Joybuy Insights

Choosing a laptop backpack: a practical buying guide for school, work and travel

A laptop backpack needs to do more than just carry a laptop. In the Netherlands, it often goes along on your bike or train, to lectures or on a weekend away. You’ll soon notice if you’ve made the wrong choice: zips stick, the laptop compartment turns out to be too small or the shoulder straps dig in when the bag is full.

In this buying guide, you’ll find out what to look for in a laptop backpack, which marketing claims are worth checking and which type of backpack suits your needs.

Common pitfalls when choosing a laptop backpack

1. Laptop size doesn’t always tell you enough

A backpack for a 15.6-inch laptop may seem suitable for a wide range of models, but laptops with the same screen size can have different dimensions. So don’t just check whether it says “15.6 inches”; check the dimensions of the laptop compartment and the bag as a whole, too.

A laptop with a thick case, protective cover or charger will need extra room. Measure your device before ordering.

2. “Water-repellent” doesn’t mean waterproof

The term water-repellent backpack usually means that light rain is less likely to soak into the fabric. It doesn’t automatically offer protection in prolonged rain or if the bag falls into a puddle. Check the zip design, seams and whether a rain cover is included, too.

A water-repellent outer layer is useful for short bike rides, but consider using a separate rain cover in bad weather.

3. Too many compartments can be impractical

A spacious backpack with lots of compartments sounds convenient, but small pockets aren’t much use if they leave the main compartment feeling cramped. Check that there’s room for:

  • A laptop and charger
  • A4 books or documents
  • A lunchbox and water bottle
  • A coat or sportswear
  • Keys, a purse and accessories

Check the position of the side pockets, too. A mesh pocket is handy for a bottle, but offers less protection against knocks.

Important specifications to check

Laptop compartment and capacity

For everyday use, a 15.6-inch laptop backpack is a sensible choice if your laptop is within that size. Check the internal dimensions, the padding in the compartment and how it closes. A separate, padded laptop compartment helps prevent your computer from coming into direct contact with books or other hard objects.

Capacity is usually measured in litres. Around 20 to 25 litres is often suitable for school, work or everyday use. If you also carry clothes, a lunchbox or travel essentials, you’ll benefit from a larger capacity.

Carrying comfort and weight distribution

An ergonomic backpack should ideally have adjustable, padded shoulder straps and a back panel that doesn’t feel unnecessarily stiff. A chest strap can help keep the bag stable when you’re cycling or walking.

Check the weight of the bag when empty. A bag with lots of extra features can already be heavy before you add books and electronics. Place your laptop close to the back panel and heavier items low down in the main compartment. This helps distribute the weight more evenly.

Material, zips and care

Oxford fabric and synthetic polyester are widely used for school and travel backpacks. Check the product information for the material composition, seam finish and type of zip. A sturdy outer fabric is useful for everyday use, but on its own it doesn’t tell you how long the bag will last.

Check the care instructions, too. Some models can only be hand-washed. This is especially important for bags with a print, luminous details or electronic components.

USB port: useful, but not self-powered

A backpack with a USB port usually has a cable inside and a connection on the outside. A power bank is generally not included. So the port won’t charge devices on its own; you’ll need to put a suitable power bank in the main compartment.

Check whether the cable can be removed and keep electronic components dry. Don’t use the USB port as a substitute for waterproof storage.

Which laptop backpack suits your needs?

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Kono School Bag Anime Luminous School Backpack

Kono School Bag Anime Luminous School Backpack

Why it suits this profile: This unisex backpack is aimed at pupils and students looking for a distinctive design, space for a laptop and extra pockets, without having to buy a separate pencil case.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information lists a main compartment for a laptop up to 15.6 inches, A4 books and notebooks. Be sure to check the dimensions of your own laptop. The USB feature requires a separate power bank.

Key benefits and features

30-litre capacity, Oxford fabric, two side pockets, a pencil case included and an internal USB cable, according to the product description. The brand listing says the luminous design needs to be exposed to light for 10 to 20 minutes first.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
PUMA Academy Backpack Black Unisex

PUMA Academy Backpack Black Unisex

Why it suits this profile: The black, unisex design works for school, the office and everyday commuting. Its layout is designed for people who want to keep their belongings organised on the go.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The bag has two spacious compartments, a front pocket with a two-way zip and two side pockets. So you don’t have to rely on small storage pockets alone.

Key benefits and features

Measures 45 × 30 × 18 cm, with a capacity of around 24 litres, padded shoulder straps and a padded back panel. According to the product information, at least 70% of the material is made from recycled materials.

Suitable for: Specialist use and frequent users
Urban Flip Cover 15.6 Inch Laptop Backpack

Urban Flip Cover 15.6 Inch Laptop Backpack

Why it suits this profile: According to the product title, this model is designed for commuting, business trips, school and everyday use. The luggage strap is handy when you’re travelling with a suitcase.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product title describes a water-resistant, scratch-resistant design with several pockets. Treat this as an indication that it’s suitable for everyday use, not as a guarantee that the bag is completely waterproof.

Key benefits and features

Designed for a laptop up to 15.6 inches, according to the product name, with a flip-cover design, several compartments and a luggage strap, according to the product listing.

Looking for more options?

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

Frequently asked questions about laptop backpacks

Will every 15.6-inch laptop fit in a backpack designed for a 15.6-inch laptop?

No. Screen size is only a guide. Measure your laptop’s length, width and depth, then compare them with the dimensions of the laptop compartment. Allow for a protective cover and charger, too.

How long does a laptop backpack last?

Its lifespan depends on how much weight it carries, how often you use it, exposure to rain and the quality of the zips and seams. Avoid carrying a bag that’s constantly overfilled. Distribute heavy items throughout the main compartment and follow the manufacturer’s care instructions. A model that can only be hand-washed needs to be cleaned carefully.

Is a USB port on a laptop backpack safe and useful?

A USB port can be useful for connecting your phone on the go, but you’ll need a power bank. Check the cable for damage and keep the connection dry. Don’t charge a device if the bag is wet or the cable gets warm.