large travel business bag

The 10 best business travel backpacks for style and comfort

I recently ran into a pretty big issue on a work trip.

During the middle of a flight, my laptop was running out of charge, so I opened the overhead bin and pulled down my Away backpack, which had a charger inside the main pocket.

As I went to open the pocket, I couldn't get the zipper to pull. No matter how hard I tried, the zipper was stuck.

I eventually pried the pocket open enough, and when I landed back home, my local zipper-repair shop told me that I had one of two options: buy a brand-new backpack or pay $80 to install a new zipper track (that wouldn't even match the original one).

Away's lifetime warranty excludes backpacks (technically called "soft goods"), so I figured it was time to invest in a new bag. I wanted something that would be durable, stylish and spacious — but not too unwieldy.

I took to Instagram to ask for recommendations, and I got an overwhelming number of suggestions. I eventually distilled the list down to some top picks. And just in case you might also be in the market for a new travel backpack that works for business trips or hauling laptops around, I thought I'd share the tips, suggestions and research I used to make my decision.

Without further ado, here are the best business travel backpacks that maximize form and function.

Related: Review of the Away Larger Carry-On

Tumi Navigation Backpack

In my informal social media poll, no brand received as much praise as Tumi . That's not necessarily surprising, as this travel gear brand has been a fan favorite for frequent flyers for many years. Though Tumi makes a handful of durable bags, the Navigation Backpack excels for a wide range of travel needs.

There's a separate padded laptop compartment (that can fit even the largest MacBooks), as well as a main storage area and plenty of other smaller pockets.

But my favorite feature is the bag's zip expansion capability, which will certainly come in handy if you pick up some souvenirs or other swag during your trip.

The Navigation Backpack comes in five colors, giving you plenty of choices to match your personal travel style.

Tumi also offers two more contenders for the best business travel backpack: the slightly larger Alpha Bravo Search (which also came highly recommended in my Instagram poll) and the Bradner Backpack — the brand's most stylish one yet in my book.

Buy: From $525

Aer Pro Pack 20L

As far as business-travel backpacks go, Aer's is certainly quite stylish. It comes in three colors (black, navy and olive), and it's made of sustainable materials without compromising on durability. A separate laptop compartment safeguards your most precious technology, while the main compartment is large enough for all your chargers and other travel accessories.

The standout feature is that the main compartment features a 180-degree flat-open zipper system, which gives you unobstructed access to all of your belongings.

Plus, there's even a hidden pocket to store an AirTag or other smart device tracker so that you can locate your bag even if it's stolen or if you misplace it.

Buy: From $179

Rimowa Flap Backpack Large

If you're looking to make a statement, Rimowa's travel bags are the way to go.

This luxury bag manufacturer has entered the travel backpack space with its new Italian-made large canvas Flap Backpack, which even sports the iconic groove design on the outside.

The inside features a padded laptop sleeve and a large drawstring compartment to fit all of your travel essentials. With a flap-top enclosure secured by a magnetic buckle (that's emblazoned with the Rimowa logo), there's no doubt this is a very stylish, spacious and durable bag.

The one big downside? It is Rimowa and, as a result, doesn't come cheap. But it's also the bag that'll probably make the strongest first impression once you enter the boardroom.

Buy: From $1,700

Samsonite Novex Laptop Backpack

No worries if you are shopping for a travel backpack on a more down-to-earth budget, as the Samsonite best-seller has a lot going for it, starting with the price. At just $74.99 (on a 25% off sale at the moment), it's one of the most affordable bags in this guide.

Yet, the Novex Laptop Backpack doesn't compromise on the basics. The separate laptop and tablet pocket features a special webbing system that provides extra durability in case you drop the backpack. Plus, thanks to the special supportive lining on the top front pocket, you won't have to worry about misplacing your headphones, glasses or phones.

The main storage compartment has room for all the essentials, though you may not find it large enough for a full change of clothes or a pair of shoes.

While this backpack is a solid option and is a great deal considering the price, it doesn't feature all the bells and whistles you'd find with some of its competitors.

Buy: From $74.99

Nomatic 20L Backpack

Though you may have never heard of Nomatic before, this brand receives rave reviews from its loyalists. The company's best-seller backpack comes in two sizes, 14 liters and 20 liters, both of which are expandable by nearly 20%.

The flat rectangular design may be controversial at first glance, but at least you can't complain about finding space for all of your gizmos. The bag has a staggering 24 unique storage compartments that range from enclosed pockets to mesh nets, and it's a great bag for those who like to stay extremely organized when they're on the road.

Plus, with a water-resistant coating on the outside, this might just be one of the most durable travel backpacks out there.

Buy: From $279.99

Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack

The Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack has space for everything and then some. The padded rear pocket is the perfect spot for a laptop, and I love that you don't need to dig through your bag just to find your computer.

The main compartment is quite spacious, and you can even expand this space by nearly three liters, giving you more room for your belongings. Plus, the front pocket has a dedicated organizer with multiple pockets, so you'll never forget where you put your passport, charger and cables.

This may be one of the bigger bags in this guide, but you'd never know it just from looking at it. (You could opt for the smaller Timbuk2 Q Laptop Backpack if you want something smaller.)

If there's one downside, it's the style — the bag isn't nearly as eye-catching as some of the others.

Buy: From $209

Incase A.R.C. Daypack

Apple aficionados will no doubt be familiar with Incase, a popular brand of cases and protection solutions for iPhones, iPads and Macs.

That said, Incase's A.R.C. Daypack could be a great backpack option, even if you don't tote around a MacBook or iOS device. Much like an Apple product, the backpack's design is minimalist, yet highly functional.

The laptop pocket is big enough for a 16-inch computer, and it's lined in faux fur for additional protection. On top of that, the travel tech compartment has RFID-blocking technology, preventing thieves from stealing your digital info.

A water- and stain-resistant coating, two dedicated water bottle holders and a pass-through system for rollaboard bags make this the ideal bag for anyone going from the gym to the office to the airport. If you need something bigger, Incase also makes a larger A.R.C. travel pack.

But perhaps just as importantly, both bags are made from a sustainable mixture of recycled polyester, giving them their A.R.C, or "a responsible carry," acronym.

Buy: From $127.18

Ogio Renegade RSS Laptop Backpack

If you're looking for the bag with the most pockets, this might just be the one for you.

Ogio's flagship backpack has dedicated space for everything (laptop and iPad included) and then some. A phone pocket, two zippered side pockets, five main pockets — you might just get lost looking around for your gear.

No matter how much you stuff this nearly 30-liter backpack, you shouldn't have much of a problem carrying it around. I love the supportive padded back panel and shoulder straps, which make it easy to lug it around the airport or corporate campus.

Just note that the bag isn't necessarily the most stylish, nor does it feature a strap to store it on the handle of your rollaboard bag.

Buy: From $160

Briggs & Riley Traveler Backpack

At first glance, your eyes might be caught by this Briggs & Riley backpack. With its boxy corners and flat pockets, it definitely makes a statement.

Then, once you start opening the different pockets, you'll likely be impressed by how much you can fit inside, especially thanks to the 180-degree lie-flat opening that allows unfettered access to every nook and cranny.

The tablet laptop and tablet sleeve are in the same area as the main packing compartment, but it's separated by a zippered inner pocket to keep your clothes all by themselves.

Another nifty feature includes a so-called "PowerPocket" that fits an external battery pack and keeps a charging cable within easy reach for a quick boost of juice while you're on the go.

Style, form and function — this backpack is a winner, and while it isn't the cheapest in the line-up, it also doesn't come with the Tumi or Rimowa price tag.

Buy: From $329

Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus

Sometimes, the simplest solution is actually the best. If you're the type of person who ascribes to the "less is more" philosophy, then Bellroy's Classic Backpack Plus is probably your best bet.

You won't find any complicated zippers or expandable compartments inside, but this bag packs a mighty style punch in a versatile package.

There are two main compartments in the backpack — one for your laptop and another for the rest of your belongings. The front of the bag features a small zip pocket for storing small essentials, and that's basically it. But don't be fooled; the bag sports a 24-liter capacity, so you'll find plenty of room for your gear.

If simplicity is what you're after, then you can't go wrong with Bellroy's flagship backpack.

Buy: From $189

Bottom line

Now that my Away Backpack is really on its last breath, I find myself facing decision anxiety.

There are 10 great choices for a replacement, and I'm torn as to which one to use going forward. I'm personally a big fan of the Rimowa design, but that $1,700 splurge might need to wait until I write my holiday wishlist.

Until then, I'm currently leaning toward a Tumi backpack. After all, there must've been a reason that it was the most-loved business travel backpack in my research.

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• The 18 best places to travel in 2023
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• 13 must-have items the TPG team can't travel without

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Home » Gear » travel business backpack

10+ BEST Business Travel Backpacks (UPDATED 2024)

This list of the best business travel backpacks  is written for anyone who travels for work, commutes, or flies around the globe in search of better Wi-Fi connection.

(Take it from someone who is writing this from her laptop on a plane right now.)

But why use a backpack for travel? To be honest, briefcases are as archaic as the fax machine. Sure, they’re useful, but they are not as efficient.

If you are traveling with a laptop, important documents, more chargers than a bus full of LA football players, and enough snacks to survive an airport apocalypse, then you’re going to want a backpack.

Backpacks are revolutionizing the way we travel just like the internet has revolutionized the way we work. I mean, there was once a time when a backpack was a backpack, and now there are backpacks specifically for business, hiking, traveling ultra-lightweight; you name it.

However, with so many great choices, choosing the best backpack for work and travel can seem daunting.

Like a good pair of shoes, you want just the right fit, and lucky for you, I’ve used, tested, researched, and compiled a list of the best business travel backpacks of 2024.

You can rest assured that every business travel backpack on this list is a high-quality, durable, and TSA compliant bag specifically designed for traveling and business.

Quick Answer: These are the Best Business Travel Backpacks of 2024

• #1 Nomatic Travel Bag 40L – Best Overall Business Travel Backpack
• #2 Tortuga Travel Pack – Best Laptop Backpack for Longer Trips
• #3 Aer Travel Pack 3  – Best Business Backpack for EU Travelers
• #4 Harber City Backpack – Most Stylish Business Daypack
• #5 Kodiak Leather Satchel – Best Business Commuter Bag
• #6 Nomatic 14 Pack – Best Business Day Pack
• #7 Osprey Metron – Best Laptop Backpack for Business
• #8 Mahi Leather City Satchel – Best Business Commuter Bag
• #9 Tropicfeel Shell – Business Backpack For Digital Nomads
• #10 Osprey Talon – Business Backpack For Cyclists

Nomatic Travel Bag 40L

• > Organizational Features

Tortuga Travel Pack

• > Clothing compartment
• > Laptop and tablet sleeves

Osprey Metron

• > Laptop dedicated compartment
• > Comes with rain cover

Tortuga Laptop Backpack

• > Organization panel

Kodiak Leather Satchel

• > Large main compartment
• > Stylish and cool

Tropicfeel Shell

• Price > $$$
• > Completely Waterproof
• > Adjustable from 20L to 40L

Arcido Akra 35L

• > Super lightweight makes travel easy
• > Organized + customizable

Nomati 14L Backpack

• > Great layout keeps things organised
• > Expands to 20L. AWESOME!

Nomatic 14L Backpack

• > Stylish and professional
• > Nicely organised

Why should you travel with a business travel backpack?

Buyer guide – key features to look for the best business travel backpack, best business travel backpacks of 2024, faq about the best travel business backpack, final thoughts on the best business travel backpacks.

So why would you travel with a business backpack versus a messenger bag , briefcase, or even a purse?

Sometime the latter options may work better for you, but if you are traveling with electronic equipment – laptop, tablet – important documents, a book, etc., the weight can add up quickly.

These days, the best business travel backpacks are designed to be as efficient, secure, and comfortable as possible. Personally, I would much rather carry everything in a secure backpack that fits me comfortably than lugged over one shoulder.

If you are traveling with electronic gear, documents, and more, then having a backpack makes sense.

The business backpacks on this list were designed specifically for travelers too, meaning you can get through TSA lines and easily store your bag in an overhead bin.

Still not convinced? Every business travel backpack on this list is covered by a warranty or built to last for years.

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For this article, we are focusing on the best business travel backpacks, meaning they have a different set of criteria compared to say backpacks just for travel , lightweight backpacks, or hiking backpacks. In order to find the best one, we tested them out over a period of time by taking them with is on business trips (as proffesional Digital Nomads, every trip is a business trip ;). We assessed how comfortable they were to carry, how good the organisational capacities were, how soundly they fit as carry on and paid extra attention to laptop compartments – one particular pack lost points as I found it hard to quickly access my laptop when sat on a train.

1. Laptop compartment

The best business travel backpack will include a separate padded laptop compartment.

A laptop compartment is essential to keep your electronics secure and protected as well as move through the TSA line quickly. The padding is crucial as you’d hate to break or crack your laptop.

Frankly, pretty much every well-designed backpack on the market (except for hiking bags) have a laptop compartment.

2. Prioritize Accessibility and Organization

Organization compartments are especially important for a business travel backpack.

If you are using a backpack for work and travel, you will probably be traveling with a laptop , a few chargers, important documents, clothes, a jacket, etc. This, of course, means you want pockets and plenty of them.

My favorite backpacks have what’s called a u-zip. This means that you can open them completely on at least two sides for easy access. I’m not a big fan of top access only backpacks, even when I’m hiking.

3. Carry-on size Compliant

Carry-on travel backpacks save you from having to deal with lost bags and luggage fees. All of the backpacks on this list are carry-on sized and abide by TSA guidelines, so you can zip through the airport and to your next meeting.

Most of the backpacks on my list also have separate compartments that allow you to lie the laptop flat without actually taking it out of your backpack. This is another level of convenience and an excellent feature if you have to fly a lot.

If you’re after even more organisation and want to keep your documents at hand, even with a decent-sized bag, you can also combine one of these bags with a small but stylish travel purse too.

4. Sleek and Stylish

The best travel business backpacks are modern and chic, so you can slip into the office and your important meetings without looking like a backpacking bum.

You also want the backpack you choose to reflect your style, whether that is preppy, edgy, creative, etc. Sift through my list and see which travel business backpack fits your style most.

5. Fit and Comfort

Fit and comfort are important to any backpack purchase. If a backpack’s too big or too small for your frame, it will be clunky and heavy, uncomfortable, and maybe even painful.

This means making sure the straps are comfortable and fit your body properly. You want to look for adjustable straps and consider waist straps too, which will help balance the weight of a larger bag.

Adujstable straps are more common in hiking backpacks and less common in commuter bags . Regardlesss, the amount of customizability that a larger bag gives might not be necessary for a business backpack. You should at least look for a padded back.

6. Security

Security is another essential when you are carrying valuable things. Many of the best business travel backpacks have partially hidden compartments, sturdy zippers, and durable material that is hard to slash.

7. Weatherproof

This might not be a must-have for business travel backpacks, but if you’re spending time outdoors, or going to a city where it rains a lot, you may want to make sure your backpack is waterproof, or at least water resistant.

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Nomatic Travel Bag 40L – The Best Overall Business Travel Backpack

40 liters is the perfect carry-on size for those multi-day (3-7 day) trips. If you are planning to use a business travel backpack for overnight excursions, then I definitely suggest this choosing this bag.

This bag ticks all of the boxes for what makes the best travel business backpack: plenty of organizational features and pockets, easy accessibility to all of the compartments, durable tarpaulin/ballistic weave material, a 15″ laptop compartment, TSA compliant size, and adjustable waist straps.

Furthermore, it’s sleek and modern, so you’ll look good on the go, and the exterior of the Nomatic Travel Bag is 100% waterproof! In our experience, we found it to be very durable. We wouldn’t recommend submerging the bag in a pool, but if you are caught in a semi-heavy rainstorm, you can rest easy knowing that your stuff is going to stay dry.

The Nomatic travel bag comes with 20 unique features including a shoe compartment, secure pocket for valuables, water bottle container, a notebook pocket, the ability to switch from a duffel bag to backpack, and plenty more. There is also a Nomatic carry-on with wheels .

Our favorite features include its detachable waist straps with water-resistant pockets, unique shoe compartment, and roller bag sleeve. The roller bag sleeve allows you to carry it with additional luggage with ease. Want the full low-down on this backpack? Check out the full review of the Nomatic Travel Bag!

UPDATE for 2024:  Nomatic no longer sells or does business in the European Union, which is an unfortunate development. Those living in the EU should consider the next bag instead…

Tortuga Travel Pack – Best Business Laptop Backpack for Longer Trips

The Tortuga Travel Pack is easily one of the best carry-on travel backpacks on the market. It is quite similar to the Nomatic Travel Bag we also reviewed, but is a tad cheaper, which gives it an edge, in our opinion.

This bag packs in some awesome features include front-loading and the main compartment that opens like a suitcase, a padded and removable hip belt, padded and hideaway shoulder straps with molded foam, and weather resistant material. I also like that this bag is 40 liters, given you the extra space if you need it.

In terms of functionality, the Tortuga Travel Pack has a quick access pocket at the front with a full front tech pocket with a carabiner attachment and dividers. I like how this pocket zips all the way down to the bottom of the pack, so you have easy access to a jacket or bulky item that you want to quickly access or throw into your bag.

There is a separate laptop compartment at the back of the backpack with plenty of cushions. Your laptop will sit a few inches from the bottom for extra protection in case you drop your bag. The laptop sleeve can fit a 15-inch laptop as well as a 9.7-inch tablet. I found it really easy to slot in and slot out when I was testing it out which is why I made it my pick of the best laptop bags for business travel.

The Tortuga Travel Pack features a TSA-friendly laptop sleeve that allows you to leave the device in your backpack while going through security.

AER Travel Pack 3  – Best Business Backpack for EU Travelers

Arguably the best backpack for traveling, the AER Travel Pack 3 is the perfect bag for digital nomads and anyone on a long business trip.

This backpack was made by travelers for travelers. It is literally filled with features, and the Aer Travel Pack 3 has a compartment for almost everything.

Do you need somewhere to keep an extra pair of shoes? There’s a poclet for that. Want to put your laptop in it’s own sleeve? Done. There’s a space just for your laptop.

The bag opens like a clamshell so you can easily access your clothes, cords, or anything else you might have with you. The Aer Travel Pack 3 is small enough to be a daypack and large enough for one bag carry one trips. Minimalist design on the outside of the pack deters thieves and makes stashing your backpack in the overhead bin of a plane even easier.

Simply put, this is the best business travel backpack: it’s well-designed and extremely versatile, durable, and innovative. You’ll find yourself using it all the time – business or pleasure.

For a very detailed description of this backpack, check out the Aer Travel Pack review .

Even though we recommend the AER to European travelers, Americans can also get it; the backpack is available worldwide! It’s just a great overall backpack and is great for those who miss out on the Nomatic.

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City Backpack – Most Stylish Business Daypack

These days business people really need to look the part. And nothing exudes class, confidence and success like good quality leather! The City Backpack from Harber London was designed and made with your work day in mind. It is perfectly sized to accommodate a laptop, note book, pens, leads and a water bottle to keep you hydrated.

It has comfortable carry handles and is fairly light for a bag so tough so you wont mind carrying it to and from the office. The interior has been carefully designed to help you keep everything organised to avoid awkwardly rummaging through your bag during important meetings.

This is not the cheapest backpack on our list but it may be the suavest; for the discerning business person, makes a great investment.

Osprey Metron – Best Business Laptop Bag

The Tortuga and the Minaal Carry On 2.0 are quite similar. Both are urban-style, sleek bags known for their innovation and organizational features.

If you are after something smaller, lighter and generally commuter friendly, then why not consider the Osprey Metron. At 26l it’s a well sized daypack which will accommodate your laptop, and lunch quite nicely. There is of course a properly padded, generously sized laptop pouch along, with enough pockets and pouches for cables, hard drives and chargers as well the usual keys, cards and pens.

The compression straps are also a nice touch allowing you to fasten the backpack down so you won’t stick out like a tortoise and barge into people (as much) when you crowd onto the morning train. It also comes with a brightly coloured rain cover making this backpack ideal for cycle commutes.

While we do favor the AER travel bag for business professionals, this is still an excellent travel bag choice that you will not be disappointed with.

Nomatic Travel Pack 14  – Best Travel Business Backpack for Quick Trips

This is the goldilocks of Nomatic bags: much smaller than the Nomatic 40 coming in at 14l but then expanding to 20L. This makes it a great day business backpack which can also be adapted to work for overnight trips.

Actually, when it comes down to it, this bag is almost identical to the 20-liter Nomatic backpack but bigger, so I don’t have too much to add in this review.

Moreover, it’s TSA ready so you don’t have to take your laptop out of the compartment in line.  There is a tablet pocket for your iPad or Kindle, and a mesh dividing wall to organize clothes.

UPDATE for 202 4: Nomatic is not available in the EU or UK. Go for the AER instead.

Tortuga Laptop Backpack – Best Business Travel Backpack for Overnight Trips

Tortuga markets this bag as an “organized daypack for air travel,”  which screams take me on your business trip, if you ask me. This bag is perfect for air travel.

This is a low-profile backpack will keep all your things organized in a spacey main compartment, 15-inch laptop sleeve + tablet sleeve, mesh zippered pocket for chargers, journal compartment, pen pockets, front pocket for valuables, and a side-pocket for your water bottle .

Yeah, that’s a lot of pockets!

I also love how the Tortuga laptop backpack opens flat like a suitcase, so you can easily use this for overnight trips.

Plus, it’s easy to lock zippers, luggage handle pass, and hideaway shoulder straps make it perfect for traveling through airports.

Ultimately, we love this pack. It’s a bit on the heavier side at 2.8 pounds, but that’s the trade-off for durability. As with anything Tortuga, you are getting a high-quality backpack that will last you for years to come.

Check out our full  Tortuga Setout laptop backpack  review.

Tropicfeel Shell – Business Backpack For Digital Nomads

There are a few things that make the Tropicfeel by Shell a great business backpack. Firstly, it’s perfectly sized for carry-on cabin requirements so is ideal for taking on business trips (whether by plane or even train). Secondly, it’s the only backpack we have come across that comes with a pull-out, hang-up wardrobe, making it insanely easy to neatly pack and unpack. I found this feature to be great when I checked into my hotel room and had to quickly unpack and change to meet a client.

On the flip side though, the laptop compartment is not as accessible as with some other packs so I annoyed the fellow passengers when I basically dug deep into the pack in order to retrieve it on a train journey. The Shell is also adjustable in its size. It can be rolled up from a 22L day pack to a 30L weekend back and then the addition of the detachable pouch brings it up to a short/medium trip sized 40L backpack.

It’s a genuinely innovative, well-made backpack from a very cool up and coming brand. Oh, and it’s also made from sustainable materials giving it serious eco-cred.

The reason I rate it so highly for use by Digital Nomads is that it the perfect hybrid of a business/backpacking pack.

Arcido Akra 35L  – Best Lightweight Business Travel Backpack

This is the perfect carry on travel backpack for minimalist travelers. Its laptop harness, organizational pockets, and integrative packing cubes (in the  Arcido Akra and Vaga Daypack Bundle ) make this the perfect business travel backpack for digital nomads too.

At only 2.4 lbs, this is one of the most lightweight travel backpacks available. It can become even lighter when the sternum straps and waist belt are removed too.

Essentially, the Arcido is simple but tough, and minimal yet well-designed. While it doesn’t have as many organizational features as some of of the other business travel backpacks listed, it does come equipped with enough features to please any modern traveler.

We love that this is an affordable backpack without cutting on quality.

Check out our full Arcido Akra review.

Nomatic Backpack  – Best Business Backpack for Organized Travelers

At only 20 L (but expandable to 24L), the Nomatic Backpack is the smallest backpack from Nomatic, and the perfect option if you are looking for a small business backpack for quick trips.

The Nomatic Backpack is made of durable, waterproof materials and zippers. Like its big brothers, it can also convert into a duffel bag and has tons of pockets and compartments for organizing your things, including a hidden money pocket and RFID safe pockets (to keep electronics safe from hackers).

What makes this backpack unique is its removable panel that is designed to hold electronic gear (keyboards, wires, chargers, etc). It’s great for work-related or study trips where you are packing all your electronics.

But let’s say you are going for a quick overnight trip, or you don’t need all of your electronic gear – simply remove the panel and shed a few ounces of weight too.

Some other noteworthy features of the Nomatic Backpack include…

• Retractable key leash  – A great way to keep your keys safe and easily accessible
• Roller bag sleeve  – If you travel with a roller suitcase, this backpack will slip over the top of the retracted handle
• Cord pass through –  This backpack has strategically designed holes throughout the bag that enable you to pass cords through for a quick charge
• Notebook pocket –  If you are a notebook user then your special book will have a special place in this bag

This is the perfect backpack for that quick run to the café, going in and out of meetings, or using on flights. If you need something bigger, then check out the bag below!

UPDATE for 2024: Nomatic is not available for purchase for those living in the EU but is available as Gomatic.

Boundary Supply Prima System  – Best Business Travel Backpack for Photographers

Wait… a camera bag as a business travel backpack? Hear me out, here! The Boundary Supply Prima-System backpack uses unique modules for organizing your things.

You have side access to the main module/compartment as well as top access, a small front pocket and hidden pocket for valuables, a comfortable strap system, and separate laptop compartment that is easy to access even when the bag is full.

This is a great backpack set apart by its modular design. When you buy this backpack, you are also investing their included modules, the Verge and Fieldspace , for ultimate organization and storage.

While the  Verge is primarily used to protect camera gear in the main compartment, it can easily be used for other items, or removed entirely.

Moreover, the  Fieldspace –  as pictured – is perfect for business use. It tucks into a separate section next to your laptop compartment to keep any valuables and documents secure. Moreover, its unique design and magnetic straps make it perfect for commuting and traveling securely.

The main drawback is that it only has one water bottle pocket that doubles as a tripod holder. This is fine if you are just using this bag to carry a water bottle, but a bummer if you are trying to carry both.

Nevertheless, it’s the bag’s low-profile and minimalism that makes it great for commuting, riding public transportation, and biking. If you want a slightly lighter and smaller version, the Boundary Supply Errant backpack might be a better choice for you.

If you are looking for a camera backpack for everyday use or an efficient business backpack for overnight trips, then the Prima System by Boundary Supply is an awesome choice.

Learn more about this awesome backpack in our review of the Boundary Supply Prima-System.

Best Business Pack For Cyclists:  Osprey Talon

It’s pretty common these days for health and planet minded professionals to cycle to work – I certainly do. But finding a bike ready backpack that loves and feels right for the office can be a serious challenge. Anyway, this pack by Osprey has recently come to our attention but has impressed us very much.

A dedicated laptop compartment signifies that this bag isn’t your usual day bag. It doesn’t have the same frame and hip belt you’ll find on Osprey’s hiking line, instead of bringing along plenty of features that will help you get through the workday in style.

What makes the Osprey Talon IDEAL for cyclists is the packs light weight, breathable mesh back panel as well as an attachment for a bike helmet to fasten onto as well as a flash light. The hip belt can be used to secure it to your body and there is even a hydration sleeve for those cycling on a hot day. It comes in 11L to 32L depending on how much stuff you need.

Still have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What does a business backpack need?

A business backpack needs to be more stylish than regular backpacks, but still offer the same comfort and capacity. It’s basically a more professional looking backpack with a (usually) sleek design.

What is the most stylish business backpack?

We love the design of the Nomatic Travel Bag 40L . It’s stylish, it’s comfortable and it’s spacious as well.

What are the key features of a business backpack?

These are the key features: 1. Laptop compartment and Security 2. Accessibility and Organization 3. Sleek and Stylish, yet weatherproof 4. Fit and Comfort

Are business backpacks carry-on size?

Yes, a normal business bag should match the carry-on standards. The Nomatic Travel Bag 40L is the best carry-on option.

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

Whether you are traveling for a week or just need a high-quality backpack to travel to and from work, this list of the best business travel backpacks includes something for you.

If you are traveling on a multi-day business trip, I highly recommend the Nomatic Travel Pack 40L . Check out the smaller versions for shorter trips or days at the office too.

While some of the companies on this list are well-known in the travel space, notable start-ups, like  Arcido   and Boundary Supply are proving to be high-quality and durable bags well worth looking into.

If you think we missed a business travel backpack on this list, let us know in the comments!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Ana Pereira

Share or save this post

You’re such a savior! I’ve been scrolling for hours now and thank God I found your blog! Thanks for compiling all the best travel backpacks!!

I applaud your thorough evaluation in this article. I’m looking for a great backpack for daily work and travel. Are there backpacks out there that will not fall over—fully loaded or half loaded? Please advise. Thank you!

Thanks for sharing this helpful information about the backpack on the market. All the backpack you have described above are very secure and their features are awesome

Glad to hear you enjoyed the content! Much appreciated! Which backpack did you end up going with?

I researched every travel bag I could find and the best backpack I found was an American Tourister at Target for $60. Very lightweight and does everything these backpacks do and very high quality, lots of pockets and holds a large laptop. I’d put it up against any of these. Best decision I ever made, at least bag related. It doesn’t make any of these “best” lists though for whatever reason.

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Best Business Travel Backpack: Professional And Functional

Looking for a business travel backpack? 

At A Glance: Our Top 3 Business Backpacks

• Best Budget Backpack AMBOR Travel Laptop Backpack Jump To Review
• Best Business Backpack for Men Samsonite Kombi Large Business Backpack Jump To Review
• Best High-End Backpack Briggs & Riley Work Large Laptop Backpack Jump To Review
• BEST LUXURY BUSINESS BACKPACK TUMI - Alpha Bravo Search Laptop Backpack Jump To Review
• best backpack for work & travel Samsonite Armage II Travel Backpack Jump To Review
• Best For 17” Laptops Victorinox Architecture Urban Rath Slim Backpack Jump To Review

In this review, we will show you ten amazing packs for business travel, from the best budget options to some very expensive high-end bags.

You will find the ideal business travel backpack no matter whether you’re looking for an affordable bag or a luxurious backpack that will last you years. Just scroll down to see the backpacks we found.

Top Product Overview

Best business travel backpacks, ambor travel laptop backpack.

The Ambor travel backpack is a great budget-friendly option. It is under $50 and it’s a really good business backpack for the money. This bag has a total capacity of 40 liters , which is spread over multiple compartments and external pockets.

That’s a great capacity for a carry-on bag; in fact, it is as much as you would get in a traditional carry-on suitcase . But with the backpack, you have better organizational features, and that’s exactly why we prefer them for business travel.

This travel pack has a spacious front-loading main compartment that’s great for clothes. There’s a separate shoe compartment at the bottom of the bag, as well as a wet pocket in the front compartment. Additionally, the laptop compartment is located in the back, and it features TSA-friendly opening, with sleeves for a 17” laptop and a tablet inside.

The Ambor backpack is also super comfortable to wear, with thick padding and breathable mesh on the backpanel. The shoulder straps are also soft and comfortable, and they feature a convenient sternum strap for improved stability.

With a pair of compression straps on either side of the bag, you will be able to dictate the size of the laptop backpack. If you don’t fill it to capacity, you can make the backpack smaller in order to stabilize the load a bit better.

This pack also has some travel-friendly features. You can hide the shoulder straps behind the backpanel, so that it’s easier to store the backpack in the overhead compartment. And there’s a luggage strap in the back, allowing you to mount the backpack onto a bigger suitcase, for easy manoeuvring of multiple luggage pieces.

• Very affordable
• TSA friendly laptop compartment
• Padded and ventilated backpanel
• No hip belt
• Does not look very classy

Product Information

• Dimensions: 21” x 13” x 7”
• Weight: 3.65 lbs (shipping weight)
• Capacity: 40 liters

Samsonite Kombi Large Business Backpack

You can’t go wrong with a Samsonite bag, whether we’re talking about backpacks, suitcases, or briefcases. The Kombi backpack is one of their best backpacks for business travels, with a tough and durable exterior and a very spacious interior.

The exterior of the bag is made from durable ballistic nylon, which has excellent abrasion and tear resistance. Nylon is also water repellant without any additional coating, so it will protect the contents of the pack in light rain. There are also some genuine leather details on the pack, which make it look more sleek and professional.

The only thing I don’t like about this laptop backpack is that the laptop sleeve is inside the main compartment, meaning that it is not TSA-friendly. But, at least the main compartment features a lot of smaller slip pockets, so it should be pretty easy to stay organized.

There are three extra compartments on the front of the pack, one of which is equipped with a tablet sleeve and an organizer panel. And there are zippered pockets on the side of the backpack, for all those smaller items you want to have easily accessible.

Additionally, this is also a great business backpack in terms of carrying comfort. The backpanel and shoulder straps are both padded and covered with breathable mesh, for excellent ventilation . The shoulder straps are even ergonomic, for an exceptionally comfortable fit on your body. There’s also a handy luggage strap in the back, which allows you to mount the Kombi backpack on top of a suitcase.

It is also important to note that the Kombi backpack is available in smaller sizes as well. But only this one can fit 15.6” laptops – the other packs can fit only smaller devices, and no Kombi backpacks are big enough for 17” computers.

• Excellent organizational features
• Padded and ventilated back system
• Luggage strap
• Laptop compartment not TSA friendly
• Does not fit 17” computers
• Dimensions: 17.5” x 12” x 7”
• Weight: 2.5 lbs
• Capacity: Not specified

Briggs & Riley Work Large Laptop Backpack

Briggs & Riley is one of the best high-end luggage brands out there. They are actually the brand behind one of my favorite business travel suitcases , which has some mind-blowing innovative features. And this travel backpack is pretty amazing as well, with lots of features that are going to make your life a whole lot easier.

For one, this work travel backpack is made from 1600D ballistic nylon with sturdy YKK zippers , so it’s virtually indestructible. If you don’t make a conscious effort to tear it into pieces, you should be able to wear this business backpack for years and years.

It’s also pretty amazing that the travel backpack has a lot of different compartments and pockets for easy organization. There’s the main storage area, the padded 17” laptop compartment that is almost TSA friendly, three zippered pockets on the front, one on the top, and two on the sides.

Plus, all of the front pockets are equipped with internal organizers, so there’s plenty of space for all those smaller accessories.

It’s also important to mention that the backpack has an RFID safe pocket , as well as a luggage tag. And you can actually fit it under airplane seats, which is pretty amazing.

This is also a very comfortable business backpack, with thick padding in the backpanel and shoulder straps. And the bottom of the backpanel actually doubles as a luggage sleeve, allowing you to secure the backpack to a larger suitcase.

If it weren’t for the hefty price tag, this would be my favorite backpack out of the bunch. But it’s aimed at a very specific audience – if you’re a modern professional with an affinity for luxurious items, this is the best travel backpack for you.

• Very durable construction
• Fits 17” laptops
• Excellent organization features
• No hip belt or sternum strap
• Dimensions: 18” x 13.5” x 8”
• Weight: 2.6 lbs
• Capacity: 27.3 ilters

TUMI - Alpha Bravo Search Laptop Backpack

In case you want a luxury business backpack for travel, the Alpha Bravo Search by Tumi is one of the top options for you. It’s an excellent high-end backpack with some amazing features that will make your travels more enjoyable, but it comes with a hefty price tag.

The Tyndall Utility backpack is made from ballistic nylon , which is a very durable material. It has great water resistance without any additional coating, as well as excellent tear and abrasion resistance.

On top of being incredibly durable, this backpack is also extremely functional. It has a spacious laptop compartment that’s not entirely TSA-friendly, but it opens at the back at an angle separate from the rest of the bag. There are sleeves for a 15” laptop and a standard tablet inside, with lots of thick padding for excellent protection of your expensive electronics. Plus, there is even a slot on top near the handle for your phone!

And there’s lots more to like about this business backpack. The main storage area is top-loading, and it can fit enough clothes for a weekend away. The bottom front pocket is equipped with an organizer panel and a key clip, while one of the side pockets boasts a waterproof lining.

You will also love how comfortable the Tumi Search pack is. With thick padding and breathable mesh all over the back system, it will keep you dry and comfy wherever you go. It doesn’t come with a chest strap, but there are points where you can attach one.

This brings me to my final point – the incredible versatility of this bag. Tumi’s entire Alpha Bravo collection is primarily designed for travelers, but this backpack is suitable for much more and not just because of the insanely rugged exterior.

It’s actually because the pack has multiple different attachment points (D-rings and webbing straps) – versatile features we usually see on outdoor backpacks, and not fancy business travel bags.

• Extremely durable and rugged
• Versatile design
• Very comfortable back system
• Dimensions: 17” x 14” x 8.3”
• Weight: 3.3 lbs

Samsonite Armage II Travel Backpack

The Samsonite Armage II Travel backpack is the perfect combination between business and travel. It has a roomy front-loading main compartment for all your clothing for a short business trip. And there is a dedicated, padded laptop pocket on the back for quick access at security. Your phone and sunglasses also have specific spots too!

Samsonite has added lots of thoughtful features to make life on the road so much easier. Using their trademarked StackIt™ Strap, you can easily throw this business backpack on top of your other luggage.

There is a 3-1-1 TSA-friendly wet pack for your wet or used clothing – so if you hit the gym on your trip, you don’t have to worry about everything smelling when you get home. Same for your tech accessories – they have a dedicated pouch so you can just remove it and get set up for that meeting in minutes!

The laptop pocket features two padded sleeves – one is suitable for computers up to 15.6”, and the other one will fit most tablets. And there is another useful organizational pocket right at the front.

The materials Samsonite have chosen for this professional travel backpack are premium with reinforced areas where they are needed and quality YKK zippers all around. And inside, it feels nice and soft, protecting your gear – with the fact that the materials are recycled ensuring you feel good about it too!

This is also a great backpack in terms of carrying comfort. The back panel and shoulder straps are both well-padded and covered with breathable mesh for excellent ventilation.  You don’t get a hip belt, but that’s not a big downside since this isn’t a very large bag.

• Laptop & tablet compartment
• Hidden pocket on backpanel
• Wet pack & tech pack removable
• Not suitable for 17” laptops
• Dimensions: 18.75" x 14" x 9"
• Weight: 2.98 lbs
• Laptop Size: 15.6 inches

Victorinox Architecture Urban Rath Slim Backpack

The Victorinox Urban Rath backpack is a good mid-range option for people who want a versatile travel backpack. It is carry-on sized with lots of travel-friendly features, but it is also just a really good laptop backpack in general. And it is also a really good everyday/work backpack, thanks to the versatile design.

This travel bag has two large compartments and five smaller zippered pockets on the exterior. The main storage area is top-loading, and it is very roomy with a large open pocket inside. You can easily fit a tablet in this pocket, while your laptop is safely tucked away in the dedicated compartment in the back.

Oh, and this backpack can fit even the bulkiest 17” devices, so it’s a great option if you usually struggle to find a bag that’s big enough for your computer. It’s not entirely TSA-friendly, but it will still help you get through checkpoints a little faster.

The Urban Rath pack also features an organizer panel in the bottom front compartment, with a key clip and enough open pockets for all your smaller must-haves. And the zippered pocket on the top of the business backpack features a waterproof zipper, so it’s the best spot for the valuable things you want to keep protected from the elements.

The backpanel features thick padding and parts of it are covered with breathable mesh for great ventilation. The only part of the backpanel that’s not covered with mesh is the luggage strap, and that’s fine.

Additionally, the shoulder straps are stowable, which is a convenient travel-friendly feature. It makes it a bit easier to store the backpack in an overhead compartment and it ensures that the straps won’t accidentally get caught on anything.

• Waterproof top pocket
• No hip belt or chest strap
• Dimensions: 7.12 x 13.4” x 18.1”
• Weight: 3.2 lbs
• Capacity: 28 liters

Kenneth Cole Reaction Business Travel Backpack

If you want a professional business backpack that looks luxurious, the Kenneth Cole Reaction travel backpack is a great choice for you. It is made from full-grain Colombian leather , and it looks a lot more expensive than it actually is! And the interior of the backpack is lined with tear-resistant polyester, and it should hold up pretty well even with frequent travel.

This laptop backpack for business features a TSA-friendly laptop compartment that can fit computers up to 16”. And it has three zippered pockets inside, so you will be able to store all of your must-have laptop accessories here as well.

In addition to that, the laptop backpack has a very spacious main compartment with three pockets inside. There’s lots of room for clothes here, and one of the pockets can easily fit a standard 9.7” tablet. This pack also features a front compartment with an organizer panel and a key clip, as well as a small zippered pocket on the top.

The back panel features three padded inserts that are covered with breathable mesh, for excellent carrying comfort. The bottom inserts also double as a trolley sleeve, But you won’t get a chest strap or a hip belt, so it might not be the comfiest business backpack to wear when it is filled to capacity.

The Kenneth Cole Reaction travel backpack is a really good bag, but it is far from perfect. It does not have any side pockets, meaning there’s no space for a water bottle. Also, the exterior of the bag is very high maintenance, and you will need to equip yourself with products for leather care if you want to keep the bag looking shiny and new.

• Sleek and professional exterior
• TSA friendly laptop compartments
• Luggage strap in the back
• High maintenance exterior
• No sternum strap or hip belt
• No side pockets
• Dimensions: 16.25” x 12.5” x 4.5” 
• Weight: 3.4 lbs
• Laptop Size: 16"

Bopai Business Travel Backpack

The Bopai backpack is another really good option for people who prefer sleek and simple-looking backpacks. Its exterior is made from waterproof microfiber leather and ballistic nylon, which will protect the contents of the bag in light rain.

This business backpack has a dedicated laptop compartment for 15.6” devices in the back that also opens up completely – aka TSA-friendly. It also has a spacious main compartment that opens up with an organisational panel on the front. On top of all that, the capacity of the bag is expandable , and you can get 40% more space with the expansion zipper.

The Bopai is a great business laptop backpack overall, but there are some things that could be improved. There’s breathable mesh on the back panel, so the ventilation is going to help on those hot days. But there is thick foam, so at least it’s going to feel very comfortable against your body. And the straps actually are covered with breathable mesh, so the front of your torso will stay dry and cool.

They have added a hidden pocket on the back panel, to stash your passport or credit cards securely. And one on the strap for easy use during bus rides or shopping trips. There’s a luggage strap in the back, which lets you attach it to your suitcase handle for easy maneuvering with multiple luggage pieces.

There are so many handy features on this pack for business travel like a USB port on the outside, specific space for an iPad, a side opening zipper on the front for easy access and more.

• Expandable capacity
• Hidden secure pockets
• Padded laptop pocket
• Backpanel not ventilated
• Dimensions: 17.8” x 11.5” x 6.3”
• Weight: 2 lbs
• Capacity: 23 liters
• Laptop size: 15.6 inches

Kroser Laptop Travel Backpack

The Kroser travel backpack is a great option if you want something affordable and filled with features. This work laptop backpack is stylish on the outside and has everything you need.

This laptop bag features three spacious compartments, all of which have their own use. The front one is great for the smaller technical stuff. The main compartment is roomy for your clothes, camera, papers and books.

The laptop pocket has a padded sleeve for a 17″ computer and a tablet, but it is not entirely TSA-friendly. It doesn’t open up 180 degrees and your laptop won’t be fully visible, but it’s still going to help you get through those TSA checkpoints a lot quicker.

The shoulder straps and back panel are padded, so it’s comfy enough to carry. And it looks great too with a modern gray plus brown leather accents in all the right places.

They have also thrown in a USB port on the outside for quick charging. Although, you will need your own battery on the inside to connect it to. Which makes sense in this price category!

All in all, I found this professional laptop travel backpack to tick all the boxes and for the price to be something of a bargain.

• Dedicated electronics compartment
• Stowable straps
• A little heavy
• Dimensions: 18.5" x 13.3" x 7.8"
• Weight: 2.64 lbs
• Laptop Size: 17.3 inches

Ytonet Rolling Laptop Backpack

Have you thought about getting a wheeled backpack? They are a great option if you don’t want to wear the backpack at all, but they are a bit less convenient for travel. The Ytonet rolling backpack features two in-line skate wheels and a telescopic wheel handle, and it’s still carry-on size.

This is a great option if your carry-on is usually very heavy. You can hide the shoulder straps so they won’t get in the way when you’re rolling the business backpack, which is really convenient. And there is a cover for the wheels  so that your clothes don’t get dirty when you’re actually wearing the backpack.

The Ytonet wheeled bag has a very spacious compartment, with internal sleeves for a laptop and tablet. It’s great that you can fit a lot of clothes in the compartment, but I’m not impressed by the fact that the laptop is supposed to be stored there. It means that the laptop backpack is pretty far from being TSA-friendly, but at least it’s pretty easy to get the device out quickly.

And you do get lots of smaller pockets, for all the other stuff you want to keep organized. The front compartment actually features an organizer panel with a key clip, and there are two other zippered pockets on the pack’s front panel. You also have two stretchy water bottle pockets on the sides, as well as a zippered compartment for the retractable wheel handle.

Let’s stay on that handle for a minute – it is made from aluminum, so it is very durable and lightweight . And this pack is actually really light for a wheeled bag; it’s about 1lb heavier than most other bags features here – pretty impressive considering this thing has wheels and a telescopic handle.

• Wheels can be covered
• Aluminum wheel handle
• Organizer panel in front compartment
• Laptop sleeve is inside main compartment
• Dimensions: 13“ x 18” x 9” 
• Weight: 4.8 lbs

Business Travel Backpack Comparison Table

What to look for, materials and durability.

It is important to know what materials your laptop backpack is made from, in order to know how to take care of them. And so you know what to expect from your backpack, in terms of durability and performance.

Nylon is usually the best material, especially if it is very high density. It is tear and abrasion-resistant, and it has decent water repellant features even without any additional coating. On top of that, nylon is really easy to clean , and you won’t have to spend hours polishing your business backpack.

The same can’t be said for leather business backpacks , which you saw a few of in this review. Especially full-grain leather business backpacks – you will need to apply some oil to those every now and then, and be very careful where you put them down.

Be gentle with leather backpacks, and try not to expose them to the elements too much. While they usually have pretty good water resistance, too much water could damage the appearance of the leather.

Polyester is another sturdy material, but it’s not quite as durable as nylon. Also, polyester doesn’t have the best water resistance , so you might want to get yourself a rain cover if you wind up buying a polyester travel backpack.

Laptop Compartment Size

The best business travel backpacks have either a TSA-friendly laptop compartment , or one that is entirely separate from the main compartment. Both options are acceptable, as they will help you get through TSA checkpoints quicker and without having to take everything out of your bag.

But, if you want to be super-efficient, then get a pack with a TSA-friendly laptop compartment. These bags usually feature a computer compartment in the back that unzips and lies entirely flat when open. The laptop is exposed, and you don’t even have to take it out of the dedicated sleeve when going through TSA checkpoints.

However, it is even more important than the laptop pocket can actually fit your computer. That’s not going to be an issue if you have a 13” device, or even a classic 15.6” one – all of the packs featured in this review can fit those devices.

But not all of them can fit 17” laptops, and if you own one of those you should be very careful which backpack you buy. Check out the size of the laptop pocket, and cross-reference the dimensions against your computer. Especially if your device is one of the bulkier ones.

Travel-Friendly Features

We’re talking about backpacks for business travel here, so it’s pretty important that they have at least some travel-friendly features. The most important one to look for is a TSA-friendly laptop compartment – this will save you a lot of time if you travel often, and it’s a must for frequent flyers.

Additionally, you should also look for backpacks that have a luggage strap, especially if you usually travel with multiple pieces of luggage. A luggage strap lets you mount the backpack on top of a bigger suitcase, so it’s much easier to move around with multiple bags.

But it’s by no means a must-have feature or something that you can’t live without, particularly if you’re used to traveling with just a carry-on.

Another thing you should look for is a front-loading main compartment, but only if you just want to use the backpack for business travel. Front-loading backpacks make packing a lot easier, but they also make the backpack a lot less versatile. So, if you solely want a carry-on bag, it’s a good idea to pick up one with a front-loading main compartment.

But if you don’t want a bag with features that are so limited, then go for one of the more versatile backpacks I showed you. Look for features like compression straps, attachment points, and lots of different extremal pockets – those pretty much define versatile backpacks that are suitable for (almost) any adventure you can imagine.

Pricing And Value

I’ve included business backpacks that cost anywhere from $30 to $600+, so there should be something for everyone’s budget. If you can’t afford to spend too much money on a business travel backpack, look for bags that are labeled as affordable in the pros boxes.

These are usually really good bags that you’ll be able to use for a couple of years at least if you take good care of them. They’re not always perfect bags, but you can’t really expect perfection at $30-40.

The pricier bags featured here are best for people who can afford them without doing too much damage to their wallets. They are better in terms of materials, durability, and comfort, but you’re still paying a lot of money just for the logo. And honestly, none of the expensive bags is more than ten times better than the average $50 one.

This is fine if you’re a seasoned business traveler, and you want people to be aware of that. Pick up one of the high-end travel backpacks featured here for a premium and luxurious experience, coupled with an abundance of travel-friendly features that will make your life a whole lot easier.

Best Business Backpacks For Travel: Our Top Choices

Having a hard time picking just one of these awesome business travel backpacks? Then just go with one of our top three options, depending on your budget!

The best affordable business backpack for business travel is the Ambor laptop backpack . It has a laptop compartment that can fit 17″ devices, as well as a really spacious front-loading main compartment. The total capacity of this bag is about 40 liters, which is as much as you get in a carry-on suitcase.

But with this business backpack, you have the benefit of multiple internal and external pockets and compartments, for effortless organization. And you’ll be really comfortable while you’re wearing the bag, thanks to the thick padding and breathable mesh on the backpanel.

If you can afford to splurge a little, go with the Victorinox Urban Rath backpack . This mid-range option is great for most people, due to the 17″ laptop compartment, comfortable back system, and a variety of internal and external pockets.

One of the bigger compartments features an organizer panel with a key clip, for all those smaller items you want to have easily accessible. And there’s even a pocket that is entirely waterproof, as well as a hidden security pocket in the back.

• PERFECT SIZE & STORAGE SPACE: For business or everyday use, you will be prepared to go anywhere with this comfortable, easy-to-wear backpack featuring storage for a 17" (43 cm) laptop and a tablet or eReader. This backpack includes a variety of multi-purpose storage pockets, zippered pockets, organization panel, two-zippered side pockets sized to hold an umbrella or water bottle and a rear hidden security pocket.
• SAFETY: Smart closures like electronics-friendly magnetic closures, snap hooks and buckles keep your belongings secure yet easily accessible while adding to the overall style. Have added protection with the Swiss Tracker Bag Tracking Program which provides comprehensive, cost-free protection against the inconvenience of a lost bag, helping to reunite you with it anywhere in the world – for free.

In case you want to spoil yourself, I’d recommend getting the Briggs & Riley business travel backpack . It’s not even the most expensive bag featured in this review, but it definitely is one of the top three options. This bag is made from some really tough nylon, it has a padded and ventilated back system and it will fit under airplane seats.

The laptop compartment can fit 17″ computers, while the main compartment features ample space for your clothes, as well as some slip pockets for those smaller items.

• Cargo Backpack: This highly mobile backpack features the ultimate laptop and tablet protection plus a place for all your files in an intelligent, lightweight design. Fits most 15.6" laptops
• Durable Construction: Made with ballistic nylon outer fabric that resists wear, moisture, dirt and abrasion. Includes an array of pockets, elastic pen loops, slips for headphones, airpods, USB cables and an anti RFID pocket for microchipped assets

Head over to Amazon to see the prices of all these awesome business backpacks. And check out our related posts if you want to look at some other options first!

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BEST CARRY ON LUGGAGE FOR BUSINESS TRAVEL  BEST CARRY ON LUGGAGE WITH LAPTOP COMPARTMENT

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The Best Bags for Business Travel

Business bags need to have a certain grace and formality to them. But if you plan to travel with them, they also need to offer practical designs for clocking up the miles. Travel can be demanding, so durability is key. But you don’t want to be hefting unnecessary weight, so lightweight construction should certainly factor into the decision-making process too. And of course organization is another important consideration. You’ll want to keep business tools, travel items, clothing and other essentials tidy and easily accessible, rather than having to deal with a jumbled free-for-all.

Finally, it’s worth thinking about the environments you’ll be navigating on your travels. Will you be bringing your bag into a boardroom or meeting? If so, does it look the part or will it draw unwanted attention for its too-casual aesthetics? Do you need to look sharp or pack a lot? Wheeled bags are convenient for heavy loads and can lend a more professional air to your appearance.

On the other hand, if you’ll be experiencing busy streets, public transport and changing terrains, backpacks can be a great option for navigating crowds, rough terrain and steps. Nothing says you mean business like a briefcase, and shoulder bags can be a good option if you want to balance easy portability and smart style.

Choosing bags for business travel is a decision that requires time and consideration. But to help you out we’ve rounded up some of the best bags for the job…

The Backpack

Thule Accent Backpack 28L (US$ 129.95)

The 28L Accent Backpack is a practical, adaptable choice for short work trips and overnight or weekend stays, and packs plenty of features into its sleek form. The bag’s wide-opening main compartment provides ready access to your gear, and you’ll find a useful mix of interior and exterior pockets to keep your travel essentials tidy. A choice of top and side access lets you easily reach your laptop on the go, and the luggage passthrough sleeve allows for handy all-in-one portability with rolling luggage.

Arc’teryx Blade 28 (US$ 138.98)

The Blade 28 is ideally suited to overnight or short trips, with a range of features to organize your work and personal items. The main clamshell-style compartment is handy for storing clothes and documents, while a front pocket with interior organization is useful for keeping frequently used items tidy and within easy reach. The pack’s internal padded sleeve fits up to a 15″ laptop, while exterior top and side handles provide additional carry options.

Incase EO Travel Backpack (US$ 179.95)

Incase’s EO Travel Backpack offers a convenient clamshell opening for easy packing and access, with an expandable main compartment when you need to pack a little extra. The flat-lay laptop compartment makes passing through airport security easier and fits up to a 17″ laptop. Rounding things off are a choice of quick-access pockets for travel and EDC essentials, as well as top and side grab handles for flexible portability.

Tom Bihn Synapse 25 (US$ 235)

The versatile Synapse 25 lends itself to a range of uses, from carry-on companion to urban daypack at your destination or outdoor bag if your trip allows you to squeeze in a day hike. A range of front pockets keep your work and travel essentials easily accessible. The main compartment opens wide for handy access and includes a large elastic-topped pocket for organization. Take note, there’s no dedicated storage for a laptop so you’ll need to supply your own sleeve (or go with Tom Bihn’s optional Cache ). The pack comes in a choice of fabrics and includes a lifetime guarantee.

Aer Travel Pack (US$ 220)

Winner of our Best Carry-On award , Aer’s sleek and stylish Travel Pack offers a variety of handy features for the business traveler. A clamshell-style main compartment allows for easy packing and access, a suspended laptop pocket stores up to 15″ tech, and a dedicated shoe compartment keeps your shoes or dirty laundry away from the rest of your gear. There’s also plenty of pockets for organizing smaller items, and compression straps to cinch the bag into daypack mode for use at your destination.

Minaal Carry-on 2.0 (US$ 299)

The Minaal Carry-on 2.0 looks suave in urban settings but is tough enough for regular travel use. Complementing the clean silhouette are a host of features such as a rain cover, an adjustable sternum strap that clips out of the way when not in use, top and side handles, and a protective backpack strap cover to prevent unsightly dangling or snagging in tight spaces. The device compartment offers suspended and adjustable storage for a laptop, a passport pocket, plus a document sleeve. Peek inside the main compartment and you’ll find 3D pockets to help keep your gear tidy on the move.

Tom Bihn Tri-Star (US$ 360)

Functional and adaptable, the Tom Bihn Tri-Star offers great organization, a durable build with a lifetime guarantee, and a choice of handy carry options. Quick-access front pockets are useful for smaller travel, work and EDC items, while three compartments provide storage for clothes, tech and documents. The bag includes top and side carry handles and stowable backpack straps, and can also be used with an optional shoulder strap.

Slicks BIZ (US$ 369)

The Slicks BIZ is a sleek carry-on with plenty of features to keep you organized during your travels. A dedicated suspended laptop compartment fits up to 15″ devices, while front pockets offer storage for bulkier items and shoes. The clamshell-style main compartment includes pockets for documents and valuables, and storage space for the modular Slicks Suitcover to keep work clothes wrinkle-free and the Slicks Tripcover. The Tripcover provides multiple pockets for additional clothing, along with a removable laundry bag, wash bag, and Slicks Shirtcover to protect shirt collars and assist with folding.

Briefcases and Shoulder Bags

Red Oxx Mini Boss (US$ 245)

A more compact alternative to Red Oxx’s Air Boss, the burly Mini Boss is suitable for carry-on use and provides two compartments for clothes and tech. The first compartment includes a flip-out pocket for smaller items or toiletries, while the second compartment includes a suspended laptop sleeve. Exterior full-length pockets on the front and back let you stash frequently used items for easy access. In addition to top grab handles, the bag also comes with a detachable non-slip shoulder strap. And for peace of mind, this handmade bag includes a “No Bull” lifetime warranty.

Red Oxx Air Boss (US$ 265)

The Red Oxx Air Boss offers all the durability of the Mini Boss, but with a larger 40.4L capacity (compared to the Mini Boss’s 24.3L). A detachable non-slip shoulder strap and top handles provide carry flexibility, while a choice of three compartments provide storage for clothes, work documents, and tech. It’s worth noting the Air Boss does not include dedicated storage for a laptop, so you’ll need to provide your own protective sleeve. There’s also a choice of exterior pockets for storing items such as a phone, passport, and magazine.

Mandarina Duck Carry Borsa Da Lavoro (around US$ 310)

The Mandarina Duck Carry Borsa Da Lavoro moves smoothly between formal and informal settings alike with a slim and understated design. In addition to a shoulder strap the bag includes top and side carry handles for easy portability. Well suited to carrying work essentials, the bag offers space for a laptop, documents and organizer pockets to keep smaller work tools and travel items in order on the go.

Rimowa Salsa Deluxe Hybrid Notebook (US$ 425)

Lightweight yet durable, the Salsa Deluxe Hybrid Notebook is crafted from polycarbonate and Keprotec® fabric reinforced with Kevlar fiber. The bag can be carried with the top handles or a removable shoulder strap, and offers a variety of exterior pockets for storing quick-access items. In addition, one of the exterior pockets can convert into a trolley passthrough sleeve for easy transport with larger luggage. The main compartment opens wide for hassle-free access and includes a removable laptop sleeve, along with further pockets for organizing smaller items and space for a change of clothes.

Tumi Alpha 2 Expandable Organizer Laptop Brief (US$ 455)

A premium offering from Tumi, the Alpha 2 Expandable Organizer Laptop Brief looks right at home in the boardroom but adapts to a range of environments. The bag includes a main compartment and a secondary compartment with multiple dividers for organization. A tablet sleeve and a removable padded laptop sleeve take care of your tech, while a host of exterior pockets provide convenient storage for smaller work tools and travel items. And not forgetting one of the main features, the bag is expandable so you can easily store a change of clothes for an overnight trip or additional work supplies.

Travelteq Briefcase Original Special Edition (around US$ 455)

The elegant Travelteq Briefcase Original Special Edition gives a solid nod to style while providing practical features for carrying business and travel essentials. Crafted with vegetable-tanned Florentine Vacchetta leather and waterproof Limonta nylon, the bag offers a range of slip and zipped interior pockets and dedicated storage for up to a 15″ laptop. An exterior pocket for smaller items and a concealed newspaper pocket provide further organization, while a luggage strap lets you easily secure the briefcase to trolley luggage.

Eagle Creek Expanse™ International Carry-On (US$ 189)

Eagle Creek’s Expanse™ International Carry-On adapts to smaller and larger loads with a 33.5L volume that expands to 36.5L when you need to pack in extra. Additionally, exterior attachment points allow you to secure bulky items externally. The bag’s heavy-duty wheels handle a range of terrains with ease, and a choice of top, side and bottom grab handles help you maneuver the bag in tight spaces. Quick-access items can be stored in a range of exterior pockets, including a padded tablet sleeve. Inside the main compartment a further pocket offers additional organization, along with compression straps to keep clothing tidy. Security features including a Central Lock Point and Secure Zip™ Toggles provide peace of mind, as does the No Matter What™ warranty.

Timbuk2 Copilot Luggage Roller (US$ 225)

The Timbuk2 Copilot Luggage Roller packs in plenty of useful features such as grab handles on all sides, two front pockets for a laptop and quick-access items, and a choice of pockets in the main compartment. The bag can be opened in a clamshell-style mode for easy access throughout the main compartment. Alternatively a front flap provides fast entry when you don’t want to open the bag completely. The Copilot is also backed by a lifetime warranty so you can feel confident it will hold up to years of use.

Raden A22 (US$ 295)

The Raden A22’s sleek aesthetics are complemented by a variety of smart luggage features to help make your journeys smoother. An integrated battery and two USB ports allow you to conveniently charge tech devices on the go. In addition, proximity sensors utilize Bluetooth to provide location updates and help keep the case by your side, while the case’s handle also serves as a luggage scale. Made with lightweight yet impact-resistant polycarbonate, the Raden A22 also features spinner wheels for convenient maneuverability.

Thule Crossover Carry-on 56cm/22″ (US$ 299.95)

This rugged roller bag will stand up to years of demanding use thanks to its tough oversized wheels, V-Tubing™ telescoping handle, hard-wearing exoskeleton and molded polypropylene back panel. The clamshell main compartment makes it easy to pack and retrieve items, and there’s dedicated storage for a 15″ laptop and fragile items. Even better, it’s got a carry trick up its sleeve. Concealable backpack straps let you quickly convert the roller bag to pack mode, so you can easily navigate stairs, rough terrain and crowds when the need arises.

Incase Kaskade Carryon with Luggage Tag (US$ 349.95)

Designed in collaboration with DJ KASKADE, this roller offers urban-friendly style combined with useful travel functionality. Top and side handles assist with maneuverability in awkward spaces, and a quick-access front pocket is handy for the likes of toiletries. A choice of mesh pockets in the main compartment prevent a jumbled mess, and the clamshell-style opening enables easy access throughout. As an added bonus, the roller also comes with a luggage tag.

Rimowa Salsa Air Multiwheel (US$ 495)

Crafted from lightweight yet tough polycarbonate, the Salsa Air Multiwheel brings style and easy maneuverability to your travels. The bag includes spinner wheels, top and side carry handles, a TSA-approved combination lock, and two interior mesh pockets for organization. The 33L case also comes with a five-year warranty and looks good in any setting.

Samsonite Lite-Cube Spinner 55cm (around US$ 485)

The Lite-Cube Spinner offers a sophisticated combination of elegance, durability and easy movement. The case is crafted from impact-resistant yet lightweight Curv material and comes with a 10-year warranty. The clamshell opening reveals a choice of interior pockets for organization. Complementing the interior are useful exterior features including a TSA lock, recessed top and side carry handles, and an integrated ID tag.

Tumi Alpha Bravo Peterson Wheeled Backpack (US$ 545)

Can’t decide between a pack or wheeled luggage? Have both with this adaptable hybrid design that can be carried as a backpack or wheeled as rolling luggage to suit different environments. The bag offers a retractable pull handle for wheeled use, along with stowable backpack straps and a wheel cover to protect your clothing in backpack mode. Quick-access travel and work items can be conveniently stored in a variety of exterior pockets, including dedicated space for a 15″ laptop and tablet. The main compartment opens wide for easy packing and access, with a pocket for further organization and compression straps to keep clothing secure.

Garment Bags and Suit Carriers

Eagle Creek Pack-It Garment Folder – Medium (from US$ 28.01)

Eagle Creek’s Pack-It Garment Folder provides a convenient way to reduce wrinkles in your clothing, with Compress Wings™ that provide stretch compression. The folder comes with a handy folding instruction board and is constructed with water and odor-resistant material. A grab handle lets you easily transport it to and from your bag, and a choice of three sizes accommodate different loads (with the small and medium fitting in most carry-on bags).

Henty CoPilot (US$ 229.98)

The Henty CoPilot tackles the challenges of business travel with a two-in-one design. The exterior garment bag is designed to roll around an inner tube bag that can hold shoes, accessories, toiletries and other travel essentials. Exterior pockets on the garment bag let you keep a laptop and smaller business or travel items within easy reach. A choice of grab handles and backpack straps keep you moving smoothly in changing environments, and a rain cover protects your gear against the elements.

Mismo M/S Suit Carrier (around US$ 555)

Mismo’s M/S Suit Carrier deftly merges functional design and refined style. The carrier can be unzipped fully for easy access, revealing two interior pockets for additional storage and organization. An exterior zippered pocket is convenient for housing frequently used items, and the premium materials and construction will stand up to the demands of travel for years to come.

VOCIER C38 Travel Bag (around US$ 710)

The VOCIER C38 is a handsome and luxurious carry-on bag designed to carry work clothes wrinkle-free. VOCIER’s Zero-Crease System provides curving storage for a suit to prevent wrinkles, and can also be hung up in your accommodation for easy access. A quick-entry opening lets you remove items such as a wash bag from the inner compartment without having to open the main zipper. A removable interior compartment stores additional items, while an exterior pocket in the handle provides secure and convenient storage for a passport and ticket.

Tumi Alpha 2 4 Wheeled Extended Trip Garment Bag (US$ 975)

If money is no object and wrinkle-free clothes are a priority, Tumi’s Alpha 2 4 Wheeled Extended Trip Garment Bag may be just what you’re after. The bag includes two brackets for hanging clothes on either end of the main compartment, with straps to keep items secure on the move. The bag also includes removable zippered pouches for organizing smaller items, as well as dedicated storage for three pairs of shoes. In addition, exterior pockets provide further storage for extra clothing items and travel or business essentials.

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The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

Whether weekend road-tripping or jet-setting around the world, you’re going to need a pack to toss over your shoulder. Here are the best travel backpacks for every adventure.

There are a lot of great travel backpacks out there, but not all of them are created equal. A travel pack needs to be comfortable to carry, easy to organize, and durable enough to withstand being toted from place to place.

From hitting the road for the weekend to spending months traveling abroad, we’ve put nearly 30 different travel backpacks through the wringer. We tallied our airline miles, punched our tickets, and put our tray tables in the upright and locked position for close to half a decade now, taking domestic and international flights to as far as Iceland and as close as 30-minute island hops. And while there isn’t a single pack that suits every traveler, we’ve highlighted a variety of designs and price points to help you find the perfect travel backpack.

Choosing a travel backpack can be a dizzying experience, and we’ve shaken down the best to sort through the static. Each pack has seen its time on the baggage carousel, hostel luggage cart, and we’ve even had a few go missing for the full experience. We fully pack and live out of these bags to test them, and in the end, we’re confident that the 15 packs collected here are the best travel backpacks available today. Check in and check them out.

For all your travel pack questions, consult our buyer’s guide , where we’ve laid bare all the essentials. Compare each of the packs using our handy comparison chart , and if you’ve still got questions, check out our FAQ section.

Editor’s Note: We updated our travel backpack guide on March 20, 2024 to add the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L — a supremely nice commuter-style travel pack, as well as the Thule Aion 40L and Osprey Archeon 30L .

• Best Overall Travel Backpack: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
• Best Budget Travel Backpack: Dakine Campus 33L Backpack
• Best Carrying Travel Backpack: Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs
• Best Organization in a Travel Backpack: Matador SEG45 Travel Pack
• Best Shoulder Bag: Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L
• Best Commuter-Style Travel Backpack: Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L
• Best Personal Item Travel Pack: TimBuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

• Capacity 45 L (collapses to 35 L)
• Weight 4 lbs., 8 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 13" x 9.5" standard, 22" x 13" x 11" expanded
• Compartment access Back panel clamshell design with #10 zipper
• Material Weatherproof, 100% recycled 400-denier nylon canvas shell; 900-denier waterproof bottom

• Compresses down to maximum airline carry-on size, and then expands once you’ve hit your destination
• Burly construction
• No details are overlooked in the design
• Side-carry handles are offset in an awkward position

Perfect is a dirty word in product design, but we’re about stumped when it comes to drumming up a quibble about the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45 L ($300). This redeye-ready clamshell design is made to the highest of standards.

It’s made of quality materials, utilizing aluminum hardware and a burly 400-denier nylon canvas — and it easily ticks all our boxes for the best overall travel backpack. The interior of the bag is split into two compartments: a larger main area for storing the majority of your kit and a secondary sleeve at the front of the bag with five zippered pockets. The main pocket also sports a foam-padded laptop sleeve and three more pockets.

One of the more impressive aspects we discovered along the bag’s inaugural leg from Seattle to Anchorage was how easily the straps of the Travel Backpack stow away into the bag. Two foam panels on the back of the bag flip away to secure them and then close with a magnetic closure — very slick. This was our favorite strap-stowage system, with the zippered panels of the Matador GlobeRider45 coming in a close second. We find the Peak Design bag compresses smaller.

Then there are the little details. An ID-size sleeve on the back panel provides all the information should your bag get separated from you. Zipper pulls thread through one another to keep what’s yours safe. And a collapsible system adjusts the bag from a full 45 to 35 liters.

In our review, there’s little about the Peak Design pack that misses the mark. The company leans heavily toward the camera-toting travelers among us, but the 45 L Travel Backpack makes no compromises and works just as well for any user group. The high price is undeniable, but for the scope of the travel pack, it’s a buy-once-cry-once purchase we would make again.

Also available in a 30L size , the range of Travel Backpacks from Peak Design is so well-thought-out that you can practically see the cogs turning in their creators’ heads. We think they make the best travel backpacks on the market.

Dakine Campus 33L Backpack

• Capacity 33 L
• Weight 1 lb., 10.6 oz.
• Dimensions 20.5" x 13" x 8"
• Compartment access Zippered top access
• Material Depending on print type, can be 600-denier recycled polyester, 420-denier recycled nylon, 630-denier recycled nylon, or 1,200-denier recycled polyester

• Cheap price
• Available in many different fabric prints
• Unique insulated cooler pocket
• Not many travel-specific features
• Straps don’t pack away

Even at the regular price, the Dakine Campus 33L Backpack ($75) is a great deal. And considering you can grab one on sale for $45, it’s a must-have budget travel backpack.

It has everything you need to keep your travels organized, without getting too big or complicated. This design has a padded laptop sleeve and a fleece-lined top pocket to keep your sunglasses safe. There’s an organizer pocket that’s perfect for pens, a phone, and easy-access essentials. We love pockets, and this backpack has plenty.

And if that weren’t enough, it also has an insulated cooler pocket to keep your snacks fresh on the go, plus double side pockets keep drinks handy. We found the straps comfortable during long travel days. Be sure to use the sternum strap when carrying a heavy load for the best fit.

While this bag does excellent at travel, it isn’t quite what the bag was designed for, thus it’s missing a few travel niceties like a compression system or the ability to pack away the straps. We didn’t find that we missed them desperately, but they would have been nice for a few instances. For similar-sized backpacks with more of a travel bend to them, look to the sleek Timbuk2 Never Check, or the uber-customizable Tom Bihn Synapse 25. But prepare to shell out some more for them.

If you’re looking for a sub-$100 backpack (under $60 during sales!) that does the basics, then the Dakine Campus Backpack is for you. It comes in a variety of colors and is also available in a 25L capacity .

Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs

• Capacity 40 L
• Weight 3 lbs., 7.6 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 14" x 9"
• Compartment access Zippered back panel clamshell design
• Material Bluesign-approved 450-denier recycled polyester

• Supreme suspension system offers the best carry of any pack we tried
• External compression straps limit the volume well
• Comfortably padded grab handles
• Not much internal organization

No stranger to producing supremely comfortable suspension systems, Osprey injected a good bit of its tech into the Farpoint and Fairview packs ($185), which both sport LightWire frames, load lifters, and breathable framesheet and suspension straps. Our Farpoint pack was easily the best load carrier of any we tested and a close contender for the best travel backpack overall.

Far beyond what any of the other travel packs offer, the pack even allows you to adjust the torso length — unheard of in the typical travel pack. Newly updated, these packs have been tweaked to ride the line between traditional backpacks and functional luggage, a claim we can substantiate.

The 40-liter capacity is just about the sweet spot for domestic carry-on luggage limits, and these packs make good use of the space. We could easily pack away a long weekend’s worth of travel essentials into the bag with a little space to spare.

Whereas many other travel packs stash straps away into the body of the pack, the Farpoint and Fairview move in the opposite direction with a deployable strap cover that neatly seals in the suspension for safekeeping when checked. This produces a clean profile that’s ready to be slung around, but it’s not quite as easy and quick as the magnetic panels of the Peak Design Travel Backpacks, as you need to unclip straps to tuck them away.

The interior of the pack is rather spartan, incorporating only one zippered pocket, a laptop sleeve, and two internal compression straps. We would have rather seen a bit more organizational features involved like those that the Matador GlobeRider and Topo Designs Global Travel bags incorporate, but for those who stuff more than pack, the Farpoint and  Fairview may very well punch the ticket.

With one foot on the platform and one on the trail, these packs from Osprey will get you where you’re going and carry a trip’s worth of kit with ease.

Matador SEG45 Travel Pack

• Capacity 45 L
• Weight 2 lbs., 8 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 13.4" x 10.2"
• Compartment access Full clamshell interior, additional front zippered access
• Material 420-denier nylon exterior, 100-denier Robic Dynatec interior

• Excellent storage organization options
• High-quality, strong, and lightweight construction
• No frame to speak of
• Shoulder straps don’t pack away

Aiming to do more with less, the Matador SEG45 Segmented Backpack ($200) proposes a future free of packing cubes and splits up the bag for you, making the organization of your travel pack a breeze.

The full 45 liters of volume is shared among the five segments (6, 9, 15, 9, and 6 L) and trades volume between the full clamshell compartment and the segments. Each of these segments is accessible via its own water-resistant zippers and can be collapsed as your needs change.

We found organizing by clothing type made the most sense in our own packing, but you could even pack based on the day of the week or the use. The clamshell-accessed main compartment was ideal for holding larger items like spare shoes or quarantining spent outfits.

Known for its overbuilt but lightweight bags, Matador didn’t spare the SEG45, utilizing 420D UHMWPE-reinforced nylon in the pack body, as well as 100D Robic Dynatec weave on the interior. It should be noted that this travel backpack doesn’t have any kind of frame and will rely on being packed well to carry correctly. Because of this, this pack won’t carry as well as bags like the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, so consider packing mostly clothing in the SEG45.

Our testers felt this bag excelled as a travel bag you might deploy once you’ve hit your destination, as it packs away into larger bags so well. Unfortunately, however, the shoulder straps don’t pack away into the bag itself, so you’ll have to wrangle them into place to keep things tidy.

No matter what you’re up to, everything has got a spot to live in the SEG45 . Need a bit less space? Matador offers the SEG28 ($250) for that.

Read Review: Dresser in a Backpack: Matador SEG42 Review

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

• Weight 3 lbs., 10.3 oz.
• Dimensions 22.8" x 8.6" x 14.5"
• Compartment access Back panel zippered clamshell design
• Material 900-denier recycled polyester ripstop with a TPU laminate

• Multiple ways to carry the pack
• Many different storage and internal organization options
• Burly external fabric
• Doesn’t carry the best as a backpack

Looking to squeeze out every last liter of allowed space? Patagonia named this pack in honor of the cause: the Patagonia Black Hole Maximum Legal Carry-On 45 L ($239). This bag can be carried in a number of different ways, but we found it shined during travel as a shoulder bag.

Borrowing fabric from Patagonia’s line of burly Black Hole Duffels , the MLC 45 is made for the long haul. The 900-denier polyester ripstop is coated in a TPU laminate and feels ready to take on the surliest baggage carrier. We certainly felt no remorse in tossing the bag around.

At 45 L, the MLC is certainly right at the cusp of the maximum allowed size, but thankfully that space is well divided up inside the pack. Inside the main clamshell-accessed compartment is a blizzard of zippers and mesh pockets and dividers. Anything we tossed inside was well-stabilized.

Because there isn’t much of a frame to speak of, the Black Hole MLC doesn’t carry the best when slung over both shoulders and can sag when not entirely full. But over a shoulder with the included shoulder strap, this pack feels great and can be easily accessed on the go. This is one of the only packs in our testing to feature a shoulder strap (the other being the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag).

On top of all this, we greatly appreciate that the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45 L is made with 100% recycled body fabric, lining, and webbing. Perfect for grabbing and going, this pack is ready to move.

Read Review: Patagonia Black Hole MLC Bag Review: An Organized, Carry-On-Size Wonder

Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L

• Capacity 24 L
• Weight 3 lbs., 1.6 oz.
• Dimensions 18" x 7: x 11.5"
• Compartment access Zippered clamshell
• Material 840D ballistic nylon 6, 420D HT nylon

• Functions as both a laptop backpack and suitcase
• Well-structured and protected
• Full panel loading access
• Limited colorways

With an understated look that betrays the truly impressive fit and functionality inside, the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L ($279) doesn’t need to brag — it knows it’ll tote your kit through the worst of your travel or everyday commutes without missing a beat. This bag is our newly anointed best commuter-style travel backpack.

From a fabrics and materials standpoint, it’s clear that someone at Evergoods truly nerded out when they brewed up this bindle. The 840D ballistic nylon 6 that makes up the exterior of the pack is burly (errantly spilled coffee wipes right off), and compliments the thick #10 zippers and spacer-mesh back panel. Even the Evergoods logo is low-key: a simple 2×2” patch on the front of the bag with a slash. That’s it — and we dig it.

Bar none, the Civic Panel Loader has the best laptop sleeve we’ve ever encountered in a backpack, and that’s saying something. The side-accessed zippered aperture can hold a 17” Macbook Pro, and nestles into a fully padded space at the rear of the pack. This sleeve is suspended from the bottom of the bag, as we’ve seen in many forward-thinking bags, but goes a step further and protects the laptop from the side with an aluminum stay — the primary functionality of which is to support the side handle on the bag. Genius.

The high-polish finish on the CPL24 feels reminiscent of the attention to detail we loved about the Tom Bihn Synapse 25, but we ended up enjoying this pack even more for a simple reason: side carry. The broad handle on the side of the pack is reinforced by that aluminum stay, and it creates a perfectly supported carry for jostling through crowded terminals.

On the interior of the pack, two large pockets are subdivided with a few smaller sleeves and pockets, which are oriented to be accessed with the bag on its side. We carried this pack for a month straight of remote work, lugging it to coffee shops and co-working spaces, and it supplanted all other packs we’ve used previously. “It’s hard not to love a pack that makes your life easier,” says Senior Editor Nick Belcaster. “This pack does that. Laptop, headphones, notebooks — a whole lot goes into the pack without a care.”

Up there with Nomatic, GORUCK, and Tom Bihn, Evergoods is certainly among the pack-makers that put intelligent design and smart material choice above all else. The Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24L is the final word when it comes to a travel pack you can carry every day. We certainly do.

Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack

• Capacity 27.5 L
• Weight 2 lbs., 9 oz.
• Dimensions 18.9" x 11.4" x 5.9"
• Material 420x2000D Cordura nylon, 135D polyester

• Dang good looking
• High-quality trim and details, including anodized G hooks and supple webbing
• Supper cushioned back panel
• Exterior expandable water bottle pocket is a bit slim
• Pack straps don't stow away.

Pulling off a good expandable backpack can be a tough task, with fabric accordion folds often taking up valuable real estate on the interior when collapsed in lesser bags. Not so with the TimBuk2 Never Check ($209), which takes a simple backpack shape and elevates it with premium materials and design to create one of our favorite travel backpacks for tucking under an airliner seat.

Unlike a lot of the pure-function rectangular bags in our lineup, the Never Check is a real looker — easily one of the best styled in our testing so far, and we’d have no qualms about bringing it along as a business bag. Small details like rubber-covered zipper pulls, anodized G hooks, and supple webbing keep it looking sharp. The 27.5-liter size is just about dead-on for most airline ‘personal item’ size requirements, and this bag easily slides under a seat.

The main compartment is accessed through a clamshell zipper on the front of the bag, which is gusseted to hang open while you’re loading it up. During the few national and international flights our Senior Editor Nick Belcaster deployed the bag on, this was easily enough space for everything you might want during a plane ride. And for everything else, a front pocket is lined with multiple drop and zip pockets for organizing small gadgets like chargers or keys.

The back panel of the Never Check is a plush ½ inch of comfortable foam, and combined with the equally padded shoulder straps made for a very nice carrying bag. The straps unfortunately do not stow away, but on a lower volume pack such as this, it’s a much less useable feature in our opinions.  And finally, one of our favorite features: the wide laptop sleeve. This 15” opening is generous enough to accommodate the larger laptops of today, and is suspended from the bottom of the backpack to ensure bumps don’t turn into bruises.

Just like the name suggests, the Never Check Expandable Backpack provides a svelte solution to bringing a bag with you during airline travel — or even just to the office. Its clean profile and attention to detail impressed us, and it would make an excellent work-to-weekend bag.

Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack

• Dimensions 22" x 12.8" x 11"
• Compartment access Zippered clamshell design
• Material 420D UHMWPE-reinforced ripstop nylon, 100D Robic nylon mini-ripstop

• Incredible density of pockets and sleeves
• Tough UHMWPE outer fabric can be tossed around
• Shoulder straps tuck away in a novel and smart manner
• Laptop sleeve opening is a bit tight
• Price is up there

With a pocket or sleeve for pretty much everything, the new Matador GlobeRider 45 ($350) gives the Peak Design Travel Pack a run for its money when it comes to the best overall travel pack. 

Our Managing Editor raved about the GlobeRider after serious testing where she pretty much lived out of it for 3 months: “If you travel often and look for crucial components like internal and external pockets, laptop storage, and backpack and hip straps, consider the Matador GlobeRider 45. It’s a unique design in that the [pack] seems to have it all — every feature I’ve needed so far, both living out of it and in my travels — in a pretty packable size.”

What impressed us most was the way the GlobeRider was able to balance both an eye-watering amount of organization and versatility, and burly durability that ensures that this pack won’t shy away from tough travel conditions. In total (and we double-counted) there are 19 individual pockets on the pack, in all types of stretch mesh, zippered, and collapsible configurations. When good organization is key, the GlobeRider reigns. 

On the back panel of the GlobeRider, one of the more novel stowage systems we’ve seen packs away the shoulder straps and hip belt for when you want to slim down the pack. Two zippered panels — similar to the structure of the Peak Design packs, save for the closure — envelop the straps when not in use, and provide a lump-free panel for toting around. 

When it comes to downsides, the GlobeRider doesn’t miss much. The laptop sleeve aperture is a bit small at 9.5”, which in today’s age of mondo-screened computers may be limiting to some with larger devices. There also is no ability to convert the pack to a shoulder bag like the Patagonia MLC does, which can be handy when moving quickly through the airport.

Dang-near the top of the list, the Matador GlobeRider 45 would be an excellent choice for anyone who practices one-bag travel, or desires to have a place for everything in their journeys. The price does sting a bit, but based on the long-term testing we’ve completed so far, we’ve seen no indications that this pack will fade away anytime soon.

Read Review: I Lived Out of This Backpack for 3-Plus Months: Matador Globerider45 Review

Thule Aion 40L

• Weight 3 lbs., 3 oz.
• Dimensions 13" x 9.1" x 20.5"
• Material Waxed P600 polyester canvas

• Maxes out on carry-on-compliant space
• Internal roll-top TPU bag separates the clean from the to-do laundry
• Waxed canvas exterior has a classy look
• Centered side handle carries well
• Well-cushioned back panel
• No shoulder strap stowage option
• No hipbelt on a 40L is pushing it

Better known for their roof boxes and racks, it’s fair to say that Thule knows travel, and the addition of smart, organized, and comfortable travel packs like the Thule Aion 40L ($200) makes all the sense in the world to us. This pack is a finely-honed bag for international and local travel alike, and is decked out in some high-class materials.

Like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC pack, the Aion 40L aims to go for the maximum allowed capacity, and at our measurements (21.5” x 15” x 8”) the pack slides in just half an inch less than the normal 45 linear inches typically allowed. That’s efficient. The space is split up into two main compartments and a laptop sleeve, with the larger opening with a full clamshell zip.

This inner compartment hosts a few zippered pockets and internal compression straps, but the star of the show here is the integrated TPU rolltop bag. This sack can be used to cordon off your liquids (and easily presented for inspection), as well as separate your pile of ‘to-do’ laundry. This reminds us of the ActiveShield compartment in the Gregory Border Traveler pack, but we enjoy the removable aspect here even more. 

Round the back of the pack, the spacer-mesh swaddled laptop sleeve rivals the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader , and has an additional sleeve for items like tablets, notebooks, or chargers. The back panel itself is impressively cushioned (one of the more luxe in our testing) and that extends to the shoulder straps. 

Unfortunately, there’s no shoulder strap-stowage system here, so you’ll have to wrangle those yourself, and while we typically enjoy the lack of a hip belt in smaller travel packs, the absence in a 40-liter pack is a little puzzling. Fully loaded, the Aion could certainly benefit from one, and while a separate sling bag can be added to function as one, you’ll need to fork over $50 for it.

Ranking high up there with your Peak Designs and your Ospreys, the Thule Aion 40L nails the style and material departments, and with a full 40 liters of space on board, has all the room to pack for your week-long trips — no roof box required.

Osprey Archeon 30L

• Capacity 30 L
• Weight 3 lbs.
• Dimensions 20.5" x 13" x 11.4"
• Compartment access Zippered top-access
• Material 840D ballistic polyester with carbonate coating

• Extra-tough exterior fabric with carbonate coating
• High-polish details such as seatbelt webbing straps
• Mini-wing hipbelt tucks away easily when not needed
• Smart internal storage pockets that lay flat when not needed
• Laptop sleeve opening is a bit too snug
• Compression straps lay over the main zipper

First off, one word: Rugged. The Osprey Archeon 30L ($250) is a high-end build that spares little in the material department, and looks dang good while it’s at it. The 30-liter size makes this bag weekend travel-ready, and we greatly appreciated the fit and finish.

The overall design of the Archeon reminds us a good bit of the Peak Design Travel Bag (certainly the all-waterproof exterior zippers and curved side-entry pockets), but it’s the exterior fabric that really impressed. The 840D ballistic polyester is coated with a carbonate polyurethane coating, a bolstered recipe that increases durability by a magnitude over traditional PU coatings. In testing, we wore out before putting a dent in it.

The pack itself breaks down into two main compartments, with the main pocket opening behind a curved clamshell zip (we did have a little trouble with the zipper passing behind the exterior straps. Removing them fixed that). Inside, three expandable tech pockets tuck away all of your small kit, and do a good job of keeping things tidy on the interior.

On the exterior, Osprey doesn’t disappoint when it comes to suspension straps, which are comfortable, adjustable, and stashable. The mini wing-style hip belt earns special praise on packed flights, where we find traditional hip belts to be a hassle to store, and combined with the slick shoulder-strap stash pocket, the Archeon converts to minimal mode in under a minute.

Something the Archeon certainly could use, however, is a slightly larger aperture into the laptop/tech compartment. As-is, the zipper doesn’t quite extend down far enough to truly open up the pocket, and as such it can feel a bit like rummaging around in the dark looking for cords and chargers in the bottom of the pack. Extending these zippers down to the middle of the pack would seem to fix the issue, and we hope a later iteration might address this.

Nonetheless, we were still impressed by the Osprey Archeon 30L . There’s also a 40-liter version if you’re looking for a max-capacity carry-on, and even a smaller 24-liter for kicking around coffee shops day-to-day.

Read Review: Hack Carry-On Rules: Osprey Archeon Kit Gives Power Back to Passengers

Arc’teryx Granville 25 Backpack

• Capacity 25 L
• Weight 1 lb., 14.5 oz.
• Dimensions 22" x 12" x 9"
• Compartment access Drawstring top-entry
• Material N400r-AC² nylon ripstop

• Tough and waterproof exterior fabric
• White interior for easy viewing
• Floating laptop sleeve
• Not very much interior organization
• Simple webbing waistbelt

Made for moving through the city over the concourse, the commute-ready Arc’teryx Granville 25 ($220) takes travel backpacks to the streets in a sleek and tough design that we couldn’t keep from grabbing every day.

Crafted from the same N400r-AC² nylon ripstop as Arc’teryx’s high-end climbing packs, the mountain DNA is strong in the Granville, with fully taped seams that make the pack highly weather-resistant. In our impromptu “rain” test, a garden hose fired directly at the pack wasn’t able to get a drop past the tough exterior.

On the front of the pack, a single water-resistant zippered pocket was practically made for your keys, and could accommodate a few other essentials for when you’re on the go. Tossing back the shaped lid, a single drawstring entry leads to the interior space, which is mainly one large pocket, with a few zippered and drop pockets to separate smaller items. If you’re looking for the same style pack, but with a bit more organization built-in, the Tom Bihn Synapse 25 divides up its space well.

The padded interior laptop sleeve will accommodate up to a 16” laptop, and is suspended within the main compartment in a way that leaves us feeling confident in slinging our computer across a shoulder. Compared to other more airline-focused travel packs, the Granville 25 has its feet more firmly planted on the ground, and excels at bus, bike, or foot travel.

Whether your commute is just across town or across the country, the Arc’teryx Granville 25 makes for a good-looking carry-all that’s bound to be around for a while.

Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 40L

• Weight 3 lbs., 10.4 oz.
• Dimensions 22.5" x 14" x 7.5"
• Material 1000D recycled nylon, 400D recycled nylon, 210D recycled nylon, 1680D recycled ballistic nylon

• Overbuilt design with tough materials and chunky zippers
• Plenty of organizational pockets
• Bright interior
• Not the cleanest strap stowage

Chunky zippers, an overhead-savvy profile, and multiple ways to sling it over your shoulder: The Topo Designs Global Travel Pack ($229) has honed in on much of what we love in a travel backpack.

During a recent trip from Seattle to Southern California we were heavily saddled with the maximum the airline would allow. But this pack made use of every inch of space and reached the allowance of what we could check as our carry-on. The 40 liters of internal capacity is broken down into a series of dividers and pockets, which made condoning off things like electronics from the rest of our kit easy. And the interior of this pack is a cheery canary yellow, which helps with ease and visibility.

On the exterior of this pack, three separate carry styles are available to get you through the concourse in whatever way you choose. We found the full-featured backpack straps to be our go-to, which even sport load-lifters for a comfy carry. This suspension system does tuck away for when you might want to check the bag, though we found the hipbelt to be a bit tricky to fully retract.

Rounding out this travel-ready backpack is a tough build that makes use of 1000D recycled nylon and heavy-duty zippers, and we had no qualms with tossing this bag around during our trip. Perfect for anyone who subscribes to the one-bag travel ethos, the Global Travel Pack from Topo Designs makes the grade for those who want the most out of their carry-on.

And if you’re only going to be away for a short trip, the Global Travel pack is also available in a 30L capacity .

Cotopaxi Allpa 28L Travel Pack

• Capacity 28 L
• Weight 3 lbs., 4 oz.
• Dimensions 19" x 12" x 9"
• Material TPU-coated 1,000-denier polyester, 840-denier nylon paneling

• Burly exterior material holds up for the long run
• Plenty of zippered mesh storage pockets
• On the heavier side
• TPU-coated nylon can feel grabby

The Allpa 28L Travel Pack ($170) will change the way you travel. It’s sleek, durable, and able to fit an incredible amount of stuff in a small space. The zippered mesh pockets keep clothes organized. And the compression straps maximize what you can pack.

The tough polyester and nylon construction can take a beating without any signs of wear. And we appreciate that the externally accessed, padded laptop sleeve makes pulling out your electronics at security checkpoints a breeze. There’s also a small outer compartment to keep essentials at hand.

You can completely tuck away the backpack straps and carry the pack like a briefcase, or wear it comfortably as a backpack. We’ve stuffed this pack to the gills countless times and have never had a problem with the zippers. Light rain showers or spills roll right off the TPU-coated exterior, but for legit rainstorms, just pull out the included rain cover.

The Allpa also comes in 35L, 42L, 50L, and 70L capacities. As our editor noted in the 42L review , “Building on its fun and functional ethos, Cotopaxi beefs up its bestselling product. The Allpa Travel Pack earns big points for clever design, clean aesthetic, and a surprising number of handy — and hidden — features.”

Yes, the Cotopaxi Allpa packs are an investment, but anyone who travels regularly will find it a worthy one. These powerhouse travel backpacks are sturdy, versatile, and built to last.

Tom Bihn Synapse 25

• Weight 1 lb., 13 oz.
• Dimensions 13.4" x 20" x 9.1"
• Material 400-denier Halcyon, 420-denier nylon ripstop

• Many different fabrics and color schemes are available
• Built to last design and materials
• Removable webbing hip belt
• Suspension doesn’t pack away
• Side wing pockets are a little awkward to access

Refined and clean-looking, the Tom Bihn Synapse 25 ($243) is a high-end travel backpack we just can’t stop staring at. It just looks that good. Made of burly textiles and zippers, this pack was built to stand the test of tough travel and come out shining on the other side.

The Synapse 25 is the larger version of Tom Bihn’s Synapse 19 , a popular backpack made for daily carry. The bump in volume is appreciated in this travel-oriented version and is doled out in one large compartment as well as a set of pockets on the front of the pack.

We found all the pockets easily accessible, save for the side wing pockets. While these were excellent for the organization of smaller bits and bobs, the openings were a bit awkward to jump into.

Topped off by a cushioned suspension (the foam is a half-inch of supple EV50), this travel backpack didn’t weigh us down on long days of travel when fully packed. And when we wanted to go light, even the webbing hip belt was removable. In terms of the ability to bop around town as a daily driver, this pack is up there with the TimBuk2 Never Check and Arc’teryx Granville packs (we liked the back panel on this pack the most).

Along with being carry-on compliant, the Synapse is also one of the few bags on our list that are compact enough to fit under most airline seats without hogging too much precious legroom.

Osprey Nebula 32 Daypack

• Capacity 32 L
• Weight 2 lbs., 1.7 oz.
• Dimensions 19.2" x 12.2" x 11.4"
• Material 420-denier recycled nylon

• TSA-compliant laptop sleeve
• Many options for organization
• Water bottle pockets fit 32 oz. bottles
• Need to release two buckles in order to unzip the main pocket all the way

When it comes to backpacks, Osprey has put in the time — and it shows. The Nebula 32 ($140) feels like it’s all the brand’s most popular packs morphed into one. Most of all, we love how it seamlessly goes from city streets to trails.

This backpack can do it all, whether you’re hauling your laptop and books around town; water, food, and layers on an easy hike; or all of the above and then some for a weekend away.

The internal storage pockets are great for organizing all of your things for easy access. And while the Nebula 32 is top-loading, the main pocket opens up wide enough so you won’t have to unload everything to get to the one thing you want at the bottom. The sternum strap and hip belt are comfortable as well, especially when carrying a heavy load.

On smaller volume packs like this, sometimes design concessions need to be made to accommodate all the functionality, and on the Nebula it’s in the side compression straps. Like on the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, the compression system of the pack overlays across the main compartment zipper, meaning you’ll need to undo some straps before rifling around in the storage area. Not a deal breaker, but a little annoying when the TSA line starts to back up behind you.

Overall, the Nebula 32 won’t disappoint if you make it your go-to smaller-volume travel backpack.

Travel Backpack Comparison Chart

How We Tested Travel Backpacks

The staff of GearJunkie is a hot-footed bunch, restlessly plodding across the country or around the globe in search of adventure and whatever else comes our way. And we have a lot of stuff, which necessitates having a travel bag or four in the stable.

Surely any old bindle will do in carrying your kit around, but having a travel backpack that is dialed into the needs of travel can turn a stressful situation into a manageable one. We’ve been testing travel backpacks since 2019 and have put the market slice through the wringer on thousands of miles of travel to weed out the best of the best.

Senior Editor Nick Belcaster has a zeal for international travel, and he leads up our current travel pack testing, logging almost 10,000 flying miles in the last year alone. From Iceland to Utah, Belcaster has carried these packs and lived out of them for weeks, relying on them to support back-to-back travel excursions. In testing, we looked for a number of features in our travel backpacks, including overall capacity, carry style, durability, and aesthetics. It’s important to think about how you’ll use your travel pack, and as such, every pack on our list is carry-on compliant for the worst-case scenario.

We know no trip will be like the next, so we took a broad swath of the travel backpacks on the market in order to create a list that will suit many different travelers. Packs in hand, over our shoulders, or on our backs, we hit the four corners and tested the best travel backpacks of 2024.

Curious about what we pack in our travel backpacks? We’ve penned up a list for both domestic and international trips .

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Travel Backpack

Travel backpack user profiles.

The International Jet-Setter: The term ‘One Bag Travel’ is no stranger to you, and you’ve just about got your life distilled down into 45 liters of space. If international travel is your bag, then a backpack that’s up to the task will be essential to see you through to further time zones. Efficiency will be the name of the game here, and going with a pack that is dang-near the carry-on maximums for international flights will mean you can make it through without checking a bag. Look for near to 45-liter packs with plenty of organization baked in, as well as a comfortable (and stashable) carry system.

For international travel, the bag we reach for most often had to be the Peak Design Travel Backpack , with a razor-thin second place going to the Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack . For an emphasis on organization, the Matador SEG45 splits up the volume well, and if you’ll be schlepping bags around a long way, the Osprey Farpoint & Fairview Packs have all the Osprey suspension we love.

The Weekend-Warrior: Maybe it’s a work trip, and maybe it’s just for fun, but it’s only going to take 2-3 days total, and you’ll need a bag that can pack it in. For weekend excursions, we find packs in the 25-35 liter range work well for the minimalists among us, and the 30-40 liter range for those who like a bit more options.

The Tom Bihn Synapse 25 is easily one of the most stylish packs in our review, only slightly edged out by the Timbuk2 Never Check , and both make the grade for a single overnighter in a foreign locale. For a bit more space, you can’t go wrong with the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 40L , a fun pack that is a lot tougher than the multi-colored exterior would let on.

The Commuter: No flight involved! Duty calls, and sometimes you’ll need to lug around a bit more kit than the old briefcase can allow for. Commuting with a travel backpack is a great way to stay comfortable on longer rides, as shoulder and handbags are cumbersome over the long run. Focus on a bag with a more traditional backpack shape that puts an emphasis on ease-of-access, and is in the 20-30 liter range.

For bumping around town, we’ve come to love the Evergoods Civic Panel Loader 24 , which not only lugs our remote office around with ease, but also looks pretty slick doing it. The drawstring opening here is a huge boon for quickly stashing a jacket, and the tough exterior fears no weather forecast. For a budget just-get-it-done choice, the Dakine Campus 33L will make it happen for less.

The right size pack for you depends on a few things. First, where are you going? And, how long do you plan to stay? Winter travel often comes with more gear, so you’ll need to pack extra layers. Longer trips often require larger bags.

That said, your personal packing style will be the most important factor. We know minimalists who happily travel for months with only a single backpack in tow and others who want the largest travel backpack possible in addition to a totally stuffed duffel bag . One method isn’t better than the other, but knowing your style is helpful when choosing a bag.

In general, we’ve found that something in the 28-45 liter range is ideal for comfort and packability. Many packs will also offer a compression system to allow you to limit the overall volume of the backpack. We’ve seen many different ways to accomplish this, but the most effective by far were the button snaps and expanding zipper of the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L . Packs toward the 40-45 liter range will be your carry-on bags of choice, and the 45-liter Peak Design, Patagonia MLC , and Matador GlobeRider are perfect for maxing out your allowed space. The 40-liter Osprey Farpoint/Fairview packs give up a little internal room for the luxe suspension system they’re carried with.

Packs in the smaller end of the range, from around 25-30 liters, make better personal items, and the TimBuk2 Never Check , Tom Bihn Synapse , and Patagonia Black Hole backpacks all fit snuggly underneath an airliner seat. These small bags move through a city gracefully and look more like everyday carry backpacks than traditional luggage.

What good would a bag be if you couldn’t get into it? From a simple drawstring to a thicket of Velcro and zippers, there are plenty of ways to keep your bag closed while you’re on the go, but not every one will be amenable to travel.

Zippered Clamshells: Most travel backpacks will use a clamshell-style design that opens up the backpack like a suitcase, allowing you to pack intentionally as opposed to stuffing things in. Oftentimes, an internal strap system will help keep your items contained while you’re on the move.

Packs with this clamshell design may also opt to add internal dividers to the main storage area, and make these dividers removable — should you need the entire storage area uninhibited. For packs without internal dividers or straps, consider adding a few packing cubes to keep your items organized.

In addition to the rear entry, some backpacks will offer additional entry points through the top or front of the pack. This can be helpful when you need to quickly retrieve something like a passport from your bag, without the need to totally spill the contents. The majority of packs in our review close in this clamshell manner, and a few of our favorites are the Peak Design Travel Backpack , Osprey Farpoint & Fairview 40 Travel Packs , and Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack .

Zippered Top-Access: Much like many traditional backpacks, zippered top-access packs load and unload from the topside, and generally only offer one point of entry/egress into the pack. For this reason, packs of this flavor are generally left packed during travel, as digging around for something at the bottom can be a hassle.

Bags of this stripe, including the uber-nice Tom Bihn Synapse 25 and expandable Timbuk2 Never Check , most often make better personal items over carry-ons, as their smaller volumes make for easier searching within.

Drawstring Top-Entry: While not quite as common as a zippered clamshell or top-access pack, drawstring top-entry packs can make for very quick and easy access to your kit if you’re on the move. These packs will integrate an extended fabric collar to the top of the storage area, which can be compressed when needed, or overstuffed with bulky items like jackets.

Commuters will find drawstring entry bags the most appealing, and the Arc’teryx Granville 25 has become one of our dedicated laptop toters for everything from remote work stints at the coffee shop to jumping on a ferry for work.

Carrying Options

There are plenty of ways to lug your kit to your boarding gate, but not all of them will be comfortable for everything. Over-shoulder backpack straps can support a good bit of weight but typically will need some type of frame to truly be supportive. The Osprey Farpoint/Fairview packs were the best-carrying packs in our testing, owed largely to the wire frame and Airscape mesh back panels, but we also enjoyed the carry of the aluminum frame stays on the Matador GlobeRider.

A shoulder strap travel backpack, like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L , can be slung across your body and provide a great amount of accessibility on the go. Don’t expect to carry too much weight this way, however.

And then there’s the classic suitcase style, easily towed anywhere. It’s good to note many travel backpacks will have stowable straps to better streamline the pack for a trip through an X-ray machine or stowed under a seat. The strap storage design of the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L impressed us most of all, utilizing magnetic closure flaps to pack away the shoulder and hip straps neatly.

Pockets & Organization

There’s an organizational saying: “A place for everything and everything in its place.” And we couldn’t agree more. Keeping track of everything while you travel is key for organization. And while more pockets always seem better, there is a threshold where having too many simply becomes more places to misplace things. Instead, we recommend packs with three to six pockets.

The Cotopaxi Allpa and Topo Designs Global Travel Bags both have ingenious inner organization systems complete with large zipping “pockets.” It has just enough space to find room for everything but not so many compartments that you’ll be hunting all day for your misplaced passport. For even more organization, the Matador SEG45 splits into five different segments that are accessible from the exterior of the pack.

Bringing along a laptop is a necessary evil for some travelers, and having an incorporated laptop sleeve in your travel backpack can keep it safe during travel. Most laptop sleeves will be padded with some type of foam and nestle in close to the back for maximum protection. In order to be TSA-compliant, a laptop sleeve will need to fold entirely flat away from the pack to be scanned.

Because flying with liquids over 3.4 ounces is prohibited in the U.S., carrying all of these items in a separate toiletry bag can make your foray into the screening line a breeze. Many of the packs on our list incorporate many external pockets where such a bag could be stashed and produced when needed.

Travel luggage takes a beating, so durability is a top concern. Luckily, gear manufacturers realize this and are making increasingly burly yet portable packs. The fan-favorite Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L pack is made with a 900-denier ripstop nylon outer with a TPU laminate for extra durability. It’s nearly indestructible, water-resistant, and versatile.

If you’re traveling somewhere with inclement weather or if your pack needs to double as a climbing bag or hiking pack, durability is extra important. And it’s worth paying more for a backpack that is water-resistant.

Space Efficiency & Carry-On Compliance

Astute observers will note many of the packs in our review sport a rectangular shape, which is certainly due to designers aspiring to create a more space-efficient pack. This isn’t to say that more shapely packs won’t make it happen, but when you’re struggling to make every liter of space count, maximizing dimensions matters.

Carry-on luggage is any bag that you plan on bringing into an airplane and storing in the overhead bins. Because space is limited, airlines dictate the maximum size that any carry-on can be. In the U.S., the most common size is 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches, or 45 linear inches (length + width + height). However, this is just a rough guideline; some airlines differ from these dimensions, and you should refer to their information directly.

In general, these dimensions provide a travel backpack with around 40-45 liters of internal volume, so buying a pack that’s as close to that as possible will provide the most space allowed. Many of the packs on our list have the ability to compress to a smaller size, such as the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L .

Be mindful as well, that any protrusions from your travel pack such as shoulder straps or handles will also need to fall within the maximum allowed size. Many travel backpacks today incorporate some type of strap-stowing ability, such as the magnetic panels of the Peak Design packs, the zippered cover of the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview, and the hybrid zipper/panel of the Matador GlobeRider 45. All of these provide a more streamlined profile that should both hit the mark, and fit better into overhead bins.

Travel backpacks run the gamut of prices — from affordable to downright pricey. There are a number of factors that play into what you get for the money.

Budget-Minded Travel Packs

Travel backpacks, as a category, are generally a bit pricer than your average luggage, as they incorporate tough materials that can put up with extensive wear over the lifespan. Travel is tough on bags, so it’s unsurprising that even budget travel backpacks will cost you around $100-150. These packs often will incorporate more traditional architectures such as a zippered top access, as opposed to the more complicated (and spendy) full-zip clamshell designs. For example, the Dakine Campus ($75) is pretty much your average school bag.

Volumes, too, will be a bit limited in this price range — added material adds cost. The 32-liter Osprey Nebula ($140) is about the best price-to-volume ratio you can get.

Mid-Range Travel Packs

Mid-range packs make up the bread and butter of travel packs, and can be had for around $150 to $200. These designs are often more of the full carry-on variety, and aim to capitalize on permitted volume as much as possible. The 45-liter Matador SEG45 ($200), Patagonia Black Hole MLC ($239), 40-liter Osprey Farpoint/Fairview ($185), and Topo Designs Global Travel Bag ($229) all shoehorn in just about as much space as a friendly gate agent will let you get away with.

For the price, you also get a good variety of functionality that makes travel easier, such as stowable pack straps, interior segmented pockets and sleeves (done excellently on the $170 Cotopaxi Allpa ), and an external compression system that limits the space your bag takes up. Some packs, like the TimBuk2 Never Check ($209), don’t exactly hit these parameters, but instead make up for it in high-quality design and materials.

Premium Travel Packs

Above $250, you’re likely paying for premium materials or a to-the-hilt design that leaves absolutely nothing on the cutting room floor. The Peak Design Travel Backpack ($300) is a great example, and utilizes super high-quality nylon canvas, custom aluminum hardware, and supple seatbelt material webbing in its build, as well as fitting in just about every conceivable feature you could want in a travel pack. The same can be said of the Matador GlobeRider 45 ($350), which uses high-tech UHMPWE-reinforced materials and sports a total of 19 pockets.

The Tom Bihn Synapse 25 ($243) is a bit of an outlier, as it commands a high dollar amount not for the extreme amount of space it offers or amount of features, but for being a hyper-customizable, hand-made bag that uses the nicest textiles available, as well as the best zippers, webbing, and foam in its design. If you’re a fan of the finest materials, this is your daily driver pack.

What Is One Bag Travel?

The ‘One Bag Travel’ ethos and travel backpacks go hand-in-hand. Simply put, to travel in one-bag style is to be minimalist in your luggage choices, and only take what you can carry onto the plane/train/pack animal. Not only does this do away with the fuss of deciding what exactly to bring along with you, but it also allows for breezing through airports — skipping the need to check baggage, wait at baggage claim, or fear for lost luggage.

In order to most effectively travel with one bag, be sure to read up on exactly the baggage size allowances provided by your transportation. This can affect both overall size and weight, and having an expandable pack is a large benefit here. In this way, you can carry just enough to skirt through under the limit, and then expand the bag when you’ve hit your destination for more breathing room. If you aim for a 35-40 liter backpack, you’ll be right on the money for one-bag travel.

Finally, remember that this bag is going to be the only item of luggage you’ve got, so ensure it’ll be comfortable enough for the long haul. Look for padded back panels and hip belts that’ll transfer the load correctly, and if they stash away — all the better.

Our team unanimously agrees that the best travel backpack is the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L . It’s extremely durable, and it offers plenty of organizational pockets to stash your kit away in. The clamshell opening makes packing a breeze, and we really appreciated the unique shoulder strap storage options available to turn the pack into a stripped-down bag that would slide into any overhead compartment.

The best size bag for traveling depends largely on your travel itinerary and mode of transport. The Cotopaxi Allpa packs range from 28 to 42 liters.

The 28-liter option makes for a compact and comfortable backpack that easily fits in overhead airplane compartments. The 42-liter option is a bit more like carrying a duffel bag on your back, but it still manages to fit in overhead compartments. It’s a great option for maximizing carry-on capacity in backpack form.

While both have their place in travel, a backpack can offer some advantages over a suitcase. Since they’re much more portable, backpacks can be brought to many more places where a suitcase won’t work. Suitcases can be your large load carriers, but a good travel backpack gives you the freedom to strike out on daily adventures.

Travel backpacks absolutely can be carry-on luggage, given they meet the size requirements. In the U.S., the most common maximum size is 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches, or 45 linear inches (length + width + height). But this is only a common size, and different airlines will have different specifics. Consult with your airline specifically to determine what they allow.

While different body types will find different travel packs comfortable, we can all agree that a good support system and ample foam make for a comfortable carry. In our own testing, we found the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 Travel Packs were by far the most comfortable due to their plush suspension systems.

Because many different airlines operate a slate of different planes, there isn’t a standard under-seat luggage size, although there is an average: 16 inches x 12 inches x 6 inches. Some airlines allow personal items larger than this, but you should consult with their customer service for specifics. Our favorite personal item-sized travel pack was the Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack , which at 24 liters compressed easily slides under a seat.

The Best Laptop Backpacks of 2024

Whether you’re headed to the office, class, or even the trailhead, here’s our top picks for the best laptop backpacks of 2024.

The Best Daypacks of 2024

We tested the best daypacks of 2024 with options for every budget. Top picks include Osprey, Cotopaxi, and more.

Hailing from the hemlocks and hanging mosses of Washington State, Senior Editor Nick Belcaster is an adventure journalist following threads of stories across the West. Cruelly stolen from the alpine swales of rural Wisconsin at a young age, Nick made do ascending the snows and granite of the North Cascades while completing a journalism degree. A long stint on the Pacific Crest Trail in 2018 codified a life bent on sleeping on minor slopes and picking devil’s club out of his shoes.

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The 16 Best Laptop Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We love a laptop backpack that's spacious, has organizational pockets, and will keep our laptops safe during travel.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips For Buying
• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Since a laptop usually comes at a high price, it’s well worth it to invest in a backpack designed to protect your technology when you’re on the go. Whether you’re traveling on an airplane or trekking through campus, a comfortable, well-made backpack with a padded laptop pocket is a must-have.

Because comfort and durability are arguably the two most important factors when investing, we tested more than 50 laptop backpacks on several occasions in our New York City lab and in the real world to find the best ones for everyday wear with these considerations in mind. We packed each bag with computers, iPads, sweatshirts, and more, and carried them around to see how they felt. We then tossed each one onto the ground from a tabletop to test the bag’s durability (using dummy laptops, of course). Keep reading to learn more about our top picks for style, comfort, value, and more.

Best Overall

Solo re:define backpack.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

The bag looks and feels compact but has a surprisingly large interior.

One of the zippers is fraying after four months of use.

Looking for a commuter backpack to take with you to the office and beyond? Solo’s Re:Define Backpack is equipped with everything a traveler or commuter needs for long days away from home. At first glance, the bag looks like a normal-sized backpack but it has a deceptively large interior with plenty of pockets to store both big and small items. The 15.6-inch laptop pocket in the back is fully padded and the bag also has an external USB port and a headphone port for traveling seamlessly with electronic devices. Even when we had the bag packed full of accessories and clothing, it felt nearly weightless and exceptionally comfortable to carry thanks to the padded and adjustable shoulder straps.

Made with recycled polyester, the backpack performed perfectly during our durability tests and didn’t sustain any scuffs or scratches after we tossed it onto the ground several times. All of the contents packed appeared to be in their original condition, so we feel confident in this backpack’s protective abilities. The zippers also impressed us by being super smooth even when the bag was packed to the brim. While it’s not the most stylish backpack on the market, its functional and simple design makes it well worth it — a great option for anyone looking for a durable backpack .

The Details: 18 x 13 x 7 inches | 22.5 liters | 1.43 pounds | Recycled PET polyester | 15.6-inch laptop pocket | USB port

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Leather

Bee & kin the midi nomad backpack.

Bee & Kin

• Design 4.5 /5
• Comfort 4.5 /5
• Durability 4.8 /5
• Value 4.8 /5

The sleek leather material looks nicer than a typical nylon backpack.

The straps are a bit too long, even when they are adjusted to the shortest setting.

Constructed with soft and sleek Italian leather, this mid-size backpack has the perfect combination of style and functionality. It’s big enough to fit a laptop up to 13 inches long, but it’s small enough that you can use it beyond traveling or commuting for everyday activities like running errands. After four months of use, we found this to be the perfect medium-size bag that is easy to clean, making it a perfect option for everyday use. It can easily fit a laptop, water bottle, wallet, notebook, and headphones with plenty of room left over. While we love the size for versatility, it still has plenty of thoughtful features for travelers like a pocket for a wireless charger ( sold separately ) and several interior pockets for storing accessories.

The leather material has a soft and plush feel to it which makes carrying the bag comfortable, but we wish the straps were a little shorter since the bag sits a little low on the back. Since the backpack is smaller and lightweight, this isn’t a huge issue and we still think the high-quality backpack is worth it for traveling, commuting, and everyday use.

The Details: 13 x 11.6 x 5.5 inches | 2.6 pounds | Leather | 13-inch laptop pocket

Best Convertible

Aer flight pack 3.

• Value 4.5 /5

You can wear this either as a backpack or a duffel bag.

The laptop sleeve is just a slip pocket in the main compartment.

We love that you can choose to wear the Aer Flight Pack 3 as a daily commuter’s backpack or convert it into a duffel bag or briefcase for a business trip or weekend getaway. There are plenty of pockets for organization with a designated laptop sleeve in the main compartment, another compartment with more than seven smaller pockets, and a small zippered pouch in the front. The laptop sleeve is only a slip pocket, and while it kept the laptop in place during our durability test, it isn’t as secure as it could be if it was a zippered pocket. We also found that there's a lot of space for clothes and tech devices for a quick weekend getaway or business trip. Because the pack is made with abrasion- and tear-resistant ballistic nylon, it feels sturdy and durable, sustaining no damage after we dropped it off a tabletop. Plus, we found the backpack, top handle, and duffel straps equally comfortable when carrying the bag in all three ways.

The Details: 18 x 12 x 5.5 inches | 20 liters | 3.4 pounds | Cordura ballistic nylon | 16-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Padding

Incase icon backpack.

• Design 4 /5
• Value 4.3 /5

The backpack is outfitted with thick padding.

It doesn’t have a water bottle pocket or trolley sleeve.

The Incase Icon Pack thoroughly impressed us with very thick padding throughout the backpack which adds an abundance of protection and comfort. The back has a padded laptop sleeve that was noticeably thick when we first opened up the backpack. When we dropped the bag onto the floor to test for durability, none of the contents were damaged. The thick padding in the back and on the straps provides comfort while wearing the pack, and we love that the adjustable strap is lined with a soft fabric. Although we wish this backpack came with more features like a water bottle holder or a trolley sleeve, the pack has two spacious compartments, a front pocket, and a variety of smaller pockets for exceptional organization on the inside, making it well worth the investment for the comfortable, durable backpack.

The Details: 19 x 13 x 9 inches | 20 liters | 2.7 pounds | 840D nylon | 15-inch laptop pocket

Best Expandable

Samsonite elevation plus backpack.

• Organization 5 /5
• Portability 5 /5

The expandable zippers add tons of extra space.

It's not the most stylish backpack.

I've tested dozens of backpacks and it can be hard to find a backpack that stands out from others, which is why I'm a big fan of this one from Samsonite, which I personally tested in the lab. While it has a simple design from the outside, the backpack is filled with special features that make it better than your average backpack. It has tons of pockets to store every travel essential you could ever need, including laptops, tablets, notebooks, chargers, passports, and it has a water bottle pocket on the side that keeps a bottle secure (it didn't even fall out when I threw the pack off a table several times). However, my favorite part of the pack is the expandable zipper that adds 1.5 inches of extra space, which came in handy when I packed the bag with an extra jacket. Plus, it fits underneath an airplane seat with ease, and there's extra padding in the back paneling and shoulder straps for superior comfort while traveling.

The Details: 17.8 x 12 x 6.5 inches | 22.75 liters | 2.2 pounds | Recycled polyester | Expandable

Best Solar-powered

Solgaard lifepack backpack.

• Comfort 4 /5

It’s made out of recycled plastic bottles found on beaches and has a built-in, solar-powered USB charger.

The capacity is smaller than other backpacks we tested.

While this backpack impressed us during testing, it also won us over thanks to Solgaard’s sustainability mission in which all of its products are made with ocean-bound recycled materials. The brand uses its patented Shore-tex material to create this backpack with recycled plastic water bottles found on beaches or river banks. In addition, the backpack includes a solar-powered USB charging port so you can charge on the go without having to worry about the life of your power bank. In our testing lab, we were able to fit all of the items on our packing list, including a sweatshirt, a laptop, an iPad, a notebook, and a water bottle, but there wasn’t a lot of space left over. The laptop sleeve is in the back of the bag, and although it’s just a slip pocket, it wasn’t damaged during our durability tests. When it comes to padding, the backpack is outfitted with ample cushioning that makes it comfortable to wear with the adjustable, supportive chest strap, too.

The Details: 12.4 x 6.9 x 19 inches | 19 liters | 4.85 Pounds | Anti-theft lock | USB port

Best Splurge

Lo & sons rowledge.

Lo & Sons

The nylon material and leather accents give the backpack a sleek look without sacrificing protection.

The laptop compartment is too small for any computers over 13 inches long.

Lo & Sons’ The Rowledge laptop backpack is one of the most expensive bags we tested, but it seriously delivered in performance. The nylon exterior outfitted with leather accents makes this sleek, timeless bag a dream for travelers and office-goers. While it may small from the outside, we found that it was possible to fit a sweatshirt, a laptop, an iPad, a notebook, and a water bottle with ease. Our only gripe is that the laptop pocket can only fit laptops that are 13 inches or smaller, so you'll want to consider that if you own a larger computer. The adjustable straps and ample padding throughout the entire backpack add to the comfort and durability of the pack. Although the bag felt a little stiff at first, the material quickly contours to the shape of your shoulders and back over time for a more comfortable fit after a few wears. After tossing the bag off of a tabletop, the laptop remained unharmed in the designated sleeve in the back of the bag, and the exterior showed no signs of damage, so we think this sturdy, well-made backpack is worth the splurge.

The Details: 16.5 x 11.5 x 6.75 inches | 21 liters | 3.2 pounds | Nylon, leather | 13.5-inch laptop pocket

Best Budget

Tzowla travel laptop backpack.

• Capacity 4.8 /5
• Comfort 4.8 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5

The bag has lots of smart features for travelers.

The materials feel lower in quality.

This wallet-friendly backpack exceeded expectations during testing due to all of the thoughtful designs that rivaled the most expensive bags we tested. After four months of regularly using the bag, we especially love the padded laptop sleeve that protects laptops up to 15.6 inches long. The backpack has a variety of other smart features including a USB port, a passcode lock, and a headphone port to make traveling with electronics a breeze. We found that the main compartment is very spacious and easy to pack with bulkier items like a jacket or lunchbox, and the front compartment has tons of little pockets for organizing smaller items.

Made with polyester fabric, the backpack feels fairly durable and didn’t get damaged during our durability tests, but it is noticeably lower quality than the other bags we tested with a higher price point. However, the straps have comfortable padding and adjustable buckles, so the bag is still very comfortable to carry.

The Details: 18.5 x 11.8 x 5.5 inches | 34 liters | 1.83 pounds | Polyester blend | 15.6-inch laptop pocket | USB and headphone port | Password lock

Best Organization

Timbuk2 authority laptop backpack deluxe.

• Capacity 4.5 /5

It has plenty of pockets for organizing all of your belongings efficiently.

The capacity could have been bigger.

The Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe has a variety of interior and exterior pockets to help you stay organized on the go. There’s a designated spot for all of your must-haves with a padded laptop pocket in the back, a main compartment with slip and zippered pockets, and a spacious front pocket for items like a notebook. Plus, there’s a side slip pocket for your water bottle and a trolley sleeve for attaching the pack to a suitcase. We love the ability to access your laptop from the back zipper or through the main compartment of the backpack. Additionally, we appreciated the sleek pack’s compression straps so you can adjust the capacity of the bag, but we still thought the main compartment could have been a bit larger. The padded backpack straps are comfortable to wear for long periods of time, and if you live in a rainy climate, the durable recycled nylon exterior is also water-resistant.

The Details: 18.9 x 11.42 x 5.31 inches | 20 liters | 2.51 pounds | Recycled nylon | 17-inch laptop pocket

Most Versatile

Monos metro backpack.

The front pocket comes off so you can travel with or without the extra space.

The original model has visible snaps when the front pocket is removed, but that's been updated with the newer version.

The Monos Metro Backpack has a removable front pocket that adds quite a bit of extra space which is a game-changer for traveling. For other times when you may not need the excess room, all you have to do is pull the discrete cord in the back of the pouch to release pouch and take it off. Best of all, when you remove the pouch, the backpack still looks sleek, and it doesn't look like any part of the bag is missing thanks to the brand's modular system for taking on and off the pouch.

We love the soft vegan leather look of the backpack and found the materials to provide protection against laptop damage when we dropped it. There are several pockets inside the main compartment, and the laptop pocket is in the back, separated from the rest of the bag. Whether you're traveling on an airplane or heading into the office, this stylish bag is ideal for those looking for a versatile backpack. It also comes in nylon fabric with more colors to choose from.

The Details: 11.5 × 16.5 × 6 inches | 18 liters | 3 pounds | Vegan leather or nylon | 15-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack

• Design 4.6 /5
• Capacity 4.2 /5
• Durability 4 /5
• Comfort 4.6 /5

This lightweight backpack has a sleek, contemporary design that comes in several earthy colors.

It has a smaller capacity than many backpacks and can only fit a day or two of clothes.

If you’re looking to travel in style with a great carry-on backpack , Everlane’s The ReNew Transit Backpack is the perfect fit. Functional and contemporary, we found it to best suited for day outings because of its smaller capacity. The bag fit all of the packing items during testing, but it would be difficult to fit much more in the main compartment. The ReNew Transit was also comfortable to wear thanks to its lightweight polyester material and compact build. The front flap of the backpack has an external pocket for smaller items, and it folds over to attach magnetically to the front of the backpack.

During our durability tests, the front magnets stayed securely together, and the body of the backpack didn’t get crushed or damaged after we threw it off a table multiple times. We liked how it can fit under an airplane seat, making it a versatile backpack when traveling, too. The laptop sleeve keeps a computer safe, and there's also a water bottle holder on the side and an additional front zippered pocket below the folding magnetic lock. With five earthy tones to choose from, this is a bag to fit all travel style preferences.

The Details: 12 x 17.5 x 7.25 inches | 27 liters | Recycled polyester | 15-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Bagsmart Bonchemin Laptop Backpack

The high-quality material and functional design is similar to pricier bags we tried.

You have to clip the laptop pocket with the provided carabiners otherwise the bag will open and your laptop will drop.

Rivaling higher-priced backpacks we tried, this option from Bagsmart proves that you don’t have to sacrifice quality for a lower price, so we dubbed it the best backpack for its high value. During our tests, we found that this bag is spacious enough to fit a laptop, an iPad, a notebook, and a sweatshirt with plenty of room left over to add more. The backpack is made with a cushioned polyester fabric and foam padded straps that had us raving about comfort when wearing. However, because the bag is made out of fabric, it may get dirtier than a nylon pack, but it didn’t show any signs of damage during our durability tests.

With four separate zippered compartments and more than 10 interior pockets, travelers will also appreciate the variety of spots to organize everything. The pack also has anti-theft zippers, a USB charging port, a side water bottle pocket, and a trolley sleeve, making this one of the best-designed laptop backpacks we tried.

The Details: 18.5 x 12.5 x 7 inches | 40 liters | 1.5 pounds | Polyester | 15.6-inch laptop pocket | USB port

Best for Photographers

Peak design everyday backpack.

It comes with Velcro separators for added protection for camera or video gear.

The magnetic top opening has a slight learning curve to open the backpack easily.

The Peak Design Everyday Backpack will give you peace of mind when it comes to protecting your camera or video equipment while traveling. Its structured design adds extra protection, and the backpack comes with four stiff Velcro separators to further protect fragile technology. Plus, the padded laptop sleeve in the back will ensure that your laptop travels safely. The icing on the cake of this backpack is how lightweight it feels to wear, especially for long periods of time. The weatherproof nylon exterior didn’t scuff or get scratched when we threw the backpack onto the floor, and best of all, the laptop and iPad remained unharmed. Since the bag is designed for photographers, it comes with three separators that you can fasten to the side of the backpack to protect and organize camera gear. The magnetic top latch was slightly finicky to open at first, but once done, it gets easier to use.

The Details: 24.5 x 14.2 x 7.8 inches | 30 liters | 4.1 pounds | Recycled nylon, polyester | 15-inch laptop pocket | Fits DSLR cameras

Best for Students

Fjällräven räven 28.

• Durability 4.3 /5

The backpack is comfortable and breathable to wear while walking.

The polyester blend wasn’t as durable as we hoped.

For students walking across campus or between classes, the Fjällräven Räven 28 Backpack is the best option. We love how breathable the back padding is and that it provides plenty of cushioning and support when it's on. The design itself is not bulky, so we weren't worried about brushing up against other people while walking through crowded places during our real-world test. Plus, there are tons of pockets in the main compartment for classroom essentials, and each side of the backpack has a water bottle slip pocket.

We did notice that this bag easily collects dust or lint after it is tossed on the ground. Despite the slight dirtiness of the fabric, we found that the backpack does an excellent job of protecting a laptop in the designated padded sleeve in the back. It's not difficult to fit varying needs, even after using it on a daily commute for two months, and we found it battled the elements well, keeping a computer untouched by rain, too.

The Details: 18.5 x 14 x 6.1 inches | 28 liters | Polyester and cotton with wax coating | 15-inch laptop pocket

Best Sustainable

Troubadour orbis 1-pocket backpack.

• Design 4.3 /5

It’s made with 100 percent recycled materials that can be fully recycled if the bag can no longer be used.

The main zipper has a fabric trim over it that makes it difficult to open and close the bag.

This backpack from Troubadour is one of the most unique backpacks we’ve ever tested. Not only is the bag made with 100 percent recycled fabric but when it’s no longer able to be used, it can actually be recycled instead of going into a landfill. While we’re big fans of the sustainability of the bag, it’s also extremely comfortable to wear and looks very sleek from the outside.

The back panel and shoulder straps have lifejacket-level padding so you’ll be plenty comfortable wearing the bag for long periods of time. Your laptop will be thoroughly protected thanks to the cushioned pocket in the back — a distinguishing feature of a good laptop bag . There's an ideal amount of small and medium pockets sprinkled throughout the interior and exterior so it’s easy to pack a sweatshirt, book, phone charger, keys, and more for a trip. The design and materials of the bag feel exceptionally durable, and it still looks new after four months of regular use. The only issue we ran into was with the zipper being slightly difficult to find because of the fabric hood that covers the main zipper.

The Details: 16.5 x 11.8 x 5.5 inches | 17.6 liters | 3.3 pounds | Recycled polyester | 16-inch laptop pocket

Béis The Backpack

• Design 4.8 /5

It has a simple, no-frills design for extra versatility.

It may be too large for every-day use.

We love the simple design of the Béis backpack and found that it’s packed full of thoughtful features making it the perfect backpack for travelers , students, and commuters alike. We were impressed with the large capacity of the main compartment that could easily fit all of the items on our packing list, including tech items like a laptop and iPad on the inside and a water bottle in one of the two slip pockets on the sides. The main compartment has several smaller pockets and a designated padded laptop sleeve. After we did our drop test to evaluate the durability, the padding did a good job of protecting the laptop, but there isn’t padding at the bottom of the bag which had us questioning how much protection the backpack offers. Even when it was completely packed, the padded straps were comfortable to wear, and the back had more padding for added comfort.

The Details: 19 x 13 x 5.5 inches | 22 liters | 1.8 pounds | Cotton, PVC, polyester | 14.5-inch laptop pocket

Other Laptop Backpacks We Liked

Here are some other backpacks we've tested that are worth mentioning, all of which we liked for various reasons but found some slight issues with.

Away The Everywhere Zip Backpack : The design is sleek and functional, but we think there isn’t enough padding for comfort or laptop protection if the bag is handled roughly.

Samsonite Classic Leather Slim Backpack : The slim design is sleek and professional without sacrificing capacity, but the outer material did scuff a bit during our durability tests.

Vohler Laptop Backpack With Charger : This pack was a serious contender for the best budget bag thanks to its sturdy build and protective padding, but our above pick had a few more standout features than this one.

Swissgear Travel Gear 1900 Scansmart TSA Laptop Backpack : Ideal for students, travelers, or commuters, we loved that this bag is durable and has plenty of storage solutions, but it wasn’t as comfortable as we hoped.

Between several different lab testing occasions, we tested more than 50 laptop backpacks from highly rated brands like The North Face, Away, Samsonite, Swissgear, and more. We evaluated each pack on a rating scale of one to five based on capacity, design, comfort, and durability.

First, to test for capacity, we used a packing list to fill the bag with a laptop, an iPad, a sweatshirt, a water bottle, a notebook, and a toiletry bag. Backpacks scoring a five for capacity were able to fit all of the packing items and provided an appropriate amount of organization solutions for the laptop, as well as the other items both big and small. During the packing process, we evaluated the design of each bag, and our top picks for the design category had plenty of padding around the laptop pocket, a variety of helpful pockets, and handles or straps that made carrying the backpack effortless and intuitive.

Then, we put on the backpacks and walked around for at least ten minutes to get a feel for the bag. We looked out for any pain caused by shoulder or sternum straps, pinching, or any other type of discomfort. The best bags for comfort were outfitted with padding in the back and straps and didn’t cause any awkwardness or irritation from the pack. To test for durability, we pushed the backpacks off of a tabletop and checked the interior contents and exterior for any scuff marks, scratches, or damage. The backpacks also went out for four months of long-term testing in the real world so we could monitor the quality and functionality to ultimately decide which products tested best .

As we continue to test more backpacks, we will update this article with our findings.

Tips for Buying a Laptop Backpack

Check the laptop sleeve size.

Most laptops measure anywhere from 10 to 17 inches in length, so it’s important to double-check the dimensions of the laptop sleeve to ensure it fits in the designated pocket. Usually, you can find the laptop length capacity of a backpack in the “specification” description of the bag.

Padding is key for protection and comfort

The more padding around the laptop, the better protected it will be if that bag is handled roughly . Since the laptop pocket or sleeve is usually in the back of the bag, there should be padding in the back to add comfort while wearing the backpack. Also, be on the lookout for additional padding on the straps to make the bag even more comfortable to wear.

During our tests, we placed the laptop directly into the pocket without a case on it and found that the top-performing bags had enough padding to protect the laptop from getting damaged. However, if you feel more comfortable slipping it into a laptop case and placing it in the backpack, feel free to do so.

Laptops often measure anywhere from 13 to 17 inches, which is the diagonal measurement of the screen. To get the right measurement, take a tape measure and place it from one screen corner to the opposite diagonally to get the right measurement. Most laptop pockets will say what dimensions the space will fit so be sure to double-check your laptop size to get the right backpack.

It always depends on the airline you fly and the luggage restrictions that come with your ticket, but generally, a backpack can be a personal item on a flight in addition to a carry-on. However, if your laptop backpack is too large to fit underneath the seat in front of you, it could potentially count as a carry-on instead, so it's important to check with your airline ahead of time.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L commerce writer Anna Popp writes most of the team's tested content and participates in every lab and real-world test to try out luggage, outdoor, and beauty products. Anna owns several laptop backpacks including picks from Monos, Troubadour, and Lo & Sons. She pulled from her own experiences traveling with backpacks and combed through thorough testing insights to recommend the best laptop backpacks.

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The Best Checked Luggage of 2024, Tested by Experts

Smooth and durable spinners, hard-shell bags and softside suitcases for epic trips.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

With so many luggage brands to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which suitcases are worth it, especially since bigger bags can cost bigger bucks. That's why, at the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, we test luggage for all types of travel. In recent years, we've evaluated more than 100 suitcases, testing them in our Lab and sending them to consumer testers who take them on real trips to test for durability, appearance and performance properties.

Our top picks:

• Best Overall: Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Spinner
• Best Value: Amazon Basics 30-Inch Hardside Spinner
• Most Popular: Away The Large
• Best for Minimalists: Monos Check-In Large
• Best for Business Travel: Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Spinner

Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Spinner

After more than fifteen years of evaluating Samsonite luggage, its bags continue to stand out in our Textiles Lab tests. This style in particular is one of our favorite models, thanks to its l ightweight design and easy-to-use features . At 9.6 pounds, it's one of the lightest suitcases we tested, but it's still durable. In our drop tests, the hardside polypropylene material performed well without major dents or damages.

It's a favorite of our consumer testers who say the suitcase has smooth rolling wheels that make it easy to maneuver around corners and turns. When I evaluated the suitcase in the Lab, I was impressed by the sturdy telescopic handle that locks into place at different heights for comfortable pushing and pulling. Our testers said the carrying handles felt a little tight, but they still thought the bag was easy to pick up.

The suitcase has a butterfly opening and unzips into two primary packing compartments: one with a stretch compression strap for flexible security and one with a zippered panel to keep all of your belongings in place. You'll also find a smaller zippered pocket for additional storage. We were able to fit our entire packing load in the suitcase with room to spare. For even more room to bring home souvenirs on your vacation, the checked bag can be expanded by almost another inch.

Weight: 9.6 lbs | Listed dimensions: 13.78" x 20.95" x 31.1" | Material: Hardside polypropylene | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Amazon Basics 30-Inch Hardside Spinner

With more than 46 ,000 reviews on Amazon and an average rating of 4.5 stars , this hardside spinner suitcase from Amazon Basics is solid evidence that you don't need to break the bank to buy a quality piece of luggage.

In addition to impressing tens of thousands of online reviewers, this collection of bags also wowed us and our consumer testers. The suitcase is made with ABS plastic, which isn't as durable as polycarbonate material, but it helps keep the cost low (and it's usually on sale). Plus, it performed well in our durability assessments, showing some marks in our scratch test but resisting major dents and damage in our drop test.

When our testers rolled the carry-on model through our obstacle course setup, they loved the smooth-rolling wheels, and one tester said the bag was "very easy to move." However, they shared that the telescopic handle felt notably less sturdy than other suitcases they tested. Packing it was a breeze, thanks to its spacious interior with a large zippered compartment, smaller pockets to help with organization and a compression strap to secure your things. You can even expand the bag for extra packing space.

Weight: 12.2 lbs | Listed dimensions: 30.7" x 12" x 20.47" | Material: Hardside ABS | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Away The Large

After conducting tests for our Away luggage review , we have to say that the trendy bags are worth investing in.

Its hard-shell polycarbonate material proved to be durable in our tests, but it's still lighter than even some of the soft fabric suitcases we reviewed . When we repeatedly dropped the carry-on model from our drop tester, there was no noticeable damage. It even aced our scratch tests with minimal scuffs. The bag unzips into two roomy compartments. One side closes with a zipper, and the other features compression straps that made the packing process simple in our evaluations. Our consumer testers said the telescopic handles could feel sturdier, but they gave the handle high scores for comfort, and they loved the smooth wheels.

The bag comes with a genuine leather luggage tag to help you identify your suitcase and a removable laundry bag to stash your dirty clothes. It's currently available in six on-trend colors including the featured red, navy, cloud gray and sea green. There's even an option to customize your bag with your initials for an added fee. Away offers a generous 100-day trial period, so you can gently test it out at home and return or exchange it if you decide it's not for you.

Weight: 12.1 lbs | Listed dimensions: 29" x 20.5" x 12.5" | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

Monos Check-In Large

Ideal for someone who prefers a sleeker, more minimalist aesthetic, this checked bag from popular luggage brand Monos wowed both GH analysts and our consumer testers during our evaluations.

The durable polycarbonate luggage follows the brand's "less is more" design philosophy, but it isn't lacking in space or organization . We rated it highly for being easy to pack, with a roomy interior that's divided into two compartments: One is zipper-enclosed and the other has an adjustable compression panel to keep contents secure. Plus, there are three spacious mesh zippered pockets for additional organization, and you'll also receive a laundry bag and two shoe bags.

When testers rolled the suitcase through our obstacle course, they were wowed by how easy it was to maneuver and how smoothly the spinner wheels rolled. "I was pleasantly surprised by how easy this bag was to travel with," shared one tester who took the bag on a trip. "I didn't have to roll it behind me; I could roll it next to me." In our durability assessments, the suitcase managed to hold up to repeated drops without suffering major dents, but the shell did show some marks and scuffs in our scratch test. The brand sends an "eco-friendly eraser sponge" to clean more stubborn marks.

Monos also offers a 100-day trial period, which means you can test the bag at home for up to 100 days before committing.

Weight: 10.6 lbs | Listed dimensions: 30" x 21" x 11" | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Spinner

Travelpro was founded by a pilot who wanted to create luggage for frequent fliers who are rough on their bags, so the brand's suitcases are perfect for regular business travel.

This luxe softside bag comes in six traditional colors like rich espresso brown and Bordeaux red, and although some of our testers said the style was a bit old-fashioned, I appreciate the bag's sophisticated design elements, like chrome zippers and genuine leather carrying handles and trim . Other impressive features include a removable garment bag that's ideal for storing a work suit or dress, a TSA-compliant toiletry bag and plenty of internal and external pockets for organization, as well as a 2-inch zippered expansion that's tapered to help prevent your bag from becoming top-heavy and tipping over.

When we evaluated the carry-on model, the nylon fabric proved durable in our abrasion tests, resisting wear. In other tests, it showed no major signs of damage after being dropped repeatedly, and the zippers were water-resistant, keeping the contents inside the bag nice and dry. During our packing test, we could fit our standard load and had plenty of room to spare. Our testers said the cushioned telescopic handle had great grip. Even better, the bag's double spinner wheels are self-aligning to help you roll smoothly through the airport.

Weight: 11.5 lbs | Listed dimensions: 32.5" x 21" x 13.25" | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Delsey Paris Helium DLX Softside Expandable Checked Large

Weighing in at just 10.2 pounds, this checked bag from Delsey is one of our lightest picks, but just because the bag is light doesn't mean it isn't durable or spacious.

In our durability tests, the carry-on model held up well to repeated dropping without major dents or damages, and the polyester-and-nylon-blend material withstood rubbing from our abrasion machine. During consumer evaluations, our testers said the bag wasn't as easy to maneuver as others they tried, but they gave it good scores overall during use and rated the handle highly for feeling comfortable and sturdy.

The suitcase we evaluated aced our packing tests, receiving perfect scores for being easy to fill and for holding our standard load of belongings for a long trip. We did have some difficulty opening and closing the zippers while packing the carry-on-size bag, and I personally find Delsey's zippers to be stubborn, but our testers appreciated all of the zippered compartments for organization, with one sharing, "I love the pockets." The suitcase unzips into one large opening, complete with compression straps to secure your belongings, a large mesh zippered pocket and a removable bifold toiletry bag.

Plus, there are two outer pockets, and the suitcase can be expanded by up to 2 inches for more room. The inner lining is fully removable, which makes it simple to clean, since you can just take it out and throw it in the washing machine.

Weight: 10.2 lbs | Listed dimensions: 32.75" x 20" x 13.5" | Material: Softside polyester-and-nylon blend | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Briggs & Riley Baseline Extra Large Expandable Spinner

What sets this bag from Briggs & Riley apart is its innovative design that simplifies packing for longer trips .

When you unzip the bag, it exposes one large, lined compartment to store your belongings and two mesh zippered pockets for smaller items and accessories. Hidden inside the lid of the suitcase is a built-in trifold garment folder with a hook for hangers that's perfect for storing formal attire. Our testers who tried a smaller model of this bag were impressed by how much they could fit inside, sharing that there was way more space than they expected. Plus, a unique push-button expansion system allows you to easily expand the bag for extra packing space and then compress it down to its standard size once it's been filled.

For a softside bag, it's on the heavier side, weighing 15.6 pounds, but it's made with high-quality materials and is reinforced at the corners to protect your valuables. When I put the nylon material to the test with our abrasion machine, I was impressed that it showed no major signs of wear or scratches. It was the top performer in our most recent round of drop testing; I found no major dents or damage after loading it into our drop tester and releasing it repeatedly. Our testers said the bag was easy to maneuver through our obstacle course and rated the telescopic handle as sturdy too.

Weight: 15.6 lbs | Listed dimensions: 31" x 22" x 13.8" | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Calpak Ambeur Large Luggage

A favorite of our testers, Calpak's Ambeur collection of luggage is the ideal combination of fashion and function . It's available in four trendy metallics: silver, gold, black and rose gold, along with a limited copper color. This high-quality checked bag is made of polycarbonate and ABS composite material that's lightweight and held up well to repeated drops in our tests. It did show some signs of wear in our scratch test, but that's common with ABS composites.

When our testers rolled the carry-on model through our obstacle course, they were happy with its easy-to-use telescopic handle, with one describing it as "the smoothest handle by far," compared to other luggage being tested. Other testers said the padded handles were comfy to hold and easy to steer and lift with.

The interior of the bag is also impressive, and I find it easy to pack full of everything I need for a two-week trip. Inside, there are two large areas for storing larger belongings, complete with a compression strap and a zippered panel, as well as two additional zippered pockets and a handy removable toiletries bag. You can even expand the spacious bag by 2 inches to bring souvenirs back with you on your trip home, but there's so much packing space already that you may not even need the extra room.

Weight: 11.75 lbs | Listed dimensions: 30" x 19" x 12" | Material: Hardside polycarbonate and ABS composite | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

How we test checked luggage

In the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, we regularly test all kinds of luggage — including larger checked luggage — with our specialized Lab equipment and by setting up obstacle courses for testers to navigate . We also share our luggage with consumer testers who try the bags on their own trips. Here's how we evaluate checked bags and other luggage:

✔️ Size and weight : We've found that listed specs for luggage aren't always accurate, so we weigh each piece of luggage while it's empty. Then we measure the luggage to see if it complies with dimension restrictions put in place by most U.S. airlines.

✔️ Ease of use : We rate how easy it is to zip and unzip (pictured) and consider the accessibility of the packing compartments.

We also evaluate important features like the telescopic handle and the wheels. After packing the bag, we practice rolling it over different surfaces, such as tile, carpet and hardwood, and lift it onto countertops to try out the handles.

✔️ Packing capabilities : We pack each suitcase with a standard load of items for a week-long trip, including shoes, clothes and toiletries (pictured). We score the suitcase based on how much it can hold and how easily we can fill it.

✔️ Abrasion resistance: We cut swatches of fabric from softside luggage and load them into our abrasion machine (pictured) which rubs the material against an abrasive surface 15,000 times to simulate extended use. We then assess the material and grade it for signs of wear.

✔️ Scratch resistance : To determine scratch resistance, we drag a wire over hardside luggage material and then visually assess any scratches, ridges, scuffs or markings left behind.

✔️ Drop durability : We fill each suitcase with a standard weight and load it into our drop tester (pictured). The drop tester releases each piece of luggage from a set height of three feet. We repeat the test in various directions, noting and scoring any damages, dents or imperfections that result.

✔️ Consumer tests: To simulate actual use, we set up a standard course that features a variety of surfaces and obstacles that testers must navigate, such as pulling the suitcase through sharp turns, lifting the bag over curbs, transitioning to different types of flooring (pictured) and more. To mimic a real travel load, each suitcase is filled with weight before being put to the test. Testers also rate factors like ease of use, comfort and sturdiness of the handles, as well as the performance and smoothness of the wheels and overall maneuverability.

We also share suitcases with testers, editors and analysts who take them on their own trips and provide us with real-user feedback about their experiences. Plus, we take the luggage on our own trips, and I have personally used several of the bags featured on my vacations and trips abroad.

What to look for when shopping for the best checked luggage

Here are some things to keep in mind while searching for the best checked luggage for your needs:

✔️ Wheels : In our evaluations, 360-degree wheels — called spinner wheels — have consistently received the best scores for maneuverability. Larger checked luggage should have four wheels, making it easier to roll, push and pull in all directions.

✔️ Telescopic handle : It may not seem like a huge deal, but a solid, sturdy handle can have a big impact on the performance of your luggage, especially when you're lugging around a heavy checked bag. If you get to examine the luggage in person, we recommend testing how easy it is to raise and lower the handle and checking to see if it can be adjusted to different heights for comfortable toting. Consider the feel of the handle as well, and note if it has a good grip or extra padding. Be sure to use the handle with care because jerking or rough use can lead to damage over time.

✔️ Top and side handles : Look for luggage that has easy-to-grip top and side handles, which can be helpful when lifting and lowering bags from higher surfaces. You may not be placing your checked bag into an overhead bin, but you'll still need to carry it down stairs, lift it into trunks or place it on a scale at the airport.

✔️ Compartments: Most larger hardside checked bags unzip and open into two sections, but softside bags tend to have one large open space for packing your belongings. For more organization, opt for a bag with plenty of compartments, whether they're larger mesh storage spaces, small zippered pockets or exterior pockets for easy access while traveling. Many checked bags will also include a built-in garment bag, toiletry bag and/or laundry bag for even more organization.

✔️ Zippers: Try out the zipper by opening and closing the bag a few times to determine if it's easy to use or if you find it to be finicky and difficult to grip. If possible, also try assessing water resistance by placing a small drop of water on the zipper to see if the water seeps through or beads on the surface.

✔️ Weight: Checked luggage can be pretty heavy, even when empty. Most checked bags, hard and soft, weigh between 10 and 13 pounds, but some weigh upwards of 15 pounds. Most airlines have a 50-pound weight limit for checked luggage with belongings inside, so a heavier suitcase can eat up valuable weight you'd normally use for your packing load.

✔️ Returns and warranties: Warranties tend to only cover manufacturer defects, which can be difficult to prove. If you're worried about committing to a piece of luggage, instead of focusing on the warranty, check to see if the brand offers an extended trial period and/or an any-reason return policy. This can be especially helpful if you're buying your suitcase online and can't try it out in person first.

Which is better: Hardside or softside luggage?

Choosing either hardside or softside luggage is really up to your personal preference. Both types of checked luggage have advantages and disadvantages, so keep these things in mind while you're making a decision: ✔️ Hardside luggage: Hardside suitcases tend to be durable, stylish and lightweight. Not all hard suitcases are the same, though. These are the most popular types of hard material:

• Polycarbonate : This is the most common material for hardside luggage because it's typically lighter than aluminum but also more durable than ABS plastic. It's able to resist high-impact drops but is more susceptible to scratches and scuffs, so manufacturers will sometimes add a special coating to prevent scratching.
• ABS plastic: It's a more affordable material to use, so most lower-cost hardside luggage is made with ABS. The material is super lightweight but not as durable as polycarbonate or metals.
• Polycarbonate/ABS composites : Some suitcases combine polycarbonate and ABS, so you can reap the benefits of both. Typically with composites, there will be a layer of ABS plastic under a coating of polycarbonate. It's not quite as strong as a suitcase made of only polycarbonate, but it's typically more affordable than solid polycarbonate.
• Aluminum: Metal suitcases made of aluminum are more durable than other materials, but they're heavy and can be pretty pricey, so it's not as commonly used.

✔️ Softside luggage: Fabric-based suitcases are more malleable than hardside bags, so they can be easier to store in tight spaces or stuff completely full while you're packing. The material is also less susceptible to scratches and dents, but it's subject to abrasion over time. These materials are often used for softside luggage:

• Nylon : Most softside suitcases are made of nylon, which is a synthetic fiber that's durable and resists wear, and it's fairly water-resistant. It's a great option for frequent fliers who might be rough on their luggage.
• Polyester : Another synthetic fiber, polyester tends to be less expensive than nylon and more lightweight. It's not usually as durable, but we have tested many polyester bags that are abrasion-resistant.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Since joining the GH Institute in 2022 as an analyst, Amanda Constantine has tested and written about luggage of all kinds including carry-ons, duffels, travel backpacks and hardside luggage . Amanda also conducted some of the luggage testing for Good Housekeeping's Family Travel Awards program. For this article, she reviewed former testing data and used her related expertise and personal experience to make recommendations for the best checked luggage.

Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.

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The 11 Best Large, Functional Bags That Are Life-Proof—But Still Gorgeous

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All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, StyleCaster may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.

Tom Wambsgans may not approve, but everyone needs a large bag, even if it feels “ludicrously capacious” and what’s even in there? “Flat shoes for subway? [Your] lunch pail?” It’s monstrous, but it sure is practical.

You’ve probably seen the “What’s In My Bag” video format on YouTube where celebrities and influencers show the incredibly well-curated content of their designer handbags — never large bags! Piece by piece, they reveal the essentials they deem worthy of living in their Chanel Flap Bag rent-free. While they may be entertaining, I always find these videos incredibly unrelatable. My daily bag is a Longchamp Le Pliage tote and it serves as a portable storage unit for my work computer and every other miscellaneous item that doesn’t comfortably fit into my one-bedroom apartment.

I’d be embarrassed to reveal the contents of my bag (let alone to millions of people on the internet) but I’m not embarrassed to say I’m well-versed in the best large bags for daily life, work, travel and even beach vacations. If you’re in the market for a new tote that holds it all, you’re in the right place.

Best Large Bags for Work at a Glance

Best Overall: Kipling Art M Weekender , $129 Best Under $50: Guardung Oversized PU Leather Tote , $46 Best Boxy Tote Bag: A New Day Large Boxy Tote Handbag , $40 Best Classic Tote: Market by Monica Canvas Hero XL Tote , $130 Best Summer Bag: Madewell Handwoven Leather Tote , $188 Best Cool-Girl Bag: Clare V. Simple Tote , $450 Best Against Wear and Tear: Large Le Pliage Tote, $155 Best TikTok-Favorite Brand: Polène Cyme Tote , $520 Best Minimalist Style: Freja New York Linnea Tote Cappuccino , $318 Best Sale Bag: Sandro Kasbah Double S Bag , $275 (originally $475) Best Vegan Leather Bag: Von Holzhausen The Large Shopper , $495

The first thing to know when shopping for a large bag is that not all spacious totes are created equal. Like searching for an apartment. it’s important to shop with a personal set of criteria for your ideal bag . Do you want an interior pocket, a zipper top or a multi-wear strap? Leather, faux leather or maybe a canvas material? There’s not one right answer so the choice is yours! Luckily, there are plenty of options on the market that meet multiple criteria.

If you’re planning on using this bag every day for years, it may be worth investing in a higher-quality piece like the bags from Polène . If you’re looking for a grocery or beach tote for the summer, an affordable choice from Zara will get the job done. No matter your budget, the 10 bags I’ve rounded up below are just as cute as they are spacious. Or as Tom says in Succession, ludicrously capacious.

What to Look for in a Large Bag for Work

What to shop for in a large bag for work depends on your personal work needs. If you need to lug your laptop to and from work every day, you might want to find a bag with a laptop sleeve or compartment. If you’re always losing your keys, using a bag that features a built-in key ring or fob will be helpful. Additionally, consider the amount of pockets you need. Keeping your credit card or Metro card in an outer pocket can make commuting and grabbing lunch way easier.

Last thing: Straps and handles. Try to make sure the straps and/or handles on the bag are durable and preferably plush or soft, so they don’t dig into your shoulders. If you need a large bag, chances are you’re carrying a lot of stuff. A lot of stuff = a heavy load. Be kind to your shoulders and back!

Our mission at STYLECASTER is to bring style to the people, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Kipling is a STYLECASTER sponsor, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.

Kipling Art M Weekender Tote Bag

• Can slide over your roller bag
• Bottom zip compartment that’s separate
• Styles frequently sell out

Guardung Oversized PU Leather Tote

• No bag closure

A New Day Large Boxy Tote Handbag

• Boxy structure
• Reviewers say outer pockets are too small

Madewell Handwoven Leather Tote

• Really gorgeous
• Unique handwoven design
• Has slightly longer strap drop vs. the Transport Tote
• Price is fair
• Rounded straps do dig in if your load is heavy

Clare V Simple Tote

• Beautiful, unique design
• Has long strap option
• Structured, flat bottom
• Since it’s suede, it’s harder to keep clean

Longchamp Le Pliage Tote

• Water-resistant lining
• Large capacity
• Some reviewers note arm straps are on the shorter side

Market By Monica Canvas Hero XL Tote

• Goes with everything
• Comes with handles as well as crossbody straps
• Made from 100% organic cotton
• Can get dirty quickly

Polène Cyme Tote

• 1 large compartment
• Unique design
• Wide, comfortable straps
• No zip closure
• Not the most practical for everyday use

Freja New York Linnea Tote Cappuccino

• Sleek, minimalist “quiet luxury” style
• Multiple internal pockets, compartments
• Vegan leather

Sandro Kasbah Double S Bag

• Magnetic closure
• Higher price point

Von Holzhausen Shopper Tote

• Authentic leather feel
• Extremely durable
• Water-resistant
• Stain-resistant
• Chic, unique design
• Made from recycled, biodegradable material
• Handles/straps could be thicker or more plush

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The 17 Very Best Work Bags for Women

Including one that can handle both the new york subway and a vermont mountain hike..

In this article

Best work bag overall.

• Best with zipper or drawstring
• Best with compartments
• Best backpacks
• Best for travel
• Best for gym

The best bag for work isn’t one-size-fits-all. Sometimes, I need a work bag to do everything at once: look professional but not too stuffy, accommodate gym sneakers and a laptop, and organize all the miscellany you definitely don’t need (reading material, makeup bag , and even the odd wine bottle). Other times, I settle for a stylish bag that fits the essentials — a workhorse tote from Baggu, for example — or something that can go from in the office to after-work drinks — like a timeless leather shoulder bag.

To help you find the work bag that suits your lifestyle and budget, my colleague Rachael Griffiths and I surveyed a bunch of stylish, industrious women about the multitasking tote bags , backpacks , and over-the-shoulder options they rely on to get them through the workday — and beyond. Then, along with a few other discerning Strategist staffers, we tested their recommendations over several months to find the best work bags for all kinds of people — all which you’ll find below. And if you’re looking for something for longer hauls, check out our buying guides to weekender bags and carry-ons .

What we’re looking for

In general, you want a work bag that’s strong enough to hold heavy laptops and durable enough to survive being squished on the subway but still looks good to bring to the office. The material will be the main thing that determines that. Leather is a no-brainer in that department, but it can be expensive. Canvas, especially waxed or coated, is another common option; it’s still durable and usually less expensive than leather. I’ve also found some nice nylon options, which are generally easier to clean than either leather or canvas.

Prices for work bags are broad, ranging from $20 to a few hundred dollars, depending on their durability and materials they’re made of. Most of our picks are in the range of $100 to $250, and I’ve found that’s generally the sweet spot for durability and looks. But I included affordable options as well as worth-it, and every bag is denoted as either $ (under $100), $$ (under $250), or $$$ (over $250).

Material: Leather | Price: $$

The Madewell Transport Tote has been a favorite of Strategist editors and readers alike, since it was first recommended to us by Deb Perelman of Smitten Kitchen in 2018: “I do not have very exciting or expensive tastes in handbags; I just need a bag with a handle-drop length, so I can shove it over my shoulder while wearing a puffy jacket that holds a laptop, water bottle , and all the toys my kids swear they want to play with that I get stuck carrying home,” she told us.

With Perelman’s (and so many of my colleagues’) praise for the bag in mind, I knew I needed to try it for myself. Though I’ve used it for only a few weeks, the Transport Tote has become my main everyday bag, whether I’m running a quick errand or packing for a weekend trip . That’s because it’s just the right width (and depth) to fit everything I need: There’s enough room for both my 13-inch work laptop and my personal MacBook Pro, plus a charging cable, a hefty book, a few snacks, and a small pouch carrying other daily essentials, like makeup and hand cream . I also love that its design is simple yet classic without any branding on the exterior, making it easy to dress up or down. The leather is slightly grained but still smooth, and while I haven’t been able to test it for long, I have a hunch that it will patina beautifully season after season. And I recommend taking advantage of Madewell’s complimentary personalization service : It’ll give you up to ten characters to play with, so feel free to go for your initials or favorite (short) phrase.

Best (less expensive) work bag

Material: Faux -leather | Price: $

For the cost of a Sweetgreen salad, you could sport this “super-affordable work bag” from Dreubea. It comes recommended by Dianna Baros , who chronicles her life as a frugal-fashion expert on her style blog the Budget Babe. She notes that there are “lots of colors to choose from, making it easy to swap out your bag for different color trends as the seasons change.” She’s not the bag’s only fan: It has more than 5,000 Amazon reviews, 75 percent of which gave four and five stars. This soft, structured bag can comfortably hold an iPad, as well as your wallet , phone, keys, Dopp kit , and the latest novel .

Best work tote bag

Material: Cotton | Price: $

Baggu’s Duck bag has been a favorite work bag here at the Strategist for a number of reasons. It has a snap closure, top handles, an adjustable strap long enough to make it a crossbody, and it’s deep enough to accommodate documents and a laptop. Elizabeth Tamkin , stylist and content director at KULE , also counts herself as a fan. For about five years, she has used Baggu’s tote whenever she has her laptop on her. She likes that it is extremely long-lasting and sturdy, comes in fun patterns, and is machine washable.

Best leather work tote bag

My favorite work bag from Madewell is also available with a top zip, in case you’re worried about accidentally dropping something from a too-stuffed tote. It’s also got two different sets of straps: two short top handles, plus a detachable shoulder strap that allows you to wear it across your body.

Best faux-leather work tote bag

Material: Artificial leather | Price: $

Cosmetic-surgery directory founder Annabelle Baugh commutes on the train with this inexpensive faux -leather tote. “I get asked where I got my bag all the time,” she says. “It’s replaced a more expensive Dune tote bag that I had for a few years, and I would say it’s one of the nicest bags for less than $50 I have ever had.” The bag has plenty of space for a tablet, her cell phone, a notebook, a one-liter flask, and the pair of ballet shoes she likes to slip into between meetings. She also appreciates the adjustable straps that she toggles up and down to perch the bag most comfortably on her shoulder.

Best sustainable work tote bag

Material: Nylon made of postconsumer plastic | Price: $

While other bags on this list are made partially out of sustainable materials, this Kokolu tote is made of 100 percent recycled post-consumer plastic bottles. Former Strategist senior editor Chelsea Peng, who has been carrying her work computer in the yellow Kokolu bag for three months now, says she “swears its springiness (probably thanks to the water bottles it’s made from) gives some sort of energy return that makes things feel lighter” than in other totes she’s owned. Peng also appreciates the bucket shape, because it can fit “a sweater , pouches, and other softer things around your laptop both to protect it and to obviously fit more inside.”

Best convertible tote for work

Material: Recycled tarpaulin | Price: $$

Suitcase Magazine columnist Anna Hart and designer Tyler McGillivary told us they use the sturdy bags from Freitag as their workhorse. The Swiss brand recycles truck tarpaulins into sturdy bags. Hart says her tote is a “compact yet virtually indestructible carry-on that can be converted into a comfortable backpack with a simple clip-on strap.” McGillivary also loves the strength and look of her bag: “It’s the perfect shade of yellow, in my opinion, and paired with a washed-out orange, it reminds me of fruit and fresh paint.”

Best work bag with zipper

Material: Leather | Price: $$$

Former Strategist senior writer Karen Iorio Adelson was a devoted Madewell Transport Tote user until one ill-fated trip to the airport, when the strap on her “(admittedly overstuffed) tote tore off” while she was waiting in the security line. She ordered an older version of the classic zipper Cuyana bag from her phone on the spot and called it a “big upgrade.” “The pebbled leather doesn’t show scratches or wear as easily, and it holds everything you’d need for a workday,” she says. Another fan is Strategist contributor and law student Mya Gelber, who, after six years of looking for her ideal sturdy-yet-lightweight work bag, finally landed on Cuyana’s classic tote . Gelber describes the leather as “so soft” and says it sits comfortably on her shoulder “even while carrying my thousand-page textbooks.”

Both Strategist senior writer Liza Corsillo and writer Arielle Avila tested Cuyana’s pebbled-leather Easy Tote. It comes in two other versions — small and tall — and Avila chose the latter. “I appreciate its slim, streamlined silhouette and that it’s still able to fit my laptop, wallet, phone, keys, and even a couple journals,” says Avila. Corsillo’s bag is her go-to for her New York City subway commute. “My favorite thing about it is how light the actual bag is, so I’m not adding any weight to what I’m carrying,” she says. “It also has double handles, so I can carry it two ways really easily.” You can shop the tall tote in eight colors, including pine and cream.

Best suede work bag with zipper

Material: Suede | Price: $$$

This handsome suede bucket bag is the go-to work bag for Strategist writer Dominique Pariso . If you’re wondering why it looks familiar, it’s because the bag went viral on TikTok last year — but Pariso says it’s no fad. “I really do love it and think it’s worth the hype,” she says. “It’s very sturdy: It holds all my daily essentials including my laptop. And I always get compliments.” The bag’s buckle strap means it can be adjusted to sit comfortably on any shoulder, and handy credit card pockets and a zip closure means all your valuables stay put. “I haven’t had any issues keeping it clean, but I’m very careful with it,” Pariso says. (Banana Republic also makes the bag in regular leather, which Pariso recommends if you’re after something that doesn’t need a lot of maintenance.)

Best leather work bag

Annelise Sealy, founder of the Fall Bride , says this Acne bag was on every single shopping wish list she wrote until she finally made the investment. “It fits everything I need in it for any type of day, whatever the season: whether I’m commuting to the shop in London or rushing between bridal presentations in New York and Barcelona,” she says. “It’s leather and that is important to me in a bag — to know that it has longevity.” Sealy says that the waterproof leather also suits the London weather well. The bag is available in four shades, but Sealy chose black — she wanted a work bag that would go with all outfits for maximum use, but one that still had an element of style. “Previously I’ve had more utilitarian (read: less chic) options that I felt needed to be swapped out for different times of day or events, but this bag comes with me to anything.”

Best work bag with compartments

Material: Canvas | Price: $$

For a versatile bag with some serious structure, try this tote from Dagne Dover. When I tested the Signature Tote, I immediately noticed how sturdy the shoulder straps felt, even when I’d filled the bag to the brim. But what was most impressive was the tote’s eight interior pockets, which kept all my daily necessities in order. The largest interior compartment perfectly fits my 13-inch laptop on one side of a padded divider; meanwhile, the opposite side can easily hold a tablet or Kindle. This technology pocket also has a wide strap with magnetic closure, so I don’t have to worry that my MacBook Pro is sliding around. Compact items, such as my wallet, phone, and lip balm, easily fit into the smaller pockets, and the bag is equipped with a nifty detachable key leash. But my favorite feature is the neoprene water-bottle holder, which keeps my 32-ounce Owala upright and helps wick away condensation.

Don’t just take my word for it: The Dagne Dover Signature Tote also “meets all the needs” of high-school assistant principal Jade Stenger , who appreciates that it has a range of compartments to keep all her items safe and organized. She even trusts it to hold her digital camera, work folders, school supplies, snacks for her little one, and her travel coffee tumbler .

Best backpack for work

Material: Neoprene and mesh | Price: $$

“I’ve never been a big backpack person, but that may be because I always had a plain, unfussy Jansport,” says Avila. “After testing out Dagne Dover’s Dakota backpack, I’m a backpack convert.” The backpack is made from a thick, durable neoprene material that, as well as being water resistant and easy to clean, looks far more luxurious to Avila than plain canvas. It also has plenty of slots for essentials. “My laptop, notebooks, pens, and other miscellaneous things stay organized with its laptop compartment, two exterior zipper pockets, interior zipper pockets, and more. And it’s incredibly comfortable to carry around with its padded straps.” When I spoke to cool women for another story , it was also brought up multiple times. One of its fans, personal stylist Cassandra Sethi, says that the neoprene and mesh material “molds to your body and breathes.” Sethi adds that while it can comfortably “hold everything you need” for the workday, it’s also great for travel . She says “it was the perfect backpack to bring along” on her four-country honeymoon trip.

Best (less expensive) backpack for work

Material: PU Fabric | Price:  $

Strategist writer Rachael Griffiths lives in London, where the rain often drizzles for whole weeks at a time, so having a fully waterproof backpack to store her laptop in is essential. After spotting it on the tube more times than she could count, Griffiths was keen to try this Rains bag for herself — and when the brand sent her a sample, it quickly became her go-to work bag. According to Griffiths, Rains’ PU material has a nice, waxy feel to it that is super-satisfying to the touch. Inside the backpack, she can fit her laptop, plus a packed lunch, a change of clothes for the gym, and whatever notebooks and stationery she may need. Even when the bag is full, it doesn’t feel dorky, and thanks to the roll-top opening, Griffiths can squish it down to a size that doesn’t tower over her five-foot-five frame. There’s also a handy pocket for her ID or travel card on the front.

Best luxury backpack for work

Material: Re-nylon | Price: $$$

As a co-founder of her PR agency Merritt Tate , Laura Merritt often finds herself having to run across London to meet with clients, head to shoots, and host events, so “having a bag that can run around London with me and not just take me to and from an office is essential,” she says. “I decided to be sensible and get a backpack, but as a fashion girl I couldn’t bring myself to get anything ugly — which a lot of backpacks are.” To satisfy both form and function, she invested in the Prada Nylon backpack. Merritt compares it to a Mary Poppins bag, as she can fit “laptop, chargers, packed lunch , notebook, headphones, and sometimes even an outfit change.”

Best faux-leather backpack for work

Material: Faux-l eather | Price: $$

For a “sleek, stylish, structured” backpack that’s just north of $100, style influencer Bethany Everett-Ratcliffe suggests this faux-leather option from Calpak. It has a separate, zippered back compartment to keep your laptop secure, a luggage sleeve, and several zippered pouches inside the main compartment that help keep the rest of your belongings organized. While the bag is available in classic colors like black and brown, it also comes in blush and mint if you prefer something a little less predictable.

Best work bag for travel

Material: Nylon | Price: $

Longchamp’s Le Pliage tote is a favorite among multiple Strategist staffers, including myself, for being so durable. New York Magazine deputy editor Alexis Swerdloff says hers has withstood nearly two decades of wear and tear, and Strategist editor Maxine Builder says her 15-year-old Le Pliage tote is a “classic in our household” that her husband has “permanently borrowed.” I’ve owned mine for more than seven years, and it’s held up through commutes and multiple vacations. It’s so durable because it’s made of a waterproof nylon material. Seattle-based knitwear designer and blogger Elisa Yip says that it “repels water to protect all my important stuff,” including her iPad, phone, wallet, makeup bag, and eyeglasses. Yip adds that it’s a great bag for traveling , since it can fold up and fit into a carry-on, making it a good choice if you’re someone who takes a lot of business trips. My editor, Hilary Reid, seconds this: She bought her orange Le Pliage while on a trip to Venice (vacation, not business) and used it as an extra carry-on bag to bring home souvenirs.

Best (less expensive) work bag for travel

Material: Nylon | Price: $$$

While this bag may cost the same as two months of membership dues at a luxury gym , Katheryn Thayer , vice-president of brand marketing at Primary Venture Partners, says it’s a must if you love to work out after (or before) work. “Caraa’s super-versatile ‘luxury sports bags ’ are magical,” she promises, noting that the bag “has a million secret pockets, adjustable straps that convert to a backpack or over-the-shoulder weekender, and a big, cushiony pouch for my laptop. Plus, it zips fully closed.” Thayer adds that people stop her in the street to ask where she got it all the time. (If you’re just looking for a gym bag, I’ve got lots more options at various price points here .)

Our experts

• Karen Iorio Adelson , former Strategist senior writer • Arielle Avila , Strategist writer • Dianna Baros , author of The Budget Babe • Annabelle Baugh, founder of Cosmetic Surgery Advancements • Anna Bond , Rifle Paper Co. co-founder • Maxine Builder , Strategist editor • Liza Corsillo , Strategist senior writer • Bethany Everett-Ratcliffe , content creator • Anna Hart , travel columnist at Suitcase Magazine • Rachael Griffiths , Strategist writer • Tyler McGillivary, designer • Mya Gelber , Strategist contributor and law student Laura Merritt, co-founder of PR agency Merritt Tate • Dominiqe Pariso, Strategist writer • Chelsea Peng , former Strategist senior editor • Deb Perelman , author and Smitten Kitchen writer • Lauren Ro , Strategist writer • Annelise Sealy, founder of the Fall Bride • Jade Stenger , high-school assistant principal • Cassandra Sethi , personal stylist • Alexis Swerdloff, New York Magazine deputy editor • Elizabeth Tamkin , stylist and content director at KULE • Katheryn Thayer , vice-president of brand marketing at Primary Venture Partners • Elisa Yip , knitwear designer and blogger

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The Best Travel Totes, From Structured Carry-Alls To Foldable Bags

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No matter what your next vacation looks like, a travel tote can provide extra storage and convenience. The best travel totes are versatile and roomy, allowing you to sling your essentials over your shoulder and leave your hands free for your phone, passport or a cup of coffee. From structured leather carry-alls that provide enough durability for your laptop to foldable canvas bags perfect for shopping outings, there’s a travel tote for every type of trip.

The best travel totes pair fashion with functionality to keep you organized en route.

If you have travel plans coming up and are considering purchasing a tote, we’ve researched a wide range of options, from larger-than-life oversized totes to smaller, versatile pieces that work for both a day of sightseeing and an elegant night out. Our top overall pick is the Cuyana System Tote , which doesn’t skimp on quality or space, while the most affordable option on our list is the Charles & Keith Circle Handle Tote Bag , made from vegan leather. Ahead, our recommendations for the best travel totes to bring along with you on your 2024 travels.

• Best Travel Tote Overall: Cuyana System Tote
• Best Affordable Travel Tote: Charles & Keith Circle Handle Tote Bag
• Best Carry-On Travel Tote: Madewell Zip-Top Medium Transport Tote
• Best Lightweight Travel Tote: Dagne Dover Small Vida Cotton Tote Bag
• Best Travel Tote For Airplanes: Lo & Sons The Seville Aire Tote
• Best Designer Travel Tote: Prada Re-Nylon Tote Bag
• Best Foldable Travel Tote: Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote
• Best Weekender Travel Tote: Bellroy Tokyo Tote
• Best Laptop Travel Tote: Samsonite Mobile Solution Deluxe Carryall
• Best Travel Tote For Business Trips: The Strathberry Tote
• Best Underseat Travel Tote: Monos Metro Duffel
• Best Expandable Travel Tote: Calpak Luka Expandable Laptop Tote
• Best Travel Tote With Trolley Sleeve: Tumi Just In Case Tote

Best Travel Tote Overall

A perfect bag for staying organized on the go, cuyana system tote.

Materials:  Pebbled leather |  Colors:  6 total, including Cappuccino and Dark Olive |  Size:  10 x 17.25 x 5 inches |  Weight:  1.9 pounds

If you’re looking for a functional and attractive travel bag, Cuyana’s System Tote is extremely well designed. It’s available in two sizes: the 13-inch (pictured above) and the slightly larger 16-inch . This minimalist tote is fully customizable with add-on accessories, including a laptop sleeve, adjustable wide strap and zipper pouch insert; just keep in mind that each piece costs $58 to $198 extra. For $15, you can also get it monogrammed for further personalization. While the stacked costs make this pick an investment, you’ll get your money’s worth thanks to its versatility—it’s a travel bag, crossbody and evening clutch, all in one. 

What our travel experts say: “This leather bag is spacious and durable, and it holds the essentials without being bulky,” says Forbes Vetted contributor Andrea Servert Alonso-Misol . “I also like that the System Tote has a stiff bottom and soft sides. The rigidity of the base keeps items in place and the bag upright when left on the floor, while the soft sides allow bulkier items (like shoes) to fit inside and prevent the bag from looking too slouchy when worn emptier.”

• Pebbled leather wears well and holds up over time
• Thick shoulder straps feel durable and less fragile than standard straps
• Easy to customize to organize your accessories
• No zip closure
• Add-ons cost extra

The 2024 Forbes Vetted Best Product Awards are here: Explore our 150 top-recommended items across categories after extensive research and testing.

Best Affordable Travel Tote

A budget-friendly option to elevate any travel look.

Charles & Keith

Charles & Keith Circle Handle Tote Bag

Materials:  Vegan leather |   Colors:  5 total, including Cognac and Mint Green |   Size:  7.9 x 14.6 x 12.2 inches  |   Weight: Not listed

Whether you’re dressed in a classic button-up shirt and sleek trousers or a midi dress with strappy heels, this circle-handle bag from Charles & Keith elegantly elevates any travel look at a wallet-friendly price. The detachable inner pouch gives easy access to your keys and makeup while the shoulder strap provides versatility and comfort.

• Strap can be worn over the shoulder or cross-body
• Detachable pouch for separate usage
• No zipper closure

Best Carry-On Travel Tote

A tried-and-true essential, madewell zip-top medium transport tote.

Materials:  Leather |   Colors:  3 total, including English Saddle and True Black |   Size: 11 x 12.3 x 5.5 inches  | Weight: 1.6 pounds

Durable and oversized, this lightweight tote from Madewell is made of semi vegetable-tanned leather that looks just as good after years of wear and tear. Inside, you’ll find pockets for your smaller essentials plus enough room to fit snacks, books and toiletries without looking too bulky. A zip closure on top ensures that none of your belongings will spill out while in transit. By signing up for Madewell’s complimentary perks program , you can get your tote personalized with your initials for free. (Without signing up, customization costs an additional $10).

What our travel experts say: "The Madewell Zip-Top Transport Tote is easily one of my most-used bags to date,” says Forbes Vetted updates writer Claire Epting . “The roomy front pocket and zippered inner pocket keep my essentials easily accessible, while the spacious interior provides enough room for a sweater, book and film camera (my travel must-haves). It's ideal for day trips, but it can easily complement a suitcase for longer excursions. I only avoid using it when it's raining because I don't want the leather to get wet."

Pros: 

• Interior pockets can hold phone, wallet and keys
• Comes with a removable cross-body strap
• Complimentary personalization
• Leather material is not spill-resistant
• No laptop compartment

Best Lightweight Travel Tote

A light and versatile bag for any trip, dagne dover small vida cotton tote bag.

Materials:  Organic cotton |  Colors:  2 total, including Natural and Onyx |  Size:  14 x 11 x 6 inches  | Weight: 2.3 pounds

Weighing just 2.3 pounds, this compact tote is a lightweight yet spacious carryall for any trip or day of the week. It has multiple inner and outer pockets, a clean design and a slip compartment with Velcro closure that’s perfect for carrying a 13-inch laptop. The wipeable lining is also great if you’re packing shoes or anything that might spill.

What our travel experts say: “Crafted out of 100 percent organic cotton canvas, it’s a minimalist’s dream, with no major branding, hardware or extra details that might make me tire of it after one season,” says Forbes Vetted deputy editor Jane Sung . “The Vida tote also has four exterior pockets and several interior pockets that help organize everything from iPads and books to sunglasses and sanitizing wipes.”

• Can be hand washed with cold water and soap
• Comes with a multiple compartments, including one for a water bottle

Best Travel Tote For Airplanes

A jetsetter's travel companion.

Lo & Sons

Lo & Sons The Seville Aire Tote

Materials:  Nylon, poly jacquard, leather |   Colors:  2 total, including Black and Deep Navy |   Size:  12.5 x 13 x 5 inches | Weight: 2.6 pounds

This travel-ready carrier is a good choice for those who are frequently on business trips. Its built-in outer sleeve easily slides onto any rolling suitcase, while the front pocket comes with multiple compartments in varying sizes to stash and pull your passport, wallet and pens in a cinch. Inside, there’s a dedicated padded sleeve to protect your laptop from damage when you’re inevitably jostled through airport security. If you need a bit more space than the 13-inch size has to offer, there’s also a 15-inch option as well.

• Lightweight, water-resistant material
• Available in two sizes (13-inch and 15-inch) for versatility
• Compact size fits under any airline seat
• Too many compartments might not offer flexible usage

Best Designer Travel Tote

A classic, sustainable pick from an iconic brand, prada re-nylon tote bag.

Materials:  Recycled nylon, Saffiano leather handles |   Colors:  2 total, including Black and Desert Beige |   Size:  13.8 x 11.4 x 6.1 inches  | Weight: Not listed

Founded in Milan in 1913, the Prada brand has become synonymous with luxury and innovation. And while many swear by its impeccably crafted leather handbags, it turns out Prada also knows its way around a travel tote. This streamlined bag is constructed out of recycled nylon with Saffiano leather handles, ensuring that it can stand up to regular use. Prada’s signature triangular emblem sits right between its zip-top opening and roomy front pocket.

• Iconic, established brand
• Streamlined, classic design
• Sustainably made

Best Foldable Travel Tote

A sleek and spacious option that folds flat, longchamp large le pliage tote.

Materials: Nylon with leather trim | Colors: 6 total, including Black and Steel | Size: 12.3 x 11.8 x 7.5 inches | Weight: 0.7 pounds

A foldable travel tote is a great way to save space in your closet when you’re not traveling. This option from Longchamp has a spacious interior and one smaller pocket for stashing your phone and wallet. The zip-top closure ensures your belongings won’t fall out in transit, and the water-resistant lining means you can safely carry liquids without worrying about spills. The best part? It folds down when not in use so you can throw it in your luggage or backpack without taking up too much space. 

What our travel experts say: “I've had this foldable tote for the past eight years and it's my go-to bag for both weekend trips and longer getaways,” says Forbes Vetted lifestyle editor Katherine Louie . “It fits several days worth of clothing and I love that the lining is water-resistant. I’ve had a few spills over the years and the material is easy to wipe clean.” 

• Water-resistant lining
• One interior compartment
• Folds down when not in use
• Secure snap and zipper top closure

Best Weekender Travel Tote

A durable yet stylish pick for overnight trips, bellroy tokyo tote.

Materials:  Recycled nylon and polyester, leather |  Colors:  5 total, including Ranger Green and Melbourne Black |  Size:  14.2 x 18.5 x 5.1 inches | Weight: 1.4 pounds

In our review of the Bellroy Tokyo Tote , we declare our love for this pick as a versatile, wallet-friendly work bag for women , but it’s equally great as a weekender bag for trips. Constructed from water-resistant fabric with ethically sourced leather details, the 15-liter zip-top tote offers multiple interior pockets for toiletries and a laptop sleeve for devices up to 13 inches. A zippered pouch on the front allows for easy access to a few small valuables.

• Affordable price
• Multiple interior pockets
• Water-resistant material
• No detachable shoulder strap

Best Laptop Travel Tote

A commuter-friendly carryall, samsonite mobile solution deluxe carryall.

Materials:  Nylon fabric with vinyl trim |  Colors:  2 total, including Black and Navy Blue |  Size:  12.5 x 20.5 x 7.5 inches |  Weight:  1.2 pounds 

This versatile option from Samsonite offers multiple pockets to stash your daily necessities including a padded laptop compartment and exterior side pockets for a water bottle and umbrella. There’s also an exterior front pocket for items that you might need quick access to and a convenient trolley sleeve. Users love the size and say the nylon construction is strong and durable. (The fabric is treated with a water-resistant coating so you won’t have to worry about inclement weather while traveling.)

• Removable padded laptop sleeve
• Multiple interior and exterior pockets
• Fabric is treated with a water-resistant coating
• Limited color options

Best Travel Tote For Business Trips

A classic option for both work and travel.

Strathberry

The Strathberry Tote

Materials:  Leather |  Colors:  8 total, including Black and Bottle Green |  Size:  10.8 x 14.6 x 6.1 inches |  Weight:  2.4 pounds 

Scottish brand Strathberry is known for its handcrafted leather goods, and the brand’s Strathberry Tote puts both of those features on display with a structured silhouette and the signature bar closure. The design is elegant and ladylike and can easily take you from the office to brunch on the weekends. As seen on the arms of celebrities including Meghan Markle, this bag can be held by the top handle or worn as a crossbody for hands-free ease.

• Can fit a 15-inch laptop
• Offers wide range of colors and textures
• While the shoulder strap is adjustable, it’s too thin to carry as a shoulder bag

Best Underseat Travel Tote

A versatile option that keeps valuables close, monos metro duffel.

Materials: Water-resistant nylon or vegan leather | Colors: 9 total, including Carbon Black and Oxford Blue | Size: 16.3 x 11.2 x 7.2 inches | Weight: 3 pounds

For a stylish bag that can be tucked under your airplane seat, you can’t go wrong with the Monos Metro Duffel. The spacious interior has plenty of pockets and a laptop sleeve that can fit a 15-inch laptop; the included “metro classic kit” snaps onto the side of your tote and provides extra organization for smaller items like your passport or makeup. You can choose from water-resistant nylon or vegan leather, both of which are water and scratch-resistant.

What our travel experts say: “ I'm not overexaggerating when I say that I get compliments on this bag every single time I travel,” says Forbes Vetted beauty editor Neha Tandon . “As a beauty product junkie, I love that this holds a weekend's-worth of skin and haircare products (along with snacks) and by some miracle still seamlessly fits underneath an airplane seat—even on tiny planes. The plethora of internal compartments and the trolley sleeve make my life so much easier. I'm also a sucker for the sleek look.”

• Fits underseat
• Adjustable, removable shoulder strap and trolley sleeve
• Provides excellent interior organization
• Durable materials
• Could be more exterior pockets

Best Expandable Travel Tote

The bottom expands up to four inches, calpak luka expandable laptop tote.

Materials: Polyester | Colors: 17 total, including Gunmetal and Oatmeal | Size: 13.5 x 20 x 6.5 inches | Weight: 1.75 pounds

If you tend to stuff your bags to the brim, having an expandable tote gives you the option to throw in a few extra items should the need arise. This soft, padded tote bag has an expandable bottom that provides up to four extra inches of space, and its polyester body has plenty of “give” to it as well. Other helpful features include a laptop sleeve, interior compartments for smaller items and a trolley sleeve that can slip over your suitcase handle. There are plenty of fun colors to choose from whether you’re looking for a classic color or something a bit more bold.

What our travel experts say: “This bag has a ton of compartments to easily organize travel items, including a bottom pocket for stashing an extra pair of shoes,” says Forbes Vetted editor Sholeen Damarwala . “The material and construction are very lightweight and easy to carry around at an airport. I’ve used this as a diaper bag and personal tote on numerous trips and I'm very impressed.”

• Expandable bottom
• Laptop and trolley sleeve
• Plenty of interior pockets
• Fun color options
• Soft exterior may not offer protection for items stored inside

Best Travel Tote With Trolley Sleeve

Attach this bag to your suitcase for easy transportation, tumi just in case tote.

Materials: Nylon | Colors: 6 total, including Indigo and Light Mauve | Size: 23 x 14 x 9 inches | Weight: 0.7 pounds

To keep your bag balanced on your luggage, make sure you opt for a tote with a trolley sleeve, like this option from Tumi. Crafted from durable yet lightweight nylon, the tote folds flat when not in use and can be tucked into the included zippered pouch. There’s no interior organization (aside from the zippered pouch that snaps inside), but the sizable main compartment is ideal for packing clothing, shoes, accessories and more. For a personalized touch, you can add embroidery for an additional $25.

What our travel experts say: "This tote is so convenient and smartly designed. I love that it packs up into a zip pouch—one that also snaps into the tote to act as an interior pocket when the tote is in use,” says Forbes Vetted updates writer Francesca Sales . “The tote easily fits into my carry-on when I travel and, if I end up with more things than I left with on my flight back, I just use it as my personal item (it also comes with a luggage sleeve to make lugging it more convenient). I also appreciate how spacious and durable it is.”

• Has a trolley sleeve
• Folds up into the included zip pouch
• Durable and spacious
• No interior organization or laptop sleeve

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The Forbes Vetted team has researched, written and published dozens of travel gear stories across the board, covering a wide range of topics from carry-on luggage to laptop backpacks . In order to make the best travel tote selections, we called upon two professional stylists for their shopping expertise: Los Angeles-based Djuna Bel and New York-based Becky Malinsky , who chronicles her latest fashion finds on her style blog, 5 Things You Should Buy.

We regularly update our articles to ensure you’re viewing the most current prices and products on the market. In our March 2024 update, we replaced sold out styles with new favorites including the Madewell Zip-Top Medium Transport Tote , the spacious and foldable Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote and Tumi Just In Case Tote , the Samsonite Mobile Solution Deluxe Carryall , the Monos Metro Duffel and the Calpak Luka Expandable Laptop Tote .

How We Chose The Best Travel Totes

To select our top picks, we first consulted industry experts Bel and Malinsky; each walked us through the key features to look for when purchasing a travel tote. We also asked Forbes Vetted editors to share their recommendations, based on totes they’ve traveled with on personal trips. Additionally, we meticulously read customer reviews online and evaluated the features of bags on the market for fabric quality, versatility and durability. Specific criteria such as material, strap length and compartment design were also considered in order to find the most functional and stylish bags at a variety of price points.

What To Consider When Buying A Travel Tote

When picking a travel tote, you’ll want to keep in mind the scenarios in which you’ll be using it. Some may prefer certain features over others, but you should definitely take the following elements into consideration:

The ideal travel tote should be strong enough to hold your laptop and other necessities, while light enough to rest over your shoulder throughout your trip. A sturdy yet soft leather (or sustainable plant-based alternatives) generally provides the most durable options. For a timeless look, take the seasons into consideration. “Look for fabrics that work for three or four seasons of the year,” says Malinsky. “Something straw won’t work in the winter and patent leather isn’t great in the summer. A nice tan leather or suede can work all-year round.”

When choosing your perfect travel tote, Malinsky says look for long, thick and durable straps that can securely sit on your shoulder, especially when wearing bulky layers like a coat. “I see so many adorable bags with a hand-only strap or a short strap that wouldn't fit over your shoulder. It just spells frustration down the line,” she says. “You want to be able to carry it easily. You’ll usually fill it full with miscellaneous items, on top of your laptop, and often carry another handbag with it.”

The size of the tote you select depends on the nature of your travel. A quick day trip spent sightseeing in the city warrants a smaller, more lightweight bag, while a longer excursion requires a tote with more storage. If you plan on carrying your laptop, you’ll need a bag that measures at least an inch wider than your device. Those who want to bring their tote on a flight should double check that the dimensions of the bag will clear their plane’s underseat space.

Are Totes Good For Travel?

Yes, tote bags are a great option for travel! They typically provide enough space for all of your essentials and have helpful features such as dedicated interior compartments, a trolley handle and more. Totes can also function as a diaper bag or everyday handbag when you’re not traveling. They don’t overtly look like luggage which makes them all the more versatile.

What Is The Best Carry-On Tote Bag?

The best carry-on tote bag for you largely depends on your needs and personal preference. However, the Cuyana System Tote is a top choice for most travelers thanks to its customizable design (you can add on a laptop sleeve, adjustable wide strap and zipper pouch insert), spacious interior and durable construction. Plus, it also functions as a crossbody and evening clutch. If you’re looking for something that folds down when not in use, you can’t go wrong with the editor-approved Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote or Tumi Just In Case Tote , and if you want a bag that conveniently tucks under your airplane seat, opt for the Monos Metro Duffel .

What Is The Best Travel Tote For A Plane With A Laptop Compartment?

For a travel tote with a dedicated laptop compartment, the Samsonite Mobile Solution Deluxe Carryall is unbeatable. It has a padded laptop compartment plus interior and exterior pockets for other essentials like an umbrella, water bottle and passport. The Lo & Sons The Seville Aire Tote , Bellroy Tokyo Tote , Monos Metro Duffel and Calpak Luka Expandable Laptop Tote all have laptop sleeves as well.

More Travel Stories To Shop:

• Best Travel Backpacks For Women
• Best Weekender Bags
• Best Underseat Luggage
• Best Packing Cubes
• Best Luggage Tags
• Best Travel Accessories

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The 13 best weekender bags for women in 2024, tested & reviewed.

Despite its name, the weekender bag is ideal for a variety of trips.

The Best Weekender Bags for Women

Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Although they're available in traditional duffel styles, weekender bags come in a variety of shapes and sizes, making them a luggage category of their own. Designed for overnight trips or a few days away, they can also be used as a personal item or carry-on bag depending on airline size restrictions.

Based on recent consumer reviews and our own testing, we've determined the best weekender bags for women – perfect for business, solo travel , girls trips , romantic weekend getaways and more.

Best Overall: BÉIS The Weekender

• Jump to features and expert insights ↓

Best Leather: Monos Metro Carry-All Duffel

Best with shoe compartment: calpak luka duffel.

• Best Quilted: Vera Bradley Large Travel Duffel Bag

Best Duffel: Dagne Dover Landon Neoprene Carryall Bag – XL

• Best With Laptop Compartment: July Carry All Weekender Plus

Best Rolling: CALPAK Luka Soft-Sided Mini Carry-On Luggage

Best organization: pakt one travel duffel – 28l, best for business: tumi voyageur contine weekender, best affordable: steve madden quilted weekender bag, best luxury: mz wallace nik duffel.

• Best Large: Lo & Sons The Catalina Supreme

Best Foldable: LOJEL Niru – 24H Overnighter

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand and other factors).

Price: $108 or less

What started as a trendy bag is now a travel staple. The Weekender by BÉIS combines the right amount of style and efficiency, with features including a bottom compartment for shoes or other large items, a padded laptop compartment that can accommodate 13- and 15-inch devices, and a trolley sleeve. There's also a zippered exterior pocket, plus three additional pockets and a key leash inside. Largely made of poly canvas, The Weekender is structured yet provides just the right amount of "give" for squeezing those last-minute items in. The Weekender is available in a variety of colors and comes with a detachable strap.

What our editors say:

This is the weekender bag I didn't know I needed. To say it lives up to the hype is an understatement. – Amanda Norcross, Senior Content & SEO Strategist

Rachael Hood | U.S. News

Price: $260 or less

This vegan leather duffel has a classic look and is available in four colors, plus it provides numerous built-in organizational details. The exterior has a front slip pocket, and each end has a pocket with a magnetic snap closure. Inside, the bag features a soft cotton twill lining, a 16-inch laptop sleeve, a spacious zippered pocket and a slip pocket on each end of the bag.

For carrying, use the two top handles, the trolley sleeve, or the removable and adjustable padded strap. Made of ultra microfiber vegan leather, this structured bag resists scratches and abrasions, making it a standout choice for a leather weekender bag.

This vegan leather duffel exudes timeless luxury. Its structure makes it easy to pack, all of the pockets help keep you organized, and its polished look makes it appropriate for any getaway. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Price: $128 or less

While you can find several bags with specific shoe compartments, the unique design of the CALPAK Luka Duffel stands out. The exterior zippered compartment makes it easy to reach your spare pair whether you're ready to put your walking shoes on or you need to access that pair of flats after a business meeting. When not needed, the shoe compartment lays flat on the interior of the bag to give you more room for your weekend getaway essentials.

Constructed with a lightweight polyester, the bag is structured but not bulky. There are nine pockets (including the shoe pocket), along with a trolley sleeve, two shoulder-length handles and a removable carrying strap.

To say I love this bag is an understatement. I bought it a couple of years ago for my wedding, and it's been a go-to ever since. I adore the shoe compartment, which works well for flats or sneakers, and it lays flat if I don't need an extra pair of shoes. There's tons of organizational pockets, it has a trolley sleeve, it works as a personal item on a flight, and it's cute! – Rachael Hood

Best Quilted: Vera Bradley Large Travel Duffel Bag in Cotton

Price: $120 or less

Vera Bradley's Large Travel Duffel Bag remains a classic choice for weekender bags. Available in a variety of patterns and solid colors, the latest cotton version of this bag includes four exterior pockets (one zipped, three slip) for easy access to the essentials, plus three elastic mesh pockets inside. The quilted material makes it especially lightweight as well as washable. Note that this same style in performance twill is slightly smaller, at 20 x 12.5 x 11.5 inches.

I love the simplicity of this bag. It holds everything I need, and after more than a decade of use (and several trips through the washing machine), it's still in excellent condition. – Amanda Norcross

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

Price: $245 or less

The stylish yet durable Dagne Dover Landon Neoprene Carryall Bag in the extra-large size stores 35 liters of belongings and comes with a shoe bag, a detachable mesh pouch and a crossbody strap. If that's not enough, you'll find several mesh pockets inside for organization, including a zippered laptop sleeve that can fit most 16-inch laptops. On the exterior of the bag, the neoprene luggage sleeve is perfect for attaching the duffel to a rolling suitcase, and a small pocket above the handle can securely hold your phone or ID.

Plus, this duffel is a great choice when it comes to sustainable travel . The lining is made from recycled plastic water bottles, and the bag is 100% vegan. This weekender also comes in air mesh material.

I love the zippered shoe bag – which is big enough to fit a pair of small boots or a couple pairs of sandals – as well as buttons on the sides that allow the bag to be clipped down for more streamlined travel. Additionally, this weekender duffel is surprisingly lightweight for how durable it is. – Leilani Osmundson, Senior Digital Producer

Best with Laptop Compartment: July Carry All Weekender Plus

Price: $295 or less

Featuring a clamshell design, this waterproof nylon bag opens flat for easy packing. There are two separate zippered interior compartments as well as an internal padded 16-inch laptop compartment. The thoughtfully designed weekender makes it easy to separate your travel essentials while maximizing packing space. On the exterior, there's a large front zippered pocket for reading materials, and the back features a hidden pocket behind the trolley sleeve for small items like your boarding pass or passport. For added versatility, the bag has two leather carrying handles and a removable shoulder strap.

This bag was a wow from the moment I opened it. The clamshell design makes packing a breeze. You can separate your clothes from other essentials and stow your laptop in its designated sleeve that is protected in the center of your bag. Since everything is divided, you can easily reach in to get your laptop out without spilling anything from your bag. – Rachael Hood

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Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Price: $165 or less

From the laptop pocket to the trolley sleeve, this mini bag packs a punch. There's an exterior front pocket for reading material or your boarding pass, an interior compartment with room for two to three outfits, and a small exterior zippered compartment that works well for a phone charger or earbuds. This rolling bag fits perfectly under the seat on most planes (even the small regional jets) and can be trolleyed with a larger carry-on or checked bag for added convenience.

For a weekend getaway or quick business trip, this is my go-to bag. I can maximize the packing space with compression packing cubes , put my laptop in the interior sleeve and fit all the essentials in this compact rolling style. It works well as an underseater or it easily fits in the overhead bin. I'm on and off flights with ease! – Rachael Hood

Catriona Kendall | U.S. News

Price: $285 or less

This 2.0 version of the crowdfunded Pakt One is beloved for good reason, with a variety of useful organizational features. This carry-on duffel opens clamshell-style for easy packing, and a 16-inch padded laptop pocket separates the two main compartments. The 28L size of this bag may be able to fit under the seat on certain airlines if it's not fully packed, but at full capacity it is better suited to the overhead bin. If you want a bit more space, consider the 35L, which also fits carry-on size guidelines .

On one side of the exterior, a zippered pocket doubles as a luggage sleeve for attaching it to a suitcase; on the other side you'll find two zippered pockets, one of which has multiple smaller pockets and a key clip inside. Built-in accessory straps on top of the duffel allow you to secure bulkier items such as a jacket or tripod. There's also a hideaway side pocket for your water bottle that can be stashed when not in use. The duffel is made of recycled nylon with a water-resistant coating, and the company is committed to eco-conscious production, which includes plastic-free packaging.

I am super impressed by the thoughtful design of this weekender duffel. The organization is top-notch, and it folds up when not in use so it doesn't take up too much room. I've been able to fit around three to four days' worth of clothing, plus my toiletries, my laptop and a pair of shoes. The adjustable padded shoulder strap is pretty comfortable too. – Catriona Kendall, Editor

Price: $575 or less

This sophisticated style works well for business trips, weekend getaways and everything in between. This TUMI weekender is separated into two compartments. The upper compartment has a laptop sleeve (for an up to 13-inch PC or 14-inch MacBook), a removable interior water bottle holder, a large zippered pocket, a slip pocket and a key leash. The lower section is ideal for shoes or business documents; it can be reached through a zipper at the base of the upper compartment or accessed on the outside through a zipper. The exterior nylon shell has a front zippered pocket, a phone slip pocket and a trolley sleeve.

From the sleek exterior with contrasting metal hardware details, genuine leather accents, monogrammable leather charm and all the interior features, this bag perfectly blends function and elegance. It's rather lightweight, yet still holds a shape, and it can even be used as a work bag if needed. – Rachael Hood

Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: From $59.98

For less than $60, the Steve Madden Quilted Weekender Bag is a steal. The lightweight bag has a quilted exterior and a spacious interior, which makes this weekender option an ideal carryall for travel, work or the gym. It includes a medium interior zippered pocket and two small open pockets, plus 9-inch handles and a removable 25-inch crossbody strap. It's easy to wipe down when dirty, or you can even throw it in the washer. What's more, this bag can easily be used as a personal item, neatly fitting under the seat on most planes.

I've had this bag for six years and it's still in great shape. It fits a surprising amount of clothing and accessories, and its straps are plenty long enough so even when it's filled to the brim, it's comfortable to carry around. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

Price: $325 or less

This understated quilted duffel has a lightweight construction, a hidden back slip pocket, a trolley sleeve, a phone slip pocket and two large zippered front pockets on the outside. There's also a pocket on each end for water or other items. The interior of the MZ Wallace Nik Duffel has a padded 16-inch laptop sleeve, four slip pockets, a zippered pocket and a removable zippered pouch. The sleek quilted bag has Italian leather accents and provides a chic look for work or leisure trips. It also folds relatively flat for easy storage when you're not out exploring.

I've seen a lot of travelers with these bags over the years, and I can see why. I love the feel of this bag; it feels luxurious, yet it's not flashy or over the top – truly quiet luxury at its finest. I especially love the two large front zippered pockets, as you can put your 3-1-1 bag and other items you need to reach while traveling so you don't have to rifle through your whole bag in the security line. – Rachael Hood

Best Large: Lo & Sons The Catalina Supreme

Price: $350 or less

Flexible with a very large top opening design, this weekender bag works well for packing clothing and gear that may not fit well within a structured bag. The expandable bottom compartment has a removable divider for shoes or other items, and it can be accessed inside the bag or from the outside. There's a trolley sleeve, a removable shoulder strap and top carry handles depending on your needs. This large bag is great for weekend ski trips or bringing along your pillow . It can be a carry-on bag on most airlines, but it will need to go in the overhead compartment because of its size.

This bag works well for car trips, and it has space to pack for two people going on a weekend getaway. I really like the pliability of this bag, and I think it is a good choice for when I need to pack a pillow, a winter coat, cowboy boots, wrapped gifts or other larger items that don't necessarily fit in a small duffel. – Rachael Hood

Price: $155 or less

Constructed with 100% recycled nylon, this bag is ideal for travelers who are short on storage space. It folds flat into its storage pouch – which can be used for organization within the bag when traveling. The interior has a spacious zippered pocket for small items. The size of this bag is ideal for an overnight trip with room for toiletries, essentials and a full change of clothes. For a longer weekend trip, there's also the Niru 48H Weekender .

The size and quality of this bag are superior to other folding totes I've tried. It's very sturdy, the handles are comfortable to carry, the front slip pocket is convenient, and the leather details are a nice touch. – Rachael Hood

Also Recommended

LeSportsac Deluxe Large Weekender: Many travelers (our team included) love this bag. It's durable, offers several exterior and interior pockets, and folds down compactly when not in use.

Nomad Lane Bento Bag: This bag has exceptional organizational features (including a toiletry pouch and an electronics organizer), but it may be a little small for a weekender. If you want a personal item that fits under the plane seat, the Bento Bag is an excellent option for short trips or light packers.

Carl Friedrik Compact Weekender: Sophisticated yet understated, this nylon weekender bag with Italian leather trim is a classic travel bag. It is spacious and looks appropriate regardless of the setting. However, it does lack a luggage trolley sleeve, which makes it a bit limited in terms of carrying options.

Samsonite Virtuosa Weekender: This sleek and simple bag from the well-respected luggage brand is a solid choice, if slightly small for a weekend's worth of belongings. The Virtuosa Weekender has some convenient storage pockets and a luggage sleeve, but the strap can be a little uncomfortable when the bag is heavy.

How We Tested

Our team packed and tested more than 25 weekender bags from a variety of brands at a range of price points. We tested to see if you can pack for a weekend getaway in each bag, along with the durability, details and overall functionality. After taking these weekender bags on an array of car, plane and train trips, we've selected these weekender bags the best for 2024.

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Not Sure What to Choose? Read our Guide to Checked Luggage

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Large-sized check-in luggage should never weigh you down. These hardsided and softsided rolling bags are lightweight but ultra-resilient and adhere to published size restrictions for checked luggage on most commercial airlines. Choose from 4-wheel and 8-wheel spinners that roll easily in all directions or 2-wheeled Rollaboard bags that glide over most any terrain, all sized for packing plenty, longer trips, or multiple people.

Styles range from rugged to refined and ultra-light to ultra-durable, with available features like customizable organization, TSA locks, zippered expansions, and storage for wet or soiled items. Flexible hardsides resist cracking, softsideds are treated to repel moisture, and ECOFAB™ linings made from recycled plastic bottles reduce landfill waste to protect the planet. Plus, every bag is built to last, so you can check in with confidence that your luggage will handle the trip.

The best travel duffel bags to buy in 2024, according to reviews

• Published: Apr. 15, 2024, 9:00 p.m.

Here are some of the top travel duffel bags you can buy today, including this Patagonia Black Hole style. REI

• Dawn Magyar | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

If you have a getaway planned for the summer, you’ll need a durable bag to stand up to all the adventures you have planned during your trip.

A travel duffel bag is the perfect companion for those summer vacations as it allows you to pack what you need with ample roominess and easy portability. These bags also offer compartments to keep your personal belongings organized with adjustable straps to sling over the shoulder or carry as a backpack.

But with so many different duffel bag styles to choose from, it can be a challenge to decide which one to buy.

To help, here are some of the most recommended travel duffel bags available, including styles from Patagonia and Beis .

• Patagonia Black Hole Duffel: “This bag is the most versatile gear duffle we’ve found. It’s tough, water-resistant, and great for toting clothes and equipment in almost any travel or outdoor scenario,” Wirecutter says.
• Beis Commuter Duffel: “The bag is bursting with compartments and pockets for organizing small, medium, and large items so you can pack efficiently before a weekend getaway. After we packed the bag full of clothing, shoes, and a toiletry bag, it was fairly heavy, but the shoulder and tote straps were shockingly comfortable and helped balance out the weight,” Travel + Leisure says.
• REI Co-op Roadtripper: “The REI Roadtripper offers excellent storage and utility at over half the price of other bags, making it an exceptional value for a duffel bag on a budget,” GearLab says.
• Away The Everywhere Bag: “It’s made of nylon with leather details on the handles and straps and it features two large outer pockets. Inside, it’s just as well-organized, with a 15-inch laptop sleeve and a host of zippered and slip pockets to hold everything from a paperback to your mobile phone,” Popular Mechanics says.
• Osprey Transporter Duffel Bag: “After testing a series of duffels, the Osprey Transporter 40L stands out as the go-to hauler for a long weekend. It features a zippered end pocket about the exterior for smaller items like keys or headphones, and a large, easy-to-access main body with a lockable U-zipper carries everything from shirts and shorts to technical equipment,” Forbes says.

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BAGSMART Travel Backpack for Women Men, 40L Flight Approved Carry on Backpack with Shoe Bag, TSA Large Personal Item Backpack with 17 Inch Laptop Compartment, Weekender Suitcase for Travel, Grey

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• Spacious & Multi-Compartments: BAGSMART Travel Backpack is a versatile carry on backpack that features a generous size of 18.1" x 12.6" x 7.5" providing a whopping 40L capacity. With multiple compartments including a Top external zipped pocket, zippered bottom pocket, front zippered pocket, separate laptop compartment, and bottle pocket, this backpack is a perfect companion for travelers seeking efficient storage solutions.
• TSA-Friendly Design: Designed with a convenient 180° clamshell opening, our travel backpack ensures hassle-free security checks at airports. The smart design allows you to easily access your belongings whenever needed, making it an ideal backpack for travel enthusiasts.
• Keep It Organized: Experience smart packing solutions with the BAGSMART Travel Backpack's clever storage design. Featuring clothing compartments, PVC waterproof pockets, mesh pockets, and two sock pockets for separating wet and dry clothes. The bonus shoe bag with a customizable attachment point adds further convenience without occupying interior backpack space.
• Versatility On The Go: This backpack for travel offers diverse carrying options - wear it as a traditional backpack, carry it by hand, or conveniently attach it to your luggage handle for swift movement through airports. Its adaptability makes it an airplan-approved backpack suitable for various travel scenarios.
• Comfort & Protection: Experience ultimate comfort with the Comfortable padded shoulder straps and Ventilated back panel of our backpack. The thick protective padding provides durability and protection for your belongings against unexpected impacts during your journeys.
• What We Care: Here at BAGSMART, we strive to deliver the highest quality product we can to our customers. We are happy to offer an unconditional refund or replacement. If there are any quality problems, please do not hesitate. Contact us for a timely and satisfactory answer!

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BAGSMART TSA Travel Backpack with Multi-Pockets and shoe bag

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