A laptop backpack for a laptop up to 15.6 inches may seem easy to choose at first glance. However, unclear sizing, limited protection and awkward compartments can make a backpack disappointing in everyday use. Students carry books, commuters travel by train or bike, and business users often want to take documents, chargers and lunch with them too.
So don’t focus only on colour or the number of compartments. Above all, check how the laptop is stored, what protection is specified and whether the dimensions suit the way you intend to use it.
Screen size is not the same as a laptop’s external dimensions. Two 15.6-inch laptops can have different casings. As a result, a thick business laptop may fit less comfortably than a slim model.
Check the following before buying:
A separate laptop compartment is more practical than a large main compartment where the device moves around with books and accessories.
A water-resistant laptop backpack can help repel light rain, but that does not automatically mean the bag can withstand prolonged heavy rain or complete submersion. Pay attention to the exact product description. Many models are described as water-resistant or water-repellent without having an official waterproof rating.
If you cycle extensively in poor weather, consider using a separate rain cover. Also check whether the zips and seams are adequately covered. A water-resistant outer fabric does not automatically protect every compartment inside.
A laptop backpack with lots of compartments sounds useful, but too many small pockets can divide up the available space. Check whether there is room for the things you actually carry: an A4 folder, charger, mouse, bottle, headphones and lunch.
A USB port is not an integrated charger either. With a laptop backpack with USB port, you will generally need your own power bank. Check how the connection is positioned and whether you can easily reach your phone’s compartment with the cable.
For everyday transport, a padded laptop compartment and a secure fastening are useful features. A separate compartment helps prevent the laptop from coming directly into contact with keys, books or other hard objects. Also check whether the backpack has room for accessories without putting pressure on the laptop compartment.
If you are looking for a laptop backpack for work and study, you will generally benefit more from a good balance between the laptop compartment, document compartment and main compartment than from an extremely large capacity.
A backpack weighing around 1 kilogram can be more comfortable than a heavier model if you travel by bike or public transport every day. Look for:
A business laptop backpack is often slimmer, while a laptop travel backpack may offer more space and additional compartments. Choose based on what you carry every day, not just on appearance.
Product descriptions may use terms such as water-resistant, water-repellent or water-resistant in Dutch. These terms do not all describe the same level of protection. Look for specific information about the material, zips, seams and any rain cover.
For everyday commuting, a smooth outer fabric is often easier to clean. A rolltop laptop backpack can offer extra flexibility thanks to its roll-up closure, but check whether opening and closing it is practical enough for your routine.
Why it suits this profile: The simple layout is ideal for school pupils and students who want to carry a laptop, school supplies and everyday essentials for work, study or trips around town.
The product name specifies a water-resistant design, drawstring closure and large storage capacity. However, check that your laptop’s dimensions fit inside the compartment.
Flip-top design, suitable for laptops up to 15.6 inches according to the product name, and suitable for school, work and travel.
Why it suits this profile: This business-casual backpack is ideal for commuters and professionals who want to carry documents, a laptop and accessories in an organised way.
The description mentions multiple compartments, a scratch-resistant design and a luggage strap. This helps keep your belongings organised, but check the exact compartment dimensions on the product page.
Flip cover, multiple compartments and luggage strap according to the product description; designed for commuting, school and travel.
Why it suits this profile: This model is designed for users who carry lunch, documents and everyday essentials alongside a laptop, such as nurses, teachers and office workers.
The lunch compartment can be removed and folded away when you need extra storage space. According to the description, the water-resistant fabric is not automatically fully waterproof.
Laptop compartment for up to 15.6 inches, removable insulated lunch compartment, USB port, A4 compartment and luggage strap. Dimensions: approximately 48 x 33 x 21.5 cm; weight: approximately 1.14 kg.
Why it suits this profile: The rolltop design is ideal for anyone carrying varying amounts of luggage during their commute, daily journeys and short trips.
The product name specifies a water-resistant design and multiple compartments. However, check whether you can access the laptop compartment quickly enough for your daily route.
Rolltop design, large capacity and multiple compartments according to the product name; suitable for carrying a laptop while travelling and during everyday journeys.
A laptop backpack for women and men does not need to be chosen based on gender. Instead, focus on fit, shoulder straps, back length and carrying weight. A compact backpack can be comfortable for a smaller build, while a larger model is better suited to carrying documents, clothing or lunch every day.
For work and study, an A4 compartment and a separate laptop compartment are often more important than a striking design. Anyone who travels by train every day may also benefit from a luggage strap. For cyclists, a secure fastening and water-resistant outer fabric are practical features to consider.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
Not always. The stated inch size usually refers to the screen diagonal, while laptops can have different casing dimensions. Measure the length, width and thickness of your laptop and compare them with the dimensions of the laptop compartment.
It can be useful when you want to charge your phone while you’re out and about. The port generally acts as a pass-through to a power bank inside the backpack. The power bank itself is usually not included. Also check whether the cable and connection are compatible with your phone or other device.
Remove dust with a soft cloth and follow the care instructions on the product page. Do not use harsh cleaning products without checking that they are suitable for the material. Allow a wet backpack to dry completely before putting your laptop back inside. Water-resistant properties may diminish with intensive use and wear.