Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- The best backpacks combine durable materials with practical organization features, but premium options often add convenience at a higher price.
- Travel backpacks with TSA-friendly design save time at security but tend to be larger and heavier, which may impact daily carry comfort.
- Features like RFID protection and anti-theft designs are valuable for urban use but can add to the cost and weight of the bag.
- Capacity varies widely; choosing between a compact, everyday pack and a large travel or tech backpack depends on your typical load and activity.
- Comfort and fit are critical, especially for all-day wear; padded straps and ergonomic designs make a noticeable difference.
| backpack | Material | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|
| Carhartt 25L Classic Laptop Ba | 600-denier polyester | 13” x 18” x 8” |
| SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart Lapto | N/A | — |
| Taygeer Travel Laptop Backpack | — | 16.8 x 11 x 7 inches |
| Volher Laptop Backpack | Water Resistant Polyester | 8"D x 13"W x 18"H |
| Swissdigital Design Laptop Bac | — | — |
| Matein Travel Laptop Backpack | Water-resistant polyester fabric | 18 x 12 x 7.8 inches |
| The North Face Vault Everyday | Water-repellent finish | 11" x 8.5" x 18" |
| tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L | Recycled PET plastic bottles | 20.47 x 12.99 x 9 inches |
| The North Face Recon Everyday | Recycled nylon ripstop | 11.6" x 7.5" x 19.3" |
| JanSport Cool Backpack with 15 | Durable fabric | — |
| The North Face Jester Everyday | Recycled polyester with DWR finish | 11" x 8.25" x 18.13" |
| SHRRADOO Extra Large 50L Trave | Polyester fiber | — |
| The North Face Borealis Commut | — | 12" x 6.5" x 19.5" |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Carhartt 25L Classic Laptop Backpack, Water-Resistant, Black
The Carhartt 25L Classic Laptop Backpack stands out for its rugged, water-resistant design, making it a reliable choice for both daily commutes and outdoor activities. Compared to the SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart, it offers a simpler, more durable exterior without sacrificing organization, though it lacks the TSA-friendly features. Its multiple compartments ensure easy access to essentials, and padded straps provide all-day comfort. However, its limited color options and absence of a hydration pocket might turn off minimalists or outdoor enthusiasts who prefer more versatile features. This backpack is ideal for those seeking a tough, dependable daily carrier that can handle weather and rough use without fuss.
Pros:- Durable water-resistant 600-denier polyester construction
- Multiple organizational compartments for easy access
- Comfortable, adjustable padded straps for all-day wear
Cons:- Limited color options may not suit all tastes
- No dedicated hydration or water bottle pocket
Best for: Professionals and outdoor workers needing a durable, water-resistant daily backpack.
Not ideal for: Travelers requiring TSA-friendly features or a lightweight, minimalist pack.
- Capacity:25L
- Material:600-denier polyester
- Laptop Sleeve:16-inch
- Dimensions:13” x 18” x 8”
- Color:Black
Our verdict“This bag is best for users who prioritize rugged durability and reliable organization over lightweight convenience.”
SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart Laptop Backpack, Fits Most 17-Inch Laptops, TSA-Friendly, RFID Protection, and Tablet Pocket, Black, 31L
The SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart is tailored for frequent travelers, thanks to its TSA-friendly lay-flat compartment that speeds airport security checks. Unlike the Carhartt, it emphasizes quick access and security with RFID protection, making it especially appealing for those concerned about personal data theft. Its multiple organizational pockets provide ample storage for gadgets and accessories, and padded straps with airflow padding keep comfort high during long journeys. The main tradeoff is its size—designed for 17-inch laptops, it may be too bulky for daily minimalists. If travel efficiency and security are priorities, this model makes a compelling choice for business travelers or commuters who need to breeze through airports.
Pros:- TSA-friendly lay-flat design for quick security checks
- RFID protection for personal data security
- Multiple compartments for organized storage
- Comfortable padded straps and airflow back padding
Cons:- Designed primarily for 17-inch laptops, less suitable for smaller devices
- Limited color options (mainly black)
Best for: Travelers and commuters needing quick airport security access and RFID protection.
Not ideal for: Minimalists or users with smaller laptops, as it caters to larger devices and bulkier packing.
- Laptop compartment size:14.5 x 11 x 1.5 inches
- Tablet pocket size:10 x 7 inches
- Bag volume:31 liters
- Material:N/A
Our verdict“Ideal for frequent travelers seeking security, quick access, and organized packing in a sleek TSA-friendly design.”
Taygeer Travel Laptop Backpack for Men and Women, Airline Approved, 35L, 15.6-inch Laptop, Black
The Taygeer Travel Backpack offers substantial space with a 35L capacity, making it a top pick for travelers and students who need to carry more. Its multiple compartments, including a dedicated laptop and iPad pocket, as well as extra shoe and wet pockets, surpass many standard packs like the SwissGear 1900 in versatility. Its airline approval and overhead-friendly size make it a strong candidate for carry-on travel. On the downside, its size and bulk may be overkill for those with light or daily use needs, and the limited color options might not appeal to everyone. This backpack is best for travelers or students who prioritize capacity and organization in a lightweight, convertible design.
Pros:- Large 35L capacity for extensive packing
- Airline approved and fits overhead compartments
- Includes extra shoe bag and wet pocket for versatile travel needs
- Convertible design with padded straps and handles
Cons:- May be too large for minimalistic daily routines
- Limited color options, only black
Best for: Travelers, students, and professionals wanting a large, organized pack for trips or daily commuting.
Not ideal for: Minimalists or users seeking a slim, lightweight backpack for everyday use.
- Dimensions:16.8 x 11 x 7 inches
- Weight:0.79 kg (1.74 lbs)
- Capacity:35 liters
- Laptop Size:15.6 inches
Our verdict“Best suited for those who need a spacious, multi-compartment travel backpack with airline compatibility.”
Volher Laptop Backpack, Water Resistant Business Travel Anti-Theft Slim Durable Bag for 15.6 Inch Laptops, Black
The Volher Backpack excels as a slim, anti-theft option for daily business or college use. It shares similarities with the Carhartt in durability but emphasizes security with a hidden anti-theft pocket, which is a significant advantage for urban commuters. Its water-resistant polyester keeps belongings safe from weather, and multiple pockets aid in organization. However, its slim profile means less capacity for bulkier items, and it can feel slightly heavy when fully packed, especially for those carrying minimal essentials. This pack is perfect for users who require a sleek, secure bag for everyday essentials, especially in urban environments where security matters most.
Pros:- Water-resistant polyester material
- Hidden anti-theft pocket for security
- Slim, lightweight design
- Multiple compartments for organization
Cons:- Slightly heavy when fully packed
- Limited capacity for bulky items
Best for: Urban professionals and students needing a slim, secure, and water-resistant daily bag.
Not ideal for: Travelers or users needing large capacity or extensive organizational features.
- Weight:2.2 pounds
- Laptop Size Compatibility:15.6 inches
- Dimensions:8″D x 13″W x 18″H
- Material:Water Resistant Polyester
- Storage Capacity:25 Liters
Our verdict“Best for security-conscious users who prefer a sleek, slim profile for daily urban use.”
Swissdigital Design Laptop Backpack with USB Charging Port, 15.6-inch Compatible, 31L College School Backpack for Men, Blue/Black
The Swissdigital Design Backpack combines practicality with tech features, notably its built-in USB-C port, which is a major plus for those relying on portable device charging. Compared to the Carhartt and Volher, it offers more modern convenience, though its bulkier design may be less appealing for minimalists. The RFID protection adds a security layer, and its spacious 31L capacity ensures ample organization for school or work. The main tradeoff involves needing a power bank for the USB port to function, and some may find the design less sleek or simple. This pick makes the most sense for students or professionals who want reliable tech connectivity on the go without sacrificing storage space.
Pros:- Built-in USB-C charging port for device convenience
- RFID protection pocket for personal data security
- Large 31L capacity with multiple compartments
- Luggage strap for travel convenience
Cons:- Requires a power bank for USB charging functionality
- Bulky design may not appeal to minimalists
Best for: Students and busy professionals seeking a feature-rich backpack with integrated charging and security features.
Not ideal for: Minimalists or those who prefer a lighter, simpler backpack without tech features.
- Capacity:31L
- Fits:15.6-inch laptop
- Color:Blue/Black
- US Patent Numbers:US 10,574,071 B2, US 10,931,137 B2, US 10,931,138 B2, US 11,601,009 B2
Our verdict“Ideal for tech-savvy users who need a spacious, organized backpack with convenient device charging features.”
Matein Travel Laptop Backpack, Business Anti-Theft Slim Water-Resistant Bag for Men & Women, Fits 15.6 Inch Laptops, Grey
This backpack stands out for its impressive capacity and travel-friendly features, such as a luggage strap and multiple organized compartments, making it ideal for those who pack light but need quick access to essentials. Compared with the North Face Vault, the Matein offers better anti-theft protection and water resistance, but it can feel bulkier for minimalist users. Its durable, water-resistant polyester fabric and ergonomic design support all-day wear, especially during commutes or business trips. However, the zippers may require careful handling over time, and its slightly larger profile could be cumbersome for those who prefer sleek, low-profile bags. This is best suited for travelers who prioritize security and organization in a durable, water-resistant package.
Pros:- Ample storage with multiple organized compartments
- Designed for travel with luggage strap and airline compatibility
- Water-resistant and durable materials
- Ergonomic comfort for all-day wear
Cons:- May be slightly bulky for minimalists
- Limited color options
- Zippers may require careful handling over time
Best for: Business travelers and commuters needing a secure, organized, and water-resistant backpack
Not ideal for: Minimalists or users seeking a lightweight, slim pack for short outings
- Laptop Size Compatibility:up to 15.6 inches
- Dimensions:18 x 12 x 7.8 inches
- Material:Water-resistant polyester fabric
- Features:Anti-theft pocket, luggage strap, multiple compartments, breathable padding
Our verdict“This backpack is an excellent choice for travelers who need a secure, organized, and durable travel companion.”
The North Face Vault Everyday Laptop Backpack
The North Face Vault excels in daily use, offering a sleek, water-repellent design and a spacious main compartment that accommodates essentials easily. Its padded laptop sleeve and multiple organizational pockets make it highly functional, especially for students or urban commuters. When compared to the JanSport Cool Backpack, the Vault’s water-repellent finish keeps contents dry in rain, and its ergonomic support—endorsed by the ACA—adds comfort for all-day wear. Nonetheless, its size may be too large for those seeking a minimalistic or lightweight pack, and the limited color options could be a drawback for style-conscious users. This backpack makes the most sense for daily users who want reliable water resistance and ergonomic support.
Pros:- Water-repellent finish keeps contents dry
- Ergonomic support endorsed by ACA
- Multiple compartments and water bottle pockets
- Padded laptop sleeve offers protection
Cons:- Limited color options
- Not suitable for children under 12
- May be too large for minimalistic users
Best for: Urban commuters, students, or anyone needing a durable, water-resistant daypack
Not ideal for: Minimalists or those who prefer ultralight, compact packs
- Dimensions:11″ x 8.5″ x 18″
- Laptop Sleeve:11.5″ x 11″
- Tablet Sleeve:11.8″ x 6.3″
- Weight:1 lb 11 oz
- Volume:27 Liters
- Material:Water-repellent finish
Our verdict“This backpack is ideal for everyday use where water resistance and ergonomic comfort are priorities.”
tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L, TSA Friendly Flight Approved Carry-on Luggage, Water-resistant Lightweight Business Rucksack, Fits 17.3 Inch Laptop
Compared with smaller, everyday backpacks, the tomtoc 40L Travel Backpack offers a significantly larger capacity, making it perfect for longer trips or for those who carry extra gear. Its TSA-friendly design and lightweight construction facilitate quick security checks, a feature not present in the smaller North Face Recon. Made from recycled PET bottles, it appeals to eco-conscious travelers, and its padded back panel plus ergonomic straps support comfort during extended wear. The main tradeoff is its weight when fully packed, which might be a concern for those prioritizing ultra-light travel. The limited color options also restrict style choices. This pick is best suited for travelers who need a spacious, eco-friendly, TSA-compliant pack.
Pros:- Large capacity with organized compartments
- TSA-friendly quick security access
- Made from sustainable recycled fabric
- Comfortable ergonomic straps and padded back panel
Cons:- Slightly heavy when fully packed
- Limited color options
Best for: Travelers needing a large, TSA-friendly, eco-conscious backpack for extended trips
Not ideal for: Minimalists or travelers who prefer ultralight packs for short trips
- Dimensions:20.47 x 12.99 x 9 inches
- Capacity:38-40L
- Laptop Size:up to 17 inches
- Material:Recycled PET plastic bottles
- Features:TSA friendly, water-resistant, lightweight, padded back panel, luggage pass-through
Our verdict“This backpack is ideal for travelers seeking a spacious, eco-friendly, TSA-compatible option for longer journeys.”
The North Face Recon Everyday Laptop Backpack – Water Repellent, Daypack, Laptop Sleeve, 2 Water Bottle Pockets
The North Face Recon is a sturdy, water-repellent daypack designed for a variety of uses, from outdoor adventures to daily commutes. Its large main compartment, dedicated 16-inch laptop sleeve, and external water bottle pockets make it highly adaptable. The FlexVent suspension system ensures comfort over long periods, and the recycled nylon ripstop fabric adds durability. When compared to the Vault, the Recon’s more rugged build and larger capacity cater to active users, but it can feel heavy when fully loaded and may be too bulky for minimalists. Its versatile design makes it a strong choice for outdoor enthusiasts and urban explorers alike. This is best for users who want rugged durability combined with everyday versatility.
Pros:- Durable and water-repellent construction
- Comfortable FlexVent suspension system
- Large capacity with dedicated laptop sleeve
- External water bottle pockets
Cons:- May be heavy when fully loaded
- Design may be too large for minimalists
Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts or daily users who need a durable, water-resistant pack with extra capacity
Not ideal for: Minimalists or those seeking a lightweight, sleek pack for short trips
- Dimensions:11.6″ x 7.5″ x 19.3″
- Laptop Sleeve:18.9″ x 11″
- Weight:2 lbs 9 oz
- Volume:30 Liters
- Material:Recycled nylon ripstop
- Water Resistance:Water repellent with DWR finish
Our verdict“This backpack suits active users who require rugged durability and versatile daily use in a water-resistant design.”
JanSport Cool Backpack with 15-inch Laptop Sleeve, Black
The JanSport Cool Backpack combines classic style with practical features, such as a dedicated 15-inch laptop sleeve and multiple organizational pockets. Its durable fabric and leather bottom add a touch of style and resilience, making it suitable for school, work, or outdoor activities. When compared to the Matein Travel Backpack, JanSport offers a more lightweight and casual option, though it lacks water resistance and is less feature-rich for travel security. Its sturdy construction and ergonomic straps provide comfort, but the bag can become heavy when fully packed, and limited color options might not appeal to everyone. This backpack is a reliable choice for casual, everyday use where style and durability are priorities.
Pros:- Durable construction with quality materials
- Multiple compartments for organization
- Ergonomic and comfortable straps
- Iconic design with leather bottom
Cons:- Limited color options
- No water resistance
- Potentially heavy when fully packed
Best for: Students or casual users seeking a durable, stylish pack for daily activities
Not ideal for: Travelers or outdoor adventurers requiring water resistance or advanced compartments
- Laptop Sleeve:15-inch
- Compartments:2
- Material:Durable fabric
- Color:Black
- Design Features:Leather bottom, ergonomic straps, padded back panel
Our verdict“This backpack is perfect for casual users who want a stylish, durable, and functional everyday pack.”
The North Face Jester Everyday Laptop Backpack
This backpack stands out for its combination of water resistance, ergonomic design, and smart organization, making it a versatile choice for daily use. Compared to the Borealis, it offers a slightly more compact profile while maintaining essential features like padded laptop and tablet sleeves. Its water-repellent fabric provides durability against weather, but it’s not designed for children under 12, limiting its versatility for younger users. The multiple compartments help keep belongings organized, which is ideal for students and commuters. However, its limited color options might not appeal to everyone looking for personalization. This model is best suited for adults who need reliable daily carrying with weather protection.
Pros:- Water-repellent and durable fabric for all-weather use
- Ergonomic support endorsed by health professionals
- Multiple compartments and padded sleeves for organization
Cons:- Not suitable for children under 12
- Limited color options may restrict personalization
Best for: Commuters and students requiring durable, organized daily transport
Not ideal for: Parents shopping for school-age children, due to size and style limitations
- Dimensions:11″ x 8.25″ x 18.13″
- Laptop Sleeve:12.75″ x 11″
- Weight:1 lb 10 oz
- Volume:28 Liters
- Material:Recycled polyester with DWR finish
Our verdict“A solid choice for adult daily commuters who prioritize weather resistance and organization.”
SHRRADOO Extra Large 50L Travel Laptop Backpack with Combination Lock, Airline Approved Business Work Bag for 17 Inch Laptops, Black
This backpack makes a strong case for those needing maximum storage capacity combined with security, especially compared to smaller, everyday options like the North Face Jester. Its 50L volume and multiple compartments are perfect for extended trips, but this size also means it can be heavy when fully packed, and its bulkier profile isn’t ideal for daily commuting. The included combination lock adds peace of mind during travel, and the ventilation design helps reduce shoulder fatigue. It’s best suited for travelers and outdoor adventurers who prioritize capacity over compactness. For daily office use, it might be overly large and cumbersome. Choose this if you need a secure, high-capacity backpack for travel or outdoor activities.
Pros:- Large 50L capacity with organized compartments
- Secure with a built-in combination lock
- Ventilation and padded straps for comfort
Cons:- Heavy when fully packed, affecting mobility
- Too bulky for everyday commuting
Best for: Travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, and professionals with heavy luggage needs
Not ideal for: Commuters with limited space or those seeking a lightweight daily pack
- Size:19.5x15x11 inches
- Capacity:50L
- Laptop Compatibility:up to 17 inches
- Material:Polyester fiber
- Features:Combination lock, multiple compartments, ventilation design
Our verdict“Ideal for travelers and outdoor users needing extensive storage and security features.”
The North Face Borealis Commuter Laptop Backpack
The Borealis strikes a balance between the Jester and the larger travel packs, offering a versatile, water-repellent design with multiple compartments for daily organization. Its slightly larger dimensions and padded support make it comfortable for long hours of wear, but this bulkiness might be a drawback for users who prefer a more streamlined profile. Compared to the Jester, it offers more external pockets, which can be handy for quick access but can also add to its perceived weight and size. It’s well suited for urban commuters and students who want a water-resistant, ergonomic bag that can handle a variety of daily items. However, its size might be bulky for smaller frames or tight spaces. This is best suited for those needing a durable, water-resistant pack for everyday use, with ample storage.
Pros:- Water-repellent material for durability
- Multiple compartments for organized storage
- Ergonomic support with padded straps and back panel
Cons:- May be bulky for some users
- Not designed for children under 12
Best for: Urban commuters and students who need a water-resistant, ergonomic daily backpack
Not ideal for: Users seeking a lightweight or compact pack for short trips or minimal carry
- Dimensions:12″ x 6.5″ x 19.5″
- Laptop Sleeve:13.75″ x 11.25″
- Weight:2 lbs 5 oz
- Volume:28 Liters
Our verdict“A versatile, durable backpack perfect for everyday urban use without sacrificing comfort or organization.”
