A 15.6-inch laptop backpack needs to do more than simply carry a laptop. For many people in the Netherlands, the bag comes along every day on the train, on a bike, to school or to the office. It often needs to hold documents, lunch, chargers and personal belongings too. Yet many models look much the same at first glance. That is precisely where disappointing purchases can happen.
A laptop’s screen size does not tell you everything about its external dimensions. A business laptop with a wide bezel, robust casing or extra-large battery may fit more tightly than expected. So do not just check the stated inch size. Also look at:
A laptop compartment that fits closely can help prevent the laptop from moving around. A compartment that is too tight can put strain on the zip or seams.
A water-repellent laptop backpack helps protect against light rain or splashes. That does not automatically mean the contents will stay dry during a heavy shower. Pay attention to the product description, the fastening and the positioning of the zips. A roll-top or flap can provide extra cover for the opening, but always check that the laptop itself is stored in a separate protected compartment.
If you regularly spend a long time in the rain, consider using a separate rain cover. If you cycle every day, do not rely solely on terms such as “water resistant” or “water repellent”.
On a laptop backpack with a USB port, the connection is usually intended to link a power bank inside the bag to your smartphone using a cable. The backpack generally does not contain a battery. Check that there is enough space inside for your power bank and that your own cable is compatible. A USB port is particularly useful when you are out and about, but it is not a replacement for a good charger.
For work or school, a separate padded laptop compartment is more important than a large main compartment with no organisation. Also look for room for A4 documents, a diary, mouse, adapter and cables. A business laptop backpack often has several smaller compartments, whereas a casual model may instead have one spacious compartment.
Think about what you carry every day. A bag with lots of compartments keeps small accessories organised, but can be inconvenient if you regularly pack larger items.
A capacity of around 20 to 25 litres is often suitable for a laptop, documents and a few everyday essentials. If you also carry sportswear, lunch or travel items, it may be better to look for a spacious laptop backpack. An expandable laptop backpack provides extra capacity when needed, without requiring you to carry a completely full bag every day.
Do bear the weight in mind. A larger bag made with more material and extra zips can feel heavier, even when empty.
For a laptop backpack for work, school or travel, wide, adjustable shoulder straps are useful. A breathable back panel can feel more comfortable during longer walks or a cycle ride. A chest strap is handy when the bag moves around frequently, but not every model has one.
A laptop backpack for women and men does not need to be designed specifically for one particular group. More important are the length of the shoulder straps, the back length and how the weight is distributed.
If you regularly travel by train, bus or plane, look for a laptop backpack with a luggage strap. This allows you to attach the bag to the handle of a wheeled suitcase. A wide opening is useful at security checks and when packing. For everyday use, a simple zip may be quicker than a complicated fastening.
Why it suits this profile: This model is designed for school, work and city use, combining a 15.6-inch laptop compartment with a large main compartment.
The product description mentions a water-resistant design and a laptop compartment. However, check that your laptop’s dimensions match.
Flip-top fastening, spacious compartment and suitable for school, work and travel.
Why it suits this profile: The adjustable capacity is ideal for commuters and travellers who sometimes want to carry more than just a laptop and documents.
According to the product name, the capacity expands from 25 to 35 litres. This means you do not have to carry a fully expanded bag every day.
25–35-litre capacity, multiple compartments and a water-resistant travel design.
Why it suits this profile: This model is designed for users who want to carry a laptop, lunch and work essentials in one bag.
According to the product description, the lunch module can be removed. You can therefore rearrange the bag when you do not need a lunch compartment.
Suitable for laptops up to 15.6 inches, USB port, A4 organiser compartment and luggage strap.
Why it suits this profile: The roll-top design and stated suitability for cycling, work and city travel make it a good fit for everyday use on the go.
The roll-top fastening reduces the amount of exposed zip at the top. The bag is described as water-repellent; use additional protection in heavy rain.
Suitable for a 15.6-inch laptop, spacious day-to-day storage and use for work, cycling and travel.
We have compiled a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
No, not always. Screen size is only one indication. Measure the length, width and thickness of your laptop and compare these with the dimensions of the laptop compartment. Also allow for a protective sleeve.
Its lifespan depends on the weight carried each day, use in the rain, the quality of the zips and how the bag is put down. Avoid overloading it and regularly check the seams, shoulder straps and zips. A bag with a sturdy laptop compartment will not automatically last longer if the rest of its construction is subjected to heavy strain.
The USB connection itself uses no power when no power bank is connected. The power comes from your own power bank. The battery life therefore depends on the capacity of that power bank and the device you are charging with it.