Are you a frequent traveler with a remote job?
A daily commuter?
Or a student?
Either one, chances are you want to have a good laptop backpack for travel.
A good laptop backpack should have more than just a dedicated travel laptop compartment; there should be other features for organizational and tech purposes.
We’re talking about hidden pockets, comfy and breathable padding, and even a USB charging port.
There are tons of backpacks out there, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed.
We’ve done the research and compiled an ultimate list of the best travel laptop backpack for you.
From sleek, minimalist designs to stylish colors for women, we’ve included a range of options.
Want a quick answer? Go for the Matein Mlassic.
Here are some essential factors to look at when choosing a laptop backpack for travel…
Just like choosing any travel backpack, you’ll want to consider how heavy your laptop backpack is. Some laptops are quite heavy to begin with, so it helps to have a lightweight bag that makes everyday traveling more comfortable.
Don’t forget to pay attention to the size as well! The laptop compartment has to fit your specific laptop size, and think about whether you want the bag to fit other items like clothes and accessories.
Some laptop backpacks designed specifically for travel may have a bigger capacity. This means you’ll be able to pack your clothes and daily necessities in the same bag!
Having multiple compartments and organizational pockets can be useful to keep our stuff sorted and accessible. Some of the backpacks we’re featuring come with pen pockets, keyrings, and other special pouches inside.
Not only will these compartments help organize your belongings, but they are great for ensuring that you don't lose any small, loose items.
It's always worth investing a bit more for a water-resistant bag that can keep your laptop and other electronics safe if you ever spill something or get caught in the rain.
One thing to note is that most backpacks are not waterproof, which means leaving them soaked for too long is not advisable.
Some tech features you might find in a laptop backpack is a USB port (like the Matein Mlassic) or portable charger. This can be useful for providing power while on the go.
It's always a huge plus for your laptop backpack to have anti-theft features that can give you peace of mind when traveling. This may include a slash-proof material, lockable zippers, and hidden pockets. For more tips on this, check out some of our personal favorite anti-theft bags.
Are you more of a minimalist or do you prefer eye-catching designs and bold colors? Don't overlook the style aspect when choosing the best laptop backpack for you.
Comfort is also crucial when it comes to backpacks, especially if you'll be carrying it for hours at a time. Look for things like thick padding and a good, breathable back.
Weight: 1.68 and 2 lbs
Capacity: 28L and 35L
Size: 18 x 12 x 7.8” and 19 x 13.8 x 7.8”
The Matein Mlassic Travel Laptop Backpack wins today’s “overall best” title.
We spent a while reviewing Matein and, in a nutshell, it’s a solid laptop backpack that’s comfortable for traveling. It has various compartments and hidden pockets, well-built, durable, and water resistant.
Our favorite thing is the sheer amount of organizational features.
In addition to a protective laptop case, you’ll get two netting pockets in a secondary compartment, two side pockets, a fantastic front organizer, a keyring, and so many other thoughtful pouches!
There’s also a built-in USB port that lets you access your charged phone without having to carry the charger in your hand while on the go.
This can be useful when you’re using a maps app with your phone!
While this Matein backpack is not a specialized anti-theft bag, it does come with some excellent security features.
For instance, the hidden pocket in the back is perfect for keeping passports and other valuables, and the fact that its nondescript design won’t attract any unwanted attention.
The material itself is quality, water-resistant polyester fabric, whereas the stitching is impressive and the top handle feels sturdy.
But the best thing is that it’s such a comfortable backpack to wear! Thanks to the soft padding and breathable design, we had no problem carrying it around for hours at a time.
This backpack is designed for all sorts of people: avid travelers, digital nomads, students, and office workers.
So, if you want an all-round great laptop backpack that won’t disappoint, Matein’s best-selling bag is the one to go for.
Special Features:
Read more: Our in-depth Matein backpack review
Weight: 1.44kg (3.17lbs)
Capacity: 27L expandable to 33L
Size: unexpanded: 20.9" x 13.4" x 7", expanded: 20.9" x 13.4" x 7.9"
Peak Design’s 30L Travel Backpack is probably one of the most reliable bags I’ve had.
It’s an all-in-one, expandable bag you can easily take from work to travel.
Despite its simple look and design, there’s a lot going on in terms of compartments and pockets—though this sometimes makes getting something specific slower if you’re in a rush.
It’s small enough (when not expanded) to fit in the seat in front of you with most airlines.
It’s a great travel backpack for hiking and adventures because of the incredible support, like the stowable sternum strap and hip straps, plus 360-degree grab handles.
Best of all, it works well as a camera bag and storing your valuables safely, including, obviously, your laptop and tablet.
Another thing I love about this bag is that it holds its shape and doesn’t flap about.
You can also attach things on the many loops outside, which is useful for travel purposes. Think travel pillows, shoes, hats, and even carabiners for climbing!
The material itself is weatherproof, 100% recycled 400D nylon canvas shell, 900D waterproof bottom liner, and lots of padded foam around the bag for extra protection.
Not to mention the high-visibility grey interior that makes it easy to find your items.
If you’re looking for a larger alternative, their 40L Travel Backpack is also an iconic model.
Special Features:
Read our full review of the Peak Design Backpack!
Weight: 1.98 lbs
Capacity: 17L (expanded)
Size: 15.4-19.8"x 11.4" x 4.4 "
We love the DRiiBE CITYC Laptop Backpack not only for its elegant design and premium feel, but also its incredibly high standard of quality.
Despite the minimalist look, the interior hides a well-organized compartment.
From external pockets to internal mesh compartments and anti-theft pouches, you’ll have it all.
This is also a great expandable travel laptop bag. Simply unzip the bottom and you can enjoy 25% extra capacity, which comes in handy for when you're traveling.
Another unique feature is the ingenious front flap that can be a handy place for your jacket, documents, phone, or even yoga mat!
The bag is made of water resistant nylon and recycled polyester (RPET), which is durable, lightweight, resistant to grease and stain, and eco-friendly.
Oh, there’s also multiple pockets on both shoulder straps, where you can easily slip your sunglasses, pens, and other things for quick access.
Not to mention a useful luggage strap, the ergonomic padding, and the fact that it’s machine washable.
Special Features:
Check out our full review of the DRiiBE CITYC Laptop Backpack!
Weight: 2 lbs
Capacity: 40L (expanded)
Size: 18 x 12 x 7.8”
We’ve reviewed the Tropicfeel Shell and loved it, especially for its unique 3-in-1 adaptable design that gives you changeable capacity between 22L to 40L.
It means you can maximize the space for weekend trips and make it more compact during daytime rendezvous.
This is actually our top pick for backpackers, because in addition to
Plus, its clamshell opening system means you can see all of your clothing at a glance.
It’s a huge plus because we know that rummaging a backpack for that one tank top can be quite frustrating.
Not to mention the built-in wardrobe system that makes packing a breeze.
Tropicfeel itself is known for their range of travel products and organizers, so we love that you can combine this backpack with their other accessories. Like the tech pouch and camera cube!
The Shell backpack is also weatherproof, so your laptop is safe even if it suddenly rains.
It’s also one of our favourite eco-friendly backpacks as its made from sustainable materials. As well as an ergonomic back, hidden hip belt, adjustable straps, and side handle.
Special Features:
Read more: In-depth Shell Backpack review
Weight: 4 lbs
Capacity: 28L
Size: 11.6 x 18.5 x 7”
For some of our previous backpacking trips, we’ve reviewed all Solgaard backpacks and found they each have something unique to offer. In this case, the Lifepack ended up as our best pick for laptops (and it's the one Cazzy uses personally each day).
It’s packed with anti-theft and organizational features and designed with digital nomads in mind. So for the travel bloggers and remote workers amongst you, this may be the laptop bag you need!
From a patented lock system, integrated USB port, drop-proof laptop compartment, secret pockets, to a water-resistant bottom and comfortable padding, it really has everything you’ll need from a backpack.
Its organization system includes separate Workzone and Lifezone for the best work-life balance and tidy packing.
We also love that it’s compatible with their Solarbank power bank and Solar Boombox Bluetooth speaker.
The Solarbank itself is enough to charge your phone five times and is powered by solar energy, so it’s the ultimate eco-friendly solution for your electronics needs!
Better yet, Solgaard makes their own unique fabric from recycled ocean plastic known as Shore-Tex™️.
Special Features:
Read more: In-depth Solgaard review
Weight: 1.07 kg
Capacity: 30L
Size: 56 X 32 X 24.5 CM
Db’s Hugger Backpack 30L is a cool urban backpack with a stealth design and an ergonomic fit.
The simplistic and clean style makes this an ideal backpack for those living in the city or going on business trips, as it can definitely fit a few days' worth of clothing as well as your work gear.
With a 30L capacity and a lot of great features for travel, most notably is the patented hook-up system. This lets you easily attach the bag to a luggage when travelling.
The bag itself has a clamshell opening for more convenient packing and a roomy top pocket, which is especially useful for keeping essentials and things you need quick access to.
The laptop compartment is a separate space at the back with its own access, so there’s no need to fuss around with everything else inside.
The best thing is that this doesn’t compromise the back comfort even when you have the backpack on.
The only feature this bag lacks that I can think of is a water bottle pocket on the side, which would’ve been nice to have.
In terms of material, Db uses 100% Polyester that are water-resistant and pretty lightweight. Plus, the integrated rib cage construction consists of the strong ABS ribs to provide extra protection for your items.
All in all, at just over 1kg, this a solid backpack that can fit a lot of things!
Special Features:
Weight: 3 lbs
Capacity: 24L expandable to 35L
Size: unexpanded: 19" x 12" x 4.5”, expanded: 19" x 12" x 9"
If you like an all-in-one laptop bag with great organisation pockets and compartments, the Series 2 Expandable Knack Pack is for you,
It’s perfect if you want to travel light and minimal while still having the option to expand your backpack.
The main feature that sets the Series 2 apart is its Clam Shell opening, which opens up like a suitcase, making organising and packing your items so easy.
It’s expandable up to 35L for all your backpacking needs, but can be collapsed to be more compact for everyday use.
The expandable packing compartment that can hold 3 changes of clothes is actually patent-pending, which is pretty cool!
Some of the organisational features that I love include: a padded and suspended 15-inch laptop compartment that opens with a side zip, fleece-lined tablet pocket, removable key leash, hidden water bottle pocket, tons of pockets and straps, and more.
This Knack bag has a side handle for easy carrying and a hidden sleeve to slip around your luggage handle.
In terms of comfort, the sternum strap offers great support, while the back padding is pretty great too. However, I’d say that it feels a little flimsier compared to sturdier back padding of the Stubble & Co backpack. (Check out my review here)
Special Features:
Don't miss our full review of the Series 2 Medium Expandable Backpack!
Weight: 3.33 lbs
Capacity: 31L
Size: 12.6”L x 6.5”W x 18.6”H
The LEVEL8 Atlast Laptop Backpack has got to be the best laptop backpack when it comes to function and comfort.
Despite being relatively slim in size, it can fit an incredible capacity of up to 31L while still having the necessary protection of a laptop backpack.
The 16-inch laptop compartment has patented 3D EVA foam padding, which provides the most excellent shock absorption.
In addition to the main compartment for your clothing, books, or even camera, this backpack features 26 impressive organizer pockets for top-notch functionality!
This includes pockets for your phone, pens, keys, wallet, purse, water bottles, passport, and more.
For ultimate comfort, this LEVEL8 bag comes with the ultimate ergonomic carrying system, including cooling airflow in the back panel and well-padded shoulder straps.
Not to mention the weather-resistant 1680D ballistic polyester exterior that protects your items from light rain and tough conditions.
But the most unique thing about this bag is the thumb holes on the bottom of the adjustable main straps, which give you more control when pulling to adjust!
Special Features:
Weight: 2.25 lbs
Capacity: 18L
Size: 17.3 x 11.8 x 3.9 inch
For those looking for something more secure with dedicated anti-theft technology, this Metrosafe X Commuter Backpack by Pacsafe is a perfect option.
It's got a slim design that is sleek and modern, and packed with great features for a busy lifestyle in the city.
This is the backpack for work environments and daily commute.
With sustainable materials that are durable and water-resistant, it's ideal for those living in unpredictable weather, while the padding and airflow ensure that it's still cool to wear even on a hot day.
One thing to note is that the sheer number of anti-theft features can make it a hassle when you're in a rush and haven't yet gotten used to the bag! For example, I forgot at first that this backpack opens from the side instead of the top.
However, I can say this is actually great as it will slow down others from getting into your bag...
I'm also a huge fan of the style. It's simple and not flashy, and this would be a great backpack to take travelling if you are out and about and able to work in cafes or different places around the world.
The overall construction is great, plus it’s lightweight and flexible too.
Special Features:
Read more details in the full Metrosafe X review.
Weight: 1.9 lbs
Capacity: 19L
Size: 16.54 x 11.4 x 6.3”
The Nordace Siena is a sleek and smart laptop backpack that comes in 9 beautiful colors. From classic khaki to lovely aqua and bold red, everyone can find the ideal style for them.
Its main appeal is that it has been built for everyday use and sports a classy square silhouette that looks very modern and chic.
We love its built-in USB charging port that makes it really easy for you to stay connected and fully charged wherever you are.
Furthermore, the padded sleeve can fit a 15.6” laptop, while the main compartment features an array of organizational pockets.
There is an anti-theft pocket in the back that is ideal for storing valuables and a luggage strap for convenient travel.
The Siena backpack is also comfortable, thanks to the adjustable shoulder straps.
But a big highlight would be the roomy side pocket that fits up to a 1L water bottle!
Special Features:
Here's a complete, in-depth review of the Nordace Siena.
Weight: 3.42 lbs
Capacity: 40L
Size: 9" H x 21" W x 14" D
The Nomatic 40L Travel Bag is the perfect laptop backpack that could also fit up to a week’s worth of clothing. If you’re planning a short business trip or are a digital nomad, you might want to try this one out!
The laptop compartment is protected by a soft fleece material, which feels secure enough to keep your tech safe. It’s still easy to access for when you’re going through security.
The bag comes with a custom laundry bag and lots of compartments for your shoes, tech gear, liquids, water bottle, and so much more!
Fans of organisation bags will love this one…
It has a total of 20 amazing features, including a unique patented strap system that can transform this into a duffel bag.
Plus, when you have this bag on its side, there are pockets you can use facing the right way, which I think is just thoughtful and nice.
One drawback is actually the back padding, which I think could be thicker, but you can still tighten the sternum strap and attach the optional hip straps for extra support if you need them.
Note that due the dimensions, you have to stow this backpack in the overhead compartment in a flight.
Overall, I also love the simplicity of its aesthetics, which works well whether you’re going for a smart or casual look.
Special Features:
Read the full review of the Nomatic Travel Bag 40L here!
Weight: 1.3 kg (2.8 lbs)
Capacity: 21L to 25L (with roll top expanded)
Size: 17"H X 11"W X 6.5"D
Are you a travel blogger, YouTuber, or photographer? Or do you simply travel around with your cameras?
The WANDRD All-New PRVKE is a feature-rich travel bag that transforms into a camera backpack when you need it, thanks to the removable Camera Cubes you get with the Photography Bundle.
Of course, the bag alone is already a great backpack and ideal for carrying your laptop and everyday tech!
It's water-resistant, extremely well-padded and breathable, and has a modern urban style.
There's a hidden pocket where you can safely store your passport, a luggage slit, and several accessory straps and organisation.
One unique feature is the magnetic tote handles, which let you carry the bag as a tote!
Not to mention the easy clamshell opening for quick packing and unpacking, as well as an expandable water bottle pocket—there when you need it, gone when you don't.
Special Features:
Weight: 2.4 lb. / 1.0 kg
Capacity: 15L
Size: 19" x 12" x 5.5"
The Navigator Lite Pack 15L by Nomatic is a functional, feature-rich laptop backpack that is designed for everyday life.
You have plenty of organisation in the main compartment, including mesh pockets, zippered pocket, pen pockets, the padded laptop and tablet compartments, hidden water bottle pocket, and much more.
There’s even a false bottom that provides extra protection for your devices.
The style itself is quite rigid, in that there’s not much flexibility.
BUT this means that the bag holds its shape well, which is definitel ideal.
It has a very modern and smart appearance, so people with minimalist fashion might be a fan of this.
There’s a luggage slit and side handles to switch into briefcase mode, making the Navigator Lite great for travel.
I also love that it expands to 21L for when you have more stuff to pack.
Not to mention the excellent EVA foam back padding that’s both comfortable and breathable.
This is overall a smart backpack, and while there isn’t much excitement in terms of being aesthetically pleasing, it suits the niche of business and travel perfectly!
Special Features:
Check out the Nomatic Navigator Lite Pack 15L full review.
Weight: 1.6kg
Capacity: 35L
Size: 31cm (12.20") x 52cm (20.47") x 20cm (7.87")
The Elements Travel Backpack from Alpaka is the ultimate laptop backpack that you can also take on adventures.
Its various compartments and pockets can help you stay organized while maintaining easy access to your items.
There’s a front tech compartment where you can keep all your cables, chargers, and small accessories, while the suspended laptop pocket can fit up to 16" laptop.
The backpack itself is surprisingly comfortable, what with all these rich features and tough material!
It comes with an ergonomic design that includes adjustable straps, a lightweight build, a magnetic sternum strap, and a contoured back panel.
This Alpaka backpack only comes in one colour, which is black. This makes it super versatile and neutral in terms of pairing with any outfit style.
Moreover, you can choose between two fabrics: 840D Ballistic Nylon Jet Black with a cool grey lining or X-Pac® VX42 Black with a blood orange lining.
It's overall a great bag that has a lot of nice features, especially the lined interior of the bag which makes it easier to see your stuff.
There's even additional straps that you can attach a yoga mat or your barbell pad, which then transforms it into an active style backpack.
Special Features:
Weight: 3.31 lbs
Capacity: 34L (expanded)
Size: 13.39 x 7 x 19.29”
The Osprey Radial Bike Commute is an efficient laptop backpack designed with cyclists in mind, with useful features like weatherproofed material and practical storage.
When compared with the previously mentioned Swissgear bag, this Osprey backpack is actually not bad in terms of capacity (at 34L). When not expanded, it has a 26L capacity.
Some commute-friendly details include the built-in raincover, LidLock helmet carry, separated pockets for dirty clothes, blinker light attachment, and reflective prints for nighttime safety!
We adore the raincover not only because it will keep your bag and content dry, but also as it’s highly visible and can keep you safe on the road.
Another brilliant detail is the integrated kickstand, which helps the bag stay upright even when it’s empty.
Plus, the airspeed suspension design maximizes the ventilation, and we think this is especially important when you’re traveling with a laptop and have a heavy pack.
Special Features:
Weight: 3.1 lbs
Capacity: 25.5L
Size: 13.5” x 7” x 16.5”
What’s great about the Waterfield Designs Pro Executive Backpack is its clean design and superb quality, making it the best business laptop backpack that is also travel-friendly.
Made with 1050 Denier black Ballistic nylon, it combines elegance with practicality.
The full-grain leather accents also adds to that sleek professional appeal and you can customize this color to get a fully personalized and unique look.
You’ll find multiple compartments, including two zip pockets, a protective laptop sleeve, two large side pockets and a back slot for attaching to suitcases.
We love that the bag can stand upright when it’s set down, while the padded straps make it comfortable to carry around. The top handle is also constructed from premium leather.
For a small add-on, you can have a removable Executive Folio too, which is a handy feature if you want to attend a quick meeting without bringing your entire backpack along.
Special Features:
Yes, it’s in fact better to take your laptop in your carry-on instead of a checked suitcase. You may be required to remove your laptop during TSA screening, so having easy access can ensure a smooth airport experience.
In terms of airline regulations, it’s OK to carry a laptop in a backpack. But we strongly suggest against putting it inside a bag without a padded case, so you can prevent any damage.
Everyone has different priorities and so can benefit from different backpacks, but our overall top pick is the Matein Mlassic Travel Laptop Backpack. This is a fantastic laptop backpack for traveling that we can recommend to anyone without hesitation.
The single easiest and most important thing you can do to ensure that your laptop is safe when traveling is to get a high-quality laptop bag. You may even want to get an additional cable lock for added security.
Other than that, you can back up all your data and store it on cloud, buy insurance, use two-factor authentication, and install location software.
A laptop sleeve in a backpack refers to a special sleeve inside the bag designed for holding a laptop and protecting it from scratches, bumps, and dust. It’s usually made from neoprene or leather.
This feature is sometimes also known as a laptop pouch or laptop compartment.
Yes, there are tons of laptop backpacks you can use for traveling.
With different features, colors, and styles, the options are pretty much endless.
The Matein Backpack remains our favorite as it’s got everything you want in a good travel laptop backpack.
But we know that people may have different tastes and needs, so we hope this list can be helpful.
If you think we missed any great laptop backpack, feel free to comment down below!
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