Joybuy Insights

How to choose a backpack without making the wrong choice: a practical guide for work, school and travel

A backpack seems simple to choose, until you’re carrying a laptop, books, lunch and a charger every day. A bag may look spacious in photos, but have too few compartments in practice. Terms such as “waterproof”, “ergonomic” and “travel-friendly” don’t always tell you exactly what you need to know, either.

As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, I focus on information you can check: dimensions, capacity, laptop compatibility, material, comfort and layout. That way, you can compare a laptop backpack, travel backpack or work backpack on practical features, rather than appearance alone.

Common pitfalls when buying a backpack

1. Choosing a laptop size without allowing for a safety margin

A laptop backpack for a 15.6-inch laptop won’t automatically fit every device of that size. Screen diagonal is only one measurement. Your laptop’s actual width, height and depth can vary. So check the dimensions of the laptop compartment and compare them with your laptop, including any protective case.

A backpack with a laptop compartment should also offer sufficient protection with a padded wall and a fastening that stops the device from shifting around easily. Don’t treat a laptop compartment as a guarantee against damage: put your laptop in carefully and avoid overloading the bag.

2. Confusing “water-resistant” with completely waterproof

A water-resistant backpack can help keep out light rain, but that doesn’t mean it’s safe from prolonged rain, puddles or submersion. Check the material, the finish of the zips and the construction around the seams. A roll-top fastening can shield the opening better, but always check the product information before carrying electronic devices without extra protection.

For cyclists and commuters, a rain cover or a separate waterproof laptop sleeve is often a sensible addition.

3. Lots of compartments that leave little usable space

A long list of pockets sounds handy, but small compartments can reduce the space in the main section. Don’t just look at the number of compartments. Check the capacity in litres, the dimensions and the shape of the main compartment too.

A spacious backpack is most useful when its layout suits what you carry. For school, books and a pencil case are important; for work, you’ll also need space for documents, a laptop and accessories. A travel backpack should have room for clothes, a washbag or snacks too.

Important specifications to compare

Laptop compatibility and external dimensions

For a 15.6-inch laptop backpack, a stated compatibility of up to 15.6 inches is a good starting point, but it doesn’t guarantee a perfect fit. Check:

  • the maximum screen size;
  • the internal dimensions of the laptop compartment, if provided;
  • the external dimensions of the backpack;
  • the position of the laptop compartment: ideally close to your back;
  • whether the base and sides are padded.

According to the product information, the Lenovo ThinkPad Professional 2nd Generation is suitable for laptops up to 15 inches, while its external dimensions are 30 × 18,5 × 43,5 cm. The specifications also list a laptop compartment, zipped pockets and a handle.

Capacity, expandability and weight distribution

Capacity is usually given in litres. For everyday use, around 15 to 25 litres may be enough. If you also carry clothes, lunch or sports kit, you’ll often need more space. An expandable backpack offers extra flexibility, but check that it’s still comfortable to carry when fully expanded.

According to the product details, the HP Travel 25L 15.6-Inch Blue Laptop Backpack has a capacity of 25 litres, expandable to 30 litres. The bag weighs around 860 grams and has shoulder and chest straps. Pack heavy items close to your back, and don’t carry sharp or heavy objects without protection.

Comfort and everyday use

Look for adjustable, padded shoulder straps, a padded back panel and a handle. A chest strap can help keep the bag stable while cycling or walking. A luggage strap is useful if you want to attach a travel backpack to a trolley.

A USB port is mainly a pass-through for a cable. You’ll still need a power bank; the port won’t charge a device on its own. Also check that the cable and power bank can be stored safely and that the port is protected from moisture.

Our recommendations for different needs

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
PUMA Academy Backpack Black Unisex

PUMA Academy Backpack Black Unisex

Why it suits this profile: This backpack is designed for school, everyday use and short commutes. It has a capacity of around 24 litres and measures 45 × 30 × 18 cm.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The two main compartments and several pockets make the layout clear from the outset. Do check that your laptop is within the stated maximum device size of 18,7 inches.

Key benefit & features

Padded shoulder straps and back panels; two mesh side pockets; according to the product description, at least 70% of the main material is made from recycled materials.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
HP Travel 25L 15.6-Inch Blue Laptop Backpack

HP Travel 25L 15.6-Inch Blue Laptop Backpack

Why it suits this profile: This work backpack is ideal for commuters and travellers who want to carry a laptop, clothes and accessories in one bag.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Its capacity is clearly stated as 25 litres, expandable to 30 litres. So you don’t have to rely on a vague claim about “large capacity”.

Key benefit & features

Suitable for laptops up to 15,6 inches; expandable capacity; chest straps, lockable zips and a hidden RFID-blocking pocket, according to the product description.

Suitable for: Specific needs & frequent users
Summer Cooler Bag Insulated Lunch Backpack

Summer Cooler Bag Insulated Lunch Backpack

Why it suits this profile: A practical choice for anyone carrying a laptop, documents and lunch to work, school or a long day out.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The dimensions, weight of around 1,14 kg and laptop compartment for devices up to 15,6 inches are all listed. The lunch compartments are also removable, so you can use the space differently.

Key benefit & features

Water-resistant material according to the product description; removable insulated lunch bag; A4 organiser compartment, luggage strap and USB port.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

How to choose the right backpack for your needs

  • For school: choose a main compartment for books, a separate laptop compartment and side pockets for a water bottle. A capacity of around 20 to 25 litres is often practical.
  • For work and commuting: look for a padded laptop compartment, space for documents, sturdy zips and a luggage strap. A work backpack doesn’t need to be large if its layout makes efficient use of the space.
  • For travel: look for an expandable design, lockable zips, a chest strap and a capacity of at least 25 litres. Check your carrier’s baggage rules in advance.
  • For cycling or walking: adjustable straps, a chest strap and a water-resistant outer are useful features. Add extra protection in prolonged rain.
  • For women and men: fit matters more than a gender label. Check the back length, the adjustability of the shoulder straps and the weight when carrying the bag.

Frequently asked questions about backpacks

Will a 15.6-inch laptop backpack fit every 15.6-inch laptop?

Not always. The screen size doesn’t tell you the laptop’s exact width and depth. Compare your device’s dimensions with those of the laptop compartment, and allow for a protective case.

How many litres should a spacious backpack hold?

For work or school, 15 to 25 litres is often enough. If you carry clothes, lunch or sports kit, 25 to 35 litres may be more practical. An expandable backpack gives you extra space when you need it, but don’t carry more than feels comfortable.

Is a backpack with a USB port safe for everyday use?

A USB port connects an external cable to your power bank. The power bank itself should be kept in a separate compartment and kept dry. Check the cable regularly for damage, and don’t use damaged accessories. The USB port is not a replacement for a protected power supply.