The Best Laptop Bag 2023: Top Professional and Stylish Picks

by Albert Varkki updated 07-07-2023

Table Of Contents

best laptop bags

If you want to take your laptop with you when you leave the house, it’s a great idea to invest in a laptop bag.

A laptop bag can be defined as a bag which has been specifically created to hold a laptop. However, it can be used to carry various other items ranging from cameras to makeup and more.

In this post, we'll go over our top picks for a new laptop bag in 2023, that are both stylish and professional.

Top Picks

Want a quick breakdown? Here are our top picks:

  1. Best Professional Laptop Bag: City Laptop Bag (click to view) - a stylish laptop bag made from the highest quality full grain leather, with a dedicated laptop compartment and detachable shoulder strap.
  2. Best Traditional Business Briefcase: No.1 Briefcase (click to view) - a classically-styled leather briefcase, ideal for formal business situations. Multiple compartments, including a dedicated laptop compartment.
  3. Best Modern Laptop Bag: Essential Briefcase (click to view) - a spacious, modern laptop briefcase that's ideal for work or travel. Made from full grain leather, and comes with two large compartments, as well as a detachable shoulder strap.
  4. Best Convertible Backpack Briefcase: 10X Laptop Travel Bag (click to view) - a versatile backpack briefcase that can be converted from a messenger bag, to a backpack, and can be used as a briefcase too. Made from full grain leather.

The best laptop bags 2023

City Leather Laptop Bag

City Laptop Bag

Best for stylishly carrying your laptop and documents to business meetings, the Business City Leather Laptop Bag exudes professionalism and sophistication.

City Laptop Bag Product Highlights:

MaterialCertified Italian vegetable-tanned leather
Color OptionsSolid Brown, Elegant Black, Deep Red
Laptop CompatibilityFits up to 15.6-inch laptop
Inner LiningDurable Italian cotton lining
Zipper QualityJapanese YKK zipper for reliable access
OriginMade in Florence, Italy
SustainabilitySupports local communities and eco-friendly
DesignProfessional and spacious design for work or travel essentials
Adjustable StrapAdjustable and detachable shoulder strap
Inner PocketsStitched 100% cotton canvas lining
Compartments & Pockets1 large zipped main compartment divided by a zipped padded pocket
PersonalizedOption to personalize with initials or a special message.

Watch the City product video below:

Browse more images of the City:

Our review:

"If you need a classic unisex pack with a wide range of desirable features, this could be the option for you. This work bag is designed to appeal to men and women alike and is constructed from tough and dependable premium Italian full-grade leather. The bag is noted for features such as the reliable YKK zipper and robust cotton lining. This big-selling bag has been built with city life in mind and is as ideal for the office as it is for exploring the city. The bag has a slim profile and is reliable enough to keep your devices and accessories safe and secure, day-in, day-out."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials
Stylish and sophisticated design Not completely waterproof
Ample storage space and compartments Not ideal for extremely heavy items
Comfortable to carry and handle
Durable and long-lasting construction
Develops a unique patina over time
Easy to clean and maintain

No.1 Men's Leather Briefcase

No.1 Briefcase

Best for impressing at business meetings with its sleek design and spacious compartments - the No. 1 Premium Leather Briefcase.

No.1 Briefcase Product Highlights:

MaterialCertified Italian vegetable-tanned leather
DesignSpacious triple-gusset design suitable for a laptop up to 15.6 inches
Interior LiningDurable Italian cotton lining
ZipperJapanese YKK zipper for reliable access
SecurityLocking feature for unattended safety
OriginMade in Florence, Italy
SustainabilitySupports local communities and eco-friendly practices
EngravingOption to personalize with engravings
Shoulder StrapPadded for extra comfort, adjustable and detachable
PersonalizedCustom engraving options available for a unique touch
UsageIdeal for professionals, travelers, and students; versatile for work, meetings, and travel

Watch the No.1 product video below:

Browse more images of the No.1:

Our review:

"This exceptional unisex briefcase is extremely popular with women and men alike. The bag is designed to last for several years and is made from premium Italian full-grain leather. Some of the bag's best features include its triple-gusset design, convenient zipped back pocket and YKK zipper. The briefcase is as stylish as it is spacious and is made in Florence with the finest premium Italian leather. It offers enough space for a laptop of up to 15.6 inches to help you achieve more no matter where you are in the world. It also comes with tough cotton lining. Take a closer look today."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment
Durable and long-lasting Weight adds to its overall quality and strength
Spacious and versatile Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity
Classic and stylish design
Suitable for both professional and casual use

Essential Modern Briefcase

Essential Briefcase

Best for stylishly carrying your laptop and documents to business meetings, the Essential Modern Briefcase exudes professionalism and sophistication.

Essential Briefcase Product Highlights:

ProductEssential Briefcase
MaterialFull Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned
Laptop Sizeup to 15.6 inch
LiningDurable Cotton Canvas
ZippersYKK Zippers - Italian-Made
Handmade?Handmade in Florence, Italy
StrapsDetachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap
Carry-on Compliant?Yes
Width40 cm (16 in)
Height31 cm (12 in)
Depth10 cm (4 in)
Weight1.3 kg (0.6 lbs)
Personalization?Custom Laser Engraving

Watch the Essential product video below:

Browse more images of the Essential:

Our review:

"Have you been searching for a unisex work bag that appeals to males and females alike? If so, this elegant briefcase could be perfect for your needs. The briefcase offers enough space for a 15.6 inch laptop and is ideal for carrying items like books, toiletries, refreshments and more. Handcrafted by highly skilled Florence craftsmen, the briefcase has an elegant hardware finish and also boasts fine cotton canvas lining as well as a large back pocket. You can either carry the bag by hand or use the detachable shoulder strap. It also has a robust YKK zipper. Take a closer look today."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment
Durable and long-lasting Weight adds to its overall quality and strength
Modern and stylish design Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity
Spacious and versatile
Suitable for both professional and casual use
Multiple compartments for organized storage

City Large Leather Laptop Bag

City Large Laptop Bag

Best for stylishly carrying your laptop and work essentials on business trips or daily commutes with the City Large Leather Laptop Bag.

City Large Laptop Bag Product Highlights:

ProductCity Large Laptop Bag
MaterialFull Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned
Laptop Sizeup to 17 inch
LiningDurable Cotton Canvas
ZippersYKK Zippers - Italian-Made
Handmade?Handmade in Florence, Italy
StrapsDetachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap
Carry-on Compliant?Yes
Width45 cm (18 in)
Height34 cm (13 in)
Depth8 cm (3 in)
Weight1.6 kg (0.7 lbs)
Personalization?Custom Laser Engraving

Watch the City Large product video below:

Browse more images of the City Large:

Our review:

"This option could be perfect for you if you've been searching for a unisex work bag that appeals to men and women alike. The bag has been designed to help you do business in style whether you're in the office or working remotely. It can accommodate a laptop of up to 17 inches in width and is noted for its slim profile. Use the bag to transport goods including toiletries, mobile devices, books, accessories, refreshments and documents. This unisex bag for work is made from full-grain vegetable-tanned leather and comes with sturdy zippers and hardware. It also has rounded top handles to make carrying easy and an adjustable shoulder strap."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment
Durable and long-lasting Weight adds to its overall quality and strength
Spacious and versatile Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity
Suitable for both professional and casual use
Fits most laptops up to 17 inches
Multiple compartments for organized storage

No.2 Leather Messenger Briefcase

No.2 Briefcase

Best for carrying your laptop and documents in style, the No. 2 Leather Messenger Briefcase is perfect for business meetings and daily commutes.

No.2 Briefcase Product Highlights:

ProductNo.2 Briefcase
MaterialFull Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned
Laptop Sizeup to 15.6 inch
LiningDurable Cotton Canvas
ZippersYKK Zippers - Italian-Made
Handmade?Handmade in Florence, Italy
StrapsDetachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap
Carry-on Compliant?Yes
Width40 cm (16 in)
Height30 cm (12 in)
Depth11 cm (4 in)
Weight1.55 kg (0.7 lbs)
Personalization?Custom Laser Engraving

Watch the No.2 product video below:

Browse more images of the No.2:

Our review:

"If you've been looking for a unisex briefcase for work that appeals to men and women alike, this Florence-made option made from premium Italian full-grade leather could be ideal. There's enough capacity for a 15.6 inch laptop, and key features include a double lock-and-key closure that you can use to protect sensitive documents as well as other valuable items. Mixing timeless design with modern functionality, the briefcase has tough cotton lining and a dependable YKK zipper. There are numerous compartments to take the fuss out of organisation. Choose between adjustable shoulder or cross-body strap. There are also two zipped pockets."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment
Durable and long-lasting Weight adds to its overall quality and strength
Spacious and versatile Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity
Stylish and professional design
Suitable for both commuting and business use
Adjustable shoulder strap for comfort

10X Leather Laptop Travel Bag

10X Laptop Travel Bag

Best for stylishly carrying your laptop and work essentials on business trips or daily commutes with the 10X Leather Laptop Travel Bag.

10X Laptop Travel Bag Product Highlights:

Product10X Laptop Travel Bag
MaterialFull Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned
Laptop Sizeup to 15.6 inch
LiningDurable Cotton Canvas
ZippersYKK Zippers - Italian-Made
Handmade?Handmade in Florence, Italy
StrapsBackpack Straps and Adjustable Shoulder Strap
Carry-on Compliant?Yes
Width31 cm (12 in)
Height42 cm (17 in)
Depth17 cm (7 in)
Weight2 kg (0.9 lbs)
Personalization?Custom Laser Engraving

Watch the 10X product video below:

Browse more images of the 10X:

Our review:

"This magnificent item could be perfect for your needs if you require a reliable unisex bag for work. The bag is made from premium Italian full-grain leather and can be used as a travel bag, a backpack and a messenger bag. This high-selling all-in-one solution boasts a tough cotton lining and has a dependable YKK zipper. You'll also gain access to a sleeve for a 15.6 inch laptop or a 16 inch MacBook Pro. This adaptable bag also has a front-loading design that makes it easy to source your work essentials, whilst the canvas-lined internal compartments will simplify organisation remarkably."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment
Durable and long-lasting Weight adds to its overall quality and strength
Spacious and versatile Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity
Suitable for both professional and casual use
Fits most laptops up to 16 inches
Designed for easy travel and convenience
Multiple compartments for organized storage

Elegance Leather Tote Bag

Elegance Tote Bag

Best for carrying work essentials in style, the Elegance Leather Tote Bag is perfect for business meetings and daily commutes.

Elegance Tote Bag Product Highlights:

Material OriginCertified Italian vegetable-tanned leather from Tuscany
Laptop SleeveSpecifically designed slot for up to a 14" laptop
Interior QualityRobust Italian cotton canvas lining, pleasant to touch
Zipper DurabilityRenowned Japanese YKK zippers ensuring longevity
CraftsmanshipHandcrafted in family-owned studios in Florence, Italy
Sustainability CommitmentSupports traditional craftsmanship and eco-friendly practices
Leather TreatmentLeather treated with sustainable methods, ensuring quality and origin
Wear ResistanceDesigned for frequent use without excessive wear and tear
Handle StrengthHandles crafted to carry laptops, documents, and books securely

Watch the Elegance product video below:

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Our review:

"There's no need to settle for less when you require a unisex bag that appeals to men and women alike. This bag offers ample space for a wide range of work essentials and comes complete with a sleeve that will accommodate a 14 inch wide laptop. The bag blends modern functionality with traditional design and is manufactured from sophisticated Italian full-grain leather. It also comes with a large main compartment and a vast pocket for a tablet or similar device. Other features include a YKK zipper, cotton lining, three pens slots and a zipped pocket for smaller items. Carry the bag on your shoulder or in your hand thanks to the strong leather straps."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment
Durable and long-lasting Weight adds to its overall quality and strength
Spacious and versatile Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity
Suitable for both professional and casual use
Multiple compartments for organized storage
Stylish design

No.3 Leather Messenger Briefcase

No.3 Briefcase

Best for carrying your laptop and documents in style, the No. 3 Leather Messenger Briefcase is perfect for business meetings and daily commutes.

No.3 Briefcase Product Highlights:

ProductNo.3 Briefcase
MaterialFull Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned
Laptop Sizeup to 13 inch
LiningDurable Cotton Canvas
ZippersYKK Zippers - Italian-Made
Handmade?Handmade in Florence, Italy
StrapsDetachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap
Carry-on Compliant?Yes
Width38 cm (15 in)
Height30 cm (12 in)
Depth9 cm (4 in)
Weight1.5 kg (0.7 lbs)
Personalization?Custom Laser Engraving

Watch the No.3 product video below:

Browse more images of the No.3:

Our review:

"This big-selling unisex briefcase for work is popular with men and women alike. The briefcase is renowned for its versatility and can easily be converted into a backpack. Key features of the briefcase include the tough, reliable canvas inside, the dependable YKK zipper, the excellent cotton lining and the leather strap which makes it possible to attach it to a suitcase when you travel. The briefcase also has a two-strap lock-and-key closure to keep things safe and secure. There's also a compartment for a 13" laptop which enables you to remain connected and productive on the move. Take a closer look today."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials
Stylish and professional design Not completely waterproof
Ample storage space for essentials Not ideal for extremely heavy items
Comfortable to carry and handle
Durable and long-lasting construction
Develops a unique patina over time
Easy to clean and maintain
Multiple compartments for organized packing
Suitable for work, school, and travel

Weekender Leather Weekend Bag

Weekender

Best for stylish weekend getaways with ample space for clothes and essentials - the perfect companion for any adventure.

Weekender Product Highlights:

MaterialCertified Italian vegetable-tanned leather
DesignSpacious design perfect for gym and travel with a dedicated sleeve for up to a 16" laptop
InteriorDurable cotton lining with compartments for organization
ZipperJapanese YKK zipper for reliable access
ComplianceMeets airline size standards for carry-on luggage
CraftsmanshipHandcrafted in Florence, Italy by experienced craftsmen
Additional FeaturesAdjustable and removable leather shoulder strap, studs on the base for protection, solid brass hardware
PersonalizedOption for custom laser engraving
Use CasesTravel, gym, sports, weekend getaways
SustainabilitySupports local communities and eco-friendly practices

Watch the Weekender product video below:

Browse more images of the Weekender:

Our review:

"Are you looking for a great-looking and dependable unisex work bag made from outstanding materials? If so, this option will serve you well for years to come. Perfect for the office and the daily commute, this bag is manufactured by expert craftsmen in Florence. The bag comes complete with a sleeve to accommodate laptops up to 16" and enables you to transport a wealth of devices and accessories in style. The bag comes complete with a YKK zipper and robust cotton lining. Carrying this big-selling bag is a breeze due to the leather handles and the adjustable leather shoulder strap."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials
Stylish and sophisticated design Not completely waterproof
Ample storage space for essentials Not ideal for extremely heavy items
Comfortable to carry and handle
Durable and long-lasting construction
Develops a unique patina over time
Easy to clean and maintain
Multiple compartments for organized packing
Suitable for weekend trips and overnight stays

Exquisite Slim Leather Laptop Briefcase

Exquisite Briefcase

Best for carrying your laptop and documents in style, with a sleek and professional look that will impress at business meetings.

Exquisite Briefcase Product Highlights:

ProductExquisite Briefcase
MaterialFull Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned
Laptop Sizeup to 14 inch
LiningDurable Cotton Canvas
ZippersYKK Zippers - Italian-Made
Handmade?Handmade in Florence, Italy
StrapsDetachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap
Carry-on Compliant?Yes
Width40 cm (16 in)
Height29 cm (11 in)
Depth10 cm (4 in)
Weight1.1 kg (0.5 lbs)
Personalization?Custom Laser Engraving

Watch the Exquisite product video below:

Browse more images of the Exquisite:

Our review:

"Take a look at this popular unisex bag for work today if you need a solution that will serve you well for years to come. This big-selling bag is designed to give you a professional appearance and can be carried with the strong handles or the adjustable shoulder strap. Open and close the bag with the tough YKK zipper and make the most of its slim, spacious design by using it to transport your work essentials on a daily basis. The bag also has a 14" laptop compartment that will help you to carry out your duties whether you're in the office or elsewhere."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials
Sleek and sophisticated appearance Not completely waterproof
Slim design for easy portability Limited storage space compared to larger bags
Durable and long-lasting construction
Multiple compartments for organized packing
Perfect for both casual and professional use
Develops a unique patina over time
Sufficient storage for laptop and essentials

Prime Leather Backpack

Prime Backpack

Best for stylishly carrying work essentials and laptop, perfect for business meetings and daily commute.

MaterialCertified Italian vegetable-tanned leather
Quality AssuranceComes with a certificate of leather origin
ManufacturingMade in Florence, Italy
Interior LiningFine Italian cotton lining
Zipper QualityJapanese YKK zippers
SustainabilitySupports local communities and eco-friendly
Laptop SleeveDedicated sleeve for up to a 14" laptop
Carry-on CompliantMeets airline size standards for carry-on luggage
PersonalizedPersonalize this backpack with a laser engraving, perfect as a gift
Color OptionsSolid brown, classic tan, deep red, elegant black

Watch the Prime product video below:

Browse more images of the Prime:

Our review:

"This high-selling unisex bag for work gives you enough storage space for all your key work essentials. The bag is made from tough and dependable materials that should ensure it lasts for years before it needs to be replaced. These materials include elegant Italian full-grain leather and a robust lining. The bag also has a reliable YKK zipper that makes it easy to access goods like your laptop. There's also a sleeve that will fit a laptop up to 14" or a tablet, making office-based and remote work a breeze. Other features which have made this bag such a popular choice include the adjustable shoulder straps and the wide top handle."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials
Stylish and versatile design Not waterproof
Multiple compartments for organization Not ideal for carrying extremely heavy items
Comfortable to wear
Durable and long-lasting
Develops a unique patina over time
Can be easily cleaned and maintained

Liberty Leather Backpack

Liberty Backpack

Best for stylishly carrying work essentials and laptop, perfect for business meetings and daily commute.

Liberty Backpack Product Highlights:

ProductLiberty Backpack
MaterialFull Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned
Laptop Sizeup to 14 inch
LiningDurable Cotton Canvas
ZippersYKK Zippers - Italian-Made
Handmade?Handmade in Florence, Italy
StrapsAdjustable Straps
Carry-on Compliant?Yes
Width33 cm (13 in)
Height40 cm (16 in)
Depth12 cm (5 in)
Weight1.4 kg (0.6 lbs)
Personalization?Custom Laser Engraving

Watch the Liberty product video below:

Browse more images of the Liberty:

Our review:

"This popular unisex backpack is manufactured from elegant Italian full-grain leather. It offers a sleeve that's perfect for a tablet or a laptop up to 14 inches. The bag has been designed to last for several years before replacement is required and is ideal for work and your daily commute. Other features that have made this bag so popular amongst men and women include the adjustable shoulder straps and the tough top handle which makes carrying a breeze. You'll also get access to two zipped front pockets which are perfect for devices like your smartphone. The bag is built to withstand daily use and is crafted from premium vegetable-tanned Italian leather."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather May have a higher cost compared to other materials
Stylish and versatile design Not waterproof
Multiple compartments for organization May not be ideal for carrying extremely heavy items
Comfortable to wear
Durable and long-lasting
Develops a unique patina over time
Can be easily cleaned and maintained

Factors To Consider When Buying Your Laptop Bag

Let’s take a look at some of the things you’ll need to think about when you are considering purchasing a laptop bag.

Commuting Requirements

Your commute is a very important thing to consider when you are thinking about buying a laptop bag. If you use public transport, you may only have a small amount of legroom and space. This means you’ll need to seek out a bag that won’t leave your legs feeling crowded or irritate anyone that’s sitting or standing next to you. Avoid anything that’s likely to take up a whole extra seat.

Maybe you ride a bicycle to work or school? If this is the case, you’ll need to seek out something which has good resistance to weather. Perhaps you drive to work or college? Then consider buying a tote or a briefcase as these can give you extra accessibility and convenience. Maybe you commute in various different ways? Then it’s best to buy a bag that’s suitable for all your travel methods unless you have enough cash available to purchase multiple bags.

Work Culture

You also need to think about the nature of your workspace when you’re looking for a laptop bag. You may work at a conventional office, a coffee shop, a co-working space or somewhere else. Some laptop bags work better in specific environments than others. For instance, you may need to get a laptop bag that will stand up on its own if you work in a coffee shop.

Someone who works in a cubicle in a traditional office can opt for a small laptop bag that can slide beneath their desk with ease. If you’re still at school, you might need a laptop bag that you can easily transport between classes. You may also have a dress code to comply with. This means you may need to opt for something formal rather than casual.

Related:

Other Activities

Laptop bags are capable of much more than simply holding laptops. This is why it’s a good idea to think about any other activities you could be using your bag for. You might need a laptop bag

to carry camera equipment, carry your gym clothes, for short-term travel or for day hikes. Laptop bags won’t be suitable for every single occasion, and you may need a separate bag for activities like long-term travel or backpacking.

A larger laptop bag will give you more space to work with so you can use it for other things. However, a drawback of a larger laptop bag is that it can be more challenging to carry around on a daily basis. Organization can be useful, but having too many compartments can feel limiting so it may be best to opt for something with a few compartments and a large space in the middle for bigger items. It might also help if there’s a separate compartment for your laptop so you can keep it away from other items you’re carrying with you.

Size

Size is another important factor you need to think about. Don’t just think about the size of the bag itself – look at how big the compartments, sleeves and pockets are. The dedicated space for a laptop in these bags is sometimes called different things, but we will refer to it as a laptop sleeve to prevent confusion.

Laptop Sleeve Size

It’s essential to ensure that the laptop sleeve will actually fit your laptop. This may seem an obvious tip, but many people don’t actually check this before they go ahead and make a purchase. Sleeves that are too big and too small can cause you big problems. If your sleeve is too small, your laptop obviously won’t fit inside, but if it’s too big your laptop could move around too much. This could create big opportunities for damage.

One of the reasons why it can be so hard to get a correctly-sized sleeve is that there can be big variations between manufacturer descriptions. Sometimes a 13” sleeve can fit a 16” laptop with ease, whilst other supposedly 13” sleeves barely fit 13” laptops. A good way to get around this is to buy a bag with a bigger sleeve than you need and use an additional padded sleeve to protect your computer. Just make sure the additional protection isn’t overly bulky so it still fits inside.

Bag Capacity

Laptop bags are normally between 15 and 30 litres. However, there are several exemptions to this. To make things even more confusing, there isn’t any one backpack liter measurement used by all brands. This means one company’s 15 litres can be another brand’s 20 litres.

Although larger bags can be difficult to carry around, they can make it easier for you to maintain access to everything you need during your day. This can include your lunch, clothing and textbooks. Nonetheless, many people don’t have substantial size requirements, only needing something that will hold a laptop and a pen.

If this sounds like you, you may be fine with an 8 liter bag. Smaller laptop bags can be much easier to transport around and can also act as lightweight daypacks when you need to carry a little extra around. However, you may need something bigger if you want to carry out items like textbooks.

Style

Style is another important factor to think about. As you’ll be using your laptop bag on a daily basis, you’ll need to like the way your bag looks. There are many great laptop bags on the market that don’t only perform great but look fantastic too. These bags will also give you quality protection for your laptop. There is no need to sacrifice build quality for style, especially if you have a little more to spend. Some of the most popular laptop bag styles include classic, business casual and sporty.

Materials

It’s best to purchase a bag that’s manufactured from high-quality materials if you don’t want to find yourself replacing it a few months down the line. Robust materials used to make laptop bags include nylon, polyester, canvas, leather, and tarpaulin. Ballistic and Ripstop nylon are known for being particularly durable. Canvas (or even better Leather) look sophisticated and professional, but they will be heavier to carry around and won’t withstand the elements as well. This is why it’s best to opt for canvas and leather if you’ll be spending most of your time indoors. The more you’ll be using your bag, the tougher the materials should be.

You’ll also need to think carefully about zippers and hardware. Although easily overlooked, if a zipper or buckle breaks, this can leave your bag inoperable. Zippers are sized on a scale ranging from one to ten, which is the largest. It’s best to look for something rated at least five when you’re thinking about exterior zippers. When it comes to internal pockets, smaller ones should be fine.

Budget

Unless money is no object, you’ll have to think carefully about your budget. It can be best to buy something a little costlier that’s likely to last a long time rather than something cheap that you’ll need to replace a few months down the line. It’s also best for the environment to buy a bag that will last a good while.

Do remember that expensive doesn’t always mean high quality. Some costlier bags won’t serve you as well as the manufacturer’s marketing material might suggest. If a bag is supported with a generous warranty, this can be taken as a good sign that the company has faith in the quality of its products.

Types of Laptop Bag

There are many options to choose from when you’re looking for a bag for a laptop. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular options right now.

Briefcases

Briefcases tend to be slimmer than other styles of laptop bag, and are more appropriate for professional settings such as business people.

They will usually have a smaller than average bag capacity, leaving enough room for a laptop and a note pad, as well as a few office essentials. But you will be very unlikely to be storing a coat or change of clothes in there.

The best briefcases will have a detachable shoulder strap to make them more comfortable to wear on your commute.

Messenger Bags

Messenger bags are specifically designed for things like laptops and office equipment. This means they’re not normally overly bulky or too big. They also tend to have a highly professional look, which makes them fine for the office. These bags tend to be enjoyable to wear for shorter periods.

Some of these bags have additional stability straps that will secure your bag to your body to improve weight distribution. It’s generally simple to get in and out of messenger bags. However, it can be painful to add a great deal of weight to just one of your shoulders, and you may find yourself walking unevenly.

These bags aren’t normally as secure as other bags and can swing around when you’re cycling or walking. Nonetheless, stability straps can help when you’re riding a bike.

Backpack

A big benefit of the laptop backpack is that it has two straps as opposed to a single strap. This means it can be more comfortable to carry over long distances. A laptop backpack will also free up both of your hands so you can carry out various two-handed activities.

Backpacks are also noted for their versatility and tend to be efficient enough for activities like hiking. However, there may be some drawbacks depending on what your needs are.

Backpacks might not look as professional as you need them to be, although there are many polished, stylish backpacks on the market. You may also feel a backpack is excessive if you spend most of your commute driving. It can also take a little longer to get inside a backpack. You won’t be able to simply leave your backpack unzipped, so you may be left feeling frustrated if you regularly need to get in and out of the bag.

Tote

Some tote bags close at the top, whilst others don’t have a closure. You can normally even leave the tote bags that do close open, which is ideal if you’re regularly getting things in and out of your bag. Tote bags are also great for sticking in longer items like baguettes or tripods. They also tend to look slightly more professional than backpacks. These bags also have handles that make it easy to toss your bag over your shoulder. This kind of bag could be ideal if you’re interested in hands-free carrying. Nonetheless, totes can be uncomfortable for long-distance carrying and when they have heavy loads inside them. Even if the handles have good padding, your shoulder may still hurt after an hour of walking. The bags can also fall off your shoulder easily when you bend down or even just walk. If you’re using a tote that doesn’t close, your equipment could be at risk if you do experience a bump and it all falls out.

Tote Pack

A tote pack can be seen as a fusion of a tote and a backpack. These bags have stowable straps which can you can pull out when you want to carry a backpack and hide when you prefer a tote. A good thing about tote packs is that they blend the accessibility and professionalism of a tote with the comfort you’d get from a backpack.

It’s fairly easy to get in and out of a tote pack too. On the downside, these bags aren’t normally very comfortable when you wear them as backpacks due to their harness systems, which aren’t hugely breathable. The back panels don’t often have mesh or air channels for ventilation. It can also become tiresome to switch between the two modes.

Safety Concerns with Sleeve Padding

Here’s what you need to look out for when you need a laptop bag that’s tough enough to protect gear including laptops.

Padding

Padding can play a big role in protecting your bag from the other items inside it. Some people like to stick their laptops in separate sleeves or cases before they add them to laptop bags for extra peace of mind.

Another good reason for using a separate case or sleeve is that it can give you more protection when you’re carrying your laptop around on its own. Nonetheless, other people prefer laptop bags that have sufficient padding that eliminates the need to use a separate sleeve.

Many of those that don’t want to use an extra sleeve seek out laptop bags that have thick, dense padding to protect their laptops.

Soft Lining

Another feature that you might wish to look out for when buying a laptop bag is soft padding. This kind of padding can help you prevent scratches.

Compartment Layouts & Pocket Access

Preferences can vary when it comes to organization. Some people like a laptop bag to have large, empty compartments whilst others do not. Whether you need something simple, complex or somewhere in between, it shouldn’t be too difficult to find a laptop bag that will meet your organizational needs. Some bags also offer exterior organization.

Interior organization

Simple

Bags that have simple organization can seem more versatile. You can also use external organizational solutions like pouches and sleeves rather than navigating your way around various internal pockets that have been built into the laptop. However, some people do prefer to have pockets already built into their laptop bags.

Modular

Some bags make it very easy for you to customize organization and have features like hooks and strips of Velcro, enabling you to create a truly distinctive interior layout.

Many of the brands that create bags with modular organizational systems also make accessories and pouches that are designed to work well inside their bags.

These bags may be ideal if you have the time to optimize your organizational set-up, but they don’t tend to be as affordable as the bags that already have in-built organization.

Complex

If you’re the kind of person who prefers to have dedicated spots for all your gear, complex organization may be for you. This option gives you dedicated zones for things like pens, notebooks, phones and laptops.

If you buy a laptop with a complex organizational system, you shouldn’t need to buy separate tech pouches. This can help you save money. Many people prefer to have the organization already done for them when buying laptop bags.

These bags tend to be best for organizing things like notebooks and pens. If you have items of various different sizes to cater for, the inbuilt organization might not meet your needs so well.

Nonetheless, the vast majority of people are likely to prefer organization which offers a good balance between simple and complicated with a small number of specific pockets.

Related:

Exterior Organization

Some people opt for bags with a more minimal, sleek appearance that have a basic external look. However, others are less keen on the clean aesthetic as they are as having access to various handy external pockets and simple access to their possessions. An external attachment point can also make it easier to carry gear externally that you might not want to put inside the main part of your bag, such as a jacket.

There are many questions you should ask yourself if you’re not sure whether you need external organization or not. If you have a long commute, you may appreciate having easy access to snacks and books.

If you walk to work, it could be good to have swift access to water through external bottle pockets. If you often find yourself outside during wet weather, external attachment points may be very useful.

Access

Will you be accessing your laptop at least twice a day? If so, make sure it is easy to get to. Having to navigate tough angles and irritating straps can prove frustrating when you have to do it more than once a day.

If you are considering buying a specific laptop bag, think about how easy it is to reach the main compartment. Are compression straps blocking the zipper? Rounded edges can make it hard for you to zip a square laptop inside.

Roll tops can slow down access to your laptop, but they can give you valuable expandability and water resistance. Side access points can give you direct access to your laptop sleeve.

Secondary access points are popular with many people as they can cut down the amount of time it takes to access your laptop. They also mean you don’t have to sort through various items to reach your laptop.

Is the laptop sleeve tight to the back compartment? Does it have magnets, a buckle or Velcro? Closures can keep your laptop securely in place, but it can be harder to access your equipment if a flap is in the way.

Dedicated Compartments

If you have a dedicated compartment for your laptop, you can forget about slowly unpacking a host of items onto a coffee shop table just to gain access to your machine, which can save you a great deal of fuss and embarrassment.

It should also be easy for you to slide your laptop into its compartment even when the rest of your bag is full. Dedicated laptop compartments can help you avoid a great deal of stress.

Dedicated compartments are often described in different ways by manufacturers. Some of these compartments are only designed for laptops, whilst others will give you extra room and may be called “tech compartments”.

Think carefully about the access to this compartment. Can you reach the compartment from the top, the side or both? This may not seem important until you are in a situation where it suddenly matters.

For instance, if you’re travelling by plane and your bag is located underneath the seat in front of you, you’ll need to pull the bag out completely just to get to your laptop. You won’t need to worry about this if you have top access.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoyed our article on the best laptop bags.

If you have any questions or comments, contact us at info@vonbaer.com, or leave them in the comments.

Browse our other Work pages here.

Author: Albert Varkki

Albert Varkki is the co-founder of Von Baer. He understands leather products as a consumer, supplier, and a manufacturer, helping you with the inside knowledge you need, to choose the perfect leather product for you.

We always aim to have the highest editorial standards, and only publish accurate information on our website.

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