The Ultimate Laptop Bag Guide | How To Choose The Best Laptop Bag For You

We got our hands on over 100 different laptop backpacks, totes, and messengers, to help you choose the best laptop bag for you. View our full written guide: packhacker.com/guide/best-lap...
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0:00 - Intro
1:08 - Considerations
5:01 - Carry Styles
7:58 - Laptop Protection
10:19 - Organization
FEATURED LAPTOP BAGS
Aer Slim Pack: packhacker.com/travel-gear/ae...
The North Face Borealis Backpack: packhacker.com/travel-gear/th...
Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus: packhacker.com/travel-gear/be...
Osprey Arcane Large Day Pack V2: packhacker.com/travel-gear/os...
Timbuk2 Parker Commuter Backpack: packhacker.com/travel-gear/ti...
Topo Designs Rover Pack: packhacker.com/travel-gear/to...
Bellroy System Work Bag: packhacker.com/travel-gear/be...
GORUCK GR1: packhacker.com/travel-gear/go...
Tom Bihn Synik 30: packhacker.com/travel-gear/to...
Tom Bihn Synapse 25: packhacker.com/travel-gear/to...
Peak Design Everyday Tote 15L V2: packhacker.com/travel-gear/pe...
Osprey Arcane Brief: packhacker.com/travel-gear/os...
Mystery Ranch 3 Way Briefcase: packhacker.com/travel-gear/my...
Bellroy Duo Totepack: packhacker.com/travel-gear/be...
Incase ICON Backpack: packhacker.com/travel-gear/in...
Peak Design Everyday Backpack 20L V2: packhacker.com/travel-gear/pe...
Minaal Daily 3.0 Bag: packhacker.com/travel-gear/mi...
Mystery Ranch Urban Assault 21: packhacker.com/travel-gear/my...
The North Face Kaban: packhacker.com/travel-gear/th...
North St. Bags Weekender Meeting Bag: packhacker.com/travel-gear/no...
Aer Tech Pack 2: packhacker.com/travel-gear/ae...
EVERGOODS Civic Panel Loader 24L V2: packhacker.com/travel-gear/ev...
View more reviews on our website: packhacker.com/travel-gear/
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TERMS
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[@PackHacker]

What’s your favorite laptop bag?

[@Man_united]

Did you buy the wood wall stand or make it? I have a bunch of bags i wanted to hang and that would be a good addition to my room

[@geraldmcmullon2465]

XD Design Bobby Bizz. I like the hard metal sides, no zippers on the outside, all tucked in. and the more rigid shape prevents me from over filling it. I modified it to take Velcro dividers for my camera gear and I can still fit in my laptop or tablet. The brief case handle is excellent. Can carry over the shoulder, Sling by crossing one of the backpack straps and as a back pack. It look smart and business like and less like a tourist.

[@supraphonic88]

Oldie but a goodie: The Mission Workshop Sanction. Love the rucksack styling and its look when part-full, plus the versatility of a huge, unfussy, undivided main compartment. That plus a sleeve and some Topo Designs accessory bags for cables and peripherals do the job perfectly for me.

[@ijatalalai]

bellroy classic

[@adilunwala7399]

Evergoods cpl 24 is the current favorite

[@wayward4657]

I love how in-depth this video is, I only wish I could find backpacks that weren't $200+ like most of the bags shown here, way too expensive

[@swat37]

I've found that Jansport, Carhartt and G4Free are some good brands if you want something around $60. My family personally has some 9ish year old Jansport backpacks, and I have a G4Free MOLLE backpack myself.

[@giuliana6233]

It's definitively not a traditional choice, but my laptop bag of choice is a fabric briefcase that my mother made using my late grandma's blouse. The blouse was of a soft cotton fabric, so my lovely mother sewed a protective layer of thicker fabric and even stitched a pocked inside, with a main zipper to close the bag. It's one of a kind for sure, and I wouldn't trade it for the world!

[@JonDiPietro]

I'm a big fan of the Everki Studio slim laptop backpack. It's slim but has a boxed shape that allows for a lot of flexibility and a surprising volume of gear. It replaced my Everki Premium Checkpoint, which was great when I was traveling more but is now bigger than I need.

[@btothep87]

Ayyy the video I've been waiting for! As a teacher, I use my backpack everyday to take my school laptop back and forth from home to school. For the past year and a half, I've been using The North Face Recon 30L as my go-to bag. It's a great bag: the dedicated laptop compartment is great and I love that it's suspended off the bottom of the bag, too. It's got plenty of space inside the bag for all the student meds and things I need to take on field trips. In addition to school, it's my choice for my personal item for travel. I took it to Egypt for two weeks last year, where the two mesh water bottle holders came in handy. My only real complaint about the bag is that it has a bizarre rounded bottom, so the bag doesn't sit well at all. Even when you prop it up, it often falls over. I've taken to hooking the bag in an upright position using my heroclip (which also kept it off of some yucky Egyptian restroom floors so thanks for that recommendation!) I'm probably going to downsize since my new school laptop is a Surface Pro and I just don't need the giant laptop compartment anymore. I'm looking forward to reading through the full article on the website to help me choose. Thanks for the great video!

[@hann87]

Osprey tropos 34 will be a great upgrade for you.

[@Miamis4me305]

Great video! I just got the Mystery Ranch Rip Stop 15 which I find fits my iPad and all my daily gear including a jacket without being huge ( I'm small frame woman) . While all bags mentioned here are great, this one encompasses all my needs. Thanks again for putting out great content

[@007jjr]

Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack is the best bag I have ever used. Excellent side pocket for your laptop, plenty of room, storage mesh see thru pockets. Enough for a changed of cloths, bathroom essentials. Stop looking and buy it. Simply the best.

[@narakusdemon.88]

Bought the Goruck GR1 after watching your review and Chase Reeves. It was expensive but if it lasts 10+ years with daily use it's worth it I think. Plus, the Huckberry edition is super low profile.

[@ClaytonBatesShopifyExpert]

Great video. Thank you.

[@Mr1Musiclover]

Please post more often about bags. We love bags

[@alexiszee5770]

thank as always a great video

[@YoutiaoVlogs]

I have a natgeo backpack no false bottom which I learnt thanks to your video and started looking at my old bags and went back to my Bobby anti theft backpack. However sometimes I run around for errands so I always carry a small sling as well for my phones and wallets so I was thinking to stick to using a sling and a laptop bag or swapping in between my errands and meetings for work. And end of day I commute back home using my backpack, my sling is really just an errand bag to carry small items

[@strangebaaza]

I bought the bellroy duo totepack and I love it. It's so good. Fits my laptop and iPad pro with magic keyboard along with the tech organiser from them.

[@PackHacker]

So glad you've been able to make the Bellroy Duo Totepack work for you, Bharadwaj! Sounds like you have a great collection of gear going on there. 😊 - Rebecca

[@strangebaaza]

@@PackHacker haha thank you Rebecca. It just fits everything really well. I have two buds and it has amazing pockets for all that. I did look at your review and decided to buy it. Thanks for that and continue making great content 😁

[@AndrewFulo]

Elecom Off-Toco for multi-accessory carry / eBags Slim is my go to for everyday carry / System G for heavier days that require more stuff / North Face Router for travel ---- I really like how comprehensive you guys are in your reviews. Great job. May I suggest you also do reviews on unique bag brands that aren't as popular but worth mentioning.

[@lizzyg0816]

Also good to factor in space for the laptop power cord

[@CraigDavison3]

Using the Aer Flight Pack 2 at the moment as my EDC and laptop bag. XPAC do it's weatherproof as well. Loving it!

[@PackHacker]

That's awesome to hear, Craig! The Aer Flight Pack 2 is a solid choice, thanks for sharing. 🙌 - Rebecca

[@mee7er]

The Aer Flight Pack 2 has been my favorite go to since I got it as well. It has just enough space for everything and has a thin profile that wears really comfortably!

[@ambarrose]

I am the kind of person who always switches bags but at the end of the day I always want to carry the same stuff with me. If I'm more active, I will choose backpack. If I'm more casual, I usually prefer a handbag ( Tote/ Messenger on hand).

[@GatorAidMedical]

Osprey radial really works for me!

[@shubhamsandilya5827]

@harsh jha are u from saharsa

[@rafaelconejos6662]

Excellent vid! You guys should do this video annually!

[@PackHacker]

😃😃

[@ilri2114]

All the bags mentioned here are great. Perfect for commuting laptop and daily use. I wonder what you think about Gregory overnight mission v3 for one bag travel use, and commute?

[@Jelloc]

The Device Nest on my Minaal Daily is probably one of the best laptop carry systems I feel that's out there in terms of protection

[@mtmsxp]

Hi thanks for your review. I went with the Everki 120 because I needed a larger size for a few more items along with my laptop such as iPad, computer cooling pad, clothing and snacks of course chargers and minor toiletries.

[@PackHacker]

Sounds like the right choice for you! Thanks for watching. -Eric

[@mungelomwaangasikateyo376]

I really needed this Hontoni arigato

[@danialk8435]

Can you please tell me which 2-3 bags have the best false bottom? Or overall best protective laptop backpack? I've read all your website's stuff, but i'm so confused on being able to make a single choice. 1) false bottom 2) organization for notebooks + pens 3) waterbottle holders

[@melusine826]

I have an otter bag- super tough and protective. I love it but sooooo heavy.

[@observerstation]

Crumpler is a company that never seems to get a mention but they make great backpacks, totes and slings

[@shawnfitzpatrick4511]

What's the backpack at 8:32 ? Love that panel of organization.

[@aggaviriyo790]

Do you guys have plan to take a look at Matador's new on-the-go series? Maybe on quick hits?

[@paulus1708]

I'm using the north face kaban for the everyday backpack, and osprey nebula for traveling. too bad osprey nebula is not waterproof, so I have to buy backpack cover also if I'm using osprey nebula.

[@pokysolberg6467]

You guys should check out the osuza backpack.

[@jonacanij]

Using the Goruck-Huckberry edition GR1 21L. Way better than the original GR1 as an EDC office bag IMO.

[@jorab8989]

Is there going to be a videos on the Deuter UP Seoul ?

[@eladkrief8114]

What are those mini bags you put the changing clothes in?

[@jammivenkata]

Nomatic and Tumi are serving me very well now.

[@remote3652]

how long have you had the nomatic bag? I'm going to make a decision soon

[@destreal]

Goruck gr1 👌

[@joshjoseph6460]

so cool sia

[@pawelsaracen]

Peak Design everyday backpack v2 20l

[@jennya2439]

What’s the name of the black flip-top bag on the park bench at 2:34 mins of video? And what’s the name of the blue flip-top bag second from the left of the bottom row on the wall of bags behind you in your studio? Thanks in advance ☺️

[@charliethecockatoo2159]

Can I ask your opinion on what are some great 17" laptop bags? Definitely willing to spend a bit more for quality and features, anything under 300 should be fine for my budget. If it helps with suggestions, within it I'm looking to carry the 17" laptop & charger, Hero10 in its case, a headset, a power bank, my phone, and various cables and an external hard drive in a tech case. I definitely, at least initially, prioritise aesthetics. But I insist the laptop be suspended from the bottom of the bag. Thanks!

[@cwarfield]

Have you all continued using the Remote Equipment Charlie 25? All your comments from the initial review still hold? Living in the PNW, looks like an awesome mixed office (when we get back) and outdoor bag.

[@monicamuller9215]

Have you featured/reviewed this bag in your videos: LL Bean Comfort Carry Women's Laptop Pack, 30L ?

[@raf14uk]

Hello! Great video as always! Does anyone know the name of the backpack at 2:34?

[@PackHacker]

It's the Rains Backpack! Check out our full review here: packhacker.com/travel-gear/rains/backpack/ - Tom

[@JMCrane3103]

Which laptop bags for a 17 inch laptop?

[@michellentzler3260]

Which backpack is the one at 13:37??

[@lutfiamrullah4932]

Try Thule enroute 20l

[@rolazrei]

Must be separated into fits full size keyboard or not

[@allengroove4553]

anything for 6 2in binders and a laptop? 😳

[@batruax]

What's the super slim grey laptop sleeve with the (maybe) magnetic closure at 2:16?

[@PackHacker]

That’s the Incase ICON Sleeve 😃 -Eric

[@vonzarooz2829]

Where can I find bags with the false bottom

[@TheElimmist]

My problem with most laptop bags are they're too small. I have a 17 incher and it's not easy looking for a stylish and spacious. I have a messenger/backpack hybrid but it doesn't look great, and a Swiss backpack that's just right enough for my laptop, with just enough space for cords and other accessories.

[@melgigz178]

Have a look at the Acer predator utility laptop backpack. I bought one 2 yrs ago, feels light even though it is on the larger size bag.

[@TheElimmist]

@@melgigz178 Thanks! I just checked it and it does look good. I'll try this out. :)

[@peteromprey9253]

How come no ogio renegade? Crush proof laptop area

[@janesmith1891]

I actually really like my mos blackpack but I never see it spoken about. Rip

[@bluesailormercury]

What's the bag with huge padding at 8:35?

[@PackHacker]

Thanks for the comment! That's the Heimplanet Transit Line Travel Pack. You can check out more info here: packhacker.com/travel-gear/heimplanet/transit-line-travel-pack/ - Austin

[@samirhabota4270]

Could you tell me the name of the bag at 2:32

[@PackHacker]

Hey Samir, this is the Rains Backpack: packhacker.com/travel-gear/rains/backpack/ - Rebecca

[@TheNilliz85]

Korin clickpack-x should be on here

[@zhalosupercell9518]

What’s the backpack at 11:53 ?

[@PackHacker]

Fjallraven Raven: packhacker.com/travel-gear/fjallraven/raven-20l-backpack/ - Tom

[@zhalosupercell9518]

@@PackHacker thanks for the reply!

[@EdzrielTC]

Whats the bag at 2:30?

[@PackHacker]

Hey Edward! That's the Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack. You can check out our review here: packhacker.com/travel-gear/timbuk2/authority-laptop-backpack-deluxe/ - Austin

[@prefetchify]

What is the name of the bag at 2:34?

[@PackHacker]

That’s the Rains Backpack! 😃 More info: packhacker.com/travel-gear/rains/backpack/ -Eric

[@prefetchify]

@@PackHacker Thanks!

[@yanivbahalker9555]

Am I the only one who went crazy about the prices of these backpacks? My perfect, huge and bulky osprey backpack that I used for 6 months of hiking and traveling cost less then most of these...

[@hbkarabay]

He wasn't lying when he said "The Ultimate"

[@PackHacker]

Thanks for the support! - Austin

[@crissirc94]

Hello! I was wondering what backpack is the one from the 00:04 second of the video. Thank you in advance!

[@PackHacker]

Hey Cristian, this is the Aer Slim Pack: packhacker.com/travel-gear/aer/slim-pack/ - Rebecca

[@amalik314]

Was wondering why most of KZbinrs making reviews on backpacks do not include Samsonite or Swissgear in comparison? It’s not just you, have seen other ones and all of them rarely put on a vid, why?? Thanks

[@aands21]

What’s the bag on the thumbnail?

[@PackHacker]

That’s the Aer Fit Pack 2! Here’s the review: packhacker.com/travel-gear/aer/fit-pack-2/ and the review for the Aer Fit Pack 3: packhacker.com/travel-gear/aer/fit-pack-3/ -Eric

[@aands21]

@@PackHacker awesome thank you really like backpacks with orange interiors lol 😂

[@PackHacker]

It’s quite popular right now as it allows you to see your gear better 😃 -Eric

[@aands21]

@@PackHacker exactly you guys are awesome thank you for all the great content!

[@PackHacker]

Thanks for the kind words, Anthony! 😃 We’ll see you in the next one. -Eric

[@XMegaJuni]

which one is the cheapest O_O

[@charliethecockatoo2159]

Okay I may be a part of the minority here in my confusion but... How is the Mystery Ranch bag "aptly titled"? Looooool

[@PackHacker]

Hey Charlie! We found the name "3 Way Brief" accurate because it is a briefcase style pack that can be carried three ways. - Austin

[@charliethecockatoo2159]

@@PackHacker oh! The way it was phrased made it sound like you meant the "Mystery Ranch" part was apt! Hahahaha how silly. Thanks!

[@loc1123]

when talking about laptop protection, you missed a point nobody is talking about but really annoys me. it's not only about padding, but also overall pressure. i.e. gaming laptops have a weaker chassis and a full and heavy backpack adds a lot of pressure on all sides of the laptop. every part of the laptop is strained and pushed, not just the corners. especially the hinges and lid suffer. my gaming laptop had such a cheap plastic chassis and developed small cracks just from carrying in every day use. i haven't seen a single backpack that attempts to create a supported, stable gap, which reduces pressure on the laptop. every backpack manufacturer just assumes we have aluminium macbooks that just need some feel-good-padding on the corners... i mean even thinkpads get keyboard imprints in the screen because backpacks dont actually support the laptops flat surfaces against the other contents. no amount of padding is ever going to solve this. also drops a really rare and not that much of an issue.

[@pythios8982]

*sigh first year college problems...

[@unitedstatesofindia1460]

He has a PhD in bags

[@Enchante...]

Kanken laptop 😅