The Best Laptop Backpacks
Laptops used to be an item like Palm Pilots: something that mainly adults toted around for work purposes, nestled inside a traditional briefcase. But nowadays, nearly everyone has their personal device with them constantly, and a leather satchel isn't exactly the ideal vessel for an eighth-grader to carry. Most backpack brands have wised-up and created new models that are fitting for younger demographics to use, which is great, but it also makes for a difficult decision in choosing the most suitable one. To help you out, we've rounded up a few of our favorites to highlight some of the best options out there.
Matein Travel Laptop Backpack
Prepare The Cabin For Takeoff
Traveling is stressful enough as it is, and worrying about your computer is just another added concern that needn’t be an issue. This is precisely why we love this handy backpack from Matein, as it has a solution for virtually any issue that could arise. There’s an unbelievable amount of storage in its seven pockets and pouches, and it’s designed with comfort in mind. Its padded straps help to alleviate pressure and the breathable material prevents perspiration from occurring. However, if it does become too cumbersome, never fear, as a convenient strap allows you to easily slip this right onto your luggage for more manageable transport. Once you’ve arrived at your gate, you can finally relax—except, oops—you were texting too much in the long security line, and now your phone’s dead. No worries, though, as you can simply plug it right into the built-in USB port on the side of your bag.
Pros:
- Adjustable straps allow for people of all heights to comfortably wear this bag
- Water-resistant
Con:
- USB outlet and cord are included, but the power pack is not
JanSport 15-Inch Laptop Backpack
JanSport is so iconic, it may as well be the official brand of schools across the country. For years, this was the backpack choice for students of all ages, and they’ve now introduced a carry-all made specifically for our changing times. This bag maintains the classic design—the brown leather bottom, the blue and red logo, and tons of various colors and patterns—but the makeup has been updated for better protection. This model comes equipped with a padded interior pocket for electronics storage along with the larger main compartment, and a smaller front pouch complete with an organizer for cords, cables, and other daily needs. And with a lifetime warranty, there really is no excuse for this not to be the go-to product for your kids.
Pros:
- Reliably long-lasting
- Exterior holder for a water bottle prevents unwanted spills on electronics
Con:
- The zipper may catch due to the backpack’s heavy-duty material
Nearly all of our possessions are now designed to be small and portable. But having many small items can still become problematic, as they can easily become lost in a tote bag or purse, which oftentimes have only one (or zero) pockets. How about having twenty of them? Upon first look, this notably roomy bag has just the conventional main three pouches. But by digging a little deeper (literally, as this backpack boasts an impressive 19.5-inch height), you’ll find all sorts of little nooks and crannies.
Another unique and helpful feature of this backpack is that the entire portion of the laptop pocket folds completely out to a 90° angle so that you’re not blindly shoving your laptop in, nor yanking it out. In addition to the USB cord and charging station, you’re also provided with a small hole for your headphones, which will help stop them from becoming tangled.
Pros:
- Lined with nylon for extra water resistance to protect electronics
- Padded and U-shaped shoulder straps provide excellent back support
Con:
- Does not come with a USB cord or power pack
Fjallraven Kanken Classic Backpack
Hard To Pronounce, Easy To Use
We’ll get this out of the way first: Fee-el-ravan Kan-kan. Now we can move on to what makes this product so great. Since the ’70s, this iconic Swedish brand has been making quality bags meant mainly for camping, and it has experienced somewhat of a resurgence as of late. Since these backpacks were initially crafted to be used in harsh outdoor conditions, you know that whatever you carry in here will be uber-protected. The outside is made of a material called Vinylon F which acts as both a water- and dirt-repellent, and can also easily be cleaned with a wipe. The zipper is protected by a small waterproof cover to prevent rusting, and there is even a foam pad inside the back pocket for an added shield. Whether you’re storing your electronics, or actually using this for the outdoors, rest assured that your items won’t ever be in harm’s way.
Pros:
- Available in 57 different colors and patterns
- The brand is extremely eco-friendly and uses sustainable and recycled materials
Con:
- Fabric may be stiff at first and needs to be broken in
Himawari Laptop Backpack
Some of us are just born fashionistas and want all of our accessories to showcase our style. This sleek canvas bag comes in thirty different color combinations but is simplistic and minimal in its design so as not to be too flashy. It’s beautifully crafted, even down to the silver and gold hardware on the zippers and snaps. The straps and back panel are both generously padded to ensure support and comfort, and all of the edges are reinforced internally so the bag maintains its shape perfectly. You’ll surely receive tons of compliments on this backpack, no matter which pattern you opt for.
Pros:
- Available in both a ‘regular’ and ‘large’ size which makes this convenient for various sizes of laptops or tablets
- Waterproof
Con:
- It may not be as comfortable for those with small frames as this measures wider than other laptop bags
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main things I should be aware of when choosing a carrier for my laptop?
First and foremost, you’re going to want to ensure that the bag will fit your device – but not just your device. Don’t forget that you’re oftentimes bringing accessories as well, and things like plugs, cables, perhaps even an external mouse may also need to easily fit inside your carrier. It should also be as lightweight as possible, yet still durable, as you obviously don’t want anything to happen that may damage your belongings. Straps on a bag are important too, and ones that are both adjustable in addition to being padded are key things to look for.
Some materials claim to be water-resistant while others say water-repellent. What’s the difference?
The distinction here is small yet important. Items that are classified as water-resistant are simply made in a manner in which it makes it more difficult for water to penetrate. This term may be applied to something like a wristwatch which has the ability to withstand some light rain without breaking. If a product touts that it is water-repellent, this implies that it has gone through a process in which a coating has been applied to it to enable it to withstand more harsh conditions. Be aware that neither of these terms implies complete protection for electronics though, so you still need to be cautious with your devices.
Why Trust Us
With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.