15 best laptop backpacks to make commuting to the office a total breeze
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All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn how we test.
It's time I came clean: owning one of the best laptop backpacks has changed my life. No exaggeration. I used to be tote bag girly, nothing could ever change my mind (they're the most stylish option, right?) – until my shoulder felt like it was going to fall off.
Turns out lugging around your Macbook, notepad, water bottle (Stanley, of course), makeup and lunch actually wears on your spine more than you'd think. Posture aside, now I own a laptop backpack I've been awoken to their many other benefits too.
While it's true that very little can be done to improve the whole commuting experience (though less train strikes would be fab), a rucksack that'll fit everything but your kitchen sink inside is a step in the right direction. Trust me; they're a must-have item for anyone who travels to and from the office every day.
Unaccustomed to laptop backpacks? While work bags, travel backpacks and briefcase-style handbags often feature pockets that'll happily fit a 15-inch screen size, laptop backpacks have padded, secure compartments specifically for storing them. The best part is that they're surprisingly chic, too – no velcro in sight. So much so that you'd be happy to be seen out with them on the weekends (though maybe sans anything work-related).
SKIP TO: How to choose a laptop backpack | The difference between a laptop bag and a laptop backpack | How we tested them | Shop the best laptop backpacks.
Best early Amazon Prime deals on laptop backpacks:
- Samsonite Guardit Classy Laptop Backpack, WAS £89 NOW £58.05
- Lenovo B210 Backpack, WAS £19.99 NOW £15
- Ryanair Cabin Bags 40x20x25 Underseat Rucksack, WAS £31.99 NOW £22.99
What should you look for when it comes to choosing a laptop backpack?
After you've found a design that will fit the dimensions of your device, the next thing to think about is fabric. Opting for waterproof or roll-top design is a good place to start – the last thing you want is soggy, malfunctioning tech. This sand-coloured iteration from Stubble & Co offers exactly that, plus capacity of up to 20L, with added features such as a cushioned air-flow back panel with fully adjustable straps.
“I love the fact that the external laptop pocket means you can keep it separate from everything else. It means that, when I need to send a last-minute email on the train (we've all been there), I can get to it without having to open everything else up completely,” says Denise Primbet, GLAMOUR's Commerce Writer.
Don't forget about the overall style of your new accessory, too. You want it to last, yes, but you also want it to fit in with the rest of your bag collection and ultimately go with your daily outfits – so go for something classic that'll complement your workwear and beyond.
Our other two favourites include Antler's Chelsea Backpack which fits a 13-inch laptop and is consequently one of the best travel backpacks, and Away's The Everywhere Zip Backpack.
What is the difference between a laptop bag and laptop backpack?
If you have a long daily commute and/or have a bit of a walk to get to the office, you're better off with a backpack than you are with a laptop case or pouch. They're much better for your spine and shoulders for everyday use thanks to the double (and adjustable) straps, and spread the weight more evenly so you don't get an achy arm. Don't worry, though, you don't have to go full-on hiker style with one that features a sternum strap.
Pre-2020 a lot of us didn't even have laptops, but if we did they'd be left at our desks when we went home each night. Now, since hybrid working is a more permanent thing, taking your valuables with you wherever you go is somewhat of a non-negotiable, so it's important you acquire the correct protection for carrying them around. Yes, we're making direct eye contact with those of you who think one of those free cotton tote bags you get from the bookstore is a suitable method of transportation for your worldly goods.
How we tested the best laptop backpacks in this round-up:
We at GLAMOUR all work in London at least three days a week and travel in from various areas in England, so we've been hunting for something that'll help those early starts feel a little less stressful – and that's where laptop backpacks come in. We've tested our faves (see the above three) and rated the below designs out of five stars in terms of their durability, price, capacity and style credentials. We've also provided specifications to save you the time of searching for them yourself, alongside pros and cons to consider before purchasing. Read more about how we test here.
For more from GLAMOUR UK's Senior Commerce Writer Georgia Trodd, follow her on Instagram @georgiatrodd.