Buy a backpack: how to choose a model that suits school, work and travel

Buying a backpack seems simple, until you have to choose between a women's backpack, men's backpack, unisex backpack, laptop backpack or sports backpack. Photos and marketing copy don't always tell you how practical a bag is in daily use. A model might look roomy, yet be awkward if there's no laptop compartment, bottle pocket or decent organisation.

Pay particular attention to these common pitfalls:

• A large capacity isn't everything. A 22-litre bag can be less usable because of its shape than a well-organised model with a smaller capacity.
• "Water-repellent" is not the same as waterproof. Check whether it's a material claim and whether there's information about seams, zips and care.
• A laptop compartment doesn't automatically fit your laptop. Look at the stated inch size and compare it with your device's dimensions.
• Comfort is often described too vaguely. Padded shoulder straps and a padded back panel are concrete features; "comfortable" without further explanation is not.

Which specifications should you check before buying a backpack?

1. Size and capacity

For daily use, the external dimensions and capacity matter more than just the look. A backpack of around 20 to 24 litres usually offers room for books, clothing, accessories and a drinks bottle. According to the product information, the PUMA Academy Backpack has a capacity of approximately 24 litres and measures 45 × 30 × 18 cm. The PUMA Phase models are around 20 to 22 litres.

A compact backpack of 4.4 litres, such as the Beneunder Mini Backpack, is mainly suitable for your phone, keys, wallet and small everyday items. For school or work, that size is usually not suitable if you also need to carry a laptop or documents.

Also check whether the bag fits under a seat, in a bike crate or in an overhead luggage compartment. For train commuters, a less deep backpack can be more practical than one that sticks out a long way at the back.

2. Laptop compartment and internal organisation

A backpack with a laptop compartment prevents a computer from rattling around loose among books and other items. Check:

• The maximum laptop size, for example up to 15.6 inches.
• Whether the compartment is padded.
• Whether the compartment is internal or against the back panel.
• Whether there is also room for a charger, mouse and documents.

According to the product description, the Michael Kors Jaycee has an internal tech compartment for a laptop or tablet. The Summer Cooler Bag is specified for laptops up to 15.6 inches and also has an A4 organiser pocket. That model also has a detachable insulated lunch compartment, which can be handy for a work backpack or student backpack.

Pay attention to the total weight. A bag weighing 1.14 kg empty feels very different on a long working day compared to a lightweight model of around 300 grams.

3. Material, zips and wearing comfort

Polyester, recycled polyester, coated canvas and synthetic fabrics are common for backpacks. The material name alone doesn't tell you how a bag performs in all conditions. So also look at:

• Padded shoulder straps that are adjustable.
• A padded or breathable back panel.
• Two-way zips for wide access.
• A side pocket for a bottle.
• A handle and possibly a trolley strap.
• Care instructions, such as wiping clean with a damp cloth.

For the Beneunder Mini Backpack, the product information states a water-repellent level of 4. This is a specification from the product listing and not a promise that the bag is fully waterproof. With a water-repellent backpack, protecting your laptop and papers in heavy rain remains a point to consider.

For daily cycling in the Netherlands, a rain cover or an extra waterproof laptop sleeve is therefore a sensible addition, even if the outer fabric is water-repellent.

Our recommendations by use case

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

PUMA Academy Backpack Black Unisex

Why this fits the profile: The layout with two main compartments, multiple pockets and a capacity of around 24 litres suits school, daily use and light sports activities.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product specification lists concrete dimensions, capacity and a maximum compatible device size of 18.7 inches. That makes comparing easier than relying on the term "roomy" alone.

Key benefit & highlights

Two-way zips, padded shoulder straps, a padded back panel and two side pockets. According to the product information, at least 70% of the material consists of recycled materials.

Suitable for: Shoppers seeking top quality

MICHAEL KORS JAYCEE Medium Logo Backpack-VANILLA

Why this fits the profile: This women's backpack combines a polished look with an internal tech compartment and pockets for smaller items, making it suitable for the office, city use and short trips.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The dimensions of approximately 30.5 × 38 × 17.8 cm and the stated pocket layout give you a clearer picture of the practical space in advance.

Key benefit & highlights

Coated canvas, a tech compartment, front and internal zip pockets, and a lining made of 100% polyester.

Suitable for: Specific use & heavy users

Summer Cooler Bag Insulated Lunch Backpack

Why this fits the profile: A fitting choice if you want to carry a laptop, documents and lunch in one work backpack. The model is specified for laptops up to 15.6 inches.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The laptop size, bag dimensions and capacity of the detachable lunch compartment are stated. This means you can check in advance whether your daily items will fit.

Key benefit & highlights

Water-repellent fabric according to the product description, a detachable insulated lunch compartment, USB port, trolley strap and padded laptop sleeve.

Frequently asked questions about buying a backpack

What capacity do I need for school or work?

For a laptop, documents, lunch and daily accessories, around 18 to 25 litres is often practical. If you only carry small items, you can choose a compact backpack of around 4 to 10 litres. Measure your laptop and always check the internal pocket dimensions.

How long does a backpack typically last?

The lifespan depends on load, material, zips, moisture and care. Don't regularly use a bag beyond its capacity, remove wet items and follow the care instructions. A synthetic backpack can often be cleaned with a damp cloth; machine washing is not suitable for every model.

Is a water-repellent backpack enough for British rain?

Not always. Water-repellent material can temporarily hold off light rain, but that doesn't mean the seams and zips are waterproof. If you're cycling or facing prolonged rain, take a rain cover or protective sleeve for your laptop and documents.