10 Best Backpacks for College Students with Laptops

For most students today, laptops are essential for their study and practice to get good results. Yet, how to wear this device always makes many people wonder.

To reduce pressure on your shoulders and back, you should own a specially designed backpack with moderate padding to provide a smooth ride. But do all backpacks have this feature? How to know the high-quality backpacks?

I have researched and surveyed my friends about today’s most popular backpack models. The 10 backpacks are the objective result. Let’s read on to see more right now!

Our Top Picks

As a student, I understand your concerns about finding the right backpack for your laptop. Hence, I tested to filter out quality products to recommend to you.

The collection of the 10 best backpacks below is the result of my research and experience. Each one will have its pros and cons suitable for your needs.

1. JanSport Cool Student Backpack – Best for Overall

Important Specifications

• Size: 17.5 x 13 x 10 inches
• Material: Denier Polyester/Synthetic Leather
• Weight: 1.31 pounds

Product Highlights

JanSport is today’s top-quality backpack brand with exclusive collections with a wide range of products. This JanSport Cool Student edition is a prime example. This template has the best overall build quality in my collection.

The backpack features an ergonomic design with an S-shaped shoulder strap, padded back, and fabric handle for easier portability. Compared to traditional models, this product has a giant strap for comfort and ease of use.

I used this backpack during my 2 years of college, and I appreciate its softness. The inside includes two spacious compartments that can store and perfectly protect computers under 15 inches.

So are larger size models available with this product? I tried putting my 16.5-inch ASUS in a backpack, which was quite disappointing.

After 10 minutes of struggling, I unsuccessfully tried to fit my laptop into this backpack. Their zipper system didn’t work as I expected.

Today’s Best Deals:

What We Like

• Lightweight
• Ergonomic design
• Comfortable to wear
• Perfect overall quality
• Spacious laptop compartment

Things To Consider

• Waterproof

2. AmazonBasics Laptop Backpack – Best for Size

Important Specifications

• Size: ‎13.39 x 7 x 19.29 inches
• Material: Fabric
• Weight: 1.98 pounds

Product Highlights

The AmazonBasics Laptop Backpack is my recommendation if you are looking for a backpack to store your sizable personal laptop. This version has a large design, providing ample storage space to store your 17-inch laptop.

I simultaneously use two models from the Dell brand, including the 17-inch and 17.5-inch versions. As a result, backpacks can all fit them and provide a smooth space to keep the computer safe during use.

Its design is similar to traditional backpacks for travel. The machined strap with moderately thick padding allows for comfort, smoothness, and lightness. I noticed its ease even on the shoulders of many heavy items, including laptops.

Its multi-compartment structure makes it even more special. It includes a full range of handy compartments to bring unexpected utilities to users.

Unfortunately, it could be more sustainable. After 2 months, I noticed a decrease in material quality and seams. It is easy to burst before my substantial impact.

Today’s Best Deals:

What We Like

• Big size
• Suitable for travel
• Lightweight
• Easy to carry
• Value of money

Things To Consider

• Unstable

3. Matein Travel Laptop Backpack – Best for Comfort

Important Specifications

• Size: 18 x 12 x 7.8 inches
• Material: Polyester Fabric
• Weight: 1.56 pounds

Product Highlights

A comfortable backpack will be better for your musculoskeletal system. And Matein Travel Laptop Backpack is the best choice for you.

This product features a comfortable soft padded back design with thick ventilated padding for maximum back support.

The shoulder strap is breathable and adjustable to relieve stress on the shoulder. Meanwhile, the top handle has foam padding for long-term carrying.

As a student, I appreciate this trait. It makes me more relaxed and comfortable to carry a 3kg laptop on my back daily.

Made from high-quality Polyester fabric, it provides effective water resistance. It helps protect the computer better even when you go in the rain.

To ensure the quality of the device is maintained, we should only use the backpack for drizzly conditions and not bring it under heavy rain. Chances are rainwater will get in and damage your device.

This backpack has a built-in USB charger outside and a charging cable inside to give you a more convenient way to charge your phone while walking.

Today’s Best Deals:

What We Like

• Best for comfort
• High-quality materials
• Average water resistance
• Plenty of storage space
• Built-in USB and charging cable

Things To Consider

• Does not fit larger computers

4. Laptop Backpacks 15.6 Inch Bag – Best for Convenient Design

Important Specifications

• Size: 3 x 13 x 16 inches
• Material: Heavy-duty, water-resistant nylon
• Weight: 1.65 pounds

Product Highlights

I am impressed with the design of this lovely backpack. It’s compact and easy to carry with you in all different situations, whether it’s work, school, or going out.

This backpack model is high-density, ultra-lightweight, waterproof nylon with a cute printed polyester lining. I am delighted with its quality.

The memorable thing about this backpack is the smart strap design. The belts on both sides can provide solid support if you’re packing a lot of stuff inside.

The durable, wide, and thick S-shaped straps are well padded, adjustable, and comfortable, limiting shoulder and neck pain. After more than one year, I have less back pain than before when using traditional backpack models.

Its high price can be a barrier for many students to use.

Today’s Best Deals:

What We Like

• Lovely design
• Large capacity
• Smart strap design
• Good material quality
• Good water resistance

Things To Consider

• Not suitable for boys

5. OGIO Axle 17″ Laptop Backpack – Best for Sustainability

Important Specifications

• Size: ‎19.25 x 9.25 x 13 inches
• Material: Synthetic fabric
• Weight: 2.8 pounds

Product Highlights

Unlike many other backpack brands, OGIO always chooses minimalism and personality for its designs. What the manufacturer always prioritizes is quality, not appearance. The OGIO Axle 17″ Laptop Backpack version is proof.

Although not as gorgeous as many products on the market, OGIO Axle still successfully scores with users because of its durable material and solidly machined needles.

Every detail on its body is meticulous in extending the product’s significant service life. I have been using the backpack for more than 3 years but have not noticed any deterioration.

My best friend has been using this product for 5 years, and it has kept its original quality. More commendable in this backpack must mention the modern metal zipper system. They are manufactured on modern lines, making opening and closing easier.

I am not satisfied with its price. It is pretty expensive compared to the backpack models with the same features today.

Today’s Best Deals:

What We Like

• Flexibility
• Best for sustainability
• High-quality zippers
• Comfortable and pleasant
• Multiple storage compartments

Things To Consider

• Rather expensive

6. MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack – Best for Water Resistance

Important Specifications

• Size: ‎14 x 19 x 7.8 inches
• Material: 600D. polyester fabric
• Weight: 1.9 pounds

Product Highlights

After many tests with various products, I was lucky to find the Travel Laptop Backpack with admirable water resistance. Whether it’s light or heavy rain, its surface always ensures a certain dryness to protect your computer.

I put the backpack under water for more than 15 minutes, and the result is 95% water resistant. Continuing to extend the soaking time to 30 minutes, I noticed a gradual penetration into the product’s surface. However, it is not likely to affect your device because many other high-end pads carefully cover the inside.

The design of the backpack is also one of the perfect highlights. It is suitable for use in many different situations, when going to school, work, or even traveling.

Its straps contain multiple air-bubble pads for comfort and breathability. I am pleased with this feature because it is perfect for carrying the computer to many long-distance locations without aching shoulders.

I am not satisfied with the storage space of this backpack. It is tiny compared to my actual user needs.

Today’s Best Deals:

What We Like

• Enduring
• Smooth zipper
• Impressive water resistance
• Simple and convenient design
• The strap includes many soft cushions

Things To Consider

• Small storage space

7. Carhartt Legacy Standard Work Backpack – Best for Materials

Important Specifications

• Size: 11 x 12 x 18 inches
• Material: Poly 1200D
• Weight: 1.4 pounds

Product Highlights

Backpack material determines its storage capacity, durability, and waterproofing ability. I recommend the Carhartt Legacy Backpack for this category.

The product is high-quality 1200D poly fabric, which is highly water resistant and lasts a long time. It can work for 5-7 years or even more if used correctly.

In fact, after more than five years, I noticed that its shell material is still stable, as new as in the beginning. There are no visible scratches on its surface.

More admirably, it also has impressive wear resistance. Its sole has a unique texture from premium materials, which reduces wear over the years.

Using the backpack for a long time, and I am delighted with its texture. Inside, the laptop case has a supportive harness and an ideal shock-absorbing cushion.

With this backpack, I noticed that the strap is relatively thin. It slips off easily when I have a lot of stuff in my backpack.

Today’s Best Deals:

What We Like

• Quite flexible
• High-quality material
• Good wear resistance
• Good computer protection
• Impressive water resistance

Things To Consider

• Thin strap

8. Lenovo Laptop Backpack – Best for Budget

Important Specifications

• Size: ‎13.4 x 5.9 x 17.9 inches
• Material: Snow yarn polyester fabric
• Weight: 13.6 ounces

Product Highlights

I always give priority to finding cheap backpacks with quality suitable for students. The Lenovo Laptop Backpack is an excellent suggestion.

Despite its relatively low price, its quality surprised me. Everything is perfect for a great experience, from design to features.

The backpack has a compact design, quilted at the entire body and strap, helping to bring comfort and smoothness to the user. The flexible clasp can be easily adjusted to provide a specific fit to the body and easier movement.

This backpack is a valuable and comfortable item. It accompanied me during my first year of college and helped to protect my laptop well.

Despite its relatively small size, the manufacturer still provides enough storage compartments to satisfy every storage requirement.

Today’s Best Deals:

What We Like

• Low price
• Sturdy strap
• Soft cotton blanching
• Compact size, convenient
• Full of storage compartments

Things To Consider

• Not suitable for travel

9. Lenovo Legion Recon – Best for High Protection

Important Specifications

• Size: ‎10.51 x 1.18 x 14.25 inches
• Material: Synthetic fabric
• Weight: 2.01 pounds

Product Highlights

Worried that your computer may be damaged when traveling long distances? So, don’t miss this Lenovo Legion Recon! This backpack has a unique ergonomic design with sturdy construction, giving the best device protection.

Fully padded, it provides effective impact resistance to reduce the negative impact on the computer inside. Directly testing this feature, I am delighted with it. After about three substantial effects, it remains in a state of unparalleled protection, ensuring that the computer is always safe.

A high-quality wear-resistant material bag considerably prolongs the product’s durability. Indeed, even after four years, this backpack is still sturdy and stable for my storage requirements.

The backpack’s slim contour design ensures comfort and protection on the go. It has a quick access compartment and an additional ring for glasses, optimal for laptop travel backpack use.

Today’s Best Deals:

What We Like

• Lasting
• Easy to move
• Slim border design
• High-quality, wear-resistant material
• Good protection for your computer

Things To Consider

• Unsecured zipper

10. EVERKI Atlas Business Backpack – Best for Lightweight

Important Specifications

• Size: ‎9.1 x 13.4 x 18.9 inches
• Material: Synthetic fabric
• Weight: 3.96 pounds

Product Highlights

A lightweight backpack will make it easier for you to move with your laptop. And the EVERKI Atlas Business Laptop Backpack is all you need.

This backpack model has a unique design, and the body is to reduce its overall weight. From there, storage and transportation will also be more accessible.

I used this backpack for my studies; its lightness and comfort surprised me. It’s completely different from the bulky bags I’ve used.

This version includes an entirely separate technology compartment with an adjustable laptop pocket that easily accommodates a 13-inch to a 17.3-inch laptop or a 13-inch tablet. Thus, owning this super product can simultaneously store many of your favorite devices.

Today’s Best Deals:

What We Like

• Lightweight
• High sustainability
• Pleasant and comfortable
• Store multiple items at the same time
• Includes full storage compartments

Things To Consider

• The water bag design is not reasonable

Buying Guide

Before buying a backpack, I’ll consider the following key factors. Look at these factors to find the right product.

Size

You need to base on the computer’s size to decide to buy the right backpack. Between these two factors, there should be a certain similarity to create a fit to increase the protection of your device.

For example, with a 15-inch computer, you should choose a product of similar size for the best storage. Also, consider your own body. If you have a petite body, look out for similar-sized backpacks.

Do not be too greedy to choose products with large designs, because it will make you uncomfortable when moving.

Ability to adjust

The ability to adjust is a requirement in every backpack today. It allows you to increase or decrease the width between the backpack and your body for the most comfortable wearing experience.

Using a product without this feature will seriously affect your musculoskeletal system. Most likely, it can lead to degeneration.

Waterproof

A waterproof backpack will better protect your computer when on the go. Prioritize buying backpacks that can withstand water from 5 to 10 minutes. If you have yet to find such a product, check out my backpacks!

Strap cushion

The padded strap increases your comfort while reducing the strain on your shoulders and back. I recommend choosing backpack models with moderate strap padding to bring the most comfortable feeling. If it is too thick, it will create discomfort when wearing.

Price

Do choose some cheap products without knowing the origin and quality because it may affect your health. It would help if you balance the compatibility for your requirements financially and in terms of features.

FAQs

Which waterproof laptop backpack is best?

Travel Laptop Backpack is the leading waterproof backpack today. It ensures good resistance in light and heavy rain conditions to protect your computer.

Should I carry a backpack or laptop bag?

Yes. You can carry your backpack or computer bag. However, I still recommend using a computer backpack rather than a handbag.

What is the safest way to carry a laptop?

The best way to protect your device is to carry a laptop in a backpack and sling it over your shoulder. Yet, be careful to choose high-quality products. Only then will you be sure of the safety of your device.

Should I put my laptop in my bag?

You can put the computer in your bag if you travel short distances. But, if you travel long distances to school, for example, prioritize using a backpack, as it is the best to cover your gear.

Where should I put my laptop in my carry-on?

Using an extra high-grade shockproof bag, you can easily place your computer in a dedicated compartment in your luggage. But, to be safer, pack the device into a good backpack and wear it.

Final Thoughts

With the list above, I fall in love with the JanSport Cool Student Backpack and the Matein Travel Laptop Backpack the most.

They provide essential features that provide good protection for my laptop. Based on the buying instructions available in the article, continue to search for products that suit your needs! Remember to leave feedback on my posts!

Thank you for reading!