Buying a backpack: how to choose the right one for school, work and travel

Buying a backpack might seem simple, until you find that it doesn’t fit properly, your laptop isn’t secure or the contents get damp in a shower. Marketing terms such as “extra spacious”, “waterproof” and “ergonomic” only tell you so much: check the actual dimensions, materials and layout.

These are the main pitfalls to watch out for if you’re a student, professional or traveller:

• The laptop size doesn’t match real-life dimensions: a bag described as “15.6 inches” may be a tight fit because of your laptop’s shape or a lack of padding.
• Water-repellent doesn’t mean waterproof: a water-repellent backpack offers some protection in light rain, but isn’t necessarily suitable for prolonged downpours.
• Lots of compartments don’t always mean a practical layout: small pockets can be useful, but they take space away from the main compartment. Think about what you carry every day.

What should you look for when buying a backpack?

1. Check the dimensions and capacity

A compact lightweight backpack is handy for a walk or a short day at school. For books, clothes, lunch and electronics, a spacious backpack with clearly organised compartments is a better choice.

Look out for:

• Capacity in litres: around 12 litres is suitable for a few personal belongings; 20 to 30 litres gives you more room for school, work or a short trip.
• External dimensions: compare the height, width and depth with your laptop, folders and clothes.
• The weight of the empty bag: a sturdy bag may be heavier. This matters if you carry it every day for long periods.

A bag with expandable capacity can be useful for commuting: compact on the way there, with more room when you need to carry extra items.

2. Check the laptop compartment for size and protection

If you’re looking for a laptop backpack, don’t just go by the screen size in inches. Check that the compartment will fit your laptop’s exact dimensions and that the base and sides offer enough protection.

A 15.6-inch laptop backpack is practical for many common laptops, but always check:

• the maximum screen size;
• the internal dimensions of the laptop compartment;
• whether the compartment is separate from books and accessories;
• whether your laptop will move around inside a large main compartment.

An extra tech compartment, RFID pocket or lockable zip can be useful for commuting and travel. A backpack with a USB port usually provides a pass-through connection to a power bank; the power bank itself is generally not included. Check the product information to be sure.

3. Take a close look at the material and carrying comfort

Polyester, recycled polyester, canvas and plastic panels all have different feels and uses. A coating or water-repellent finish can help protect against splashes, but check the wording carefully. Seams and zips can still be weak points on a water-repellent bag.

These details are useful for everyday use:

• padded shoulder straps;
• a padded back panel;
• adjustable straps;
• a chest strap for heavier loads;
• sturdy zips and handles;
• mesh side pockets for a bottle or umbrella.

A sporty backpack with reflective details can help you be more visible in traffic. That doesn’t make it a safety product; it’s simply a practical design feature.

Our recommendations for different needs

Suitable for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers

Puma Phase Backpack Black

Why it suits this profile: With a capacity of 22 litres and a weight of 300 grams, this bag offers a well-organised basic layout for school, sport or everyday use.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The stated dimensions of 30 × 43 × 14 cm and capacity of 22 litres make it easy to check the size in advance. Don’t expect a separate laptop compartment unless it’s listed in the product specifications.

Main benefit & key features

300 grams, padded back panel, adjustable shoulder straps, front zip pocket and mesh side pocket.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality

MICHAEL KORS JAYCEE Medium Logo Backpack-VANILLA

Why it suits this profile: This medium-sized style combines coated canvas with a tech compartment and several internal pockets, making it suitable for the office, city life and everyday accessories.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The layout is clearly described: a tech compartment, rear zip pocket, open internal pocket and front zip pocket. This isn’t designed to be a large travel backpack.

Main benefit & key features

Approximate dimensions of 30.5 × 38 × 17.8 cm, secure zip fastening and a specified tech compartment for a laptop or tablet.

Suitable for: Specific needs & frequent users

HP Travel 25L 15.6-Inch Blue Laptop Backpack

Why it suits this profile: For work, study and travel, this laptop backpack has room for devices, clothes and accessories, with an expandable capacity of 25 to 30 litres.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The maximum screen size of 15.6 inches and the capacity are specified. The bag is not described as water-repellent or fully waterproof, so give your electronics extra protection in wet weather.

Main benefit & key features

25 litres, expandable to 30 litres, chest strap, RFID-blocking pocket, tracker pocket and lockable main compartment zips.

Frequently asked questions about buying a backpack

Which backpack is suitable for a 15.6-inch laptop?

Choose a style that’s explicitly described as suitable for 15.6 inches, and check the internal dimensions too. A laptop backpack with a separate padded compartment will generally offer more protection than a large, open main compartment. Take your own laptop’s measurements when comparing options.

How long does a backpack usually last?

Its lifespan depends on the weight it carries, how often you use it, the material and how well you look after it. Overloading a bag puts extra strain on the seams, zips and shoulder straps. Store your backpack somewhere dry, clean stains according to the care instructions and avoid placing sharp objects directly against the fabric.

Is a water-repellent backpack enough for cycling in the Netherlands?

A water-repellent backpack can be practical in light rain. For prolonged or heavy rain, it’s better to use extra protection, such as a rain cover or waterproof laptop sleeve. Always check whether the manufacturer describes the bag as “water-repellent” or “waterproof” – these mean different things.