best business backpacks for travel

14 best business travel backpacks for every budget

If you travel regularly for work, you won't need us to tell you that a good travel backpack is essential. That's especially true if a backpack can double as a decently sized carry-on luggage item while still housing your laptop in an easily accessible compartment.

We looked at some of the best (and most stylish) backpacks out there to take the hassle out of searching for the best item.

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

Amazon Basics Laptop Backpack, $33.47

If you don't want to break the bank, the Amazon Basics range offers a reliable and, dare we say, fairly stylish backpack for less than $40.

The bag has a dedicated (and padded) laptop sleeve that can easily hold a laptop up to 17 inches in size; it has additional compartments for pens, keys, cellphones and other items.

There's also a water bottle pocket on both sides of the bag for easy access when you're on the go.

Buy from $33.47

Lenovo Legion Gaming Laptop Bag, $55.19 (normally $79.99)

Admittedly, we've never seen Batman carry a backpack, but if he did, we're pretty sure it'd look something like this robust bag by Lenovo. It has a 20-liter capacity and room for a 16-inch laptop, alongside seven inside pockets to suit all your work travel needs — including a hidden compartment for valuables.

Built for carrying electronic items, the bag features foam antishock bumpers on the corners of the laptop compartment for extra protection against bag drops and other jolts.

There's also a high-quality magnetic lock to keep your items safe.

Buy from $55.19 (normally $79.99)

Tangcorle Travel Carry On Backpack, $58.90

Part backpack and part carry-on suitcase, this bag has an expandable design. This means it has a capacity of 36 to 50 liters and should easily fit the maximum carry-on size for most airlines.

Other features include an external USB port with a built-in charging cable, allowing you to attach your own power bank and keep your devices charged while on the go.

The main compartment is similar to one in an ordinary carry-on suitcase and can easily store five to seven days' worth of clothes, depending on how you like to pack. It is perfect for long weekends and short business trips.

Buy from $58.90

Samsonite Novex Laptop Backpack, $69.99 (normally $99.99)

If you are shopping for a travel backpack from a reliable brand with a more down-to-earth budget, this Samsonite bestseller has a lot going for it.

Despite its price, 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 cellphone.

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.

Buy from $69.99 (normally $99.99)

The North Face Recon Everyday Laptop Backpack, $109

A modern classic, the Recon Everyday Laptop Backpack is a popular, on-trend design you'll frequently see on the backs of young professionals in buzzy city centers.

The backpack has two external water bottle holders and a main compartment capable of carrying up to 30 liters. Its laptop sleeve is also sizable and should easily hold machines up to 18 inches.

Perhaps its most interesting feature is the comfortable design of its shoulder straps, which are certified by the American Chiropractic Association.

Buy from $109

Ogio Renegade Backpack, $128.24 (normally $149.99)

If you're looking for the bag with the most pockets, this might be it. Ogio's flagship backpack has dedicated space for everything (laptop and iPad included) and then some. With a phone pocket, two zippered side pockets and five main pockets, you might just get lost looking around for your gear.

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

Buy from $128.24 (normally $149.99)

Incase ARC Daypack, $129.95

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

The laptop pocket is big enough for a 16-inch computer, and it's lined in faux fur for additional protection. Its travel tech compartment also includes RFID-blocking technology, preventing thieves from stealing your digital information.

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.

Need more convincing? Both bags are made from a sustainable mixture of recycled polyester, giving the company its A.R.C. acronym, which stands for "a responsible carry."

Buy from $129.95

Aer Pro Pack 20L, $179

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 the main compartment's 180-degree flat-open zipper system, giving you unobstructed access to all your belongings.

There's even a hidden pocket to store an AirTag or other tracker so that you can locate your bag even if it's stolen or misplaced.

Buy from $179

Away The Everywhere Zip Backpack, $195

Made with water-resistant nylon, the Everywhere backpack by Away has a full wraparound zip that provides access to the main compartment. Not only can you fit more things in an orderly fashion, but you'll also be able to easily see your things when you need to retrieve them from the backpack.

Alongside the main compartment, the bag also houses a 15-inch laptop pocket with a magnetic locking zipper and padded shoulder straps for comfort. It's available in five colors — including the limited-edition garnet colorway.

Buy from $195

Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack, $209

The Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack has space for everything and then some. The padded rear pocket is the perfect spot for a laptop, so you won't have to dig through the main compartment to find your computer.

The main compartment is spacious and can expand by nearly 3 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.

Buy from $209

Nomatic 20L Backpack, $279.99

Although you may not have heard of Nomatic, this brand receives rave reviews from its loyalists. The company's bestselling backpack comes in two sizes: 14 liters and 20 liters. Both 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, ranging from enclosed pockets to mesh nets. It's a great bag for those who like to stay extremely organized when they're on the road.

Buy from $279.99

Briggs & Riley Traveler Backpack, $329

The Briggs & Riley backpack has an impressive amount of storage capability thanks to its multitude of pockets and 180-degree, lie-flat opening that allows unfettered access to every nook and cranny.

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

There's also a so-called PowerPocket that fits an external battery pack and keeps a charging cable within easy reach — perfect for a quick boost of juice while you're on the go.

Buy from $329

Tumi Alpha Bravo Navigation Backpack, $525

Though Tumi makes a handful of durable bags, the Navigation Backpack excels for a wide range of travel needs. It features a separate padded laptop compartment (that can fit even the largest MacBooks), a main storage area and plenty of other smaller pockets.

It also has a zip expansion feature if you decide to grab some souvenirs during your travels.

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

Buy from $525

Rimowa Flap Backpack Large, $1,725

If you're looking to make a statement and are willing to spend some serious cash, Rimowa's travel bags are the way to go.

This luxury Italian-made large canvas Flap Backpack features a padded laptop sleeve and a large drawstring compartment to fit all of your travel essentials. It is secured by a flap-top enclosure with a magnetic buckle emblazoned with the Rimowa logo.

Buy from $1,725

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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.

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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 Business Backpack for Laptops
• #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 Ozone – Best Business Pack With Laptop Compartment
• #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

Tortuga Laptop Backpack

• > Organization panel

Kodiak Leather Satchel

• > Large main compartment
• > Stylish and cool

Tropicfeel Shell

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

• > Large capacity + Organised
• > Ridiculously comfortable

Nomatic 14L Backpack

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

• > 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.

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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 computer, 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 MacBook 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 lap top compartment of some kind.

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 Backpack for Laptops

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 ready 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 Ozone – Best Business Bag With Laptop Compartment

Okay, so you need a bag that can safely hold your laptop, all your accessories and not stick out like a tortoise? Let me introduce the Osprey Ozone. 

Ultra Lightweight, strong construction with a convenient 16” laptop compartment perfect for your daily commute. The main compartment helps you to organise your accessories and say goodbye to tangled cables. There is also a padded pocket perfect for keeping your phone or small gadgets protected. 

One of my favourite features of this pack is it comes with a travel luggage ID to help reunite with your trusty pack if you get separated.

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 2024 : 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 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.

TomToc Navigator-T66  – Best Lightweight Business Travel Backpack

Okay so I have been using the TomToc Navigator T66 for the past six months and it has failed to let me down. It has a large 40L compartment with more than enough space to pack your clothes, a padded laptop sleeve and a mesh zipped pocket for your accessories. 

I love the quick access front pocket and the main compartment can also be unzipped like a suitcase making airport security a breeze. There’s a side drink bottle holder and lots of compartments for storing important things for your important business meetings with important people. 

The overall comfort of this bag is spot on. The thick shoulder straps provide an elite level of comfort and the padded back panel protects you from chargers, shoes or hairdryers poking you as you run for the train. 

One feature I wish this pack had is a waist belt to spare my shoulders from the burden of digital nomad life. Other than that, this pack has delighted me, and it’s a steal for the price. 

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 MK-1 LT Camera Pack  – Best Business Travel Backpack for Photographers

Whether it’s a short city trip or a travel adventure, nothing means more to us photographers than keeping our prized possessions safe, secure and yet accessible, whilst on the move. 

That’s where the Boundary Supply MK-1 LT comes in. This pack has been designed with photographers at its very core.  With customisable padded protection, you can design your pack to suit your equipment needs and travel with confidence that your precious gear is safe and secure. 

This modest but stylish-looking pack backpack goes under the radar too. Its sleek design and compact size allows you to blend in as any old regular commuter so nobody will ever know you’re actually carrying $1k worth of gear.  Further, due to its versatile design and customisation, you can carry cameras, drones, VR headsets and this pack seamlessly integrates with several of the other Boundary packs .

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.

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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 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!

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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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11 BEST Business Travel Backpacks (For Men & Women)

A complete list of the 11 BEST business backpacks for men and women!

You know that feeling when you’re about to travel and realize that your carry-on bag is too small to fit all of your clothes? It’s not fun, but it doesn’t have to be this way.

Whether you’re planning a business trip to meet a client or going to open a new office abroad, these backpacks are exactly what you’re looking for.

From the best ones to carry your equipment to comfortable and padded ones, I’ve got you covered in this comprehensive guide.

Table of Contents

OVERVIEW – BEST BUSINESS TRAVEL BACKPACKS

Business travel backpacks are not just about looks — they must be able to carry all the equipment that you need for your workday, plus any personal items that you want to bring along in case of delays or unforeseen circumstances.

The right backpack will protect your gear and keep it safe while you’re on the go, but also give you easy access when necessary.

These are the 3 absolute best business travel backpacks:

• Nomatic Travel Bag 20L – Best Overall Business Travel Backpack – From $300 This bag features padded shoulder straps, reinforced stress points on the bottom panel, water-resistant lining, and a resistant laptop sleeve with an interior mesh pocket for quick access items such as tickets or passports.
• Tortuga Setout – Best Laptop Backpack for Longer Trips – From $179 The Setout 45L Carry-on Travel Backpack is a feature-rich bag that helps you stay organized. With space for 7 days’ worth of clothing, toiletries, and traveling necessities, you’ll never be without what you need, when you need it.
• KomalC Leather Briefcase – Best Business Messenger Bag – From $89 The KomalC Briefcase is mostly made from leather which is a nice touch if you’re coming from a nylon bag. It is an elegant and classy commuter bag for all business travelers.

Of course, this is only a short overview, so make sure to read until the end of this post to discover all the features of each of them in greater detail.

QUICK ANSWERS – BEST BUSINESS TRAVEL BACKPACK

Can business travel backpacks replace a suitcase.

Carry-on luggage typically measures 56 x 45 x 25 cm, but a suitcase can accommodate more than a backpack.

Yes, soft-sided backpacks are generally soft, but compressing a suitcase and securing everything with compression straps is something travel backpacks seldom enable.

Needless to say, a travel backpack can be a limitation depending on the number of clothes or items you plan to bring.

That said, it’s a great valid alternative if you plan to travel for a few days in or out of the country.

WHAT ARE THE TOP BACKPACK BRANDS FOR BUSINESS TRAVEL?

Other than the best daypack for travel, it’s important to consider the brands themselves.

Sure, while some brands may be unknown to you, some others are reputable and produce items for numerous years with outstanding quality.

These best backpack brands are:

• Kenneth Cole
• Tommy Hilfiger
• American Tourister

There are dozens of quality brands on the market, however, these are the top backpack brands and you’re sure to get a quality product that will stand the test of time.

WHAT DO YOU NEED IN A BUSINESS TRAVEL BACKPACK? – THE KEY FEATURES

We’re focusing on the finest travel backpacks for business, which means they differ from other types of backpacks. But what should you consider before purchasing one?

There are several factors to take into consideration and we’ll go through them below.

Many business backpacks include hidden compartments, strong zippers, and hardy fabric that is difficult to cut through. When you’re transporting valuables, it’s critical to have a secure solution.

Having a hidden zipper, a secret compartment for your passport, credit cards, or other documents, and premium material hard to cut is essential for a smooth business trip.

IT SHOULD HAVE A LAPTOP COMPARTMENT

It goes without saying that having a laptop compartment in a business backpack is essential and is simply a must-have.

A laptop compartment is necessary to protect and secure your electronics while moving through the TSA line quickly.

The padding is very important since you don’t want to damage or even break your laptop. In general, virtually every well-designed backpack (except for hiking backpacks) comes with a laptop compartment.

ORGANIZATION & ACCESSIBILITY

The organization compartments are particularly crucial.

If you’re commuting with a laptop, several chargers, vital papers, clothing, and other items, you’ll probably want pockets to store them in. Of course, this implies you’ll need lots of pockets to accommodate everything.

My favorite backpacks have u-zip designs. This means that they can be opened fully on at least two sides for quick access.

STYLISH, CLASSY, & WEATHERPROOF

The greatest travel business backpacks are current and stylish, so you can go to the office and your vital meetings without looking like a hiker.

You may also want to consider how your backpack reflects your personality. Examine this list and see which travel company backpack fits your style the best.

If you’re going on business trips often, or if it’s going to rain a lot in the city you’ll be visiting, you might want to ensure that your bag is water-resistant or waterproof.

This isn’t necessary for work travel backpacks, but if you’re spending time outside or traveling to a city where it rains constantly, then it must be considered.

IT MUST BE COMFORTABLE & NOT HEAVY

Fit and comfort are critical elements in any backpack selection. A large or little backpack will be uncomfortable, clunky, and perhaps even painful if it’s not the right size for your frame.

This implies double-checking that the straps are comfortable and properly fit your body. Look for adjustable straps as well as waist straps to help distribute the weight of a bigger bag.

Hiking backpacks have more adjustable straps, whereas commuter bags have fewer of these features.

A USB CHARGING PORT WILL SAVE YOUR DAY

A USB attachment in a backpack is simply a long extension cable. The power bank is connected to the cable within the backpack.

Then you’ll need an electronic device and a supplementary charging cable, which connects from the outside of the bag.

When you don’t have access to a plug while on business travel, this may be a lifesaver.

THE 11 BEST BUSINESS TRAVEL BACKPACKS

If you’ve ever gone on a business trip, chances are you’ve carried your luggage in one of those ubiquitous black nylon backpacks.

But have you ever stopped to think about what makes the best business travel backpack?

If not, this is exactly what you’re looking for and we go into the 11 best travel backpacks for business to remain comfortable and secure on a business trip.

NOMATIC TRAVEL BAG 20L – $300

Nomatic, the company known for its packing cubes, has released one of the best backpacks ever made.

First and foremost, the bag is thing is water-resistant as well as super resistant to any situation.

As someone who travels quite a bit with only hand luggage, that’s important. Over time many bags wear down or start looking tatty.

It’s made of extremely durable material which does make the backpack feel slightly heavier than other comparable bags.

In addition, it’s very functional, and if you’re familiar with Nomatic products, this bag comes in the same size as their previous 20L daypack model (which was great).

They just made it less boxy and added a few extra pockets for good measure – basically, they turned what already worked into an even better product.

Lastly, it comes with a removable waist strap which is a huge selling point. With the waist strap, you can distribute the weight evenly and have a more comfortable carry even if it’s a bit heavier than usual.

All in all, the Nomatic travel bag is one of the most comfortable business backpacks.

The downside? It’s quite pricey – For $300, it’s an investment, albeit a good one as far as bags go.

TORTUGA SETOUT  – BEST CARRY-ON BUSINESS TRAVEL BACKPACK – $179

The Setout Tortuga backpack is a sturdy, lightweight, and versatile backpack that is perfect for all purposes from outdoor adventures to business trips and even going on a road trip .

The design features include the use of high-quality external fabrics with water-resistant coating, durable lockable zippers, and multiple compartments to keep your gear organized.

2 versions are available – the 26L expandable and the 45L fully expanded. They both open flat like a suitcase and it is a great advantage when looking for specific items and not wasting time on a business trip with colleagues or managers.

The backpack also uses dual foam padded shoulder straps that are ergonomic, breathable, removable, and adjustable.

Last but not least, it is cheaper than other backpacks but it is still an investment. The expanded 26L version costs $179 and the bigger expanded one will set you back $199.

While the Nomatic is, in my opinion, the most comfortable backpack, the Tortuga quality is very close and it’s surely one of the best on the market.

VICTORINOX SWISS ARMY BACKPACK – $99

There are so many backpacks to choose from, but the Victorinox business backpack is one of the best because it features a padded laptop compartment and two large compartments with plenty of space for all your belongings.

With its classic style and sleek design, this backpack is perfect for all travelers who need to carry everything they might need on their business trip.

There are several models available to please everyone.

What I really liked about the Victorinox Swiss Army Backpack is the fact that it has multiple storage pockets to put anything you can think of from pens, notebooks, documents, and more.

It’s also classy which makes it one of the most attractive business backpacks I can think of.

OSPREY FARPOINT – COMFORTABLE BUSINESS BACKPACK FOR TRAVEL – $98

The Osprey Farpoint is a great backpack for those of you who are looking for a lightweight and durable carry-on that will fit into any overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you.

It has plenty of padding and comfort features but also has a limited number of pockets and zippers which might be off-putting to some people.

The backpack also cannot be carried like a traditional backpack with straps, so it might not be best for those who don’t like the feel of carrying their bag on their back.

MATEIN TRAVEL LAPTOP BACKPACK – $29

The Matein Travel Laptop backpack is an awesome backpack for all your needs, including business trips.

It’s made out of water-resistant and incredibly durable polyester and has tons of great features – a charging pocket, a beautiful design, a padded laptop sleeve, and ultimately, a luggage strap.

It offers several capacities, being able to hold up to a 15-inch laptop and a tablet combined. This makes it ideal for businessmen who need their accessories at hand whenever they’re traveling or going to work.

On top of all these features, the backpack provides an outside pocket specially designed to charge your phone or your tablet.

As such, you won’t have to worry about your battery ever again when you’re either working or traveling.

On the flip side, the backpack might not be as resilient against water as other backpacks here.

AMAZON BASICS SLIM CARRY-ON LAPTOP – $71

This slim and affordable carry-on laptop travel backpack comes with a padded laptop sleeve made of durable fabric and also features a foldable water-resistant cover to keep your laptop dry.

It has plenty of room for other essentials like clothing, shoes, toiletries, and snacks.

For less than $100, the Amazon Basics Slim Carry-On Laptop Travel Weekender is perfect for all frequent business travelers!

On the other hand, one point to note is that the compartments only open on two sides. Small packing cubes would help, but likely not solve the problem.

KOMALC 16-INCH LEATHER BRIEFCASE – $89

The KomalC 16-inch leather briefcase is perfect for business professionals who want to stand out from the crowd.

The exterior of the bag is made from high-quality buffalo leather and has a beautiful design that will perfectly match your business trip.

The interior is divided into two separate compartments with an inside pocket for your laptop and tablet, as well as plenty of space for files and folders.

It also includes a removable shoulder strap that can be tucked away when not in use.

All things considered, it’s one of the best business travel backpacks, however, it’s essential to highlight the fact that it needs to be maintained since it’s real leather.

SAMSONITE CLASSIC LEATHER SLIM BACKPACK – $150

We all know that backpacks are a necessity when going on a business trip, but the problem is they’re not always stylish.

However, this is not the case with the Samsonite Classic Leather Slim Backpack.

This backpack is made of durable and rich-looking leather which makes it perfect for any professional looking to “spice up” their outfit.

With a sleek design, ample space, and more features than you can count on two hands, this backpack has so many advantages over other bags on the market.

It’s available in 2 colors – black and brown – to please everyone whether you’re going on a business journey or around town to meet friends.

KENNETH COLE REACTION MANHATTAN SLIM BACKPACK – $149

Kenneth Cole is a company that believes in the power of fashion to make your business trip more fashionable.

For this, they have designed backpacks with maximum functionality for today’s on-the-go lifestyle and the Manhattan Slim Backpack is the perfect example.

It has been made to fit laptops up to 16 inches and it’s great for going to the office or away for a few days.

This bag is a durable and stylish laptop backpack that will give you the ultimate protection for your most important belongings.

Made of an elegant Colombian genuine leather exterior with tear-resistant lining, it features RFID-blocking technology to keep all personal information safe from thieves as well as a trolley tunnel to fit over luggage handles so no more carrying heavy bags on wheels!

KROSER LAPTOP BAG PREMIUM BRIEFCASE – $39

This women’s black briefcase by Kroser is made from a soft, flexible material with extra pockets for organization.

It expands for greater capacity and is simply one of the best business travel bags.

In addition, its water-resistant exterior can withstand heavier rain or spills, preventing materials inside from being damaged by water.

There are compartments for your 17-inch laptop, iPad, pens, wallet, notebooks, and anything else you may need to bring with you when traveling.

The laptop compartment is padded which protects the items inside from accidental bumps or shocks that could potentially damage your items.

All in all, it’s one of the best bags to bring on a business trip abroad or around the country.

But, as constructive feedback, I’d say that the Kroser laptop bag doesn’t have enough padding on the sides and the bottom which is something worth considering.

EVERKI ATLAS BUSINESS LAPTOP BACKPACK – $159

The Everki Atlas is a compact, comfortable, and affordable business travel backpack that you can bring along anywhere you’re headed.

The first compartment is a special “checkpoint ready” pocket that will fit up to a 17.3-inch laptop and has been created especially for the ones with lots of equipment.

It has more pockets to place your accessories and small items such as a Kindle, phone chargers, cables, pens, and more.

It opens up 180 degrees which is convenient when going through a security checkpoint that accepts checkpoint-friendly bags.

Additionally, it includes wide, padded shoulder straps with a 5-point balance strap to distribute weight and wear it more comfortably.

The Everki Atlas comes in two different versions – the 15.6-inch and the 17.3-inch – with only a $10 difference between them and is definitely the best daypack for travel.

With this in mind, a point to mention is the weight. In fact, while the bag is greatly padded, it adds up weight and the Everki backpack weighs 4.01 lbs or 1.8 kilograms.

Needless to say, that’s quite some weight used and could be a disadvantage when traveling.

SUMMARY – BEST BUSINESS BAGS FOR TRAVELING

So there you have it, a list of 11 different business travel backpacks for men and women based on their size, weight capacity, price range, and more.

I hope that you were able to find the perfect backpack to take your business travel experiences from an average one to a great one!

If not, please leave a comment below this post so I can help provide some additional insight into which type may be best suited for your needs.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

Search and book accommodation worldwide.

Compare and book cheap flights to anywhere.

Find tickets, tours, and experiences around the world.

Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.

Search all rental cars in your next destination.

Need travel insurance for your next trip?

THANKS FOR READING

Hey friend, thanks for reading this guide!

Please know this post may contain affiliate links. When making a purchase through one of my links, I earn a small kickback at no extra cost to you and it’s a big help to keep the site up and running. Rest assured, I only promote products and services that I personally use and recommend.

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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.

• 1600D ballistic nylon outer fabric resists wear, moisture, dirt and abrasion. Monogrammable leather nameplate on front panel to customize your backpack with your initials. Deep zip pocket on front panel for easy access to extra items, such as sunglasses or a phone. Durable genuine top-grain leather carry handle for convenient, comfortable carrying. Self-repairing YKK RC zippers for smooth zipper action.
• Knurled zipper pulls and luxurious, top-grain leather touchpoints offer a unique feel and modern aesthetic. Laptop compartment features dual zipper pulls that can be used with a cable lock to keep contents secure . Gusseted side zip pocket is perfect for sunglasses or a travel umbrella and includes an internal slip pocket for business cards. Gusseted side u-zip pocket with elastic band to help secure a water bottle.

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 14 Best Business Backpacks In 2024

If you’re constantly on the go for work, traveling between meetings, airports, and client sites, you know the importance of having a reliable and stylish business backpack. Gone are the days of settling for a boring and uncomfortable bag that doesn’t fit your needs. 

The market is filled with innovative and functional business backpacks that are practical for carrying your laptop, tablet, paperwork, and other essentials and making a fashion statement. 

If you purchase through our partner links, we get paid for the referral at no additional cost to you! For more information, visit my  disclosure  page.

Whether you’re a corporate professional, a freelancer, or a digital nomad, having the right backpack can make all the difference in your day-to-day routine. 

In this blog post, we’ll explore the top 14 business backpacks dominating the market, from sleek and minimalist designs to tech-savvy features that will elevate your work game.

Best Overall Backpack

Aer city pack pro x-pac.

Best Second Option

Nomadic backpack.

Best Third Option 

Tortuga travel backpack pro.

What Are The Best Business Backpacks?

Ready to find the best laptop backpacks to blend style and function for your work life ? Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best business backpacks.

• Aer City Pack Pro X-Pac – Best Overall Backpack
• Nomadic Backpack – Best for Business Travel
• Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro – Best Third Option 
• Herschel Laptop Backpack – Best for Style
• GORUCK Bullet Ruck Laptop – Best for Toughness
• Peak Design Everyday – Best for Organization and Camera Gear
• Monos Metro Backpack – Best for Sleek Minimalist Design
• Osprey Proxima Laptop Commuter Backpack – Best for Lifetime Warranty
• Patagonia – Best for Sustainability
• Lululemon Everyday Backpack – Best for Fabric
• Matador Freefly16 Packable Pack – Best Collapsable Option
• Aer Tech Folio – Best for Standalone Laptop Sleeve
• Matein Business Laptop Backpack – Best Budget Option
• Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack – Best Amazon Basics Option

#1) Aer City Pack Pro X-Pac – Best Overall Business Backpack

The Aer City Pack Pro X-Pac stands out as the pinnacle of business backpacks in 2024, blending style with functionality to meet the demands of the modern professional. Crafted from durable X-Pac material, it offers unparalleled protection against the elements while maintaining a sleek, professional look. Its compact design does not compromise on space, providing ample room for a laptop, documents, and daily essentials, making it the ideal companion for commuting or business travel.

Key Benefits

• Water-Resistant X-Pac Material : Ensures your belongings stay dry and protected in any weather.
• Dedicated Laptop Compartment : Securely fits up to a 15-inch laptop, with additional padding for protection.
• Ergonomic Design : Features padded shoulder straps and a ventilated back panel for maximum comfort during extended wear.
• Expandable Main Compartment : Offers flexible storage space to accommodate your daily necessities or travel essentials.
• RFID Safe Laptop Pocket : Protects your sensitive information from electronic theft.
• Sleek, Professional Aesthetic : Matches the modern professional’s wardrobe seamlessly.

Priced at $239, the Aer City Pack Pro X-Pac offers excellent value for those seeking a high-quality, durable backpack designed for the demands of business professionals.

• Exceptionally durable and water-resistant material
• Comfortable for all-day wear
• Stylish design is suitable for professional environments
• Higher price point compared to other backpacks
• Limited color options are available
• It may be too compact for those requiring more storage space

The Aer City Pack Pro X-Pac is an ideal investment for professionals who prioritize an entire backpack that balances impeccable style with superior functionality and is backed by long-lasting quality.

#2) Nomatic Backpack – Best Second Option

The Nomatic Backpack masters the art of blending business and travel. This backpack shines with its expandable design for those with frequent on-the-go work schedules, allowing you to transition between short and extended trips effortlessly. Dedicated tech protection, abundant organizational pockets, and a sleek aesthetic make it a top choice for business travelers.

• Optimized Organization: Multiple compartments for laptops, documents, and tech accessories, ensuring everything has its place.
• Travel-Friendly Design: Meets most airline carry-on standards and includes a pass-through sleeve for luggage handles.
• Built-in USB Charging Port: Keep your devices on the go with an easily accessible charging port.
• Water-Resistant Material: Keeps your belongings dry and protected, no matter the weather.
• Comfortable Wear: Ergonomic shoulder straps and ventilated back panel reduce strain on long travels.
• RFID-Blocking Technology: Offers added security against electronic data theft.

Nomatic Backpack is positioned as a mid-to-high-end option, depending on the size. Its price ranges from $259.99 to $279.99. It offers exceptional value for its price and features tailored for frequent travelers.

• Superior organization and easy access to items.
• Travel-friendly features enhance convenience during trips.
• Durable and water-resistant, suitable for various climates.
• It may be larger than necessary for daily use.
• Premium price point.
• Limited color options can restrict personal style preferences.

If frequent business travel defines your work life, the Nomatic Backpack is a worthwhile investment that streamlines packing and organization, ensuring you’re equipped for any length of trip.

#3) Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro – Best Third Option 

The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro offers a spacious, carry-on-compliant design ideal for professionals who value organization and comfort. Its suitcase-style opening makes packing a breeze, while a focus on ergonomics ensures a comfortable carry even when fully loaded. This backpack is built with weather-resistant materials for added peace of mind during commutes.

• Expandable Main Compartment: Flexible storage space that expands to fit your travel needs.
• Laptop and Tablet Sleeves: Dedicated, padded compartments for electronics, fitting up to a 17-inch laptop.
• Lockable Zippers: Adds an extra layer of security to your valuables.
• Water-Resistant Fabric: Keeps contents dry and safe from unpredictable weather.
• Adjustable Suspension System: Customizes the backpack to fit your body, enhancing comfort.
• Organizational Pockets: Strategically placed pockets for efficient storage and access.

Priced at $235 for the value-conscious professional, the Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro offers an excellent balance between quality and affordability, making it a smart choice for frequent and occasional travelers.

• Exceptional organizational features.
• Comfortable for extended wear, even when fully packed.
• Durable and weather-resistant materials.
• The size may be cumbersome for daily use in an urban setting.
• Though justified by its features, it is on the higher end of the price spectrum.
• We have limited external attachment points for additional gear.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro is an invaluable asset for professionals on the go, providing a perfect combination of security, organization, and comfort, all wrapped in a design that complements the professional lifestyle.

#4) Herschel Laptop Backpack – Best for Style

The Herschel Laptop Backpack delivers a timeless blend of functionality and iconic style. With various designs and colors, there’s an option to match your taste.  A dedicated laptop sleeve and thoughtful organization keep essentials secure, all within a remarkably budget-friendly price point.

• Elegant, Timeless Design: This product offers a professional look with a variety of color and pattern options to match your style.
• Padded Laptop Pocket: Securely fits laptops up to 15 inches, protecting without adding bulk.
• Spacious Interior: Ample room for books, documents, and personal items, making it ideal for daily use and short trips.
• Durable Construction: Made with high-quality materials to withstand daily wear and tear.
• Comfortable Shoulder Straps: Ergonomically designed for all-day comfort.
• Easy-Access Front Pocket: Keeps your essentials like keys and phone within reach.

The Herschel Laptop Backpack, priced at an accessible $66.20, offers a stylish solution for professionals looking to make an impression without breaking the bank.

• Stylish design that stands out.
• Durable material suited for everyday use.
• Comfortable to wear, even when fully packed.
• Limited organizational compartments compared to other business backpacks.
• It may not fit larger laptops (over 15 inches).
• Style-forward design might not appeal to all professional environments.

Herschel Laptop Backpack is the epitome of style meeting functionality, catering to the aesthetic-conscious professional without sacrificing the practicality needed for everyday carry.

#5) GORUCK Bullet Ruck Laptop – Best for Toughness

The GORUCK Bullet Ruck Laptop is synonymous with toughness. Built with military-grade materials, this backpack is ready for the rigors of everyday commutes and beyond. It features a dedicated bombproof laptop compartment and a design that ensures your gear stays secure and organized.

• Exceptional Forces-Grade Durability: Constructed with ultra-durable materials to withstand harsh conditions.
• Dedicated Laptop Compartment: Safely stores laptops up to 15 inches, cushioned for protection.
• Comfortable Design: Features padded straps and a back panel for extended wear.
• Water-resistant: Keeps your belongings dry in wet conditions.
• Versatile Use: Equally suited for daily commutes and adventurous outings.
• Sleek, Minimalist Look: Appeals to professionals who prefer a refined aesthetic.

The GORUCK Bullet Ruck Laptop, priced at $195, reflects its high-quality construction and materials, positioning it as an investment in durability and functionality.

• It is exceptionally durable and built to last.
• Comfortable for all-day use.
• Stylish, minimalist design suitable for professional settings.
• Higher investment upfront.
• Performance can lag with heavily loaded pages
• Limited organizational pockets may not suit everyone’s needs.
• Designed for laptops up to 15 inches, potentially excluding larger devices.

The GORUCK Bullet Ruck Laptop stands out as the fortress of backpacks, offering unparalleled protection, comfort, and durability for your business essentials. It’s designed to be the last backpack you’ll ever need, no matter where your professional adventures take you.

#6) Peak Design Everyday – Best for Organization and Camera Gear

The Peak Design Everyday stands out because of its ingenious organizational system . Customizable dividers allow you to perfectly tailor the interior to your specific needs, whether it’s tech accessories, daily essentials, or camera equipment. This backpack effortlessly adapts to changing needs while maintaining a sleek, professional look.

• Customizable Organization : FlexFold dividers for personalized storage configurations.
• Dedicated Laptop Sleeve : Fits up to 15-inch laptops securely.
• Quick Access Panels : Side and top entries for fast access to gear without removing the backpack.
• Weatherproof Exterior : Durable, water-resistant material protects against the elements.
• Sustainable Design : Constructed with recycled materials and designed for long-term use.
• Aesthetic Appeal : Stylish, minimalistic design that suits professional settings.

The Peak Design Everyday backpack is priced at $189.95 to $211.41, depending on the size to reflect its premium build and innovative features. It is a worthy investment for professionals who require organization and style.

• Exceptional organization and customization.
• High-quality, durable materials.
• Sleek design suitable for business and creative needs.
• Premium price may be a barrier for some.
• It may offer more space than needed for non-photographers.
• Limited color options are available.

The Peak Design Everyday backpack delivers an innovative, stylish solution to organize camera gear alongside daily essentials, making it an indispensable companion for professionals at the intersection of creativity and business.

#7) Monos Metro Backpack – Best for Sleek Minimalist Design

The Monos Metro Backpack embodies clean lines and an effortlessly stylish aesthetic.  If you prioritize a refined look without compromising functionality, this backpack excels. It offers ample space for daily essentials, dedicated tech protection, and a streamlined design that blends seamlessly into business goals .

• Sleek Minimalist Design: Clean lines and a refined aesthetic complement any professional wardrobe.
• Premium Materials: Constructed with durable, high-quality materials for lasting use.
• Optimized Organization: Smart compartmentalization allows for efficient tech storage and daily essentials.
• Comfortable Carry: Ergonomic shoulder straps and a padded back panel ensure all-day comfort.
• Quick Access Pockets: Easy-to-reach pockets for essentials like phones and keys.
• Laptop Sleeve: Securely holds and protects laptops up to 15 inches.

The Monos Metro Backpack is competitively priced at $200, offering exceptional value for professionals seeking a balance between elegance, quality, and functionality.

• It is elegantly designed for the modern professional.
• Durable materials and construction.
• Comfortable for daily use and travel.
• The minimalist design may limit storage for some.
• Fewer organizational pockets than more tech-focused backpacks.
• Color options may be limited for those seeking personal expression.

The Monos Metro Backpack excels as a statement piece for professionals who value minimalist design without compromising the quality or functionality necessary for their busy lives.

#8) Osprey Proxima Laptop Commuter Backpack – Best for Lifetime Warranty

The Osprey Proxima Laptop Commuter Backpack delivers reliable organization and exceptional comfort, backed by Osprey’s legendary ‘All Mighty Guarantee.’ This means if anything happens to your pack, Osprey will repair or replace it, no matter what.  Alongside this peace of mind, the Proxima offers ample storage for work gear and daily essentials.

• Lifetime Warranty : Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee promises repair or replacement for any damage or defect.
• Dedicated Laptop and Tablet Sleeves : Ensures devices are securely stored and protected.
• Reflective Elements : Enhances visibility for safer commuting in low-light conditions.
• Ventilated Back Panel: Provides superior comfort and airflow during longer commutes.
• Water-Resistant Fabric : Keeps belongings dry in wet weather.
• Organizational Pockets : Strategically placed for optimal organization and accessibility.

With its lifetime warranty and premium features, the Osprey Proxima Laptop Commuter Backpack offers excellent value at $92.06 to $100.00, recognizing the importance of a long-term gear investment.

• Unmatched durability is backed by a lifetime warranty.
• Comfortable for daily use with ergonomic features.
• Practical organization for professional needs.
• It may be more expensive upfront compared to similar backpacks.
• Design is more functional than stylish, which may not appeal to all.
• Heavier build due to durable materials.

The Osprey Proxima Laptop Commuter Backpack is a solid investment for professionals seeking a durable, reliable backpack with the assurance of a lifetime warranty, making it a companion for countless journeys to come.

#9) Patagonia Refugio – Best for Sustainability

Patagonia is renowned for its commitment to sustainability and ethical manufacturing practices. The Refugio business backpacks reflect this ethos, combining thoughtful design with materials that minimize environmental impact. The Refugio is a standout choice if you’re searching for a backpack that aligns with your values.

• Eco-Friendly Materials: Made with recycled materials, reducing waste and environmental impact.
• Fair Trade Certified : Ensures that workers are fairly compensated.
• Water-Resistant Design : Keeps contents dry while minimizing environmental harm.
• Ergonomic Comfort : Designed for comfort during extended wear, with padded straps and back panel.
• Versatile Storage : Offers well-organized compartments for laptops, documents, and essentials.
• Durability : Built to last, reducing the need for frequent replacements and further waste.

Reflecting its commitment to sustainability and quality, Patagonia’s backpacks are priced at $109.00, offering great value considering their long-term durability and minimal environmental footprint.

• Promotes environmental sustainability.
• Durable and designed for long-term use.
• Comfortable for daily wear and travel.
• Premium pricing due to high-quality, sustainable materials.
• Design options are more functional than fashionable.
• It may have less organizational complexity compared to tech-specific backpacks.

The Patagonia Refugio stands out for those dedicated to sustainability. It offers a practical, durable solution that aligns with environmental stewardship and social responsibility values.

#10) Lululemon Everyday Backpack – Best for Fabric

The Lululemon Everyday Backpack stands out due to its luxurious, water-resistant fabric. This backpack offers a blend of style and practicality with its thoughtful internal organization and comfortable carrying system. This option is worth exploring if you prioritize a backpack that feels as good as it looks.

• High-Quality Fabric : Water-resistant and durable, ideal for all weather conditions.
• Ergonomic Design : Comfortable shoulder straps and a padded back panel ensure ease of wear throughout the day.
• Optimized Organization : The bag has multiple compartments and pockets for laptops, a zippered water bottle pocket, and essentials.
• Lightweight : Easy to carry, reducing strain on shoulders and back.
• Versatile Style : Sleek design fits seamlessly into both professional and casual settings.
• Easy to Clean : The fabric’s quality makes maintenance simple and efficient.

The Lululemon Everyday Backpack is competitively priced at $162.12, reflecting its premium fabric and versatile design. It is an excellent investment for professionals on the move.

• Premium, water-resistant fabric enhances durability.
• Comfortable for all-day wear.
• Stylish design is suitable for various environments.
• Limited size options may not suit all storage needs.
• Premium pricing may not fit all budgets.
• Specific care instructions due to high-quality fabric.

The Lululemon Everyday Backpack offers a blend of style, comfort, and durability, making it ideal for professionals who value quality and versatility in their daily carry.

#11) Matador Freefly16 Packable Pack – Best Collapsable Option

The Matador Freefly16 Packable Pack is designed for ultimate portability. It folds into a compact pouch, making it ideal for those who need a secondary backpack while traveling or as a lightweight daily carry option.  Don’t be fooled by its size; this backpack offers ample space for essentials and weather-resistant construction.

• Ultra-Lightweight and Packable : Folds into a compact pouch, making it perfect for travel.
• Water-Resistant : Made with waterproof materials to keep belongings dry.
• Durable Construction : Despite its lightness, it’s built to withstand wear and tear.
• Sufficient Storage : Features a 16-liter capacity with organizational pockets.
• Comfortable to Carry : Equipped with breathable shoulder straps for comfort.
• Eco-Friendly Materials : Crafted from sustainable resources, emphasizing environmental responsibility.

The Matador Freefly16 Packable Pack, priced at $80.00, offers exceptional value for the mobile professional, considering its versatility, durability, and convenience.

• Extreme portability and lightweight design.
• Durable and water-resistant for all-weather use.
• It is ideal for minimalist travelers or as an auxiliary bag.
• Limited capacity might not suffice for all daily needs.
• Lacks padding for electronics, like laptops.
• A more casual look may not suit all business environments.

The Matador Freefly16 Packable Pack is the epitome of convenience, offering professionals a versatile, durable option that supports an active, on-the-go lifestyle with ease and simplicity.

#12) Aer Tech Folio – Best for Standalone Padded Laptop Sleeve

The Aer Tech Folio offers a minimalist way to carry and protect your laptop and a few fundamental essentials.  It features dedicated compartments, plush padding, and a weather-resistant exterior. Whether you need a standalone sleeve or want something to supplement a larger bag, the Tech Folio provides sleek protection.

• Superior Laptop Protection : Dedicated padded compartment for laptops up to 16 inches.
• Streamlined Design : Slim profile that’s easy to carry or slide into another bag.
• High-Quality Materials : Constructed with durable, water-resistant fabric.
• Organizational Pockets : Designed for accessories like chargers, cables, and pens.
• Quick Access : External pocket for items you must grab on the go.
• Comfortable Carry : Features a removable shoulder strap for versatility.

Given its specialized design and premium materials, the Aer Tech Folio is priced at $75.00 to reflect its value to professionals prioritizing tech safety and style.

• Exceptional protection for laptops and tablets.
• High-quality, durable construction.
• Sleek, professional appearance.
• Limited storage capacity for non-tech items.
• The higher price point for a specialized item.
• You may require an additional bag for a full day’s needs.

The Aer Tech Folio is an ideal solution for professionals who demand the best technology protection with a sleek, efficient design. It is a top choice for those who prioritize functionality and style in their tech accessories.

#13) Matein Business Laptop Backpack – Best Budget Option

The Matein Business Laptop Backpack offers surprising features at a budget-friendly price point. It boasts a spacious main compartment, ample organizational pockets, and a dedicated padded laptop section. This is a top contender if you need a reliable business backpack without breaking the bank.

• Affordable Price : Offers excellent value for a professional backpack.
• Dedicated Laptop Compartment : Securely fits laptops up to 15.6 inches.
• USB Charging Port : Conveniently charge your devices on the go.
• Water-Resistant Material : Keeps your belongings dry in adverse weather.
• Comfortable Design : Padded back panel and shoulder straps for ease of carry.
• Ample Storage : Multiple pockets and compartments for organization.

Matein Business Laptop Backpack is a budget-friendly option priced at $35.99 that offers excellent functionality and style for those who are mindful of their expenditures.

• It is exceptionally affordable with great features.
• Built-in USB charger for convenience.
• Comfortable and durable for everyday use.
• Materials may not be as premium as their more expensive counterparts.
• Some compartments may feel cramped with bulkier items.

The Matein Business Laptop Backpack stands out as the best budget option. It combines essential features, durability, and comfort into a package that respects your financial boundaries, making it a smart choice for value-driven professionals.

#14) Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack – Best Amazon Basics Option

• Cost-Effective : Provides excellent functionality at an affordable price point.
• Expandable Design : Allows for increased packing capacity when needed.
• Multiple Compartments : Offers dedicated spaces for laptops, documents, and essentials.
• Convertible : Easily switches from backpack to shoulder bag for versatility.
• Durable Material : Built to withstand the rigors of daily use and travel.
• Comfortable Carry : Padded straps and back panel for enhanced comfort during long wear.

Reflecting its commitment to providing practical solutions, the Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack is priced between $46.74 and $48.85 to offer significant value, catering to those prioritizing cost and quality.

• Highly affordable with versatile features.
• The convertible design adapts to different needs.
• Spacious and well-organized for efficient packing.
• The aesthetic might be too basic for some professional settings.
• Fabric and zippers may not match the durability of premium brands.
• Limited extra features like USB ports or RFID protection.

Amazon Basics Carry-On Travel Backpack is an excellent choice for professionals and travelers seeking a reliable, no-frills backpack that delivers both functionality and value. It is the best Amazon Basics option available.

What Is A Business Backpack?

A business backpack is a specialized type designed to meet the needs of professionals and business travelers. It blends functionality with style, offering a practical solution for carrying laptops, documents, business essentials, and sometimes even clothing for short trips.

Unlike traditional backpacks, business backpacks are crafted with a focus on organization. They feature multiple compartments and pockets tailored for electronics, stationery, and other work necessities. They are also constructed with durable materials to withstand daily commutes and travel while maintaining a professional aesthetic suitable for office environments.

What sets business backpacks apart is their emphasis on comfort and ergonomics. Features like padded straps and back panels ease the strain of carrying heavy loads. Some models also incorporate modern conveniences such as built-in USB chargers and RFID-blocking pockets to enhance security for digital devices and sensitive information.

As the boundary between work and technology continues to blur, business backpacks evolve to offer smart, sophisticated solutions for today’s professionals. They combine durability, organization, and style in one versatile package.

How Can Business Backpacks Benefit You?

Business backpacks are designed with a professional lifestyle in mind, offering many benefits that can enhance your daily routine.

One key advantage is the combination of organization and accessibility they provide. With specific compartments for laptops, tablets, documents, and other essentials, these backpacks ensure that everything you need for your workday is neatly organized and easily reachable. This level of organization can significantly improve your efficiency and reduce the stress of managing your belongings while on the move.

Moreover, business backpacks are built for comfort. They come equipped with padded straps and back panels that distribute weight evenly, minimizing strain on your shoulders and back during long commutes or travel. This ergonomic design can lead to better posture and reduce the risk of discomfort, making your journey to and from work more pleasant.

Finally, business backpacks’ sleek and professional design enhances your overall professional image. They balance functionality and style perfectly, ensuring you make a positive impression in any business setting. With features like water-resistant materials and built-in security pockets, these backpacks protect your valuable tech and documents from the elements and potential theft, giving you peace of mind throughout your day.

What Features Should You Look For In Business Backpacks?

When selecting a business backpack, it is crucial to focus on features that blend functionality with comfort and security. These features ensure the backpack serves your professional needs while providing ease and protection.

Separate Padded Laptop Compartment

A dedicated, padded laptop compartment protects your most valuable work tool. This compartment should fit your laptop snugly, reducing the risk of damage from bumps and drops. The padding acts as a cushion, absorbing shock and preventing scratches or other harm to your device. Look for a backpack with a compartment that can accommodate the size of your laptop, with extra padding for added security.

Shoulder Straps

Ergonomic shoulder straps are a must-have feature, designed to distribute the backpack’s weight evenly across your shoulders and reduce strain on your back. Padded straps offer additional comfort, making it easier to carry the backpack during long commutes or travels. Adjustable straps allow you to customize the fit, ensuring the backpack sits comfortably on your back, enhancing your carrying experience.

Zippered Pocket Compartments

Zippered pocket compartments are invaluable for organizing and securing smaller items such as keys, wallets, phones, business cards, and pens. These compartments keep your essentials easily accessible while ensuring they’re safely stored, preventing them from getting lost at the bottom of your bag. Some business backpacks also feature RFID-blocking zippered pockets, providing added security against electronic theft of your credit cards and passports.

Buyers Guide: How We Conducted Our Research

I researched comprehensively to curate our list of the best business backpacks in 2024. My objective was to ensure that each selected backpack met the high standards expected by professionals today. Here’s how I approached my research:

• Pricing: I examined the cost of each backpack, aiming to include options that offer great value across a range of budgets. Whether you’re looking for a premium choice or a budget-friendly pick, I considered how the price reflects each backpack’s quality, durability, and features.
• Features: I delved into each backpack’s specific features, focusing on those that enhance functionality, comfort, and security for professionals. This included evaluating laptop compartments, organizational pockets, ergonomic design, materials used, and any innovative features that set a backpack apart.
• Negatives : It was essential to consider what each product might lack. By identifying potential downsides or limitations, such as limited space, a lack of certain features, or durability concerns, we aimed to present a balanced view that helps you make an informed decision.
• Support or Refund Policy: I also looked into the customer service experience, including the availability of support, warranty terms, and refund policies offered by the manufacturers. This factor ensures peace of mind and satisfaction with your purchase.

My research involved analyzing product specifications, reading customer reviews, and consulting expert opinions to gather diverse insights into each backpack’s performance. By carefully weighing these factors, I compiled my list to help you find a business backpack that meets your professional needs and provides excellent value and support.

Final Thoughts on Business Backpacks

Finding the perfect business backpack is an investment in your daily comfort, efficiency, and professional presentation. Consider your specific needs – maximum storage, sleek style, or all-weather protection. With the wide range of options available, a backpack is undoubtedly designed to streamline your work life.

Remember, choosing a backpack that balances functionality with a touch of your personal style will make it a trusted companion for years to come!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much should i expect to spend on a quality business backpack.

Business backpacks cover a wide price range. You’ll find excellent budget-friendly options and premium choices with high-end materials and specialized features. Generally, expect to invest anywhere from the mid-range to higher price points for a backpack built to last.

What size business backpack do I need?

Consider what you’ll typically carry. If you frequently need space for files, books, or a change of clothes alongside your laptop, opt for a backpack with ample capacity.  Those who prefer a minimalist approach may find a slimmer, more compact backpack ideal.

Are business backpacks waterproof?

While many business backpacks are made with water-resistant materials, not all are fully waterproof. If protecting your belongings in downpours is a priority, look for backpacks labeled as waterproof or those with a dedicated rain cover.

What’s the difference between a business backpack and a regular backpack?

Business backpacks generally prioritize organization, device protection, and a professional aesthetic.  They focus on dedicated compartments and features that enhance functionality within a work environment.

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The Best Travel Backpacks of 2024

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 May 21, 2024, adding the JanSport Journey Pack as our new best budget travel pack, as well as the feature-rich and burly Able Carry Max Backpack .

• Best Overall Travel Backpack: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L
• Best Budget Travel Backpack: JanSport Journey Pack
• 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 L to 35 L.

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.

JanSport Journey Pack

• Capacity 28 liters
• Weight 1 lb., 13.6 oz.
• Dimensions 19.5" x 12.5" x 7"
• Compartment access Zippered top access
• Material 100% 600D recycled polyester + 1680D ballistic boot
• Electronic storage 15" laptop sleeve

• Compact and clean profile
• Plush foam back panel and shoulder straps
• Compression straps on bottom of pack tote around a jacket
• Smooth-running zippers
• Good internal organization
• Laptop sleeve won't fit some large modern laptops
• Water bottle pockets sized for slimmer vessels

At $95, the JanSport Journey Pack does a lot for a little. As a campus commuter, airline personal item, or do-it-all backpack, this pack leverages its lack of specificity to make it amenable to being used on just about any day. Part of a trio of new travel packs from the legendary campus bookbag brand, the Journey surprised us with a more high-end build than expected, and for the money, it made an excellent travel companion.

While the Journey isn’t trimmed out in some of the more boutique fabrics, it is still solidly built and uses the good stuff where it counts, such as the 1680D ballistic boot material that’s reinforced with recycled car windshield liners (news to us). The 600D polyester used elsewhere has a rugged nailhead finish, and shoulders wear well.

The thick EVA foam used in the shoulder straps and back panel is cushy and applied liberally. On the inside, the laptop sleeve is lined with plush tricot material, along with an organizer pocket for stashing your readers or sunnies.

The organization of the pack is similarly uncompromising and is broken down into a spacious main compartment, front stash pocket, small bits and bobs organizer pocket, and a 15″ laptop sleeve — which easily toted our tester’s MacBook Pro safely.

When packed as a carry-on, we were able to stuff in an assortment of layers we might need along the way (rain jacket, warm puffy, hat), along with our headphones, book, travel pillow , and lunch for the flight, and still had space for an empty water bottle or two.

As a 28-liter pack, there’s no alternate sizing available and no hip belt to go along — though, in our opinion, loads this light doesn’t need one. Compression straps are limited, though you do get a set at the bottom of the pack that doubles as a dock for your beach towel, picnic blanket, or rolled-up jacket.

Like the TimBuk2 Never Check , the side water bottle pockets on this pack are really only ideal for thin bottles or flasks, and while we could shoehorn a Nalgene in there, it didn’t look happy.

Compromises aside, for less than $100, the JanSport Journey Pack doesn’t take the easy way out and phone it in with fewer materials or a more simple organizational layout. We had a pocket or sleeve for anything we needed to stash (besides a dedicated passport pocket), and the Journey made for an easy personal item on the handful of flights we took it on — easily stashing beneath the seat. If you’d rather ball out on your big-ticket luggage and just need a travel backpack that’ll plain work, this is the bag for you.

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 complements 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.

Able Carry Max Backpack

• Capacity 30 L
• Weight 3 lbs., 14.4 oz.
• Dimensions 20.4" x 12.6" x 7.9"
• Compartment access Zippered clamshell design
• Material X-Pac and 1000D nylon face fabric, ripstop 420D nylon interior

• High-quality fit and finish with top-shelf materials
• Dedicated work compartment is well organized and padded
• Shoulder straps and back panel are cushy Zotefoam
• Fits 17" laptops
• No hipbelt can be nice for storing, but needed for heavy carries
• On the higher end for travel pack pricing

Sporting many of the same features and functionality as the leading travel packs in our review, the Able Carry Max Backpack ($278) leaves little on the cutting room floor, decked out with ultra-durable Cordura nylon and X-Pac materials to pull together a travel pack that you could kick, throw, or loft across the airport to no ill effect. This is one tough pack.

At 30 liters, the only thing not ‘Maxed’ out on the Max is the capacity, which lands at less than the maximum legal carry-on size for most domestic airlines, but will be ideal instead for those who are operating with a little more room in their checked baggage, freeing up the Max for the important stuff. We also find slightly smaller packs such as this fly much easier on worldwide flights, where carry-on sizes can be a bit more diminutive.

That space is wisely dispersed, organized, and split between the laptop and main compartments. The laptop sleeve won’t hold any remote worker back, as it will host up to the 17″ mondo laptops of the modern age. It is flanked by an accessories pocket lined with four stretchy pockets for swaddling your chargers, cords, memory cards, and wireless mouse.

The main compartment leaves the organization up to you and is accessed through a broad clamshell opening that gives you full access to the entire space. A couple of packing cubes won’t go to waste in this space, and while Able Carry doesn’t supply the straps themselves, a couple of daisy chain webbing loops run the length of either side of the interior, meaning you can wrangle unruly items if need be. The back panel tucks away a few more zippered pockets, and a water bottle pocket also collapses away when not needed.

On the exterior, the Max is crisscrossed by seatbelt webbing on almost every facet, which will appeal to those who are looking for a modular pack for attaching and switching kit around as it’s needed. The VX21 X-Pac material is a rough and tumble weave that might not have the slick finish of the canvas on the Peak Design Travel Backpack but is easily as weather and abrasion-proof. We also highly appreciated the 1000D Cordura nylon on the boot of the pack, which made shuffling it around a worry-free exercise.

There are a lot of high-quality travel backpacks in the 30-liter space, and while most all will get the job done, it’s the construction of the Able Carry Max Backpack that keeps drawing us back to it. The stitching on this pack is exact and plentiful and works to hold a number of high-quality materials together in a thoughtful design.

Fully loaded, we did sometimes wish for a removable hip belt to help shoulder the weight a bit, but only the most jammed-full load-outs elicited this desire. For anyone after a dialed-in travel pack, the Max lives up to the name.

Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Pack

• Dimensions 22" x 12.8" x 11"
• 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 bag. 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

• 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

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

• Capacity 25 L
• 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 ($250) 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 (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 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 20-30L 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 JanSport Journey Pack 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 L, make better personal items, and the TimBuk2 Never Check , Tom Bihn Synapse , and Patagonia Black Hole backpacks all fit snugly 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.

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 JanSport Journey Pack ($95) 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 ($250) 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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11 BEST Travel Business Backpacks [2023 Guide!]

Are you looking for a business backpack? Well, if so we’ve got  good  news and  bad  news.

The good news is that we wrote this review about the best travel business backpacks because there are TONS of business backpacks out there!

The bad news though? A lot of those business backpacks look and feel terrible… and some are just a straight rip off…

Don’t worry though. In this business insider guide, we show you the BEST backpacks for business that money can buy – and for all budgets! All of these backpacks have plenty of features, look great, and feel amazing to wear on airplanes, trains and everything in between!

This ultimate guide makes it super easy to find a backpack that perfectly fits your needs, style, and budget. All you need to do now is scroll down and see which one takes your fancy!

Quick Summary: BEST Travel Business Backpacks

#1 – Nomatic Backpack

Overall best business backpack.

The Nomatic Backpack has got to be the overall best business backpack. With a sleek design this backpack opens up clamshell-style so you won’t have to be rooting around for any of your stuff – simply open it up and place your things in. It’s probably the best there is for organisation.

That’s right. There’s even a removable organisational panel for you to play around with. Here you can store all sorts of tech and documents. What’s more this backpack boasts a 15″, TSA-ready padded laptop pocket to secure your precious stuff. It also expands from 20 to 24 litres.

• Lockable zips for when you’re on the move
• Very comfortable straps
• Loads of extra room with that expandable capability
• Durable and weather-proof
• Not the absolute sleekest business backpack out there
• The zippers have a tendency to get stuck
• We’re not 100% sure about the NOMATIC print on the front
• Definitely on the expensive side ($239.99)

Is the Nomatic Backpack for you?

If you’re looking for something that’s going to keep you totally organised, Nomatic have definitely tried to think of everything with this backpack. It’s an investment: though pricey, it’s also super durable and comes with a lifetime guarantee, which is good to know!

#2 – Nomatic Travel Pack

Best business travel backpack (for shorter trips).

It’s no coincidence that Nomatic have both the #1 and #2 spot on our list: these newcomers are all about quality. The Nomatic Travel Pack is our top pick for the best business travel backpack – for shorter trips, that is. If you need to travel regularly, stay for a few nights on a business trip, then this awesome backpack has you covered.

Not only are there heaps of organisational pockets, but this bag also opens up like a suitcase and has compartments for clothing that will last you a few days or a weekend. As an extra bonus, the Nomatic Travel Pack is also carry on compliant, meaning no waiting around at the baggage carousel.

• Expands from 20 to a very capacious 30 litre bag
• You can tuck the shoulder straps away for smooth travelling
• If you’re carrying a heavy load, there’s a removable waist strap
• Electronics compartments for laptop and tablet
• Won’t work for you if you need more clothes, layers or general stuff
• Could be too blocky and serious in style for some people
• Not very affordable
• Has to open fully (like a suitcase) to get anything

Is the Nomatic Travel Pack for you?

If you’re the sort of person who likes good, functional design that makes sure all of your belongings are stored neatly and securely – and you also happen to be the kind of person who goes on trips for, let’s say max 5 days, or you’re regularly travelling for business – this bag is definitely for you.

#3 – Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack

Overall best laptop bag.

There’s a lot of laptop bags out there, but this has got to be the overall best laptop bag for us. The Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack is the ideal bag if you’re looking for a great laptop bag that has decent daypack functionality. Perfect for daily use, this bag not only looks cool (with a slight skater look) but it’s top-notch, too.

You can easily slide your laptop in and out of the protected pocket at the back of the bag, use it as carry on, keep all your tech organised, and stash your other belongings in a separate compartment. There’s even a water bottle compartment to keep hydrated! Check out our full Tortuga Setout review !

• Nice materials have been used here
• A ton of organisational space
• Easy to pack (clamshell opening)
• Can even fit clothes in for a couple of days’ travel
• Too bulky for going around a city for business
• Shoulder straps aren’t the most comfy over time
• Only fits a 15″ laptop / 9.7″ tablet
• You might want something more sleek for meetings

Is the Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack for you?

For the more casual business backpack wearer out there, who’s more about cafes and coworking spaces than boardrooms – and if you’re all about keeping your gear well organised – then the Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack is the one you should be considering.

#4 – Tortuga Setout

Best business travel backpack (for longer trips).

Another masterpiece of design from Tortuga, this one is our choice for the best business travel backpack for longer trips. This one maxes out on capacity at 45 litres, can store a 17″ laptop, a 9.7″ tablet, and even with all the compartments and stuff going on, only weighs in 3.3 pounds.

It’s also carry on compliant for many airlines, so you can save time, money and hassle on trips abroad. The larger capacity also means that – if you’re clever with packing – you’ll be able to travel for potentially up to 2 weeks with just this one bag. The Tortuga Setout is a full-size carry on, that’s for sure.

• You can fit a ton of gear in here
• Opens up like a suitcase for easy packing
• So many pockets and compartments
• Hideaway shoulder straps for slimline travel
• Organisational packing cubes sold separately
• You’ll need to double-check with budget airlines before using this as a carry on
• Too large for everyday city use
• Not as well designed for heavy loads (over 20 kilos)

Is the Tortuga Setout for you?

The Tortuga Setout is definitely for you if you want to pack a load of stuff into one bag and not have to worry about lugging any other baggage with you. So if you’re into the idea of one bag travel, this is the thing that’s going to help you fulfil your travel dreams!

#5 – WANDRD PRVKE

Best slim business backpack.

Not only one of the coolest backpacks currently available, with its rolltop lid and style-conscious aesthetic, the WANDRD PRVKE is also our pick for the best slim business backpack you could find right now. It’s available in either 21 or 31 litres, three different colours, and is ideal for city trips.

This bag really is slim: the 21L measures just 11″ wide and 17″ high, it sits only 6.5″ off your back, making it perfect to squeeze in and out of packed trains in rush hour and not bash into anybody on your way to a meeting. It’s also a high-quality bag built with high quality, water-resistant tarpaulin.

• Very trendy rolltop design
• Two points of access to the main compartment
• Magnetic tote handle for easy grabbing
• Designed with photographers in mind
• Very small if you plan on being away for multiple days
• The look of it could easily not be for you
• Not structured; bulky gear bulges out the front
• Too many components for most business travellers

Is the WANDRD PRVKE for you?

If your business is photography, the WANDRD PRVKE is quite literally  the  perfect bag for you. It’s weather-resistant, protects all your valuable tech, and has a ton of dedicated compartments for keeping all of your stuff super organised whilst you’re on the move.

We are obsessed with backpacks – we’ve tried them all! And our favourite carry on backpack in the WORLD is the Nomatic Travel Backpack.  This backpack has revolutionized the backpack industry and will change the way you travel forever :) Check it out here!

#6 – Peak Design Everyday Backpack

Best laptop backpack for women.

The Peak Design Everyday Backpack may be what we’re saying is the best laptop backpack for women, but it’s also generally just an awesome bag. That’s because this backpack does everything .

There are all sorts of clips, compartments, access points, different sections for everything from cameras to spare shoes that make it an organisational dream.

This bag also looks pretty cool, too. It comes in four different colours to suit your style and could work just as well in a city, as it could as a daypack when you feel like a break in the great outdoors. It’s also carry on compliant, so this bag could easily work for short trips away.

• 15″ laptop, tablet and document sleeve
• It’s got a tuckaway strap system
• Expandable side pockets
• Literally so much organisational potential
• Maybe too fussy for some people
• Magnetic lock system that you may find gimmicky
• Could be too small for what you need
• Not designed specifically for females

Is the Peak Design Everyday Backpack for you?

If you love travelling with your camera, a lot of tech, or if you have a varied lifestyle, or you simply are the kind of person who loves the idea of organising everything down to a T – and you appreciate good quality and decent aesthetics, too – then you’ll love Peak Design’s Everyday Backpack.

#7 – GoRuck GR1

Best business casual backpack.

GoRuck GR1 is definitely the best business casual backpack for us. Oddly it’s been designed with military-grade materials, but that just means that it’s 100% built to last. This thing is durable and weather resistant, so at least you know that it’s never going to break on you. GoRuck even claim that the laptop compartment is bombproof!

It’s also available in 10 colours, so you can really select one your style and personality. It’s also a pretty cool, laid-back skater style design, looking more like a regular rucksack than a sleek business backpack. That said, though you can get it in camouflage, you can also get it in plain black.

• Good for city travel, wouldn’t look out of place
• Opens up clamshell-style
• False bottom to protect that laptop compartment even more
• Ultra-rugged
• Might be too casual for some people
• Super expensive ($395); totally an investment
• Military and bombproof statements could seem like overkill
• Might want something bigger (available only in 21 and 26L)

Is the GoRuck GR1 for you?

If you’ve got the money and you’re looking for something that’s tough, rugged and still looks kinda cool without being too outdoorsy, then the GoRuck GR1 is going to be pretty high on your backpack wishlist. Casual enough for everyday, just about plain enough for business, it’s win-win sort of bag.

#8 – Maverick & Co. Metropolitan Business Backpack

Best leather business backpack.

The sleek and sophisticated Metropolitan Business Backpack by Maverick & Co. has got to be the very best leather business backpack you could buy. This backpack is  all about  luxury. Constructed of Saffiano leather and with double velvet lining, it’s one for the uber style conscious.

But it’s not all about looks. There’s a lot of interior stuff going on here: it comes complete with a phone pocket, laptop compartment, slots for pens, and space for your documents. There’s even studs on the bottom of the bag that mean you can put it down on hard surfaces without worrying too much about your laptop.

• Super stylish
• High quality materials involved
• Unfussy, simple design
• Affordable (for a leather bag)
• Not very big at all
• Strictly for business
• It may not be the most comfortable
• You may want more compartments

Is the Maverick & Co. Metropolitan Business Backpack for you?

This is totally the backpack for you if you are into looking fashionable and cool. This backpack, available only in black, is for those who want to dress to impress on their business meetings. Things like the silver zip and the silver embossed logo on the front make it pretty fancy.

More Best Travel Business Backpacks

#9 – osprey nebula 34 backpack.

Osprey are well known high quality and high comfort, which is why we think the Osprey Nebula 34 Backpack is a great choice for one of the top business backpacks. Not only is it going to last, but since you’ll be wearing it a lot, it’s mercifully comfortable, too.

This backpack has definitely been designed with city dwellers in mind. The laptop sleeve sits on the bag and is well secured, padded, and has room for both a laptop and a tablet. There’s also a front pocket organiser, perfect for pens, keys, USB sticks, train tickets, charger wires – all sorts of stuff.

• Very comfortable bag
• A ton of handy pockets
• Mesh back harness system means breathable and less sweaty
• Comes in five colours
• Won’t fit laptops more than 15″
• Might look too ‘active’ for business use
• Not much organisation in the main compartment
• May not be big enough

Is the Osprey Nebula 34 Backpack for you?

For something that’s built for activity that still won’t look 100% out of place in a city, this is a great option. The Osprey Nebula 34 basically gives you the comfort and breathability of an active pack with the slimline look of urban design: perfect for a cycling commute, for example.

#10 – Samsonite Novex Perfect Fit Laptop Backpack

This backpack from renowned luggage purveyors Samsonite is one of the top business travel backpacks you’re likely to come across. There are so many features packed inside this one bag. The front opening pocket is perfect for tablets, phones and notebooks, whilst there’s also a padded, shockproof laptop pocket at the back, too.

There are more pockets besides on the Samsonite Novex Perfect Fit Laptop Backpack so you can keep properly organised on your trips. What’s more, there’s even a suitcase sleeve on the rear of the bag, so you can even use it in tandem with a suitcase if you need to.

• Carry on compliant
• Easy access to all your items
• Very protected laptop space (for 15.6″)
• Extremely affordable price point
• Can feel quite heavy
• The straps aren’t the most comfortable
• There isn’t a load of capacity
• Not the most stylish look

Is the Samsonite Novex Perfect Fit Laptop Backpack for you?

If you’re on a bit of a budget and you’re looking for something functional that will protect your laptop, and if you may only be using it for technical items, as a complement to a suitcase, or for everyday use, then you can’t go wrong with this offering from Samsonite. It’s a solid choice for a business travel backpack.

#11 – eBags TLS Business Backpack

This backpack from eBags is all about business. Not only does this top business backpack offer up a slick, clean-lined style for professionals, but it can also be converted into a briefcase for when you don’t want to show up at meetings wearing a backpack.

And it’s got a whole world of pockets going on, as well, making this a fortress of organisation. There’s a hardshell headphone compartment at the bottom, a tablet pocket on the top, room for a 17″ laptop, and a whole load of different places to put pens, notebooks and other stuff in the front. Amazing!

• Super easy to use organisation
• Looks very nice whilst still being functional
• Slimline and not too bulky
• Doesn’t lose its shape when empty
• Not about packing clothes
• Straps aren’t overly padded
• Not as durable as other business backpacks on the market
• Heavy for its size

Is the eBags TLS Business Backpack for you?

If you’re an IT person or have to use a lot of electronic kit – you may be a photographer, make music, or simply be a digital nomad – this is going to work perfectly as a daily-use pack for all your business travel backpack needs. It’s even got a suitcase sleeve!

Final Thoughts!

Getting yourself a good business backpack is a tricky balance. Not only do you want something that’s going to suit your personality (at least a little bit), but you need something that strikes the right balance between size and comfort, as well as casual and smart.

There are well-established companies out there, as well as some quality newbies, so whether you’re looking for something ultra-sleek, or something for cafe-hopping, our guide to the best business backpacks has you covered.

Business Backpacks FAQ

Who makes the best business backpacks.

Though many years ago this would have been companies like Targus and Incase, these days there are plenty of competitors and newcomers to the business backpack game. The fact that business travel has changed, the rise of the digital nomad, means young companies have had to come up with new bags to meet the demand for cool but functional backpacks.

Kickstarter companies like Nomatic and Tortuga have been sewing up the market for good digital nomad bags for the last few years. These companies combine durable materials like sailcloth with a load of organisational capabilities, as well as capacity for short term travel. Backpacker mainstays like Osprey have been producing some of their own answers to the business world, too.

Other new companies like WANDRD and Peak Design, both of which also feature on our list of the best business backpacks, are well worth watching, too.

What are the best backpacks for business?

Business backpacks don’t have to be all boring, black and small. It’s no longer a world of suits and bowler hats, with start-ups and freelance workers being more and more commonplace in our ever-connected world. That means business backpacks can be a lot more than they used to be.

For us, the best features of a good business backpack, to be honest, starts with looks. You’ll want something that toes a line between cool and smart, casual and, well, business! Next up, and related to how the bag looks, is the capacity. The size of the thing. Having something big and bulky may be good for longer trips, but once you rock up at your business meeting with a glorified box on your back, you may be thinking twice about your choice.

Durability is a massive feature. Durable backpacks , like the recent Nomatic entrants to the fray, mean longlasting everyday use is pretty much guaranteed. Comfort is a big selling point, too. And finally, since its business, you’ll want to be able to organise your stuff and be able to keep electronics like laptops and tablets safe. Opt for padded sleeves and hard casings where possible.

What size business backpack should I get?

We mentioned size just now, but what size business backpack you go for entirely depends on your line of business.

If you won’t really be heading into meetings or using packed commuter transport all too often, then you can certainly afford to get something that’s a little bulkier. A digital nomad who expects to be on the road for weeks at a time, whose clients and work are based mainly online, can definitely get away with something up to around 40 litres of capacity.

But if you’re looking for a business backpack to take with you on longer trips (with your suitcase or a larger backpack), then something around the 20L mark to serve as a daypack would be a good idea. A slim backpack, like the WANDRD PRVKE for example, would be a great choice for those travelling every day in rush hours; any bulk when you’re on the commute is not only uncomfortable, but it gets in the way of everyone else, too!

Basically, for everyday use: around 20 litres. For business trips: larger, up to 30 litres. For longer journeys, 40 litres should be alright.

***Disclaimer*** Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you book your accommodation through the site, One Weird Globe will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you . Your support helps me keep the site going :)

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5 Great Backpacks for Business Travel

In the fast-paced world of business travel, backpacks can help you stay agile and organized while still retaining a suitably professional style. Of course, not just any backpack will do. Choosing the right companion for your particular carry setup is key to a successful trip, ensuring it offers the travel-friendly features you need while also nailing the right aesthetic. So we’re delving into 5 great options for business travel backpacks, along with helpful tips to pick a pack that’s perfect for your needs.

Top Backpacks for Business Travel

Bellroy transit workpack (from us$199).

The Bellroy Transit Workpack is a versatile all-rounder for business travel, everyday commuting, and trips to the gym. With three sizes including 20L, 28L, and 38L options you can travel lean and agile or carry extra depending on your specific load requirements. Each size offers an exterior-access laptop compartment, a clamshell main compartment for easy packing and gear retrieval, and a choice of quick-access pockets to store items such as a water bottle, keys, a phone, a passport, and a wallet. Additionally, a contoured and breathable back panel and padded shoulder straps ensure loads stay comfy on the go, while water-resistant fabric and zippers help keep the elements at bay.

Stuart & Lau Crosby Backpack (US$295)

The 20L Stuart & Lau Crosby Backpack pairs a clean and timeless aesthetic with thoughtful features such as an exterior-access 16″ laptop compartment, contoured padded shoulder straps, and top and side grab handles for convenient maneuverability in tight spaces. Durable Japanese YKK Excella metal zippers, scratch-resistant anodized alloy hardware, a waterproof DuraLite fabric shell, and waterproof rubberized base stand up to demanding use and offer protection against the elements, while Italian full-grain leather details provide a refined touch. The clamshell compartment and interior pockets make it easy to pack and organize items, while a front quick-access pocket stores frequently used items at the ready. Plus, you also benefit from a leak-resistant water bottle pocket and an Add-a-Bag luggage sleeve for securing the pack to wheeled luggage.

Stuart & Lau Capstone Backpack (US$335)

The 23L Stuart & Lau Capstone Backpack dials in durability, style, and functionality in one. The tough DuraLite fabric shell and weatherproof YKK AquaGuard zippers protect gear from the elements, while Italian full-grain leather details elevate the luxurious feel. The sleek silhouette looks sharp in professional settings, while a flexible panel-loading design offers top-loading access or a fully opened main compartment depending on your needs. The exterior-access laptop compartment accommodates up to 17″ devices and an expandable side pocket stores flasks and bottles for easy access. Small essentials can be stashed in the top and side quick-access pockets and the Add-a-Bag system allows for all-in-one transport with wheeled luggage.

rofmia Daypack V2 L (US$513)

T rofmia 30L Daypack V2 L is a versatile pack for both travel and everyday use, handmade by a small two-person operation in Minokamo City, Japan. The understated design features a tough and waterproof 5.0 oz. DCF shell, complemented by weatherproof YKK zippers for dependable protection against inclement weather. A separate 16″ laptop compartment keeps tech secure but quickly retrievable and the clamshell main compartment makes for convenient packing and access to your gear. Interior pockets including a padded document pocket and zippered storage keep items tidy in the main compartment, with quick-access exterior pockets taking care of the items you want close at hand. (Note, rofmia bags regularly sell out, so be sure to check their socials for updates on restocks).

Carl Friedrik 72-hour Backpack (US$545)

If you’re seeking luxurious quality that doesn’t sacrifice utility, Carl Friedrik’s 72-hour Backpack is an excellent choice. As the name suggests, it’s designed to accommodate three days’ worth of travel gear, offering a convenient clamshell main compartment and a separate compartment for documents and a 16″ tech device. The 25L backpack provides three interior pockets for organizing smaller items, complemented by quick-access top and side exterior pockets for items such as a phone, passport, wallet, or glasses. The weather-resistant, durable shell is made with 100% recycled nylon, while Vachetta leather detailing enhances the premium look and feel. A rear luggage sleeve keeps you moving freely with wheeled luggage, while a lifetime warranty provides confidence on journeys both near and far.

How to Choose the Right Backpack for Business Travel

First-class functionality.

A great business travel backpack nails functionality from the start, keeping your gear well organized and accessible throughout the trip, yet secure when not required. As business travel usually requires traveling with tech, a padded laptop compartment is an important feature – ideally externally accessed for getting through airport security with as little hassle as possible. Quick-access pockets for items such as your phone, wallet, and passport will keep them safe but within easy reach, especially if you need to leg it to a connecting flight. Then it’s a case of delving into features that will meet your specific needs. For example, maybe you need document storage, a luggage pass-through sleeve, or space for a portable charger. Ultimately, the pack you choose should deliver the functionality you require in an intuitively user-friendly design.

Comfort Is Key

When it comes to travel, carry comfort is a priority that can make or break your trip. Opt for a backpack with features that make your carry experience as enjoyable as possible, such as padded and adjustable shoulder straps, a breathable back panel, and a sternum strap to help stabilize and secure the load. Speaking of loads, if you’ll be carrying a fair amount you might appreciate load lifters and a hip belt for that extra comfort boost.

Travel-Ready Security

Having inbuilt security features can provide welcome peace of mind during your travels and there are several different options to consider. Anti-theft features such as lockable zippers, concealed compartments, and RFID-blocking pockets all help to keep valuables and sensitive information secure.

Suitable Size and Capacity

For overnight trips with small loads, a compact bag should do just fine. However, if you need to carry more then you’ll need to look at bags with larger capacities (or potentially external carry options for bulkier items). While you don’t want to overpack, you also don’t want to leave essentials behind that might require finding replacements at your destination. Also, consider designs that make optimal use of the stated capacity. Fun fact: not all equal-capacity bags are actually…well, equal. For instance, depending on the design, two packs with the same capacity may not be able to fit the same loadout or an 18L pack from one brand may feel larger than a 20L pack from a different brand. Think about what you’re carrying and how the pack’s layout will accommodate those items (for example, rectangular-ish packs work well with boxy packing cubes and document folders).

Durability for the Demands of Travel

While a carry-on backpack won’t suffer the same abuse as checked baggage, you’ll still be hauling it in and out of vehicles and overhead compartments. There will be inevitable scrapes, scuffs, and marks from mysterious substances. Perhaps the occasional downpour to contend with. Not to mention general wear and tear that comes with extensive travel use. So tough, travel-friendly materials and dependable construction are vital to ensure your pack is in it for the long haul. Durable, water-resistant fabrics will help protect your gear from the elements and will be easier to clean if required than materials that stain easily. Solid stitching and trusty zippers and hardware will ensure your pack can handle demanding travel for years to come, and while this may require investing a little extra, you won’t have to contend with broken straps or failed zippers that spill your contents out.

Professional Aesthetics

While functionality is vital in a business travel backpack, aesthetics shouldn’t be an afterthought. The style of your bag says something about you before you’ve even said a word, so your pack should match the professional appearance you want to convey. While this won’t be the same for everyone (for instance, a boardroom executive won’t necessarily dress the same way as a creative), you still want to exude an air of professionalism. Neutral bag colors like black, navy, olive, or gray work best here, keeping things understated and versatile and allowing you to transition smoothly from meetings to airport terminals and everywhere in between.

Consider Brand Reputation and Reviews

Look to brands with an established reputation for creating highly considered travel gear. Check out reviews of particular pieces you’re interested in to see how they perform in real-world use. Also consider the level of customer support and any warranties provided, as these can foster confidence that you’re getting a quality product and that help is at hand if anything goes wrong.

A heads up: Bellroy and Carryology share the same founders. You can read about our origin story  here .

And hey, we’re reader-supported too, so if you find something that sparks your interest and click through and purchase via our affiliate links, sometimes we’ll get a little kickback from the brands or retailers. It helps us to make more content and build this channel. Although, we’ll just point out, some brands don’t have affiliate options, and that’s cool with us too. If the carry is awesome, we recommend it!

IN THIS ARTICLE

Catherine Baecker-Khoury

Catherine is a tea addict and fan of hands-free carry. She loves hill scrambling, forest traipsing and is the reason our grammar and spelling are so awesome, running her eye over every post that you get to read.

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13 Best Travel Backpacks of 2024, Tested by Experts

Keep all your belongings safe and organized in a lightweight backpack.

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.

Don't overlook the humble backpack. A well-organized one can make all the difference when traveling. Whether you're looking for a handy personal item, an all-in-one alternative to a carry-on suitcase or a helpful companion for backpacking and camping, you can't beat the hands-free mobility. Plus, you won't need to worry about rolling your luggage or hauling a large duffel or weekender up a flight of stairs, across a sandy beach or on bustling cobblestone streets.

Our top picks:

Best Overall Travel Backpack

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

Best Value Travel Backpack

Coofay travel backpack.

Most Versatile Travel Backpack

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab evaluates backpacks both in Lab and with consumer testers for durability and comfort. From the best laptop backpacks and backpacks for college students to the best duffels and daypacks , we've seen it all. To find the best travel backpacks, we test everything from tear strength to strap strength and abrasion resistance to make sure the bag can stand up to rough handling for years to come. We also work with consumer testers who try them out on various trips under real-world conditions. We also consider the amount of padding in the straps, useful extras and overall weight to find the most comfortable backpacks.

Our picks are top performers from testing along with new styles that have exciting features and rave reviews. Check out our top travel backpack picks below and keep reading to learn all of our ultimate backpack shopping tips to find the best pack for you. Pair your new travel backpack with packing cubes and a hard-side suitcase for your next vacation.

We were shocked by just how much we could fit inside this travel backpack during our packing tests. In fact, it outperformed multiple carry-on suitcases for its generous capacity and well-designed interior. Similar to hard-side luggage, the bag completely unzips for easy packing and, in this case, features helpful mesh to help separate compartments.

On top of that, we liked the helpful ergonomic features, from the padding along the back to the hip strap and sternum strap, which offer comfort and support. Plus, when testing the laptop sleeve, we found there was room to spare after placing a 16-inch laptop in it. The only note of caution is that the bag doesn't have a luggage sleeve, so if you're hoping to stack it on top of rolling luggage, it may not be the right fit.

When we surveyed our own editors and staff for their favorite bags, this one from Coofay was a hit for its organizational pockets and personal-item-friendly size. One staffer told us, "This backpack can definitely fit a week of clothing if rolled properly."

Like many popular travel backpacks, this one unzips like a suitcase for easy packing and has tons of small compartments to help keep your belongings in order. We particularly appreciate the compression straps on the side, allowing you to pack more while keeping the bag within the personal item size limit of most domestic airlines. Plus, there's a wide range of colors to choose from.

Designed with intention, Peak Design's travel backpack is truly a standout within the industry. While it's hard to find a travel bag that can tackle all sorts of trips, this one manages to do just that . It's truly one-of-a-kind and allows you to access your belongings from the front (like a suitcase), the back (like a top-loading traditional backpack) and the sides.

Compression features allow you to easily convert it from a 30L capacity to a 35L or 45L bag for all your travel needs. The backpack straps can be hidden away to keep it streamlined while using the simple luggage sleeve. The only challenge comes with packing: While the interior is spacious, there aren't too many separate compartments, so if that's important to you, the brand offers a selection of compatible packing cubes , including protective ones for camera equipment.

Away F.A.R Convertible Backpack 45L

With a massive 45L interior, this bag from Away can hold everything you need for a weekend away, including multiple outfits, toiletries and even an extra pair of shoes. It's the go-to travel backpack for GH's Home & Apparel Reviews Analyst Amanda Constantine , who's brought it on everything from short weekend getaways to longer trips abroad.

Constantine notes, "The straps are comfortable and feel sturdy, and I love that the backpack straps can be tucked away if I'm carrying the bag like a suitcase instead of on my back." In addition, this pack also has all the top-notch organizational features you'd expect from Away, from compression straps to convenient mesh pockets. The caveat? The zippers are a little too easy to open and sometimes have a tendency to come undone.

Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack

This backpack includes the ultimate organizational system: Three packing cubes , a laptop case, a water bottle/umbrella pocket and a small front pocket. The packing cubes are ideal to keep your clothes compact and wrinkle-free while traveling. We also love the padded straps and side buckles to make sure everything stays in place.

It has a clamshell opening and both sides lie down flat, which makes this backpack easier to pack and organize as you don't have to stuff items in from the top. This pick is ideal as a carry-on for international travel as you can easily pack your clothes and what you'll need on the flight.

Osprey Porter 46L Travel Pack

Finding a good backpacking bag can be a challenge. You'll want a bag that's spacious and supportive enough that it won't cause injury. Luckily, Osprey is known for its ergonomically designed packs, making it a favorite brand amongst some hiking enthusiasts at GH. One GH analyst has even taken the brand's bags on a two-week backpacking trip to Thailand, calling them comfortable and well-designed.

This model comes with a generous 46L capacity and helpful compression straps, both on the exterior and interior, allowing you to bring everything you'll need and then some. Additionally, this bag features the brand's helpful chest and hip straps for support, along with helpful pockets throughout. Take note, however, that it comes in a unisex style, so users accustomed to women-specific packs may find the shoulder straps stiff.

TUMI Alpha Bravo Search Backpack

Carrying a TUMI backpack is a status symbol no matter where you are — the brand is known for its luxury travel products worldwide, particularly for its long-lasting quality and service . Buying a travel product (e.g. a bag or luggage) from the brand typically comes with a five-year warranty and free repairs plus a lifetime registration and tracking service for finding lost bags. Even after five years, you can ask the brand to repair your bag for a small cost.

TUMI's Search Backpack is sleek enough for conferences and work trips, making it great for business travel or everyday use. One GH analyst has used this bag for over 10 years, throughout school and work and on multiple domestic and international flights. While the top-loading configuration isn't as seamless for packing, testers were still impressed by how "surprisingly spacious" and "high quality" it felt.

Thule Aion Travel Backpack

Having the right backpack can make all the difference when going through airport security. This one from Thule, one of our favorite luggage brands, comes equipped with helpful features like a small easy-to-reach pocket for your passport and boarding pass plus a convenient laptop compartment . Within the bag, there's a helpful divider for organization along with other mesh pockets and panels.

The bag also comes in two sizes — 28L and 40L — each of which makes the perfect personal item or carry-on respectively. And if 28L sounds a bit too small, this size expands to 32L to accommodate more essentials. The only caveat is that the 40L version doesn't come with any hip straps, which is rare for a backpack of its size. The brand suggests pairing the bag with the Aion Sling , which slots in easily for support.

Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack

Ideal when traveling for business or even everyday commuting to work, the Silhouette 17 backpack has all the essentials and then some. In fact, it's designed to replace your carry-on, which can slow you down when on a last-minute business trip. Moreover, Samsonite's soft-side luggage has proven be abrasion-resistant and strong in our tests , staying in great shape, so we are confident in the durability of the brand's similar products.

Beyond the durable nature, it opens up like a hardshell suitcase, complete with functional sections, and has a padded laptop sleeve for easy access. Plus, it easily convert from a backpack to a briefcase or shoulder bag. For longer trips, you can even slide it onto checked luggage instead of maneuvering two suitcases through the airport.

Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack

Often used on day hikes for its lightweight design, a daypack can be a great option for those in search of a not-so-heavy travel backpack. And when it comes to the best daypacks , Osprey reigns supreme as the top-performing brand, earning especially high scores for their amazing ease-of-use features and fitting everything in our packing test .

Recent testers have loved that Osprey bags have "lots of compartments" and "comfortable cushioned shoulder straps." Some even highlighted the helpful sternum strap, which keeps the weight evenly distributed, preventing shoulder pain. You can also expect an interior sleeve to fit a laptop or tablet or a hydration reservoir for hikes, plus a slew of pockets in the front including two mesh water bottle pockets.

Herschel Kaslo Backpack Tech

When we tested this laptop backpack , we were surprised by how lightweight yet protective it felt. The detail and care are evident throughout: The bag has reinforced stitching in areas where you'd expect extra tugging like the top handle, straps and luggage sleeve. There's also a separate laptop compartment with a fleece lining to help minimize potential scratches.

One Textiles Lab analyst swears by this bag, using it as both her everyday bag for commuting as well as her go-to travel backpack, especially on business trips when she'll need her laptop handy. In our packing test, we found the 30L capacity large enough to fit a 16-inch laptop plus three to four days of clothes and toiletries. If that’s not the right size for you, it also comes in a 20L capacity for those with more petite frames.

patagonia Patagonia Black Hole Pack - 25 L

Whether you're backpacking through a new country or flying to a nearby city, this Patagonia pack is up for the adventure. It's made with polyester that has a durable water-repellent finish to keep all your belongings protected. One tester shared that this bag is the "backpack to end all backpacks" because it's great for all types of vacations and features a sternum strap you can easily adjust to suit your height.

While the 25L capacity may look small, the bag lives up to its "Black Hole" name, fitting much more than you'd expect, especially when you roll your clothes up , or you can opt for the 32L style . Plus, in Lab tests, water rolled right off the main fabric of the bag with ease, so you can rest assured it'll protect your belongings even in unpredictable weather.

Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack

No one wants an uncomfortable backpack, which is why we loved this bag from Dagne Dover. It's made of neoprene fabric, which feels soft and squishy instead of stiff like some other bags. The brand also does not skimp when it comes to details like an interior pocket to hold a water bottle or cell phone and a pouch that can be attached on a leash inside the main compartment to find small stuff quickly.

The main compartment has a laptop sleeve and is large enough for a weekend trip. Plus, it even has a sleek luggage sleeve, slipping easily onto a carry-on suitcase at the airport. Take note: We found that if you’re rough with the bag, the neoprene fabric may pill (though pills can easily be removed with a fabric shaver ). This pick comes in small and medium sizes too.

How we test travel backpacks

The Good Housekeeping Institute has been testing travel products and backpacks for decades.

Grace Wu (she/her) is a product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she evaluates fabric-based products using specialized equipment and consumer tester data. Prior to starting at Good Housekeeping in 2022, she earned a master of engineering in materials science and engineering and a bachelor of science in fiber science from Cornell University. While earning her degrees, Grace worked in research laboratories for smart textiles and nanotechnology and held internships at Open Style Lab and Rent the Runway.

Emma Seymour (she/her) is the associate director of the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance. 

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10 Best Travel Backpacks for Business in 2023 – Buyer’s Guide

So, are you planning to bring a backpack for your business trip? Well, you’re in the right place! Whether you’re bringing a pack of papers or just traveling with your laptop and other things, we’ve got you covered. Surely, the market is now saturated with work backpacks , but in this review, we focus on travel backpacks for business where you can still pull-off your professional look.

Sleek, professional, and strategically constructed backpacks are what make a successful backpack for a business trip. Even though its a matter of choice of a carry-on suitcase or travel backpacks. Below are the top ten backpacks that can surely fit all your needs from when you check-in your flight to your client’s site!

In a Hurry? The test winners after 14 hrs of research

eBags Professional Slim Laptop Backpack – Premium Pick

Why is it better?

• High-quality look
• A lot of compartment for organization
• Sturdy and very durable
• Very big capacity

Kopack 17inch Business Laptop Backpack – Best Value

• Smart design
• Anti-theft and water resistant
• Slim and light on the back
• Comfortable on your back

Best Travel Backpacks for Business – Overview

You might think that backpacks aren’t the conventional way of traveling for work. Believe it or not, we are very lucky to have very innovative companies now where backpacks designed for business travel are well-thought of. Likewise, you can pack a packable daypack at your destination to carry important items. Professional looking backpacks may be one of the very critical features that you’re after but business is business and we understand that convenience and efficiency are also necessary for a successful business trip. Aside from that, you could also use some packing cubes to aid you in your bag’s organization.

Travel Backpacks for Business Reviews

1. yorepek business travel backpack.

The Yorepek Business Travel Backpack is meant for long business trips and large packers. It owns 20+ independent pockets and spacious main multi compartments with many hidden pockets that can definitely accommodate a lot of stuff. It is a TSA approved backpack that opens freely 90-180 degree making you go through airport security with ease. It also has a USB charging port on the top right side making charging convenient while you’re on the go.

The back panel has a U-shaped three-dimensional ventilation design to help for air convection, ventilation, and heat elimination. It also has a strap to hook it easily in your suitcase. This backpack is made of water-resistant material to keep your load safe water. With all these fantastic features, this backpack truly makes a great travel backpack for business trips! Our guide to the best business backpacks offers more great products like this.

Key Features:

• TSA approved laptop sleeve
• USB port and headphone hole
• Removable keyring

Specifications:

• Brand: Yorepek
• Capacity: 45L
• Dimensions: 19.29″ H x 14.57″ W x 10.24″ D
• Weight: 2.5 lbs
• Many pockets
• Heavy duty and sturdy
• Comfortable on back
• Water resistant
• May be a litte bulky for some

2. Matein Travel Backpack for Business

The Matein Travel Backpack for Business is one of the market’s most popular backpacks. This bag has a lot to offer, and this is not a surprise to us. You will certainly pass the TSA check without trouble with this backpack’s TSA compliant padded laptop pocket. This backpack is also good for organizing, most of which you can find in your front pocket. In addition, you will certainly use this backpack for a long time as it gives your central compartment a quite generous space.

One of the distinctive features of this backpack is its back anti-thief pocket. Your iPad is also right next to your laptop sleeve. A compact USB charging port can also support you on the outside of this bag! You will certainly make your buck with this backpack with its compact and modern design and inexpensive price!

• Luggage strap
• Anti-theft back pockets
• Front organizer compartment
• Brand: Matein
• Dimensions: 18.1″ H x 14.2″ W x 7.8″ D
• Weight: 1.56 lbs
• Spacious main compartment
• Comfortable to wear
• Affordable and durable
• Huge water bottle holder
• Much thicker laptops may not fit so well

3. Sosoon Business Backpack

The Sosoon Business Backpack has a large capacity and is well-organized. The main compartment can contain bundles of your business workpapers, your clothes, shoes, and other belongings you would need for your business trip. The front compartment has several pockets including a pencil case and a keychain to help you organize your items, big and small in a more efficient way.

There is a luggage strap on the backpack to hold it with your suitcase if you have one. A hidden anti-thief pocket is also placed in the back for your important items. The shoulder straps have cards and eyeglass pockets for quick access. It also has decompression design with massage mats that help relieve stress from your shoulders. Similarly, the back panel has a comfortable airflow foam-pad design with multi-panel breathable mesh padding to provide maximum support for your back.

• Massage mats on shoulder straps
• Water-resistant material
• Anti-theft hidden pockets
• Brand: Sosoon
• Capacity: 38L
• Dimensions: 19″ H x 12.4″ W x 7.5″ D
• Weight: 1.9 lbs
• Great shoulder massage mats
• Nice design
• Good top handle
• Affordable for its features
• Backpack may look a little long for petite people

4. SwissGear SA1923 Travel Backpack

The SwissGear SA1923 Travel Backpack is a versatile backpack made for convenience and functionality, and it’s loaded with features like an easy-access laptop compartment. This backpack also has a large packing capacity. The main pocket provides protected packing for multiple binders, gaming peripherals, and other accessories. With this backpack, getting through airport security is quicker and easier. The laptop compartment opens quickly at the security checkpoint and the laptop window makes your computer visible while scanning.

Other advanced features include contoured shoulder straps for enhanced comfort. The interior pocket organizer provides divider pockets for pens, pencils, cellphone, and anything else you need. There is even an elastic tab on the shoulder strap that keeps sunglasses secure and conveniently accessible. You may also be interested in some of the best travel backpacks from our list, so check them out.

• TSA approved laptop sleeve up to 15″
• Contoured shoulder straps
• Audio and media pocket
• Brand: SwissGear
• Dimensions: 18″ H x 13″ W x 8.5″ D
• Weight: 3.09 lbs
• Well-known and reliable brand
• Perfect size, not too big not too small
• Plenty compartments and pockets
• Side pockets for quick access are great
• It’s a little heavy

5. Tocode Laptop Backpack

The Tocode Laptop Backpack is one of the most versatile backpacks. This backpack, which comes with its ergonomic back panel and shoulders, would definitely not disappoint you for long periods of time. The revolutionary weight control feature can also make your bag 20-25% lighter, making it ideal for extended use. Further, you sure can use this backpack for long business trips as it gives quite a generous space in its main compartment.

This bag also offers a high ergonomic handle, waterproof oxford material and strengthened stitching for a durable life. It also comes with a free anti-theft lock! This backpack matches perfectly your long business trips with its large capacity. Last but not least, several pockets and compartments were not missed to suit all your needs! Don’t forget to also check our guide to the best laptop backpacks for travel .

• Water-resistant oxford fabric
• Ergonomic chest buckle
• USB 2.0 external charging port
• Brand: Tocode
• Capacity: 35L
• Dimensions: 22″ H x 12″ W x 7″ D
• Includes anti-theft locks
• Ergonomic and great padding
• Very sturdy and durable
• Versatile usability
• backpack is a little bulky

6. CoolBell Convertible Business Backpack for Travel

The CoolBell Convertible Business Backpack for Travel is definitely one of the coolest backpacks in the market. Nothing beats its three-way convertibility that can suit your mood or situation in a snap. CoolBell bases on the cutting-edge of fashion trends, while pursuing the best quality of laptop bag category. This backpack converts from a backpack to a messenger bag and then to a shoulder bag. What more can you ask for?

There are four outside pockets that make organizing convenient for you to carry. You definitely won’t get confused finding where your business cards, business plans are located! There’s a roomy laptop compartment that can either fit 15.6 or 17.3 inches. It has a telescopic belt that provides more protection for your laptop as well.

• Convertible backpack to a messenger bag to shoulder bag
• Tuck-away shoulder straps
• Genuine leather zipper pull
• Brand: CoolBell
• Dimensions: 18.8″ H x 13.7″ W x 5.1″ D
• Weight: 2.64lbs
• Versatile use backpack
• Modern design and style
• Very professional looking
• Comfortable to carry
• Zippers are not lockable

7. Ambor Travel Laptop Backpack

The Ambor Travel Laptop Backpack has an ingenious structure in itself. The shoulder straps on the back can be covered behind the Breathable Cushion and the backpack can be quickly turned into a carrying case. The handle is on the front and on the left side of the backpack, which makes it easy to detach the bag from an overhead bin and makes it compact to use.

The backpack also comes with compressor straps, perfect for securing your stuff inside. The material is also water-resistant for better protection against water. Strolling at night? the reflective stripes of this backpack can ensure you a safe walk down the streets. On top of that, the zippers are also lockable, offering you a double safety!

• Dry and wet separation pocket
• Lockable zipper and anti-theft pocket
• Brand: Ambor
• Weight: 3.7lbs
• Dimensions: 20″ H x 13″ W x 7″ D
• Lots of pockets inside
• Fits many things
• Perfect for travel
• Ventilated shoe compartment
• Item is heavier than normal

8. Kopack 17inch Business Laptop Backpack – Best Value

The Kopack 17inch Business Laptop Backpack is built for everyday business use. It sure does suit any ensemble that you have with its streamlined and slim feel. This backpack has your back from a business to a weekend trip! The main feature of this backpack is its double-layer zippers that can handle a knife stab. The material of this backpack is also going to look fresh and new for a very long time due to its anti-scratch material.

This backpack has a detachable USB cable port on the outside, similar to many great backpacks. It also has a padded back panel and shoulder straps to ensure your utmost comfort. Subtle imaginative designs such as a pocket on the shoulder strap for your sunglass, selected high-grade zipper metal, strategically organized pockets are also the highlight of this backpack. Make sure you also check our selection of the best 17-inch laptop backpacks .

• Anti stab dual-layer zipper
• Anti-theft hidden laptop compartment
• Anti-scratch material
• Brand: Kopack
• Weight: 1.94lbs
• Dimensions: 14.1″ H x 10.1″ W x 3.7″ D
• Thicker laptops may not fit

9. eBags Professional Slim Laptop Backpack – Premium Pick

The eBags Professional Slim Laptop Backpack has been upgraded to a lighter and more user-friendly backpack in 2019. Unlike most of the other backpacks you’ve seen, this backpack has the ultimate in organization. With its sophisticated look and feel, this backpack can definitely be your plus one from day to night with a breeze.

This backpack features a ventilated air mesh back panel with contoured shoulder straps and a sternum strap to ensure a perfect fit. In addition to this, it is a dream come true for your electronics with its many tech pockets inside and outside! Everything finishes here, this backpack has a very clever lower pocket that suits the hard case in which you can put a lot of items and even improve the robustness of your bag.

• Shoe compartment on the bottom
• Pass-through sleeve for rolling luggage
• Fits up to 17″ laptop
• Brand: eBags
• Capacity: 21.6L
• Dimensions: 18″ H x 12.75″ W x 8.5″ D
• High quality look
• Price is above average

10. Bopai Business Backpack

The Bopai Business Backpack is conveniently structured with a 45-degree back opening position. It also has a back strap making it convenient to carry-on in case you have a rolling suitcase with you. The backpack also comes with hidden pockets in the back, for your passport and important items, plus, a hidden pocket on the shoulder strap for your cards or ID!

The backpack presents a classic and classy look, with a water-proof leather material with very durable nylon. It also comes with a zipped up water bottle or umbrella holder on the side. The back offers a breathable design made with a high-density sponge. It fits up to a 15.6-inch laptop and has multiple compartments for storage.

• Water-proof microfiber leather
• Hidden pocket
• USB charging port
• Brand: Bopai
• Weight: 1.9lbs
• Dimensions: 17.3″ H x 12.4″ W x 6.3″ D
• Professional looking style
• Modern and slim design
• Spacious compartment and multiple pockets
• Very secure style

Buying Guide

One of the top features we looked for in your business travel backpack is the aesthetics of the backpack. Something that can pull off a professional and smart look that you can carry from meeting to meeting. The second thing to look for is the laptop compartment quality. In this world of tech, our laptops are everything, we made sure these backpacks have great laptop padding to ensure that your files are going to be safe in case there are accidental drops here and there. The third thing to look out for is perhaps the water-resistant material and anti-theft features of the backpack. Needless to say, we’re carrying very important items when traveling for work. Protection from getting your handouts wet and laptop stolen is the last thing we’d imagine.

Size depends on your purpose for your backpack. Is this your one-bag for the entire trip, or is this your main bag throughout the trip while you go from client to client? The size will also depend on your laptop size. When picking a backpack, make sure it can accommodate your laptop well. While it may be a good idea to bring a larger backpack as a precaution in case you’re bringing more than you expected, it is also a good idea to plan whether you’re checking it in or not. We’ve made sure that all if not most of your top ten backpacks for business travels are qualified for most airlines as a carry-on.

Breathability

Breathability is important as you don’t want to be sweating when you get to your meeting and do your presentation. A backpack with good back ventilation is more important than you think. Keep in mind, that you may be traveling in corporate attire such as a suit and layered clothing, the heat can definitely escalate in no time before you even know it.

A strong and sturdy material is vital for a business travel backpack. You might be having loads of paper and the last scene you want to cause is spreading important and confidential paper around the streets due to faulty threading. Water-resistant can also be necessary in case you are traveling to certain countries with rainy weather on. We definitely can’t afford to get your files and laptop drenched in water on such important trips.

Overall, a great business travel backpack is worth any buck if it means your peace of mind and convenience. All the features we’ve mentioned and considered are worth the buck and valuable when hopping on a business trip. We can’t put a price on this one as we think it now depends on your budget and needs. Nonetheless, we encourage you to heavily consider and maybe shell out a little more when picking a travel backpack for business travel.

We hope this guide was helpful for finding the best travel backpacks for business as well as our guide on features to look for in a travel backpack for business. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this guide, feel free to let us know in the comments section.

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

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The 11 Best Carry-on Backpacks

In this article

• Best overall
• Best duffel-backpack
• Best for business travel
• Best for lumbar support
• Best for long trips
• Best for short trips
• Best for rugged trips

Even though much of my job as a travel writer involves testing suitcases , I usually prefer to fly with a carry-on backpack when I have the choice. You just can’t beat the sense of freedom that comes with strapping your possessions to your shoulders and heading to the airport — to me, a suitcase says “business trip” whereas a backpack says “adventure.” Not to mention the fact that backpack wearers are almost never singled out at the gate to check their luggage.

As backpack reviewer Geoff Grisdale of One Bag Travels explains, a carry-on backpack means “you can move around a lot quicker — it’s a lot easier to travel around cities with one.” Suitcases become cumbersome as soon as you’re confronted with cobblestone streets or multiple flights of stairs, adds freelance backpack designer Jeff Mullins. “And you have to have room to store them when you get home, whereas a backpack can be compressed.” Below, you’ll find the best carry-on backpacks for different sorts of trips, as tested by myself and other globetrotting experts. While you’re here, I’ve also written guides to the best travel pillows and the best toiletry bottles .

Update on September 4, 2024: Added COR Surf the Island Hopper Travel Backpack; updated prices and checked stock for all products.

What we’re looking for

For trips longer than a weekend, you’ll require a carry-on backpack with a capacity of at least 28 liters, says Grisdale. From there, the size you choose will depend on your packing style, how long the trip is, and whether you need room for warm layers or extra shoes. Most of the experts I spoke with agreed that the sweet spot is somewhere between 28 and 35 liters.

Some carry-on backpacks can be as large as 45 liters, which is actually five liters more volume than an Away carry-on suitcase . While this size of backpack can be useful for long-haul trips, just note that it will be “really big and heavy — and you lose a lot of the mobility you’d get when carrying a smaller backpack,” says Grisdale. Mullins agrees: “If you’re a smaller woman, for example, I don’t think you should go over 35 liters.” Even though I’ll happily hike with an ultralight 55 liter backpack, I’m not a fan of wearing carry-on bags larger than 40 liters — they’re significantly bulkier, and the back pain afterwards just isn’t worth it.

Packing style

The best carry-on backpacks are designed for ease of packing. Rather than unzipping at the top, they’ll either open up like a clamshell (with separate zippered compartments on either side), or like a duffel bag (with one big compartment that’s accessible from the front of the bag). If you’re an intentional packer who likes to keep organized on the road, the former option is likely best. But Grisdale notes that duffel-style bags are usually quicker and easier to pack because “you can just stuff your gear in there and off you go.”

Your backpack will be crammed into overhead bins or underneath aircraft seats, so look for one that’s fairly rectangular in shape, with straps and a hip belt that can be removed or tucked away. “Anything that dangles has to be gone,” says Mullins. He also notes that there should be a handle on pretty much every side of the bag, so you can grab it from whichever space it’s wedged.

Organizational features

A nice thing about living out of a backpack as opposed to a suitcase is that exterior pockets provide easy access to small items like wallets and passports. I also love that backpacks typically have loops or straps on the outside to which you can attach carabiners and clips. A good backpack will enable you to “get to all your small stuff without fully opening it,” says Mullins. “Whether that’s your phone, earbuds, book, glasses, or food.” You still don’t want a backpack with too many pockets, as these will steal real estate from the main compartment inside. “I like enough exterior pockets to be able to hold gear but not so many pockets that they take up a lot of room in the bag,” says Grisdale.

Best carry-on backpack overall

Capacity: 35 liters | Packing style: Clamshell, tuckaway straps, removable waist belt | Organizational features: External laptop sleeve, top pocket, carabiner loops, water bottle holder

The Cotopaxi Allpa is truly a backpack for suitcase people. Its clamshell design unzips fully to reveal a large mesh compartment on the right-hand side and two smaller ones on the left, mimicking the layout of rolling luggage. It has a hidden laptop sleeve in the back that’s generously padded (I once checked my Allpa with a MacBook inside and the laptop survived unscathed), as well as an easy-access storage compartment on top that can fit snacks, a book, and your passport. The bag is comfortable to carry, with a sternum strap and removable waist belt for extra support. It comes in three different sizes, but this 35-liter version will be the best for most people — it’s big enough for a week’s worth of clothes but small enough that you can use it as an airline personal item or large daypack. (Strategist contributing writer Margaret Eby took one on a flight to Italy in addition to a rolling suitcase, and says the tuckaway straps helped her squish it under the seat in front of her.) The brand just released an updated version of the bag with an external water-bottle holder, which I’m very pleased about. But the older version is still available to purchase on Amazon for $25 cheaper, and it’s overall very similar.

The best (less-expensive) carry-on backpack

Capacity: 38 liters | Packing style: Clamshell | Organizational features: External laptop sleeve, hidden valuables pocket, carabiner loops, water bottle holder

When a well-traveled reader in the Strategist comments section claimed that COR Surf’s Island Hopper is “a good alternative to the Cotopaxi for half the price,” I immediately ordered one to test out for myself. After comparing them side by side, I agree that the two bags are eerily similar in look and function. Both open like suitcases, with internal zippered compartments for easy organization on the road. Both feature hidden laptop compartments and external water bottle holders, as well as small external pockets for phones and passports. And both are designed for comfortable long-term wear with padded straps, adjustable sternum straps, and waist belts. Still, the Island Hopper’s affordable price comes with a few concessions. It is lighter and less substantial compared to the Allpa, and less waterproof. It has two grab handles instead of three, and the waist strap isn’t removable. It lacks Cotopaxi’s lifetime repair or replace warranty and is made from new fabric rather than recycled or deadstock materials. If it’s mainly the Allpa’s clamshell opening style that appeals to you, though, here is a worthy dupe. Just note that it’s 38 liters as opposed to 35, which makes for a slightly bulkier bag.

The best carry-on duffel backpack

Capacity: 30 liters | Packing style: Duffel, tuckaway straps, tuckaway waist belt, convertible shoulder strap, trolley sleeve | Organizational features: External laptop compartment, top pocket, water bottle holder

Patagonia’s Mini MLC is constantly sold out, and for good reason. This is an unusually roomy and rugged bag that can be used as your main piece of carry-on luggage (it’s available in a 45-liter version as well, if you prefer to overpack) or as a personal item that sits atop your wheeled carry-on. (Former Strategist associate editor Louis Cheslaw refers to his as a “ secret second suitcase ,” because it lets him pack heavy without checking a bag.) Unlike the Allpa, the Mini MLC opens duffel-style, revealing a deep interior compartment that can fit several outfits and a pair of extra shoes. There’s also a laptop compartment that opens completely flat, small stash pocket on top of the bag that’s big enough for a passport or wallet, and stretchy water-bottle holder.

The best (less-expensive) carry-on duffel backpack

Capacity: 40 liters | Packing style: Duffel opening, compression straps | Organizational features: External laptop compartment, water bottle holder, quick-access front pocket

At less than half the price of the Allpa or Mini MLC, TomToc’s Navigator is a thoughtfully designed carry-on backpack with a large capacity and helpful organizational features. It zips open at the front to reveal a generous duffel compartment that can be filled with several outfits, whether or not you’re using packing cubes . There’s also a front pocket that’s big enough for a book, as well as a laptop sleeve in the back that can be fully unzipped, revealing extra storage space for documents, cables, and stationery. It’s an excellent affordable option, according to Grisdale.

The best airline-approved carry-on backpack

Capacity: 28 to 42 liters | Packing style: Duffel opening, compression straps | Organizational features: Laptop compartment, water-bottle holder, quick-access front pocket, inner zip pockets

CabinZero is a unique travel-bag company that allows you to shop according to different airline carry-on allowances — they’re all listed on its site, and you can choose your bag according to the policies of each airline. Measuring 17.7 inches by 12.2 inches by 7.9 inches, this one is a good option for Delta Air Lines and United Airlines as well as Spirit and Frontier. It has a duffel opening that maximizes space, and it’s easy to pack and unpack; as Grisdale puts it, the brand “makes great bags that are simple, well built, comfortable, and are a bargain for the price.”

The best carry-on backpack for business travel

Capacity: 40 liters | Packing style: Clamshell, removable waist belt | Organizational features: External laptop compartment, top pocket, front pocket, water bottle holders

Tortuga’s backpack designs are highly respected among gear reviewers across the internet. I’ve been testing out its very professional-looking Travel Backpack Pro, which opens clamshell-style to reveal two suitcase-style compartments and also features a nicely padded laptop sleeve with a false bottom for extra protection. The sternum straps are extremely comfortable and can be tucked away when not in use, the bag’s rectangular shape means it slots easily into overhead lockers, and I like that the exterior fabric is highly waterproof and easy to wipe down. It’s also much more anonymous-looking than Cotopaxi’s colorful Allpa or Patagonia’s gorp-y Mini MLC, which makes it ideal for business travelers and digital nomads.

The best carry-on backpack with lumbar support

Capacity: 40 liters | Packing style: Duffel, adjustable tuckaway hip belt and harness | Organizational features: External laptop sleeve, external toiletries pocket

When spending her year abroad as the inaugural New York Times 52 Places traveler, journalist Jada Yuan learned the hard way that rolling luggage is terrible for long-haul travel. “I don’t know how I got through 16 stops of my trip before buying the Osprey Fairview,” she recalls. “My back and shoulders hurt all the time. I needed something with strong lumbar support, a waist belt, and a chest strap so that I could make it through the trip without getting crippled.” The Fairview’s packing style she says, is perfectly bare-bones: “Just one giant cavity, plus a zippered section for your laptop and a bunch of straps on the outside for carrying, say, a bulky jacket.” It’s definitely the most comfortable backpack on this list, says Grisdale: “Osprey’s packs are good because they have a lot of padding, they’re really thick, and they’re also adjustable. So if it doesn’t fit you right out of the box, you can move things around.”

The best carry-on backpack for long trips

Capacity: 45 liter | Packing style: Duffel, compression straps, removable shoulder straps, trolley sleeve | Organizational features: External laptop compartment, hidden top pocket for valuables

Away is best known for its hard luggage, but the DTC brand’s outdoor gear shouldn’t be overlooked. Brand marketing consultant Jennifer Olson came across this big duffel-backpack while gearing up for an eight-month road trip through South America with her partner. “We’d be living in a converted Land Cruiser and needed baggage soft and malleable enough to be thrown around the back of a truck and wedged into small spaces,” she explains. “Though we’d be hiking here and there, we weren’t doing any hardcore treks, so we didn’t need a traditional trekking backpack — but rather something in between.” True to Away’s suitcase-y roots, the bag’s internal storage compartment features compression straps that are designed to secure a set of packing cubes , which Olson says really helped keep things organized on her big trip. And the convertible straps have come in handy now that she’s returned home: “I usually use it as a duffle when I’m on weekend trips or using it as a carry on, and when the bag is a little more loaded with my things, I use it in backpack mode to disperse the weight.”

The best carry-on backpack for short trips

Capacity: 30 liters | Packing style: Duffel, compression straps | Organizational features: Internal laptop sleeve, stretchy side and front pockets, front bungee elastic

I first heard about the ULA Ultra Dragonfly when lurking on the 729,000-member-strong sub-Reddit r/OneBag , which has popularized the idea of bringing no more than one smallish bag on trips and vacations. And while many One Baggers own Allpas and MLCs, this is the bag they covet most. It unzips duffel-style, with a Goldilocks-size 30-liter capacity that means it can hold a decent amount of stuff but still slide underneath a plane seat if needed. There’s no hip belt, but uniquely shaped shoulder straps are designed to be worn for hours at a time without discomfort. There’s a laptop sleeve for digital nomads, and the Ultra fabric is slightly stretchy (allowing for a bit of overpacking), unusually durable (similar to ripstop nylon), and highly waterproof (which makes it appropriate for treks and other more rugged adventures). There’s just one catch: Due to stock issues, you can only purchase the Dragonfly Ultra once a week on Wednesdays at 3 p.m. ET. Within a couple of hours, the bag sells out and its buy button disappears for another seven days.

The best carry-on backpack for rugged trips

Capacity: 45 liters | Packing style: Duffel, tuckaway shoulder straps, compression straps | Organizational features: External shoe compartments, external laptop sleeve, passport pocket

More duffel-shaped than some of the very suitcase-y backpacks on this list, Timbuk2’s unique carry-on has zip-up shoe pockets at each end, allowing you to separate dirty footwear from the rest of your stuff — an especially nice feature for anyone packing a pair of hiking shoes . I also like how waterproof this bag is. All of the fabric is easy to wipe down, and the bottom of the bag has an extra protective “boot” which means you can plonk it down anywhere without worrying about it getting muddy. “The very considered design is ideal for someone who is most at home hopping on and off planes and trains,” says Andrew Barker, the chief content officer at C magazine. He appreciates the TSA-friendly slip pockets, which give easy access to your laptop and passport.

The best carry-on backpack for hiking trips

Capacity: 35 liters | Packing style: Clamshell, tuckaway straps | Organizational features: External zipper pockets, strap pockets, water-bottle holder, stretchy external pocket, trekking-pole loops

Backpackers I know are obsessed with the brand Six Moon Designs, which makes technical hiking packs from ultra-lightweight fabrics. Six Moon’s first ever travel backpack is designed to be a little more versatile — it’s trail-ready but also suitable for more urban trips. Like many of the backpacks on this list, it opens suitcase-style to reveal two packing compartments, but there’s also a stretchy open pocket on the front that can fit a pair of shoes or a jacket. That’s not all: The backpack straps have small zipper pockets big enough for stashing your phone and passport, which removes the need to wear an additional sling bag or cross-body at the airport. There are external loops to secure a pair of trekking poles as well. The brand sent me one of these to test prior to launch, and I’m impressed by its comfortable suspension system and the fact that the whole thing weighs just 2.5 pounds.

Our experts

• Andrew Barker, chief content officer at C magazine • Louis Cheslaw , former Strategist associate editor • Margaret Eby , Strategist contributing writer • Geoff Grisdale, backpack reviewer at One Bag Travels • Jeff Mullins , freelance backpack and soft-goods designer • Jennifer Olson , brand marketing consultant • Jada Yuan , Washington Post reporter and inaugural New York Times 52 Places traveler

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The Best Business Travel Backpack

A good travel backpack can make any business trip more enjoyable, and a lot less stressful. I’ve done a lot of business travel over the years, and learned first hand which backpacks were great for business trips and which weren’t.

Choosing the best business backpack is an important decision, because it can mean the difference between enjoying your time on the road, and having a miserable trip. You need to make sure that your laptop fits, and that the backpack is comfortable and stylish.

Luckily, we’ve done the work for you. Keep reading to find our reviews of the best business travel backpacks below.

The Best Business Travel Backpack

Looking for something specific? Just click the link below to go directly to that section.

• Comparison chart for the best business travel backpacks

How to choose the best business backpack for travel

The best laptop backpack for women, best business backpack for men, best travel laptop backpack for security, the best business travel backpack reviews, comparison chart for the best business travel backpacks.

Check out our comparison chart with all of the options for the best laptop backpack that we’ve reviewed here. Just click on the column headings to compare!

There’s a lot to consider when you’re looking for a great business backpack. Just because your boss loves her backpack, doesn’t mean that it’s right for you. You need to take a look at fit, style, and if the backpack will fit you properly.

Organization

When you’re traveling for business, it’s pretty much guaranteed you’ll be carrying a laptop and charger at all times. On top of that, you may be bringing a portable international WiFi device (we love our little Skyroam portable WiFi ), plenty of chargers, plugs, business cards, and so much more. All of that means you’re going to need pockets, and plenty of them. Above all, you need to make sure that your backpack is big enough to pack all of your gear.

Does your laptop fit?

If your laptop doesn’t fit in the backpack, it’s time to head back to the drawing board.

If a backpack’s too big for your frame, it’ll seem clunky and awkward, not to mention heavy. If it’s too small, you’ll likely find the straps and general fit awkward.

Padded against accidental damage

I’ve learned the hard way that padding in a business backpack is crucial. I dropped a laptop bag on the floor a couple of years ago, and because it didn’t have good padding on the bottom, my nice new laptop ended up with a good crack on the casing. Luckily, it still works perfectly to this day, but I won’t make that mistake again.

Make sure that there’s padding on the bottom of the bag especially, but padding all around the laptop sleeve is a great feature as well.

Weatherproof

If you’re spending a lot of time outdoors, you may want to make sure your laptop backpack is waterproof, or at least water resistant.

Since I carry my laptop and other valuable gear, I like to make sure that my backpack’s as secure as possible. Many backpacks have partially hidden compartments, as well as zippers that are theft proof, and some are made of materials that are hard to cut or slash. Some backpacks even have an RFID pocket to protect your passport and cards from RFID scanners.

Straps are a crucial part of the best business laptop backpack. If the straps aren’t comfortable, you won’t like the backpack, and you won’t use it. Good straps mean the fit is comfortable. Here are a few things I like to look for:

• Adjustable straps. If a backpack doesn’t have adjustable shoulder and waist straps, don’t buy it. Even if it fits you as is, you may want to wear the backpack with a heavy coat someday, and then the straps won’t fit. You might also not be the only one to one day carry it.
• Padded shoulder straps. A padded shoulder strap means that your sometimes heavy backpack won’t dig painfully into your shoulders. I know that my backpack gets pretty weighed down with my laptop and accessories, so a comfy shoulder trap is important.
• Padded back. You don’t want so much padding on the back that the backpack gets heavy. A softly padded back can be a blessing when you’re running to catch your flight, and your backpack keeps bumping against your back.
• Carry strap. Usually a carry strap is a loop at the top of the backpack. It makes it easy to pick up your backpack from the floor.

Because you’re using your backpack in a business capacity, you’re going to want a pack that reflects your style. Whether you’re the buttoned down power suit type, or an edgy, creative type, there’s a style that’s suited for you.

Easy access

My favorite backpacks have what’s called a u-zip. This means that you can open them completely on at least two sides, making access easier. I’m not a big fan of top access only backpacks, as I find it hard to find things that have moved to the bottom.

For women, the best business laptop pack is one that fits their body, and (hopefully!) also fits all their gear as well. Most (not all) women have shorter bodies and narrower shoulders than men, making a slightly smaller and compact backpack a great choice. We’ve used a Dell backpack for years now, and while it holds a ton, as a woman who’s 5’5″, I find that it’s uncomfortably big and bulky to carry around when it’s packed.

I really prefer our new, narrower and more compact eBags Professional Slim Laptop Backpack .

eBags Professional Slim Laptop Backpack

I’m definitely a fan of this  eBags backpack .

It fits me well, and easily holds my monster of a nearly 16″ Lenovo Ideapad laptop in the back compartment.

This is a great backpack for someone who wants a professional look, as it also converts to a briefcase when you tuck away the straps.

At 18.5 inches high x 12.75 inches wide, it’s plenty small for carry on luggage for most airlines, or even as a personal item.

There’s plenty of padding in the back, the Airmesh back panel keeps it from being too sweaty on hot days. The straps are contoured, padded, and fully adjustable, making for a great fit. There’s even a removable front (sternum) strap for heavy loads.

The front compartment is chock full of zippered pockets to hold cables, flash drives, and all your gear. There’s also a limited Lifetime Warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.

All compartments have a u-zip, meaning that you can open them up and load from the the top or side.

See price and reviews.

The best men’s business backpack takes into consideration all of the points above, but also considers a man’s (generally) broader shoulders.

The SwissGear Travel Gear 1900 Scansmart TSA Laptop Backpack is a great choice.

SwissGear Travel Gear 1900 ScanSmart Backpack

SwissGear products usually get good reviews, and the SwissGear Travel Gear 1900 Scansmart TSA Laptop Backpack is no exception.

It’s another more casual choice, and a medium to large size bag, at 9 inches deep, 13.5 inches wide and 18.5 inches high. It fits a 17 inch laptop.

This is marketed as a TSA SmartScan backpack with lay-flat technology, which just means that it’s designed to meet the TSA’s criteria to allow a your laptop to stay in the bag during screening. That said, I’ve always had TSA agents ask me to remove my laptop, and they don’t seem especially keen to discuss exceptions.

This is made with weather resistant 1200D ballistic polyester. It’s not waterproof, but it should withstand some tough knocks and a bit of rain.

The shoulder straps are all adustable and padded, and there’s a padded back panel as well.

The main laptop section zips to lay completely flat, making access to your laptop a breeze.

All in all, this is a solid, more casual choice, that should last a while.

More reviews, current price, and more.

Dell Pro Backpack

We’ve had our old Dell laptop backpack since 2014, and it’s still going strong. There’s hardly any wear on it, and it’s traveled with us to at least four continents, carrying a lot of gear each time.

Our original backpack isn’t available anymore (how annoying, right!), but the Dell 17-Inch Pro Backpack  is similar. It gets great ratings, too.

The downside of the Dell 17 inch backpacks is that they’re pretty big, and ours gets insanely heavy when it’s jammed with all of our gear.

Of course, the upside is that it’s so big that we can jam in a crazy amount of gear.

The 17 inch Dell laptop backpack fits a laptop with up to a 17 inch screen. In our old Dell 17 inch laptop bag, wwe once carried three laptops and their power bricks, two tablets, four e-readers, a DSLR camera in its own case, two GoPros, a couple chargers and a half dozen cables in ours.

Needless to say, the Dell 17 Pro is a good size at 18.7 x 6.3 x 13 inches.

There are padded and adjustable shoulder straps, along with a padded, mesh back. There’s no waist strap.

Access to all of the compartments is easy, with zippers that open wide.

Click for the current price, more information and reviews.

Amazon Basics laptop backpack

The Amazon Basics laptop backpack is a good size backpack that holds a 17 inch laptop, and is seven inches deep, fifteen inches wide, and nineteen inches high.

If you’re looking for a wide backpack, this is for you, as it’s the widest one in our review.

It’s also an affordable option.

As with all Amazon Basics products, it’s great value for the price, and people seem to really like it.

Like all the other backpacks in this review, the shoulder straps are padded, and the back is padded as well. There aren’t any hip straps.

There’s nothing fancy here, no specialized waterproofing or security features, but it’s a good value. There’s light padding on the bottom of the laptop pocket.

You can get it with, or without, the Amazon logo on the front.

Click here for the latest prices and to see more information.

For my last few solo trips, I’ve used our top-loading Pacsafe Venturesafe X30 anti-theft adventure backpack. I don’t love the fact that it loads from the top, so it doesn’t make my cut as the absolute best backpack for business travel, but other than that it has some great security features.

It has anti-theft Slashguard stainless steel wire mesh embedded into it complete with RFID protection. The Venturesafe X30 is fairly lightweight, has a padded tablet sleeve, with plenty of pockets and locking zippers.  It also has a built-in rain cover, an aluminum support back panel, and a stowaway hip belt for adventurous hikes.

At roughly 18 inches high and 9 inches wide, it’s small enough to use as either a carry on or even as a personal item with most airlines, and it holds an awful lot. It also has a molded aluminum frame that sits on my body quite well.

If you’re really concerned about security while you travel, check out our in depth money belt and neck wallet review here .

Pacsafe Venturesafe X30

In terms of security, the Pacsafe is my top backpack for security pick. I’ve had my Pacsafe Venturesafe X30 for well over a year now and I really love it. It’s lightweight, good looking, and has great security features like RFID protection and slashguard fabric.

It has a 30 liter capacity, fits a 15 inch laptop, and officially measures in at 7.9 inches deep, 11.8 inches wide and 20.3 inches high.

Tip: If you’re looking for something even smaller, Pacsafe sells the Pacsafe MetroSafe 20L , which has a 20 liter capacity, and measures in at 17.7″ high x 11. 8″ wide x 5. 1″ deep.

The big disadvantage to this backpack is that it’s top load only, making it hard to get at gear in the bottom. Of course, being top load only means that it’s also harder for thieves to access your gear. It also has a bit more of a casual look than the eBags professional.

That said, I’ve used this backpack on multiple trips now, and it has plenty of room for my laptop, charger, cables and gear, plus my DSLR camera and lenses, my MeFOTO Roadtrip lightweight tripod , plus a GoPro HERO 6 and accessories.

See prices and more reviews now.

Now that we’ve talked about backpacks that are great for different uses, here are my other picks for the best business travel laptop backpacks. These packs are in addition to the backpacks noted above, and are all solid choices.

Kopack Slim Business Laptop Backpack

Along with our eBags slim pick, the Kopack slip business laptop pack  is one of the more stylish laptop bags we found. It has a sleek, professional look, and it comes in black, grey, and a nice pinkish purple.

It’s on the smaller end, at 7.1 inches deep, 11.8 inches wide, and 17.7 inches high. It will hold a 15.6 inch notebook computer.

The fabric is water-resistant, and anti-scratch nylon.

It has a dual access zipper with anti-theft design, but no RFID or anti-slash tech. There’s a hidden back waist slot for concealing a credit card or small item.

Shoulder straps and the back are padded, and there’s a loop handle on top to make picking it up easier.

It has a useful external USB charging port on the outside. Just connect your power bank to it on the inside (check out our favorite external battery pack on Amazon ), and connect your USB charging cable to the outside port. No more rummaging in your pack for your spare power bank!

The front pocket has a large, easy access u-design zipper, but the laptop compartment only loads from the top.

Unfortunately, there’s no extra padding at the bottom of the laptop compartment, so be careful when placing it down on hard surfaces or pick up an laptop sleeve to give you extra protection.

Uoobag KT-01 Slim Business Laptop Backpack

The T igernu laptop bag is a pretty sleek looking back, in pure black with red accents.

It fits a 15.6 inch laptop, and the entire laptop compartment is padded. It measures in at 5.9 inches deep, 13 inches wide, and 18.1 inches high. It weighs in at 2.1 pounds.

The bag also comes in a lighter grey color.

Safety features include anti-theft dual zippers and a waist pocket. There’s a lockable ring on the side of the laptop compartment.

It’s made of a sturdy oxford fabric.

DYJ Vegan Leather Laptop Backpack

The DYJ Vegan Leather Laptop Backpack is our only leather option that we rated well enough to be included.

It’s a vegan leather laptop backpack that fits a 15.6 inch laptop, and measures 11.4″ L x 6.7″ W x 19.3″ H.

It’s one of your best bets if you’re looking for leather look backpack.

It comes in black, khaki and coffee colors.

Shoulder straps are padded and adjustable, with a padded laptop compartment. It comes in espresso only.

There’s no strong fake leather or plastic smell, and there’s a u-zip to make access to the middle compartment easy.

See prices, and more reviews and information here.

Targus Drifter II Backpack for 17-Inch Laptop

The 17 inch Targus Drifter II is a solid choice, with a bit more of a casual look. It’s also on the larger end of these choices, and while it is casual, it’s a real workhorse, with the 17 inch version holding a 34 liter capacity.

It’s a good size, at 7.87 inches deep, 14.57 inches wide and 20.08 inches high. Be warned, though, it does swell to more than 7.87 inches deep when it’s full!

There are approximately eight million pockets in this backpack. While that’s definitely an exaggeration, there are pockets in this thing for everything from your laptop (of course), to a microfiber lined pouch for sunglasses.

Straps are fully adjustable and padded, and the back is also padded for comfort. It doesn’t have a sternum (chest) strap.

There are no special security features like RFID or fancy zippers here, but there is a cool secret zipper compartment on the back for hiding keys or your wallet. There’s also no waterproofing on the zippers, and no separate rain cover.

It also comes in a 16 inch version , if you’re looking for something slightly smaller.

The only issue with this backpack is quite a few reviews that mention straps that start to wear with use.

See prices, reviews and more here.

Want to find out more?

See how we manage to travel carry on only for a family of four here , or check out our business travel checklist here .

What’s your favorite laptop pack? Let us know, and maybe we can add it to our business backpack reviews!

You have really showcased an awesome list of business travel backpacks. Will look into one to grab for my next travels.

There’s a lot to consider when you’re looking for a great business backpack. Just because your boss loves her backpack, doesn’t mean that it’s right for you. You need to take a look at fit, style, and if the backpack will fit you properly.

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13 Best Backpacks for Business Travel

• Travel Gear
• 13 Best Backpacks for Business…

Business travelers have different needs than other vacation travelers or so. They usually travel for a few days carrying their laptops, tablets, important documents, and files. All of these objects need a sturdy backpack or briefcase for business travel. If you’re one of those, this review is for you. Here you’ll know how to find the best backpack business travel. Also, you’ll discover how these bags differ from others and know the most important features to look for when you’re searching for the best backpack for travel and laptop. Let’s move on and start directly with our list of the top 13 products.

Table of contents

Maxtop business travel backpack, mancro business travel laptop backpack, bange travel backpack, ambor travel laptop backpack, inateck cabin luggage carry on backpack, muzee business backpack, wenig laptop backpack business travel, bc bruno cavalli backpack for men, matein travel laptop backpack, lovevook laptop backpack for women, sosoon laptop backpack, kroser laptop backpack.

• Volher Laptop Backpack,Business Travel 

Other features

Are backpacks the best option for business travel, do backpacks for buisness travel have anti-theft features, are business backpacks for travel only.

The backpack we have here for business travel is MAXTOP Business Travel Backpack . This is one of the best backpack business travel bags as it can hold a lot of things. The bag is well-organized and divided from inside. It has compartments for laptops, documents, clothes, and others. It also has a USB port and a special power bank pocket. Being a business traveler, you surely need something comfortable on your back and shoulder. This is what this bag guarantees. You won’t feel pain carrying this bag as it has padded shoulder straps. Overall, it is a nice option to go for if you need the best backpack for travel and laptop.

• A lightweight bag made of water-resistant material to use for all your travels.
• Color options
• Multiple pockets and compartments
• Comfortable
• Can’t carry heavyweight

Check Price & Info

Mancro Business Travel Laptop Backpack is available in more than one color to give a variety of options. Also, it is available in two different sizes where the smallest of them is still good enough to be considered the best backpack for travel and laptop. The bag comes with anti-theft features, including combination locks. Also, it comes with a USB port to charge your phone whenever needed. Regarding the material, this bag manufacturer cares a lot about the environment. So, It is designed from eco-friendly polyester material, which is also durable enough to withstand travel days. Not to forget that the shoulder straps are padded for your comfort.

• One of the best backpack buisness travel bags with a compact, yet, spacious interior design.
• Combination locks
• Comfortable to carry
• Water-resistant material
• Eco-friendly polyester
• USB port position is difficult to reach
• Bottle pockets are very small

Use it as a backpack or briefcase for business travel, BANGE Travel Backpack will serve you in both cases. This bag is one of the best choices for those who need more than one pocket to carry their luggage and laptop. The pockets are also expandable and can hold up to 35L. So, this is one of the best backpacks for traveling Europe you can get. We mentioned that this backpack could be used as a briefcase because it has a side handle. This handle is padded and can be used to carry the whole bag easily. Also, it comes with padded shoulder straps and a chest belt to prevent the bag from slipping.

• A large capacity bag with multiple pockets and good organization option from inside.
• Expandable pockets
• Anti-slip chest belt
• Can be hold from top or side
• No bottles pocket

AMBOR Travel Laptop Backpack is the bag women will prefer for their business trips. The bag comes in different designs with patterned and solid-color options. Also, it is lightweight and has a large main compartment to hold most of your travel needs. Furthers, it features a luggage strap that can slip into the handle of the luggage bag. So, it is an ideal option for comfort and style at the same time. Furthermore, the bag comes with a lock with a password. This is very important to protect your valuable stuff inside. Finally, the designer of the bag didn’t forget to add the USB port to make it a full options bag.

• One of the best lightweight women’s laptop backpack with a USB and headphone ports
• Chest strap
• USB and headphone ports
• Different patterns
• Different pockets
• Lock isn’t sturdy

For the best laptop backpack business travel that can hold a good amount of items and at the same time fit into the cabin, Inateck Cabin Luggage Carry On Backpack is a good choice. The bag is specially designed to suit cabin sizes. However, it’ll hold a 17-inches laptop comfortably with other additional luggage. Moreover, it is very comfortable with a padded back and very light when empty. It’s made of durable materials with scratch-resistant and waterproof materials. Above all, it comes with a rain cover as a gift to protect you when traveling in rainy weather.

• The best backpack for travel and laptop of a good size suitable for both men and women
• laptop compartment is well padded
• Spacious interior
• Padded back
• Tall to be placed under airplane seat

If you are used to carrying a lot of things even on your business trips, Muzee Business Backpack has an option for you. There are two sizes of the same bag, with the biggest having three pockets to hold more items than the smaller size. Similar to the highest quality and best backpack business travel bags, it has a USB port. Also, it has a waist strap to prevent the bag from slipping. One other significant feature of this bag is the padded and breathable back which reduces the stress from the back. Also, there is a bottle pocket, so it becomes the best laptop backpack business travel with nothing missing.

• A nicely designed backpack suitable for business and casual settings.
• Waist strap
• Cushioned back
• Two size options
• Soft material that wrinkles

With a total of 15 pockets, WENIG Laptop Backpack Business Travel is one of the featured products for business purposes. The bag is divided into many pockets to ease finding IDs, documents, mobiles, and other items. It also has a main pocket for larger things. Further, it has a USB port for charging and a headphone jack as well. This backpack is basically for men; however, it’s a neutral design, so women can also use it. If you wonder how durable this bag is, it’s made of oxford cloth for high-end quality. At the same time, the shoulder straps are padded for comfort.

• Available in three colors with 15 total pockets for the best laptop backpack business travel bag.
• Durable material
• Many pockets
• Padded shoulder straps
• Very tight and not expandable
• Bottles pockets aren’t stretchable

This is the most affordable option you can get for the best backpack for travel and laptop. BC Bruno Cavalli Backpack for Men features a 90-180 degrees unfolding, so it’s the easiest to handle, acting as a backpack or briefcase for business travel. In addition, it has a padded laptop pocket that holds up to a 15.6 inches device. It also has a USB port which is necessary for all business backpacks. This bag is one of the most spacious bags ever. It’s very durable and made of durable material. Moreover, the material is water-resistant and can withstand all weather conditions. Above all, the bag is suitable for all ages and all sexes.

• A value for price option for the most budget-friendly needs.
• Cheap price
• 180 degrees unfolding
• One zipper for one way opening only

MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack is another book-open design option for business travelers. We like this design the most because it is very friendly for TSA and airport checks. Moreover, it’s one of the travel bags with luggage sleeve . So, it actually has everything designed with the business traveler in mind. We also love this bag because it has many pockets. Further, the laptop pocket is padded and large enough for a 17-inch laptop. Pack whatever you want inside this bag, and it won’t fail you at all. Best of all, the material is durable and water-resistant to withstand any weather conditions.

• An airplane approved option with and a TSA-friendly backpack for business travel.
• Enough space
• Luggage sleeve
• Numerous pockets
• Most pockets have one zipper only

Many women love to look fashionable while holding a practical bag at the same time. This is what LOVEVOOK Laptop Backpack for Women will offer. The bag is actually one of the notable backpack purses for travel . It’s also the best backpack for travel and laptop for trendy women. It’s available in many colors, so you feel unique in carrying this bag. Furthermore, it has all the features of a business travel backpack. It has a padded laptop pocket, a USB port, and multiple pockets, in addition to the durable nylon material. What else do you need?

• An ideal choice for multiple purposes as travel, college, business days, and whatever you want.
• Trendy style
• Multiple pockets
• Luggage strap
• Gets dirty easily

Sosoon Laptop Backpack comes in an anti-scratching and water-resistant material. This bag’s material makes it suitable for business travels as well as regular daily use. It is also 180 degrees unfoldable for a TSA-friendly design. On the same side, you have a USB port and a headphone port to charge your devices. What is so significant about this bag is that it has many pockets. Another significant feature is the massage mat on the shoulder straps. So, it’s one of the comfiest options you can get.

• A very comfortable and practical bag for travel.
• TSA-friendly
• USB and headphone port
• Massage mat for shoulder straps
• Not very big

KROSER Laptop Backpack is quite roomy with many large pockets that most business travelers love. It’s made of an environment-friendly material, a secondary point to many people but just an added feature. The bag also has special pockets for a laptop, papers, and small electronic devices. Further, it comes with a USB port. You can pack many things inside this bag but beware of the weight. This bag is slightly heavy, yet, the shoulder straps are comfortable and distribute the weight all over your back.

• Professional and best laptop backpack business travel bags with a tight padding for laptop
• Tight padding
• High-quality material
• Well organized
• Heavyweight

Volher Laptop Backpack,Business Travel 

Volher Laptop Backpack, Business Travel  is the last option we have for you today. This bag is suitable for men and women of all ages. It comes with three main pockets in three sizes. The smallest of them can hold electronic devices and small papers while the largest is enough for some clothes. The large pocket has a padded laptop compartment as well. We especially love the colors of this backpack. We also love how comfortable you can carry this bag, thanks to the padded back and shoulder straps. With a USB port and a luggage strap, this bag is well-designed for travel purposes.

• Durable material with water-resistance to last for long time of continuous use.
• Three main pockets
• Zippers aren’t very sturdy

How To Choose The Best Best backpack business travel

When you’re traveling for business, you need to have the most comfortable backpacks that hold your laptop and other important documents and devices. Below you’ll mention the most important aspects to search for when buying a backpack or briefcase for business travel.

The main purpose of having a backpack for business travel is to carry your laptop. So, you need to make sure of the size of your laptop and whether the bag can carry this device or not. Also, think of all you’ll carry in the bag and make sure your backpack will hold all of your items.

If you usually travel for business, then you surely need something comfortable on your long trips. Look for the padded shoulder straps and padded back options. Also, backpacks with luggage sleeves are easy to handle at the airport.

A USB port or a bottle pocket are features you’ll appreciate so much if you have them in your bag. Also, they’re easy to find in a high-quality backpack or briefcase for business travel options.

If you’re looking for comfort, pick the best backpack or briefcase for business travel. This will be the comfiest choice regarding carrying and use. Also, most backpacks for business travel come in sizes and dimensions that are airplane-approved. So, you can use them as carry-on bags as well.

Some of them have these features as combination locks and so. If you have one of those bags with two-way zippers, you can easily install locks to connect both zippers together.

Some people use them for inside-the-city business trips. For example, when you’re going to attend a meeting or on normal working days, you might need a backpack to carry your laptop and important documents. These bags aren’t bulky, so that you can use them anywhere.

Author:  Danny Riley

As a blogger reviewer, I have had the pleasure of staying in some of the most luxurious hotels around the world, experiencing first-hand the amenities, services, and overall guest experience. Through my reviews, I aim to provide readers with an honest and unbiased assessment of each hotel, covering everything from the quality of the accommodations to the level of customer service. From boutique hotels to large resorts, my reviews offer a comprehensive look at each property, giving readers the information they need to make informed decisions when planning their next vacation. But my reviews go beyond just the basics - I also delve into the unique features and experiences that make each hotel stand out from the rest. From rooftop bars with stunning views to spa treatments that indulge the senses, I highlight the special touches that set a hotel apart and make it a truly unforgettable experience. So whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time vacationer, my reviews offer valuable insights into some of the best hotels around the world. Join me on my journey as I explore the world of hospitality, one hotel at a time.

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10 Best Business Travel Backpack 2023

On a normal routine, you will find yourself always carrying shoulder bags or briefcases as a way of bringing along your belongings to the office or nearby places that you might need to visit. However, when it comes doing business trips, these types of bags will make you feel exhausted quite easily. In other words, when it comes to business trips then we can simply say that backpacks are the best option.

Business backpacks are always somehow quite comfortable to carry around while at the same time offer better storage as well. These backpacks will also provide you with a better way of organizing your luggage including everything you might require on the train, airplane or even at the site when meeting a client.

However, the market right now is quite flooded with most of these products and getting to know the best business travel backpack from the rest is not just a mere walk through the park. You need to know how to comb your way through until you land on the best products, otherwise, you might just waste your money.

This article has got your back covered though as everything you might need to know has been discussed here.

What You Need to Know Before Buying a Travel Backpack

1. material of construction.

An ideal best business travel backpack should be quite strong and durable. Most backpacks are made using nylon or materials that are close to nylon. When choosing the type of backpack to buy, you might need to check the material of construction as this is very important in telling you one or two things about the durability of the travel backpack.

The material could also determine whether the backpack is waterproof or not and this might mean the difference between saving or losing your luggage in the event of rainfall as you attend your meeting. You could also know whether the backpack is water resistant or not from the material it is made from.

2. Organizational features

When trying to buy a backpack for business travel, it is very important to consider the items you will be planning to carry around and by extension the types of pockets the bag has been equipped with. Majority of travel backpacks normally come with padded laptop compartments and several external and internal pockets for organizing your items in a smart way.

3. Weight of the backpack

Most backpacks are normally of almost the same weight and that is why you shouldn’t be worried about the weight so much. However, in the event that you would like to buy a travel backpack then it would be generally advisable to avoid heavier backpacks fitted with wheels. You need something light that won’t stress you around and give you enough time to concentrate on the business issues.

4. Size of the backpack

The average size of most backpacks is normally 18 by 13 by 9 inches. On the other hand, there are some that are somehow larger than this size while others are also quite smaller than this size. The larger ones may not be ideal for you if you are planning to travel with your backpack as a carry on.

A smaller one may make you have less space for packing all the items you need for your business trip. This, therefore, makes it quite important to always check and confirm the size of the backpack before you can make an order.

5. Other unique features

There are some backpacks which come with so many extraordinary features which have been known to either break or make the deal. Some of those features that always attract some customers may include wheels for easily lugging the backpack around, sleeves that allow you to attach your backpack to the handles of your suitcase or even removable daypacks.

So as an individual planning to buy a business travel backpack, consider these features as well before buying a particular product that could qualify as your best business travel backpack.

6. Straps and handles

The good thing about a backpack is that it normally leaves your hands quite free to do other things like checking social media updates on your phone, carrying coffee or juice to even holding the plane ticket.

This is why your backpack really needs to have strong and durable straps capable of carrying the entire weight in a way that does not tire your shoulders.

7. The levels of comfort provided

A typical best business travel backpack must be comfortable to use. When attending your business trips, you should feel very comfortable having the backpack on your shoulders. You don’t want to get to your destination when you are so tired and worn out and become unproductive in the process.

When it comes to matters dealing with comfort, you need to make sure the handles and straps can comfortably sit on your shoulders and easily be able to carry the weight of the bag. They should not start becoming loose or get strained at the seams.

The backpack handles and straps should also be somehow adjustable to allow you to get the best and most comfortable position that does not make your back to strain.

10 Best Business Travel Backpack 2020

Here are some of the best luggage sets that you should consider buying.

1. eBags Professional Slim Travel Backpack

Globetrotters who like to have modern, functional and durable luggage will love the eBags Professional Slim Travel Backpack. The bag features a simple yet elegant design that will thrill you if you value functionality and clean lines in a travel backpack. This backpack will definitely become your favorite if you are the type of a traveler that likes to have a travel backpack that can allow you to carry off your gadgets wherever you go.

It is well-padded and is designed to help you stay organized. It is made of a high-quality material that is water resistant to protect items such as laptops in all weather conditions. The bag comes in three different shades; solid black, brushed indigo and heathered graphite. Despite the color you will pick, the design is still the same.

Just like its name, the eBags Slim Backpack Comfort is designed with comfort in mind. Regardless of the weight in it, the bag will perfectly sit on your shoulders. It features contoured straps that will instantly conform to your body shape. The straps are adjustable so that you can achieve the right length for you.

The bag is made with Airmesh material that not only improves the bag’s padding but also its airflow and ventilation. If you have a lot of items to carry in your backpack, there is an extra removable sternum strap that will help you deal with the added weight.

The laptop compartment is well-padded and can accommodate a 17-inch laptop.

Has a middle compartment for carrying documents, papers and books.

Its zippers are L-shaped to facilitate easy access.

AC adapter garage that is secure, removable and crush-proof.

Back panel made of breathable air mesh.

Can be transformed into a briefcase using the side handles.

Has plenty of pouches for keeping little things like cables and pens.

Thoughtful design.

Sleek appearance.

It comes in only three color choices.

Its profile is slightly thicker.

Its beverage holder needs some improvement.

2. Everki EKP121-1 Checkpoint Atlas Friendly Backpack

Are you looking for a perfect bag that will stylishly and comfortably take you through every step of your journey? The Everki Atlas Friendly Backpack is what you need. It is designed to meet the needs of a mobile professional like you. The Everki backpack is loaded with solutions that can meet the demands of your business travel.

With multiple organizational features and flexible functionality, the Everki travel backpack has a lot of meaningful details that will suit your travel needs. The Atlas 17.3 inch backpack has a 5-point strap system that is designed to balance so as to lighten your load. It has a technology compartment where you can safely and securely store your tablet or laptop.

It has a large main compartment where you can carry whatever item you need for your overseas flight. Even better, the Everki backpack has a quick-access newspaper slot. The slot is conveniently placed at the front section of the backpack to allow you to easily retrieve your magazine once you are seated on your flight. Having something to read will make your travel to be more enjoyable.

Its ergonomic design evenly distributes weight so as to reduce muscle strain. Even when it’s full, you will still feel comfortable carrying the backpack.

Well-designed zippers that move with zero effort.

Designed to keep your laptop safe.

Comes with plenty of organizational pockets.

Shoulder straps are well-designed and wide.

The bag can stand on its own to make it easy to load and unload it.

Its key hook looks awesome.

Designed to facilitate quick airport checkpoint access.

Its interior is stylish.

It’s expensive.

Some users though that its shoulder straps are quite narrow and thin.

3. Pacsafe X30 Venturesafe Adventure Backpack

Although daypacks are very comfortable and convenient to wear whenever you are traveling, they have one major drawback. Your valuables will not be secured since a pickpocket can easily steal anything from your backpack because you will be unaware of what’s going on behind you. This is why you need to opt for the Pacsafe X30 Venturesafe Adventure Backpack.

The Pacsafe is an anti-theft backpack that is designed to accompany you on every trip you would like to take. While it is not among one of the best hard shell luggage sets, this qualifies to be one of the best backpacks around. The backpack can play many roles, from urban exploration tours to outdoor hikes to overseas traveling.

The Pacsafe backpack meets most, if not all of the carry-on size regulations by major airlines. It has both internal and external pockets that are spacious enough to help you keep your travel items organized.

The bag is also designed to allow you to pack it to capacity and still be able to comfortably carry it on your back. It features a back panel that is aluminum supported, mesh shoulder straps that are padded and a stowaway belt.

Pacsafe Backpack also comes with a plethora of security features that ensure your items are safe in it. One of such features is the eXomesh Slashguard. It is a steel mesh that is built into the bag’s fabric to prevent knives from easily slashing the bag’s fabric.

Comes with a built-in rain cover.

Front pocket for quick access of your phone, keys and other small items.

Its eXomesh slashguard protects your bag from bag slashers.

The pockets are made of RFID blocking material.

Smart zippers and security clips for added security.

Suspension system is well designed.

Turn and lock secure hook for attaching the bag to fixture to boost security.

External pockets are not protected by the eXomesh Slashguard.

Low durability.

It’s still not lockable.

4. Victorinox Luggage Flapover Altmont 3.0 Backpack

Every traveler is always looking for a travel backpack that they can use to keep all their electronics in one place while they are on the move. A typical best business travel backpack like this one would make it for you and that is why Victorinox Luggage Flapover Altmont Backpack is every traveler’s companion. With pockets for all your electronic gadgets from laptop to tablets to other small accessories, Victorinox 3.0 Flapover backpack has enough room.

Its main body is made of durable materials that include an abrasion resistant nylon. The bag is divided into sections to help you stay organized when packing your things. It features a flap over compartment that has buckle closures. Victorinox backpack also has two hidden pockets on the front and a webbing loop where you can conveniently keep your pair of sunglasses.

What we liked about the Altmont Flapover Backpack is its slim profile and excellently comfortable fit. As a result, you can walk with this bag in tight spaces without it catching on something. Its shoulder straps are padded and adjustable so you can comfortably carry it on your back even when fully packed for longer. Even better, its top haul handle makes it easy for you to lift and carry the bag.

Made of nylon material making it hard wearing.

It’s easy to clean.

Has a clipped top flap that can be lifted to easily access the zips and pockets.

Its main compartment is expandable to accommodate extra items.

Easy to carry around due to its slim profile.

Padded shoulder straps for comfort on your shoulders.

Looks stylish and luxurious.

It’s not lockable hence pickpockets may steal from your backpack while it’s on your back.

Available in dull colors.

It’s not water resistant hence will not protect your electronics from rain.

5. Solo Reade Columbian Vintage Leather Backpack

To stay organized while you are on the go, you need to have a great backpack. If you have been moving around with your tatty bag made of nylon, buying the Solo Reade Columbian Vintage Leather Backpack is the best way to upgrade. We loved its luxurious look and feel that sets it apart from other backpacks.

Besides being super stylish, its overall design is also super sturdy. The best part, it is made of leather and as a result, when it ages, it will do so beautifully. In terms of storage space, the Solo Reade Leather Backpack is spacious enough. Its main compartment can hold a laptop up to 15.6 inches. The laptop compartment is padded to protect your computer from damage. It is also divided into compartments to help you stay organized. Its back straps are positioned to evenly distribute weight on your back.

In terms of durability, your Solo Vintage Colombian Backpack will last longer with you. It is made of a full-grain beautiful and premium leather that is very durable.  What’s more, this product also has padded straps to offer you enough comfort when carrying it around. However, this bag is not perfect or ideal for carrying large and bulky products.

Quite comfortable

It has enough pockets

Has padded straps for better comfort

Easily accessible pocket

Comes with a zip down organizer at the front

Not ideal for very heavy products.

6. SwissWear Scansmart TSA Backpack

Here is yet another great backpack that will be so ideal for your travel needs. The SwissWear TSA backpack is the best when it comes to durability, weather resistance as well as withstanding harsh conditions and being used heavily. This is because this product is made using 1200D ballistic materials that is heavy duty and long lasting.

This is one of the travel backpacks in the market right now that will offer you a great amount of comfort that most of you so much need. It has some contoured shoulder straps which have mesh fabric as well as adjustable compression straps on the sides. There is also a padded back panel fitted with an airflow ventilation technology that will help in offering more comfort and support.

The other good thing about this product is that it opens quite quickly and will save you time when it comes to inspection areas like airports. There is also an organizational pocket at the front of this bag for your entire writing utensils, keys and pocket notebooks. What’s more, there are also two breathable compartments on the sides suitable for an umbrella, water bottle or even changing clothes.

Weather resistant

Very durable

Opens quite quickly

Airflow ventilation technology for more comfort and support

Front organizational pockets

Large capacity pockets

Zipper breaks easily

The strap can easily get broken

Its design is hated by some people.

7. Nomatic Water Resistant Travel Bag

The Nomatic Travell bag should never miss in your list of the best travel bags to buy. As the name suggests, this travel backpack is water resistant and can guarantee you that your content inside the bag will always be safe and secured. This bag comes with a laundry bag as well as a detachable waist strap. There is also an RFID ( Radio-frequency identification) pocket which has a TSA approved lock. What’s more, all the exterior zippers are waterproof zippers.

With this travel backpack, you can be sure that you will remain organized and free of any stress as you plan your next journey. Whether you will be having a day trip or even a 7-day trip, this product will be ideal for you. Having brought together all the best features from a duffel bag, general luggage, and a backpack, this travel bag will help you reduce the amount of time you spend worrying about your luggage. It will, on the contrary, give you enough time to enjoy your journey.

What’s more, this travel backpack has around 20 features that qualify it as one of the functional bags you could ever buy. Besides being packed with the best functionality, this travel backpack has a sleek and minimalistic design and is also made of weatherproof and strong materials to last longer.

Comes with a laundry bag

Has detachable waist straps

Has been made using durable waterproof material

It has a roller bag sleeve

Ideal for carrying a laptop and a tablet

TSA Compliant

People complain about the zippers

Opening and closing the bag is not so easy

8. Incase City Collection Backpack

This is a travel backpack that will help you in protecting, organizing and carrying your luggage in a stylish and elegant manner. This City Collection backpack comes with a 360 degreed laptop compartment that is padded as well as easily accessible pockets. Even its shoulder straps are padded as well for more comfort and ease of use.

If you are that city commuter who prefers having a somehow smaller carrying solution then you need to look no further as this is your ideal bag. With a front zippered compartment that has organizational features as well as a primary compartment that is spacious, you will find it quite easy to include all your essentials as you travel.

As is expected of high quality bags, this one too has an easy to reach zippered pocket to keep your items very safe. Due to the fact that this product has been constructed using a durable 270 by 500D blended weave polyester, you can be sure that this product has the best durability.

When it comes to matters to do with design, this is one of the best bags ever because of its slim and comfortable design. Its compact profile provides the thin profile that most commuters normally need when moving from one place to another. The adjustable shoulder straps that it comes with also improve on its level of comfort.

Slim design

Long lasting and durable

Easily accessible top pocket

Helps protect your luggage

Streamlined storage

Comfortable design

Shoulder straps normally slip off the shoulders

Zipper rips quickly

9. Herschel Heritage Backpack

The Heritable backpack is one of the best backpacks that you should buy and comes in very many colors. With a shoulder length of around 34.5 inches, this travel backpack is ideal for various people with different sizes of shoulders. There is an interior multi-function pocket that this backpack features that will come in handy in carrying your various types of essentials.

What we loved most about this product is the internal media pocket that this bag comes with. The headphone port will allow you to enjoy some cool music as you keep enjoying your journey. The magnetic strap closure which has metal pin clips will ensure that travel backpack is properly closed so you don’t easily lose your essential items.

The presence of a front pocket that has a hidden zipper as well as a key clip is also an added advantage that this product has above other types of products. There is also the custom striped fabric liner that everyone would love. While this product has so many advantages, it must also have some weak points that may make some people kind of get disappointed with it. The stitching that holds the straps may rip off quite easily.

Media pocket having a headphone port

Magnetic strap closure

Front pocket has a hidden zipper

Striped fabric liner customed

Comfortable shoulder straps

Straps rip off

Crooked top straps

10. Arcido Akra Backpack

One of the best business backpacks that will offer you a great sense of organization is this one here. With this travel bag, you will never need to worry about knowing where you have placed your passport, laptop or liquids because everything will be quite organized. There are not so many pockets that will stop you from packing smarter and being organized all through.

This bag also has quite a huge inner capacity to pack so many things. The main pocket which is large can hold so many clothes, toiletries and shoes; you can travel to your business destinations without worrying about anything at all. The other good thing about this travel backpack is how comfortable and durable it is to use. There is the weight bearing chest strap and hip traps which will make everything comfortable for you.

The material used in making this bag has not been left behind either. It is a lightweight material that is durable and features high-quality zippers. This Akra bag is capable of holding in the various types of environments and this is an added advantage that makes it one of the best bags to consider buying. What’s more, because it is more resistant, you can expect it to keep your gear totally dry in rainy conditions.

Ideal in many types of environments

Has a somehow bigger inner capacity

Offers an amazing organization

Is comfortable and somehow durable

Protects your gear

It is quite water resistant

Sunglasses pocket

Quite expensive

FAQs about Best Business Travel Backpack

1. can i carry more than one laptop in my travel backpack.

Generally, most laptop backpacks normally have only one laptop compartment which is designed to fit only a single laptop. However, there are some laptop backpacks that are quite large and can comfortably fit at least two laptops.

As long as there are batteries installed in your laptops and have been charged enough to work well for you, you can’t have an issue with taking two laptops on your backpack. Make sure you check with your airline though to see if they have some unique requirements.

2. Can I use my travel backpack for other things?

As long as you are not using it for what it is not recommended for then there is no problem at all in using your business travel backpack. You should just ensure that whatever you use it for does not damage it increasingly fast or does not put you in danger.

However, most travel backpacks are quite strong and durable and, therefore, suitable to be used for other different things altogether.

Having a business travel backpack can mean the difference between having a constructive business trip or just being messed up totally. These backpacks will help you pack everything you might need for your business while still making it quite easy to travel to your destination without any issues.

You may argue that suitcases are better for such occasions but suitcases are only ideal for longer travel destinations. Business travel backpacks come in handy for handling short distance travel trips and simply making your life easier while at it. To be able to get a high-quality product that will meet almost all your needs, you need to generally consider the size, brand and organizational structure.

All these products that we have reviewed here are great quality products that will all meet your expectations. However, if you are still undecided on which product you should buy then we might recommend for you eBags Professional Slim Travel Backpack as the best business travel backpack.

It is crushproof and offers the best security to your luggage, the back panel is made of breathable mesh for more comfort, it has several pouches for keeping your items organized among other great features. The other products are also awesome and will still just work well for you in case you don’t like our recommended product.

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Peter J. Moran

Peter J. Moran is a travel writer from New York who loves a good road trip! He loves the freedom of a paper map and an open road.

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