Fashion insiders love nothing more than being ahead of the curve. It’s practically in our job descriptions as we forecast trends from the runways and rework them to offer real-life solutions. Bottega Veneta’s Andiamo bag has transcended into one of 2024’s favorite luxe laptop bags, as has The Row’s Margaux tote bag. With a blend of functionality and style, both options offer an elevated feel to your work routine. But if you’re not a fan of wearing a traditional tote bag to the office, there’s one type of work bag that is at the precipice of becoming a full-blown trend: the humble laptop backpack.
Often overlooked, work-friendly backpacks have emerged online as a practical solution for editors, executives, and the street-style set. They’ve also appeared on the runways at Gucci, Coach, and Louis Vuitton. These backpacks, with their padded straps, extra storage, and hidden dedicated sleeves for your computer, are a hero item for women on the go. They offer a much-needed respite for those with aching shoulders from years of relying on leather tote bags.
Savannah Engel, the founder of New York-based boutique public relations agency SAVI, has deemed them necessary after needing an option that would keep her essentials safe while keeping her hands free to quickly answer emails. A jam-packed travel schedule and a series of injuries that left her on crutches for weeks at a time ruled out the need for a traditional tote, leaving her to rely on the classic styles of her youth—she has her eye on a newer edition of the Jansport she wore in middle school. “They're a perfect thing,” she tells Marie Claire.
Engel’s adoration of the retro piece falls in line with the resurgence of early-aughts and ‘90s fashion staples within the modern landscape. Capri pants, beloved by Bella Hadid, have risen to popularity once again alongside east-west bag silhouettes and jelly sandals. If what’s old is new again, it makes sense that sensibility would transition towards the staples in our wardrobes, too.
Backpacks have also been co-signed as a chic bag style by Marie Claire’s own Editor-in-Chief Nikki Ogunnaike, who prefers spacious options from Dagne Dover and Longchamp made from durable canvas or lightweight nylon. Kenzie Welch, an Atlanta, Georgia-based stylist and content creator who has earned virality by styling working women on TikTok and Instagram, offers backpacks as a practical option for the people she works with—and they’ve become a popular inclusion in her styling sessions. “Most of my clients request chic and timeless work accessories, they don't want to compromise style for comfort,” she says. “I always tell them that functional doesn't have to mean unfashionable.”
The style is resonating with shoppers. Kimberly Bickle, the Site Merchandising Manager at luxury resale platform Fashionphile, says that she’s seen an increase in backpacks this summer, which she credits to the increase in travel and for “hands-free type bags are essential for everyone on the go.” Brands like Louis Vuitton and Gucci are always top-sellers in the category, proving that the best backpacks don’t have to be made from techy materials like nylon to be sturdy enough to carry your work essentials.
Truly functional picks come at every price point and can be made in luxe fabrics like leather or suede. But because there are so many to choose from, we turned to our experts to parse through the options to find you the best ones. Ahead, find styling advice, tips on what to look for from Wech alongside Engel and Bickle sharing their favorite options on the market.
- Shop The Best Laptop Backpacks
- What to Look For in The Best Laptop Backpacks
- How to Style Laptop Backpacks
- Meet The Experts
Marie Claire's Favorite Laptop Backpacks
- Best Sporty Laptop Backpack: Lululemon Everywhere Backpack 22L
- Best Water-Resistant Laptop Backpack: Dagne Dover Dakota Large Neoprene Backpack
- Best Roomy Laptop Backpack: Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack
- Best Lightweight Laptop Backpack: Tumi Voyageur Just in Case Packable Nylon Travel Backpack
- Best Sleek Laptop Backpack: Calpak Kaya Laptop Backpack
Shop The Best Laptop Backpacks
For an under $100 backpack that won’t break your bank (or back), look no further than Lululemon. This pick may be simple in design, but it ticks all the boxes. It’s got a padded laptop sleeve, external pockets, water-repellent fabric, and even designated pockets for your water bottle. Reviewers say it’s lightweight and comfortable, a must-have for toting your laptop around all day. Choose from seven shades like this blush pink, olive, teal, or classic black.
What We Love: It comes in seven colors, fits up to a 16" laptop, is water-repellant, has exterior pockets, a laptop sleeve, and an exterior water bottle holder.
What We Don't: Some reviewers say the straps slip down
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 16 inches.
What's the Material?: 100 percent nylon
If you tend to overpack, this backpack is for you. The main compartment is roomy for shoes and clothes, planner books, and toiletry bags. There's even an exterior side pocket that can accommodate a water bottle. The interior also features a laptop sleeve with an elastic enclosure to keep your laptop or tablet in place—safe and separate from your other belongings. If you're worried that carrying all your belongings might strain your back, don't stress. The adjustable straps are neoprene, so the design is easy on the shoulders.
What We Love: Has adjustable straps; has a dedicated laptop sleeve; has a roomy interior has a trolley sleeve; is machine-washable; is water-resistant
What We Don't: The material is not stain-resistant
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 16 inches
What's the Material?: Neoprene
This laptop backpack is an absolute star for busy morning and evening commutes. Available in four colors and made from 100 percent recycled polyester with a water-resistant finish, it’s designed to be lightweight and sturdy—two aspects that have made it a top seller for the brand. It has five interior pockets, including one that’s fit for a water bottle, and has shoulder straps in two lengths. And if you’re zipping through TSA, it has easy-access zipper pockets for your most essential items.
What We Love: Has two water bottle containers; has an interior zip pocket for security; has several exterior pockets for easy access
What We Don't: The water bottle pocket is designed for slim bottles
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 15 inches.
What's the Material?: 100 percent recycled polyester
Marie Claire’s Review: “This backpack fits my (ginormous) laptop via a side compartment—which, by the way, is great for when I need to access it without rifling through the rest of my bag," she explains. "It’s also got a bunch of zip pockets, slip pockets, two water bottle holders, and a strap for luggage. Apparently, this is great for the organized traveler, but it’s equally great for when I need to shove a bunch of things into it before I run out of the house” — Katherine J. Igoe, Contributing Editor
Travel brand Away is not just the maker of your favorite carry-on suitcases. They also make this sleek, laptop-friendly backpack perfect for in-office days. It comes in neutral colors, has interior and exterior pockets, and is made from a water-resistant nylon material that is perfect for living in a rainy or humid climate. Adding a trolley sleeve at the back is an excellent option for jetting off.
What We Love: Comes in neutral colors; can be personalized; has interior pockets; has exterior pockets; has a trolley sleeve; water-resistant material;
What We Don't: It doesn’t have a water bottle compartment.
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 15 inches.
What's the Material?: Nylon
Tumi's Voyageur Just in Case Packable Nylon Travel Backpack is beloved online for its lightweight, easy silhouette. It comes in two colors—black and navy blue—and is made from 100 percent nylon. Clocking in at just over half a pound in weight, it's perfect for filling with your essentials (including your computer, obviously!) thanks to the easy-to-reach front pocket. It also lies completely flat and has an "add a bag" trolley sleeve so it can easily come with you to the airport.
What We Love: Lightweight; Lies flat; Made from lightweight nylon; has a front pocket; has a trolley sleeve.
What We Don't: Has no interior pockets
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 15 inches.
What's the Material?: 100 percent nylon.
If you need a no-fuss backpack that won't look super out-of-place at your next happy hour session with your colleagues, Calpak's is a must-buy. The simple square silhouette and black detailing are as versatile as it gets, and it comes in a wide range of colors like pale pink, lavender, and black. It has several interior compartments, including a dedicated laptop zippered sleeve to keep you organized while on the go.
What We Love: It comes in several colors, has a dedicated zippered laptop sleeve, has multiple interior pockets, and fits over a suitcase.
What We Don't: Some reviewers said it looked bulky.
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 15 inches.
What's the Material?: Faux leather
Other Laptop Backpacks We Love
Olivia Wilde and Olivia Rodrigo have long been fans of backpacks from Swedish brand Fjällräven. They come in eight colors, including black (a favorite of Rodrigo’s) and teal green (Wilde’s preferred pick). Two-way zip around the bag’s perimeter is reinforced with a rain flap, and padded adjustable straps are teamed with a cushioned back panel for extra comfort. The bag has interior and exterior pockets, including a slip pocket for your devices.
What We Love: It has padded shoulder straps, interior pockets, exterior pockets, a padded back panel, a dedicated laptop sleeve, neutral and bright colors, and a lightweight design.
What We Don't: Doesn’t fit large devices.
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 13 inches.
What's the Material?: Canvas
This JanSport Crosstown Backpack is the one that Engel loves. “Bring this backpack back!” she says. Not only does it come in nearly 20 patterns and colors, but it also has a classic silhouette that easily transitions through the day. Details like a padded back panel, a dedicated water bottle holder, and external pockets make this backpack perfect if you want an option with clean lines and fewer bells and whistles.
What We Love: It comes in 17 colorways and patterns and has a padded back panel, a water bottle holder, and an external pocket.
What We Don't: It doesn’t have a laptop compartment.
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 16 inches.
What's the Material?: Recycled polyester
This lightweight nylon backpack is the sportier version of its iconic Le Pliage tote bags. Available in navy blue and black, this bag offers the perfect solution for people who use a smaller computer or tablet. When empty, it weighs just half a pound. The zip-top closure is accentuated with a leather flap that clasps for extra security, and the water-resistant lining is easy to clean.
What We Love: It comes in several colors, has a zip-top and latch-style closure, can be folded up, has a water-resistant lining, and is made from easy-to-clean nylon.
What We Don't: It’s not suitable for larger laptops.
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 11 inches.
What's the Material?: Nylon
Marie Claire's Review: "I'm on my...sixth Longchamp Le Pliage, I think, having replaced mine every few years since I was in my early twenties (there's always a new color to try!). It's my backpack go-to (ask any of my friends or the approximately 29,129 photos of me in my camera roll with my Le Pliage strapped reassuringly to my back). I once went to three states and two weddings in a single weekend with nothing but my Le Pliage, and yes, it was a squeeze, but it's also a testament to how much this bag can hold. Laptop-wise, it'll hold only a small laptop—a 13-inch or less—but it'll also hold a book, a water bottle, a planner, and anything else you decide to toss in. It's magic like that." — Jenny Hollander, Site Director
This sleek leather backpack comes in two sizes, the larger measuring 16 inches and the smaller 13 (for only a $20 price difference). It's available in four neutral colors: black, light brown, and tan, making it the perfect all-season pick. The backpack has adjustable shoulder straps, a dedicated interior laptop sleeve, and two interior slip pockets perfect for your phone, wallet, or keys.
What We Love: Comes in several colors; comes in two sizes; Has several interior pockets; has adjustable straps; has several exterior pockets
What We Don’t: The exterior pockets don’t zip closed.
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 16 inches.
What's the Material?: Leather
Engel loves this Prada nylon backpack, while the brand’s entire Re-Nylon range has also found a new legion of younger fans across social media. The lightweight nylon fabrication is outfitted with leather detailing and luxe silver hardware, and despite the logo finish, it’s surprisingly subtle when styled.
What We Love: It's made of lightweight nylon and has adjustable straps, a drawstring closure with a buckled flap, internal and external pockets, and a separate zippered pouch.
What We Don't: It doesn’t have a dedicated laptop sleeve
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 15 inches
What's the Material?: Nylon
Jane Fonda is a fan of this bag from MZ Wallace, with its signature quilted nylon material and soft, flexible design. Reviewers also love it for how spacious it is, with a mix of interior and exterior pockets teamed with a trolley sleeve and a removable zippered pouch for your essentials. This makes it the ideal work bag worthy of being whisked away on vacation.
What We Love: Spacious interior; has a trolley sleeve; has a removable zippered pouch.
What We Don't: The silhouette is unstructured.
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 15 inches.
What's the Material?: Nylon
L.L Bean’s Waxed Canvas Travel Backpack is the top weather-resistant backpack on this list. The fabrication resembles a waxed raincoat, meaning your tech will stay safe and dry from the elements. Both interior and exterior pockets bolster the roomy interior for extra storage, and there’s an added water bottle sleeve. The neutral light brown colorway is perfect for all seasons.
What We Love: It has a padded back panel, adjustable straps, interior pockets, exterior pockets, and water bottle pockets.
What We Don't: Some reviewers found it to be too heavy on its own
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 15 inches
What's the Material?: Waxed cotton canvas
Marie Claire’s Review: “I’m not much of a backpack carrier daily, but whenever I embark on a long-haul journey, I like to take my L.L. Bean backpack with me. This sturdy accessory has been by my side through my recent vacations over the past few years. It’s crafted from weather-resistant waxed cotton canvas, which stands up to rain or shine. It’s also extremely easy to clean.” — Lauren Tappan, Fashion Editor
This bag is outfitted to hold a 13-inch laptop. It has one main compartment with a drawstring closure and a fold-over flap that snaps shut. Two additional zippered side pockets grant easy access to the main compartment. The bag is made from wrinkled nylon and has a smooth leather flap for office-ready appeal—less rugged than some of the brands' more outdoorsy-looking styles.
What We Love: Comes in a neutral colorway; has multiple exterior pockets; has a drawstring closure; has a snap closure; has adjustable straps.
What We Don't: It doesn't have a dedicated laptop sleeve.
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 13 inches.
What's the Material?: Leather and nylon
This bag from the quiet-luxury favorite brand The Row comes in two colors and can safely hold a laptop measuring up to 13 inches in height. As with anything the brand puts out, it’s made from only the most luxurious materials. In this case, that means 100 percent calfskin leather. But like the other options on this list, it’s meant to be used and loved. Functional details like adjustable shoulder straps, a drawstring closure, and a zippered interior pocket make it useful for your work life, too. Plus, the ultra-sleek silhouette means that it’s a completely timeless design.
What We Love: Comes in neutral colors; has a zippered interior pocket
What We Don’t: Only has one interior pocket.
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 13 inches.
What's the Material?: Leather
"Louis Vuitton offers several functional and stylish backpacks with designs that typically include padded compartments for laptops and multiple pockets for organization," says Fashionphile's Bickle: padded adjustable straps and a reinforced top handle perfectly balance style and function. The luxe monogrammed pattern on this option makes it stand out in a crowd and is like a collector's item that's also great for travel.
What We Love: It has padded straps, adjustable straps, and an exterior pocket.
What We Don't: It doesn't have interior pockets.
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 13 inches.
What's the Material?: Coated canvas
“Gucci’s backpacks combine luxury with practicality,” says Bickle. This one from the brand features its iconic monogram pattern and a luxe suede interior. Internal and external pockets let you keep your essentials close by, but the adjustable shoulder straps and a sturdy coated canvas material prove that it means business. Leather details elevate the overall design and make it worth the designer's price tag.
What We Love: It has adjustable shoulder straps, an external and internal pockets.
What We Don't: It doesn’t have a laptop compartment
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 16 inches
What's the Material?: Coated canvas
If you prefer a laptop bag in a fun print, consider this pick from GANNI. The It-girl favorite brand makes a lightweight backpack that can fit your 15-inch device (and everything else you need). Padded straps, helpful internal pockets, and secure drawstring closure make this backpack the perfect work-travel hybrid option. It comes in a few other neutral colors, too.
What We Love: It comes in three colors and prints and has padded straps, internal and external pockets, and adjustable straps.
What We Don't: Can look bulky when filled.
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 15 inches.
What's the Material?: Recycled Polyester
Katie Holmes is a fan of Mansur Gavriel bags; this is the backpack version of her favorite tote bag from the label. It has the same signature fire-red interior as the classic tote and is made from smooth leather that's 100 percent vegetable-tanned and will wear beautifully with time—a drawstring at the top teams up with a black flap for extra security. If you want a color other than black, it comes in a medium-brown hue.
What We Love: Made from 100 percent leather, it has adjustable straps and comes in two neutral colors.
What We Don't: It does not have any interior pockets.
What Size Laptop Can This Bag Fit?: This backpack can fit laptops measuring up to 15 inches.
What's The Material?: 100 percent vegetable-tanned leather.
What To Look For in The Best Laptop Backpack
There are plenty of laptop backpacks, and it's Marie Claire's job to curate the cream of the crop. To that end, there are a few key factors that all of the best laptop backpacks on this list share:
- The Number of Pockets: Are you looking for a laptop backpack because you're tired of rummaging through your tote to find your things? All the laptop backpacks listed here have multiple interior and exterior pockets, most of them have a dedicated laptop sleeve, and some are available in different sizes to accommodate various laptops and other tech. As Shah suggests, "When searching for a laptop backpack, organization is crucial."
- Versatility: Looking for a versatile laptop backpack that seamlessly transitions from work to social events? Our laptop backpacks come in neutral colors and feature a sleek design, ensuring that they complement your personal style. Some of our backpacks are convertible and can also be worn as a tote bag or crossbody bag, while others can be folded up and carried as a carry-on suitcase for convenient travel.
- Comfort: Chances are, you'll be carrying this backpack for hours on end. The laptop backpacks on this list have thick, sturdy shoulder straps and are designed with weight distribution in mind, so your back and shoulders won't ache. Some also have padding along the backside of the actual bag and built into the straps to keep you comfortable even as your belongings move around.
- High-Quality Materials: We want you to love the laptop backpack you choose for years to come. With that in mind, Marie Claire has selected only backpacks made from durable materials such as leather, neoprene, canvas, or nylon.
How to Style Laptop Backpacks
Even Hollywood's brightest style stars have tried—and succeeded—in making a backpack a stylish accessory moment. Supermodel Irina Shayk teamed a double-denim look with a black backpack, proving that the schoolgirl staple can accompany just about any ensemble. Carrie Mulligan and Jane Fonda relied on backpacks as on-the-go accessories, dressed up with Fonda's olive green pantsuit and relaxed with Mulligan's straight-leg jeans and white sneakers.
Irina Shayk, Carrie Mulligan, and Jane Fonda all approve of backpacks as a chic and timeless option.
Meet the Fashion Experts
Kenzie is a Fashion Stylist and Content Creator based out of Atlanta, Georgia. She has over 15 years experience working in the fashion and beauty industry. Using her extensive knowledge of style, Kenzie creates content that educates her diverse community on how to shop smart and dress with intention. She is known for her fashion advice, outfit inspiration, beauty tips, and styling makeovers. Her passion is to inspire people and to help them feel less intimidated by fashion.
Savannah Engel is the founder of SAVI, a community-first focused integrated communications group based in New York City, that manages all elements of building and guiding brands and founders towards their goals, while cultivating communities around them. Born and raised in the Mississippi Delta, Savannah has become a powerhouse in the fashion PR industry obtaining clients like Markarian, PatBO, Diesel, Reformation, Naomi Campbell's Fashion for Relief and more!
Kimberly Bickle has been with FASHIONPHILE for 4 years and has worked in the fashion and e-commerce industry for over 10 years including Stella & Dot, Pottery Barn, and Macy's. She loves all things designer bags and accessories and knows how to find some amazing deals.
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