organization awaits with its elastic slip pockets, pen loops, and gusseted compartments too.

In addition, we love how the zip-around expansion, corner SpeedThru™ pocket, and convenient slip-through back panel add to the briefcase's overall travel-ready design. The bag can also be packed traditionally or laid flat like a suitcase, accommodating bulky items with ease.

Rains Texel Tech Bag

Zip up and gear up for a seamless, safety-first commute with this waterproof briefcase. Here we consider it a must-have for daily adventures. Constructed from Rains' signature waterproof PU fabric, not only does it feel extra smooth it also ensures carrying strength and durability so it’ll last you. While it boasts capacity, its clever design and reduced proportions keep the whole thing easy to carry and light. Still, there are various zips and front utility pockets which are perfect for storing passports, chargers, and other small essentials.

A large zip pocket sits between the front pockets and the main compartment, offering ample space for small tablets and notebooks. Inside the main compartment, you'll find a padded laptop sleeve, along with zip and mesh pockets for even more efficient organization.

Samsonite Classic Leather Toploader

A no-nonsense briefcase that gets the job done. We love how it's part practical and part professional and part stylish. Offering specialized compartments for all your tech essentials and a dedicated back compartment for seamless file organization, I've been able to experience the ease of organization that every professional deserves with this briefcase. Convenience is also at our fingertips with its easy access front zip pocket and the large front organizer pocket, complete with tablet and phone pockets, as well as pen pockets.

We also found this briefcase really comfortable to carry. It features a full-sized top handle and an adjustable, detachable strap with a non-slip shoulder pad. At this under-$200 price tag, it's practically a steal.

Ralph Lauren Leather Messenger Bag

For guys that still have a formal office dress code, this stately bag goes well with any suit. It's made with burnished leather for a tasteful luxe finish that looks at home in a boardroom, corner office, or a power lunch.

Lands' End Waxed Canvas Laptop Briefcase

When it comes to your everyday briefcase, dependability is key. This in particular can carry your essential files, laptop, and work tools to make it an indispensable part of your professional life. Its waxed canvas outer even evokes a sense of ruggedness every time you use it. It feels natural, earthy, and downright satisfying to touch while ensuring sturdiness and reliability.

TUMI Alpha Bravo Academy Briefcase

Here's a luxe travel brief that'll get you from the tarmac to your office meeting. Lots of storage pockets for knick knacks and overnight clothes, while its navy nylon fabric makes for a polished finish.

Solo New York Grand Central Attaché with Combination Locks

Despite its very old-school and pre-modern design, this attaché briefcase is actually quite functional. Its classic black leather outer screams sophistication and professionalism, while its interior offers a large capacity main compartment, providing ample space for all your essentials. You’ll also be able to stay organized with the interior organizer section and the file pocket with a Velcro closure. And if security is a priority, this briefcase even has a dual combination lock system to safeguard your belongings.

Mark & Graham Harvey Leather Briefcase

A classic leather briefcase for the classy man. Not only does the Harvey boast carry handles and an adjustable shoulder strap for seamless travel, but its impeccable craftsmanship makes it extra long-lasting and effortless at elevating your professional style. We also love how the outer will get better looking with age and develop a nice patina over time.

Inside, the multiple interior pockets and a laptop sleeve will offer the necessary organization for your bits and bobs. For a personal touch, you can even add a subtle foil or debossed monogram.

Shinola The Slim Traveler Brief

Here's a leather bag that's more business casual than formal. It's slightly baggier than those buckled briefs but still has a refined finish to make it office-appropriate. Available in two colors, we prefer the brown one, which has a collegiate-striped strap that makes it an ideal graduation gift.

Tecovas The Briefcase

Tecovas, a purveyor of dope-looking cowboy boots, also applies its Western craftsmanship to its marquee briefcase. Made with durable presidio leather, this slightly rugged, highly-stylish bag looks just as good as other leather briefcases worth thousands more.

COACH Metropolitan Slim Brief

If you're a suit-and-tie guy who needs a good-looking briefcase that still pairs well with your Casual Friday uniform, get this one from Coach. The Slim Brief lives up to its name: sleek, slender, and rendered in beautiful glove-tanned leather that shows co-workers you really mean business. But don't let its lean frame fool you: it's still spacious enough to hold a 15-inch laptop and a handful of folders.

Banana Republic Suede Briefcase

Make a lasting impression at the office or on a leisurely day trip with this beautiful, gentleman-like briefcase. Crafted from soft yet sturdy suede, it’s a luxurious accessory that will age gracefully, becoming your own treasured heirloom for probably generations to come. With a zip compartment at the back, an internal laptop sleeve, and zip pocket storage, it’s also hella functional. All in all, we love how it is equally suited for work or leisure, serving style and substance at once.

PORTER-YOSHIDA & CO. Porter Tanker 3way Briefcase in Olive

Todd Snyder specializes in updating menswear essentials with a utilitarian, Americana aesthetic. Take its Porter Tanker brief, which takes inspiration from MA-1 flight jackets and has three layers of protection for your office gear. Its exterior keeps it looking professional, like a dressy bomber jacket.

Christian Gollayan oversees e-commerce content for Men's Health and Women's Health. Previously, he was the Associate Managing Editor at TheManual.com. Christian's work has also been featured in Food & Wine, InStyle, the New York Post, and Tatler Asia.

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13 Best Briefcases for Business Travel

• Travel Gear
• 13 Best Briefcases for Business…

You know how important functional travel gear is if your job takes you all over the world. However, it’s not always about practicality. Sometimes, you need to head straight to the office from the airport or to a meeting. Stopping at the hotel for a quick change isn’t always possible. And no matter how much we say that work speaks for itself, looks do matter when it comes to business. Additionally, you want your laptop with you and want to be organized too. A travel briefcase is a perfect way to keep your look polished and your belongings safe at the same time. The best briefcase for business travel is nifty enough to have in-built sleeves for laptops. Moreover, all top-notch business travel briefcases today have lots of pockets for organization. What’s more, they’re multifaceted when it comes to the way they’re carried too.

So, give your travel style game some serious plumping up and check out the 13 best briefcase choices for business travel right here.

How to choose the best briefcase for business travel

Like one looks for specific features while looking for the best backpacks for work , it’s the same when it comes to briefcases for business travel. However, there are a few common things that everyone needs to consider to ensure that they’re getting the best travel briefcase.

Function and size

Obviously, the most important thing to consider while choosing a travel briefcase is its function. To begin with, you need to consider the size of your tablet or laptop. Secondly, you’ll need to think about what else will you be keeping along with them. If you need it for the everyday commute, you might need a smaller, slimmer one. If you need it for overnight use, you need to think about how many days you travel on an average; and then decide the size of the bag. Also, if you’re someone who goes on business trips regularly, think about one with more pockets. Finally, you also need to check the dimensions of the bag if you plan to double it as a carry-on.

Weight is one of the most important things you need to consider while choosing business travel briefcases. Also, you need to consider both the bag’s own weight and the weight of the stuff you’ll be putting into it. You don’t want your shoulder and back to hurt after a long day of carrying a heavy bag around.

Gone are the days when a business travel briefcase conjured images of clunky boxes. Today, travel briefcases are smart and come in a gamut of styles. First up are the traditional business travel briefcases. Now, they have softer corners, rather than the traditional, sharp ones. Then, there are others that double up as backpacks, duffel bags, and even shoulder bags, thanks to removable straps. One of the most popular designs is the messenger bag with a flap. Moreover, travelers have choices of distinctly masculine or feminine bags, and even unisex ones. Finally, the material of the bag can range from leather to nylon. In the end, the style you choose should depend on not just the aesthetics, but also how long you’re going to be hauling it and how often you’re going to be using it.

Wowbox Vintage Canvas Leather Laptop Briefcase

Chic messenger bags is what Wowbox does best. The Wowbox Vintage Laptop Briefcase is one of the best briefcases for business travel. The bag is constructed from rugged canvas and top-notch cowhide and sports a stylish look.

The highlight of the bag is the shockproof laptop compartment. The thick padded bottom keeps your gadgets safe. What’s more, the bag’s interior features four slip pockets for chargers, gadgets, credit cards, and pens. Also, it even has a large compartment for files. Vintage buckles cover the magnetic clasps, keeping stuff safe and the look chic. Moreover, the shoulder strap is adjustable and removable. Thus, the bag can be carried by the top handles too. So, the retro, crossbody look works for both business meetings and everyday use.

Although the size is a bit small, the bag works in both style and function departments. What’s more, the leather-trimmed bag has lots of color options, including green, gray, and coffee.

13 x 10.50 x 4.10 inches (33 x 26.67 x 10.4 cm)

• Multiple compartments.
• A variety of colors.
• Shockproof bottom.
• A bit smaller than traditional briefcases.

Samsonite Classic Two Gusset Toploader Briefcase

If you use a larger 15 or 17-inch laptop, then this Samsonite Classic Two Gusset Toploader Briefcase might just be what you need. On the exterior, the urban bag is made of 1680 ballistic durable fabric that lends ruggedness. The design of the padded shoulder strap makes it very comfortable. Similarly, the wrapped bale handles are designed for comfort, especially when you carry it sans its strap. A padded laptop compartment keeps your gadgets like laptops, tablets, and e-readers safe. The best part is that it can hold up to a 17-inch laptop. The inner cotton lining ensures that they don’t rub against the interiors either. What’s more, there are plenty of inner pockets for organizing everything from files to wallets. Rounding up the list of features is an easy-stash pocket on the outside, which is indispensable for grabbing stuff like keys and phones.

Even though it comes in just one color, the travel briefcase redefines style with an all-black color. Furthermore, the metal accouterments enhance the look by adding sheen.

12.50 x 3.50 x 17.25 inches (31.75 x 8.9 x 43.8 cm)

• Padded inner compartment.
• Cotton lining.
• Ideal for larger laptops or more items.
• Durable and rugged exterior.
• Zippers aren’t exactly designed for rough use.

CoolBELL Convertible Travel Briefcase

If you’re looking for business travel briefcases that are stylish and yet add a composed touch to your outfit, then this bag is for you. The CoolBELL Convertible Travel Briefcase gives you the ultimate in versatility and can be used as a backpack, a shoulder bag, and a messenger bag.

The first thing you’ll notice about this bag is all the space. The briefcase can hold a laptop of up to 17.3 inches. Apart from that, it can easily hold three days worth of clothes too. An inner accessory compartment is great for keys or even make-up stuff. So, if you’re heading for a weekend work trip, then look no further than this convertible briefcase. In addition, four exterior pockets are great for organization and quick-access stuff. Finally, the comfortable, adjustable, and removable strap makes it easy for you to carry the bag around easily.

If that wasn’t enough, the bag is water-resistant and made from genuine leather. Moreover, it has 10 different color options!

18.8 x 5.1 x 13.7 inches (47.75 x 12.9 x 34.8 cm)

• 10 different options for colors – black, blue, canvas black, dark grey, grey, brown, canvas dark grey, canvas green, waxed cloth black, and new canvas dark grey.
• Leather construction and water-resistant.
• Many carrying styles.
• The zippers look a little cheap.

Ytonet 17-Inch Laptop Bag

With an impressive 4.6-star rating and over 2,600 reviews, the 17-inch laptop bag from Ytonet is a sure winner. The best feature of this durable business travel briefcase is that it can expand a whole 2 inches (5 cm) more than its size! So, it can fit everything that you might need for your travel, and then some.

Made from a durable, water-resistant material, this bag is perfect to be carried in all kinds of weather. One of its best features is the backstrap, which allows you to attach it to your airport carry-on instead of lugging it around separately. What’s more, the strap can be used to carry this bag as a messenger bag, or a tote bag even. Aside from the shockproof space for a 17-inch laptop, this travel briefcase boasts more than 10 compartments. So, you can organize everything from makeup to wallet to clothes to files in this bag separately without having to rummage through it.

Moreover, two exterior zippered compartments are great for quick-access stuff that needs to be safe all the same. Chic, elegant, and affordable, this business travel briefcase pleases on all counts.

17.3 x 12.6 x 7 inches (43.9 x 32 x 17.8 cm)

• Multiple pockets for organization.
• Shockproof laptop pocket.
• Versatile strap.
• It also has an 18.4-inch version.
• Zippered pockets lack two zippers for TSA locking.

Amazon Basics Rolling Laptop Case

There’s so much to like about the Rolling Laptop Case from AmazonBasics . For one, it takes the weight of the briefcase off your shoulders. Secondly, it boasts an uncomplicated design. Last, but not least, it’s both lightweight and great value-for-money.

A retractable, telescoping handle provides all the versatility in this bag. When you’re rolling the bag, the push-button lock allows for secure movement. It can be tucked away and the two fabric top handles allow the bag to be used as a briefcase. On the inside, the design is clean and simple. The frontal organizational pocket offers easy access to items like phones, keys, etc. On the inside, it has three main compartments. First is a padded interior pocket for securely holding a laptop. A second compartment is perfect for miscellaneous items from clothes to shoes. Finally, a third compartment is perfect for small items like business cards, notepads, and pens.

The best part about the briefcase is that it can fit under airplane seats, and can be used as a carry-on. What’s more, there’s even a slot for inserting a nametag at the back of the bag. Overall, it might not have the bells and whistles of other bags, but it works well for the price.

16.50 x 14.50 x 7.50 inches (41.9 x 36.8 x 19 cm)

• Lightweight.
• Value-for-money.
• Lots of pockets for organization.
• Easy to carry.
• No security features or lockable zippers.

ECOSUSI Ladies PU Leather Laptop Bag

ECOSUSI is perhaps most known for its range of vegan leather handbags for women. In the Ladies PU Leather Laptop Bag, Ecosusi has created an excellent business travel briefcase for women.

The stylish laptop bag is perfect for ladies who carry smaller laptops up to 14 inches. One of the chicest highlights about the bag is the elegant bow which lends the bag a feminine flair while being professional at the same time. What the bag doesn’t tell you outwardly is that it’s supremely durable. You can swing in and out of your car, throw it around in your backseat or trunk, carry it everywhere, wear it all the time – and it’ll still be as reliable as the day you got it.

Apart from a 14-inch laptop compartment, you’ll find four other compartments that can carry everything you need. The nifty, adjustable strap and top handles allow it to be carried like a briefcase, crossbody bag, messenger bag, and even a purse. Whether it’s your daily commute or an overnight trip, this lightweight laptop bag won’t weigh you down. At the same time, it’s primed to carry all your stuff.

14.8 x 10.6 x 4 inches (37.6 x 26.9 x 10.1 cm)

• It comes in five colors – black, blue, coffee, red, and brown.
• Eco-friendly.
• Well-constructed.
• It also has a 15.6-inch version.
• The strap is less durable than the bag.

Samsonite Leather Expandable Briefcase

When it comes to leather briefcases, you cannot go wrong with Samsonite. It’s one of the best luggage brands in the world. And this Samsonite Leather Expandable Briefcase is one of the best travel briefcases in business.

The bag is made of genuine leather and sports a spacious and professional design and appearance. A sturdy outer frame maintains the shape of the briefcase, no matter what or how much stuff is placed inside. Moreover, the zipper beneath the bag allows the storage area to expand so that more items can be fit into the briefcase. Also, it does sans jeopardizing the integrity of the seams. The briefcase also ensures carrying comfort and versatility in the form of both a shoulder strap and carrying handles. In addition, the strap is made of durable nylon and has a leather shoulder pad so as to not put a strain on your shoulder.

On the inside, the bag features many compartments for organizational comfort. Your 15-inch laptop can easily and snugly sit within the padded laptop sleeve. A bevy of concealed zipper compartments allows storing lots of items like stationery, files, keys, wallet, makeup, and more. On the outside, the bag maintains a sleek look that makes it great to be carried on business meetings and trips.

16.75 x 7.25 x 12.25 inches (42.5 x 18.4 x 31 cm)

• Sturdy outer design.
• Expandable storage.
• The shoulder strap is padded.
• Lots of concealed inner compartments.
• Neat outer appearance.
• PU leather might not work in humid environments.

CoolBELL Convertible Backpack Shoulder Messenger Bag (CU)

The CoolBELL Convertible Bag is one of the coolest business travel briefcases out there. The bag’s biggest draw is its dimensions, which make it one of the largest briefcases out there. Measuring 18.8 x 5.1 x 13.7 inches, the bag is large enough to fit in a 17-inch laptop! Also, it comes it five very cool colors; canvas khaki, canvas dark grey, canvas black, new grey, and new black.

Coming to its practical characteristics, the multi-faceted bag can be carried in three different styles. It can be attached to your airport carry-on like a business briefcase. In addition, it can be carried like a messenger bag, thanks to the shoulder straps. Finally, the extra straps allow it to be carried like a backpack too! Hidden external pockets with zipper closures and two frontal pockets allow you to quick-access stuff no matter how you wear the bag. Aside from a laptop, the large main compartment can store clothes for at least two-three days, as well as other necessary stuff. Besides an ergonomic design, the classic handles and padded shoulder straps make it easy to carry without bringing strain to your shoulder or your back. Finally, the winning unisex design suits both women and men perfectly.

18.8 x 5.1 x 13.7 inches (47.7 x 12.9 x 34.8 cm)

• It comes in five different colors.
• Versatile; can be carried in three ways.
• Sturdy, ergonomic construction.
• Shockproof laptop sleeve.
• Some users have reported issues with the D-clips.

Alpine Swiss Expandable Leather Attache Briefcase

if you’re a fan of the classic rectangular, hard-sided business travel briefcases, then the Alpine Swiss Leather Attache is for you. Traditional as the briefcase might be, it includes modern touches that make it an excellent choice even today.

The sturdy hardcover attache-briefcase has a professional and clean exterior design that offers excellent protection for anything you store inside. The case is made from genuine leather that will form a gorgeous patina over time, lending it a further vintage look. What’s more, it measures a huge 19 x 14 x 4 inches but can be expanded an additional inch for extra storage. This is what separates it from a traditional hardcover briefcase. A large storage compartment features stretchable file sections and another compartment for other odds and ends.

The area where the briefcase also excels is security, with closure in the form of dual combination locks. What’s more, combinations on both sides need to be precisely aligned for you to be able to open the lid. If that wasn’t enough, each side can have different combinations for added security.

19 x 14 x 4 inches (48.2 x 35.5 x 10.1 cm)

• Classic, vintage design.
• Made from genuine leather.
• Durability might be an issue.

SOLO Sterling Overnighter (CU)

The SOLO Sterling Overnighter might be the lightest business travel briefcase on wheels ever made. The briefcase is utterly stylish with a minimalist grey-on-black design lends it a gorgeous yet professional look.

The sleek telescoping handle makes it easy to roll the bag around, no matter its capacity. When not in use, it folds away into a zippered compartment, leaving the exterior looking tidy. A frontal exterior non-zippered stash pocket is excellent for storing quick-access items like tissue, water, etc. A small zippered pocket is great for keys, phones, and more. When you unzip the main compartment, there’s a large, padded pocket with separators for up to a 16-inch laptop and files. Beneath that is the largest storage area in the bag, which can hold everything from clothes to small travel purses to shoes. Everything is kept in place by two locking straps, which also keep the look tidy. All-in-all, this rolling briefcase is perfect for a three-day work trip.

When the rolling handle isn’t in use, two padded top handles make it comfortable to carry by hand. What’s more, its size is such that it can fit beneath an airline seat as well.

16 x 14 x 6 inches (40.6 x 35.5 x 15.2 cm)

• Fantastic neat look.
• Padded top handles and sleek rolling telescoping handle.
• Excellent organization.
• Could tip on to the side if filled to the brim.

Samsonite Colombian Leather Messenger Bag (CU)

There’s a reason this list has so many Samsonite products, and that is style and durability. And one versatile product that’s also one of the best leather messenger bags in business is the Samsonite Colombian Leather Messenger Bag . The business-casual product is one of the best messenger-bag style briefcase options for business travel.

The Samsonite Colombian is made from genuine leather, and as a result, develops a gorgeous patina over a period of time. A padded shoulder strap, albeit constructed from nylon, makes it very easy for the bag to be worn crossbody. Moreover, it’s also adjustable and removable, and the bag can be carried by the top handles too. Also, since the top handles are leather-made, they lend a rich charm when carried by hand.

Likewise, the bag does great on the organizational front too. On the inside, there’s a main zippered compartment with a dedicated laptop sleeve that can fit a 15-inch laptop. Moreover, there are also two external slip and zippered pockets for keeping quick-access items like tissues, makeup, keys, phone, and even stationery. The cherry on top is that the bag is secure thanks to the flap that goes over the button closure.

16.5 x 12 x 5.5 inches (41.9 x 30.5 x 14 cm)

• Comes in three colors – espresso, brown, and black.
• Versatile and durable.
• Great organization.
• Padded shoulder straps.
• It’s not waterproof.

Augus Business Travel Briefcase

There’s nothing like leather, handcrafted briefcase to impress during business meetings or trips. And the Augus Business Travel Briefcase is the best in business – no pun intended. It’s made from genuine high-quality leather and is professional and durable to haul around on all your business trips.

What’s excellent about the bag’s build is that the leather it’s made from is waterproof. So, not only will it keep your things safe and secure, but it can also be used in every weather. Plus, you’ll love the lovely patina that genuine leather develops over a period of time. A handy back strap allows attaching the briefcase to the handle of your carryon for carrying your luggage easily while traveling. On the inside, three zippered compartments can store everything from a laptop to documents, to even change of clothes for an overnight trip. Three exterior pockets are perfect for quick-access items. The strap with shoulder pads makes it easy for you to wear the bag crossbody. Finally, the sleek carrying handles lend it a clean look for it to be carried by hand. You’re even spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing colors – coffee, black, absolute coffee, and absolute black.

17.5 X 5.5 X 12 inches (44.4 x 14 x 30.5 cm)

• Padded, detachable shoulder strap.
• Constructed from genuine 100% waterproof leather.
• Lots of space.
• If stuffed to the brim, zipper durability is a bit less.

Taygeer Laptop Bag-Briefcase

Even if your budget for a bag is low, it doesn’t mean that you need to sacrifice either functionality. And the Taygeer Laptop Bag-cum-Briefcase is a testament to that. It ticks all boxes for being one of the best briefcases for business travel.

The exquisite laptop bag-briefcase is constructed of water-resistant nylon, making it perfect to be swung around in all kinds of weather. If the size wasn’t already perfect, the bag has expandable sides which add additional inches, making for more storage space. Coming to the organization, the bag has a front pocket for storing items that can be grabbed quickly, like cellphones, chargers, headphones, and stationery. On the inside, a roomy main pocket can store a 15.6-inch laptop. Also, it has internal pocket organizers for storing files, calculators, stationery, and more.

A nifty addition is a passthrough strap that is ideal for securely fastening the bag to most carry-ons. Finally, a removable shoulder strap and soft leather handles make it versatile to be carried as a crossbody as well as in the hand.

15.7 x 3.15 x 11.8 inches (39.9 x 8 x 30 cm)

• The bag has both shoulder straps and carrying handles.
• Multiple compartments for organization.
• It even has a 17-inch version.

Author:  Emma Landa

I'm a traveler with a thirst for adventure and a passion for style. From the runways of Paris to the boutiques of Milan, I've traveled the world in search of the most glamorous and exclusive fashion experiences. I love nothing more than indulging in the latest designer collections and discovering hidden gems in the world of fashion. I've explored the streets of Tokyo, discovering unique and avant-garde styles that are pushing the boundaries of fashion. And in New York, I've attended the most exclusive fashion shows, rubbing shoulders with the industry's elite. But fashion isn't the only thing that I indulge in. I've also stayed in some of the most luxurious hotels and properties around the world. From the stunning resorts in Bali to the opulent villas in Tuscany, I know how to travel in style and comfort. Sharing my experiences and insights with others is something that I'm passionate about. Through my social media channels, I offer a glimpse into the world of luxury fashion and travel, inspiring others to explore the world of high-end fashion and indulge in the finer things in life. So, come along with me on my journey and let me show you the world of luxury fashion and travel like you've never seen it before!

Every product was carefully curated by an Esquire editor. We may earn a commission from these links.

The 16 Best Briefcases That Always Mean Business

Rise in the ranks with these sleek carryalls.

A good briefcase can come in any style, and be suited to your needs. Leather, nylon, canvas, or cotton, a briefcase should let employers and employees know that you’re a boss, you need to be respected, and don’t have time to deal with inflated egos. Yes, they're supposed to hold your essentials, your electronics , documents, and corporate or legal briefs (hence the name), but the vibe it telegraphs is even more important. So go ahead, do as I did, invest in a briefcase, preferably one from the list below. All of them will surely let others know you’re ready to rise in the ranks.

Tumi Expandable Organizer Laptop Briefcase

Tumi never disappoints when it comes to travel accessories, and this briefcase is proof. The bag features a panoply of pockets, all of them easy to access, in case you need to reach for a charger on a flight or your passport on the TSA line. And should you come back from your trip with more than you came with (as is often the case), the briefcase is completely expandable, offering extra compartments to store whatever.

Coach Metropolitan Slim Briefcase

When Coach presented its first collection of leather goods, it was inspired by the supple feel of a well-worn glove. And living up to its reputation is the brand's Metropolitan briefcase. The bag is hardwearing, and features multifunctional pockets and a zipper lock for security, but what really makes it great is its buttery surface.

Filson Rugged Twill Original Briefcase

If you're the kind of guy who likes his wares a little rough and tough, you're probably no stranger to Filson. The brand offers some of the most hardwearing apparel and accessories, all of done up in durable materials and stylishly functional in looks. Take this briefcase, for example: It's made of strong twill with sleek leather handles and straps, and brass hardware. Which means it can take you from the office to a bar—or a camp ground—with ease.

Samsonite OpenRoad Laptop Briefcase

Samsonite has a full collection of travel accessories: suitcases and carry-ons in all shapes and sizes, often made of heavy-duty polyester-nylon blends. Of course it has briefcase that fits the same bill, with a number of spacious storage compartments, including one with memory foam padding for your laptop.

Smythson Slim Briefcase

From every English royal since Queen Victoria to the Beckhams to Madonna, almost every Brit (and wannabe brit) of stature is a loyal customer of Smythson. The label has been making the most exquisite stationary, journals, and leather goods for centuries, never deviating from its elegant and minimal mindset. This briefcase from the brand's City collection—an assortment of essentials made for metropolitan dwellers—is a prime example.

Tecovas Leather Briefcase

You know Tecovas for their durable, stylish leather cowboy boots, and you'll be happy to hear that they put that same high-quality design into other leather goods, too. This briefcase is an everyday essential, with ample pocket space, a crossbody strap, top handles, and—best of all—a rugged, worn-in look.

Berluti 2 Jour Neo Scritto Venezia Briefcase

If you're in search of an investment briefcase that you'll never need (or want) to replace, Berluti is an infallible choice. Their iconic scritto design is splashed across a smooth leather surface, with organizational pockets and room for a laptop.

Ted Baker Saffiano Leather Document Bag

Ted Baker has a sleek briefcase you'll never need to think twice about. A zip pocket ensures extra security, while soft, pliable leather makes for the perfect commuter piece.

Carl Friedrik Palissy Briefcase

For something sleek, slim, and incredibly lightweight, Carl Friedrik has you covered. This briefcase is adorned with inner and outer pockets to keep all your things organized, and the thin silhouette keeps you from being weighed down by a bulky bag.

Mack Weldon Ion Briefcase

Some offices don't call for a high-end leather briefcase, though. For a casual day-to-day bag that still has room for everything you need (and more!), Mack Weldon's easy, basic briefcase will get you through the work day and everything that comes after it.

Herschel Supply Co. Tech Gibson Bag

We love Herschel for its backpacks and duffles; they're unfussy and affordable, sleekly styled and made of durable polyester. The same could be said of the brand's briefcases, including the Tech Gibson, which, in addition to its almost-impenetrable surface, features a padded and fleece-lined laptop sleeve.

Montblanc Meisterstück Document Case

In the world of luxury, Montblanc has all the stuff to get ahead in the office, particularly from its Meisterstück collection, which includes the finest leather goods and writing instruments. Now, the brand's new creative director, Marco Tomasetta, is celebrating Montblanc's storied history, combining, in a way, both categories in one item. The stitched-down leather below the handles on this briefcase, for example, are a visual reference to the nib of the brand's iconic pen.

Ghurka Examiner No. 5 Briefcase

Ghurka has been around since what feels like time immemorial, but really since the 1970s. It has remained strong in the biz because it continues to offers quality leather fashioned into classic silhouettes. John Truex, the creative director since 2019, aims to keep to this credo, digging into the archives and reissuing styles with a more luxurious finish. Case in point: the Examiner No. 5 briefcase.

Prada Saffiano Leather Briefcase

Prada is a directional brand, one that experiments with materials and silhouettes to create pieces that are new, fresh, but are also everlasting. And one of its greatest success was the introduction of the brand's signature Saffiano, a cross-hatched, embossed leather with a pleasingly textured surface. It's a great way to ward off actually scratches. What's more, the bag is deceptively roomy. It is slim in shape, yes, but you can fit a 13-inch laptop, your latest issue of Esquire magazine, and whatever else you need for the day.

Louis Vuitton Calf Leather Briefcase

Louis Vuitton's trunks are legendary. For centuries, the French label provided premier names with travel accessories that took them and their belonging to far-flung locations and back. Nowadays, all that is pretty much needed is a small carry-on and a bag to hold your laptop. Always adapting to the times, LV has released a briefcase that's slim, sleek, and will hold your computer without fuss.

Bottega Venta Intrecciato Briefcase

Bottega Veneta is known for many things, but the brand's Intrecciato leather is first and foremost. In the '70s, the Italian label introduced a line of bags made of precision-cut leather strips woven together to form a tactile and eye-catching pattern. It was such a hit that, over time, BV started to build on this legacy, introducing a number of goods that used Intrecciato or were inspired by it. So, if you want a briefcase with unwavering cachet, make sure to cop this one stat.

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14 best business travel backpacks for every budget

If you travel regularly for work, you won't need us to tell you that a good travel backpack is essential. That's especially true if a backpack can double as a decently sized carry-on luggage item while still housing your laptop in an easily accessible compartment.

We looked at some of the best (and most stylish) backpacks out there to take the hassle out of searching for the best item.

Without further ado, here are the best business travel backpacks that maximize form and function across various budgets.

Amazon Basics Laptop Backpack, $33.47

If you don't want to break the bank, the Amazon Basics range offers a reliable and, dare we say, fairly stylish backpack for less than $40.

The bag has a dedicated (and padded) laptop sleeve that can easily hold a laptop up to 17 inches in size; it has additional compartments for pens, keys, cellphones and other items.

There's also a water bottle pocket on both sides of the bag for easy access when you're on the go.

Buy from $33.47

Lenovo Legion Gaming Laptop Bag, $55.19 (normally $79.99)

Admittedly, we've never seen Batman carry a backpack, but if he did, we're pretty sure it'd look something like this robust bag by Lenovo. It has a 20-liter capacity and room for a 16-inch laptop, alongside seven inside pockets to suit all your work travel needs — including a hidden compartment for valuables.

Built for carrying electronic items, the bag features foam antishock bumpers on the corners of the laptop compartment for extra protection against bag drops and other jolts.

There's also a high-quality magnetic lock to keep your items safe.

Buy from $55.19 (normally $79.99)

Tangcorle Travel Carry On Backpack, $58.90

Part backpack and part carry-on suitcase, this bag has an expandable design. This means it has a capacity of 36 to 50 liters and should easily fit the maximum carry-on size for most airlines.

Other features include an external USB port with a built-in charging cable, allowing you to attach your own power bank and keep your devices charged while on the go.

The main compartment is similar to one in an ordinary carry-on suitcase and can easily store five to seven days' worth of clothes, depending on how you like to pack. It is perfect for long weekends and short business trips.

Buy from $58.90

Samsonite Novex Laptop Backpack, $69.99 (normally $99.99)

If you are shopping for a travel backpack from a reliable brand with a more down-to-earth budget, this Samsonite bestseller has a lot going for it.

Despite its price, the Novex Laptop Backpack doesn't compromise on the basics. The separate laptop and tablet pocket features a special webbing system that provides extra durability in case you drop the backpack. Plus, thanks to the special supportive lining on the top front pocket, you won't have to worry about misplacing your headphones, glasses or cellphone.

The main storage compartment has room for all the essentials, though you may not find it large enough for a full change of clothes or a pair of shoes.

Buy from $69.99 (normally $99.99)

The North Face Recon Everyday Laptop Backpack, $109

A modern classic, the Recon Everyday Laptop Backpack is a popular, on-trend design you'll frequently see on the backs of young professionals in buzzy city centers.

The backpack has two external water bottle holders and a main compartment capable of carrying up to 30 liters. Its laptop sleeve is also sizable and should easily hold machines up to 18 inches.

Perhaps its most interesting feature is the comfortable design of its shoulder straps, which are certified by the American Chiropractic Association.

Buy from $109

Ogio Renegade Backpack, $128.24 (normally $149.99)

If you're looking for the bag with the most pockets, this might be it. Ogio's flagship backpack has dedicated space for everything (laptop and iPad included) and then some. With a phone pocket, two zippered side pockets and five main pockets, you might just get lost looking around for your gear.

No matter how full you stuff this nearly 30-liter backpack, you shouldn't have much of a problem carrying it around, thanks to its supportive padded back panel and shoulder straps. This makes it easy to lug it around the airport or corporate campus.

Buy from $128.24 (normally $149.99)

Incase ARC Daypack, $129.95

Apple aficionados will no doubt be familiar with Incase, a popular brand of cases and protection solutions for iPhones, iPads and Macs.

The laptop pocket is big enough for a 16-inch computer, and it's lined in faux fur for additional protection. Its travel tech compartment also includes RFID-blocking technology, preventing thieves from stealing your digital information.

A water- and stain-resistant coating, two dedicated water bottle holders, and a pass-through system for rollaboard bags make this the ideal bag for anyone going from the gym to the office to the airport. If you need something bigger, Incase also makes a larger A.R.C. travel pack.

Need more convincing? Both bags are made from a sustainable mixture of recycled polyester, giving the company its A.R.C. acronym, which stands for "a responsible carry."

Buy from $129.95

Aer Pro Pack 20L, $179

As far as business travel backpacks go, Aer's is certainly quite stylish. It comes in three colors (black, navy and olive), and it's made of sustainable materials without compromising on durability. A separate laptop compartment safeguards your most precious technology, while the main compartment is large enough for all your chargers and other travel accessories.

The standout feature is the main compartment's 180-degree flat-open zipper system, giving you unobstructed access to all your belongings.

There's even a hidden pocket to store an AirTag or other tracker so that you can locate your bag even if it's stolen or misplaced.

Buy from $179

Away The Everywhere Zip Backpack, $195

Made with water-resistant nylon, the Everywhere backpack by Away has a full wraparound zip that provides access to the main compartment. Not only can you fit more things in an orderly fashion, but you'll also be able to easily see your things when you need to retrieve them from the backpack.

Alongside the main compartment, the bag also houses a 15-inch laptop pocket with a magnetic locking zipper and padded shoulder straps for comfort. It's available in five colors — including the limited-edition garnet colorway.

Buy from $195

Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack, $209

The Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack has space for everything and then some. The padded rear pocket is the perfect spot for a laptop, so you won't have to dig through the main compartment to find your computer.

The main compartment is spacious and can expand by nearly 3 liters, giving you more room for your belongings. Plus, the front pocket has a dedicated organizer with multiple pockets, so you'll never forget where you put your passport, charger and cables.

Buy from $209

Nomatic 20L Backpack, $279.99

Although you may not have heard of Nomatic, this brand receives rave reviews from its loyalists. The company's bestselling backpack comes in two sizes: 14 liters and 20 liters. Both are expandable by nearly 20%.

The flat rectangular design may be controversial at first glance, but at least you can't complain about finding space for all of your gizmos. The bag has a staggering 24 unique storage compartments, ranging from enclosed pockets to mesh nets. It's a great bag for those who like to stay extremely organized when they're on the road.

Buy from $279.99

Briggs & Riley Traveler Backpack, $329

The Briggs & Riley backpack has an impressive amount of storage capability thanks to its multitude of pockets and 180-degree, lie-flat opening that allows unfettered access to every nook and cranny.

The laptop sleeve and tablet sleeve are in the same area as the main packing compartment, but they're separated by a zippered inner pocket to keep your clothes all by themselves.

There's also a so-called PowerPocket that fits an external battery pack and keeps a charging cable within easy reach — perfect for a quick boost of juice while you're on the go.

Buy from $329

Tumi Alpha Bravo Navigation Backpack, $525

Though Tumi makes a handful of durable bags, the Navigation Backpack excels for a wide range of travel needs. It features a separate padded laptop compartment (that can fit even the largest MacBooks), a main storage area and plenty of other smaller pockets.

It also has a zip expansion feature if you decide to grab some souvenirs during your travels.

The backpack comes in five colors, giving you plenty of choices to match your personal travel style.

Buy from $525

Rimowa Flap Backpack Large, $1,725

If you're looking to make a statement and are willing to spend some serious cash, Rimowa's travel bags are the way to go.

This luxury Italian-made large canvas Flap Backpack features a padded laptop sleeve and a large drawstring compartment to fit all of your travel essentials. It is secured by a flap-top enclosure with a magnetic buckle emblazoned with the Rimowa logo.

Buy from $1,725

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• The best travel credit cards
• The 18 best places to travel in 2024
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases

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Home » Gear » travel business backpack

10+ BEST Business Travel Backpacks (UPDATED 2024)

This list of the best business travel backpacks  is written for anyone who travels for work, commutes, or flies around the globe in search of better Wi-Fi connection.

(Take it from someone who is writing this from her laptop on a plane right now.)

But why use a backpack for travel? To be honest, briefcases are as archaic as the fax machine. Sure, they’re useful, but they are not as efficient.

If you are traveling with a laptop, important documents, more chargers than a bus full of LA football players, and enough snacks to survive an airport apocalypse, then you’re going to want a backpack.

Backpacks are revolutionizing the way we travel just like the internet has revolutionized the way we work. I mean, there was once a time when a backpack was a backpack, and now there are backpacks specifically for business, hiking, traveling ultra-lightweight; you name it.

However, with so many great choices, choosing the best backpack for work and travel can seem daunting.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Like a good pair of shoes, you want just the right fit, and lucky for you, I’ve used, tested, researched, and compiled a list of the best business travel backpacks of 2024.

You can rest assured that every business travel backpack on this list is a high-quality, durable, and TSA compliant bag specifically designed for traveling and business.

Quick Answer: These are the Best Business Travel Backpacks of 2024

• #1 Nomatic Travel Bag 40L – Best Overall Business Travel Backpack
• #2 Tortuga Travel Pack – Best Business Backpack for Laptops
• #3 Aer Travel Pack 3  – Best Business Backpack for EU Travelers
• #4 Harber City Backpack – Most Stylish Business Daypack
• #5 Kodiak Leather Satchel – Best Business Commuter Bag
• #6 Nomatic 14 Pack – Best Business Day Pack
• #7 Osprey Ozone – Best Business Pack With Laptop Compartment
• #8 Mahi Leather City Satchel – Best Business Commuter Bag
• #9 Tropicfeel Shell – Business Backpack For Digital Nomads
• # 10 Osprey Talon – Business Backpack For Cyclists

Nomatic Travel Bag 40L

• > Organizational Features

Tortuga Travel Pack

• > Clothing compartment
• > Laptop and tablet sleeves

Tortuga Laptop Backpack

• > Organization panel

Kodiak Leather Satchel

• > Large main compartment
• > Stylish and cool

Tropicfeel Shell

• Price > $$$
• > Completely Waterproof
• > Adjustable from 20L to 40L

• > Large capacity + Organised
• > Ridiculously comfortable

Nomatic 14L Backpack

• > Great layout keeps things organised
• > Expands to 20L. AWESOME!

• > Stylish and professional
• > Nicely organised

Why should you travel with a business travel backpack?

Buyer guide – key features to look for the best business travel backpack, best business travel backpacks of 2024, faq about the best travel business backpack, final thoughts on the best business travel backpacks.

So why would you travel with a business backpack versus a messenger bag , briefcase, or even a purse?

Sometime the latter options may work better for you, but if you are traveling with electronic equipment – laptop computer, tablet – important documents, a book, etc., the weight can add up quickly.

These days, the best business travel backpacks are designed to be as efficient, secure, and comfortable as possible. Personally, I would much rather carry everything in a secure backpack that fits me comfortably than lugged over one shoulder.

If you are traveling with electronic gear, documents, and more, then having a backpack makes sense.

The business backpacks on this list were designed specifically for travelers too, meaning you can get through TSA lines and easily store your bag in an overhead bin.

Still not convinced? Every business travel backpack on this list is covered by a warranty or built to last for years.

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Now, for just $30, get a lifetime membership that entitles you to 10% OFF on most items, access to their trade-in scheme and discount rentals .

For this article, we are focusing on the best business travel backpacks, meaning they have a different set of criteria compared to say backpacks just for travel , lightweight backpacks, or hiking backpacks. In order to find the best one, we tested them out over a period of time by taking them with is on business trips (as proffesional Digital Nomads, every trip is a business trip ;). We assessed how comfortable they were to carry, how good the organisational capacities were, how soundly they fit as carry on and paid extra attention to laptop compartments – one particular pack lost points as I found it hard to quickly access my MacBook when sat on a train.

1. Laptop compartment

The best business travel backpack will include a separate padded laptop compartment.

A laptop compartment is essential to keep your electronics secure and protected as well as move through the TSA line quickly. The padding is crucial as you’d hate to break or crack your laptop.

Frankly, pretty much every well-designed backpack on the market (except for hiking bags) have a lap top compartment of some kind.

2. Prioritize Accessibility and Organization

Organization compartments are especially important for a business travel backpack.

If you are using a backpack for work and travel, you will probably be traveling with a laptop , a few chargers, important documents, clothes, a jacket, etc. This, of course, means you want pockets and plenty of them.

My favorite backpacks have what’s called a u-zip. This means that you can open them completely on at least two sides for easy access. I’m not a big fan of top access only backpacks, even when I’m hiking.

3. Carry-on size Compliant

Carry-on travel backpacks save you from having to deal with lost bags and luggage fees. All of the backpacks on this list are carry-on sized and abide by TSA guidelines, so you can zip through the airport and to your next meeting.

Most of the backpacks on my list also have separate compartments that allow you to lie the laptop flat without actually taking it out of your backpack. This is another level of convenience and an excellent feature if you have to fly a lot.

If you’re after even more organisation and want to keep your documents at hand, even with a decent-sized bag, you can also combine one of these bags with a small but stylish travel purse too.

4. Sleek and Stylish

The best travel business backpacks are modern and chic, so you can slip into the office and your important meetings without looking like a backpacking bum.

You also want the backpack you choose to reflect your style, whether that is preppy, edgy, creative, etc. Sift through my list and see which travel business backpack fits your style most.

5. Fit and Comfort

Fit and comfort are important to any backpack purchase. If a backpack’s too big or too small for your frame, it will be clunky and heavy, uncomfortable, and maybe even painful.

This means making sure the straps are comfortable and fit your body properly. You want to look for adjustable straps and consider waist straps too, which will help balance the weight of a larger bag.

Adujstable straps are more common in hiking backpacks and less common in commuter bags . Regardlesss, the amount of customizability that a larger bag gives might not be necessary for a business backpack. You should at least look for a padded back.

6. Security

Security is another essential when you are carrying valuable things. Many of the best business travel backpacks have partially hidden compartments, sturdy zippers, and durable material that is hard to slash.

7. Weatherproof

This might not be a must-have for business travel backpacks, but if you’re spending time outdoors, or going to a city where it rains a lot, you may want to make sure your backpack is waterproof, or at least water resistant.

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Network with other like-minded travellers all day and if you need a quick screen break, just take a refreshing dip in the infinity pool or go grab a drink at the bar.

Nomatic Travel Bag 40L – The Best Overall Business Travel Backpack

40 liters is the perfect carry-on size for those multi-day (3-7 day) trips. If you are planning to use a business travel backpack for overnight excursions, then I definitely suggest this choosing this bag.

This bag ticks all of the boxes for what makes the best travel business backpack: plenty of organizational features and pockets, easy accessibility to all of the compartments, durable tarpaulin/ballistic weave material, a 15″ laptop compartment, TSA compliant size, and adjustable waist straps.

Furthermore, it’s sleek and modern, so you’ll look good on the go, and the exterior of the Nomatic Travel Bag is 100% waterproof! In our experience, we found it to be very durable. We wouldn’t recommend submerging the bag in a pool, but if you are caught in a semi-heavy rainstorm, you can rest easy knowing that your stuff is going to stay dry.

The Nomatic travel bag comes with 20 unique features including a shoe compartment, secure pocket for valuables, water bottle container, a notebook pocket, the ability to switch from a duffel bag to backpack, and plenty more. There is also a Nomatic carry-on with wheels .

Our favorite features include its detachable waist straps with water-resistant pockets, unique shoe compartment, and roller bag sleeve. The roller bag sleeve allows you to carry it with additional luggage with ease. Want the full low-down on this backpack? Check out the full review of the Nomatic Travel Bag!

UPDATE for 2024:  Nomatic no longer sells or does business in the European Union, which is an unfortunate development. Those living in the EU should consider the next bag instead…

Tortuga Travel Pack – Best Business Backpack for Laptops

The Tortuga Travel Pack is easily one of the best carry-on travel backpacks on the market. It is quite similar to the Nomatic Travel Bag we also reviewed, but is a tad cheaper, which gives it an edge, in our opinion.

This bag packs in some awesome features include front-loading and the main compartment that opens like a suitcase, a padded and removable hip belt, padded and hideaway shoulder straps with molded foam, and weather resistant material. I also like that this bag is 40 liters, given you the extra space if you need it.

In terms of functionality, the Tortuga Travel Pack has a quick access pocket at the front with a full front tech pocket with a carabiner attachment and dividers. I like how this pocket zips all the way down to the bottom of the pack, so you have easy access to a jacket or bulky item that you want to quickly access or throw into your bag.

There is a separate laptop compartment at the back of the backpack with plenty of cushions. Your laptop will sit a few inches from the bottom for extra protection in case you drop your bag. The laptop sleeve can fit a 15-inch laptop as well as a 9.7-inch tablet. I found it really easy to slot in and slot out when I was testing it out which is why I made it my pick of the best laptop ready bags for business travel.

The Tortuga Travel Pack features a TSA-friendly laptop sleeve that allows you to leave the device in your backpack while going through security.

Aer Travel Pack 3  – Best Business Backpack for EU Travelers

Arguably the best backpack for traveling, the Aer Travel Pack 3 is the perfect bag for digital nomads and anyone on a long business trip.

This backpack was made by travelers for travelers. It is literally filled with features, and the Aer Travel Pack 3 has a compartment for almost everything.

Do you need somewhere to keep an extra pair of shoes? There’s a poclet for that. Want to put your laptop in it’s own sleeve? Done. There’s a space just for your laptop.

The bag opens like a clamshell so you can easily access your clothes, cords, or anything else you might have with you. The Aer Travel Pack 3 is small enough to be a daypack and large enough for one bag carry one trips. Minimalist design on the outside of the pack deters thieves and makes stashing your backpack in the overhead bin of a plane even easier.

Simply put, this is the best business travel backpack: it’s well-designed and extremely versatile, durable, and innovative. You’ll find yourself using it all the time – business or pleasure.

For a very detailed description of this backpack, check out the Aer Travel Pack review .

Even though we recommend the Aer to European travelers, Americans can also get it; the backpack is available worldwide! It’s just a great overall backpack and is great for those who miss out on the Nomatic.

If you are going on a business trip, don’t stress about your phone service. Download Holafly’s eSim before you fly and get connected the minute you land. HolaFly offer a range of eSim data packages starting at as little as $1 per day.

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City Backpack – Most Stylish Business Daypack

These days business people really need to look the part. And nothing exudes class, confidence and success like good quality leather! The City Backpack from Harber London was designed and made with your work day in mind. It is perfectly sized to accommodate a laptop, note book, pens, leads and a water bottle to keep you hydrated.

It has comfortable carry handles and is fairly light for a bag so tough so you wont mind carrying it to and from the office. The interior has been carefully designed to help you keep everything organised to avoid awkwardly rummaging through your bag during important meetings.

This is not the cheapest backpack on our list but it may be the suavest; for the discerning business person, makes a great investment.

Osprey Ozone – Best Business Bag With Laptop Compartment

Okay, so you need a bag that can safely hold your laptop, all your accessories and not stick out like a tortoise? Let me introduce the Osprey Ozone. 

Ultra Lightweight, strong construction with a convenient 16” laptop compartment perfect for your daily commute. The main compartment helps you to organise your accessories and say goodbye to tangled cables. There is also a padded pocket perfect for keeping your phone or small gadgets protected. 

One of my favourite features of this pack is it comes with a travel luggage ID to help reunite with your trusty pack if you get separated.

Nomatic Travel Pack 14  – Best Travel Business Backpack for Quick Trips

This is the goldilocks of Nomatic bags: much smaller than the Nomatic 40 coming in at 14l but then expanding to 20L. This makes it a great day business backpack which can also be adapted to work for overnight trips.

Actually, when it comes down to it, this bag is almost identical to the 20-liter Nomatic backpack but bigger, so I don’t have too much to add in this review.

Moreover, it’s TSA ready so you don’t have to take your laptop out of the compartment in line.  There is a tablet pocket for your iPad or Kindle, and a mesh dividing wall to organize clothes.

UPDATE for 2024 : Nomatic is not available in the EU or UK. Go for the Aer instead.

Tortuga Laptop Backpack – Best Business Travel Backpack for Overnight Trips

Tortuga markets this bag as an “organized daypack for air travel,”  which screams take me on your business trip, if you ask me. This bag is perfect for air travel.

This is a low-profile backpack will keep all your things organized in a spacey main compartment, 15-inch laptop sleeve + tablet sleeve, mesh zippered pocket for chargers, journal compartment, pen pockets, front pocket for valuables, and a side-pocket for your water bottle .

Yeah, that’s a lot of pockets!

I also love how the Tortuga laptop backpack opens flat like a suitcase, so you can easily use this for overnight trips.

Plus, it’s easy to lock zippers, luggage handle pass, and hideaway shoulder straps make it perfect for traveling through airports.

Ultimately, we love this pack. It’s a bit on the heavier side at 2.8 pounds, but that’s the trade-off for durability. As with anything Tortuga, you are getting a high-quality backpack that will last you for years to come.

Check out our full  Tortuga laptop backpack  review.

Tropicfeel Shell – Business Backpack For Digital Nomads

There are a few things that make the Tropicfeel by Shell a great business backpack. Firstly, it’s perfectly sized for carry-on cabin requirements so is ideal for taking on business trips (whether by plane or even train). Secondly, it’s the only backpack we have come across that comes with a pull-out, hang-up wardrobe, making it insanely easy to neatly pack and unpack. I found this feature to be great when I checked into my hotel room and had to quickly unpack and change to meet a client.

On the flip side though, the laptop compartment is not as accessible as with some other packs so I annoyed the fellow passengers when I basically dug deep into the pack in order to retrieve it on a train journey. The Shell is also adjustable in its size. It can be rolled up from a 22L day pack to a 30L weekend back and then the addition of the detachable pouch brings it up to a short/medium trip sized 40L backpack.

It’s a genuinely innovative, well-made backpack from a very cool up and coming brand. Oh, and it’s also made from sustainable materials giving it serious eco-cred.

The reason I rate it so highly for use by Digital Nomads is that it the perfect hybrid of a business/backpacking pack.

TomToc Navigator-T66  – Best Lightweight Business Travel Backpack

Okay so I have been using the TomToc Navigator T66 for the past six months and it has failed to let me down. It has a large 40L compartment with more than enough space to pack your clothes, a padded laptop sleeve and a mesh zipped pocket for your accessories. 

I love the quick access front pocket and the main compartment can also be unzipped like a suitcase making airport security a breeze. There’s a side drink bottle holder and lots of compartments for storing important things for your important business meetings with important people. 

The overall comfort of this bag is spot on. The thick shoulder straps provide an elite level of comfort and the padded back panel protects you from chargers, shoes or hairdryers poking you as you run for the train. 

One feature I wish this pack had is a waist belt to spare my shoulders from the burden of digital nomad life. Other than that, this pack has delighted me, and it’s a steal for the price. 

Nomatic Backpack  – Best Business Backpack for Organized Travelers

At only 20 L (but expandable to 24L), the Nomatic Backpack is the smallest backpack from Nomatic, and the perfect option if you are looking for a small business backpack for quick trips.

The Nomatic Backpack is made of durable, waterproof materials and zippers. Like its big brothers, it can also convert into a duffel bag and has tons of pockets and compartments for organizing your things, including a hidden money pocket and RFID safe pockets (to keep electronics safe from hackers).

What makes this backpack unique is its removable panel that is designed to hold electronic gear (keyboards, wires, chargers, etc). It’s great for work-related or study trips where you are packing all your electronics.

But let’s say you are going for a quick overnight trip, or you don’t need all of your electronic gear – simply remove the panel and shed a few ounces of weight too.

Some other noteworthy features of the Nomatic Backpack include…

• Retractable key leash  – A great way to keep your keys safe and easily accessible
• Roller bag sleeve  – If you travel with a roller suitcase, this backpack will slip over the top of the retracted handle
• Cord pass through –  This backpack has strategically designed holes throughout the bag that enable you to pass cords through for a quick charge
• Notebook pocket –  If you are a notebook user then your special book will have a special place in this bag

This is the perfect backpack for that quick run to the café, going in and out of meetings, or using on flights. If you need something bigger, then check out the bag below!

UPDATE for 2024: Nomatic is not available for purchase for those living in the EU but is available as Gomatic.

Boundary Supply MK-1 LT Camera Pack  – Best Business Travel Backpack for Photographers

Whether it’s a short city trip or a travel adventure, nothing means more to us photographers than keeping our prized possessions safe, secure and yet accessible, whilst on the move. 

That’s where the Boundary Supply MK-1 LT comes in. This pack has been designed with photographers at its very core.  With customisable padded protection, you can design your pack to suit your equipment needs and travel with confidence that your precious gear is safe and secure. 

This modest but stylish-looking pack backpack goes under the radar too. Its sleek design and compact size allows you to blend in as any old regular commuter so nobody will ever know you’re actually carrying $1k worth of gear.  Further, due to its versatile design and customisation, you can carry cameras, drones, VR headsets and this pack seamlessly integrates with several of the other Boundary packs .

Best Business Pack For Cyclists:  Osprey Talon

It’s pretty common these days for health and planet minded professionals to cycle to work – I certainly do. But finding a bike ready backpack that loves and feels right for the office can be a serious challenge. Anyway, this pack by Osprey has recently come to our attention but has impressed us very much.

A dedicated laptop compartment signifies that this bag isn’t your usual day bag. It doesn’t have the same frame and hip belt you’ll find on Osprey’s hiking line, instead of bringing along plenty of features that will help you get through the workday in style.

What makes the Osprey Talon IDEAL for cyclists is the packs light weight, breathable mesh back panel as well as an attachment for a bike helmet to fasten onto as well as a flash light. The hip belt can be used to secure it to your body and there is even a hydration sleeve for those cycling on a hot day. It comes in 11L to 32L depending on how much stuff you need.

Still have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What does a business backpack need?

A business backpack needs to be more stylish than regular backpacks, but still offer the same comfort and capacity. It’s basically a more professional looking backpack with a (usually) sleek design.

What is the most stylish business backpack?

We love the design of the Nomatic Travel Bag 40L . It’s stylish, it’s comfortable and it’s spacious as well.

What are the key features of a business backpack?

These are the key features: 1. Laptop compartment and Security 2. Accessibility and Organization 3. Sleek and Stylish, yet weatherproof 4. Fit and Comfort

Are business backpacks carry-on size?

Yes, a normal business bag should match the carry-on standards. The Nomatic Travel Bag 40L is the best carry-on option.

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

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Whether you are traveling for a week or just need a high-quality backpack to travel to and from work, this list of the best business travel backpacks includes something for you.

If you are traveling on a multi-day business trip, I highly recommend the Nomatic Travel Pack 40L . Check out the smaller versions for shorter trips or days at the office too.

While some of the companies on this list are well-known in the travel space, notable start-ups, like Boundary Supply are proving to be high-quality and durable bags well worth looking into.

If you think we missed a business travel backpack on this list, let us know in the comments!

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

Ana Pereira

Share or save this post

You’re such a savior! I’ve been scrolling for hours now and thank God I found your blog! Thanks for compiling all the best travel backpacks!!

I applaud your thorough evaluation in this article. I’m looking for a great backpack for daily work and travel. Are there backpacks out there that will not fall over—fully loaded or half loaded? Please advise. Thank you!

Thanks for sharing this helpful information about the backpack on the market. All the backpack you have described above are very secure and their features are awesome

Glad to hear you enjoyed the content! Much appreciated! Which backpack did you end up going with?

I researched every travel bag I could find and the best backpack I found was an American Tourister at Target for $60. Very lightweight and does everything these backpacks do and very high quality, lots of pockets and holds a large laptop. I’d put it up against any of these. Best decision I ever made, at least bag related. It doesn’t make any of these “best” lists though for whatever reason.

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The Best Business Carry On Luggage (Efficient + Durable!)

Best luggage for frequent travelers, best softside carry on for business travel: travelpro, best underseat carry on for business travel: samsonite, most lightweight business carry on luggage: tumi, best expandable business carry on suitcase: briggs & riley, best aluminum carry on for business travel: arlo skye.

• Best Business Tote Bag for Women: Lipault

Best Rolling Garment Bag: Travel Select

Best rolling briefcase: ciao.

• Best Wheeled Backpack Carry On: Amazon

Best Carry On Garment Bag: Zegur

Keep reading below for reviews on each suitcase!

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Business Luggage

So you’re in the market for some new business travel luggage.

Maybe you’re a seasoned business professional looking to upgrade an outdated piece, or maybe you’re a recent college graduate finally starting to realize slinging your L.L. Bean backpack around the conference room isn’t really doing you any favors with the ole CEO.

Either way, picking a new business travel piece can be difficult. Functionality is paramount, but it always helps to have a sleek and modern look too.

We’ve found some of the best luggage for business travel, so keep reading to learn more!

Quickly jump to brand:

• Briggs & Riley
• Travel Select

Keep reading, or pin this article to save it for later ⇟

Best Business Carry On Luggage

Dimensions: 23″ x 15.5″ x 10″

Weight: 7.9 lbs

Travelpro is one of the best rated luggage brands because they make high quality, durable carry on suitcases – so well made in fact, that airline crews use it!

Their  Travelpro Crew is basically the civilian version of the luggage that flight crews use and in person, you can easily see why. 

The bags are made from heavy duty nylon and have extra robust corner armor with skid guards and heavy duty wheel housings. The wheels are really sturdy and easily spin in a full 360 degrees !

Inside is probably my favorite feature.

These bags are made for total packing versatility . They include a zip-in garment organizer which is perfect for storing folded shirts, so that you can arrive to your business meeting fresh off the plane, wrinkle free.

BUT you can also customize the interior, as Travelpro designed the bags to interchange with various additional organizers (sold separately). I have the suit organizer which keeps blazers, work dresses and jackets wrinkle free.

There’s also a packing cube organizer to keep smaller items and accessories neat and tidy, and a laundry organizer which is great for storing damp items – say, dirty workout clothes or a wet bathing suit.. 

I love the dark navy color – it’s sleek and discreet enough to take on business flights with the team but has stylish leather trims that keep it unique and still feminine.

Other excellent features for frequent travelers include: a removable TSA compliant toiletries bag , a built-in USB port, a dedicated exterior power bank pocket and a quick-access padded laptop pocket.

Travelpro Carry On Luggage

Sold on Zappos , Travelpro & Amazon

See all color options and read more reviews here

Best of all, Travelpro offers a lifetime guarantee on all their luggage and if for any reason you change your mind (which once you see the bags, you won’t..) there’s a 100 day free trial !

Dimensions: 16.5″ x 13.75″ x 9.0″

Weight: 7.0 lbs

When it comes to the best carry on luggage for business travel, there are few luggage brands more storied or trusted than Samsonite .

Their underseat carry on spinner proves that Samsonite is an old dog that can be taught new tricks when it comes to modern luggage for business travel!

It’s super compact and easily fits under airplane seats, so you don’t have to hope and pray there’s enough overhead bin space.

The main compartment is spacious, but still has a padded laptop compartment . Then there’s a quick-stash exterior pocket for any items you need on hand.

Like any essential carry on suitcase, the Samsonite features multi-directional spinner wheels that roll upright, making it easier to navigate tight spaces in the airport without straining your arm or back. 

Add textured wear-and-tear protective guards and a water-resistant coating, and you’ve got a hardy suitcase that can withstand any business trip from New York to California!

Samsonite Luggage

Available on Samsonite , Bloomingdales , Macys & Amazon

See all colors and read more reviews here

Dimensions: 22″ x 14″ x 9″

Weight: 6.3 lbs

Tumi makes an incredibly lightweight hardcase that’s perfect for frequent fliers.

Their hardshell carry-on is super tough and durable, thanks to layers of specially woven ballistic polycarbonate . But at the same time, the outer shell can bend and flex, so it won’t crack or break!

Inside there are two packing compartments with a hanger bracket to neatly fold up your suits. The bag has 4 lightweight spinner wheels that glide super smoothly and an integrated TSA lock.

This is one bag that’s perfect for domestic or international business trips!

Tumi International Carry On Suitcase

Available on Zappos , Tumi , Amazon

Weight: 9.3 lbs

Briggs & Riley makes some of the best business luggage.

Their rolling carry on has 4 spinner wheels that glide effortless in 360 degrees. The bag is made from durable ballistic nylon , so it can withstand rain, sun, dirt and being thrown about!

The best part of the bag is its interior.

Briggs & Riley designed this carry-on spinner with a compression expansion system that squeezes down all your stuff to increase packing capacity.

There’s also mesh garment panels inside to minimize wrinkles, which is important for suits and business clothes!

For well made, high-quality luggage, get Briggs & Riley ! It’s like the Bentley of suitcases.

Briggs & Riley Carry On Spinner

Available on Zappos , Briggs & Riley , Nordstrom , Macys , Bloomingdales & Amazon

Dimensions: 23″ x 15″ x 9.6″

Weight: 10.5 lbs

Looking for an aluminum frame carry on?

You’ll love this sleek and sexy option from Arlo Skye .

It’s a roomy carry on with full grain leather handles , whisper quiet wheels and an anti-microbial interior lining.

There’s a removable charger to re-charge your phone quickly, and a theft-proof zipperless frame with TSA clasps.

Aluminum does show some nicks and dings over time, but it’s easier to keep pristine as a carry-on suitcase!

Arlo Skye Carry On Suitcase

Available on Arlo Skye

Best Tote Bag for Women: Lipault

Dimensions: 11.5″ x 17.3″ x 9.8″

Weight: 2.8 lbs

Lipault makes a fantastic personal bag for business women.

Their 24 hour bag is lightweight, simple and functional. It has a long removable shoulder strap and roomy main compartment that can easily fit a couple day’s worth of clothes and a pair of shoes or two.

There’s a smart sleeve in the back to slip it over your carry on suitcase and two exterior zipped pockets for quickly accessing your must-haves.

Finally there’s a laptop compartment so you can smoothly get through TSA!

And when not in use, the soft plush-y bag folds flat for easy storage. Best of all, the nylon is extremely hard wearing and durable, and will resist dust, dirt and scratches.

Lipault 24 Hour Tote Bag

Available on Zappos +  Amazon

Dimensions: 23″ x 22″ x 7″

Look, I get it.

Securing your work laptop, Blackberry, pitchbooks, passports, and boarding passes is important, but nothing is more important than finding a great business travel luggage piece that carries your suits.

I repeat: nothing.

Fortunately, the Travel Select Amsterdam Business Rolling Garment Bag is a specialized luggage for business travel piece that has us fashionistas covered.

The Travel Select is compact, lightweight, and can either roll on inline skate wheels or be carried over-the-shoulder with a detachable strap.

Plus, for you gents out there, the Travel Select is tailor made for business suits and features two smart pockets on the front – perfect for an extra tie or pair of cuff links!

Travel Select Rolling Garment Bag

Available on Amazon

Dimensions: 15″ x 14″ x 9″

Weight: 4.0 lbs

Perfect for those brutal business trips requiring two (or more) flights in one day, the Ciao Under the Seat Carry On is, befitting its namesake, compact.

The Ciao lends itself nicely to people who pack smart, as it comfortably holds a small briefcase, laptop, tablet, several notebooks, and a change of clothes or two.

In addition, its intelligent ‘pocket design’ maximizes space and fits under an airplane seat, so the Ciao can be considered your personal item while your larger carry-on suitcase is stored in the overhead bin!

Ciao Rolling Briefcase

Sold on Amazon

Best Wheeled Business Backpack Carry On: Amazon

Dimensions : 19.3″ x 13.4″ x 9.5″

Weight: 5.1 lbs

The most effective carry on luggage for business travel tends to be the most versatile, and nowhere is business travel luggage versatility on greater display than in the Little World Wheeled Business Backpack .

On the inside, the Little World features a thick sponge-lined sleeve that can carry laptops up to 19 inches. Additionally, there are back pockets and two mesh-lined pockets to secure items separately.

On the outside, there are three exterior zipper pockets to go along with a rolling handle and shoulder straps with a sponge-padded back for support when carrying as a backpack – this piece can do it all!

Amazon Wheeled Backpack

Dimensions: 23”x 22”x 4”

Weight: 3 lbs

The ZEGUR 40” Garment Bag is simply the mother of all carry on garment bags.

Its interior can carry up to three suits (or even more dresses) and has separate interior compartments for shoes, ties, or other items.

Smartly, the ZEGUR has buckled straps that both secure your garments and ensure they come out wrinkle free on the other end (anything saving me from trying to work a hotel ironing board is saintly in my book).

And, unlike some garment bags, the ZEGUR has an exterior travel document sleeve that allows you to easily grab your travel documents without having to rummage through all your gorgeous clothes!

This is one of the best travel bags for men or women!

Zegur Carry On Garment Bag

Shop luggage for business travel.

Must Have Accessories for Carry On Luggage

Laptop case.

I always bring my laptop on work trips so I can stay productive on flights. I’ve found a laptop sleeve   is crucial to protect the outside of my laptop from scratches.

This one holds up to 15″ laptops so I think it’s pretty useful! If you prefer a laptop sleeve with a handle strap, this laptop case is essentially the same thing but more portable. It comes in 4 colors so you can jazz it up.

For mac book users, my friends swear by this laptop case , which is multi-functional enough to work for iPad pros and chrome books as well as spill proof. It comes in a wide range of sizes and colors to suit whatever device you’re trying to protect!

Packing Cubes

Once you get a packing cube set , you’ll never go back to free range luggage.

Packing cubes help maximize space inside your luggage by neatly organizing clothing and separating your dirty worn clothes from freshly laundered ones.

Amazon   carries a wide range of packing cube sets and brands

  Read More     in my travel packing checklist series:

Best Travel Luggage

The Best Carry on Luggage for 2021

The Best Packing Cubes for a Perfectly Organized Bag

The Best Lightweight Luggage for Overpackers

The Best Hard Luggage Sets  for Stylish Travelers

The Best Underseat Luggage  for Minimalists

The Best Carry On Bags for Men - Rugged + Durable!

Business Travel

The Essential Business Packing List

The Best Business Travel Luggage

The Best Laptop Cases for Working Women

The Best Laptop Bags for Men

Packing Hacks

The Best Travel Wallets for All Your Vacation Essentials

The Best Jewelry Cases Never Untangle a Necklace Again!

The Best Toiletry Bags to Clean Up Quick

Travel Packing Lists

The Best Travel Jackets for All Types of Weather

The Best Duffel Bags for Your Next Weekend Trip

The Best Travel Backpacks to Hold Everything You Need

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The 12 Best Laptop Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Whether you're a business traveler or a student, these backpacks, duffel bags, and carry-ons will protect your laptop while on the go.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

A laptop is often the priciest tech investment travelers will pack for their journeys. And, with the rise of digital nomadism and working vacations, more and more travelers face the same dilemma: how to protect their laptops while on the road. This is where a durable, padded laptop bag comes in handy.

Traveling with a laptop requires a well-made, durable, and padded bag to keep it safe and secure. After testing hundreds of messenger bags , weekenders , backpacks , duffel bags , and carry-ons , we selected the best laptop bags for commuting and traveling. But we didn't stop there. After our initial tests, we continued to use the bags for at least six months to ensure durability and consistently high performance under different circumstances and settings.

Our list features laptop bags for every type of traveler and trip — from your daily commute to the office or school to overnight business trips or long-haul flights.

Best Overall

Solo re:define backpack.

It has a lot of storage space.

It only comes in black and gray.

This may look like a small backpack, but we actually found it to be more like Mary Poppins' magic bag as the capacity just keeps on going when we put it to the test. The padded tech sleeve can fit a 15.6-inch laptop and a tablet (there are two separate slots), while the main compartment has plenty of room for shoes, toiletries, and a change of clothes (which also makes this a great carry-on or overnight bag option). Another feature we love is the excellent organization: there are two water bottle pockets, a battery slot that enables you to charge your devices on the go, a key leash, and plenty more small pockets for all the essentials. 

This backpack also aced our durability tests. It’s made from recycled plastic bottles, and the exterior is treated with an anti-microbial coating that’s easy to clean with wipes to keep it looking new. Business and leisure travelers will get plenty of mileage out of this sleek, sturdy Solo backpack. It's also a must-have that can make working anywhere a breeze.

The Details: 18 x 13 x 7 inches | 1.43 pounds | Recycled PET Polyester | Fits 15.6 inch laptop

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Weekender

Away everywhere bag.

This weekender bag is extra spacious thanks to its clamshell-style opening.

The shoulder straps are not padded and may dig into your shoulder if the bag is packed full.

This may be a weekender, but we found it was able to fit more than just a couple days worth of clothing and accessories during our tests. It’s also designed like a suitcase with a clamshell-style opening, so packing and accessing your belongings is super convenient. Keep your laptop and an additional tech device in the padded pocket with a magnetic opening, and stow your phone wallet or passport holder in the small outer pocket secured with a strap. There are also plenty more pockets and compartments inside, so your belongings will not end up in a messy pile. While this Away weekender does come with a shoulder strap, it’s not padded, and carrying the bag by the handles can get a little uncomfortable after a while. But this is why the trolley strap is handy — just slip the backpack right over your carry-on’s telescoping handle instead.

The Details: 20.9 x 11.8 x 9.4 inches | 3.8 pounds | Nylon, leather | Fits up to 15-inch laptop

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Carry-on

July carry on pro snapsleeve.

You can detach the laptop sleeve from the suitcase if you want to store the larger bag in an overhead bin (or if you are forced to check it at the gate).

This carry-on is larger than other options on this list.

Most carry-on suitcases do not have a dedicated laptop sleeve, and we love that this one has a removable one that directly attaches to the suitcase via magnets and clips. Once you do a couple of practice runs on how to correctly do that (there is an audible click when it's in place), it's smooth sailing from then on. The mechanism seemed to work really well in holding the sleeve in place. We only saw it fly off the shell after we threw the carry-on several times off a counter in our testing lab.

We were impressed with the suitcase’s internal compression panels because the carry-on itself is pretty sleek and compact (it would easily fit in the overhead bin), but that didn't result in any less storage space. Since the laptop sleeve is located on the front of the bag, it doesn’t intervene with any of your interior packing space. It also features a sleeve within the laptop case, so you are left with extra space for other items like magazines or documents.

The Details: 21.5 x 15 x 8.5 inches | 9.5 pounds | Polycarbonate | Fits up to 16-inch laptop

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Compact Carry-on

Tumi oxford compact carry-on.

It is an excellent under-the-seat option if you're looking for a smaller wheeled carry-on.

The media pockets may be difficult to zip if the bag is too full.

Tumi's mini carry-on is a good choice for travelers heading for a quick business trip who want to travel light and upgrade to a premium option. The bag is designed to fit under the seat in front of you and can fit a couple of days’ worth of clothing, including a laptop and a travel tablet. The designated media pocket is at the front of the bag, making it very convenient to access. We did find the laptop sleeve was difficult to zip when the bag was packed with a heavier jacket (and the case needed to be squished under the seat), but if you don't overpack it, it works without a glitch. In terms of construction and maneuverability, this Tumi carry-on moved flawlessly on both four and two wheels with little-to-no resistance. 

The Details: 16 x 14 x 8 inches | 6.6 pounds | Nylon

Best Personal Item

Mz wallace nik.

The organizational features and multiple storage compartments are a highlight so you can make the most out of this personal item.

The shoulder strap has no padding.

This stylish bag's storage system blew us away: from the laptop pocket with a snap closure to the many smaller compartments and pockets, this bag really helps you stay organized while maximizing the available packing space. You can easily fit a two- or four-day worth of essentials in it and still be able to carry it around with ease. The reason? The quilted material is lightweight and provides cushioning for the items inside, ensuring their protection and your comfort on the go. You can also fit it underneath an airplane set, making this your personal item bag to supplement a carry-on or checked suitcase.

The extra long handles allow you to carry it on your shoulder, but there's also a removable shoulder strap and a back strap that helps you attach it to a suitcase. This bag is a multitasker that deserves a spot in your luggage collection, but most importantly, it is so well-made and durable that it's definitely worth the investment. 

The Details: 17 x 7 x 12 inches | 2.1 pounds | REC Oxford | Fits up to 16-inch laptop

Best Backpack

Troubadour orbis 1-pocket backpack.

This backpack allows you to go hands-free, with many pockets and slots for quick-access to your belongings.

The material is not very breathable and may feel hot on your back. 

When it comes to padding, this backpack is in a league of its own. We found the cushioned straps and back panel made it the most comfortable backpack we have ever carried. Additionally, the padding provides extra protection for your laptop or tablet. This bag has a tapered design on top, which some may find challenging to pack, but the sides have fabric expanders to help with that. 

The exterior is sleek and minimalist, with leather accents that elevate its look. Inside, there are plenty of pockets to keep travelers organized, including a designated media pocket that can easily fit a 17-inch laptop. But we’re perhaps most impressed with the bag’s sustainability: it’s made from recycled polyester, including the lining.

The Details: 11.8 x 16.5 x 5.5 inches | 3.3 pounds | Recycled polyester | Fits up to 17-inch laptop

Best Waterproof

Rains texel tech bag.

It's exceptionally lightweight and waterproof, which makes it the perfect commute bag.

The straps don't have padding, and the zippers don't always run smoothly.

If you're looking for a sturdy commute bag to go to work or school, this one will not disappoint. Though the waterproof zippers were a bit bulky and needed a tug from time to time to run smoothly, that’s a small price to pay to ensure that all of your belongings stay dry if you get caught in the rain. And, trust us, they will. During our long-term testing period, one of our team members brought this bag on multiple commutes through New York City in the rain, and it kept her laptop perfectly dry. The water just beads right off without soaking the fabric at all.

This bag was clearly designed to help travelers stay organized. Its outer pockets and compartments have waterproof zippers for protection and ease of use, in addition to multiple interior pockets and a spacious capacity. There isn't any padding on the adjustable shoulder strap, so it does get a little uncomfortable if you’re carrying a full bag long distances, but the strap is adjustable, and there are shorter carrying handles with a wrap if you choose to carry it by hand.

The Details: 11.8 x 15 x 3.5 inches | 2.09 pounds | Polyester with polyurethane coating | Fits up to 15-inch laptop | Waterproof

Travel + Leisure / Leticia Almeida

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Duffel

Dagne dover landon carryall bag.

The duffel bag has several accessories that help organize your belongings.

The fabric may show stains and spills easily.

We found this to be the ultimate travel duffel that also happens to be the perfect bag to store your laptop as it has a roomy media compartment that closes with a Velcro strap so it stays flat when not in use. This style comes in five sizes, but only the medium, large, and extra large can fit a laptop. The top zipper opens wide so packing is a breeze, and inside are multiple pockets for smaller items. The great thing about this duffel is it has an additional shoe zip bag, a mesh pouch for cables and earbuds, and a detachable key leash to help you stay organized.

You can also attach the duffel to wheeled luggage thanks to a trolley sleeve on its backside. The neoprene material is durable and held up very well during our wear and tear tests. However, neoprene is known to show creases with time. 

The Details: 14.5 x 7.5 x 9 inches | 2.08 pounds | Neoprene | Fits a 13-inch laptop in a medium

Travel + Leisure / Nick Kova

Bandolier Tote Bag

This tote is elegant, lightweight, and perfect for everyday use.

The bag has an open top rather than a zipper.

While this chic leather tote is the ideal laptop bag for travel, it is also a great commuter bag. Its pebbled leather holds up excellently to daily use, and its timeless silhouette makes it perfect for the office, subway, or restaurant. The size is also convenient for frequent use, as it can hold a water bottle or cup, notepads, cosmetics, sunglasses, and a jacket. The laptop sleeve accommodates devices up to 15 inches long and closes with a snap. We would love a secure top closure, especially if using this bag as a personal item, since the bag features an open top. However, if easy and quick access to your belongings is a priority day to day, then this is definitely the right tote for you. The handles are long enough to carry it as either a shoulder bag or a handbag for an added touch of versatility.

The Details: 18 x 12 x 6 inches | Leather | Fits up to 15-inch laptop

Best Briefcase

Briggs & riley medium expandable briefcase.

It has a sturdy, durable construction and expandable design that would be useful for business trips.

The depth is larger than standard bags.

This briefcase will be a hit with business travelers and those looking for superior organization. While the bag itself is compact in height and width, the expandable zippers allow you to fit more if needed without making it uncomfortable to carry. We packed everything on our list except a jacket, which fit a little awkwardly. However, this bag has so many pockets (at times more than we knew what to do with) that during our drop test, all of the items were kept from being displaced or damaged because there was a slot for everything. The 15.6-inch padded laptop compartment also did its job exceptionally well.

The classic black design (there is some pop of color on the inside) also features a trolley pass-through sleeve to carry on top of a suitcase and a duo of sleek handles with leather accents. Last but not least, the sturdy fabric is made from recycled plastic bottles, so you can also feel good that your purchase is keeping trash out of landfills.

The Details: 15.75 x 11 x 6 inches | 2.55 pounds | Recycled poly/nylon ballistic | Fits up to 15.6-inch laptop

Best Budget

Lands' end all purpose messenger bag.

It's a compact bag that is comfortable to carry while being the most affordable option on this list.

The material is thin and there's no padding.

This messenger may come with a low price tag, but that doesn't mean you'll be compromising on quality, storage potential, or features. Quite on the contrary. The polyester material and the easily adjustable padded shoulder strap make it super lightweight and easy to carry, even when full. The waterproof coating held up really well during our tests, however, two of the exterior pockets have snap closures and don't close all the way, so we would avoid carrying anything of value there (or anything you wouldn't want to get soaked in a downpour). 

We also noticed that the canvas material, though thin, performed exceptionally well during drop and spray tests (the laptop compartment is padded), and the messenger still looks like new months after we first tested it — and the same is true for the hardware. Lastly, while the bag is only available in blue, it is certainly worth considering if you're in need of a well-made, budget-friendly commute bag.

The Details: 14.75 x 11 x 5.5 inches | Polyester | Fits up to 14-inch laptop | Waterproof

Best Organization

Quince revive nylon large tote.

It's an excellent all-season option to keep you organized on the road.

While it has a magnetic top closure, it doesn’t zip closed.

Thanks to a combination of smart storage organization and a spacious interior, we found this carry-all was a total dream when it comes to packing. With so many pockets, dividers, and compartments, it's easy to see and access keys, lip balm, shoes, travel documents, and your laptop, for which there’s a padded pocket with a Velcro closure.

This Quince bag is also quite versatile — travelers can easily use it as an everyday bag, a weekender, or even a diaper bag (the nylon fabric is super easy to clean). The latest, updated version of the tote has a magnetic closure, providing a little extra security for your belongings.

The Details: 13 x 17 x 5 inches | 1.76 pounds | Nylon | Fits up to 15-inch laptop

For this article, our Travel + Leisure team sorted through testing results from multiple lab and real-world tests for messenger bags, weekenders, duffels, backpacks, carry-on suitcases, and more — specifically looking for bags with designated laptop pockets or pouches. Each bag was tested in our New York City lab (with the exception of the best tote option, which is personally owned and recommended by one of our team members).

During testing, we examined each bag for the quality of its construction, hardware, and features, packing the bag with a predetermined list of items to analyze its storage capacity and organizational features. We also tested water-resistant or waterproof bags by spraying them with water to ensure the contents would remain dry and the fabric would not absorb any water.

Travel + Leisure/Jhett Thompson

We carried or rolled the fully packed bags through obstacle courses and around our office to assess the maneuverability and comfort. To test for durability, we threw the bags off of counters with a dummy laptop inside to see if it was protected through falls. For suitcases, we also hit them with a baseball bat to check the strength of the outer shell. We continued using the products for at least six months after our initial tests to make sure they stand up to real travels over longer periods of time, and we will continue to update this article as we test even more bags we love.

Tips for Buying a Laptop Bag

Determine your ideal size.

Since laptops come in multiple sizes, so do laptop bags. The most common sizes accommodate devices that measure up to 14, 16, or 18 inches. If you own a 14-inch laptop, don't be tempted to buy a much larger bag (usually, anything more than half an inch is considered too big) because it won't protect your device against bumps and drops that well if the pocket doesn't hold it snugly. And if you prefer a larger bag to also accommodate things like clothes and gear, consider buying an additional laptop case for extra protection.

Look for built-in organization

Most travelers who carry a laptop also need room to store additional tech accessories such as chargers, cables, headphones, and memory cards. Some laptop users may even travel with an extra keyboard and mouse. That's why your laptop bag should have a well-designed interior with multiple pockets, slots, and compartments. This will keep your belongings organized and easily accessible whenever you need them. If you plan on packing clothes and toiletries in the same bag, then look for styles with at least two roomy compartments, ideally zippered, so your laptop and tech gadgets are protected from accidental spills. You can also buy a tech pouch separately if you need that extra level of organization to keep all of your chargers and accessories together.

Consider the best material for your needs

Laptop bags are made from a variety of materials ranging from leather to synthetic fabrics to PVC, and each has its pros and cons. Natural materials like canvas are lightweight, but they easily absorb moisture. However, some companies treat the exterior canvas with a waterproof coating that adds a water-resistant, easy-to-clean layer.

Synthetic fabrics such as nylon and polyester are a preferred material for backpacks. They are lightweight and flexible so you can easily place them under the seat, and they protect from the elements. On the flip side, nylon and polyester are very thin, so look for bags with additional padding in the laptop compartment.  Leather messengers , backpacks, and totes all look beautiful and provide good protection. While leather has a degree of natural water-resistance, it can still get soaked through, and the material tends to be heavier.

Finally, hardside bags and carry-ons are an excellent option for those who like to travel light — after all, traveling with a carry-on suitcase with a laptop compartment means you don’t need to carry a separate laptop bag.

Frequently Asked Questions

Generally, laptops are measured by the distance between the diagonal edges of their screens. However, this size does not account for any additional material that encases the screen. So when choosing a bag, close your laptop and measure it diagonally from edge to edge — you will probably end up with a number that’s higher by a quarter-to-full inch than its screen size. Considering this number, choose a laptop bag that can accommodate it. 

If your laptop is thicker than the average computer, check the width of the bag's laptop compartment to ensure it can fit comfortably inside.

Most airlines' carry-on allowance includes a personal item that you can store under the seat in front of you. So, many travelers pack a laptop into that bag — it’s easily accessible and always with you. However, if you know you won't need your laptop and your hardside carry-on provides good protection for fragile items, you can also store it in there and place it in the overhead bin during a flight.

We would never recommend you store your laptop in checked luggage because it might get damaged, lost, or even stolen during your trip. Baggage handlers aren’t exactly known for being delicate, and with more than 50 percent of travelers admitting to having luggage lost by an airline, you’ll want to avoid storing expensive items in your checked luggage. Additionally, if you're headed on a multi-leg trip, it's a good idea to have your laptop with you in case you need to use it.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Contributor Dobrina Zhekova is a lifestyle journalist with over a decade of editorial experience in print and digital media in the U.S. and Europe. For this story, she worked with T+L's editors to curate a list of the best laptop bags with insights from T+L’s real-world and lab tests, along with additional product research as necessary.

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Related Articles

11 BEST Business Travel Backpacks (For Men & Women)

A complete list of the 11 BEST business backpacks for men and women!

You know that feeling when you’re about to travel and realize that your carry-on bag is too small to fit all of your clothes? It’s not fun, but it doesn’t have to be this way.

Whether you’re planning a business trip to meet a client or going to open a new office abroad, these backpacks are exactly what you’re looking for.

From the best ones to carry your equipment to comfortable and padded ones, I’ve got you covered in this comprehensive guide.

Table of Contents

OVERVIEW – BEST BUSINESS TRAVEL BACKPACKS

Business travel backpacks are not just about looks — they must be able to carry all the equipment that you need for your workday, plus any personal items that you want to bring along in case of delays or unforeseen circumstances.

The right backpack will protect your gear and keep it safe while you’re on the go, but also give you easy access when necessary.

These are the 3 absolute best business travel backpacks:

• Nomatic Travel Bag 20L – Best Overall Business Travel Backpack – From $300 This bag features padded shoulder straps, reinforced stress points on the bottom panel, water-resistant lining, and a resistant laptop sleeve with an interior mesh pocket for quick access items such as tickets or passports.
• Tortuga Setout – Best Laptop Backpack for Longer Trips – From $179 The Setout 45L Carry-on Travel Backpack is a feature-rich bag that helps you stay organized. With space for 7 days’ worth of clothing, toiletries, and traveling necessities, you’ll never be without what you need, when you need it.
• KomalC Leather Briefcase – Best Business Messenger Bag – From $89 The KomalC Briefcase is mostly made from leather which is a nice touch if you’re coming from a nylon bag. It is an elegant and classy commuter bag for all business travelers.

Of course, this is only a short overview, so make sure to read until the end of this post to discover all the features of each of them in greater detail.

QUICK ANSWERS – BEST BUSINESS TRAVEL BACKPACK

Can business travel backpacks replace a suitcase.

Carry-on luggage typically measures 56 x 45 x 25 cm, but a suitcase can accommodate more than a backpack.

Yes, soft-sided backpacks are generally soft, but compressing a suitcase and securing everything with compression straps is something travel backpacks seldom enable.

Needless to say, a travel backpack can be a limitation depending on the number of clothes or items you plan to bring.

That said, it’s a great valid alternative if you plan to travel for a few days in or out of the country.

WHAT ARE THE TOP BACKPACK BRANDS FOR BUSINESS TRAVEL?

Other than the best daypack for travel, it’s important to consider the brands themselves.

Sure, while some brands may be unknown to you, some others are reputable and produce items for numerous years with outstanding quality.

These best backpack brands are:

• Kenneth Cole
• Tommy Hilfiger
• American Tourister

There are dozens of quality brands on the market, however, these are the top backpack brands and you’re sure to get a quality product that will stand the test of time.

WHAT DO YOU NEED IN A BUSINESS TRAVEL BACKPACK? – THE KEY FEATURES

We’re focusing on the finest travel backpacks for business, which means they differ from other types of backpacks. But what should you consider before purchasing one?

There are several factors to take into consideration and we’ll go through them below.

Many business backpacks include hidden compartments, strong zippers, and hardy fabric that is difficult to cut through. When you’re transporting valuables, it’s critical to have a secure solution.

Having a hidden zipper, a secret compartment for your passport, credit cards, or other documents, and premium material hard to cut is essential for a smooth business trip.

IT SHOULD HAVE A LAPTOP COMPARTMENT

It goes without saying that having a laptop compartment in a business backpack is essential and is simply a must-have.

A laptop compartment is necessary to protect and secure your electronics while moving through the TSA line quickly.

The padding is very important since you don’t want to damage or even break your laptop. In general, virtually every well-designed backpack (except for hiking backpacks) comes with a laptop compartment.

ORGANIZATION & ACCESSIBILITY

The organization compartments are particularly crucial.

If you’re commuting with a laptop, several chargers, vital papers, clothing, and other items, you’ll probably want pockets to store them in. Of course, this implies you’ll need lots of pockets to accommodate everything.

My favorite backpacks have u-zip designs. This means that they can be opened fully on at least two sides for quick access.

STYLISH, CLASSY, & WEATHERPROOF

The greatest travel business backpacks are current and stylish, so you can go to the office and your vital meetings without looking like a hiker.

You may also want to consider how your backpack reflects your personality. Examine this list and see which travel company backpack fits your style the best.

If you’re going on business trips often, or if it’s going to rain a lot in the city you’ll be visiting, you might want to ensure that your bag is water-resistant or waterproof.

This isn’t necessary for work travel backpacks, but if you’re spending time outside or traveling to a city where it rains constantly, then it must be considered.

IT MUST BE COMFORTABLE & NOT HEAVY

Fit and comfort are critical elements in any backpack selection. A large or little backpack will be uncomfortable, clunky, and perhaps even painful if it’s not the right size for your frame.

This implies double-checking that the straps are comfortable and properly fit your body. Look for adjustable straps as well as waist straps to help distribute the weight of a bigger bag.

Hiking backpacks have more adjustable straps, whereas commuter bags have fewer of these features.

A USB CHARGING PORT WILL SAVE YOUR DAY

A USB attachment in a backpack is simply a long extension cable. The power bank is connected to the cable within the backpack.

Then you’ll need an electronic device and a supplementary charging cable, which connects from the outside of the bag.

When you don’t have access to a plug while on business travel, this may be a lifesaver.

THE 11 BEST BUSINESS TRAVEL BACKPACKS

If you’ve ever gone on a business trip, chances are you’ve carried your luggage in one of those ubiquitous black nylon backpacks.

But have you ever stopped to think about what makes the best business travel backpack?

If not, this is exactly what you’re looking for and we go into the 11 best travel backpacks for business to remain comfortable and secure on a business trip.

NOMATIC TRAVEL BAG 20L – $300

Nomatic, the company known for its packing cubes, has released one of the best backpacks ever made.

First and foremost, the bag is thing is water-resistant as well as super resistant to any situation.

As someone who travels quite a bit with only hand luggage, that’s important. Over time many bags wear down or start looking tatty.

It’s made of extremely durable material which does make the backpack feel slightly heavier than other comparable bags.

In addition, it’s very functional, and if you’re familiar with Nomatic products, this bag comes in the same size as their previous 20L daypack model (which was great).

They just made it less boxy and added a few extra pockets for good measure – basically, they turned what already worked into an even better product.

Lastly, it comes with a removable waist strap which is a huge selling point. With the waist strap, you can distribute the weight evenly and have a more comfortable carry even if it’s a bit heavier than usual.

All in all, the Nomatic travel bag is one of the most comfortable business backpacks.

The downside? It’s quite pricey – For $300, it’s an investment, albeit a good one as far as bags go.

TORTUGA SETOUT  – BEST CARRY-ON BUSINESS TRAVEL BACKPACK – $179

The Setout Tortuga backpack is a sturdy, lightweight, and versatile backpack that is perfect for all purposes from outdoor adventures to business trips and even going on a road trip .

The design features include the use of high-quality external fabrics with water-resistant coating, durable lockable zippers, and multiple compartments to keep your gear organized.

2 versions are available – the 26L expandable and the 45L fully expanded. They both open flat like a suitcase and it is a great advantage when looking for specific items and not wasting time on a business trip with colleagues or managers.

The backpack also uses dual foam padded shoulder straps that are ergonomic, breathable, removable, and adjustable.

Last but not least, it is cheaper than other backpacks but it is still an investment. The expanded 26L version costs $179 and the bigger expanded one will set you back $199.

While the Nomatic is, in my opinion, the most comfortable backpack, the Tortuga quality is very close and it’s surely one of the best on the market.

VICTORINOX SWISS ARMY BACKPACK – $99

There are so many backpacks to choose from, but the Victorinox business backpack is one of the best because it features a padded laptop compartment and two large compartments with plenty of space for all your belongings.

With its classic style and sleek design, this backpack is perfect for all travelers who need to carry everything they might need on their business trip.

There are several models available to please everyone.

What I really liked about the Victorinox Swiss Army Backpack is the fact that it has multiple storage pockets to put anything you can think of from pens, notebooks, documents, and more.

It’s also classy which makes it one of the most attractive business backpacks I can think of.

OSPREY FARPOINT – COMFORTABLE BUSINESS BACKPACK FOR TRAVEL – $98

The Osprey Farpoint is a great backpack for those of you who are looking for a lightweight and durable carry-on that will fit into any overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you.

It has plenty of padding and comfort features but also has a limited number of pockets and zippers which might be off-putting to some people.

The backpack also cannot be carried like a traditional backpack with straps, so it might not be best for those who don’t like the feel of carrying their bag on their back.

MATEIN TRAVEL LAPTOP BACKPACK – $29

The Matein Travel Laptop backpack is an awesome backpack for all your needs, including business trips.

It’s made out of water-resistant and incredibly durable polyester and has tons of great features – a charging pocket, a beautiful design, a padded laptop sleeve, and ultimately, a luggage strap.

It offers several capacities, being able to hold up to a 15-inch laptop and a tablet combined. This makes it ideal for businessmen who need their accessories at hand whenever they’re traveling or going to work.

On top of all these features, the backpack provides an outside pocket specially designed to charge your phone or your tablet.

As such, you won’t have to worry about your battery ever again when you’re either working or traveling.

On the flip side, the backpack might not be as resilient against water as other backpacks here.

AMAZON BASICS SLIM CARRY-ON LAPTOP – $71

This slim and affordable carry-on laptop travel backpack comes with a padded laptop sleeve made of durable fabric and also features a foldable water-resistant cover to keep your laptop dry.

It has plenty of room for other essentials like clothing, shoes, toiletries, and snacks.

For less than $100, the Amazon Basics Slim Carry-On Laptop Travel Weekender is perfect for all frequent business travelers!

On the other hand, one point to note is that the compartments only open on two sides. Small packing cubes would help, but likely not solve the problem.

KOMALC 16-INCH LEATHER BRIEFCASE – $89

The KomalC 16-inch leather briefcase is perfect for business professionals who want to stand out from the crowd.

The exterior of the bag is made from high-quality buffalo leather and has a beautiful design that will perfectly match your business trip.

The interior is divided into two separate compartments with an inside pocket for your laptop and tablet, as well as plenty of space for files and folders.

It also includes a removable shoulder strap that can be tucked away when not in use.

All things considered, it’s one of the best business travel backpacks, however, it’s essential to highlight the fact that it needs to be maintained since it’s real leather.

SAMSONITE CLASSIC LEATHER SLIM BACKPACK – $150

We all know that backpacks are a necessity when going on a business trip, but the problem is they’re not always stylish.

However, this is not the case with the Samsonite Classic Leather Slim Backpack.

This backpack is made of durable and rich-looking leather which makes it perfect for any professional looking to “spice up” their outfit.

With a sleek design, ample space, and more features than you can count on two hands, this backpack has so many advantages over other bags on the market.

It’s available in 2 colors – black and brown – to please everyone whether you’re going on a business journey or around town to meet friends.

KENNETH COLE REACTION MANHATTAN SLIM BACKPACK – $149

Kenneth Cole is a company that believes in the power of fashion to make your business trip more fashionable.

For this, they have designed backpacks with maximum functionality for today’s on-the-go lifestyle and the Manhattan Slim Backpack is the perfect example.

It has been made to fit laptops up to 16 inches and it’s great for going to the office or away for a few days.

This bag is a durable and stylish laptop backpack that will give you the ultimate protection for your most important belongings.

Made of an elegant Colombian genuine leather exterior with tear-resistant lining, it features RFID-blocking technology to keep all personal information safe from thieves as well as a trolley tunnel to fit over luggage handles so no more carrying heavy bags on wheels!

KROSER LAPTOP BAG PREMIUM BRIEFCASE – $39

This women’s black briefcase by Kroser is made from a soft, flexible material with extra pockets for organization.

It expands for greater capacity and is simply one of the best business travel bags.

In addition, its water-resistant exterior can withstand heavier rain or spills, preventing materials inside from being damaged by water.

There are compartments for your 17-inch laptop, iPad, pens, wallet, notebooks, and anything else you may need to bring with you when traveling.

The laptop compartment is padded which protects the items inside from accidental bumps or shocks that could potentially damage your items.

All in all, it’s one of the best bags to bring on a business trip abroad or around the country.

But, as constructive feedback, I’d say that the Kroser laptop bag doesn’t have enough padding on the sides and the bottom which is something worth considering.

EVERKI ATLAS BUSINESS LAPTOP BACKPACK – $159

The Everki Atlas is a compact, comfortable, and affordable business travel backpack that you can bring along anywhere you’re headed.

The first compartment is a special “checkpoint ready” pocket that will fit up to a 17.3-inch laptop and has been created especially for the ones with lots of equipment.

It has more pockets to place your accessories and small items such as a Kindle, phone chargers, cables, pens, and more.

It opens up 180 degrees which is convenient when going through a security checkpoint that accepts checkpoint-friendly bags.

Additionally, it includes wide, padded shoulder straps with a 5-point balance strap to distribute weight and wear it more comfortably.

The Everki Atlas comes in two different versions – the 15.6-inch and the 17.3-inch – with only a $10 difference between them and is definitely the best daypack for travel.

With this in mind, a point to mention is the weight. In fact, while the bag is greatly padded, it adds up weight and the Everki backpack weighs 4.01 lbs or 1.8 kilograms.

Needless to say, that’s quite some weight used and could be a disadvantage when traveling.

SUMMARY – BEST BUSINESS BAGS FOR TRAVELING

So there you have it, a list of 11 different business travel backpacks for men and women based on their size, weight capacity, price range, and more.

I hope that you were able to find the perfect backpack to take your business travel experiences from an average one to a great one!

If not, please leave a comment below this post so I can help provide some additional insight into which type may be best suited for your needs.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

Search and book accommodation worldwide.

Compare and book cheap flights to anywhere.

Find tickets, tours, and experiences around the world.

Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.

Search all rental cars in your next destination.

Need travel insurance for your next trip?

THANKS FOR READING

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Please know this post may contain affiliate links. When making a purchase through one of my links, I earn a small kickback at no extra cost to you and it’s a big help to keep the site up and running. Rest assured, I only promote products and services that I personally use and recommend.

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Best Travel Briefcase: Basic, Wheeled And More

Need a good briefcase for travel? You’re definitely in the right place! In this detailed review, you will see ten of the best travel briefcases money can buy. 

Some are standard briefcases, while other are really versatile bags that can work for anything. And you will see briefcases you can get for $30, as well as some luxe options with triple digit price tags. 

Our Top Picks

Yogci leather briefcase for men.

Perry Ellis 8-wheel Spinner Mobile Office

KROSER 17.1" Laptop Briefcase

We have plenty of variety when it comes to style, size and price range, so you’re bound to see at least one travel bag you like. Read on to find the best travel briefcase for you!

Top Product Overview

Best travel briefcases.

The Yogci leather briefcase is a great option if you need something with a large capacity . This bag can fit two laptops inside dedicated compartments – a 15.6” device in the padded sleeve and a 17.3” laptop inside the main compartment.

This briefcase has three compartments total , with plenty of space inside. In addition to the two laptops, you can also fit a tablet, all the cables, and chargers, as well as a bunch of files and folders inside the main compartments. There’s even an organizer with two side pockets, for all the small stuff you want to keep easily accessible.

And those are just the internal pockets. This bag gets better because it features four external pockets as well, one of which is equipped with an organizer. There’s also a luggage sleeve in the back, which lets you mount the bag on top of a suitcase, for effortless maneuvering of multiple pieces of luggage.

This travel briefcase is great for business travel because it looks very sleek and sophisticated. It’s made from full grain genuine leather , so you get that luxe feel when you touch it.

But what’s more important than that is that the exterior of the bag is very durable, and it’s not going to get ripped or damaged easily.

However, you should be careful how much stuff you put inside this bag. The manufacturer recommends that you keep the total weight of the bag under 60 lbs, to ensure that it’s not going to get ripped anywhere.

In case you need to carry some really heavy items in your travel briefcase, you should get the Yogci genuine leather briefcase in Crazy Horse brown leather – that’s the toughest and most durable type of leather you can get.

• Stylish and professional
• Large capacity fits 2 laptops
• Lots of small pockets
• No shoe pocket

Product Information

• Dimensions: 17.5" x 6" x 12"
• Weight: 3.3 lbs
• Material: Full grain leather

If you want the ultimate carry-on for business travel, it’s the Perry Ellis Spinner mobile office . This wheeled bag features a dedicated laptop sleeve , smaller pockets for your phone, passport, and boarding pass, and a pretty spacious compartment that can fit enough clothes for a couple of days.

I want to talk about the exterior of the bag for a bit – that’s actually one of the reasons why this mobile office is one of the best things you could get. It is made from a mixture of ballistic nylon and polypropylene , which means it’s a hybrid softside and hardside bag.

Both materials are very durable on their own, and when you combine them together you get a travel briefcase that’s tougher than your average suitcase.

This travel bag also has a spacious exterior pocket that’s great for the stuff you want more easily accessible. There are small slip pockets inside this compartment, but there’s also a lot of space so you will be able to fit documents and files in there.

In addition to that, this bag features four spinner wheels and a retractable wheel handle for effortless moving around the airport. The wheels glide like a dream, and you will have zero issues maneuvering this bag.

It is a carry-on-sized briefcase, but it is not small enough to fit under airplane seats. And that’s the main downside of the Perry Ellis mobile office – while I really like how spacious it is, I would have much preferred it to be a proper underseat bag .

Also, the laptop sleeve can only fit devices up to 13.5”, so it’s not a good option for anyone with a bigger laptop. But if you have a smaller computer, you won’t have any trouble fitting it inside the bag.

• Dedicated computer sleeve
• Spacious interior
• Double spinner wheels
• Doesn’t fit laptops larger than 13.5”
• Not an underseat bag
• Dimensions: 9.5” x 15.5” x 16”
• Weight: 4.2 lbs
• Material: Ballistic Nylon and Polypropylene

The Kroser travel briefcase is one of my favorite bags in this review. It features a sleek design that’s suitable for business travel, it’s very roomy and you can get it for less than $30 . Whether you want a very durable briefcase or just an affordable one, the Kroser laptop bag is a great option for you.

This travel bag has a spacious main compartment with a padded laptop sleeve and two open pockets inside. There’s also a compartment in the back, with a large zippered pocket for files and folders, as well as a much smaller, hidden zippered pocket.

And then there are also two smaller compartments on the front of the bag, both of which have excellent organizational features.

The first pocket has two open pockets that are great for bulky chargers and cables, while the second one features an entire organizational panel, with slots for your phone, pens, cards, etc.

In addition to that, the Kroser laptop briefcase also features expandable capacity , allowing you to make it even bigger and more spacious. This is perfect if you usually come home from your trips with more stuff than you originally brought, or if you just want that extra flexibility.

The briefcase has two sturdy grab handles with a faux leather strap, as well as a wide shoulder strap with thick padding. The shoulder strap is removable, and you can take it off entirely if you don’t want to use it.

It’s also important to note that the exterior of the bag is water repellant , so you don’t have to worry if you get caught in light rain.

However, it’s not so water repellant that it will keep everything dry in heavy downpours, so try not to expose it to the elements too much – especially when the conditions are more rugged than usual.

• Excellent organizational features
• Very affordable
• Water repellant exterior
• No side pockets
• Luggage strap is very thin
• Dimensions: 17.1” x 12.5” x 7.1”
• Weight: 2.65 lbs
• Material: Ballistic fabric

Polare Modern Travel Briefcase

If you are not worried too much about the money and want a bag that looks and feels very luxurious , go with the Polare Modern briefcase . It is made from full grain genuine leather, with durable cotton lining inside. And it’s a pricey bag, so you should probably skip it if you’re on a tight budget.

The Polare briefcase has three main compartments , as well as five additional zippered pockets on the outside. One of the main compartments features a padded 15.6” laptop sleeve, the second one has a big zippered pocket inside, and the third one is equipped with card and pen organizers.

Additionally, even though the dedicated sleeve can’t fit a 17” device, you can fit one in the main compartment with ease – just not in the sleeve. There’s more than enough room inside for multiple computers, tablets, all the computer accessories, and even a change of clothes!

One thing that I love about this bag is that it only features YKK zippers . And, that is a feature that was added in a later design, after complaints from consumers. This shows that the brand actually listens to their customers and that they want to give you the best possible product for your money.

Another example of that is the fact that they changed the fabric of the lining – it used to be polyester, but after customers complained that it was getting ripped easily they switched it to cotton, which is a lot tougher and more durable.

In general, I don’t actually think that this bag is worth the really high price point – you can find the exact same features in a bag that has one less digit in the price tag. But it won’t feel anywhere near as luxurious, and that’s why it just might be worth it.

• High end leather exterior
• Five external pockets
• Three main compartments
• Dedicated laptop sleeve doesn’t fit 17” devices (bag does)
• Dimensions: 17.7” x 6.3” x 13”
• Weight: 4.64 lbs

Thule Accent Convertible Laptop Briefcase

The Thule travel briefcase is an excellent convertible option . This bag can be worn like a backpack or like a traditional briefcase, meaning that it is very versatile. Especially with the rugged and durable materials that the exterior of this briefcase/backpack is made from.

The main fabric of the briefcase is 1680D polyester , which is very thick and strong. It has excellent tear and abrasion resistance and is even water-resistant as well.

Even though polyester is not generally as good as nylon, that’s not the case with this bag because it is made from a very thick kind of polyester.

Because of that, this bag would make a decent option if you needed something to take on an outdoor adventure. Maybe you’re not too big on the great outdoors, but if you ever needed a bag that you could bring on a hike or picnic, the Thule bag will be there for you.

It’s very comfortable to wear like a backpack, thanks to padding and breathable mesh on the shoulder straps. I think it’s actually more comfortable to wear it like that since the weight is distributed better when you have two shoulder straps as opposed to one.

Let’s talk about the capacity and storage of the bag – the Thule briefcase is very slim, and it has two main compartments . There’s a dedicated laptop sleeve for 15.6” computers, a tablet sleeve, an organizer panel, and multiple other open pockets inside its main compartments.

In addition to that, this bag also features several zippered pockets on the outside, including a SafeZone compartment that will protect your most valuable items.

The shoulder straps are stowable, so they won’t get in the way when you’re carrying this like a standard briefcase. And you get a luggage strap in the back, which lets you secure this Thule bag on top of a bigger suitcase so that it is easier to move around with several pieces of luggage.

• Versatile convertible design
• Multiple compartments
• Rugged materials
• Small capacity
• Does not fit 17” computers
• Dimensions: 17.3” x 5.1” x 11.8”
• Weight: 2.29 lbs
• Material: 1680D Polyester

Samsonite Classic Multi Gusset Toploader Briefcase

The Samsonite travel briefcase is another high quality option. It is made from 1680D ballistic nylon – a very tough and durable material that is also very water-resistant. The exterior of the bag also has excellent tear and abrasion resistance, and it would take a lot of effort to damage this bag.

That’s great – you know that everything you put inside it will stay safe and protected from the elements. And you get two main compartments for your items – one of those features a wide laptop sleeve that can hold even the bulkiest 17” laptops.

The interior of the bag also features multiple open pockets, for easy organization of all the smaller items.

In addition to that, this travel briefcase is also equipped with a variety of external pockets and compartments. There are two spacious compartments on the front panel, and one in the back. Also, one of the front compartments features an organizer panel with lots of open pockets, so you will be able to keep all your smaller stuff easily accessible.

The back of the bag also features a luggage sleeve that lets you secure the briefcase on top of a bigger suitcase. This is especially convenient if you’re traveling with several pieces of luggage because it frees up one of your hands, and just makes everything easier.

One thing important to note is that this isn’t the most spacious travel briefcase you can get your hands on. It’s great if you need something just for your laptop and files, but not the best option if you want to be able to pack clothes in the briefcase as well.

• Fits 17” laptops
• Very durable exterior
• Multiple external pockets
• High quality
• Quite narrow
• Lacks side pockets
• Dimensions: 17.25” x 12.5” x 3.5”
• Weight: 2.4 lbs
• Material: 1680 ballistic nylon

Lifewit Men's Military Laptop Briefcase

The Lifewit laptop briefcase is an excellent option if you want something really durable . This bag is made from mil spec materials, so it’s definitely one of the toughest options you can get. The exterior of the bag is made from 1690D nylon, and it is really water-resistant.

One unique feature of this briefcase is the presence of MOLLE panels on the sides. They allow you to attach anything you want to the briefcase if you have a carabiner, which means you can transform this laptop briefcase into a proper outdoor bag if you want.

The briefcase has one main compartment , but it’s really spacious. It has a 17” laptop sleeve inside, as well as a couple of open pockets for a tablet, wallet, or other small items you want to have easily accessible.

And there’s so much room inside – you could fit clothes for a couple of days, or ridiculously thick bundles of documents.

In addition to that, the Lifewit briefcase also features an extra front compartment with an organizer, as well as four closed pockets on the front and one open side pocket. The organizer in the front compartment actually features a computer sleeve that could fit a small laptop, and also extra spots for a tablet and a phone.

The bag even has a luggage strap in the back, which allows you to secure it on top of a larger suitcase, for easy manoeuvring of multiple pieces of luggage. On top of all that, this travel briefcase has a very attractive price tag as well. It’s under $50 , which is a great deal for such a versatile and durable bag.

• Very durable and water repellant
• Fits 17” computers
• MOLLE panels on sides
• Exterior not very professional
• Not a lot of pockets inside main compartment
• Dimensions: 17.7” x 6.3” x 13.4”
• Weight: 3.19 lbs
• Material: 1690D nylon

Alpine Swiss Rolling 17" Laptop Briefcase

The Alpine Swiss briefcase is another great option if you want a bag with wheels. This one features two in-line skate wheels , which allow you to wheel it around instead of carrying it in your hands.

While they might not be as convenient as spinner wheels, the skate wheels have the advantage of being low-profile, ensuring that the bag dimensions are within airlines’ restrictions for carry-ons.

And, when you look at the boxy shape of the briefcase, it’s obvious that spinner wheels would have made it too big to bring on board. But that boxy shape is also a reason to love this bag – the hardside frame means it’s a very sturdy bag.

This travel briefcase has a retractable wheel handle that allows you to easily maneuver the bag, and which locks into both extended and stored positions. There’s also a grab handle at the top, and it is important to note that all the handles are riveted onto the bag, for maximum durability.

In addition to that, this briefcase is a great option regardless of your computer size because it can fit even the bulkiest 17” laptops. And with the spacious shape of the main compartment, you will have plenty of space inside for other documents, files, and even a change of clothes.

The interior of the bag features several organizers, including dedicated pen slots and phone pockets. There is actually a divider inside the main compartment, so it should be pretty easy to stay organized while packing inside the Alpine Swiss travel briefcase.

The bag also has a few external pockets , for all those items you want to keep more easily accessible. And another important thing you should know is that this only looks like it is made from leather, but it’s not.

The main fabric is faux leather, with some plastic parts – not only does that make the bag environmentally friendly, but it also means a much more affordable price point.

• Carry on sized
• No spinner wheels
• Dimensions: 19” x 14” x 9”
• Weight: 8 lbs
• Material: Faux leather

CoolBELL Convertible Travel Briefcase  

If you’re open to getting a more versatile bag, I would suggest the CoolBell convertible briefcase . It has all the makings of a good travel briefcase, as well as two comfortable shoulder straps that allow you to carry it like a backpack.

And that’s really great if you want a messenger bag that can do both but can’t afford to spend a lot of money on it. Especially since this particular briefcase retails for less than $50, making it one of the most affordable options you will see in this review.

There are two sizes to choose from – one fits 15.6” laptops, and the other will easily fit even the bulkier 17.3” devices. They both have the same features, and they only differ in the actual size of the bag.

This convertible briefcase has two main compartments . One features a laptop sleeve, while the other one has an organizer panel with multiple slip pockets. And there are also several external zippered pockets, some of which are hidden and thus great for your valuables.

The bag also has a luggage strap that will make it super convenient to travel with multiple luggage pieces.

I want to talk more about how you can carry the bag – obviously, you get the basic briefcase strap that lets you carry it like a standard messenger bag, as well as two top grab handles. Then you also have the two shoulder straps that are padded and covered with breathable mesh for excellent ventilation.

But you should know that the shoulder straps are stowable, and if you don’t want to use them it’s possible to just tuck them away behind the backpanel.

• Convertible design
• Great organizational features
• No water bottle pockets
• Dimensions: 18.8” x 5.1” x 13.7” 
• Weight: 2.2 lbs
• Material: Canvas Oxford Nylon

Kenneth Cole Reaction Colombian Leather Briefcase

Kenneth Cole makes some high quality luggage for business travel , and their briefcases are particularly interesting. There are several that are made from full grain leather, and which look about five times more expensive than they actually are.

If you want a luxurious travel briefcase that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg, the Kenneth Cole one is great for you!

This bag is made from full-grain Colombian cowhide leather, which is as premium as it sounds. It’s also a high maintenance material, and you should be very careful not to damage the exterior of the bag. The leather needs to be oiled every now and then if you want it to look fresh and clean.

In terms of internal compartments and pockets, this is a very standard briefcase. It has two main compartments, one of which features a padded 15.6” laptop pocket  and a smaller tablet sleeve.

The other main compartment has an internal divider, allowing you to organize its contents however you want. It’s a spacious compartment with expandable capacity, so it works both for files and clothes.

In addition to that, this travel briefcase also features zippered pockets on the front and back panel. One of the front pockets has an organizer panel inside, which even features an RFID safe pocket .

And there’s also a luggage strap in the back, allowing you to secure the Kenneth Cole briefcase on top of a bigger suitcase for easy maneuvering of your luggage.

The briefcase is equipped with a sturdy shoulder strap that is mostly made from webbing – I love this because it’s a very durable fabric that will not get ripped easily. And there’s the leather padding, which will keep you comfortable and classy up the rugged appearance of the shoulder strap.

• Expandable capacity
• RFID safe pocket
• Very durable shoulder strap
• Doesn’t fit 17” laptops
• High maintenance exterior
• Dimensions: 16.5” x 12” x 5” 
• Weight: 3.2 lbs
• Material: Full grain Colombian cowhide leather

What To Look For

Exterior materials.

The materials a briefcase is made from can tell you a lot about its durability, quality , and ease of maintenance. And the most common materials featured in this review are nylon, polyester, and genuine leather.

Nylon is the most durable out of the bunch, especially if we’re talking about thick ballistic nylon. It has excellent water resistance even without any additional coating, and it is able to protect the contents of the bag in case of rain or snow.

Nylon also has great tear and abrasion resistance, and it will not get torn easily.

However, it doesn’t look very sleek or professional. Ballistic nylon can actually look really sporty, so it might not be the best option if you’re looking for a classy business bag.

In that case, you’ll most likely wind up with a really sleek leather briefcase. The main thing you should know about leather bags is that they are very tough and durable, but also require a lot of maintenance.

You shouldn’t expose them to the elements too much, because that could damage the leather.

Full-grain leather should be oiled every now and then if you want to keep it looking good as new. It’s also not that easy to clean – you should use either lukewarm water or products that are specifically for leather care.

Last but not least, I also included some polyester bags. They are very similar to the nylon ones, at least in terms of external appearance. Polyester is not quite as durable as nylon, so those bags might not be as tough as the ballistic nylon ones.

But they will be cheaper though, considering that polyester bags tend to be more affordable than other bags.

Briefcase Size And Capacity

I showed you a lot of different briefcases here, so at least one of them should be a great fit for you. And it’s pretty easy to weed out the ones that aren’t a fit at all – just look at the size of the laptop sleeve. If it can fit your device, awesome.

If it can’t, just cross it off the list!

After that, make sure that you’re okay with the number of main compartments a briefcase has. You want a bag that’s perfect for your needs – if you want to put clothes in it, then it should have at least one really spacious compartment. If that’s not the case, you’ll be okay with some slimmer and smaller bags.

Additionally, the amount of external pockets are also very important.

We’re talking about travel briefcases here, so it makes sense to look for pockets where you can put your phone, passport, boarding pass, etc. – all those things that you want to keep secure, but easily accessible at the same time.

But, are you okay with a basic bag, or do you want one that has extra features? Maybe you’d like RFID-safe pockets? Or even MOLLE panels? Really think about this – if there are any features that are a must for you, then look for a bag that has them.

You can find info on any additional features in the pro boxes, so check what those say before you actually buy anything!

Briefcase Shape And Type

I showed you several different types of briefcases here, and it’s important that you choose the one that fits your lifestyle best.

If you want a bag that you can wear multiple different ways or use for different occasions, go with a convertible briefcase or maybe even a messenger bag .

These bags can also be worn as backpacks, which might be more convenient for daily commute. And they have all the features you get on a standard briefcase, so you’re not really giving up on anything.

You also saw some wheeled travel briefcases – I recommend these to people who usually carry some really heavy items in their bags. Wheels mean that you don’t actually have to pick up your bag, so you’ll be able to move around with ease even it weighs some 20 lbs.

And of course, there’s the standard briefcase style that was predominantly featured in this review. If that’s exactly what you’re looking for, then just make sure that you’re okay with the number of compartments, pockets, and the materials a bag is made from before you actually buy it.

Best Travel Briefcase: Our Top Choices

Having a hard time choosing just one travel briefcase? You can just go with one of our top three picks, depending on the exact briefcase style you’re looking for!

If you just want a basic travel briefcase , one of the best options is the Yogci leather briefcase . It looks sleek and professional, which makes it one of the top options for business travel.

And it has three main compartments that can fit two laptops (both 17″ and 15.6″ ones), an abundance of external pockets and organizer panels, as well as a luggage strap in the back. As long as you’re okay with the high-maintenance leather exterior and a slightly high price point, you’ll like the Yogci briefcase a lot.

In case you would prefer a more versatile bag , go with the Thule Accent travel briefcase . It converts into a backpack thanks to the two comfy shoulder straps, which makes this bag suitable for many different things.

It’s an excellent briefcase for business travel, but also a decent backpack for hikes. With multiple main compartments, tablet and laptop sleeves, and a variety of external pockets, everyone can find something to love about the Thule bag.

• Protect a 15.6" PC and 10" tablet in dedicated pockets
• Safeguard glasses or other valuables in Safe Zone compartment

Wheeled briefcases are also very popular because they are so incredibly convenient. And one of the best-wheeled briefcases you can get is the Perry Ellis Mobile Office . It features spinner wheels so you can roll it in any direction you want, as well as a very spacious main compartment.

The bag is made from both polypropylene and ballistic nylon, and it’s this hybrid construction that makes it more durable than any other travel briefcase. If you want a bag that’s rugged, easy to travel with, and spacious enough to be your only bag, this is the one to get.

• Ballistic construction
• Spacious compartment

Head over to Amazon to see the prices of any one of these awesome travel briefcases. But before you do that, would you check out our related posts first? We have more bags we want to show you, and you might just fall in love with some of them!

RELATED POSTS: 

BEST ROLLING BRIEFCASE FOR WOMEN

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The 17 Very Best Work Bags for Women

Including one that can handle both the new york subway and a vermont mountain hike..

In this article

Best work bag overall.

• Best with zipper or drawstring
• Best with compartments
• Best backpacks
• Best for travel

The best bag for work isn’t one-size-fits-all. Sometimes, I need a work bag to do everything at once: look professional but not too stuffy, accommodate gym sneakers and a laptop, and organize all the miscellany you definitely don’t need (reading material, makeup bag , and even the odd wine bottle). Other times, I settle for a stylish bag that fits the essentials — a workhorse tote from Baggu, for example — or something that can go from in the office to after-work drinks — like a timeless leather shoulder bag.

To help you find the work bag that suits your lifestyle and budget, my colleague Rachael Griffiths and I surveyed a bunch of stylish, industrious women about the multitasking tote bags , backpacks , and over-the-shoulder options they rely on to get them through the workday — and beyond. Then, along with a few other discerning Strategist staffers, we tested their recommendations over several months to find the best work bags for all kinds of people — all which you’ll find below. And if you’re looking for something for longer hauls, check out our buying guides to weekender bags and carry-ons .

What we’re looking for

In general, you want a work bag that’s strong enough to hold heavy laptops and durable enough to survive being squished on the subway but still looks good to bring to the office. The material will be the main thing that determines that. Leather is a no-brainer in that department, but it can be expensive. Canvas, especially waxed or coated, is another common option; it’s still durable and usually less expensive than leather. I’ve also found some nice nylon options, which are generally easier to clean than either leather or canvas.

Prices for work bags are broad, ranging from $20 to a few hundred dollars, depending on their durability and materials they’re made of. Most of our picks are in the range of $100 to $250, and I’ve found that’s generally the sweet spot for durability and looks. But I included affordable options as well as worth-it, and every bag is denoted as either $ (under $100), $$ (under $250), or $$$ (over $250).

Material: Leather | Price: $$

The Madewell Transport Tote has been a favorite of Strategist editors and readers alike, since it was first recommended to us by Deb Perelman of Smitten Kitchen in 2018: “I do not have very exciting or expensive tastes in handbags; I just need a bag with a handle-drop length, so I can shove it over my shoulder while wearing a puffy jacket that holds a laptop, water bottle , and all the toys my kids swear they want to play with that I get stuck carrying home,” she told us.

With Perelman’s (and so many of my colleagues’) praise for the bag in mind, I knew I needed to try it for myself. Though I’ve used it for only a few weeks, the Transport Tote has become my main everyday bag, whether I’m running a quick errand or packing for a weekend trip . That’s because it’s just the right width (and depth) to fit everything I need: There’s enough room for both my 13-inch work laptop and my personal MacBook Pro, plus a charging cable, a hefty book, a few snacks, and a small pouch carrying other daily essentials, like makeup and hand cream . I also love that its design is simple yet classic without any branding on the exterior, making it easy to dress up or down. The leather is slightly grained but still smooth, and while I haven’t been able to test it for long, I have a hunch that it will patina beautifully season after season. And I recommend taking advantage of Madewell’s complimentary personalization service : It’ll give you up to ten characters to play with, so feel free to go for your initials or favorite (short) phrase.

Best (less expensive) work bag

Material: Faux -leather | Price: $

For the cost of a Sweetgreen salad, you could sport this “super-affordable work bag” from Dreubea. It comes recommended by Dianna Baros , who chronicles her life as a frugal-fashion expert on her style blog the Budget Babe. She notes that there are “lots of colors to choose from, making it easy to swap out your bag for different color trends as the seasons change.” She’s not the bag’s only fan: It has more than 5,000 Amazon reviews, 75 percent of which gave four and five stars. This soft, structured bag can comfortably hold an iPad, as well as your wallet , phone, keys, Dopp kit , and the latest novel .

Best work tote bag

Material: Cotton | Price: $

Baggu’s Duck bag has been a favorite work bag here at the Strategist for a number of reasons. It has a snap closure, top handles, an adjustable strap long enough to make it a crossbody, and it’s deep enough to accommodate documents and a laptop. Elizabeth Tamkin , stylist and content director at KULE , also counts herself as a fan. For about five years, she has used Baggu’s tote whenever she has her laptop on her. She likes that it is extremely long-lasting and sturdy, comes in fun patterns, and is machine washable.

Best leather work tote bag

My favorite work bag from Madewell is also available with a top zip, in case you’re worried about accidentally dropping something from a too-stuffed tote. It’s also got two different sets of straps: two short top handles, plus a detachable shoulder strap that allows you to wear it across your body.

Best faux-leather work tote bag

Material: Artificial leather | Price: $

Cosmetic-surgery directory founder Annabelle Baugh commutes on the train with this inexpensive faux -leather tote. “I get asked where I got my bag all the time,” she says. “It’s replaced a more expensive Dune tote bag that I had for a few years, and I would say it’s one of the nicest bags for less than $50 I have ever had.” The bag has plenty of space for a tablet, her cell phone, a notebook, a one-liter flask, and the pair of ballet shoes she likes to slip into between meetings. She also appreciates the adjustable straps that she toggles up and down to perch the bag most comfortably on her shoulder.

Editor’s note: The Jocose Moose Shoulder Bag is currently unavailable, but you can check the  product page  for restocking information.

Best sustainable work tote bag

Material: Nylon made of postconsumer plastic | Price: $

While other bags on this list are made partially out of sustainable materials, this Kokolu tote is made of 100 percent recycled post-consumer plastic bottles. Former Strategist senior editor Chelsea Peng, who has been carrying her work computer in the yellow Kokolu bag for three months now, says she “swears its springiness (probably thanks to the water bottles it’s made from) gives some sort of energy return that makes things feel lighter” than in other totes she’s owned. Peng also appreciates the bucket shape, because it can fit “a sweater , pouches, and other softer things around your laptop both to protect it and to obviously fit more inside.”

Best convertible tote for work

Material: Recycled tarpaulin | Price: $$

Suitcase Magazine columnist Anna Hart and designer Tyler McGillivary told us they use the sturdy bags from Freitag as their workhorse. The Swiss brand recycles truck tarpaulins into sturdy bags. Hart says her tote is a “compact yet virtually indestructible carry-on that can be converted into a comfortable backpack with a simple clip-on strap.” McGillivary also loves the strength and look of her bag: “It’s the perfect shade of yellow, in my opinion, and paired with a washed-out orange, it reminds me of fruit and fresh paint.”

Best work bag with zipper

Material: Leather | Price: $$$

Former Strategist senior writer Karen Iorio Adelson was a devoted Madewell Transport Tote user until one ill-fated trip to the airport, when the strap on her “(admittedly overstuffed) tote tore off” while she was waiting in the security line. She ordered an older version of the classic zipper Cuyana bag from her phone on the spot and called it a “big upgrade.” “The pebbled leather doesn’t show scratches or wear as easily, and it holds everything you’d need for a workday,” she says. Another fan is Strategist contributor and law student Mya Gelber, who, after six years of looking for her ideal sturdy-yet-lightweight work bag, finally landed on Cuyana’s classic tote . Gelber describes the leather as “so soft” and says it sits comfortably on her shoulder “even while carrying my thousand-page textbooks.”

Both Strategist senior writer Liza Corsillo and writer Arielle Avila tested Cuyana’s pebbled-leather Easy Tote. It comes in two other versions — small and tall — and Avila chose the latter. “I appreciate its slim, streamlined silhouette and that it’s still able to fit my laptop, wallet, phone, keys, and even a couple journals,” says Avila. Corsillo’s bag is her go-to for her New York City subway commute. “My favorite thing about it is how light the actual bag is, so I’m not adding any weight to what I’m carrying,” she says. “It also has double handles, so I can carry it two ways really easily.” You can shop the tall tote in eight colors, including pine and cream.

Best suede work bag with zipper

Material: Suede | Price: $$$

This handsome suede bucket bag is the go-to work bag for Strategist writer Dominique Pariso . If you’re wondering why it looks familiar, it’s because the bag went viral on TikTok last year — but Pariso says it’s no fad. “I really do love it and think it’s worth the hype,” she says. “It’s very sturdy: It holds all my daily essentials including my laptop. And I always get compliments.” The bag’s buckle strap means it can be adjusted to sit comfortably on any shoulder, and handy credit card pockets and a zip closure means all your valuables stay put. “I haven’t had any issues keeping it clean, but I’m very careful with it,” Pariso says. (Banana Republic also makes the bag in regular leather, which Pariso recommends if you’re after something that doesn’t need a lot of maintenance.)

Best leather work bag

Annelise Sealy, founder of the Fall Bride , says this Acne bag was on every single shopping wish list she wrote until she finally made the investment. “It fits everything I need in it for any type of day, whatever the season: whether I’m commuting to the shop in London or rushing between bridal presentations in New York and Barcelona,” she says. “It’s leather and that is important to me in a bag — to know that it has longevity.” Sealy says that the waterproof leather also suits the London weather well. The bag is available in four shades, but Sealy chose black — she wanted a work bag that would go with all outfits for maximum use, but one that still had an element of style. “Previously I’ve had more utilitarian (read: less chic) options that I felt needed to be swapped out for different times of day or events, but this bag comes with me to anything.”

Best work bag with compartments

Material: Canvas | Price: $$

For a versatile bag with some serious structure, try this tote from Dagne Dover. When I tested the Signature Tote, I immediately noticed how sturdy the shoulder straps felt, even when I’d filled the bag to the brim. But what was most impressive was the tote’s eight interior pockets, which kept all my daily necessities in order. The largest interior compartment perfectly fits my 13-inch laptop on one side of a padded divider; meanwhile, the opposite side can easily hold a tablet or Kindle. This technology pocket also has a wide strap with magnetic closure, so I don’t have to worry that my MacBook Pro is sliding around. Compact items, such as my wallet, phone, and lip balm, easily fit into the smaller pockets, and the bag is equipped with a nifty detachable key leash. But my favorite feature is the neoprene water-bottle holder, which keeps my 32-ounce Owala upright and helps wick away condensation.

Don’t just take my word for it: The Dagne Dover Signature Tote also “meets all the needs” of high-school assistant principal Jade Stenger , who appreciates that it has a range of compartments to keep all her items safe and organized. She even trusts it to hold her digital camera, work folders, school supplies, snacks for her little one, and her travel coffee tumbler .

Best backpack for work

Material: Neoprene and mesh | Price: $$

“I’ve never been a big backpack person, but that may be because I always had a plain, unfussy Jansport,” says Avila. “After testing out Dagne Dover’s Dakota backpack, I’m a backpack convert.” The backpack is made from a thick, durable neoprene material that, as well as being water resistant and easy to clean, looks far more luxurious to Avila than plain canvas. It also has plenty of slots for essentials. “My laptop, notebooks, pens, and other miscellaneous things stay organized with its laptop compartment, two exterior zipper pockets, interior zipper pockets, and more. And it’s incredibly comfortable to carry around with its padded straps.” When I spoke to cool women for another story , it was also brought up multiple times. One of its fans, personal stylist Cassandra Sethi, says that the neoprene and mesh material “molds to your body and breathes.” Sethi adds that while it can comfortably “hold everything you need” for the workday, it’s also great for travel . She says “it was the perfect backpack to bring along” on her four-country honeymoon trip.

Best (less expensive) backpack for work

Material: PU Fabric | Price:  $

Strategist writer Rachael Griffiths lives in London, where the rain often drizzles for whole weeks at a time, so having a fully waterproof backpack to store her laptop in is essential. After spotting it on the tube more times than she could count, Griffiths was keen to try this Rains bag for herself — and when the brand sent her a sample, it quickly became her go-to work bag. According to Griffiths, Rains’ PU material has a nice, waxy feel to it that is super-satisfying to the touch. Inside the backpack, she can fit her laptop, plus a packed lunch, a change of clothes for the gym, and whatever notebooks and stationery she may need. Even when the bag is full, it doesn’t feel dorky, and thanks to the roll-top opening, Griffiths can squish it down to a size that doesn’t tower over her five-foot-five frame. There’s also a handy pocket for her ID or travel card on the front.

Best luxury backpack for work

Material: Re-nylon | Price: $$$

As a co-founder of her PR agency Merritt Tate , Laura Merritt often finds herself having to run across London to meet with clients, head to shoots, and host events, so “having a bag that can run around London with me and not just take me to and from an office is essential,” she says. “I decided to be sensible and get a backpack, but as a fashion girl I couldn’t bring myself to get anything ugly — which a lot of backpacks are.” To satisfy both form and function, she invested in the Prada Nylon backpack. Merritt compares it to a Mary Poppins bag, as she can fit “laptop, chargers, packed lunch , notebook, headphones, and sometimes even an outfit change.”

Best faux-leather backpack for work

Material: Faux-l eather | Price: $$

For a “sleek, stylish, structured” backpack that’s just north of $100, style influencer Bethany Everett-Ratcliffe suggests this faux-leather option from Calpak. It has a separate, zippered back compartment to keep your laptop secure, a luggage sleeve, and several zippered pouches inside the main compartment that help keep the rest of your belongings organized. While the bag is available in classic colors like black and brown, it also comes in blush and mint if you prefer something a little less predictable.

Best work bag for travel

Material: Nylon | Price: $

Longchamp’s Le Pliage tote is a favorite among multiple Strategist staffers, including myself, for being so durable. New York Magazine deputy editor Alexis Swerdloff says hers has withstood nearly two decades of wear and tear, and former Strategist editor Maxine Builder says her 15-year-old Le Pliage tote is a “classic in our household” that her husband has “permanently borrowed.” I’ve owned mine for more than seven years, and it’s held up through commutes and multiple vacations. It’s so durable because it’s made of a waterproof nylon material. Seattle-based knitwear designer and blogger Elisa Yip says that it “repels water to protect all my important stuff,” including her iPad, phone, wallet, makeup bag, and eyeglasses. Yip adds that it’s a great bag for traveling , since it can fold up and fit into a carry-on, making it a good choice if you’re someone who takes a lot of business trips. My editor, Hilary Reid, seconds this: She bought her orange Le Pliage while on a trip to Venice (vacation, not business) and used it as an extra carry-on bag to bring home souvenirs.

Best (less expensive) work bag for travel

Material: Nylon | Price: $$$

While this bag may cost the same as two months of membership dues at a luxury gym , Katheryn Thayer , vice-president of brand marketing at Primary Venture Partners, says it’s a must if you love to work out after (or before) work. “Caraa’s super-versatile ‘luxury sports bags ’ are magical,” she promises, noting that the bag “has a million secret pockets, adjustable straps that convert to a backpack or over-the-shoulder weekender, and a big, cushiony pouch for my laptop. Plus, it zips fully closed.” Thayer adds that people stop her in the street to ask where she got it all the time. (If you’re just looking for a gym bag, I’ve got lots more options at various price points here .)

Our experts

• Karen Iorio Adelson , former Strategist senior writer • Arielle Avila , Strategist writer • Dianna Baros , author of The Budget Babe • Annabelle Baugh, founder of Cosmetic Surgery Advancements • Anna Bond , Rifle Paper Co. co-founder • Maxine Builder , former Strategist editor • Liza Corsillo , Strategist senior writer • Bethany Everett-Ratcliffe , content creator • Anna Hart , travel columnist at Suitcase Magazine • Rachael Griffiths , Strategist writer • Tyler McGillivary, designer • Mya Gelber , Strategist contributor and law student Laura Merritt, co-founder of PR agency Merritt Tate • Dominiqe Pariso, Strategist writer • Chelsea Peng , former Strategist senior editor • Deb Perelman , author and Smitten Kitchen writer • Lauren Ro , Strategist writer • Annelise Sealy, founder of the Fall Bride • Jade Stenger , high-school assistant principal • Cassandra Sethi , personal stylist • Alexis Swerdloff, New York Magazine deputy editor • Elizabeth Tamkin , stylist and content director at KULE • Katheryn Thayer , vice-president of brand marketing at Primary Venture Partners • Elisa Yip , knitwear designer and blogger

Update on June 21, 2024: Added note on restock notifications for the Jocose Moose Shoulder Bag. Updated prices and checked stock for all products.

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The Best Bags for Business Travel

Business bags need to have a certain grace and formality to them. But if you plan to travel with them, they also need to offer practical designs for clocking up the miles. Travel can be demanding, so durability is key. But you don’t want to be hefting unnecessary weight, so lightweight construction should certainly factor into the decision-making process too. And of course organization is another important consideration. You’ll want to keep business tools, travel items, clothing and other essentials tidy and easily accessible, rather than having to deal with a jumbled free-for-all.

Finally, it’s worth thinking about the environments you’ll be navigating on your travels. Will you be bringing your bag into a boardroom or meeting? If so, does it look the part or will it draw unwanted attention for its too-casual aesthetics? Do you need to look sharp or pack a lot? Wheeled bags are convenient for heavy loads and can lend a more professional air to your appearance.

On the other hand, if you’ll be experiencing busy streets, public transport and changing terrains, backpacks can be a great option for navigating crowds, rough terrain and steps. Nothing says you mean business like a briefcase, and shoulder bags can be a good option if you want to balance easy portability and smart style.

Choosing bags for business travel is a decision that requires time and consideration. But to help you out we’ve rounded up some of the best bags for the job…

The Backpack

Thule Accent Backpack 28L (US$ 129.95)

The 28L Accent Backpack is a practical, adaptable choice for short work trips and overnight or weekend stays, and packs plenty of features into its sleek form. The bag’s wide-opening main compartment provides ready access to your gear, and you’ll find a useful mix of interior and exterior pockets to keep your travel essentials tidy. A choice of top and side access lets you easily reach your laptop on the go, and the luggage passthrough sleeve allows for handy all-in-one portability with rolling luggage.

Arc’teryx Blade 28 (US$ 138.98)

The Blade 28 is ideally suited to overnight or short trips, with a range of features to organize your work and personal items. The main clamshell-style compartment is handy for storing clothes and documents, while a front pocket with interior organization is useful for keeping frequently used items tidy and within easy reach. The pack’s internal padded sleeve fits up to a 15″ laptop, while exterior top and side handles provide additional carry options.

Incase EO Travel Backpack (US$ 179.95)

Incase’s EO Travel Backpack offers a convenient clamshell opening for easy packing and access, with an expandable main compartment when you need to pack a little extra. The flat-lay laptop compartment makes passing through airport security easier and fits up to a 17″ laptop. Rounding things off are a choice of quick-access pockets for travel and EDC essentials, as well as top and side grab handles for flexible portability.

Tom Bihn Synapse 25 (US$ 235)

The versatile Synapse 25 lends itself to a range of uses, from carry-on companion to urban daypack at your destination or outdoor bag if your trip allows you to squeeze in a day hike. A range of front pockets keep your work and travel essentials easily accessible. The main compartment opens wide for handy access and includes a large elastic-topped pocket for organization. Take note, there’s no dedicated storage for a laptop so you’ll need to supply your own sleeve (or go with Tom Bihn’s optional Cache ). The pack comes in a choice of fabrics and includes a lifetime guarantee.

Aer Travel Pack (US$ 220)

Winner of our Best Carry-On award , Aer’s sleek and stylish Travel Pack offers a variety of handy features for the business traveler. A clamshell-style main compartment allows for easy packing and access, a suspended laptop pocket stores up to 15″ tech, and a dedicated shoe compartment keeps your shoes or dirty laundry away from the rest of your gear. There’s also plenty of pockets for organizing smaller items, and compression straps to cinch the bag into daypack mode for use at your destination.

Minaal Carry-on 2.0 (US$ 299)

The Minaal Carry-on 2.0 looks suave in urban settings but is tough enough for regular travel use. Complementing the clean silhouette are a host of features such as a rain cover, an adjustable sternum strap that clips out of the way when not in use, top and side handles, and a protective backpack strap cover to prevent unsightly dangling or snagging in tight spaces. The device compartment offers suspended and adjustable storage for a laptop, a passport pocket, plus a document sleeve. Peek inside the main compartment and you’ll find 3D pockets to help keep your gear tidy on the move.

Tom Bihn Tri-Star (US$ 360)

Functional and adaptable, the Tom Bihn Tri-Star offers great organization, a durable build with a lifetime guarantee, and a choice of handy carry options. Quick-access front pockets are useful for smaller travel, work and EDC items, while three compartments provide storage for clothes, tech and documents. The bag includes top and side carry handles and stowable backpack straps, and can also be used with an optional shoulder strap.

Slicks BIZ (US$ 369)

The Slicks BIZ is a sleek carry-on with plenty of features to keep you organized during your travels. A dedicated suspended laptop compartment fits up to 15″ devices, while front pockets offer storage for bulkier items and shoes. The clamshell-style main compartment includes pockets for documents and valuables, and storage space for the modular Slicks Suitcover to keep work clothes wrinkle-free and the Slicks Tripcover. The Tripcover provides multiple pockets for additional clothing, along with a removable laundry bag, wash bag, and Slicks Shirtcover to protect shirt collars and assist with folding.

Briefcases and Shoulder Bags

Red Oxx Mini Boss (US$ 245)

A more compact alternative to Red Oxx’s Air Boss, the burly Mini Boss is suitable for carry-on use and provides two compartments for clothes and tech. The first compartment includes a flip-out pocket for smaller items or toiletries, while the second compartment includes a suspended laptop sleeve. Exterior full-length pockets on the front and back let you stash frequently used items for easy access. In addition to top grab handles, the bag also comes with a detachable non-slip shoulder strap. And for peace of mind, this handmade bag includes a “No Bull” lifetime warranty.

Red Oxx Air Boss (US$ 265)

The Red Oxx Air Boss offers all the durability of the Mini Boss, but with a larger 40.4L capacity (compared to the Mini Boss’s 24.3L). A detachable non-slip shoulder strap and top handles provide carry flexibility, while a choice of three compartments provide storage for clothes, work documents, and tech. It’s worth noting the Air Boss does not include dedicated storage for a laptop, so you’ll need to provide your own protective sleeve. There’s also a choice of exterior pockets for storing items such as a phone, passport, and magazine.

Mandarina Duck Carry Borsa Da Lavoro (around US$ 310)

The Mandarina Duck Carry Borsa Da Lavoro moves smoothly between formal and informal settings alike with a slim and understated design. In addition to a shoulder strap the bag includes top and side carry handles for easy portability. Well suited to carrying work essentials, the bag offers space for a laptop, documents and organizer pockets to keep smaller work tools and travel items in order on the go.

Rimowa Salsa Deluxe Hybrid Notebook (US$ 425)

Lightweight yet durable, the Salsa Deluxe Hybrid Notebook is crafted from polycarbonate and Keprotec® fabric reinforced with Kevlar fiber. The bag can be carried with the top handles or a removable shoulder strap, and offers a variety of exterior pockets for storing quick-access items. In addition, one of the exterior pockets can convert into a trolley passthrough sleeve for easy transport with larger luggage. The main compartment opens wide for hassle-free access and includes a removable laptop sleeve, along with further pockets for organizing smaller items and space for a change of clothes.

Tumi Alpha 2 Expandable Organizer Laptop Brief (US$ 455)

A premium offering from Tumi, the Alpha 2 Expandable Organizer Laptop Brief looks right at home in the boardroom but adapts to a range of environments. The bag includes a main compartment and a secondary compartment with multiple dividers for organization. A tablet sleeve and a removable padded laptop sleeve take care of your tech, while a host of exterior pockets provide convenient storage for smaller work tools and travel items. And not forgetting one of the main features, the bag is expandable so you can easily store a change of clothes for an overnight trip or additional work supplies.

Travelteq Briefcase Original Special Edition (around US$ 455)

The elegant Travelteq Briefcase Original Special Edition gives a solid nod to style while providing practical features for carrying business and travel essentials. Crafted with vegetable-tanned Florentine Vacchetta leather and waterproof Limonta nylon, the bag offers a range of slip and zipped interior pockets and dedicated storage for up to a 15″ laptop. An exterior pocket for smaller items and a concealed newspaper pocket provide further organization, while a luggage strap lets you easily secure the briefcase to trolley luggage.

Eagle Creek Expanse™ International Carry-On (US$ 189)

Eagle Creek’s Expanse™ International Carry-On adapts to smaller and larger loads with a 33.5L volume that expands to 36.5L when you need to pack in extra. Additionally, exterior attachment points allow you to secure bulky items externally. The bag’s heavy-duty wheels handle a range of terrains with ease, and a choice of top, side and bottom grab handles help you maneuver the bag in tight spaces. Quick-access items can be stored in a range of exterior pockets, including a padded tablet sleeve. Inside the main compartment a further pocket offers additional organization, along with compression straps to keep clothing tidy. Security features including a Central Lock Point and Secure Zip™ Toggles provide peace of mind, as does the No Matter What™ warranty.

Timbuk2 Copilot Luggage Roller (US$ 225)

The Timbuk2 Copilot Luggage Roller packs in plenty of useful features such as grab handles on all sides, two front pockets for a laptop and quick-access items, and a choice of pockets in the main compartment. The bag can be opened in a clamshell-style mode for easy access throughout the main compartment. Alternatively a front flap provides fast entry when you don’t want to open the bag completely. The Copilot is also backed by a lifetime warranty so you can feel confident it will hold up to years of use.

Raden A22 (US$ 295)

The Raden A22’s sleek aesthetics are complemented by a variety of smart luggage features to help make your journeys smoother. An integrated battery and two USB ports allow you to conveniently charge tech devices on the go. In addition, proximity sensors utilize Bluetooth to provide location updates and help keep the case by your side, while the case’s handle also serves as a luggage scale. Made with lightweight yet impact-resistant polycarbonate, the Raden A22 also features spinner wheels for convenient maneuverability.

Thule Crossover Carry-on 56cm/22″ (US$ 299.95)

This rugged roller bag will stand up to years of demanding use thanks to its tough oversized wheels, V-Tubing™ telescoping handle, hard-wearing exoskeleton and molded polypropylene back panel. The clamshell main compartment makes it easy to pack and retrieve items, and there’s dedicated storage for a 15″ laptop and fragile items. Even better, it’s got a carry trick up its sleeve. Concealable backpack straps let you quickly convert the roller bag to pack mode, so you can easily navigate stairs, rough terrain and crowds when the need arises.

Incase Kaskade Carryon with Luggage Tag (US$ 349.95)

Designed in collaboration with DJ KASKADE, this roller offers urban-friendly style combined with useful travel functionality. Top and side handles assist with maneuverability in awkward spaces, and a quick-access front pocket is handy for the likes of toiletries. A choice of mesh pockets in the main compartment prevent a jumbled mess, and the clamshell-style opening enables easy access throughout. As an added bonus, the roller also comes with a luggage tag.

Rimowa Salsa Air Multiwheel (US$ 495)

Crafted from lightweight yet tough polycarbonate, the Salsa Air Multiwheel brings style and easy maneuverability to your travels. The bag includes spinner wheels, top and side carry handles, a TSA-approved combination lock, and two interior mesh pockets for organization. The 33L case also comes with a five-year warranty and looks good in any setting.

Samsonite Lite-Cube Spinner 55cm (around US$ 485)

The Lite-Cube Spinner offers a sophisticated combination of elegance, durability and easy movement. The case is crafted from impact-resistant yet lightweight Curv material and comes with a 10-year warranty. The clamshell opening reveals a choice of interior pockets for organization. Complementing the interior are useful exterior features including a TSA lock, recessed top and side carry handles, and an integrated ID tag.

Tumi Alpha Bravo Peterson Wheeled Backpack (US$ 545)

Can’t decide between a pack or wheeled luggage? Have both with this adaptable hybrid design that can be carried as a backpack or wheeled as rolling luggage to suit different environments. The bag offers a retractable pull handle for wheeled use, along with stowable backpack straps and a wheel cover to protect your clothing in backpack mode. Quick-access travel and work items can be conveniently stored in a variety of exterior pockets, including dedicated space for a 15″ laptop and tablet. The main compartment opens wide for easy packing and access, with a pocket for further organization and compression straps to keep clothing secure.

Garment Bags and Suit Carriers

Eagle Creek Pack-It Garment Folder – Medium (from US$ 28.01)

Eagle Creek’s Pack-It Garment Folder provides a convenient way to reduce wrinkles in your clothing, with Compress Wings™ that provide stretch compression. The folder comes with a handy folding instruction board and is constructed with water and odor-resistant material. A grab handle lets you easily transport it to and from your bag, and a choice of three sizes accommodate different loads (with the small and medium fitting in most carry-on bags).

Henty CoPilot (US$ 229.98)

The Henty CoPilot tackles the challenges of business travel with a two-in-one design. The exterior garment bag is designed to roll around an inner tube bag that can hold shoes, accessories, toiletries and other travel essentials. Exterior pockets on the garment bag let you keep a laptop and smaller business or travel items within easy reach. A choice of grab handles and backpack straps keep you moving smoothly in changing environments, and a rain cover protects your gear against the elements.

Mismo M/S Suit Carrier (around US$ 555)

Mismo’s M/S Suit Carrier deftly merges functional design and refined style. The carrier can be unzipped fully for easy access, revealing two interior pockets for additional storage and organization. An exterior zippered pocket is convenient for housing frequently used items, and the premium materials and construction will stand up to the demands of travel for years to come.

VOCIER C38 Travel Bag (around US$ 710)

The VOCIER C38 is a handsome and luxurious carry-on bag designed to carry work clothes wrinkle-free. VOCIER’s Zero-Crease System provides curving storage for a suit to prevent wrinkles, and can also be hung up in your accommodation for easy access. A quick-entry opening lets you remove items such as a wash bag from the inner compartment without having to open the main zipper. A removable interior compartment stores additional items, while an exterior pocket in the handle provides secure and convenient storage for a passport and ticket.

Tumi Alpha 2 4 Wheeled Extended Trip Garment Bag (US$ 975)

If money is no object and wrinkle-free clothes are a priority, Tumi’s Alpha 2 4 Wheeled Extended Trip Garment Bag may be just what you’re after. The bag includes two brackets for hanging clothes on either end of the main compartment, with straps to keep items secure on the move. The bag also includes removable zippered pouches for organizing smaller items, as well as dedicated storage for three pairs of shoes. In addition, exterior pockets provide further storage for extra clothing items and travel or business essentials.

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The Best Carry-On Luggage for Business Travel

This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you, if you make a purchase through these links. See our full disclosure here .

Savvy frequent flyers pay special attention to every little detail when booking flights, hotels, and rental cars; this same vigilance applies to buying gear. This can be doubly true of business travelers, mainly because their needs can be more stringent than leisure travelers.

Those who frequently go on work trips must keep their documents, laptops, smartphones, and other electronics safe at all times, so they need luggage that accommodates these needs and meets airline regulations in weight and size. And, ideally, without risking lost luggage by having to check a bag.

An excellent piece of luggage will not only be ideal for keeping your essentials organized and secure, but it’ll also give you the peace of mind you need during your travels so you can focus on the job at hand. Below you’ll find some of the best carry-on luggage for business travel on the market so you can have the peace of mind you deserve.

Monos Hybrid Carry-On

Possibly the perfect carry-on suitcase for business travelers, Monos’ Hybrid Carry-On combines the best features of polycarbonate and aluminum luggage into a single premium rolling trolley. While most of the shell is crafted from lightweight thermo-plastic, the corners and latch are reinforced with aluminum to add extra protection to potential impact points and eliminate the possibility of a zipper malfunction. The result is a piece you can covet for years, and happily so, thanks to the intelligent organization features.

Not sure if it’s the right fit for you? My detailed Monos Hybrid Carry-On review might help you decide.

Carl Friedrik The Carry-on X

Business travel requires a professional-looking case made of premium materials, and The Carry-on X from Carl Friederik is exactly that – and so much more. Crafted from first-rate polycarbonate, with a secure aluminum lock frame, silent Japanese spinner wheels, and sleek leather details, it delivers the ultimate blend of style and performance.

Apart from its good looks and outstanding construction, a few other things stood out when testing the suitcase : the snap-shut locks are way more secure and satisfying to use than a zipper, and the hard-shell front pocket, complete with a laptop compartment, is truly a lifesaver and makes passing security a breeze.

Thanks to an ideal combination of size, aesthetics, and innovative features, this suitcase has also emerged as one of the best carry-on luggage for business travel in our tests .

Horizn Studios M5 Smart

A combination of innovation and eco-conscious design makes the Horizn Studios M5 Smart the perfect cabin suitcase for business travel. This carry-on, with its robust, partially recycled German polycarbonate shell and chic vegan nylon front pocket, not only withstands the rigors of travel but also speaks to the environmentally aware traveler. Its sleek design and lightweight structure are meticulously tailored for effortless air travel, ensuring your journey is as smooth as your arrival.

Functionality meets sustainability in the M5 Smart’s design. The one-click removable smart charger keeps your devices powered up, eliminating the hassle of searching for power outlets. The four-stage telescopic handle and TSA-approved lock, coupled with the smooth glide of the Japanese spinner wheels, provide security and ease of movement, essential for the fast-paced business traveler.

Inside, the M5 Smart reveals its true genius. The interior, crafted from the finest recycled materials, offers an ideal layout with dual zippered mesh compartments and a compression pad. This design not only maximizes space but also keeps your business attire and essentials impeccably organized and wrinkle-free. The addition of a premium laundry bag adds a thoughtful touch, enhancing the overall packing experience.

July Carry-On Pro

If you hate the struggle to free your laptop from your carry-on to pass through security, you’ll want to consider July’s Carry-On Pro seriously. Designed so that the included laptop sleeve – which has room for your passport, documents, keys, and other essentials in addition to a 16″ laptop – attaches directly to the front of the case, it’s easy to snap off quickly to place through the scanner.

Like many contemporary suitcases, this one comes with an integrated power bank. However, the Carry-On Pro has a mechanism that quickly ejects the device whenever you’d like to tote it with you separately. Combined with its premium organization features, the Carry-On Pro is a strong candidate to become your new favorite travel companion.

Béis Soft-Sided Collapsible Carry-On Roller

Perfect for corporate urbanites living in small spaces, the Soft-Sided Collapsible Carry-On Roller from Béis folds into a slim profile to store it away. When you’re ready to travel, the integrated wall panels in the interior snap right into place, ready to pack.

The easy-access front pocket can carry your laptop and essentials you need to keep at hand and includes a cord pass-through you can use with a battery bank to charge your phone on the fly. Though it’s packed with functionality, the design is far more distinguished and streamlined than your average soft-side trolly, so it’s as impressive to look at as it is to use.

Briggs & Riley International 21″ Carry-On Spinner

A lightweight, hard-shell suitcase that’s perfect for those who travel with tech, the Briggs & Riley International 21″ Spinner has a dedicated hard-shell space for your essentials aside from the main compartment. Opening the hinged front pocket reveals several organizational dividers, with room for your laptop, hard drives, cables, and even a small drone. And its double-spinner wheels are designed to keep the bag upright even when the front panel is open.

The main compartment boasts all the amenities business travelers require: built-in mesh suiting straps, cinch-down garment dividers, and midline panels to keep your belongings organized.

Samsonite Stryde 111 Carry-On Spinner

Although they’re already a legacy brand, Samsonite’s Stryde 111 Carry-On Spinner proves they’re never done innovating. While its exterior appears deceptively simple – although beautifully designed – the back has a retractable luggage pass-through, allowing it to rest on top of a check-in bag, and the handle telescopes out to reveal LEDs that ensure you’re visible, even on dark streets.

Business travelers especially will appreciate the included amenities: pocketed dividers split the bag at the midline; the matching toiletry bag and packing cube keep your essentials mobile, and dual USB charging ports power up your devices in transit.

MVST Select Space Aluminum Suitcase

MVST makes some of the coolest aluminum luggage out there , and this stunning cabin case marries retro sensibilities with updated functionality to prove it. Though it bears the ultra-secure latch closure that makes checking a bag worry-free, its TSA-approved size ensures you may never have to. Pocketed panels split the Space Aluminum Suitcase at the midline to keep your things organized, whether laying it flat to rifle through your belongings or hefting it into the overhead bin.

Tumi Oxford 16-Inch Compact Wheeled Carry-On

The Tumi Oxford 16-Inch Compact Wheeled Carry-On is a quintessential choice for business travelers seeking both luxury and practicality. Designed to snugly fit under an airplane seat, this small carry-on is ideal for short trips where efficiency and accessibility are key. Its sophisticated design features a two-way, top-zip closure and a sleek, top carry handle, complemented by a five-stage telescoping handle. The exterior boasts a front straight-zip pocket, four recessed wheels for smooth mobility, and the unique TUMI Tracer luggage tag for added security.

Internally, the Tumi Oxford is a marvel of organization. It offers two spacious main compartments, seamlessly connected by a U-zip pocket, allowing for versatile packing options. The carry-on is equipped with a dedicated, lockable laptop compartment, fitting most 14″ laptops, and includes a built-in USB cable for on-the-go charging (power bank sold separately). Additional features like two media pockets, a card pocket, and a pen pocket cater to all your tech needs, making this carry-on not just a luggage piece, but a mobile office companion.

Hook & Albert Garment Luggage Carry-On

Already featured in our men’s carry-on luggage piece, we truly believe this cabin-sized garment suitcase from Hook & Albert will make business travelers’ life a lot easier. Made of lightweight Ballistic nylon, with elegant top-grain leather details and a pair of smooth-gliding wheels, the bag is both stylish and easy to maneuver. It also comes with durable YKK zippers, a TSA-approved lock, and a front zip pocket for quick access to essentials.

Where the Garment Luggage Carry-On really stands out is in its brilliant design – a garment section designed to keep up to two suits wrinkle-free folds out into a suitcase shape, creating room for more clothes and accessories inside. Here, an adjustable compression system keeps everything neat and compact, helping you pack more into the available space.

Level 8 Pro Carry-On with Laptop Pocket 20”

With a beautiful, minimalist profile, the 20″ Pro Carry-On With Laptop Pocket from Level 8 perfectly marries functionality with design. Inside you’ll find panels and straps typical of a rolling carry-on, though it’s maximized internally by the innovative placement of the handle and wheels.

The real boon is the hard-shell front pocket: though it looks incredibly slim from the exterior, opening it reveals a finely crafted organizational dock for your laptop, phone, passport, and other small essentials. While the main compartment has a three-side zipper, the front pocket is equipped with a quick-open latch to help you breeze through security even faster.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Spinner

Dynamic, ultra-lightweight, and affordable, the Maxlite 5 Softside Spinner from Travelpro is an ideal choice for both business and leisure travel. It has several smart features for the business traveler, such as organizational dividers in its front pocket. But if you occasionally jet off on vacation, it can expand 2 inches to give you extra room to tote home souvenirs. Bonus: it’s crafted from durable polyester canvas fabric that’s been weatherproofed to repel the elements.

Halfday Garment Duffel

For business travelers who make frequent short trips, the Halfday Garment Duffel can be a game changer if you’ve struggled to keep your jackets, pants, and gowns wrinkle-free in transit. It has an ingenious design wherein the walls of the integrated garment bag zip securely around end caps to create the main compartment of the duffel, giving you room for a Dopp kit, shoes, pajamas, and more. Bonus: it fits under most airline seats, so you’ll never have to worry about your suit getting crushed in the overhead bin or your dress getting wrinkled by baggage handlers.

Bric’s Bellagio Business 21″ Carry-On Spinner

A fully functional rolling trolley for business professionals that still looks effortlessly elegant, the Bellagio Business 21″ Carry-On Spinner from Bric’s hits the mark with the well-heeled. Though it has a fracture-resistant polycarbonate shell, it’s trimmed in contrasting vegetable-tanned leather, adding a refined quality. Its hard-sided front pocket holds your laptop and other small tech, and zips closed with the same water-repellent, self-sealing zipper as the main compartment for added protection.

RIMOWA Cabin Twist

An updated version of their legacy flagship case, RIMOWA’s Cabin Twist has become a clear favorite from the already iconic line. Just like their original luggage, the shell is made from corrugated anodized aluminum. But this model has been updated for the 21st century with proprietary cushioned-axel wheels and the Flex Divider system that adjusts to your needs. The twist comes in the styling: the handles, locks, and seal are all wrapped in contrast premium leather, and it comes with a matching luggage tag.

Samsonite Spinner Underseater with USB Port

Compact, durable, and efficient, the Spinner Underseater with USB Port is the perfect choice for travelers craving comfort and convenience during their flight. It fits perfectly under the seat in front of you and is brimming with practical details that place it at the top of its category.

Its four multi-directional spinner wheels glide effortlessly across all surfaces, ensuring smooth transitions from the airport to the boardroom. The integrated USB port is a standout feature, providing convenient access to personal portable chargers (not included), keeping your devices powered up and business-ready.

Inside the Spinner Underseater, there’s an impressive level of organization. It features interior mesh pockets and dedicated laptop and tablet sleeves, ensuring your tech essentials are secure and easily accessible. The bag’s exterior is just as thoughtfully designed, with a zippered pocket featuring an organizational panel for smaller items, and an additional pocket for quick access needs. The SmartSleeve on the back allows for seamless stacking on larger luggage pieces, making it an ideal companion for the savvy, tech-oriented traveler.

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Best Business Suitcases and Luggage That’s Efficient and Easy to Use

Best Suitcases , Business

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If you travel for business, you have different packing strategies than if you’re on vacation. It starts with the right suitcase. These picks for the best luggage for business travelers will keep you organized and streamlined!

Best Business Suitcase and Luggage for Frequent Flyers

Table of contents.

When traveling for business, choosing the right piece of luggage comes down to efficiency. You need space for all of your items at close reach. You need to easily navigate to, from, and through airports and hotels. Of course, you need to keep your clothing wrinkle-free for your meetings.

We’ve rounded up the best business travel luggage, that includes suitcases, bags, backpacks, and more, all with efficiency in mind. Take a look at these top picks!

Best Carry On Luggage for Business Travel

Shop: Amazon

Best Travel Luggage for Business Travel: Delsey Helium Aero 19”

The Aero business travel bag with wheels offers a large capacity with maximum comfort. The large easy access front compartment with an integrated padded sleeve fits up to a 15-inch laptop, while two zippered mesh pockets are perfect for accessories, toiletries, or any last-minute items such as tickets, a passport, or books.

Most Popular Business Traveller Luggage: Travelpro Platinum Elite 20”

Travelpro’s business travel luggage carry on is full of functionality, with USB ports to charge on the go and a padded laptop sleeve on the front that fits laptops up to 15.6”. Users love the easy maneuverability and ultra-strong hard shell to protect their items inside.

Best Luggage for Business Travel on a Budget: Coolife

This sleek business suitcase with laptop compartment from Coolife will keep you super organized. The front pocket will safely store your laptop (up to 13.3”) and has plenty of pockets for storing documents, boarding passes, and other essentials. The spacious interior allows for efficient packing, too!

Shop: Amazon | Travelpro

Best Softside Carry-On Suitcase for Business: Travelpro Maxlite 5

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 business travel luggage carry on is a major favorite with readers, and business travelers love it for its quality, lightweight, excellent packing capacity, and polished look. The many pockets and compartments make it easy to store your electronics, chargers, and other business travel necessities.

Find out why readers love the Travelpro Maxlite 5 expandable spinner suitcase so much!

Shop: Amazon | Samsonite

Best Hardside Carry On for Business Travel: Samsonite Freeform

The Freeform business suitcase with wheels has a lightweight yet durable shell and TSA locks to keep your belongings as safe as can be. A firm handle and double-spinner wheels make for a smooth and easy ride. The interior is roomy, and the compression straps will keep your business attire neatly pressed!

Most Versatile Business Travel Luggage: Level8 Grace

There’s a place for everything in this Level8 Grace business suitcase on wheels ! This carry on is solidly built, and its anti-scratch surface will keep it looking nice. It comes equipped with a front laptop compartment for laptops up to 15.5”, while cross straps, dividers, and an overall spacious interior make for seamless packing!

Travelpro Platinum Elite 20″ Expandable Business Plus Carry On Spinner

Most Popular Luggage for Business: Travelpro Platinum Elite

Travelpro is one of the most popular luggage brands among TFG readers, and the Platinum Elite collection is by far the most recommended, specifically this classy  20” Business Plus carry on . It’s made from high-density materials that resist water, stains, and abrasions, so it’ll hold up beautifully to the wear and tear of travel. Looks aside, this suitcase features tons of interior and exterior organization, ultra-smooth and sturdy wheels, and chic leather trim.

It weighs 8.2 lbs and its dimensions are 20″ x 14″ x 9”, making it a great companion for both domestic and internal travel.

Best Under Seat Business Suitcase With Wheels

Best Wheeled Under Seat Bag for Business Travelers: Delsey Paris Chatelet

This chic Delsey overnight business travel bag will store all you need for a quick trip, including your laptop or tablet in the protective inner sleeve. Not only is the construction elegant, but it’s super durable and built to last. As a bonus, it comes with a removable pouch for accessories.

Best Business Travel Luggage for Under Seat Bag: Samsonite

The aptly named Samsonite Mobile Office under seat bag is truly a business traveler’s dream! It features a compartment for clothing with sections to keep everything organized, a laptop compartment that fits laptops up to 15.6” as well as chargers, portfolios, or other work essentials, and an outer compartment for easy-to-reach essentials. It even has USB ports!

Here are the suitcase recommendations from top travel experts and why they love them!

Shop: Amazon | Walmart | Target

Best Two Wheel Suitcase for Business Travelers: Baggalini 

Super cute and full of function, this Baggallini smart business suitcase offers plenty of packing space and handy pockets to keep things organized. It’s made of strong, water-resistant nylon, has a laptop sleeve for 13” laptops, and has on-the-go charging capabilities, too!

Best Carry-on Luggage with Laptop Compartment

Shop: Amazon | Nordstrom | Tumi

Best Laptop Backpack for Business Travelers: Tumi Voyageur

We love Tumi luggage, so it’s not surprising that they also make an amazing laptop backpack that’s perfect for business travel. Spacious enough for your daily essentials, plus your laptop and a change of clothes, the Tumi Voyageur Carson laptop bag offers the perfect combination of practicality and chic.

It’s lightweight and features a water-resistant water bottle pocket, as well as a quick-access phone pocket, making this the best carry-on business luggage when you’re on the go.

Best Laptop Tote for Business Travelers: Delsey Chatelet 

If you find backpacks too casual or prefer a handbag style, we love the Delsey Chatelet Soft Air shoulder bag . This tote is spacious enough to carry your laptop among your other essentials, thanks to the zippered exterior pocket, two interior pockets, a removable pouch for small accessories, and two padded sleeves for a laptop and tablet.

Shop: Nomad Lane

Best Overnight Business Travel Bag: Nomad Lane Bento 

The Nomad Lane Bento Bag is both stylish, practical and manages to hold a ton of stuff while being lightweight and easy to carry. It opens like a suitcase for easy packing, and inside you’ll find a padded laptop sleeve for 16” laptops. The trolley sleeve, make its’ an ideal personal item for plane travel, too!

Is the Nomad Lane Bento Bag the Best Travel Companion? Checkout our review!

Best Luggage for Business Travel Suits and Clothing

Best Garment Suitcase for Business Travelers: Travelpro Maxlite 5

Keep your business clothes wrinkle-free with Travelpro’s Maxlite 5 garment suitcase , which is some of the best carry on luggage for business travel suits. Users say their clothes come out of this bag looking perfect every time and love the comfortable handle, smooth wheels, and durable design. The fabric is water repellant and stain resistant, so everything inside will be safe and sound!

Best Four Wheel Garment Bag: Samsonite Underseater

This Samsonite underseat suitcase makes the perfect business trip companion, with space to keep your clothes fresh and free of wrinkles, as well as a padded laptop compartment for 13.3” laptops. Not only that, but it has a USB port, large side pockets, and a front pocket with pen holders and card slots.

Top Business Luggage Features

When choosing the best luggage for business travel, we recommend focusing on these features:

Flexibility

When traveling for business — depending on how heavy or light of a packer you are — you may want the flexibility of a bag that can be easily wheeled around or carried by a shoulder strap. Which is your preference?

Price and Quality

Purchasing luggage under any circumstance should be considered an investment. You want something durable and well-made. Business luggage is no different. In fact, you’ll want to invest in something stylish that presents a great image while traveling.

Sleek Style

As much as we may love fun patterns or bright colors, keep business suitcases and bags in more subtle tones and minimal patterns. Grey, black, and navy are always winners that will never go out of style.

Easy Organization

When traveling for business, it’s important to be able to easily access your essentials, such as your laptop, tablet, toiletries , or documents. When choosing business travel bags, look for ones with a laptop compartment and multiple pockets so you can keep your necessities easily accessible.

Business Travel Essentials

Along with suitcases and travel bags, you’ll want a few travel essentials to help you stay organized, your electronics charged, and your business clothing wrinkle-free and ready to wear.

Compass Rose Universal All in One Travel Adapter

International Travel Adapter

A travel adapter is essential for business travel, as you’ll likely have multiple devices to charge. If you’re looking for the best international travel adapter, the Compass Rose International Travel Adapter is voted by readers as the best. you can use it in over 150+ countries.

Not sure if you need a travel adapter or voltage converter? Read our guide !

PurSteam 1300-Watt Steamer

Garment Steamer

While most hotels have irons, delicate fabrics are best ironed using a garment steamer. Our favorite garment steamer is this one. You can iron about one shirt per use. As a bonus, if you only steam the occasional clothing item, you can use this at home, too. It’s cheaper and more convenient than a full-size steamer!

Here are the best travel steamers !

Downy Wrinkle Releaser

Wrinkle Release Spray

A wrinkle release spray is extremely convenient to carry with you to keep your clothes wrinkle-free when traveling and looking fresh. If you don’t want to fuss with an iron, keep a travel-sized version of the Downy Wrinkle Releaser in your purse or carry-on luggage for ease of use.

Keep your clothes looking fresh and neat with these wrinkle release sprays !

Compass Rose Carryon Size Packing Cubes: Slim Size Cubes | Medium Size Cubes

How to Organize your Luggage

When you’re ready to travel with your newly purchased items, start with packing cubes; they will seriously change the way you pack! We designed our own brand of packing cubes , with a unique color and numbering system, so it’s easy to remember where you’ve packed everything.

Many of our readers use Compass Rose Packing Cubes to organize and compress their clothing and other items they plan to bring. These packing cubes are the only ones on the market with a number and color-coded system, so you know where you packed everything.

And now the Compass Rose Packing Cubes are offered in two sizes: slim and medium. The slim size cubes measure 13” x 5” x 2.8”, and the medium size cubes measure 2.8” x 13” x 8.5”. Both fit an international carry-on suitcase. Users say the medium size is great for bulkier items!

If you want to learn how to use packing cubes, watch the video below.

Learn our packing hacks with packing cubes in this video !

We also put together a five-part YouTube series showing the different methods to use packing cubes for travel. If you use this specific packing strategy, packing cubes can also compress your belongings. This method has helped many women travel carry-on only!

We recommend bringing along a lightweight luggage scale to weigh your cases before going to the airport. This will ensure you are below the weight limit and avoid extra charges and excess baggage fees !

What do you suggest is the best luggage for business travel? Share in the comments below?

For more information on packing for business travel, please read:

• What to Pack a Work and Pleasure Trip to Europe
• Business Trip Packing List 
• Business Travel Essentials  
• Best Laptop Bags for Women Travelers On the Go

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Having choices is always important. With TFG’s guidance, we selected Away hard shell luggage for our international travel. Thanks Alex and team for all the recommendations.

I love my Tumi backpack!

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Best Business Travel Luggage & Carry-on Bags in 2024

by Albert Varkki updated 03-23-2024

An experienced business traveler’s luggage can make or break their trip.

Travelers commonly carry it with them for up to hundreds of miles annually.

Some people prefer carrying carry-on luggage through the airport to avoid wasting time at the check-in counter and later at the baggage carousel.

In this post, we'll outline the best business travel luggage for 2024.

Want a quick breakdown? Here are our top picks:

• Best Rolling Carry-on Bag: Voyager Leather Carry-On Bag (click to view) - a stylish rolling carry-on bag made from the highest quality full grain leather, handmade in Italy.
• Best Professional Garment Bag: Grand Leather Garment Bag (click to view) - a stylish and professional travel bag with a built in garment bag for your suit. Full grain leather, detachable shoulder strap.
• Best Leather Weekend Bag: Weekender (click to view) - a leather weekender that's both professional and practical, with a dedicated laptop compartment and detachable shoulder strap. Made from high quality full grain leather.

Best Business Travel Luggage for 2024

Here we outline our top picks for business travel luggage by type and style:

Voyager Leather Carry-on Bag with Wheels

Best for the stylish and practical businessman on short business trips, the Voyager Leather Carry-On Bag with Wheels is a must-have.

Voyager Leather Carry-On Bag Product Highlights:

Watch the Voyager product video below:

Browse more images of the Voyager:

Albert says:

Click To Show More Images & Detailed Review

Click To Hide Extra Details

Grand Leather Garment Bag

Best for the professional businessman on short business trips, keeping suits and shirts wrinkle-free in the Grand Leather Garment Bag.

Watch the Grand product video below:

Browse more images of the Grand:

Weekender Men's Leather Weekend Bag

Best for a rugged weekend escape with the boys, the Weekender leather bag exudes masculine charm and durability.

Weekender Product Highlights:

Watch the Weekender product video below:

Browse more images of the Weekender:

City Leather Laptop Bag

Best for a businessman on short city trips, the Business City Leather Laptop Bag exudes sophistication and practicality.

City Laptop Bag Product Highlights:

Watch the City product video below:

Browse more images of the City:

10X Leather Laptop Travel Bag

Best for the fashionable executive traveling for business, the 10X Leather Laptop Travel Bag exudes sophistication and practicality.

10X Laptop Travel Bag Product Highlights:

Watch the 10X product video below:

Browse more images of the 10X:

City Large Leather Laptop Bag

Best for the stylish businessman on a city break, the City Large Leather Laptop Bag exudes sophistication and practicality.

Watch the City Large product video below:

Browse more images of the City Large:

No.1 Men's Leather Briefcase

Best for the competent businessman on business trips, the No. 1 Premium Leather Briefcase exudes confidence and sophistication.

No.1 Briefcase Product Highlights:

Watch the No.1 product video below:

Browse more images of the No.1:

How to Choose Business Luggage

We advise concentrating on the following characteristics when selecting the best luggage for business travel:

Cost and Quality

Any time you buy luggage, you should think of it as an investment. You want a sturdy, well-made item. Business travel bags are no exception. And investing in a fashionable piece that looks good on your travels is actually a great idea.

No matter how much you’re into exciting patterns and vibrant colors, ensure business suitcases and bags have more subdued tones and simple designs. Three colors that are constantly in style are black, gray, and navy.

Flexibility

Hinging on how much or little you pack, you might need a bag that you can easily wheel around or carry by a shoulder strap when you’re on business trips. What do you prefer?

Simple Organization

Having quick access to your necessities when traveling for business is crucial, including your laptop, tablet, toiletries, and documents. Look for business travel bags with a laptop compartment and lots of pockets, so you can keep your essentials close at hand.

Hard or Soft Shell Suitcases?

This is always a difficult choice. For flight travel, I typically advocate hard-shell suitcases. Mind you, my recommendation mainly refers to checked baggage. Since we are simply considering carry-on luggage, we don’t need to consider whether the bag will be jostled around.

Generally speaking, soft-side suitcases are more suitable for organizing. Exterior compartments are rather uncommon in hard shell suitcases. Additionally, they offer a single packing compartment, extensible capacity, and numerous pockets both inside and outside. However, they have a shorter service life than hard sides.

Compared to softshell suitcases, hard shell-baggage is more durable, especially if you choose a bag with a polycarbonate shell. That material is solid and lightweight and bends when it’s hit. Hard sides, on the other hand, are typically not the greatest choice for those who enjoy being organized while traveling.

• Leather Holdalls
• Best Leather Backpack
• Business Traveler Bags
• Best Travel Bags
• Men's Leather Travel Bags
• Best Travel Toiletry Bag
• Best Mens Travel Bag

Hard shells hardly ever come with an external compartment and scarcely have more than two or three pockets inside. Therefore, a hard-side suitcase is probably not the best choice if you prefer to have specific items close at hand while traveling. However, if strength and durability are your priorities, this is unquestionably the best option.

Are suit bags allowed as carry-ons?

You can bring soft-sided garment bags as carry-ons if they’re maximum 51 inches/130 cm (length + width + height) in size. Musical instruments must fit in the overhead compartment or beneath the seat in front of you to be allowed as carry-ons.

• Under Seat Travel Bags

We hope you enjoyed our best business travel luggage post.

If you ever need any help with anything to do with travel, bags or fashion, feel free to contact the Von Baer team, at [email protected].

Browse our other travel pages here.

Author: Albert Varkki

Albert Varkki is the co-founder of Von Baer. He understands leather products as a consumer, supplier, and a manufacturer, helping you with the inside knowledge you need, to choose the perfect leather product for you.

We always aim to have the highest editorial standards, and only publish accurate information on our website.

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10 best carry-on suitcases for business travel

Why do suitcases even matter?

Top 10 best suitcases for business travel

Best sustainable suitcase, ecoalf small trolley.

Best hard-side carry-on

Samsonite winfield 2 fashion carry-on spinner.

Best soft-side carry-on

Lipault original plume spinner.

Best spinner carry-on

Delsey st tropez trolley.

Best two-wheel carry-on

Eastpak transverz s triple denim.

Best luxury suitcase

Rimowa original cabin twist.

Best carry-on/backpack combo

Indulge by kipling.

Best carry-on under $100

Amazon basics soft-side carry-on.

Best under-seat luggage

Steve madden luggage wheeled underseat bag.

Most stylish carry-on

Metier london.

TravelPerk’s pro packing tips

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• Travel & Business

Business & Travel Briefcases

Shop briefcases for men with alpine swiss.

Train commuter or frequent flier, wherever you travel for work, make a smart impression with a men’s briefcase from Alpine Swiss. From the classic dressy business briefcase to a contemporary aluminium attache case or a more casual messenger bag, we’ve got all the latest ways to carry your papers and laptop in style. Our selection includes practical wheeled briefcases for navigating the airport, as well as roomy leather laptop bags and portfolios for the daily train journey. However you choose to get there, our men’s briefcases at Alpine Swiss will make sure you look the business when you arrive.

Alpine Swiss Expandable Attache Case Dual Combination Lock Hard Side Briefcase

Expandable Dual Lock Attaché Case By Alpine Swiss Product Features: Manmade Materials TSA APPROVED CARRY ON SIZE - Measurements 18” x 13” x 4.5” expands to 5.5” – TSA approved as a personal item or a carry-on to...

Alpine Swiss Oneida 15.6" Laptop Backpack With Tablet Sleeve & Mfg Warranty

Oneida Laptop Backpack By Alpine Swiss Product Features: Ballistic Polyester 2021 DESIGN UPGRADE – The Alpine Swiss Oneida tech backpack has been upgraded with updated design features and reinforced construction. This backpack measures 18...

Alpine Swiss Conrad Messenger Bag 15.6 Inch Laptop Briefcase with Tablet Sleeve

Conrad Messenger Bag 15.6" Laptop Case   Simply & perfectly designed, manufactured and backed by a 1 year warranty, alpine swiss thought about all the details to insure there is nothing lacking on this perfect lightweight bag.  Product...

Alpine Swiss 17" Laptop Rolling Briefcase Wheels Attache Lawyers Case

19” Rolling Catalog Case By Alpine Swiss Product Features: Leatherette TSA APPROVED CARRY ON SIZE – Measures 19" x 14" x 9" TSA approved carry-on size for all carriers. Interior measurements 17" x 13 1/4" x 7 1/2". Weight Capacity 44 lbs. ...

Alpine Swiss Mens Expandable Leather Attache Briefcase Dual Combination Locks

Expandable Leather Attache Briefcase By Alpine Swiss Product Features: Genuine Leather SECURE SLEEK DESIGN – The Alpine Swiss attaché leather briefcase is sleek and polished to help you make a great impression wherever you take it...

Alpine Swiss Aluminum Attache Case Padded Laptop Briefcase Combo Lock Hard Sided

Aluminum Laptop Attache By Alpine Swiss The Alpine Swiss Aluminum Attache Briefcase is sleek, durable, and professional. The roomy interior is perfect for organizing all of your business essentials for meetings or travel. Product Features: Manmade...

Alpine Swiss Rolling 17” Laptop Briefcase Hard Side Catalog Case on Wheels

Rolling Hard Case Laptop Bag By Alpine Swiss Product Features: Ballistic Nylon TSA APPROVED CARRY ON SIZE - Measurements 18” x 16” x 8.5” TSA approved carry-on size for all carriers. Inside measurements 16.5” x 13” x 6...

Alpine Swiss Rolling 17" Laptop Briefcase on Wheels Attache Lawyers Case Legal Size

Rolling 17” Laptop Catalog Case By Alpine Swiss Product Features: 1680 Ballistic Nylon & Leatherette  TSA APPROVED CARRY ON SIZE – Measures 19" x 14" x 9" TSA approved carry-on size for all carriers...

Alpine Swiss Messenger Bag Colombian Leather 15.6” Laptop Briefcase Portfolio

15.6” Laptop Briefcase Portfolio By Alpine Swiss Product Features: Genuine Leather Measurements 16” x 12” x 5” – Qualifies as a personal item or a carry-on to bring in flight, fits under seats as well. LAPTOP SLEEVE &...

What To Look For A Briefcase?

At Alpine Swiss, our briefcases and messenger bags are packed with clever features to keep your essentials safe and organized. If you travel frequently, consider a rolling briefcase bag, which easily meets FAA regulations for carry on size but comes with wheels to make any journey easier. Alternatively, if you travel more locally, you’ll appreciate the longer straps on our messenger bags so that you can wear them cross body or over the shoulder to keep your hands free. Of course, you’ll want to keep your business belongings safe and secure on your way to work or a meeting. If you carry your laptop with you wherever you go, look for a briefcase with a padded laptop or notebook sleeve to protect it. You can also keep confidential papers safely under lock and key with the bag equipped with a combination lock.

Find the Best Briefcase for Men To Elevate Your Look

Designed to provide you with a simple, clean, and minimalist look, a padfolio leather briefcase features few features where on one side, there’s a slot to hold a notebook or tablet, and the other hand has clips to hold your pen. The exterior is usually made of leather. Padfolios are great for salespeople who are always on the move and need to present clients with handwritten explanations of their products. A padfolio is also great for carrying brochures, catalogs, and business cards.

A portfolio has similar features to a padfolio, but it comes with handles that make it resemble a classic men’s briefcase . A Portfolio briefcase for men is small in size and often has a zipper to lock in essential documents and can even hold a laptop. Portfolios are great for artists who need to carry tools such as pencils and brushes in a secure and organized manner.

Messenger Bags

Coined from French for administrative staff , an attache is a slim briefcase that’s used to carry documents and other important papers. It has two symmetrical compartments and may feature a strap for easy portability. It can be made of leather or have a metallic exterior. It’s great for a man who’s always in meetings and needs a small briefcase to carry documents around.

Travel/Rolling Briefcase

Designed for business trips, the travel briefcase usually has castor wheels that help you maneuver around airports as you transverse the globe closing business deals. The inside is spacious and compartmentalized to hold your laptop, a change of clothes, slots for passports and other travel documents. It’s designed with the modern traveling man in mind and comes in a compact but the light size for smooth movement. Alpine Swiss has the best travel briefcases that will make each trip you take memorable and productive.

Evaluation of Briefcases for Men

Why Briefcases Can Be Essential for Businessman

Looking professional and being highly organized are two things that can help you close any business deal . Investing in a briefcase, say a nylon briefcase or canvas briefcase for men, can make all the difference in your business. With a briefcase, you will conveniently carry relevant documents, business cards, your laptop, pens, and even checkbook as you move from one business trip to the next .

Why Pockets and Organization is Important

Isn’t it annoying rummaging through your bag looking for a certain item? Keys especially! Being organized not only saves you time but also ensures that essential items such as documents are secure and protected from loss or damage. Pockets can be placed inside or outside the briefcase and help to hold items conveniently. Compartmentalization in a briefcase helps create order and a system that keeps everything organized and flowing. Ensure that you empty any junk from the pockets and slots to prevent your briefcase from being a dump.

What’s the Best Material for Your Travel Briefcase

One of the biggest strengths of vinyl is that it’s waterproof, which will ensure that the contents of your travel briefcase remain dry. Vinyl is also highly resistant to scratching and fire , which will provide you with extended service. However, the material is easily damaged when exposed to direct sunlight for an extended period.

A nylon travel briefcase is durable and resistant to wear and tear , which will provide you with a lengthy service. A disadvantage of this material is it easily deforms in hot temperatures, thus may not be ideal for a man living in very sunny areas.

Genuine Leather

Having a a genuine leather briefcase not only looks good because of its beautiful grains but also provides you with excellent durability . On the other hand, genuine leather requires constant care and maintenance to prevent it from cracking or wrinkling.

How to take care of your Briefcase

• Condition it regularly especially if it’s made of leather - At Alpine Swiss we believe that investing in an all-natural leather conditioner will help prevent your leather briefcase from drying which may lead to cracking.
• Air-dry it in case it gets wet - Don’t be tempted to use a hair dryer in case your briefcase gets rained on or accidentally becomes wet. Leave it out in the open air for it to dry naturally.
•  Store it well in a dry place - For longevity, store your leather briefcase away from direct sunlight or excess humidity.

Useful Tips to Know

As you explore the various options of bags and briefcases for men that Alpine Swiss has to offer, here are a few tips to guide your decision .

• Ensure that the briefcase has adequate capacity for all your stuff
• Go for quality materials that will provide you with extended service
• Gently condition your leather briefcase regularly.

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10 Best Backpacks of 2024 for Travel, Work and Everything Else

We tested over 50 backpacks to find the best buys for every occasion.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Best Overall

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack

Best for School

The north face borealis commuter laptop backpack.

Your backpack must hold everything you need, whether you're jetting off on a trip or heading into the office. With laptop sleeves, water bottle holders and all sorts of zippered compartments, a backpack needs to fit your necessities without feeling too heavy or bulky.

Fitting more than some carry-on suitcases in our tests, this Cotopaxi travel backpack had a spacious interior that holds everything from our standard packing test and more. The clamshell opening (similar to how a hard-side suitcase opens) makes for easy packing. The mesh compartments separate your clothes while it's still easy to see everything you have packed.

It includes thoughtful comfort features like padding in the shoulder straps, chest and hip straps and a breathable mesh back. The shoulder straps tuck away, so you can check this carry-on backpack in a pinch. Our testers appreciated the included raincover if you ever got caught in bad weather, but the bag itself also has a water-resistant coating for extra protection.

This pack is also available in 28L (which makes a great personal item!) and 42L. We think the 35L pack is ideal for most travelers as it fits the same as some carry-on suitcases without getting too heavy or bulky, which can be uncomfortable to carry. When evaluating this bag, we appreciated that the laptop sleeve could easily accommodate a 15-inch laptop. Note that this pack lacks a luggage trolley sleeve, so it doesn't stack easily on rolling luggage.

RELATED: 13 Best Travel Backpacks, Tested by Experts

At just $22, no other pack can beat the value of this MATEIN backpack. It's affordable without sacrificing features like two mesh water bottle holders, padded straps, ample zippered compartments, a padded laptop sleeve and a USB charging port to charge your phone on the go (power bank not included). This bag has over 97,000 reviews on Amazon with 23 different color options. It's sold in two sizes to accommodate either a 15.6-inch or 17-inch laptop.

When evaluating this bag, we were especially impressed with the amount of storage compartments. This pack has a hidden zippered compartment in the back to hold valuables like a passport when traveling. It has two front pockets to hold keys, wallet, phone, pens and more. Plus, it has a luggage trolley on the back to sit conveniently on top of rolling luggage. This pick makes a great personal item when traveling or as an everyday commuter bag!

RELATED: 20 Best Backpacks You Can Shop on Amazon

Head back to campus with a backpack that'll go with you from classes, to the gym, to extracurriculars and back to your dorm. Enter the Borealis backpack from The North Face. We have been recommending this backpack for years because it has a great design for students. Whether you're in high school or college, this pack can hold a laptop (in a separate padded compartment), textbooks, water bottles, notebooks, a sweatshirt and more while still feeling comfortable to carry.

In our Lab evaluation, the exterior fabric held up to abrasion and water-resistance tests. Our testers reported that this pack is comfortable to carry (even when packed to the brim), thanks to the padded straps and the waist and chest straps. We especially liked the thoughtful features, like a fleece-lined zipper pocket for glasses and a front bungee system to hold a jacket. Shop this pick in 18 colors.

RELATED : Best Backpacks for High School and College Students in 2024

Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe

Nothing ruins a trip quicker than a damaged laptop. Keep your technology safe with this laptop backpack from Timbuk2. It features a separate padded laptop compartment that can even fit larger computers up to 17 inches. There are internal sleeves to hold e-readers and iPads as well. There's generous padding on the back, padded shoulder straps and an optional chest strap to better distribute the pack's weight.

One GH analyst uses this backpack regularly when bringing his laptop to and from work. He even brought this backpack on a recent trip to China and appreciated the built-in luggage trolley sleeve. He said, "It's comfortable to wear and the pockets keep everything I need well organized."

RELATED: Best Laptop Backpacks, Tested & Reviewed

Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack

Ditch your suitcase for a quick weekend trip away with this Calpak weekender backpack. It's designed to hold everything you need for a few days away: clothes, footwear, toiletries, a water bottle, books, a laptop and more. The backpack straps can be tucked away and the pack includes a crossbody strap, so you can wear it like a traditional weekender bag — two bags in one!

The pack unzips around the side like a suitcase for easy packing. It includes compression straps that help keep everything in place. There are two spacious front pockets to hold must-have items and a separate padded laptop sleeve for easy access. The sleek exterior is water-resistant and available in 11 shades including classic neutrals and bold hues.

"I regularly use this pack on trips because it can fit an impressive amount without becoming uncomfortable to carry," reported one tester. "I use it as a personal item with no carry-on, so I can save a few bucks by avoiding bag fees." One tester did note that the water bottle holder was too small to fit her bottle.

RELATED: 11 Best Weekender Bags, Tested by Travel Experts

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 40 L

This Patagonia bag's rugged, water-resistant exterior helps protect your items, even in inclement weather. It's made with recycled polyester ripstop with a TPU-film laminate to prevent water from seeping in.

The backpack straps tuck away, so you can wear it either as a backpack or as a traditional duffel bag with an included crossbody strap. When not in use, this backpack stuffs into the small side pocket for convenient, built-in storage . It can be tough to get the duffel in and out of the pocket as it is a tight fit. The Black Hole duffel is avaialble in 40L, 55L , 70L and 100L sizes. We recommend the 40L size as it's spacious enough to fit a week's worth of clothes without feeling too heavy to carry for most people.

If you're looking for a smaller backpack, we recommend the Patagonia Refugio pack ; it's great for everyday wear when traveling as it's made with water-resistant materials and includes a well-organized interior.

Peak Design Travel Backpack

Designed for both longer and shorter trips, this innovative Peak Design bag has a 35L capacity but you have the option to compress it to create a 30L day bag or expand it to 45L.

This bag also converts to a duffel bag by conveniently tucking the backpack straps away, which is helpful if you ever want to check the bag when flying. You can access the bag's contents from the front, side and back, so it's easy to grab everything you need when on the go. Online reviewers especially liked this feature for easy access to camera equipment when traveling.

The main compartment only has one divider (which can roll down, but isn't removable), so we found it helpful to use packing cubes to keep everything organized. There are small zippered pockets in the front to stash must-have items like a phone, keys, wallet and lip balm.

Osprey Daylite Plus

Because you can't go hiking empty handed, bring a lightweight daypack like this top-tested Osprey backpack. This backpack features two stretchy water bottle holders on the side that fit larger bottles. It has padded straps with a chest strap and a removable hip belt for ergonomic support, important on longer hikes. The chest strap includes a built-in whistle to alert other hikers on the trail.

The front compression straps can hold wet or dirty clothes to keep them separate from the main storage compartment. Many online reviewers liked to put a rain jacket there in case they encountered bad weather. It has a separate back compartment that can either hold a hydration pouch or a 14-inch laptop — it's the perfect bag to bring from the trails to the street. Note that this backpack is hand wash only.

RELATED: Best Daypacks for Hiking, According to Pros

TUMI Alpha Bravo Search Backpack

TUMI is known as a status symbol for its luxurious travel products; they offer long-lasting, high-quality products and exemplary customer service. This nylon backpack with leather detailing is a staple among frequent business travelers. It has a sleek, professional look while still being comfortable to carry with padded straps . You have the option to add a customized monogram to the front of the backpack.

Grace Wu , Good Housekeeping Institute textiles product analyst, has tested dozens of backpacks, but she continues to use her 10-year-old TUMI backpack. She reports that it is "surprisingly spacious" and feels "high quality." The brand offers a limited warranty on many of its products with low-cost repairs.

Beis The Backpack

If you want a backpack that'll maximize your packing space without sacrificing style, The Backpack from Beis is ideal.

We were immediately impressed with the spacious interior that can fit multiple packing cubes. The top unzips all the way around for easy packing. It features two water bottle holders on the side — testers liked to use one for a water bottle and the other for an umbrella. Some testers wish the holders were stretchy or adjustable to accommodate larger bottles.

The separate padded laptop sleeve makes it easy to grab your computer without unpacking your whole bag. Featuring a luggage trolley sleeve, this bag pairs perfectly with the brand's matching carry-on suitcases . Plus, it's available in eight stylish shades with over 3,000 online reviews (an average 4.8 rating!). This bag is the ultimate travel companion.

RELATED: Beis Luggage Review: Does it Live up to the Hype?

Other backpacks to consider

While these packs didn't make the shortlist, they're high quality backpacks that performed well in our testing that you should consider:

JanSport Right Pack Backpack

A favorite for students from elementary school to college, this popular backpack from JanSport is made with durable, long-lasting materials, including a reinforced suede bottom. It has a simple design with two front pockets and a large interior with a laptop sleeve. It lacks organizational features that can be helpful when traveling, but is a great option for students.

Calpak Kaya Laptop Backpack

Another great professional option, this faux leather backpack from Calpak has a sleek look that's great for commuters with a separate laptop sleeve and a surprisingly roomy interior. It's also available in 25 colors — multiple GH editors have this bag in bold hues, including pink and purple! While it has an attractive look, this backpack couldn't accommodate bulkier items like shoes or a sweatshirt because of its shape.

Away The Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L

Away offers a variety of smart travel products to make your trip easier, including this extra-large 45L convertible backpack. The backpack straps tuck away, so you can use it as a duffel bag. Testers liked the comfortable straps and well-organized interior. Our main concern with this bag is that the zippers sometimes came loose in our testing.

RELATED: Away Luggage Review: Are the Popular Carry-Ons Worth the Hype?

How we test backpacks

The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab is comprised of fiber scientists and travel experts who have tested over 50 backpacks in recent tests. Testing styles designed for travel, school, hiking and more, both GH pros and our consumer testers used the backpacks before giving feedback on comfort when wearing a full pack, ease of use, convenience of pockets, appearance and more.

✔️ Backpack strap comfort and fit: We look at each backpack's straps to ensure they have padding and other comfort features like mesh for airflow. We also look for chest and hip straps, especially for hiking backpacks.

✔️ Material durability: Using a specialized abrasion tester, we evaluate the fabric's durability to ensure it will hold up against wear and tear.

✔️ Compartments including a laptop sleeve: We rate each pack's compartments and pockets to ensure there is ample storage space that's easily accessible. We put a laptop in the laptop sleeve to rate how well it fits and is protected.

✔️ How the backpack opens: Backpacks usually have one of two opening types: top opening or front opening.

• Top-loading backpacks have a zipper around the top of the bag, so it opens to one large compartment that you can fill. These are great to hold must-have items as everything is easily accessible, but they aren't designed to fit clothes and shoes.
• Front-loading backpacks (also known as clamshell-style packs) unzip around the side so they open up like a book for easy packing. These bags are better suited for packing clothes and toiletries as they will fit more, but items aren't as easily accessible when on the go.

✔️ Packing space: We pack each backpack with a standard load to rate how much each backpack can fit. We also rate the ease of opening and closing the pack when full.

How to choose the best backpack

Consider where you'll use the backpack before purchasing.

• Travel: Some travel backpacks are designed to hold what you'll need each day on vacation while larger ones are designed to hold a few days worth of clothes. Clamshell-style packs are best suited for carrying outfits — they can even be used as a personal item if your airline charges for carry-on bags.
• Hiking: A lightweight pack is a must when heading on a hike. Look for styles with chest and hip straps to better distribute the weight for a more comfortable feel mile after mile. Some hiking backpacks also include a pouch for a hydration pack.
• Business: Backpacks for business travel must include a padded laptop sleeve and ample space to hold what you need when attending meetings or conferences. Look for sleek materials like leather in neutral shades for a professional look.

Check the pack's total volume and packing space. If you plan to bring your backpack on a plane, compare the bag's dimensions to your airline's allowed personal item or carry-on dimensions to ensure you can bring it onboard.

Look at the backpack's weight. Avoid heavy styles that will weigh you down. Leather tends to be heavy compared to nylon and other synthetics, which are lighter in weight.

Ensure the backpack has the compartments you need. If you plan to bring your laptop with you when traveling, make sure the laptop sleeve can accommodate your laptop's size. In our tests, testers appreciated backpacks with water bottle holders — especially adjustable or stretchy holders to fit larger bottles. Other helpful compartments to look for include sleeves for iPads or e-readers, key holders, hidden zippered compartments for valuables and easily accessible front pockets.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Emma Seymour has been testing backpacks and other travel products for the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab since 2018. She has tested over 100 backpacks, bags, suitcases and packing cubes! She has a degree in fiber science and apparel design from Cornell University. She loves to travel and regularly brings her Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack along on her travels, including trips to Japan, Copenhagen, Mexico, Utah and more.

More on our top-tested backpacks:

• Best Travel Backpacks
• Best Laptop Backpacks
• Best Backpacks for High School and College
• Best Backpacks on Amazon
• Best Daypacks for Hiking
• Best Kids Backpacks
• Best Toddler Backpacks

Emma Seymour (she/her) is a senior product analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance. 

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Platinum® Elite Expandable Business Brief

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Description

A business brief that grows with your needs. The Platinum® Elite Expandable Business Brief offers all the organization and convenience you need in a traveling brief with luxurious design details that stand out with style. A convenient expansion option gives you added packing capacity when needed for storing files, electronics or even a light jacket.

Genuine leather carry handles feel as good as they look, while the high-density nylon fabric resists stains and abrasions to stay looking sharp. Additional features include built-in organizers, separate laptop and tablet sleeves and our Travelpro® ID TheftBlock™ pocket that keeps credit cards and passports protected against loss and identity theft. As always, this bag is backed by our Built for a Lifetime Limited Worry Free Warranty.

100 DAYS TRIAL

FREE SHIPPING OVER $99

QUALITY ASSURANCE

Features & dimensions.

Versatile expansion option provides additional packing space when needed

Padded laptop and tablet sleeves protect electronics up to 15.6"

• Travelpro® QuickSlip™ front pocket with magnetic closure is ideal for storing cell phone or other essentials when going through airport security
• Travelpro® ID TheftBlock™ pocket keeps credit cards and passports protected against loss and identity theft

Organizational pockets store power cords, power banks and other essentials for daily use

• High-density nylon fabric with DuraGuard® coating resists stains and abrasions
• SUPRA™ zipper heads are engineered to resist damage from frequent use and abuse
• Unobtrusive rear strap fits around the extension handle of a Rollaboard® or spinner suitcase for secure stacking and hands-free mobility

Overall Dimensions: H: 13 in. W: 16 in. D: 8.25 in.

Case Dimensions: H: 12 in. W: 16 in. D: 6 in.

Weight: 3.1 lbs.

Volume: 27.5 L

Will my Device Fit?

Warranty / return policy, built for a lifetime limited worry free warranty.

This limited warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship that negatively impact the functional performance of the product, including:*

• Extension handles
• Carrying handles

For more Warranty Information: Click Here

TRUSTED COMPANION PROMISE A WORRY-FREE ENHANCEMENT

Register your product with Travelpro® within 120 days of delivery date (or original date of gift receipt), and you will receive the below noted additional benefits for the first (1st) year of your Limited Warranty coverage:

• Covering shipping cost for product that needs to be shipped to one of our repair facilities for warranty repair or replacement.
• Covering the cost of repair for damage caused by an airline or other common carrier.

To register this Product: Click Here

100 DAY TRIAL

If your Travelpro® luggage fails to meet your expectations for any reason, you may return it for a full refund within 100 days, no questions asked. We’ll even pay the return shipping.* Click Here to learn more about our 100 Day Easy Trial.

2 Inches Additional Capacity

Versatile expansion option provides additional packing space when needed.

Padded = Protected

Laptop and tablet protection.

Padded laptop and tablet sleeves protect electronics up to 15.6 inches.

Identity Theft Protection

Travelpro® id theftblock™.

Travelpro® ID TheftBlock™ pocket keeps credit cards and passports protected against loss and identity theft .

Stacks and Attaches Securely

Rear stacking strap fits around the extension handle of all Travelpro® rolling luggage.

Product Specifications

*Overall dimensions include exterior components such as wheels and top & side carry handles.

Travelpro® QuickSlip™ front pocket with magnetic closure is ideal for storing cell phone or other essentials when going through airport security

Travelpro® ID TheftBlock™ pocket keeps credit cards and passports protected against loss and identity theft

High-density nylon fabric with DuraGuard® coating resists stains and abrasions

SUPRA™ zipper heads are engineered to resist damage from frequent use and abuse

Unobtrusive rear strap fits around the extension handle of a Rollaboard® or spinner suitcase for secure stacking and hands-free mobility

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Classic Leather Flapover, Cognac, One Size

Kenneth Cole REACTION

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The best Prime Day deals on luggage, travel accessories and more

The second (and final) day of sales from Amazon Prime Day is underway, offering discounts on highly rated travel items and luggage exclusive to Prime members . You can also find deals on tech , home and kitchen items , sneakers and more.

As a writer for NBC Select, I frequently cover shopping events like Prime Day, Black Friday and Cyber Monday, so I know how to find deals that are actually worth buying . Below, I rounded up the best Prime Day travel deals at their lowest price in at least three months. I’ll continue updating this list throughout Prime Day.

SKIP AHEAD Prime Day travel deals | More Prime Day travel sales | Best travel sales at other retailers

select It's the best time to buy a new pair of Apple AirPods — they're on sale for $119 during Prime Day

Want more from our everyday experts, straight to your inbox?  Sign up for The Selection , our weekly newsletter packed full of good finds, sales and exclusive content.

Selected. Our top picks

Best Prime Day travel deals

Anker powercore slim portable charger.

Anker 523 PowerCore Portable Charger

4.4-star rating from 10,047 reviews on Amazon

Lowest price ever

One of the  best Amazon travel accessories , this portable charger fits in carry-ons, purses and pockets. The battery carries enough power to charge most phones all the way and then some, plus it has a fire-resistant casing and overcharge protection, according to the brand.

Fyy Cable Organizer

4.5-star average rating from 23,117 reviews

Throw this compact cable organizer into your bag or suitcase for your next trip. It has two interior compartments, plus its outer cover is made of waterproof material to protect your items. It also comes with a hand strap if you prefer to carry it instead of packing it away.

Jisulife Mini Handheld 3-in-1 Fan, Flashlight & Power Bank

Jisulife Mini Handheld 3-in-1 Fan, Flashlight & Power Bank

4.6-star average rating from 54,959 reviews on Amazon

This portable fan also has a flashlight and backup power bank for your phone in case of emergency. It’s pocket-size, so you don’t have to worry about carrying something bulky around, and it comes with a built-in safety feature that automatically turns the fan’s blades off if touched, according to the brand. It can also stand upright on a desk or serve as a handheld device, depending on how you want to use it.

Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable 2-Piece Set

4.5-star average rating from 12,976 reviews on Amazon

This luggage set comes with two hardside, expandable roller bags — a 28-inch bag and a 21-inch carry-on, which made our list of best carry-on bags . Both bags are expandable and include 360-degree spinner wheels, making them easy to push in any direction, according to the brand. Each bag also has a TSA-compatible combination lock on the side (no keys required) to keep your belongings safe.

Bagsmart 6-Piece Compression Packing Cubes

4.6-star average rating from 9,686 reviews on Amazon

Bagsmart’s compression cubes made our list of the best packing cubes for their ability to keep your suitcase organized. The six-piece set comes with a shoe bag, two small bags, two medium bags and a large bag. According to the brand, using them in your suitcase will allow you to fit double the amount you’d be able to fit without them. Each bag has a mesh cover that allows for breathability and lets you see what is inside. They also have a two-way zipper and top handle.

Buffway Slim Front Pocket RFID Blocking Leather Wallets

4.6-star average rating from 104,112 reviews on Amazon

With its slim design, this leather wallet fits seamlessly in pockets, purses or carry ons. Despite its size, it still has eight slots to hold all your important cards. It also has a RFID protective layer that blocks electronic signals to prevent identity or data theft from your ID or credit cards, according to the brand.

Delsey Paris Chatelet Air 2.0 Hardside Luggage 2-Piece Set

4.4-star average rating from 676 reviews on Amazon

The smaller suitcase in this set was featured in our list of best lightweight luggage . Both the 21- and 28-inch spinner bags included in the set have hard shells and come with a removable hanger, laundry bag and shoe bag to keep things organized. They also have a TSA-approved combination lock and each Delsey bag comes with a unique tracking plate and code, which helps the brand track your bag if it gets lost during travel.

Travel Select Amsterdam Business Rolling Garment Bag

4.2-star average rating from 20,049 reviews on Amazon

This rolling garment bag is small enough to be considered a carry-on with most airlines. It can fit three to four hangers, has a compression belt to keep clothes in place and an expandable zipper to add 25% more space to your bag, according to the brand. There are also two compartments to hold loose items (think ties, socks and more).

Travelon Anti-Theft Active Waist Pack

4.5-star average rating from 375 reviews on Amazon

This bag, which can be worn around your waist or as a crossbody, is especially helpful when traveling in crowded cities, thanks to its anti-theft features. It has slash-resistant mesh panels on the front of the bag and strap, locking straps and compartments. The main compartment also has a pocket for your passport and credit cards that is RIFD blocking, which prevents criminals from using special devices to scan your passport chip or credit cards, according to the brand.

Bose QuietComfort Headphones

4.6-star rating from 3,334 reviews on Amazon

A 2024 NBC Select Travel Award winner , these over-ear Bose Headphones have excellent noise cancellation technology in a lightweight, comfortable design with padded earcups. You can also toggle to Aware Mode, which lets you listen in on your surroundings, and the battery life lasts up to 24 hours, according to the brand.

Hicober 3-in-1 Charging Station

Hicober 3 in 1 Wireless Charging Station

4.4-star average rating from 6,594 reviews on Amazon

This 3-in-1 wireless charger works for MagSafe Apple devices and is foldable, making it easy to  throw it in your bag when traveling. It weighs just 4.5 ounces and takes less than three hours to fully charge your devices. It also works as a phone stand that you can angle horizontally or vertically for FaceTime calls or movies on the go.

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

4.7-star average rating from 14,547 reviews on Amazon

The Epicka Universal Travel Adapter works in more than 150 countries and has four USB ports, one USB-C slot and a socket to charge six devices simultaneously at high speed, according to the brand. One thing to note: This adapter does not convert high voltage, so it may not be suitable for appliances that use high power. The max power it can handle is 880W at 110V or 1920W at 240V, according to Epicka.

Etronik Travel Duffel Bag

4.6-star average rating from 9,907 reviews on Amazon

This bag is carry-on compliant, has a separate shoe compartment, another compartment inside for wet clothes, a luggage trolley strap so you can slip it over a spinner suitcase and a detachable shoulder strap. It also has a USB charging port on the outside that you can plug your phone into when it needs power.

Perilogics Universal In-Flight Airplane Phone Holder Mount

Perilogics Universal in Flight Phone Holder Mount

4.6-star average rating from 18,821 reviews on Amazon

This phone holder clips onto your plane’s tray table so you can go hands-free while watching movies, sports or any other media you’ve downloaded. It rotates 360 degrees to allow for different viewing angles (including vertically and horizontally) and is compatible with different phone sizes, according to the brand.

Adidas Defender 4 Medium Duffel Bag

4.8-star average rating from 8,016 reviews on Amazon

NBC Select updates editor Mili Godio says she and her partner use this duffel for quick overnight stays or to haul exercise clothes to the gym. It made our list of best weekender bags for its spaciousness and zip-top interior with two zippered side pockets that allow you to keep track of (and store away) smaller items like earbuds , wallets and keys. It also has a removable shoulder strap, so you can use it as a true duffel with handles or a crossbody bag to haul heavier items.

Kipling Women’s Seoul 15” Laptop Backpack

Kipling Women's Seoul 15" Laptop Backpack

4.8-star average rating from 271 reviews on Amazon

This backpack is currently half off and a great choice for those traveling with their laptops. It has a large main compartment, a smaller zipper pocket at the front of the bag, padded straps and two water bottle pockets. It also has an internal padded sleeve for a 15-inch laptop and is made from water-resistant nylon.

Twelve South AirFly Pro

4.4-star average rating from 14,573 reviews on Amazon

NBC Select editorial projects manager Rebecca Rodriguez says the AirFly, which plugs into your seat’s audio jack and connects to earbuds via Bluetooth, has become a travel essential. “I can never use my Apple Airpods Max on airplanes because they don’t come with an auxiliary cable. My AirFly seamlessly pairs with my Airpods with the touch of a button, then recognizes them whenever I use it next. I used it on six, three- to four-hour flights before needing to recharge it, so it has great battery life.”

Loop Quiet Earplugs

Loop Quiet Ear Plugs for Noise Reduction

4.1-star rating from 94,284 reviews on Amazon

Reduce noise on the plane, in a hotel room or at a festival with these  Loop Quiet earplugs , which won a Select Wellness Award two years in a row. Using soft silicone, they reduce distracting sounds by up to 24 decibels, according to the brand. Each order includes a carrying case and eight interchangeable ear tips that come in four sizes to help you find a comfortable fit.

Vera Bradley Duffle Bag

Vera Bradley Women's Large Travel Duffle Bag

4.9-star rating from 4,235 reviews on Amazon

Included in our guide to the  best overnight weekender bags , this Vera Bradley duffel has a spacious interior, three mesh pockets inside and four pockets on the outside. It’s made from 100% cotton and has both drop handles and a detachable shoulder strap with a pad. “I have a similar Vera Bradley duffel weekender that’s lasted me 10+ years at this point,” says NBC Select editor  Lindsay Schneider . “Their bags are super lightweight and hold up well.”

Mavogel Cotton Sleep Mask

Mavogel Cotton Sleep Eye Mask

4.4-star rating from 85,994 reviews on Amazon

Thanks to its black sponge interior and bendable nose wire, this is one of the  best masks for blocking out light  while you’re snoozing on a plane or in a hotel. It has an adjustable strap for comfort and cotton fabric on the outside for breathability. Plus, it comes with a compact pouch for travel.

Cadence Travel Containers

4.3-star average from 209 reviews on Amazon

This set comes with three containers — one for your moisturizer, another for your cleanser and a third for the product of your choice. Each one holds .56 ounces of product, making them TSA-compliant and they have wide openings that make them easy to fill and get product out of. The leak-resistant containers also have magnets on the bag, so they stick together in your toiletry bag. “I use them for literally every trip, and I bring them to workout classes to safely store my jewelry if I go straight from the office,” says NBC Select associate editor Zoe Malin. “I got my mom and aunt their own set because they kept stealing mine!” 

Bagsmart Toiletry Bag

4.8-star rating from 55,091 reviews on Amazon

Many NBC Select editors love using this toiletry bag for travel thanks to its four compartments that expand when hung vertically. It also has elastic bands to hold bottles upright and an extra pocket on the water-resistant exterior, which comes in several colors and patterns.

The Original Cincha Travel Belt

The Original Cincha Travel Belt for Luggage

4.5-star rating from 777 reviews on Amazon

From one of our favorite  women-owned brands , this travel belt secures your personal bag around the handle of your carry-on luggage, so you can move through the airport freely. It’s adjustable to fit most bag sizes and styles, and comes in 16 colors so you can find one that matches your go-to luggage, according to the brand.

Hilife Portable Steamer

HiLIFE Steamer for Clothes

4.3-star rating from 116,713 reviews on Amazon

Keep your clothes wrinkle-free even when you’re storing them in a suitcase. This portable unit is one of the  best travel steamers  because it’s easy to pack, but its 240-milliliter capacity still holds enough water for up to 15 minutes of continuous steaming. It also has a 9-foot power cord and comes in three color options.

Zannaki Metal Travel Pill Organizer

4.4-star rating from 1,666 reviews on Amazon

One of the  best travel pill cases  to keep your meds organized on the go, this BPA-free aluminum alloy case has seven compartments for every day of the week. When tightly screwed together, the rubber rings make them airtight and waterproof, according to the brand. Choose between eight color options, all of which have wear-resistant etched labels and a lanyard cord. 

Eversnug Travel Blanket

4.7-star average rating from 6,652 reviews on Amazon

Avoid getting chilly on the plane with this microfleece blanket. It has a carrying case that doubles as a pillow when the blanket is inside, according to the brand. You can attach it directly to your carry-on with the included carabiner, or use the sleeve on the back of the carrying case to slip it on your suitcase’s pop-up handle.

Gemice Travel Bottles

4.5-star average rating from 12,480 reviews on Amazon

These TSA-approved travel bottles are leakproof and can hold 3 ounces of shampoo, conditioner, body wash, face wash and more for your carry-on. Each bottle has a no-drip valve and wide opening for easy filling. According to the brand, they are made of BPA-free, food-grade silicone, so they can even be used for things like salad dressing or other edible items if you like to bring your own food on the plane.

SmartTravel Inflatable Lumbar Travel Pillow

4.3-star average rating from 1,332 reviews on Amazon

NBC Select managing editor Leah Ginsberg uses this inflatable lumbar pillow for added back support during long flights. It’s designed to fit the body’s natural curves and reduce pressure on the spine and neck, according to the brand. You can also use it as a neck pillow. It comes with a mounting band to easily fasten it to headrests, too.

Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouch

4.6-star average rating from 99,319 reviews on Amazon

Keep your phone safe from the elements with this water-resistant phone pouch. It’s 8.3 inches long, so it can fit most phones, with or without a case, according to the brand. It also comes with a detachable lanyard when you want to go hands free.

Amazon Fire Max 11 Tablet

4.4-star average rating from 8,259 reviews on Amazon

Amazon’s Fire Max 11 has an HD-resolution 11-inch touchscreen, fast Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, and up to 14 hours of battery life, according to the brand. It also has a  microSD card  slot, which allows you to add more storage to make room for apps, games, downloaded movies and more when you are traveling.

G4Free 40L 3-Way Duffel Bag

G4Free 40L 3-Way Duffle Bag

4.5-star average rating from 2,208 reviews on Amazon

This nylon duffel has smaller top straps for hand carrying, an adjustable shoulder strap for slinging over one shoulder and detachable, padded shoulder straps for wearing as a backpack. According to the brand, it’s also water- and tear-resistant. It can be carried on most airlines as a carry-on.

Teskyer Luggage Tags

4.7-star average rating from 12,399 reviews on Amazon

These  luggage tags  are made from polyurethane leather and are durable enough for long-term use, according to the brand. Each set is sold with six tags and printed information cards, about the size of a debit or business card. The tags also have a flap cover to protect your personal information.

LifeStraw Peak Series Personal Water Filter Straw

4.8-star average rating from 1,511 reviews on Amazon

While hiking, camping or indulging in other outdoor activities, this personal water filter can keep parasites, microplastics and impurities out of your water, according to the brand. It’s lightweight and able to fit in your pocket, so it’s easy to carry with you on your adventures.

Waterfly Crossbody Bag

4.5-star average rating from 40,829 reviews on Amazon

This crossbody bag has an adjustable, reversible shoulder strap, multiple pockets of varying sizes (including two mesh side pockets) and a hidden earphone hole. The zippered pocket on the strap is also big enough to hold your phone for easy accessibility, according to the brand. The bag is also made from water-resistant nylon to keep your belongings dry in inclement weather, according to Waterfly.

select When will Prime Day be this year? Here’s everything we know so far

Best prime day travel sales.

Here are the best Prime Day travel sales to know about. Keep in mind, not every item from a brand is discounted as described below.

• Up to 62% off Delsey Paris luggage
• Up to 58% off Samsonite luggage
• Up to 36% off Travelpro luggage
• Up to 30% off at Avis Rental Car
• Up to 40% off Carnival Cruises
• Up to 33% off Charmast portable chargers

Prime Day: Best travel sales at other retailers

• Samsonite : Up to 40% off plus extra 10% off with code SUMMER10
• Briggs and Riley : Up to 30% off
• Macy’s : Up to 40% off
• Target : Up to 30% luggage and backpacks
• Dagne Dover: Up to 20% off luggage kits
• Calpak : Up to 50% off luggage, backpacks and travel accessories

How I found the best Prime Day travel deals

My recommendations above are based on NBC Select’s previous coverage and reporting. I also included products the NBC Select staff tested, including Wellness Award , Travel Award , Pet Award and Bed & Bath Award winners.  I ran each deal through price trackers like CamelCamelCamel to ensure products are at their lowest price ever or their lowest price in at least three months. All the products I recommend are highly rated items with at least a 4.0-star average rating from hundreds of reviews.

Why trust NBC Select?

I’m a contributor for NBC Select who has covered deals and sales for Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Amazon Prime Day and more. To round up the best Prime Day sales on travel,  I found highly-rated products at their lowest price ever or their lowest price in three months.

Catch up on NBC Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

Bethany Heitman is a contributing editor at NBC Select.

This popular travel credit card now comes with its best-ever welcome bonus of $1,000 in travel rewards

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us and terms apply to offers listed (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate credit cards to write unbiased product reviews .

• The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card has a low annual fee of $95 ( rates and fees ).
• Right now, new cardholders can earn 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening, plus receive a one-time $250 Capital One Travel credit in your first cardholder year.
• This card is the "best travel card for beginners" in our best travel rewards credit cards guide.

Summer is in full swing, but it's already time to plan for fall and holiday travel.

If you could use $1,000 to help you travel to Grandma's for Thanksgiving dinner, look into getting the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card .

This popular card is Business Insider's top pick for beginners seeking a travel rewards credit card — and right now, new cardholders can earn 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening, plus receive a one-time $250 Capital One Travel credit in your first cardholder year. This is one of the most generous credit card offers we've ever seen, especially for a credit card with such a low annual fee ($95, rates and fees ).

Capital One hasn't stated how long this offer will last. So if you've been thinking about getting a new credit card,  it's a good idea to apply sooner rather than later. 

Here's what's special about this two-part sign-up bonus, and how you can earn it in time to book travel before the year ends.

Earn 5x miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. Earn unlimited 2x miles on every purchase.

19.99% - 29.99% variable

Earn 75,000 bonus miles, plus $250 to use on Capital One Travel in your first cardholder year

Good to Excellent

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. $50 experience credit and free upgrades on Capital One Lifestyle Collection bookings
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Includes up to a $100 statement credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Other credit cards offer higher rewards in certain categories of spending

If you want an easy, no-fuss travel rewards credit card, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a great fit. For a moderate annual fee, it offers plenty of value, useful benefits, and a substantial welcome bonus.

• Enjoy $250 to use on Capital One Travel in your first cardholder year, plus earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening - that’s equal to $1,000 in travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
• Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
• Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
• Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
• Enrich every hotel stay from the Lifestyle Collection with a suite of cardholder benefits, like a $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and more
• Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs

Instant $250 travel credit

Many credit cards offer sign-up bonuses , also known as welcome offers. In most cases, you'll have to spend a certain amount of money to earn your rewards.

The current Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card bonus, however, comes with an automatic $250 welcome credit as soon as you open your account. This one-time credit can be used to book flights, hotels, vacation rentals, and rental cars through the Capital One travel portal . 

75,000 bonus Capital One miles

The other tier of this welcome offer is more traditional: 75,000 Capital One miles after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening.

These Capital One miles are even more versatile than your initial Capital One travel credit because they can be redeemed for travel outside of the Capital One travel portal.

You can use Capital One miles to cover travel expenses paid with your card, or continue to use them within the Capital One travel portal. You can also transfer Capital One miles to airline and hotel transfer partners to book first- and business-class flights for a fraction of their cash value.

Global Entry/TSA PreCheck statement credit

Welcome bonus aside, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is Business Insider's top-choice travel credit card for beginners for many good reasons. This card comes with a statement credit of up to $100 for your enrollment fee in  Global Entry or TSA PreCheck — programs that offer expedited security screening at the airport.

Travelers with TSA PreCheck get to go through the "fast lane" at the airport and keep their shoes on as well as their laptops in their bags. Meanwhile, Global Entry membership allows you to breeze through customs when returning to the U.S. Global Entry comes with TSA PreCheck as well, so it's almost always a better deal to apply for Global Entry. 

This statement credit will be available to you once every four years. Since Global Entry or TSA PreCheck membership lasts five years, your next credit will be available just in time for your re-enrollment if you continue holding this credit card. 

Lost luggage reimbursement

Nothing ruins a vacation faster than finding out your luggage didn't make it. But if your airline loses or misplaces your bags on a trip you paid for using the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, you may be eligible for reimbursement for up to $3,000 per trip.

Extended warranty and purchase protection

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card may be the best travel credit card for beginners, but its benefits also extend to home expenses.

With this credit card, you'll get extended warranty protection when you buy eligible items. This benefit doubles the duration of the original manufacturer's written U.S. repair warranty (up to one additional year on eligible warranties of three years or less). Coverage is up to $10,000 per claim, and $50,000 per cardholder.

And if an eligible new purchase gets damaged or stolen within the first 90 days, this card's purchase protection benefit will reimburse up to $500 per claim, and $50,000 per cardholder.  

Early access to exclusive events

Capital One has its own entertainment portal, and Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card cardholders often receive early or exclusive access to select shows and concerts. For example, Capital One has been the U.S. partner for Taylor Swift's Eras Tour since 2023, and cardholders received presale access to the best tickets.

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Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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***Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Refer to your Guide to Benefits for more details. Travel Accident Insurance is not guaranteed, it depends on the level of benefits you get at application.

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Airlines and Passengers Still Struggling, a Day After Global Outage

The widespread tech failure left carriers trying to recover and passengers waiting for relief, with many flights still delayed or canceled.

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By Christine Chung and Derek M. Norman

A day after a tech outage disrupted industries worldwide, airlines are digging themselves out from the fallout of thousands of delayed and canceled flights that have left travelers stranded and searching to find a way home over the weekend.

On Saturday morning, delays and cancellations had ebbed, and both domestic and international airlines said they expected to return to near normal operations. But higher than usual cancellation rates are still likely throughout the day, as airlines continue to maneuver planes and their flight crews back into position.

Yesterday’s software outages immobilized airlines , affecting numerous functions, including calculating aircraft weight, checking in and communicating with travelers. The waits stacked up for passengers, and some were left with no option other than to sleep at airports.

Grace Aldrin, 23, said she slept on the floor by baggage claim at La Guardia Airport in New York on Friday night after her United flight to Chicago was delayed overnight. She opened her suitcase and slept on top of her clothes, surrounded by others doing the same.

“They didn’t offer any hotel vouchers — they just told us that we could upload our hotel receipts to United Cares and maybe get a refund,” she said. “I called every hotel I could, and they were all booked.”

At 4 a.m., security officers woke her up, and she trudged back into the terminal, where she eventually got on a standby flight.

Delta Air Lines said in a statement on Saturday that more than 600 of its flights — mostly those departing in the morning and early afternoon — had been canceled, and that passengers could expect additional cancellations as the day progressed. The airline has 4,185 scheduled flights today, 13 percent of which have already been canceled, according to Cirium, an aviation analytics firm. That cancellation rate is far higher than normal.

The weekend, when there are generally several thousand fewer flights in the United States than compared with weekdays, gives airlines a bit more room to recover, said Michael McCormick, a former Federal Aviation Administration control tower operator and an assistant professor of aviation science at Embry-Riddle University in Daytona Beach, Fla.

“From a system perspective, today is running well,” he added. “For passengers, not so much.”

Worldwide, there are around 104,000 flights scheduled today. As of the morning, more than 1,800 of these — or about 1.8 percent — had been canceled, according to Cirium. In the U.S., there are some 24,000 scheduled flights. By noon, delays and cancellations had ticked up at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Delta’s largest hub, where the average delay exceeded an hour and a half, according to data from the Federal Aviation Administration .

Several carriers, including Delta , United Airlines and Spirit Airlines , still have waivers in effect today allowing passengers to rebook flights without any additional fees. However, passengers said these had not made a dent in easing their journeys. Yesterday, airline apps crashed intermittently, phone and chat services were mired in hourslong waits, and hundreds of people waited in lines to speak with gate agents. Today, passengers are hoping their rebooked or delayed flights actually take off.

Andrew Gallagher, a 52-year-old traveling with his partner for “the trip of a lifetime” to several European cities, including a jaunt on the Orient Express, was supposed to be on a United flight to Amsterdam departing from Newark yesterday. There was no alert or notification that the flight was canceled. Then, he said the airline made no attempt to find him an alternative flight, despite his efforts to reach them by phone and by chat through its website. The only notification he said he received from them was that his pre-ordered meal was canceled. He is now booked on a Saturday evening flight to Brussels.

Many travelers also reported that gate agents were not offering any compensation — for accommodations, transport or meals — or instruction in how to receive it — despite the Transportation Department’s direction that airlines provide assistance to travelers with lengthy delays and cancellations related to the outages.

Patrick Flanagan, a 39-year-old cybersecurity worker from Richmond, Va., and his wife were wrapping up their Las Vegas vacation when the outage upended air travel Friday morning. They had already checked their bags and boarded their plane, which was scheduled to depart at about 6 a.m., and waited for roughly two hours on the tarmac before they were told to deplane.

Mr. Flanagan said he spent about 12 hours at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas on Friday, mostly at the Delta counter trying to retrieve his and his wife’s luggage.

At the airport, there were crowds of people at every counter, unsure of how to rebook their flights or get their bags back. “There were probably hundreds of people in every single line to talk to anybody in a Delta uniform,” he said.

“We still don’t have our bags,” Mr. Flanagan said on Saturday morning, from his hotel room in Las Vegas, where he and his wife are staying until they fly out on their rebooked flight on Sunday. “We’re stuck in the clothes that we were wearing to the airport.”

But he did get a $12 meal voucher, he said.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Because of an editing error, an earlier version of this article misidentified the location of Embry-Riddle University where Michael McCormick is an assistant professor of aviation science. He teaches at the Daytona Beach, Fla., location, not in New Jersey.

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Christine Chung is a Times reporter covering airlines and consumer travel. More about Christine Chung

Derek M. Norman is a senior news assistant for the International section of The Times. More about Derek M. Norman