Work-friendly backpacks have been reassessed and recognized as a practical solution not only for school-bound kids but also for editors, executives, and the street-style set. It's helped that in recent seasons, they’ve popped up with the bag trends on runways at luxury brands like Chanel, Coach, and Miu Miu. With padded straps and extra storage, the style is a game changer for women on the go, offering a much-needed respite from aching shoulders after years of using oversized tote bags.
Take it from real-life fashion insiders: Savannah Engel, founder of New York-based boutique PR agency SAVI, discovered the importance of backpacks last year. She needed a hands-free option while on the go, but her leather tote bag wasn't meeting her needs: traveling, meetings, and a jam-packed travel schedule, plus a series of injuries that left her on crutches for weeks, ruled out a traditional tote. Instead, she opted for the classic backpack style of her youth—a newer edition of the Jansport she wore in middle school.
Backpacks where an unexpected addition on the runways at Chanel and Miu Miu for Spring/Summer 2025.
The category has also been co-signed as a chic bag style by Marie Claire’s Editor-in-Chief, Nikki Ogunnaike, who prefers spacious options from Dagne Dover and Longchamp that are made from durable canvas or lightweight nylon—both of which are included on this list.
Because there are so many options, including those in elevated fabrics like leather and suede, Marie Claire's team of experts tested a few of the top-rated options on the market. Keep scrolling for our team's findings and tips on making backpacks look elevated on the go. And don't be surprised if you suddenly find yourself a backpack convert.
- Shop the Best Laptop Backpacks
- What to Look For in the Best Laptop Backpacks
- How to Style Laptop Backpacks
- Meet the Experts
Marie Claire's Favorite Laptop Backpacks
- Best Lightweight Laptop Backpack: Tumi's Voyageur Just in Case Packable Nylon Travel Backpack
- Best Simple Laptop Backpack: Calpak's Kaya Laptop Backpack
- Best Sporty Laptop Backpack: Lululemon's Everywhere Backpack 22L
- Best Roomy Laptop Backpack: Everlane's The ReNew Transit Backpack
- Best Sleek Laptop Backpack: Away's The Everywhere Zip Backpack
Shop the Best Laptop Backpacks
Tumi's Voyageur 'Just in Case' Packable Nylon Travel Backpack is beloved online for its lightweight, easy silhouette. It comes in two colors—black and navy blue—and is made from 100 percent nylon. Clocking in at just over half a pound in weight, it's perfect for filling with your essentials (including your computer, obviously!) thanks to the easy-to-reach front pocket. It also lies completely flat and has an "add a bag" trolley sleeve so it can easily come with you to the airport.
What We Love: Lightweight; Lies flat; Made from lightweight nylon; has a front pocket; has a trolley sleeve.
What We Don't: Has no interior pockets.
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 15 inches.
What's the Material?: 100 percent nylon.
Review for MC: "I am a tote girl through and through, but I was pleasantly surprised by the TUMI backpack I tested. It came small and folded up, so I was nervous that it wouldn't be able to fit all of my usual must-haves. However, it had room for my thirteen-inch laptop, a change of shoes, my makeup bag (perfectly housed in the bag's coordinating nylon pouch!), and my lunch. Plus, because it's made of nylon, it's water-resistant. This means it's durable enough to last through wet days in New York. It's also the perfect travel companion because I don't have to worry about my tote falling off my shoulder." — Julia Marzovilla, Fashion E-Commerce Editor.
If you need a no-fuss backpack that won't look super out-of-place at your next happy hour session with your colleagues, Calpak's is a must-buy. The simple square silhouette and black detailing are as versatile as it gets, and it comes in a wide range of colors like pale pink, lavender, and black. It has several interior compartments, including a dedicated laptop zippered sleeve to keep you organized while on the go.
What We Love: It comes in several colors, has a dedicated zippered laptop sleeve, has multiple interior pockets, and fits over a suitcase.
What We Don't: Some reviewers said it looked bulky.
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 15 inches.
What's the Material?: Faux leather
Review for MC: "My appreciation for the elegance of a structured bag has always been at odds with my tendency to overstuff almost everything. And had you shown me a photo of this backpack and proposed I use it for work, I would’ve laughed in your face. The second it arrived on my desk, I immediately began transferring the contents of my big, floppy, pocket-less shoulder bag into this slim, sophisticated leather beauty—waiting for it to fill up. But then…it never did? The many pouches, pockets, and sleeves didn’t take up unnecessary space like I had suspected; instead, they kept my items more tightly and neatly contained. The laptop sleeve fit my 15 inch MacBook with the perfect amount of wiggle room, the exterior pocket held my flat items like my wallet and key card, and the main interior pocket was roomy enough to toss a few bigger items in without them bulging out. For the first time, a backpack didn’t make me feel (or look) doofy. The qualities that make this bag stylish are the same ones that make it comfortable and practical." — Lucia Tonelli, Associate Director of Social Media
For an under $100 backpack that won’t break your bank (or back), look no further than Lululemon. This pick may be simple in design, but it ticks all the boxes. It’s got a padded laptop sleeve, external pockets, water-repellent fabric, and even designated pockets for your water bottle. Reviewers say it’s lightweight and comfortable, a must-have for toting your laptop around all day. Choose from seven shades like this blush pink, olive, teal, or classic black.
What We Love: It comes in seven colors, fits up to a 16" laptop, is water-repellant, has exterior pockets, a laptop sleeve, and an exterior water bottle holder.
What We Don't: Some reviewers say the straps slip down
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 16 inches.
What's the Material?: 100 percent nylon
Review for MC: "Given that I don’t have a proper gym bag, I decided to use this spacious backpack to store all my workout belongings. I was able to fit my sneakers, leggings, and sports bra within the main zippered pocket, along with my smaller items (like my phone, wallet, and keys). I repurposed the internal laptop sleeve as a storage compartment for my chunky headphones and placed my water bottle in the side pocket for easy access. Functionality aside, I love the fact that Lululemon’s Everywhere Backpack is super stylish—it boasts a minimalist silhouette that screams “sleek.”" — Lauren Tappan, Fashion Editor
Knappenberger loves how spacious this backpack from Everlane is.
This laptop backpack is an absolute star for busy morning and evening commutes. Available in four colors and made from 100 percent recycled polyester with a water-resistant finish, it’s designed to be lightweight and sturdy—two aspects that have made it a top seller for the brand. It has five interior pockets, including one that’s fit for a water bottle, and has shoulder straps in two lengths. And if you’re zipping through TSA, it has easy-access zipper pockets for your most essential items.
What We Love: Has two water bottle containers; has an interior zip pocket for security; has several exterior pockets for easy access
What We Don't: The water bottle pocket is designed for slim bottles
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 15 inches.
What's the Material?: 100 percent recycled polyester
Review for MC: "A backpack is my preferred personal item for the airport, but I’ve learned that not just any backpack will do. It needs to have plenty of pockets, is expandable and durable, and have spaces where I can quickly access my TSA items like my passport and laptop. Everlane’s backpack ticks all of those boxes and then some. There’s a designated pocket for everything including my laptop and water bottle (I use the front flap pocket to hold my passport and phone). There’s a ton of extra space so you can really stuff it full with anything you may need—I tend to get cold on flights so I pack a blanket just in case and didn’t have a problem bringing one in this backpack. I’m a big fan of the simple silhouette and the front flap is as functional as it is stylish." — Brooke Knappenberger, Associate Commerce Editor
Tappan loves the Away backpack because it was the perfect option to take on a trip.
Travel brand Away is not just the maker of your favorite carry-on suitcases. They also make this sleek, laptop-friendly backpack perfect for in-office days. It comes in neutral colors, has interior and exterior pockets, and is made from a water-resistant nylon material that is perfect for living in a rainy or humid climate. Adding a trolley sleeve at the back is an excellent option for jetting off.
What We Love: Comes in neutral colors; can be personalized; has interior pockets; has exterior pockets; has a trolley sleeve; water-resistant material;
What We Don't: It doesn’t have a water bottle compartment.
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 15 inches.
What's the Material?: Nylon
Review for MC: "I recently went on a trip to Curaçao and I used Away’s Everywhere Zip Backpack as my trusty travel bag. Although the backpack itself is quite lengthy, the width is fairly narrow, so I wasn’t sure if I could pack all of my belongings into such a compact space. To my surprise though, I was able to stash every single item. I placed my 14" laptop and my book in the padded zip sleeve and then organized my smaller essentials (like my wallet, chargers, and TSA-approved cosmetics) within the main compartment. This innovative carryall also features a secure hidden zip pocket, which I used to store my passport. Not to mention, I received a ton of compliments on this bag, likely thanks to its gorgeous blue shade and smooth nylon exterior. Needless to say, I’ll be carrying this handy backpack during my next adventure." — Lauren Tappan
Other Laptop Backpacks We Love
If you tend to overpack, this backpack is for you. The main compartment is roomy for shoes and clothes, planner books, and toiletry bags. There's even an exterior side pocket that can accommodate a water bottle. The interior also features a laptop sleeve with an elastic enclosure to keep your laptop or tablet in place—safe and separate from your other belongings. If you're worried that carrying all your belongings might strain your back, don't stress. The adjustable straps are neoprene, so the design is easy on the shoulders.
What We Love: Has adjustable straps; has a dedicated laptop sleeve; has a roomy interior has a trolley sleeve; is machine-washable; is water-resistant
What We Don't: The material is not stain-resistant
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 16 inches
What's the Material?: Neoprene
Olivia Wilde and Olivia Rodrigo have long been fans of backpacks from Swedish brand Fjällräven. They come in eight colors, including black (a favorite of Rodrigo’s) and teal green (Wilde’s preferred pick). Two-way zip around the bag’s perimeter is reinforced with a rain flap, and padded adjustable straps are teamed with a cushioned back panel for extra comfort. The bag has interior and exterior pockets, including a slip pocket for your devices.
What We Love: It has padded shoulder straps, interior pockets, exterior pockets, a padded back panel, a dedicated laptop sleeve, neutral and bright colors, and a lightweight design.
What We Don't: Doesn’t fit large devices.
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 13 inches.
What's the Material?: Canvas
This JanSport Crosstown Backpack is the one that Engel loves. “Bring this backpack back!” she says. Not only does it come in nearly 20 patterns and colors, but it also has a classic silhouette that easily transitions through the day. Details like a padded back panel, a dedicated water bottle holder, and external pockets make this backpack perfect if you want an option with clean lines and fewer bells and whistles.
What We Love: It comes in 17 colorways and patterns and has a padded back panel, a water bottle holder, and an external pocket.
What We Don't: It doesn’t have a laptop compartment.
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 16 inches.
What's the Material?: Recycled polyester
This lightweight nylon backpack is the sportier version of its iconic Le Pliage tote bags. Available in navy blue and black, this bag offers the perfect solution for people who use a smaller computer or tablet. When empty, it weighs just half a pound. The zip-top closure is accentuated with a leather flap that clasps for extra security, and the water-resistant lining is easy to clean.
What We Love: It comes in several colors, has a zip-top and latch-style closure, can be folded up, has a water-resistant lining, and is made from easy-to-clean nylon.
What We Don't: It’s not suitable for larger laptops.
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 11 inches.
What's the Material?: Nylon
Marie Claire's Review: "I'm on my...sixth Longchamp Le Pliage, I think, having replaced mine every few years since I was in my early twenties (there's always a new color to try!). It's my backpack go-to (ask any of my friends or the approximately 29,129 photos of me in my camera roll with my Le Pliage strapped reassuringly to my back). I once went to three states and two weddings in a single weekend with nothing but my Le Pliage, and yes, it was a squeeze, but it's also a testament to how much this bag can hold. Laptop-wise, it'll hold only a small laptop—a 13-inch or less—but it'll also hold a book, a water bottle, a planner, and anything else you decide to toss in. It's magic like that." — Jenny Hollander, Site Director
This sleek leather backpack comes in two sizes, the larger measuring 16 inches and the smaller 13 (for only a $20 price difference). It's available in four neutral colors: black, light brown, and tan, making it the perfect all-season pick. The backpack has adjustable shoulder straps, a dedicated interior laptop sleeve, and two interior slip pockets perfect for your phone, wallet, or keys.
What We Love: Comes in several colors; comes in two sizes; Has several interior pockets; has adjustable straps; has several exterior pockets
What We Don’t: The exterior pockets don’t zip closed.
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 16 inches.
What's the Material?: Leather
Engel loves this Prada nylon backpack, while the brand’s entire Re-Nylon range has also found a new legion of younger fans across social media. The lightweight nylon fabrication is outfitted with leather detailing and luxe silver hardware, and despite the logo finish, it’s surprisingly subtle when styled.
What We Love: It's made of lightweight nylon and has adjustable straps, a drawstring closure with a buckled flap, internal and external pockets, and a separate zippered pouch.
What We Don't: It doesn’t have a dedicated laptop sleeve
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 15 inches
What's the Material?: Nylon
Jane Fonda is a fan of this bag from MZ Wallace, with its signature quilted nylon material and soft, flexible design. Reviewers also love it for how spacious it is, with a mix of interior and exterior pockets teamed with a trolley sleeve and a removable zippered pouch for your essentials. This makes it the ideal work bag worthy of being whisked away on vacation.
What We Love: Spacious interior; has a trolley sleeve; has a removable zippered pouch.
What We Don't: The silhouette is unstructured.
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 15 inches.
What's the Material?: Nylon
L.L Bean’s Waxed Canvas Travel Backpack is the top weather-resistant backpack on this list. The fabrication resembles a waxed raincoat, meaning your tech will stay safe and dry from the elements. Both interior and exterior pockets bolster the roomy interior for extra storage, and there’s an added water bottle sleeve. The neutral light brown colorway is perfect for all seasons.
What We Love: It has a padded back panel, adjustable straps, interior pockets, exterior pockets, and water bottle pockets.
What We Don't: Some reviewers found it to be too heavy on its own
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 15 inches
What's the Material?: Waxed cotton canvas
This bag from the quiet-luxury favorite brand The Row comes in two colors and can safely hold a laptop measuring up to 13 inches in height. As with anything the brand puts out, it’s made from only the most luxurious materials. In this case, that means 100 percent calfskin leather. But like the other options on this list, it’s meant to be used and loved. Functional details like adjustable shoulder straps, a drawstring closure, and a zippered interior pocket make it useful for your work life, too. Plus, the ultra-sleek silhouette means that it’s a completely timeless design.
What We Love: Comes in neutral colors; has a zippered interior pocket
What We Don’t: Only has one interior pocket.
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 13 inches.
What's the Material?: Leather
Katie Holmes is a fan of Mansur Gavriel bags; this is the backpack version of her favorite tote bag from the label. It has the same signature fire-red interior as the classic tote and is made from smooth leather that's 100 percent vegetable-tanned and will wear beautifully with time—a drawstring at the top teams up with a black flap for extra security. If you want a color other than black, it comes in a medium-brown hue.
What We Love: Made from 100 percent leather, it has adjustable straps and comes in two neutral colors.
What We Don't: It does not have any interior pockets.
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 15 inches.
What's the Material?: 100 percent vegetable-tanned leather.
This is one of the most versatile backpacks on this list. It's larger than some of the others here, but that's not a fault—it has enough room inside to double as a weekender bag easily but won't look out-of-place at the office. A dedicated laptop sleeve and padded contoured straps at the front make for a comfortable carrying experience. While it has a mix of pockets (including one for a water bottle!), shoppers didn't love that there were fewer interior pockets than older models. But if you need a spacious, versatile back that can be taken anywhere, this is the one for you.
What We Love: Comes in four colors; has adjustable straps; has a dedicated padded laptop sleeve; made from a durable fabric; has an expandable water bottle compartment; has multiple zippered compartments.
What We Don't: Shoppers said it didn't have enough pockets on the inside.
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 16 inches.
What's the Material?: 600-denier polyester.
This backpack from Coach marries a lightweight feel with a luxe leather feel. It's made from what the brand calls "paperweight leather," and that's exactly what it feels like. It's glossy in finish and comes in five colors (the one I have, sadly, is discontinued). The spacious interior can fit a laptop and then some, including my lunch, a change of shoes, and more.
What We Love: It comes in five colors, has several zipped pockets, has a lightweight design, is editor-tested, has padded straps, and has multiple zippered pockets.
What We Don't: Only has one interior pocket.
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 16 inches.
What's the Material?: 100 percent leather
Modern Picnic has made a name for itself by making sleek accessories that can hold your lunch (and keep it cold). The Backpack is just the next iteration in their roundup, and it's upgraded to keep you organized when you're on the go. It comes in several colors, has a dedicated laptop sleeve, and has galore zippered compartments.
What We Love: Has a compartment for your lunch; has a dedicated padded laptop sleeve; has a waterproof finish; comes in three colors; has a zippered compartment.
What We Don't: Doesn't fit larger devices.
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 13 inches.
What's the Material?: Vegan leather.
What to Look for in the Best Laptop Backpack
There are plenty of laptop backpacks, and it's Marie Claire's job to curate the cream of the crop. To that end, there are a few key factors that all of the best laptop backpacks on this list share:
- The Number of Pockets: Are you looking for a laptop backpack because you're tired of rummaging through your tote to find your things? All the laptop backpacks listed here have multiple interior and exterior pockets, most of them have a dedicated laptop sleeve, and some are available in different sizes to accommodate various laptops and other tech.
- Versatility: Looking for a versatile laptop backpack that seamlessly transitions from work to social events? Our laptop backpacks come in neutral colors and feature a sleek design, ensuring that they complement your personal style. Some of our backpacks are convertible and can also be worn as a tote bag or crossbody bag, while others can be folded up and carried as a carry-on suitcase for convenient travel.
- Comfort: Chances are, you'll be carrying this backpack for hours on end. The laptop backpacks on this list have thick, sturdy shoulder straps and are designed with weight distribution in mind, so your back and shoulders won't ache. Some also have padding along the backside of the actual bag and built into the straps to keep you comfortable even as your belongings move around.
- High-Quality Materials: We want you to love the laptop backpack you choose for years to come. With that in mind, Marie Claire has selected only backpacks made from durable materials such as leather, neoprene, canvas, or nylon.
How to Style Laptop Backpacks
For modern women, backpacks often read more high school than they do high fashion. However, Atlanta-based stylist and wardrobe consultant Kenzie Welch frequently recommends them to her clients and 300k following. "Most laptop backpacks have more protection for your laptop than the average work tote, and for women who commute to work or travel often, a laptop backpack can provide hands-free convenience and attach more securely to a carry-on suitcase," she tells Marie Claire.
Like the fashionable street-style sets in Paris, New York, and Milan, opt for a backpack that blends in with the rest of your aesthetic. A neutral silhouette will go with everything, while a sportier silhouette can add a nice dose of personal style to your outfits, a la Miu Miu or Prada.
Backpacks are the backdrop for the street style set's on-the-go style.
Even Hollywood's brightest style stars have made backpacks their go-to stylish accessory. Supermodel Irina Shayk teamed a double-denim look with a black backpack. At the same time, Carrie Mulligan and Jane Fonda also relied on backpacks as on-the-go accessories. Fonda accessorized her olive green pantsuit with a quilted back, while Mulligan paired her Prada version with straight-leg jeans and white sneakers.
Irina Shayk, Carrie Mulligan, and Jane Fonda all approve of backpacks as a chic and timeless option.
Meet the Fashion Experts
Kenzie is a Fashion Stylist and Content Creator based out of Atlanta, Georgia. She has over 15 years experience working in the fashion and beauty industry. Using her extensive knowledge of style, Kenzie creates content that educates her diverse community on how to shop smart and dress with intention. She is known for her fashion advice, outfit inspiration, beauty tips, and styling makeovers. Her passion is to inspire people and to help them feel less intimidated by fashion.
Savannah Engel founded SAVI, a community-first integrated communications group based in New York City. The group manages all elements of building and guiding brands and founders toward their goals while cultivating communities around them. Born and raised in the Mississippi Delta, Savannah has become a powerhouse in the fashion PR industry, obtaining clients like Markarian, PatBO, Diesel, Reformation, Naomi Campbell's Fashion for Relief, and more!
