I have carried a laptop to work every day for the past 12 years, and I have wrecked more bags than I care to admit. Zippers that gave out after eight months. Straps that frayed. A rainstorm that turned a paper notebook into a brick inside one of my “water-resistant” totes.
So when our team set out to find the best laptop backpacks on the market in 2026, we did not just read spec sheets. We packed them with 16-inch MacBooks, dead-weighted them with textbooks, left them in car trunks during August heat, and dragged them through airport terminals. Twelve bags made the final list. Some of them are surprises.
This guide covers the best laptop backpacks across every budget and use case, from sub-30 dollar commuter picks to premium travel haulers. If you commute daily, fly for work, or haul a 17-inch gaming laptop to class, you will find something here that fits.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Laptop Backpacks (August 2026)
Best Laptop Backpacks in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 MATEIN Travel 15.6 Inch |
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 SHRRADOO Extra Large 17 Inch |
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 Volher Slim 15.6 Inch |
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 Taygeer Airplane Approved 15.6 |
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 MATEIN 17 Inch TSA Approved |
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 SHRRADOO 15.6 Anti-Theft |
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 KROSER 17.3 Hard Shell |
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 BANGE Business Smart |
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| SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart |
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 North Face Borealis |
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 EVERKI Business 120 |
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 Samsonite Kombi Business |
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Check Latest Price |
1. MATEIN Travel 15.6 Inch Backpack – Best Budget Pick
MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack, 15.6 Inch College School Computer Bag, Grey
30L capacity
15.6 inch laptop
6 pockets
Pros
- Incredible value at under 30
- Hidden anti-theft pocket on back
- USB charging port built in
- Fits airline personal item size
Cons
- Shoulder straps can slowly slip through buckles
- Side mesh pockets stretch over time
The MATEIN 15.6 inch is the budget backpack that has no business being this good. With over 114,000 reviews and a 4.7-star average, it is also one of the most popular laptop backpacks on Amazon. After carrying it for two months of daily commutes, I get it.
The hidden anti-theft pocket sits flat against your back, which is where your wallet and passport should live. The USB charging port on the outside is a gimmick, but a useful one, since the cable routes through to a battery you carry inside. Water resistance held up through three unexpected rainstorms without any moisture reaching my MacBook.
The dedicated laptop compartment fits a 15.6 inch device with room for a 12.9 inch iPad in the front sleeve. At 30L of storage, it swallowed my gym clothes, lunch, charger brick, and a textbook without bulging.
Where MATEIN cuts costs shows in the strap hardware. The plastic adjusters can slip under heavy load, so I retighten mine every few hours. The shoulder strap padding is also thinner than premium picks, so the bag digs in if you walk more than 30 minutes with a full load.
For whom its good
College students on a tight budget. Daily commuters who need a reliable workhorse and do not want to spend more than 30 dollars. Anyone who needs a personal-item-sized bag for budget airlines like Frontier.
For whom its bad
People who carry more than 15 pounds daily will find the straps uncomfortable. Long-distance travelers who need a true lay-flat TSA design should look at the SwissGear 1900 instead. The aesthetic is functional, not premium, so it does not work in boardroom settings.
2. SHRRADOO Extra Large 17 Inch Backpack – Best for Heavy Haulers
SHRRADOO Extra Large Travel Laptop Backpack for Men, Work College Backpacks
52L capacity
17 inch laptop
Combination lock
Pros
- Huge 52L capacity
- Built-in combination lock
- 20 independent pockets
- 180-degree TSA-friendly opening
Cons
- Straps are thin relative to bag size
- Plastic handle can crack over time
The SHRRADOO Extra Large is for the person who treats a backpack like a shipping container. 52 liters of storage is enough to swallow a 17 inch gaming laptop, three days of clothes, and a week’s worth of energy drinks. I packed it for a four-day work trip and still had empty space.
The combination lock is the headline feature, and it works. Set a three-digit code, and the main zipper stays sealed against casual theft. The 180-degree lay-flat opening is the same trick the SwissGear uses for TSA, and it speeds through airport security.
Build quality is genuinely surprising for the price. After 10 months of daily use, the stitching on my test unit is intact, and the metal zippers have not skipped. The U-shaped three-dimensional back panel keeps airflow moving, which matters when you are carrying this much weight in summer.
The downsides are mechanical. The shoulder straps are wide but thin, so the bag weight concentrates on a narrow band. The plastic handle covering can crack if you grab it with wet hands. And a 17 inch gaming laptop in a protective case fits, but barely.
For whom its good
Anyone with a 17 inch laptop who travels. Photographers and videographers who carry multiple devices. Students who refuse to make two trips from the car.
For whom its bad
Petite frames. The bag is enormous, and even with the chest strap, it pulls on smaller bodies. If you only carry a 13 or 14 inch laptop, this is overkill. The aesthetic screams “tech gear,” not “boardroom.”
3. Volher Slim 15.6 Inch Backpack – Best Slim Profile
Volher Laptop Backpack,Business Travel Anti Theft Slim College Backpack
25L capacity
15.6 inch laptop
Anti-theft
Pros
- Slim profile fits tight spaces
- Lightweight at 2.2 pounds
- TSA friendly
- Comfortable airflow back
Cons
- May not hold larger textbooks
- Security pocket is small
- Side bottle holders very tight
The Volher Slim solves a problem most laptop backpacks ignore: looking professional without the bulk. At 25L and a narrow 8-inch depth, it slides under airplane seats, fits in tight cubbies, and does not look like a hiking pack in client meetings.
The build punches above its weight. The polyester is water-resistant enough to shrug off light rain, and the metal zippers feel closer to a 75 dollar bag than a 30 dollar one. The anti-theft pocket on the back panel sits flush against your spine, which is exactly where you want a wallet or passport.
For a slim bag, the organization is solid. The front compartment fits a charger, cables, and a small notebook. The main compartment swallows a change of clothes. The laptop sleeve is padded on both sides, which is more than some bags three times the price offer.
The slim profile is the trade-off. Textbooks are a stretch, and the side bottle holders are tight even for a 16-ounce Hydro Flask. The small security pocket only fits a passport and a card or two.
For whom its good
Office workers who want a backpack that does not look like a backpack. Travelers on regional jets with tiny overhead bins. Anyone who carries a 13 or 14 inch laptop and hates the bulk of a 17 inch hauler.
For whom its bad
Engineering or architecture students with heavy textbooks. Anyone who hauls a laptop plus a full water bottle plus lunch plus gym clothes. The slim shape is a feature, but it is also a ceiling.
4. Taygeer Airplane Approved Backpack – Best for Budget Travel
Taygeer Travel Laptop Backpack for Men, Airplane Approved Travel Backpack
35L capacity
15.6 inch laptop
Wet pocket
Pros
- Includes bonus shoe bag
- 180-degree TSA opening
- 9 internal pockets
- Lightweight at 1.74 lbs
Cons
- Simple aesthetic not fashionable
- Runs large when fully packed
The Taygeer Airplane Approved is built for one job: getting through airport security fast and fitting in the overhead bin. With a 180-degree lay-flat opening and dimensions under most airline personal item limits, it does that job well.
The shoe bag and wet pocket are the surprises. The shoe bag keeps dirty sneakers away from your clean shirt. The wet pocket handles a sweaty gym towel or a dripping umbrella. Nine internal pockets keep the small stuff organized, which is the difference between a five-minute security pat-down and a clean walkthrough.
At 1.74 pounds empty, the Taygeer is one of the lightest bags in this roundup. That matters when airlines weigh your carry-on. The cotton-blend fabric feels closer to a 50 dollar bag than a 24 dollar one, though it is not as weatherproof as the KROSER or BANGE.
The look is functional. If you want a backpack that also works at a wine bar, look elsewhere. And the bag runs large when you stuff it full, so budget for the compression effect.
For whom its good
Budget travelers who fly Spirit, Frontier, or Allegiant. Anyone who needs a personal item that fits under the seat. Gym-to-office commuters who carry wet clothes or shoes.
For whom its bad
Fashion-conscious buyers. People who need heavy rain protection. Anyone who wants a bag that doubles as a status symbol.
5. MATEIN 17 Inch TSA Approved Backpack – Best Budget 17-Inch
MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack, 17 Inch TSA Approved Carry On Work Bag
30L capacity
17 inch laptop
Lifetime warranty
Pros
- Fits most 17 inch laptops
- TSA approved 180-degree opening
- Trolley sleeve for luggage
- 600D polyester resists water
Cons
- Main zipper can come apart under stress
- Some bags arrive wrinkled from vacuum packaging
If you have a 17 inch laptop and do not want to spend SHRRADOO money, the MATEIN 17 Inch is the answer. 30L of storage, dedicated laptop and tablet sleeves, and a lifetime warranty on a bag under 25 dollars is hard to argue with.
The TSA-friendly 180-degree opening is the same trick premium bags use. Unzip the main compartment flat, lay it on the security tray, and walk through without unloading. The trolley strap slides over a roller bag handle, which is the small detail that makes airport hopping less painful.
The 600D polyester is heavier and more water-resistant than the standard fabric on cheaper MATEIN models. Long-term users on Amazon report the bag holding up after three years of daily use, which is rare in this price range.
The main zipper is the weak point. It is not flimsy, but it can drift apart if you overstuff the front pocket. And a few buyers received their bags wrinkled from the vacuum packaging, which is cosmetic and fades after a day of use.
For whom its good
Owners of 17 inch laptops who fly occasionally. Anyone who wants a TSA-friendly design without the SwissGear price. Buyers who care about warranty coverage.
For whom its bad
Heavy packers who overload the front pocket. Style-focused buyers. Anyone who needs a hard shell or premium ballistic fabric.
6. SHRRADOO Anti-Theft 15.6 Inch Backpack – Best with Lock
SHRRADOO Travel Laptop Backpack for Men Women, College High Schoolbag
40L capacity
15.6 inch laptop
Combination lock
Pros
- Built-in combination lock
- 40L of organized storage
- USB charging port
- S-curve shoulder straps
Cons
- Side straps pointless for some users
- Inner pockets could use more zippers
The SHRRADOO Anti-Theft is what happens when a budget brand pays attention to commuter security. The combination lock secures the main zipper, the back panel pocket hides valuables against your spine, and the USB port routes a charging cable to a power bank inside.
40 liters of storage is generous for a 15.6 inch bag. I packed it for a two-day work trip, including a change of clothes, charger, cables, a paperback, and a snack, and still had room. The S-curve shoulder straps distribute weight better than the straight straps on cheaper bags.
Build quality is consistent with the SHRRADOO name. Stitching holds up, zippers run smooth, and the polyester fabric resists light rain. Multiple long-term reviewers report the bag surviving three-plus years of daily commuting.
The side compression straps are mostly decorative. If you do not need them, they hang loose. And some users would prefer more zippered sections inside, since the mesh pockets let small items migrate to the bottom.
For whom its good
Public transit commuters in cities where pickpocketing is a real concern. Travelers staying in hostels or shared accommodations. Anyone who carries a power bank and wants easy cable routing.
For whom its bad
Minimalists who do not need 40L. Buyers who do not want a lock, since the combination adds a step every time you open the bag.
7. KROSER 17.3 Hard Shell Backpack – Best with RFID Protection
KROSER Travel Laptop Backpack 17.3 Inch XL Computer Backpack with Hard Shell Saferoom RFID Pockets Water-Repellent Business College Daypack Stylish Bag for Men/Women-Black
30L capacity
17.3 inch laptop
Waterproof
Pros
- Ballistic fabric feels premium
- RFID blocking pockets
- Hard shell sunglasses compartment
- Waterproof material
Cons
- Laptop sleeve padding could be thicker
- Side bottle pockets small for large bottles
The KROSER 17.3 punches above its price on materials. The water-repellent ballistic fabric feels like the 200 dollar Everki, the hard shell sunglasses compartment is a feature I did not know I needed, and RFID-blocking pockets keep your credit cards and passport safe from digital skimming.
At 17.3 inches of laptop capacity, this bag handles the largest notebooks on the market, including most 17 inch gaming rigs. The 30L of storage is enough for daily work plus a gym change. The TSA combination lock secures the main zipper.
What surprised me is the air-flow back padding. Most budget bags treat back support as an afterthought. KROSER added thick ventilation channels, which makes a difference on a 40-minute walk to the office.
The laptop sleeve is a touch thin for a bag that markets itself on protection. I would add a slim hard case if you are carrying a 17 inch gaming laptop. And the side mesh pockets only fit a 16-ounce bottle, not a 32-ounce Nalgene.
For whom its good
International travelers who carry passports and credit cards. Anyone who wears sunglasses daily and wants a hard shell case. Buyers who want ballistic fabric at a budget price.
For whom its bad
People who carry large water bottles. Anyone who needs a heavily padded laptop sleeve. Minimalists who find the RFID and lock features excessive.
8. BANGE Business Smart Backpack – Best Waterproof Business Pick
BANGE Business Smart Backpack Waterproof fit 15.6 Inch Laptop Backpack with USB Charging Port,Travel Durable Backpack
15.6 inch laptop
YKK zippers
USB port
Pros
- Truly waterproof Oxford cloth
- YKK zippers are industry standard
- 180-degree front opening
- Professional business look
Cons
- Heavier than expected
- Strap brackets can slip over time
The BANGE Business Smart is the bag I would buy if I commuted in a city with daily rain. The high-density coated Oxford fabric is genuinely waterproof, not just resistant. I sprayed mine with a hose for 30 seconds, and the interior stayed dry.
YKK zippers are the small detail that separates a bag that lasts from a bag that fails. YKK is the brand the outdoor industry trusts, and seeing it on a sub-100 dollar bag is unusual. The 180-degree front opening lets you access a separate compartment for shoes, an umbrella, or a wet jacket without opening the main bag.
Build quality is solid. The Oxford fabric resists scratches, the stitching is reinforced at stress points, and the bag holds its shape even when empty. The professional black exterior works in client-facing settings.
Two minor issues. The bag is heavier than most in this roundup, around 2.65 pounds empty, which adds up over a long commute. And the strap adjustment brackets can slip if you load the bag unevenly, so tighten them after every packing change.
For whom its good
People who commute in wet climates. Business travelers who show up to client meetings looking sharp. Anyone who wants YKK zippers without the Everki price tag.
For whom its bad
Minimalists who want a sub-2-pound bag. Buyers who do not need true waterproofing and can save money with a water-resistant option.
9. SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart Backpack – Best for Frequent Flyers
SWISSGEAR 1900 ScanSmart Laptop Backpack, Fits Most 17-Inch Laptops, TSA-Friendly Lay-Flat Design, RFID Protection, and Tablet Pocket, Black, 31L, 18.5-Inch
31L capacity
17 inch laptop
TSA lay-flat
Pros
- TSA-friendly ScanSmart lay-flat design
- RFID protection organizer
- 5-year manufacturer warranty
- Comfortable airflow back padding
Cons
- Not fully waterproof in heavy rain
- Velcro laptop strap takes getting used to
The SwissGear 1900 is the bag I have recommended most often over the past five years, and it keeps earning that recommendation. The ScanSmart lay-flat design is the original TSA-friendly layout, and SwissGear still does it best. Open the bag 180 degrees, slide it into the security bin, walk through.
31L of storage is the sweet spot for most travelers. It fits a 17 inch laptop, three days of clothes, a charger, and a paperback. The accordion file holder keeps documents flat. The RFID-protected organizer pocket secures credit cards and passports from digital skimmers.
Build quality is what you would expect from SwissGear. The polyester fabric resists abrasion, the shoulder straps are contoured and padded, and the airflow back panel keeps you cool. The 5-year manufacturer warranty is double what most competitors offer.
The fabric is water-resistant, not waterproof. In a heavy downpour, the seams can wick moisture, so add a rain cover if you live in a wet climate. And the laptop compartment uses a velcro strap to secure the device, which takes more time than a sleeve approach.
For whom its good
Frequent flyers who want fast airport security. Owners of 17 inch laptops who want a bag that fits. Buyers who value a 5-year warranty. Anyone who carries documents and a tablet alongside a laptop.
For whom its bad
People who need true waterproofing. Minimalists who want a sub-2-pound bag. Anyone who finds velcro straps annoying.
10. The North Face Borealis – Best Premium Commuter
The North Face Borealis Commuter Laptop Backpack, Blk/Blk-NPF, OSFA
28L capacity
16 inch laptop
FlexVent system
Pros
- Certified ergonomic support from American Chiropractic Association
- FlexVent suspension system
- 360-degree reflective details
- Bungee cord system for extra storage
Cons
- Premium price point
- Side bottle pockets tight for large bottles
The North Face Borealis is the backpack I would buy with my own money if budget were not a factor. The FlexVent suspension system is certified by the American Chiropractic Association, which means it is designed for all-day wear without wrecking your back.
The bungee cord system on the front is the small detail that makes the Borealis stand out. Need to carry a yoga mat, a jacket, or a helmet? Bungee it to the front. The 28L capacity fits a 16 inch laptop plus a change of clothes, and the fleece-lined pocket protects sunglasses or a phone screen from scratches.
Build quality is what you would expect from The North Face. The nylon fabric resists abrasion, the zippers are smooth, and the shoulder straps are articulated to follow your body shape. 360-degree reflective details add visibility for early-morning or late-night commutes.
The price is the obvious trade-off. At over 100 dollars, the Borealis costs more than most of the other bags in this roundup combined. And the side bottle pockets are tight, even for a standard 16-ounce bottle.
For whom its good
Daily commuters who carry their bag for 45 minutes or more. Anyone with back or shoulder issues. Buyers who want premium materials and are willing to pay for them. Outdoor enthusiasts who want a bag that can handle a weekend trip.
For whom its bad
Budget buyers. People who do not need ergonomic certification. Anyone with a 17 inch laptop, since the Borealis maxes out at 16 inches.
11. EVERKI Business 120 Backpack – Best Premium Travel Bag
EVERKI Business 120 Laptop Backpack with Rain Cover, Black – 40L
40L capacity
18.4 inch laptop
Rain cover
Pros
- Fits up to 18.4 inch laptops
- Rain cover included
- Limited lifetime warranty
- 20 pockets for organization
Cons
- Premium price tag
- Heavy even when empty
- Large for average users
The EVERKI Business 120 is the bag for people who carry their office on their back. It fits a laptop up to 18.4 inches, which is the largest laptop capacity in this roundup. The 40L of storage swallows three days of work gear, and the included rain cover handles weather that would soak every other bag here.
The 5-point balance strap system is a serious ergonomic feature. The chest strap, hip belt, and shoulder strap padding work together to distribute 30 pounds of load without pain. For travelers who fly long-haul with full gear, that matters.
Build quality is premium across the board. The nylon fabric is water-resistant, the zippers are lockable for security, and the limited lifetime warranty covers manufacturing defects. The 180-degree fold-out design is similar to the SwissGear approach but on a larger scale.
The downsides are real. At 180 dollars, this is the most expensive bag in our roundup. It is heavy when empty, around 4 pounds, and the 40L capacity is overkill for daily commuters who only carry a laptop and a lunch.
For whom its good
Consultants and field engineers who travel with massive laptops. Photographers with 17 inch MacBook Pros. Anyone who needs rain protection, lockable zippers, and a lifetime warranty in one bag.
For whom its bad
Daily commuters on a budget. Anyone with a 13 or 14 inch laptop. Buyers who want a lightweight bag for short trips.
12. Samsonite Kombi Business Backpack – Best Professional Aesthetic
Samsonite Kombi Business Backpack – Ballistic Nylon, 15.6” Laptop Compartment, Tablet Pocket, SmartSleeve™, Multi-Pocket Organizer, Padded Straps & Back, Top Handle, Fleece-Lined Accessory Pocket
26.5L capacity
15.6 inch laptop
Ballistic nylon
Pros
- Ballistic nylon with leather accents
- SmartSleeve slides over luggage
- Orange interior for visibility
- Stands upright on its own
Cons
- Not water resistant
- Heavier than expected
- No built-in lock
The Samsonite Kombi is the bag for people who need their backpack to look like it belongs in a boardroom. The ballistic nylon construction with genuine leather accents reads as professional from across a conference table. The orange interior is a small but brilliant touch, since it makes finding small items fast.
The SmartSleeve is the headline travel feature. Slide the sleeve over a roller bag handle, and the backpack rides on top of your luggage through the airport. The 26.5L capacity fits a 15.6 inch laptop, a tablet, files, and a change of clothes without bulging.
Build quality is what you would expect from Samsonite. The ballistic nylon is the same material used in their briefcases, the zippers are smooth, and the air mesh back panel keeps you cool. The bag stands upright on its own, even when empty, which is a small detail that makes office life easier.
The Kombi is not water-resistant, so this is not the bag for rainy commutes. It is also heavier than most backpacks, around 2.5 pounds empty. And there is no built-in lock, so you will need a separate solution for security.
For whom its good
Lawyers, consultants, and executives who need a boardroom-ready backpack. Frequent business travelers who want a SmartSleeve for roller bags. Buyers who value brand reputation and lifetime construction quality.
For whom its bad
Daily commuters in rainy climates. Buyers on a tight budget. Anyone who needs a lockable main compartment.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Laptop Backpack
Picking a laptop backpack is not just about size. After testing 12 bags over three months, our team found that the right pick depends on how you commute, what you carry, and how long you want the bag to last.
Laptop Size and Fit
Measure your laptop diagonally before you buy. A 15.6 inch laptop in a 15.6 inch sleeve is a tight fit, so size up if you carry your device in a protective case. The Matein, Volher, Taygeer, SHRRADOO, BANGE, and Samsonite all max out at 15.6 inches. The SHRRADOO Extra Large, MATEIN 17, KROSER, and SwissGear 1900 handle 17 inch laptops. The EVERKI Business 120 is the only bag here that fits 18.4 inch laptops.
Comfort and Ergonomics
If you walk more than 20 minutes a day, ergonomic features matter. Look for padded shoulder straps, a contoured back panel, and ideally a sternum strap or hip belt. The North Face Borealis is the only bag here with American Chiropractic Association certification. The EVERKI Business 120 has a 5-point balance strap system for heavy loads. Budget bags like the MATEIN 15.6 work for short walks, but the straps dig in on longer commutes.
Organization and Storage
Count the pockets before you buy. Bags with 10 or more pockets, like the SHRRADOO Extra Large and EVERKI Business 120, work well for people who carry chargers, cables, mice, and accessories. Slim bags like the Volher have fewer pockets but a tighter profile that fits under tight seats and in crowded coffee shops. If you carry a water bottle, check the side pocket size, since most bags here have tight bottle holders.
Water Resistance
Water-resistant means the fabric sheds light rain. Waterproof means seams are sealed and the bag can handle a downpour. The BANGE Business Smart and KROSER 17.3 are the only truly waterproof bags in this roundup. The SwissGear 1900 and most others are water-resistant, which works for commuters who occasionally get caught in rain. The Samsonite Kombi is not water-resistant, so it is a poor choice for wet climates.
Warranty and Durability
Warranty length is a quick indicator of brand confidence. The MATEIN 17 Inch offers a lifetime warranty. The EVERKI Business 120 has a limited lifetime warranty. The SwissGear 1900 covers 5 years. Budget bags like the Matein 15.6 and Volher offer 1 year. Long-term Amazon reviewers report SHRRADOO bags lasting three or more years of daily use, and Tom Bihn-style brands are famous for lasting a decade.
Travel and TSA Features
If you fly more than four times a year, a TSA lay-flat design is worth the upgrade. The SwissGear 1900, MATEIN 17, SHRRADOO Extra Large, Taygeer, BANGE, and EVERKI all open 180 degrees for airport security. The Samsonite Kombi uses a SmartSleeve that slides over roller bag handles, which is the gold standard for business travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best backpack to carry a laptop?
The best laptop backpack depends on your laptop size and use case. For most people, the SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart offers the best balance of TSA-friendly design, 17 inch laptop fit, and 5-year warranty. Budget buyers should consider the MATEIN 15.6 Inch, which has over 114,000 reviews and a 4.7-star average. Premium buyers who want ergonomic certification should look at The North Face Borealis.
Which brand of laptop backpack is the best?
Based on our testing, SwissGear, The North Face, Samsonite, and EVERKI lead on build quality and warranty coverage. Budget brands like MATEIN and SHRRADOO offer exceptional value, with thousands of reviews confirming 3+ years of daily use. For business travel, Samsonite and Timbuk2 are the most trusted names. For ergonomic support, The North Face Borealis is the only bag certified by the American Chiropractic Association.
What is the best laptop backpack for travel, according to Reddit users?
On Reddit’s r/BuyItForLife and r/backpacks communities, users consistently recommend the Tom Bihn Synik 30 for long-term durability, with multiple users reporting 1.5+ years of daily use with no wear. Timbuk2 Authority also gets frequent praise for lasting over a decade of heavy abuse. For budget travel, the MATEIN 15.6 and SHRRADOO Extra Large are the most recommended options.
What company makes the best laptop bags?
The best laptop bag companies depend on category. For premium business travel, Samsonite and Timbuk2 are top picks. For premium everyday carry, The North Face and Bellroy lead the market. For best value, MATEIN and SHRRADOO dominate Amazon’s best-seller list. For TSA-friendly airport use, SwissGear is the original and still the most popular choice. Each brand has a different specialty, so the right pick depends on your specific commute and travel needs.
Final Verdict: Which Laptop Backpack Should You Buy?
After three months of testing, our team is split between three favorites. For most people, the SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart is the best laptop backpack of 2026 thanks to its TSA lay-flat design, 17 inch laptop fit, and 5-year warranty. Budget buyers get the most value from the MATEIN 15.6 Inch, which has earned its 4.7-star average with over 114,000 reviews.
For premium buyers, The North Face Borealis is worth the extra money for its American Chiropractic Association-certified ergonomic support. Pick the bag that matches your laptop size, commute, and budget, and you will not be disappointed. None of the 12 bags on this list are bad, but the right one for you depends on what you actually carry.