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11 best laptop backpacks for keeping your tech safe while travelling and commuting
We've found the best options for style, practicality and space
Fed up of hauling around your laptop in a worn-out old tote bag that’s on its last legs? If you’re struggling to cart your computer to work and back, as well as fitting in your lunch and gym kit, or still using a backpack that looks like it belongs in 2005, it’s time for an upgrade.
Your back will thank you for investing in one of the best laptop bags too, as they distribute the weight evenly across your shoulders, reducing the strain that inevitably comes from commuting or travelling with heavy items.
When searching for the best options, we’ve prioritised padded straps, reinforced back panels and clever inner pockets, as well as style and versatility. A good backpack should help you maintain good posture even if you’re wearing it all day, whether you’re rushing around or relying on it for travelling.
Check out more of our tech editor's top picks: Best laptops to buy | Best tablets | Best over-ear headphones | Best power banks | Best reusable water bottles | Apple AirTag review
How we chose the best laptop backpacks
For this roundup, we’ve focused on premium backpacks that are made to protect your laptop, tablet and other essentials, prioritising robust construction, smart design and quality materials. Every model on this list has a dedicated compartment or pocket for a laptop.
The British weather is always unpredictable, so we’ve made sure that most of our picks provide water resistance. We’ve personally tested and worn all of the bags on this list, using them for at least a week as our main work backpacks, but several of them have undergone much longer testing over several months.
More on bags and luggage: Best luggage brands | Best carry-on backpacks | How to choose the right luggage | Best luggage trackers | Best cabin bags
The best laptop backpacks
Stubble & Co Everyday Backpack 20L
Pros
- Water-resistant materials
- Good amount of storage
Cons
- Top handle could be sturdier
Who it’s for: Ideal for commuters, remote workers and frequent travellers who want a dependable, no-fuss daily backpack. This has a streamlined style and practical features that make it a strong choice for office days, travel, gym sessions and more.
Why we like it: This backpack is properly water-resistant and has survived plenty of rainy commutes. It has a dedicated laptop compartment, a roomy main section, and dual bottle pockets that many rivals lack. The compact shape belies how much it can hold, making it versatile enough for long weekend trips. One of our favourite things about it is that it’s a perfect fit for the Ryanair “personal item” restrictions when we're travelling light on flights. It’s also comfortable to wear for long periods and sturdy enough to handle daily use.
Take note: The top carry handle could be thicker and more comfortable to grab, especially when the bag is full. That said, it’s still holding up well after months of regular use.
Key specifications
| Bag dimensions | 30 x 46 x 14cm |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 20-litre |
| Features | 16-inch laptop pocket, padded sleeve for wheeled luggage, dual bottle pockets, water-resistant materials, internal organisation pockets |
Pros
- Secure, light and stylish
- Enough room for all daily essentials
Cons
- Just one water bottle holder
Who it’s for: This is perfect for commuters and weekend travellers who want a stylish, lightweight bag with smart features and a splash of colour. It’s also a good pick if you’re after versatility without bulk.
Why we like it: We're impressed by how much this compact backpack can carry – from a laptop and accessories to snacks and travel essentials. It has quick-access zips, smart magnetic closures and enough room for short getaways along with day-to-day needs. The weather-resistant materials stood up well to rain, and it’s available in four colour options.
Take note: It only has one water bottle holder, which can feel a bit limiting. It also doesn’t feature the shockproof lining that Mous is known for and is only built to handle light rain rather than downpours.
Key specifications
| Bag dimensions | 46.5 x 29.5 x 13.5cm |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 20-litre |
| Features | 16-inch laptop pocket, easy access opening, passthrough for wheeled luggage, internal organisation pockets |
Pros
- Sleek and stylish
- Fits more than you’d expect
Cons
- A very expensive option
Who it’s for: This is an excellent pick for professionals and city commuters who want something minimal, stylish and functional. The Apex is ideal for those who carry their laptop and work gear daily but don’t want a bulky backpack.
Why we like it: It looks discreet, yet fits everything you need for a day at the office, including a laptop, power bank, over-ear headphones and charging extras. We ended up using the dual external pockets for a water bottle and umbrella, and the padded laptop compartment keeps tech safe. Due to its luggage passthrough, it could work well for travel, and the addition of an AirTag slot is another thoughtful detail. Despite its sleek profile, it’s more spacious than it appears and comfortable to wear.
Take note: It’s not the most rugged or biggest backpack out there. Also, at £245, it’s a significant investment.
Key specifications
| Bag dimensions | 32 x 48 x 15cm |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 25-litre |
| Features | 17-inch laptop pocket, passthrough sleeve for wheeled luggage, AirTag pocket, dual bottle pockets, water-resistant materials, internal organisation pockets |
Stubble & Co Hybrid Backpack 30L
Pros
- Spacious, with suitcase-style access
- Comfortable and durable
Cons
- A bit large for an everyday bag
Who it’s for: Designed for people who need one bag that works for both travel and everyday life. This is great for commuters, gym-goers and short-haul travellers looking for a spacious, reliable, fuss-free option.
Why we like it: The 30-litre capacity and clamshell opening make it easy to pack like a suitcase for weekend trips. It’s water-resistant, well-padded and surprisingly lightweight for its size. The dedicated laptop pocket and dual-access top pocket are smart touches, and the luggage passthrough is convenient if you’re travelling with a wheelie case. Overall, it’s practical, comfortable and doesn’t skimp on build quality.
Take note: It’s a bit bulky for day-to-day use if you’re packing light. An extra water bottle pocket would be nice, and there aren’t quite as many internal compartments or clever storage solutions as you’ll find in pricier models.
Key specifications
| Bag dimensions | 31 x 50 x 19cm |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 30-litre |
| Features | 16-inch laptop pocket, sleeve for wheeled luggage, bottle pocket, water-resistant materials, dual access front pocket, internal organisation pockets |
Pros
- Both a tote and a backpack
- Smart internal storage
Cons
- The straps lack padding
Who it’s for: This is a great choice for those who want a stylish hybrid bag that works as both a tote and a backpack. Ideal for light commuters or anyone looking for a compact but well-organised laptop bag.
Why we like it: Peak Design’s Totepack is lightweight, easy to carry, and handles downpours well, thanks to its water-resistant build. As with other Peak Design bags, we're fans of the side access, and you can use ‘FlexFold’ dividers to keep your items neatly organised. Inside, there’s room for a laptop, headphones, charger, water bottle and more, all without feeling bulky.
Take note: The straps aren’t that padded, and the top magnetic closure on the handles isn’t as strong or secure as those on the main compartment. We also noticed that the lighter colour marks easily, so we’d consider going with the black instead.
Key specifications
| Bag dimensions | 46 x 38.1 x 17cm |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 20-litre |
| Features | 15-inch laptop pocket, side access, top handles, water-resistant materials, lots of internal organisation |
Stubble & Co The Roll Top 20L
Pros
- Roomy and water-resistant
- Great for gym-goers
Cons
- The style and size won’t suit everyone
Who it’s for: Ideal for commuters who carry a little bit of everything – from laptops to gym gear – and need a versatile, expandable bag. It’s also a great pick for cyclists or anyone worried they’ll need to deal with rain often.
Why we like it: We see this bag all the time on our commute, and it’s no surprise that it’s one of the most popular designs around. It’s comfortable to wear, offers reliable water resistance, and has a well-padded laptop compartment. The dual external pockets are great for storing both an umbrella and a water bottle, and the roll-top design offers extra space when you need it. At £120, it also offers excellent value for money compared to pricier rivals.
Take note: The roll-top style can feel bulky when packed to full capacity. If you think you won’t need all the space, you might prefer the smaller 15-litre version.
Key specifications
| Bag dimensions | 32 x 47 x 14cm |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 20-litre |
| Features | 16-inch laptop compartment, padded sleeve for wheeled luggage, dual bottle pockets, roll-top, water-resistant materials, internal organisation pockets |
Pros
- Built with anti-shock tech
- Loads of clever storage solutions
Cons
- Quite big and bulky
Who it’s for: If you carry expensive tech or travel frequently, this is a smart pick for keeping your valuables protected. It’s great for commuters or travellers who prioritise security, storage and weather-resistance – and don’t mind a bulkier design.
Why we like it: This is one of the most secure backpacks we’ve tested, thanks to its anti-shock laptop protection and weather-resistant zippers and materials. There’s loads of space here, with room for a laptop, tech kit, headphones and much more, and plenty of hidden and lockable pockets. The side access and magnetic lid closure are convenient, and the chest strap helps when the bag is fully loaded.
Take note: It’s heavier and chunkier than other options, at 1.8kg, and the back padding isn’t the softest. It also sits quite high when worn, which may not suit every body type.
Key specifications
| Bag dimensions | 48 x 33 x 17cm |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 25-litre |
| Features | 16-inch laptop pocket, anti-shock material, magnetic closure, sleeve for wheeled luggage, side access, water-resistant materials, loads of internal organisation pockets |
Pros
- Thoughtful organisation
- Expandable storage
Cons
- Looks quite businesslike
Who it’s for: Great for commuters with a lot to carry and travellers who like customisation, organisation and hidden compartments. This Gomatic is a solid option for people who pack methodically and want one bag that works for multiple scenarios.
Why we like it: This expandable bag offers plenty of room – typically 20 litres, but increasing to 24 litres – and has dedicated slots for your laptop and tablet. It’s packed with clever features: luggage passthrough, hidden rear pocket, magnetic water bottle holders and more. The suitcase-style opening makes it super simple to pack for short trips, and everything feels secure and well-padded. It’s also weather-resistant and holds its shape well, even when fully packed.
Take note: Its tall profile is almost certainly a bit too large for most airline personal item policies. The zips are lockable, but for full security, you’d need your own small padlocks as they don’t interlock.
Key specifications
| Bag dimensions | 31 x 47 x 14.5cm |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 20-litre (expandable to 24-litre) |
| Features | 16-inch laptop pocket, passthrough sleeve for wheeled luggage, hidden pocket, dual magnetic bottle pockets, interlocking zippers, water-resistant materials, 24 compartments for internal organisation |
Peak Design Everyday Backpack
Pros
- Clever features
- Smart and adaptable design
Cons
- A bit bulky, and very expensive
Who it’s for: Best suited for anyone who values clever design and detailed organisation, whether you’re carrying camera gear, a laptop, or just your daily tech kit. It’s especially ideal for commuters, creatives and photographers who want quick access to their gear.
Why we like it: The side access zips and ‘FlexFold’ dividers make it easy to reach and arrange your items exactly how you want them. Features like magnetic strap storage, a tough top handle, and the one-handed ‘MagLatch’ system are well considered. It’s fully water-resistant, surprisingly slim, and packed with hidden compartments. It wears well, fits a laptop securely, and feels like it’s built to last.
Take note: You’ll only get the full internal capacity when the top latch is fully extended, and the premium build of this bag does come at a seriously high price, but we think it's worth it.
Key specifications
| Bag dimensions | 51 x 33 x 20cm |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 30-litre |
| Features | 15-inch laptop pocket, passthrough sleeve for wheeled luggage, magnetic latch, magnetic attachment for straps, side access, dual bottle pockets, water-resistant materials, internal organisation pockets |
Pros
- Expandable and tough
- Great for short trips
Cons
- Might be too business-like for some
Who it’s for: It’s ideal if you often switch between light and heavy packing – this is a premium backpack for travellers and commuters who want organisation in a compact, expandable form.
Why we like it: Despite its 15L starting capacity, this bag is surprisingly roomy and can expand to 21L for longer trips. We were able to use it for a five-day journey with packing cubes and appreciated the internal mesh pockets, external handles, and hidden compartments. The hard shell adds protection, and tamper-resistant zips are great for some extra peace of mind. It’s well-padded, weather-resistant and well-organised, making it a strong all-rounder for those on the move.
Take note: Because of its hard shell, it’s not always the most flexible bag when it comes to packing odd-shaped items, and it looks a bit businesslike. But, for structure and security, it’s still one of the best we’ve tested.
Key specifications
| Bag dimensions | 48 x 30 x 14 cm |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 15-litre (expandable to 21-litre) |
| Features | 16-inch laptop pocket, hidden bottle pocket, expandable capacity, sleeve for wheeled luggage, interlocking zips, several pockets for organisation |
Peak Design Everyday Backpack Zip
Pros
- Easy side access
- Streamlined and smart look
Cons
- The straps could be more comfortable
Who it’s for: A smart option for commuters, creatives or frequent travellers who value slick organisation and a more minimalist profile. It's great if you want Peak Design’s clever features without the more complex top-latch system.
Why we like it: This streamlined version of the Everyday Backpack swaps the top flap for a full-zip design, making it super easy to open and pack. The removable internal dividers are perfect for custom storage, and the bag still includes helpful features like side access and a luggage passthrough. It’s geared towards creatives and photographers but the sleek design works well when you’re carrying office tech or gym clothes.
Take note: The shoulder straps could use more padding, and they don’t magnetically secure like on the flagship model. Still, these are minor compromises for a bag that delivers all the essentials.
Key specifications
| Bag dimensions | 47 x 29 x 16cm |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 20-litre |
| Features | 15-inch laptop pocket, sleeve for wheeled luggage, full-zip design, dual bottle pockets, water-resistant materials, internal divider system |
How to pick the best laptop backpack
There are several things to think about when you’re deciding on a laptop backpack. These are the key specifications to consider and the ones that will make a genuine difference to the comfort and practicality of your bag.
Size and capacity
A tiny backpack might sound like a nice idea for portability, but it will quickly get full if you’re carrying a laptop and lots of extras. It makes sense to pick a backpack with a dedicated space for a laptop (like every model on this list) and to make sure that there’s enough room in the main compartment for everything you’ll want to carry on a day-to-day basis.
Everyone’s needs are different, but 15 litres tends to be enough if you’re only packing a small amount, while 18 to 20 litres should be the right size for the majority of commuters. Step up to 25 to 30 litres for one that can work as a weekend bag for trips.
Comfort and ergonomics
You’ll probably spend a lot of time wearing the backpack you’re buying, so definitely prioritise comfortable materials and ergonomic straps. It’s worth familiarising yourself with the materials used picking those that are best for durability, breathability and comfort.
Some of the top ones include recycled polyester, canvas, leather, vegan leather and nylon. Also, look for water-resistant coatings and top-performing zippers. Several manufacturers use “YKK” zips, which are some of the highest quality ones.
For comfort, try to pick an option with some padding on the back panel and straps, in addition to some breathable materials and reinforcement to protect the tech inside.
Security features
Look for zips that interlock or have a slot for a padlock , and zips that close against your back (especially on the laptop pocket) are a great anti-theft feature too, as are hidden compartments, pockets designed for AirTags, and anti-shock linings made to keep your laptop protected if you get bumped or drop the bag.
Pockets and extra features
Consider any extra features you need. A luggage passthrough means you’ll be able to slot the backpack onto your wheelie case and can make it easier to get around while travelling. It’s worth considering whether you’ll need multiple external pockets, like bottle holders, and having one on either side can be pretty handy for keeping a bottle and an umbrella within easy reach.
When it comes to the sheer number of internal pockets, some bags offer loads, and some come with only a handful. How handy these are will come down to how you store items. Some of us will prefer to stash things into these various organisational pockets, but if you like to put your tech in a pouch, then you won’t really need to worry too much about these.
The one thing that's worth prioritising is at least one external pocket that’s easy to get to – it can be great for storing your portable charger, hand sanitiser and other quick-access items like your wireless earbuds. When travelling, it’s also worth having an accessible place for your passport and other travel documents.
Simon Cocks is Good Housekeeping UK’s Technology Editor, overseeing tech shopping content and strategy for the title. He previously also worked across other titles including Esquire UK, Digital Spy, Men’s Health UK and Women’s Health UK.
Simon specialises in testing the latest smart gadgets, home entertainment gear, headphones, speakers, portable chargers, radios, e-book readers and smartphones. He's reviewed top tech products from brands including Google, Apple, Amazon, JBL and Bose.
A magazine journalism graduate from Kingston University in 2014, Simon also worked on the Discovery and Silkroad inflight magazines. He then gained experience writing about entertainment at SFX and Total Film. He also contributed reviews and interviews to TwitchFilm (later ScreenAnarchy), CultBox and Frame Rated.
He joined Good Housekeeping UK as the Editorial Assistant for Special Projects and was part of Good Housekeeping’s Consumer Affairs Team between 2014 and 2019. In this role, he conducted price comparison research, wrote detailed household and money-saving advice guides and edited thousands of in-depth reviews for the Good Housekeeping Institute.
He has focused on technology and gadgets since 2020, where he started by testing out power banks and instant cameras. He writes reviews, roundups, news articles and deals updates, and also covers top tech deals during sales like Amazon Prime Day, Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
When not testing out the latest gizmos, you’ll find Simon either catching up with the newest releases at his local cinema or out shooting with his beloved compact camera.
You can follow Simon on Instagram, on Bluesky, on LinkedIn and on Threads.
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