The Best Laptop Backpacks for Work (and Life)

More Bags We Like

Janji Revy Pack for $170: I was going to include this as my best running backpack, since one way you can sneak exercise into your day is if you run to and fro from your home to your workplace, kids’ school, or coffee shop. However, this backpack sold out before I could write about it, so the hunt continues.

Rains Mini Backpack for $95: This gorgeous, Scandinavian-inspired backpack is waterproof, fits a 13-inch laptop, and comes in at under $100. Former WIRED reviewer Medea Giordano loved its slim profile and stylish looks.

Photograph: Adrienne So

Away Commuter Backpack for $228: We very much like everything Away makes, from carry-on luggage to toiletry bags. This bag is attractive, water-resistant, and full of organized pockets; the hardware also feels premium. But $225 is steep, and we have other options with similar functionality for cheaper.

Able Carry Daily Backpack for $139: This pack is thin, so you can stuff it to the brim before it starts to get bulky. And stuff it full you can, because it has a pocket for everything. The Thirteen Daybag for $149 is similar but slightly smaller.

Solo Re:fresh Machine Washable Backpack for $50: Solo’s affordable lightweight bag is made from 15 recycled plastic bottles, and it’s meant to be machine-washed up to 12 times. We’ve occasionally washed bags not meant for this, and without issue, but if you (or your kid) is prone to messes, it’s nice that this one is made to endure the rigors of the washer.

Dishonorable Mentions

Mission Workshop Rhake for $435: This roll-top bag has a ton of pockets, and its two-layer weatherproof construction and Velcro closures keep the contents dry. But those pockets aren’t easy or fast to access, it’s heavy, and it’s even pricier than when we first tried it (and rising).

Adventurist Classic Backpack for $65: This affordable, attractive backpack rings in at well under $100, and for every backpack purchased, 25 meals are donated to families across the United States. It’s pretty much just a leather pouch that you wear on your back; however, the showy leather straps were annoying and useless.

Our Favorite Accessories

Oh, you have a backpack and you just … put things in it? And carry them around? That’s great if it works for you, but don’t worry if it doesn’t. Most of us use an additional organization system. (This also lets us switch bags quickly and easily while we’re testing.)

VentaPak for $30: The VentaPak clips onto the back of your bag, pushing your pack 2 or so inches away from you, increasing airflow and hopefully reducing sweating. Surprisingly, it didn’t look super obvious, and at only 12 ounces, it doesn’t add much weight. There are standard and small sizes, so check the website measurements if you’re not sure if it’ll fit your bag.

Delfonics Pouch for $35: Almost every bag manufacturer makes organizational pouches, too. I like Delfonics and Baggu because they’re affordable and come in a wide variety of sizes and bright colors. Bright colors are easy to see at the bottom of a bag!

Herschel Pencil Case for $25: Yes, every backpack usually has a pen pocket or two. Even in this digital age, there are not nearly enough writing utensils, especially if you use a paper planner. Get a pencil case and corral them from dropping to the bottom of your bag and exploding.

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