A good laptop backpack is a must-have for anyone who works on the go. These packs protect devices from bumps and bruises while offering a place to keep extra gadgets like tablets, pens and notebooks. You can also find models with plenty of quick-access pockets and a spot to secure keys or a hydration bladder. Some bags even let you access the main compartment through an external zipper, which makes it easier to get your laptop out for TSA checks and security. If you’re in the market for a new laptop bag, we’ve put together a list of the best service laptop bags.
When shopping for a laptop backpack, make sure it’s big enough to fit your device and any other accessories you want to bring along. Measure the diagonal distance between the corners of your screen to ensure the bag will accommodate it. You’ll also want to look for a pack that offers a suspension system to keep your laptop from riding on the bottom of the bag and getting jostled by other items in the bag or the ground.
The Tom Bihn Synik is a great example of a pack that prioritizes laptop protection and organization. It has a tight sleeve to hold your device and a simple rubber zipper pull that wraps around a hook to “lock” the pack (which won’t stop a determined thief, but could deter one who is more opportunistic). On the back are a newspaper pocket and a luggage handle pass-through, and there’s room for all the cables and accessories you might need.
Another good option is the Mobile Edge Core. It holds up to a slim 17.3-inch laptop and has a large pocket on the back for accessories. It’s a bit narrower than some other backpacks, though, and you may have trouble cramming a bulky sweater or extra battery into the main compartment. There is only one water bottle pocket, too, and it’s designed for skinny bottles (your standard 1L Nalgene won’t fit).
Timbuk2’s Elite is a sleek pack that can carry a 17-inch laptop in its own separate zippered section on the back. It also has a couple of small front pockets for keys and a light jacket, plus several organizational pockets—both zippered and open—for things like pens and other accessories. The main section has a stabilizing strap to prevent the bag from shifting, and it’s available in a variety of colors.
A minimalist design makes this Lenovo satchel ideal for business commuters who need to be able to quickly get out the door. The slim case can accommodate laptops up to 16″, as well as a tablet, lunch and other work essentials, and the internal padding is better than that of the budget Tomtoc pack we’ve reviewed above. Its main downside is its lack of exterior pockets, but this is a sacrifice most business commuters will be willing to make for the convenience it provides. The bag is lightweight and water-resistant, too, so it won’t weigh you down on long trips.
