Joybuy Insights

Choosing a backpack without making the wrong purchase: how to find the right model for school, work and travel

A backpack may seem easy to choose, but small differences determine whether it remains comfortable in everyday use. A bag can look spacious in the product photo, yet offer barely enough room for a laptop or water bottle. Terms such as “water-repellent” and “ergonomic” do not always tell you enough about how practical a bag really is.

So pay particular attention to these three common pitfalls:

  • The wrong size: a backpack for a 15.6-inch laptop should not only have a laptop compartment, but also enough space around the device. Always check the dimensions of the compartment and your laptop.
  • Confusing water-repellent with waterproof: a coating or water-repellent outer surface can provide protection against light rain. That does not automatically mean the bag will remain waterproof for an extended period.
  • Lots of compartments, little usable space: a large number of zipped compartments can be useful, but fixed compartments also take up room. Look at the layout as well as the total capacity.

Which features should you check?

1. Size and capacity

For everyday use, the external dimensions are more important than the number of litres alone. A 13-litre backpack may be suitable for a lunch, school supplies and a tablet, but less practical for sportswear or a work folder. A larger backpack offers more flexibility, but can become fuller and heavier.

Look out for:

  • Width, height and depth in centimetres;
  • the capacity in litres, if stated;
  • space for a coat, bottle, books or accessories;
  • a luggage strap, if it is a travel backpack;
  • the opening: a zip, flap or roll-top design determines how easily you can access the contents.

For school pupils and students, a school backpack with several main compartments is often practical. If you mainly travel with a laptop and documents, you will usually benefit more from a work backpack with a separate laptop compartment.

2. Laptop compartment and device size

A backpack with a laptop compartment does not automatically protect a laptop against knocks. Check whether the compartment is padded and whether the device moves around inside the bag. A label such as 15.6-inch backpack usually refers to a suitable screen size, but the exact laptop dimensions can vary by brand.

So measure your laptop:

  1. width;
  2. height;
  3. thickness, including its protective case.

A laptop compartment on the inside also keeps the device separate from books, clothing and other belongings. This is particularly useful for commuters who travel by train, bicycle or bus every day.

3. Material, comfort and protection

Polyester, coated canvas and synthetic materials are commonly used for backpacks. Do not just look at the material name; also check for:

  • a padded back panel;
  • adjustable, padded shoulder straps;
  • sturdy zips and seams;
  • a base that does not sit directly on the ground;
  • a coating or description stating that it is water-repellent.

With a water-repellent backpack, it is still wise to keep electronics in a cover or additional protective bag during heavy rain. Reflective details are useful for visibility when cycling or travelling around town, but they do not replace bicycle lights.

Recommended backpacks by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
PUMA Phase Small Backpack Black Kid's

PUMA Phase Small Backpack Black Kid's

Why it suits this profile: This compact backpack has a capacity of 13 litres and is suitable for school, short trips and everyday use with a limited amount of luggage.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The dimensions of 12 × 25 × 37 cm and the 13-litre capacity make the expected carrying space clear. This means you do not buy an unnecessarily large bag for a light everyday load.

Key benefit & advantages

Padded shoulder straps, a padded back panel, reflective detailing and, according to the product information, at least 90% recycled materials.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
MICHAEL KORS JAYCEE Medium Logo Backpack-VANILLA

MICHAEL KORS JAYCEE Medium Logo Backpack-VANILLA

Why it suits this profile: This medium-sized backpack combines a polished look with a layout suited to commuting, city trips and everyday use.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The stated dimensions of approximately 30.5 × 38 × 17.8 cm and the separate tech compartment give you a clear idea of the available space in advance.

Key benefit & advantages

Coated canvas with polyester and polyurethane, a tech compartment, a zipped front pocket and several internal pockets. The manufacturer states a minimum statutory warranty of two years in the EU.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users
PUMA Academy Backpack Black Unisex

PUMA Academy Backpack Black Unisex

Why it suits this profile: With a capacity of around 24 litres, this is a practical choice for school, work, sport and short journeys where you need to carry several items.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information lists two spacious compartments, side pockets and an internal padded compartment. This means you do not have to rely solely on one large main compartment.

Key benefit & advantages

Dimensions of 45 × 30 × 18 cm, padded shoulder straps and back panel, two side pockets and compatibility with devices up to 18.7 inches, according to the product description.

Suitable for: Urban commuters and travellers
Water Repellent Roll Top Laptop Backpack 15.6 Inch

Water Repellent Roll Top Laptop Backpack 15.6 Inch

Why it suits this profile: The roll-top design and water-repellent description make it a good fit for cycling, commuting and urban travel with changing amounts of luggage.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product name mentions both a 15.6-inch laptop compartment and water-repellent properties. However, check the exact dimensions before buying and use additional protection in heavy rain.

Key benefit & advantages

Roll-top opening, ample storage space, several carrying options and a design for work, cycling and urban travel, according to the product description.

Looking for more options?

We have compiled a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about backpacks

Which backpack is suitable for a 15.6-inch laptop?

Choose a model that explicitly states it is suitable for 15.6 inches, then compare the internal dimensions with those of your own laptop. A laptop with a wide casing or protective case may be larger than the screen size suggests. A padded compartment and sturdy fastening are practical for everyday transport.

How do you clean a backpack?

Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions. For many models, a soft, slightly damp cloth is sufficient. Do not use harsh cleaning products unless recommended. Remove wet items from the bag as soon as possible and allow the inside to dry completely before storing it.

How long does a backpack last?

Its lifespan depends on the weight carried, how frequently it is used, exposure to moisture and the quality of the zips, seams and shoulder straps. A backpack that is heavily loaded every day will wear out faster than a bag used lightly. Check the seams and zips regularly, and avoid routinely carrying more than you need.