5 Best Laptop Backpacks – 2021
TOP PICK 
RUNNER UP
Model
BLW's Score
95
92
89
86
82
MSRP
$25.99
$40.99
$39.99
$84.95
$24.99
More Information
Dimensions
20 x 12.2 x 5.7 inches
13.4 x 7 x 19.3 inches
18.1 x 8.3 x 14.2 inches
9 x 18.5 x 13.5 inches
17 x 13 x 5.5 inches
Max laptop size
Less than 17 inches
17 inches
17 inches
17 inches
15.6 inches
Material
Nylon fabric
Polyester nylon
Polyester nylon
1200D Ballistic Polyester
Canvas
Number of compartments
13
11
20 plus
17
10
Extra features
USB charger, built-in charging cable, combination lock
Heavily-padded, water bottle holder, quick-access phone holder
Large capacity, airport-friendly (TSA approved), external USB charging cable, headphone socket
Scansmart technology, airflow panels, side-entry, airport-friendly
USB charging port, built-in charging cable
Water Repellent
Yes
No
Yes
No
Yes
TOP PICK
Model
BLW's Score
95
MSRP
$25.99
More Information
Dimensions
20 x 12.2 x 5.7 inches
Max laptop size
Less than 17 inches
Material
Nylon fabric
Number of compartments
13
Extra features
USB charger, built-in charging cable, combination lock
Water Repellent
Yes
RUNNER UP
Model
BLW's Score
92
MSRP
$40.99
More Information
Dimensions
13.4 x 7 x 19.3 inches
Max laptop size
17 inches
Material
Polyester nylon
Number of compartments
11
Extra features
Heavily-padded, water bottle holder, quick-access phone holder
Water Repellent
No
Model
BLW's Score
89
MSRP
$39.99
More Information
Dimensions
18.1 x 8.3 x 14.2 inches
Max laptop size
17 inches
Material
Polyester nylon
Number of compartments
20 plus
Extra features
Large capacity, airport-friendly (TSA approved), external USB charging cable, headphone socket
Water Repellent
Yes
BLW's Score
86
MSRP
$84.95
More Information
Dimensions
9 x 18.5 x 13.5 inches
Max laptop size
17 inches
Material
1200D Ballistic Polyester
Number of compartments
17
Extra features
Scansmart technology, airflow panels, side-entry, airport-friendly
Water Repellent
No
Model
BLW's Score
82
MSRP
$24.99
More Information
Dimensions
17 x 13 x 5.5 inches
Max laptop size
15.6 inches
Material
Canvas
Number of compartments
10
Extra features
USB charging port, built-in charging cable
Water Repellent
Yes
Gone are the days when the business or home computer was destined to remain in one place. New technology, together with slim and lightweight laptops, has made mobile computing more practical than ever before.
It doesn’t matter whether you are taking your laptop to college to study, to surf the Internet in a local coffee shop, or using it remotely for business. This expensive and essential machine requires safe transportation.
Traditionally, bags or briefcases made specifically for laptops were the carrying method of choice. While practical, they were large, bulky, and had little room for other items. This meant that a backpack or an additional bag was necessary.
With laptop backpacks, the problem is solved. Specific compartments for the computer prevent damage from pens, keys, or other items. What’s more, these backpacks are now designed with the laptop user in mind and have useful features you wouldn’t find in a normal bag.
Below are our top five laptop backpacks picks, suitable for every budget. Furthermore, at the end of the article, we have included tips on what to look for in your backpack.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
See Related Article: Laptop Stand Buying Guide
Overall Winner
Mancro Laptop Backpack
The Mancro laptop backpack is a highly adaptable product that comes in at less than $30.00. With its stylish looks, unisex design, and additional features, it is a backpack that can cater to children and adults alike.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 20 inches by 12.2 inches by 5.7 inches – will fit laptops under 17 inches
- Material: Polyester/nylon
- Number of compartments: 14 (three large pockets, nine smaller pockets plus two side pockets)
- Extra features: USB charger, built-in charging cable, combination lock
- Waterproof: Yes
- Price — Check the latest price on Amazon.com
Benefits
The main reason that this backpack made the number one spot is its universality. It’s not the most avant-garde product on the market and is unlikely to turn heads.
However, its minimalist approach means that it is appropriate for many uses. It is great as a college bag, everyday backpack, or for the business professional.
The Mancro backpack has a built-in USB charging port on the exterior. This means your cell will always have access to charge during time away from the home or office.
What’s more, security is taken seriously with the inclusion of a combination lock. This keeps unwanted hands away and provides increased peace of mind. Finally, all these features are provided in a rugged backpack that is available at a bargain price.
See Also: 5 Best Laptop Mounts
Drawbacks
Unfortunately, this laptop backpack will not hold computers that are 17 inches in size. This may make it unattractive to the mobile gamer or business person who owns one of these larger size laptops.
For some, the plain design is a selling point. For others who wish to make a statement, social or fashion-wise, they may find this bag lacking.
Extra Features
As a basic laptop backpack, it is not revolutionary. However, it is great to see it includes:
- External USB charging socket.
- Built-in charging cable.
- Sturdy combination lock.
- Water-resistant material.
- Reinforced bottom.
Buying Advice
This backpack has general all-around appeal, clean, slim styling, and an external USB port. All for a very reasonable price. However, pass on this backpack if you’ll be carrying a larger-sized laptop.
Runners Up
AmazonBasics Backpack
The name AmazonBasics may not sound like the most exciting in the world, but this laptop backpack is a high-quality product that will not break the bank.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 13.4 inches by 7 inches by 19.3 inches – will fit 17-inch laptops and below
- Material: Polyester/nylon
- Number of compartments: 11
- Extra features: Heavily-padded, water bottle holder and external, quick-access phone holder
- Waterproof: No
- Price — Check the latest price on Amazon.com
Benefits
Firstly, it’s great to see that this budget laptop backpack can fit larger computers up to 17 inches in size. Many of the lower-priced products are for the smaller computers only.
Design-wise, it looks like a traditional backpack. With its soft polyester exterior and black coloring with orange trim, it does not shout “laptop”. This may be useful if you are concerned about security – and do not want to declare to the world you are carrying over $500.00 worth of tech on your back.
While externally it may not look like a laptop backpack, inside it is certainly designed as such. It has a specific, padded, laptop compartment, together with other pockets, for tablets and your cells. An external, quick-access phone holder means no rummaging around in your backpack to read that all-important message.
For people who will be doing a lot of walking, the heavy-duty padding on the carrying straps provides additional comfort.
Drawbacks
As mentioned, this does not look like a laptop backpack. Although a positive for some, for anyone wishing to make a statement it could prove a little reserved.
The manufacturers have paid attention to the serious tech-geeks here – with a laptop, tablet, and cell phone pockets. But surprisingly, they have failed to include any USB cables or sockets.
There are sufficient compartments inside to hold a power bank. However, accessing your electronic devices could prove difficult.
Extra Features
Despite the lack of a USB port, this laptop backpack does have some great user-friendly conveniences, such as:
- Heavily padded – for comfort on the move.
- Exterior water bottle holder.
- Secure external cell holder.
Buying Advice
To be honest, we very nearly placed the AmazonBasics backpack in the first place. Its numerous compartments made it a very close runner. However, it slipped into second place for its lack of a USB port.
Alternatives
Yorepek Backpack
Over the last couple of years, Yorepek has been creating some buzz in the backpack market. Unlike many other manufacturers, their production is solely based on backpacks. Their recent line includes one made specifically for laptops.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 18 inches by 8 inches by 13.9 inches – will fit 17-inch laptops and below
- Material: Polyester/nylon
- Number of compartments: 20 plus
- Extra features: Airport-friendly, external micro USB, built-in charging cable, headphone socket
- Waterproof: Yes
- Price — Check the latest price on Amazon.com
Benefits
If there was a laptop backpack created with the busy international businessperson in mind, then this is it.
Appearance-wise, it looks remarkably like an airline-cabin case, but with more rounded edges – showing that it is indeed a laptop backpack. Its aesthetics are classy, tech-looking but fashionable. It features textured, black polyester with non-obtrusive red trim.
Inside, it is a case that does not hold back on space. It can easily hold a 17-inch laptop, but in addition, possesses over 20 further compartments. Ideal for folders, pens, tablets, and cables. However, if you are not carrying that much equipment, adjustable straps allow the size of the backpack to be reduced.
An external USB socket, with a charging cable, allows your tablet to remain charged throughout business trips. In addition, for those people who like to hear their tunes while on the move, the backpack contains a headphone socket (⅛ inch). This allows your MP3 player or cell to remain within your bag.
One of the most distinguishing features of this backpack is that it can unfold to 180 degrees. This has allowed it to be approved by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
In essence, this means that when going through airport security, the laptop does not have to be removed from the bag for the x-ray machine. Instead, a quick-release zip is pulled allowing it to open fully into two halves. This exposes the laptop – saving time and limiting dropped items in the airport.
Drawbacks
One negative about this backpack appears to be its stitching finish. Many customer testimonials have indicated that the shoulder straps began to fray after a couple of months’ use.
This has not affected the strength or safety of the straps, just that it looks untidy – which you would not expect from a backpack at this price.
Furthermore, it appears that some 17-inch laptop owners (mainly Dell) have found the backpack slightly too small. This is despite being designed for computers of this size.
Extra Features
- Airport-friendly, TSA-approved 180-degree opening function.
- External, micro USB with a built-in charging cable.
- Headphone socket.
- Interior toiletry bag.
- Steel handle (plastic-coated).
Buying Advice
Angled at the business traveler, this large and sturdy backpack has everything one requires. It did not reach the top spot as it is a little pricey, and does not have the all-round appeal of the top two.
SwissGear Travel Gear Scansmart Backpack 1900
SwissGear is well-known for its sturdy luggage and travel equipment. They have produced a backpack that includes its trademarked Scansmart and Tabletsafe features.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 8.5 inches by 18.5 inches by 13.5 inches – will fit 17-inch laptops and below
- Material: Polyester/nylon
- Number of compartments: 17
- Extra features: Scansmart airport facility, airflow panels, side-entry, “Tabletsafe” pocket
- Waterproof: No
- Price — Check the latest price on Amazon.com
Benefits
If you know your backpacks, you will immediately recognize the familiar design of the SwissGear Travel Gear 1900. The narrow-to-wide shaping, Swiss flag, and the characteristic, external carabiner are all here. However, it is separated from their normal backpack lines with its specific laptop features.
The Scansmart feature allows the backpack, as with the Yorepek, to open at 180 degrees for airport security checks. What makes it different, however, is that the laptop is allowed to ‘float’ in its own specific pocket – preventing damage or slippage when opened.
Furthermore, the laptop compartment can be accessed from the side if desired – meaning the entire bag does not have to be opened for access.
This feature is further developed in specific tablet compartments. Tablet safe means the pockets are provided with extra padding. This allows even the most fragile of touchscreen technology to be protected while on the move.
User comfort is also heavily catered for. Firstly, as with all SwissGear backpacks, it has heavy-duty, reinforced straps with thick cushioning. This prevents injured or sore shoulders.
Secondly, it contains an ‘airflow’ back panel. This ensures that adequate ventilation can reach the back when worn – preventing sweating.
Drawbacks
For a product that prides itself on its two trademarked features, it’s surprising to see a lack of USB ports (although it does have a headphone socket). It is considerably more expensive than the winner in our top five (which does contain a USB port.)
Furthermore, SwissGear makes no claims that this product is waterproof.
Extra Features
- TabletSafe pocket to prevent screen breaks.
- Scansmart airport facility to speed through checks.
- Airflow panels to prevent perspiration.
- Side-entry for easy access to the laptop.
- Water-bottle pockets located on either side.
- Holder for accordion files.
Buying Advice
With SwissGear, you already know you are getting a quality product. Sturdy, comfortable, and reliable, this backpack will see you through many years of use. The attention paid to tablet protection and airport use makes it a good backpack.
With its simple design and canvas skin, this is a laptop backpack equally suited to town and country use. A little pricey maybe, but worth it.
Vancropak Backpack
With its simple design and canvas skin, this is a laptop backpack equally suited to town and country use.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 17 inches by 13 inches by 5.5 inches – fits 15.6-inch laptops and below
- Material: Canvas/nylon
- Number of compartments: 10
- Extra features: USB charging port, built-in charging cable, headphone hole
- Waterproof: Yes
- Price — Check the latest price on Amazon.com
Benefits
The Vancropak backpack is probably the sleekest and least overthought of all the products on this list.
The designers behind this laptop backpack have taken seriously its outdoor capabilities. The exterior canvas material is both rugged and waterproof, giving you the confidence to take your laptop into the great outdoors.
Furthermore, it has just two, outer (semi-concealed) zips. This ensures no unwanted snagging on trees, camping gear, or other countryside hazards.
But do not think this is purely a camping backpack. It is packed with features for the tech enthusiast. It includes a safety pocket, to hold 15.6-inch laptops and smaller, a USB charging port, plus a headphone opening to ensure the leads are stored tidily away.
Drawbacks
Although mentioned as a positive above, the limited number of exterior pockets may prove too few for some users. For example, those who demand easy access to numerous equipment items. Furthermore, it is a shame that it cannot accommodate a 17-inch laptop.
Extra Features
Headphone-cable hole.
Buying Advice
This laptop backpack is perfect for those people who want to take their tech out into the wilderness. Reduced features can sometimes be a benefit.
Why Should I Buy a Laptop Backpack?
If you are someone who needs portable technology, seriously consider a laptop backpack. Like traditional laptop bags, they protect your tech while on the move, but with the added features of:
- Placing less stress on the shoulder by using double straps – traditional bags have just one.
- Including added compartments for work equipment, tablets, keys, folders, and cell phones.
- Making charging easy with exterior ports.
What Should I Look for in a Laptop Backpack?
It is not a case of one-size-fits-all with laptop backpacks. The requirement for additional features, size, and place of use all affect which product is ideal for you. We have outlined below a few elements that you should consider when looking for a laptop backpack.
Size
Size is important, but bigger does not necessarily mean better.
It may sound obvious, but you must ensure that your laptop will comfortably fit inside the laptop bag. Always check the internal dimensions and product descriptions before you decide to buy.
Many laptop backpacks are designed for computers that are 15.6 inches or below. This means that they are unusable for people with 17-inch laptops or above. Also remember that your actual computer is referred to by its screen size, not the overall volume of the machine. Manually measure your laptop itself before purchasing your backpack.
If you are using the product for college or business use, consider how many additional items you require the laptop backpack to carry. For example folders, pens, calculators, etc.
If there are numerous other things, you will need a larger backpack and perhaps one with additional pockets or compartments.
Where Will You Use It?
If you are transporting your laptop around the city, but spend most of your time on trains or the subway, there is little requirement for it to be waterproof. However, if you are out in the elements frequently, or want to take it camping, being able to keep your laptop dry is essential.
Furthermore, are you going to be doing a lot of walking? Laptops, although lighter than a few years ago, will still be placing poundage on your back. If you’re going to be mobile, it might be worth looking at a backpack with heavily padded straps for comfort.
In addition, if you are going to be in public spaces, it’s always worth considering the safety aspect. Does the laptop backpack come with a lock or other safety features? If not, is it easy to use a third-party mechanism to keep your contents secure?
Finally, if you are a frequent user of airports, always look for a backpack that has side- access for easy accessibility. Or, choose one which can flip open at 180 degrees. This will make x-ray checks much easier and quicker.
Quality
This relates to how often and where you are using the laptop backpack. Lower quality backpacks may be perfectly acceptable if you are only using them a few times a year.
But if it is going to be used daily, and out in the elements, you want a seriously well-built backpack. Not only will this last longer, but it will also ensure that the contents are always protected.
Additional Ports
For us, the new trend towards external USB ports is a great feature. So many of us use power banks these days – but charging your phone with them while on the move is difficult. It either means charging inside the bag, making it inaccessible, or holding both bank and cell in your hands. The ability to simply charge your phone with an external socket is great for people with heavy cell usage who want to be sure they have enough power to last the day.
Final Thoughts
Depending on the specification, your laptop could be one of the most expensive things you own. Even if not, it can contain images, work, and irreplaceable videos.
Either way, it is important that when you are mobile around the city or the world, your laptop is protected.
Laptop backpacks provide a convenient and safe method of transporting your computer. What’s more, they have additional benefits over traditional laptop bags. They can carry other essential items for your daily life, and in some cases, charge USB devices.
This article includes our top five laptop backpacks available today. All of them, in their own way, have their benefits. It’s up to you to decide which one fits your needs best.
From the excellent bargain backpack, the Mancro, through to the serious business-traveling Yorepek. One of these backpacks will help you transport your laptop safely and securely.
About the Author Marcus
Marcus has a graduate degree in computer engineering and has many years of experience in cutting-edge technology research and development in both startups and Fortune 500 corporations. In his free time, he enjoys RTS gaming.
