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Home » Gear » best travel laptop bags

17 Best Travel Laptop Bags – Honest Reviews & Advice for 2024

Are you in search of a good all-around laptop bag for traveling around with?

In today’s world, travel and tech go hand in hand. You might be traveling for work or pleasure, commute or an international journey, but no matter where you’re going, chances are you’ll take your laptop or tablet with you.

If you’re reading this review, you’re probably looking for the best travel laptop bag to protect your precious computer and tech.

We agree that you should travel with a laptop and take care of it ! After all, working off a laptop gives loads of freedom to live and travel however you’d like. Plus, laptops make staying in contact with home a bit easier.

While looking through all of these laptop bags, you need to ask yourself: “which bag will work best for me and my needs?”

That’s where we come in with our detailed review of 15 of the best laptop bags for travel!

Quick Answer: What are the Best Laptop Bags for Travelers?

How to choose the best travel laptop bags, the best laptop bags for travelers, faq about the best travel laptop bags, final thoughts on the best laptop bags for travelers.

• Best Overall Travel Laptop Bag – Nomatic Messenger Bag
• Best Overall Travel Laptop Bag Runner-up – Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack
• Best Carry-on Laptop Bag – Fjallraven Kanken #02 Laptop bag
• Best Messenger-style Laptop Bag – Kodiak Buffalo Leather Messenger Bag
• Best ‘Briefcase’ Laptop Bag for Business Travel – Topo Designs Commuter Briefcase
• Best Messenger Laptop Bag for Women – Sherpani Cabo Convertible Pack – Women’s
• Best for Small Laptops – Gulu Handmade Influencer Backpack
• Best for Traveling with a Laptop and Tablet – Inateck Travel Carry-on 40L Laptop Backpack
• Best Waterproof Laptop Bag – Chrome Urban Ex 2.0 Rolltop 20L Pack
• Best Hipster Laptop Bag – Stubble & Co The Roll Top

Nomatic Messenger Bag

• > Great ergonomics

Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack

• Price > $$$
• > Lockable zippers
• > Tablet compartment

Fjallraven Kanken No. 2 Laptop Pack

• > Lockable main compartment
• > Padded shoulder straps

Kodiak Buffalo Leather Messenger Bag.

• > Weatherproof
• > Thoughtful pockets

MYSTERY RANCH 3-Way Expandable Briefcase

• > TSA-friendly
• > Removable cross-body strap

Topo Designs Commuter Briefcase

• > Carries 15″ laptop
• > 2 exterior pockets

Sherpani Cabo Convertible Pack

• > Flashlight-pen included!
• > Multi-use

Gulu Handmade Influencer Backpack

• > Simple designs
• > Good quality materials

Stubble & Co Roll Top

• > Great laptop compartments
• > Cool and stylish

Inateck Travel Carry-on 40L Laptop Backpack

• > Two laptop compartments
• > Lockable zips

Chrome Urban Ex 2.0 Rolltop 20L Pack

• > Rugged and durable
• > Completely waterproof

Pacsafe MetroSafe LS350 ECONYL Daypack

• > RFIDsafe blocking material
• > Cut-resistant material

MYSTERY RANCH Urban Assault Pack

• > YKK Zippers
• > Comfortable Straps

K&F Concept DSLR Camera and Laptop Bag

• > Tough nylon material
• > Internal dividers can be personalised

Estarer 17.3” Laptop Messenger Bag

• > Made from water repellent canvas
• > RFID protection pocket

REI Co-op Ruckpack 28 Recycled Daypack

• > Plenty of additional pockets
• > Breathable

The Roll Top Stubble & Co

• > Roll top makes it expandable
• > Durable and weather resistant material

When you think about it, there are many factors to consider when buying a laptop bag for traveling – which is why articles like this are so great of course!

You need to travel with a laptop, but is this mainly for commuting within your city, or traveling more broadly, nationally or internationally? And is this travel for work, school, or just plain travel? Do you need your laptop bag to be rugged or is it just for urban use?

Each will have an impact on the laptop bag you want to buy.

What Size Bag Do You Need?

There are some other obvious factors to take into account. You’ll need a bag that fits your particular travel laptop – and if you need to travel with more than one electronic device, you’ll need to make sure any bag you choose can comfortably fit another device.

The best travel laptop bags will include dedicated sleeves, pockets, and dedicated laptop compartments that fit your lifestyle! Also, remember there’s some great travel purses out there that you can combine with a laptop bag to keep your passport and wallet safe and organised.

Once you figure out what size and shape you want, you need to know how much extra stuff you want to carry. Is this bag for a short commute to school or work If so, you may only need a bag under 20 liters.

Are you traveling for longer periods? If so, you’re going to need space for clothes, adapters, and other miscellaneous kits. In this case, laptop backpacks might be better than a messenger bag. We have a best laptop backpacks post elsewhere on the site.

Type of Laptop Bag

There are a few different types of laptop bags in this article. We have reviewed classic messenger bags, urban backpacks, classic-style bags, and fully waterproof backpacks.

Some even switch from a messenger to a backpack for their laptops ! Depending on your style and needs, you will need to decide what type of bag you want.

Organization

Consider how you like to pack and travel. Are you a simple soul who can survive on the minimum? If so, you’ll be happy with a minimalist bag with fewer compartments, a laptop sleeve, and not much else.

Someone who prefers to travel with more kit, or likes to be more organized, will undoubtedly want a laptop travel bag with several compartments, pockets, and organization features.

The question of cost is also an important one for many, and will also have an impact on how long you’re expecting this bag to last – just a couple of weeks to cover you during an unexpected trip, or do you want a bag durable enough to last you for years.

Below is our full list of the 15 top laptop bags for travel on the market! We have reviewed bags for all styles, uses, and budgets. Whether you need a bag to travel for business, pleasure, or simply to-and-from work, we’ve got you covered below!

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#1. Nomatic Messenger Bag – Best Overall Travel Laptop Bag

Nomatic has provided us with a simple travel laptop bag. This slim over-the-shoulder is perfect for toting your laptop and necessary accessories around in an urban environment, and we love traveling with it!

This sleek laptop travel bag holds everything you need in a slim 3.5 inches. The padded straps even unbuckles so your bag can disguise itself as a professional travel briefcase. Traveling is easy with the Nomatic Laptop Bag, as it can slip right over your suitcase with its trolley sleeve.

Also, you won’t be the one holding up the line at TSA, as the bag allows quick access to those items that need extra screening.

To learn more about this awesome shoulder bag, be sure to read our full review of the Nomatic Messenger Bag!

UPDATE for 2021:  Nomatic no longer sells or does business in the European Union, which is an unfortunate development. Those living in the EU should consider the next bag instead…

• Sleek & urban
• Retractable key leash
• Detachable shoulder strap
• No additional tablet sleeve or pocket
• No cross-strap for extra comfort

Is the Nomatic Laptop Bag for me?

If you want a functional laptop bag that organizes and totes your stuff with the highest degree of style, this is your bag! However, if you need a little more storage space or are looking for a backpack, check out our other recommendations.

#2. Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack – Best Overall Travel Laptop Bag Runner-up

Regardless if you’re a commuter flying about town on an electric bike or digital nomad, you’ll need a bit more storage space in your laptop bag for all those important cords, external keyboards, and laptop mounts you’re surely carrying around (just kidding, us digital nomads are often lovers of minimalism).

The Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack provides space for all your work necessities and a few comforts as well, so it’s a great bag for weekend trips. Beyond space, the Setout’s distinct advantage is a beautifully organized interior.

This is laptop backpack has pockets for days, so you’ll never have to dig through the bag looking for that important piece that you just know you packed.

• 25L Capacity
• Comfortable to carry
• Tablet compartment
• Lockable zippers
• Only for urban use
• Not an all-in-one travel bag

Is the Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack for me?

We’ve answered this question in-depth in our Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack Review, but here’s the gist. If you want a bag to organize all your tech and a little more, this bag is perfect. If you’re looking for absolute maximum capacity to carry everything at once, we recommend the traditional Tortuga Setout.

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#3. Fjallraven Kanken No. 2 Laptop Pack – Best Carry-On Travel Laptop Bag

The combination of trendy styling, size, and resistance to dirt and water makes the Fjallraven Kanken a fine carry-on for traveling with a laptop.

Although one of the simpler laptop bags we’re covering, the double zip closure of the main compartment and its padded laptop sleeve, is lockable for peace of mind. This bag also includes several smaller pockets for keeping items organised, and useful black leather handles too.

Padded shoulder straps make this comfortable to carry while in the various queues you might well encounter at an airport.

• Beautifully styled
• Lockable main compartment
• Smaller pockets for organisation
• Padded shoulder straps
• Not fully waterproof
• 18-liter capacity

Is the Fjallraven Kanken 15” Laptop Bag for me?

If you’d rather go for a briefcase-style bag rather than a backpack, the Timbuk2 Flight Classic Messenger Bag is a great option! This bag will last you for years, through sun and rain, and for commute and business trips!

This bag also comes in multiple colors including black, army, and a neon teal.

#4. Kodiak Buffalo Leather Messenger Bag – Best Messenger-Style Laptop Bag

Enter the Kodiak Buffalo Leather Messenger Bag. A large sling bag for daily use, which not only looks totally classy AF, but also fits with a variety of work and travel situations. This bag has tons of internal pockets for your pens, small items, and even a padded, firm place to store files. It fits a 15″ laptop.

There is a removable cross-body strap for carrying. The shoulder strap includes a super comfortable air-mesh strap pad. The flap corners fold into place for weatherproofing and the waterproof thermoplastic liner keeps water out.

• Weatherproof material
• Thoughtfully distributed internal pockets
• Removable cross-body strap
• No backpack straps
• Leather is not the most weather resistant material

Is The Kodiak Messenger Bag for me?

This super snazzy, classy messenger satchel is a beauty. This bag will last you for years, through sun and rain, and for commute and business trips!

#5. MYSTERY RANCH 3-Way Expandable Briefcase – Best Briefcase-Style Bag for Business Travelers

This briefcase laptop bag is both rugged and practical! We think this is one of the best laptop bags for business travel!

It has a zippered main compartment, a laptop compartment and multiple accessory pockets. The bag can hold a 15″ laptop and an expandable zipper provides 5 extra liters of storage if you need it.

It also includes fully cushioned backpack straps when not in use. Like a briefcase, it provides adequate space for a laptop or iPad, binder, and any smaller things you may need to carry.

• TSA-friendly
• Only 18 liters
• Not much padding on the shoulder strap
• No bottle carrier

Is the MYSTERY RANCH 3-Way Expandable Briefcase for me?

This is a go-to bag for everyday and weekend use. Like a briefcase, it’s very convenient for a 15″ laptop and everyday necessities. Expanded, it can be used for a three-day business trip and will deploy the backpack straps for help with added weight.

#6. Topo Designs Commuter Briefcase – Most Stylish Briefcase-Style Laptop Bag

Looking for a stylish and modern briefcase to carry your laptop? If so, look no further than the Topo Designs Commuter Briefcase! Topo makes top quality and versatile bags. This bag is designed to carry a standard 15 in. laptop plus essentials, so it’s also a great laptop bag for business travelers.

Its double-layer bottom provides water resistance and durability.

• Carries 13″ laptop
• Exterior zipped pocket
• No water bottle pocket
• Not big enough to be a full day bag (more like a purse)

Is the Topo Designs Commuter Briefcase for me?

This is a high-quality, rugged briefcase bag that is stylish too! The internal space comfortably holds a 13″ laptop, book, and pad. The external pockets are useful. If you need a bag for your laptop and essentials, this bag is a great choice. If you want a laptop bag for commute, the gym, and travel, then it’s probably not big enough! Overall, Topo quality is hard to beat.

#7. Sherpani Cabo Convertible Pack – Women’s  – Best Messenger Laptop Bag for Women

This is stylish messenger is one of the best travel laptop bags for women (though men can use it too!). We love that it’s an all-in-one convertible backpack and cross body bag. It includes an anti-theft locking slider, anti-slashing fabric, and RFID-protected panel for added security and peace of mind.

There is a deep main zipper compartment with zipper locks. The padded internal laptop sleeve fits most 11 inch computers, and there’s an extra interior pocket for a phone and other bits.

It also has a front pocket as well as a back packet which doubles as storage for the straps when not in use. Bonus points for the included flashlight-pen!

• Super secure
• Flashlight-pen included!
• Only fits up to a 11-inch laptop
•  Tight squeeze for everything

Is the Sherpani Capo Convertible Pack Tote for me?

This is a go-to, multifunctional bag and backpack! There are a few things that can improve, but we like that it is a secure and stylish bag with a padded internal laptop sleeve and a nice array of exterior pockets. The biggest drawback, however, is that it only fits most 11 inch laptops. Get a bigger bag if you have a bigger laptop.

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#8. Gulu Handmade Influencer Backpack – Best for Small Laptops

Gulu Made isn’t just a brand, it’s a credos. Every one of this brand’s backpacks comes from a factory in Uganda, handmade by local women who survived the brutal civil war That’s impressive enough, but this brand doesn’t just do good deeds, the products are absolute class and this piece is about all comfort !

This no-frills backpack doesn’t reinvent the industry by any stretch. It just recrafts it with a handmade approach. That results in a form-fitting back cushion that helps work with your body to carry the load. At the top of the panel is chimney-style ventilation that keeps things breathable while you go about taking care of business. It has water bottle pockets (and while we are discussing H20 a good level of water resistance and is an all round excellent everyday backpack.

• Simple designs
• Ethically made
• Good quality materials
• Just one main compartment
• Water resistant but not waterproof
• 20 Liters is too small for some

Is the Gulu Handmade backpack for me?

The truth be told, if you require the use of a larger laptop then this is not the pack for you. When I tested it I was using my MacBook Pro 11″ but my girlfriend tested it using her older 14″ and it was not a comfortable fit.

Still, if you are happy with a smaller travel laptop pack then this one is hard to beat. Its the best laptop backpack for those with small laptops.

#9 Stubble & Co Roll Top – Best Laptop Bag For Daytrips

This awesome laptop backpack has fairly recently come to our attention but has impressed us very much. The Stubble & Co Roll Top backpack superbly combines functionality with performance all in a part recycled, eco-friendly package.

This  lightweight backpack  is durable and very comfortable and intended for all weather conditions making it perfect to wear on your bike. Custom built with cycling and the outdoors in mind, the Roll Top features sealed seams, water-resistant zips, reflective logos and considered compartments. It’s also very well priced.

• Great laptop compartments
• Organizational pockets
• Cool and stylish
• Eco friendly
• Pockets might not meet the needs of some
• Roll top is not for everyone
• Lacks protection from scanning technology

Is the Stubble & Co Roll Top Backpack for me?

Yes it is! Ok, so this pack is stylish, practical, is built to a high spec and as far as day-sized backpacks go, is very tough to beat.

#10.  Inateck Travel Carry-on 40 litre Laptop Backpack – Best Laptop Bag for Traveling with Laptop and Tablet

The Inateck Travel Carry-on 40 litre Laptop Backpack offers two laptop compartments, each of which has the standard protection and padded sections you have come to expect from a dedicated laptop bag.

Double zips mean these compartments are lockable if you’re looking for extra peace of mind, while an additional rain cover means all your tech will be protected even in the worst of downpours.

Additional features include a very handy change pocket and an anti-theft pocket on the back panel. What’s more, this travel laptop bag has a great range of carrying options, with shoulder straps, side handle, and band to slip over the extended handle of a wheeled backpack too!

• Two laptop compartments
• Lockable zips
• 40 liters too large for some
• Square shape

Is the Inateck Travel Carry-on 40 litre Laptop Backpack for me?

We can see that the Inateck Travel Carry-on 40 litre Laptop Backpack might not be for everyone with its square shape. But anyone looking for a larger travel bag for a laptop will like the fact this offering from Inateck has a capacity of 40 liters, in addition to its two padded laptop compartments meaning a latop and all your other digital nomad essentials will fit nicely.

#11. Chrome Urban Ex 2.0 Rolltop 20L Pack – Best Waterproof Laptop Bag

The best part about this backpack is that it is completely waterproof. If you live and work somewhere it rains a lot, then this is one of the best laptop bags for you! This laptop bag holds a standard 15 in. laptop and has an additional internal sleeve for documents as well as a stretch-mesh pocket for the accessories and doodads.

It has a padded back panel and adjustable shoulder straps for comfort. A 1-handed release buckles hold the top lid closed and offer easy access with a zippered top flkat for extra security. I do wish there was a water bottle holder, however.

• Dedicated 15-inch laptop and iPad area
• Rugged and durable
• Completely waterproof
• Color can wear out easily

Is the Chrome Urban Ex 2.0 Rolltop 20L Pack for me?

This multi-functional, waterproof laptop bag. This bag is for you if you have to deal with traveling and commuting in the rain. It’s also quite sleek and stylish, and useful for multiple situations.

#12. Pacsafe MetroSafe LS350 ECONYL Daypack  – Best Travel Laptop Bag for Safety

The Pacsafe Slingsafe LS350 is one of the best travel laptop bags with anti-theft functionality. Plus, it has plenty of space for your books and docs, and a padded sleeve for your 13 in. laptop, all in a go-anywhere, protective design. If you need to keep your laptop safe, then this may be the bag for you.

This laptop bag comes with lots of safety features, such as  RFIDsafe blocking material  to prevent your credit card and other chip data from being swiped. There are cut-resistant achor straps for securing valuables and an internal attachment point for your keys an wallet.

At only 15 liters, however, it’s much more suited to safe city excursions rather as a soiltary travel bag.

• Strong securing points for valuables
• RFIDsafe blocking material
• Cut-resistant material
• Fits laptops only up to 13″
• Quite a small capacity at only 15 liters

Is the Pacsafe MetroSafe LS350 for me?

Don’t worry about traveling with your laptop thanks to this Anti-Theft Pacsafe Daypack. This backpack is for you if you prioritize security above all else! It is a small backpack, however, and may not be for you if you need more than 15 liters of space.

#13. MYSTERY RANCH Urban Assault Pack – Best Laptop Bag for Computer and Tablet

This laptop bag does it all. Use it for rugged travel or your day-to-day commute! I can’t think of a more perfect bag. It’s minimalist yet offers lots of storage, even for an 18-liter bag. There are small, inside pockets, and it can easily fit a 13″ laptop plus a tablet/reader.  The quality is bombproof and will handle any drops.

• 2 Internal zippered pockets
• The sleeve fits up to a 15-inch laptop
• YKK Zippers
• Comfortable Straps
• Only 18 Liter Bag
• No Water Bottle Pocket

Is the Mystery Ranch Urban Assault Backpack for me?

Don’t worry again about traveling with your laptop thanks to this bomb proof backpack! It’s durable and stylish all in one. While on the smaller side, it still helps you organize your essentials. This is a great bag, but only 18 liters. If you need a laptop bag for travel, consider a bigger sized pack.

#14. K&F Concept DSLR Camera and Laptop Bag – Perfect Bag for Laptop and Camera

This laptop travel bag is surprisingly lightweight given the specific protection it gives to both camera gear and a laptop, weighing in at 1.2kg.

It can hold two cameras, five lenses, those photographic extras all semi-professional cameramen require, and a laptop up to 13.3”!

It’s made from a tough nylon material which provides additional protection from tears, bumps, and light rain too. The interior dividers can be modified to your taste, with the main compartment opening flat to 180° for easy camera and laptop access.

There’s a space to hang a lighter weight tripod on the exterior side of the bag, and a waist belt in addition to padded shoulder straps to ensure all your expensive kit stays exactly where it should on your back.

• Dedicated camera and laptop bag
• Capacity for a large amount of camera equipment
• Tough nylon material
• Internal dividers can be personalised
• Not a briefcase-style bag
• Only fits laptops up to 13.3”
• Just one colour available

Is the K&F Concept DSLR Camera and Laptop Bag for me?

If you’re an active amateur or semi-professional photographer, you’ve got more than just a laptop to carry around with you as you travel. With this equipment being so expensive to buy and replace, you don’t want to risk using a bag that isn’t dedicated to the job. Instead, hit order on the K&F Concept, you won’t regret it!

#15. Kroser 15.6” Laptop Briefcase Bag – Best Laptop Bag for Business Travelers

Made from water-repelling canvas this Kroser briefcase-style laptop bag can fit laptops up to 15.6 inches.

Although it lacks the shoulder straps you’ll find on a backpack, it has both carry handles and a single shoulder strap for a choice of carrying options.

The main compartment is TSA-friendly, meaning it meets the needs of US airport security, while there are two other small compartments for notepads, paper, and pens. This laptop bag is good for business travelers.

Perhaps the best feature of the Kroser 15.6” laptop briefcase bag is its RFID pockets, which protect your electronic data on credit cards and passports from being scanned and then stolen.

• Made from water repellent canvas
• Carry handles and single shoulder strap
• RFID protection pocket
• Won’t fit larger laptops
• Weight of just over 1 kg

Is the Kroser 15.6” laptop briefcase bag for me?

If you’d rather go for a briefcase-style bag rather than a dedicated business backpack, the Kroser 15.6” laptop bag is a good option. In addition to the main compartment that will take an average-sized laptop, there’s the additional space supplied by further compartments, as well as RFID protection for your electronic data too!

#16. REI Co-op Ruckpack 28 Recycled Daypack  – Best Budget Laptop Backpack

This heavy-duty travel laptop bag will hold not only a laptop up to 15” in size in a padded pocket, but also an interior pocket for organization and is even designed to be overstuffed! Though only 28 L in size there are also exterior pockets as well as one dedicated for your water botttle.

Designed to most airline check-in restrictions, you’ll be breezing through airports in no time. What’s more, the back panel is lined with mesh to keep wearers cool, while adjustable shoulder straps keep everything sitting right.

• Capable of carrying laptops up to 15”
• Plenty of additional pockets
• Too small to suit all kinds of travelers
• A tablet sleeve would be a nice bonus

Is the REI Co-op Ruckpack 28 Recycled Daypack for me?

While lacking in a tablet sleeve, the comfort of this pack combined with its budget price for such a sturdy beast is certainly nothing to ignore. The wealth of additional pockets and rather smart-casual stylish look only go further to accentuate this a budget pack suitable for most travelers.

#17. The Roll Top Stubble & Co – Best Hipster Laptop Backpack

The Roll Top is a great hipster-style 20L bag perfect for carrying around your laptop as well as having heaps of room for your other accessories. What really makes it stand out for a day pack is that the laptop compartment is in a separate pocket on the back of the bag. This both makes it mega secure (especially for a roll top) and also saves the massive main compartment for everything else.

Internally the main compartment is one massive space with a selection of pockets and organisers attached to the other side of the laptop compartment/ back panel. This works well giving you some level of organisation whilst also being super roomy.

• Capable of carrying laptops up to 16”
• Roll top makes it expandable
• Durable and weather resistant material
• Could do with more internal organisation
• Would like an internal zip as well as the roll top

Is Stubble & Co The Roll Top for me?

If you’re looking for something that is both stylish, functional and also super robust, the Roll Top is the perfect choice for a laptop bag. We love that it’s got that classic hipster feel whilst actually being super practical too. The black exterior also keeps water out well, is durable enough for everyday use and is smart enough for the office.

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Still have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What is the difference between a laptop bag and a laptop backpack?

A laptop backpack is carried on your back with two straps. A laptop bag only has one strap and is held on one shoulder and across your chest and back.

Which is the safest laptop bag?

The Pacsafe Slingsafe LS350 is one of the best travel laptop bags with anti-theft functionality. It is made form cut resistant material which makes it one of the safest laptop bags.

What do I need to consider when buying a laptop bag?

Keep these key-features in mind: 1. Size and Volume of the bag depending on what kind of laptop you have 2. Style and design 3. Organisation and cost

What is the best laptop bag for large laptops?

If you own a 17inch laptop, you’ll love the Estarer 17.3” Laptop Messenger Bag . It offers plenty of space and protection for your laptop.

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We’ve worked hard to sort the wheat from the chaff so that you can see the best laptop bags on the market! From large, small, stylish, messenger-style, and functional, we’re confident you’ll find a keeper among our picks!

To summarize: we think that the Nomatic Messenger Bag is currently the best that money can buy. It’s versatile, tough, and does what it’s supposed to do (protect your gear).

That being said, there are plenty of other specialized bags out there for you to consider. The waterproof Arc’teryx Granville Pack  is great for those more demanding adventures. The Tortuga Setout is probably more appropriate for those traveling long term. Finally, the Kroser 15.6” Laptop Briefcase Bag is great for those who travel frequently for business,

Whether you’re looking for a laptop bag for travel, work, or everything in between, this list has you covered!

Although you should be able to use almost all of the bags on this list as a carry-on, some airlines still like to make a fuss over an inch or two. In this case, it pays to know the airline’s own carry-on regulations. Use this convenient list of airlines and their cabin policies as a reference, if needed.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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I got a Pogoplug. An awesome piece of kit which ensures my precious photos are backed up at home on my own personal cloud. There’s no operating fees and you can attach as many drives to it as you see fit. If anything happens to my gear at least my memories are safe…

Also I ditched the laptop as a traveling companion and went for an iPad. Sure it’s not as powerful but it’s lighter and fils all the roles I need it to when I’m on the hoof.

Thanks for sharing that. iPads are certainly light but personally, I will not give up my Mac!

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23 Best Laptop Bags for Women Travelers On the Go

Best Suitcases , Handbags , LUGGAGE

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Hittin’ the road and need to bring your laptop? A laptop bag is a must to keep it secure and avoid damage. Keep reading for the most functional and cute laptop bags that women use again and again! 

Best Laptop Bag for Women

Table of contents.

Travel Fashion Girl help! A reader asks:

I am looking for a good laptop tote or bag for travel. Most work totes have thin straps that get uncomfortable after a while. I am looking for something spacious, elegant, but not too heavy or big. Any ideas?

If you’re traveling for work or pleasure, there are times when you may need to bring your laptop. It’s important to pack your laptop securely in a bag to avoid any damage . There are so many great designs out there that will keep your laptop safe and secure while you’re on the go, and that will look stylish, too! 

Whether you opt for a laptop tote bag , backpack, or any other style, it should be practical, durable, and easy to carry. 

TFG readers have shared their favorite functional and fashionable laptop bags they swear by for travel. See below! 

Best Womens Laptop Bag for Travel

Nomad Lane Bento Bag

Nomad Lane Bento Laptop Travel Bag With Trolley Sleeve

TFG readers have been loving this Nomad Lane Bento 16 inch laptop bag ! It’s a fantastic choice for business travel, or it can even be used as a weekender bag! 

It opens up like a suitcase and has amazing organizational features, including various pockets to store chargers, headphones , or other essentials, and, of course, a cushioned laptop sleeve. It also features a shoulder strap, so it can be worn over your shoulder or as a crossbody.

About to travel with my Nomad Lane Bento Bag

Travelers really appreciate the trolley sleeve that allows you to slide it over your luggage handle for easy carrying and it’s compact enough to fit under your airline seat! 

One reader shares, “I just used mine for my personal item for two weeks in Italy . Just love all the compartments and dedicated space for my computer.” Buy it here!  

If you’re keen to know more about the Nomad Lane Bag, read our review on this favorite traveler’s bag!

Lo & Sons The Rowledge

Lo & Sons Rowledge Laptop Tote Backpack With Trolley Sleeve

While the price is a bit higher than other options, readers absolutely ADORE the Lo & Sons backpack and laptop tote for women , and consider it a worthwhile investment for their travels! 

It can be carried as a tote with the top handles or worn as a backpack, and the shoulder straps tuck neatly into a back pocket when not in use. The interior features luxurious fabric, ample storage and organization, and a separate laptop compartment to make your travels easier. It’s also available in a small and large size. 1 3″ laptops can fit in the Large (21L) and some 13″ laptops are able to fit into the Small (17L).

One satisfied TFG reader shares their travel experience with this backpack, “It’s structured, but still soft enough to cram things in when I’m flying, and I love the feet on the bottom, keeps it upright and it doesn’t get super dirty. The look is very clean and professional, while still feeling high-end and it fits well under an airplane seat without taking up leg room.”  Buy it here!

Find out why our readers love their Lo & Sons bags in this review !

Lo & Sons O.G. 2

Lo & Sons O.G.2 Tote Bag With Laptop Sleeve and Trolley Sleeve 

If you’re looking for strictly laptop totes for women , the Lo & Sons O.G. 2  is a fantastic personal item or overnight bag. You can get two sizes! The medium size which fits a 10 to 12” laptop, while the large size accommodates a 13” laptop.

Traveling with my latest personal item, the Lo & Son’s O.G.2 Tote !

It comes equipped with a trolley sleeve, comfy shoulder straps, great organization, and a sleek look! And there are so many gorgeous colors offered, you’ll travel in style and functionality easily with this beauty! 

One happy business traveler says, “ I love this bag for travel! It fits easily over my luggage handle, it’s HUGE and fits so much. Plus all the pockets and compartments are a dream come true. The laptop pocket fits my 13” Dell laptop perfectly. I love the option to wear it cross body or over my shoulder as well. The design is beautiful and the gold hardware seems very high quality.” Buy it here!

The Everywhere Zip Backpack

Away Everywhere Laptop Travel Bag With Trolley Sleeve

Away is highly popular in the TFG Community, and the Everywhere Zip 15 inch laptop bag has been highly recommended for storing your things and staying super organized! This backpack is made of durable and water-resistant nylon, so you’ll have the utmost peace of mind with your valuables inside! 

The main compartment is super spacious. The shoulder straps are padded and comfy, and when you want to take the weight off, the trolley sleeve will have your back (literally)!

One traveler reports, “This backpack is so well designed and thought out. Perfectly placed pockets while maximizing every space. It’s so lightweight and easy to travel with.” Buy it here!

We recommend the best travel bags with trolley sleeve , because a trolley sleeve is one of the most helpful features a bag can have for travel!

ECOSUSI Vegan Leather Convertible Backpack

Ecosusi Vegan Leather Laptop Bag  

Ecosusi makes pretty bags that TFG readers love! This convertible vegan leather laptop tote is so cute and can be worn as a shoulder bag, tote bag, or backpack! Inside the roomy main compartment,  there are two pockets, two pen loops, and a padded sleeve for laptops up to 14”. 

It’s made from vegan leather, so it’s an excellent eco option. You simply can’t go wrong with the quality, functionality, and beautiful design! You can also grab this similar design in a pretty tote too! 

One user raves, “Best bag for a girl on the go! I can’t tell you how many compliments I’ve received on this stylish backpack. I can fit my laptop, iPad, pens, notebook, files, and a pair of flats without sacrificing the aesthetic.” Buy it here!

If you’re bringing your camera along on your travels, make sure to keep your equipment protected with our readers tip picks for the functional and cute camera bags !

Fjallraven Kanken Laptop Backpack

Fjallraven Kanken Backpack Tote Laptop Bag  

Both us and the readers love the Kanken womens laptop bags for travel. This bag features a large main compartment, a handy front compartment for easy-to-reach essentials, and a protective laptop sleeve for laptops up to 15”. Tote it around with the top handles, or wear as a backpack! 

One reader says, “I love my Kanken for travel. There is a separate padded pocket near the back for the laptop and then a very spacious main compartment! Best of all the whole bag weighs about a pound.” Buy it here!

Prefer traveling with a backpack? These are the best business backpacks that will keep your laptop protected.

Osprey Arcane Tote Backpack

Osprey Arcane Tote Bags With Laptop Compartment  

Long time readers know that TFG is a bit obsessed with Osprey, and it’s often a go-to for readers as well! The Arcane womens laptop tote bag is a major fave. This bag can hold a TON, including a laptop up to 15” in its protective compartment! You can wear it over the shoulder with the top handles, or tuck those away to wear it as a backpack. It’s durable and water-resistant as well!

One TFG reader says, “It makes a great carry-on and laptop bag, and it has a lot of structure.” Buy it here!

Lily & Drew Casual Travel Bag (sold out)

Lily & Drew Laptop Shoulder Bag With Trolley Sleeve

With these Lily & Drew stylish ladies laptop bags , there’s truly a place for everything and fits a 13” laptop! This convertible backpack has a ton of internal and external pockets, two side water bottle pockets, a padded laptop sleeve, and a generous main compartment. 

It’s a practical and cute option for a business trip or a weekend getaway, and it’s small enough to fit under airline seats! You can wear it over your shoulder or as a backpack, and as a bonus, it comes with a handy trolley sleeve. 

One TFG reader says, “I use it on all of my trips! It’s the perfect size, holds so much (I’m a mom of four and holder of all things), love the trolley sleeve, it’s been absolutely drenched in rainy weather and it still holds up! And a great price!”

Learn how to choose a  carry-on personal item !

BAGSMART Travel Backpack

BAGSMART Waterproof Laptop Bag With Trolley Sleeve

These stylish laptop bags from BAGSMART have some serious storage capabilities! Users love that after snugly fitting their laptops (up to 15.6”), there’s still plenty of room for electronics, books, clothes, and other travel essentials. 

The top handles have a good grip, and it can also be worn as a backpack with super comfortable straps and a back panel that relieves shoulder stress. The material is water resistant and extremely long-lasting, and the overall look is super cute! 

A traveler says, “It has so many pockets to put cords, chargers, and other work items. My laptop fits well and it has a cushion to protect it. I also like the side pockets to put my phone and water bottle. Very convenient backpack!” Buy it here!

Herschel Little America Laptop Backpack

Herschel Little America Large Laptop Bag  

Whether you’re a techie, business traveler, or simply like having your laptop on hand while on the road, the Little America laptop shoulder bags f rom Herschel are super sturdy and come with all the features you could need! The various compartments are functional, such as the front pocket which has a key clip and there’s a hidden zipper for anti-theft protection, and the tech-safe laptop sleeve fits up to 15”. 

Users say this bag makes a perfect carry-on! It’s spacious enough to use for shorter trips, though one reader was able to pack everything for a 21-day trip in this bag! 

A traveler shares more: “This bag feels premium, the outer material feels sturdy and it’s easy to clean. The laptop pocket is so soft! This is a huge backpack storage wise. I have my camera case in the bottom and a jacket condensed in a pouch and could still pack three days worth of clothes and travel toiletries!” Buy it here!

Eddie Bauer Adventurer Backpack

Eddie Bauer Adventurer Laptop Bag Backpack  

If you’re a digital nomad who loves to see the world and still have their electronics on hand, the Adventurer 17 inch laptop bag comes with top-notch features to keep your laptop and other tech organized and protected, and it can fit large laptops, up to 17”!

This bag is super rugged, water-repellent, has fleece-lined pockets for a laptop, electronics, sunglasses, and other fragile items. It also has super comfy, padded straps that are designed to fit a woman’s body. No matter where you end up, this bag seriously has you covered! 

A happy traveler shares a review, “Used this backpack while flying and hiking around the US with family and friends. It holds everything I need- essentials, computer, snacks, and paperwork.” Buy it here!

Kenneth Cole Reaction Tote Bag

Kenneth Cole Reaction Chelsea Tote Bag With Laptop Compartment (And Trolley Sleeve)

So cute! This 17” Kenneth Cole tote with laptop pocket also has a shoulder strap and trolley sleeve to fit nicely over luggage. It accommodates a laptop and has a separate tablet compartment, too! 

With tons of slip pockets and an exterior pocket that can hold a passport and boarding pass, this chic choice works well for business travel or a short jaunt! Buy it here !

Read how to choose the best  travel purse !

Kenneth Cole Reaction Laptop Backpack

Kenneth Cole Reaction Chelsea Backpack Laptop Bag With Trolley Sleeve

If you’d rather stick to a backpack, this Kenneth Cole small laptop bag is super chic for a quick business trip or a fun overnight getaway! It has a padded 15” laptop sleeve, and is super packable yet just the right size to fit under your airline seat as a personal item! 

The front pocket has sections for a phone, wallet, sunglasses, and other small items, and the shoulder straps are breathable and adjustable for maximum comfort. Users love this women laptop bag for how fashionable, professional-looking, and super durable it is. 

One user says, “I really love this backpack. I use it for work and for travel for my laptop and all my stuff that goes with it. It’s comfortable to wear. I also traveled abroad with it and used it to hold my shopping items when going through markets.” Buy it here!

PacSafe Citysafe CX 17L Anti Theft Backpack

Pacsafe Anti-Theft Laptop Crossbody Bag With Trolley Sleeve 

Pacsafe is adored by TFG readers and female travelers for its stylish and practical anti-theft products. The Citysafe women’s laptop bag checks all the boxes, with a clean look and functional features, including slash-proof material, interlocking zippers, a padded laptop sleeve, and RFID blocking pockets!

Plus, it’s an organizational dream! It can be worn as a tote, crossbody, or backpack, and the luggage sleeve makes for easy navigating through an airport. 

A user shares, “I can fit my laptop, iPad, and many other things in this backpack and it fits easily under an airplane seat. Thoughtfully designed with lots of great security features.” Buy it here!

Himawari Travel Tote Backpack

Himawari Traveller Laptop Bag Backpack

This super functionali women’s laptop tote backpack from Himawari is not only crazy cute but will easily hold all of your essentials for business travels or overnight trips. The main compartment opens wide for easy packing, with a cushy laptop slot in the back that fits a 15”. 

It has plenty of pockets, including side pockets for water bottles. The straps are padded, and the outer material is waterproof! A user raves, “This backpack is amazing for traveling! You can fit clothes and a laptop and still have space. Love it!” Buy it here!

Sherpani Camden Tote Bag

Sherpani Camden Convertible Crossbody Laptop Bag With Trolley Sleeve 

The Sherpani laptop tote bags for women have become reader favorites! You’ll feel assured with your valuable laptop and other electronics in this bag, as it has plenty of padding, secure zippers, and RFID blockers! 

You can carry it three ways, as a crossbody, a tote, or a backpack, or slide it over your luggage handle, so it’s super versatile. It has many compartments, including a 15” laptop sleeve, and overall has a very stylish, modern look! 

One user shares, “I travel with it every week. I’ve had lots of compliments on its design and appearance. Pockets for everything. Laptop, makeup, water, external zipper areas for keys, phone. And the backpack option is available but hidden if you don’t want the straps hanging out. Great design!” Buy it here!

Find out what our readers have to say about their Sherpani bags in this review !

Tumi Voyageur Calais Backpack

Tumi Voyageur Calais Travel Laptop Bag With Trolley Sleeve

Tumi makes one of the most popular carry-on suitcases , so it’s no surprise their laptop backpack is equally as popular! The Voyageur Calais chic laptop bags have high quality interiors where you’ll find lots of space, a padded laptop compartment, and multiple pockets (including one with a Tumi tracer in case it gets lost or stolen!). 

There are plenty of exterior pockets, too. It’s lightweight, and can sit snugly on your suitcase with the trolley sleeve!  

One reader says, “I like this particular backpack as it’s lightweight and a good size. Great organization possibilities and I like that there is a dedicated laptop/tablet pocket.” Buy it here!

Find out what our readers have to say about their Tumi Bags in  this review !

Calpak Luka 15 inch Laptop Backpack

Calpak Luka Laptop Tote Bag

Decked out with killer organization, the Calpak Luka laptop backpack is amazing for travelers who want to keep all their devices and travel essentials neat and protected. The 15” laptop compartment is amply padded and features a roomy zippered pocket, and there are plenty of inner and outer pockets of all sizes. 

One traveler loves that it’s simple yet elegant and versatile enough to use for all kinds of different travel scenarios! Function aside, this bag is sleek and modern, with a scratch-resistant exterior that comes in a range of fun matte shades.

Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack

Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Backpack

Striking in appearance and adaptable to whatever your travel day entails, the Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack has it all! This dual-purpose travel bag has a clamshell opening, tons of interior packing space, compression straps, a padded 17” laptop pocket, and multiple interior and exterior pockets. Sleek and shiny, this bag is rugged and water-resistant, spacious yet not bulky, and weighs under 3 lbs! 

A happy traveler shares that it’s super lightweight and works as a personal item even on smaller planes, adding that she has gotten a ton of use out of it and receives so many compliments!

Antler Chelsea Backpack

Antler Chelsea Laptop Bag Pack

The  Chelsea backpack by Antler  is a beautiful option with a streamlined design that gives you ample interior packing space. It’s decked out with great features, including a convenient trolley sleeve, a padded 16.5” laptop pocket, a removable packing pocket for laundry or shoes, compression straps, a side water bottle pocket, and a zipped front pocket. It’s incredibly lightweight, durable, and has a water-resistant exterior, too.

One user says it’s very nice quality, perfect for business trips, and looks stylish!

Antler’s Bamburgh Expandable Backpack

Antler Bamburgh Expandable Laptop Backpack

Antler’s Bamburgh expandable backpack checks all the boxes, with lightweight yet robust construction, a comfortable and breathable fit, and excellent organization. Its clamshell opening is what makes this bag ultra-popular, as it makes packing super easy. It features a 16.5” laptop pocket, an interior divider, multiple inner and outer pockets, and compression straps to keep everything efficient and ultra-organized. 

From city breaks to outdoor adventures, this backpack will support you through any adventure! One wearer praises its high quality and thoughtful design, sharing that she’s used it as an underseat bag, a weekender bag, and for hiking the Scottish highlands!

Swissgear Scan Smart TSA Laptop 17.5″ Backpack

Swissgear Scan Smart Laptop Backpack 

If you’re looking for a spacious backpack that you can load up but still carry comfortably, look no further than this Swissgear Scan Smart backpack . This bag is full of handy pockets, including an exterior, fleece-lined glasses pocket, and an organizer compartment with sleeves for pens, cards, and chargers. It’s lightweight at 3 lbs, and it boasts ergonomic, padded shoulder straps with breathable fabric and an adjustable sternum strap for supreme comfort. 

It also has a padded laptop sleeve! One traveler who used this backpack as a carry-on to Spain reports that it was steady, had a perfect amount of pockets, felt secure, and was an amazing travel bag overall.

LL Bean 28L Comfort Carry Laptop Pack

L.L. Bean Comfort Carry Laptop Bag

Designed to work for every adventure from hiking to city sightseeing to travel days, L.L. Bean’s Comfort Carry backpack is a classic! This mid-size backpack is a great personal item and day bag, with a laptop sleeve, water bottle pockets, and multiple zippered pockets for easy organizing. It’s made with extra-durable nylon fabric, so it’ll hold up to years and years of wear and tear, too! 

One traveler says it’s the perfect travel bag that’s a great size, keeps things organized, and is super comfortable to carry.

Ladies Laptop Bag Comparison Chart

Do you have a recommendation for the best laptop bag for travel? Comment and share!

For more travel bags, please read:

• Cute Backpacks for Travel
• Best Business Backpacks
• Rebecca Minkoff Julian Backpack
• Longchamp Le Pliage Backpack Review

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I hope you liked this post on the best women’s laptop bags. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

41 comments.

I recently purchased Lo & Sons O.G. 2. It’s a beautiful bag with great pockets organization and nice zippers.

My only negative with this bag is that the main zipper is too small / shallow of opening making it hard to see what’s in the bag.

I give a “10” for the Tumi backpack here = not only does it look sleek, it is bigger than it looks and fits my laptop perfectly. Mine has traveled for mulitple weeks to Italy, Portugal, Japan, and Argentina and has weathered rain, sweat from hiking, snow, and scorching hot weather. Best backpack ever!

This a great list of laptop bags – right when I needed one! Thanks!

Just the review post I was looking for! Thank you 🙂

A new travel laptop bag was my first TFG recommended purchase a few years ago! My bag, which looks closest to the Lily & Drew profiled in this article (but was a different brand), has been perfect! It’s affordable, roomy and sleek. My favorite features are the trolley sleeve and roomy interior. The bag has been to several countries and dozens of US states and still looks great. Fits really well under seat.

I have found it quite challenging to find a bag that meets all my needs. Thank you for this review.

Thank you! You’ve provided lots of options to review. I’m on the continual lookout for the perfect personal item carryon!

Love the TravelPro Tote, roomy with padded sleeve and a zipper.

I have been looking for a new laptop bag that will be good for both travel and work. These are great options. Thank you!

Love any back pack with the trolley sleeve! Thank you for putting all this together!

I am looking for my next laptop bag, and this was so helpful. I’ve been using my hydration backpack from REI for too many years now (minus the bladder, of course) as a laptop backpack. It’s time to upgrade! My daughter has a couple different Fjallraven bags, and they are top of my list. But the Sherpani looks interesting as well.

Decisions, decisions!

Thank you for all the research and information, I leave for Italy in 3 days and feel so prepared due to following you! I will be using only carry on and found the best back pack for me by comparing the ones you listed.

I love these reviews. It really helps a lot when I am doing my shopping online.

Love the Bento bag which I got after reading TFG review. Holds so much and yet zips up nicely. Even holds my purse in addition to laptop, files, a shawl if I get cold, cords, chargers, battery pack. Has so many compartments to stay organized. And still fits under the seat! Best personal item ever!

Love the look of the bento bag! Keeping my eye on that one for an upcoming trip!

Do the Away bags ever go on sale?? They look amazing!

I trust TFG for pretty much everything travel. A couple years back she led me straight to my Tumi everyday back pack which is my go to for all of my trips. It’s great for day trips and city trekking. Now I have the laptop back pack bag and I take that with me now too. Great storage, can hold a lot of other things besides computer. I especially love the cushioned computer pocket. Easy to open and to access computer. Thanks, TFG

Now that we are going back in the office some days I am on the hunt for the perfect laptop bag. These are some great options!

Left a look of the Kenneth Cole bag but alas it’s too big for Lufthansa. Still have my eyes on the bento bag!

When Alex first introduced the Lo & Sons OMG bag in the early years of the website, I fell in love and never looked back! The idea of a bag that is travel perfect in every feature, can be work and gym friendly, AND pairs with a dress, heels, and be taken to a resto for dinner was PERFECT! I drooled over the photos and videos for 3 years before splurging on it, and I still love it after all this time (~8+ years). I often worry that I overload it or it’s too heavy and will be damaged in some way….nope. I LOVE that your webpage recommends tried & true original items and opens new concepts for us readers! I never considered the need for a bag with a secret shoe compartment before (it’s genius!) and can’t imagine travelling without it. THANKS & LOVE YOU TFG (& Alex!)!!!

I have the original low and Sons OMG bag (large) based on a recommendation from the TFG FB page. It is roomy and more sophisticated for work that the normal backpack. I have used it for business and personal trips and love the different pockets for organization. I went with the red color to add a pop of color. – love it!

This is exactly what I have been looking for! Thank you for all the research you do so I don’t have to!

I have had my lo and co omg (original bag) for years and love how organized it is. I like that they have moved the laptop to a separate space and added a water bottle sleeve. It is quite bulkey but havent found anything better

I discovered your blog earlier this year while planning for our trip to Dubai and the Maldives. I feel so much more prepared now! Flying Gulfair for a leg of our trip had me searching for the perfect small personal bag. Your blog and Facebook group have so much information and have become my bible! Thank you so much!

I love the Tumi Voyageur Calais Backpack! It’s lightweight and good looking. Even professional enough to go to work with!

This is great – I’m looking for a new bag for work!

Perfect. I’ve been looking for a backpack that can accommodate a laptop.

Wish the Herschel bag came with a trolley sleeve! I bought something similar to the lily & drew backpack to also double as a laptop/overnight bag for work, so I’m hopeful it’ll simplify my work travels!

Great options! I’m obsessed with travel bags!

I love the Nomad Bento Bag! I use it for travel as a carry on all the time.

Also love the Sherpani Sojourn — similar to the Camden.

I love the Nomad Bento Bag

I found a great one on Amazon that was recommended by the TFG community. Can’t wait to use it on my trip to Greece in three days!! Happy Anniversary. Thank you for 10 years of great posts/ideas/travel love!

great content and advice!

I absolutely love my Bento bag. It’s my go to personal item for all travel. Great for a stand alone bag for a minimalist approach to travel.

As.i hunt for the perfect personal item, this is very helpful. I’m thinking the O.G.2 Tote will work for me! I have so much faith in your recommendations after my Julian bag arrived the night before leaving for Europe in 2019 and has been the perfect bag ever since. Love the way you do all the homework for us!

How am I going to pick only one!? Ok let’s be real, I won’t 😉 A woman has to have choices!

Lo & Sons is the best! Thx for sharing these fantastic products & brands to make my traveling more easier!

I travel weekly for my job. I always carry on my Club Glove rolling mini duffle and my computer bag is my personal item. I need a computer bag that is large enough to stuff my cross body bag into at the airport since I’m limited to one personal item. I’ve used a Tumi Alpha Bravo backpack for the past 7 years. I love it. Just wish it had a water bottle pocket.

BAGSMART Waterproof Laptop Bag With Trolley Sleeve is a GREAT bag. The top opens so wide, so easy to find things on the bottom. Plus its so reasonable! Thanks for the tip!

I’ve been looking at laptop bags. Not necessarily for travel, but more for work.And happy anniversary!!!!

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15 Best Laptop Backpacks of 2024

A good laptop backpack needs to be a protective home for your expensive device. The top packs we tested do that and much, much more.

Traveling with a laptop can be stressful, and I know how important it is to get the right backpack to keep your machine safe, but still easily accessible while traveling.

I worked for several years as a product engineer, and I frequently had to travel for weeks at a time while hauling my big-ass engineering laptop along for the ride. I went through several backpacks trying to find one that worked well, and along the way, I learned a lot about what sets the best laptop backpacks apart from the mediocre alternatives.

My first priority in a laptop backpack is that it has ample protection to keep my computer safe from bumps and dings while traveling. It also needs to be super easy to access my device so I can catch up on emails on the go or pull it out for TSA.

Of course, my backpack is going to be carrying more than just my laptop. I want a pack that has enough space and organization for charging cords, headphones, books, water bottles, and anything else I need to bring with me.

Without further ado, here are my top 15 laptop backpacks for travel:

• Best Laptop Backpack Overall: NOMATIC Backpack
• Best Travel Laptop Backpack: Aer Tech Pack 2
• Most Affordable Laptop Backpack: Matein Travel Laptop Backpack
• Best Waterproof Laptop Backpack: Rains Backpack
• Best Full-Featured Laptop Backpack: Swissgear 1900 ScanSmart
• Most Stylish Laptop Backpack: Bellroy Melbourne
• Best Travel Backpack for Laptop and Camera: WANDRD PRVKE
• Best Laptop Messenger Bag: Timbuk2 Commute Messenger Bag 2.0
• Best Leather Laptop Backpack: Harber London Slim Laptop Backpack
• Best Hiking Laptop Bag: Gregory Juxt 34
• Best Travel Backpack for 17-inch Laptop: KÜHL Eskape 25
• Most Durable Laptop Backpack for Travel: Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Laptop Backpack
• Best Travel Laptop Backpack for Women: Patagonia Atom Tote Pack
• Best Laptop Backpack for Men: Peak Design Everyday Backpack
• Best Gaming Laptop Backpack: Timbuk2 x ASTRO Gaming BP35 Backpack

NOMATIC Backpack : Best Laptop Backpack Overall

Nomatic is based in my home state of Utah, a hub for adventurous folks of all sorts. They started on Kickstarter with an innovative wallet design, and now they sell a wide range of well-designed and well-built travel gear. Their sleek, functional designs make them one of our top backpack brands .

The NOMATIC Backpack is their classic urban pack that is perfectly optimized for traveling with a laptop. The padded laptop sleeve is very protective, easily accessible, and has room for most full-size devices.

This laptop bag opens with a YKK-brand zipper that wraps around the entire perimeter. This zipper is super smooth and durable, and the massive wide opening makes it super easy to access anything inside without having to dig.

You also get tons of small pockets for organization. There is a water bottle pocket on the side, a big external pocket with several separate compartments, and more zippered pockets inside the main compartment.

One I don’t love about this bag is that it only comes in black. Actually, I think all NOMATIC products are black, I’m not sure if they sponsor Batman, but that’s the only color you’ll see on their bags. It looks very sleek and professional, but I personally prefer to have some color choice and a bit of personality.

It also only fits up to a 15.6-inch laptop size. That’s standard size so most people will be covered, but if you have a big 17-inch laptop you’ll need a bigger bag.

This bag comes in either a 14 L or 20 L size. I’d recommend going with the larger 20 L just to make sure you have enough space. It still isn’t huge, but it has an expandable design that gives you 4 L of extra space when you need it. If you carry a lot of stuff on a regular basis, you’ll probably want something a tad bigger, but for a slim pack that can fit a bit more when needed, this is a great choice.

• Technical Specs

Aer Tech Pack 2 : Best Travel Laptop Backpack

Aer is a San Francisco-based travel brand that started with a crowdfunding campaign for a hybrid gym bag/work bag. They build a wide array of travel bags centered around durable materials, simple designs, and functional features for travel.

If you’re going to be flying with your laptop, it’s important to have a bag that is specifically designed with the requirements of travel in mind. The Aer Tech Pack 2 is a streamlined, thoughtfully-designed laptop pack that works really well for travel because it is protective and packed with travel-oriented features.

The center of this bag is the suspended laptop pocket that isolates your computer from the outside. This means it is protected from bumps or impacts while you’re traveling. It’s also very easy to access your laptop through a dedicated zipper.

This versatile backpack has a luggage handle pass-through strap on the back panel. This means it’s super easy to attach it to the top of your luggage for wheeling through the airport. You also have grab handles on the top and side that make it easy to carry in any orientation.

I’ve spent a lot of time wearing a backpack while traveling, and if it isn’t comfortable, my shoulders get pretty sore after a few hours. The Aer Tech Pack nails it with comfort. It has nice wide, thickly-padded shoulder straps and a chest strap to help distribute the load.

It is also made with super durable materials. You get burly 1680D Cordura on the sides and a waterproof 840D front panel. This pack has a lot of structure, so it keeps its shape even when it’s empty, and it feels very sturdy and substantial. I seriously doubt you’ll be able to

Of course, those thick, tough materials do make this pretty heavy for a relatively small backpack (it’s only 17L). If you’re concerned about weight, you may want something else. I haven’t found the weight to be much of a problem though, and I’d rather have a bag that can take some abuse.

Matein Travel Laptop Backpack : Most Affordable Laptop Backpack

I get it, sometimes you just need the cheapest product you can find that still gets the job done. I’m a bit of a cheapskate, and I try to save money wherever I can.

If you’re strapped for cash, the Matein Travel Laptop Backpack on Amazon gives you a totally functional everyday backpack at an insanely low price.

The most important thing here is the padded laptop sleeve. It’s not the most protective out there, but it does have some cushioning to protect your device from small bumps.

You also get tons of internal pockets. Almost to the point where there are more than you could ever possibly need. There are water bottle pockets, four different compartments you can access from the outside, and several slip pockets and zippered pockets in each compartment. I personally would prefer something a bit simpler, but if you like having a place for everything, you’ll love the abundant organization here.

One thing I like about this bag is that there is an array of size choices, and it’s very obvious what laptop size fits in each one. You can buy a 14-inch, 15.6-inch, or 17-inch bag, and the size exactly corresponds to the size of device that will fit in the laptop sleeve. This takes a lot of the guesswork out of getting a bag that will fit your laptop.

Now with such a cheap bag, you can expect some compromises. The materials and components aren’t great, the zippers aren’t very smooth, and it’s just plain ugly, to be blunt. Okay, it’s not that bad, but you definitely won’t be winning any style awards.

The shoulder straps do have some padding, but it isn’t much.

If you’re on a super tight budget, this Matein backpack does what you need at a fantastic price point. Still, if you can scrape together a little extra cash, there are some other packs on this list that are higher quality while still being quite affordable. And hey, you can always look for a used bag to save money.

Rains Backpack : Best Waterproof Laptop Backpack

When I was in college I used to carry a kitchen trash bag inside my backpack to wrap around my computer if I ever got caught in heavy rain or snow (which happened frequently). You know what? It worked great. I would roll into class with a totally waterlogged backpack, but my laptop would be nice and dry. That one trash bag lasted three years, too.

I probably would have saved a lot of hassle by getting myself a waterproof backpack , though.

Rains is a modern lifestyle brand built around selling stylish waterproof products, from jackets to packs. They’ve developed a signature PU-coated fabric that’s sleek, durable, and fully waterproof.

The Rains Backpack is a streamlined, minimalist bag that uses combines this fabric with a dialed-in design to give you an ultra-stylish backpack that will keep your laptop (and everything else) dry when the heavens dump on you.

It definitely isn’t a full-on dry pack. Don’t plan on taking your laptop on a whitewater rafting trip with this, but as long as the water is falling from the sky, this

This backpack is incredibly simple and stripped down. You get one top-opening main compartment with a magnetic flap closure, a laptop pocket that fits 15-inch devices, a phone-sized zip pocket in the back panel, and, well, that’s it.

While I do love simplicity, I wish there were just a bit more organization in this bag. Laptop backpacks have to carry things like a charging cord, mouse, adapters, and other computer accessories, so a few more pockets would be a welcome addition.

Another thing it lacks is padded straps. The Rains Backpack only has thin webbing shoulder straps to carry the load. While this works fine, I’d want something more padded and supportive for carrying it on longer days.

For true minimalists, though, this pack has everything you need and nothing you don’t. And it really shows in the styling. The Rains Backpack is just plain stunning.

Swissgear 1900 ScanSmart : Best Full-Featured Laptop Backpack

Maybe you’re the kind of person who likes to be prepared for anything. Maybe your EDC setup includes a knife, multitool, flashlight, tactical pen, altimeter watch, and miniature pry bar. Maybe, just maybe, you wear cargo pants on a regular basis (no judgment here).

If you like to be prepared, you’ll want to look for laptop backpacks that are packed with features and organization to keep all your kit neat and accessible. Swissgear is known for building feature-packed travel gear, and their 1900 ScanSmart Laptop Backpack is loaded with features.

The most innovative feature of this pack is the ScanSmart lay-flat laptop sleeve. It’s everything you’d expect from a protective, padded laptop pocket, with enough space for most big 1, but then a wraparound zipper lets the whole back panel and laptop sleeve fold out from the main bag and lay flat, with just a mesh panel covering your laptop. This means you can send the bag and laptop through airport security scanning without fully removing your device.

I really hate digging my laptop out of my bag to go through security, so I love this feature that eliminates that hassle. This makes it a great laptop bag for frequent flyers.

Beyond the neat laptop sleeve, this bag is packed with pockets and features. There are 6 different compartments you can access through external zippers, each of which has several internal pockets for extra organization. It has elastic suspension shoulder straps, a hidden sleeve for passports, a protective hard case pocket, side compression straps, a “floating” tablet pocket, and even a dedicated webbing loop for holding sunglasses. And with 31 L of storage, there’s plenty of space for all your essentials and then some.

If this bag has a problem, it’s that it is too loaded-down with features to the point of being overcomplicated. You’ll never run out of places to put things, but you might not know what to do with all the pockets!

It has two water bottle pockets, but I don’t love them. They are made of a thin mesh and are too small for larger bottles.

My biggest gripe? I think this bag is pretty ugly. It has a very utilitarian, bulky styling that just doesn’t look great to me. Is it a great, functional bag though? Absolutely.

Bellroy Melbourne : Most Stylish Laptop Backpack

Even though I like to see myself as utilitarian and function first, I have to admit that style is important. When I have gear that looks good, I am more excited to use it, and I feel better when I’m traveling. A backpack with sleek, dialed-in styling has an almost magical effect; it makes me feel more confident and put together—like I could step off the ground and fly…

Okay, maybe I’m getting a bit carried away there, but you get the idea. We all like gear that looks good.

The Bellroy Melbourne is a slim city-oriented backpack that combines spot-on styling with smart functionality. It probably won’t stand out in a crowd, but it’s hard to deny the appeal of the minimal, understated styling.

The laptop sleeve is well-padded and has enough room for a 15-inch device. I just wish you could access it without opening the main compartment of the bag, but since it’s easy to get to, that’s not a big deal.

The closure system for this pack is very unique, and I’ve found it to be really intuitive to use. There is just a simple flap opening at the top, with magnets to hold it closed. There is also a zipper running down the full length of one side of the pack. You can choose to get in either way, or you can use both to fold it wide open, making it super easy to pack or get to all your items inside.

At 18 L, this is a pretty small backpack, so you won’t be fitting a ton inside. There’s also an even smaller 12 L version, but unless you are a true minimalist, I’d recommend sticking with the bigger size.

WANDRD PRVKE : Best Travel Backpack for Laptop and Camera

If you’re carrying camera gear in addition to your laptop, you have a very specific set of requirements from your bag. You need to look for camera backpacks that offer tons of padding and protection for all your sensitive equipment.

WANDRD was started by two brothers who couldn’t find a camera bag on the market that fit their requirements. Instead of settling for something mediocre, they decided to set out to build one themselves and make it the best camera backpack ever.

The WANDRD PRVKE is the original award-winning pack they built (though it’s seen some improvements over the years).

The first thing you’ll notice about the PRVKE is that it has tons of options for accessing your gear. There is a simple roll-top opening, full-length zippers that let you fold open the entire body of the bag, and side-access pockets so you can get to your gear on the go.

The laptop sleeve on the PRVKE is built into the fold-open front panel (instead of right next to your back like most packs). This means it’s super easy to access your laptop while you’re traveling. The downside is that if you don’t have the bag packed very full, your laptop can awkwardly shift around since it’s on the side farthest from your body.

If you’re carrying camera gear, you’ll want to opt for the photography bundle, which includes a removable padded camera cube, removable waist straps to carry more weight comfortably, and accessory straps for mounting tripods or other gear on the outside of the pack.

The padded shoulder straps are wide and comfortable, though I wish waist straps came standard with this pack. You do get them with the photography bundle, so maybe that’s not a problem for most people who will be buying this bag.

Timbuk2 Commute Messenger Bag 2.0 : Best Laptop Messenger Bag

Okay, yes, this is an article on the best laptop backpacks , but I think it is worth having one shoulder bag in here. While backpacks are becoming more and more common in workplaces, there still are some times that you want to look a bit more professional, and a sleek messenger bag is a great option for that.

Timbuk2 was started in 1989 by a San Francisco bike courier who wanted to create a functional messenger bag for urban travelers. The first Timbuk2 product was the classic messenger bag, and they’ve been improving their designs ever since.

The Commute Messenger Bag 2.0 is a refined bag with a dedicated laptop compartment, dialed-in styling, and smart features. It’s simple, but well-built and easy to use.

The laptop sleeve on this bag is roomy and well-padded. You’ll be able to fit most full-sized devices (though giant 17-inch screens won’t fit), and there’s plenty of protection to keep your machine safe.

The versatile design can convert between a shoulder carry, cross-body carry, or briefcase depending on how you set up the straps. I love having options.

Before you jump on buying this, I personally would recommend you make sure to consider whether you really want a messenger bag over a backpack. I’ve had problems with messenger bags causing discomfort after carrying them for hours at a time, and there are plenty of professional-looking backpacks that still look at home in an office environment.

If you know you need a messenger bag, though, I highly recommend the Timbuk2 Commute.

Harber London Slim Laptop Backpack : Best Leather Laptop Backpack

In my mind, there’s nothing quite like high-quality leather backpacks . I love the buttery-smooth feel of the leather, the awesome durability, and the way leather looks better over time and tells the story of your travels.

Harber London is a family-owned brand based in (you guessed it) London that specializes in premium leather goods that merge old-world craftsmanship with modern design. Their wallets, bags, and accessories are stylish, well-made, and very functional.

The Harber London Slim Laptop Backpack is a stripped-back pack that’s designed to give you exactly what you need

It all starts with the materials. The Harber London Slim Laptop Backpack is built with premium full-grain leather. The leather they use is tough and durable but smooth and supple at the same time.

The design of this backpack is very simple. It is a low-profile rectangle with a top zippered opening, a padded laptop sleeve, a few internal pockets for organization, and one external zippered pocket.

This pack is very minimal and compact. I love the sleek, slim design, but it doesn’t have much room for carrying stuff. You can fit a laptop (up to 16-inches), a few accessories, and not much else. If that’s all you need, then this will work great, but it doesn’t have much versatility for using as a day pack when you need to bring more along.

The leather shoulder straps on this bag don’t have padding, but they are reasonably wide. Normally, I would want much more supportive and padded shoulder straps, but since you won’t be able to carry much weight anyway, it isn’t much of a problem.

The biggest downside with this bag? The cost. It’s a high-end backpack, and unfortunately, the price reflects that.

The quality and craftsmanship of the Slim Laptop Backpack are really what set it apart from anything else. It looks amazing, feels even better, and is really well thought out.

Gregory Juxt 34 : Best Hiking Laptop Bag

If I’m traveling to a new place, odds are I’m going to be exploring its hiking trails (even if I’m technically on a work trip). It seems silly to bring a separate hiking pack in addition to my laptop/work bag, so I want something that can fit both purposes and kill two birds with one stone.

Gregory builds some of the best hiking backpacks out there, and the Gregory Juxt 34 is an adventure travel backpack that combines the trail comfort and support of their hiking bags with styling and features that make it ready for around-the-world travel.

If I were to travel back to Nepal to go trekking in the Himalayas again, this is the bag I would choose to bring, especially if I were bringing any tech with me.

This pack comes with a removable “electronics caddy” which is essentially a padded sleeve with space for a 15” laptop, tablet, headphones, cables, and other electronics. I love the fact that it’s easily removable, meaning you can pull out your laptop and electronics if you’re going for a hike. The pack is also designed to fit a hydration bladder in the same space. The versatility is awesome!

The Juxt is built around a trail-oriented suspension, which means it has a supportive wrap-around hip belt, padded straps that wrap around your shoulders, a sternum strap to dial in the fit, and a perimeter frame to distribute the load to your hips. This is a much more supportive design than most travel packs. You’ll be able to carry heavier loads with ease, both on trails and through the airport.

This bag has several other features you’d expect in a full-on hiking backpack. There are generous hip belt pockets, compression straps to cinch down your load, and even load lifters on the shoulder straps. Load lifters are adjustable straps connecting the backpack straps to the top of the frame. It’s rare to see them in travel bags, and they make a huge difference in distributing the weight.

I do wish the hip belt was removable or could stow away somehow. While I love having a hip belt for hiking, it really just gets in the way at the airport.

Overall, if you’re looking for a versatile pack that can carry your laptop and go for a hike, the Gregory Juxt is the best one I’ve found.

KÜHL Eskape 25 : Best Travel Backpack for 17-inch Laptop

KÜHL is another Utah-based brand that builds rugged gear inspired by the mountains. Many of their products remind me just a bit of old-school frontier explorers.

The KÜHL Eskape 25 is designed to be the “world’s best backpack.” While that claim is a bit audacious, I do think KÜHL did a great job making this a bomber, versatile pack that works great for traveling with a laptop.

If you’re one of those people who travels around with a massive 17-screen, you know how hard it can be to find a good backpack that fits your monstrous device. The highlight of the KÜHL is the massive laptop compartment that can swallow even the biggest laptops with ease.

The laptop sleeve is very protective, with ample padding around the sides and bottom. It also is totally separate from the main compartment, meaning it’s super easy to get your device out when you need it.

Beyond the laptop storage, you have a surprisingly spacious main compartment that zips fully open, making it really easy to pack and access your stuff. There are also several external zippered pockets to keep small essentials within easy access.

The padded straps are enough to spread the weight over your shoulders, but I personally wish they were a bit more substantial for those times when I have to carry heavier loads.

Like all of KÜHL’s products, the Eskape 25 has a pretty rugged, outdoorsy style. While I love that, it probably isn’t for everyone. There definitely are other packs that look more refined and stylish.

Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Laptop Backpack : Most Durable Laptop Backpack for Travel

Osprey is known for building some of the most popular backpacking and hiking packs in the business. That expertise also carries over to a range of fantastic everyday and travel backpacks. Their travel packs are durable, supportive, and packed with features.

The Osprey Farpoint 40 is different from most of the other backpacks on this list because it is built as a full-size carry-on backpack. If you want to travel with one bag to carry all your clothes and your laptop, this is the way to go.

The Farpoint has a side-access laptop sleeve right against the back panel, where it is very padded and protected. I like that it’s totally separate from the main compartment, so you don’t have to dig through to get your laptop out.

Speaking of the main compartment—it’s big! Surprisingly so. It opens up wide and gives you plenty of space to pack clothes and gear for extended trips (as long as you’re a light packer).

For me, the comfortable carry system is a big win for this bag. I hate how so many big travel packs skimp on support, padding, and hip belts. The best backpacks for one-bag travel focus on comfort, and it’s pretty obvious that Osprey used a lot of their knowledge from hiking packs in designing this. It has a sturdy frame sheet with a wire perimeter frame, well-padded straps, a very supportive hip belt, load lifters, and a sternum strap.

The backpack straps can also all be tucked away behind a zippered panel, leaving you with a smooth surface that’s much easier to stuff into overhead bins. It also means you don’t have to worry about straps getting snagged when it runs through security machines.

One downside of using this as your laptop bag for one-bag travel is that it doesn’t fit under your seat on the airplane and has to go in the overhead bin. This means you won’t have access to your laptop if you leave it in the bag. There are multiple zippered mesh pockets inside to help with organization.

My biggest complaint is that there’s no side water bottle pocket! I hate keeping my bottle inside my bag (or worse, clipping it on with a carabiner), so It’s a bummer that there’s no dedicated water bottle holder here. It’s such a simple feature and is standard on most packs, so I’m not sure why Osprey got this one wrong.

Want to learn more about this pack? Check out our Osprey Farpoint full review .

Patagonia Atom Tote Pack : Best Travel Laptop Backpack for Women

It can be a challenge to find a backpack for women , especially those with smaller frames. You need something that carries everything you need without being overly big and bulky. The Patagonia Atom Tote Pack is a compact bag that’s designed to provide a smaller fit while still providing a surprising amount of storage.

Patagonia is one of the most well-known brands in the outdoor industry, and they build some seriously capable gear. My favorite thing about Patagonia, though, is their commitment to sustainability. The Atom Tote Pack is made from recycled nylon and polyester, is Fair Trade Certified, and has a water-repellant finish that is free from harmful PFC chemicals.

The overall design of the pack is very simple and streamlined. There’s a zippered-opening main compartment with a removable laptop sleeve inside. I really like the removable sleeve because it adds a lot of versatility; you can use this pack for your laptop one day and a day hike the next day.

One major downside is that it won’t fit full-size laptops. While that’s to be expected from a small pack like this, it still is a bit of a disappointment. If you have a compact device though, that may be no problem.

There is a stretchy water bottle holder on each side of the pack, meaning it’s easy to stay on top of your hydration while you travel. Even though this is a small-ish bag, there’s room for big bottles like Nalgenes.

Bonus? While Patagonia generally is known for being somewhat expensive, this pack is actually the most affordable on this list!

Peak Design Everyday Backpack : Best Laptop Backpack for Men

I think that Peak Design builds some of the most innovative and well-thought-out backpacks out there. They are unique in that crowdfunding is built into their design and production process. It’s not just how they got started, it’s how they jumpstart all of their new and innovative products.

For men looking for the absolute best laptop backpack, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack is a super functional, versatile, and well-built pack that works well on all fronts. It’s designed to work really well as a camera pack, but it’s capable of way more than that.

First, the laptop storage. The Peak Design Everyday Backpack has a top-access dedicated laptop compartment that is super easy to get into without opening the main body of the bag.

For getting into the main compartment, you have lots of choices. There is a lock-shut flap opening on the top and big zippered openings on either side. The side openings mean it’s really easy to get something out of the bottom of your bag without digging through everything else.

The inside of the bag is padded and has removable dividers that you can use if you’re carrying camera gear (or anything else for that matter). Though this works really well as a camera bag, I’ve found the dividers are actually pretty useful for keeping my everyday electronics organized and accessible.

My biggest complaint with this bag is the price. It is way more expensive than most simple daypacks, and you may have a hard time justifying the spend. If you want a top-notch feature-packed backpack, though, this is a great choice.

It’s available in two sizes, 20 L and 30 L, so you can get the perfect size for your needs.

Timbuk2 x ASTRO Gaming BP35 Backpack : Best Gaming Laptop Backpack

If you’re a serious PC gamer and need the ultimate backpack for carrying all your kit, Timbuk2 has an awesome range of seriously capable packs that are some of the best out there that are designed specifically for gaming.

The Timbuk2 x ASTRO Gaming BP35 Backpack is a purpose-built laptop bag for hardcore gamers. It has protective storage for two full-size laptops and all the accessories you can think of.

There are pockets galore both inside and outside, so you’ll have no problem finding places to keep all your charging cords, controllers, and more.

I love the fact that this bag has a specific hanger for over-ear headphones. It’s a small detail, but that’s just one example of how every feature is well-thought-out and purpose-built for gamers.

This is very much a niche backpack, so if you aren’t regularly carrying a big gaming laptop and all the associated tech, you may want something a little more simple and versatile.

How to Choose the Best Laptop Backpack for Travel

Choosing the right laptop backpack is no easy task, and it depends a lot on how will you use it. Do you need a reliable everyday backpack or a spacious carry-on backpack? Will you use it for commuting? travel? hiking? all of the above?

Here are some of the top factors to keep in mind as you search for the perfect pack for your needs.

Laptop Size

This one is easy to overlook, but not all laptop backpacks will fit every laptop. A few years ago I got a new, chunky 15.6-inch laptop for work, only to find it didn’t fit in my old laptop pack. I didn’t want to buy a new bag, so I ended up cutting slits in the side of the laptop compartment to make it fit (this is the same pack where I used a trash bag to keep my laptop dry in downpours).

Needless to say, getting a pack that fits your laptop correctly is a better solution. Most manufacturers will clearly label what size laptop their pack can fit.

When in doubt, I’d get a pack that can fit a 15-inch laptop. This covers most compact and full-size devices (including 15.6-inch screens).

Computers are expensive, delicate machines, and it’s important to keep your laptop safe while you travel. It’s worth looking for a pack that has lots of padding around the laptop compartment.

One feature you can look for is a “suspended” laptop sleeve. This means the sleeve is held up an inch or two from the bottom of the bag so there is more between your laptop and the ground if you ever drop it.

Laptop Accessibility

A bag can have the best laptop protection, sturdiest construction, and most comfortable design out there, but it won’t do its job if it’s impossible to get your laptop out when it’s fully packed. When you’re traveling, it is important to have easy access to your device, whether you need to pull it out for airport security scanning or catch up on work tasks.

I prefer packs with a laptop compartment that is totally separate from everything else. That way I don’t have to dig through the main compartment of my pack to pull it out.

Total Storage

You’re going to be carrying more than just a laptop in your backpack, so it’s important to consider the overall space that’s available. Backpack size is usually measured by how many liters of volume fit inside.

• If you just need to bring your laptop, accessories, and a few small essentials with you, a pack under 20 L should work just fine.
• 20-30 L packs work well if you need to carry more stuff, but aren’t packing everything for a trip in your backpack.
• If you are traveling and will be using your backpack as your only luggage, you’ll probably want 40 L or more of room.

Laptop Backpack Accessories

Here are some of the top accessories to get with your laptop backpack to make sure you’re fully outfitted for travel:

July Tech Kit

It can be hard to keep track of small electronic items like cables, headphones, and chargers. I usually end up losing them deep in my backpack and having to dig through to find them.

This little case gives you a dedicated place for those small, easy-to-lose items. With room for earbuds, chargers, cables, a usb battery bank, and a pen/stylus, you won’t have to worry about losing anything.

The transparent plastic case protects your electronics while making it easy to see what’s inside, while elastic holders keep everything secure and organized.

ProCase Headphone Case

If you’re traveling with a laptop, there’s a pretty good chance you’ll be bringing headphones along too. I personally vastly prefer full-size over-ear headphones to earbuds.

Unfortunately, I recently broke my nice headphones on a trip when I had them stuffed in the bottom of my backpack. Now I always recommend having a hardshell headphone case for protection.

The ProCase Headphone Case isn’t anything super fancy. It’s a zippered hard-sided zippered case that will fit most over-ear headphones. It’s affordable and does a great job at keeping your headphones safe during travel.

REI Co-op Duck’s Back Rain Cover

While some of the packs on this list are fully waterproof, not all of them are. If you ever expect to be out in rainy weather, I highly recommend having a dedicated rain cover for your backpack to make sure your laptop and everything else stays dry. Trust me, it’s a much better solution than wrapping your computer in a trash bag.

The REI Duck’s Back Rain Cover is a simple cover that’s made out of highly waterproof silicone-coated polyester. Water beads right off, so your pack stays totally dry.

It has an elastic border that wraps easily around pretty much any backpack. The XS size fits 18 L – 30 L packs, so pretty much any backpack on this list.

Why Trust TravelFreak?

We are a team of digital nomads, working from our laptops as we travel the world. We’ve tested dozens of packs in real-world conditions, and you can bet we’ve learned a thing or two about what makes a good laptop backpack for travel.

Everything on this list is something we personally would use in our own travels. In fact, many of these backpacks have seen months of hard use on our shoulders.

We did our homework so you don’t have to. We really dug deep into the features, materials, and performance of each pack to see how they measure up to the competition. Not every bag on this list will be the best at everything, but we’re confident each product is the absolute best in its own specific niche.

Best Laptop Backpacks for Travel FAQs

Which laptop backpack brand is best.

Nomatic makes high-quality laptop bags with smart features to make travel easier.

Is it safe to travel with a laptop in a backpack?

Yes, as long as your backpack has a well-padded sleeve, it is safe to carry your laptop.

What is a TSA-compliant laptop bag?

TSA-friendly laptop bags have a zip-away separate laptop compartment that lays flat for scanning.

What size backpack is allowed on TSA?

To carry it under your seat, a backpack needs to be smaller than 18” x 14” x 8”

Can I carry a laptop backpack and a carry-on?

If your backpack is small enough to be a personal item, you can bring it plus a full-size carry-on.

Jakob Thygerson

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The 13 Best Laptop Backpacks To Buy for Travel in 2024

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

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Things To Consider When Buying a Laptop Backpack

1. best for frequent flyers, 2. best for those who want to travel in style, 3. best for the born organizer, 4. best for the everyday commuter, 5. best for the money-conscious laptop owner, 6. best for the security conscious traveler, 7. a clever use of space in a sleek design, 8. the laptop backpack designed specifically for women, 9. a comfortable and lightweight backpack, 10. a savvy budget option, 11. for those who have a lot to take with them, 12. for the value happy traveler, 13. doubles up as an activity backpack, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

In order to safely transport your laptop from place to place, you need a protective vessel that not only works hard to keep your tech safe but is also comfortable to carry around with you.

Backpacks are the preferred bag type of students, commuters, and frequent flyers. Finding one that will fit your laptop as well as your day-to-day belongings will make travel just a little bit easier.

The size of your backpack should be large enough to comfortably accommodate your laptop and accessories, yet small enough to fit in an overhead bin.

Internal compartments should be roomy enough to fit not just your laptop and charger, but also all your vital necessities, including your wallet , cell phone, glasses, keys, and all the other things you rely on, to prevent you from needing to carry yet another purse or shoulder bag with you.

The size of your laptop will dictate the size of your backpack. Laptop backpacks have a dedicated, padded compartment to slip your laptop into, so it’s important to make sure that the pocket is large enough to fit your laptop.

Standard size dimensions include 15-, 16-, and 17-inch laptop compartments. The thickness of your laptop can make a difference in whether or not it fits, so be sure to take that into account.

Because laptops and all of their necessary paraphernalia can be heavy to carry around, your laptop backpack needs to be as lightweight as possible.

You want to be able to work on the move, but not be so weighed down that you suffer back strain while getting there. Laptops are designed to be portable, so the backpack that you carry it in should be easy and comfortable to carry as well.

Material and Durability

The level of protection your laptop backpack offers is one of the most vital aspects of its purpose. Your laptop needs protection not just from knocks and drops, but also from wet weather.

Some of the very best laptop backpacks on the market are made using waterproof (or at least water-resistant) material that will protect your laptop from the elements and is easy to clean.

Make sure that the material your laptop backpack is made out of is durable, resistant to abrasions, and won’t rip or tear, leaving your laptop vulnerable to the outside.

Meshed backs, curved back systems, and padded through-flows are also useful backpack design features that stop you from getting a sweaty back when carrying your backpack for long periods of time or in hot weather.

Handles and Straps

The beauty of a backpack is that it leaves your hands free for carrying coffee, checking social media on your phone, or holding on to your plane ticket. It’s essential that your backpack have strong, durable straps that will carry all the weight you put in it without tiring out your shoulders.

Comfort is also key.  Handles and straps should sit comfortably on your shoulders. They should be able to carry the weight of the bag with ease and not start to come loose or strain at the seams.

Backpack straps and handles should also be adjustable so you can find the most comfortable position that doesn’t cause back strain.

Laptop Compartment and Pockets

A superb laptop backpack should have multiple pockets and spaces to store all of your items.

The laptop compartment itself must be well-padded to ensure that your device is kept safe from knocks and damage at all times.

Additional pockets should be carefully devised to ensure that they can hold your chargers and cables without squashing or tangling them. There should also be a good variety of internal pockets that can be zipped up tight to keep USB sticks and other peripherals safe.

There should be plenty of room for your wallet, keys, and phone, all kept safely away from the laptop compartment to avoid scratching or damage as you reach in to grab what you need.

Smart Luggage

When it was first invented, smart luggage was considered to be the most exciting thing to happen in the world of carry-on bags . Cabin bags and laptop cases fitted with this type of technology were a real game-changer.

That was until airlines banned them due to the risk of carrying lithium batteries on packed commuter flights.

You can still take your smart luggage into the cabin, but there are very strict rules that apply. You must be able to remove the battery from the smart luggage in case it needs to be checked. This news may change your mind about paying the extra dollar for these handy features.

But fear not, dear flyer, for there are plenty of excellent laptop backpacks on the market without lithium batteries that will keep your beloved laptop safe and sound while you travel.

The 13 Best Laptop Backpacks for Travel

While there are many, many laptop backpacks on the market to choose from, only a few of them really make the grade. Here are some of our favorites.

• Swissgear Travel Gear 1900 Scansmart TSA Laptop Backpack

Weight: 3.3 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 9 x 18.5 x 13.5 inches

Made from superior quality, durable, and weather-resistant 1200D ballistic polyester, the Scansmart from Swissgear offers lie-flat technology to protect up to 17-inch laptops when traveling.

For your convenience, the easy-open compartments are designed to ensure hassle-free, laptop-in-bag TSA scans.

The main laptop compartment is easy to access and is separated from the additional iPad or tablet pocket. Both are fully padded and lined with scratch-free, soft material to help avoid damage during transit.

An additional large U-zip pocket on the front is perfect for keeping all of your pens, notebooks, wallet , and keys safe and within easy reach. The contoured shoulder straps are easily adjustable and the mesh panel with Airflow ventilation prevents sweating.

Packed full of useful features, this backpack not only performs well but also looks professional.

If you’re looking for a quality backpack to carry your laptop from one place to another, this a great option for frequent flyers who want to keep their tech safe and secure wherever they may be.

What We Like

• Can leave your laptop inside your bag going through airport security

What We Don’t Like

• No chest strap for extra support

• Incase Icon Pack

Weight:  2.8 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 13 x 9 x 19 inches

This design-conscious laptop backpack is made from patented Woolenex, abrasion-resistant fabric that’s woven from 2 different thicknesses of polyester fiber.

Durable and weather-resistant, this backpack looks chic and understated, while offering practical and versatile storage options.

The main compartment is large enough to carry a 16-inch MacBook, while the front pocket offers just the right size storage for your iPad or tablet.

Both compartments are padded and offer plenty of protection for your most valued devices, as well as being lined with soft, velour-like material that will keep your screens scratch-free wherever you take them.

In terms of extras, there’s a multitude of storage pockets and zippered compartments that are designed to keep all of your day-to-day necessities safe by your side.

There are even 2 side-access pockets that make it easy to get what you need without taking the backpack completely off. A pocket also features a headphone cable hole for easy listening on the go.

The stylish, minimalist design is low-key and label-free, meaning that you can safely carry around your expensive equipment without drawing too much attention to yourself.

• Headphone cable pocket
• Zippers are not water-resistant

• Timbuk2 – The Authority Pack

Weight:  2.4 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 11.4 x 18.1 x 5.9 inches

If you’re the kind of traveler who needs to take a lot of stuff with you, then this is the perfect laptop backpack for you.

Designed to comfortably carry all of your office necessities, this strong, durable, and well-thought-out backpack has plenty of room to accommodate your laptop and lots of extra items with ease.

The Authority Pack from Timbuk2 has strong adjustable straps that can be adjusted to suit your height and width, and a grab handle for easy lifting and carrying.

The fabric is designed to not only keep your gear safe and well-protected from the elements, but also to prevent sweating.

With the main compartment that can hold up to a 17-inch laptop and a wealth of additional pockets, you’ll be able to take everything you need on the road.

It also offers a neoprene water bottle pocket, compression straps (that also add a useful hanging function), a dedicated key keeper fob so you’ll never lose your keys in the bottom again, and internal pockets perfectly sized for cell phones, pens, chargers, and cables.

Whatever you’re taking with you, The Authority Pack backpack has the perfect space to keep it safe.

• Rear-positioned laptop for weight balancing
• Backpack straps are a little short

Thule Subterra Daypack 25L

Weight:  2.18 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 13 x 11 x 18.5 inches

The Subterra Daypack from sports luggage giant Thule is perfect for those who want to combine the sporting life with the everyday commute.

Made from the highest quality materials, the quick access compartment is large enough to hold a 15-inch MacBook as well as your iPad or tablet. This backpack also offers superior bumper protection with a soft, snuggly lining and 2-way access through the top-loading compartment or side zipper.

A useful addition to the Subterra backpack is the patented SafeZone compartment that can hold your sunglasses, smartphone, or other fragile items and can be removed for carrying separately.

There’s also a quick-access front pocket that expands to hold your charging cables or power bank , as well as a hidden vertical pocket that’s perfect for your headphones or wallet and includes a clip for keeping your keys safe.

Made from strong, durable nylon with the subtle Thule branding, this backpack is a good choice for those looking for practical and protective storage for everyday journeys.

Whether you’re traveling to work, the airport, or somewhere else entirely, this is a good-size backpack that will protect your laptop and stow everything else you need for the hard day’s work ahead.

• Molded side pocket to protect valuable items such as a cell phone or sunglasses
• Straps don’t tighten that much for smaller people

Solo Duane 15.6 Inch Laptop Hybrid Briefcase, Converts to Backpack

Weight: 2.05 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 12.5 x 5.5 x 17.3 inches

This laptop backpack may look like a simple backpack, but the hidden, convertible straps can instantly transform it into a briefcase. This unique function makes the Solo Duane perfect for business travelers who like the convenience of a backpack but the professional look of a briefcase.

The interior is roomy and well-padded. The dedicated laptop compartment will hold any of the most popular devices measuring up to 15.6-inches — including MacBooks, laptops, and Chromebooks. There’s also a dedicated pocket for keeping your iPad, tablet, or e-reader safe during transit.

There are plenty of additional storage compartments, including a large exterior pocket that can comfortably hold your charging cables, and 2 quick-access front pockets for phones, keys, wallets, and credit cards .

For the price you pay, this backpack is an absolute bargain! With plenty of space to hold everything you need to work or study, the price is right on point.

Complete with a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty , this backpack is great for a professional looking to impress, students who are serious about school work, or those who want an affordable laptop bag they can rely on.

• 3 different options to carry this bag
• No water bottle pocket

• Mancro Slim Backpack with USB Charging Port

Weight: 1.5 pounds

Overall Dimensions:  20 x 14 x 8 inches

This functional backpack offers really useful security protection for your laptop and your cards, including an anti-theft metal shackle and RFID-blocking compartments to keep your belongings safe from fraudulent use.

The dedicated laptop compartment fits up to a 17-inch laptop, while there’s a separate spacious compartment suitable for iPads and other tablets.

Made from durable, water-resistant polyester with metal zippers, the Manco Slim backpack is perfect for business users, commuters, or students. Another bonus is the built-in USB charger and charging cable which means you can charge your phone when you’re on the go.

The padded shoulder straps make this bag incredibly comfortable to carry on your back, and the grab handle is perfect for quick movements while on the go. The slim design makes it a good-looking piece that will also keep your laptop safe and secure wherever you are.

There’s plenty of space to carry everything you need on a daily basis, and the affordable price makes this a great addition to your travel gear.

• RFID-blocking compartments to prevent identity theft
• Not much space for other items with a laptop in the main compartment

eBags Professional Slim Laptop Backpack

Overall Dimensions: 8.5 x 18 x 12.8 inches

eBags is known for its clever use of space and the Professional Slim Laptop Backpack is no exception.

With a wealth of handy compartments and clever features, you’ll never be short of usable space with this strong, durable, and practical laptop backpack.

Made from twisted-poly fabric, the streamlined shape, and sophisticated design make this perfect for day-to-day use. The vented Airmesh back panel and contoured straps make this backpack super comfortable to carry around. The crush-proof pocket will keep your charger and other peripherals safe.

The dedicated laptop compartment will fit up to a 17-inch laptop, and the separate tablet pocket will also keep your entertainment gear safe on the move.

There are plenty of additional pockets for key chains, business cards, pens, and even a patented removable, crush-proof case that allows you to keep your cables safe no matter what . Genius!

If you’re not carrying something fragile, simply remove the crush-proof case and you have more space in the main pocket for large items — and you still have your laptop compartment free for a large laptop.

The slim design makes this backpack super easy to keep by your side at all times, and will help relieve the dreaded separation anxiety of worrying where your laptop is when you’re on the move.

At work or even while you travel, this slim backpack from eBags has got your back.

• Colorful internal lining helps to locate items quickly
• Quite a heavy backpack

The North Face Recon Backpack

Weight: 2.6 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 18.9 x 10.8 x 7.5 inches

Not only does The North Face make fantastic gear for intrepid explorers, but it also make pretty decent laptop luggage, too. This particular model would be as at home on a commuter train as it would be on a mountain top.

Designed specifically to suit the female frame, the shoulder straps, sternum strap, and hip belt are all adjustable.

When it comes to internal storage, the Recon offers a large main compartment that’s perfect for stashing books, folders, and other important documents, while the front compartment has a padded sleeve that can hold a small laptop.

There’s also a fleece-lined pocket for your sunglasses or phone, an extendable mesh water bottle holder, and added lash points. This backpack can be used as a laptop bag or just a regular backpack depending on your needs.

Made from high-grade nylon, the Recon boasts a range of features that are standard across The North Face line, including the patented FlexVent suspension system, a padded mesh back panel, and a highly breathable lumbar panel for increased airflow around your body as you travel.

• Comfortable and breathable back panel
• Backpack doesn’t stand up by itself

Incase Compass Backpack with Flight Nylon

Weight: 1.9 pounds

Overall Dimensions:  11.75 x 18 x 5.25 inches

Updated to use flight nylon, the Compass Backpack from Incase is designed to be compact and incredibly practical. You can fit up to a 15-inch MacBook Pro in the laptop compartment at the rear to ensure comfortable weight distribution on your back.

The double zippers allow you to open the main compartment only as far as you need , without risking any of your belongings falling out. Inside are a variety of internal compartments to keep all your day-to-day paraphernalia safe and sound, as well as a couple of quick-access pockets on the outside.

The backpack is made from premium lightweight flight nylon, meaning the bag is durable but won’t take up much of your weight allowance . The padded back panel and straps allow for comfortable and stable carrying wherever you’re headed.

The many different internal compartments provide the perfect hideaways for your keys, cards, cell phone, and books or documents. Whether you’re traveling for business, study, or just for fun, the Incase Compass Backpack  is good to go, whatever you need it for.

• Double zippers for easy access
• No sternum strap to alleviate the weight on your shoulders

Travel Laptop Backpack by Matein

Weight: 1.56 pounds

Overall Dimensions:  18 x 12 x 7.8 inches

Made from water-resistant, durable polyester fabric, this travel laptop backpack is great for laptop users on a budget.

With lots of lovely storage pockets and a separate laptop compartment, you can carry around your daily necessities with ease. What’s more, the comfortable airflow design with multi-panel ventilated padding makes this laptop back super comfortable to carry at all times.

The laptop sleeve comes with enough space to hold up to a 15.6-inch laptop. This backpack also comes with a cleverly designed, anti-theft pocket on the back of the bag so you can keep your valuables close and protected from theft.

Perhaps the most useful function of this particular backpack is the built-in USB charger and charging cable.

Attach your backpack to your rolling luggage using the back strap so moving through airports is a cinch. You can even tuck this bag under the seat in front of you, so there’s no need to worry about putting it in the overhead compartment.

Compact and well-designed, this is a great backpack for the price you pay.

• Lots of internal pockets to stay organized
• No bottom padding beneath the laptop compartment

Everki Atlas Business Laptop Backpack

Weight: 4 pounds

Overall Dimensions:  13.4 x 9.1 x 18.9 inches

This supercool laptop backpack benefits from a ton of extra features, making it perfect for anyone who needs to take a lot of stuff with them. Made using high-quality materials, your equipment will be well-protected wherever you may go.

Large enough for any adventure, this backpack will comfortably hold laptops from 13- to 17.3-inches in size , in the adjustable padded and felt-lined compartment that opens a full 180 degrees for easy access at airport security checkpoints .

Even when it’s fully loaded, the 5-point strap system means that this backpack is always comfortable to carry.

Aside from the main spacious storage area, there are also large, zippered pockets that are perfect for holding your iPad, tablet, or e-reader, as well as plenty of extra space for stashing your business cards, writing utensils, and other daily accessories you may need. There’s even a separate small stowaway pocket that’s perfect for storing your phone.

An investment piece for sure, but this is a great backpack that offers excellent protection for your laptop, as well as plenty of extra storage space for anything else you could want to take with you .

• Checkpoint-friendly compartment that opens 180-degrees
• Side pockets don’t fit a tall water bottle

AmazonBasics Backpack for Laptops

Weight: 1.98 pounds

Overall Dimensions:  13.39 x 7 x 19.29 inches

This laptop backpack from the AmazonBasics line of products has been cleverly designed to protect and hold your laptop while you’re on the move. With multiple storage compartments, you can carry your laptop and work accessories with you everywhere you go.

Made from heavy-duty material that offers some weather resistance, this backpack looks way more expensive than it actually is.

There are plenty of internal pockets to store your pens, keys, wallet, and smartphone, and the bag holds up to a 17-inch laptop in a padded, dedicated laptop compartment. There’s even a separate handy compartment in which to store your iPad or tablet.

The adjustable and heavily padded shoulder straps make the backpack comfortable to wear, even when loaded with all your gear. There’s also a mesh water bottle compartment on the side.

While there are other, more expensive laptop backpacks available on the market, this one is both affordable and practical, making it perfectly suited for use as a budget laptop backpack.

• Lots of internal and external pockets
• Zippers can sometimes get stuck

Osprey Nebula 32 Commuter Backpack

Weight: 2.12 pounds

Overall Dimensions: 11.42 x 12.2 x 19.29 inches

This bag is loaded with features that make it a great option for traveling with a laptop. Featuring a specially designed harness and suspension system, this backpack moves with you and provides incredible ventilation and comfort, even when you’re packing a heavy load. You’ll certainly stay cool with this ventilation system, making it perfect for warmer climates.

Made from strong and durable material, this clever, TSA-compatible backpack even has a blinky-light attachment point

The dedicated laptop sleeve will keep a 16-inch laptop protected. There are plenty of additional zippered pockets and mesh organizers to keep your cell phone, credit cards, notebooks, and other daily necessities organized, and dual stretch mesh water bottle pockets. It has a capacity of 32 liters.

Made by luggage giant Osprey , this is a backpack that’s perfectly designed for those who like to stay active while keeping their laptop safe and well-protected. However, as such a comfortable and well-designed backpack, it’s well-suited to double up as a professional backpack for travelers who work and play.

• Protects larger laptops than many laptop bags
• No lockable zippers

If you’re looking for a backpack that will sit comfortably on your shoulders, provide ample protection, and look good, any of the above will fit the bill. While some of the big-name brands do offer superior quality at a higher price point, there are some great budget options, too.

One thing is for certain, a laptop backpack is a must for anyone on the go with a laptop. Keep your gear safe, look professional, and keep your back comfortable by choosing the right laptop backpack for your travel style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to pack your laptop in your suitcase.

It is strongly recommended that you do not pack your laptop in your suitcase. A suitcase will be subject to many bumps and knocks between check-in, loading, and unloading at your next destination. Invest in a laptop backpack that you can take as carry-on and keep your laptop protected and on your person.

Can I carry 2 laptops in carry-on baggage?

Most laptop backpacks will only have 1 laptop compartment designed to fit a single laptop but many laptop backpacks will be large enough to fit 2 overall. Provided you have the batteries installed in the laptops and they are charged enough to prove they work, you should not have a problem taking 2 laptops in a carry-on. It is recommended you check with your airline in case they have specific requirements.

Which laptop backpack is the best for travel?

While there are many, many laptop backpacks on the market to choose from, only a few of them really make the grade. Here are some of our favorites:

What size backpack do I need for my laptop?

The size of your laptop will dictate the size of your backpack. Laptop backpacks have a dedicated, padded compartment to slip your laptop in to, so it’s important to make sure that the pocket is large enough to fit your laptop.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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The best laptop backpacks and briefcases for traveling

Between the TSA and bouncing around in the overhead storage bins, laptops get tossed around during travel quite a bit, which is why having the right bag is a must. It’s also convenient to have a bag that can easily display a laptop for security purposes. So, what should you look for in a laptop travel bag?

Ideally, you want something protective, with additional compartments for organizing and storing accessories. You also want something that fits your personal style and is easy to transport. Waterproof material doesn’t hurt, either. Check out our list below to find your perfect laptop travel bag, including both backpacks and briefcases. And if you’re looking for bags that are suited for larger laptops , check out our list of the best 17-inch laptop bags  here.

Tortuga Setout

There’s a good reason why travelers love Tortuga bags. They are well-built with highly durable and weather-resistant fabrics, and they’re shaped to fit comfortably. Tortuga’s new Setout series, which we have been using for nearly all our travels as of late, has become our favorite. The Setout Backpack not only can hold a 17-inch lMacBook or laptop and accessories, but it also has a ton of room for clothes. In fact, it meets carry-on size requirements, yet can fit a week’s worth of clothing if you pack accordingly.

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There are a ton of extra pockets for accessories, too, and the hip belt helps distribute the weight evenly when the bag is fully loaded (it also has a compartment for things you need to access often, like a phone or passport). From internal padding to the zippers, the Tortuga Setout feels amazingly strong. For techie nomads who travel out of their suitcases, the Setout is ideal. For short-length travel, the Setout also comes in a smaller size, called the Setout Divide ($125). Don’t have clothes? Tortuga has the Setout Laptop Backpack ($89), which features all the best attributes of the other Tortuga Setout bags, minus the extra space.

Hynes Eagle 38L Backpack

This weekender polyester backpack is one of the best options for short flights that we’ve seen, with pockets and straps for everything you could need, whether you’re going on a professional trip filled with electronics or joining your friends for a quick excursion. It has a top handle, side handle, and adjustable, hide-able shoulder straps, no matter which way you want to hold it, along with two sets of compression straps for securing all your items — and, of course, it’s designed to fit into overhead plane compartments without any trouble.

The laptop pouch is found in the roomy front organizer and is suitable for 15-inch and extra slim 17-inch laptop models.

Osprey Ozone Duplex

The Ozone Duplex is like having two bags. One, called the Daypack, has padded storage for a laptop and tablet, as well as other essentials. The Cargo Bag, which secures on top of the Daypack, has room for clothes and other gear. The idea is that when you get to your destination, you can detach and leave the Cargo Bag at your accommodations, while the Daypack functions as a regular backpack. The Cargo Bag has a separate shoulder strap, too, should you want to haul each separately. The Osprey Ozone is gender-specific, however — there are two versions, one for men (Duplex 65) and another for women (Duplex 60). If you tend to carry two bags anyway, the Ozone Duplex is a neat two-in-one solution.

Everki Titan

The Titan is a colossal backpack, one capable of holding an 18.4-inch laptop. This makes it ideal for anyone with a large gaming laptop who travels frequently. Additionally, the bag features several large compartments, and so you can store plenty of gear including laptop accessories and other devices (tablets, handhelds, etc.). The tablet pocket is even lined with felt, making it safe for any screen.

Although it may seem like such a large backpack would be terrible for moving through security, the titan opens up 180 degrees, so it can move through a screening machine easily. The pack’s innovative design also makes it easy to rifle through compartments and grab the specific device you want at any given moment. It may not be the right choice for every consumer, but those with mammoth laptops and an assortment of gadgets will appreciate the Everki Titan’s bountiful pockets and smart organization.

Timbuk2 Foundry Pack

If you already have a favorite luggage set for traveling, you may not want anything too large or incompatible with your other gear. Timbuk2’s slim, trim Foundry Pack is an ideal solution. It’s a backpack that plays well with luggage (including a slip-through pocket for handles), but with a focus on your electronics and meeting items. That includes an internal organizer for small bits, a laptop sleeve for laptops up to 15 inches, and a comfortable shoulder strap for changing positions. Those useful magnetic clasps also make it easy to quickly pop the pack open to find what you’re looking for. Think of it: the pack for all your quick-access business and travel stuff that’s instantly ready for whatever event you’re heading to.

Mancro Water Resistant Laptop Bag

Simple, affordable, and ideal for rainy cities, the Mancro Water Resistant Laptop Bag can fit laptops under 17 inches in size and comes with a built-in USB charging port. There are also more than 10 compartments for housing tablets, phones, chargers, binders, clothing, water bottles, and anything else you may need on the road. The design hits a sweet spot that makes this bag suitable for a business meeting, trade fairs, school, and anything in between. If you’ve been trying to find an affordable laptop bag that still has all the features you need for a busy life/travel plan, you can’t go wrong with Mancro’s water-resistant option.

Lodis Accessories Audrey Brera Briefcase with Laptop Pocket

If you’re looking to make a fashion statement with your laptop bag, we can guarantee you’ll want this classic shoulder bag. The Audrey Brera Briefcase features a modern, elegant style along with a padded laptop compartment. This bag has plenty of storage for all your essential items, including an exterior pocket and four convenient card slots. You’ll never fear an unauthorized pairing again with this bag’s RFID-protected pockets that keep all your devices and credit cards safe. If that’s not enough, you can also detach the shoulder strap to switch up your style.

Mobile Edge Alienware Vindicator 2.0 Briefcase 17″

For ample storage space for your 17.3-inch laptop, check out the Vindicator 2.0. Manufacturers designed this travel bag to comfortably fit Alienware’s 17.3-inch laptop and more within its storage space. The product is checkpoint-friendly and makes for a straightforward traveling experience. In the bag’s other two compartments, you could also transport gaming gear and accessories. Whether you’re traveling to the E3, PAX, or Comic-Con gaming convention, the Vindicator 2.0 will prove to be a trusty travel companion. You could also try out Mobile Edge’s ScanFast bags , which are checkpoint-friendly and easy to use.

Tumi Alpha 3 Triple Compartment Brief

It’s expensive for a laptop bag, that’s for sure. But if you’re in the market for a well-made and fashionable laptop briefcase and you’ve got the cash, why not treat yourself a little bit? But the Tumi Alpha 3 Triple Compartment Brief isn’t on our list just for its looks. It’s functional too with its tablet and laptop compartments, tons of storage for all of your little accessories (about 12 interior pockets and about 4 exterior pockets), a removable padded shoulder strap, and a laptop compartment that can fit either a 15 inch PC laptop or a 16 inch MacBook. If you travel for business often and want to do so in style, this is the bag for you.

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• People Tested

The 15 Best Laptop Backpacks for Travel of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Our top pick is the Solo Re:Define Backpack

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Things to Consider

How We Tested

Why trust people, what is people tested.

People / Conor Ralph

Whether for personal or business use, laptops are deeply ingrained into our daily routines and it’s difficult to leave them behind when traveling. With a laptop backpack, you can take your work or entertainment with you. Even celebrities like Bradley Cooper, Gigi Hadid, Taylor Swift, and Emma Stone have been seen toting stylish and functional backpacks around because they act as easy storage, transport, and fashion accessories.

“When looking for the ideal travel laptop bag, I seek out style and overall functionality,” celebrity fashion stylist and consultant Chelsea Volpe tells PEOPLE. She also looks for timeless designs rather than ones that will come and go with the season. Other factors to consider are durability, storage design (”Pockets are your friend,” Volpe says), and tech features such as a USB charging port.

We tested 43 of the best laptop backpacks for travel in the lab and at home for two months, and compared qualities like the capacity of the bags, the design, and the durability of materials — a quality we tested by dropping backpacks with laptops in them. After literally carrying this test on their backs, we found a group of bags that are worthy of being your and your laptop’s next travel companion.

These are the best laptop backpacks for travel that PEOPLE Tested.

Best Overall

Solo re:define backpack.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

This sustainable bag held up to durability tests in our lab and traveling across the country.

It’s lightweight and distributes that weight evenly to reduce pressure on your shoulders.

It's extremely spacious despite its small size.

The cushioned straps and back panel make it comfortable to carry.

The shoulder straps are narrow at the top, which could be uncomfortable for taller or larger folks as it may rub the neck.

Though the Solo Re:Define Backpack looks small and unassuming, its capacity seems nearly limitless. During our lab tests, we were able to fit a laptop, a pair of shoes, toiletries, a shirt, a pullover, and a pair of joggers, as well as a book, wallet, keys, and lotion. Even packed to the brink, the backpack weighed maybe 15 pounds — not a huge burden to tote around an airport. The storage options varied between a protected laptop sleeve, small organization pockets, and water bottle pockets; in addition to a battery pack pocket for USB storage and on-the-go charging capabilities. 

The materials lend themselves to a durable and low-maintenance design. Made with recycled polyester sourced from plastic water bottles, this backpack is water-resistant and can be cleaned with a gentle wipe-down. It also held up to wear and tear, with no marks or visible damage after our durability test.

The cushioned straps are comfortable on your shoulders, though they’re close together up top so it could be uncomfortable for some folks if it rubs your neck. That said, we think it’s one of the most comfortable and well-fitting backpacks of the day. When you consider the storage, durability, high-quality materials, comfort, and low price, this bag is a must for any regular traveler.

How it's held up: When we tried this backpack in the real world, we were continually impressed with its capacity. It’s a bit of a Mary Poppins bag because it almost feels bottomless. We could fit our laptop, several books, cosmetics, snacks, and essentials like a wallet and keys in this spacious bag — with plenty of space left over. The whole back panel even opens up as a protective sleeve for your laptop or tablet. The zippers had smooth closures, and the padded straps made the backpack comfortable to wear throughout the day when traveling. We agree with the lab’s assessment of the straps’ narrowness at the top. That said, this lightweight backpack distributes its weight and you feel the impact more on your hips than your shoulders. The sustainable materials are easy to wipe down after a trip — even after traveling across the country, there wasn’t a single scuff or scratch on this backpack.

Laptop Size: 15.6 inches | Colors: Black, gray | Material: Recycled PET polyester | Extra Features: Trolley sleeve for luggage, USB port, RFID data protection pocket

People / Jessica Juliao

Best Budget

Bagsmart bonchemin laptop backpack.

It's large enough to fit multiple laptops of varying sizes.

It features many pockets and compartments to fit everything you need on a trip.

This bag includes a charging port, so you don’t have to worry about your phone battery dying mid-journey.

During home testing, we learned that the laptop compartment has zippers that must be clipped, or the weight of the laptop will cause the bag to open.

This favorite from Bagsmart comes with all the qualities you want in a laptop backpack, but with a price tag that will make you raise your eyebrows — it’s that good. We love the large compartment space (which can fit multiple laptops), soft material, stylish design, and comfort. Our shoulders felt light after taking off the bag, despite having carried it around for a bit. 

It also survived — nay, thrived — during our durability tests. The test laptop survived the drop in this bag and came out with no scuffs and no marks. We initially judged the bag based on its basic appearance but were so wrong. We were delighted by the extra features like the charger port, capacity, and quilted cloth design. For the price, this bag is so worth it.

How it's held up: If you're looking for a bag that doubles as an everyday work backpack and a travel one, we took this backpack on a nine-day trip to Ireland, and continue to use it as an everyday work bag. One thing we learned is that you have to fasten the zippers with the clips on the laptop sleeve or the weight of the laptop can open the bag (unfortunately, we learned this while riding the subway). However, there are also so many compartments and pockets, that you can fit everything you need, and more.

Laptop Size: 15.6 inches | Colors: Black, beige, gray, pink, black 17.3, pink rose | Material: Water-resistant polyester | Extra Features: Some hidden pockets, adjustable straps, USB charging port

TripSavvy / Conor Ralph

Best Investment

Lo & sons rowledge.

Lo & Sons

• Comfort 4 /5

It has a stylish design and comes in two sizes depending on your needs.

It has proven to be very protective of our laptops over two months of testing.

This bag is made from a durable and water-resistant material.

It has many compartments for organized storage.

Neither size available fits laptops larger than 13 inches.

If fashion is your priority, this stylish Lo & Sons bag is undoubtedly eye-catching. We were in awe of the design because it's very chic with the brand logo, zipper tassels, and leather design. But it’s not just a good-looking backpack, it’s functional too. It looks small on the outside, but once you open it, there is more than enough space for a sweater and any tech you have; there’s even a zippered section for a water bottle. While the bag is only available in black, there are several interior colors available as well as various hardware options.

While it comes in two sizes, neither fits a laptop larger than 13 inches. The premium nylon material is water-resistant and quite durable, and because it’s padded all the way through, the laptop survived the fall test. We noticed the material was a little stiff at first, but it became more flexible and adjustable as time went on. You can also use it as a backpack or a tote, thanks to the sleek top handles.

How it's held up: For two months, we’ve used this bag for our office commute and as a travel bag for airport trips. It’s proved to be sleek, protective, and comfortable throughout long days of wear. It also thoroughly protected our laptop and provided lots of storage and organization options.

Laptop Size: 13 inches | Colors: Black with 7 hardware/interior options | Material: Premium nylon | Extra Features: Convertible design, luggage trolley sleeve

Best Weatherproof

Peak design everyday backpack.

• Portability 5 /5

This bag features many hidden compartments with room for pens, a camera, a laptop, and more.

The straps are adjustable and padded, which makes it super comfortable to wear.

It's made with a durable poly-coated nylon material.

The fastener seemed flimsy when on the go — we wish it were more secure.

For certain adventures, your travel backpack might face inclement weather, and if you have your laptop in tow, you’ll want a bag that keeps it protected. This backpack is thoughtfully designed with plenty of features for photographers or people traveling with technology gadgets. It scored well in terms of capacity because it has a spacious interior, two removable dividers for separating items that could be fragile, and an expandable magnetic clip.

Despite the size, it also proved quite comfortable. It’s so lightweight, and combined with cushioned and adjustable straps and durable and weatherproof poly-coated nylon material, this bag is highly durable and will keep your laptop safe — much like it did when we dropped the backpack and the laptop stayed intact. Though expensive, the price is completely fair for the high-quality design and materials.

How it's held up: We used this primarily as a work bag, and were impressed with the storage capacity and organizational compartments. The chest strap fits nicely, and the laptop sleeve has help up in protecting our computer. We do wish the backpack fastener was a little more secure.

Laptop Size: 16 inches | Colors: Black, midnight blue, charcoal, ash | Material: 400D double poly-coated nylon canvas shell | Extra Features: Trolley sleeve, adjustable straps

Best Faux Leather

Monos metro backpack.

• Design 4.5 /5
• Comfort 4.5 /5

This laptop backpack was comfortable to carry around even when at full capacity.

It has deep pockets with more than enough room for anything you need to carry, including several laptops.

It's water- and scratch-resistant.

The small bag attached to the front falls off occasionally.

There isn't a water bottle holder on the exterior of the bag.

This is a gorgeous bag that’s as eye-catching as it is effective. The design is perfect for everything from commuting to air travel. Even without the detachable bag on the front, there was a good amount of room for storage. The backpack comes in durable nylon or vegan leather options, and both materials are water- and scratch-resistant. The only initial hiccup with the design was the lack of a water bottle holder on the exterior of the bag. 

We loved the look of the vegan leather and though it feels slightly stiff, the bag is comfortable to wear. This bag kept the dummy laptop secure during the drop test — we were impressed with its durability. We think it’s a well-made backpack with thoughtful features like padded handles, plenty of pockets, and a detachable front pouch for staying extra organized.

How it's held up: While home testing for two months, we noticed that the front attached bag falls off occasionally which isn’t ideal, and the deep pockets can be a recipe for losing items at the bottom of your bag. While we love the capacity of this backpack, it might be better suited for travel with larger items than as a commuter bag carrying smaller pens, notebooks, etc.

Laptop Size: 15 inches | Colors: Saddle tan, mahogany, ivory (plus four colors for nylon material) | Material: Ultra-microfiber vegan leather | Extra Features: Water- and scratch-resistant materials, trolley sleeve, top handle

Tripsavvy / Conor Ralph

Best Durable

Troubadour orbis 1-pocket backpack.

• Design 4.3 /5
• Comfort 4.8 /5

During our drop tests, it survived seven drops without any scuffs or damage marks.

The strap padding is highly cushioned, so it's comfortable to wear.

It has several pockets for extensive organization options.

The main compartment opening tapers down slightly, making it harder to get into.

When you travel with a backpack, it has to endure quite a bit of wear and tear. This one-pocket backpack from Troubadour was the most durable among those we tested. Its canvas-like material is actually a recycled polyester, and though lightweight it can sustain a good beating. After dropping it seven times during our tests, it didn’t have any scuff marks or damage and still looked brand new. The amount of padding on the straps creates a super cushioned feel, though it wasn’t super breathable and our tester got a little sweaty when carrying it around.

In addition, the capacity was impressive — we could fit a surprising amount of clothing and cosmetics. The large number of pockets allows for extensive organization, and the water bottle pockets can fit up to a 24-ounce bottle. The design is sleek, and the main compartment is spacious, but we did notice the top of the compartment tapers down slightly, so the opening is a little hard to get into. Though slightly inconvenient, the slides’ fabric expands to help you access the compartment better. Overall, this is a well-designed, durable, and comfortable backpack to invest in.

How it's held up: We found this bag to be spacious, durable, and comfortable for regular commutes. It has a series of pockets and compartments for organization, as well as a protected laptop pocket, which is easy to access and unzip. The main pocket issue also existed in our real-world testing; basically, it’s hard to get into this backpack on the go, because the zipper lives under a tapered flat. So we just had to stop and take the backpack off to get into it. However, the padding was extremely thick and comfortable to wear throughout the day. It has remained durable without any scuff marks during our real-world testing, and frankly, given the amount of padding, we would feel confident kicking the bag even with our laptop in it. 

Laptop Size: 16 inches | Colors: Black | Material: Recycled polyester | Extra Features: Smooth zippers, clever pockets, waterproof fabric, 5-year guarantee

Best Design

Béis the backpack.

• Design 4.8 /5
• Durability 4 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

This backpack features lots of storage compartments and organization options.

It has a water-resistant lining that protects your laptop from rain or spills.

It's comfortable to wear when not overpacked.

The bottom of the laptop sleeve is not padded.

A reusable water bottle doesn’t fit in the drink pouch.

As a standout piece in Shay Mitchell’s luggage brand , Beis, this backpack offers extensive storage, a chic design, durability, and comfort when wearing it. This bag was definitely designed by travel pros because there's a ton of capacity — the bag wasn't even close to half full with the items we packed in. The capacity includes water bottle holders, a laptop sleeve, zippered compartments, and more. When this backpack appears on a list of Cyber Monday luggage deals, definitely snap it up.

Though we were nervous about the laptop sleeve not having a padded bottom, the backpack kept the laptop protected during our drop test. We were, though, impressed with the comfort. The straps are nicely padded and adjustable, and a good width apart to feel comfortable around our frame. The overall features of this bag make it very convenient and portable: Its comfortable and durable design, expansive capacity, water-resistant lining, and protective laptop storage make it a fabulous laptop backpack for travel.

How it's held up: We used this bag on two international trips and it fits an astonishing amount. It fully opens, which makes it easy to see where everything is inside (no digging around!). We noticed that a reusable water bottle did not fit super easily in the water pouch, which was disappointing. It also felt super heavy when full, but we do love the organization options.

Laptop Size: 15 inches | Colors: Black, beige |  Material: Cotton, PVC, polyester | Extra Features: Trolley sleeve, water bottle pockets

Best for Organization

Timbuk2 authority laptop backpack deluxe.

• Capacity 4.5 /5

It has excellent storage capacity and lots of pockets.

It's made from water-resistant material.

The padded straps are adjustable.

It may not be able to hold all of your essentials for a longer trip.

This deluxe backpack from Timbuk2 is an organizer’s dream. With pockets and hidden compartments inside, outside, and on the sides of this backpack, there are countless ways to organize this bag. The main compartment fits all of the packing items without issue, and it’s super sleek and thin — plus there are tons of pockets for staying super organized.

We loved the lightweight feel of this backpack, as well as the padding and cushioned feel of the adjustable straps when wearing it. We felt like we could wear this all day and not feel any pinching or immediate pain. It also passed our durability test with flying colors, as the laptop sleeve is super padded, and the bottom of the bag has a waterproof material, so nothing seeps through. While it might not be able to hold all of your essentials for a longer trip, we feel like this bag would last a really long time with daily use.

Laptop Size: 17 inches | Colors: Black deluxe, eco black deluxe, nightfall, static, olivine, titanium | Material: 100 percent recycled nylon | Extra Features: Trolley sleeve, air-mesh back panel, compression straps

Best Padded

Swissgear 1900 scansmart laptop backpack.

This backpack has extensive organization and capacity options for every kind of usage: commuting, traveling, running errands, and more.

It features technology that allows for easier airport travel.

It's made with washable and waterproof material.

The utilitarian design may not appeal to those wanting something more sleek or stylish.

Swissgear offers a highly durable, comfortable, and spacious backpack to keep your laptop protected during travel. The polyester material is washable and waterproof, the large zippers are all metal, and the material is thick and seemingly well-constructed, so we can see this bag lasting for years while being used daily. We also appreciated the extra padding on the straps and back panel, which we would describe as exceptionally soft.

The capacity proved spacious and allowed for organization with various pockets and sections to keep your things in place. With a plethora of pockets and compartments, this bag makes sure everything has its rightful spot. It also has Scansmart technology to speed up the TSA process. We loved the overall look and design, and while some might find it a bit utilitarian in appearance, considering the price and all the features, we’d say it’s a steal.

How it's held up: Upon receiving this backpack, we threw our old backpack away (literally at the office) and have never looked back. We carry it around two to three days per week, and it works beautifully for shopping (and loading up on gifts and goodies), commuting, going to the gym, and traveling. We’re huge fans of the compartment options and organization capabilities, though it does get a little heavy to carry around when overfilled.

Laptop Size: 17 inches | Colors: Blue, gray, heather gray, black, and more | Material: 1200 D polyester | Extra Features: Scansmart tech to speed up TSA process, adjustable straps, padded airflow back panel

Bee & Kin The Midi Nomad Backpack

Bee & Kin

• Durability 4.8 /5
• Value 4.8 /5

The front pocket has wireless charging capabilities for your phone.

It didn’t scuff or scratch when dropped during the durability test.

It sits a little low on your back even when the straps are on the tightest setting.

Despite being a smaller backpack, this bag fits everything we wedged into it during testing. In addition to the spacious main compartment, there’s also a front pocket designed as a wireless charger (though the actual charger is sold separately) and a protective laptop sleeve. It felt lightweight, and while there wasn’t padding, it didn’t really need any since it’s so small. 

While walking around, the bag was comfortable on our shoulders, even when fully packed. It sat a little low on our backs but that’s not a dealbreaker. It passed the durability test without any marks of scuffs, but since it’s a genuine leather bag, we would advise you to be mindful of its care. Given the material, we understand the higher price tag, but it could be too expensive for some budgets. Overall, we think this is a sleek, quality backpack that would be a fun accessory to take your work on the go. 

How it's held up: When we tried this backpack outside the lab, it fit everything we needed to carry around. We really liked the front pocket for storing quick-grab items like your keys, wallet, and phone. And the fact that it can charge your phone while you’re out doesn’t hurt. We like the look of the buckle straps but in terms of comfort, the backpack sits a little low on our backs. We weren’t particularly careful with the bag, and it still hasn’t scratched. The design and small size would make this an ideal work bag for commuters.

Laptop Size: 13 inches | Colors: Green, red, black, tan | Material: 100% genuine Italian leather | Extra Features: Charging pocket, outer pocket, water bottle pocket

Best with Charger

Vohler laptop backpack.

This backpack has lots of organization compartments and pockets to store different-sized items.

We found the exterior material durable despite a lot of use and wear.

The luggage strap makes for easy transport, as you can throw it on top of your suitcase and wheel it around.

The fabric inside a pocket liner frayed and ripped within two months of use.

If you want a bag that provides plenty of storage when you travel and lets you charge your devices on the go, this Vohler pick is a good choice. We love the organization compartments, USB charger, durable material, and stylish design. We were able to sort everything within the multiple pockets, and there are extra hidden pockets for more valuable items. 

We appreciated the compact size, which can fit wonderfully under a seat and in the overhead compartment on a plane. This contemporary bag offers a built-in USB charger, high quality, and durable fabric that’s water-resistant. The bottom padding helped during our impact test, keeping the laptop intact when dropped via the backpack. We loved this well-designed bag, and thinks it will last for many trips to come.

How it’s held up: We’ve used this backpack for two months for work and travel. Though one of the pocket liners frayed and ripped, the majority of the bag has shown incredible durability — we’ve thrown it under plane seats, overpacked its capacity, and taken it on many road trips. We love the luggage strap and how easy it is to throw on top of our suitcase to wheel around the airport. It has a ton of pockets and compartments for storage, and we’ve utilized the USP charger many times which adds a layer of convenience to traveling.

Laptop Size: 15.6 inches, 17 inches | Colors: Black, blue, grey, rose red | Material: Water-resistant polyester | Extra Features: Built-in USB charger

Best for Business Travel

Samsonite just right standard backpack.

This backpack features plenty of compartments and organizer pockets for storing a variety of items.

It has a sleek, sophisticated design that received lots of compliments when we used it on trips.

It has lots of cushioning and plenty of support from the shoulder straps.

It has a smaller capacity compared to others we tested, which could be inconvenient for those who need to pack a lot with them.

If you’re popping out for a quick business trip, this backpack is the perfect work bag for brief commutes. It easily fits a laptop and iPad and could definitely fit another computer. In fact, everything from the test fit in the bag, but it’s definitely more of a commuter bag or a second carry-on, rather than a main bag for a trip. It’s a highly cushioned bag, with plenty of support when wearing it, as well as padding around your laptop for extra protection. 

Other cool features include the USB cord, all of the various organization pockets and compartments, and a trolley strap to attach it to luggage when you don’t feel like carrying it. Our one lament was that there was only one water bottle pocket, and it was not very large. The overall design is super lightweight, and we think the outer and inner materials both seem high quality and durable — plus, nothing was damaged during the drop test. It’s a very sleek bag that doesn’t have a huge capacity, but it looks professional and is extremely organized. It would be a great bag for work commutes or as a personal item on a plane.

How it's held up: Over two months, we learned this bag has just enough pockets to stay organized without allowing you to overpack and cause bulkiness. It goes with everything, and we always get compliments on it when out and about. It doesn’t fit too much, which we liked because it prevents us from overpacking, but this could be inconvenient for those who need more spacious bags.

Laptop Size: 15.6 inches | Colors: Black | Material: Nylon | Extra Features: Adjustable straps, included cable for charging devices, trolley sleeve

Best Carry-On

Tortuga travel backpack.

It’s spacious enough to fit an entire tent, as well as camping gear and other essentials.

It was comfortable to hike with for two hours.

It's extremely durable and showed no signs of wear, dirt, or marks after an entire weekend of camping.

The waterproof material kept everything inside dry on a rainy day.

It doesn't have a dedicated laptop sleeve, but there is plenty of space and padding for a laptop to fit and be protected.

We only tested this one in the real world rather than the lab, but it stacked up against the competition so well that we think it deserves a spot on this list. To start, it’s huge — we took it camping and we were able to fit an entire tent inside the main compartment as well as clothing and other small gear. There isn’t an actual laptop sleeve for this one, but it can fit a 16-inch laptop and then some.

We hiked with it full for two hours and it was more than comfortable. There are a decent number of pockets, water bottle sleeves, and an extra compartment on the back, perfect for a book or other flat item. It is somewhat heavy, but that’s because of the extra durable material which showed no dirt or wear after a weekend-long camping trip. It’s also waterproof and keeps everything inside dry on a particularly rainy day. 

This one is a little expensive, but if you want a versatile backpack you can use as a carry-on for travel, a pack for camping, or a durable bag for any journey, this is worth the investment. Given the size and versatility of this bag, it would make a great carry-on to fit an entire weekend’s worth of clothes, shoes, and cosmetics in lieu of a rolling suitcase.

Laptop Size: 16 inches | Colors: Black | Material: Durable, waterproof sailcloth | Extra Features: Water bottle pockets, fleece-lined tablet and laptop sleeves

People / Taylor Fox

Best for Students

Fjällräven räven 28.

• Durability 4.3 /5

It has a huge storage capacity with numerous pockets and compartments.

This backpack protected a laptop during the drop test and when we placed the bag in spilled water.

It has comfortable, supportive straps that don’t dig into your shoulders when wearing it.

We wish the water bottle pockets on the side were bigger.

If you’re in the market for a backpack for school, field trips, and the like, this bag provides vast storage capacity for supplies, notebooks, and laptops, and is easy to transport. We found that this bag easily fit everything in our packing test with tons of pockets to spare. The padded laptop compartments can fit two laptops and an iPad. In addition to two water bottle holders (which we wish were a bit larger), there are several hidden pockets for valuables, and many more for organizing. 

We also loved the design of this backpack. The straps and back are also mesh which is great for breathability. Plushy straps, a leather top handle, and classic canvas material are just a few features of this versatile backpack. We were somewhat worried about the canvas collecting dust and being susceptible to stains, but it fared well during testing. It held up during our impact test and protected the laptop from sustaining any damage. We would recommend this product, especially to a student or someone commuting. 

How it's held up: Over two months, we used this backpack about three times per week for work and various times for travel. It offers plenty of space and numerous compartments for storage, organization, and more. It sits flat against your back, which makes it great for commuting, especially on the subway. It’s supportive and super comfortable to wear and doesn’t dig into your shoulders. And when we accidentally set it down in spilled water, the laptop remained dry and protected.

Laptop Size: 15 inches | Colors: Basalt, foliage green, navy, terracotta brown, port, and more | Material: Polyester, cotton | Extra Features: Mesh organized pockets, adjustable padded straps

Best for Outdoors

Solgaard lifepack backpack.

It has a spacious capacity, including numerous pockets for organization.

The USB ports for charging devices are discreetly hidden.

It featured a plush drop-proof laptop sleeve, which protected our computer during the drop test.

It's made with recycled plastic materials.

You have to buy the Solarbank separately, and the backpack itself is quite expensive.

If you’re adventuring into the wilderness, or perhaps just a casual backyard campout, this Solgaard backpack has space for everything you’ll need. It has a large capacity and spacious interior. Overall, we loved the design and were impressed with how much it can fit. Plus, the cushioned straps and chest strap made this backpack incredibly comfortable. Plus, its material is made from 100 percent recycled plastic, so you can feel good about your purchase.

This backpack has a plush drop-proof laptop sleeve which proved effective during testing — protecting the test laptop from sustaining damage. The backpack feels very durable and offers lots of cushion for the items inside. It’s also compatible with Solagaard’s sister product — the Solarbank Boombox — which acts as a portable charger, Bluetooth, and sound system. The only hiccup is you have to purchase the Solarbank separately. 

How it's held up: We used this for our work commute and travels for over two months and we love the innovation with this backpack. It contains incredible storage for technology like laptops, chargers, iPads, and more. The plugs and wires in the bag are very discreet. If we have to name a con, we’d say the pockets in the front section could be more versatile — they’re rather small and don’t fit larger items. 

Laptop Size: 17 inches | Colors: Baltic black, Atlantic blue, charcoal, Granada green camo, Granada green | Material: Shore-Tex, recycled plastic | Extra Features: Anti-theft lock, connects with Solarbank for portable charging and music on the go

Things to Consider Before Buying a Laptop Backpack for Travel

When you’re buying a backpack for travel, especially one for transporting a laptop, you should consider the capacity and how much will fit. Some laptop backpacks for travel only fit certain size laptops, others might just fit a laptop and a few other things and some can store several clothes as well as notebooks, laptops, toiletry bags , and more. In some cases, laptop backpacks for travel with higher storage capacity can function similarly to a weekender bag . And bonus points if there are lots of pockets and compartments for organizing your items. “Compartmentalizing work items creates ease of navigation on the go,” Volpe says. 

Durability  

“Another factor in purchasing a travel laptop bag is durability,” says Volpe. She points out various travel hazards like spilled coffee on planes and rainstorms where a good backpack material can be the difference between a ruined day and momentary inconvenience. You want to make sure that, like other types of underseat luggage , your laptop backpack for travel can withstand the wear and tear of being shoved by your feet on an airplane. “Durable materials like leather are luxe and long-lasting,” says Volpe. "They also take wear and tear nicely.” She points out that the look of leather improves over time, so even once it has worn down over time, it will retain that vintage leather feel. 

“Another great option for durability is high-quality polyester,” she says (as well as nylon). She adds that this material generally costs less than leather, and can “outlast torrential downpours and being crammed into an overhead compartment.” Our best overall laptop backpack for travel is the Solo Re-Define Backpack , partly due to its lightweight, durable, water-resistant polyester material.

The design of a laptop backpack for travel can either aid or hinder your travels, so you want to look for features that add to the overall comfort, durability, and use of the bag. Features like adjustable straps, the ability to connect to a charger, and the number of pockets and storage compartments are all important factors to look for. Also, an ergonomic top handle is great for those who prefer carrying tote bags .

“Instead of being too trend forward I look for a travel laptop bag that has an aesthetic which can last for three to four years versus one season," Volpe says. She suggests avoiding wild prints/patterns and looking for solid colors that will pair well with many outfits and occasions. “A travel laptop bag isn't something you just throw away like a budget-friendly evening clutch,” exclaims Volpe. “It has to be appropriate to take to business meetings and while working from your local coffee shop.” It's not unlike investing in a great functional women's work bag .

But a laptop backpack for travel doesn’t have to be boring. “Color is A-okay for the creative and fun-loving types," she says. "Combination neutrals like cream, brown, and gray are chic, mature, and versatile to coordinate with any outfit." And for the tech-savvy shopper? “You may want a travel laptop bag that has a headphone port, RFID-blocking ID slots, and/or an external USB with a built-in charging cable.” Most of the options on our list include a USB charging port, including the Vohler Laptop Backpack with Charger .

The price of a laptop backpack for travel can range from $50 to $500 or more, so you just have to keep your budget in mind, as well as the features you’re not willing to compromise on, and find a bag that meets both of those criteria. Certain materials like leather (and quality vegan leather) will cost more, like the Monos Metro Backpack coming in over $200. Tech features, like charging capabilities, can also add to the cost. The Solgaard Lifepack Backpack costs more, but its USB capabilities, anti-theft features, and Solarbank compatibility make it well worth it.

PEOPLE / Conor Ralph

Our team tested 43 of the top-rated laptop backpacks for travel in our lab, comparing qualities like design, capacity, durability, level of comfort, and overall value. After testing these features, 15 bags came out ahead as our winners.

• Setup: First our team assessed the design of the bags, looking at storage capacity, various pockets and compartments, ability to be organized, and so forth. Then they simulated packing a bag for a trip with real items like a prop laptop, prop iPad, chargers, notebooks, a layer of clothing, a water bottle, and a cosmetic bag. 
• Functionality: Once the bag was packed, our team tested its functionality, considering how much it weighed, how comfortable it was to carry around, and if any part of the design aided its overall use and portability (like adjustable straps for instance).
• Durability: To test the durability and level of protection, we dropped each bag with a prop laptop inside twice, to see if it provided adequate cushioning to keep the computer intact. The laptops were then checked for scratches and damage and turned on to see if the internal hardware had been affected by the impact. Our chosen laptop backpacks for travel were supportive and cushioned and kept the laptops from experiencing damage. We continued testing for two months in the real world to collect additional insights.

Our top-rated laptop backpack for travel is the Solo Re:Define Backpack . At a very affordable price, it features comfortable cushioned straps and a back panel, and plenty of room for work essentials, and then some.

As a general rule, most airlines won’t let you carry on a backpack that’s bigger than 22 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 9 inches deep. This is to ensure the bag will fit comfortably underneath the airplane seat or in the overhead compartment. If you have a backpack that exceeds these measurements, you’ll have to add a luggage tag and check it in, so keep the dimensions in mind when making a selection. We love the Lo & Sons Rowledge bag as both sizes are designed to fit comfortably under an airline seat.

A durable nylon or polyester will be the most enduring material for a laptop backpack for travel. Both materials are water-resistant, and less susceptible to rips and tears than other materials. In some high-end bags you’ll see leather used, which is fairly durable, and also provides an element of style. So the best material depends on whether you care more about fashion or function.

Madison Yauger is a senior commerce writer for PEOPLE who’s tested hundreds of lifestyle products across all categories. With a background in news and lifestyle journalism, she has a wide network of expert sources and a penchant for accuracy. For this article, Yauger also spoke to celebrity fashion stylist and consultant Chelsea Volpe. She also drew on insights from our lab tests in evaluating purchasing decision factors such as price, capacity, the durability of materials, design, and comfort of carrying to determine the best laptop backpacks for travel.

Chelsea Volpe is a celebrity fashion stylist and consultant.

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The 8 best travel backpacks of 2024

Need lots of pockets for water bottles or tripods? Theft-deterrent zippers? A cushioned laptop compartment? No matter what kind of travel bag you need, we’ve got you covered. 

Whether you’re traveling overnight or for weeks at a time, you'll need a backpack that's functional, comfortable, and helps keep you organized.

We know there's no one backpack that will work for everyone, so we picked bags that will meet the needs of most types of travelers—whether you need a small option for the overhead of a plane, or lockable zippers for security.

Our best overall travel backpack is the Peak Design Travel Pack 45L , which ticks all the boxes for durability, versatility, and comfort, but also offers a thoughtful design, unique organizational features and high-quality, sustainably made materials.

Our picks for the best travel backpack

Best overall: peak design travel pack 45l.

Buy it now: $300 at Backcountry and Peak Design

Why we like it:   The sleek-looking Peak Design Travel Pack 45L is our best overall travel backpack. It's expandable, carry-on compliant, and is bursting with innovative features.  

This backpack is functional—think gusseted side pockets for water bottles or tripods—and made with high-quality weatherproof materials and theft-deterrent zipper pulls. It’s durable and secure, and it’s obvious that every detail of this bag has been carefully thought through.  

There are smartly placed pockets, and the padded harness system tucks beneath magnetic flaps for duffel-style carry. The spacious main cavity is accessible from the front, rear and both sides, and the extensively padded bag has 16-inch laptop and tablet sleeves.

Keep in mind:   At 4.5 pounds, it’s not light, and smaller-framed travelers may find it cumbersome to carry. The harness isn’t adjustable, so the torso length is one-size-fits-all.

Product details:   Sizes available: 30L, 45L | Materials:   Recycled nylon and polyester | Frame type: Frameless | Number of external pockets: 8

The best with laptop compartment: Thule Aion 40L

Buy it now: $200 at Backcountry

Why we like it:   The Thule Aion 40L is our best backpack with a laptop compartment.   It’s a carry-on travel backpack that accommodates a 16-inch laptop while leaving plenty of room for other gear.  

Its roomy side-access laptop compartment contains cushioned laptop and tablet sleeves. There’s a compartment for accessories and a rollaway bag for damp or dirty items in the main compartment, which minimizes the chances of wet belongings damaging tech.  

There are breathable, padded shoulder straps and a back panel, plus a sternum strap to keep things secure. A robust side handle facilitates duffel-style carry, and there’s a pass-through for a rolling suitcase attachment.

Keep in mind:   There’s no weight-bearing hip belt, and the wax-coated canvas creates a weathered look that might not appeal to everyone.

Product details:   Sizes available: 28L, 40L | Materials: Recycled polyester | Frame type: Frameless | Number of external pockets: 2

The best small travel backpack: Patagonia Atom 20L Tote Pack

Buy it now: $89 at Patagonia

Why we like it:   Our pick for the best small travel backpack is the Patagonia Atom 20L Tote Pack, a versatile, lightweight bag that stows under airplane seats. This backpack has a large main compartment, which houses a thickly padded removable 13-inch laptop sleeve and a hydration bladder pass-through for hikers.  

External features include a bike light loop, attachment points for the removable sternum strap and other essentials, and a zippered front compartment that occupies the full length of the bag.  

The well-padded, breathable harness system makes the Atom a comfortable carry in backpack mode, but it can also be transported tote-style using its sturdy handles.  

Keep in mind:   The two compartments lack organizational features, and the laptop sleeve compromises internal space. The backpack fits a 17-inch torso length, so it may not work for taller travelers.

Product details:   Sizes available: 20L | Materials: Fairly traded recycled polyester and nylon | Frame type: Frameless | Number of external pockets: 3

The best anti-theft backpack: Pacsafe Venturesafe EXP35 Anti Theft Travel Backpack  

Buy it now: $270 at Amazon

Why we like it:   The Pacsafe’s practical, versatile Venturesafe EXP35 Anti Theft Travel Backpack is our pick for the best anti-theft backpack. It’s made with recycled slash-resistant material and lockable, puncture-resistant, self-locking zippers.  

This pick has an RFID-blocking pocket to keep credit card information safe and a hidden lockable 16-inch laptop compartment. The comfortable, breathable harness system has cut-resistant straps that can be used to secure the bag to fixed objects.  

Keep in mind:   The anti-theft features hamper quick access, and the bag’s solid construction and numerous compartments make it feel heftier than it is.

Product details:   Sizes available: 35L | Materials: Recycled polyester | Frame type: Frameless | Number of external pockets: 3

The best rolling backpack: Osprey Farpoint / Fairview 36 Wheeled Travel Pack

Buy it now:   $300 at Osprey ( Farpoint and Fairview )

Why we like it:   The Osprey Farpoint/Fairview 36 Wheeled Travel Pack* is our pick for best rolling backpack. It’s comfortable in backpack mode, has a stamina-saving rolling mode, and is straightforward to switch between the two.  

This bag features padded shoulder straps and hip belt, mesh back panel and torso adjustment to provide a comfortable backpack-style carry. If your back needs a break, engage the harness stowaway system, extend the single tube ergonomic handle and let the rugged, oversized wheels do the work.  

Organizational features include a zippered top pocket for quick-access items and a 15-inch laptop compartment; the main cavity facilitates easy packing with its compression straps and suitcase-style opening.  

*The bags’ features are identical; however, the Fairview’s fit is tailored specifically to women.

Keep in mind:   It’s a heavy bag, and the interior frame and stowed rolling handle reduce capacity in the main compartment.  

Product details:   Sizes available: 36L, 65L | Materials: bluesign® approved recycled nylon | Frame type: 4 mm LightWire peripheral frame | Number of external pockets: 4

The best carry-on backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 35l Travel Pack

Buy it now:   $200 at REI

Why we like it:   The Allpa 35L Travel Pack from Cotopaxi is our best carry-on backpack—a durable, easily stowable option with thoughtful organizational features and anti-theft zippers.

The no-nonsense, adjustable harness system tucks away neatly into a slotted back panel during transit, while four reinforced grab handles make pulling the backpack out of an overhead bin child’s play.The bag opens suitcase-style for efficient packing, but a side zipper also provides on-the-go access.  

High-visibility backing in the front compartment makes searching for small items less challenging, and there’s convenient side access to the padded 15-inch laptop sleeve, which has a false bottom to protect devices if dropped. There’s a rainfly included, should you arrive at your destination to unexpected wet weather.

Keep in mind:   Flimsy and lacking structure, it doesn’t hold its shape unless it is full. The lack of an external water bottle pocket may be a deal-breaker for some.

Product details:   Sizes available: 28L, 35L, 42L | Materials:   Recycled polyester and nylon | Frame type: Frameless | Number of external pockets: 2

The most versatile backpack: Gregory Rhune 25 Pack

Buy it now:   $130 at REI

Why we like it:   Our pick for the most versatile travel backpack is the Gregory Rhune 25 Pack, a water-resistant travel backpack with great functionality and a surprising amount of space.  

Thanks to its structured base, rounded body, and organizational compartments, more fits into this 25L bag than you’d expect. Padded internal sleeves fit a 15-inch laptop and tablet/folio, and pockets outside include a handy swing-around access stash pocket.  

With a moisture-wicking padded back panel, removable sternum strap and contoured shoulder straps, this bag is designed to carry weight comfortably: a great all-rounder whether you’re a hiker, digital nomad, or urban sightseer.

Keep in mind:   Top-opening access makes it tricky to locate items at the base. Shoulder straps may feel bulky to smaller travelers.

Product details:   Sizes available:   20L, 22L, 25L | Materials: Recycled polyester and nylon | Frame type:   Frameless | Number of external pockets: 4

The best budget backpack: tomtoc Navigator-T66 Travel Laptop Backpack 40L

Buy it now:   $82 at Amazon

Why we like it:   The Navigator-T66 Travel Laptop Backpack 40L is our pick for the best budget travel backpack. It’s made with quality materials and loaded with organizational features despite its affordable price tag.  

The sturdy, water-resistant, and easy-to-pack clamshell design, plus the multi-functional pockets and attachment points, mean efficient organization. This backpack has a TSA-friendly 17-inch laptop compartment, which will save time at airport security.  

The cushioned harness means it’s comfortable to wear, and top and side handles and a pass-through make it easy to grab or attach to a wheeled suitcase.  

Keep in mind:   It’s so heavily padded that packing space feels compromised. There’s no load-bearing hip belt.

Product details:   Sizes available:   40L | Materials:   Recycled PET bottles | Frame type:   Frameless | Number of external pockets:   4

Our review process

I referred to brand product descriptions, third-party reviews, competitor articles, Reddit discussion boards, watched an excessive number of review videos, and evaluated my findings with my own knowledge and experience, considering the following:

Material and quality: Durability of materials and hardware is critical for a bag that will be repeatedly thrown into overhead bins and exposed to bad weather.

Versatility: I looked for bags that could be carried duffel-style, fastened to a rolling suitcase or pulled-on wheels and were capable of protecting tech equipment, and keeping belongings dry on hikes.

Storage and protection: I looked for features such as stowable harness systems for ease of storage, and hidden pockets and anti-theft zippers for peace of mind.

Comfort: Weight-bearing, cushioned hip belts, secure sternum straps and adjustable padded shoulder straps all maximize carry comfort.

Organization: Positioning and accessibility of pockets, compartments and attachment points are a matter of personal preference, but they should maximize functionality.

Sustainability: I prioritized bags made with recycled materials and brands actively addressing their social, ethical and environmental impact.

What to know about travel backpacks

Here are a few things to consider when buying a travel backpack:

The most common materials used for travel backpacks are nylon and polyester (both increasingly recycled), which can be treated to enhance durability and water resistance.

The size of a travel backpack is measured in liters, with external pockets included. How much it actually fits depends on shape, material thickness, flexibility, and padding.

Backpacks with heavy external frames offer structure and support. Internal frames hold bags closer to the body, offering more stability but less ventilation.

Number of external pockets

External compartments such as mesh water bottle holders and quick-grab pockets are great for organization.

Carry-on weight allowances vary between airlines, so a lightweight bag optimizes what you can pack.

Look for high-quality harnesses with cushioned straps, breathable back panels, secure sternum straps, and a weight-bearing hip belt if required.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best backpack to take on a plane.

Choose a backpack that fits in an overhead bin and has a robust handle for retrieving it. Quick-access external pockets and efficient internal organization enable quick access to belongings; lockable zippers provide security.

Is a travel backpack a carry-on?

As long as it complies with your airline’s regulations.

What is a good size backpack to travel with?

The length and purpose of your trip will determine the size of the bag you need. Generally speaking, a 25-30 liter backpack should suffice for weekend trips, and 30-45 liters allow a good amount of space for longer travel. For most airlines, backpacks up to 45 liters should be carry-on compliant.

Related Topics

• PRODUCT ROUNDUP
• TRAVEL BACKPACKS
• ADVENTURE TRAVEL

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The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

When you open up your favorite carry-on travel backpack, it should feel like you’re opening the door to a well-organized closet or sitting down at a clean desk, with everything in the right place and easy to reach.

This is your moment to center yourself, no matter how chaotic the journey.

What we considered

A 45-liter bag maximizes overhead space but can get heavy when fully packed; 35-liter bags tend to be more manageable.

A bag with a clamshell design opens like a book and is the easiest to pack, but a bag that opens traditionally tends to have more structure.

Ideally, a travel backpack has handles on all sides—especially the bottom—so you can pull it out of overhead bins or from under seats.

Some internal pockets are useful, but major organizing is better managed with packing cubes.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack and the larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L offer the best combination of features, quality, and durability. Both bags are exemplary carry-on travel backpacks that are designed for comfort, durability, and organization. Though these backpacks are great as companion bags for any trip, they’re designed to ultimately replace all of your other luggage and become your exclusive bag as you travel.

This style of packing is not for everyone, but once some people try it, they’re forever hooked. Finding the right bag is a personal choice, though, and no single bag will appeal to everyone. That’s why we also have picks that are great for people who travel for work , others that are designed to be carried over long distances , and a bag that’s basically luggage on your back .

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, best small carry-on bag for most situations: cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack, best large bag for most situations: peak design travel backpack 45l, best mobile office: patagonia black hole mlc 45l, best bag for long journeys on foot: osprey farpoint 40 and fairview 40, best bag if you need a large suitcase on your back: tortuga travel backpack pro 40l, other good carry-on travel backpacks, how we picked and tested, the competition.

I’ve been covering aspects of luggage and travel bag design for Wirecutter for nearly a decade, and I have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags in that time. I personally try to do most of my travel with a single backpack, whenever possible. I spent nine months roaming around Hawaii with not much more than that, and I spent another six months nomadically couch-surfing in New York City.

I reached out to writers who specialize in traveling the world carrying everything they need in a single bag: Eytan Levy, the owner and operator of the Snarky Nomad travel website; James Feess, founder of The Savvy Backpacker ; and Sharon Gourlay, of the Where’s Sharon? travel website. I also spoke with moderators of Reddit’s r/onebag and r/heronebag forums, as well as with Chase Reeves, bag fanatic, reviewer, and owner of Matterful .

We researched and tested bags designed for those who want to travel light and stay flexible while flying, without the burden of checking luggage. For some people, the challenge of cutting down a packing list is intimidating. But if you can get past that initial hurdle, traveling with a single bag is a revelation. With fewer items, you have more time to concentrate on and appreciate the journey.

• When you’re not loaded down by heavy luggage, it’s easy to remain more mobile. And it’s easier to adjust your plans mid-trip. If you’re willing to do laundry on the road, then one bag is all you need to travel indefinitely. At its heart, one-bag travel allows you to discover more—not just about the places you’re going but also about yourself and what you really need day to day.
• Size and weight still matter. If you desire more creature comforts or more gear, or if you plan to be away for a long time across multiple climates, you’ll want a bigger travel backpack . These larger bags tend not to be carry-on-friendly, however, especially in Europe, so be prepared to check them.
• No single backpack is perfect for everyone. Before you make any purchase, consider some basic points. How much can you carry? And where do you usually visit: the city or outback? Travel gear should feel like a welcome companion—there to support you when you need it but unobtrusive when you don’t.

45-liter bag vs. 35-liter bag

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

This durable bag’s clamshell design makes it easy to organize your stuff. And due to its strap design, this bag can be worn on your back or carried in your hand while you’re on the move.

Buying Options

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is an easy-to-organize, comfortable-to-carry bag for getaways lasting just a few days or a whole week.

It’s one bag that can do it all. This is a great all-around bag for any traveler who’s dedicated to packing light, or for a smaller person who wants less to carry. There are handles on all four sides of this bag, so it’s easy to grab no matter where you’ve stowed it. It’s also protected by a full lifetime warranty, and it has the build quality to back that up. After more than four years of testing, this single backpack (plus a personal item ) has replaced nearly every travel bag or piece of luggage I use.

It comes in various sizes, but we think the middle-of-the-road version is the best. Cotopaxi also makes the Allpa in 28-liter and 42-liter sizes. But for us, the 35-liter bag is the best option. At 42 liters, this bag becomes heavy for most people to carry when it is fully packed, and we’d prefer that it had a more-robust hip belt. At 28 liters, the bag becomes a touch small for most people, and its internal organization feels fussy for shorter trips, such as an overnight. Cotopaxi also makes a hip pack , which is designed to fit snugly into the Allpa bag’s front top compartment. It’s a neat little addition to the bag, and it is worth getting if you like wearing fanny packs while you travel.

It’s organized, easy to pack, and easy to carry. The Allpa bag has a clamshell design, so it opens like a hard-sided suitcase—a large YKK zipper runs around three sides of the bag, allowing it to fall open into two halves when unzipped. On the right side is a deep compartment, spacious enough for two large packing cubes or half a suitcase’s worth of clothing (which you access through a mesh zippered flap). On the left, there’s space for one more medium-size packing cube behind a zippered flap. Above that there are two smaller pockets with high-visibility backing—useful when you’re looking for hard-to-differentiate personal items.

It’s secure but still accessible. The Allpa pack has two side-access zippers—great for on-the-go access, especially when the bag is hanging from your shoulder. One of these reveals a flat computer pocket with a padded false bottom; so if you drop the bag, it won’t land on the corner of your computer. The other reveals a “secret” pocket with a hidden zipper and access to the main compartment. All of the main compartment zippers are protected by security loops, which you thread the zipper through at the end of its run. This prevents anyone from subtly or quickly grabbing a zipper and opening your bag when you aren’t paying attention.

It’s comfortable to carry. The Allpa bag’s hip belt—which can be removed while the bag is on your back—is substantial enough that it’s comfortable to wear when you need it. With or without the hip belt, the Allpa bag is comfortable to carry over long distances. However, folks who have longer torsos (over 19 inches) may find that the waist belt sits a little high off the hips, unless you fully extend the shoulder straps. Speaking of shoulder straps, unlike the ones on our other picks, the Allpa bag’s straps are contoured to fit people who have large or small chests. It’s not a specifically gendered design, but our female tester noticed the improvement right away.

The Allpa pack is made with 1680-denier ballistic nylon, similar to the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . (Denier is a measure of a fabric’s fiber thickness.) It feels similar to a strong canvas, but it has a more prominent weave. This is the type of bag that’s as easy to toss into an overhead compartment as it is into the back of a rusty pickup truck. And it also includes a rainfly, which is unique in this category.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Though this pack is well organized for packing, it’s less ideal as a mobile office. The Allpa pack has a minimal amount of administrative organization—places to keep pens and papers, spaces to hold tickets, and so forth. This is where a good personal item comes in handy. However, if you want to travel with just this one bag, there are a few nooks you can hide things in. The front organizer is deep enough that you can also fit several small organizing pouches, if you want, or the aforementioned fanny pack.
• We prefer the model without the TPU front. Cotopaxi does enjoy playing around with fabrics and colors. Sometimes the company has released the Allpa pack without the TPU-lined front panel. The TPU panel improves water resistance, but after many years of traveling with our bag, we’ve found that the TPU layering can begin to flake in spots.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight: 3 pounds 5 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: adventurous Colors: assorted

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

An easily customizable large bag for long trips and expensive gear.

This bag was built with photographers in mind. Yet most travelers will appreciate its easy accessibility, clever tuck-away straps, and the elegant way the bag expands and contracts. The accessory cubes cost extra, though.

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a good choice for those carrying more expensive gear—especially camera gear. It’s also great for those who prefer a large, backpack-based packing system.

One bag provides many configurations. Some bags in this category are built to do one thing extremely well—be carried on your back. But the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is built to adapt. It’s the Swiss Army knife of backpacks: adjustable, customizable, and (if you spring for the extra cubes and organizers) an almost perfect system for a photographer or gearhead on the move. Most bags’ expanding mechanisms aren’t worth the extra zipper they’re built on, and they look about as attractive as a boiled ham splitting out of its plastic packaging. That’s not the case with the Peak Design: This bag looks just as good fully packed at 45 liters as it does compressed to a 30-liter daypack.

It’s expandable, with clever folds and zippers. You can access the bag through a back panel (which doubles as a computer and tablet pouch) as well as a front one (if you unzip the pass-through divider). You can also get into the main compartment via two wing-like trapezoidal flaps, which run along each side of the pack. In its natural shape, the Travel Backpack holds 35 liters, but an expansion zipper lets the bag swell to 45 liters. If you want to use the bag as a daypack, you fold in the top corners and snap them down, reducing the bag’s volume to a slim 30 liters. In this configuration, it will still feel larger than a normal daypack, but we think that’s a small compromise for being able to use one backpack as both your travel bag and your daily explorer. The bag itself consists of 400-denier nylon and polyester fabrics. It feels tough but not as tough as some other bags we’ve tested, such as the Cotopaxi Allpa.

It has fold-away straps, for easier storage. The Peak Design lets you tuck its shoulder and hip straps away when you’re not using them. But unlike any other bag we’ve ever tested, this pack has magnetic flaps on the back panel that open and close with an almost magical snap. Once you’ve played with them, you’ll wonder why every backpack doesn’t have something similar. A small, childish part of me still gets excited about tucking away the straps when I put the Peak Design into an overhead bin. Although the straps are thin, they’re still comfortable. The hip belt isn’t quite as plush as the one on the Tortuga pack; still, even when the Peak Design is fully loaded, the belt doesn’t pinch or dig into the body.

It’s great for carrying expensive gear. If you travel with a camera, you don’t have to use Peak Design’s camera cubes , but they do make carrying that gear a whole lot easier. The cubes come in five sizes. And if they’re situated properly in the bag with the provided clips, they line up with the Travel Backpack’s side-access flaps for quick access. Caleigh Waldman (a photographer for this piece and, full disclosure, my spouse) took this bag across the country for a wedding shoot. “I want this backpack,” she said after three weeks of travel. “I want to travel with it everywhere. With my cameras. Without my cameras. It doesn’t matter. I want to travel with it.”

• It’s expensive—especially if you commit to the entire system of packing and camera cubes.
• More complexity means more things that can break. The adjustable design and multiple zippers do add complexity, and complexity adds potential weaknesses. Peak Design covers all of its bags with a lifetime warranty , which should alleviate most people’s concerns. But if you’re particularly hard on your gear and still need to carry as much as possible, you might consider the Tortuga bag instead.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: back-panel loader Style: minimalist and unobtrusive Color: black, sage

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

Combines more organization with a simple interior.

This bag’s split interior makes organizing easy. Those who travel for work will appreciate this bag’s dedicated panels for organizing tech, books, papers, and assorted miscellaneous items.

If you travel often for business and prefer a bag that’s much easier to work out of than most of our other picks, you may like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L . This bag has a front panel and assorted pockets that make it feel like a small traveling office.

It’s built like luggage but organized like your office. Of all the bags we recommend, the MLC (short for Maximum Legal Carry) comes closest to being a suitcase on your back, due to its large size, simple interior, and minimal external features. The MLC is also one of the simplest bags we tested, divided into two leaves (imagine a book with only one page), with a main compartment for packing and a second compartment for document organization and tech storage. The MLC has a built-in laptop compartment that fits 17-inch laptops and is situated close to your back; this protects the computer and keeps its weight closer to your body.

Despite its size, it’s comfortable enough to carry. Most carry-on backpacks of this size, without frames, become somewhat unwieldy when fully packed. Thankfully, the Black Hole MLC bag, like the Cotopaxi Allpa, is a welcome exception to this rule. The MLC has two shoulder straps, a hip belt, and an optional shoulder strap, for easy carrying. When they're not in use, or when you’re checking your bag, all of the straps can be stowed away easily. When fully loaded, the bag was pleasant to carry—not as comfortable as the Peak Design or the Osprey, but decent enough. I wouldn’t want to carry it all day across a city, but I wouldn’t mind carrying it through an airport to a car and to a hotel.

It’s built from high-quality materials, with durability in mind. This pack is made from recycled polyester, and the fabric is woven in a cross-weave that’s very similar to what Patagonia uses in its long-lasting Black Hole series of duffle bags . This is a material I’ve come across a bunch with Patagonia gear, and I’ve tested it thoroughly; it’s very tough. The front of the bag is coated in a weather-resistant TPU, for extra protection from the elements. The bag has large YKK zippers (the industry leader) and smaller YKK zippers throughout. Unlike the Cotopaxi Allpa pack, the Black Hole MLC bag has no security loops.

It comes with one of the best repair programs and a lifetime warranty. Similar to our other picks, the MLC is backed by an excellent lifetime warranty , and we’ve always found that Patagonia’s repair program goes above and beyond other comparable companies.

• We wish the Maximum Legal Carry (despite the name) came in a few more sizes. The 45-liter capacity may be intimidating for some people, and there is no alternative.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 3 pounds 10 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell Style: retro Colors: tan, black, olive, green

Osprey Farpoint 40

For long distances on foot.

A great starter option for one-bag travel, this bag is easy to pack, adaptable to most situations, and sturdy enough to take with you as you travel the world.

Osprey Fairview 40

For long distances and smaller torsos.

A scaled-down version of the Farpoint, this bag has shoulder straps that are slightly lower, to keep the bag’s bulk more aligned with smaller torsos.

Updated in 2023, the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 packs are both built around a hiking backpack frame that’s easy to carry over long distances.

It’s built for travel but designed for hiking. The Farpoint 40 bag is well made, easy to pack, and comfortable to carry over most mid-length distances—such as walking across a city for an afternoon. (For simplicity’s sake, everything we say here about the Farpoint bag also applies to the Fairview bag.) Osprey makes excellent backpacks for hauling around, and its lifetime warranty is renowned within the industry . The Farpoint pack also has an optional messenger bag–style strap, which offers some flexibility when you’re maneuvering tight spaces like subways or crowded city centers.

It’s simple to pack, but not as spacious as it seems. Opening the bag reveals a clamshell design; it’s deep enough to accommodate most large items, yet you won’t have to fumble awkwardly with zippers once it’s time to close up the bag. The feeling you get is not unlike when you’re packing a bit of sturdy luggage, and that’s something we love about bags like this one—especially when you use packing cubes . Osprey says this bag, when fully packed, can carry 40 liters. But after using the Farpoint bag for a few years, we’ve decided that its rounded shape seems to cut into that theoretical packable space more than other bags do. In practice, the Farpoint pack’s available space is closer to—but still less than—that of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L .

It’s the easiest bag to carry among our picks. Like all Osprey bags, the Farpoint 40 has very comfortable shoulder straps. The years of design and consideration Osprey has put into its hiking backpacks are quite evident in the Farpoint 40. After more than seven years of long-term testing this bag, we’re still surprised by how great it feels to wear when fully packed. Crucially, the straps of the Farpoint 40 stow away neatly behind a zippered panel. However, when you’re using the shoulder straps, the design forces you to also use the hip straps. Though this isn’t a huge issue, if you prefer a sleeker look or would rather have the option of using shoulder straps without hip straps, the Cotopaxi Allpa pack is more flexible, and it lets you hide the waist straps while the bag is on your back.

The Fairview 40 has the same features, in a scaled-down size. The Farpoint 40 and the Fairview 40 packs basically have the same design, but the Fairview pack is made for someone with a more-diminutive torso. It’s also slightly lighter. However, it has the features and durability of the Farpoint bag. It also has the same hip belt and adjustability. On both, the chest-strap clip is also equipped with a small security whistle that’s surprisingly loud. It’s a handy feature for anyone traveling in unfamiliar environments.

• For a smaller carry-on travel backpack, this one has little to not like. However, we do wish Osprey would trade some of the sleeker contours for a little more interior space.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight (Farpoint): 3 pounds 3 ounces Weight (Fairview): 3 pounds 2 ounces Main compartment access: front-panel loader Style: active Colors (Farpoint): green (Gopher), gray (Tunnel Vision), blue (Muted Space), black Colors (Fairview): blue (Winter Night), red (Zircon), blue (Night Jungle), black

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

A suitcase to carry on your back.

For dedicated single-bag travelers, this water-resistant, durable bag is easy to pack and to travel with. And it’s comfortable to wear over endless miles—as long as you don’t mind the heavier weight.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L maximizes packing space in a bag that’s durable, water-resistant, and customizable to fit most torso lengths (there’s also a 30L version ), with plenty of organizational features to suit any digital nomad.

It’s like a suitcase, with backpack straps. The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L is built to occupy the maximum carry-on space available. It’s a nearly perfect blend of backpack and luggage. On the outside, its tear-resistant sailcloth and sealed zippers provide ample protection from sharp objects and the elements. Opening the main clamshell zipper reveals a cavernous interior and a few organizational features that make the bag a cinch to pack. The front panel is a particular standout, great for keeping track of electronics and chargers. Of all the bags we tested, the Tortuga strikes the closest balance between the carrying comfort of a hiking backpack and the space and organization of a piece of luggage.

It’s as easy to pack as luggage. When it comes to packing, the Tortuga pack has a soothingly minimal interior, as any good suitcase should. In addition to the bag’s cavernous main pocket, its interior lid has a large vented panel. The panel is too narrow to hold additional packing cubes, but it’s great for holding light jackets or doubling as a dirty-laundry bag (if you’re really committed to one-bag travel). The Tortuga is available as a 40-liter pack (the maximum space for a carry-on bag), which we tested; there is also a 30-liter version, which is compliant with some intra-European flights. The more-diminutive version is a decent choice for weekend travel or for minimalist travelers—but for those uses, we prefer the space-saving profile and extra internal organization of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L bag.

It’s very customizable. The Tortuga pack is the most adjustable model we tested, thanks to its adjustable torso length, shoulder straps, and waist-belt system. The adjustable strap system lets you manipulate the location of the shoulder straps (video) to fit a wider variety of body sizes, in both the 30- and 40-liter versions. Of the packs we’ve tested, this one (with its included load-adjuster straps at the top, to prevent the bag’s weight from sagging toward your lumbar region) is the best at distributing its weight (4½ pounds when empty—roughly 1½ pounds more than most of our other picks, except the Peak Design ). The hip straps are removable if you need, but the shoulder straps are not stowable.

• Its straps don’t stow away. Some people, especially those who are hard on their gear, may consider not being able to remove or stow the shoulder straps (as they can with our other picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa ) a disqualifying factor. But after years of testing, traveling with, and occasionally checking our bag, we haven’t had an issue. However, if these mysteries beneath the airport also make you nervous, you might prefer our picks with easy-to-stow straps, such as the Peak Design.
• It's heavy. We’ve fielded complaints from some testers who said that older models of this bag were too heavy for them to carry, even with the padded hip belt and adjustable straps. The additional padding does add weight. At 4½ pounds, this latest Tortuga bag is more than half a pound lighter than it used to be (the difference is noticeable), and it weighs the same as the equally large Peak Design pack. We are currently testing a new, lighter, and less-expensive version of this pack—aptly named the Travel Backpack Lite 40L —and will report back soon.  In the meantime, if you think you would struggle carrying the Tortuga, we strenuously encourage you to consider one of our more-manageable picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.

Capacity: 40 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: minimal, with a rigid construction Color: black

If you want to travel like a backpacker but also fit in at a board meeting (and you have the budget for it): Consider the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . This bag’s reputation for durability, adaptability, and a low-key aesthetic make it a favorite among many dedicated one-bag travelers. And after testing it, we think it’s a great bag too. That said, for the bag to really stand out against other backpacks—and to take full advantage of its carrying adaptability—you need to buy the internal frame , the hip belt , and (if you’re traveling with a suit or jacket) the shoulder strap . On a bag that already costs $330, all of this adds up. Everything about the Tom Bihn bag (the fabric, the zippers, the quality of construction) feels like an upgrade from other bags, but it’s simply too pricey, and its design is too rarified and specific for most people. The biggest flaw, from our perspective—apart from the price—is that the Tom Bihn bag lacks a dedicated laptop pocket. In its place, the company sells laptop sleeves (a fine version if you don’t have one) that clip into the bag’s central compartment. Not everyone needs a dedicated laptop pocket, but we prefer the more secure feeling of bags that do.

If you want a budget pick (but only when it’s on sale): The eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack (our former budget pick) is still your best budget option, if you can catch it on sale for at least half off the list price. It’s not comfortable enough for trekking long distances on foot, but there are plenty of external pockets for organization, a laptop sleeve (which holds the weight of your computer high up on your shoulders), and an easy-to-access main compartment. This pack also has the largest capacity of any bags we tested, expanding to 65 liters—well beyond any airline’s regulated 45-liter limit. However, the bag’s casual-to-basic looks might not be to everyone’s taste. In 2024, eBags raised the price of the Mother Lode to $200. We have seen it on sale for $100, and in our opinion it’s worth getting only at the sale price.

We’ve narrowed our specifications for a great bag to the following list of features, ordered from most relevant to least:

• Front- or back-panel loader or clamshell opening, for the main compartment: As with any good piece of luggage, with this type of bag, you should be able to open it and see everything you’ve packed. When you have a bag with a panel-loading or clamshell design—rather than a traditional, top-opening design—you can pack and unpack it just as you would a suitcase.

• Backpack strap comfort and design: You never know when you’ll be walking farther with your bag than you’d intended. The more comfortable and well designed the straps are, the easier traveling will be. “Ideally, you want a bag’s shoulder straps to adjust to the angle of your shoulders,” said Eytan Levy of Snarky Nomad. “Good shoulder straps are the difference between an easy trip and a hard trip.”
• Hip-belt comfort and design: A hip belt transfers heavy loads from your back and shoulders onto your hips, letting your legs—not your back—bear the brunt of the weight. Just having a waist belt is a plus, but having a padded and sculpted one—especially on bags with over 40 liters of volume—makes a world of difference.
• Material quality: Durability is critical for any type of luggage, but especially for a backpack that will be your only bag. Most bags worth considering are made of nylon, which resists abrasion more than polyester fabrics of similar density. Spending more, however, can get you exotic, light, and strong materials, such as Dyneema or sailcloth.
• Weight: Once the bags arrived, we weighed each one ourselves. Most of the bags weighed within a few pounds of one another. But unless you’re very strict with yourself, by the time you’re packed for a two-week journey, all bags are going to feel equally massive, even if one is just 2 pounds heavier than another when empty.
• Stowable straps: These are nice to have, but they aren’t absolutely necessary. “The more often you need to check a bag, the more often you need to hide away the straps,” Levy said. “But if the straps are tough enough, it doesn’t matter.”
• Accessory pocket layout and design: Some people will love an accessory pocket that has a specific space for everything; others may find that feature constricting and unadaptable. We prioritized bags with simple designs that guided our packing without constraining us.
• Style: This is purely subjective. We preferred bags that had a minimalist exterior style, but not all of our picks will please everyone. Most of the people we spoke with, however, preferred not to stick out like a tourist wearing a large, colorful backpack, if they could avoid it.

During testing, we flew across the country with these bags, took weekend trips to nearby cities, lived out of them on extended trips, and tried them locally in our daily routines. We also packed and unpacked each bag, using a standardized set of weeklong travel necessities and accessories, to see how well the internal organizational features (or lack thereof) aided or got in the way of efficient packing.

This is not a comprehensive list of all of the carry-on travel backpacks we have tested. We have removed any models that have been discontinued or that no longer meet our criteria.

The Away Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L is a rare miss from the Away team. This bag is resoundingly average for the price. Although it’s made from excellent materials, the bag is let down by its overall design, which lacks any kind of structure or attention to comfort. There are better options.

The cheap, no-frills Cabin Max Metz bag is intriguing for the price. Any bag at this price should almost be considered disposable. That said, if you need a simple bag that costs less than a seat upgrade, this might be the way to go—unless you can pick up the eBags Motherlode bag for under $100, which we think is a better deal at that price.

The GeniusPack Travel Backpack is the only model we came across that tried to fit a suit into a travel backpack. Though some people might need that, we think those who have to travel with a suit (or clothes that require pressing) would be better off with a piece of carry-on luggage . GeniusPack now offers a second version of this bag, but our conclusion hasn’t changed.

For certain people, the GoRuck GR3 is almost worth the cost. It’s strong and simple and covered by an iron-clad repair guarantee. The removable hip belt is comfortable to wear, and it’s good at displacing the weight of a 45-liter backpack. This is a decent bag. After testing it, however, we weren’t thrilled with the internal Velcro lining for compatible Velcro packing cubes. Velcro isn’t great: It wears out, it’s difficult to keep clean, and it clings to dirt. That might seem like a small thing, but for the price, this bag should feel perfect.

The Minaal Carry-On 2.0 was designed to be a backpack for business people. But if you’re carrying it for business, you’re probably wearing at least a blazer, so you wouldn’t use a backpack in any case. If you’re a business traveler who falls more on the casual end of the business-casual spectrum, and you’re not on a budget, this is a well-thought-out pack. But we think our picks are more versatile for world travel, and they come at a better price. Minaal has since introduced a 3.0 version of this bag ; our thoughts about it remain the same.

The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L is a slightly larger sibling of the Farpoint pack. The Sojourn Porter bag is about 2 inches longer, and it pushes right up to most airline limits. If you don’t mind possibly having to check your bag at the last minute, this would be an excellent alternative to the Farpoint pack.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Chase Reeves, Matterful.co , phone interview , October 10, 2018

Addison Ryan, moderator, r/onebag , email interview , September 8, 2018

Lindsay Lorraine Calderón, moderator, r/heronebag , phone interview , September 28, 2018

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Further reading

The Best Travel Backpack

by Geoffrey Morrison

For trips ranging from a week to multiple months, the Osprey Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 carried everything we needed comfortably.

The Best Buy It for Life Backpack (Please Don’t Call It Tactical)

by Kit Dillon

A buy-it-for-a-lifetime backpack should last you for years of heavy use. But as with all investments, you need to decide if it makes sense for you.

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

by Truth Headlam

Whether you’re going to school, work, the gym, the store, or on vacay, you need a bag. Here’s the Wirecutter-recommended carrying gear we love most.

I Took 5 Trips in 6 Months. My Go-To Weekender Bag Was This Surprisingly Spacious Backpack.

by Elissa Sanci

Struggling to pack for your weekend away? The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L fits so much more than you’d expect.

Protect Your Trip »

The 10 best personal item bags, tested & reviewed.

Find your best carry-on companion with our top editor picks.

The Best Personal Item Bags

Catriona Kendall | U.S. News

When you're traveling on an airplane, there are certain items like your wallet, phone, passport, medications and earbuds that you always want to keep close. These are the items you'll want to pack in your personal item bag, along with other in-flight comfort items or perhaps a few souvenirs you're bringing home with you. When it comes to a personal item, there are many options that could be right for you, though keep in mind what airlines will allow can vary.

What size is a personal item bag?

This item can be a purse , bag or backpack that easily fits under the seat in front of you. For most domestic airlines, your personal item should be 18 x 14 x 8 inches or smaller. Most airlines allow passengers to bring one carry-on bag that goes into the overhead bin and one personal item bag that can be stowed under the seat. For both carry-on and personal item bags, it's important to check your airline's carry-on luggage size requirements and policies.

To help you decide what personal item bag meets your needs, our editors shared their go-to bags they personally use when traveling by air.

Best Foldable: Longchamp Le Pliage Large Tote

• Jump to features and expert insights ↓

Best Hip Pack: Cotopaxi Kapai 1.5L Hip Pack

Best tote: everlane the recycled nylon tote, best backpack: away the everywhere zip backpack, best organization: nomad lane bento bag, best washable: steve madden quilted weekender bag, best laptop backpack: fila argus 5 laptop backpack, best for adventure travel: osprey nebula 32, best affordable: gorilla wear duncan backpack, best duffel: lipault city plume 24h bag 2.0.

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand and other factors. Dimensions of personal item bags are height by width by depth.)

Nicola Wood | U.S. News

Price: $155 or less

Travelers will frequently spot this classic tote at airports and hotels around the world for good reason. It folds up easily for storage when not in use, and it has a roomy main compartment with a small interior pocket for a phone, boarding pass and a cardholder. Longchamp's Le Pliage Large tote is made of the brand's durable water-resistant nylon and finished with its signature embossed leather trim.

What our editors say:

I love traveling with my Longchamp Le Pliage tote. It's big enough to hold a laptop and all other essentials, and it has both a zipper and a snap-close leather flap, so you won't have to worry about anything falling out during travel. It is versatile enough to use throughout your vacation as a handbag, or you can fold it up and store it away once you reach your destination. The Le Pliage tote is made of nylon, so it is water-resistant and easy to wipe clean after traveling. There is a small interior pocket that can hold a boarding pass, phone or cardholder, or you can pop in a separate organizer from Amazon for multiple interior compartments. The Le Pliage tote comes in a variety of colors, so there's something for everyone. – Nicola Wood , Senior Editor

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

Price: $30 or less

If you're looking to travel light and maximize leg space, this Cotopaxi hip pack is ideal. Strap it around your waist or shoulder for hands-free travel, and reach your wallet or passport quickly. There's a spacious main compartment for your phone, wallet and boarding pass. Plus, a front zippered compartment can hold things like gum or earbuds. Constructed of 100% fabric scraps, each hip pack is sustainable and one-of-a-kind.

My top priority when traveling by plane is ample leg room, so Cotopaxi fanny packs are the perfect under-the-seat choice. I like the smaller Kapai 1.5 L Hip Pack for storing my essentials on shorter flights: phone, wallet, tissues, lip balm and earbuds. (There's also a 3L version .) For longer flights, the larger Allpa X 4L Hip Pack can fit a lot more, including a small book, Nintendo Switch and snack. – Leilani Osmundson , Senior Digital Producer

Price: $85 or less

This versatile tote is constructed with recycled nylon, which makes it easy to clean as well as sustainable. The padded bottom helps to protect your laptop and other contents. The main compartment has a zippered pocket and a 13-inch laptop sleeve. You can carry the bag with its tote straps or over the shoulder, and there's an exterior slip pocket for small items.

My favorite thing about this bag is that it's structured, but also easily pliable when it's time to stow it underneath my seat. The exterior pocket allows for easy access to small items like earbuds and hand sanitizer, and the larger main compartment is roomy enough for my laptop, 32-ounce water bottle, snacks, a small toiletry bag and a book. I also appreciate its sleek simplicity and sustainable materials. – Ann Henson , Assistant Managing Editor

Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Price: $195 or less

This backpack from Away has a variety of interior and exterior pockets, including a padded laptop sleeve with a magnetic locking zipper, an interior mesh pocket for a small water bottle and two external hidden pockets. It has a versatile design that works for trips to the office, day tours and leisure trips. For carrying options, the backpack has comfortable padded shoulder straps and a trolley sleeve to secure it to your favorite carry-on bag.

For my personal item, I'm all about function over fashion and this bag manages to hit both marks. I especially love the interior key clip – I actually use it for my wallet so I easily find my ID and credit card and not risk losing them. – Amanda Norcross , Senior Content & SEO Strategist

Price: $298 or less

The Nomad Lane Bento Bag has a sleek and professional look that makes it work for both personal and business travel, especially with the 16-inch padded laptop sleeve that you can access from the top. It comes with a toiletries pouch and an electronics organizer that tuck inside two exterior pockets, so you can easily remove them at security. The bag has a variety of organizational pockets, including a trolley sleeve that converts into a pocket. It works well as a personal item bag, and can be used as a weekender bag if you're a light packer.

The Bento Bag is truly exceptional for organization. Not only can it fit a ton for its size, but I love how it also keeps my belongings separated and neat while still easy to access on the go. When I travel with it, the bag is comfortable to carry and fits under the seat in front of me with no issue. I also just appreciate how sophisticated it looks. – Catriona Kendall , Editor

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

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Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: From $59.98

This timeless design has sturdy straps to comfortably carry the bag through airports and more. It's affordable, durable and machine washable. The interior compartment can accommodate everything from a toiletry bag to souvenirs, yet it still fits under the seat with a comfortable amount of room for your feet.

I've used this Steve Madden Quilted Weekender Bag as my personal item for years. I love the soft-sided design of this bag and it can fit an impressive amount. There's also an interior zippered pocket and two smaller open pockets for organization. Typically, I'll pack my laptop, various chargers, one to two books, an extra set of clothes and shoes, my wallet, my makeup bag, AirPods, snacks, a water bottle, and my phone. – Erin Evans , Managing Editor

Suzanne Mason | U.S. News

Price: $70 or less

Perfect as a work, gym or travel bag, this durable backpack has multiple pockets to keep everything organized wherever you roam. The budget-friendly backpack has a spacious main compartment with an internal mesh pocket and a separate 15-inch laptop compartment. Its padded straps provide comfort while carrying the bag for long periods of time, and the front zippered compartment is ideal for a boarding pass, pen or phone.

I love my Fila Argus 5 Laptop Backpack. I use it for both travel and for work. The backpack has a pocket in the back separating the main space in the back. I usually carry my iPad or laptop there and use the rest of the space to carry any items I couldn't fit in my luggage or trinkets that I'm bringing back for souvenirs. The front pocket I love because it's a zippered space where I can put my important traveling documents and other miscellaneous items needed for my travels. The backpack straps are wide and padded making it comfortable to wear on my back. The backpack is small enough to fit under a plane seat if you need to access the bag while in flight. – Suzanne Mason , Editor

Zach Watson | U.S. News

Price: $140 or less

This spacious backpack offers the design features of a more technical backpack − like a removable webbing belt along with top and bottom compression straps − but with an emphasis on everyday needs. There are numerous interior pockets to keep all of your travel essentials securely stowed, a TSA-approved laptop sleeve and a front zippered organization pocket. The exterior has two deep, adjustable side pockets that can fit two Nalgene-size water bottles. The Osprey Nebula 32 features two padded straps and a breathable back to help make carrying the bag more comfortable, even in humid climates.

My Osprey Nebula 32 is in the running for my oldest personal possession; I've used it for over a decade. That means this Nebula pack started as a college backpack, lugging my textbooks between classes in Chicago snowstorms before joining me in Washington, D.C., where it kept my belongings safe on my humid (and occasionally rainy) bike commutes. Now, I primarily use my backpack for hiking and flying, and it still holds up remarkably well despite my regular mistreatment. I don't intend to replace my go-to personal item anytime soon, so this Osprey backpack has absolutely justified its admittedly high upfront cost. – Zach Watson , Senior Editor

Alissa Grisler | U.S. News

Price: $59.99 or less

Durable and ideal for everyday use or adventures afar, this backpack has a simple design with plenty of packing space. The spacious interior can hold a lot, including your toiletry bag, reading material, change of clothes and more. The laptop sleeve and variety of compartments help to keep items organized and in place. The exterior offers adjustable padded shoulder straps and a waist strap for comfort, a headphone opening, two mesh pockets and a front zippered compartment.

When purchasing a bag, I am looking for something that is durable and multifunctional. With its many storage compartments and large carrying capacity (perfect for the chronic over-packer or anyone who just can't say no to a souvenir), this bag is perfect for both travel and everyday use. – Alissa Grisler , Editor

Rachael Hood | U.S. News

Price: $135 or less

Lightweight and constructed with water repellent nylon, this bag is durable, yet sophisticated. There are two large front pockets for smaller items like a 3-1-1 bag, headphones, wipes and small travel essentials, plus a side pocket for a water bottle or small items. Inside, the spacious interior compartment has a large zippered pocket, two slip pockets and a mesh pocket for keeping things organized, in addition to room for a toiletry bag, in-flight needs and souvenirs you find along the way. The bag features a separate zippered laptop compartment on the back, along with a trolley sleeve to attach it to your carry-on bag, like the coordinating Plume Cabin Size Spinner . What's more, it folds flat to save space when not in use.

I bought my original Lipault City Plume bag for my first trip to Europe over a decade ago. It's been a top pick for my travels for years, and it still looks and works great. The updated City Plume 24H Bag 2.0 is beautifully constructed, stays looking great even through the rigors of travel, fits perfectly under the seat and holds a lot. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood strives to be a carry-on only traveler. Over the years she's tested a variety of bags from multiple brands at an array of prices. To curate this article, she asked her team of editors to share their favorite personal item bags that have worked for all types of travel scenarios.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Luggage Sets
• The Best Checked Luggage, Tested by Editors
• The Best Travel Accessories, Chosen by Our Editors
• What to Pack in a Carry-on Bag
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

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13 Best Weekender Bags with Laptop Sleeve

• Travel Gear
• 13 Best Weekender Bags with…

Whether you’re going to have a short weekend adventure or a 3-day business trip, you’ve probably known that you need to have a weekender bag. Now, are you also going to bring your laptop? Maybe you need it to continue watching your current favorite series or attending a meeting. Whatever the reason is, never bring an additional laptop bag! That’s because you can get yourself a weekender bag with laptop sleeve and multiple compartments! That way, you only need to carry one bag, which is way more convenient and hassle-free. If you can’t wait another day to get yourself one, you should check out this list! 

Table of contents

Fancyout travel duffel bag, vs vogshow 3-way travel duffel bag, camtop weekender bag, bellroy weekender bag, bluboon weekender overnight duffel bag, s-zone canvas travel weekender bag, longchamp le pliage expandable weekender bag, gonex canvas duffle bag, lily & drew carry-on weekender bag, jiao miao overnight canvas/leather travel duffel tote shoulder handbag, patagonia black hole 55l duffel bag, paravel foldable travel duffle bag, wildroad 50l travel expandable canvas/leather duffle bag, our verdict, how to choose the best weekender bags with laptop sleeves, what size weekender bag is best, is a weekender bag useful.

Best value for money. Are you on a limited budget? Then the FANCYOUT Travel Duffel Bag should be an ideal choice for you. One of the things that makes this sporty-looking bag worth purchasing is its wet pouch, something not every weekender bag offer. It’s a great feature so you can separate your toiletries or swimming gear from the others.

Apart from that, it also has a huge main compartment. Inside, you’ll see two mini pockets, two zippered pockets, and a dedicated compartment for your precious laptop. A shoe pocket is also very useful if you plan to bring an extra pair of kicks. Made using high-quality polyester fiber and jacquard, this item is scratch-resistant, anti-tear, and water-resistant.

What We Love

This is a sporty bag that’s very versatile and has more compartments than you expect.

• It comes with a wet pouch
• The bag has a huge main compartment
• It comes with plenty of pockets
• It’s made from a durable material
• The zippers aren’t the best

Most versatile. This bag is what you’d want to have if simplicity is your number one priority, with no fancy design whatsoever. The VS Vogshow 3-Way Travel Duffel Bag is a basic weekender bag with a laptop sleeve that just gets the job done. It’s made of waterproof and tear-resistant 1680D polyester and features high-quality, durable YKK zippers that guarantee long-term use.

But what’s most amazing about this product is its three carrying methods. You can take it by the two-handle straps, sling it over your shoulder, or use it as a backpack! When it comes to the compartments, it’s definitely not lacking. Inside, you can find tons of pockets, including wet pockets, for your laptop, notebooks, and other essentials. There’s also a dedicated compartment for your shoes!

This is a simple yet useful weekender bag that’ll make your trip more convenient and enjoyable.

• The bag is water and tear-resistant
• It comes with durable YKK zippers
• There are three carrying methods
• The design might be too simple for some

Most design and color choices. The CAMTOP Weekender Bag is another weekender bag with a laptop sleeve that manages to steal our hearts! Available in 7 different designs, this bag is seriously stunning! Every design is unique and makes it very easy to differentiate your bag from other people’s. This bag is made from durable oxford nylon and faux leather, making it very durable.

This is a weekender bag with compartments that are far from small. Aside from boasting exterior and interior pockets, there’s a dedicated compartment to fit a 15.6-inch laptop and another separate compartment to accommodate shoes, toiletry bags, or other items that you want to keep separate. Best of all, this lightweight item is very versatile! It can be used as a travel bag, shopping bag, or even a hospital bag.

This is a stunning option that has a great combination of style and durability.

• The bag is available in seven stunning designs
• This bag is made from very durable materials
• It has plenty of pockets and is very versatile
• The quality of the zippers can be improved

Next on this list is the Bellroy Weekender Bag , a weekender bag with a laptop sleeve that’s affordable but comes with tons of great features. With a generous 30L capacity, this bag can be your perfect carry-on bag no matter where you travel to. It’s made of recycled woven fabric and comes with a 3-year warranty!

Meanwhile, the front pocket of this bag is great for stashing your phone, wallet, documents, and other essential stuff. There are dedicated pockets for your laptop, water bottle, and shoes on the inside, which is a huge plus. If you’re looking for a bag that can also double as a plane carry-on, it’s definitely a solid choice as it slides over your suitcase handles and won’t take up too much room at your feet.

This is a lightweight yet durable weekender bag with compartments that can double as a plane carry-on.

• This bag is compact and lightweight and is made of recycled woven fabric
• It comes with a three-year warranty
• The bag has plenty of pockets
• Aside from marine blue, other color options are slightly more expensive

We have the BLUBOON Weekender Overnight Duffel Bag , a sturdy overnight bag for anyone planning to have a short weekend getaway. Available in 9 different designs, this weekender bag with a laptop sleeve is very versatile. You can conveniently use it when not traveling for hiking, gym, and many other activities. Suitable for both men and women, it also has a great size. It’s not too big nor too small and very convenient to carry around.

This amazing bag comes with a smooth, metal two-way zipper to closure, giving you easy access to everything inside. The main compartment is very far from small, and there are plenty of extra pockets so you can organize your belongings well. Of course, there’s a dedicated compartment for your shoes and laptop too! Other great features include a removable shoulder strap with a pad and four metal studs on the bottom to keep the bag off the ground.

It’s a versatile option with all the features you’d expect from a high-quality weekender bag with compartments.

• This bag is very versatile
• The four metal studs on the bottom keep it from getting dirty
• The removable shoulder strap with a thick pad ensures ease of carrying
• It has a weird smell out of the box

Men who travel often and need to bring their laptops with them should consider getting the S-ZONE Canvas Travel Weekender Bag . This handsome bag is made of high-density canvas with crazy horse leather trim. It has an excellent water-resistant performance, smooth zippers, and a cushioned shoulder strap. And unlike women’s designer weekender bags , this one is actually really affordable!

As if that’s not enough, this weekender bag decides to spoil you by offering two huge compartments, plenty of small pockets, and a dedicated space for your shoes. Meanwhile, the laptop compartment can fit a 14 to 15.6-inch laptop. Even though it’s considered quite big, it’s actually very lightweight, weighing around 3.14 lbs. 

This good-looking bag will keep men stylish on the road and help them organize their belongings well.

• This bag has excellent water-resistant performance
• The cushioned shoulder strap makes it easy to carry
• The bag is big but lightweight
• Some people might find it too big for them

Ladies, do you want something a bit fancier? If so, then why don’t you spoil yourself by getting the Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Weekender Bag ? It might not look like it, but this is actually a weekender bag with a laptop sleeve. In fact, aside from your laptop, it can easily carry your other stuff like a camera, charger, magazines, and other stuff.

Yes, compared to other options on this list, this model is more expensive. But do you know what’s amazing? Compared to other Longchamp bags, it’s actually way cheaper! On top of that, it’s a very practical and convenient option. Made of durable nylon material, this water-resistant bag can sit on top of your suitcase, fit a lot of items, and be easily stored when not in use.

This relatively affordable option from Longchamp is very convenient to use.

• It’s cheaper than most Longchamp bags
• The huge main compartment allows you to stuff more things
• The bag is made from a durable nylon material
• You can find cheaper options that have the same quality as this bag

The Gonex Canvas Duffle Bag is a stylish and almost retro-looking weekender bag with compartments that can accommodate everything you need to bring for your upcoming trip. Made from high-density canvas and featuring classical bronze-tone hardware, this bag is as stylish as it is practical. Even better, you can have this impressive weekender bag for under 50 USD!

With a 50L capacity, this bag comes with a large main compartment that can easily hold your clothes, shoes, and toiletries, as well as a 15-inch laptop or large tablets. Are you planning to bring your suits? Maybe what you need is a weekender bag for suits! Meanwhile, the inner zippered pocket is perfect for smaller items, while the side, front, and back pockets provide plenty of space for everything you need speedy access to. If you need even more space, two zippers on each side of this bag can expand the bag’s capacity!

This is a reliable weekender bag with a laptop sleeve that’s designed with style and practicality in mind.

• The well-padded bottom keeps your things safe, especially from water
• It has plenty of pockets
• The side zippers can expand the bag’s capacity
• It doesn’t hold its shape really well

We’re sure many women would find the Lily & Drew Carry-On Weekender Bag a weekender bag with a laptop sleeve that’s worth buying. Yes, this multipurpose weekender bag offers protection for a laptop up to 15.6 inches with a generously padded separate zippered compartment. You don’t have to bring your laptop backpack or laptop tote bag anymore! Apart from that, many internal and external organizational pockets also ensure you have a place for everything.

For the exterior, this bag is made of durable polyester fabric, and it’s water-resistant. That way, all of your stuff inside the bag will be well protected from the elements. Meanwhile, the shoulder strap comes with a thick pad to protect your shoulder. And if you’re tired, you can slide the integrated luggage sleeve over your luggage handle. Not to mention, this is the perfect carry-on compliant bag for airline travel, and it’s small enough to fit under your seat.

This is a compact weekender bag with compartments and practical features that ladies would love to have.

• The bag, albeit compact, comes with a luggage sleeve
• The removable shoulder strap with a thick pad ensures ease of carry
• It has limited color options

Leaper is a brand that’s known for making tons of top-notch outdoor gear, including the JIAO MIAO Overnight Canvas/Leather Travel Duffel Tote Shoulder Handbag . So, who is this bag for? It’s an ideal option for those looking for an affordable weekender bag with a laptop sleeve. Its interior has a woven material with a dedicated compartment for your laptop and several pockets to store some of your smaller items. 

Furthermore, this impressive bag has heavy canvas construction with genuine leather straps. The base and handles leather are sewn and attached by rivets for additional durability. It also has a leather tip detail around the bottom with metal studs for feet. Although it’s bigger than some weekenders, it still meets the maximum carry-on size with most airlines. But if what you want is a weekender bag fully made of leather, you should check out the best leather weekender bags .

This casual weekender bag has compartments that can accommodate all of your stuff without excess weight.

• It costs you less than 50 USD
• The bag has a high packing volume
• It’s made from durable canvas material and has genuine leather straps
• It meets the maximum carry-on sizes with most airlines
• This bag is a bit hard to break-in

The Patagonia Black Hole 55L Duffel Bag is a great carry-on weekender that truly doesn’t disappoint. This weekender bag with a laptop sleeve doesn’t only keep your laptop well protected but also helps to keep your stuff organized. There are a zillion separate little pockets and perfectly sized compartments for your precious charger, passport, headphones, and other stuff in this weekender bag.

Made of 100% recyclable material, it’s available in a wide array of colors. Furthermore, its sturdy build is proven by the 900D Ripstop nylon, which has a durable water-repellent coating. Another thing that we really like is that it comes with a removable shoulder strap that allows you to carry the bag in various ways.

Read this detailed OutdoorGearLab review of the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel .

It’s an all-around bag for your weekend getaway without sacrificing comfort and features.

• The bag is 100% recyclable
• It comes with removable straps and is versatile
• It has a water-repellent coating
• The bag doesn’t have a rigid structure

While it’s on the smaller side, the compact Paravel Foldable Travel Duffle Bag is still loved by many travelers. As you can see from its name, this bag can be folded so small that you don’t have to think twice about packing it. That said, it also makes sense for this bag to be very lightweight. If you’re not going to bring tons of stuff with you for your weekend trip, this is a great bag to buy.

Despite its small size, this weekender bag with a laptop sleeve can actually accommodate plenty of stuff inside! Aside from your laptop, it fits your camera gear, blanket, jacket, and whatever you need to bring. Not to mention, it’s very versatile. Once you’re done traveling, you can use it as a work or gym bag. Overall, it’s a really great worry-free carry-on. Just throw it over your shoulder or slide it over the handle of your rolling suitcase, and you’re good to go!

It’s a lightweight option that has a unique foldable design.

• The bag boasts a foldable design
• It’s lightweight and compact
• The bag is very versatile
• It’s not suitable for those who plan to bring tons of stuff with them

Best capacity. The Wildroad 50L Travel Expandable Canvas/Leather Duffle Bag is designed to go where no weekender bags have gone before. This amazing item is a duffel-backpack hybrid, which travelers can use wherever they want to go for their weekend trip.

This weekender bag with compartments features a main compartment with two large expandable zippered pockets, two magnetic snap front pockets, two side pockets, and a zippered back pocket. Moreover, it also has buffer feet at the base, making the bag truly resistant to water, dirt, and other things. Packaging for your upcoming weekend trip is a breeze with all of these compartments in this weekender bag.

It’s a weekender bag with a laptop sleeve that can also be used as a backpack.

• You’ll love the duffel-backpack hybrid design
• It’s the perfect carry-on size
• The bag comes with removable straps and an expandable compartment for shoes
• The thick material makes it a bit heavier than others

While this list of weekender bags is great, we’ve created a more specialized list of the best of the best. So, travelers who’re looking for specific bags will find this list very helpful.

• Best value for money:  FANCYOUT Travel Duffel Bag
• Most design and color choices: CAMTOP Weekender Bag
• Most versatile:  VS Vogshow 3-Way Travel Duffel Bag
• Best capacity:  Wildroad 50L Travel Expandable Canvas/Leather Duffle Bag

Before we show you the list, you should first know the important criteria that differentiate a good weekender bag from a cookie-cutter one! Those criteria include the following:

Frequent use of a weekender bag will inevitably lead to little wear and tear, but there are ways to minimize damage. Personally, we recommend getting a bag that’s made of strong material like leather or canvas. The former is usually more expensive, but the latter is also a pretty durable material. In fact, many weekender bags under 100 USD use canvas as their material.

Not all weekender bags are created the same. There’s a huge range when it comes to available styles. Some come with adjustable and removable shoulder straps, while others don’t. Some even have additional side handles. You should also figure out whether you want something sporty, rugged, minimalist, preppy – the list goes on!

Laptop sleeve

Yes, the weekender bag you want should also have enough compartments to organize your stuff better. But when looking for a weekender bag with a laptop sleeve, you have to pay more attention to the laptop sleeve. Make sure it’s not too small for your laptop so that you don’t have to carry an extra laptop sleeve with handles . Most bags on this list have a laptop sleeve that can accommodate a 15.6-inch laptop, which is enough for most people.  

When on vacation, chances are you’re going to have your weekender bag on you at all times. This means it’s important that your bag isn’t clunky or difficult to carry. Make sure to buy a model that you can carry around easily. But don’t get the one that’s too small either, as it should be able to fit your laptop!

Usually, weekender bags with a capacity of 30-50 liters is perfect for a weekend trip.

Yes, especially if you like to travel like you want to be ready for anything. Since it’s smaller than a suitcase and bigger than a backpack, a weekender bag is perfect.

Author:  Julie Wharton

As a solo traveler, I have discovered the freedom and adventure that comes from exploring the world on your own terms. With a backpack on my back and a thirst for new experiences, I have journeyed to some of the most remote and fascinating destinations on the planet. As a travel blogger, I share my stories and insights with fellow solo travelers who are looking to break free from the constraints of group tours and package deals. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker or a first-time adventurer, my blog is dedicated to helping you plan your solo travels with confidence and ease. From tips on finding the best hostels to recommendations for off-the-beaten-path destinations, I provide a wealth of information that will help you make the most of your solo journey. And with a passion for photography and storytelling, I bring each destination to life through vivid imagery and captivating narratives. So if you're ready to embark on an adventure of a lifetime, join me on my journey and let's discover the world together.

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Best laptop bags in 2024.

Level up your laptop security with a solid bag

Whether you're a professional with an expensive MacBook or a student with a Chromebook , your laptop is a crucial tech companion that holds your documents, photos, and more. Ensuring its safety on the go is paramount, and a reliable laptop bag is your best defense. It not only provides essential protection but also offers a convenient space for your daily tech or non-tech essentials.

However, not all laptop bags are created equal. That's why we've curated a list of our top picks to help you find the most suitable laptop bag.

Timbuk2 Authority

There's much to like about the Timbuk2 Authority. It has plenty of pockets to store your belongings, including a dedicated laptop compartment that can hold up to 17-inch notebooks. The bag can also withstand light rain and has a water-resistant bottom. The overall build quality is fantastic, and you get lots of padding on the straps and the back for comfort. There's also a side pouch to store a water bottle, and you can choose from six colors.

Peak Design Everyday Backpack (V2)

The Peak Design Everyday Backpack is a widely loved laptop companion with a modular interior to cater to different needs. Photo professionals love it, but you can use it to store anything. Its thoughtful design gives you multiple ways to access the main compartment. You can also expand the backpack size if needed to fit more stuff. Plus, you get a weatherproof shell and luggage pass through.

Tomtoc 360 Protective Laptop Case

Available in two sizes, the Tomtoc 360 Protective Laptop Case is a good option for anyone looking for a slim messenger-style bag on a budget. Its cushioned padding provides protection from bumps, impacts, and drops. It also has multiple pockets for storing laptop accessories and any documents that you may be carrying. Alongside the main handle, it comes with a shoulder strap for convenience.

Troubadour Apex Backpack 3.0

The Troubadour Apex Backpack 3.0 may not be cheap, but its elegant design, vegan leather trims, sturdy construction, and ergonomic straps make it worth the price of entry. It can accommodate up to 17-inch laptops and has plenty of pockets to organize anything you carry efficiently. You also get a five-year warranty for manufacturing defects. Plus, you can choose from three color options.

Thule Subterra Laptop Bag

The Thule Subterra is a sleek laptop bag that can hold your portable tech in one place. It has two main compartments for a laptop, documents, and smaller mobile devices such as a tablet or an e-reader . You also get a couple of extra pockets for tech accessories and more. The bag has a water-resistant nylon exterior and plenty of padding on the inside for protection. Lastly, along with a carry handle on the top, there is a removable shoulder strap.

Nordace Siena

The Nordace Siena, our top pick for the best smart backpacks , is also a great laptop bag. It can accommodate up to 15-inch laptops and has decent storage space for daily essentials and laptop accessories. The smart side is a built-in USB port to connect a power bank inside to charge your phone or tablet. Plus, the backpack looks professional, and you can choose from nine different color options to match your style.

Mystery Ranch Catalyst 26L

The Mystery Ranch Catalyst 26L is another solid backpack for carrying your laptop, computer gear, and a few everyday items. Its durable and weather-resistant exterior can handle light rain or snow, and you can store up to a 16-inch laptop. The reasonably big main compartment has a unique three-zip design that offers quick access to the interior. Other features include two side pockets for water bottles and a lid pocket for last-minute items. Finally, you can choose from four color options.

Solo Re:Define Laptop Backpack

This Solo New York offering is excellent if you're looking for a reasonably priced laptop backpack. It has a padded laptop compartment, a tablet or e-reader pocket, two side mesh pockets for water bottles, and more. If you haven't yet gone wireless, it comes with a headphone port that lets you keep your phone or tablet inside and still listen via a wired pair of headphones. You also get an external USB port for charging through a power bank stored inside.

Briggs & Riley Kinzie Street Micro Messenger

Briggs & Riley is no stranger to travelware, and its Kinzie Street is a well-constructed laptop bag with a sleek design. The genuine leather accents give it a premium look, and the bag can house up to a 15-inch laptop. You also get space to store a notebook, laptop accessories, and more. Plus, both a carry handle and an adjustable shoulder strap are present.

Invest in a top-tier laptop bag

There is no one-size-fits-all laptop bag. Some people prefer backpacks, whereas messenger bags suit others.

If you're in the former camp, we think most backpack lovers would appreciate the Timbuk2 Authority. Despite its relatively compact size, it can fit a good amount of tech gear, including up to 17-inch laptops. It has tons of pockets, a stretchable mesh slot for a water bottle, and a rugged exterior to take on the brunt of everyday life.

But if you want something even more versatile and are willing to spend the money, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack V2 is perfect. Its modular interior can be transformed to meet your needs. Plus, it has a dedicated compartment to house up to 15-inch laptops. While it’s particularly popular as a camera bag, it works just as well for carrying a laptop and other everyday tech.

In terms of messenger bags, the Tomtoc 360 Protective Laptop Case offers excellent value for money. It has good construction, and you can pick one of two variants depending on your laptop size. Its CornerArmor tech ensures your laptop comes out unscathed from any drops.

Best backpacks for tech in 2024

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BAGSMART Travel Backpack for Women Men, 40L Flight Approved Carry on Backpack with Shoe Bag, TSA Large Personal Item Backpack with 17 Inch Laptop Compartment, Weekender Suitcase for Travel, Black

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• Spacious & Multi-Compartments: BAGSMART Travel Backpack is a versatile carry on backpack that features a generous size of 18.1" x 12.6" x 7.5" providing a whopping 40L capacity. With multiple compartments including a Top external zipped pocket, zippered bottom pocket, front zippered pocket, separate laptop compartment, and bottle pocket, this backpack is a perfect companion for travelers seeking efficient storage solutions.
• TSA-Friendly Design: Designed with a convenient 180° clamshell opening, our travel backpack ensures hassle-free security checks at airports. The smart design allows you to easily access your belongings whenever needed, making it an ideal backpack for travel enthusiasts.
• Keep It Organized: Experience smart packing solutions with the BAGSMART Travel Backpack's clever storage design. Featuring clothing compartments, PVC waterproof pockets, mesh pockets, and two sock pockets for separating wet and dry clothes. The bonus shoe bag with a customizable attachment point adds further convenience without occupying interior backpack space.
• Versatility On The Go: This backpack for travel offers diverse carrying options - wear it as a traditional backpack, carry it by hand, or conveniently attach it to your luggage handle for swift movement through airports. Its adaptability makes it an airplan-approved backpack suitable for various travel scenarios.
• Comfort & Protection: Experience ultimate comfort with the Comfortable padded shoulder straps and Ventilated back panel of our backpack. The thick protective padding provides durability and protection for your belongings against unexpected impacts during your journeys.
• WHAT WE CARE: Here at BAGSMART, we strive to deliver the highest quality product we can to our customers. We are happy to offer an unconditional refund or replacement. If there are any quality problems, please do not hesitate. Contact us for a timely and satisfactory answer!

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Planning a trip to Moscow? Our travel guide contains up-to-date, personal information on everything from what to see , to when to visit , where to stay , and what to eat !

• General Information
• What to see
• How to get to Moscow
• Where to stay
• Where to eat

Why visit Moscow?

Majestic churches, impressive historic fortresses, and palatial buildings: Moscow is a fascinating city whose emblematic architecture reflects the turbulent history that has defined Russia throughout the centuries.

The traces of the USSR can be found around every corner of the city , side by side with the iconic relics of Imperial Russia , like the mythical Red Square , the imposing Kremlin , and the beautiful  St Basil's Cathedral . 

Discover a fascinating world of Cold War bunkers, golden-domed basilicas, world-class art museums, and the legendary "palace of the people,"  as the Moscow Metro has been nicknamed. Whether you fancy watching a classical Russian ballet at the Bolshoi Theatre , perusing the fine arts at the Pushkin Museum , or marveling at the sheer size of the monuments to the Soviet state's achievements at the  All-Russia Exhibition Centre , this travel guide will help you on your way!

Where to start?

If you're going to travel to Moscow and you don't know much about the city yet, the first thing to do is to dive into its legendary history - understanding the past will help you understand the present. Next, check out our practical hints and tips on traveling to the city before discovering which of its most important museums , monuments , and attractions pique your interest.

Looking for a place to stay?

Booking your accommodation in advance is the best way to get great discounts. Our detailed guide on where to stay in Moscow  will help you decide which neighborhood you'd like to look for hotels or apartments in, and our hotel search engine will find you the best deals!

Why is our Moscow travel guide the best?

Introducing Moscow is a  city guide written by travelers for travelers  and contains personalized advice to help you make the most of your trip to the city.

All the information in this guide is valid as of December 2022. If you find any errors or have any comments, please feel free to contact us .

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Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

Read Next: Things To Do on Socotra

To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

How to Get a Decent Haircut in a Foreign Country

Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

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