Buying a backpack: how to choose a model that suits your everyday needs

Buying a backpack seems simple until you find that the model is too small for your laptop, uncomfortable to carry or quick to wear out. Dutch shops and online retailers also use terms such as “sustainable”, “water-repellent” and “ergonomic”. Always check which features are actually included in the product information.

This buying guide helps you compare a women’s backpack, men’s backpack, laptop backpack, school backpack or sporty backpack based on size, material, organisation and carrying comfort.

Three common pitfalls when buying a backpack

1. A large capacity does not tell you everything

A roomy backpack with a capacity of, for example, 20 to 24 litres may seem suitable for work, school or sport. However, the number of litres is not the only important factor. A bag with one large compartment may be less practical than a smaller model with several compartments.

Look out for:

• The external dimensions in centimetres.
• The number of main compartments and zipped pockets.
• Whether there is a laptop or tablet compartment.
• Side pockets for a water bottle.
• Whether the largest compartment opens wide enough.

A capacity of 22 litres, for example, can accommodate a laptop, clothing and everyday accessories, but the exact layout determines how organised your belongings remain.

2. “Leather-look” does not mean leather

A black backpack may be made from genuine leather, coated canvas, faux leather or polyester. These materials differ in terms of care, weight and how they respond to moisture.

So check the material composition carefully. The Michael Kors JAYCEE Large 2 Zip Pocket Backpack Black, for example, states 100% grain leather on the exterior and a polyester lining. Other Michael Kors models use a combination of coated canvas, polyester and polyurethane. This may be a suitable alternative if you want to avoid a leather backpack because of its weight, price or maintenance requirements.

3. Adjustable shoulder straps do not solve every carrying problem

Adjustable straps are useful, but also consider:

• Whether there is a padded back panel.
• The width and padding of the shoulder straps.
• The position of the handle.
• The distance between the straps.
• How the bag fastens and opens.

A heavy bag with thin straps will remain uncomfortable, even if you can adjust the length. For daily commuting or a long school day, a padded back and plenty of compartments are therefore practical specifications.

Which specifications should you check?

Size and capacity

For an everyday backpack, the external dimensions are at least as important as the capacity. According to the product information, a PUMA Phase Backpack Black measures 30 × 43 × 14 cm, has a capacity of approximately 22 litres and weighs 300 grams. This makes the bag appealing if you are looking for a lightweight backpack with enough room for everyday essentials.

The PUMA Academy Backpack Black Unisex is slightly deeper, measuring 45 × 30 × 18 cm, with an estimated capacity of 24 litres. This model has two main compartments, a front pocket and side pockets. When carrying a laptop, always check the maximum compatible device size; for this model, a maximum of 18.7 inches is stated.

Material and care

A material description helps prevent unrealistic expectations:

• Leather: a durable appearance, but sensitive to moisture, heat and incorrect care.
• Coated canvas: often keeps its shape well and is easy to wipe clean with a slightly damp cloth.
• Polyester: lightweight and suitable for sporty or school models.
• Faux leather: can offer a smooth, fashionable appearance without using genuine leather.

According to the product information, the Michael Kors JAYCEE Medium Pebbled Leather Backpack Black should be cared for with a soft, dry cloth. It must not be put in the washing machine and should be kept away from direct heat. For PUMA Phase models, the guidance states that you can wipe the bag with a damp cloth and should not use detergent.

Organisation and laptop protection

A laptop backpack should offer more than just one large main compartment. Check whether the laptop or tablet compartment is padded and whether its dimensions match your device. A separate compartment also prevents your laptop from coming directly into contact with keys, water bottles or other hard objects.

For school or work, a front pocket, internal zipped pockets and an elasticated pocket are useful. For sport or travel, a spacious main compartment and mesh side pockets may be more important.

Our recommendations by user profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

Puma Phase Backpack Black

Why it suits this profile: A practical, sporty backpack for school, everyday use and short trips, without a complicated layout.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states the dimensions, a capacity of approximately 22 litres and a weight of 300 grams. This makes it easier to match the available space to your everyday belongings.

Key benefit & advantages

Two-way zip, front pocket, mesh side pocket, padded back and reflective details.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality

MICHAEL KORS JAYCEE Large 2 Zip Pocket Backpack Black

Why it suits this profile: A leather backpack for anyone who wants to combine a polished look with space for commuting or a weekend away.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The external dimensions are clearly stated: 30,5 × 43 × 17,8 cm. There is also a main compartment, a zipped front pocket and a separate tech compartment.

Key benefit & advantages

100% grain leather on the exterior, adjustable straps and gold-tone metal details according to the product description.

Suitable for: Specific uses & intensive users

PUMA Academy Backpack Black Unisex

Why it suits this profile: Suitable for students, athletes and commuters who need multiple compartments and plenty of capacity.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The bag has two spacious compartments, several pockets, two side pockets and an internal elasticated pocket. This helps keep your belongings separate.

Key benefit & advantages

Approximately 24 litres of capacity, padded shoulder straps and a padded back panel. According to the product information, at least 70% of the materials are recycled.

Michael Kors or PUMA: which style suits you?

A Michael Kors backpack complements a more fashionable, structured style. The JAYCEE Medium Logo Backpack in Vanilla measures approximately 30,5 × 38 × 17,8 cm, and has a tech compartment and a zipped front pocket. For a more understated black women’s backpack, the JAYCEE Medium Pebbled Leather Backpack Black is compact, measuring 22,22 × 30,48 × 10,79 cm.

A PUMA backpack is generally designed with a sporty look and practical everyday storage in mind. The PUMA Phase Backpack II Black has a capacity of approximately 20 litres, a padded inner pocket and a mesh side pocket. According to the product information, at least 90% of this model is made from recycled materials.

Frequently asked questions about buying a backpack

What capacity do I need for an everyday backpack?

For everyday essentials, around 15 to 24 litres is often a practical range. If you carry a laptop, sportswear or lunch, look for 20 litres or more. In addition to the capacity, check the dimensions and compartment layout.

How long does a backpack typically last?

Its lifespan depends on the material, the weight carried, how often it is used and how well it is maintained. Avoid overloading the bag, clean it according to the care instructions and regularly check the zips and seams. With leather, protection from moisture and heat is particularly important.

Is a laptop backpack automatically waterproof?

No. A laptop compartment and a water-repellent outer fabric do not automatically mean that a backpack is completely waterproof. Look for an explicit waterproof rating if you often use the bag in the rain. If this information is not provided, use a rain cover or protective laptop sleeve.