Laptop backpacks

Laptop backpacks in our range are bags with a padded laptop compartment, made for commuters, students and business travellers who carry a computer every day. Most are standard backpacks, with a few backpack cases and briefcase-style bags. Leading brands include RIVACASE, DICOTA, TARGUS and THULE, with sizes for laptops from 14 to 17.3 inches.

How to choose a laptop backpack

Laptop size. Check the maximum screen size the backpack is made for, not just the word laptop in the title. Our range covers 14, 15.6, 16, 16.1, 17 and 17.3 inch models, and 15.6 and 16 inch backpacks are the most widely listed. A laptop that fits loosely moves around in transit, while one that is too large will not close properly.

Padding and protection. Look for a dedicated laptop compartment with padded walls and a raised base, so the laptop does not take the impact when you put the bag down. A separate pocket for a tablet is useful if you carry one. Some models add a rigid shell or foam panels for extra protection.

Organisation and capacity. Think about what travels with the laptop: charger, mouse, documents, a water bottle, perhaps a change of clothes. Several compartments keep cables away from the screen, while a single large space suits people who carry little. Slim designs are easier on crowded trains, and deeper ones suit overnight trips.

Material and weather resistance. Polyester is the most common material in our range, with nylon also available. Both shed light rain, but most are water-resistant rather than fully waterproof, so a rain cover or coated fabric matters if you walk or cycle in wet weather.

Comfort and style. Padded shoulder straps, a ventilated back panel and a chest strap make a real difference when the bag is heavy. Black is by far the most common colour, with grey, blue, navy and khaki also available, so you can match a work wardrobe or choose something less formal.

Laptop backpack brands we carry

• RIVACASE: a specialist in bags and accessories for laptops and tablets, with a large number of sizes and styles.
• DICOTA: a Swiss brand focused on business laptop bags and backpacks, including models made from recycled materials.
• TARGUS: a long-established maker of laptop cases and carrying accessories, known for commuter and office backpacks.
• CASE LOGIC: an American brand with a long history in carrying and storage cases, now also making everyday laptop backpacks.
• THULE: a Swedish company better known for roof boxes and bike carriers, and its backpacks reflect that focus on travel and transport.
• WENGER: a Swiss brand also known for Swiss Army knives, offering backpacks for business and travel use.
• Lenovo, HP, Dell and ASUS: laptop makers whose backpacks are sized around their own notebook ranges, though most also take other brands of similar dimensions.
• TOMTOC: known for protective sleeves and cases for laptops and tablets, which carries over to its padded backpacks.

Also in our range: SBOX.

Laptop backpack FAQ

What size laptop backpack do I need?

Choose a backpack rated for your laptop's screen size or slightly larger. A 15.6 inch laptop fits a 15.6 or 16 inch backpack, and a 17 inch machine needs a model that explicitly lists 17 or 17.3 inches. Screen size is only a guide, as bezels and thickness vary between laptops.

Are laptop backpacks waterproof?

Most laptop backpacks are water-resistant rather than fully waterproof. Polyester and nylon fabrics, especially with a coating, handle light rain, but seams and zips can let water in during a downpour. A separate rain cover gives more protection if you travel in all weathers.

Will a universal laptop backpack fit any laptop?

A universal laptop backpack fits laptops by size rather than by brand, so any make will fit if the screen size is within the stated limit. Some backpacks are labelled for a specific brand such as Dell, HP, Lenovo or ASUS, but these are normally sized the same way. Always check the maximum screen size before buying.

Is a backpack better than a laptop sleeve or briefcase?

A backpack is better when you carry more than the laptop or walk or cycle for part of your journey, because it spreads the weight across both shoulders. A sleeve is lighter and slips into another bag, while a briefcase looks more formal but loads one shoulder or arm. Many people choose a backpack for daily commuting and keep a sleeve for short trips.