travel computer backpacks

Best laptop backpacks for travel 2024

Travel in style with these tested laptop backpacks

• Best Overall
• Best Budget
• Best Compact
• Best Premium
• Best Aesthetic
• Best Utility

How To Choose a Laptop Backpack for Travel

Why trust laptop mag.

1. The list in brief

2. Best Overall

3. Best Budget

4. Best Compact

5. Best Premium

6. Best Aesthetic

7. Best Utility

9. How To Choose a Backpack for Travel

11. Why Trust Laptop Mag

The best laptop backpacks for travel offer well-organized space for your belongings and convenient features like a water-resistant design, hidden pockets, or a USB charging port. Travel backpacks should also be comfortable to wear for long periods of time, especially if you’re waiting through a security line at the airport or planning to walk around a theme park all day. 

In addition to being durable and practical, the best travel backpacks should make a visual statement. You can go bold with a vibrant color or whimsical design, or stick with a classic, timeless color scheme rooted in black or grey — either way, you shouldn’t have to sacrifice style for utility when choosing a backpack for travel. 

All of the backpacks listed here are equipped with a dedicated laptop sleeve or compartment, and they’ve all been personally tested by Laptop Mag. Whether you need a simple backpack to fit one or two changes of clothes and a few other essential items, or you want a bag that you can take on a plane in lieu of a suitcase, we’ve got you covered.

If you're shopping for a new laptop, be sure to check out our best laptops page before you travel next. 

The Quick List

The best overall laptop backpack for travel

The Volher Laptop Backpack strikes the perfect balance of style, function, and comfort — it's the perfect pick for most people. 

Read more below

The best budget laptop backpack for travel

You can save a few bucks with the Mancro Travel Backpack, and still get a water-resistant design and a handy USB port.  

The best compact laptop backpack for travel

The SwissGear Getaway bag is simplistic in its design and available storage, but there's space for basic essentials.  

The best premium laptop backpack for travel

Travel in luxury with the eBags Luxon Laptop Backpack. There's plenty of space inside, and a few premium bonus features. 

The best aesthetic laptop backpack for travel

The Herschel Pop Quiz bag offers a decent amount of space inside, but its top selling point is the fun design — inside and out. 

The best utility laptop backpack for travel

You won't want for pockets with the Targus Legend IQ Laptop Backpack — there's a spot for everything. 

Best Laptop Backpack for Travel Overall

1. Volher Laptop Backpack

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

This laptop backpack from Volher is the best option for most travellers, combining practical storage with an eye-catching, vibrant design. Inside the bag’s main compartment, there’s a padded sleeve for any 15.6-inch laptop and open storage for clothes, snacks, or other travel essentials. You can store drinks in the padded mesh side pockets, and hide your valuables in the anti-theft back pocket. 

Volher’s backpack sports a water-resistant polyester fabric, so if you’re caught in the rain, water droplets just roll right off and all your belongings stay dry. Its durable fabric makes this backpack an excellent choice for hiking trips or other outdoor excursions, especially if you choose one of the bright, high-visibility color options. With padded mesh on the back and the shoulder straps, it’s comfortable to wear for long hours. 

This travel bag also has a special feature: a built-in USB charging port. The port itself is on the bag’s left side, and there’s a cable inside you can connect to a power bank. Then, while you’re hiking or walking around Disney World, you can easily charge your phone without needing to take the backpack off or hold onto a power bank. 

See our full Volher Laptop Backpack review . 

Best Budget Laptop Backpack for Travel

2. Mancro Travel Backpack

If you want many of the same features as the Volher laptop backpack but for a bit less money, check out the Mancro Travel Backpack. Starting at just $19.99, it packs a lot of value into its low price. 

The Mancro Travel Backpack features a padded sleeve for 15.6-inch laptops, a spacious main compartment with room for a few changes of clothes, a side pocket for water bottles and an integrated USB port for portable power banks. The outside is made of water-resistant polyester, which is always nice to have on a travel backpack. It also includes a little combination lock you can use on the zippers, but it's not the sturdiest and makes quick access to the main compartment inconvenient. 

See our full Mancro Travel Backpack review . 

Best Compact Laptop Backpack for Travel

3. SwissGear Getaway Laptop Backpack

Bigger isn't always better when it comes to laptop backpacks for travel. If you're looking for a day pack or simply have a smaller frame, check out the SwissGear Getaway bag. It's minimalistic, sturdy and compact, perfect for anyone traveling light. 

Inside is a padded 13-inch laptop sleeve and a main compartment with room for a day or two of clothes and some snacks. It has a few zipper pockets on the outside, but unfortunately doesn't have any side pockets. We reviewed the SwissGear Getaway in gray, but it is also available in black and camo. 

See our full SwissGear Getaway Laptop Backpack review .

Best Premium Laptop Backpack for Travel

4. eBags Luxon Laptop Backpack

If you want one of the best laptop backpacks for travel money can buy, take a look at the eBags Luxon. If you're carrying around a premium laptop, you should have an equally premium backpack to keep it safe. The eBags Luxon is a great option, complete with a dedicated zippered compartment for your laptop. 

Inside you'll find a roomy main compartment with space for two or three days' worth of clothes and a detachable sling bag that doubles as a waist pack. The sling bag has a hidden RFID pocket that's great for keeping small, valuable items safe from theft or just tucking your phone away. 

The exterior fabric of the Luxon has a smooth water-resistant coating, so your laptop and valuables will be safe from rain. The coating also adds to the sleek, premium look of the whole backpack. The thick, padded mesh back panel ensures it's comfortable all day, too. At time of writing, the Luxon is available in either black or gray. 

See our full eBags Luxon Laptop Backpack review .

Best Aesthetic Laptop Backpack for Travel

5. Herschel Pop Quiz Laptop Backpack

If you want a laptop backpack for travel that balances looks and features, check out the Herschel Pop Quiz. Herschel is known for their stylish backpacks and the Pop Quiz is not exception. It's available in a ton of different colors and patterns, including the unique paint pour pattern we reviewed. 

The real highlight of Herschel backpacks is the laptop sleeves. They're some of the softest and cushiest out there, lined with a smooth, padded black velvet that's sure to keep your laptop safe. The Pop Quiz has a 15-inch laptop sleeve and a spacious main compartment with room for two or three days of clothing, snacks and a book or two. The zipper pocket on the front was a bit hard to open in our testing, but that does make it a good anti-theft pocket since pick pocketers will have a tough time opening it, too. 

See our full Herschel Pop Quiz Laptop Backpack review .

Best Utility Laptop Backpack for Travel

6. Targus Legend IQ Laptop Backpack

If you're the type of traveler who packs with the motto "better to have and not need", you'll appreciate the wealth of pockets, space and organization on the Targus Legend IQ backpack. This is a great laptop backpack for anyone who likes to bring a lot of electronics with them or needs to pack for a longer trip. 

The Targus Legend IQ has multiple zippered compartments and a built-in media pocket with aux cable passthrough into the shoulder strap. There's plenty of room to organize charging cables, headphones, power banks, your Nintendo Switch or ASUS ROG Ally, a tablet and up to a 16-inch laptop. 

The basic, plain black design of this backpack puts practicality over fashion, but that's part of what makes it a great utility backpack. You won't have to worry about running out of packing space for all your favorite devices and travel essentials with this one. 

See our full Targus Legend IQ Laptop Backpack review .

In many ways, the search for the perfect travel laptop backpack is just like searching for a work- or school-dedicated backpack. Most importantly, consider what you’ll need in terms of total space and organizational compartments. Make sure the backpack you choose can accommodate your laptop, travel snacks and drinks, handheld gaming console or books to read for fun, however many changes of clothes you need for your trip, or anything else you’d typically bring along while traveling. 

Many backpacks will list whether they can accommodate 15.6-inch or 17-inch laptops, and some brands will list the specific dimensions of the laptop sleeve or compartment within the backpack. In addition to comparing the measurements of your laptop to those advertised by a potential backpack, consider whether you want a dedicated zipper compartment for your laptop or if a padded sleeve inside the main compartment will do. 

With laptop backpacks for travel specifically, there are two useful features to look out for: hidden pockets and a USB charging port. Some backpacks come equipped with a zipper compartment positioned on the side or the back of the bag, making it incredibly difficult or impossible for someone to pickpocket what’s inside. These pockets are perfect for your valuables, like your wallet, smartphone, or keys. 

Then, some bags include a USB charging port accessible on one side of the backpack and a cable inside that you can attach to a power bank you own. This allows you to comfortably charge your phone without needing to carry the power bank while you walk around a theme park or sit in the backseat during a road trip. With some travel backpacks, you can slip your phone into a side pocket so you don’t need to carry it, but it’s easily accessible when you need it. 

If you plan on traveling via plane, you should see if the backpack complies with TSA guidelines. Then, check with your airline to get minimum dimensions for overhead and under-seat luggage to ensure you won’t need to check your backpack at the last minute and pay a premium. 

For backpacks going under the seat in front of you on a plane, it’s a smart choice to go with a water-resistant polyester fabric that’s easy to clean and can withstand accidental spills. Durable, water-resistant fabric is also a smart choice if the place you’re traveling to gets a lot of rain or if you’re exploring outdoors at the beach or on a mountain. 

Laptop Mag reviews over a hundred different laptops every year, from paperweight ultralights to everyday workhorses to lumbering gaming notebooks that scorch the frame rates of even the hottest AAA games. We're not just experts in the laptop field, as we go one step further by meticulously testing smartphones, tablets, headphones, PC accessories, software, and even the latest in gaming. 

We are 100% independent and have decades of experience to help you buy with confidence. In fact, Laptop Mag has been testing and reviewing products for three decades, and we continue to deliver trustworthy reviews you can rely on. 

Our editorial trustworthiness is enforced by one of the world's largest technology publishers,  Future Publishing . As a company, we have unrivaled experience across every tech sector — and we're the group's specialist for all things mobile tech.

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The Best Laptop Backpacks of 2024

Whether you’re headed to the office, class, or even the trailhead, here’s our top picks for the best laptop backpacks of 2024.

Now that we live in a post-pandemic world, it seems that everyone is returning to their selective workplace, school, or airport with a backpack in hand. Laptop backpacks come in an array of styles, sizes, and overall intended uses so we thought it was time to take a deep dive into what the best ones are and what attributes make them that way. 

When you’ve invested in a portable computer or tablet, you’ll want to pair it with a backpack that is going to keep it plenty protected while also providing ample room for books, chargers, and other equipment. Students, freelancers, and working professionals alike deserve to have a backpack that best suits their needs without sacrificing quality or completely breaking the bank. 

An EDC — or “everyday carry” — laptop backpack is a pack designed with the necessary padding needed to keep a computer or tablet safe from the shock and irreversible damage that comes with an unideal tumble or drop. These backpacks can also have waterproofing or resistance that keeps your tech and other things safe from rain, snow, sleet, or that half-full coffee mug your cat just swatted off your desk. 

Our testers rounded up what we think are the best 10 laptop backpacks on the market right now and used them in airports, offices, and coffee shops across America. To truly assess these backpacks’ abilities to, well, do their job, lead tester Meghan put them through a months-long, rigorous testing process where she examined their protective qualities, overall comfort, and intended uses. This came with its own unplanned series of accidental drops, liquid spills, and snowy trudges to and from her favorite workplaces. 

As a full-time, freelance graphic designer, writer, and photographer, Meghan did not take this task lightly, as she herself has been utilizing laptop backpacks for almost a decade. She knows that keeping hundreds or thousands of dollars in tech equipment safe is no joke, and you’re going to want a streamlined laptop backpack that doesn’t sacrifice weight or style when it comes to protecting your valuables. 

Of course, there isn’t one perfect laptop backpack for everyone, but this guide will be a sure-fire way for you to narrow down what you are searching for in terms of style, padding, and other specifics. At the end of our selection, you’ll find our helpful comparison chart , buyer’s guide , and frequently asked questions .

• Best Overall Laptop Backpack: Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L
• Best Budget Laptop Backpack: Lenovo Laptop Backpack B210
• Most Versatile Laptop Backpack: TimBuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe
• Best Laptop Backpack for Students: Fjallraven Kanken 17″ Laptop Pack
• Best Laptop Backpack for Travel: Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack
• Best Laptop Backpack for Outdoors Enthusiasts: Patagonia Refugio Daypack 30L
• Best 3-in-1 Laptop Backpack: Mystery Ranch 3 Way 27 Briefcase

Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L

• Dimensions 18" x 7" x 11.5 "
• Weight 3 lbs., 1.6 oz.
• Capacity 24L
• Laptop compartment size 17"
• Best use Everyday and travel

• Functions as both a laptop backpack and suitcase
• Well-structured and protected
• Full panel loading access
• Limited color schemes

There’s a multitude of reasons the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L ($279) was our pick for the best laptop backpack of 2024. From the office to photography sessions and weekend trips away, this backpack really does it all due to its high-capacity storage and organization systems. 

The first reason we love the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L is the highly protective construction and abrasion-resistant materials it’s designed with. Evergoods uses a custom-developed 840d ballistic nylon that is treated with a water-resistant finish that makes this backpack last through countless trips to and from the office or journeys across the globe in all the various elements.

The thick padding throughout protects your electronics from drops or spills, giving you a major sense of security while in use. We were super impressed with the plastic shield that is integrated directly into the back panel, even furthering this backpack’s level of laptop protection. 

Evergoods certainly did not compromise any level of comfort when they designed this backpack, The Civic Panel Loader 24L has moisture-wicking straps and back panel. Our tester wore this around town during a work-from-cafe day in which she walked in both cold and snowy weather. Her back and shoulders stayed cool and dry while not even getting remotely sore despite the heavy amount of gear she packed.   

While 24 L may not seem like much, this backpack can actually pack quite a bit despite its size. Our tester was able to fit a luggage cube full of clothing, her computer, a keyboard, a mouse, and a book into it for a weekend trip away.

Much like the Fjallraven Kanken 17″ Laptop Pack , the front vestibule of the Civic Panel Loader opens fully — which makes it super easy to pack and unpack on those shorter journeys. This is also a major plus if you are a frequent flier and constantly going through airport security. 

And while $279 is a steep price to pay for a laptop backpack, this piece is truly a lifelong investment thanks to its overall functionality and durability. Even better, Evergoods has placed a lifetime warranty on the Civic Panel backpacks, which covers any defects in materials or workmanship on these products. 

Whether you’re a graphic designer needing a safe place to rest your tablet or laptop, or you’re regularly traveling for work, be sure to check out the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L for its exceptional design, top-of-the-line device protection, and sleek aesthetic. Overall, this laptop backpack is simply a standout. 

Lenovo Laptop Backpack B210

• Dimensions 17.93 x 13.4 x 5.91 in.
• Weight 1 lb.
• Capacity 23L
• Laptop compartment size 15.6 in.
• Best use Office, non-commuter environments

• Deep exterior zippered pockets
• Large interior can fit a computer and plenty of other accessories
• Interior pockets are not zippered
• Lack of water bottle pocket
• Flimsy, not durable design

At only $15 on Amazon, the Lenovo Laptop Backpack B210 is our most affordable option listed for this buyer’s guide. And while it may lack in engineering and features that the other packs listed can boast, this one is still a simple option for those seeking a backpack that can just “do the trick.” 

With a spacious interior compartment and deep exterior pocket, this backpack can fit a large laptop, plenty of books, and other gear. The Lenovo B210 has a simple construction with decent padding. Even after tossing this pack around, the laptop inside stayed completely safe which came as a surprise seeing as how low the price tag is. 

Where the Lenovo B210 lacks is in its materials. While it is listed as water-resistant on its product specs, we found that the pack did not ward off any water when put under a running sink. The straps are also made of an itchy foam textile that feels uncomfortable when wearing a tank top or sleeveless shirt. We also found that the adjustable straps and buckles are made with flimsier, less durable materials that do not boast too much longevity. 

We also wish that this laptop backpack had more internal organization as the interior pockets lack any zippers. The front exterior pocket is extremely spacious, but this in turn makes it challenging to find smaller supplies or accessories. If you still desire a lower price and require some organization in your backpack, an option like the Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack may be better catered toward your needs. 

However, we understand that everyone can’t spend hundreds of dollars on a laptop backpack. For this price, we were honestly impressed with how well this backpack blended in with the other more pricey packs of this guide. Especially if you’re on a budget as a student, working professional, or just need a temporary option while you search for something nicer, this backpack is still a good choice — it just won’t last you a few years. 

Overall, the Lenovo Laptop Backpack B210 is just fine for the extremely reasonable price. For 15 bucks, this backpack can securely hold your laptop, but don’t expect it to last a lifetime or hold up through the daily wear and tear of life.

TimBuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe

• Dimensions 18.9 x 11 x 5.3 in.
• Weight 2 lbs., 6.4 oz.
• Capacity 20L
• Laptop compartment size 17 in.

• Plenty of secure pockets
• Generous padding keeps laptop and shoulders protected
• Streamlined, modern design
• Front zippered pocket is harder to open
• Water bottle pocket is narrow
• Limited colorways

When considering the top spots for the best laptop backpacks of 2024, there was no question that the TimBuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe ($159) would be near the top of our list. Not only did this pack pass our “laptop drop test” with flying colors, but it also is extremely versatile in the office, classroom, or on board an airplane. 

The TimBuk2 Authority is minimally designed, but includes several useful features like two interior pockets that are lined with a microfiber material so you can safely store your glasses while in transit. This pack also has a mesh, zippered interior pocket for pens, chargers, and other small gear. 

Thanks to the thick, waffle-style padding on the back panel and shoulder straps, this backpack is genuinely comfortable while on. The moisture-wicking materials will keep you cool while commuting on foot to the office. If you opt for cycling to and from work, you can be assured that the reflective straps on the underside of this backpack will keep you plenty visible to those passing by via car. 

In terms of protection, this laptop backpack is not too shabby. Our lead tester accidentally dropped this backpack with her actual computer in it (not the dud, oops) out of her truck onto an icy patch of her driveway. Unsurprisingly and thanks to the stiff padding included in this backpack, her computer was completely fine. Even though the backpack sleeve isn’t suspended like the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L , it still functions superbly. 

While we wouldn’t necessarily use this backpack as a full-on carry-on bag due to its narrower design that doesn’t accommodate bulky items like excessive clothes or shoes, it still is the perfect companion when traveling via plane. It has a luggage strap located on the back panel so you can toss it onto your roller bag on those longer connections. 

Another remarkable aspect of the Authority is the front panel pocket that unzips completely — making it super easy to find that pesky SD card or cord that may have fallen to the bottom of your backpack. No more having to awkwardly dig around for things when you can easily get the full scope of what you’re looking for. 

Whether you’re looking for a laptop backpack to use as a daily driver to and from work or you need a personal item to hold your tablet and other necessities for your next trip, the TimBuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe is a supreme option for less than 160 bucks. This durably made and highly protective pack is a more than worth it investment that will be sure to last a lifetime.

Fjallraven Kanken 17″ Laptop Pack

• Dimensions 16.5 x 11.8 x 7.1 in.
• Weight 1 lb., 1.6 oz.
• Best use School and travel

• Cube-design more conducive to storage
• Extra foam insert doubles as a seat pad
• Stylish and carry-on compliant
• Side pockets are not stretchy enough for larger bottles
• Only two zipper pockets
• Fabric is easily creased

Designed with style and storage in mind, the Fjallraven Kanken 17″ Laptop Pack ($125) performed exceptionally well in our testing process. Using it as a carry-on bag while traveling across the United States, our tester was able to fit her laptop, camera cube, hard drives, book, wallet, and keyboard with some room to spare. It slid easily under the seat in front of her while airborne and was easy to maneuver on and off during security checks.

The Fjallraven Kanken has a padded 17-inch laptop sleeve that kept our tester’s 13-inch laptop well-protected during her travels and conveniently doubled as a sitting pad, thanks to the removable foam insert. Due to the box shape that provides the generous 20-liter storage capacity, this backpack opens up wide and fits lots of gear. Our tester’s camera storage cube fit pretty much perfectly with extra room for her book and headphones. 

This iconic backpack is stylish and retro, making it perfect for students and young professionals looking for a minimalistic look. Aside from being aesthetically pleasing, the Kanken is constructed with Vinylon F, Fjallraven’s durable and water-resistant synthetic material seen in all of their Kanken models. This material helps their Kanken packs stay stiff, without losing any of their designs’ iconic shape and construction. 

One of our qualms with this laptop backpack is the strap adjustment system and materials. With a little more padding on the straps and a way to tuck the dangling adjustment straps, in a way similar to the Topo Designs Daypack Tech , the Kanken 17″ Pack would be pretty much perfect. Even with these minor flaws, this pack was one of our all-time favorites in this guide. 

Whether you’re a college student looking for a fashion-forward laptop backpack or an on-the-move graphic designer, be sure to check out the Fjallraven Kanken 17″ Laptop Pack . Between its large storage space and padded computer compartment, this backpack is a fantastic choice for all users.

Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack

• Dimensions 17.5 x 7.25 x 12 in.
• Capacity 27L
• Laptop compartment size 15 in.
• Best use Travel

• Minimalist design with plenty of storage space
• Attaches to luggage handle for easy travel
• Separate zippered laptop compartment
• Protective foam not thick
• Water bottle side pocket does not fit larger bottles
• Top storage panel only secures down via small magnets

With a minimalist design and four zippered pockets, the Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack ($95) is a fantastic travel-friendly option at less than a hundred bucks. With a separate zippered compartment for your laptop, you can keep your computer protected from any spills or other gear you may have in the main storage area. 

If you’re an environmentally conscious person, you can feel good about purchasing the ReNew Transit since it’s made from 100% recycled polyester that’s been treated with a water-resistant finish. Our tester even poured a glass of water onto this pack and it beaded right off. Furthermore, this backpack was manufactured with Bluesign-approved dyes, which are better for workers and the environment. 

Our tester was impressed by how travel-friendly this pack is. The back panel laptop compartment keeps the user’s computer safe from any potential pickpockets and the luggage strap makes it easy to attach to the handle of a roller suitcase to save your back any unnecessary aches. With a higher storage capacity like the Osprey Ozone , at 32 liters, you can store enough clothes and supplies needed for a weekend trip away while also being able to fit your computer easily. 

While the Everlane ReNew Transit is superb for travel, keep in mind that the padding for the laptop compartment is minimal so you’ll want to be careful maneuvering this pack around. When dropping this pack off a table with an old computer inside of it, we found that the padding just was only slightly sufficient enough to protect it. We would opt for pairing this backpack with a laptop sleeve or case when in use. 

Overall, if you seek a minimalist design that does not sacrifice inner pockets and compartments, be sure to take a look at the Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack . Its ergonomic design performed well on most fronts and the sleek design is truly timeless.

Patagonia Refugio Daypack 30L

• Dimensions 19 x 12 x 6.5 in.
• Weight 1 lb., 12 oz.
• Capacity 30L
• Best use Hiking

• Generous storage space
• Removable laptop sleeve/desk caddy compartment
• Hydration hanger and pass-through access
• Lacks structure
• May not be a professional enough aesthetic for the office

If you’re looking for a laptop backpack that performs well on trail and off, be sure to consider the Refugio Daypack 30L ($129) from Patagonia. Designed for students, outdoorsy folks, and working professionals, this backpack instantly impressed us with its versatile design and applicability. It really does have all the bells and whistles. 

With an included removable laptop sleeve that also functions as a desk caddy so you can store all your office supplies, the Refugio pack is highly durable and water-resistant thanks to its 100% recycled polyester makeup with a PFC-Free DWR finish. At 30L, this pack has plenty of room for books, gear, layers, and your computer. Our tester wore this pack while ski touring both in the backcountry and at her local resort. She opted to swap the laptop sleeve for her hydration bladder, and really appreciated the pass-through access point for the hose. 

After skinning for miles with this backpack on, her back remained cool with plenty of air regulation thanks to the mesh back panel. Because this backpack lacks stiffness from any internal hard plastic elements, like those in the Mystery Ranch 3 Way 27 Briefcase , it’s super lightweight and easy to toss on and off. This ease was even further evident by the top-loading pocket she filled with granola bars. Being able to grab one of these without having to fully take the pack off was a major plus. 

Available in several earth-tone colors, the Refugio has a padded back panel and straps that make it super comfortable to wear while commuting to work or hiking for miles on end. These breathable panels stayed dry and supportive despite a decent amount of weight in our tester’s pack. The outer bungees make for extra storage space if you need to attach a jacket or helmet too. 

Even though it is a tad flimsy for a laptop backpack, the Refugio is still a great option for the mid-range price of $125. Like most Patagonia products, it’s a decent investment and will last you a lifetime thanks to their warranty repair program. If you find that this pack has torn or become damaged in use, they should repair or replace it for free or at a low cost. 

Whether you’re a hiker looking for a daypack that functions well in the office and out, or a student needing a pack that can hold a lot without sacrificing comfort, the Patagonia Refugio Daypack 30L is a solid pick thanks to its multifaceted design and included accessories.

Mystery Ranch 3 Way 27 Briefcase

• Dimensions 12 x 17.5 x 11.5 in.
• Best use Office and travel

• 3 different modes of carry
• Protective laptop padding
• Plenty of storage space
• Shoulder carry strap lacks any padding
• Strap buckles challenging to open and close
• Bulky design

If you’re stuck deciding between a backpack, briefcase, or messenger bag, be sure to check out the 3-in-1 Mystery Ranch 3 Way 27 Briefcase ($229). With a simple reconfiguration of the straps, this laptop backpack can transform itself into a backpack or shoulder bag style within seconds, making it perfect for those craving a more versatile and adjustable design. 

At 27 liters, the 3 Way 27 Briefcase is spacious enough for a computer, tablet, keyboard, notebooks, and other necessities for the office or classroom. The laptop compartment includes stiff padding, meaning your electronics will stay safe should any undesirable drops or spills occur. Manufactured with Mystery Ranch’s CORDURA fabric, a highly durable and recycled nylon, this backpack can withstand even the most treacherous commutes.

Mystery Ranch calls this pack a “portable office” and we couldn’t agree with that title more. With several organizational storage compartments, you can keep your pens, cables, hard drives, and other supplies in their own spot. If you work on the go, you can use this stiff briefcase as a lap desk thanks to its inner plastic panel. The bag itself opens via side zippers, making it easy to look around for those pesky headphones or pencils that may be at the bottom.  

If you tend to fly with a checked bag or carry-on suitcase, be sure to consider this briefcase as your personal item. Because of its versatility as both a briefcase and backpack, you can easily give your back a rest by carrying it with the side handle, or use the backpack straps to throw it on during those quick connections where you need to run. The options are truly endless with this one. 

One of our few complaints about the 3 Way Briefcase is the shoulder strap included for the messenger bag configuration. Because it lacks padding, the strap is not super comfortable when in use as it digs into the wearer’s skin. Needing a little bit of elbow grease, the buckles for the shoulder strap are hard to attach and detach. However, we do appreciate the rotating mechanisms on each end of the strap that prevent it from getting twisted when worn. 

As a laptop backpack, the 3 Way Briefcase is easy to wear and comfortable when on. We appreciate that the backpack straps pack away inconspicuously into the back panel so there’s no risk of losing them or taking up precious storage space. Much like the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L , when you have this bag on in backpack form, remember that it is side panel loading — so double-check that all the YKK zippers and buckles are closed up so that nothing comes tumbling out. 

Overall, the Mystery Ranch 3 Way 27 Briefcase is a fantastic choice for those needing an EDC laptop backpack that triples as both a messenger bag and briefcase. With its internal organization and durable materials, this pack is ideal for those needing a daily office companion or adjunct travel bag.

Topo Designs Daypack Tech

• Dimensions 11 x 19 x 5 in.
• Weight 1 lb., 9.6 oz.
• Capacity 21L
• Best use Travel and daily use

• Well-padded external laptop compartment
• Simple design with durable materials
• Neon inside liner makes it easy to find gear or supplies
• Lack of internal organization
• Less pockets than other options

Topo Designs has been making superb backpacks and luggage since 2008 and the Daypack Tech ($129) is no exception. This simple yet effective design is great for students or working professionals seeking a laptop backpack that is protective and applicable to any environment. With the ‘RidgeBack’ molded back panel, this backpack is super comfortable while on and can fit a decent amount of books, chargers, and other workplace accessories. 

The main compartment of this backpack is pretty generous in terms of space. We found that it was best suited for books and notebooks, but not anything super bulky like a big binder. The external laptop compartment really can only fit smaller 15-inch computers that are not thick, so anything bigger would have to go in the thinner sleeve in the main compartment. We tried to fit an older, thicker 15-inch MacBook in there, and it simply wouldn’t budge. 

Like other Topo products, the Daypack Tech is available in a handful of nature-inspired, subtle colors. However, all of the models are designed with an inner neon lining that naturally keeps the interior of the pack well-lit so you can easily find your notebooks, pencils, and other supplies that may be buried in the bottom. The external laptop sleeve on the back panel kept our computer separate and protected from the other objects we put in this backpack. 

And while this pack is fantastic for students who have numerous textbooks and notebooks, we would not recommend it for any tech-oriented working professionals. With the lack of internal storage pockets, there is no secure place to store SD cards, cords, or hard drives while commuting. Also, the canvas-like fabric seems to be a total magnet for dog hair, so pet owners be wary.  

Much like the Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack, the Topo Designs Daypack Tech , is a minimally designed pack for folks needing a simple yet durable solution to store their computers and other office necessities. Overall, this backpack keeps things simple and safely stored.

Osprey Ozone Laptop Backpack

• Dimensions 19.2 x 13.3 x 11 in.
• Capacity 28L
• Laptop compartment size 16 in.
• Best use School, travel, outdoor

• 28 liters provides generous storage space
• Multi-compartment and several pockets provide organization
• Lightweight frame and materials
• Would benefit from a open front panel loading system
• Zippers prone to grabbing
• Slightly cumbersome design

With a streamlined design, large storage compartments, and an outdoor aesthetic, the Osprey Ozone Laptop Backpack ($170) is a fantastic option for those needing to maximize space and functionality in a pack. 

Mostly known for their high-performance hiking and backpacking packs, Osprey also soars (pun intended) in the EDC bag and luggage department as well. The Ozone is no exception to this rule thanks to its ultralight materials and travel-friendly tech. 

Unlike any of the other laptop backpacks we’ve tested, this pack has an included Travel Sentry identification tag, or TSID , on the handle that can be scanned should your backpack become lost and found by someone else. This isn’t where the travel-friendliness of this pack stops.

The Ozone is lined with an ultrasoft, bright gray fabric that won’t scratch your sunglasses or make it hard to navigate when digging around in its interior. Also, there is a secret pocket located on the back panel so you can safely store flat high-risk items like a passport, cash, and other documents. 

The harness system on the Ozone is some of the best we tested in terms of comfort and breathability. The mesh panels are moisture-wicking, and the backpack itself sits at a comfortable, high spot on the user’s back. The sternum strap helps bring much of the weight forward, lessening pressure on the shoulders, but we think this backpack would benefit from a hip buckle if it’s packed super heavily. 

While this backpack operates fantastically in an office environment or while traveling, we really wish it had a fully openable compartment much like the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L . It can fit plenty of packing cubes and toiletries, but being able to flatly organize them while packing would make it that much better. 

Overall, if you pack a heavy load for the office or need something perfect for travel, especially international, then take a gander at the Osprey Ozone Laptop Backpack for its multi-compartment organization and security accessories.

The North Face Router Backpack

• Dimensions 12.5 x 9 x 21 in.
• Weight 2 lbs., 2.4 oz.
• Capacity 40L

• 40L provides plenty of storage space
• Over 5 different pockets that can be used for organization
• Microfiber lining protects screens and glasses against scratches
• Some pockets open from the bottom, making objects prone to falling out
• Main shoulder straps attach to the backpack with weaker stitching and materials
• Not ideal for folks with petite frames or shorter torsos

When it comes to searching for a laptop backpack that can both carry your computer and a plethora of layers, snacks, bottles, and more, be sure to check out The North Face Router Backpack ($159) for its high carrying capacity and organizational system. 

Best used in traveling, school, or commuting environments, the Router has two main compartments and several inner/exterior organizational pockets. We super appreciate that this laptop backpack has a microfiber-lined tablet sleeve and pockets so your screens and sunglasses don’t get scratched when inside. 

The main harness and back panel of The North Face Router is designed with the FlexVent suspension system, which is approved by the American Chiropractic Association for its rounded back panel, stiff and breathable padding, and grid-like structure.

This backpack was pretty comfortable on our tester’s back, but due to its length, it would be best worn on someone with a longer torso. While the main curved portion of the back panel is highly supportive, the top and bottom ends put some unideal pressure points on the upper hip and mid-neck area.

While it is durably made and decently spacious, the Router is heavier than other laptop backpacks we tested during this buyer’s guide build. There are quite a few buckles, materials, and features on this pack that certainly weigh it down a bit. However, our tester was able to fit a plethora of things in here like notebooks, a laptop, a large novel, headphones, a water bottle, and more.

The internal pockets are fantastic for safely stowing small gear like hard drives, chargers, pens, and keys. Be warned, that some of the pockets are situated upside down, so if you forget to zip them up, things will inevitably fall out. 

Much like the Patagonia Refugio Daypack 30L , the Router has a noticeable outdoor aesthetic and can be used both in the office and on the trail. With two water bottle holders and plenty of straps to clip gear to, this backpack is another great choice for those seeking more versatility in a laptop pack.  

Overall, if you don’t want to completely break the bank on a backpack and are seeking something with plenty of bells and whistles, be sure to consider the Router Backpack for its 40L carrying capacity, multiple carry handles, and carry-on compliance.

Laptop Backpacks Comparison Chart

How we tested laptop backpacks.

Stock full of writers who frequent local coffee shops, office spaces, and outdoor vistas, GearJunkie understands the importance of finding that ideal laptop backpack that can provide space, back support, and technology protection. We’ve rounded up what we think are the leading EDC, or “everyday carry”, backpacks of the industry. As new products hit the market or catch our eye, we will continue to test and update this guide. 

As a full-time graphic designer, freelance photographer, and writer, lead tester Meghan LaHatte is no stranger to the world of laptop backpacks. Due to her work at a local newspaper and for GearJunkie, she is constantly on the move between her home desk, office in Aspen, and local coffee shops. Meghan certainly did not take the genesis of this buyer’s guide lightly as she put each of these backpacks through the wringer for testing. 

The most important aspect of these laptop backpacks we tested was their protection factor and durability. When carefully examining each pack, Meghan noted how thick the padding was where a computer was meant to be stored. Was it less than an inch, thicker than an inch, or somewhere in between? She also examined the materials in which the padding was made — typically foam, plastic, or a combination of the two. After noting the quality of the padding, Meghan literally threw the backpacks. Yep, you read that right. 

To trigger what would be an “oopsy” moment like accidentally nudging the backpack off a desk or an unideal strap failure, she placed an old, non-functioning laptop in each backpack before tossing it across her apartment. (She would like to sincerely apologize to her downstairs neighbors for this stage in the testing process).

Since the laptop was completely dead, she based the protection factor on each sound the packs made when they hit the ground. For example, if the backpack made a dull thud rather than a sharp thunk , this meant that the backpack was doing a superb job at protecting the computer since the sound was absorbed. 

For water resistance, Meghan tested this by placing each backpack that was advertised as waterproof or coated with a DWR (durable water-resistant finish) under a running sink. She noted if the water beaded off, was absorbed, or stained. This is an important attribute to consider especially if you live in a moisture-prone climate like a coastal city or snowy ski town. Since Meghan lives just outside of Aspen, Colorado, she was able to wear these backpacks in both snow and shine. 

The next factor she felt significantly mattered in testing was comfort. If you’re going to be commuting via bike or foot, you’re going to want a backpack that is comfortable and supportive. Whereas, if you’re traveling frequently for work or have heavier gear, you’ll want a laptop backpack with streamlined, adjustable straps and a back panel made to conform to your torso. 

The testing process for scoring the comfortability of these laptop backpacks was pretty simple. Meghan loaded up each backpack with a significant amount of gear and then walked at least a consecutive two miles with one on. During this, she carefully noted any pressure points she felt, the usefulness of supporting straps at the chest or waist, and generally how her back and shoulders felt throughout the trek. 

The fourth and final factor Meghan heavily tested was the internal organization and pocket systems for each laptop backpack. When you’re using a laptop backpack in the office, travel, or educational environments, it is important to consider how well you can store your equipment, accessories, bottles, and other supplies. 

To assess this, Meghan counted each pocket and how well it fit glasses, hard drives, wires, or pencils. Another aspect she considered was pocket placement and direction. Were the pockets in easy-to-reach areas? Were they lined with a certain material? This internal organization varied heavily between each pack, but certainly affected how they performed in her multifaceted testing process.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Laptop Backpack 

In today’s modern world where most professional workers operate from a computer, it can be overwhelming to swim through the massive ocean that is the laptop backpack market. Now that most employees are returning to the office, there’s certainly a push to find a laptop backpack conducive to commuting, travel, and most workplace environments. 

Be sure to read through our buyer’s guide to discern what makes a laptop backpack a laptop backpack and all the bells and whistles that typically come with one. Some of these factors can be protection ability, internal organization, purpose of use, price, and more. Hopefully, by the time you’ve reached the end of the road on this guide, you’ve found that laptop backpack that is your own pièce de résistance .

What Is a Laptop Backpack?

An EDC, or “everyday carry,” laptop backpack is an investment one makes for the health of not only their computer, but also their back and shoulders. A laptop backpack will always have a padded sleeve or compartment where you can safely stow a computer or tablet, a thick back panel that increases that protection, and a supportive harness system so you can comfortably wear it on commutes and travel days. 

When shopping for a laptop backpack, be sure to understand how it differs from, let’s say, an ultralight hiking backpack or a backpacking backpack . Outdoor-oriented backpacks tend to have higher-liter carrying capacities and accessories meant for attaching gear like sleeping pads, ropes, tents, etc. While there can sometimes be an overlap of the two, a laptop backpack will always have a compartment meant for protecting a computer. Laptop backpacks will also typically be smaller than backpacking packs as they are more conducive to fitting smaller gear like office supplies, notebooks, and other technology. 

When it comes to commuting between the home and office, or flying across the country, laptop backpacks are our favorite way to carry our mobile workspaces. Sure, you can use a tote bag or briefcase, but a backpack will leave your hands empty and give you the peace of mind that your stuff is super safe.

Laptop Backpack User Profiles

The Daily Commuter: If you’re someone who opts for biking, walking, or bussing to work, you’ll want a laptop backpack that is comfortable, lightweight, and supportive. The last thing anyone wants on that long trek to work are any aches or pains from an ill-fitting backpack or lack of breathability. Backpacks made with supportive harnesses that include a chest or hip strap to help shift weight forward are best for folks who are walking, running, or biking to the office. Also: laptop backpacks with reflective materials certainly excel for these people, especially if you’re heading home after the sun has gone down.

For commuters and hikers alike, we recommend the Patagonia Refugio Daypack 30L for its lightweight and breathable design and the TimBuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe for its city-like aesthetic with reflective tape for increased visibility. Both of these laptop backpacks excelled during our long walking tests and stayed supportive without compromising comfort or style.  

The Frequent Flier: Whether you’re flying internationally or traveling across the states, finding a laptop backpack that is advantageous to travel environments is key. When you’re on and off airplanes, there can be a lot of transferring your backpack from the overhead bin, under a seat, to TSA shifting it around during their screening processes. For these reasons and more, it is important to get a laptop backpack with a higher protection factor and easy access panels. These can include thicker back padding, front-loading panels, and secure pockets for important documents like passports and tickets. 

You’ll also want a backpack with a higher storage capacity should you need to throw some clothes or toiletries in there. Our choices for the best travel-friendly laptop packs are the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L for its front panel loading system with additional side padding and the Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack for its higher-liter storage and streamlined design. Both of these laptop backpacks perform well as a personal item on a longer journey or as an overnight bag for a weekend trip.

The Minimalist: We get it — sometimes you just don’t need all the bells and whistles these laptop backpacks come with. Extra buckles, straps, and pockets can oftentimes make a computer bag too cumbersome and add to its overall weight. Having these extra accessories can cost you as well since typically more materials = an increased retail price. 

For those wanting a simple aesthetic without much of a cost at all, we recommend the Lenovo Laptop Backpack B210 for its super simple style and minimal design. Since it does not have any extra straps or many pockets, this backpack remains lightweight but is best suited for folks who don’t have much of a commute to work. Another minimal design we appreciate is the Topo Designs Daypack Tech which has a large exterior pocket and bright interior that makes it easy to find and organize items within. The monochrome exterior looks slick and isn’t as flashy as some of the other options listed. 

The Student: Whether you’re just getting a start on your college career or navigating through those formative high school years, you’ll want a supportive laptop backpack that can provide enough space for books, binders, and other school supplies. Because you’re in school, you are probably ballin’ on a budget, so we understand how important it is to find a pack that won’t empty your wallet without sacrificing precious packing space. Be sure to consider backpacks with extra supportive harness systems since you’ll be carrying more weight thanks to those textbooks. 

Our picks for all sorts of students — high school, college, medical, you name it — are the Mystery Ranch 3 Way 27 Briefcase and Fjallraven Kanken 17″ Laptop Pack . We love the Mystery Ranch 3 Way Briefcase for its versatility and organization system that can fit all sorts of school supplies like pencils, erasers, flash drives, and notebooks.

It is easily carried from class to class thanks to its multiple handles. The thick adjustable straps are super supportive as well. The Fjallraven Kanken got more style points from us than anything, but still can fit so much stuff. This vintage-style bag is great for younger folks who want a little more swagger in a laptop backpack. 

Laptop Protection

Perhaps the most important attribute of a laptop backpack is its protection factor. Simply put, a laptop backpack’s protection factor relates to its ability to protect the given technology inside, whether that is a computer, tablet, keyboard, or a combination of the three. This is executed through the materials, padding, and anatomy of the laptop backpack itself. 

Much like knee pads when you’re skateboarding, the protective padding of a laptop is designed to absorb shock and thus protect what’s inside from damage due to impact. This padding can take many different shapes and placements throughout your backpack. It also can contribute to the pack’s supportive position on your back. 

As we mentioned earlier, we heavily tested these packs’ abilities to protect a computer by throwing them against the ground of our lead tester’s apartment. Depending on how loud each thud of the backpack hitting the ground was, we were able to discern how well it protected what was inside. We also periodically examined the inside computer for any cosmetic damages after each test.

Access Points

Typically, the laptop compartment of a backpack is located in the panel closest to the wearer’s back, where it will have the most support and remain secure. This location prevents it from jostling around too much and increases back stability.

Now where laptop backpacks differ on this element are the actual access points. Some unzip from the top where you can slide in your computer vertically, while others slide in horizontally on the left or right side of the pack. This is totally up to personal preference, but we found that the side panel loading is more conducive to folks wanting a more secure spot for their computer, away from the rest of the items they may have packed in their bag already. 

Side panel loading systems, like in the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L and Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack , will always be zippered, whereas some top-loading systems may have an internal sleeve that is not zippered for your laptop. This is evident in packs like the Topo Designs Daypack Tech and The North Face Router Backpack .

In terms of design, some laptop backpacks are made with padding throughout, on the main sleeve compartment, the sides, or all three. A well-made laptop backpack will accommodate your computer’s size and protect it from those inevitable drops and spills. This padding is generally made from thick foam and plastic elements that provide structure and shielding.

Sometimes these protective elements are stiff enough that the backpack can stand on its own, thus preventing your computer from toppling over within. This was evident when the Mystery Ranch 3 Way 27 Briefcase was in its briefcase form. 

Anatomically, the padding of a laptop backpack should be located throughout the bag, but it is usually thickest on the back panel and inside the actual sleeve. We were impressed by the laptop backpacks that had thicker padding on the harness straps.

Not only do these thicker straps make the pack more comfortable when on, but they also soften any blows to your computer should the backpack tip over onto the ground. Furthermore, backpacks with extra padding on their sides help protect them when you’re swinging them on and off throughout the day.

Winning our overall award for this buyer’s guide, the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L simply took the cake for its protection factor thanks to its 360-degree stiff padding and durable materials. It truly did pass our drop test with flying colors. Even with its minimal, but thick padding, the Lenovo Laptop Backpack B210 did well during this testing portion, despite its uber-low price. 

If we didn’t think any of these backpacks were incapable of protecting your precious tech, they simply wouldn’t be on the list. However, we felt that the Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack could benefit from some better laptop protection through increased foam thickness.

If you find yourself traveling a lot or commuting daily to work via foot or bus, you’ll want a laptop backpack with security attributes like hidden pockets, zipper locks, an ID tag, or highly durable materials. A secure laptop backpack will typically be inconspicuous, without having easy-to-access compartments or flashy elements. 

In terms of laptop and gear security, we were highly impressed with the Osprey Ozone Laptop Backpack for its hidden passport pocket located on the unexposed back panel, digital ID tag, and overall incognito design.

The zippers themselves blend well into the bag, making it harder for someone to suddenly open them while you aren’t looking. If you find yourself in high-traffic environments like trains, airports, or busy streets, definitely try out this backpack for its overall security factor.

The capacity of a laptop backpack refers to the amount of space available inside the pack for accommodating items like computers, books, layers, tablets, and more. These measurements encompass the storage space of all the compartments and pockets within the backpack.

By now, you’ve probably noticed that each laptop backpack has a storage capacity attached to it in the form of liters. This measurement can also be calculated in cubic inches, but for all intents and purposes, we will be discussing volume in the form of liters.

To test out the capacity of each backpack, our lead tester gathered all of her work necessities that she typically packs when she heads to the office, library, or coffee shop on any given day. This took the form of a 15-inch laptop, bulky headphones, a notebook, a novel, pens, chargers, and a keyboard.

She also traveled with some of the backpacks for both week-long and weekend excursions via car and plane. This loadout usually included two luggage cubes, a toiletry bag, a camera cube, her laptop, a book, and other small necessities. 

Overall, almost every backpack suited her needs during this testing iteration, but some certainly stuck out more than others. As a personal item during a flight, the 20L Fjallraven Kanken 17″ Laptop Pack fit Meghan’s full remote working setup which included her computer, a camera, hard drives, a 400-page novel, over-the-ear headphones, and her keyboard. Its cubic shape was perfect for modularly stowing her stuff and it had zero issues sliding under the seat in front of her on the plane. 

For a longer trip away for a wedding, Meghan used the 28L Osprey Ozone Laptop Backpack in which she packed two clothing cubes, a makeup bag, a toiletry bag, her work-from-home setup, and some other small necessities like a wallet, wires, and a curling iron. The larger size of this pack was perfect for accommodating enough of her clothes and supplies without needing to bring a second bag.

It can be confusing discerning between liter counts on laptop backpacks so here is a helpful guide to assist you in crunching the numbers:

Small Capacity (Below 20L)

On average, most of the laptop backpacks in this guide are around 20 liters. And while there are backpacks listed below 20L, it is still important to consider how this size differs from larger sizes. 

• Smaller capacity backpacks are ideal for shorter trips and commutes since they do not boast as much space. 
• Backpacks with this capacity will typically only hold a small computer or tablet, maybe a book or two, and some other small layers and supplies.
• Small-capacity backpacks are more lightweight and easy to carry.

Medium Capacity (20L to 30L)

This is the threshold where most of these laptop backpacks fall since this storage capacity is a great sweet spot for working professionals who need just enough space for their office needs, without being too cumbersome or bulky.

Packs like the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L , Lenovo Laptop Backpack B210 , TimBuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe , Fjallraven Kanken 17″ Laptop Pack , Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack , Mystery Ranch 3 Way 27 Briefcase , Topo Designs Daypack Tech , and Osprey Ozone fall into this storage capacity.

• Sufficient for everyday use or short weekend trips out of town. 
• Offers a superb balance between compactness and being able to carry all the necessities. 
• Typically can fit a computer, tablet, multiple books, clothes, and other small supplies like chargers, SD cards, sunglasses, and more.

Large Capacity (30L and Above)

At the more robust end of the storage capacity spectrum are laptop backpacks made with over 30 liters of storage space. Because laptop backpacks are designed for more temporary environments like offices, libraries, and coffee shops, you won’t typically see them in higher capacity options since bigger packs are overall heavier and bulkier.

However, packs like the North Face Router , which measures in at a whopping 40 liters, are an exception to this rule. Here are a few reasons you may want to consider a large-capacity laptop backpack: 

• You’re a seasoned traveler who craves versatility in a laptop backpack that will afford you a week’s worth of clothing and supplies.
• A large-capacity laptop backpack will fit not only a computer and other gadgets, but also luggage cubes, a toiletry bag, a jacket, a water bottle, and other luxuries.
• If you’re someone with a larger frame, you can rock a higher capacity bag since it will be more conducive to your own proportions and thus give you ample back support.

In conclusion, capacity is totally up to your own personal preference and needs. Typically, a higher capacity will contribute to the overall size and weight of the backpack, so if you are a commuter by foot, you may want something with a smaller capacity. On the other hand, if you’re a photographer or student needing to max out storage space for gear and books, you can probably go with something at or above average on the liter count.

Laptop Compartment Size

When considering the capacity of your ideal laptop backpack, be sure to consider the size of its given laptop compartment. Most of the laptop backpacks we listed fall at the 17-inch laptop mark, but some can only accommodate a 15-inch model or less.

Small Compartments (15 in. or Less):

• Typically these laptop backpacks have a smaller liter count.
• Best for small computers or tablets like the MacBook Air, iPad, HP Chromebook, or Kindle. 
• Usually have less robust padding.

Medium Compartments (15 in. to 17 in.):

• The most common laptop compartment size. 
• Can accommodate computers like the MacBook Pro, HP ProBook, multimedia PC laptops, and large tablets.  
• Best for protecting laptops at this size as anything significantly smaller will jostle around in the compartment.

Large Compartments (17 in. and Above):

• Usually included in larger-liter capacity backpacks meant for travel.
• Best for large modular setups that include gaming laptops, small monitors, and more portable workstations.
• Padding should be generous to accommodate the large-sized tech. 

You should base your laptop compartment size on the size of your given computer. You’ll want your laptop to fit in the sleeve snugly. If your computer is too big for the compartment size, its protection will be compromised, especially if the backpack can’t be zipped up all the way.

On the other hand, if your laptop is too small, it may shift around too much inside the backpack and thus damage itself or other tech you may have stored adjacent to it. 

In terms of laptop compartment size and padding, we loved the TimBuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe for its optional padded compartment and inner sleeve. It can accommodate a 17-inch computer and a tablet quite securely with plenty of room to spare. 

Organization

Whether you’re headed to class, the office, or on a work trip, organization is key to optimizing the space of your backpack and keeping your valuables in easy-to-find places. Within laptop backpacks, organization can take the form of pockets, sleeves, removable cases, and exterior bungees. 

The most common form of organization with laptop backpacks is through compartments. Most backpacks have a laptop compartment, a main compartment, and a smaller exterior compartment. For example, The North Face Router Backpack has this exact setup with a fleece-lined computer compartment, a middle open space, and a smaller exterior area.

We think that when it comes to compartment amount, three is the magic number. This gives you enough customization with your packing methods, without being too overwhelming or complex. Too few compartments and you can’t separate your valuables, but too many compartments will lead to the overall space in which the bag takes up and it requires more work to dig around items.

When it comes to organization, especially for smaller items like SD cards, batteries, chargers, and more, pockets will be your best friend. The best laptop backpacks will have a balance of interior and exterior pockets. We appreciate backpacks that have mesh interior pockets, so you can easily see what you have stowed. Exterior pockets that are lined with fleece or microfiber are a great spot to store your glasses or phone, thanks to their anti-scratch properties.

We certainly prefer zippered pockets to not, but interior pockets don’t absolutely require zipper access and can be useful when you need to grab something in a pinch. The pocket system of the Mystery Ranch 3 Way 27 Briefcase definitely impressed us with its multi-purpose use and varying material application.

Some organizational elements take the form of removable accessories, like in the Patagonia Refugio Daypack 30L . This backpack stands out from the rest as it includes a removable desk caddy that also functions as a padded laptop sleeve. This is great for mobile workers who need to take their desk space with them everywhere.

This customization is also great for switching the backpack from its professional mode to its outdoor iteration. For example, the desk caddy can easily be swapped for a water bladder thanks to the hydration hanger and pass-through access. There’s even an exterior bungee cord for attaching items you may want to grab more quickly or frequently. 

When considering which laptop backpack might be right for you, don’t hesitate to splurge a little more on a pack that has the organization system you require. It will help make your workday much more productive and much less stressful.

Materials and Durability

Up there with laptop protection, the materials and durability are both highly important to the overall functionality of your backpack. From the exterior, back panel, zippers, and interiors, materials can make or break what is a good and reliable laptop backpack. Sometimes these textiles are manufactured with recycled materials, waterproof/resistant finishes, reflective elements, and more. 

Exterior backpack materials are typically made with nylon, polyester, canvas, vinyl, and or a combination of textiles. These fabrics have the important job of protecting your computer and other things from wear and tear, water, spilled coffee, and other unideal accidents. Here is how a few of those materials work to do this and some product examples:

Nylon-constructed laptop backpacks are typically lighter, water-resistant, and durable against daily use. Scientifically speaking, nylon is a silk-like thermoplastic constructed from petroleum, so it can be easily combined with other materials and coating to increase its water-resistant performance and abrasiveness. Nylon can also be easily made into an array of different colors and hues. 

The Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L is constructed with an 840D ballistic nylon that is extremely durable against drops, scrapes, and overall daily use. This nylon is also treated with a water-repellent finish and the micro-woven fabric itself is dust-resistant too.

If you’re seeking a nylon-based backpack that does not have a major environmental impact, be sure to consider a pack like the Mystery Ranch 3 Way 27 Briefcase for its 500D recycled CORDURA re/cor nylon, another impressive textile made from sustainable materials. 

Another highly common textile, polyester is found in several of our listed backpack options. It is a synthetic textile made of plastic polymers made from petroleum. Similar to nylon, polyester is lightweight, typically water-resistant, and easy to clean.

However, its durability is not as impressive as nylon and may wear away just a hair faster. To help increase a polyester’s abrasiveness, companies will often coat them with finishes like a durable water repellent (DWR). 

Made with 100% recycled polyester, the Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack was one of our favorite constructed backpacks of this material. It has a canvas-like aesthetic and doesn’t seem to attract much dirt or dust. The Patagonia Refugio Daypack 30L was another fantastic polyester option, and the DWR finish helped repel any moisture from snow during a long day at the skin track. 

Interior Materials

While exterior textiles and design are highly important to a laptop backpack’s overall protection and durability, don’t overlook the interior materials either. Typically, computer pack interiors are constructed with softer fabrics like microfiber or nylon that make for a scratch-free house for your tech to sit in.

These non-abrasive fabrics keep your items away from dust and become damaged if exposed to dirt that could scratch your otherwise pristine screens. The ultrasoft microfiber interior of the laptop compartment and glasses pocket of the The North Face Router Backpack was phenomenal at protecting our tester’s sunglasses and iPad from any devastating scratch exposure.

One other thing to note about interior laptop backpack fabrics is the dye used. We appreciate backpacks that are manufactured with brighter colors like white, gray, and yellow. This makes your stuff so much easier to find, especially in a dimly lit coffee shop or under the seat in front of you on an airplane.

The neon interior found on most Topo Designs backpacks and luggage is one of our favorite examples of this application. This is just color theory plain and simple — brighter colored objects reflect light better than those of darker hues like black or blue. 

Overall, if your laptop backpack is constructed with industry-standard materials and coatings, it should be great in keeping your stuff safe from exposure to the elements, expected wear and tear, and unideal tumbles. It should also have interior textiles that are brightly colored, softer than the exterior, and made to withstand a pencil poking through it.

Carry Options and Styles

Laptop backpacks typically take the form of, well, backpacks. However, sometimes laptop backpacks can be a satchel or briefcase. Whether you want a backpack style or messenger bag is completely up to personal preference and what best suits your needs.

We have found that backpacks are the most convenient when it comes to longer commutes, travel days, and trudges across campus. Briefcases and messenger bags are superb for office environments where you need to have documents, devices, or pens quickly at hand. They also tend to be a little more professional looking if your workplace requires more than just business casual. 

If you truly can’t decide between a laptop backpack, messenger bag, or briefcase, be sure to consider the Mystery Ranch 3 Way 27 Briefcase for its versatility as all three. It is easy to configure this laptop backpack into its three modes and it provides plenty of storage thanks to its cubic design.

Laptop backpacks can also have various carry handles so you don’t only have to transport them on your back. All the laptop backpacks listed have a convenient handle for carrying from the top. This handle makes it easy to maneuver your backpack in smaller spaces like airplanes, trains, and buses.

This is also great for when you want to shift your pack over a few feet or inches, but don’t want to have to grab the larger shoulder strap. The reinforced handle on the Osprey Ozone was one of our favorites right out of the gate for its soft and seemingly inconspicuous design. 

Laptop backpacks can also have handles located on their sides as well. Much like the top handle, these carry styles are great for quickly moving your backpack or just taking some of the weight off your shoulders briefly. They also help when sliding your backpack into an airplane’s overhead bin or cubby at the gym.

We thought the side handle on the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L should be applied to most laptop backpack options on the market. It not only looks sleek, but also adds to the overall convenience of the pack itself. 

For more travel-savvy folks that have roller suitcases, you may want to opt for backpacks like the Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack or TimBuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe for their luggage straps located on the back panel. They simply slide over the metal roller handle and securely sit on top of the suitcase itself. These are useful when you’re shuffling through the terminal and want to give your back a breather.

Travel backpacks such as these have a certain minimalistic aesthetic that blends in well with most environments, making them more conducive to high-traffic areas where you don’t want to look too flashy or out of place. 

Whether you want a briefcase or a backpack, be sure to try on the harness to make sure it’s a good fit. If you’re commuting by foot to work, you really should opt for a backpack style that will take the weight out of your hands to leave them open for your phone or much-needed coffee. If you have a car and don’t require much walking for work or school, then a messenger bag or briefcase would probably suit you just fine.

A factor that you definitely shouldn’t ignore or take lightly when it comes to laptop backpacks is price. Whether you’re on a tight budget or have a few extra bucks to spend, these laptop backpacks will definitely suit your needs for school, the office, or travel.

The price of a laptop backpack is typically based on its overall material makeup, design, brand, and size. We have found that backpacks with inexpensive price tags function well, but lack the added organization, protection, and durability that you would find in more pricey options. These pricier options tend to have reinforced zippers, security pockets, modular designs, and heightened longevity thanks to better craftsmanship and textiles. 

On the lowest end of the price spectrum is the Lenovo Laptop Backpack B210 at $15. While it has a good computer protection factor, it doesn’t boast much organization or durability. But for less than 20 bucks, we were pretty impressed by it. If you still have a little more to spend, then consider the Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack ($95) for its added organization, sleek design, and durable materials. 

Jumping over to more mid-range price options at over $100 are options like the Fjallraven Kanken 17″ Laptop Pack ($125), Refugio Daypack 30L ($129), Topo Designs Daypack Tech ($129), The North Face Router Backpack ($159), TimBuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe ($159), and Osprey Ozone Laptop Backpack ($170).

These are all fantastic choices for their reinforced padding, removable accessories, adjustability, and heightened durability. For less than $200, any of these backpacks would most likely last you years — if not decades, making them a fantastic investment. 

Lastly, at the higher range in price at over $200, are backpacks like the Mystery Ranch 3 Way 27 Briefcase ($229) and Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L ($279). For the more expensive cost, these laptop backpacks give you superb protection and overall versatility for their multi-functional designs that perform well in office, travel, and educational environments. 

Remember that a laptop backpack is not only an investment in your own shoulder health and overall productivity, but also in your actual computer itself. A laptop backpack’s ability to protect your computer will save you hundreds — if not thousands — of dollars when utilized properly. You won’t be kicking yourself for spending a little extra on a good backpack when you inevitably drop it and it protects your precious technology. 

While they can sometimes look highly similar, there is a difference between a laptop backpack and one you would take hiking, backpacking, or just around the city. And really it all boils down to laptop security — a laptop backpack will always have some sort of computer protection factor in the form of a padded, suspended laptop compartment or an inserted sleeve.

Other backpacks are not designed to protect your computer or tablet, but are better suited for just storing gear and clothes. Sure you can throw your laptop in there, but just know that it probably won’t have the proper materials and construction to keep it very safe.

Typically no, your laptop shouldn’t require an additional sleeve or case once it’s in your laptop backpack as long as it has the proper padding to keep it cushioned. However, if you have one on hand already or feel as though your backpack isn’t sufficient enough to keep your laptop safe, it wouldn’t hurt to throw one on. Sometimes these additional cases and sleeves can prohibit your computer from actually fitting in the bag so just keep that in mind.

Depending on your needs as a working professional, student, or traveler, you’ll want a laptop backpack that can best store your necessities without compromising space, bulkiness, or comfort. If you have shorter commutes or only need to fit a small computer with a couple of other things, then you can opt for a pack that is 20 liters or less.

If you find yourself wanting to store additional layers, snacks, and gear in your EDC backpack, then consider one in the 20-30L range for its additional space and reinforced support systems. Maybe you’re planning on traveling globally with your computer backpack and need space to fit clothing, toiletries, and souvenirs. If so, then snag one with a liter count that is higher than 30 for the generous amount of space.

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Meghan LaHatte is a contributor for GearJunkie and a graphic designer for the Aspen Daily News. A recent college graduate, she is excited to dive into work with the outdoor industry, journalism, and her role as a gear tester. She’s sharpened her skills as the head marketing photographer for Momentum Ski Camps, as a climbing instructor for Western Colorado University, and as a sales representative for Redline Gallery in Crested Butte, CO. Based in Western Colorado, Meghan is a passionate rock climber, roller skater, skier, artist and coffee connoisseur — all of which she does alongside her rescue dog, Opa.

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The 13 Best Laptop Backpacks To Buy for Travel in 2024

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

779 Published Articles

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

Keri Stooksbury

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Things To Consider When Buying a Laptop Backpack

1. best for frequent flyers, 2. best for those who want to travel in style, 3. best for the born organizer, 4. best for the everyday commuter, 5. best for the money-conscious laptop owner, 6. best for the security conscious traveler, 7. a clever use of space in a sleek design, 8. the laptop backpack designed specifically for women, 9. a comfortable and lightweight backpack, 10. a savvy budget option, 11. for those who have a lot to take with them, 12. for the value happy traveler, 13. doubles up as an activity backpack, 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.

In order to safely transport your laptop from place to place, you need a protective vessel that not only works hard to keep your tech safe but is also comfortable to carry around with you.

Backpacks are the preferred bag type of students, commuters, and frequent flyers. Finding one that will fit your laptop as well as your day-to-day belongings will make travel just a little bit easier.

The size of your backpack should be large enough to comfortably accommodate your laptop and accessories, yet small enough to fit in an overhead bin.

Internal compartments should be roomy enough to fit not just your laptop and charger, but also all your vital necessities, including your wallet , cell phone, glasses, keys, and all the other things you rely on, to prevent you from needing to carry yet another purse or shoulder bag with you.

The size of your laptop will dictate the size of your backpack. Laptop backpacks have a dedicated, padded compartment to slip your laptop into, so it’s important to make sure that the pocket is large enough to fit your laptop.

Standard size dimensions include 15-, 16-, and 17-inch laptop compartments. The thickness of your laptop can make a difference in whether or not it fits, so be sure to take that into account.

Because laptops and all of their necessary paraphernalia can be heavy to carry around, your laptop backpack needs to be as lightweight as possible.

You want to be able to work on the move, but not be so weighed down that you suffer back strain while getting there. Laptops are designed to be portable, so the backpack that you carry it in should be easy and comfortable to carry as well.

Material and Durability

The level of protection your laptop backpack offers is one of the most vital aspects of its purpose. Your laptop needs protection not just from knocks and drops, but also from wet weather.

Some of the very best laptop backpacks on the market are made using waterproof (or at least water-resistant) material that will protect your laptop from the elements and is easy to clean.

Make sure that the material your laptop backpack is made out of is durable, resistant to abrasions, and won’t rip or tear, leaving your laptop vulnerable to the outside.

Meshed backs, curved back systems, and padded through-flows are also useful backpack design features that stop you from getting a sweaty back when carrying your backpack for long periods of time or in hot weather.

Handles and Straps

The beauty of a backpack is that it leaves your hands free for carrying coffee, checking social media on your phone, or holding on to your plane ticket. It’s essential that your backpack have strong, durable straps that will carry all the weight you put in it without tiring out your shoulders.

Comfort is also key.  Handles and straps should sit comfortably on your shoulders. They should be able to carry the weight of the bag with ease and not start to come loose or strain at the seams.

Backpack straps and handles should also be adjustable so you can find the most comfortable position that doesn’t cause back strain.

Laptop Compartment and Pockets

A superb laptop backpack should have multiple pockets and spaces to store all of your items.

The laptop compartment itself must be well-padded to ensure that your device is kept safe from knocks and damage at all times.

Additional pockets should be carefully devised to ensure that they can hold your chargers and cables without squashing or tangling them. There should also be a good variety of internal pockets that can be zipped up tight to keep USB sticks and other peripherals safe.

There should be plenty of room for your wallet, keys, and phone, all kept safely away from the laptop compartment to avoid scratching or damage as you reach in to grab what you need.

Smart Luggage

When it was first invented, smart luggage was considered to be the most exciting thing to happen in the world of carry-on bags . Cabin bags and laptop cases fitted with this type of technology were a real game-changer.

That was until airlines banned them due to the risk of carrying lithium batteries on packed commuter flights.

You can still take your smart luggage into the cabin, but there are very strict rules that apply. You must be able to remove the battery from the smart luggage in case it needs to be checked. This news may change your mind about paying the extra dollar for these handy features.

But fear not, dear flyer, for there are plenty of excellent laptop backpacks on the market without lithium batteries that will keep your beloved laptop safe and sound while you travel.

The 13 Best Laptop Backpacks for Travel

While there are many, many laptop backpacks on the market to choose from, only a few of them really make the grade. Here are some of our favorites.

• Swissgear Travel Gear 1900 Scansmart TSA Laptop Backpack

Weight: 3.3 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 9 x 18.5 x 13.5 inches

Made from superior quality, durable, and weather-resistant 1200D ballistic polyester, the Scansmart from Swissgear offers lie-flat technology to protect up to 17-inch laptops when traveling.

For your convenience, the easy-open compartments are designed to ensure hassle-free, laptop-in-bag TSA scans.

The main laptop compartment is easy to access and is separated from the additional iPad or tablet pocket. Both are fully padded and lined with scratch-free, soft material to help avoid damage during transit.

An additional large U-zip pocket on the front is perfect for keeping all of your pens, notebooks, wallet , and keys safe and within easy reach. The contoured shoulder straps are easily adjustable and the mesh panel with Airflow ventilation prevents sweating.

Packed full of useful features, this backpack not only performs well but also looks professional.

If you’re looking for a quality backpack to carry your laptop from one place to another, this a great option for frequent flyers who want to keep their tech safe and secure wherever they may be.

What We Like

• Can leave your laptop inside your bag going through airport security

What We Don’t Like

• No chest strap for extra support

• Incase Icon Pack

Weight:  2.8 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 13 x 9 x 19 inches

This design-conscious laptop backpack is made from patented Woolenex, abrasion-resistant fabric that’s woven from 2 different thicknesses of polyester fiber.

Durable and weather-resistant, this backpack looks chic and understated, while offering practical and versatile storage options.

The main compartment is large enough to carry a 16-inch MacBook, while the front pocket offers just the right size storage for your iPad or tablet.

Both compartments are padded and offer plenty of protection for your most valued devices, as well as being lined with soft, velour-like material that will keep your screens scratch-free wherever you take them.

In terms of extras, there’s a multitude of storage pockets and zippered compartments that are designed to keep all of your day-to-day necessities safe by your side.

There are even 2 side-access pockets that make it easy to get what you need without taking the backpack completely off. A pocket also features a headphone cable hole for easy listening on the go.

The stylish, minimalist design is low-key and label-free, meaning that you can safely carry around your expensive equipment without drawing too much attention to yourself.

• Headphone cable pocket
• Zippers are not water-resistant

• Timbuk2 – The Authority Pack

Weight:  2.4 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 11.4 x 18.1 x 5.9 inches

If you’re the kind of traveler who needs to take a lot of stuff with you, then this is the perfect laptop backpack for you.

Designed to comfortably carry all of your office necessities, this strong, durable, and well-thought-out backpack has plenty of room to accommodate your laptop and lots of extra items with ease.

The Authority Pack from Timbuk2 has strong adjustable straps that can be adjusted to suit your height and width, and a grab handle for easy lifting and carrying.

The fabric is designed to not only keep your gear safe and well-protected from the elements, but also to prevent sweating.

With the main compartment that can hold up to a 17-inch laptop and a wealth of additional pockets, you’ll be able to take everything you need on the road.

It also offers a neoprene water bottle pocket, compression straps (that also add a useful hanging function), a dedicated key keeper fob so you’ll never lose your keys in the bottom again, and internal pockets perfectly sized for cell phones, pens, chargers, and cables.

Whatever you’re taking with you, The Authority Pack backpack has the perfect space to keep it safe.

• Rear-positioned laptop for weight balancing
• Backpack straps are a little short

Thule Subterra Daypack 25L

Weight:  2.18 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 13 x 11 x 18.5 inches

The Subterra Daypack from sports luggage giant Thule is perfect for those who want to combine the sporting life with the everyday commute.

Made from the highest quality materials, the quick access compartment is large enough to hold a 15-inch MacBook as well as your iPad or tablet. This backpack also offers superior bumper protection with a soft, snuggly lining and 2-way access through the top-loading compartment or side zipper.

A useful addition to the Subterra backpack is the patented SafeZone compartment that can hold your sunglasses, smartphone, or other fragile items and can be removed for carrying separately.

There’s also a quick-access front pocket that expands to hold your charging cables or power bank , as well as a hidden vertical pocket that’s perfect for your headphones or wallet and includes a clip for keeping your keys safe.

Made from strong, durable nylon with the subtle Thule branding, this backpack is a good choice for those looking for practical and protective storage for everyday journeys.

Whether you’re traveling to work, the airport, or somewhere else entirely, this is a good-size backpack that will protect your laptop and stow everything else you need for the hard day’s work ahead.

• Molded side pocket to protect valuable items such as a cell phone or sunglasses
• Straps don’t tighten that much for smaller people

Solo Duane 15.6 Inch Laptop Hybrid Briefcase, Converts to Backpack

Weight: 2.05 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 12.5 x 5.5 x 17.3 inches

This laptop backpack may look like a simple backpack, but the hidden, convertible straps can instantly transform it into a briefcase. This unique function makes the Solo Duane perfect for business travelers who like the convenience of a backpack but the professional look of a briefcase.

The interior is roomy and well-padded. The dedicated laptop compartment will hold any of the most popular devices measuring up to 15.6-inches — including MacBooks, laptops, and Chromebooks. There’s also a dedicated pocket for keeping your iPad, tablet, or e-reader safe during transit.

There are plenty of additional storage compartments, including a large exterior pocket that can comfortably hold your charging cables, and 2 quick-access front pockets for phones, keys, wallets, and credit cards .

For the price you pay, this backpack is an absolute bargain! With plenty of space to hold everything you need to work or study, the price is right on point.

Complete with a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty , this backpack is great for a professional looking to impress, students who are serious about school work, or those who want an affordable laptop bag they can rely on.

• 3 different options to carry this bag
• No water bottle pocket

• Mancro Slim Backpack with USB Charging Port

Weight: 1.5 pounds

Overall Dimensions:  20 x 14 x 8 inches

This functional backpack offers really useful security protection for your laptop and your cards, including an anti-theft metal shackle and RFID-blocking compartments to keep your belongings safe from fraudulent use.

The dedicated laptop compartment fits up to a 17-inch laptop, while there’s a separate spacious compartment suitable for iPads and other tablets.

Made from durable, water-resistant polyester with metal zippers, the Manco Slim backpack is perfect for business users, commuters, or students. Another bonus is the built-in USB charger and charging cable which means you can charge your phone when you’re on the go.

The padded shoulder straps make this bag incredibly comfortable to carry on your back, and the grab handle is perfect for quick movements while on the go. The slim design makes it a good-looking piece that will also keep your laptop safe and secure wherever you are.

There’s plenty of space to carry everything you need on a daily basis, and the affordable price makes this a great addition to your travel gear.

• RFID-blocking compartments to prevent identity theft
• Not much space for other items with a laptop in the main compartment

eBags Professional Slim Laptop Backpack

Overall Dimensions: 8.5 x 18 x 12.8 inches

eBags is known for its clever use of space and the Professional Slim Laptop Backpack is no exception.

With a wealth of handy compartments and clever features, you’ll never be short of usable space with this strong, durable, and practical laptop backpack.

Made from twisted-poly fabric, the streamlined shape, and sophisticated design make this perfect for day-to-day use. The vented Airmesh back panel and contoured straps make this backpack super comfortable to carry around. The crush-proof pocket will keep your charger and other peripherals safe.

The dedicated laptop compartment will fit up to a 17-inch laptop, and the separate tablet pocket will also keep your entertainment gear safe on the move.

There are plenty of additional pockets for key chains, business cards, pens, and even a patented removable, crush-proof case that allows you to keep your cables safe no matter what . Genius!

If you’re not carrying something fragile, simply remove the crush-proof case and you have more space in the main pocket for large items — and you still have your laptop compartment free for a large laptop.

The slim design makes this backpack super easy to keep by your side at all times, and will help relieve the dreaded separation anxiety of worrying where your laptop is when you’re on the move.

At work or even while you travel, this slim backpack from eBags has got your back.

• Colorful internal lining helps to locate items quickly
• Quite a heavy backpack

The North Face Recon Backpack

Weight: 2.6 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 18.9 x 10.8 x 7.5 inches

Not only does The North Face make fantastic gear for intrepid explorers, but it also make pretty decent laptop luggage, too. This particular model would be as at home on a commuter train as it would be on a mountain top.

Designed specifically to suit the female frame, the shoulder straps, sternum strap, and hip belt are all adjustable.

When it comes to internal storage, the Recon offers a large main compartment that’s perfect for stashing books, folders, and other important documents, while the front compartment has a padded sleeve that can hold a small laptop.

There’s also a fleece-lined pocket for your sunglasses or phone, an extendable mesh water bottle holder, and added lash points. This backpack can be used as a laptop bag or just a regular backpack depending on your needs.

Made from high-grade nylon, the Recon boasts a range of features that are standard across The North Face line, including the patented FlexVent suspension system, a padded mesh back panel, and a highly breathable lumbar panel for increased airflow around your body as you travel.

• Comfortable and breathable back panel
• Backpack doesn’t stand up by itself

Incase Compass Backpack with Flight Nylon

Weight: 1.9 pounds

Overall Dimensions:  11.75 x 18 x 5.25 inches

Updated to use flight nylon, the Compass Backpack from Incase is designed to be compact and incredibly practical. You can fit up to a 15-inch MacBook Pro in the laptop compartment at the rear to ensure comfortable weight distribution on your back.

The double zippers allow you to open the main compartment only as far as you need , without risking any of your belongings falling out. Inside are a variety of internal compartments to keep all your day-to-day paraphernalia safe and sound, as well as a couple of quick-access pockets on the outside.

The backpack is made from premium lightweight flight nylon, meaning the bag is durable but won’t take up much of your weight allowance . The padded back panel and straps allow for comfortable and stable carrying wherever you’re headed.

The many different internal compartments provide the perfect hideaways for your keys, cards, cell phone, and books or documents. Whether you’re traveling for business, study, or just for fun, the Incase Compass Backpack  is good to go, whatever you need it for.

• Double zippers for easy access
• No sternum strap to alleviate the weight on your shoulders

Travel Laptop Backpack by Matein

Weight: 1.56 pounds

Overall Dimensions:  18 x 12 x 7.8 inches

Made from water-resistant, durable polyester fabric, this travel laptop backpack is great for laptop users on a budget.

With lots of lovely storage pockets and a separate laptop compartment, you can carry around your daily necessities with ease. What’s more, the comfortable airflow design with multi-panel ventilated padding makes this laptop back super comfortable to carry at all times.

The laptop sleeve comes with enough space to hold up to a 15.6-inch laptop. This backpack also comes with a cleverly designed, anti-theft pocket on the back of the bag so you can keep your valuables close and protected from theft.

Perhaps the most useful function of this particular backpack is the built-in USB charger and charging cable.

Attach your backpack to your rolling luggage using the back strap so moving through airports is a cinch. You can even tuck this bag under the seat in front of you, so there’s no need to worry about putting it in the overhead compartment.

Compact and well-designed, this is a great backpack for the price you pay.

• Lots of internal pockets to stay organized
• No bottom padding beneath the laptop compartment

Everki Atlas Business Laptop Backpack

Weight: 4 pounds

Overall Dimensions:  13.4 x 9.1 x 18.9 inches

This supercool laptop backpack benefits from a ton of extra features, making it perfect for anyone who needs to take a lot of stuff with them. Made using high-quality materials, your equipment will be well-protected wherever you may go.

Large enough for any adventure, this backpack will comfortably hold laptops from 13- to 17.3-inches in size , in the adjustable padded and felt-lined compartment that opens a full 180 degrees for easy access at airport security checkpoints .

Even when it’s fully loaded, the 5-point strap system means that this backpack is always comfortable to carry.

Aside from the main spacious storage area, there are also large, zippered pockets that are perfect for holding your iPad, tablet, or e-reader, as well as plenty of extra space for stashing your business cards, writing utensils, and other daily accessories you may need. There’s even a separate small stowaway pocket that’s perfect for storing your phone.

An investment piece for sure, but this is a great backpack that offers excellent protection for your laptop, as well as plenty of extra storage space for anything else you could want to take with you .

• Checkpoint-friendly compartment that opens 180-degrees
• Side pockets don’t fit a tall water bottle

AmazonBasics Backpack for Laptops

Weight: 1.98 pounds

Overall Dimensions:  13.39 x 7 x 19.29 inches

This laptop backpack from the AmazonBasics line of products has been cleverly designed to protect and hold your laptop while you’re on the move. With multiple storage compartments, you can carry your laptop and work accessories with you everywhere you go.

Made from heavy-duty material that offers some weather resistance, this backpack looks way more expensive than it actually is.

There are plenty of internal pockets to store your pens, keys, wallet, and smartphone, and the bag holds up to a 17-inch laptop in a padded, dedicated laptop compartment. There’s even a separate handy compartment in which to store your iPad or tablet.

The adjustable and heavily padded shoulder straps make the backpack comfortable to wear, even when loaded with all your gear. There’s also a mesh water bottle compartment on the side.

While there are other, more expensive laptop backpacks available on the market, this one is both affordable and practical, making it perfectly suited for use as a budget laptop backpack.

• Lots of internal and external pockets
• Zippers can sometimes get stuck

Osprey Nebula 32 Commuter Backpack

Weight: 2.12 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 11.42 x 12.2 x 19.29 inches

This bag is loaded with features that make it a great option for traveling with a laptop. Featuring a specially designed harness and suspension system, this backpack moves with you and provides incredible ventilation and comfort, even when you’re packing a heavy load. You’ll certainly stay cool with this ventilation system, making it perfect for warmer climates.

Made from strong and durable material, this clever, TSA-compatible backpack even has a blinky-light attachment point

The dedicated laptop sleeve will keep a 16-inch laptop protected. There are plenty of additional zippered pockets and mesh organizers to keep your cell phone, credit cards, notebooks, and other daily necessities organized, and dual stretch mesh water bottle pockets. It has a capacity of 32 liters.

Made by luggage giant Osprey , this is a backpack that’s perfectly designed for those who like to stay active while keeping their laptop safe and well-protected. However, as such a comfortable and well-designed backpack, it’s well-suited to double up as a professional backpack for travelers who work and play.

• Protects larger laptops than many laptop bags
• No lockable zippers

If you’re looking for a backpack that will sit comfortably on your shoulders, provide ample protection, and look good, any of the above will fit the bill. While some of the big-name brands do offer superior quality at a higher price point, there are some great budget options, too.

One thing is for certain, a laptop backpack is a must for anyone on the go with a laptop. Keep your gear safe, look professional, and keep your back comfortable by choosing the right laptop backpack for your travel style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to pack your laptop in your suitcase.

It is strongly recommended that you do not pack your laptop in your suitcase. A suitcase will be subject to many bumps and knocks between check-in, loading, and unloading at your next destination. Invest in a laptop backpack that you can take as carry-on and keep your laptop protected and on your person.

Can I carry 2 laptops in carry-on baggage?

Most laptop backpacks will only have 1 laptop compartment designed to fit a single laptop but many laptop backpacks will be large enough to fit 2 overall. Provided you have the batteries installed in the laptops and they are charged enough to prove they work, you should not have a problem taking 2 laptops in a carry-on. It is recommended you check with your airline in case they have specific requirements.

Which laptop backpack is the best for travel?

While there are many, many laptop backpacks on the market to choose from, only a few of them really make the grade. Here are some of our favorites:

What size backpack do I need for my laptop?

The size of your laptop will dictate the size of your backpack. Laptop backpacks have a dedicated, padded compartment to slip your laptop in to, so it’s important to make sure that the pocket is large enough to fit your 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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15 Best Laptop Backpacks of 2024

A good laptop backpack needs to be a protective home for your expensive device. The top packs we tested do that and much, much more.

Traveling with a laptop can be stressful, and I know how important it is to get the right backpack to keep your machine safe, but still easily accessible while traveling.

I worked for several years as a product engineer, and I frequently had to travel for weeks at a time while hauling my big-ass engineering laptop along for the ride. I went through several backpacks trying to find one that worked well, and along the way, I learned a lot about what sets the best laptop backpacks apart from the mediocre alternatives.

My first priority in a laptop backpack is that it has ample protection to keep my computer safe from bumps and dings while traveling. It also needs to be super easy to access my device so I can catch up on emails on the go or pull it out for TSA.

Of course, my backpack is going to be carrying more than just my laptop. I want a pack that has enough space and organization for charging cords, headphones, books, water bottles, and anything else I need to bring with me.

Without further ado, here are my top 15 laptop backpacks for travel:

• Best Laptop Backpack Overall: NOMATIC Backpack
• Best Travel Laptop Backpack: Aer Tech Pack 2
• Most Affordable Laptop Backpack: Matein Travel Laptop Backpack
• Best Waterproof Laptop Backpack: Rains Backpack
• Best Full-Featured Laptop Backpack: Swissgear 1900 ScanSmart
• Most Stylish Laptop Backpack: Bellroy Melbourne
• Best Travel Backpack for Laptop and Camera: WANDRD PRVKE
• Best Laptop Messenger Bag: Timbuk2 Commute Messenger Bag 2.0
• Best Leather Laptop Backpack: Harber London Slim Laptop Backpack
• Best Hiking Laptop Bag: Gregory Juxt 34
• Best Travel Backpack for 17-inch Laptop: KÜHL Eskape 25
• Most Durable Laptop Backpack for Travel: Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Laptop Backpack
• Best Travel Laptop Backpack for Women: Patagonia Atom Tote Pack
• Best Laptop Backpack for Men: Peak Design Everyday Backpack
• Best Gaming Laptop Backpack: Timbuk2 x ASTRO Gaming BP35 Backpack

NOMATIC Backpack : Best Laptop Backpack Overall

Nomatic is based in my home state of Utah, a hub for adventurous folks of all sorts. They started on Kickstarter with an innovative wallet design, and now they sell a wide range of well-designed and well-built travel gear. Their sleek, functional designs make them one of our top backpack brands .

The NOMATIC Backpack is their classic urban pack that is perfectly optimized for traveling with a laptop. The padded laptop sleeve is very protective, easily accessible, and has room for most full-size devices.

This laptop bag opens with a YKK-brand zipper that wraps around the entire perimeter. This zipper is super smooth and durable, and the massive wide opening makes it super easy to access anything inside without having to dig.

You also get tons of small pockets for organization. There is a water bottle pocket on the side, a big external pocket with several separate compartments, and more zippered pockets inside the main compartment.

One I don’t love about this bag is that it only comes in black. Actually, I think all NOMATIC products are black, I’m not sure if they sponsor Batman, but that’s the only color you’ll see on their bags. It looks very sleek and professional, but I personally prefer to have some color choice and a bit of personality.

It also only fits up to a 15.6-inch laptop size. That’s standard size so most people will be covered, but if you have a big 17-inch laptop you’ll need a bigger bag.

This bag comes in either a 14 L or 20 L size. I’d recommend going with the larger 20 L just to make sure you have enough space. It still isn’t huge, but it has an expandable design that gives you 4 L of extra space when you need it. If you carry a lot of stuff on a regular basis, you’ll probably want something a tad bigger, but for a slim pack that can fit a bit more when needed, this is a great choice.

• Technical Specs

Aer Tech Pack 2 : Best Travel Laptop Backpack

Aer is a San Francisco-based travel brand that started with a crowdfunding campaign for a hybrid gym bag/work bag. They build a wide array of travel bags centered around durable materials, simple designs, and functional features for travel.

If you’re going to be flying with your laptop, it’s important to have a bag that is specifically designed with the requirements of travel in mind. The Aer Tech Pack 2 is a streamlined, thoughtfully-designed laptop pack that works really well for travel because it is protective and packed with travel-oriented features.

The center of this bag is the suspended laptop pocket that isolates your computer from the outside. This means it is protected from bumps or impacts while you’re traveling. It’s also very easy to access your laptop through a dedicated zipper.

This versatile backpack has a luggage handle pass-through strap on the back panel. This means it’s super easy to attach it to the top of your luggage for wheeling through the airport. You also have grab handles on the top and side that make it easy to carry in any orientation.

I’ve spent a lot of time wearing a backpack while traveling, and if it isn’t comfortable, my shoulders get pretty sore after a few hours. The Aer Tech Pack nails it with comfort. It has nice wide, thickly-padded shoulder straps and a chest strap to help distribute the load.

It is also made with super durable materials. You get burly 1680D Cordura on the sides and a waterproof 840D front panel. This pack has a lot of structure, so it keeps its shape even when it’s empty, and it feels very sturdy and substantial. I seriously doubt you’ll be able to

Of course, those thick, tough materials do make this pretty heavy for a relatively small backpack (it’s only 17L). If you’re concerned about weight, you may want something else. I haven’t found the weight to be much of a problem though, and I’d rather have a bag that can take some abuse.

Matein Travel Laptop Backpack : Most Affordable Laptop Backpack

I get it, sometimes you just need the cheapest product you can find that still gets the job done. I’m a bit of a cheapskate, and I try to save money wherever I can.

If you’re strapped for cash, the Matein Travel Laptop Backpack on Amazon gives you a totally functional everyday backpack at an insanely low price.

The most important thing here is the padded laptop sleeve. It’s not the most protective out there, but it does have some cushioning to protect your device from small bumps.

You also get tons of internal pockets. Almost to the point where there are more than you could ever possibly need. There are water bottle pockets, four different compartments you can access from the outside, and several slip pockets and zippered pockets in each compartment. I personally would prefer something a bit simpler, but if you like having a place for everything, you’ll love the abundant organization here.

One thing I like about this bag is that there is an array of size choices, and it’s very obvious what laptop size fits in each one. You can buy a 14-inch, 15.6-inch, or 17-inch bag, and the size exactly corresponds to the size of device that will fit in the laptop sleeve. This takes a lot of the guesswork out of getting a bag that will fit your laptop.

Now with such a cheap bag, you can expect some compromises. The materials and components aren’t great, the zippers aren’t very smooth, and it’s just plain ugly, to be blunt. Okay, it’s not that bad, but you definitely won’t be winning any style awards.

The shoulder straps do have some padding, but it isn’t much.

If you’re on a super tight budget, this Matein backpack does what you need at a fantastic price point. Still, if you can scrape together a little extra cash, there are some other packs on this list that are higher quality while still being quite affordable. And hey, you can always look for a used bag to save money.

Rains Backpack : Best Waterproof Laptop Backpack

When I was in college I used to carry a kitchen trash bag inside my backpack to wrap around my computer if I ever got caught in heavy rain or snow (which happened frequently). You know what? It worked great. I would roll into class with a totally waterlogged backpack, but my laptop would be nice and dry. That one trash bag lasted three years, too.

I probably would have saved a lot of hassle by getting myself a waterproof backpack , though.

Rains is a modern lifestyle brand built around selling stylish waterproof products, from jackets to packs. They’ve developed a signature PU-coated fabric that’s sleek, durable, and fully waterproof.

The Rains Backpack is a streamlined, minimalist bag that uses combines this fabric with a dialed-in design to give you an ultra-stylish backpack that will keep your laptop (and everything else) dry when the heavens dump on you.

It definitely isn’t a full-on dry pack. Don’t plan on taking your laptop on a whitewater rafting trip with this, but as long as the water is falling from the sky, this

This backpack is incredibly simple and stripped down. You get one top-opening main compartment with a magnetic flap closure, a laptop pocket that fits 15-inch devices, a phone-sized zip pocket in the back panel, and, well, that’s it.

While I do love simplicity, I wish there were just a bit more organization in this bag. Laptop backpacks have to carry things like a charging cord, mouse, adapters, and other computer accessories, so a few more pockets would be a welcome addition.

Another thing it lacks is padded straps. The Rains Backpack only has thin webbing shoulder straps to carry the load. While this works fine, I’d want something more padded and supportive for carrying it on longer days.

For true minimalists, though, this pack has everything you need and nothing you don’t. And it really shows in the styling. The Rains Backpack is just plain stunning.

Swissgear 1900 ScanSmart : Best Full-Featured Laptop Backpack

Maybe you’re the kind of person who likes to be prepared for anything. Maybe your EDC setup includes a knife, multitool, flashlight, tactical pen, altimeter watch, and miniature pry bar. Maybe, just maybe, you wear cargo pants on a regular basis (no judgment here).

If you like to be prepared, you’ll want to look for laptop backpacks that are packed with features and organization to keep all your kit neat and accessible. Swissgear is known for building feature-packed travel gear, and their 1900 ScanSmart Laptop Backpack is loaded with features.

The most innovative feature of this pack is the ScanSmart lay-flat laptop sleeve. It’s everything you’d expect from a protective, padded laptop pocket, with enough space for most big 1, but then a wraparound zipper lets the whole back panel and laptop sleeve fold out from the main bag and lay flat, with just a mesh panel covering your laptop. This means you can send the bag and laptop through airport security scanning without fully removing your device.

I really hate digging my laptop out of my bag to go through security, so I love this feature that eliminates that hassle. This makes it a great laptop bag for frequent flyers.

Beyond the neat laptop sleeve, this bag is packed with pockets and features. There are 6 different compartments you can access through external zippers, each of which has several internal pockets for extra organization. It has elastic suspension shoulder straps, a hidden sleeve for passports, a protective hard case pocket, side compression straps, a “floating” tablet pocket, and even a dedicated webbing loop for holding sunglasses. And with 31 L of storage, there’s plenty of space for all your essentials and then some.

If this bag has a problem, it’s that it is too loaded-down with features to the point of being overcomplicated. You’ll never run out of places to put things, but you might not know what to do with all the pockets!

It has two water bottle pockets, but I don’t love them. They are made of a thin mesh and are too small for larger bottles.

My biggest gripe? I think this bag is pretty ugly. It has a very utilitarian, bulky styling that just doesn’t look great to me. Is it a great, functional bag though? Absolutely.

Bellroy Melbourne : Most Stylish Laptop Backpack

Even though I like to see myself as utilitarian and function first, I have to admit that style is important. When I have gear that looks good, I am more excited to use it, and I feel better when I’m traveling. A backpack with sleek, dialed-in styling has an almost magical effect; it makes me feel more confident and put together—like I could step off the ground and fly…

Okay, maybe I’m getting a bit carried away there, but you get the idea. We all like gear that looks good.

The Bellroy Melbourne is a slim city-oriented backpack that combines spot-on styling with smart functionality. It probably won’t stand out in a crowd, but it’s hard to deny the appeal of the minimal, understated styling.

The laptop sleeve is well-padded and has enough room for a 15-inch device. I just wish you could access it without opening the main compartment of the bag, but since it’s easy to get to, that’s not a big deal.

The closure system for this pack is very unique, and I’ve found it to be really intuitive to use. There is just a simple flap opening at the top, with magnets to hold it closed. There is also a zipper running down the full length of one side of the pack. You can choose to get in either way, or you can use both to fold it wide open, making it super easy to pack or get to all your items inside.

At 18 L, this is a pretty small backpack, so you won’t be fitting a ton inside. There’s also an even smaller 12 L version, but unless you are a true minimalist, I’d recommend sticking with the bigger size.

WANDRD PRVKE : Best Travel Backpack for Laptop and Camera

If you’re carrying camera gear in addition to your laptop, you have a very specific set of requirements from your bag. You need to look for camera backpacks that offer tons of padding and protection for all your sensitive equipment.

WANDRD was started by two brothers who couldn’t find a camera bag on the market that fit their requirements. Instead of settling for something mediocre, they decided to set out to build one themselves and make it the best camera backpack ever.

The WANDRD PRVKE is the original award-winning pack they built (though it’s seen some improvements over the years).

The first thing you’ll notice about the PRVKE is that it has tons of options for accessing your gear. There is a simple roll-top opening, full-length zippers that let you fold open the entire body of the bag, and side-access pockets so you can get to your gear on the go.

The laptop sleeve on the PRVKE is built into the fold-open front panel (instead of right next to your back like most packs). This means it’s super easy to access your laptop while you’re traveling. The downside is that if you don’t have the bag packed very full, your laptop can awkwardly shift around since it’s on the side farthest from your body.

If you’re carrying camera gear, you’ll want to opt for the photography bundle, which includes a removable padded camera cube, removable waist straps to carry more weight comfortably, and accessory straps for mounting tripods or other gear on the outside of the pack.

The padded shoulder straps are wide and comfortable, though I wish waist straps came standard with this pack. You do get them with the photography bundle, so maybe that’s not a problem for most people who will be buying this bag.

Timbuk2 Commute Messenger Bag 2.0 : Best Laptop Messenger Bag

Okay, yes, this is an article on the best laptop backpacks , but I think it is worth having one shoulder bag in here. While backpacks are becoming more and more common in workplaces, there still are some times that you want to look a bit more professional, and a sleek messenger bag is a great option for that.

Timbuk2 was started in 1989 by a San Francisco bike courier who wanted to create a functional messenger bag for urban travelers. The first Timbuk2 product was the classic messenger bag, and they’ve been improving their designs ever since.

The Commute Messenger Bag 2.0 is a refined bag with a dedicated laptop compartment, dialed-in styling, and smart features. It’s simple, but well-built and easy to use.

The laptop sleeve on this bag is roomy and well-padded. You’ll be able to fit most full-sized devices (though giant 17-inch screens won’t fit), and there’s plenty of protection to keep your machine safe.

The versatile design can convert between a shoulder carry, cross-body carry, or briefcase depending on how you set up the straps. I love having options.

Before you jump on buying this, I personally would recommend you make sure to consider whether you really want a messenger bag over a backpack. I’ve had problems with messenger bags causing discomfort after carrying them for hours at a time, and there are plenty of professional-looking backpacks that still look at home in an office environment.

If you know you need a messenger bag, though, I highly recommend the Timbuk2 Commute.

Harber London Slim Laptop Backpack : Best Leather Laptop Backpack

In my mind, there’s nothing quite like high-quality leather backpacks . I love the buttery-smooth feel of the leather, the awesome durability, and the way leather looks better over time and tells the story of your travels.

Harber London is a family-owned brand based in (you guessed it) London that specializes in premium leather goods that merge old-world craftsmanship with modern design. Their wallets, bags, and accessories are stylish, well-made, and very functional.

The Harber London Slim Laptop Backpack is a stripped-back pack that’s designed to give you exactly what you need

It all starts with the materials. The Harber London Slim Laptop Backpack is built with premium full-grain leather. The leather they use is tough and durable but smooth and supple at the same time.

The design of this backpack is very simple. It is a low-profile rectangle with a top zippered opening, a padded laptop sleeve, a few internal pockets for organization, and one external zippered pocket.

This pack is very minimal and compact. I love the sleek, slim design, but it doesn’t have much room for carrying stuff. You can fit a laptop (up to 16-inches), a few accessories, and not much else. If that’s all you need, then this will work great, but it doesn’t have much versatility for using as a day pack when you need to bring more along.

The leather shoulder straps on this bag don’t have padding, but they are reasonably wide. Normally, I would want much more supportive and padded shoulder straps, but since you won’t be able to carry much weight anyway, it isn’t much of a problem.

The biggest downside with this bag? The cost. It’s a high-end backpack, and unfortunately, the price reflects that.

The quality and craftsmanship of the Slim Laptop Backpack are really what set it apart from anything else. It looks amazing, feels even better, and is really well thought out.

Gregory Juxt 34 : Best Hiking Laptop Bag

If I’m traveling to a new place, odds are I’m going to be exploring its hiking trails (even if I’m technically on a work trip). It seems silly to bring a separate hiking pack in addition to my laptop/work bag, so I want something that can fit both purposes and kill two birds with one stone.

Gregory builds some of the best hiking backpacks out there, and the Gregory Juxt 34 is an adventure travel backpack that combines the trail comfort and support of their hiking bags with styling and features that make it ready for around-the-world travel.

If I were to travel back to Nepal to go trekking in the Himalayas again, this is the bag I would choose to bring, especially if I were bringing any tech with me.

This pack comes with a removable “electronics caddy” which is essentially a padded sleeve with space for a 15” laptop, tablet, headphones, cables, and other electronics. I love the fact that it’s easily removable, meaning you can pull out your laptop and electronics if you’re going for a hike. The pack is also designed to fit a hydration bladder in the same space. The versatility is awesome!

The Juxt is built around a trail-oriented suspension, which means it has a supportive wrap-around hip belt, padded straps that wrap around your shoulders, a sternum strap to dial in the fit, and a perimeter frame to distribute the load to your hips. This is a much more supportive design than most travel packs. You’ll be able to carry heavier loads with ease, both on trails and through the airport.

This bag has several other features you’d expect in a full-on hiking backpack. There are generous hip belt pockets, compression straps to cinch down your load, and even load lifters on the shoulder straps. Load lifters are adjustable straps connecting the backpack straps to the top of the frame. It’s rare to see them in travel bags, and they make a huge difference in distributing the weight.

I do wish the hip belt was removable or could stow away somehow. While I love having a hip belt for hiking, it really just gets in the way at the airport.

Overall, if you’re looking for a versatile pack that can carry your laptop and go for a hike, the Gregory Juxt is the best one I’ve found.

KÜHL Eskape 25 : Best Travel Backpack for 17-inch Laptop

KÜHL is another Utah-based brand that builds rugged gear inspired by the mountains. Many of their products remind me just a bit of old-school frontier explorers.

The KÜHL Eskape 25 is designed to be the “world’s best backpack.” While that claim is a bit audacious, I do think KÜHL did a great job making this a bomber, versatile pack that works great for traveling with a laptop.

If you’re one of those people who travels around with a massive 17-screen, you know how hard it can be to find a good backpack that fits your monstrous device. The highlight of the KÜHL is the massive laptop compartment that can swallow even the biggest laptops with ease.

The laptop sleeve is very protective, with ample padding around the sides and bottom. It also is totally separate from the main compartment, meaning it’s super easy to get your device out when you need it.

Beyond the laptop storage, you have a surprisingly spacious main compartment that zips fully open, making it really easy to pack and access your stuff. There are also several external zippered pockets to keep small essentials within easy access.

The padded straps are enough to spread the weight over your shoulders, but I personally wish they were a bit more substantial for those times when I have to carry heavier loads.

Like all of KÜHL’s products, the Eskape 25 has a pretty rugged, outdoorsy style. While I love that, it probably isn’t for everyone. There definitely are other packs that look more refined and stylish.

Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Laptop Backpack : Most Durable Laptop Backpack for Travel

Osprey is known for building some of the most popular backpacking and hiking packs in the business. That expertise also carries over to a range of fantastic everyday and travel backpacks. Their travel packs are durable, supportive, and packed with features.

The Osprey Farpoint 40 is different from most of the other backpacks on this list because it is built as a full-size carry-on backpack. If you want to travel with one bag to carry all your clothes and your laptop, this is the way to go.

The Farpoint has a side-access laptop sleeve right against the back panel, where it is very padded and protected. I like that it’s totally separate from the main compartment, so you don’t have to dig through to get your laptop out.

Speaking of the main compartment—it’s big! Surprisingly so. It opens up wide and gives you plenty of space to pack clothes and gear for extended trips (as long as you’re a light packer).

For me, the comfortable carry system is a big win for this bag. I hate how so many big travel packs skimp on support, padding, and hip belts. The best backpacks for one-bag travel focus on comfort, and it’s pretty obvious that Osprey used a lot of their knowledge from hiking packs in designing this. It has a sturdy frame sheet with a wire perimeter frame, well-padded straps, a very supportive hip belt, load lifters, and a sternum strap.

The backpack straps can also all be tucked away behind a zippered panel, leaving you with a smooth surface that’s much easier to stuff into overhead bins. It also means you don’t have to worry about straps getting snagged when it runs through security machines.

One downside of using this as your laptop bag for one-bag travel is that it doesn’t fit under your seat on the airplane and has to go in the overhead bin. This means you won’t have access to your laptop if you leave it in the bag. There are multiple zippered mesh pockets inside to help with organization.

My biggest complaint is that there’s no side water bottle pocket! I hate keeping my bottle inside my bag (or worse, clipping it on with a carabiner), so It’s a bummer that there’s no dedicated water bottle holder here. It’s such a simple feature and is standard on most packs, so I’m not sure why Osprey got this one wrong.

Want to learn more about this pack? Check out our Osprey Farpoint full review .

Patagonia Atom Tote Pack : Best Travel Laptop Backpack for Women

It can be a challenge to find a backpack for women , especially those with smaller frames. You need something that carries everything you need without being overly big and bulky. The Patagonia Atom Tote Pack is a compact bag that’s designed to provide a smaller fit while still providing a surprising amount of storage.

Patagonia is one of the most well-known brands in the outdoor industry, and they build some seriously capable gear. My favorite thing about Patagonia, though, is their commitment to sustainability. The Atom Tote Pack is made from recycled nylon and polyester, is Fair Trade Certified, and has a water-repellant finish that is free from harmful PFC chemicals.

The overall design of the pack is very simple and streamlined. There’s a zippered-opening main compartment with a removable laptop sleeve inside. I really like the removable sleeve because it adds a lot of versatility; you can use this pack for your laptop one day and a day hike the next day.

One major downside is that it won’t fit full-size laptops. While that’s to be expected from a small pack like this, it still is a bit of a disappointment. If you have a compact device though, that may be no problem.

There is a stretchy water bottle holder on each side of the pack, meaning it’s easy to stay on top of your hydration while you travel. Even though this is a small-ish bag, there’s room for big bottles like Nalgenes.

Bonus? While Patagonia generally is known for being somewhat expensive, this pack is actually the most affordable on this list!

Peak Design Everyday Backpack : Best Laptop Backpack for Men

I think that Peak Design builds some of the most innovative and well-thought-out backpacks out there. They are unique in that crowdfunding is built into their design and production process. It’s not just how they got started, it’s how they jumpstart all of their new and innovative products.

For men looking for the absolute best laptop backpack, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack is a super functional, versatile, and well-built pack that works well on all fronts. It’s designed to work really well as a camera pack, but it’s capable of way more than that.

First, the laptop storage. The Peak Design Everyday Backpack has a top-access dedicated laptop compartment that is super easy to get into without opening the main body of the bag.

For getting into the main compartment, you have lots of choices. There is a lock-shut flap opening on the top and big zippered openings on either side. The side openings mean it’s really easy to get something out of the bottom of your bag without digging through everything else.

The inside of the bag is padded and has removable dividers that you can use if you’re carrying camera gear (or anything else for that matter). Though this works really well as a camera bag, I’ve found the dividers are actually pretty useful for keeping my everyday electronics organized and accessible.

My biggest complaint with this bag is the price. It is way more expensive than most simple daypacks, and you may have a hard time justifying the spend. If you want a top-notch feature-packed backpack, though, this is a great choice.

It’s available in two sizes, 20 L and 30 L, so you can get the perfect size for your needs.

Timbuk2 x ASTRO Gaming BP35 Backpack : Best Gaming Laptop Backpack

If you’re a serious PC gamer and need the ultimate backpack for carrying all your kit, Timbuk2 has an awesome range of seriously capable packs that are some of the best out there that are designed specifically for gaming.

The Timbuk2 x ASTRO Gaming BP35 Backpack is a purpose-built laptop bag for hardcore gamers. It has protective storage for two full-size laptops and all the accessories you can think of.

There are pockets galore both inside and outside, so you’ll have no problem finding places to keep all your charging cords, controllers, and more.

I love the fact that this bag has a specific hanger for over-ear headphones. It’s a small detail, but that’s just one example of how every feature is well-thought-out and purpose-built for gamers.

This is very much a niche backpack, so if you aren’t regularly carrying a big gaming laptop and all the associated tech, you may want something a little more simple and versatile.

How to Choose the Best Laptop Backpack for Travel

Choosing the right laptop backpack is no easy task, and it depends a lot on how will you use it. Do you need a reliable everyday backpack or a spacious carry-on backpack? Will you use it for commuting? travel? hiking? all of the above?

Here are some of the top factors to keep in mind as you search for the perfect pack for your needs.

Laptop Size

This one is easy to overlook, but not all laptop backpacks will fit every laptop. A few years ago I got a new, chunky 15.6-inch laptop for work, only to find it didn’t fit in my old laptop pack. I didn’t want to buy a new bag, so I ended up cutting slits in the side of the laptop compartment to make it fit (this is the same pack where I used a trash bag to keep my laptop dry in downpours).

Needless to say, getting a pack that fits your laptop correctly is a better solution. Most manufacturers will clearly label what size laptop their pack can fit.

When in doubt, I’d get a pack that can fit a 15-inch laptop. This covers most compact and full-size devices (including 15.6-inch screens).

Computers are expensive, delicate machines, and it’s important to keep your laptop safe while you travel. It’s worth looking for a pack that has lots of padding around the laptop compartment.

One feature you can look for is a “suspended” laptop sleeve. This means the sleeve is held up an inch or two from the bottom of the bag so there is more between your laptop and the ground if you ever drop it.

Laptop Accessibility

A bag can have the best laptop protection, sturdiest construction, and most comfortable design out there, but it won’t do its job if it’s impossible to get your laptop out when it’s fully packed. When you’re traveling, it is important to have easy access to your device, whether you need to pull it out for airport security scanning or catch up on work tasks.

I prefer packs with a laptop compartment that is totally separate from everything else. That way I don’t have to dig through the main compartment of my pack to pull it out.

Total Storage

You’re going to be carrying more than just a laptop in your backpack, so it’s important to consider the overall space that’s available. Backpack size is usually measured by how many liters of volume fit inside.

• If you just need to bring your laptop, accessories, and a few small essentials with you, a pack under 20 L should work just fine.
• 20-30 L packs work well if you need to carry more stuff, but aren’t packing everything for a trip in your backpack.
• If you are traveling and will be using your backpack as your only luggage, you’ll probably want 40 L or more of room.

Laptop Backpack Accessories

Here are some of the top accessories to get with your laptop backpack to make sure you’re fully outfitted for travel:

July Tech Kit

It can be hard to keep track of small electronic items like cables, headphones, and chargers. I usually end up losing them deep in my backpack and having to dig through to find them.

This little case gives you a dedicated place for those small, easy-to-lose items. With room for earbuds, chargers, cables, a usb battery bank, and a pen/stylus, you won’t have to worry about losing anything.

The transparent plastic case protects your electronics while making it easy to see what’s inside, while elastic holders keep everything secure and organized.

ProCase Headphone Case

If you’re traveling with a laptop, there’s a pretty good chance you’ll be bringing headphones along too. I personally vastly prefer full-size over-ear headphones to earbuds.

Unfortunately, I recently broke my nice headphones on a trip when I had them stuffed in the bottom of my backpack. Now I always recommend having a hardshell headphone case for protection.

The ProCase Headphone Case isn’t anything super fancy. It’s a zippered hard-sided zippered case that will fit most over-ear headphones. It’s affordable and does a great job at keeping your headphones safe during travel.

REI Co-op Duck’s Back Rain Cover

While some of the packs on this list are fully waterproof, not all of them are. If you ever expect to be out in rainy weather, I highly recommend having a dedicated rain cover for your backpack to make sure your laptop and everything else stays dry. Trust me, it’s a much better solution than wrapping your computer in a trash bag.

The REI Duck’s Back Rain Cover is a simple cover that’s made out of highly waterproof silicone-coated polyester. Water beads right off, so your pack stays totally dry.

It has an elastic border that wraps easily around pretty much any backpack. The XS size fits 18 L – 30 L packs, so pretty much any backpack on this list.

Why Trust TravelFreak?

We are a team of digital nomads, working from our laptops as we travel the world. We’ve tested dozens of packs in real-world conditions, and you can bet we’ve learned a thing or two about what makes a good laptop backpack for travel.

Everything on this list is something we personally would use in our own travels. In fact, many of these backpacks have seen months of hard use on our shoulders.

We did our homework so you don’t have to. We really dug deep into the features, materials, and performance of each pack to see how they measure up to the competition. Not every bag on this list will be the best at everything, but we’re confident each product is the absolute best in its own specific niche.

Best Laptop Backpacks for Travel FAQs

Which laptop backpack brand is best.

Nomatic makes high-quality laptop bags with smart features to make travel easier.

Is it safe to travel with a laptop in a backpack?

Yes, as long as your backpack has a well-padded sleeve, it is safe to carry your laptop.

What is a TSA-compliant laptop bag?

TSA-friendly laptop bags have a zip-away separate laptop compartment that lays flat for scanning.

What size backpack is allowed on TSA?

To carry it under your seat, a backpack needs to be smaller than 18” x 14” x 8”

Can I carry a laptop backpack and a carry-on?

If your backpack is small enough to be a personal item, you can bring it plus a full-size carry-on.

Jakob Thygerson

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The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

When you open up your favorite carry-on travel backpack, it should feel like you’re opening the door to a well-organized closet or sitting down at a clean desk, with everything in the right place and easy to reach.

This is your moment to center yourself, no matter how chaotic the journey.

What we considered

A 45-liter bag maximizes overhead space but can get heavy when fully packed; 35-liter bags tend to be more manageable.

A bag with a clamshell design opens like a book and is the easiest to pack, but a bag that opens traditionally tends to have more structure.

Ideally, a travel backpack has handles on all sides—especially the bottom—so you can pull it out of overhead bins or from under seats.

Some internal pockets are useful, but major organizing is better managed with packing cubes.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack and the larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L offer the best combination of features, quality, and durability. Both bags are exemplary carry-on travel backpacks that are designed for comfort, durability, and organization. Though these backpacks are great as companion bags for any trip, they’re designed to ultimately replace all of your other luggage and become your exclusive bag as you travel.

This style of packing is not for everyone, but once some people try it, they’re forever hooked. Finding the right bag is a personal choice, though, and no single bag will appeal to everyone. That’s why we also have picks that are great for people who travel for work , others that are designed to be carried over long distances , and a bag that’s basically luggage on your back .

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, best small carry-on bag for most situations: cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack, best large bag for most situations: peak design travel backpack 45l, best mobile office: patagonia black hole mlc 45l, best bag for long journeys on foot: osprey farpoint 40 and fairview 40, best bag if you need a large suitcase on your back: tortuga travel backpack pro 40l, other good carry-on travel backpacks, how we picked and tested, the competition.

I’ve been covering aspects of luggage and travel bag design for Wirecutter for nearly a decade, and I have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags in that time. I personally try to do most of my travel with a single backpack, whenever possible. I spent nine months roaming around Hawaii with not much more than that, and I spent another six months nomadically couch-surfing in New York City.

I reached out to writers who specialize in traveling the world carrying everything they need in a single bag: Eytan Levy, the owner and operator of the Snarky Nomad travel website; James Feess, founder of The Savvy Backpacker ; and Sharon Gourlay, of the Where’s Sharon? travel website. I also spoke with moderators of Reddit’s r/onebag and r/heronebag forums, as well as with Chase Reeves, bag fanatic, reviewer, and owner of Matterful .

We researched and tested bags designed for those who want to travel light and stay flexible while flying, without the burden of checking luggage. For some people, the challenge of cutting down a packing list is intimidating. But if you can get past that initial hurdle, traveling with a single bag is a revelation. With fewer items, you have more time to concentrate on and appreciate the journey.

• When you’re not loaded down by heavy luggage, it’s easy to remain more mobile. And it’s easier to adjust your plans mid-trip. If you’re willing to do laundry on the road, then one bag is all you need to travel indefinitely. At its heart, one-bag travel allows you to discover more—not just about the places you’re going but also about yourself and what you really need day to day.
• Size and weight still matter. If you desire more creature comforts or more gear, or if you plan to be away for a long time across multiple climates, you’ll want a bigger travel backpack . These larger bags tend not to be carry-on-friendly, however, especially in Europe, so be prepared to check them.
• No single backpack is perfect for everyone. Before you make any purchase, consider some basic points. How much can you carry? And where do you usually visit: the city or outback? Travel gear should feel like a welcome companion—there to support you when you need it but unobtrusive when you don’t.

45-liter bag vs. 35-liter bag

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

This durable bag’s clamshell design makes it easy to organize your stuff. And due to its strap design, this bag can be worn on your back or carried in your hand while you’re on the move.

Buying Options

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is an easy-to-organize, comfortable-to-carry bag for getaways lasting just a few days or a whole week.

It’s one bag that can do it all. This is a great all-around bag for any traveler who’s dedicated to packing light, or for a smaller person who wants less to carry. There are handles on all four sides of this bag, so it’s easy to grab no matter where you’ve stowed it. It’s also protected by a full lifetime warranty, and it has the build quality to back that up. After more than four years of testing, this single backpack (plus a personal item ) has replaced nearly every travel bag or piece of luggage I use.

It comes in various sizes, but we think the middle-of-the-road version is the best. Cotopaxi also makes the Allpa in 28-liter and 42-liter sizes. But for us, the 35-liter bag is the best option. At 42 liters, this bag becomes heavy for most people to carry when it is fully packed, and we’d prefer that it had a more-robust hip belt. At 28 liters, the bag becomes a touch small for most people, and its internal organization feels fussy for shorter trips, such as an overnight. Cotopaxi also makes a hip pack , which is designed to fit snugly into the Allpa bag’s front top compartment. It’s a neat little addition to the bag, and it is worth getting if you like wearing fanny packs while you travel.

It’s organized, easy to pack, and easy to carry. The Allpa bag has a clamshell design, so it opens like a hard-sided suitcase—a large YKK zipper runs around three sides of the bag, allowing it to fall open into two halves when unzipped. On the right side is a deep compartment, spacious enough for two large packing cubes or half a suitcase’s worth of clothing (which you access through a mesh zippered flap). On the left, there’s space for one more medium-size packing cube behind a zippered flap. Above that there are two smaller pockets with high-visibility backing—useful when you’re looking for hard-to-differentiate personal items.

It’s secure but still accessible. The Allpa pack has two side-access zippers—great for on-the-go access, especially when the bag is hanging from your shoulder. One of these reveals a flat computer pocket with a padded false bottom; so if you drop the bag, it won’t land on the corner of your computer. The other reveals a “secret” pocket with a hidden zipper and access to the main compartment. All of the main compartment zippers are protected by security loops, which you thread the zipper through at the end of its run. This prevents anyone from subtly or quickly grabbing a zipper and opening your bag when you aren’t paying attention.

It’s comfortable to carry. The Allpa bag’s hip belt—which can be removed while the bag is on your back—is substantial enough that it’s comfortable to wear when you need it. With or without the hip belt, the Allpa bag is comfortable to carry over long distances. However, folks who have longer torsos (over 19 inches) may find that the waist belt sits a little high off the hips, unless you fully extend the shoulder straps. Speaking of shoulder straps, unlike the ones on our other picks, the Allpa bag’s straps are contoured to fit people who have large or small chests. It’s not a specifically gendered design, but our female tester noticed the improvement right away.

The Allpa pack is made with 1680-denier ballistic nylon, similar to the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . (Denier is a measure of a fabric’s fiber thickness.) It feels similar to a strong canvas, but it has a more prominent weave. This is the type of bag that’s as easy to toss into an overhead compartment as it is into the back of a rusty pickup truck. And it also includes a rainfly, which is unique in this category.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Though this pack is well organized for packing, it’s less ideal as a mobile office. The Allpa pack has a minimal amount of administrative organization—places to keep pens and papers, spaces to hold tickets, and so forth. This is where a good personal item comes in handy. However, if you want to travel with just this one bag, there are a few nooks you can hide things in. The front organizer is deep enough that you can also fit several small organizing pouches, if you want, or the aforementioned fanny pack.
• We prefer the model without the TPU front. Cotopaxi does enjoy playing around with fabrics and colors. Sometimes the company has released the Allpa pack without the TPU-lined front panel. The TPU panel improves water resistance, but after many years of traveling with our bag, we’ve found that the TPU layering can begin to flake in spots.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight: 3 pounds 5 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: adventurous Colors: assorted

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

An easily customizable large bag for long trips and expensive gear.

This bag was built with photographers in mind. Yet most travelers will appreciate its easy accessibility, clever tuck-away straps, and the elegant way the bag expands and contracts. The accessory cubes cost extra, though.

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a good choice for those carrying more expensive gear—especially camera gear. It’s also great for those who prefer a large, backpack-based packing system.

One bag provides many configurations. Some bags in this category are built to do one thing extremely well—be carried on your back. But the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is built to adapt. It’s the Swiss Army knife of backpacks: adjustable, customizable, and (if you spring for the extra cubes and organizers) an almost perfect system for a photographer or gearhead on the move. Most bags’ expanding mechanisms aren’t worth the extra zipper they’re built on, and they look about as attractive as a boiled ham splitting out of its plastic packaging. That’s not the case with the Peak Design: This bag looks just as good fully packed at 45 liters as it does compressed to a 30-liter daypack.

It’s expandable, with clever folds and zippers. You can access the bag through a back panel (which doubles as a computer and tablet pouch) as well as a front one (if you unzip the pass-through divider). You can also get into the main compartment via two wing-like trapezoidal flaps, which run along each side of the pack. In its natural shape, the Travel Backpack holds 35 liters, but an expansion zipper lets the bag swell to 45 liters. If you want to use the bag as a daypack, you fold in the top corners and snap them down, reducing the bag’s volume to a slim 30 liters. In this configuration, it will still feel larger than a normal daypack, but we think that’s a small compromise for being able to use one backpack as both your travel bag and your daily explorer. The bag itself consists of 400-denier nylon and polyester fabrics. It feels tough but not as tough as some other bags we’ve tested, such as the Cotopaxi Allpa.

It has fold-away straps, for easier storage. The Peak Design lets you tuck its shoulder and hip straps away when you’re not using them. But unlike any other bag we’ve ever tested, this pack has magnetic flaps on the back panel that open and close with an almost magical snap. Once you’ve played with them, you’ll wonder why every backpack doesn’t have something similar. A small, childish part of me still gets excited about tucking away the straps when I put the Peak Design into an overhead bin. Although the straps are thin, they’re still comfortable. The hip belt isn’t quite as plush as the one on the Tortuga pack; still, even when the Peak Design is fully loaded, the belt doesn’t pinch or dig into the body.

It’s great for carrying expensive gear. If you travel with a camera, you don’t have to use Peak Design’s camera cubes , but they do make carrying that gear a whole lot easier. The cubes come in five sizes. And if they’re situated properly in the bag with the provided clips, they line up with the Travel Backpack’s side-access flaps for quick access. Caleigh Waldman (a photographer for this piece and, full disclosure, my spouse) took this bag across the country for a wedding shoot. “I want this backpack,” she said after three weeks of travel. “I want to travel with it everywhere. With my cameras. Without my cameras. It doesn’t matter. I want to travel with it.”

• It’s expensive—especially if you commit to the entire system of packing and camera cubes.
• More complexity means more things that can break. The adjustable design and multiple zippers do add complexity, and complexity adds potential weaknesses. Peak Design covers all of its bags with a lifetime warranty , which should alleviate most people’s concerns. But if you’re particularly hard on your gear and still need to carry as much as possible, you might consider the Tortuga bag instead.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: back-panel loader Style: minimalist and unobtrusive Color: black, sage

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

Combines more organization with a simple interior.

This bag’s split interior makes organizing easy. Those who travel for work will appreciate this bag’s dedicated panels for organizing tech, books, papers, and assorted miscellaneous items.

If you travel often for business and prefer a bag that’s much easier to work out of than most of our other picks, you may like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L . This bag has a front panel and assorted pockets that make it feel like a small traveling office.

It’s built like luggage but organized like your office. Of all the bags we recommend, the MLC (short for Maximum Legal Carry) comes closest to being a suitcase on your back, due to its large size, simple interior, and minimal external features. The MLC is also one of the simplest bags we tested, divided into two leaves (imagine a book with only one page), with a main compartment for packing and a second compartment for document organization and tech storage. The MLC has a built-in laptop compartment that fits 17-inch laptops and is situated close to your back; this protects the computer and keeps its weight closer to your body.

Despite its size, it’s comfortable enough to carry. Most carry-on backpacks of this size, without frames, become somewhat unwieldy when fully packed. Thankfully, the Black Hole MLC bag, like the Cotopaxi Allpa, is a welcome exception to this rule. The MLC has two shoulder straps, a hip belt, and an optional shoulder strap, for easy carrying. When they're not in use, or when you’re checking your bag, all of the straps can be stowed away easily. When fully loaded, the bag was pleasant to carry—not as comfortable as the Peak Design or the Osprey, but decent enough. I wouldn’t want to carry it all day across a city, but I wouldn’t mind carrying it through an airport to a car and to a hotel.

It’s built from high-quality materials, with durability in mind. This pack is made from recycled polyester, and the fabric is woven in a cross-weave that’s very similar to what Patagonia uses in its long-lasting Black Hole series of duffle bags . This is a material I’ve come across a bunch with Patagonia gear, and I’ve tested it thoroughly; it’s very tough. The front of the bag is coated in a weather-resistant TPU, for extra protection from the elements. The bag has large YKK zippers (the industry leader) and smaller YKK zippers throughout. Unlike the Cotopaxi Allpa pack, the Black Hole MLC bag has no security loops.

It comes with one of the best repair programs and a lifetime warranty. Similar to our other picks, the MLC is backed by an excellent lifetime warranty , and we’ve always found that Patagonia’s repair program goes above and beyond other comparable companies.

• We wish the Maximum Legal Carry (despite the name) came in a few more sizes. The 45-liter capacity may be intimidating for some people, and there is no alternative.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 3 pounds 10 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell Style: retro Colors: tan, black, olive, green

Osprey Farpoint 40

For long distances on foot.

A great starter option for one-bag travel, this bag is easy to pack, adaptable to most situations, and sturdy enough to take with you as you travel the world.

Osprey Fairview 40

For long distances and smaller torsos.

A scaled-down version of the Farpoint, this bag has shoulder straps that are slightly lower, to keep the bag’s bulk more aligned with smaller torsos.

Updated in 2023, the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 packs are both built around a hiking backpack frame that’s easy to carry over long distances.

It’s built for travel but designed for hiking. The Farpoint 40 bag is well made, easy to pack, and comfortable to carry over most mid-length distances—such as walking across a city for an afternoon. (For simplicity’s sake, everything we say here about the Farpoint bag also applies to the Fairview bag.) Osprey makes excellent backpacks for hauling around, and its lifetime warranty is renowned within the industry . The Farpoint pack also has an optional messenger bag–style strap, which offers some flexibility when you’re maneuvering tight spaces like subways or crowded city centers.

It’s simple to pack, but not as spacious as it seems. Opening the bag reveals a clamshell design; it’s deep enough to accommodate most large items, yet you won’t have to fumble awkwardly with zippers once it’s time to close up the bag. The feeling you get is not unlike when you’re packing a bit of sturdy luggage, and that’s something we love about bags like this one—especially when you use packing cubes . Osprey says this bag, when fully packed, can carry 40 liters. But after using the Farpoint bag for a few years, we’ve decided that its rounded shape seems to cut into that theoretical packable space more than other bags do. In practice, the Farpoint pack’s available space is closer to—but still less than—that of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L .

It’s the easiest bag to carry among our picks. Like all Osprey bags, the Farpoint 40 has very comfortable shoulder straps. The years of design and consideration Osprey has put into its hiking backpacks are quite evident in the Farpoint 40. After more than seven years of long-term testing this bag, we’re still surprised by how great it feels to wear when fully packed. Crucially, the straps of the Farpoint 40 stow away neatly behind a zippered panel. However, when you’re using the shoulder straps, the design forces you to also use the hip straps. Though this isn’t a huge issue, if you prefer a sleeker look or would rather have the option of using shoulder straps without hip straps, the Cotopaxi Allpa pack is more flexible, and it lets you hide the waist straps while the bag is on your back.

The Fairview 40 has the same features, in a scaled-down size. The Farpoint 40 and the Fairview 40 packs basically have the same design, but the Fairview pack is made for someone with a more-diminutive torso. It’s also slightly lighter. However, it has the features and durability of the Farpoint bag. It also has the same hip belt and adjustability. On both, the chest-strap clip is also equipped with a small security whistle that’s surprisingly loud. It’s a handy feature for anyone traveling in unfamiliar environments.

• For a smaller carry-on travel backpack, this one has little to not like. However, we do wish Osprey would trade some of the sleeker contours for a little more interior space.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight (Farpoint): 3 pounds 3 ounces Weight (Fairview): 3 pounds 2 ounces Main compartment access: front-panel loader Style: active Colors (Farpoint): green (Gopher), gray (Tunnel Vision), blue (Muted Space), black Colors (Fairview): blue (Winter Night), red (Zircon), blue (Night Jungle), black

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

A suitcase to carry on your back.

For dedicated single-bag travelers, this water-resistant, durable bag is easy to pack and to travel with. And it’s comfortable to wear over endless miles—as long as you don’t mind the heavier weight.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L maximizes packing space in a bag that’s durable, water-resistant, and customizable to fit most torso lengths (there’s also a 30L version ), with plenty of organizational features to suit any digital nomad.

It’s like a suitcase, with backpack straps. The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L is built to occupy the maximum carry-on space available. It’s a nearly perfect blend of backpack and luggage. On the outside, its tear-resistant sailcloth and sealed zippers provide ample protection from sharp objects and the elements. Opening the main clamshell zipper reveals a cavernous interior and a few organizational features that make the bag a cinch to pack. The front panel is a particular standout, great for keeping track of electronics and chargers. Of all the bags we tested, the Tortuga strikes the closest balance between the carrying comfort of a hiking backpack and the space and organization of a piece of luggage.

It’s as easy to pack as luggage. When it comes to packing, the Tortuga pack has a soothingly minimal interior, as any good suitcase should. In addition to the bag’s cavernous main pocket, its interior lid has a large vented panel. The panel is too narrow to hold additional packing cubes, but it’s great for holding light jackets or doubling as a dirty-laundry bag (if you’re really committed to one-bag travel). The Tortuga is available as a 40-liter pack (the maximum space for a carry-on bag), which we tested; there is also a 30-liter version, which is compliant with some intra-European flights. The more-diminutive version is a decent choice for weekend travel or for minimalist travelers—but for those uses, we prefer the space-saving profile and extra internal organization of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L bag.

It’s very customizable. The Tortuga pack is the most adjustable model we tested, thanks to its adjustable torso length, shoulder straps, and waist-belt system. The adjustable strap system lets you manipulate the location of the shoulder straps (video) to fit a wider variety of body sizes, in both the 30- and 40-liter versions. Of the packs we’ve tested, this one (with its included load-adjuster straps at the top, to prevent the bag’s weight from sagging toward your lumbar region) is the best at distributing its weight (4½ pounds when empty—roughly 1½ pounds more than most of our other picks, except the Peak Design ). The hip straps are removable if you need, but the shoulder straps are not stowable.

• Its straps don’t stow away. Some people, especially those who are hard on their gear, may consider not being able to remove or stow the shoulder straps (as they can with our other picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa ) a disqualifying factor. But after years of testing, traveling with, and occasionally checking our bag, we haven’t had an issue. However, if these mysteries beneath the airport also make you nervous, you might prefer our picks with easy-to-stow straps, such as the Peak Design.
• It's heavy. We’ve fielded complaints from some testers who said that older models of this bag were too heavy for them to carry, even with the padded hip belt and adjustable straps. The additional padding does add weight. At 4½ pounds, this latest Tortuga bag is more than half a pound lighter than it used to be (the difference is noticeable), and it weighs the same as the equally large Peak Design pack. We are currently testing a new, lighter, and less-expensive version of this pack—aptly named the Travel Backpack Lite 40L —and will report back soon.  In the meantime, if you think you would struggle carrying the Tortuga, we strenuously encourage you to consider one of our more-manageable picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.

Capacity: 40 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: minimal, with a rigid construction Color: black

If you want to travel like a backpacker but also fit in at a board meeting (and you have the budget for it): Consider the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . This bag’s reputation for durability, adaptability, and a low-key aesthetic make it a favorite among many dedicated one-bag travelers. And after testing it, we think it’s a great bag too. That said, for the bag to really stand out against other backpacks—and to take full advantage of its carrying adaptability—you need to buy the internal frame , the hip belt , and (if you’re traveling with a suit or jacket) the shoulder strap . On a bag that already costs $330, all of this adds up. Everything about the Tom Bihn bag (the fabric, the zippers, the quality of construction) feels like an upgrade from other bags, but it’s simply too pricey, and its design is too rarified and specific for most people. The biggest flaw, from our perspective—apart from the price—is that the Tom Bihn bag lacks a dedicated laptop pocket. In its place, the company sells laptop sleeves (a fine version if you don’t have one) that clip into the bag’s central compartment. Not everyone needs a dedicated laptop pocket, but we prefer the more secure feeling of bags that do.

If you want a budget pick (but only when it’s on sale): The eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack (our former budget pick) is still your best budget option, if you can catch it on sale for at least half off the list price. It’s not comfortable enough for trekking long distances on foot, but there are plenty of external pockets for organization, a laptop sleeve (which holds the weight of your computer high up on your shoulders), and an easy-to-access main compartment. This pack also has the largest capacity of any bags we tested, expanding to 65 liters—well beyond any airline’s regulated 45-liter limit. However, the bag’s casual-to-basic looks might not be to everyone’s taste. In 2024, eBags raised the price of the Mother Lode to $200. We have seen it on sale for $100, and in our opinion it’s worth getting only at the sale price.

We’ve narrowed our specifications for a great bag to the following list of features, ordered from most relevant to least:

• Front- or back-panel loader or clamshell opening, for the main compartment: As with any good piece of luggage, with this type of bag, you should be able to open it and see everything you’ve packed. When you have a bag with a panel-loading or clamshell design—rather than a traditional, top-opening design—you can pack and unpack it just as you would a suitcase.

• Backpack strap comfort and design: You never know when you’ll be walking farther with your bag than you’d intended. The more comfortable and well designed the straps are, the easier traveling will be. “Ideally, you want a bag’s shoulder straps to adjust to the angle of your shoulders,” said Eytan Levy of Snarky Nomad. “Good shoulder straps are the difference between an easy trip and a hard trip.”
• Hip-belt comfort and design: A hip belt transfers heavy loads from your back and shoulders onto your hips, letting your legs—not your back—bear the brunt of the weight. Just having a waist belt is a plus, but having a padded and sculpted one—especially on bags with over 40 liters of volume—makes a world of difference.
• Material quality: Durability is critical for any type of luggage, but especially for a backpack that will be your only bag. Most bags worth considering are made of nylon, which resists abrasion more than polyester fabrics of similar density. Spending more, however, can get you exotic, light, and strong materials, such as Dyneema or sailcloth.
• Weight: Once the bags arrived, we weighed each one ourselves. Most of the bags weighed within a few pounds of one another. But unless you’re very strict with yourself, by the time you’re packed for a two-week journey, all bags are going to feel equally massive, even if one is just 2 pounds heavier than another when empty.
• Stowable straps: These are nice to have, but they aren’t absolutely necessary. “The more often you need to check a bag, the more often you need to hide away the straps,” Levy said. “But if the straps are tough enough, it doesn’t matter.”
• Accessory pocket layout and design: Some people will love an accessory pocket that has a specific space for everything; others may find that feature constricting and unadaptable. We prioritized bags with simple designs that guided our packing without constraining us.
• Style: This is purely subjective. We preferred bags that had a minimalist exterior style, but not all of our picks will please everyone. Most of the people we spoke with, however, preferred not to stick out like a tourist wearing a large, colorful backpack, if they could avoid it.

During testing, we flew across the country with these bags, took weekend trips to nearby cities, lived out of them on extended trips, and tried them locally in our daily routines. We also packed and unpacked each bag, using a standardized set of weeklong travel necessities and accessories, to see how well the internal organizational features (or lack thereof) aided or got in the way of efficient packing.

This is not a comprehensive list of all of the carry-on travel backpacks we have tested. We have removed any models that have been discontinued or that no longer meet our criteria.

The Away Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L is a rare miss from the Away team. This bag is resoundingly average for the price. Although it’s made from excellent materials, the bag is let down by its overall design, which lacks any kind of structure or attention to comfort. There are better options.

The cheap, no-frills Cabin Max Metz bag is intriguing for the price. Any bag at this price should almost be considered disposable. That said, if you need a simple bag that costs less than a seat upgrade, this might be the way to go—unless you can pick up the eBags Motherlode bag for under $100, which we think is a better deal at that price.

The GeniusPack Travel Backpack is the only model we came across that tried to fit a suit into a travel backpack. Though some people might need that, we think those who have to travel with a suit (or clothes that require pressing) would be better off with a piece of carry-on luggage . GeniusPack now offers a second version of this bag, but our conclusion hasn’t changed.

For certain people, the GoRuck GR3 is almost worth the cost. It’s strong and simple and covered by an iron-clad repair guarantee. The removable hip belt is comfortable to wear, and it’s good at displacing the weight of a 45-liter backpack. This is a decent bag. After testing it, however, we weren’t thrilled with the internal Velcro lining for compatible Velcro packing cubes. Velcro isn’t great: It wears out, it’s difficult to keep clean, and it clings to dirt. That might seem like a small thing, but for the price, this bag should feel perfect.

The Minaal Carry-On 2.0 was designed to be a backpack for business people. But if you’re carrying it for business, you’re probably wearing at least a blazer, so you wouldn’t use a backpack in any case. If you’re a business traveler who falls more on the casual end of the business-casual spectrum, and you’re not on a budget, this is a well-thought-out pack. But we think our picks are more versatile for world travel, and they come at a better price. Minaal has since introduced a 3.0 version of this bag ; our thoughts about it remain the same.

The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L is a slightly larger sibling of the Farpoint pack. The Sojourn Porter bag is about 2 inches longer, and it pushes right up to most airline limits. If you don’t mind possibly having to check your bag at the last minute, this would be an excellent alternative to the Farpoint pack.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Chase Reeves, Matterful.co , phone interview , October 10, 2018

Addison Ryan, moderator, r/onebag , email interview , September 8, 2018

Lindsay Lorraine Calderón, moderator, r/heronebag , phone interview , September 28, 2018

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

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Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Team T&C are experts in the field of traveling light and packing efficiently . And because we know every traveler has different preferences and needs, our editors took it upon ourselves to research, test, and share our favorite and most reliable styles on the market. Ahead, find the best carry-on travel backpacks designed to go the distance.

Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack

A backpack that packs like a suitcase? Why didn't someone think of this sooner? This Samsonite bag is perfect for the traveler who wants to travel light without sacrificing that packing method they've perfected.

One reviewer writes: "Durable yet lightweight. Streamline design and not bulky at all. Perfect carryon size with backpack straps for convenience."

Dimensions: 20" x 12.5" x 7"

Weight: 3.6 lbs

Material: Recyclex

Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack

This bag has compartments, on compartments, on compartments—including an exterior laptop pocket, making it extra easy to slip your computer in and out for TSA.

One reviewer says: "I initially purchased because I needed more storage to function as my work bag. It just so happen I was traveling abroad in that same month as well. I did not realize that it had a strap on the back to make it super convenient to connect to my carry on luggage. The storage in this bag is phenomenal. 10/10 recommend!"

Dimensions: 17.5” H x 12” L x 7.25” D

Packing Capacity: 27L

Material: 100% recycled polyester with a water-resistant finish

Fjallraven Kanken Water Resistant Backpack

These Scandinavian bags have been tested, tried and true since the 1970s. According to T&C 's Associate Shopping Editor Sophie Dweck, who owns several Fjallraven Kankens, they don't offer a lot of frills or features, but they are as practical and reliable as they come. Cute enough to be your day bag but spacious enough to fit all your carry-on essentials, this bag is two-for-one. Plus, there's no shortage of color options!

One shopper says: "This is my second backpack and I just love to use this during my travels. It’s stylish, lightweight and can surprisingly fit my essentials."

Dimensions: 14" H x 10" W x 4 ½" D

Weight: .7 lbs

Material: Vinylon

Calpak Luka Laptop Backpack

Calpak is known for creating travel bags and accessories with smart engineering in mind, and this backpack is an incredibly popular pick for obvious reasons. Thanks to its many compartments, it can hold a ton—shoes, notebooks, bottles, you name it—and is designed to protect a 15-inch laptop in one of the inner sleeves. Even better, it comes in a variety of pretty colors, such as this rose gold hue.

One shopper says: "I love this backpack. My laptop fits perfectly and it’s very roomy to carry a travel umbrella, glasses, electrical cord, notebooks, and more. I love the puffy exterior and have the matching Luca mini. Together, creates a great weekend getaway."

Dimensions: 16" x 12" x 7"

Weight: 1.8 lbs

Material: Polyester

Monos Metro Backpack

The unique feature on this pack from Monos is the detachable, interchangeable pouch that fixes to the front of the bag. This smaller bag is the perfect spot to keep the items you need quick and easy access to, like your passport, headphones, keys, and charging cables.

One shopper says: "I love this backpack! The trolley sleeve is a huge plus, but my favorite feature is being able to remove the Metro Kit. I like that I can conveniently place the backpack under the seat and the Metro kit can hang off the pouch in the seat in front of me, making it easy to grab the essentials mid-flight."

Exterior Dimensions: 11.5" × 16.5" × 6"

Exterior Weight: 2.4 lb (nylon) / 3 lb (vegan leather)

Metro Dimensions: 8.75" × 6.75" × 2"

Metro Weight: .6 lbs

Material: Nylon or vegan leather

Cuyana Leather Backpack 16-inch

For a travel bag that sacrifices neither function and fashion, you turn to Cuyana. The brand's minimalist backpack is crafted with premium Italian leather and tricked out with convenient features, like a spacious main compartment with pockets and a laptop sleeve, two additional exterior pockets, a magnetic snap closure for easy access, comfortable straps that don't dig into your shoulders, and a top handle that allows you to tote the bag around by hand.

One shopper says: "This is the perfect work and travel backpack. I got it in navy and looks amazing. My laptop, notebook, and computer accessories all fit in very neatly with plenty of room for other items. I was a little worried about my water bottle fitting in the front pocket, but it is just fine there and the magnets even help it stay in place. It is simply PERFECT!!!"

Dimensions: 15.1" x 11" x 7"

Weight: 2.6 lbs

Material: Leather

MZ Wallace Metro Backpack Deluxe

MZ Wallace's bags are absurdly lightweight, insanely roomy, and the signature quilting adds interest to an otherwise understated bag. This backpack is no exception. T&C 's Senior News Editor Emily Burack is a massive fan of the brand .

One shopper says: "Bought the Dawn metro backpack deluxe for a recent trip. I squeezed in so many items such as electronics, iPad, cosmetics, a jacket and small crossbody purse. Love the back sleeve that you can attach to your suitcase, and then can convert it to a pocket by zippering the bottom. And finally side pockets that can fit a water bottle."

Dimensions: 2.20" × 6.90" × 16.50"

Weight: 1.3 lbs

Material: REC Oxford

Carl Friedrik 72-Hour Backpack

For the packer who's serious about one-bag travel, Carl Friedrik's aptly-titled pack is a great option. The 25-liter carrier is designed fit up to three-days worth of outfits and is perfectly sized to fit under the seat in front of you. Also worth noting: The front panel fully unzips, there's a laptop sleeve, and various pockets so you can make the most of every nook and cranny.

And if that's not enough to convince you? Succession 's The Roy family is fan of Carl Friedrik , as is T&C 's very own Leena Kim .

Dimensions: 11.8" x 18.1" x 7.1"

Packing Capacity: 25L

Material: Nylon

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

Those who are often guilty of overpacking will get a kick out of this pick. No matter how much you stuff inside of it, the bag is lightweight to carry day in and day out. It's made of a blend of tough, TPU-coated polyester and durable nylon paneling, and has padded shoulder straps which add to the comfort. Also notable is its harness feature that distributes weight and prevents you from suffering from any back or shoulder pain later on.

One shopper says: "The Cotopaxi was my real working bag for carrying 3-4 days' clothing & toiletries. I am impressed with the quality build, the cool appearance of the bag, the organized storage, the way the compartments hold their shape without using heavyweight material. The interior feels well enough secure for my purposes but also has easy access smaller compartment for a light jacket."

Dimensions : 20" x 12" x 10"

Weight: 3 lbs 8 oz

Material: Polyester and nylon

Lo & Sons The Rowledge

At last, your very own Mary Poppins bag. Well, not quite, but it might as well be. Don't be fooled by this bag's streamlined look—it can fit a lot. Yet, its dimensions qualify as a personal item, meaning it fits perfectly under the seat in front of you.

One shopper says: "I love traveling with this backpack. It is compact enough to wear I am not hitting people with it every time I turn around on the plane. It has a compartment for everything and is great quality. Excellent customer service from Lo & Sons, too!!!"

Dimensions: 11.5" x 6.75" x 16.5" (large); 10.75" x 6" x 16" (small)

Weight: 3.2 lbs (large); 2.9 lbs (small)

Material: Nylon and leather

Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack

First of all, this bag is made with 23 recycled water bottles! So it's already a winner. Water-resistant and roomy, it comes with a zippered pouch that can be used as a shoe bag, or for any other essentials you want easy access to. We also love its sleek look—how could you not?

One shopper raves: "I wanted a small backpack that could still carry all my stuff, but also look stylish and sleek. This was it. The Dakota and small is the perfect backpack. Big enough to carry all my stuff as a mom of three while traveling but small enough to not feel too heavy. The material is soft but durable. I’m definitely a forever fan now!"

Dimensions: 11.5” L x 5” W x 17” H

Weight: 2 lbs 3 oz

Material: Premium neoprene and performance air mesh

Aer Travel Pack 3 Black

A true traveler's bag, the main compartment of this backpack lays open flat, so you can pack it like a regular suitcase. It has designated laptop and organizational compartments, plus multiple additional pockets for all your other must-haves. The zippers are also lockable, and there's a pocket just for your AirTag !

One shopper says: "This backpack does everything I need. Keeps things really organized, looks great, comfortable to carry heavy stuff... I really like how it collapses to a smaller profile once it’s empty for both easy storage, and a slimmer profile for a day to day pack."

Dimensions : 13" x 21.5" x 9"

Weight: 4.12 lbs

Tumi Celina Backpack

Tumi is one of the most trusted names in luggage, so you can be sure this bag is of high quality. It has lots of pockets and compartments, but the best feature has to be the Tumi Tracer, which will allow you to track and locate your bag should you misplace it.

One shopper raves : "So light empty and so roomy. Lots of pockets and fantastic construction. A quality backpack that will last for years and years, worth every penny!"

Dimensions : 16.0" x 10.6" x 6.5"

Shinola Detroit The Runwell Backpack

If you're looking to invest in a bag that can really go the distance, it's gotta be high-quality leather. You can trust that this will hold up, and best of all, it'll only look better as it wears in during all your trips to come.

One shopper says: "I purchased this Runwell backpack in the summer of ‘19 to use as my work bag and waited a few years of daily use to review. I can truly say it’s almost perfect; it looks small on me but that’s my fault for not reading measurements. It easily fits my laptop, plenty of cables, paperwork, gym clothes, a shower bag, and many more random things. The pockets in the interior are great; it’s very functional. Although I do clean/condition it every few months, it’s developed a wonderful patina."

Dimensions: 17" H x 10.38" W x 6" D

Weight: 3.9 lbs

Beis Travel The Expandable Backpack

With pockets and compartments galore, the Beis backpack has endless room for all your essentials. And once it's all filled up? You can unzip the expandable zipper for even more space! Never thought you'd be so excited about a backpack? We get it.

One reviewer writes: "The expandable feature makes it great for travel but un-expanded, it’s great for work. The pockets are so functional and the extra padded laptop sleeve is great. Also got caught in a rainstorm this week and the inside of the bag stayed perfectly dry!"

Dimensions: 13" x 15" x 5-7"

Weight: 1.67 lbs

Material: 100% recycled poly

Troubadour Aero Backpack

This top-loading backpack not only features a main inner section with a ton of clever pockets, but there's also a 3D top pocket for easy access to your toiletries, a dedicated space for shoes, and a separate padded compartment for a laptop. Even better: It doubles as a duffle carrier for days when you'd prefer carrying your things as a crossbody.

One shopper says: "Just perfect. Enough pockets in the right place without being annoying or irritating and it looks sooooo good."

Dimensions: 13.4" x 20" x 7.9"

Weight: 2.75 lbs

Material: Recycled polyester fabric, recycled polyester lining, vegan leather trim

Away The Everywhere Zip Backpack

Known for the suitcases everybody can't get enough of, Away also offers a range of backpacks that feature the same intelligent designs and user-friendly features. The aptly-named Everywhere knapsack is made with water-resistant nylon and features a wrap-around zipper for extra access in the main compartment.

One shopper writes : "It may be a little much to say this backpack changed my life, but it changed my life.. It's comfortable. It's SO well designed, with a logical place for everything. It holds a LOT. It's stylish and stays upright when you put it down. Most importantly (and the reason I bought it in the first place), I'm no longer sore after walking around and carrying my stuff all day. I may never go back to wearing a shoulder bag again. Worth every penny."

Dimensions : 12" x 5.9" x 17.7"

Weight : 2.45 lbs

Material : Nylon and leather

Paravel Fold-Up Backpack

The genius of this backpack? Its compact size can fit a ton without weighing a ton, and when it's not in use, it folds up flat and zips into a space-saving pouch. Bonus: Get yours customized with your initials for a personalized touch.

One shopper says: "I couldn’t believe that a roomy backpack could zip up very easily into a pouch! It is very roomy with several zip up compartments for extra storage. It looks very nice. I am going to Europe and was searching for a lightweight backpack. This is perfect!"

Dimensions: 13" x 16" x 9"

Weight: .63 lbs

Material: Nylon from recycled water bottles

.css-1q42gf4{color:#030929;font-family:NewParis,NewParis-fallback,NewParis-roboto,NewParis-local,Georgia,Times,serif;font-weight:normal;margin-bottom:0.625rem;margin-top:1.875rem;}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-1q42gf4{font-size:1.875rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-1q42gf4{font-size:2.625rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-1q42gf4{font-size:2.625rem;line-height:1.1;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1q42gf4{font-size:3.125rem;line-height:1.1;}}.css-1q42gf4 b,.css-1q42gf4 strong{font-family:inherit;font-weight:bold;}.css-1q42gf4 em,.css-1q42gf4 i{font-style:italic;font-family:inherit;} What to look for when buying a carry-on travel backpack

A carry-on travel backpack is a great in-flight companion because it's conveniently designed to be super spacious and a hands-free way to carry your belongings.

When shopping for the best option, it's important to choose a bag that can fit underneath the seat in front of you. While sizes vary depending on the airplane, most domestic airlines in the United States require a personal item to be somewhere around 17 inches tall, 13 inches wide, and 8 inches long.

Equally as important: Look for a backpack with functional features, such as organization pockets, full zip openings, a laptop sleeve, and adjustable straps for a comfortable fit.

Why trust Town & Country?

For more than 170 years, Town & Country has been the trusted source for influence, taste, elegant living, and the finest things in life. We cover everything from the latest and greatest in beauty to luxury travel to the buzziest fashion trends of the season. All of our stories are thoroughly researched, tested, and vetted by T&C editors and industry experts.

Meg is the Associate Fashion Commerce Editor at ELLE.com where she researches trends, tests products, and looks for answers to all your burning questions. She also co-writes a monthly column, Same Same But Different . Meg has previously written for Cosmopolitan and Town & Country . Her passions include travel, buffalo sauce, and sustainability. She will never stop hoping for a One Direction reunion tour.

Sophie Dweck is the associate shopping editor for Town & Country, where she covers beauty, fashion, home and décor, and more. 

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Best Laptop Backpack for Traveling in 2024

T raveling can be both exciting and stressful, and having the right gear can make all the difference. One essential item for any traveler is a reliable laptop backpack. Whether you’re on a business trip or a backpacking adventure, a laptop can keep you connected, entertained, and productive.

When it comes to choosing the best laptop backpack for traveling , there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, portability is key. You’ll want a laptop that is lightweight and compact enough to fit in your backpack or carry-on luggage without weighing you down. Battery life is also crucial, as you may not always have access to a power outlet while on the go.

Another important factor to consider is durability. Traveling can be rough on electronics, so you’ll want a laptop that can withstand bumps, drops, and spills.

After researching and testing various options, we’ve identified the best laptop backpacks for traveling. These backpacks offer a balance of portability, durability, and performance, making them ideal for anyone on the move.

Best Laptop Backpack for Traveling

If you’re always on the go and need a reliable laptop that can keep up with your lifestyle, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve scoured the market to find the best laptop backpack for traveling, taking into consideration factors such as portability, comfort and performance. Whether you’re a digital nomad or simply someone who wants a laptop and backpack that can handle life on the road, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below.

VGOAL Laptop Backpack 13.3 inch with TSA Lock and USB Charging Flight Approved Carry on Business Backpack Anti Theft Traveling Backpack Water Resistant College Rucksack Computer Bag for Men and Women 13.3 INCH Dark Grey

If you want a backpack that can keep your belongings organized and safe while you’re on the go, the VGOAL Laptop Backpack is a great option.

• The backpack has a large capacity and multiple compartments, making it perfect for carrying all of your essentials.
• The backpack’s design allows it to open freely, making it easy to access your belongings.
• The backpack is comfortable to wear, thanks to its padded back panel and adjustable shoulder straps.
• Some users have reported that the backpack is a bit heavy, even when it’s empty.
• The backpack’s zippers can be a bit difficult to use at times.
• The backpack’s USB charging port requires a power bank, which is not included with the backpack.

The backpack has a large capacity and multiple compartments, making it perfect for carrying all of your essentials. Additionally, the backpack’s design allows it to open freely, making it easy to access your belongings. Finally, the backpack is comfortable to wear, thanks to its padded back panel and adjustable shoulder straps.

However, there are a few downsides to the backpack. Some users have reported that the backpack is a bit heavy, even when it’s empty. Additionally, the backpack’s zippers can be a bit difficult to use at times. Finally, the backpack’s USB charging port requires a power bank, which is not included with the backpack.

Overall, if you’re in the market for a backpack that can keep your belongings safe and organized while you’re on the go, the VGOAL Laptop Backpack is definitely worth considering.

LIGHT FLIGHT Travel Laptop Backpack

If you are in search of a backpack that is perfect for traveling , then the LIGHT FLIGHT Travel Laptop Backpack is the perfect choice for you.

• The separate laptop compartment fits up to 17.3” laptop.
• Large main compartment roomy for daily necessities.
• Convenient pockets to keep small items organized.
• The bag is not suitable for heavy loads.
• The material is not very durable.
• The bag is not very comfortable for long periods of time.

This backpack is perfect for those who are always on the go. The separate laptop compartment is great for keeping your laptop safe and secure. The large main compartment is perfect for storing all your daily necessities such as A4 folders, magazines, tablet, chargers, power bank, and clothes. The front zippered pocket of the backpack allows you to put your small items in an organized manner. The backside hidden pocket is perfect for keeping your phone or other valuable items. The side pockets are great for carrying a water bottle or umbrella.

The backpack also features a side pocket’s hole to charge your phone, so you don’t need to take the portable charger all the time . The mesh padded shoulder straps relieve the pressure on shoulders to provide wear comfortability. The back luggage strap of the bag is easy to transport. Its simplistic, stylish look makes it as a bookbag, laptop backpack, work backpack, travel backpack, college backpack as well as backpack.

In conclusion, the LIGHT FLIGHT Travel Laptop Backpack is a great choice for anyone who is looking for a backpack that is perfect for traveling. It is spacious, stylish, and convenient, making it a must-have for anyone who is always on the go.

Suratio Laptop Backpack

If you’re looking for a lightweight and spacious backpack that can be used for traveling, then the Suratio Laptop Backpack may be worth considering.

• The backpack is made of good-quality material that is durable, easy to clean, and waterproof.
• It has a large capacity and can hold a 14-inch laptop, as well as other important items such as ID cards, umbrellas, and water bottles.
• The backpack is comfortable to wear, thanks to its built-in cushioned shoulder straps, and it also has a luggage strap on the back that can be fixed on the lever of a suitcase for easy carrying when traveling.
• The backpack only has one USB port for connecting to a charging cable, which may not be enough for some users who need to charge multiple devices at once.
• The backpack may not be suitable for heavy-duty use, as it may not be able to withstand rough handling or extreme weather conditions.
• The backpack may not be very stylish or fashionable, as it has a simple and basic design that may not appeal to everyone.

Overall, the Suratio Laptop Backpack is a decent option for those who need a lightweight and spacious backpack for traveling, college studies, business trips, outings, outdoor activities, and daily use. It may not be the most advanced or high-end backpack on the market, but it offers good value for its price and can be a reliable and convenient companion for your travels.

WONHOX Travel Carry On Backpack

If you’re looking for a reliable and spacious backpack for your travels, the WONHOX Travel Carry On Backpack is a great option.

• With its large capacity, you can easily pack 3-5 days’ worth of clothing, documents, a 14 inch laptop, and A4-sized files in the main compartment.
• The built-in USB port allows for seamless smartphone charging on the go, making it ideal for business trips, travel, and everyday use.
• The backpack features specialized pockets engineered to prevent any liquid leaks, ensuring the safe storage of damp clothing and toiletries without any concerns about them affecting important documents or laptops.
• The zippers may feel a bit flimsy and fragile.
• The side pocket can only fit a small water bottle.
• The shoe compartment may not be spacious enough for larger shoe sizes.

The WONHOX Travel Carry On Backpack is designed with an abundance of pockets both inside and outside, offering exceptional storage options for your belongings. The separate shoe compartment with ventilation holes ensures that your shoes are stored securely and away from the rest of your belongings, maintaining cleanliness and freshness throughout your journey.

The backpack’s ergonomic design and breathable backpad ensure good ventilation, preventing excessive sweating and maintaining a comfortable state, making it perfect for everyday use as well as travel and outdoor activities.

Overall, if you’re looking for a spacious and functional backpack for your travels, the WONHOX Travel Carry On Backpack is definitely worth considering.

ProElife 15-Inch Laptop Sleeve Case

If you are looking for a simple and lightweight sleeve case to protect your 2023 MacBook Air 15.3 inch (with M2 Chip, model: A2941) during traveling, this ProElife sleeve case is a good option.

• Water-resistant outer layer and middle cushioning pad provide good protection against dust, dirt, scratch, bump, rainwater and splashing liquid.
• Compact and fashion design makes it easy to carry on your hand and slide into backpack.
• Extra attached pocket for small accessories such as stylus, mobile phone, mouse, charger cable.
• Limited padding in the borders all around, so it may not provide enough protection if you drop your laptop.
• Not suitable for heavy lifting or taking chances with your laptop.
• May wrinkle easily and not provide much protection.

This sleeve case has a water-resistant outer layer, soft-touch suede interior, and middle cushioning pad to protect your laptop from damage. It is lightweight, anti-fingerprint, scratch-resistant, and water-resistant. The extra pouch is perfect for storing small accessories. However, the sleeve case may not provide enough protection if you drop your laptop, so it is best used for ordinary protection.

ANKUER Laptop Backpacks for Men, Travel Backpack with USB Fits Up 15.6 inch Laptop Backpacks for College Bookbags Gray

If you’re looking for a durable and spacious backpack for your travels, then the ANKUER Laptop Backpack is the perfect choice for you.

• The backpack has a large capacity with 14 pockets, making it easy to organize your belongings.
• The USB charging port design allows you to connect with your own power, making it a convenient option for travelers.
• The backpack is made of high-quality durable and water-resistant fabric, ensuring that your belongings stay safe and dry.
• The backpack is not intended for use by children 12 and under.
• The charging port only offers an easy access to charge, but it doesn’t power itself, so you need to carry a power bank.
• The backpack seems smaller than advertised when it comes to the laptop compartment.

The ANKUER Laptop Backpack is a functional and safe option for anyone looking for a backpack for their travels . With its spacious design and multiple pockets, it’s easy to organize your belongings and keep them safe. The USB charging port design is a convenient feature that allows you to connect with your own power. The backpack is made of high-quality durable and water-resistant fabric, ensuring that your belongings stay safe and dry.

The backpack is also comfortable to wear, thanks to its adjustable shoulder straps and the airflow back make with comfortable and breathable sponge mesh design, relieve the stress of your shoulder and back. The soft multi-panel ventilated padding gives you maximum back support and breathable. A comfortable sturdy foam-padded top handle is for a long time carry on.

Overall, the ANKUER Laptop Backpack is a practical and durable option for anyone looking for a backpack for their travels. It’s a perfect present for women, men, friends, traveler, and business.

LOVEVOOK Laptop Backpack

If you’re looking for a backpack that can fit your 15.6″ laptop and all your travel essentials , the LOVEVOOK Laptop Backpack is a great option.

• The backpack has a large capacity with 6 compartments and over 20 pockets, making it easy to organize your personal belongings.
• It’s a stylish and fashionable backpack that’s perfect for work, travel, and daily use.
• The luggage strap allows you to slide the backpack through the luggage tube, freeing your hands and making your journey easier.
• The backpack can be heavy when fully loaded.
• Some of the pockets may be too small for larger items.
• The zippers can be difficult to open and close.

The LOVEVOOK Laptop Backpack is a great choice for those who need a backpack that can fit their laptop and other travel essentials . With its large capacity and multiple compartments, it’s easy to keep your belongings organized. The backpack is also stylish and fashionable, making it a great option for work, travel, and daily use.

One of the best features of the LOVEVOOK Laptop Backpack is the luggage strap, which allows you to slide the backpack through the luggage tube. This frees up your hands and makes your journey easier. The backpack also has a USB charger port, which is a convenient way to charge your electronic devices when you’re on the go.

However, the LOVEVOOK Laptop Backpack can be heavy when fully loaded, so it may not be the best choice for those who need to carry a lot of items. Some of the pockets may also be too small for larger items, so you may need to be creative with your packing. Finally, the zippers can be difficult to open and close, which can be frustrating when you’re in a hurry.

Overall, if you’re looking for a stylish and functional backpack that can fit your laptop and other travel essentials, the LOVEVOOK Laptop Backpack is a great choice.

Buying Guide

When choosing a laptop backpack for traveling, there are several features you should consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

Size and Weight

One of the most important considerations for a travel laptop backpack is its size and weight. You want a one that is lightweight and compact enough to easily fit in your backpack or luggage. Look for laptops with a screen size of 13 inches or smaller, as they are typically more portable.

Traveling can be tough on a laptop, so it’s important to choose a durable backpack that can withstand bumps and bruises. Look for backpacks with a sturdy build quality and have extra padded protection that are less prone to damage your laptop from drops and impacts.

Performance

Finally, you’ll want to choose a backpack with good performance that can handle your needs while on the go.

Overall, when choosing a laptop backpack for traveling, prioritize portability, size, functionality, durability, and performance. By keeping these factors in mind, you can find a backpack that meets your needs and helps you stay productive while on the go.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top travel-friendly laptops in 2023.

There are several laptops that are ideal for traveling in 2023. Some of the top travel-friendly laptops include the Dell XPS 13, Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon, and MacBook Air.

Which laptop backpacks are best for business and travel?

If you need a laptop backpack for business and travel, take your time and shop around before making a snap decision. Your laptop backpack should be lightweight, functional and suit your travel style the best.

Do I need a laptop backpack when traveling?

Whether or not you need a laptop when traveling depends on your personal needs. If you need to work or stay connected while on the go, a laptop backpack will be vital to keeping your laptop safe. However, if you don’t need to work or stay connected, it may not be necessary to find a suitable backpack for traveling with your laptop.

What are the best laptop backpacks for travel photography?

If you’re a travel photographer, you’ll want a backpack with a high-quality . Some of the best laptops for travel photography include the Dell XPS 15, MacBook Pro, and ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo so be sure to find a backpack that fits the needs of the equipment you will be taking with you.

This article may contain affiliate links that Microsoft and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

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The 7 Best Backpacking Backpacks of 2024

From weekend trips to long-distance treks, these backpacking backpacks have you covered.

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Travel + Leisure / Brian Kopinski

I’ve been backpacking in various capacities for over a decade from off-the-grid wilderness treks to hostel hopping around Europe. Whether you’re planning to head out for a day trip , an overnight hike, or extended excursion, choosing the right backpacking backpack is essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Backpacking backpacks come in a range of designs, from ultralight models for speedy, minimalist hikers to more burly packs suited for lugging heavier loads (or even checking if you're flying).

Besides holding all your equipment, gear, and provisions, a quality pack should be comfortable to carry and fit your frame. When choosing the best backpacking pack for my trips, I consider performance, durability, value, and versatility for different durations and weather conditions. If you’re gearing up for your first backpacking trip or looking to level up with a new pack, check out my favorite options below.

Best Overall

Osprey kestrel 58 pack.

It’s a versatile, full-featured pack made with durable materials that will last for years to come.

This is quite a large and hefty pack that may be too heavy for lighter trips.

For an all-around performer that’s suitable for weekend and long-distance trips in varied climates, the Osprey Kestrel 58 is my top pick along with the women’s specific version: the Osprey Kyte 58L Pack . Osprey backpacks are well-known for their top-notch performance and lasting durability. My first Osprey Kestrel is over a decade old and accompanied me up all 12,244 feet of Indonesia's Mount Rinjani and to every corner of Cambodia during my two-year Peace Corps service. The current model incorporates a revamped back panel: the AirScape system. It offers adjustable torso lengths and breathability while delivering close contact and excellent weight distribution on the lower back. 

The Kestrel’s use of 420-denier nylon in the pack body provides exceptional durability against wear and tear, even compared to other Osprey packs. I love that it’s equipped with a detachable rain cover, and how easy the cover is to pull over even fully loaded packs. There’s plenty of options for storage and organization, too. It has five external pockets, trekking pole holders, and daisy chains for adding more gear. I’m a big fan of packs with multiple access points, and the Kestrel offers easy entry from the top and front. To expand my storage options, I typically make use of the sleeping bag straps to hold dirty clothes on longer trips.

The Details: 420-denier nylon and 500-denier high-tenacity nylon | 4.7-4.9 pounds | Size S/M and L/XL | 58 liters | Waterproof

Best Lightweight

Gossamer gear mariposa 60 backpack.

Gossamer Gear

This ultralight pack offers a frame that moves with your gait and a choice of hip belt design for a tailored fit. 

It’s water-resistant, not waterproof.

When every ounce counts, the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 is an excellent choice for lightening your load on the trail. With a 60-liter capacity, it delivers an impressive weight to storage ratio of roughly 0.54 ounces per liter. The main compartment is spacious, and there are seven exterior pockets for stashing water bottles and trail essentials. The pack is made with robic nylon, which helps save on weight, but doesn’t offer much for waterproofing. However, this can be resolved by adding Gossamer’s waterproof pack liner .

I love that the modular design allows the Gossamer to be configured for optimal weight and fit preferences (for example, the choice of a straight or curved hip belt). The Mariposa’s hip belt, back padding, and aluminum frame can be removed to make the pack even lighter, though this sacrifices comfort and ability to carry the pack fully loaded. There are also load lifters that work with the frame to relieve pressure on the shoulders, if desired.

The Details: Recycled nylon | 2.1 pounds | Size S-L | 60 liters 

Best for Beginners

Rei co-op trailmade 60 pack.

It’s a highly adjustable pack with comfortable padding and intuitive organization that new and experienced hikers will appreciate. 

The weight is middle of the road for a backpack this size.

The REI Co-op Trailmade 60 Pack is a user-friendly introduction to backpacking. Dialing in the right fit is essential when backpacking, and REI’s adjustable design makes this a seamless process. REI’s Trailmade collection is focused on more inclusive sizing options and affordability for new hikers and backpackers as well. To that end, the Trailmade 60 Pack is designed with an adjustable back length and a range of hip belt sizes. Both the men’s and women’s packs can fit waists and hips between 32 and 58 inches and the torso length is easily tweaked with a Velcro strap. I appreciate that adjustment directions (and packing tips) are printed on the underside of the top lid for even easier set up. The top-loading compartment is easy to use, and the option to configure a separate compartment for a sleeping bag (or dirty clothes) comes in handy on multi-day trips. I’m also a big fan of how accessible the water bottle holders are while wearing the pack. 

The Details: Recycled nylon | 3.2-3.7 pounds | 60 liters

Best Organization

Deuter aircontact core 65+10l backpack.

Backcountry

It has multiple access points and numerous exterior and interior pockets. 

It only comes in one size.

Having quick and easy access to essential gear saves time and hassle on the trail; not to mention, it makes setting up camp after an arduous day that much easier. The Deuter Aircontact Core Pack 65 + 10 gives backpackers a wealth of storage and functionality (do note that the women’s version of the Aircontact Core is designed as a 60 + 10 backpack). I love that gear can be packed and accessed from the top, front, and bottom of the bag. There’s a total of six exterior pockets, including zippered hip belt pockets, mesh side pockets, front stash pocket, and a zippered top pocket. The pack also features an interior pocket for valuables, trekking pole holders, and hydration system compatibility. While 65 liters of capacity is sufficient for many treks, I appreciate the ease of expanding the collar on the main compartment for an additional 10 liters of storage if needed. Though it only comes in one size, the VariSlide system allows for easy and exact adjustments to your back length for a secure fit. The hip belts and shoulder straps are supportive and adjustable, too, to ensure the pack stays in place

The Details: 235-denier polyamide and 500-denier textured polyamide | 4.9 pounds | One size | Up to 75 liters

Best Ventilation

Gregory katmai 55 pack.

The pack offers excellent air flow and ventilation for staying comfortable on the trail. 

The sturdy frame and full set of features add some weight compared to ultralight models. 

It’s easy to work up a sweat while backpacking — the Gregory Katmai 55 Pack offers top-notch breathability and ventilation when things heat up. The pack is equipped with Gregory’s FreeFloat 360 suspension system — a highly ventilated back panel that conforms to the shape of the lower back while allowing optimal air flow between you and the pack. I appreciate that the ventilated back panel is also treated with Polygiene Stays Fresh Technology to diminish odor-causing bacteria.

I also love that the pack offers inclusive sizing. The S/M fits waists/hips from 25 to 48 inches and torso lengths from 15 to 19 inches, while the M/L goes up to 53 inches for the waist/hips and 22 inches for torso length. The Katmai is a men’s specific pack, but the Gregory Kalmia 50 Pack is a similar model specifically designed for women. 

The Details: 210-denier nylon and 420-denier nylon | 4.6 pounds | Size S/M and M/L | 55 liters | Water-repellent

Best for Heavier Loads

Osprey aether 55 pack.

The customizable fit and suspension system aid in hauling considerably more gear than models of comparable weight and capacity. 

It’s on the heavier side if you don’t intend to make use of its hauling capabilities. 

Whether planning for a longer trek or carrying gear for others, having the option to haul more can be a major plus. The Osprey Aether 55 Pack (or Osprey Ariel 55 Pack for women) boasts an impressive load range of up to 60 pounds (when fully expanded). To handle heftier loads comfortably, the pack employs a close-to-body carry design. This is accomplished with Osprey’s AirScape injection-molded back panel that fits snug to the body, plus adjustable hip belt and torso length and shoulder straps that can be fine-tuned on the trail as needed. As an avid hiker, I appreciate that much of the weight sits on the hip belt and lumbar area to avoid strain in the shoulders.

Multiple access points and numerous loops and pockets make it easy to keep things organized while piling on lots of gear and provisions as well. When fully loaded, the twin compression straps come in handy for balancing weight and keeping gear in place.

The Details: 420HD nylon pack cloth and 210-denier nylon Diamond | 5 pounds | Size S/M, L/XL | 55 liters 

Most Comfortable

Rei co-op flash air 50 pack.

It’s ultra lightweight and adjustable so you can get a tailor-made fit. 

The thin materials may not be as durable as other options. 

For a lightweight backpack that doesn’t offload the pack weight onto your shoulders, we love the Flash Air 50 Pack for both men and women. The pack weighs less than two pounds, making this a great option for thru-hikers, weekend adventurers, and overnight travelers alike. While this pack is quite minimalistic with few pockets, it does have external pouches large enough to hold your water bottle and other essentials.

We love the light nylon fabric, but it is a bit thin and could snag if caught on branches. We also recommend investing in a raincover if you’re heading off on a longer adventure. But overall, the hip belt and ventilated back panel make this pack an overall comfortable option regardless of your hiking destination and style.

The Details: Ripstop nylon | 1.88 pounds for medium | Size S-L | 50 liters for medium

Tips for Buying a Backpacking Backpack

Be sure to find a proper fit.

Features aside, the best backpack is one that fits you well. Your torso length — a measurement that’s likely not top of mind — is a key determining factor in finding a proper fitting backpack . Thankfully, torso lengths are listed with any reputable backpacking backpack. Your torso length is the distance from where your shoulders and neck meet (the C7 vertebra to get technical) to the point of the lower back that’s aligned with your hip bones. 

The fit along the hips and waist is also critical and, thankfully, easier to measure. Simply wrap a tape measure just above where you’d wear a belt to get your hip measurements. While at-home measurements can give a rough idea to narrow your search, trying on a pack is critical before embarking on a trek. Check that the hip belt sits on top of the hips, as this is where most of the pack weight should rest. Shoulder straps should be snug but only carrying a modest amount of weight. If a pack is sitting on the hips correctly and not touching the shoulders, shorten the torso length or change pack size. 

Note that many packs offer some level of adjustability for torso length and hip belts. Extra features like load lifters and sternum straps can enhance the fit but be cautious about over-tightening these to avoid transferring too much weight onto the upper body.

Consider overall weight

The trip duration, weather conditions, and necessary gear will have some bearing on how much you need to pack, but a general rule of thumb is that a backpacking backpack should not exceed 20 percent of your weight when fully packed. To strategize your packing, start with the actual weight of the backpack plus truly essential equipment. Carefully planning out how much water, snacks, and food you should bring is best to avoid unnecessary weight. Typically, food amounts to 1.5-2.5 pounds per day per person, and this weight lessens as the trip goes on.

It can take some trial and error to figure out what gear and equipment is essential for your backpacking style and preferences. After each trip, consider which items you used frequently versus sparingly or not at all to fine-tune your backpacking packing list.

Think about breathability 

A breathable and well-ventilated backpack is important for comfort and reducing sweat on the trail. If your backpacking trip has limited or no access to potable water (such as deserts and arid environments), cutting down on perspiration can make a big difference. Assess the ventilation in the back panel of any backpack when comparing options.

A good size for a hiking pack depends on your needs, but 10-30 liters is fairly standard for day trip packs. For a weekend backpacking trip or thru-hike, consider leveling up to 30-50 liters.

Most backpacking backpacks use an internal frame system. An external frame may come in handy if carrying larger gear that can’t fit within the backpack, while frameless models are popular with ultralight backpackers carrying only the essentials.

Pack denser and heavier items toward the bottom and middle of the backpack for optimal weight distribution with smaller and lighter items on top. Anything you’ll want quick access to on the trail can go in exterior pockets or the top of the backpack.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Kevin Brouillard specializes in outdoor gear and apparel. His work has also been published in TripSavvy, Jetsetter, and Oyster, and he served in the Peace Corps in Cambodia for two years. Kevin used his backpacking and camping experience to curate this list of the best backpacking backpacks.

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Home » Europe » Moscow

20 BEST Hostels in Moscow (2024 • Insider Guide!)

Far and away Russia’s largest city, the capital city of Moscow is a backpacker’s dream. By European standards it’s affordable, and by city standards it still feels super exotic.

But there are a ton of hostels in Moscow. Over 110 to be specific, and knowing which hostel to pick can be quite a task. Which is the exact reason we put together this list of the best hostels in Moscow.

We’ve organized this list of the best hostels in Moscow by different travel needs. So whether you wanna party or chill, hook up or wind down, with the help of this guide, you’ll be able to book the hostel that gets you where you wanna be!

Let’s take a look at the 20 best hostels in Moscow…

The 20 Best Youth Hostels in Moscow

What to pack for your moscow hostel, why you should travel to moscow, faq about hostels in moscow, more epic hostels in russia.

Moscow Style | Overall Best Youth Hostel in Moscow

The overall best hostel in Moscow is Moscow Style and you’re about to find out why. Not only does Moscow Style offer guests all the basics like free bed linen and free WiFi but have a late check-out, free breakfast and a guest kitchen too. Team this with kick-ass customer service, super comfy dorm rooms and the fact that it’s located in the heart of the city, you’ll easily see why Moscow Style is the best hostel in Moscow in 2021. To top it off, must-visit landmarks like the Kremlin and Red Square are just a five-minute walk away.

Comrade Hostel

Comrade Hostel is the joint best hostel in Moscow in 2021. Comrade Hostel is a highly recommended hostel in Moscow so if you wanna stay here you’ve gotta book your bed ASAP, especially if you and your travel buddies wanna stay in the same dorm room. Comrade Hostel is in Moscow’s old town known locally as Kitai-Gorod. The Comrade staff are always on hand to give you directions and useful tips on how to make the most of your every moment in Moscow.

Vagabond Hostel | Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Moscow

The best hostel for solo travellers in Moscow is the super popular Vagabond Hostel. For solo travellers early seeking a crew to explore the Russian capital city with your first port of call should be Vagabonds. Attracting a varied and interesting crowd Vagabond Hostel is the perfect Moscow backpackers hostel for solo travellers to hang out in. The free breakfast provides a cracking start to the day and you have the use of the guest kitchen too. Why not have a cook-off with your hostel mates?

Godzillas is a top hostel in Moscow and has been for years. For solo travellers keen to connect, Godzillas is a great start; tour operators often use Godzillas as their meeting hostel so there are always plenty wide-eyed and bushy-tailed travellers just like you around the place! The Godzillas team are super welcoming and always happy to help in any way that they can. If you’re a solo traveller keen to meet a wide of a range of people as possible, Godzillas is the place for you.

Chekhov House | Best Cheap Hostel in Moscow #1

The best cheap hostel in Moscow is Chekhov House, by far. Although at first glance the pink hues around Chekhov House may have you thinking it’s a women-only hostel, it is a place for everyone. The free breakfast, free WiFi and free luggage storage go a long way in making Chekhov House a great, cheap, youth hostel in Moscow. The Chekhov House team are keen to please and are always happy to help with directions. As a rookie in Russia, you may struggle to read local signage as they use a totally different alphabet!

Good News Hostel | Best Cheap Hostel in Moscow #2

The good news is that Good News Hostel is the best budget hostel in Moscow! Too cheesy?! Anyway, you’ll love Good News Hostel for its bright and spacious dorm rooms and wonderful communal areas. The outdoor deck is the ideal spot to hang out in on a sunny Russian summers day although if you’re heading to Moscow in the winter you need to bring your thermals. Super close to the Komsomolskaya metro station, you can easily connect to all of Moscow’s tourist hotspots from Good News Hostel.

Jazz House | Best Cheap Hostel in Moscow #3

Light and bright, Jazz House is a simple but ample budget youth hostel in Moscow. You’ll find very little to complain about here. The staff keep Jazz House in great shape and you’ll feel instantly at ease, once you’ve dumped your hefty backpack that is. The Kremlin is 3.5km away but the walk is a great way to experience real Moscow. If that feels like too much hop on the metro at Serpukhovskaya and you’ll be there in minutes. Once you’ve got your head around it the Moscow metro is pretty easy really.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

FriendHouse | Best Hostel for Couples in Moscow

The best hostels for couples in Moscow is FriendHouse. Simple? Yes. Ideal? Yes! With so much to see and do in Moscow , most travellers are looking for a cheap and cheerful place to crash and FriendHouse is perfect. They have reasonably priced private double rooms especially for couples like you. If you and your lover like meeting fellow backpackers all you need to do is head to FriendHouse’s monochrome yet cosy lounge of an evening and get introducing yourselves.

Star Wars Hostel

No, bear with me on this one! Believe it or not, another Star Wars Hostel is the best hostel in Moscow for couples who like a fancier style of accommodation. By name alone you’ll be thinking that it’s Star Wars through and through but, to its credit, Star Wars Hostel has only a subtle homage to the sci-fi series. The private rooms for a couple are cosy, even romantic and cottage like in their decor! Everyone who stays at Star Wars Hostel raves about it. Go on, give it a go!

Fasol Hostel & Bar | Best Party Hostel in Moscow

Fasol Hostel & Bar is, you’ve guessed it, the best party hostel in Moscow. This laid-back, charming and budget-friendly youth hostel is the perfect place to get your party on. To be fair, they don’t party crazy hard here as Moscow is hardly famed for its party scene but if you’re keen on a few beers, or a vodka or two, after a day of exploring Moscow Fasol is the place to stay. Overall, Fasol is a highly recommended hostel in Moscow, so whether you’re a party animal or not you’ll surely be drawn in by the on-point hostel vibes.

Safari Hostel

If Safari Hostel had its own bar it would easily be the best party hostel in Moscow, alas it’s nearly the best hostel in Moscow for a party. To be fair, Safari Hostel is a laugh a minute and all who stay here are game for a drink or two. Good job you can BYOB! The huge guest kitchen and dining room is the perfect place to get the beers following before you hit the town. The Safari team will be more than happy to recommend which pubs you hit up and when!

Hostel Derevo | Best Hostels for Digital Nomads in Moscow

Hostel Derevo is the best hostel for digital nomads in Moscow for sure! Not only do they have free and unlimited super-fast WiFi but modern spaces to work in. Derevo is the coolest hostel in Moscow for digital nomads and there is something to be said for feeling more productive when working in an inspiring environment. Derevo is, in fact, a co-working hostel, the whole place has been designed for digital nomads like you. Snap up your spot ASAP, they’re about to get even more popular in the rise of the digital nomads in 2021.

Netizen Hostel

Netizen is an ideal Moscow backpackers hostel for digital nomads, their bar and cafe is a great place to work from. The Netizen team have created an open and welcoming vibe here but there is a calmness and quietness about the place too. Netizen is a super clean hostel and the room service team work around the clock to keep the hostel in immaculate order. As a highly recommended hostel in Moscow Netizen is great for digital nomads looking for a home from home and an office all rolled into one.

Grant’s Hostel | Best Hostel with a Private Room in Moscow

Grant’s Hostel is a top hostel in Moscow if you’re departing by flight as they offer a free airport transfer. So no need to stress about finding a Moscow hostel near the airport. You don’t wanna focus on leaving before you’ve arrived though! You have Grant’s Hostels super spacious dorm rooms and cosy cafe to look forward to; as well as the team’s wonderful hospitality. Grant’s Hostel is a great shout for couples, they have four private double rooms just waiting to be snapped up! Get booking!

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More of the Best Youth Hostels in Moscow

Sputnik hostel.

Sputnik is the coolest youth hostel in Moscow but also one of the only boutique options available in the city. If you’re more of a flashpacker than a shoestring slumming-it kinda traveller you’ll feel right at home in the modern yet rustic dorms of Sputnik. If you have an eye for design you’ll love Sputniks minimalist style. Flashpackers you’ll be pleased to hear Sputnik’s is on the same street as Prada and all the posh restaurants. Main Moscow attractions like the Kremlin are just a 10-minute walk away.

3 Penguins Hostel

3 Penguins is a super cute Moscow backpackers hostel with reasonably priced dorm rooms and a homely feel. 3 Penguins have been impressing their guests time and time again and as such has become a highly recommended hostel in Moscow. There’s a kind of grandeur about the private rooms at the 3 Penguins that couples will surely kind romantic if a bit OTT. The staff are super helpful and will always give you a hand when they can.

Captial Hostel

Captial Hostel is a clean and homely Moscow backpackers youth hostel, located in the heart of the city. A far cry from a party hostel, Captial is ideal for travellers who like to stick to business when they’re on the road; for those who like to get a quiet and calm night’s sleep ready to hit up all the city sights in the morning. Captial Hostel has private dorm rooms and is therefore ideal for groups of mates who are travelling together and need a bit of space away from random dorm mates. It’s ok, we all feel like it sometimes!

Blagovest Hostel

Blagovest is a top hostel in Moscow, especially if you’re travelling with your crew. They have both open and private dorms available. The private dorms can sleep up to five people and is a great way of pooling the costs of travel. Blagovest Hostel comes highly recommended by all who visit, in part due to their great location but mostly because of their lovely staff. It should also be mentioned that Blagovest has dead comfy orthopaedic mattresses on all their beds. You’ll sleep like a baby!

Kremlin Lights

If you’re having a quick turnaround in Moscow and need to hit up all the sights and landmarks super quickly and easily you need to book a bed at Kremlin Lights. They’re located just 190m from the Kremlin, no other Moscow backpackers hostel is closer. Kremlin Lights is a bright and welcoming hostel that is super clean and as we’ve established, perfectly located. By being in the heart of Moscow the surrounding food outlets can be a little pricey so be sure to cook for yourself in the Kremlin Lights kitchen to save some money.

Jedi Hostel

Sci-Fi haters don’t dismiss Jedi Hostel on the name alone. Although there’s a subtle theme Jedi Hostel is a cracking youth hostel in Moscow, regardless of your feelings towards the films! Jedi Hostel is a funky and bright hostel located in the heart of Moscow. From here you can easily access all the tourist hotspots, great bars and some cool restaurants too. Each dorm bed is in capsule style for a little added privacy. Jedi is a super friendly hostel and you’ll defiantly find yourself tempted to extend your stay!

Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Check out our definitive  Hostel Packing list  for our top packing tips!

Moscow is an unforgettable experience, so be sure to book a hostel that sets yourself up for success. With the help of this guide, you’ll be able to pick a hostel that best suits your travel-style, your your time in Russia can be nothing short of awesome.

And, just in case you can’t pick from one of the best hostels in Moscow – go with Moscow Style. It’s location, price and stellar reviews means you’ll have a great time and can worry about one less thing on your Russia trip.

Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Moscow.

What are the best hostels in Moscow, Russia?

Here you go! Our top 3 of the best hostels in Moscow: Moscow Style Vagabond Hostel Chekhov House

What’s the best party hostel in Moscow?

Fasol Hostel & Bar is the perfect place to get your party on. They don’t go wild there, but it’s a sick laid-back hostel with a nice bar to chug a few drinks.

What’s the cheapest hostel in Moscow?

If you’re looking to save some money down in Moscow, book your stay at one of these hostels: Chekhov House Good News Hostel Jazz House

Where can I book a hostel for Moscow?

Most of our favorite hostels are found through Hostelworld. If you’re looking for an epic place to stay in Moscow, start your search there!

What are the best hostels in Moscow for couples?

FriendHouse is an ideal reasonably-priced hostel for couples in Moscow. It has a monochrome yet cosy lounge of an evening.

What are the best hostels in Moscow near the airport?

If you’re departing by flight, there is no need to stress about finding a Moscow hostel near the airport. Grant’s Hostel, our best hostel with private rooms in Moscow, offers a free airport transfer.

Travel Safety Tips for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Hopefully by now you’ve found the perfect hostel for your upcoming trip to Moscow.

Planning an epic trip all across Russia?

Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered!

For more cool hostel guides around Russia, check out:

• Best hostels in Saint Petersburg
• Best hostels in Kiev
• Best hostels in Warsaw
• Best hostels in Tbilisi
• Best hostels in Oslo

Over to you

By now I hope our epic guide to the best hostels in Moscow has helped you choose the perfect hostel for your adventure!

If you think we’ve missed anything or have any further thoughts, hit us up in the comments!

• Check out the best places to stay in Moscow before you arrive.
• Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list .

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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LOVEVOOK Large Travel Laptop Backpack Men&Women, 50L Flight Approved Carry On Luggage Waterproof 18inch Backpack Daypack Business Hiking Weekender Overnight Backpack with 3 Packing Cubes, Black

Purchase options and add-ons

• ✈ 【Airline-Approved Carry-On】: Sized at 19.5x14x8 inches, our travel backpack meets U.S. airline carry-on guidelines. Skip checked bags and breeze through the airport.
• ✈ 【50L Capacity, 4 Compartments】: Whether it's daily use or a 4-7 day trip, this women's travel backpack has room for all your essentials with 50L capacity and 4 organized compartments.
• ✈ 【Toiletry Bag & Wet Pockets】: Come with $15 High-quality waterproof toiletry bag. Separate wet and dry items with ease, perfect for toiletries and gym clothes.
• ✈ 【Hybrid Design】: Use it as a backpack, duffel, or shoulder bag—handles on the top and side offer versatile carrying options. A side pocket holds water bottles or umbrellas, and a luggage strap adds travel convenience.
• ✈ 【Built to Last】: Features durable YKK zippers and reinforced stitching. High-density breathable mesh shoulder straps ease pressure, making it ideal for weekend getaways, business trips, or daily commutes.
• ✈ 【Perfect Gift】: This laptop backpack is the ideal gift for the special women in your life—be it birthdays, holidays, or any other occasion. Travel in style and comfort.

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Product information

Warranty & support, product description.

The LOVEVOOK launched a new travel backpack, you can set off freely as you want. This Laptop backpack is designed for travel, with 50L travel backpack storage space to change as you wish, the backpack carries Separate packing cubes to keep your clothes neat and tidy, Reduces storage troubles and make travel easier. CREATED FOR TRAVEL Airline Approve: Travel backpack size: 19.5*14*8 inches. carry on backpack meets the size required by almost all major airlines and fits in the overhead compartment and under the seat Large Capacity: 40L Travel backpack storage space to change as you wish, the maximum capacity can store 3-5 days of clothes Separate Packing Cubes: The most important thing about traveling is having fun, and not being tied up in chores. Separate packing cubes keep your clothes neat and tidy, Reduce storage troubles, and make travel easier. Feature for LOVEVOOK TRAVEL BACKPACK Water-Resistant: The backpack is made of water-resistant polyester, which can provide safer protection for your belongings in complex and changing weather. Comfortable Backpacks:Breathable and adjustable curved padded shoulder straps help relieve pressure on the shoulders, make you carrying more comfortable. Luggage Strap: Convenient suitcase sleeve helps to free your hand and back, will make your traveling and business trips more convenient. Side Pocket: Side pocket for umbrella, water bottle, etc. Multiple Used: As travel backpack, work backpack, daypack, Business laptop backpack for women and men Multi-Compartment and Pockets: Padded Laptop Compartment: Fits up to 18 inches laptops, 14 inches of tablets and some electronic gadgets. Main Compartment: 50L travel backpack storage space to change as you wish, the maximum capacity can store 3-5 days of clothes Front Compartment: For keyboard, mouse, pen, wallet, purse, glasses, and other items. Front Zipper Pocket: For passport, keys, tissue, earphone box and other small items. The LOVEVOOK laptop backpack aims for work-life balance. Whether you are a digital nomad, or professional businesswoman, except at work don't forget to exercise and eat healthy to keep fit.

Videos for this product

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40L backpack: spacious, waterproof, with unique pockets.

Rich Howard

Travelers, gym goers, anyone needing organized travel space this back pack is perfect.

holli guilbeau

The best carry on, gym bag, weekend bag, diaper bag! #carryon #travel #gymbag #diaperbag

Perfect travel backpack from weekends to long trips!

Momtravelsandhacks

Lovevook travel backpack

FrontlineDIY

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Customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the portability, adjustability, size, performance, and fit of the backpack. For example, they mention it's wonderful for traveling, has nice hidden compartments, and is easy to wear. They appreciate the performance, saying it works perfectly as a personal carry on. Customers are also impressed with the fit, saying that it fits well on their backs.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers appreciate the size of the backpack. They say it has lots of room for storage for electronics and clothes, and it has many compartments. Some customers also mention that it's durable, sturdy, and has nice hidden compartments and space for laptops. Overall, customers are happy with the size and functionality of the product.

"...I am so happy with this travel bag. It is durable, sturdy and has so many compartments !..." Read more

"...Fit easily under the seat. Stylish and can pack alot in it ! Love the strap features so you can really snug it tight." Read more

"...It's practical - all the pockets , the way the zipper opens, it functions like a suitcase but looks like a backpack...." Read more

"I used this as a personal item for flights. It held 4 days clothes , a dress all accessories, shoes( 2 pair) and book and laptop...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the quality of the backpack. They mention that it's well-made, sturdy, and high-quality for the price. They also appreciate the clam shell zipper for the main compartment and the organization inside.

"...The color is absolutely beautiful and the quality is very , very good!! I am extremely impressed with this bag…..You Will Not Be Disappointed!..." Read more

"...Sturdy, very well built . No problem as a personal carry on. Fit pretty nicely under seat . A little tight...." Read more

"...perfect, mostly because it will hold my 17 in HP laptop easily and well protected when I fly along with all of the usual electronics, some clean..." Read more

"I was very pleased with this bag! It is durable , stylish and has everything that you need. Roomy compartments and a place for everything...." Read more

Customers find the backpack wonderful for traveling with lots of compartments. They say it's easy to travel with, and highly recommend it for long trips or even business. Customers also say it makes travel easy and organized.

"This is the perfect travel bag ! I am so happy with this travel bag. It is durable, sturdy and has so many compartments!..." Read more

"... Perfect for short trips . 2) The size is perfect as a "personal item" on budget airlines such as Spirit and JetBlue...." Read more

"...Sturdy, very well built. No problem as a personal carry on . Fit pretty nicely under seat . A little tight...." Read more

"...Fits under the seat on a plane. Perfect for a long weekend trip !" Read more

Customers are satisfied with the appearance of the backpack. They mention that it has a cute color, is fashionable to wear, and has striped lining that makes it easier to see things in the bag. Some say that it acts like a real suitcase and has pockets on the inside where they can store items.

"...The color is absolutely beautiful and the quality is very, very good!! I am extremely impressed with this bag…..You Will Not Be Disappointed!..." Read more

"...Fit easily under the seat. Stylish and can pack alot in it! Love the strap features so you can really snug it tight." Read more

"...the way the zipper opens, it functions like a suitcase but looks like a backpack . Perfect for short trips...." Read more

"I was very pleased with this bag! It is durable, stylish and has everything that you need. Roomy compartments and a place for everything...." Read more

Customers like the fit of the backpack. They say it fits well under the seat on a plane, has enough space to pack a lot, and is easy to carry. The dimensions are correct and the bag is well made. Some customers also mention that the shoe bag is a great addition and can fit a pair of short boots.

"Worked perfectly as my personal item on the plane. Fit easily under the seat . Stylish and can pack alot in it!..." Read more

"...It fits like a glove into their measuring slot . Double check the measurements just in case before you go, but it was perfect for me." Read more

"... Fits under the seat on a plane . Perfect for a long weekend trip!" Read more

"...I flew on American Airlines and this fit perfectly under the seat ...." Read more

Customers like the adjustability of the backpack. For example, they mention the straps are very comfortable, it holds so much, and is easy to wear. Some say the backpack is soft and flexible, yet durable.

"...This is a very well made bag with comfortable shoulder straps that even an old lady (75) like me can handle it!..." Read more

"...attendants made us put all four of our bags in the slot and they all fit easily ...." Read more

"Love the look, easy under seat on plain , has pockets galore for electronics and personal belongings nice product" Read more

Customers are satisfied with the performance of the backpack. They mention that it has great functionality, works well on an airplane trip, and is sturdy. Some say that the zipper opens like a suitcase but looks like s a backpack. Overall, most are happy with the quality and functionality of the product.

"...The color is absolutely beautiful and the quality is very, very good !! I am extremely impressed with this bag…..You Will Not Be Disappointed!..." Read more

" Worked perfectly as my personal item on the plane. Fit easily under the seat. Stylish and can pack alot in it!..." Read more

"...'s practical - all the pockets, the way the zipper opens, it functions like a suitcase but looks like a backpack. Perfect for short trips...." Read more

"... No issues thru TSA or as a carry on for the flight." Read more

Customers like the organization of the backpack. They mention that the cubes really helped to organize and make good use of the space. They appreciate the many pockets and great features.

"...It is durable, sturdy and has so many compartments! The additional cubes are a great feature and this bag gives you 3 (most bags only give 2)..." Read more

"...I am a chronic over packer and this bag was perfect and kept me organized . It also fits perfectly under the seat in front of you on the plane...." Read more

"...I need in a good travel backpack: the trolley sleeve, lots of organization , clam shell zipper for main compartment...." Read more

"...The small pouches that come with it are also nice and useful . If you have doubts, do it. I looked at so many and I'm glad I decided on this one" Read more

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