You use a backpack every day, so choosing one that fits your life matters. A good pack keeps your laptop safe, distributes weight comfortably, and looks right whether you’re heading to the office, campus, or a weekend trip.
This guide helps you compare practical features — from padding and pockets to weather resistance and tech integrations — so you can balance style and function and pick the right pack for your routine.
Top Picks
| Category | Product | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 💰 Best Budget | 86/100 | |
| 🎯 Best Versatile Pack | 92/100 | |
| 🔒 Best Security | 90/100 | |
| 🎨 Best Affordable Style | 80/100 | |
| 🔌 Best Tech-Friendly | 88/100 | |
| ⭐ Best Everyday | 89/100 | |
| 🚀 Best Tactical | 86/100 | |
| 💼 Best Workwear | 90/100 | |
| 🧭 Most Comfortable | 91/100 | |
| 🏆 Best Organizer | 93/100 |
How We Chose
You want a backpack that works for your day, so we focused on the features that matter most: comfort (padded straps and back support), organization (dedicated laptop sleeve, admin pockets, water bottle holders), durability and weather resistance, tech conveniences (USB ports, RFID protection), capacity relative to profile, and overall value for the price. We also considered real-world versatility — whether the pack suits commuting, travel, school, or light outdoor use — so you can pick one that matches how you move through your day.
If you want a practical everyday backpack that keeps you organized, this one does the job. It has a padded laptop sleeve that fits up to 15.6-inch notebooks, a hidden anti-theft pocket, and an external USB charging port so you can top up your phone on the go.
The polyester shell is water resistant and there are lots of internal pockets and side mesh holders for bottles or an umbrella. It’s roomy enough for commuting, college, or a weekend trip, and the luggage strap makes airport life easier, so it’s a reliable, no-fuss pick if you like function with a clean look.
What People Say
Most customers like how roomy and organized this backpack is, calling out the many pockets, padded laptop sleeve, and the convenience of the USB port and hidden back pocket. People also appreciate the lightweight feel and the luggage strap for travel.
A few users mention zipper quality or wish for thicker shoulder padding when carrying very heavy loads.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
Style
The austere grey is understated and versatile, so it pairs with casual or business-casual outfits. If you prefer bolder colors there are plenty of variants available, but the overall design stays simple and functional.
Travel Ready
It’s travel-friendly thanks to a roomy main compartment, side mesh pockets for bottles, a luggage strap, and a padded laptop sleeve. Be mindful that if you stuff it to the brim it can be bulky and may not fit under a small airplane seat.
Key Benefits
- Lots of pockets and smart organization
- Hidden anti-theft pocket against your back
- Built-in external USB charging port
- Water-resistant polyester with metal zippers
- Luggage strap and padded laptop compartment
Rating: 4.7 (total: 109,874+)
If you want a go-anywhere everyday pack that balances comfort and organization, the Borealis is worth a look. You get a padded laptop sleeve (designed for most laptops), a roomy main compartment, an organized front admin pocket and a fleece-lined stash for fragile items.
The FlexVent suspension and padded back panel make wearing a loaded bag feel less taxing, and the bungee cord system plus water-repellent finish handle wet weather or extra gear. It’s equally at home on your commute, in a lecture hall, or on a quick weekend away, so if you like a clean, durable pack that keeps you organized, this one’s a solid pick.
What People Say
Buyers consistently praise the build quality, the smart pocket layout and how comfortable the straps and back panel are for daily wear. People often mention the secure laptop sleeve and fleece-lined pocket as handy touches, and many appreciate the weather resistance and durable zippers. A few users would like more internal dividers or slightly more capacity for heavy hauling, but overall the pack’s reliability and organization get mentioned most.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
Style
The look is sporty without being loud — a clean silhouette and classic North Face styling that pairs well with casual or commuter outfits. The TNF Black option reads understated and versatile, while other colorways let you add a bit more personality.
Travel Ready
It’s travel-friendly for day trips and short getaways thanks to the 28 L volume, padded laptop pocket and multiple external pockets. You can compress it down with the bungee and straps, but if you cram it full it can get bulky on tight flights — it’s best as a carry-on or personal item for most people.
Key Benefits
- Thoughtful organization with an admin pocket and fleece-lined stash
- Padded laptop sleeve and tablet pocket for tech protection
- FlexVent suspension for comfortable all-day carry
- Bungee cord system and compression straps for extra storage
- Water-repellent finish and durable materials
- Removable waist belt and reflective details for commuting safety
Rating: 4.7 (total: 15,222+)
If you carry a laptop and a bunch of small gear, this bag makes life easier. You can lay a 17-inch laptop flat for quick airport security checks thanks to the ScanSmart compartment, and there’s a padded tablet pocket too.
The organizer section keeps pens, chargers and keys within reach while the RFID-protected pocket adds a little peace of mind for cards and IDs. Padded, contoured straps and an airflow back panel make longer commutes more comfortable, and the reinforced grab handle plus trolley sleeve mean it’s fuss-free when you travel. It’s a practical pick for daily commuting, classes, business trips or road travel—especially if you like lots of pockets and a rugged, no-nonsense build.
What People Say
You’ll notice buyers routinely praise the bag’s durability, roomy layout and thoughtful pockets—people like how the ScanSmart laptop pocket speeds up airport checks and how the RFID pocket protects cards. Reviewers often point out the comfortable straps and solid zippers as recurring positives. A handful of users mention it can feel bulky if you don’t need the large laptop space or prefer a lighter pack.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
Style
The design leans utilitarian and understated, so it fits in whether you’re in casual jeans or headed to the office. Reflective accents add subtle visibility for evening commutes, and the overall silhouette reads professional rather than flashy—good if you want something that blends with most outfits.
Travel Ready
This pack is travel-friendly: the ScanSmart lay-flat pocket, trolley sleeve and external pockets make airport days and overnight trips simpler. At 31 liters it holds a lot, but that size and the padding can make it feel bulky if you’re only carrying minimal gear, so it’s best as a carry-on or daily work companion rather than an ultralight daypack.
Key Benefits
- TSA-friendly ScanSmart lay-flat laptop compartment for faster security screening
- Built-in RFID pocket to help protect cards and personal data
- Plenty of organizer pockets and a removable key/fob clip for small items
- Airflow back panel and contoured padding for comfortable all-day wear
- Trolley sleeve and exterior pockets for easy travel
- Durable construction, reinforced handle and sturdy zippers
- 31 L capacity with water bottle pockets and compression straps
Rating: 4.5 (total: 27,072+)
If you need a straightforward everyday pack, this one does a lot with very little fuss. You get water-resistant polyester, several zippered compartments for organization, a padded pocket that fits a tablet or small laptop, and side pockets for a bottle or umbrella. At just over a pound and with a clean, classic silhouette, it’s easy to toss on for classes, commutes, short hikes or quick weekend outings.
There are lots of color options too, so you can pick something low-key or a brighter look to match your style. It’s a handy, no-nonsense option when you want something reliable and simple to use.
What People Say
Buyers commonly highlight how durable and roomy this pack feels for everyday use. People appreciate the thoughtful pockets and smooth zippers that make organizing chargers, notebooks and snacks easy, and many mention the comfortable, padded straps. A few users note size expectations can vary depending on what you plan to carry, but overall feedback emphasizes value and reliability for school, commuting and day trips.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
Style
The look is classic and uncomplicated, so it pairs well with jeans, casual workwear or a simple jacket. With lots of color and pattern choices, you can keep it subtle in black or grey or pick a brighter option to add a bit of personality without getting flashy.
Travel Ready
This backpack is travel-friendly for short trips and daily commuting: the water-resistant fabric and multiple compartments keep essentials organized and protected, while the side pockets handle a bottle or travel umbrella. It’s compact and light enough for day hikes or carry-on use, though it’s not meant to replace a larger travel suitcase for longer journeys.
Key Benefits
- Water-resistant polyester keeps gear dry in light rain
- Multiple zippered compartments to keep things organized
- Padded pocket fits a tablet or smaller laptop
- Side pockets for water bottles or umbrellas
- Lightweight build (about 1.1 lb) that’s comfortable all day
- Padded shoulder straps for longer wear
- Available in many colors and patterns to suit different tastes
Rating: 4.6 (total: 18,019+)
If you want a tidy everyday bag that works for work, school and short trips, this one makes life simple. You get a padded compartment that fits a 16-inch laptop, a built-in USB charging port for on-the-go top-ups, and an RFID pocket to keep sensitive cards secure.
The organizer section has pockets for cables, pens and small tech, while the luggage strap slides over your suitcase handle so you can move through airports with less fuss. It’s comfortable enough for daily commutes thanks to breathable padding and adjustable straps, and the clean, low-key look fits both casual and slightly dressier outfits.
If you travel often or carry a fair amount of gear, it’s an easy, practical pick.
What People Say
You’ll notice most people like how well thought-out the pockets and compartments are, praising the easy laptop access and the handy USB charging port. Reviewers often point out the luggage strap and comfortable straps as travel-friendly touches, while a few mention wanting slightly sturdier-feeling material or an added chest strap.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
Style
The design leans toward sleek and functional rather than flashy, so it pairs easily with jeans, a blazer or travel layers. The neutral colorways keep things versatile, and the clean silhouette makes it feel like a more polished daily carry.
Travel Ready
Packed with travel-friendly features: the luggage sleeve, RFID pocket, side bottle holders and organized compartments make it great for commuting and short trips. At about 26 liters and roughly 1.6 pounds, it’s light enough to use as a carry-on or everyday travel bag without feeling bulky.
Key Benefits
- Padded compartment fits up to a 16-inch laptop
- Integrated USB charging port for convenient device charging
- RFID-protected pocket for passports and cards
- Multiple organizer pockets for cables, pens and small gear
- Add-A-Bag luggage strap for hands-free travel
- Breathable, padded backrest and adjustable shoulder straps
- Expandable compartments and side bottle pockets for extra carry
Rating: 4.6 (total: 798+)
If you want a no-nonsense everyday pack that works for commuting, campus days and quick trips, this is a solid pick. You get a roomy 27-liter main compartment with a padded 15″ laptop sleeve, a tidy front organizer for tech and small items, and FlexVent padding that makes longer carries feel less tiring.
The water-repellent finish and sturdy construction mean it handles rainy days and regular wear, and the bag stands upright so you can load things without a fuss. It’s casual enough for weekends but neat enough for work, so if you need a dependable, versatile bag you’ll reach for most days, this one fits the bill.
What People Say
You’ll find most people praise how comfortable and well organized this pack is, especially the padded back panel and roomy laptop sleeve. Reviews commonly note the durable, weather-resistant fabric and that it holds up to daily use, while a few mention the front pocket is shallower than expected and bottle pockets could be a bit tighter.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
Style
The Vault leans toward a clean, functional look so it pairs easily with jeans, workwear or athleisure. Neutral colors and a simple silhouette keep it versatile without drawing attention.
Travel Ready
With a padded laptop sleeve, external bottle pockets and a self-standing shape, it’s great for daily commutes and short trips. At 27 liters it’s roomy enough for a day of meetings or sightseeing but not meant to replace a full-size travel suitcase, so you can use it as a practical carry-on or an everyday travel companion.
Key Benefits
- 27-liter capacity fits daily essentials and a 15″ laptop
- FlexVent suspension with padded mesh back for ergonomic comfort
- Water-repellent finish and recycled polyester construction
- Organized front compartment with tablet sleeve and key clip
- External water bottle pockets and daisy-chain lash points
- Self-standing design and top grab handles for easy access
- Sternum strap for extra support on longer carries
Rating: 4.7 (total: 8237+)
If you want a rugged, no-nonsense everyday pack that doubles as an outdoor buddy, this one fits the bill. You get a compact 27-liter carry with multiple compartments, MOLLE webbing for attaching gear, and breathable padded straps so longer walks don’t feel like a chore. It’s hydration-compatible, stands up to rough use, and the layout makes it easy to organize work stuff, hiking essentials or a day’s worth of camera gear.
If you like a utilitarian look that actually works, this backpack is worth trying.
What People Say
People commonly highlight how tough and well-built this pack feels, and that the pockets and compartments make it easy to stay organized. Reviewers often point out the comfy padded straps, useful MOLLE webbing and the hydration-ready design, while a few mention the base and shoulder support could be beefed up for heavier loads.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
Style
The look leans tactical and functional rather than fashion-forward, so it pairs well with casual outdoor gear, workwear or jeans. If you like a straightforward, utilitarian style that doesn’t call attention to itself, this backpack fits in nicely.
Travel Ready
At 27 liters it’s compact enough for day trips and theme-park days but roomy enough for a 15″ laptop and essentials. The hydration compatibility and multiple pockets make it handy for hikes, commuting or short overnight outings.
Key Benefits
- 27 L capacity with compact footprint for daily carry and short trips
- Durable 900D high-density nylon and reinforced stitching
- MOLLE webbing for attaching pouches and accessories
- Hydration-compatible compartment for a water bladder
- Breathable mesh-padded shoulder straps and sternum clip for comfort
- Multiple compartments and pockets for organized storage
- Heavy-duty zippers and side compression straps to stabilize loads
Rating: 4.7 (total: 3318+)
This is the kind of backpack you can grab and know it’ll handle the day. The 25 L capacity holds a 15″ laptop, a few books, and daily essentials without feeling bulky. Built from tough 600-denier polyester with a Rain Defender water-repellent finish and a padded mesh back, it stands up to commutes, campus life, gym runs and short weekend trips.
The front organizer, key clip and dedicated laptop sleeve make it easy to keep chargers and small stuff in their place, so you spend less time digging around. If you want a straightforward, durable carry that won’t fuss with you, this is a reliable pick.
What People Say
Customers frequently praise how sturdy and well-made this pack feels, noting the water-resistant fabric and the practicality of the laptop sleeve and organizer pocket. Many reviewers also point out the comfortable straps and sensible size for everyday use.
A few people mention the zippers can be stiff at first and that larger bottles may be a tight fit in the side pockets.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
Style
The look is plain, workwear-inspired and easy to wear with jeans, a jacket or business-casual outfits. If you prefer a low-key, functional style that doesn’t shout for attention, you’ll probably like how it pairs with most everyday clothes.
Travel Ready
At 25 L it’s compact enough for daily commuting and day trips while still holding a laptop, chargers and a change of clothes. It works well as a personal item on flights or a carry for short overnight outings when you want something simple and dependable.
Key Benefits
- 25 L capacity that fits a 15″ laptop and daily essentials
- Durable 600-denier polyester construction with Rain Defender water repellent
- Dedicated laptop sleeve plus front organizer with mesh pockets and key clip
- Padded mesh back panel and contoured shoulder straps for comfort
- Side pockets for bottles and quick-access items
- PFAS-free finish for a safer water-repellent treatment
- Tough build that works for commuting, school, gym or short trips
Rating: 4.7 (total: 489+)
You can grab this pack and know it’ll handle whatever the day throws at you. The Jester’s 28 L main compartment swallows your laptop, charger, a change of clothes and a few extras without feeling bulky, while the padded 16″ laptop sleeve keeps electronics separated and protected.
The FlexVent suspension system — with molded shoulder straps and a ventilated back panel — makes commuting or walking campus feel easier on your shoulders. Built from recycled polyester with a durable water-repellent finish, it stands up to drizzle and daily wear.
Use it for commutes, school, short hikes or as a carry-on for weekend trips; the two side bottle pockets, front organizer and stand-up design make loading and grabbing things quick. If you want a dependable, low-fuss pack that balances comfort, organization and everyday toughness, this is a solid pick.
What People Say
Most people say the pack feels well made and stands up to daily use, with reviewers often highlighting the comfortable FlexVent straps and the handy laptop sleeve. Customers also like the water-repellent fabric and external bottle pockets, though some note it won’t fit every oversized laptop and a few would like more internal zip pockets for small items.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
Style
You’ll find the look clean and classic — not flashy, but versatile enough to wear with casual, outdoor or business-casual outfits. The simple silhouette and neutral colors make it easy to pair with most wardrobes.
Travel Ready
At 28 L it works well as a daily commuter pack and as a personal item on flights; it holds a laptop, chargers, a water bottle and a change of clothes for short trips. The stand-up design and external pockets are useful when you’re moving through security or grabbing things on the go.
Key Benefits
- 28 L volume fits daily essentials and a 16″ laptop sleeve
- FlexVent suspension with molded straps and padded back for comfort
- Durable recycled polyester with non-PFC DWR water-repellent finish
- Smart organization: padded laptop sleeve, front zip pockets and bottle pockets
- Stand-up design and grab handle for easy loading and quick access
- Lightweight build that’s suitable for commuting, campus or short trips
Rating: 4.8 (total: 1149+)
You can toss this pack on and get after your day without thinking twice. The Recon’s 30 L capacity swallows a laptop, chargers, a jacket and a few extras while staying relatively low-profile, and the padded 16″ laptop sleeve keeps your computer separate and protected.
The FlexVent suspension with molded shoulder straps and a padded back panel makes commutes and walking between meetings feel noticeably easier on your shoulders. It’s made from tough, recycled ripstop fabric with a DWR finish, so light rain and daily scuffs don’t slow you down.
Use it for daily commutes, classes, short hikes or as a carry-on for quick trips — it’s a versatile, no-fuss pick if you want comfort, organization and durability in one bag.
What People Say
You’ll notice reviewers consistently praise the Recon for feeling well made and comfortable on long walks or commutes, thanks to the FlexVent straps and padded back. People also highlight the laptop sleeve and thoughtful pockets for keeping things organized, plus the water-repellent fabric and durable construction.
A few users mention it’s more low-profile than older, bulkier packs and that it can be a bit picky about how you pack large binders or bulky items.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
Style
The look is clean and classic — a simple silhouette that pairs easily with casual, outdoor or business-casual outfits. It’s not flashy, so it blends in whether you’re headed to the office or out for a weekend wander.
Travel Ready
At 30 L it’s roomy enough for a personal-item carry-on: laptop, a change of clothes and essentials fit comfortably. The external pockets and padded straps make moving through transit easier, though it’s best for short trips or weekend travel rather than long-haul packing.
Key Benefits
- 30 L capacity fits a laptop, chargers, clothing and daily essentials
- Padded 16″ laptop sleeve protects electronics from bumps
- FlexVent suspension with molded straps and padded back for comfort
- Durable recycled nylon ripstop with non-PFC DWR water-repellent finish
- Smart organization: front organizer, fleece-lined pocket and mesh bottle holders
- Sturdy build and reliable zippers that stand up to everyday use
Rating: 4.7 (total: 6215+)
FAQ
How Do I Choose The Right Everyday Backpack For Work And Travel?
You should start by matching capacity and dimensions to how you pack: for daily commuting 20–30 liters is usually enough, while 28–30+ liters gives more room for travel. Check the bag’s external dimensions and the laptop sleeve measurements rather than just the advertised screen size so you know your device will fit.
Look for padded laptop protection, a comfortable suspension system (wide straps, ventilated back panel and a sternum or hip strap if you carry heavier loads), durable zippers and water‑resistant fabric if you want weather protection. Prioritize organization that matches your routine — a padded tech pocket and easy‑access front or top pocket for everyday items, plus side bottle pockets and a luggage pass‑through if you travel. Remember that brand alone isn’t the only indicator of quality; check materials, warranty/return policies and user feedback on zipper durability and strap comfort. Finally, consider features you’ll actually use like a USB charging port, anti‑theft hidden pocket or RFID lining and confirm they work the way you expect.
Will My Laptop And Other Tech Fit Safely In A Backpack?
You want to measure your laptop’s length, width and thickness and compare those numbers to the backpack’s laptop compartment dimensions before buying, because a 15.6″ claim can mean different clearances across brands. Look for a sleeve with firm padding on multiple sides and a strap or zipper that secures the device; if the laptop sits too low in the bag it can still be vulnerable to impact.
If you fly often, a TSA‑friendly lay‑flat compartment can speed security checks but verify your airport’s rules first. Protect delicate gear further by using a dedicated laptop or tablet sleeve inside the pocket and avoid stuffing the bag so full that the sleeve gets compressed.
For small valuables, use a hidden back pocket or RFID‑blocked pocket, but don’t rely on hidden pockets alone in crowded spaces — use locks or keep truly valuable items on your person when possible.
How Do I Make A Backpack More Comfortable And Keep It Lasting Longer?
Adjust the shoulder straps so the bag sits high on your back with the sternum strap about three inches below your collarbone and, if available, use a hip belt to transfer weight to your hips. Pack heavy items close to your spine and use compression straps to stabilize the load; a well‑packed 25–30 liter bag will feel much lighter than a poorly organized larger pack. Maintain the bag by spot cleaning according to the manufacturer, rinsing off salt or dirt, lubricating zippers if they stick and avoiding machine washing unless the care tag permits it.
Treat water‑resistant coatings gently and reapply a DWR treatment if water starts to soak in. If you notice loose stitching or a faulty zipper, use the seller’s warranty or a reputable repair service rather than continuing to use a compromised bag.
Small investments like a padded sleeve for your laptop, a key clip, and occasional repairs will keep the pack functional and comfortable for years.
What Buyers Prefer
When choosing between the MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack, The North Face Borealis, and the SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart, you most often prioritize laptop protection, comfortable straps and back support, smart organization, and a balance of durability versus price. You usually pick the MATEIN for budget-friendly features and lightweight organization, the Borealis for cushioned comfort and everyday style, and the SwissGear 1900 when you need a rugged, highly organized bag with a TSA-friendly lay‑flat laptop compartment for travel.
Wrapping Up
Use this list to match a backpack to your priorities. If you value budget and basic tech features, a bag like the MATEIN gives surprising capacity and a USB port at a very low price.
If you need durability and organization for travel, SwissGear and the Recon shine with TSA-friendly layouts and lots of compartments. For daily comfort and longevity, The North Face options balance padding, weather resistance, and style.
Think about what you carry every day — laptop size, water bottle, gym gear or camera — then choose a pack that prioritizes the features you actually use so you get more comfort, less fuss, and a cleaner look for years to come.
| Product | Image | Rating | Dimensions | Weight | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack |
|
4.7/5 (109,874 reviews) | 18 x 12 x 7.8 inches | 1.56 pounds | 30 Liters |
| The North Face Borealis Commuter Laptop Backpack |
|
4.7/5 (15,222 reviews) | 6.5 x 12 x 19.5 inches | 2 pounds | 28 Liters |
| SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart 17” Laptop Backpack |
|
4.5/5 (27,072 reviews) | 9 x 13.25 x 18.5 inches | 3.2 pounds | 31 Liters |
| abshoo Classical Basic Travel Backpack |
|
4.6/5 (N/A) | 5.3 x 12.2 x 16.5 inches | 1.1 pounds | N/A |
| Swissdigital Design Travel Laptop Backpack |
|
4.6/5 (798 reviews) | 6.75 x 12.5 x 17.5 inches | 1.61 pounds | 26 Liters |
| The North Face Vault Everyday Laptop Backpack |
|
4.7/5 (8,237 reviews) | 8.5 x 11 x 18 inches | 14.1 ounces | 27 Liters |
| Wotony Military Tactical Backpack |
|
4.7/5 (3,318 reviews) | 18.5 x 11.5 x 7.5 inches | 1.43 pounds | 27 Liters |
| Carhartt 25L Classic Laptop Backpack |
|
4.7/5 (489 reviews) | 3 x 16 x 18 inches | 1 pound | 25 Liters |
| The North Face Jester Everyday Laptop Backpack |
|
4.8/5 (1,149 reviews) | 8.25 x 11 x 18.2 inches | 1.6 pounds | 28 Liters |
| The North Face Recon Everyday Laptop Backpack |
|
4.7/5 (6,215 reviews) | 7.5 x 11.6 x 19.3 inches | 2 pounds | 30 Liters |
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