The best laptop backpacks and sleeves 2024

Laptop size: up to 16-inch
Capacity: 17L

The ‘Essential’ laptop bag from WaterField is, well, focussed on the essentials—but it really nails them.

The aesthetic is simple, but sleek, with a choice of colorful accents below the black body. Built from water-resistant nylon, and with waterproof seals around the zips, this is sturdy enough to survive the elements, with a structured body that holds its shape even when the bag is empty.

Outer pockets on each side will hold water bottles or small umbrellas, and there are zipped compartments on both the inside and outside for keeping track of your loose bits and pieces.

The single padded and fleece-lined laptop pouch is big enough for 14in and even some 16in devices, with a simple velcro strap to hold things in place.

There’s also a well-made messenger bag version if you prefer a shoulder bag. This round up is mainly for two-strap backpacks, but the quality of the Waterfield Essential messenger is so good we also wanted to give it a shout out. Its simplicity is its secret – a slender bag with surprising capacity that fits up to 14-inch laptops along with books, chargers, water bottle and more.

It has clever magnetic snap-shut buckles that slide open and a clever orange lining—instead of black—that helps you easier quickly glance and see what’s inside.

Laptop size: up to 16-inch (both)
Capacity: 21L (The Backpack), 20L (The Commuter)

We’ve no doubt that Stubble & Co is making some of the most stylish and well-made backpacks around.

First up is ‘The Backpack’ (shown on the right above), which isn’t an overly complicated rucksack with more pockets than you can remember. Instead, it’s simple and effective with just a pocket on the front and a small one inside. You also get two side pockets for items such as a water bottle and umbrella.

This updated model has a 21L main compartment and you can fit up to a 16-inch laptop in the protected section at the back. Furthermore, the material is now water-resistant premium Tekwax canvas, though it’s not fully waterproof.

Not only does The Backpack look great—available in All Black and Pirate colors—the craftsmanship is exceptional. The magnets on the lid have been replaced with a more secure G clip.

The Commuter (pictured on the left) is available in two colors and also made from premium Tekwax canvas. It’s a more traditional shape with comparable 20L capacity along with more sections–namely a dedicated laptop compartment with its own zip–and pockets if that’s more the kind of thing you need.

Laptop size: up to 16-inch + 14-inch laptop/tablet sleeve
Capacity: 20L

If the Extreme Commuter backpack from Mous is a little rugged for your tastes, then there’s a more versatile option from the brand that you can take from work to dinner and even travelling up and down the country (if you pack lightly).  

Unlike the Extreme Commuter’s single black option, the Mous Day Backpack is available in four colorways: Sage, Marine, Stone and Midnight, with two-tone accents that give it a bit of flare. It’s made from water-resistant materials like 420D recycled nylon and coated 600D polyester and has held up under rain – however, it’s not completely waterproof.  

There’s no shortage of compartments – the main section has a 16-inch laptop sleeve, and a 14-inch laptop/tablet sleeve below, with a small-zipped pocket with three compartments included. The exterior has a zipped compartment on the front for daily essentials like sunglasses, a hidden zipped pocket on the back for passports and wallets, and a generously sized waterproof bottle holder on the side.  

It’s not as light as other backpacks we’ve tested, but that’s because it’s a structured bag with durable materials. When you pack light, it sits nice and slim on your back, which is perfect if you commute on busy trains. But don’t let that fool you – the 20L capacity managed to hold a laptop, a charger, a Dyson Airwrap, toiletries and five days’ worth of clothes during our testing.  

That’s largely thanks to the main zip that allows bottom-of-the-bag access, so you can pack items efficiently. The side panels then close magnetically to ensure that the zip section is covered, while the flexible top lid can close at different levels thanks to the g-hook fastening. 

The protection isn’t quite as secure as what you’ll find on the Extreme Commuter, and the front section picked up a tiny nick during our travels when placed face-down on train storage. However, this is a comfortable and stylish laptop bag that doesn’t need to be reserved solely for work – and it’s not as pricey as its sibling.

• Laptop size: up to 16-inch
• Capacity: 20L

US company Peak Design makes a range of different bags, but the Everyday Totepack is its most versatile.  

As the name suggests, it can be comfortably used as either a backpack or tote bag, with soft, padded straps on one side and a secure magnetic handle at the top. You can even stow away the straps for a sleeker look while in handheld mode. 

The Everyday Totepack feels exceptionally well made, with a poly-coated nylon cover that makes it impressively resistant to the elements. The ‘Black’ model is quick to dry and resistant to direct, though that may be more of an issue for the off-white ‘Bone’ version. 

It’s also worth mentioning the strong zips, which allow access to the interior via the top or either side. 

Clad in grey nylon, the interior offers up to 25L of capacity, with dedicated slots for a laptop (up to 15-inches) and tablet, plus all your daily essentials. It’s ideal for anyone who carries a lot of tech or camera gear, but well suited for any short trips. 

While it measures 46cm x 38cm at the maximum, the top can easily be rolled down to create a more compact 38cm x 32cm bag. Alongside its hybrid nature, it makes the Everyday Totepack impressively versatile. The bag comes with a secure magnetic key tether and cord hook external straps, allowing you to easily attach further items to the outside. 

There are no real weaknesses, though some people will miss the lack of an external water bottle holder. The backpack straps can also be fiddly to adjust until you get used to them. 

But aside from that, the Everyday Totepack is a near-perfect hybrid bag. Peak Design’s lifetime warranty also means you get a replacement if there are any failures or breakages that stop it being functional. 

It’s not cheap, but should last you for a very long time, making it good value for money in the long run. 

• Laptop size: up to 16-inch
• Capacity: 20L

If you’re after a comfortable and stylish laptop bag that’s still friendly on the old purse strings, then the Lisboa Laptop Backpack is a solid choice.  

It comes in a choice of three neutral colors (black, blue and green), and is made from 12 recycled PET (Polyethylene terephthalate) bottles. It’s both shockproof and waterproof, and during daily testing it stood its ground against marks and scuffs. The tightly woven material can trap some dust, but a quick wipe down solves the job. 

The standout feature of the Lisboa is how comfortable it is. It comes with a mesh back and shoulder straps, and despite its 23L capacity and space for a 16-inch laptop, its barely noticeable during long commutes and walks, with weight evenly distributed. Even without anything in it, the bag holds its structure, and doesn’t appear bulky – even on petite reviewers.  

There are numerous pockets, making it extremely travel friendly. There’s one main section (with interior pouches to separate your laptop and charger), a slimmer compartment right in front for other bits and bobs, an easy access zipped section on the front and a discreet small, zipped section on the rear for valuables such as your passport or wallet.  

One other neat feature is the inclusion of a luggage strap which you can fit on the handle of suitcases when needed. Commuters should be aware that there isn’t an exterior bottle holder, but the bag has more than enough room to store one inside. If that factor is a dealbreaker, then Trust also offers the Avana laptop bag which includes one.  

All of this comes at the impressively low price of £34.99 (not available in the US), undercutting many rivals by some way. Sure, it’s not got a fancy brand name, luxury design elements or fancy techy features like USB charging – but it covers the basics perfectly.  

Laptop size: up to 17in (Large size)
Capacity: up to 28L (Large size)

Timbuk2 is a well-established San Francisco bag brand originally designed for bike messengers to carry stuff in. That’s where the term ‘messenger bag’ comes from in the first place.

While not technically a backpack, it’s good enough to be included here due to how customisable it is at purchase, and how versatile it is in day to day use. You can opt for the regular classic messenger bag in an array of colors and sizes.

Importantly, it lets you pick if you are a left-handed wearer of a messenger bag so would want to wear it over your right shoulder. Regular Timbuk2 messengers are for right-handed left shoulder carry only as the straps are not reversible.

You can also choose to add different color panels, rain resistant or other materials rather than the normal Cordura fabric, and internal divider, or at additional cost inner water bottle pockets and a padded laptop sleeve.

We tested a bag with all the trimmings, and you should get the internal dividers because without them, even the medium size is a very large bucket of a bag. If you don’t fill it then it can be quite floppy and saggy – it’s more comfortable when bulked out.

It’s a shame that it is a little uncomfortable if you’re lugging around very heavy loads (an optional shoulder pad straps helps to an extent), but if you can find the right amount of gear to carry, this is a very nice looking and well-made bag.

Clever design choices such as an easy-wipe internal lining (in case of spillages) and a great quick release strap to quickly tighten or loosen the fit make it impressively well rounded.

Laptop size: up to 16-inches (20L)
Capacity: 15/20L

We’ve come to love Stubble & Co bags over the years and the new generation of Roll Top is up there with the best of them. 

It might look the same as before overall but comes with a whole raft of upgrades including more durable waterproof materials (many of which are recycled), an improved air-flow back panel, luggage sleeve for use with wheeled luggage, more ergonomic straps, water-resistant zips and weatherproof bound seams and more. 

I particularly like the new magnet closure on the roll top opening which makes getting in and closing it up easier. The bag survived a rugged holiday to Devon including many trips to the beach where I was glad that the contents were kept completely free of water and sand. 

There are various pockets and compartments without there being too many and the laptop section has its own zip on the side and can fit up to 16in laptops. I find not having to open the main compartment to get my laptop out a real boon. 

The new Roll Top is available in both 15- and 20L sizes in a choice of eight colors starting at £110/$160.

Laptop size: up to 17-inch
Capacity: 25L

This backpack is a little on the pricey side, but we included it here thanks to the sheer quality of materials and the fact it’s one of the few backpacks out there we think genuinely looks good with a suit, if you need to dress up your laptop-carrying look.

The Apex’s 25L capacity is well-spaced out enough to fit in a 17-inch laptop as well as lunch and gym gear, all of which are protected from the elements by waterproof outer fabric, lining and zippers.

A very comfortable back panel holds the pack slightly off your back to make it more breathable, while the leather accents on the black, green or blue (navy or air-force blue) body make it feel more premium.

For travelling, there’s a trolley sleeve on the back to attach to a wheelie bag handle, and there are tons of internal and external pockets – including a dedicated one for easy access to your smartphone. Both side water bottle pockets are roomy enough for a 1L bottle, too.

Troubadour also sells a sling version of this backpack, appropriately called the Apex Sling. While not large enough to fit even a 12-inch laptop, it does have a padded pocket for a small tablet. It features many of the larger backpack benefits, such as the quality build, good looks, sustainable materials, hidden phone pocket and AirTag pocket.

Laptop size: up to 16-inches
Capacity: 42L

Sneaking as large a carry-on bag as possible when taking a flight is now standard practice for most of us. It saves a lot of money on putting another bag in the hold and can get you out of the airport much faster, plus there’s much less chance of your luggage being lost.

The lightweight (1.7kg) and comfortable Adventure Bag from Stubble & Co might just be the ultimate carry-on bag, as it has a massive 42L capacity but still fits within most airlines’ carry-on limits.

It features a large and easily accessible side-opening, plus padded laptop compartment that will easily fit a 16-inch laptop. For most short breaks, you can use it instead of a suitcase.

Like all the best bags, the Adventure Bag opens out flat in a ‘clamshell’ format, making access to even deep items much easier than with a more closed design.

There are ten durable pockets, including four external for accessibility. Generous interior pockets are meshed so you can quickly see where all your items are stored. An elasticated water-bottle pocket fits a decent sized flask and a standard plastic bottle. And there’s a hidden pocket at the back for your valuables.

While The Adventure Bag is expensive it could save a frequent flyer that purchase price several times over.

Laptop size: up to 16-inches
Capacity: 26-42L

Duffel or duffle? Apparently you can spell the name either way, but a duffle/duffel bag is a great alternative to a backpack, and is especially great as a fashionable overnight or weekend travel bag.

Although we’ve reviewed several very smart laptop backpacks here, we have to admit that sometimes they can look a bit casual at times. A good-looking duffle bag can appear more chic when turning up at a swanky hotel, airport lounge or the gym.

From the same luxury brand as the Apex laptop backpack reviewed above, we rate the Troubadour Duffle range for their stylish good looks and padded laptop compartment. There are several Troubadour duffle bags and each works well with your laptop. They boast multiple internal pockets (including one to hold a water bottle) and zipped pockets on the exterior—others hidden at the side, perfect for keeping your keys and valuables, and one that can unzip into a trolley sleeve.

At the entry-level there’s the 32-42L Apex Travel Duffle, is made from anti-crease nylon with fluorocarbon-free waterproofing. The base can be unzipped to create more space, so you really can pack that extra item at the last minute. It boasts padded, suspended pockets for both laptop & tablet.

Each comes with a detachable padded shoulder strap if you want to cling it over your shoulder instead of using the handles.

Super smart and good for the planet, the Orbis Duffle is not only is it made from 100% recycled materials, it’s also 100% recyclable at the end of its lifespan; the same is true of the whole Orbis range, which includes backpacks and a tote. It achieves this circular recyclability by being constructed with just one material, with even the bag’s linings, reinforcement and zippers all using durable recycled PET/polyester, the same as a plastic bottle.

The 18-30L Embark Duffle features a NanoCushion tech section that’s engineered to protect your laptop & iPad. It even has a dedicated shoe compartment with waterproof, breathable lining.

Laptop size: up to 15-inches
Capacity: up to 30L

If you cycle and need to carry your laptop, look no further. This awesome lightweight, fully waterproof rolltop backpack from Chrome Industries is for you.

The knurled welded material means this feels like a camping-style dry bag, and it pretty much is one – but it’s got more shape and organisation. A padded laptop sleeve on the inside is joined by two other pockets for a book, phone, pens and more, ensuring they don’t hit into other items in the main compartment.

As this is a rolltop, there are no outside zippers (no zips at all, in fact) and no water bottle pockets. This is worth bearing in mind if you tend to take things in and out of your bag a lot. But remember, you are gaining full waterproofing by making that sacrifice – giving great peace of mind when lugging your laptop through the rain.

The U-loops on the back (for a U-shaped padlock) are cleverly reflective, and the straps with a chest strap are very comfortable.

For a sleek minimalist look with enough laptop and weather protection not to worry, this is a great choice. You can even put larger, taller items in the bag when unrolled, as the material stays upright and stiff, and there are carry handles for when you do.

We tested the 20L version but there’s a larger 30L one if you carry around a lot of gear.

Laptop size: up to 15-inches
Capacity: up to 20L

This backpack has large tote handles on the top so it can be carried as a tote if you want to, and the back straps fold neatly away.

But this bag is still best when used as a backpack, and it’s pleasingly protective and comfortable, despite the slightly unusual design. We tested the larger 20L version (there’s a smaller 14L too) and managed to fit in far more than expected with a 15-inch laptop, books, headphones, keys, lunch, and spare shoes all fitting in there with room to spare.

There are clever touches such as two internal pockets (for the likes of a water bottle, umbrella or shoes) and two outside zip pockets for easy access to smaller items. The top zipper has a weather flap underneath to make up for the fact that the zippers and materials used here aren’t waterproof.

However, this is still an excellent, well-made laptop backpack that manages to be both lightweight and sturdy.

Laptop size: up to 16-inches
Capacity: 14L

One of the very best laptop backpacks is the City Pack made by San Francisco company Aer. The bag is well-designed and of excellent quality with top materials, zippers, and compartments.

The outer material is a very hardy 1680D Cordura ballistic nylon complete with tough zippers and Duraflex plastic on the tag pulls, all of which make for a premium-feeling product. Importantly, the padded laptop pocket is suspended, so your laptop won’t hit the ground when you put the bag down. The straps are also very comfortable for all-day wear.

There are tons of storage pockets to organise your stuff in the front compartment, as well as two outside pockets, one of which has a soft lining for your phone or glasses. With a tiny pocket inside the bag to slot an AirTag, this is a modern backpack with superb attention to detail.

The one downside is the bag only has a 14L capacity, despite being relatively large and boxy. That’s because the main compartment has good length and width but not much depth at only 5in (12.5cm). It means you must stack items such as coats, shoes, lunch box or headphones on top of each other, tower style, and you run out of room surprisingly quickly.

Otherwise, this is a very good choice.

Laptop size: up to 16-inches
Capacity: 18-24L

We love the orange version of this clamshell Urban Armor backpack, although that shade is reserved for the 18-liter model only. If you want the larger 24L UAG Standard Issue Back Pack, you’ll have to like the special-ops Black Midnight Camo design. The 18L model also comes in black and gray.

This super-lightweight “weather-resistant” backpack will hold your laptop in its padded compartment, and boasts a multitude of side and top exterior pockets and plenty of internal meshed and zipped compartments, too.

It feel lighter than it looks and is comfortable to wear. It also performed the best at standing upright when placed on the floor, while some other backpacks slumped to one side or fell over.

Laptop size: up to 15.6-inches
Capacity: 23.5L

The waterproof and anti-abrasive nylon RiutBag backpack not only protects your laptop and gear from bumps and drops, it’s built to thwart pickpockets.

The zips face your back rather than outwards, so can’t be opened by anyone behind you. However, it also means you shouldn’t sling it over your back without making sure it’s properly closed.

Also at the back, hidden from view and thieving hands, is a zipped compartment. This can be used for your phone, keys, passport or whatever else you may need in a hurry.

Its 23.5L capacity means there’s room for all the essentials, with handy mesh zipped organiser pockets to keep your tech and other valuable safe and secure.

Flexible and stretchy lycra water-bottle holders are available on either side, while the chest strap and handle are both comfortable to use. You even get a strap for attaching it to a trolley-style suitcase.

Laptop size: up to 15-inches
Capacity: 18L

STM’s Banks is an impressive laptop backpack, combining an 18L capacity without compromising on slimline design. There’s also breathable mesh fabric on the back, helping to avoid the awkward back sweat when carrying a rucksack. 

It’s designed to be an everyday bag as well as a laptop bag, with plenty of space for your laptop (up to 15-inches), laptop charger, phone, lunch and even a jacket – believe me, I’ve tried. There are plenty of pockets of all shapes and sizes that’ll hold everything from sunglasses and phones to battery packs and keys.

That’s not to say that it doesn’t have some impressive laptop-specific features, including STM’s own Slingtech protection. This suspends the laptop sleeve from the ground to protect it from drops, while also providing extra cushioning at the corners.

It also allows you to run cables through different sections of the bag, making it easier to keep your smartphone or laptop charged while on the go.

Our only criticism is that it can be a little difficult to actually see what’s in the bag, so you may have to rely on touch or take out lots of things when searching.

• Laptop size: up to 16-inches
• Capacity: 25L

Mous is known for its phone accessories, but this laptop backpack proves it can make great bags too. It’s very protective and is designed to carry all your day and tech gear with you no matter the weather, thanks to waterproof zippers and a water-resistant coating.

At 25L, it’s a relatively large backpack, but also quite heavy – even when there’s not much in it. That’s due to it being a structured bag with a large main compartment for storing all your gear, with stretchy mesh and zipped pockets to keep everything secure.

Mous says there’s enough padding for your laptop to be fine, even if you drop it onto a hard surface. The main buckle is hard to for thieves to easy unlock, while the main compartment has a zipper underneath the main flap. It’s great for security, albeit not the best if you want to quickly grab things during the day.

Black is the only color option, but it looks good and is appropriate for pretty much any situation. Overall, this is a thoughtful – if expensive – backpack with secret compartments and enough protection for your laptop and any other items you might want with you.

• Laptop size: up to 15-inches
• Capacity: 22L

Want a backpack you can carry your laptop to work during the week, then use to hit the trails at the weekend? The Osprey Talon Earth 22 is for you.

Its lightweight yet supportive 1.1kg design offers an adjustable back to let you easily set it to your chosen height. There’s also a dedicated section for a water bottle.

The design is quite bold, regardless of whether you go for the blue, brown, or green model, but it should still be suitable for most office environments. Inside, you get a zipped, padded laptop sleeve that can store a 15-inch device, alongside a 22L main compartment and small top-load pocket.

While you only get those three compartments, there’s plenty of capacity for all your tech and daily essentials. There are also special clips on the outside for securing a bike helmet or blinking light, and there’s even an ice axe attachment.

But with a supportive belt and chest clip (with whistle) this is an excellent bag that’s suitable for both the office and hikes, and saves you having to buy two bags. It’s even made using sustainable materials.

Laptop size: up to 16-inches
Capacity: 17L

Harber’s Commuter is a very stylish backpack that’s great for your tech needs. Handmade in Spain from a combination of recycled fabric and full grain leather, this is undoubtedly a looker, and oozes quality from top to bottom.

Built for laptops up to 16-inches, you get a padded compartment for your computer– with a false bottom so that it won’t thud into the floor when you drop your bag down. An additional tablet section is ideal for those of us with a separate device, but be warned: that’s all you get.

There aren’t any other pouches or pockets, inside or out, which means this only suits minimalist tastes. So, if you tend to carry a load round with you, it’ll all have to go loose into the main compartment.

Laptop size: 13-14-inch and 15-16-inch versions

Australian accessory brand Bellroy makes a wide range of premium bags, cases and wallets, and its simple, good-looking laptop sleeves offer high-quality protection.

The woven, water-resistant exterior material is eco-friendly—made from 100% recycled PET bottles. Inside, the quilted microfiber lining has a clever soft ridge that holds your laptop in place.

The sleeve—available in Black, Slate, Navy, Bronze and a leather-free Saltbush—snaps shut with a neat magnetic bumper, ensuring that the laptop sleeve closes every time..

Laptop size: 13-14-inch and 15-16-inch versions

This luxury-feel laptop sleeve is a cross between a full case and a slip-in sleeve. Not only does it nestle and protect your laptop in a roomy cushioned interior, it features a zipped front pocket with slots for chargers, cables and other accessories. There’s even a built-in AirTag pocket, so you can locate your laptop and sleeve if you are the forgetful type, or just too busy to remember where you left it.

The tough yet refined water-resistant exterior is fabric made from 100% recycled plastic bottles. A classy full-grain leather trim adds style and further sleeve protection.

It’s available in a gorgeous Mocha, shown above, black, navy and olive.