23 best laptop bags to buy in Australia in 2024
With 5000 people on the waitlist, the viral work bag is “perfect” and has loads of compartments to fit absolutley everything.
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With many of us now embracing a hybrid work model, we’re faced with a new inconvenience – lugging a laptop back and forth between work and home.
Unless you’ve invested in an ultra-portable model, carrying a laptop around can quickly become a strain, especially if you’re tossing it into a bag that wasn’t designed to hold it.
Luckily, there are plenty of tote bags, messenger bags and backpacks on the market with designated laptop sleeves or roomy main compartments, helping you to pack more in and distribute the weight evenly.
To help you find the best bag for your needs, we’ve listed our top picks below – including the “perfect” viral work bag from July that has over 5000 people on its waitlist.
OUR TOP PICKS
EDITOR’S PICKS: BEST LAPTOP BAGS
Longchamp Le Pliage Original L Tote Bag, $285 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Stylish design; button flap for security; durable fabric.
What to consider: No laptop sleeve; only has one inner pocket; no structure.
Dimensions: 31W x 30H x 19D centimetres
Material: Recycled polyamide canvas with inside coating
Colour: Navy
What You Need To Know
This iconic Le Pliage bag may not have been designed as a laptop bag, but you’d be hard pressed to walk around on a weekday without seeing this on the shoulders of multiple people. We’re big fans of this cult-favourite tote as it has ample space to fit a laptop and other important work documents, along with your lunch, drink bottle, wallet and whatever else you need to get through the day. It’s also made from recycled polyamide canvas with inside coating which means it is very easy to clean. Plus, it’s super stylish.
“It’s much roomier than it looks in the photos. Fits a large laptop, notebook, heels and everything else needed for work. Impressed by quality and space. Highly recommended for work and shopping,” wrote one five-star review on Google.
Another said, “this bag really will last you forever! I use it for work and everything else.”
Juliette Soft Work Tote, $325 at July
Why we love it: Stylish design, buttery soft leather, loads of compartments.
What to consider: Struggled to fit bulky lunch containers.
Dimensions: 40W x 30H x 14D centimetres
Material: GRS certified PU coated fabric with sueded inner lining
Colour: Chocolate brown
Tried and Tested by Marina Tatas, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
I’ve seen nothing but positive reviews of the July Juliette range all over my TikTok feed - it also happens to have an impressive 5000 person waitlist. So I jumped at the opportunity to trial the new Soft Work Tote in this absolutely gorgeous chocolate brown colour - which I can’t stop receving compliments on by the way.
The Juliette Soft Work Tote is the perfect bag to take you from day to night, and from work to somewhere else.
The immediate thing I noticed is just how incrediby soft the leather is - it feels like butter.
The Soft Work Tote is so roomy and fits everything. It has loads of compartments to separate your belongings, including a laptop sleeve, drink bottle holder and long strap.
The inner lining is suede and it also comes in black, tan or cream, all finished with beautifully brushed gold hardware. I know it’s going to last forever.
Louenhide Monaco Shoulder Bag, $89.95 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Stylish minimalist design; spacious; versatile work and lifestyle bag.
What to consider: No laptop sleeve; no structure.
Dimensions: 53W x 48H x 17D centimetres
Material: Polyurethane Vegan Leather
Colour: Black, Chocolate, Tan
Whether you’re fashion-conscious or budget-savvy, this Louenhide Monaco Shoulder Bag is ideal for carrying all your bits and bobs. The bag has taken TikTok by storm, with Aussie workers and uni students flaunting its chic design, all for under $100.
Although it’s not specifically a laptop bag, Louenhide has said the Monaco can fit devices up to 16-inches. TikTok reviewers have also raved about its surprisingly spacious interior, with one dubbing it a “Mary Poppins” bag, and another saying “it fits so much stuff, it’s a joke”.
The slouchy, minimalist bag is available in three colours that easily pair with any outfit, and features two slip pockets and a zipped pocket for storing valuables.
MAISON de SABRÉ The Zipped Soft Tote, $379 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Lightweight; spacious; one zippered pocket; one slip pocket; structured design.
What to consider: No laptop sleeve; expensive; some reviewers wish the shoulder straps were wider.
Dimensions: 35.5W x 27.9H x 12.7D centimetres
Material: Premium full-grain European leather
Colour: Saharan Nude, Black Caviar
Tried and Tested by Lauren Chaplin, former Consumer Technology Writer
After years of searching for the perfect work bag and dealing with the buy-and-return routine, I finally found MAISON de SABRÉ’s The Zipped Soft Tote. Crafted like a luxury handbag, the lightweight carryall holds a surprising amount, including my laptop, lunch box, purse, water bottle, glasses, sunglasses, and day-to-day essentials. It even has internal pockets, which make it easy to find and grab smaller items like keys and work passes (even with a coffee in hand).
The straps are just the right length and are made of comfortable material, so my shoulders don’t really feel the pinch, even after I’ve loaded it up with a ton of stuff. While I do wish it had a dedicated laptop compartment, this bag has become my go-to for both work and daily use, making it a versatile and worthwhile investment.
The tote arrives in both Zipped and Snap top variations and in different colour options (in case you’re not a fan of classic black) – though the bag is so popular that certain colour options do sell out regularly. If you’re into monogramming, you can also shop and personalise your bag through the MAISON de SABRÉ site.
Harber London Commuter Backpack, $A445 at Harber London
Why we love it: Compact yet spacious; padded laptop sleeve; water bottle pocket; multiple interior pockets; water-resistant.
What to consider: Expensive; some reviewers say the magnetic closure doesn’t work well.
Dimensions: 28W x 43H x 14D centimetres
Material: Full-grain leather and recycled plastic bottles fabric
Colour: Olive, Black, Mocha
Tried and Tested by Lauren Chaplin, former Consumer Technology Writer
If you’re looking for a polished and luxurious work bag, my partner and I can both recommend the Commuter Backpack by Harber London. We’re able to share it, thanks to its unisex design, and use its generous 17 litre capacity to pack it full of all our work and day-to-day essentials.
The straps are padded and comfortable on the shoulders, and the bag itself is made of water-resistant, recycled fabric that keeps essentials dry when it rains.
With room for laptops up to 16-inches, the bag comes loaded with practical compartments, like padded laptop and tablet sleeves, a stylus holder, numerous inner pockets, a zippered main section and a handy magnetic front flap.
While there’s no denying it’s pricey, I can see this laptop backpack lasting us for years to come, so it’s well worth the spend for its quality and style. It also comes with fast and free worldwide shipping, which is always a bonus!
Louenhide Rhodes Laptop Bag, $139.95 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Stylish; roomy; padded laptop divider; detachable adjustable strap; slip pockets
What to consider: Some reviewers say they wish the shoulder strap had extra holes to shorten the length; laptop sleeve gets in the way.
Dimensions: 44W x 34H x 10D centimetres
Material: PU vegan leather
Colour: Black, Cocoa, Tan, Latte
Tried and Tested by Melody Teh, news.com.au checkout Acting Editor
I’ve had this Louenhide laptop bag for a couple of years now and it’s my go-to bag if I ever need to carry a lot of stuff to the office.
It’s so roomy that it can fit my work laptop, my one litre water bottle, my breakfast and lunch tupperware, as well as all the various knick knacks I carry at any given time (lip balm, hand cream, eye drops, hair ties, sunscreen, hand sanitiser etc).
It has a padded divider to neatly organise and protect my belongings, plus several pockets inside and an outside pocket for the things you need to quickly access.
The adjustable shoulder strap is nice and thick so it’s comfortable to carry over the shoulder, but also comes with a study carry handle.
Best of all I love the timeless classic design. It’s stylish unlike so many other laptop bags I’ve seen and the neutral colour goes with everything (my colour is no longer available but it comes in several nice colourways, I’ve got my eye on the tan).
It’s made of vegan leather that has lasted. I’ve had this bag for two years now and it still looks great and has kept its shape. Highly recommend if you’re in need of a chic work tote that can fit everything and the kitchen sink in it.
BEST LEATHER LAPTOP BAGS
Samsonite Classic Leather Slim Backpack, $299 at Myer
Why we love it: Slim design; padded laptop sleeve; zippered pocket; adjustable shoulder straps.
What to consider: Expensive; may be too boxy for your liking.
Dimensions: 26.5W x 41H x 13.5D centimetres
Material: 65 per cent leather, 30 per cent polyester and 5 per cent PU
Colour: Olive, Black, Mocha
What You Need To Know
If you’re looking for a bag that will take your from the office to the gym to home, the Samsonsite Classic Leather Slim Backpack fits an impressive amount into its compact design. Thoughtfully designed for office workers and the like, this laptop backpack is great for everyday wear and travelling too.
It fits carry on requirements making it ideal for air travel, has a smart sleeve so you can easily stack it on your suitcase as well as organisational pockets and compartments including a zippered separate laptop compartment, sturdy padded shoulder straps and a main compartment with a sleeve divider and slip pockets.
It’s also every bit as stylish as it is functional, with five-star reviewers on Myer calling it “elegant”, “well-made” and “perfect for the everyday commute”.
“If you are a commuter, we know a backpack is better than a cross-body or shoulder bag for your physical health. This backpack easily has that practicality for city commuting/walking, also provides all the organisational functions of the traditional multi-compartment laptop bag or the ladies briefcase AND looks stylish too. Look like you are going to the office instead of a hike!” one wrote.
KomalC Buffalo Leather Messenger Bag, $144.99 at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: Multiple compartments; vintage look-and-feel; fits 16-inch laptops; detachable and adjustable crossbody strap.
What to consider: Some reviewers say the zippers get stuck; stiff.
Dimensions: 40.6W x 30.4H x 7.6D centimetres
Material: Premium buffalo leather
Colour: Tan, Distressed Tan
What You Need To Know
If you’re looking for a truly classy option for the office, this leather messenger bag comes highly recommended. Boasting a huge 4.7 out of five star rating from more than 1200 reviews on Amazon Australia, the satchel has been praised by customers for being both stylish and roomy.
Able to fit laptops and devices up to 15.6-inches, the bag features a separate padded laptop compartment and plenty of pockets for storing daily essentials. There’s also two front zippered pockets with pen holders and slip pockets to keep quick-grab items like work or transport passes within easy reach. Not to mention, it has a luggage pass through so that your bag sits securely on top of your suitcase.
One five star reviewer called the messenger a “marvellous product,” saying, “in an age of flimsy yet often expensive bags and cases made of vulnerable and cheap man-made materials, this case is the antidote.”
“This lovely, all leather, high quality briefcase is a remarkable product at an affordable price. If you’re looking for something like this, I think you’ve found a briefcase that will serve you well for many years. It has multiple pockets and is so well made. I think when you carry this briefcase to the office, many of your co-workers will probably ask you how they can buy one just like it,” another wrote.
The Backpack, $379 at MAISON de SABRÉ
Why we love it: Padded laptop pocket; padded shoulder straps; roomy interior; hidden zip pocket for phone.
What to consider: Expensive.
Dimensions: 31W x 41H x 16D centimetres
Material: Full grain sustainable DriTan leather
Colour: Black Caviar
What You Need To Know
If you like the idea of a laptop backpack, but don’t want to compromise on style, MAISON de SABRÉ’s The Backpack is for you. Available in a variety of colours and finished with a durable pebbled leather exterior, the bag is both functional and sophisticated.
Holding up to 14-inch devices, the backpack has plenty of storage with six external pockets and five interior pockets, including a laptop pocket and shoulder straps. There’s also plenty of padding on the back panel too to make the bag extra comfortable to wear on your daily commute.
It has a sturdy, self-standing structure and is finished with high-polished gold accents for a luxe touch, and the leather accents on the zipper pulls make it easy to access the bag smoothly.
Boasting a 4.9-star rating, five-star reviewers say it’s “stylish and practical”,
“Delightfully sleek and lightweight, this is my new go-to workbag. Personally, I could not really get on the tote bag train for the work commute, even though it’s a classic, because of the strain it can place on the neck and shoulders. This bag is the perfect alternative, it fits my laptop, notebook, and essentials, without sacrificing style. Would recommend!” one five-star reviewer wrote.
“I love backpacks, for work or leisure. I currently own a backpack for work which looks pretty professional and stylish for what it is, but it doesn’t have a work to dinner vibe to it, and my off-duty one isn’t quite dress-up material either. With this baby, I can travel, go to work and go out in style. It is so roomy which is great for travel, which I do quite a bit! I look forward to my journeys with this backpack,” another wrote.
BEST LAPTOP TOTE BAG
Country Road Work Tote, $199 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Removable shoulder strap; padded laptop sleeve.
What to consider: Thin straps; shoulder strap not adjustable; some reviewers say it can be slouchy.
Dimensions: 39W x 30H x 14D centimetres
Material: 100 per cent polyurethane
Colour: Black
What You Need To Know
If your work laptop is on the larger side, this Country Road Work Tote will help you to comfortably carry it around. It caters to most laptops up to 15-inches with a padded internal compartment and comes with a removable shoulder strap so you can choose how you want to carry it.
It also has plenty of internal pockets, with space for a drink bottle, lunch boxes and all your day-to-day bits and bobs.
To top it all off, its Italian leather-look material and soft gold hardware give it a sophisticated look that will take you from the office to after-work drinks.
One five-star reviewer declares it the “perfect work bag”, writing:
“Perfect size for a work bag. Well padded laptop compartment and ample room for documents and personal items.”
Why we love it: Luxurious design; roomy; versatile work and lifestyle bag.
What to consider: No laptop sleeve; no structure.
Dimensions: 32W x 27H x 16D centimetres
Material: Pebbled leather
Colour: Black
If the Oroton Emilia Tote looks familiar, it’s probably because it’s all over TikTok right now. While its price tag may seem high, one TikToker called the viral tote “the most perfect dupe” for the Saint Laurent Bea Shoulder Bag, which costs an eye-watering $4700 more.
The minimalist bag features a soft pebbled leather design and padded twin shoulder straps for comfortable carrying. It also includes a side pocket and enough space for a 13-inch laptop and other daily essentials.
Plus, it has a zipper – something the YSL tote doesn’t – making it perfect for commuting to and from the office.
Bellroy Tokyo Tote Compact, $169 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Water-resistant; padded laptop sleeve; padded shoulder straps; pop out pockets.
What to consider: Straps are not adjustable; may look too ‘casual’.
Dimensions: 44W x 31H x 9D centimetres
Material: Durable water-resistant fabric made from 100 per cent recycled PET bottles
Colour: Black, Raven, Saltbush, Deep Plum, Bronze, Ranger Green, Everglade, Navy
What You Need To Know
With a huge 4.9 out of 5 star rating on Google Reviews, Bellroy’s Tokyo Tote is ideal for those who don’t want to blow money on a designated work bag. Designed with plenty of pockets and zip closures, this laptop tote stores a surprising amount for its scaled-down size, making it a great choice for smaller frames.
Capable of holding a 13-inch laptop or tablet, this tote features a full zip closure for convenient access, plenty of soft padding and offers a padded laptop compartment, internal slip pockets perfect for not losing anything at the bottom of the bag and pop out pockets which work as a water bottle pocket.
It’s made with a durable, water-resistant fabric that keeps your gadgets protected on rainy days, and also has padded straps with non-slip backing to keep it from constantly slipping off your shoulder.
One five star reviewer called it “money well spent”, saying, “it’s a great modern, practical tote bag that keeps your items organised and easy to access and find when in a rush. Fabric is durable and easy to wipe if you scuff the fabric.”
If you’re looking for a larger size, there’s also a Second Edition model which can hold up to 15 litres, giving you more room for lunch boxes or gym clothes.
BEST LAPTOP MESSENGER BAGS
tomtoc Messenger Bag, $68.99 at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: Water-resistant; padded laptop sleeve; removable adjustable shoulder strap.
What to consider: Not ideal for bulky items or heavy loads.
Dimensions: 41.5W x 30H x 8.5D centimetres
Material: Durable water resistant exterior fabric
Colour: Grey, Black
What You Need To Know
With its understated design and affordable price tag, this tomtoc Messenger Bag is an easy buy. Available in a range of sizes from 13-inch to 16-inch, the slim bag features a separate pocket for your laptop and tablet, as well as two front pockets for storing laptop accessories and other essentials.
Additional features include thick padding for gadget and laptop protection, a comfortable strap to reduce shoulder strain and a handy trolley sleeve that can be slipped over your suitcase handle whenever you’re travelling.
One five star reviewer noted: “The outer pocket has a lot of space and the fabric is insanely soft and delicate, you can be sure [nothing] will get scratched. The iPad compartment also fits a Nintendo Switch without a case so there’s that.”
Another wrote: “Great bag with ample space and bottom support. Material is water proof and is easy to clean. Definitely recommend!”
Samsonite Boulevard Slim Briefcase, $199 at Myer
Why we love it: Stylish and practical; padded laptop sleeve; removable adjustable shoulder strap; luggage strap.
What to consider: Not ideal for bulky items.
Dimensions: 41W x 29.5H x 8D centimetres
Material: 100 per cent nylon
Colour: Black
What You Need To Know
Known for its reliable range of travel bags, it’s little surprise that Samsonite made our list. Highly-rated by customers, the brand’s Boulevard Slim Briefcase comes packed with features including tech pockets, a padded sleeve for a 14-inch laptop, removable shoulder strap and a “Smart Sleeve” that allows you to stack your bag on your suitcase for hassle free travel.
One five-star reviewer on Myer said, “I love this laptop bag. It is exactly what I need. It’s slim enough to fit my work laptop yet can still carry my other documents.
“It has enough smaller pockets for my office supplies, and it can fit into the luggage handle. Looks great as well.”
Another reviewer hailed it a “stylish and practical briefcase”, writing:
“Stylish, practical and spacious briefcase. Especially useful for work travel as it has a luggage strap to fit over your suitcase handle. Fits my laptop, iPad, documents and stationary.”
BEST LAPTOP BACKPACKS
The ReNew Transit Backpack, $156 at Everlane
Why we love it: Stylish; versatile; adjustable padded straps; travel-friendly; multiple pockets.
What to consider: Some reviewers say the flap is inconvenient; may be too ‘tall’ for those that are petite; stiff; difficult to fit a 15-inch laptop when full.
Dimensions: 30.5W x 44H x 18D centimetres
Material: 100 per cent recycled polyester with water-resistant finish
Colour: Warm Quartz, Warm Charcoal, Black, Cocoa, Kalamata
What You Need To Know
If you’re looking for an extra fashionable laptop bag that’s proper functional, the ReNew Transit Backpack from Everlane is the perfect combination of both.
Crafted from recycled polyester, this sleek backpack features a spacious main compartment, two exterior pockets on the front with zip closures, two slip pockets, a water bottle holder on the outside and inside, magnetic flap closure and luggage pass-through strap and an exterior 15-inch laptop pocket which make it easy for TSA access when travelling.
The ReNew Transit Backpack is an incredibly versatile bag that is not only great for school or work but also weekend trips considering the entire backpack is water-resistant so even the most expensive piece of tech and all your stuff will be well protected.
also available in a range of earthy colours that are timeless and go well with any outfit.
It has received a 4.7-star rating with one five-star reviewer declaring it “a must-have for commuters”.
“After relocating and needing a bag that could handle ALL the stuff as I commute by car, then bus, then foot, the ReNew Transit Backpack gets a 10/10. It’s stylish, roomy, and *light-years* more comfortable than the old backpack I was making do with before. Best purchase over the last couple years by far,” they wrote.
Another reviewer wrote: “I was looking for a stylish bag that would fit the things I need for daily use, for taking kids out, and for travelling – a unicorn bag.
“I was really glad I got the ReNew Transit Backpack before I went on a work trip – I was able to pack my usual carry on stuff plus an extra change of clothes. It’s comfortable on my back, easily organised, and sleek. I also use this as my everyday commuter bag and it’s great for that purpose, too, handling all the variety of things I might need regularly. The inside pouch is big enough to hold my organiser bags and then some so I can have snacks and bandaids for the kids while also carrying my laptop and other work supplies. It feels sturdy and high quality. Well worth the money.”
Bellroy Classic Backpack (Second Edition), $219 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Practical; versatile; padded laptop sleeve; adjustable straps; internal Apple AirTag slip pocket; sleek design.
What to consider: Expensive; no exterior water bottle pocket.
Dimensions: 37W x 49H x 7D centimetres
Material: Soft-woven polyester and environmentally certified leather
Colour: Black
What You Need To Know
With a current rating of 4.5 out of 5 on Google Reviews, Bellroy’s best-selling Classic Backpack is a great pick for those with a busy schedule. If most of your day consists of commuting to work This laptop backpack is fitted with separate pockets for laptops up to 16-inches and keeps devices safe while leaving plenty of room in the main compartment for food, gym clothes and other gear.
It also features thoughtful details like a water-resistant top pocket for smaller items, back padding and padded shoulder straps that are curved in for a more comfortable fit. Great for school, work or quick trips away, we also love that the bag is made from recycled materials and environmentally certified leather.
“I’ve been looking for years for a beautiful, well-designed backpack that doesn’t cost a fortune. This is it,” said one five star reviewer.
“Has all the right pockets, high-quality zippers and lining. It’s sleek and simple but not boring. And it fits well on the body — my usual load feels much lighter in this bag. Highly recommend.”
Everyday Backpack Zip 15L, $359.95 at Peak Design
Why we love it: Ample padding; water resistant; zippered compartments; great interior organisation; ventilated back panels.
What to consider: Some reviewers say the laptop pocket is a tight fit.
Dimensions: 28W x 42H x 14D centimetres
Material: 400D double poly-coated DWR impregnated nylon canvas
Colour: Black, Ash, Midnight, Bone
What You Need To Know
If you’re after a laptop backpack that’s functional and versatile, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack is the perfect fit. Designed for the photographers, frequent flyers and remote workers, this bag is easily accessible from the top and sides via its waterproof zippers and it features two internal dividers which make it super easy to organise camera gear and other essentials.
It has a 14-inch laptop sleeve that can also hold a tablet or important documents, a variety of slip pockets for smaller items, expandable water bottle pockets on each side, luggage pass through, adjustable straps and a sternum strap to prevent your shoulders from getting too sore.
Available in a standard 20 litre size and other colourways, this popular Peak Design bag also has vented, quick-drying mesh padding on the back panel to keep it comfortable and breathable.
It holds a 4.8-star rating with one five-star reviewer attesting to its greatness, writing:
“I use the Peak Design Everyday Backpack for my work stuff and laptop when travelling back and forth from my home office to work campus.
“The laptop sleeve is a bit small for my laptop but it fits beautifully in the large open space and I stack my other items beautifully on top organised in their own bags and pouches (docking station, power cables, Kensington lock, mouse, extra mouse batteries, glasses, phone charger, notebook, pens – I am a pen freak so I carry more than I need, and much more!). I even have a rain jacket cinched at the bottom. Love the additional anchor points in various locations all over the bag.”
Volher Anti Theft Slim Business And Travel Backpack, $59.98 at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: Water resistant; travel-friendly; multiple pockets; structured design; adjustable straps.
What to consider: Some reviewers say it can be too heavy and bulky; stiff; zipper gets stuck.
Dimensions: 33W x 46H x 20D centimetres
Material: Water-resistant and durable polyester fabric
Colour: Blue, Rose Red
What You Need To Know
If you travel often, it could pay to invest in an anti theft laptop backpack. This Volher option comes with a hidden “anti theft pocket” that sits against your back, making it easier to protect items like your phone and wallet when you’re on the go.
Fitted with a dedicated laptop compartment, the backpack can hold a 17-inch laptop and even features an external USB charging port with a built-in cable so you can juice up your phone as you walk to and from work.
It also features separate compartments for your essential items like a notebook, water bottle and lunch box, extra little pockets for other accessories, a luggage strap so you can securely attach your bag to your suitcase, extra padding on the back panels for comfort and a water resistant finish to keep your belongings protected. Plus, it offers great security for your high value items too.
An optimal choice for travellers, one happy reviewer on Amazon Australia said: “I took it for my two week trip around San Francisco and Orlando and it’s a perfect daypack. The charging ability was so useful when on the go. Also, the zips didn’t let water in when I was caught in the rain a few times.”
Rains Backpack Mini, $160 at THE ICONIC
Why we love it: Water resistant; sleek aesthetic; travel-friendly; multiple pockets; structured design; adjustable straps
What to consider: Some reviewers say there’s not much room; straps are too thin; prone to scratches
Dimensions: 29W x 40H x 10D centimetres
Material: 100 per cent polyester with PU coating
Colour: Black, Grey, Sky, Ash, Pink Sky, Candy, Sand, Straw, Haze, Mineral, Waves, Navy
What You Need To Know
If you usually walk to the office, we highly recommend snapping up a waterproof work bag. With its smooth, waterproof shell, this street-style backpack by Rains is a great option for keeping your gadgets, lunch and other items nice and dry.
The bag has a slim profile and comes in a range of different colour options. It features adjustable shoulders straps, easy clasp fastening, external back zip pocket and an internal laptop sleeve that can hold devices up to 13-inches with a sleeve and devices up to 15-inches without one.
Perfect for everyday use – this backpack is a stylish and minimal option for daily commutes to work or a weekend trip as it’s weather resistant and provides additional protection for your things.
“We wanted a day backpack for a trip to Vancouver. This should work out great. Lots of room for iPads, an umbrella, etc. Only issue is that the zippers require a fair amount of effort to use, but given their waterproof nature, it probably couldn’t be any other way. I think this will come in really handy,” one five-star reviewer wrote.
Herschel Pop Quiz Backpack, $160 at Myer
Why we love it: Cult classic; versatile; durable material; multiple pockets.
What to consider: Some reviewers say the zippers get stuck; stiff.
Dimensions: 31W x 44H x 17D centimetres
Material: Ecosystem 600D fabric made from recycled water bottles
Colour: Black
What You Need To Know
With its durable build and casual style, Herschel’s Pop Quiz Backpack is ideal for both students and professionals while remaining versatile enough for casual use too like running errands.
Accommodating up to 15-inch devices, the laptop backpack comes with a range of pockets and organisers for separately storing a laptop, pencil case, sunglasses, headphones and books. It also features a small zippered front compartment and key clip for easy storage of items that you need fast access to, comfortable padded straps and a water bottle side pocket, making it a great all-rounder and foolproof backpack tat will assure peace of mind.
A reviewer on Google Reviews, who rated the bag five out of five, said: “We bought this backpack to replace our daughter’s old Pop Quiz Black/Tan one which she had for 8 years. That one saw her through a four year undergrad degree, two Master’s degrees, various part time and full time jobs – she absolutely loved and refused to retire it.”
Another reviewer hailed it the “best laptop backpack”, writing: “Now that my job is virtual and I need to go on site occasionally for meetings I needed a “business casual” laptop bag that was highly functional, smart, and compact. This one is a winner!
“The bag has great structure and securely holds items in place. The complements are well designed so that you aren’t digging around the bag or hassling with excess buttons, zippers and flaps. You can set the bag on its bottom and it will stay up right which prevents it from taking up walkways, or intruding on space when I’m on site in meetings. This is a great backpack!”
Carry All Backpack, $245 at July
Why we love it: Water-resistant; multiple pockets; travel-friendly.
What to consider: Expensive.
Dimensions: 28W x 44H x 16D centimetres
Material: Weighted 420D twill nylon fabric
Colour: Black
What You Need To Know
Designed with style and functionality in mind, July’s Carry All Backpack is a favourite for remote workers, travellers and the like.
It features a zippered padded laptop compartment that fits up to 16-inch devices, QuickPass hidden pocket with magnetic closure for important items like your passport or phone, pass-through band for easy attachment to your suitcase and an internal key hook.
While it may not look it due to its sleek aesthetic, this laptop backpack can actually carry plenty of things – it has a front zippered pocket with two internal compartments, a side zippered water bottle pocket (or you can pop your umbrella and small items in there), internal tablet compartment and extra internal dividers and pockets for small but essential items.
If you’re worried about comfort, the July Carry All Backpack has padded straps with pull tabs for extra comfort and easy adjustability and well as quilted padded back panels.
It has garnered a 4.9-star rating with five-star reviewers hailing it “much superior to other bags”.
“I am OBSESSED with my July backpack. One of my best purchases of 2023 after my previous backpack was stolen and I replaced it with this one,” one wrote.
“The crisp and functional compartments make for easy, accessible storage which is perfect for travel. My fiance loved my July backpack so much that he bought one for himself too!
And I must call out the customer service from the July team — they were fantastic and communicative and quickly addressed my questions. 10/10 recommend!”
Another reviewer praised it for its “well thought out design”, writing:
“This backpack is fantastic. It can easily fit a laptop and drink bottle with maximised volume inside for its size. Comfortable to wear and carry. The pull-tag on the front zip can also be hidden to prevent it being a target for theft.”
BEST DESIGNER LAPTOP BAGS
Marc Jacobs The Large Leather Tote, $1040 at Farfetch
Why we love it: Chic; sturdy top handle.
What to consider: More expensive than other bags; no padded laptop sleeve.
Dimensions: 41W x 31H x 17D centimetres
Material: 100 per cent calf leather
Colour: Black
What You Need To Know
If you’re feeling extra boujee, you can’t go past Marc Jacobs’ The Large Leather Tote. The carryall is crafted from real leather and with the signature branding, the bag is as much a subtle fashion statement as it is a convenient daily companion.
It boasts a roomy interior and pockets including a slot for your cards, and while it doesn’t have a designated pocket for laptops – a 15-inch laptop can fit inside its main compartment that has a zip closure for great protection.
This tote also comes multiple sizes including small and medium.
One customer on Google Reviews, who rated the bag five out of five stars, said: “Literally the best bag I have ever bought. I use this bag for both work and travel.
“I watched a few YouTube videos about it before I took the plunge. The leather is buttery soft. Straps are sturdy and strong. Lots of room to store anything.”
Calvin Klein Recycled Faux Leather Laptop Bag, $199 at Myer
Why we love it: Stylish; slim design; minimal branding; optional crossover strap.
What to consider: Not ideal for bulky items.
Dimensions: 28H x 38L x 7W centimetres
Material: Recycled faux leather
Colour: Black
What You Need To Know
Add some flair to your work day with this stylish-yet-practical Calvin Klein Laptop Bag. Designed with a 13-inch padded laptop compartment and interior zip pocket, the bag will keep your bits and bobs scratch-free on your daily commute.
There’s also dual carry handles and an optional crossover strap to make it comfortable to carry.
WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A LAPTOP BAG
With seemingly endless laptop bag and backpack options, choosing the “best” one can be overwhelming. To help you pick, we’ve listed a few things to consider before making a purchase:
Size: The most important consideration you’ll need to make will of course be ensuring your laptop or device fits comfortably into your chosen bag. However, you will also want to consider which other essential items you may need to take to work (e.g. lunch box, gym clothes) and find a bag that can easily store these too.
Commute: You’ll also want to think about how each style of bag will work on your commute. For instance, if you catch a train, you may want to opt for a messenger bag or handbag/tote that you can easily place on your lap during rush hour. If you sometimes ride a bike to work, you’ll meanwhile want to invest in a backpack that you can easily carry with you on your journey.
Aesthetic: If you’re not particularly fussed about how your bag looks, you can focus instead on function and price. If you’re more style-centric though, or if you want a versatile bag that can also be used casually, you may want to shop for a laptop bag at a fashion retailer like The Iconic instead of at a tech or office supplies store. You’ll still have plenty of options to choose from, but the overall range will be much more fashion-focused.
Budget: Laptop bags are usually pricier than standard bags, as they often have padding, durable outer designs and separate pockets or sleeves for storing your devices. Messenger bags are typically the cheapest option, with standard designs retailing for around the $60-$75 mark. Handbags and totes can meanwhile be found for around $100-$150, while backpacks can go for upwards of $120.
Of course, you can find all mentioned styles for less, but cheaper options are often lower in quality and need to be replaced more often. If you can afford it, we recommend investing in a laptop bag that will last for years to come. If you do need to look for a cheaper option to accommodate your budget, we suggest looking at customer reviews and ratings to determine which budget-friendly options are going to be worth the purchase.
HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS
To help you find the best laptop bag that suits your needs and budget, our shopping team read hundreds of customer reviews and looked at test results and ratings from product review sites to find the best laptop bags from premium to budget to help you find the right one for you.
WHICH LAPTOP BAG IS RIGHT FOR ME?
Choosing the right laptop bag depends entirely on what you’ll be carrying and where you’ll be using it. Ideally, you’ll want a laptop bag that fits your laptop perfectly – if it’s too small, you may risk damaging your device and if it’s too big, there will be too much space for your laptop to move around which won’t protect it against bumps and shocks.
Below we’ve rounded up the different types of laptop bags and what they’re great for:
Laptop Backpack
If you plan on carrying heavy loads day-to-day or just value comfort above all, laptop backpacks will be your best friend. Not only do they prioritise all day comfort, mobility and versatility, but more often than not, they feature tonnes of pockets for organisation as well as a separate, padded compartment specifically for your laptop or tablet to keep it safe and protected.
Laptop backpacks are also generally better for your body as the weight is evenly distributed and you aren’t wearing it on one shoulder at all times. However, it’s important to make sure the backpack you choose doesn’t have thin, flimsy straps as they won’t survive the weight and will put further pressure onto your shoulders and back.
Laptop Tote Bag
Laptop tote bags are a great option for those that carry light and value style but don’t want to compromise on functionality. A tad bigger than a laptop messenger bag, totes are incredibly versatile and make it easy to transition from a day at work to a night out – they are great for holding your daily essentials without looking as bulky as a backpack, and again, they’re just very stylish.
Most laptop tote bags generally have an internal pocket or two for quick-grab items like your work ID and wallet, and a padded divider or laptop sleeve to keep your device safe and separated your other things.
However, they may cause shoulder strain if your tote bag has thin straps and if you carry too much.
Laptop Messenger Bag
Laptop messenger bags are typically more streamlined and offer less storage than a tote bag or backpack. They’re the most ‘professional’ looking and offer greater protection and organisation for your laptop, files and tech accessories. You can hold it in hand with its top handles or crossbody/on the shoulder with the removable strap that most models come with. Plus, it’s an easy, less bulky but secure option for travelling.
Again, it’s important not to overpack a messenger back as they will look bulky and be too heavy for your shoulder.
DO I REALLY NEED A LAPTOP BAG?
Although having a laptop bag isn’t ‘necessary’, a bag that’s specifically designed to carry laptops or any device for that matter is really beneficial in keeping your device and other essentials safe and protected from any damage. It also helps to keep you hands-free as you won’t need to carry your laptop yourself.
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