Backpacks are among the most practical luggage choices today. If you often carry a laptop or tablet, a specialized backpack ensures optimal protection.

Laptops are expensive, fragile, and need adequate safeguarding while leaving space for all your other essentials. And of course, style matters.

The options we’ve reviewed below are not ranked because what’s “best” will vary based on individual preferences, needs, and lifestyles.

Each selection highlights key features, maximum laptop sizes they accommodate, and overall capacity in liters (L).

At the end of the article, we’ve included helpful buying advice in the FAQ section and recommendations for laptop sleeves for lighter uses or additional protection.

What We Looked For

We focused primarily on how well each backpack protects your laptop during transit. Secondary factors like comfort, storage options, weight, and design influenced our overall recommendations.

Below, we’ll provide a rundown of our top backpack choices followed by a list of standout laptop sleeves.

Best Laptop Backpacks in 2025

1- Troubadour Apex 3.0

Specifications:

• Laptop Size: Supports up to 17-inch
• Capacity: 25L

While the Troubadour Apex 3.0 may come with a higher price tag, its exceptional build quality and sophisticated design make it a standout option. It’s one of the rare backpacks that seamlessly complements formal attire, allowing you to carry your laptop in style, even when wearing a suit.

With a spacious 25L capacity, it comfortably accommodates a 17-inch laptop along with your essentials, such as lunch or gym gear. The waterproof outer fabric, lining, and zippers ensure your belongings are safe from unexpected weather. The padded back panel provides enhanced comfort by improving airflow, while the leather accents add a touch of elegance to the black, green, or blue (navy or air-force blue) options.

For frequent travelers, the inclusion of a trolley sleeve allows you to securely attach the backpack to a suitcase handle. A plethora of internal and external pockets, including an easily accessible phone pocket, ensures excellent organization. Both side water bottle pockets are generously sized to hold bottles up to 1L.

Troubadour also offers an Apex Sling variant, perfect for lighter carry needs. Although it doesn’t fit a laptop larger than 12 inches, it features a padded compartment for small tablets. The sling retains many premium features of the larger backpack, such as a hidden phone pocket, sustainable materials, and even an AirTag pocket for added convenience.

2- Bellroy Tokyo Totepack

Specifications:

• Laptop Size: Up to 15 inches
• Capacity: Up to 20L

The Bellroy Tokyo Totepack is a versatile and thoughtfully designed bag that transitions seamlessly between a tote and a backpack. Featuring sturdy tote handles at the top, it allows you to carry it as a tote when needed, while the straps at the back tuck away neatly when not in use. However, this bag truly shines as a backpack due to its combination of comfort, protection, and adaptable design.

We tested the generous 20L version (a smaller 14L model is also available) and found it remarkably spacious. It easily accommodated a 15-inch laptop, books, headphones, keys, lunch, and even a spare pair of shoes—all with room to spare. Clever organizational features enhance its functionality, including two internal pockets ideal for holding a water bottle, umbrella, or shoes, and two external zippered pockets for quick access to smaller essentials.

While the zippers and materials are not fully waterproof, the top zipper includes a weather flap underneath to provide some added protection against the elements. Despite this minor drawback, the bag’s excellent craftsmanship, lightweight construction, and durability make it a standout option for daily use or travel. Its practicality and thoughtful design cater to those seeking a sleek, highly functional laptop backpack with modern aesthetics.

3- Peak Design Everyday Totepack

• Laptop size: Up to 16 inches
• Capacity: 25L

True to its name, the Everyday Totepack by Peak Design is a versatile hybrid that works as both a backpack and a tote. Padded straps and a secure magnetic handle allow for seamless transitions between styles.

Made with poly-coated nylon, this bag is highly resistant to the elements and built to last. Its spacious, adjustable 25L interior includes slots for a laptop, tablet, and other gadgets. Strong zippers offer access from the top or sides, while external hooks and straps enhance its usefulness. Ideal for carrying tech or camera gear, this durable backpack is backed by Peak Design’s lifetime warranty, making it a solid long-term investment.

4- Trust Lisboa Laptop Backpack

• Laptop size: Up to 16-inch
• Capacity: 23L

The Trust Lisboa is an affordable option that doesn’t skimp on quality. It’s made from recycled materials (12 PET bottles per bag) and offers features like shockproof padding, a water-resistant exterior, and a comfortable mesh back.

Despite its 23L capacity, it feels lightweight and distributes weight evenly, making it perfect for long commutes. With multiple compartments and a discreet valuables pocket, the Lisboa is highly practical while retaining a sleek and simple design.

5- UAG Standard Issue Backpack

• Laptop Size: Up to 16 inches
• Capacity: 18-24L

The UAG Standard Issue Backpack combines functionality and rugged design, perfect for those seeking a dependable everyday or travel companion. The vibrant orange version of this clamshell-style backpack is a favorite, though it’s exclusive to the 18-liter model. For those who need more storage, the 24L variant only comes in a sleek Midnight Camo design reminiscent of special-ops gear. Alternatively, the 18L model also offers classic black and gray color options.

Built with a super-lightweight yet resilient “weather-resistant” material, this backpack ensures your essentials, including your laptop, stay protected in its padded compartment. It offers ample storage with multiple side and top external pockets, along with an organized interior of mesh and zippered compartments for smaller accessories.

Despite its sturdy appearance, the backpack feels surprisingly light and provides exceptional comfort for extended wear. Additionally, it outperformed its competitors by maintaining its upright position when placed on the floor, avoiding the common issue of backpacks tipping over. Whether for work, school, or recreational use, the UAG Standard Issue Backpack delivers the perfect combination of practicality, style, and durability.

How to Choose the Right Laptop Backpack

Refer to the FAQ section below for key buying advice. When selecting a laptop backpack, consider these factors:

• Purpose: Will you use it for work, travel, or daily commuting?
• Laptop size: Ensure compatibility with your device.
• Capacity: Depending on your needs, choose 20–25L options for day-to-day or 30L+ for more storage.
• Material: Look for durable, water-resistant fabrics for long-lasting use.
• Comfort: Adjustable straps and mesh backs enhance weight distribution and usability.

With these options and tips, you’re ready to find your ideal laptop bag and elevate your packing game. Browse the full reviews above and make your choice today!