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Home » Gear » best travel laptop bags

17 Best Travel Laptop Bags – Honest Reviews & Advice for 2024

Are you in search of a good all-around laptop bag for traveling around with?

In today’s world, travel and tech go hand in hand. You might be traveling for work or pleasure, commute or an international journey, but no matter where you’re going, chances are you’ll take your laptop or tablet with you.

If you’re reading this review, you’re probably looking for the best travel laptop bag to protect your precious computer and tech.

We agree that you should travel with a laptop and take care of it ! After all, working off a laptop gives loads of freedom to live and travel however you’d like. Plus, laptops make staying in contact with home a bit easier.

While looking through all of these laptop bags, you need to ask yourself: “which bag will work best for me and my needs?”

That’s where we come in with our detailed review of 15 of the best laptop bags for travel!

Quick Answer: What are the Best Laptop Bags for Travelers?

How to choose the best travel laptop bags, the best laptop bags for travelers, faq about the best travel laptop bags, final thoughts on the best laptop bags for travelers.

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• Best Overall Travel Laptop Bag – Nomatic Messenger Bag
• Best Overall Travel Laptop Bag Runner-up – Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack
• Best Carry-on Laptop Bag – Fjallraven Kanken #02 Laptop bag
• Best Messenger-style Laptop Bag – Kodiak Buffalo Leather Messenger Bag
• Best ‘Briefcase’ Laptop Bag for Business Travel – Topo Designs Commuter Briefcase
• Best Messenger Laptop Bag for Women – Sherpani Cabo Convertible Pack – Women’s
• Best for Small Laptops – Gulu Handmade Influencer Backpack
• Best for Traveling with a Laptop and Tablet – Inateck Travel Carry-on 40L Laptop Backpack
• Best Waterproof Laptop Bag – Chrome Urban Ex 2.0 Rolltop 20L Pack
• Best Hipster Laptop Bag – Stubble & Co The Roll Top

Nomatic Messenger Bag

• Price > $259.99
• > Great ergonomics

Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack

• Price > $250
• > Lockable zippers
• > Tablet compartment

Fjallraven Kanken No. 2 Laptop Pack

• Price > $155
• > Lockable main compartment
• > Padded shoulder straps

Kodiak Buffalo Leather Messenger Bag.

• Price > $269
• > Weatherproof
• > Thoughtful pockets

MYSTERY RANCH 3-Way Expandable Briefcase

• Price > $199
• > TSA-friendly
• > Removable cross-body strap

Topo Designs Commuter Briefcase

• > Carries 15″ laptop
• > 2 exterior pockets

Sherpani Cabo Convertible Pack

• Price > $74.95
• > Flashlight-pen included!
• > Multi-use

Gulu Handmade Influencer Backpack

• Price > $129
• > Simple designs
• > Good quality materials

Stubble & Co Roll Top

• Price > $170
• > Great laptop compartments
• > Cool and stylish

Inateck Travel Carry-on 40L Laptop Backpack

• Price > $42.54
• > Two laptop compartments
• > Lockable zips

Chrome Urban Ex 2.0 Rolltop 20L Pack

• > Rugged and durable
• > Completely waterproof

Pacsafe MetroSafe LS350 ECONYL Daypack

• > RFIDsafe blocking material
• > Cut-resistant material

MYSTERY RANCH Urban Assault Pack

• > YKK Zippers
• > Comfortable Straps

K&F Concept DSLR Camera and Laptop Bag

• Price > $59.49
• > Tough nylon material
• > Internal dividers can be personalised

Estarer 17.3” Laptop Messenger Bag

• Price > $29.99
• > Made from water repellent canvas
• > RFID protection pocket

REI Co-op Ruckpack 28 Recycled Daypack

• > Plenty of additional pockets
• > Breathable

The Roll Top Stubble & Co

• > Roll top makes it expandable
• > Durable and weather resistant material

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When you think about it, there are many factors to consider when buying a laptop bag for traveling – which is why articles like this are so great of course!

You need to travel with a laptop, but is this mainly for commuting within your city, or traveling more broadly, nationally or internationally? And is this travel for work, school, or just plain travel? Do you need your laptop bag to be rugged or is it just for urban use?

Each will have an impact on the laptop bag you want to buy.

What Size Bag Do You Need?

There are some other obvious factors to take into account. You’ll need a bag that fits your particular travel laptop – and if you need to travel with more than one electronic device, you’ll need to make sure any bag you choose can comfortably fit another device.

The best travel laptop bags will include dedicated sleeves, pockets, and dedicated laptop compartments that fit your lifestyle! Also, remember there’s some great travel purses out there that you can combine with a laptop bag to keep your passport and wallet safe and organised.

Once you figure out what size and shape you want, you need to know how much extra stuff you want to carry. Is this bag for a short commute to school or work If so, you may only need a bag under 20 liters.

Are you traveling for longer periods? If so, you’re going to need space for clothes, adapters, and other miscellaneous kits. In this case, laptop backpacks might be better than a messenger bag. We have a best laptop backpacks post elsewhere on the site.

Type of Laptop Bag

There are a few different types of laptop bags in this article. We have reviewed classic messenger bags, urban backpacks, classic-style bags, and fully waterproof backpacks.

Some even switch from a messenger to a backpack for their laptops ! Depending on your style and needs, you will need to decide what type of bag you want.

Organization

Consider how you like to pack and travel. Are you a simple soul who can survive on the minimum? If so, you’ll be happy with a minimalist bag with fewer compartments, a laptop sleeve, and not much else.

Someone who prefers to travel with more kit, or likes to be more organized, will undoubtedly want a laptop travel bag with several compartments, pockets, and organization features.

The question of cost is also an important one for many, and will also have an impact on how long you’re expecting this bag to last – just a couple of weeks to cover you during an unexpected trip, or do you want a bag durable enough to last you for years.

Below is our full list of the 15 top laptop bags for travel on the market! We have reviewed bags for all styles, uses, and budgets. Whether you need a bag to travel for business, pleasure, or simply to-and-from work, we’ve got you covered below!

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#1. Nomatic Messenger Bag – Best Overall Travel Laptop Bag

Nomatic has provided us with a simple travel laptop bag. This slim over-the-shoulder is perfect for toting your laptop and necessary accessories around in an urban environment, and we love traveling with it!

This sleek laptop travel bag holds everything you need in a slim 3.5 inches. The padded straps even unbuckles so your bag can disguise itself as a professional travel briefcase. Traveling is easy with the Nomatic Laptop Bag, as it can slip right over your suitcase with its trolley sleeve.

Also, you won’t be the one holding up the line at TSA, as the bag allows quick access to those items that need extra screening.

To learn more about this awesome shoulder bag, be sure to read our full review of the Nomatic Messenger Bag!

UPDATE for 2021:  Nomatic no longer sells or does business in the European Union, which is an unfortunate development. Those living in the EU should consider the next bag instead…

• Sleek & urban
• Retractable key leash
• Detachable shoulder strap
• No additional tablet sleeve or pocket
• No cross-strap for extra comfort

Is the Nomatic Laptop Bag for me?

If you want a functional laptop bag that organizes and totes your stuff with the highest degree of style, this is your bag! However, if you need a little more storage space or are looking for a backpack, check out our other recommendations.

#2. Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack – Best Overall Travel Laptop Bag Runner-up

Regardless if you’re a commuter flying about town on an electric bike or digital nomad, you’ll need a bit more storage space in your laptop bag for all those important cords, external keyboards, and laptop mounts you’re surely carrying around (just kidding, us digital nomads are often lovers of minimalism).

The Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack provides space for all your work necessities and a few comforts as well, so it’s a great bag for weekend trips. Beyond space, the Setout’s distinct advantage is a beautifully organized interior.

This is laptop backpack has pockets for days, so you’ll never have to dig through the bag looking for that important piece that you just know you packed.

• 25L Capacity
• Comfortable to carry
• Tablet compartment
• Lockable zippers
• Only for urban use
• Not an all-in-one travel bag

Is the Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack for me?

We’ve answered this question in-depth in our Tortuga Setout Laptop Backpack Review, but here’s the gist. If you want a bag to organize all your tech and a little more, this bag is perfect. If you’re looking for absolute maximum capacity to carry everything at once, we recommend the traditional Tortuga Setout.

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#3. Fjallraven Kanken No. 2 Laptop Pack – Best Carry-On Travel Laptop Bag

The combination of trendy styling, size, and resistance to dirt and water makes the Fjallraven Kanken a fine carry-on for traveling with a laptop.

Although one of the simpler laptop bags we’re covering, the double zip closure of the main compartment and its padded laptop sleeve, is lockable for peace of mind. This bag also includes several smaller pockets for keeping items organised, and useful black leather handles too.

Padded shoulder straps make this comfortable to carry while in the various queues you might well encounter at an airport.

• Beautifully styled
• Lockable main compartment
• Smaller pockets for organisation
• Padded shoulder straps
• Not fully waterproof
• 18-liter capacity

Is the Fjallraven Kanken 15” Laptop Bag for me?

If you’d rather go for a briefcase-style bag rather than a backpack, the Timbuk2 Flight Classic Messenger Bag is a great option! This bag will last you for years, through sun and rain, and for commute and business trips!

This bag also comes in multiple colors including black, army, and a neon teal.

#4. Kodiak Buffalo Leather Messenger Bag – Best Messenger-Style Laptop Bag

Enter the Kodiak Buffalo Leather Messenger Bag. A large sling bag for daily use, which not only looks totally classy AF, but also fits with a variety of work and travel situations. This bag has tons of internal pockets for your pens, small items, and even a padded, firm place to store files. It fits a 15″ laptop.

There is a removable cross-body strap for carrying. The shoulder strap includes a super comfortable air-mesh strap pad. The flap corners fold into place for weatherproofing and the waterproof thermoplastic liner keeps water out.

• Weatherproof material
• Thoughtfully distributed internal pockets
• Removable cross-body strap
• No backpack straps
• Leather is not the most weather resistant material

Is The Kodiak Messenger Bag for me?

This super snazzy, classy messenger satchel is a beauty. This bag will last you for years, through sun and rain, and for commute and business trips!

#5. MYSTERY RANCH 3-Way Expandable Briefcase – Best Briefcase-Style Bag for Business Travelers

This briefcase laptop bag is both rugged and practical! We think this is one of the best laptop bags for business travel!

It has a zippered main compartment, a laptop compartment and multiple accessory pockets. The bag can hold a 15″ laptop and an expandable zipper provides 5 extra liters of storage if you need it.

It also includes fully cushioned backpack straps when not in use. Like a briefcase, it provides adequate space for a laptop or iPad, binder, and any smaller things you may need to carry.

• TSA-friendly
• Only 18 liters
• Not much padding on the shoulder strap
• No bottle carrier

Is the MYSTERY RANCH 3-Way Expandable Briefcase for me?

This is a go-to bag for everyday and weekend use. Like a briefcase, it’s very convenient for a 15″ laptop and everyday necessities. Expanded, it can be used for a three-day business trip and will deploy the backpack straps for help with added weight.

#6. Topo Designs Commuter Briefcase – Most Stylish Briefcase-Style Laptop Bag

Looking for a stylish and modern briefcase to carry your laptop? If so, look no further than the Topo Designs Commuter Briefcase! Topo makes top quality and versatile bags. This bag is designed to carry a standard 15 in. laptop plus essentials, so it’s also a great laptop bag for business travelers.

Its double-layer bottom provides water resistance and durability.

• Carries 13″ laptop
• Exterior zipped pocket
• No water bottle pocket
• Not big enough to be a full day bag (more like a purse)

Is the Topo Designs Commuter Briefcase for me?

This is a high-quality, rugged briefcase bag that is stylish too! The internal space comfortably holds a 13″ laptop, book, and pad. The external pockets are useful. If you need a bag for your laptop and essentials, this bag is a great choice. If you want a laptop bag for commute, the gym, and travel, then it’s probably not big enough! Overall, Topo quality is hard to beat.

#7. Sherpani Cabo Convertible Pack – Women’s  – Best Messenger Laptop Bag for Women

This is stylish messenger is one of the best travel laptop bags for women (though men can use it too!). We love that it’s an all-in-one convertible backpack and cross body bag. It includes an anti-theft locking slider, anti-slashing fabric, and RFID-protected panel for added security and peace of mind.

There is a deep main zipper compartment with zipper locks. The padded internal laptop sleeve fits most 11 inch computers, and there’s an extra interior pocket for a phone and other bits.

It also has a front pocket as well as a back packet which doubles as storage for the straps when not in use. Bonus points for the included flashlight-pen!

• Super secure
• Flashlight-pen included!
• Only fits up to a 11-inch laptop
•  Tight squeeze for everything

Is the Sherpani Capo Convertible Pack Tote for me?

This is a go-to, multifunctional bag and backpack! There are a few things that can improve, but we like that it is a secure and stylish bag with a padded internal laptop sleeve and a nice array of exterior pockets. The biggest drawback, however, is that it only fits most 11 inch laptops. Get a bigger bag if you have a bigger laptop.

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#8. Gulu Handmade Influencer Backpack – Best for Small Laptops

Gulu Made isn’t just a brand, it’s a credos. Every one of this brand’s backpacks comes from a factory in Uganda, handmade by local women who survived the brutal civil war That’s impressive enough, but this brand doesn’t just do good deeds, the products are absolute class and this piece is about all comfort !

This no-frills backpack doesn’t reinvent the industry by any stretch. It just recrafts it with a handmade approach. That results in a form-fitting back cushion that helps work with your body to carry the load. At the top of the panel is chimney-style ventilation that keeps things breathable while you go about taking care of business. It has water bottle pockets (and while we are discussing H20 a good level of water resistance and is an all round excellent everyday backpack.

• Simple designs
• Ethically made
• Good quality materials
• Just one main compartment
• Water resistant but not waterproof
• 20 Liters is too small for some

Is the Gulu Handmade backpack for me?

The truth be told, if you require the use of a larger laptop then this is not the pack for you. When I tested it I was using my MacBook Pro 11″ but my girlfriend tested it using her older 14″ and it was not a comfortable fit.

Still, if you are happy with a smaller travel laptop pack then this one is hard to beat. Its the best laptop backpack for those with small laptops.

#9 Stubble & Co Roll Top – Best Laptop Bag For Daytrips

This awesome laptop backpack has fairly recently come to our attention but has impressed us very much. The Stubble & Co Roll Top backpack superbly combines functionality with performance all in a part recycled, eco-friendly package.

This  lightweight backpack  is durable and very comfortable and intended for all weather conditions making it perfect to wear on your bike. Custom built with cycling and the outdoors in mind, the Roll Top features sealed seams, water-resistant zips, reflective logos and considered compartments. It’s also very well priced.

• Great laptop compartments
• Organizational pockets
• Cool and stylish
• Eco friendly
• Pockets might not meet the needs of some
• Roll top is not for everyone
• Lacks protection from scanning technology

Is the Stubble & Co Roll Top Backpack for me?

Yes it is! Ok, so this pack is stylish, practical, is built to a high spec and as far as day-sized backpacks go, is very tough to beat.

#10.  Inateck Travel Carry-on 40 litre Laptop Backpack – Best Laptop Bag for Traveling with Laptop and Tablet

The Inateck Travel Carry-on 40 litre Laptop Backpack offers two laptop compartments, each of which has the standard protection and padded sections you have come to expect from a dedicated laptop bag.

Double zips mean these compartments are lockable if you’re looking for extra peace of mind, while an additional rain cover means all your tech will be protected even in the worst of downpours.

Additional features include a very handy change pocket and an anti-theft pocket on the back panel. What’s more, this travel laptop bag has a great range of carrying options, with shoulder straps, side handle, and band to slip over the extended handle of a wheeled backpack too!

• Two laptop compartments
• Lockable zips
• 40 liters too large for some
• Square shape

Is the Inateck Travel Carry-on 40 litre Laptop Backpack for me?

We can see that the Inateck Travel Carry-on 40 litre Laptop Backpack might not be for everyone with its square shape. But anyone looking for a larger travel bag for a laptop will like the fact this offering from Inateck has a capacity of 40 liters, in addition to its two padded laptop compartments meaning a latop and all your other digital nomad essentials will fit nicely.

#11. Chrome Urban Ex 2.0 Rolltop 20L Pack – Best Waterproof Laptop Bag

The best part about this backpack is that it is completely waterproof. If you live and work somewhere it rains a lot, then this is one of the best laptop bags for you! This laptop bag holds a standard 15 in. laptop and has an additional internal sleeve for documents as well as a stretch-mesh pocket for the accessories and doodads.

It has a padded back panel and adjustable shoulder straps for comfort. A 1-handed release buckles hold the top lid closed and offer easy access with a zippered top flkat for extra security. I do wish there was a water bottle holder, however.

• Dedicated 15-inch laptop and iPad area
• Rugged and durable
• Completely waterproof
• Color can wear out easily

Is the Chrome Urban Ex 2.0 Rolltop 20L Pack for me?

This multi-functional, waterproof laptop bag. This bag is for you if you have to deal with traveling and commuting in the rain. It’s also quite sleek and stylish, and useful for multiple situations.

#12. Pacsafe MetroSafe LS350 ECONYL Daypack  – Best Travel Laptop Bag for Safety

The Pacsafe Slingsafe LS350 is one of the best travel laptop bags with anti-theft functionality. Plus, it has plenty of space for your books and docs, and a padded sleeve for your 13 in. laptop, all in a go-anywhere, protective design. If you need to keep your laptop safe, then this may be the bag for you.

This laptop bag comes with lots of safety features, such as  RFIDsafe blocking material  to prevent your credit card and other chip data from being swiped. There are cut-resistant achor straps for securing valuables and an internal attachment point for your keys an wallet.

At only 15 liters, however, it’s much more suited to safe city excursions rather as a soiltary travel bag.

• Strong securing points for valuables
• RFIDsafe blocking material
• Cut-resistant material
• Fits laptops only up to 13″
• Quite a small capacity at only 15 liters

Is the Pacsafe MetroSafe LS350 for me?

Don’t worry about traveling with your laptop thanks to this Anti-Theft Pacsafe Daypack. This backpack is for you if you prioritize security above all else! It is a small backpack, however, and may not be for you if you need more than 15 liters of space.

#13. MYSTERY RANCH Urban Assault Pack – Best Laptop Bag for Computer and Tablet

This laptop bag does it all. Use it for rugged travel or your day-to-day commute! I can’t think of a more perfect bag. It’s minimalist yet offers lots of storage, even for an 18-liter bag. There are small, inside pockets, and it can easily fit a 13″ laptop plus a tablet/reader.  The quality is bombproof and will handle any drops.

• 2 Internal zippered pockets
• The sleeve fits up to a 15-inch laptop
• YKK Zippers
• Comfortable Straps
• Only 18 Liter Bag
• No Water Bottle Pocket

Is the Mystery Ranch Urban Assault Backpack for me?

Don’t worry again about traveling with your laptop thanks to this bomb proof backpack! It’s durable and stylish all in one. While on the smaller side, it still helps you organize your essentials. This is a great bag, but only 18 liters. If you need a laptop bag for travel, consider a bigger sized pack.

#14. K&F Concept DSLR Camera and Laptop Bag – Perfect Bag for Laptop and Camera

This laptop travel bag is surprisingly lightweight given the specific protection it gives to both camera gear and a laptop, weighing in at 1.2kg.

It can hold two cameras, five lenses, those photographic extras all semi-professional cameramen require, and a laptop up to 13.3”!

It’s made from a tough nylon material which provides additional protection from tears, bumps, and light rain too. The interior dividers can be modified to your taste, with the main compartment opening flat to 180° for easy camera and laptop access.

There’s a space to hang a lighter weight tripod on the exterior side of the bag, and a waist belt in addition to padded shoulder straps to ensure all your expensive kit stays exactly where it should on your back.

• Dedicated camera and laptop bag
• Capacity for a large amount of camera equipment
• Tough nylon material
• Internal dividers can be personalised
• Not a briefcase-style bag
• Only fits laptops up to 13.3”
• Just one colour available

Is the K&F Concept DSLR Camera and Laptop Bag for me?

If you’re an active amateur or semi-professional photographer, you’ve got more than just a laptop to carry around with you as you travel. With this equipment being so expensive to buy and replace, you don’t want to risk using a bag that isn’t dedicated to the job. Instead, hit order on the K&F Concept, you won’t regret it!

#15. Kroser 15.6” Laptop Briefcase Bag – Best Laptop Bag for Business Travelers

Made from water-repelling canvas this Kroser briefcase-style laptop bag can fit laptops up to 15.6 inches.

Although it lacks the shoulder straps you’ll find on a backpack, it has both carry handles and a single shoulder strap for a choice of carrying options.

The main compartment is TSA-friendly, meaning it meets the needs of US airport security, while there are two other small compartments for notepads, paper, and pens. This laptop bag is good for business travelers.

Perhaps the best feature of the Kroser 15.6” laptop briefcase bag is its RFID pockets, which protect your electronic data on credit cards and passports from being scanned and then stolen.

• Made from water repellent canvas
• Carry handles and single shoulder strap
• RFID protection pocket
• Won’t fit larger laptops
• Weight of just over 1 kg

Is the Kroser 15.6” laptop briefcase bag for me?

If you’d rather go for a briefcase-style bag rather than a dedicated business backpack, the Kroser 15.6” laptop bag is a good option. In addition to the main compartment that will take an average-sized laptop, there’s the additional space supplied by further compartments, as well as RFID protection for your electronic data too!

#16. REI Co-op Ruckpack 28 Recycled Daypack  – Best Budget Laptop Backpack

This heavy-duty travel laptop bag will hold not only a laptop up to 15” in size in a padded pocket, but also an interior pocket for organization and is even designed to be overstuffed! Though only 28 L in size there are also exterior pockets as well as one dedicated for your water botttle.

Designed to most airline check-in restrictions, you’ll be breezing through airports in no time. What’s more, the back panel is lined with mesh to keep wearers cool, while adjustable shoulder straps keep everything sitting right.

• Capable of carrying laptops up to 15”
• Plenty of additional pockets
• Too small to suit all kinds of travelers
• A tablet sleeve would be a nice bonus

Is the REI Co-op Ruckpack 28 Recycled Daypack for me?

While lacking in a tablet sleeve, the comfort of this pack combined with its budget price for such a sturdy beast is certainly nothing to ignore. The wealth of additional pockets and rather smart-casual stylish look only go further to accentuate this a budget pack suitable for most travelers.

#17. The Roll Top Stubble & Co – Best Hipster Laptop Backpack

The Roll Top is a great hipster-style 20L bag perfect for carrying around your laptop as well as having heaps of room for your other accessories. What really makes it stand out for a day pack is that the laptop compartment is in a separate pocket on the back of the bag. This both makes it mega secure (especially for a roll top) and also saves the massive main compartment for everything else.

Internally the main compartment is one massive space with a selection of pockets and organisers attached to the other side of the laptop compartment/ back panel. This works well giving you some level of organisation whilst also being super roomy.

• Capable of carrying laptops up to 16”
• Roll top makes it expandable
• Durable and weather resistant material
• Could do with more internal organisation
• Would like an internal zip as well as the roll top

Is Stubble & Co The Roll Top for me?

If you’re looking for something that is both stylish, functional and also super robust, the Roll Top is the perfect choice for a laptop bag. We love that it’s got that classic hipster feel whilst actually being super practical too. The black exterior also keeps water out well, is durable enough for everyday use and is smart enough for the office.

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So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

Still have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What is the difference between a laptop bag and a laptop backpack?

A laptop backpack is carried on your back with two straps. A laptop bag only has one strap and is held on one shoulder and across your chest and back.

Which is the safest laptop bag?

The Pacsafe Slingsafe LS350 is one of the best travel laptop bags with anti-theft functionality. It is made form cut resistant material which makes it one of the safest laptop bags.

What do I need to consider when buying a laptop bag?

Keep these key-features in mind: 1. Size and Volume of the bag depending on what kind of laptop you have 2. Style and design 3. Organisation and cost

What is the best laptop bag for large laptops?

If you own a 17inch laptop, you’ll love the Estarer 17.3” Laptop Messenger Bag . It offers plenty of space and protection for your laptop.

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We’ve worked hard to sort the wheat from the chaff so that you can see the best laptop bags on the market! From large, small, stylish, messenger-style, and functional, we’re confident you’ll find a keeper among our picks!

To summarize: we think that the Nomatic Messenger Bag is currently the best that money can buy. It’s versatile, tough, and does what it’s supposed to do (protect your gear).

That being said, there are plenty of other specialized bags out there for you to consider. The waterproof Arc’teryx Granville Pack  is great for those more demanding adventures. The Tortuga Setout is probably more appropriate for those traveling long term. Finally, the Kroser 15.6” Laptop Briefcase Bag is great for those who travel frequently for business,

Whether you’re looking for a laptop bag for travel, work, or everything in between, this list has you covered!

Although you should be able to use almost all of the bags on this list as a carry-on, some airlines still like to make a fuss over an inch or two. In this case, it pays to know the airline’s own carry-on regulations. Use this convenient list of airlines and their cabin policies as a reference, if needed.

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I got a Pogoplug. An awesome piece of kit which ensures my precious photos are backed up at home on my own personal cloud. There’s no operating fees and you can attach as many drives to it as you see fit. If anything happens to my gear at least my memories are safe…

Also I ditched the laptop as a traveling companion and went for an iPad. Sure it’s not as powerful but it’s lighter and fils all the roles I need it to when I’m on the hoof.

Thanks for sharing that. iPads are certainly light but personally, I will not give up my Mac!

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19 Best Laptop Bags for Women Travelers On the Go

Best Suitcases , Handbags , LUGGAGE

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Hittin’ the road and need to bring your laptop? A laptop bag is a must to keep it secure and avoid damage. Keep reading for the most functional and cute laptop bags that women use again and again!

Best Laptop Bag for Women

Table of contents.

If you’re traveling for work or pleasure, there are times when you may need to bring your laptop. It’s important to pack your laptop securely in a bag to avoid any damage. There are so many great designs out there that will keep your laptop safe and secure while you’re on the go, and that will look stylish, too!

Whether you opt for a laptop tote bag, backpack, or any other style, it should be practical, durable, and easy to carry.

Need help with choosing the right purse? Read our ultimate guide to travel purses !

TFG readers have shared their favorite functional and fashionable best womens laptop bag for travel that they swear by. See below! 

Best Laptop Tote Bags for Women

Calpak Luka Expandable Laptop Tote

Calpak Luka Laptop Tote Bag

Decked out with killer organization, the Calpak Luka expandable laptop tote is amazing for travelers who want to keep all their devices and travel essentials neat and protected. The 15” laptop compartment is amply padded and features a roomy zippered pocket, and there are plenty of inner and outer pockets of all sizes.

One traveler loves that it’s simple yet elegant and versatile enough to use for all kinds of different travel scenarios! Function aside, this bag is sleek and modern, with a scratch-resistant exterior that comes in a range of fun matte shades. 

Monos Metro Tote Bag

Monos Tote Bag With Laptop Compartment

This is too cute for a vegan laptop bag ! The Monos tote is full of organizational compartments. There’s one to hold your passport or phone, areas for your tech equipment, a water bottle holder, and room for a 14” laptop. Plus, it has a convenient trolley sleeve.

Structured and sophisticated, their womens laptop totes look luxurious but are incredibly low-maintenance. One user says this bag is phenomenal, super durable, and water—and scratch-resistant, so it can handle the rigors of travel. Choose from a few pretty neutral tones. 

MZ Wallace Magnet Medium Metro Tote Deluxe: MZ Wallace | Nordstrom

MZ Wallace Tote Laptop Bag With Trolley Sleeve

One reader calls this MZ Wallace women laptop tote   a great bag that checks all the boxes. It has several compartments, the ability to fit a 13” laptop, a trolley sleeve, and other amazing unique details, such as a built-in jewelry/cosmetic organizer, a quick access phone pocket, and an optional crossbody strap.

The quilted nylon and stitching detail gives it a polished sheen and the handles are sturdy but lightweight to carry. This comes in a ton of cute colors to suit anyone’s style.

Everlane The Luxe Italian Leather Tote

Everlane Tote Laptop Bags

This chic womens leather laptop tote from Everlane is made of 100% Italian leather, it holds a 15” laptop, and has a slip pocket to hold daily essentials, like lip balm, a hotel room key, or a phone.

This beauty is best as a light personal choice for the plane and is not a heavy-duty item. One user says this is a perfect everyday bag, stylish, elegant, and simple. We couldn’t agree more! 

Kenneth Cole Reaction Tote Bag

Kenneth Cole Reaction Chelsea Tote Bag With Laptop Compartment (And Trolley Sleeve)

So cute! This 17” Kenneth Cole tote with laptop pocket also has a shoulder strap and trolley sleeve to fit nicely over luggage. It accommodates a laptop and has a separate tablet compartment, too!

With tons of slip pockets and an exterior pocket that can hold a passport and boarding pass, this chic choice works well for business travel or a short jaunt!

For more travel totes, see this article that showcases the best functional, cute styles!

Best Backpack Laptop Bags for Women

Lo & Sons The Rowledge Backpack

Lo & Sons Rowledge Laptop Tote Backpack With Trolley Sleeve

While the price is a bit higher than other options, readers adore the Lo & Sons backpack and laptop tote for women and consider it a worthwhile investment for their travels! It can be carried as a tote with the top handles or worn as a backpack, and the shoulder straps tuck neatly into a back pocket when not in use. The interior features luxurious fabric, ample storage and organization, and a separate laptop compartment to make your travels easier.

It’s available in a small and large size. 13″ laptops can fit in the Large (21L), and some 13″ laptops are able to fit into the Small (17L) One TFG reader shares that this backpack is clean and professional while still feeling high-end and it fits well under an airplane seat without taking up leg room.

Find out why our readers love their Lo & Sons bags in this review !

Away The Everywhere Zip Backpack

Away Everywhere Laptop Travel Bag With Trolley Sleeve

Away is highly popular in the TFG Community, and the Everywhere Zip 15 inch laptop bag has been highly recommended for storing your things and staying super organized! This backpack is made of durable and water-resistant nylon, and the main compartment is super spacious. The shoulder straps are padded and comfy, and when you want to take the weight off, the trolley sleeve will have your back (literally)!

One traveler reports that this backpack is well-designed and thought out. And feels like the perfectly placed pockets maximize every space, and overall, it’s lightweight and easy to travel with. 

We recommend the best travel bags with trolley sleeve , because a trolley sleeve is one of the most helpful features a bag can have for travel!

Dagne Dover Dakota Medium Neoprene Backpack

Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack Laptop Bag

Known for creating sturdy, simple bags, the Dagne Dover Dakota backpack keeps in line with this brand’s quality. Made of durable neoprene, it has a carrying handle, padded shoulder straps, and tons of organizational pockets, and there’s space for a 13” laptop. 

One happy reviewer says this backpack looks great, is appropriate for anywhere, and it weighs nothing. An all-around great travel accessory,

LOVEVOOK Laptop Backpack for Women

LOVEVOOK Laptop Bag Backpack

When it comes to inexpensive backpack laptop bags, Amazon is a good source, and readers adore the LOVEHOOK bag is a perfect example—it’s under $50 and is fully loaded with 19 pockets to organize, including a pocket for a water bottle, a laptop, and iPad compartment, and a trolley sleeve.

It also has a top handle and comfortable shoulder straps and opens up like a tote so you can see everything at a glance. Users have so many nice things to say about these fashionable laptop bags, such as how spacious the pockets are, the manageable size, and the quality. They also mention it’s very lightweight for travel, and is not bulky.

PacSafe Citysafe CX 17L Anti Theft Backpack

Pacsafe Anti-Theft Laptop Crossbody Bag With Trolley Sleeve

TFG readers have long adored Pacsafe for its stylish and practical anti-theft products. The Citysafe women’s laptop bag checks all the boxes with a clean look and functional features, including slash-proof material, interlocking zippers, a padded laptop sleeve, and RFID-blocking pockets! Plus, it can be worn as a tote, crossbody, or backpack, and the luggage sleeve makes it easy to navigate through an airport.

A user shares that they can fit so many things in this backpack, and it fits easily under an airplane seat while being impressed that it’s thoughtfully designed with lots of great security features. 

Best Convertible Laptop Bags for Women

Cole Haan Small Grand Ambition Leather Convertible Luxe Backpack 

Cole Haan Grand Ambition Laptop Shoulder Bag

Talk about stylish ladies laptop bags! While the Cole Haan Grand Ambition backpack is in the higher price range, I wanted to include it because I SOO wanted it during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale and missed the boat on ordering it on time!  

It fits a 15” laptop, has great compartments for daily essentials, and can flip into a chic tote or crossbody bag. I’m delightfully surprised that readers agree with me that this is awesome, with one saying that it’s the perfect bag for travel and is large enough to hold a good amount while being very comfortable. The leather is sleek and polished, too! 

ECOSUSI Vegan Leather Convertible Backpack

Ecosusi Vegan Leather Laptop Bag

Ecosusi makes pretty bags that TFG readers love! This convertible vegan leather laptop tote is so cute and can be worn as a shoulder bag, tote bag, or backpack! Inside the roomy main compartment,  there are two pockets, two pen loops, and a padded sleeve for laptops up to 14”.

You simply can’t go wrong with the quality, functionality, and beautiful design! One user raves that it’s the best bag for someone on the go and receives many compliments on its style. You can also grab this similar design in a  chic tote too.

If you’re bringing your camera along on your travels, make sure to keep your equipment protected with our readers tip picks for the functional and cute camera bags !

Osprey Arcane Tote Backpack

Osprey Arcane Tote Bags With Laptop Compartment 

Long time readers know that TFG is a bit obsessed with Osprey , and it’s often a go-to for readers as well! The Arcane womens laptop tote bag is a major fave and can hold a TON, including a laptop up to 15” in its protective compartment! You can wear it over the shoulder with the top handles or tuck those away to wear it as a backpack. It’s durable and water-resistant as well! 

One TFG reader says it makes a great carry-on and laptop bag, and it has a lot of structure. 

Sherpani Camden Tote Bag

Sherpani Camden Convertible Crossbody Laptop Bag With Trolley Sleeve

The Sherpani laptop tote bags for women have become reader favorites! The Camden backpack has plenty of padding, secure zippers, and RFID-blocking pockets. You can carry it a few ways: as a crossbody, a tote, or a backpack, or slide it over your luggage handle. It has many compartments, including a 15” laptop sleeve, and overall has a very stylish, modern look!

One user shares she gets lots of compliments on its design and appearance and feels the backpack option is great, because you can hide the straps if you don’t want them hanging out. ”

Find out what our readers have to say about their Sherpani bags in this review !

 Best Laptop Bags for Business Travel

Nomad Lane Bento Bag

Nomad Lane Bento Laptop Travel Bag With Trolley Sleeve

TFG readers have been loving this Nomad Lane Bento 16 inch laptop bag ! It’s a fantastic choice for business travel, or it can even be used as a weekender bag!

It opens up like a suitcase and has amazing organizational features, including various pockets to store chargers, headphones, or other essentials, and, of course, a cushioned laptop sleeve. It also features a shoulder strap, so it can be worn over your shoulder or as a crossbody.

About to travel with my Nomad Lane Bento Bag

Travelers really appreciate the trolley sleeve that allows you to slide it over your luggage handle for easy carrying and it’s compact enough to fit under your airline seat!

One reader says they love all the compartments and the dedicated space for a computer.

If you’re keen to know more about the Nomad Lane Bag, read our review on this favorite traveler’s bag!

Lo & Sons O.G. 2

Lo & Sons O.G.2 Tote Bag With Laptop Sleeve and Trolley Sleeve

If you’re looking for strictly laptop totes for women, the Lo & Sons O.G. 2  is a fantastic personal item or overnight bag. You can get two sizes! The medium size which fits a 10 to 12” laptop, while the large size accommodates a 13” laptop.

Traveling with my latest personal item, the Lo & Son’s O.G.2 Tote !

Their chic laptop bags come equipped with a trolley sleeve, comfy shoulder straps, great organization, and a sleek look! And there are so many gorgeous colors to choose from! 

One happy user says they love this bag for business travel, as it fits easily over a luggage handle; it’s HUGE and fits so much. Plus, all the pockets and compartments are a dream come true, and the laptop pocket fits her 13” laptop perfectly.

Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack

Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Backpack

Striking in appearance and adaptable to whatever your travel day entails, the Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Duffel Backpack has it all! This dual-purpose travel bag has a clamshell opening, tons of interior packing space, compression straps, a padded 17” laptop pocket, and multiple interior and exterior pockets. Sleek and shiny, this bag is rugged and water-resistant, spacious yet not bulky, and weighs under 3 lbs!

A happy traveler shares that it’s super lightweight and works as a personal item even on smaller planes, adding that she has gotten a ton of use out of it and receives so many compliments!

Calpak is so popular that we have to mention their other stylish laptop bags :

• Luka Water-Resistant Laptop Backpack in 15″ and 17”
• Kaya Faux Leather 15” Laptop Backpack

Coowoz Expandable Backpack

Coowoz Expandable Laptop Backpack

Coowoz large laptop bag backpack checks all the boxes, with its lightweight yet robust construction, a comfortable and breathable fit, and excellent organization. Its clamshell opening is what makes this bag ultra-popular, as it makes packing super easy. It features a 15.6” laptop pocket, multiple inner and outer pockets, and compression straps to keep everything efficient and ultra-organized.

From city breaks to outdoor adventures, this backpack will support you through any adventure! One wearer praises its high quality and thoughtful design, sharing that she’s used it as an underseat bag, a weekender bag, and for hiking the Scottish highlands!

Swissgear Scan Smart TSA Laptop 17.5″ Backpack

Swissgear Scan Smart Laptop Backpack

If you’re looking for a spacious  womens laptop bags that you can load up but still carry comfortably, look no further than this Swissgear Scan Smart backpack . This bag is full of handy pockets, including an exterior, fleece-lined glasses pocket, and an organizer compartment with sleeves for pens, cards, and chargers. It’s lightweight at 3 lbs, and it boasts ergonomic, padded shoulder straps with breathable fabric and an adjustable sternum strap for supreme comfort.

It also has a padded laptop sleeve! One traveler who used this backpack as a carry-on to Spain reports that it was steady, had a perfect amount of pockets, felt secure, and was an amazing travel bag overall.

Do you have a recommendation for the best ladies laptop bag for travel? Comment and share!

For more travel bags, please read:

• Choosing the Best Personal Item
• Best Backpacks with Trolley Sleeves
• Best Travel Tote Bag
• Weekender Bags for Short Getaways

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43 comments.

I LOVE my Tumi backpack. Incredibly stylish and durable.

I recently bought the Coowooz expandable bag and I love it! I’m short, so having straps able to adjust to my height is really helpful.

I recently purchased Lo & Sons O.G. 2. It’s a beautiful bag with great pockets organization and nice zippers.

My only negative with this bag is that the main zipper is too small / shallow of opening making it hard to see what’s in the bag.

I give a “10” for the Tumi backpack here = not only does it look sleek, it is bigger than it looks and fits my laptop perfectly. Mine has traveled for mulitple weeks to Italy, Portugal, Japan, and Argentina and has weathered rain, sweat from hiking, snow, and scorching hot weather. Best backpack ever!

This a great list of laptop bags – right when I needed one! Thanks!

Just the review post I was looking for! Thank you 🙂

A new travel laptop bag was my first TFG recommended purchase a few years ago! My bag, which looks closest to the Lily & Drew profiled in this article (but was a different brand), has been perfect! It’s affordable, roomy and sleek. My favorite features are the trolley sleeve and roomy interior. The bag has been to several countries and dozens of US states and still looks great. Fits really well under seat.

I have found it quite challenging to find a bag that meets all my needs. Thank you for this review.

Thank you! You’ve provided lots of options to review. I’m on the continual lookout for the perfect personal item carryon!

Love the TravelPro Tote, roomy with padded sleeve and a zipper.

I have been looking for a new laptop bag that will be good for both travel and work. These are great options. Thank you!

Love any back pack with the trolley sleeve! Thank you for putting all this together!

I am looking for my next laptop bag, and this was so helpful. I’ve been using my hydration backpack from REI for too many years now (minus the bladder, of course) as a laptop backpack. It’s time to upgrade! My daughter has a couple different Fjallraven bags, and they are top of my list. But the Sherpani looks interesting as well.

Decisions, decisions!

Thank you for all the research and information, I leave for Italy in 3 days and feel so prepared due to following you! I will be using only carry on and found the best back pack for me by comparing the ones you listed.

I love these reviews. It really helps a lot when I am doing my shopping online.

Love the Bento bag which I got after reading TFG review. Holds so much and yet zips up nicely. Even holds my purse in addition to laptop, files, a shawl if I get cold, cords, chargers, battery pack. Has so many compartments to stay organized. And still fits under the seat! Best personal item ever!

Love the look of the bento bag! Keeping my eye on that one for an upcoming trip!

Do the Away bags ever go on sale?? They look amazing!

I trust TFG for pretty much everything travel. A couple years back she led me straight to my Tumi everyday back pack which is my go to for all of my trips. It’s great for day trips and city trekking. Now I have the laptop back pack bag and I take that with me now too. Great storage, can hold a lot of other things besides computer. I especially love the cushioned computer pocket. Easy to open and to access computer. Thanks, TFG

Now that we are going back in the office some days I am on the hunt for the perfect laptop bag. These are some great options!

Left a look of the Kenneth Cole bag but alas it’s too big for Lufthansa. Still have my eyes on the bento bag!

When Alex first introduced the Lo & Sons OMG bag in the early years of the website, I fell in love and never looked back! The idea of a bag that is travel perfect in every feature, can be work and gym friendly, AND pairs with a dress, heels, and be taken to a resto for dinner was PERFECT! I drooled over the photos and videos for 3 years before splurging on it, and I still love it after all this time (~8+ years). I often worry that I overload it or it’s too heavy and will be damaged in some way….nope. I LOVE that your webpage recommends tried & true original items and opens new concepts for us readers! I never considered the need for a bag with a secret shoe compartment before (it’s genius!) and can’t imagine travelling without it. THANKS & LOVE YOU TFG (& Alex!)!!!

I have the original low and Sons OMG bag (large) based on a recommendation from the TFG FB page. It is roomy and more sophisticated for work that the normal backpack. I have used it for business and personal trips and love the different pockets for organization. I went with the red color to add a pop of color. – love it!

This is exactly what I have been looking for! Thank you for all the research you do so I don’t have to!

I have had my lo and co omg (original bag) for years and love how organized it is. I like that they have moved the laptop to a separate space and added a water bottle sleeve. It is quite bulkey but havent found anything better

I discovered your blog earlier this year while planning for our trip to Dubai and the Maldives. I feel so much more prepared now! Flying Gulfair for a leg of our trip had me searching for the perfect small personal bag. Your blog and Facebook group have so much information and have become my bible! Thank you so much!

I love the Tumi Voyageur Calais Backpack! It’s lightweight and good looking. Even professional enough to go to work with!

This is great – I’m looking for a new bag for work!

Perfect. I’ve been looking for a backpack that can accommodate a laptop.

Wish the Herschel bag came with a trolley sleeve! I bought something similar to the lily & drew backpack to also double as a laptop/overnight bag for work, so I’m hopeful it’ll simplify my work travels!

Great options! I’m obsessed with travel bags!

I love the Nomad Bento Bag! I use it for travel as a carry on all the time.

Also love the Sherpani Sojourn — similar to the Camden.

I love the Nomad Bento Bag

I found a great one on Amazon that was recommended by the TFG community. Can’t wait to use it on my trip to Greece in three days!! Happy Anniversary. Thank you for 10 years of great posts/ideas/travel love!

great content and advice!

I absolutely love my Bento bag. It’s my go to personal item for all travel. Great for a stand alone bag for a minimalist approach to travel.

As.i hunt for the perfect personal item, this is very helpful. I’m thinking the O.G.2 Tote will work for me! I have so much faith in your recommendations after my Julian bag arrived the night before leaving for Europe in 2019 and has been the perfect bag ever since. Love the way you do all the homework for us!

How am I going to pick only one!? Ok let’s be real, I won’t 😉 A woman has to have choices!

Lo & Sons is the best! Thx for sharing these fantastic products & brands to make my traveling more easier!

I travel weekly for my job. I always carry on my Club Glove rolling mini duffle and my computer bag is my personal item. I need a computer bag that is large enough to stuff my cross body bag into at the airport since I’m limited to one personal item. I’ve used a Tumi Alpha Bravo backpack for the past 7 years. I love it. Just wish it had a water bottle pocket.

BAGSMART Waterproof Laptop Bag With Trolley Sleeve is a GREAT bag. The top opens so wide, so easy to find things on the bottom. Plus its so reasonable! Thanks for the tip!

I’ve been looking at laptop bags. Not necessarily for travel, but more for work.And happy anniversary!!!!

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The 16 Best Travel & Laptop Tote Bags in 2023 [Beach, Gym, Office]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

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Keri Stooksbury

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Table of Contents

Things to consider with travel tote bags, the 5 best travel tote bags, the 11 best laptop tote bags, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Travel tote bags may come in all sorts of colors, styles, and sizes, but most offer a similar combination of style and practicality for carrying your gear.

Made from lightweight materials and featuring strong, longer-length straps, these tote bags are the perfect solution for keeping your laptop, gym gear, work documents, and other essentials close at hand. Perfect for everyday use, a really good tote bag can take you from the office to the gym, on a shopping spree, and even to the beach with ease.

Whether you’re heading to the gym or taking your laptop to work, there are tote bags out there to suit every occasion. Before you invest in one of these bags, though, you’ll want to consider the following:

Spacious and easy to carry, tote bags can be used in a wide variety of situations. Whether you’re heading to the gym, to the beach, to school, to the office, or on vacation , a good tote bag will offer all the space and practicality you need.

Often constructed with durable and water-resistant materials, these bags come with plenty of useful storage pockets and compartments that allow you to configure your belongings in the way that suits you best. Available in a huge variety of styles and designs, you’ll quickly come to wonder how you ever coped without one.

Size and Capacity

If you’re planning on using your tote bag for school or work, you’ll most likely want to find a bag with a padded laptop compartment and a safe space for your tablet, cell phone, and other electronics. It will need to be wide enough to slide your laptop in and out and will need extra pockets and compartments for your other day-to-day essentials.

If you want to use your tote for clothing, gym gear, bathing suits, and towels, look for one that offers a large main compartment with plenty of capacity for your stuff.

Finally, these bags are designed to be carried over your shoulder, so while a giant size tote bag may seem like a great idea, it could be uncomfortable to carry . Instead, you may want to consider a bag that can comfortably accommodate 15.6-inch laptops and folders without sacrificing capacity or comfort.

Usually made from lightweight materials such as nylon, polyester, canvas, or cotton, tote bags are typically lighter and more stylish than briefcases or carry-ons . The fuss-free design features a main compartment with dividers and a selection of smaller pockets, meaning that there isn’t too much in the bag’s construction to weigh you down .

How much you carry with you is up to you, of course, so be aware that even the lightest of tote bags will feel heavy and cumbersome when packed to the brim.

Bottom Line: Look for totes that weigh between 1 and 8 ounces when empty as a basic guideline.

Material and Durability

Most laptop tote bags are made from strong and durable nylon and polyester materials and often come with reinforced PU leather straps. If you’re looking for an upscale and stylish laptop bag for your commute to and from work, leather and artificial leather totes offer protection for your electronics as well as impressive durability.

Whatever you’re carrying, you won’t want your tote bag to let you down. Always look for reinforced stitching and strong straps and zippers, as these tend to be the areas that can fail on lower-quality bags. Padded compartments for laptops are a bonus, as are wider, flatter bottoms and “feet” upon which the bag rests when you set it down.

Tote bags are designed to be used on a daily basis, but they’re not generally designed for more extreme adventures like hiking. This means they’re designed to stay comfortable on your shoulders, even when full, but they do not often feature additional padding or ventilation.

Most tote bags come with long grab handles that can be worn over your shoulders, while some have the addition of full-length, adjustable straps that allow you to wear the bag across your body.

1. A Super-spacious Tote Bag for Life on the Beach

Miyo mesh beach tote.

This awesome mesh tote bag has been designed for use on the beach and offers a ton of useful features that make packing up your swimsuit a breeze. Measuring up to 20 x 15 x 7.5 inches, this is a sizable beach bag that has plenty of room for all of your stuff.

Large enough to carry between 4 to 6 rolled-up towels, it’s a great choice for family days by the water, and the open mesh design lets your wet things dry quickly.

Offering an impressive 9 different compartments and pockets , you can keep your valuable items safe in the waterproof zippered pocket, or slide your sunscreen, sunglasses, book, drinks, and other must-have items into the external slip-in pockets.

The waterproof base layers let you leave the bag on wet sand without it getting damaged, and the top zipper design will keep all of your items safely in place on your journey to and from the water.

The strong and sturdy straps come with a Velcro closure that offers additional padding for your shoulders, and the internal carabiner hook makes it easy to grab your keys in an instant. Offering incredible ventilation and increased airflow, this brilliant beach tote bag is the perfect choice for those who like to spend their time around the water.

What We Like

• The mesh design is perfect for the beach

What We Don’t Like

• While the bag itself is spacious, the slip-in pockets are on the small side

2. This Tote Bag Is Both Pretty and Practical

Esvan floral tote bag.

Pretty and practical, this bag comes in a selection of 15 different colors with eye-catching floral patterns. It’s lightweight, durable, and offers 10 liters of storage space.

Measuring 14.6 x 15.4 x 2.8 inches, this bag has a spacious interior, and the high-quality water-resistant fabric is durable enough to stand up to inclement weather . The shoulder straps on this back have a practical handle-drop of 11 inches, it’s easy to pack and unpack, and the durable metal zipper will keep your belongings safely tucked away.

With an additional internal pocket for keeping smaller items such as your cell phone, wallet , or travel pass close at hand, this pretty tote bag is suitable for shopping, swimming, traveling, at work, at the gym, and plenty of other everyday activities.

• The bag boasts beautiful floral patterns and a durable zipper closure
• While beautiful, 10 liters may not be enough for heavy packers

3. A Great Tote for Extra Packing Power

Samsonite foldaway packable tote sling bag.

Made from lightweight and durable 600 denier nylon polyester, this bag features a PU backing that offers protection from the rain. Designed to be highly portable, it folds down into its very own integrated compact pouch, making it an excellent choice for use on vacation, and the impressive interior dimensions allow you to carry everything you need all in 1 bag.

Measuring 15.3 × 12.5 × 5.9 inches when unpacked, it comes with a large main compartment that’s perfect for shopping trips, sightseeing excursions, and days at the beach . With a pair of additional slip-in pockets and a single zippered pocket, you can keep your important items neatly tucked away.

The foldable design provides you with extra carrying power when you need more space to hold souvenirs on your way back from vacation, and the water-resistant design means it can be used year-round.

With oversized carry straps, this bag is strong and easy to haul around with you. It’s available in black, orange, or navy blue and is an excellent choice for throwing in your suitcase or carry-on bag on your next adventure.

• This bag is incredibly useful and folds down very small
• The bag struggles to retain its shape unless it’s completely full

4. A Security-approved Tote Bag for Large Events

Bagail clear stadium tote bag.

This transparent tote bag is perfect for excursions where security restrictions need to be adhered to prior to entry. This bag meets most stadium and tournament guidelines, making it an excellent choice at football games, live music events, casinos, festivals, and many more occasions.

Made from 0.4-millimeter-thick vinyl, it’s incredibly lightweight but durable enough to carry a ton of stuff . Reinforced stitching gives users the confidence to use the bag time and time again, and the thick, tear-resistant nylon is tough without feeling rigid.

Measuring 12 x 12 x 6 inches, it’s big enough to hold bottles , wallets, keys, cell phones, hats, sunglasses, and practically anything else you’d want to bring into a venue. The smooth top zipper ensures that everything stays inside.

Featuring 2 grab handles, you can easily carry this bag down by your side or use the adjustable shoulder strap — which offers between 30 and 60 inches of length — to wear this bag across your body.

• This bag is super strong but feels soft and flexible
• It lacks zipper pockets and additional smaller storage spaces

5. The Best Sports Tote Bag

Champion signal tote.

Made by the sporting giants at Champion, this tote bag is an excellent choice for trips to the gym, days out at the pool, splashing around on the beach, and even as a carry-on when flying. The design is simple but effective, and the large main compartment can be used to carry everything from school folders to swimming gear.

Made from high-quality, water-resistant material, this bag comes with a polyester lining that’s easy to wipe clean between uses , and the smooth-rolling zipper closure helps to ensure that your beginnings don’t fall out in transit.

On the inside, zipper pockets help keep your smaller items safe and secure, and the reinforced bottom allows the bag to retain its shape while offering increased durability.

The 21.5-inch straps can comfortably fit over your shoulders, even when you’re wearing heavy clothing, and the strong, durable fabric easily supports the weight of the bag, even when full. With the iconic Champion logo discreetly placed on the front of the bag and a fashionable 2-tone colorway, this is a great tote bag you’ll always be able to find a use for.

• The lightweight and basic design is very user-friendly
• The sporty look might not suit everyone’s style

1. Designer Bag on a Budget

Ecosusi overnight tote bag.

This bag is made from water-repellent nylon fabric and comes with vegan leather trim for an upscale look and feel. Sleek and sophisticated, you can choose from beige, black, or red colorways, and the timeless design offers designer good looks at every turn.

On the inside, the main zippered compartment has plenty of room for your clothes, books, water bottle, and toiletries. You can safely carry your laptop, too, thanks to a padded Velcro pocket. Another inside zippered pocket offers safe storage for your smaller valuable items, and the 2 slip-in pockets make it easy to organize your cell phone, keys, and wallet.

For increased versatility, this bag comes with a detachable and adjustable shoulder strap that can be lengthened to wear the bag across your body, as well as double top handles should you wish to carry the bag in your hand.

With a trolley sleeve on the back, it can easily be slipped over the handle of your suitcase, and the metal studs on the bottom ensure that it remains resistant to wear and tear over time.

• The bag has high-end designer looks and upscale features
• The sewn-down sides make it awkward to pack folders and magazines

2. The Best Designer Tote Bag for Fashionistas

Kenneth cole reaction chelsea quilted tote.

This women’s tote bag from Kenneth Cole is made from polyester twill and the chevron quilted design gives a luxurious look. With a tear-resistant lining, it’s been constructed to withstand the rigors of daily use, and with several compartments and pockets to stay organized .

The main compartment features padded laptop and tablet pockets to keep your prized electronics safe. The interior zipper and open-top pockets are perfect for items such as business cards, a small notebook, or your cell phone and make this a solid alternative to traditional briefcases .

You can carry this bag or wear it comfortably on your shoulder with an 8.5-inch drop on the carry handles, or there’s a trolley strap to attach to your luggage. With enough space to comfortably house a 15-inch laptop and many other business essentials, this is a smart-looking, practical leather tote bag for women who like to commute in style.

• The bag boasts a luxury look and practical interior
• The main compartment is a bit narrow

3. Great Tote Bag for the Gym

Chiceco yoga tote bag.

This spacious tote bag is roomy enough to carry all your workout essentials, and unlike a regular sports bag, it’s stylish enough to be used for work, too. Made from waterproof nylon fabric, it comes in a choice of black or grey colorways, and the versatile and innovative interior has plenty of useful storage spaces to keep your gear neatly organized.

With a wet bag for wet towels and swimsuits, you can keep your clean clothes separate from your dirty ones, and the 2 side pockets are perfect for slipping your work shoes or sneakers into. The 2 drawstring dust bags offer further protection for your footwear , and the yoga mat holder on the top of the bag will keep it neatly rolled and ready to go.

So much more than just a gym bag, it also comes with a padded laptop sleeve that can comfortably hold devices measuring up to 13.3 inches, and the interior slip pocket and back pocket offer practical storage for your cell phone, gym pass, keys, wallet, and other items.

With a long, adjustable shoulder strap, you can wear this bag across your body for a more comfortable carry or use the 2 grab handles to hold it in your hands. Stylish on the outside and spacious on the inside, this is a great bag for use at the gym, the pool, on the beach, or on the way to and from work.

• The bag has been designed with an active lifestyle in mind
• The strap that secures the yoga mat is a little flimsy

4. The Most Colorful Tote Bag

Volganic rock nylon oxford multi-pocket tote bag.

Available in numerous colors, this bag is made from 100% nylon material. It’s water-repellent and durable, and features reinforced seams for extra strength, and a smooth, high-quality zipper closure.

With lots of different pockets in which to store your belongings and a stylish design, this bag would be perfect for use on your daily commute, for trips to the gym, as an overnight bag, or even as a diaper bag for your baby.

On the inside, the separate laptop compartment can accommodate your 15.6-inch laptop , and the additional tablet pocket, slip-in interior pockets, and external zipper pockets allow you to keep all of your belongings well-organized.

The adjustable shoulder strap ensures a range of comfortable lengths and carrying options, and the width of the strap has been designed to eliminate pressure on your shoulders. Stylish, easy to use, and incredibly versatile, this tote bag comes with heavy-duty hardware and sturdy construction. You can be sure it’s been built to last.

• The multiple pockets offer lots of useable storage space
• The laptop compartment isn’t padded

5. Built-in USB Port To Help You Stay Connected

Monstina laptop tote bag.

This brilliant women’s laptop tote bag is large enough for your 15-inch laptop and offers tons of extra space for everyday essentials. Made from high-quality waterproof nylon and leather materials, this bag has a top zipper closure to keep your belongings safe, and with an impressive 15 pockets on the inside, you can be sure you’ll be organized at all times.

With thick padding on the laptop and tablet pockets, this bag will keep your electronics safe in transit, and the elastic Velcro strap helps to ensure that your laptop doesn’t slip out when you put the bag down.

Featuring lots of other useful pockets, you can easily find dedicated spaces for your pens, pencils, business cards, cell phone, wallet, cards, and other must-have items, and the large opening ensures easy access to your belongings at all times.

Suitable for use in a wide range of settings, this multi-function bag has an external USB port that can be used in conjunction with your own power bank .

• It has a wide range of storage pockets and compartments inside
• The bag has a tendency to tip over when full

6. Business Tote Bag on a Budget

Newhey laptop tote bag.

Offering 4 useful compartments, this stylish laptop tote bag is lightweight and lovely to look at. Made from water-resistant PU leather, it offers protection against knocks and scratches, and the polyester lining adds an upscale look and feel.

With a smooth-rolling metal zipper, your belongings will stay neatly contained, and the metal feet help to protect the base of the bag when you put it down.

With a padded divider, you can safely carry devices measuring up to 16.6 inches in size, and with lots of further pockets, you can carry your iPad, wallet, books, notebooks, and so much more. Measuring at 15.3 x 5.1 x 12.6 inches, this laptop tote bag is sizable without being bulky, and the versatile interior dividers help to ensure that your belongings stay well-organized and neatly in place all day long.

This bag is available in a selection of stylish colors and comes with adjustable shoulder straps that can be made shorter or longer to suit your frame. An additional pair of carrying handles allows you to carry the bag securely over your shoulder or in your hand.

• This sleek and stylish design will never go out of style
• The PU leather can occasionally become creased

7. Stylish Tote Bag That Can Be Worn Across Your Body

Baggallini avenue tote top handle bag.

This great-looking tote bag is perfect for use at school, at work, out shopping, or even when you’re traveling. Designed to keep you organized, it comes with a wide selection of pockets and compartments, providing easy access to your items when you need them.

Available in a variety of colors and patterns, it’s made from lightweight and water-resistant nylon material and is machine washable.

Featuring a padded 10 x 13-inch laptop pocket, you can easily keep your small laptop or tablet nicely protected, and with a variety of additional zippered pockets, you can carry your notebooks, chargers, cell phone, and a wide variety of other essentials around with you.

Compact enough to ensure a comfortable carry, this bag never feels heavy or bulky, even when full , and the washable fabric means that it will always look and feel as good as new.

With a longer-length strap, this beautiful bag can be worn across your body for greater security and comfort in crowds, and with 5 credit card slots and a removable RFID-protected phone wristlet pocket (not machine washable), this awesome bag is not only practical but secure as well.

• The interior is very spacious and practical, and the bag can be machine washed
• It’s prone to falling over when full

8. A Great-looking Tote Bag for All Occasions

Bag wizard laptop tote bag for work.

Made from strong canvas material with a durable faux-leather strap, this beautiful tote bag comes in a 2-tone colorway with a choice of swatches to choose from. Spacious enough to hold everything you need on your daily commute, day trip, or vacation, this bag can also be used as a carry-on while flying.

There’s plenty of space to hold both your 15.6-inch laptop, as well as other daily essentials like cell phones, water bottles, books, and more. The structured shape looks upscale and offers extra protection and durability , and the selection of pockets on the outside makes it easy to grab boarding passes or other documents.

The superstrong PU leather straps are long enough to be worn comfortably over your shoulders but can also be used to carry the bag in your hands. With a soft, striped lining inside, this tote looks upscale enough for even the most discerning traveler to enjoy.

• The overall size and the useful strap length make it ideal for many uses
• The colors don’t always seem to match up with the pictures

9. Strong and Durable With a Versatile Interior

Bug laptop tote bag.

This awesome, extra-large laptop bag has been designed to accommodate devices measuring up to 15.6 inches. Measuring 16 x 7 x 13 inches, it’s spacious without being too bulky, and the stylish design works well with any outfit.

Offering an impressive 14 different compartments in total, it features 2 padded pockets in which to safely secure your laptop and tablet, and the roomy main storage area can accommodate just about anything you need to take on the road with you. Weighing in at just 1.31 pounds, it will feel light on your shoulders, even when full.

The strong and durable microfiber leather handles are long enough to be worn over your shoulder, and the high-quality buckles are designed to eliminate the risk of the straps coming away from the main body of the bag over time. Available in a choice of fashionable colors, this bag comes with a striped lining to give it an upscale look and feel.

• The quality of this bag is very impressive for the price
• The bag, while lightweight, can feel big on your shoulders

10. This Bag Is Best for Those Who Like To Workout

Bagsmart large tote bag.

Available in a choice of pretty pink or stylish black, this oversized tote bag is perfect for trips to the gym, the park, your yoga class, and other everyday adventures. It would make an excellent diaper bag, as well.

Measuring 15.3 x 6 x 12.5 inches, this bag can easily accommodate a 15.6-inch laptop, and the padded divider pocket will help to keep it safely protected.

Made from durable and water-resistant polyester and nylon, this bag comes with a large main compartment, a zipper compartment for smaller items, and 2 further slip-in pockets. It also features an innovative top buckle that’s been designed to hold your yoga mat in place.

Weighing in at just 1.08 pounds, this bag remains lightweight and soft to the touch , and with 2 strong handles, it can be easily worn over your shoulder. Slip your water bottle in the side pockets, lock and load your yoga mat, and enjoy your days with this tote that will quickly become a travel must-have.

• The soft and durable fabric and high-quality construction make this a bag you’ll love for a long time
• If you are looking for a truly oversized tote, there may be better options out there

11. Stylish Canvas Tote Bag and Laptop Carrier

Barsine canvas laptop tote work bag.

Made from heavy-duty canvas material, this stylish and practical women’s tote bag comes in a choice of black, blue, or grey colorways. Constructed to a very high standard with a stylish design, this bag features a versatile and roomy interior that’s practical for use at school, work, at the gym, or even on vacation.

Offering multiple compartments and pockets, this bag has an upscale, striped inner lining and comes with a padded laptop divider that can comfortably accommodate devices measuring up to 15.6 inches.

With a bottle pocket, a pen holder, back zipper pockets, and wall slip pockets, you can easily keep all of your belongings in place while in transit. There’s also a useful hidden key chain that allows you to find your keys without having to look through all the pockets.

Featuring vegan leather handles, this bag can be carried over your shoulders, and reinforced stitching ensures that it will remain strong for a long time. The handles are also just the right length to slide over your suitcase handle for greater comfort when walking through airports.

• The interior is spacious and features a padded laptop divider
• The zipper feels a bit clunky

Whether you’re looking for a new gym, travel, or work bag, a tote offers all the space and versatility you could wish for. With padded laptop compartments, well-organized interiors, and a wealth of styles and designs to choose from, these tote bags make excellent alternatives to briefcases, backpacks, or duffel bags.

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The 10 Best Travel Totes to Feel Fancy Every Time You Commute

Pack your bags.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• What To Look For
• Frequently Asked Questions

Why Trust Byrdie

Byrdie / Brian Kopinski

While other types of bags, like suitcases and backpacks , have their place in your travel line-up, totes tend to have the ideal size, weight, and roominess for shorter trips or easy access en route.

“A travel tote is the ultimate accessory for any getaway,” says Marissa Galante Frank , Bloomingdale’s fashion director for accessories and beauty. “From the airport to the beach , you will find yourself using this tote more than you anticipated, which is why investing in a good one is key.”

It can be a challenge to find the right tote that can hold everything you need without becoming too heavy or cumbersome. So we surveyed 40 of our editors to find out which totes they swear by for commuting, vacationing, and everything in between. We asked them to rate each tote on size, organization, durability, and comfort, and after receiving their responses, we compiled this list of the best travel tote bags.

Best Overall

Quince revive nylon large tote.

Fabric: Recycled nylon, recycled leather | Sizes: 13" H x 17" W x 5" D | Colors: 5

To put it simply, we love this tote. We’ve taken it on work trips, vacations, beach days, errand runs, and it always makes packing a breeze. The spacious interior has multiple compartments and a 15-inch laptop sleeve. Having two open pockets on the outside also makes our life easier by giving us a place to quickly tuck away our phone. Despite all that it’s able to carry, the bag distributes weight evenly and doesn’t get super heavy. We find the $90 price point a good middle ground for a travel tote, and all the details, like the leather trims, magnetic closures, and five stylish colorways make it worth the price. Not to mention that the water-resistant nylon is made from recycled water bottles and the leather is recycled as well. In fact, we can’t think of anything we would change.

Best Budget

Baggu duck bag.

Fabric: Cotton | Sizes: 15.5" × 11.5" × 4.75" | Colors: 11

Who says you have to spend a ton of money for a high quality tote bag? Baggu’s Duck Bag checks off all the features we are looking for while coming in at less than $40. The bag is large enough to fit our 15-inch laptop and can still hold other essentials like a full size water bottle, books, and snacks. A zipped interior pocket keeps our valuables secured and handy. Made from recycled cotton canvas, the tote is extremely durable and easy to clean. Even after spilling an entire burrito inside—epic fail, we know—we were able to throw it into the wash and get it back to looking clean without compromising the fabric or quality. In addition to the top handle, the bag comes with an adjustable crossbody strap that’s actually long enough to accommodate plus-sizes. Add in the fun patterns, and this bag is a winner all around.

Best Carry-On

Béis east to west tote.

Fabric: Recycled polyester, recycled faux leather | Sizes: W 17.13" x H 14.17" x D 9.06" | Colors: Black, Beige

In an age where airline fees keep on climbing, you can only afford to bring the most functional travel bags. This one from Beis is so efficient, we've used it as a carry-on. No inch is wasted, and inside you'll find a padded laptop sleeve (fits 13-inch or 15-inch), one large zippered pocket, two cellphone pockets, two water bottle pockets, and two pen pockets. We can't count all the times we scrambled to find a pen during a trip, and this bag finally gives it a place.

The outside is strategically designed as well. This is one of the few totes that has both a short and long handle in addition to a removable shoulder strap. And we love how the key leash is inside the outside zipped pocket—so often they are inside the main compartment, leaving us still digging around for the keys. The luggage sleeve allows us to zip through the airport and the zipped top ensures that even if our luggage tips over, nothing will fall out. Made from recycled polyester with a recycled faux leather trim, this tote is sustainable and durable.

Best Zippered

Longchamp tote bag.

Material: Leather, Recycled polyamide canvas with inside coating | Dimensions: 12.2" L x 11.8" H x 7.5" W | Colors: 7

Longchamp’s Pliage Tote Bag is iconic for good reason. Similar to the L.L. Bean Boat and Tote, it’s the type of unstructured bag where you can throw a ton of stuff inside while the top zipper keeps everything secure, and the nylon and leather exterior looks stylish. Not to mention leather and nylon are durable and easy to keep clean.

We love to take this bag on international trips, since it’s roomy enough to hold packing cubes and easily fits under an airplane seat, or we can fold it down into a suitcase when not in use. It’s light and sleek enough to use as a purse while sightseeing, and we appreciate the extra security of the top zipper. There’s two flap pockets on the inside that can store your keys, passport, or wallet, so you aren’t digging around the bag to find them. The luxe designs and materials mean you'll be using this tote for years to come.

• PHOTO: Byrdie / Jhett Thompson

Best Weekender

Mz wallace large metro tote deluxe.

Material: Nylon | Dimensions: 14.5" L ×11" W × 14.5" H | Colors: 9

Finding the right tote for a weekend getaway can be tricky, since you need something that can hold everything from clothes to cosmetics to electronics. Cue the MZ Wallace Metro Tote. Dubbed the Mary Poppins bag, this tote strikes the right balance of endless space and organization. We get six pockets on the inside and five pockets on the outside with ample room in the middle to hold bulky items like a laptop and clothes. All the pockets are zipped, so we don’t have to worry about things falling out as we throw this into our car. Plus, the bag comes with three detachable pouches that we love to use for our beauty products and chargers. Despite how much we pack into this bag, the quilted nylon remains incredibly lightweight. And for trips that involve flights, we can just stick this bag on top of our suitcase thanks to the nifty luggage sleeve.

Yet we use this bag for way more than just weekend trips . It’s sleek and stylish enough to take into the office, and the extra-wide straps leave our shoulders-pain free during our commute. Plus, there’s a detachable crossbody strap. If you've seen this bag all over your Insta feed and in IRL, now you know why.

Best for Work

Caraa studio large leather tote.

Material: Leather, waterproof nylon | Dimensions: 13" x 18" x 7.5" | Colors: Black

Several editors swear by the Caraa Studio Tote as their work bag , and here’s why: there’s a pocket for any scenario imaginable. Besides the standard laptop pocket—which can hold a 17-inch device—there’s eight pockets for all our essentials as well as a water bottle holder so we stay hydrated yet spill-free. Even if we were to spill inside the bag, it wouldn't be the end of the world, as the interior is made from waterproof, antimicrobial nylon.

When we're rushing to take the subway, every second counts, so we appreciate all the small conveniences like a key leash, an exterior phone pocket, and a covered shoe compartment to store our flats or sneakers. And whenever we get tired of wearing the bag over our shoulder, we use the detachable straps to convert it into a chic backpack instead. Not only is the Italian leather gorgeous, but the pebbled texture makes it more durable and resistant to scratches and scuffs. Yes this tote is more expensive, but it's made our morning commute less stressful, which is priceless.

Best Canvas

L.l.bean boat and tote bag.

Fabric: Cotton | Sizes: 15" H x 17" W x 7½" D (Large) | Colors: 13

While sometimes we want a bag with all the bells and whistles, other times we want a simple tote bag that can lug anything and be stuffed into any corner. Hello, the L.L. Bean Boat and Tote Bag. Made from heavyweight canvas with a reinforced flat bottom and no pockets, this bag can be stuffed to the brim and then folded up when not in use. It’s our go-to bag for weekend trips, beach days, grocery shopping, etc. and it always holds everything we need—the brand has tested it to hold up to 500 pounds. Though we personally love the convenience of being able to reach in and grab anything from the open top, if you prefer extra security, it also comes in a zipped version. The white canvas and colorful straps will never go out of style, and you can choose from 13 different colors and add a monogram for only $8. The bag ranges from small to extra large, and if you want to easily wear it over your shoulder, we recommend ordering the long straps. It honestly may be the best $40 you’ll ever spend.

Best Leather

Bandolier tote bag.

If you prefer the look of a leather tote , we adore this one from Bandolier. Crafted from pebbled leather, it's more durable than smooth leather designs that can scuff easily. Besides the scrumptious material, the tote is the ideal size for trips and going to the office. We usually end up throwing our sunglasses somewhere in our tote, but this bag actually has a special compartment for them, in addition to a key leash, 15-inch laptop sleeve, and additional zip pockets. After filing the bag with all our items, it doesn’t weigh us down or become bulky. Though it doesn’t zip close, it does have a magnetic closure for extra security.

Best for Outdoors

Carhartt legacy east/west tote.

Material: Polyester | Dimensions: 16.5" x 13.5" x 7" | Colors: Black, Carhartt Brown

Outdoor trips require bags that are highly durable and versatile, such as this bag from Carhartt, which is made from water-repellent polyester. We love how we can keep our personal items organized for a road trip or camping getaway, without needing to worry about the bag staying dry or the fabric getting wrecked. The spacious tote also features plenty of pockets on both the inside and outside, including a zip-closure main compartment and long divider pocket, and it’s available in two neutral colors. After getting this tote in 2018, it’s still going strong.

Best Designer

Marc jacobs the medium tote bag.

Fabric:  Cotton Canvas | Sizes: 13" L x 6" D x 11" H | Colors: 6

If your style is more of using a tote as your catch-all, this bag is definitely for you. “While this bag doesn't have as many compartments or the pass through sleeve for suitcases, I've found it's a great travel option," says fashion stylist Ashlyn Greer . "My laptop fits securely inside, and it sits easily on top of my suitcase for rolling through the airport." Greer also loves how you can take this bag from airport to meeting due to its stylish nature. In addition to a top handle, it also has a removable crossbody strap when we want to go hands free. Made from cotton canvas, the bag is meant to fade and relax over time, for a lived-in look.

• PHOTO: Byrdie / Alexander Huang

What to Look for in a Travel Tote

• Material: Material is without a doubt a key player in your decision when getting a travel bag. For a super long-lasting option, we recommend keeping an eye out for full-grain leather or pebbled leather since it’s more durable and won’t show scuffs or scratches easily. If leather is not your vibe, we recommend a fabric that will be either stain-resistant or easy to clean, like nylon or polyester. A cotton canvas tote, can also be a great option, as it often can be hand or machine washed.
• Organization: The way you organize your bag is personal—and you should find the bag that works to your advantage. The obvious answer is if you like a lot of organization, choose the bag with more pockets. For long distance travel, we recommend looking for a bag with interior pockets and zippered exterior pockets. If you’re more of a catch-all bag kind of person, we recommend looking for a flat-canvas bottom and a structured silhouette to help you stay organized even with less pockets.
• Color: “I often opt for versatile shades like black, brown, or neutrals that seamlessly complement my travel wardrobe,” says Deseri Kelley , founder of a luxury handbag brand. But if you like your accessories to make more of a statement, we recommend sticking with deep hues of statement colors such as deep reds, greens, oranges, etc. You’ll still get a pop of color without dirt showing up easily.

"The perfect size should comfortably fit everything I require for my particular journey without becoming overly burdensome to carry,” says Kelley. If you plan on carrying your laptop in your tote, always double check the tote’s dimensions to see if it’s large enough.

One of the biggest mistakes you can make with your tote—or any bag for that matter—is to hang it in storage. The constant strain on the straps will gradually weaken them, leading them to break eventually. Instead, you should store your bags on a flat surface and consider stuffing them with tissue paper to help retain their shape.

Byrdie writer Rachel Simon has covered shopping and style extensively for publications including Glamour , InStyle , Brides , and more. She teaches writing with Gotham Writers Workshop and Redbud Writers Project.

Freelance fashion writer and full-time copywriter, Dagmara Cintron covers not only fashion, but local Los Angeles stories, rising Latina women stories, and more across other platforms. Having lived between LA and New York City for the last 4 years, she personally shopped around and tested countless travel bags and totes.

Emily Cieslak is an associate commerce editor, covering beauty and fashion. She personally uses the Caraa Studio Tote for commuting to work. Together, the writers interviewed these style experts for this article:

• Deseri Kelley is the founder of luxury handbag brand, DESERI— here she aims to make luxury handbags more accessible to people with a black woman-owned brand, at a reasonable price point. 
• Ashlyn Greer is a professional stylist and founder of Fashivly, a virtual personal styling service. 
• Marissa Galante Frank is Bloomingdale’s Fashion Director for Accessories and Beauty.

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The Best Tote Bags and Purses for Work and Weekends

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The Best Zippered Tote Moment Everything Tech Tote (19L) Read more

The Best Leather Tote Cuyana System Tote Read more

The Most Fun Olend Ona Soft Bag Read more

A Cute and Capable Tote Baggu Duck Bag Read more

Everyone needs a good bag, and if you're commuting to work or toting textbooks around campus, you need a good laptop bag. Backpacks are great—and we have lots of favorites —but laptop tote bags and purses are just as capable and offer more stylish options if you prefer traditional handbags (like me).

Whatever your needs or style, we have an option you should like. These totes aren't the thin, pocketless bags we all seem to accumulate. We tried bags that make organization easy, and that can stand up to the elements and the normal amount of wear and tear that life brings. If you prefer a laptop backpack or a messenger bag , we have guides for those too, as well as a roundup of all our favorite types of bags made from recycled materials .

Updated March 2024: We've added Olend's Ona Soft Bag and the Rux Waterproof Tote as picks, as well as the Dagne Dover Petra Convertible Tote to our honorable mentions. We've also updated prices and links throughout.

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The Best Zippered Tote

Moment's totes are a WIRED staff favorite because they can keep you organized and distribute weight like magic. No matter how much junk is shoved inside, they shouldn't give you shoulder pain as you go about your day. They’re also made from recycled nylon.

The Everything Tech Tote has pockets within pockets, next to pockets. And because it comes from a photography brand, it's made to protect all your expensive gear with padding, weatherproof recycled nylon, and a full-zip closure. It also holds Moment's camera insert for even more organization and protection. WIRED reviewer Julian Chokkattu took it to the beach last summer and could fit two water bottles, towels, sunscreen, his dog's food, and extra clothes, as well as his camera and a spare lens using the included divider.

The Best Leather Tote

The Cuyana System Tote is beautiful, with a design that should outlast trends. It gets its name for the add-ons that clip inside to work as an efficient system for your needs, taking you from work to dinner to weekends away. But you have to pay a premium for those. The bag itself isn't padded to protect your electronics, but you can get the laptop sleeve or organizational insert (both $98). The latter includes a laptop compartment and water bottle holder, plus two additional slip pockets. It snaps closed in the middle, but there isn't a zipper.

Purses sometimes suffer at the point where the strap meets the rest of the bag—the more you stuff into it, the more weight those straps hold, and flimsy threads can unravel. With this bag, the straps are integrated into the leather. There is, of course, stitching elsewhere, but I threw this bag around while it was filled to the brim and it held up. A nice bag is an investment you can make, instead of accumulating a bunch of cheapies. Still, the price is painful.

★ More accessories: You can add a flap bag ($128) that works as a clutch when that's all you need, or as an inner compartment to hold essentials. An adjustable strap ($58) makes the clutch or the entire purse a cross-body bag. We recommend getting the laptop sleeve first and the others later if you need them.

The Most Fun

This is the perfect example of a bag that is a great work bag, but doesn't look like a work bag. It's puffy, fun-colored, water-resistant, and multifunctional. It snaps closed, and you can leave it as is or pull the side straps to cinch it in tight, giving it a bowling-bag shape. Or untie the main straps to turn it from a handbag to a backpack.

The Ona Soft Bag fits laptops up to 17 inches. There isn't a laptop pocket, but I carried my MacBook around with no issue—it's padded enough that I felt comfortable throwing it in my backseat or accidentally bumping a wall while walking. Inside is a slip pocket, and the back of the bag has a zipper pocket for your phone, or even a wallet or passport. The fabric is a bit noisy when you walk, similar to that crinkly, swishy noise your winter coat might make. Olend has a bunch of great bag options, and I've already got my eye on the Mini Ona .

A Cute and Capable Tote

WIRED reviewer Brenda Stolyar loves her Baggu duck bag. She had been looking for a lightweight bag that was comfortable to wear with a coat (tote straps tend to annoyingly slide off jacket sleeves). Her boyfriend gifted her the embroidered floral version and it's been the only bag she's worn since.

An adjustable strap makes it easy to switch between carrying it as a crossbody or a traditional tote. Both ways are comfortable, whether you're bundled up in a coat or not, plus you can hold it from the top handles too and leave your shoulder free. She regularly loads it with a 15-inch MacBook Air, a change of clothes, and a book. The smaller, inner pocket holds her wallet, chapstick, and keys. It's roomy, comfortable, and effortlessly cute, plus the recycled cotton canvas is machine-washable.

A Runner-Up Purse

I loved Cuyana's System Tote so much, I tried its Oversized Sling made from recycled plastic. It zips fully closed and is a little more casual, but it fits a ton —I brought it on a plane and shoved in everything I couldn't fit in my suitcase, including a deflated pool floaty and a platform high heel (the other was shoved in a different bag). Compared to that, toting around my work supplies was nothing.

For more organization, you can add Cuyana's tote insert , but it carried a laptop just fine without it. It's also machine washable as long as you use a mesh bag. This oversized option is best for work and commuting, but there's a smaller size too. As someone who has used cheap, TJ Maxx bags her whole life, the quality is obvious with Cuyana.

The Best Budget Tote

This is Bean's "field tote." Its rugged construction is designed for long, wet mornings spent trudging through the New England muck in search of waterfowl. It has an outdoorsy vibe, and the entire interior surface of the bag is coated with a thin layer of water-resistant thermoplastic. That lining isn't leakproof, but it gives the tote enough hardiness to make it well-suited for hauling wet gym clothes, carting snow-crusted boots, or schlepping sandy beach towels. Not the sporty type? I'll sweeten the deal: I use this bag for my weekly trips to the farmers' market. I can dump in damp bunches of carrots, dewy napa cabbages, and dirt-covered beets while never worrying about soiling my clothes or the bag; the plastic lining keeps the moist crud firmly on the inside and wipes clean with a paper towel.

I use the extra-large size (50-liter capacity, $60). It can hold a week's worth of veggies, plus a couple half-gallon cartons of oat milk and a 12-pack of hard kombucha. It's a no-frills affair, you just get one large compartment, but don't be afraid to stuff it silly. All the seams are double-stitched, the thick polyester shell is reinforced with a second layer of material along the bottom, and the handles are beefier than an Aberdeen Angus. It's also available as an open-top tote, but get the zip-top version. You don't want to be picking loose grapes up off the floor of the car. —Michael Calore

The Best Budget Laptop Purse

If you're in school or newly entering the workforce, spending over $100 on a bag is hard to stomach—it's still hard for me. We tried a few inexpensive, best-selling laptop bags from Amazon, and this Newhey was the best. The inside is well organized, with two pen slots and side pouches for a phone or wallet. A large zipper pocket runs down the middle of the bag, and a padded laptop sleeve is secured with a Velcro strap.

There's a lot of room inside, but it's thin when it isn't stuffed full, so it feels nice and comfortable under your arm. The outside is a soft vegan leather, made of polyurethane, with adjustable handles and a removable strap for slinging it across your body if you need to. However, I could see a clear difference in quality when it came to the stitching and materials. I don't see this bag lasting forever, but if you treat it well, it should be OK for a while. It was under $30 nearly all of 2023, but it has gone up a bit since then.

For Weekend Trips

I (Adrienne) decided I needed a different bag for when I didn't want to look like a child in my backpack. The O.G. 2 is a larger version of the brand's Nouvelle purse ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ). It comes in a medium and a large version; the medium is adequate, but you need the large if you have a laptop bigger than 13 inches. I like that it’s low-profile and has both smooth leather grab handles as well as a shoulder strap. I have kicked it under plane seats and around airports and my kid's dance classes, and the nylon doesn't show any damage. It also has sturdy feet on the bottom so you can sit it on a counter or table without it falling over, or on a floor without the bag getting gross and dirty.

I also liked a hidden shoe compartment on the side if you’re traveling from a cold to a hot location and want to switch to sandals. The toothed zippers do tend to crinkle and snatch at your knuckles when the bag gets overstuffed, but I suppose you could always, uh, avoid overstuffing your bag. Overall, it’s a light bag that works well for work and travel. —Adrienne So

A Waterproof Bag

Earlier this year, TikTok influencer Emily Mariko—she of the viral salmon bowl fame —launched an obscenely priced canvas farmers market tote , notable only because it had her name monogrammed on it. If you’re going to pay that much for a tote, it should be as useful as Rux’s waterproof one. I find myself using this tote every day. It’s made from a light and flexible 420-denier TPU-coated nylon, but stands up easily on its own so you can sort through it. It has a shoulder strap and lash points, so you can either sling it over your shoulder or bungee it to the rack on your bike. It does not have a laptop compartment, but the base is foam, and I feel comfortable taking my 13-inch MacBook in it in a separate laptop sleeve.

I’ve been using it for everything from going to lunch with piles of library books while biking in the rain, to hauling my stinky dog gear on vacation, and taking my climbing gear to and from the gym. When the bottom gets covered in gunk or chalk, you simply rinse it out and use it again. After several months of hard wear, it still looks good as new. We love the company’s all-purpose storage system too. —Adrienne So

An Upcycled Woven Tote

This is probably what you picture when you think of a tote—it has one large compartment with two smaller internal pockets and it doesn't snap or zip closed. Still, it comfortably fits a laptop, books, and day-to-day accessories so it could be used as a work bag or for a night away. On a recent cross-country move, this bag held every piece of random junk I thought I might need in the car and the straps didn't even seem to notice the weight.

It's made from returned and damaged Lo & Sons bags , which gives it a fun patchwork style and the available colors are pretty, especially the deep green and blue.

The Best Tote-Backpack Combo

This is our favorite recycled bag because nearly everything on it is made from recycled materials. It's also a great, water-resistant laptop bag that you can wear as a tote on one shoulder or unzip the hidden straps to wear as a backpack. This is a work tote that's durable enough to also work for a camping trip or other outdoor activities that I do not partake in. It was hard to find for a while, but stock seems to have returned.

The padded laptop sleeve is big enough that you can keep your laptop in a case if you want, but you don't need one. It has organizational pouches inside the front zippered pocket for a phone, wallet, or pens that you need to access quickly. Two side pockets hold water bottles in place, and expandable elastic straps can hold bigger bottles or keep smaller bottles tightly secured. When you're ready to go from backpack to tote, just unclip and hide the straps away again in the back compartment.

A Sustainable Cult Purse

When I first got to college in 2012, every cool girl in a sleek outfit had a black and brown bag under her arm. (Even Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton have them!) Eventually, I found out it was the original Longchamp Le Pliage. I've now tried a Le Pliage of my own, but this one is made of recycled polyamide canvas , which is constructed from old fishing nets and carpets.

What makes the bag so popular among students and professionals alike is its large size and durable, weatherproof fabric. Rain, snow, or spilled coffee won't ruin your belongings, and you'll look nice too. It also zips fully closed. The straps are comfortable, but I could see them digging in more than the other options if I were stuffing this full of textbooks. If you're traveling and want to take this as your backup purse, not only is it incredibly thin as it is, but you can fold it up and snap it closed to about 10 inches by 6 inches, plus the straps. On the minus side, it doesn't have a dedicated laptop sleeve, so you'll have to buy your own.

Recycled Yarn-Stuffed Bag

Verloop's mini tote is one of my favorites when I don't need to carry much. This is a slightly bigger bag from the brand, and it's made from paper-thin nylon stuffed with scrap yarn. The result is a cool, colorful explosion reminiscent of the ’90s. I haven't seen anything like it. There is a matching pouch too that you can use in whatever other bag you prefer.

It won't fit your laptop but you could put a tablet or a Kindle in here. I regularly stuffed it full with snacks and a book, bringing it to the gym or work. The biggest issue is just how loud the nylon is when you touch it. It's like walking with a chip bag.

If You Need a Pocket for Everything

The Drift is my (Michael's) new favorite travel tote. It's burly, but with styling that's refined and classy, and the rolled handles and removable strap make it comfortable to carry either by hand or over the shoulder. But the best thing about it is the smartly organized storage pockets inside and out. It feels designed especially for people like me who always carry an army of gadgets with them.

There are two zippers along the top of the Drift; one leads to the 28-liter main compartment, the other to a padded laptop pocket that can fit a 16-inch PC. The front of the bag has a smaller zip-up slot for a Kindle or iPad, plus an exterior compartment with several pockets for cables, pens, chargers, and notebooks. A dedicated phone pocket on the side of the tote is lined with a fuzzy non-abrasive fabric. The other side has a slot for a water bottle. (It fits a slim Klean Kanteen, but not a chubbier Nalgene.) Just know that the Drift is kind of a beast. It's too huge to slide under the seat in front of you on an airplane, but it fits into an overhead baggage compartment. —Michael Calore

If You Prefer Briefcases

I think a tote or backpack is a more modern choice for a laptop bag. However, Stuart and Lau's Cary is very versatile, though quite pricey. It's made from twill with leather accents, so it looks nice but not pretentious. The organizational details are also thoughtful—the internal laptop case pops in and out, which is genius. The bag also has two small additional pockets. On the opposite side is a sleeve, plus four pockets and two pen slots. The exterior hosts five additional open slots, a small zippered one, and loops to hold an umbrella. Plus, it's waterproof to protect your electronics while commuting. It even comes with a reusable shopping bag.

Stuart and Lau's Campaign Briefpack ($385) converts from a super organized briefcase to a backpack. With both options, you can tell the brand put thought into the construction of its hardware and leather accents. Unfortunately, they're both expensive.

Even More Totes We Like

• Bellroy Tokyo Tote for $129 : This is a solid runner-up to our top pick from Moment. It's similarly pocketed, with a soft sleeve to cradle a 13-inch laptop, two 5-inch pockets for a phone, wallet, cables, or a small notebook, and larger “pop” pockets on either end that extend to hold a water bottle, umbrella, or shoes. It's made of recycled plastic bottles , and its straps have a nice rubbery grip to keep it on your shoulders.
• Dagne Dover Petra Convertible Tote for $285 : The Petra is made from recycled polyester and plastic bottles. It's durable and huge —it fits a 16-inch laptop and is almost 17 inches tall. It's probably too big for an everyday bag. But the hardware is heavy-duty metal, and the laptop compartment is padded. This might be a solid diaper bag .
• Lo & Sons Catalina Supreme Tote for $338 : Lo & Sons is quickly becoming one of our favorite brands and this tote was great for a weekend away. It's capacious with a bottom compartment for a pair of shoes. Don't need a separate compartment? Just unzip the bottom of the main compartment to create one larger space. The Catalina Supreme is made from a durable recycled material that kept its shape even when empty, but it's quite expensive.
• Chrome Industries Barrage Tote for $100 : This bag was one of our top picks, but stock has been limited and it's no longer on the Chrome Industries site. If you can find it, it's an insanely durable bag that's “built twice” with a welded, waterproof liner and a tough nylon shell. Two internal sleeves fit a 13-inch laptop. They aren't padded, but you can squeeze a case over your laptop if its paper-thin. The cargo netting front can expand and contract to fit whatever you need in there—a bike helmet, a small bag of groceries, shoes.
• Lovevook Laptop Tote for $36 : We liked the budget Newhey a bit better, but this purse is a close second if you want to spend the bare minimum. The interior is nearly identical to the Newhey, and it has a pretty V-shaped pocket on the outside that makes it look higher-end than it is. The vegan leather is stiffer, but it's hard to say if that makes it more durable long-term or if its structure is more prone to cracks. Either one you get will likely serve you well for a little while until you can save up for something better
• Fjallraven Kånken Totepack for $100 : We love the Kånken backpack . Its Totepack is essentially the same bag, but can convert from a tote to a backpack like the United By Blue option. This one is more compact, though. There's a 13-inch laptop pocket and two side pockets for water bottles or a small umbrella—but they're tight, so don't expect to fit a large bottle in there.
• Lojel Niru 3-Way Tote for $55 : Lojel has a few nice bags made of recycled nylon. This tote has become my go-to pool bag, with its big open space and a zipper compartment for holding my card. Lojel's three modes of carry include holding it by the handles or the strap. Technically, the third is that you can roll it up when you aren't using it. I like the convenience, but I wouldn't call it a method of carrying it.
• Troubadour Featherweight Tote for $195 : The Troubadour Tote looks nice but isn't trendy–which means it will last you a while and go with whatever you're wearing. It snaps closed, so your stuff is not completely protected from the outside world, whether that's rain or sneaky hands on the subway. There's a laptop sleeve secured with a snap, zippered and elastic internal pockets, plus side snaps to slim it down when you can. There's also a small clip to hook onto a wallet or keys.
• Lux and Nyx Origami Tote for $288 : This bag is stunning, with a design that can go from work and the gym to dinner or the airport. There's a padded laptop sleeve, two interior side pockets that can hold mini-umbrellas or even a flat shoe, a small zip pocket hidden inside the exterior V-shape sleeve that holds a phone, and a luggage pass-through on the other side. There are two versions, one made from neoprene and satin, but neither biodegrades .

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The Best Tote Bags

By Zoe Vanderweide

Zoe Vanderweide is a writer focused on style and accessories. She has personally tested nearly 300 bags, jeans, bras, shoes, and more.

A good tote is for the schlep.

One day your trusty tote bag transports your laptop and a couple of books, and the next it holds three bunches of celery and a melon from the farmers market.

No matter its size or composition, a tote should be easy to pack and unpack, useful whether you’re heading to a coffee shop or an office, and attractive and versatile enough to bring to dinner afterward.

We found five terrific tote bags that will suit a variety of tastes, carrying needs, and budgets. Our picks include a practical canvas carrier , a luxurious open-top leather bag , a super-sturdy structured canvas tote , a refined twill tote with leather handles , and an unstructured, effortlessly elegant full-grain leather tote .

The research

A casual-cool canvas tote: baggu zip duck bag, a luxurious open-top leather bag: cuyana classic easy tote, a structured open-top tote made from heavier canvas: l.l.bean boat and tote open-top, a sophisticated and structured open-top canvas tote: filson rugged twill tote bag, an unstructured, open-top leather tote: leatherology uptown vertical tote, how we picked and tested, other good tote bags, the competition.

Baggu Zip Duck Bag

All-purpose workhorse.

This durable tote comes with a 40-inch adjustable strap as well as top handles, giving you multiple carrying options. However, due to its thin canvas material, you may feel—and get poked by—the contents of the bag.

Buying Options

May be out of stock

Note: The Zip Duck Bag is a slightly redesigned version of our original Baggu tote pick, the Duck Bag. The updated model has a zippered top closure, rather than a snap. On the interior, a zippered pocket has been replaced by a slip pocket. Otherwise, the bag—its dimensions, material, and overall look—remain the same. We are testing the newer model and will report back.

Have you been searching for a canvas bag that’s simple but good-looking? If you want something soft and unstructured, versatile and long-lasting, consider the Baggu Zip Duck Bag .

It’s a utility player. We can’t pin the Duck Bag’s excellence on a single feature, and that’s where its genius lies: Its practical simplicity makes it a more universal choice than any other tote bag we tested.

The entire Wirecutter staff seems to have used a Duck Bag at some point, and during our testing we received a lot of positive feedback about its style. Overall, the Duck Bag was the most well-liked canvas bag we tested because of its understated yet pleasing aesthetic.

The Duck Bag is 11 inches wide by nearly 16 inches tall, and thanks to its flexible seams, it can accommodate a large volume of contents. “I can stick my whole yoga mat in there,” one tester told us.

Notably, its shoulder strap extends to 40 inches, double the strap length of most totes we tested. You can wear the strap on one shoulder or across your body like a messenger bag, or you can carry the tote by its short top handles.

However, if you are using the long strap, and the Duck Bag is resting close against your body, be aware that the canvas material does not offer much protection against the items inside. (Some of our testers who were around 5-foot-3 complained that when they carried the tote hoisted over their shoulders with a laptop inside, it would hit them at an uncomfortable spot.)

It’s tougher than it looks. This tote felt sturdy over weeks of testing and didn’t pick up much dirt—and in our experience, these bags have held up extremely well. Lesley Stockton, senior staff writer on the kitchen team and our food stylist, has owned a Duck Bag for over a decade and has used it for everything from lugging knife rolls and heavy clogs to hauling a giant food processor across New York City. The bag is still functional and has remained mostly intact, showing its age with some minor thinning in spots and one small hole on the seam that Lesley says would be easily mendable (she just hasn’t gotten to it yet).

Baggu recommends machine-washing the Duck Bag—most canvas bags have to be hand-washed or spot-cleaned—and line-drying it, though you can also wash it by hand. According to Lesley, after countless washings, the bag’s canvas is buttery soft.

The Duck Bag comes with a one-year warranty against defects in material and workmanship, which is common for tote bags, and 65% of the 100% cotton canvas construction comes from recycled sources .

Its zippered top keeps your stuff in check. The Duck Bag’s large main compartment zips at the top, keeping its contents contained. (An older model of this bag closed with a snap instead; it is no longer available.) And unlike with open-top totes, you don’t need to worry about other folks catching sight of your belongings. “Throw some tampons in there,” said a tester. “No one ever has to know because you don’t ever have to see it!” The interior of the Duck Bag has one slip pocket, which is handy for stashing keys, sunglasses, or a wallet.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Depending on how you carry the Duck Bag, and what its contents are, it could feel unpleasant against your body; for example, items in the bag can poke you through the fabric when you have it slung over your back. A few testers around 5-foot-3 noted this issue but found that extending the strap and wearing it as a crossbody bag resolved the problem.
• The Duck Bag’s lack of heft—often a plus—can also be a minus. One staffer said that when her bag is too full, the long, thin strap can feel uncomfortable on her shoulder. And since the tote is unconstructed, which means that it’s floppy when it’s empty, it can’t stand on its own until it’s filled with stuff.

Size: 11 by 15.75 by 4.75 inches Weight: 13 ounces Strap length: 40 inches Closure type: zipper Colors: 10 patterns and colors, including natural grid, wavy gingham brown, and embroidered ditsy floral

Cuyana Classic Easy Tote

Shape-shifter.

This unstructured tote—made from supple Italian leather—is refined, lightweight, and generously spacious. But with just one small inside pocket, it isn’t easy to keep organized.

The Cuyana Classic Easy Tote is an elegant and lightweight leather bag. We’d wear it just about anywhere (barring rugged outdoor adventures), as its soft, supple leather and unstructured shape give it a relaxed and subtly luxurious vibe that can easily transition from casual outings to more formal settings. It’s large enough to fit everything you could need for a long day, and it has two sets of different-length handles, so you can comfortably sling the bag over your shoulder or carry it by hand.

We like the easy access of this open-top design, but if you prefer the security that a closed-top bag provides, Cuyana also sells a zippered model of this tote, for around $30 more.

It’s a long-term investment. The Easy Tote is a beautiful, spacious leather bag that retails for about $270. Although it’s the most expensive tote we recommend here, we’ve concluded that it’s well worth the money. The soft, pebbled texture of the Italian leather feels luxurious, but it’s not too fancy to use every day—the bag’s unstructured, slightly slouchy shape makes it cool and casually elegant.

The Easy Tote has a two-year warranty , longer than the coverage on any tote we recommend aside from our Filson pick , which is covered for its lifetime.

It’s supersized. At 21.5 inches wide by 12.25 inches tall, the Easy Tote is big—we’re talking hiding-an-actress’s-pregnancy-for-TV big—and seriously roomy.

The appeal of a big, open-top tote is the ability to throw a lot of stuff in it and carry it everywhere. Aside from its spacious main compartment, the Easy Tote has just one internal open pocket that’s large enough for the fundamentals, such as a small wallet, a phone, and a set of keys. But this is not a bag for someone who wants to be hyper-organized, though if you do want that, Cuyana makes a cool yet pricey $100 bag organizer sized exactly for this tote.

You can carry it multiple ways. The Easy Tote is equipped with two sets of handles in different lengths. The longer set, with a 10-inch drop, is well-proportioned for wearing the bag on your shoulder. The other, with a 6.25-inch drop, is ideal for carrying the bag by hand or sliding it over your forearm. The straps are soft and flexible, and they’re pretty cushy and comfortable to wear and carry, without looking bulky.

• We wish that this bag had more organizational features than just a single internal pocket.
• Like our picks from Baggu and Leatherology , this Cuyana tote is unstructured, so if you haven’t filled it and you set it down on the floor or your desk, it won’t stand upright.

Size: 12.25 by 21.5 by 5 inches Weight: 1 pound 10 ounces Strap length: 10 inches Closure type: none (also offered in a zippered version , for around $30 more) Colors: black, caramel, cappuccino, stone, dark olive, ecru, assorted seasonal colors

L.L.Bean Boat and Tote

Customizable, iconic.

This timeless structured bag is made from durable, long-lasting canvas, and it’s available in multiple colors, sizes, and handle lengths.

The iconic L.L.Bean Boat and Tote Open-Top is a structured and ridiculously sturdy tote bag, well suited to handling the abuse of regular trips to the beach or the grocery store. The Boat and Tote also offers more customizability than any other tote bag we found in terms of size and handle-length options.

It’ll never go out of style. The Boat and Tote looks timeless. You’ve likely seen this bag before—if not in your city’s hip neighborhood, seated next to cool 20-somethings, then maybe at the beach, where parents are using it to secretly smuggle in thermoses full of negronis.

Its structured design allows it to sit upright, and its open top lets you easily reach in and grab something. Even when it’s not full, the bag sits mostly upright, ready to go when you’re grabbing it from the backseat or hurrying to get off the bus.

It’s ultra-customizable. The Boat and Tote offers a slew of options to make it your own. In addition to being offered in a dozen colors, it comes in small, medium, large, and extra-large sizes and two handle lengths. The standard 6-inch handles allow for better control, while the 11-inch handles accommodate carrying larger objects or slinging the bag comfortably over your shoulder.

The medium Boat and Tote Open-Top, which is the model we tested, is 13 by 12 inches, so it’s slightly wider than it is tall. As advertised, it’s open at the top, so there’s nothing to keep your belongings in place—though L.L.Bean does sell zip-top versions of this bag for a bit more. (The zip-top model without a pocket costs about $10 extra, and the one with a pocket is around $20 more.) The open-top style is ideal for grocery shopping and other outings where easy access and visibility are a plus.

It’s especially sturdy and built to last. The Boat and Tote is made of heavy-duty cotton canvas; its overlapped seams are double-stitched with nylon. Thanks to its colored bottom, we didn’t spot any blemishes over the few weeks we tested it. (L.L.Bean recommends spot-cleaning.) The fabric is stiff and structured, which makes it difficult to fold up and put away in a dresser.

L.L.Bean claims that the bag’s straps are rated to hold up to 500 pounds; as we are unable to hold more than 150 pounds without crying, we could not confirm.

People we know who love the Boat and Tote are adamant that it is the best tote bag you can buy, to the point of annoyance. Admittedly, it is very good. Although L.L.Bean no longer offers a lifetime warranty, its guarantee is solid: You can return the tote within one year of purchase, and after that, the company will consider returns due to defects.

• The Boat and Tote’s sturdy, upright construction may qualify as a flaw to some people, since you can’t fold this bag up to stick it in a drawer.
• This bag lacks both internal and external pockets, though a zip-top version with an external pocket is available.

Size: 13 by 12 by 6 inches Weight: 1 pound 8 ounces Strap length: 6 inches Closure type: none (also available in a zippered version for around $10 more) Colors: 12 colors, including black, blue, dark green, red, natural

Filson Rugged Twill Tote Bag

Chic and sleeker.

This roomy bag offers all the sturdiness and practicality of a canvas tote—and even a lifetime warranty—but with elegant leather handles and a more refined look. Plus, it has lots of handy external pockets.

(FINAL SALE)

When you need the utilitarian qualities of a canvas tote and also want to look stylish, polished, and like you’ve got it all together, turn to the Filson Rugged Twill Tote Bag . The simple but elevated design of this open-top, leather-handled twill bag makes it an equally appropriate companion for a day of running errands or a nice evening out.

It’s sharp-looking. The Filson Tote has a clean, unfussy design and sleek handles, made from bridle leather, that give it more sophistication than the average canvas bag. “I feel like I could take this tote bag anywhere," said one tester.

It can stash a lot of stuff. The Filson Tote is 14 inches wide by 14 inches tall, wider than our other canvas picks. It has a spacious single main compartment that can fit bulkier items like shoes or a sweatshirt. On the exterior, four expansive pockets offer even more storage. Each of the bag’s broader sides has a full-length exterior pocket that’s roomy enough to hold a 13-inch laptop; one includes a key-clip lanyard. The tail ends of the bag have smaller pockets that are well proportioned for a water bottle or umbrella.

If you’re looking for even more toting capacity, Filson also makes a larger, 15-inch-wide version of this bag , which has a zippered closure (rather than an open top); it costs around $20 more. We have not tested this model.

It’s as tough as it is refined. “Rugged” is right there in its name, and it actually delivers: This bag is made from 100% cotton abrasion-resistant and water-repellent twill. The canvas is stiff enough that the bag can stand up on its own, and the inner seams are bound to protect them from fraying. It has a reinforced base, too. Filson recommends cleaning the bag by wiping it or brushing it.

The Filson Tote is well built and feels like it could last for years; plus, it’s the only one of our picks that’s covered by a lifetime warranty .

• The handles on the Filson Tote were stiff at first, though they softened over a few weeks.
• It would be nice if this bag had some—or any—internal pockets in addition to all of the external pockets.

Size: 14 by 14 by 5.25 inches Weight: 1 pound 12 ounces Strap length: 29.5 inches Closure type: none (also available in a zippered, larger version for about $20 more) Colors: tan, otter green

Leatherology Uptown Vertical Tote

Laid-back leather.

This slouchy, minimalist bag feels simultaneously polished and effortless, and its ridiculously soft full-grain leather is a joy to touch. Plus, it has useful internal pockets—including a zippered one.

The Leatherology Uptown Vertical Tote is an attractive and versatile unstructured full-grain leather bag; it has a relaxed, bohemian elegance that makes it easier to dress up than similarly drapey canvas bags. Perhaps most notably, it looks and feels like butt-ah .

Folks flip for this bag. When it came time for our testers to vote, the Uptown Vertical Tote handily beat every other leather tote bag option we tested—people loved this bag. One panelist couldn’t stop spouting effusive compliments: “My favorite; I love her so much. She feels buttery-soft! Beautiful texture.” Another agreed: “I want to touch this forever. It feels so supple.”

The interior has a black cotton-twill lining that works as a protective barrier against spills or messes. Leatherology recommends wiping the leather exterior clean if it gets dirty.

The Uptown Vertical Tote comes with a one-year warranty .

It’s sized just right. The Uptown Vertical Tote is 14.75 inches wide by 15.5 inches tall. “It's the perfect length,” said one tester. “I could fit my laptop in here without anyone knowing.”

The bag’s shoulder straps put it at an ideal height underneath our arms, and other testers—of varying heights—liked them, too.

It has plenty of internal organization. Inside the bag, you’ll find two open pockets and one zippered pocket—an unusual amount of organization for a leather tote. The two deep, open pockets have leather trim along their tops, while the zippered pocket on the other side is shorter and wider, well suited for storing a wallet or keys.

• The Uptown Vertical Tote is an unstructured tote, so when you place it on the ground, it collapses onto the floor.
• Although some of our testers liked that this bag didn’t button or zip at the top, others wished they had a way to securely close it.

Size: 14.75 by 15.5 by 3.5 inches Weight: 2 pounds 4 ounces Strap length: 9.5 inches Closure type: none Colors: black, Bordeaux, navy, tan, gray

To begin our research, we put together a list of more than 40 tote bags from manufacturers that were well known and respected (such as Baggu, Cuyana, Filson, and L.L.Bean) and from smaller brands with outstanding editorial and customer reviews (like Leatherology, Linjer, and Steele Canvas), along with a handful of highly rated totes sold on Amazon.

We wanted to recommend totes that would be large enough to hold a 12-inch laptop along with a book, a notebook, an umbrella, pens, a USB battery pack, a pair of headphones, and some charging cables.

With that in mind, we then further narrowed our list down to 20 totes based on specifications, aesthetics, materials, and price.

When we received the bags, we spent a few weeks testing the contenders before assembling a panel of nine Wirecutter employees—all with different tastes, wants, and needs—to test the final 10 totes and share their feedback. Our panelists rated the bags on looks, feel, size, weight, usefulness, material, and durability.

If you want a tote that's particularly well suited for carrying your laptop: The Bellroy Tokyo Tote Second Edition 15L , one of the picks from our guide to the best laptop tote bags , is a fantastic tote for commuting to the office. It has copious internal organization, a protective laptop area, and a durable zip-top closure. But it’s stiffer and not as deep as our picks in this guide, which is why we're not recommending it as a universal carryall.

If you want a tote that’s beach-ready: The Steele Steeletex Beach Tote is chic, black, and utilitarian. Our testing panel was confounded by this bag’s nylon material and the brass grommets on its bottom (which are meant to help shake out unwanted sand from the beach), preferring our L.L.Bean Boat and Tote Open-Top pick overall. Still, if the look of the Steele Canvas tote appeals to you, it could be a great beach bag.

This is not a comprehensive list of everything we’ve tested for previous iterations of this guide, just what’s still available.

The Dalix Heavy Duty Cotton Canvas Tote had notably weak stitching, despite being one of the most popular tote bags sold on Amazon.

Multiple testers described the pricey Leatherology Belmont Structured Tote as “not for them,” prompting us to wonder who, exactly, it would be for.

We found the leather Madewell Transport Tote much too narrow to use every day.

The Nodykka Tote Bag is an affordable vegan leather tote bag, but not one tester liked it. The straps were too thin and flimsy for some, and the feel of the bag itself was too wobbly for others.

The Patagonia Market Tote was cute but felt too much like a free printed tote—and not worth its $45 asking price. We did appreciate the small internal pocket, though.

This article was edited by Ingela Ratledge Amundson and Jennifer Hunter.

Meet your guide

Zoe Vanderweide

Zoe Vanderweide is a senior staff writer reporting on style and accessories at Wirecutter. She has been wearing things for over three decades, and she has spent years covering streetwear, luxury, art, and design. Off the clock, you can find her painting the town rainbow with her (devastatingly stylish) daughter.

Further reading

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

Whether you’re going to school, work, the gym, the store, or on vacay, you need a bag. Here’s the Wirecutter-recommended carrying gear we love most.

The Best Laptop Tote Bags

Our favorite laptop bags are not only a stylish step up from utilitarian messenger bags but also more refined and work-appropriate than classic canvas totes.

The Seven Best Reusable Shopping Bags, According to Wirecutter Staff

Here are Wirecutter’s seven favorite reusable shopping bags and totes for when you want to BYO bag.

This Excellent Reusable Grocery Bag Fits in Your Pocket

Baggu’s range of tote bags (including a reusable grocery bag that holds 50 pounds) are seemingly indestructible, incredibly spacious, easy to clean, and even easier to carry.

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13 Best Tote Bags for Laptops

• Travel Gear
• 13 Best Tote Bags for…

If you happen to be a digital nomad, a hardcore traveler, or someone who needs to carry your computer around, getting one of the best tote bags for laptops is a must. Compared to a briefcase or backpack, tote bags with laptop compartments offer significantly superior space and organization. Plus, they generally come with voguish looks. Perfect for those who want to look more professional while on the go. So, here we’ve prepared a list of 13 best tote bags for laptops for you to choose from. That includes those gorgeous leather laptop tote bags, so there should be something for everyone!

How to Choose The Best Tote Bags for Laptops

Since you’re going to be putting some of your essentials in it, you obviously want to consider carefully when looking for the best tote bags for laptops. And since there are a wide variety of tote bags with laptop compartments out there, the best way to decide is to find one that truly fits your traveling habits. Apart from that, think about what kind of looks you want to achieve.

With all that in mind, here we have three important factors to ponder when you’re planning on getting leather laptop tote bags or other work bags in general. So, without much further ado, let’s jump right to the topic!

So, the first thing you should do when looking for the best tote bags for laptops is to measure your device. See if it has a 13 or 15-inch screen. This will determine how big a bag you need. Apart from that, think about cables and power supply. If you think they’ll take up a lot of space, consider getting a bigger work bag.

Next, check what kind of material was used. See if it can last long enough against wear and tear. For the best durability and looks, we recommend getting leather laptop tote bags. But if you think they’re too pricey, nylon or neoprene work bags will do the trick.

Finally, see what kind of features it has to offer. Each tote bag with laptop compartments has its own notable feature. Some may come with a dedicated compartment or crossbody strap, while others offer long-term warranties. The point is, see which one fits your needs best. After that, narrow down the options according to your budget.

And speaking of being productive on the go, you can check out our list of the 13 best laptop stands for travel . Get the comfort of working like in an office, as you enjoy your trip!

Can a Tote Bag Fit a Laptop?

Absolutely. In fact, there’s a tote bag specifically designed with a dedicated laptop compartment. They can generally fit laptops between 13 and 15 inches. Great if you need to stay productive while on the go.

How Do You Measure Laptop Size?

First of all, you need to prepare a measuring tape. Next, measure the diagonal line on your laptop screen. Start at the bottom left corner and end at the top right corner. The length you get is the size of your laptop.

If you’re still unsure, you can check out our list of the 13 best laptop backpacks for travel . They generally feature a large compartment and can fit most laptops. Plus, you will also get some extras such as zippered pockets, mesh pockets, and detachable straps!

What is The Best Tote Bag for Work?

You can opt for some well-known brands like Cuyana, Kate Spade, and Celine. They’re known to have good quality and material standards. The good news is, you can find some of their best deals on this list!

Duck Bag Canvas Tote

Some of you may know Baggu as a manufacturer of recycled bags. Recently, they’ve tried to expand their market by launching a collection of tote bags with laptop compartments. And boy, they’re all fantastic! You have a wide variety of patterns and colors available to suit your mood.

As for capacity, the Duck Bag Canvas Tote can accommodate up to 15-inch laptops. Plus, there’s a mini interior pocket for storing essentials like charging cables, SD cards, and USB drives. You can even fit your lunch here! Another thing to love about this work bag is the material. Since it’s made of canvas, you can easily get it clean in a laundry machine!

What We Love

A pretty canvas bag, washing machine friendly, and holds everything well

• Hold 15 inch laptop
• Includes an interior pocket
• Spacious and roomy
• Eco-friendly
• The straps aren’t long enough

Check Price & Info

Multi-Pocket Work Tote

Get yourself a stylish look without breaking the bank! The EaseGave Multi-Pocket Work Tote is one of the best tote bags for laptops that won’t cost you an arm and a leg. That’s why this work bag is one of the most sought-after items on Amazon. It’s available in wonderful colors and can accommodate up to 15.6-inch laptops.

We personally love how the EaseGave Multi-Pocket Work Tote looks totally professional. This makes it perfect for interviews or when you need to meet with business colleagues. Our advice, get one while it lasts!

And when it comes to laptops, did you know that most electronic devices tend to show a decrease in performance when they overheat? That’s why we highly recommend you check out our list of 13 best coolers for laptops . Find some great solutions to make your device perform optimally, without any thermal interference.

A stylish product available at an affordable price. Fits up to 15.6-inch laptops.

• Eco-leather material
• Multi pockets
• Sleek design
• Reinforced padded soft foam
• Need to be careful with the handle

Amolar Laptop Bag

Finding the best tote bags for laptops that can meet all your needs is definitely not an easy task. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. Enter the Amolar Laptop Bag . This tote-style carrier has substantial compartments and massive pockets to keep all your gadgets safe. It can accommodate up to 15-inch laptops and a couple of tech accessories.

For easier transport, Amolar includes a detachable cross-body strap. And in case you’re on a trip, there’s a slip-through pocket here. This way, you can quickly attach the work bag to your suitcase. Awesome!

A tote-style carrier with substantial compartments for all your tech

• Fully lined interior
• Two opening pouches
• Middle roomy space
• Pocket tablet
• It felt a little stiff

DTBG Laptop Tote Bag

The DTBG Laptop Tote Bag would be an excellent option for anyone planning to take a lot of stuff on their trip. This gorgeous thing has nearly a dozen small compartments with varying accords. They’re all designed to keep all your tech, accessories, and other essentials safe during transport.

Being one of the best tote bags for laptops, the DTBG Laptop Tote Bag is designed to last. The outer part is resistant to scratches and water. Inside, you’ll find a dedicated sleeve that can fit laptops up to 15.6 inches. And for better security, there’s a fastener installed.

Packed with nearly a dozen pockets, great for anyone planning to carry a lot of stuff

• Lightweight
• Stylish design
• Separate compartment for laptop and iPad
• Big pocket with two slots
• There’s no hard bottom

Hynes Eagle Veegul Canvas Laptop Bag

Versatile is probably the right word to describe the Hynes Eagle Veegul Multifunctional Canvas Laptop Bag . Thanks to its genius design, you can wear this bag as a messenger bag, tote bag, or even a briefcase. Apart from that, the canvas exterior gives off a smart casual look. This bag will be great when you attend semi-formal gatherings or happen to be on a business trip.

Meanwhile, the Veegul interior uses polyester material to ensure all your tech remains unscratched. And just like the other leather laptop tote bags on this list, there’s a dedicated laptop compartment here. It features soft padding and a velcro strap for better fitting and safety.

A versatile work bag, can be used as a messenger bag, tote bag, or a briefcase

• Multifunction
• Classic shape
• Padded laptop sleeve
• Pockets organizer
• The color of the actual product differs from that on display

McKlein Alexis

For those who prefer something stylish, it doesn’t get much better than the McKlein USA Alexis Leather Laptop Briefcase . This beautiful bag is offered from as low as 150 bucks and is available in a variety of stunning colors. Most users claim to be satisfied with this work bag, as it’s said to be able to provide a great balance between looks and functionality.

As expected from the best tote bags for laptops, McKlein Alexis comes with a variety of excellent features. On the front and back, you’ll find a number of pockets of varying sizes. Meanwhile, the main compartment highlights a convenient organizational pocket. Furthermore, Alexis boasts an exterior made of genuine cow leather, which isn’t only durable but looks absolutely gorgeous!

Provides a good balance between function and style

• Two small front pockets with magnetic snaps
• Main compartment divided by a secure zipper pocket
• Fits laptops up to 15.4 inch
• Interior organizer section
• Some say the bag is a bit too stiff

Tanto Laptop Tote Bag

Not only cute, but the Tanto Laptop Tote Bag will also help you stay productive while on the go. This compact work bag can fit up to a 15.6-inch laptop. Apart from that, you’ll get some awesome extras, including an external USB port and a detachable shoulder pad. In addition, Tanto also includes a small pouch with a hand strap. It’ll be perfect for storing a few toiletries or changes.

With no less than 20 organizational pockets, it’s no wonder that many dub Tanto as one of the best tote bags for laptops. You’ll find everything you need, from zipper pockets, umbrella holders, eight small pockets, to pen holders. Plus, it’s available in a variety of colors!

And in case you want something with a bigger compartment, you can check out our list of the 13 best laptop backpacks for women . It’s a curated list of some of the best solutions for safely transporting your laptop and other belongings.

A fashionable tote bag with some cool extras

• Large and spacious
• Rich pockets
• USB port design
• Easy to carry
• Doesn’t come with its own battery

Vaschy Canvas Laptop Tote

Want to achieve that vintage look but don’t plan to spend a lot? You can give the Vaschy Vintage Leather Laptop Tote a try. This charming bag is made of a combination of waxed canvas and genuine leather, making it look both elegant and stylish. In addition, it’s also resistant to water. That way, you don’t have to worry when it’s drizzling out there.

Best tote bags for laptops are supposed to offer extra protection and that’s exactly what you’ll get with the Vaschy Vintage Leather Laptop Tote. This sturdy product has a refined material that’s invulnerable to shocks. Plus, there’s a reinforced bottom, so the bag will stay upright when you put it down. And for around 50 bucks, Vaschy is definitely a no-brainer!

It’s stylish, shock-proof, and comes with a reinforced bottom

• Classic look
• Made of superior quality cowhide leather
• Durable waxed canvas
• It’s quite heavy when fully loaded

Chomeiu USB Tote Bag

Find your device to be on low battery all the time? Then do yourself a favor and get the Chomeiu USB Tote Bag . This structured bag comes with an external USB port, which allows you to charge your phone while hopping between appointments. Chomeiu would be a great bag for all working women. It’ll also make an excellent gift for your wife!

As for capacity, the Chomeiu USB Tote Bag boasts a massive compartment. You can practically fit almost anything into this bag. One user even admitted to carrying their furry pal inside this thing! So if you haven’t decided among the best tote bags for laptops, Chomeiu will be an awesome alternative.

Equipped with an external USB port, allowing you to charge your phone wherever you are

• Large capacity
• External USB charging port
• Durable waterproof material
• Fashionable design
• The black color isn’t as dark as expected

Overbrooke Reversible Tote Bag

If you want to do something nice for Mother Nature while keeping all your belongings safe, check out the Overbrooke Reversible Tote Bag . This unique bag is made from 100 percent vegan leather. Not only is it environmentally friendly, but it’s also completely safe on the skin and resistant to water. Some customers did claim to smell strange chemical odors as they unboxed their bags. However, this can be resolved quickly. All you need to do is let the bag air out for a while and the weird smell will go away forever.

Just like the other best tote bags for laptops on this list, the Overbrooke Reversible Tote Bag has a massive main compartment. You can easily put a 15-inch mini-tablet or laptop in here. What makes it unique is that the bag comes with a detachable coin pouch. As for the color, Overbrooke comes in light brown and white.

Made from 100 percent vegan leather which is environmentally friendly, safe for skin, and resistant to water

• A tough and flexible double-sided material
• Made of 100 percent Vegan Leather
• Water and scratch-resistant finish
• Some say it’s not big enough

Kate Spade Canvas Tote

Known for its cute patterns, the Kate Spade Canvas Tote is one of the best tote bags for laptops as well as a popular fashion item on Amazon. The product specification states that the bag is made of cotton. But from what we’ve experienced, it feels more like cotton, which is a good thing. Furthermore, the interior is coated in monochrome color, with a small pocket on one side.

Unfortunately, you won’t find a zipper here. Apart from that, the Kate Spade Canvas Tote is also not that big when compared to the other bags on this list. However, you won’t find it difficult to fit a 13-inch laptop, mini-tablet, or a couple of books here. A little tip from us: put velcro on the inside to make the bag more secure.

And when it comes to security, why don’t you check out our list of the 13 best lightweight women’s laptop backpacks ? They’ll make a great solution when you want to take your work equipment and tech on a long trip.

A cute tote bag with cool patterns on the outside

• Made of heavyweight canvas
• Appealing design
• There’s no zippered pocket

Scarleton Reversible Tote

Quality should be the last thing you worry about from the Scarleton Reversible Tote . If you check their product page on Amazon, you won’t find anything but positive comments and reviews! Thousands of customers claim to be satisfied with the size and quality of this faux leather bag. Some even specifically mentioned that the tote looked like it was made of genuine leather.

Packed with a massive main compartment, the Scarleton Reversible Tote will be a great help in organizing your tech and accessories on the go. It can accommodate nothing less than a laptop, charger, mini-tablet, wallet, and even a pair of office shoes! Even better, at the time we wrote this article, this gorgeous bag is available at a discounted price of 30 bucks.

One of the best tote bags for laptops made of faux leather and features a massive compartment

• Made of eco-friendly PU leather
• Main pocket with magnetic closure
• Includes a coin bag
• Some of the seams are inconsistent

Chiceco Travel Bag

Chiceco Travel Bag is able to gather a lot of popularity lately thanks to its multifunctionality. Carrying a large compartment, this bag is said to work great for both working women and nursing mothers. On regular days, it can fit all kinds of tech and accessories with no problem at all. And once the weekend arrives, you can convert it into a cute diaper bag!

Most users also like the fact that the surface of the bag is easy to clean with a simple wipe of a tissue. This should come in handy when you’re on a trip or traveling with your little one. If there’s one thing that we might have to criticize, it’s probably the shoulder straps. They’ll put a lot of pressure on you when the bag is fully loaded.

Versatile, great for working women and nursing mothers

• Zipper closure
• IPX4 Waterproof
• Microfiber leather straps
• Practical design
• Shoulder straps could be better

Author:  Craig Connors

As a travel enthusiast and experienced adventurer, I have spent years exploring the world and discovering hidden gems in every corner of the globe. From backpacking through Europe to trekking in the Himalayas, I have chased my passion for travel and embraced every opportunity to learn about different cultures and ways of life. Now, as a travel writer and website author, I channel my love of exploration into creating informative and inspiring content for fellow travelers. Whether you're planning a solo trip to a remote destination or seeking family-friendly activities in a bustling city, I am dedicated to providing you with the tools and knowledge you need to make the most of your journey. With a keen eye for detail and a love of storytelling, I bring each destination to life through vivid descriptions and engaging narratives, highlighting the unique experiences and attractions that make each place so special. So join me on this journey of discovery, and let's explore the world together!

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14 Best Laptop Bags of 2024, Tested & Reviewed

Protect your laptop in one of these stylish bags.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Best Overall

Calpak luka expandable laptop tote.

Nubily Laptop Messenger Bag

Most Versatile

Dagne dover signature tote.

Whether you're commuting or traveling, a laptop-friendly backpack will make the trip a lot more comfortable. Features like a built-in sleeve help distribute the computer's extra weight and provide added protection like padding, thoughtful lining and a secure fit. When choosing a laptop bag, consider when and where you'll be using it — like to the office, on vacation or to school. Models vary based on size, shape, design, materials and the number of compartments.

In the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, our experts have tested everything from tote bags to travel backpacks , college backpacks , laptop sleeves and more. To find the best laptop bags, we tested more than 20 bags and backpacks , placing laptops in each to rate how comfortably they fit inside and whether the bag contains any features to keep it protected. Lastly, we gathered feedback from our editors and consumer testers regarding the bag’s comfort, appearance and laptop fit after using it for several weeks.

Below you’ll find the Textiles Lab's top-tested picks for every need, based on our real-world testing, rave consumer reviews and editor favorites from brands we know and love.

The Luka tote impressed GH analysts immediately. We love that it's available in a range of colors from bright hues to classic neutrals so all of our testers were able to find a look they loved . This bag has convenient zippered pockets on the top and side so you can easily access your phone, keys or wallet on the go, and you can even unzip the bottom of the bag to make it up to 4 inches larger for storing more accessories, like chargers or notepads.

In Lab tests, the laptop sleeve was suitable for devices anywhere between 13 to 17 inches. Our pros also love the bag's lightweight design and soft material, which makes it convenient to carry around whether you're traveling or commuting to the office. Plus, there's a luggage sleeve so you can slip it onto your carry-on for even easier transportation.

Laptop size: Up to 17", according to tests

This sleek and simple laptop bag can be carried as a messenger bag or tote making it particularly versatile. It features a padded, built-in laptop sleeve as well as separate compartments and pockets to keep all your essentials organized. It’s also lightweight at just 1.9 pounds when empty. We love that this pick is available in 10 different colors, and it's affordable enough to grab in multiple shades to match your whole wardrobe.

With over 11,000 reviews on Amazon, shoppers love that it’s sturdy — but not bulky — and fits everything they need. It also has a top zipper closure and adjustable strap length for a better fit.

Laptop size: 15.6"

Perfect for work, travel, running errands and more, we can't get enough of this super versatile laptop bag that fits everything you need, all while looking both chic and professional . Our analysts love that it features rounded shoulder straps for comfortable carrying, as well as a zippered top, a small storage compartment and a hook for your keys. Bonus: There's a water bottle holder inside so you stay hydrated!

In Lab tests, we were able to fit a 13-inch laptop into the dedicated laptop sleeve easily, though larger laptops still fit inside the bag (just not inside the sleeve). Although we wish it were available in more than three colors, the bag's professional, timeless design more than makes up for it.

Laptop size: 13"

Baggallini Essential Laptop Tote

For under $100, you can wear this simple laptop tote as a crossbody or shoulder bag.

But what we love most is that it comes with tons of organizational features, including credit card holders, zippered compartments and a laptop sleeve suitable for larger devices (though in Lab tests we noted that the Velcro wasn’t fully secure with 17” computers). It also has two easy-access pockets on the front, one zippered and one opened, as well as a luggage sleeve on the back that can be zippered shut and used as a pocket.

Made of synthetic materials, the bag is easy to wipe clean when needed, and unlike other laptop bags, it comes with two water bottle holders on the sides. It's both functional and practical, weighing in at just over 1 pound.

EaseGave Multi-Pocket Work Tote

Finally! A stylish laptop bag that doesn't cost a fortune. This popular pick on Amazon has adjustable straps and comes in four colors (including black and a pretty soft pink), and it fits laptops up to 15.6 inches in its padded laptop sleeve. We love the chic stitching and buckle details.

One GH Textiles Lab analyst used this laptop bag throughout college. She says the structured, professional look makes it perfect for interviews, and over 1,500 Amazon reviewers agree that it's worth the buy. Just note that it's a bit heavy at 2.6 pounds, so this pick might feel heavy for some, especially once you add a laptop.

Calpak Kaya 15 Inch Laptop Backpack

If you'd rather carry everything on your back but don't love the look of traditional backpacks, then try this faux leather pick from Calpak that blends fashion with function, proving that a laptop backpack can look both professional and stylish .

Not only is this chic work bag one of Calpak’s most popular styles, but it's also a favorite among GH Lab analysts. A separate laptop compartment measures 15 inches and includes a built-in sleeve with a faux leather snap, so you don't have to worry about anything scratching it when you're digging for other items.

There's also a luggage trolley sleeve that can secure the bag to the handle of a carry-on suitcase . We also like how the slim profile looks sleek rather than bulky, yet the roomy interior still fits everything you'd need for the work day or last-minute business trip. Just note that the backpack straps aren't padded, so it's not ideal to wear it for long periods of time.

Laptop size: 15"

Cuyana System Tote

Known as a sustainable fashion brand , Cuyana is popular for its versatile totes designed to be classic and long-lasting . The System Tote uses Italian leather and features a timeless design that our testers loved.

For ultimate organization, you can pair this bag with the brand's tote organizational system or sleek laptop sleeve , but note that these items cost extra. One tester shared, "I love the functional design of this bag! It always surprises me how protected my laptop feels once I place it in Cuyana's laptop sleeve, which actually snaps into the bag for a secure fit." While it is on the pricier side compared to other totes, its classic design and elegant colors ensure that it will never go out of style.

But if you do have some extra wiggle room in your budget, we also love the brand's Double Loop Satchel bag, which features a built-in laptop sleeve and elevated design.

Laptop size: 13" or 16" options

Beis The Work Tote

Beis Travel is popular for offering smart solutions with trendy designs, and multiple GH staffers swear by this tote for work thanks to its stylish appearance and functional design. One said they "especially love the zipped top and metal feet on the bottom" that protect the bottom of the bag from touching the floor. This pick maintains its shape even when empty and has a luggage sleeve to fit nicely on top of a suitcase.

Testers loved its "classy and sleek" design and one said, "The design of this tote works really well," and it's "surprisingly lightweight for such a spacious bag." Note that the shoulder straps are thin, but the brand added a removable crossbody strap that’s more comfortable, according to testers.

Laptop size: 13" ( larger option is available for 16" laptops)

Lo & Sons O.G. 2

It's a challenge to keep your laptop safe while traveling, so we love that this pick from Lo & Sons has a built-in padded laptop sleeve to keep your tech secure when on the go. It's nearly the size of a weekender bag, so this pick has a roomy interior to fit everything you need when jetting off on a work trip or vacation.

One Textiles Analyst swears that this is the ultimate overnight bag. It features a separate shoe compartment, convenient zippered pockets and a sleek nylon exterior that's easy to keep clean. "I especially love the built-in water bottle holder and luggage sleeve to fit on top of my suitcase," she said.

Laptop size: 13" in medium and large sizes

Quince Classic Italian Leather Tote

For a 100% leather bag, this tote is a total steal at just $100. The Quince laptop bag features a laptop sleeve, open compartments and zippered pockets. The top of the bag doesn't zip closed, but testers appreciated its structured shape.

"I like the look of the tote bag and how easy it is to pack: roomy in the center with a separate section for my laptop," said one tester. "Also, the roomy pockets inside are convenient and make sorting and separating contents easy so they are easier to find." Although this bag stands up on its own, testers wish the bottom had little feet to keep the base from touching the floor.

Laptop size : 13"

Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack

A backpack is often a more comfortable option than a tote, especially if you tend to carry a heavy load because it balances the weight on two shoulders instead of one.

There are many laptop backpacks out there but we find this one extra comfortable thanks to the padded straps and smooth neoprene fabric. We love that this Dagne Dover bag is available in a range of colors . When we tested this at home, the straps felt soft and squishy, unlike some other backpack straps that can feel stiff or rough, making it feel luxurious to tote around.

It also has a laptop sleeve and an interior organization pocket. It comes with a pouch that can be attached to a leash to hold smaller items like lip balm or keys as well as a dust bag to keep shoes separate. One thing to note: GH Executive Director Lexie Sachs found her Dagne Dover neoprene bag tends to pill but she says she’s also very rough with her bags. Pro tip: To easily remove pills you can use a fabric shaver .

Laptop size: 13" (Medium), 16" (Large)

Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote

This roomy tote bag from Longchamp has been a favorite among students for years, thanks to its simple design that holds everything they need while looking stylish. Its classic look makes it versatile, and many online reviewers say they have used this bag through college and beyond.

"I LOVE how spacious this bag is and how many items I can fit in the bag without it feeling bulky or overfilled," said one GH Analyst. "I can comfortably fit my laptop, toiletries bag, lunch Tupperware and so much more in this bag daily." She notes that the bag easily folds up for simple storage when not in use. The only thing she wishes is that the bag offered more organizational features like pockets or compartments. "I cannot boast enough about this bag, and absolutely will be using it for many years to come and convincing all of my friends to get one for themselves!"

Leatherology Aleena Soft Zippered Tote

When traveling on public transit or storing your bag in an overhead compartment, a zippered top is a must to keep your belongings safe. Leatherology is a favorite brand among GH staffers for creating high-quality pieces with a range of customization options like hand-painting and debossing, which cost extra. This pick is available in seven shades of supple, full-grain leather with a non-structured shape . Although there is no specific laptop compartment, we appreciate that this bag is over 20 inches wide to accommodate larger computers.

Laptop size: 16"

Madewell The Transport Tote

With many of us working from coffee shops and coworking spaces, a laptop bag no longer needs to be professional enough for office wear. The Transport Tote line from Madewell has a more casual, lived-in look while still using durable leather materials. This tote was a tester favorite for being ideal to use whether heading to work, running errands or traveling. Madewell also offers this bag in different sizes and materials too.

One tester said, "I have other leather totes that are more saggy and flexible, but I like how this one kept its shape. It really has been so versatile for me — I've used it for work, with my kids and going to events, and it always fits everything I've needed." Some GH staffers have even noted that their Transport Totes have stayed in great shape even after years of use.

How we test laptop bags for women

Lab analysts at the Good Housekeeping Institute have tested hundreds of bags, from all types of luggage to backpacks for college students to tote bags and more. When we test laptop bags, we first evaluate them in our Textiles Lab, rating how well they fit a laptop, the number of pockets present and if there's a padded laptop sleeve included or built-in. Next, we ask testers to try out laptop bags during their everyday routines, commuting to the office, traveling and more. These picks are based on a recent test where we evaluated more than 20 styles as well as expertise from previous backpack and luggage testing.

Senior Textiles Lab Analyst, Emma Seymour , loading samples into an abrasion tester to evaluate fabric durability.

Amanda Constantine , Home & Apparel Reviews Analyst, evaluates a backpack's shape, organizational components and laptop compartment to score the bag's overall design features.

What to look for when shopping for the best laptop bags

✔️ Pockets: To conveniently grab items on the go, look for bags with a sufficient amount of pockets. We like styles that have a mix of open compartments and zippered pockets to keep items accessible and safe.

✔️ Laptop size: Before buying a laptop bag, consider the size of your laptop. Most bags will list what size computers they can accommodate, but if it's not listed, look at the bag's dimensions to ensure a good fit. While many laptop bags have a built-in or included laptop sleeve, not all do, so you may need to purchase a laptop sleeve separately.

✔️ Materials: Leather, faux leather and nylon are popular materials for laptop bags. While leather is more durable, faux leather is a more affordable option. Synthetic materials like nylon are easier to clean compared to leather styles.

✔️ Straps and handles: Tote bags feature shorter shoulder straps, but some also have a longer crossbody strap. If you plan to carry a heavier load, a padded crossbody strap can make it more comfortable to wear.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Emma Seymour is a senior textiles product analyst in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab where has been testing all types of bags, luggage and backpacks for over four years. She recently tested nearly 20 different tote bags for this story. With a degree in Fiber Science and Apparel Design from Cornell University, she has extensive research experience and product quality assessment expertise.

This story was most recently updated by GH Institute writer and analyst, Olivia Lipski , who covers everything from tech to travel, home, fitness and more. She frequently collaborates with the Textiles Lab and updated the picks above based on the Lab's most recent evaluations and feedback.

Emma Seymour (she/her) is the associate director of the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance. 

Olivia (she/her) is a senior reviews writer and analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute , overseeing product testing and covering tech, travel, home, fitness, parenting, health and more. Since joining GH in 2021, she has continued to leverage her extensive product reviews experience by staying on top of the industry’s latest innovations and helping readers make better buying decisions. Olivia is a graduate of the George Washington University, with a bachelor’s degree in journalism, political science and French, and she holds a master’s degree in communications from Sciences Po Paris.

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20 Best Laptop Bags for Women for Commuting in Style This Winter

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

As much as you might dislike your commute, the best laptop bags for women can make it arguably much smoother. Of course, they're built to hold your tech in style—but even when you’re off the clock, these roomy bags can punch up your everyday outfits, take you to the gym, and act as travel bags . We'd argue it's a wardrobe essential for the on-the-go person, whether you’re headed to the office, school, or your local coffee shop. Here's what to look for and our favorite options with every budget and aesthetic in mind.

What to consider when shopping for a laptop bag

With seemingly endless options available online, picking the right bag can be tough. Do you go with a laptop backpack or a roomy carryall tote as your work bag ? What material should you choose? How much space do you really need? Is there anything cute on Amazon to help you avoid delivery fees? (Answer: Yes.) To start, we suggest thinking about your everyday needs and what you have to lug to the office. Many work bags have dedicated tablet and laptop sleeves (bonus points if it’s padded) to protect your tech. Beyond that, keep an eye out for organizational compartments to hold your phone, notebooks, chargers, water bottle, and other personal items.

When it comes to fabrication, there are generally two routes: leather (or look of leather) or an easy-to-clean woven material like nylon. Consider what complements your work dress code (for example, timeless leather is better for more formal environments, whereas nylon is great if you’re headed to a casual coworking space).

The other thing to keep in mind as you’re shopping is your actual commute. Whether you drive or take public transportation can play into your decision, as you might prefer something lightweight if you have to be on your feet or detachable straps to turn a tote into a messenger bag.

The best laptop bags for women, at a glance

• Best Overall: Lululemon New Crew Backpack , $98
• Best Value: Nubily Leather Laptop Bag , $41
• Best Tote: Cuyana System Tote , $348
• Best Backpack: Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack , $95
• Best Customizable: Madewell Zip-Top Transport Carryall , $198
• Best on Amazon: Ecosusi Laptop Tote , $42
• Best Travel Bag: Calpak Haven Laptop Tote Bag , $178
• Best Designer: Mansur Gavriel Everyday Soft Leather Tote , $795

Best Overall: Lululemon New Crew Backpack

Lululemon New Crew Backpack

Lululemon’s accessories are just as impressive as its Lulu leggings . This sleek backpack has plenty of interior storage for all things work-related—chargers, lunch, a potential change of shoes—plus a padded sleeve that’ll fit 15-inch laptops. Headed to the gym after work? Toss your water bottle and workout sneakers in one of the exterior pockets.

• Colors: 2 options
• Materials: Nylon, polyester
• Size: 11.4" x 7.3" x 16.5"
• Pros: Fits 15" laptops; water-resistant; side pockets; trolley sleeve
• Cons: Won’t fit the largest laptops

Save when you shop for the best laptop bags for women with these Lululemon promo codes .

Best Value: Nubily Leather Laptop Bag

Nubily Leather Laptop Bag

Done up in faux Saffiano leather, this budget-friendly tote with zipper closure looks much more expensive than it actually is. It has clean lines for a professional and polished design that easily pairs with any work outfit. Plus, it’s super roomy, with a padded pocket that will fit up to a 15.6-inch laptop, two open pockets, and a bevy of smaller compartments for extras like notebooks, chargers, and even an iPad. Both its handles and shoulder strap are adjustable, allowing you to find the exact right fit.

• Colors: 15 options
• Materials: Polyurethane, polyester
• Size: 16" x 5" x 12"
• Pros: Fits 15.6" laptops; lots of compartments; water-resistant; removable cross-body strap
• Cons: Not real leather

Best Tote: Kate Spade Knott Large Tote

Kate Spade Knott Large Tote

Saks Fifth Avenue

Classic leather totes don’t get much better: Kate Spade’s take on the work tote bag features a polished design, pebbled leather, an interior slip pocket, and a longer strap drop so it can fit easily over the shoulders. It’s optimal for people who like to have easy access to everything—you won’t find a ton of different compartments, but if you’re carrying just a 13-inch and some other essentials, it’s perfect. “My job requires me to be on the go a lot, from running around the city for fittings to traveling for shoots,” says fashion stylist Ashley Afriyie , who loves a big tote. It is the season of the tote, after all. “It holds all my daily essentials like my laptop, snacks, and maybe a change of shoes. Kate Spade has good ones that don’t necessarily scream ‘work bag’ and look stylish with whatever I’m wearing,” she says.

• Colors: 1 option
• Materials: Leather
• Size: 11.75" x 14.5" x 6"
• Pros: Easy-to-clean material; key ring; tabbed slip pockets; fits 13" laptops
• Cons: Pricey; won’t fit larger laptops

Save when you shop for the best laptop bags for women with these Kate Spade promo codes .

Best Backpack: Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack

Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack

This Everlane bestseller is a popular commuter backpack for a reason. It’s slim but still roomy, with plenty of space for gadgets, books, keys, wallets , and water bottles. The recycled polyester material is durable and water-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about getting your belongings wet on unexpected rainy days. Go ahead and use it as a carry-on too; there’s an external padded laptop sleeve for easy access when you’re going through airport security, a pass-through trolley sleeve to go over your suitcase handle, and enough storage for a change of clothes.

• Colors: 4 options
• Materials: Recycled polyester
• Size: 17.5" x 12" x 7.3"
• Pros: Fits 15-inch laptops; great for travel; water-resistant; recycled materials
• Cons: Unstructured

Save when you shop for the best laptop bags for women with these Everlane promo codes .

Best Customizable: Madewell Zip-Top Transport Carryall

Madewell Zip-Top Transport Carryall

Why not add a monogram to your work bag? Madewell’s top-rated carryall comes with the option to stamp up to 10 characters in 11 color options, ensuring your bag is one-of-a-kind and unmistakably yours. The vegetable-tanned leather has a waxy finish that gets softer with age, and lends a versatility beyond work hours. It’s also incredibly functional, with a removable, adjustable shoulder strap, three interior pockets, and zip-top closure. Hint: Try the medium-sized version if you want something slightly more compact.

• Size: 11.8" x 11.5" x 5.5"
• Pros: Monogrammable; fits 13-inch laptops; durable material; removable shoulder strap
• Cons: Doesn’t fit larger laptops

Save when you shop for the best laptop bags for women with these Madewell promo codes .

Best on Amazon: Ecosusi Laptop Tote

Ecosusi Laptop Tote

Looking for an Amazon bag ? This tote has a padded central laptop pocket divides the main compartment of faux-leather bag into two equal halves, offering plenty of space to organize everything you’ll need throughout the day. Interior zip and slip pockets and adjustable straps round out its workhorse features—and a surprisingly attractive design certainly doesn’t hurt.

• Colors: 7 options
• Materials: Vegan leather
• Size: 16.5" x 11.8" x 5.1"
• Pros: Affordable; fits 15.6" laptops; lots of compartments
• Cons: Heavy

Best Designer: Tory Burch Perry Triple Compartment Tote Bag

Tory Burch Perry Triple Compartment Tote Bag

This sophisticated Tory Burch Italian pebbled-leather tote comes in goes-with-everything colors like black and tan, but we also love the dove gray or ivory for the brave. There’s a center padded laptop compartment and three internal slip pockets, as well as a removable logo charm that adds a touch of luxe. Protective metal feet will also keep your tote in top condition.

• Colors: 5 options
• Size: 11.4" x 14.2" x 5.3"
• Pros: Fits 13" laptops; reinforced handles; lots of color options
• Cons: Light color may stain quicker.

Save when you shop for the best laptop bags for women with these Tory Burch promo codes .

Best With Charger: Lovevook Laptop Backpack

Lovevook Laptop Backpack

Here's another Amazon find. This backpack prioritizes functionality: It opens completely at the top and thanks to the plethora of pockets, it comfortably fits an entire office desk’s worth of stuff, including a 15.6-inch laptop (though you can size up to fit laptops as large as 18 inches). Thoughtful touches like padded straps, a built-in USB port, and a tissue pocket only sweeten the deal.

• Colors: 22 options
• Materials: Polyester
• Size: 12" x 7.5" x 16"
• Pros: Fits 15.6" laptops; waterproof material; plenty of storage
• Cons: Some reviewers say the mesh straps can be scratchy; not as structured as some might want.

Best Cross-Body: Calpak Haven Laptop Tote Bag

Calpak Haven Laptop Tote Bag

Calpak makes one of the best laptop backpacks on the market, so it’s no surprise that its laptop tote bag is also exceptional. We like the minimalist design, but the functionality is really where it’s at. Although you can opt to carry this with its top handles alone, its wide cross-body strap is ideal for carrying heavy gear without digging into your shoulders or hands. The best feature? It comes with a removable, snap-in pouch that’s perfect for commuting and travel; it fits a 16-inch laptop, and has smaller pockets for valuables and even outer pockets for bottles or makeup.

• Colors: 9 options
• Materials: Vegan leather, polyester
• Size: 16" x 12.5" x 5"
• Pros: Wide shoulder strap; removable interior laptop case with compartments

Best Lightweight: Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote

Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote

Bloomingdale’s

You can’t beat the classics. Longchamp’s iconic Le Pliage has long been a workplace staple because of its compact, foldable design, sizable interior, and easy-to-clean material. Plus, it also happens to be super light, weighing less than a pound, making it a convenient choice for travel. “Since I mostly work remote except for work travel, I use my tried and true Longchamp tote as a multipurpose laptop bag for travel days,” says Sunny Ghia , a director of investor relations and corporate communications at a health tech company. “It’s also great for long days at conferences to stash everything I need!”

• Materials: Leather, nylon
• Size: 12.3" x 11.8" x 7.5"
• Pros: Wipe-clean material; lightweight design; folds flat
• Cons: Might be too small for some; only one inside compartment

Save when you shop for the best laptop bags for women with these Nordstrom promo codes .

Best for Small Laptops: Coach Willow Tote

Coach Willow Tote

While most laptop bags skew large, Coach’s slim tote is a welcome exception. It’s not bulky yet fits most 13-inch laptops and comes in the brand’s signature high-quality leather and coated canvas. Metal feet keep the bag upright (and scuff-free) while a logo turn lock closure prevents your valuables from falling out.

• Materials: Leather, coated canvas
• Size: 13.5" x 10.8" x 5.8"
• Pros: Fits 13" laptops; zippered pocket; slim straps
• Cons: Has only a turn-lock and magnetic closure.

Save when you shop for the best laptop bags for women with these Saks Fifth Avenue promo codes .

Best for Moms: Caraa Leather Studio Tote

Caraa Leather Studio Tote

Some of our favorite diaper bags and diaper bag backpacks are from Caraa, so it should come as no surprise that its laptop bag is on this list. Because of its convertible design, this option is great for anyone who doesn’t want to commit to either a tote or a backpack. Simply attach the straps if your load is on the heavy end—your shoulders will thank you. Plus, there are dedicated pockets for a 17-inch laptop, a power bank, a phone, and even gym shoes.

• Size: 13" x 18" x 7.5"
• Pros: Fits 17" laptops; water-resistant lining; dedicated gadget pockets
• Cons: Expensive

Best Sustainable: Cuyana Classic Easy Tote

Cuyana Classic Easy Tote

“I am a big fan of anything from Cuyana, simply because everything is thoughtfully and beautifully designed,” says Glamour contributor Paula Lee . “I love their bags and use one of their totes that’s no longer available, but I also recommend the System Tote, which I’ve tested before. It has a built-in system that you can attach separate add-ons to, making it fully customizable to your needs. The wide leather straps also make it more supportive and comfortable, reducing annoying shoulder strain.” Whether you want to snap in a leather laptop sleeve, zippered pouch, flap bag that doubles as a clutch, or add a removable strap, this clever tote will work overtime for you. In addition to the large size that accommodates 16-inch laptops, it’s offered in a smaller version for 13-inch laptops.

• Materials: Italian leather
• Size: 11" x 5.5" x 19"
• Pros: Beautiful design; quality materials; fits up to 16" laptops
• Cons: Can get expensive and heavy with the add-ons

Best Splurge: Mansur Gavriel Everyday Soft Tote

Mansur Gavriel Everyday Soft Tote

Mansur Gavriel

You don’t need to spend this much on a work bag, but if you’re in the market for an investment piece, this supple leather tote is a great designer pick (just ask Katie Holmes, who has been sporting this exact style). This soft shoulder bag has an open top with tie closure, comes with a removable zip pouch for keys and cash, and features reinforced handles—perfect for schlepping around work stuff and anything else you might need during the day. This is one of the biggest bags on this list, so it can double as a weekender bag too.

• Size: 21.5" x 11.8" x 9"
• Pros: Fits 16" laptops; versatile design
• Cons: No dedicated laptop compartment or sleeve

Best for Kids: Dagne Dover Dakota Medium Backpack

Dagne Dover Dakota Medium Backpack

If you’re going to a more casual office environment or simply need a personal bag that fits a laptop, this sporty medium-size backpack is a worthy option. It’s constructed with durable premium neoprene and boasts tons of handy features such as a mesh laptop sleeve, zip-top pouch, removable shoe bag (perfect for commuter flats), key leash, and several pockets. Adjustable and padded straps also make it comfortable for all-day use.

• Colors: 6 options
• Materials: Neoprene
• Size: 11.5" x 5" x 17"
• Pros: Fits 13" laptops; lots of compartments; removable shoe insert and pouch
• Cons: Pricey; won’t fit larger laptops; material can crease (steaming removes it)

Best On-Trend: Beis Large Work Tote

Beis Large Work Tote

If you want something that does it all and makes it look effortless, look to this spacious and structured tote. “This black croc tote has become my travel essential—it's chic and functional,” says Glamour commerce director Brie Schwartz , who shares that she opted for the large size so it can double as a carry-on bag. “The tote's generous interior easily accommodates both of my laptops and even leaves room for an extra pair of shoes. Having owned this bag for four years, it has consistently delivered a perfect combination of elegance and practicality.” She also highlights the key-ring feature and removable zipper pouch that she uses to hold makeup.

• Materials: Vegan leather with polyester lining
• Size: 13.5" x 16.75" x 7"
• Pros: Fits 13" laptop; laptop sleeve has a Velcro closure; lots of interior and exterior pockets; removable pouch; detachable padded shoulder strap.
• Cons: Can be heavy

Best Travel Tote: Tumi Large Valetta Tote

Tumi Large Valetta Tote

Tumi is known for its luxury luggage and business travelers may want to consider investing in the laptop totes, which are great for regular office days too. This durable and lightweight nylon tote delivers tons of function by way of the easy access exterior zip pockets, magnetic side gussets, padded laptop sleeve, water bottle pocket, phone slip pocket, and a leather card pocket. The smartest feature? It includes a unique code that will help you track the bag if it’s lost or stolen.

• Materials: Nylon with leather trim
• Size: 11.25" x 15.5" x 6"
• Pros: Water-resistant materials; lightweight; organizational pockets; fits up to 15" laptop; trackable code

Best Convertible: July Everyday Small Tote

July Everyday Small Tote

For a more streamlined option on light days, try this 100% cotton tote with zip top. It’s small but mighty: Function is still the goal. With a padded sleeve that fits a 14-inch laptop, inside pockets, exterior pocket, trolley sleeve, and even a coated lining for easy cleanup, this cute utilitarian style is here to serve. Attach the shoulder strap when you want to wear it cross-body and if the bag needs a little refresh? Throw it in the washer.

• Materials: Cotton
• Size: 11.4" x 14.9" x 4.7"
• Pros: Machine-washable; fits 14" laptop; can be personalized
• Cons: May be too small for some

Best Travel Backpack: Bellroy Tokyo Totepack Backpack

Bellroy Tokyo Totepack Backpack

Wear this sleek convertible bag as a backpack or a tote (the straps tuck away), the choice is yours—and makes it particularly useful when you don’t want to put too much pressure on your back or shoulders. In addition to the padded laptop sleeve, there are pop-up pockets for a reusable bottle or umbrella, inside mesh compartments, and front pockets so all your essentials have a home.

• Materials: Recycled polyester/nylon
• Size: 18.5" x 12.5" x 4"
• Pros: Convertible design; water-resistant material; fits up to a 15" laptop; plenty of pockets

Most Stylish: MZ Wallace Medium Metro Box Tote

MZ Wallace Medium Metro Box Tote

An update to the popular Metro tote, this boxy version is just as versatile and practical. It has the same recognizable nylon quilting, multiple interior pockets, key ring leash, removable pouch, and detachable strap. This one can also hold a 13-inch laptop (though there isn’t a dedicated spot for it), and when you don’t need it, the bag is stylish enough on its own as a regular handbag.

• Colors: 3 options
• Size: 10.5" x 13.5" x 4"
• Pros: Stylish design; lightweight; interior pockets
• Cons: No separate laptop compartment or sleeve

The 24 Best Travel Tote Bags for Your Next Big Trip

Whether it's your only bag or a carry-on supplement, a travel tote will take your packing game to the next level.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

It's no secret that we're Team Carry-on here at T&C , and while we lover a good rolling suitcase , there's something to be said for the classic travel tote to take your packing job from good to great. With overhead space eternally getting tighter on airplanes, the ability to tuck a bag comfortably under the seat in front of you can instantly lower your blood pressure on those stressful travel days—or, simply use them as a way to maximize your "personal item" space by tucking your handbag inside a tote to pack a few extra must-haves . For shorter trips, a tote can offer plenty of space for a long-weekend's worth of outfits, no luggage dragging necessary, and they're far less obtrusive if you're say, leaving for the airport from the office or grabbing a bite at a restaurant before you head to your train. And, of course, a packable tote is your best friend if you get halfway through a trip only to realize your suitcase isn't going zip around all of your shopping finds.

T&C Tried and True

Medium metro tote deluxe.

Separate Compartment for Organization

Lo & sons catalina deluxe tote.

Luxurious Essential

Cuyana easy travel tote.

Whatever your travel needs for the season ahead, odds are that a good tote can make your packing life more organized, and less stressful—honestly, what more could you hope for? With that in mind, we've scoured the internet for the more durable, functional travel totes for every type of traveler, from the serial overpacker to the organization fiend. Here, our favorite finds for all of your journeys.

Perpetually trying to find space in your carry-on for one last thing? Meet what one T&C editor calls, "the personal item of every overpacker's dream." Featuring five exterior pockets, plus six on the interior and an detachably pouch, it will keep all of your travel essentials organized while it's sturdy-yet-lightweight construction makes it easy to tuck in "just in case" items to your hearts desire without overwhelming your arms.

The cushy, reinforced straps are easy on the shoulders, but it also has a detachable crossbody strap and a built-in sleeve to slip over the handle of your luggage if you don't feel like toting. It also comes in four sizes (we're fond of the medium for it's ability to hold oodles of stuff while still slipping neatly beneath the seat in front of you on a plane) and a seasonally-refreshed roster of more than a dozen shades, making it as stylish as it is functional.

Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe Tote

For the "a place for everything and everything in its place" traveler, this tote has you covered with a zippered bottom pocket that's perfect for separating out toiletries or dirty shoes from the rest of your haul (an interior panel also allows you to open the bottom compartment fully, if you're craving a deeper bag.)

Available in recycled poly or sturdy canvas, at 15" x 14" x 7", it qualifies as a personal item for most airlines and has a handy luggage sleeve to pair with your suitcase. For those looking for larger options, it comes in four additional sizes as well.

Cuyana bags are a favorite of T&C editors and royals alike ( Meghan Markle is a big fan ) for their timelessly stylish silhouettes, buttery soft leather, and effortless functionality. This, their latest launch, is made specifically with travel in mind.

Crafted with lightweight, durable pebbled leather (currently available in four colorways) it offers ample interior space (a 37L volume, to be precise) plus two large pockets, a phone slip, and a key clip, as well as snaps for Cuyana devotees who want to mix in their System Flap Bag or System Zipper Pouch .

lululemon Packable Tote Bag

If you're more of a "shop when you get there" traveler, this bag brings the souvenir space without taking up lots of room in your primary bag. Water-repellant and roomy (it holds 32L by volume) it features rugged shoulder straps, plus an extra strap that lets it slip over the handle of roller luggage, and can fold into its own exterior pouch when not in use to make a tidy, handheld bundle.

Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote

Some things are classic for a reason. Case in point: this timeless Longchamp tote; just ask T&C 's associate shopping editor, Sophie Dweck, who's been carrying hers for over a decade . Made from sleek, easy-to-clean nylon that comes in a cornucopia of colors, it features a simple, spacious interior and strong leather straps that ensure it can stand up to anything your travels throw at it, and look good doing it.

ETRONIK Travel Duffel Bag with USB Charging Port

Looking for a tote that's as useful in your day-to-day as it is when you're far away? This multi-use tote has racked up thousands of five-star reviews on Amazon for its versatility. A separate, vented shoe compartment makes it as friendly to gym sessions as beach trips, while its multiple pockets keep essentials organized. It also includes a luggage strap and a USB charging port so you can plug in your tech without rummaging through your bag for your battery pack, and comes in two sizes and almost 30 shades so it will match your travel style.

One reviewer writes: "I must say, it exceeded my expectations in every way! This bag is the perfect blend of style and functionality, making it a must-have for any woman on the go."

The ReNew Transit Weekender

Type-A packers, take note: this 100% recycled polyester is all about options. Its four colorways can be worn crossbody, carried in hand, or over the shoulder, and include a zippered exterior pocket, a luggage sleeve, two water bottle holders, and a padded laptop sleeve—all with Everlane's signature modern minimalist vibe.

Bluboon Travel Tote Bag

Available in 20 colorways and textures, this canvas tote features a luggage sleeve that also doubles as a tech pouch so your gadgets will always be at the ready. The sturdy construction and bargain price tag have made it a hit with reviewers, who site its roomy 16.5" x 9" x 14" size and comfort.

One reviewer writes: "I am so happy with this purchase! Reasonable price, large main compartment, and a few zip compartments to organize smaller items. Bag fits perfectly under airline seat, even when stuffed FULL. It stayed in place when I had it on top of my roller bag, and I noticed the shape of it kept it from making everything tip forward (which happened with my previous bag)."

Madewell The Shopper Tote

For a travel bag that you can use as a purse all trip, this simple Madewell leather tote brings a perfect mix of style and space (12.75" x 12.75" x 7.5".) It even comes with an interior strap that allows you to change the shape, and doubles as a keyring.

Boat and Tote

True L.L. Bean lovers know that the brand's classic Boat and Tote bag is hard to beat—after all, it's been one of their signature styles since 1944. Crafted from rugged cotton canvas, it's tested to hold up to 500 pounds, so no matter how much you manage to overpack, this bag is guaranteed to take it on. And with four sizes and two interior lengths to choose from, as well as a dozen colors, there's a perfect one for all your needs.

Caraa Studio Tote

Whether you prefer a classic tote style or a backpack, this Italian leather bag gives you the best of both worlds. Along with the usual amenities (a slew of pockets, adjustable straps) it also has a collapsible waterproof shoe pocket for those days your travel plans call for a quick change.

More: The 18 Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks for Easy, Breezy Packing

Béis The Convertible Weekend Bag

This tote brings two-for-one power with a removable bottom compartment that can be used as is, or as a separate packing cube. Easy to clean polyester and polyurethane make it a cinch to keep looking like new, with a built-in luggage sleeve and removable laptop sleeve give it plenty of function for that rush through TSA.

Tumi Voyageur Just in Case Packable Nylon Tote

Some people pack an extra suitcase when traveling abroad. We propose this packable Tumi tote instead. It folds out to an impressive 8" x 14" x 8 size when fully opened and weighs less than a pound, so you can shop to your heart's content while getting those passport stamps.

More: The 13 Best Luggage Brands for Every Type of Traveler

Carhartt Legacy Tote East/West

Built to work hard, this water-repelling polyester Carhartt bag is tough enough to handle all of your travel adventures. It includes two exterior pockets as well as an interior divider and pockets, so it's and functional on the inside as it is on the outside.

One reviewer writes: "Even better than expected! I used it as my personal item for a trip to Mexico…placed my purse, tablet, magazines, etc inside…lots of pockets! Hides dirt, wipes off easily, very well made."

Revive Nylon Large Tote

Available in five-shades, this nylon tote (made with fabric crafted from 27 recycled water bottles with recycled leather trim) has jumbo exterior slip pockets (plus three interior pockets and a keyring) and a built-in padded laptop sleeve to match its roomy interior with organization.

One reviewer writes: "Great color, roomy, lots of pockets to keep things organized and easy to locate. Perfect for work and travel. Very happy with it."

Dagne Dover Jemi Tote

Want a travel tote that makes a style statement? Bring your puffer coat style to your bag with this versatile, vegan tote made from recycled plastic water bottles. At less than a pound and half (it holds 16.2 L volume), it's super lightweight, and has two sets of comfy handles—one for hand-held use and one for shoulder use—plus a luggage sleeve, so it's great no matter your travel style.

Naghedi Jet Setter Small Tote

Fully lined, basket-woven neoprene brings beautiful texture to this travel tote, making it ideal for those situations when you have to go straight from the plane to an event. It also has a zip closure and zippered interior pocket to ensure that your stuff stays in place even on the wildest travel days.

Scout Travel Bag Large

You want all of the weight in your travel bag to be from your must-haves, not from the bag itself. This colorful version from Scout (it comes in half a dozen colors and patterns) is a featherlight 1 pound, yet can hold up to 65 pounds of your gear, and can fold flat when not in use. It also comes with a zipper pocket and reinforced bottom so everything you pack stays comfortable where you want it.

Barbour Medium Travel Explorer Leather Tote Bag

The biggest name in waxed cotton jackets brings their British heritage sensibility to travel with this luxe 100% leather tote. Measuring 17.72'' x 14.96'', it comes with sturdy top handles and an adjustable shoulder strap for comfortable carrying.

More: The 13 Best Luxury Luggage for Traveling in Style

WONHOX Large Travel Tote Bag

This waterproof travel tote features a luggage sleeve, three interior pockets, including a special compartment to separate wet and dry items (looking at you, still-damp swimsuit) and four external pockets, as well as a zip-open expansion on the bottom so your bag can be as big, or small, as you need.

One reviewer writes : "Schlepped this bag all over Europe and it holds a surprising amount of stuff! The little expander area on the bottom really helped me squeeze in a few extra souvenirs. The trolley sleeve is a MUST from now on. It hooks on to your roller suitcase so easily and is sturdy! I was throwing my baggage up on the train, in and out of taxis and through many airports easy peasy."

Lauren Hubbard is a freelance writer and Town & Country contributor who covers beauty, shopping, entertainment, travel, home decor, wine, and cocktails.

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The 11 Best Carry-on Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Our simulations reveal which bags you can count on

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Final Verdict

Product selection, how we tested, other carry-on backpacks we tested.

• What to Look For

Frequently Asked Questions

Why trust tripsavvy.

TripSavvy / Chloe Jeong

A solid backpack is key to a successful trip. Think about it: You can use it as a carry-on, and if you pack light, it'll be the only piece of luggage you bring on a trip. It won't weigh you down as you rush to catch the inter-terminal train at the airport, and it'll look good on you as you stroll the streets of your destination. Find a good travel backpack, and it will serve you for years to come.

There’s a lot to consider when looking for a backpack to take you through all kinds of situations and environments. Waterproof, anti-theft, stylish, lightweight, wheels or no wheels—all things to keep in mind as you shop. To help you make the right choice, we tested 32 carry-on backpacks in our New York testing lab and in the real world. We tested for capacity, design, comfort, durability, and value.

Best Overall

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5

Super durable material

Very comfortable with multiple carry methods

Lighter and more rugged than previous models

Nothing yet

Does the perfect travel backpack exist? We’re not sure, but we can’t think of one that comes closer than the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L. This second version of Cotopaxi’s best-selling backpack is rugged and comfy, has excellent organization capabilities, and is the perfect size to throw in an overhead bin, toss in a vehicle, and huff around from train to hostel.

The pack uses burly TPU-coated 1000-denier polyester and lightweight 840-denier ballistic nylon paneling. It has excellent weight distribution with comfy shoulder and sternum straps and hip belts, or stow the straps and carry the pack with side handles. The inside features multiple pockets of different sizes that we found perfect for separating clean and dirty clothes, electronics, and shoes. Bonus: It comes with a rainfly to protect it from the weather.

Capacity: 35 liters | Weight: 3 pounds, 8 ounces | Dimensions: 20 x 12 x 8 inches | Materials: TPU-coated 1000-denier polyester and 840-denier ballistic nylon

TripSavvy / Jhett Thompson

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Osprey fairview 40.

Quite spacious while remaining carry-on sized

Keeps belongings secure

Good padding and weight distribution

Osprey’s women-specific Fairview 40 pack impressed our tester with its size, space, and compartments. “This bag has a lot of compartments and a lot of straps to hold everything in place,” our tester reported. Despite the bag fitting a bit large, our tester said it was still very comfortable to wear. Osprey employs its proprietary Lightwire Frame Suspension, which helps spread the weight across the back panel and from the harness to the hip belt.

Despite being a 40-liter pack, it weighs just about 3 pounds, thanks to the lightweight nylon ripstop material and frame. “It did not hurt my back, and I like how most of the weight was shifted to my lower back,” our tester mentioned. Besides the fit, we also appreciated that all straps are stowable, making it easy in case you need to check the bag on a plane (which is possible on smaller planes with this larger-capacity pack). For the men’s version of the same pack, check out the Farpoint 40 .

Capacity: 38 liters (extra-small/small size) | Weight: 3 pounds, 1 ounce | Dimensions: 19.3 x 13.8 x 8 inches | Materials: 210-denier nylon mini hex diamond ripstop and 600-denier packcloth

Best Budget

Vancropak 40l travel backpack.

• Capacity 4 /5
• Design 3 /5
• Comfort 4 /5

Great for a short-to-medium-length trip

Could double as a business travel pack

Feature packed and user friendly

Lacks tech compartment

Cloth material could get dirty easily

This 40-liter pack checks all the boxes, including excellent value. Vancropak says it fits enough for trips between three and seven days, and we’d have to agree. “It fit everything even though I packed quickly and not thoughtfully or strategically,” our tester said. “It’s perfect for a weekend trip when you want to pack extra ‘just in case’ outfits or items. It even expands to provide more room. It has extra pockets, opens like a suitcase, has many different handles, and backpack straps that can be tucked and zipped away.” Compression straps also help shrink the bag back down after being packed.

And if you weren’t convinced yet of its value, it also includes packing cubes. “Its business-casual aesthetic makes it ideal for short business trips, too,” a tester added. One nitpick? There’s no laptop sleeve. But our testers thought the other features—and comfort—more than made up for that slight issue.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 3.98 pounds | Dimensions: 20 x 13.7 x 6.2 inches | Materials: Water-resistant polyester

Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack

Functional straps

Multiple ways to carry

Not too weighty

Our tester didn’t love the style

If you didn’t dig the budget pack above, behold another excellent value travel pack. Like the Vancropak, the Asenlin Travel Backpack also includes three packing cubes. Our testers found they could easily fit everything needed for a weekend trip. They also liked the internal straps for organization and the external straps for compression. “It offers three different carrying methods, which is nice,” the testers reported. “It has a lot of different pockets and storage areas. The bottle holder on the side also unzips to expand, which is a thoughtful addition.”

Our testers liked how comfortable the bag was to wear and that it wasn’t overly heavy (the brand claims it weighs less than 3 pounds). We also believe this could double as a business travel bag.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 2.7 pounds | Dimensions: 18.5 x 12.5 x 9.5 inches | Materials: Water-resistant polyester Oxford cloth

Best for Business Travel

Nomatic travel bag.

• Comfort 3 /5

Fits about a week’s worth of items

Loads of internal organization

Comes with an additional laundry bag

Uncomfortable to carry at times

Some scuff marks after tossing around

While we certainly love this bag's sleek and simplistic aesthetic, there’s a lot more to it than just looks. It’s durable and water-resistant and has multiple carry options (e.g., duffel and over the shoulders), a separate shoe compartment, lots of tech organization, and a TSA-ready laptop sleeve.

Our testers loved the capacity of this pack. “It easily fit everything on the list with plenty of room to spare,” one tester said. “I think everything you would need for up to a week away would fit easily.” The pronounced rectangular shape of the bag made it extra easy to pack and helped organize folded clothes. “The bag had two different shoe pockets, a laptop sleeve, and many other compartments for both smaller clothing items and even some work supplies,” a tester reported.

The one drawback of this pack was our testers didn’t find it the most comfortable. Specifically, the straps were stiff and dug into one tester’s neck. Overall, though, our testers were very pleased with the pack and thought it was worth the fit, especially for the design and ease of packing.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 3.4 pounds | Dimensions: 19 x 21 x 14 inches | Materials: Not listed

Best Multi-use

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

• Value 4.5 /5

Excellent capacity

Easy to handle

Thoughtful storage solutions

This 45-liter travel pack from Peak Design debuted at the Outdoor Retailer Expo in 2018 and promptly won many awards. A few years later, it still holds up. Peak Design basically thought of everything when designing this pack. The outside features weatherproof recycled 400-denier nylon canvas and ultralight padded foam. It includes grab handles on each side, stowable hip belts, and a sternum strap. The inside has multiple pockets for organization and loads of room for trips of four days or longer.

Our testers loved the size and the zippers allowing access from four different sides of the bag. “It was super easy to pack, and there were just enough organization solutions to provide options for different packing strategies,” a tester said. “I also loved how many handles there were. A grab handle on all four main sides of the bag makes it super easy to maneuver, especially when putting it in the overhead compartment.”

Testers also liked the sheath built into the pack to stow the hip belt and the small pocket on the belt for stashing quick-grab items like lip balm, keys, or cards. They also enjoyed the water bottle pockets on both sides and the pack's comfort. Oh, and this pack is 100 percent carbon neutral. The only issue they saw was the price—it’s one of the most expensive on this list. But if you can look at this as an investment, the durability suggests it should last for many years. It's certainly carry-on luggage that any travel-savvy guy can appreciate.

Capacity: 45 liters | Weight: 4.5 pounds | Dimensions: 22 x 13 x 9.5 inches | Materials: Weatherproof 100 percent recycled 400-denier nylon canvas external shell and 900-denier waterproof bottom liner

TripSavvy / Conor Ralph

Most Comfortable

Topo designs global travel bag 40l.

Excellent internal organization

Many different carrying options

Great for long travel days

Could be roomier

If your travel involves carrying your backpack for long periods, we recommend Topo Designs' Global Travel Bag. This super durable pack is also super comfortable with plush and padded shoulder straps and a hip belt. We also love that there are multiple ways to carry this pack with a comfy and padded sling. Its construction includes durable and recycled nylons with a canvas feel. And it meets Fair Wear certification standards, ensuring fair labor practices.

“There are a ton of compartments and pockets, so a lot of options for staying organized with small or loose items in the absence of packing cubes,” one tester said. “I could easily see places to stash cords, travel docs, electronics, water bottles, and more.”

While our testers liked a lot about this bag—including its durability—the comfort won them over. “All the features built into the bag suggest it's intended to create maximum comfort for someone who anticipates carrying the bag for a more extended period of time,” our tester concluded.

Capacity: 40 liters | Weight: 3 pounds, 10.4 ounces | Dimensions: 22.5 x 14 x 7.5 inches | Materials: 1000-denier recycled nylon, 400-denier recycled nylon, 210-denier recycled nylon, 1680-denier recycled ballistic nylon

Best Splurge

Bellroy transit backpack plus.

Flat opening made for easy packing

Comfortable to carry

Long lasting

Minimal internal organization

If you weren't convinced by our business travel pick above, consider this your alternative. This pack's sleek, durable, and comfortable design makes it ideal for business and formal travel. Our testers found it easy to fit enough items for up to three or four days away. Lighter packers could stretch this to five days. The inside is designed more like a typical carry-on pack with one large compartment.

“This bag felt super light on my back and was padded in all the right places,” a tester reported. “It has adjustable sternum and waist straps that you can tuck into the back of the pack when you don't want to use them, which is a genius feature.” Our testers were also impressed with the bag's durability, as it survived being tossed around our lab with zero marks or scuffs.

Capacity: 38 liters | Weight: 3.3 pounds | Dimensions: 21.7 x 15 x 9.4 inches | Materials: Recycled Dura nylon

Samsonite Silhouette 17 Backpack

• Design 4 /5
• Durability 4 /5

Suitcase-like opening allows easy access

Eco-friendly materials

Suitable for long travel days

Internal organization may be overcomplicated for some

Launched in 1958, Samsonite’s Silhouette collection is likely the oldest on our list. But those six decades of innovation have helped make this one of the best and most versatile bags out there—not to mention one with excellent style. You can also feel good about your purchase knowing that it features 100 percent post-consumer recycled PET bottles.

Our testers liked the size of the bag and the opening, similar to a suitcase, which made it easy to pack and access items. There were many—almost too many—pockets and compartments. And our testers loved how comfortable and supportive this bag was to carry, noting its excellent weight distribution. “I would recommend this bag to someone looking for a backpack they can use as a primary form of luggage,” a tester concluded. “It has enough room and compartments to fit all of the essentials and keep them organized. It's also comfortable, supportive, and easy to carry.”

Capacity: Not listed | Weight: 3.31 pounds | Dimensions: 20 x 12.5 x 7 inches | Materials: Polyester and Recyclex

Best for Techies

Thule subterra backpack 34l.

Functional and looks good

Bag included for dirty laundry

Portable charger

Not the most comfortable

We’ve been pleasantly surprised with Thule’s line of luggage. And that certainly includes the Subterra backpack. This rugged pack could also be a good commuter option as it has a magnetic rolling top closure, a padded laptop sleeve, and a PowerPocket for charging items on the go. We love that it has many access points and comes with a packing cube and garment bag for dirty clothes.

"I loved being able to put my normal packing cubes inside the big cube that comes with the bag, and I was able to use the bag as a day bag anytime I needed to carry extra, and it never felt super bulky,” a tester reported—however, they noted that the bag didn’t particularly help their already-sore back. Not surprisingly, considering its construction, the pack aced our durability tests.

Capacity: 34 liters | Weight: 2.75 pounds | Dimensions: 20.5 x 12.2 x 9.1 inches | Materials: 800-denier nylon

Best for Storage

Mystery ranch mission rover.

Sturdy with grab handles around the pack

Well-designed internal storage

Different ways to carry

A bit heavy

If you’ve never heard of Mystery Ranch, let us introduce you to the Bozeman, Montana-based brand, which makes super rugged packs for backpacking, hunting, the military, and firefighters. This travel-focused pack is incredibly solid on the outside and has many excellent organization and design features inside.

Highlights include a stowable hip belt and shoulder straps, multiple carrying options, a dirty clothes compartment, three inner divided pockets, and lockable zippers.

Capacity: 30, 45, and 60 liters | Weight: 4.3 pounds | Dimensions: 21 x 13 x 12 inches | Materials: Plain spun nylon, 210-denier nylon

We recommend the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack thanks to its incredibly durable polyester and nylon materials, well-designed internal storage, and included rainfly. Another great pick is the Vancropak Travel Backpack , which rings up at a fraction of the cost of some other options on the market.

We selected products to test based on the expertise of TripSavvy editors and writers and on internet research. Not surprisingly, TripSavvy editors and writers travel a lot. And they have many carry-on backpacks they like and don’t like.

To ensure we weren’t missing anything, we also researched what other prominent sites have featured and looked at top-rated and reviewed backpacks on sites like Amazon and REI. Once an initial list of products was selected, we narrowed it down to the final 28 for testing based on style, function, and price.

We tested the backpacks for capacity, design, comfort, durability, and value. In our New York City-based testing lab, we asked testers to pack each backpack with three shirts, two pants, one jacket, one pair of shoes, and a toiletry bag to test for capacity. We asked the testers to consider all aspects of the backpack’s construction, organizational capabilities, and any design innovations.

Testers then carried each backpack around using the different carrying styles. We asked the testers to rate how comfortable the bag felt fully packed. After the comfort test, we asked testers to toss and throw the bag several feet multiple times. We looked for damage on the outside of the bag and any damage to products inside the bag. Lastly, we asked testers to rate the bag for overall value after a price reveal.

We have since sent the backpacks to testers to continue testing as they travel. We will update this document accordingly as their insights are submitted.

Aer Travel Pack 3 : This pack was comfortable to wear thanks to its supportively firm and cushioned back, while its rugged fabric stood up well to rough handling. Our tester subtracted some points for capacity, as it was a squeeze to get everything on the list to fit, and for the more function-forward style.

Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack : This bag is very nice to look at and proved quite durable. However, it's on the small side and the features aren't particularly travel-oriented—namely, the inflexible bottle holder and the magnetic flip top that is easily displaced when the pack is full.

Minaal Carry-on 3.0 Bag : Our tester appreciated the comfort of the straps and the practical capacity of this bag, though the price was on the higher end and the packing experience was a bit of a learning curve.

Monos Metro Backpack : Another looker, the design of this bag got high praise. We liked the 270-degree opening, the easy-release front pouch, and the comfortable straps. At 18 liters, this back is more of a complement piece to other luggage and could use a better weight distribution system.

Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable : The expansion feature was a hit once we figured out how to use it and the durability of this pack was undeniable. It was difficult to look past a faulty zipper design that got caught frequently when trying to close.

What to Look For in a Carry-on Backpack

Prices for carry-on backpacks vary widely, so consider what your greatest needs are. You can find a spacious travel backpack for under $100—often under $50—but if you plan on facing harsh outdoor environments , consider investing a bit more money for something waterproof. Leather backpacks can cost hundreds of dollars; keep this in mind if that material is important to you. Anti-theft travel backpacks can be a bit more expensive but are often essential in highly trafficked destinations.

There are so many styles out there you could spend days filtering through the different backpacks on the market. Keep it simple: How will you be using this backpack? If you’re interfacing with clients or business partners, look for something minimal and sleek that doesn’t showcase a million pockets. If you plan on living out of your backpack for most of your trip, pockets are more of a priority. You'll want a bag that zips open flat like a suitcase for easy packing and unloading (this also makes going through security easier).

If you are using your travel backpack for hiking, find something with a removable hip harness to distribute the weight of your pack better when you’re on the move. If you plan on wearing your travel backpack casually—only in the airport or to work—seek out a style with adjustable straps and a padded back. This will help ward off any back pain, especially if you carry a lot of weight. When you’re trying on backpacks, test out the shoulder straps and imagine how they would feel if the pack was filled to capacity. Is there ample padding? Will the material cut into your shoulders? Does the back of the backpack feel like it would be breathable?

The size of backpacks is generally measured in volume (liters) or dimensions (inches or centimeters). While it is essential to refer to the specific requirements of the airline you'll be flying, a good starting point for a carry-on when flying domestically is 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 45 total linear inches (115 centimeters) including all handles and wheels. This size comes out to a 43-liter pack, so anything smaller should easily meet any U.S. airline size restrictions. However, this is only the beginning, and several factors may increase or decrease your allowance, such as the size of the plane and flight class you book.

This will vary based on your backpack's materials. For nylon and other water-resistant fabrics, get a damp cloth and spot-clean your pack. A damp cloth will also do the trick if your bag has plastic or metal elements. For leather backpacks, you’ll want to purchase a special leather conditioner and cleaner to maintain the integrity of your backpack.

This is an excellent feature if you plan on hiking or spending long periods carrying your backpack. It will help distribute the weight of your pack better across your body, ultimately providing more comfort. Most backpacks that are focused on outdoor adventures will have this feature.

Many backpacks are marketed as anti-theft, meaning it’s tougher for someone else to get inside your pack. Some backpacks have zippers that allow you to open the main interior compartment while wearing it—so you don’t have to take it off and risk having someone else pick it up. Others are designed with webbing over the zipper openings, making it very hard for someone to locate and unzip the bag while you have it on.

No, this is not the norm when it comes to backpacks. Compression cords make packing easier and function the same way a compression strap or cord would work in a regular suitcase. Some travel-focused carry-on backpacks do have this built-in. But if you want to squeeze in more items, consider investing in some packing cubes . These will help organize your backpack, too.

Nathan Allen is TripSavvy’s Outdoor Gear Editor. He has traveled to five continents, including plane, train, and bus travel. For most travel scenarios, he prefers backpacks over spinners or roller suitcases because of their ruggedness and different carrying methods. He currently uses Cotopaxi’s Allpa 35L, Thule’s Subterra, and Topo Design’s Global Travel Pack the most. Each product recommended in this review was thoroughly researched and tested.

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Best laptop bags for women: sleek, stylish and commuter-friendly designs

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Our working lives look incredibly different now compared to five years ago. While most of us will certainly agree that work-life balance has changed for the better, the cushy hybrid working scenario that we’ve managed to make the norm might not exist for good if certain office-happy CEOs get their way.

Nevertheless, for the time being at least, hybrid and remote working is part of daily life across the globe. Perhaps the only setback associated with being able to work remotely from the beach (and we’re really pulling at straws here), is the fact that you have to bring the office with you. That means having your laptop , chargers, notepads , pens , reusable water bottles , headphones and sticky pads ready to go at all times.

The solution is simple. Briefcases have long been the preferred accessory of the corporate elite, but they tend to have inherently masculine undertones. Of course, if that’s your style – by all means, opt for a luxurious, high-end leather option with sterling silver buckles. However, if you’re in the market for a more contemporary, feminine aesthetic with essential modern features like a laptop sleeve, you’ve arrived in the right place.

What to consider before investing in a laptop bag

• Internal and external waterproofing: British weather and unscrewed water bottles take no prisoners.
• Multiple straps: Work bags can be heavy, so consider investing in an option which can be worn multiple ways to put less strain on your neck, shoulders and back.
• Padded laptop compartment: Keep your tech protected from unnecessary bumps and bruises while on the move.
• Water bottle holder: Having a hydration station is key to ensuring you feel awake and alert throughout the day.

We’ve curated a selection of the best laptop bags for women, to take you from home to the office and beyond the border (we won’t tell if you don’t). Shop the hybrid working essential below.

Best mini underseat cabin bags that fit beneath an airline chair

Best backpacks for work: Professional styles perfect for the office

Best charging stations for phones and other devices

Best reusable water bottles that will help reduce your plastic use

Lundi Victory Briefcase, Chestnut Leather

Invest in heritage luxury with the help of Lundi’s unisex Victor Briefcase. Available with or without a luggage strap, this surprisingly spacious and wonderfully chic accessory is perfect for the travelling, working woman. Robust yet elegant, it’s made of a combination of smooth and grained leather and features a central pocket lined with protective felt for your laptop.

Rains Texel Laptop Case 15″/16″

There’s nothing more terrifying than realising your water bottle has leaked into your workbag. Take away any anxiety surrounding technological water damage with this brilliant, spacious waterproof laptop cover from Rains. It’s padded for protection, has a plush microfibre lining and has two incredibly handy external compartments for extra bits and bobs.

Stubble & Co The Tote bag

Described as having a ‘minimalist design with the maximum function’, this waterproof tote by Stubble & Co is available in three attractive hues with a detachable shoulder strap. It has a padded laptop sleeve, a dedicated internal pocket for your water bottle, water-resistant zips for security, and even a luggage sleeve.

Mismo M/S Brief

Highly durable, waterproof and made with recycled nylon, this stylish briefcase has a full-grain bridle leather trim and silver-dark gunmetal accessories for a neutral yet subtly dramatic aesthetic. Though it doesn’t have a dedicated laptop compartment, it can fit up to a 15” MacBook Pro.

Monos Metro Duffel

The ultimate travel accessory for jet-setting work trips, this forest green duffel is crafted from water-resistant nylon twill with vegan leather details. With a roomy design intended to keep your daily essentials organised, it also features a sleeve which fits up to 15” and some inner side pockets for additional accessories.

Camper Buenasnoches

Though not your traditional laptop bag, this ultra-padded tote will certainly keep your work tech safe. We love the stylish pink and green leather panels which are crafted from calfskin leather, and the super soft cotton interior.

Kipling Superworker

Known for its utilitarian style and that classic furry monkey keychain, Kipling is a fine choice when it comes to high-functioning laptop protection. The Superworker is a classic lightweight and feminine design, featuring a 15” laptop sleeve and three spacious internal compartments, as well as a bottle holder. Carry it like a tote, wear it as a cross-body or sling it over one shoulder.

Frederic St James Women’s Full Grain Italian Leather Backpack

If you’ve ever been lucky enough to travel to Italy, you’ll have likely walked through countless markets specialising in full-grain Italian leather. Like us, you may just have regretted not purchasing anything. This is where Frederic St James comes in. This women’s convertible leather backpack is offered in a beautiful, deep cherry red hue with multiple padded compartments for all your commuter needs.

Samsonite Ongoing 15.6" Laptop Briefcase

Utilitarian chic takes centre stage in Samsonite’s laptop briefcase. The sleek khaki bag is a lightweight choice for city-dwellers that doesn’t sleep on functionality. An abundance of pockets are concealed within a recycled nylon exterior, that is complete with a trademarked Recylex material lining that provides additional protection against bashing and bumping. Attach yours to a small suitcase for work dos abroad or use the long strap to hook over your shoulder when out and about.

Comfyable Puffy Laptop Sleeve

Available in every colour under the sun from blossom pink to tangerine, lime green to cream and more, Comfyable’s laptop case is a Gen-Z must-have. The padded case features a square design and on-trend quilting and can house 14 or 13-inch laptops including MacBook Pros and MacBook Airs. Secure the item with the magnetic close and the soft fleece lining will prevent scratches and scuffs.

Our Editors' Favorite Weekender Bags for Quick Getaways

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Whether you're planning a quick girls trip to the beach or taking a much-needed couples getaway , spending a few days away calls for a sturdy, stylish, and functional travel bag. We often turn to our favorite weekenders to hold everything we need for short trips and overnight stays. The best weekender bags are roomy enough to carry your clothes , toiletries , and a pair of shoes or two , but not so bulky as to slow you down while dashing to catch a train, or take up an exorbitant amount of space in your trunk. A separate compartment for dirty clothes or shoes is always welcome, too. To narrow down the styles that are worth your dollars (and storage space), our editors tested the most talked-about weekenders from top travel brands like Away, Béis, Calpak, Monos, and more. Below, the tried-and-true weekenders we're packing on all our future getaways (and you should, too).

This article is part of Condé Nast Traveler’ s second annual Luggage Week , for which dozens of suitcases, backpacks, and weekender bags were road-tested by our editors.

How we tested

To help us recommend the absolute best luggage to our readers, more than a dozen Condé Nast Traveler editors and contributors spent months (and in some cases, years) road-testing the newest and best-selling bags from top travel brands. These bags accompanied us near and far on planes, trains, buses, and cruises, from local staycations and Hamptons getaways to the Paris Olympics and Marlon Brando’s private island in French Polynesia . We packed these bags to the brim, stuffed them underneath tight airplane seats and into crowded overhead bins, and inspected every bump and scuff they endured. We considered each bag's weight, capacity, functionality, price point, and how well it held up after several trips. We also identified smart design features that made each bag stand out from its competitors, like having a separate shoe compartment, an adjustable crossbody strap, or ample pockets. After traveling with each bag, we carefully reviewed them, keeping the aforementioned criteria in mind to determine which ones are worth the cost and a spot in our Luggage Week lineup.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Calpak Luka duffel

Weight: 1.95 lb. Dimensions: 16" x 7" x 12" Capacity: 22L Separate shoe compartment : Yes

Calpak's Luka duffel is one of the brand's most popular pieces of luggage , previously racking up a 44,000-person-deep waiting list. Its commerce editor Meaghan Kenny 's favorite weekender of all time: “I've used my fair share of duffel bags, but this one is by far my favorite. Made of water-resistant material, the Luka duffel bag is so soft and lightweight. No matter how much I stuff in this thing, it's not a pain to carry—the ultra-soft, long carry handles don't hurt my shoulders, and the adjustable longer strap is comfortable, too. This duffel has nine pockets, with a shoe compartment at the bottom where I keep a pair of sneakers or slippers, a mesh pocket, a side pocket for my water bottle, and plenty of smaller side pockets inside where I store small items like socks and toiletries. It fits everything I need for an overnight stay or a quick weekend trip if I'm packing on the lighter side. There's also a trolley sleeve that fits nicely on my carry-on , which is a real lifesaver while walking through the airport.” Kenny has even brought it as her personal item on all of her long-haul flights for the past two years. If you love this bag's features but want something a little more spacious (think three- or four-day trips), the Luka duffel is available in a large version , too.

Pros : Trolley sleeve; several interior pockets and zippered compartments; fits underneath the plane seat in front of you Cons : Not big enough for extended weekend trips

Read a full review of this bag here .

MZ Wallace Nik Duffel

Weight: 2.1 lbs. Dimensions: 17" × 7" × 12" Separate shoe compartment : No

MZ Wallace's Nik duffel bag is a favorite of senior commerce editor Madison Flager —she's used it as an overnight bag when dog-sitting, as a personal item on several flights, and for a weekend trip to Boston . Thanks to its quilted fabric, it's incredibly lightweight at just over two pounds. On the bag's exterior, there are two deep zippered pockets for small items you'll want to grab easily during transit, like your wallet or passport. Inside, there's a laptop sleeve, a detachable lightweight pouch, and two more slip pockets that Flager uses to store things like sunglasses and glasses. “As a personal item, it’s super roomy—when I took it on a cruise, it was a good size to hold all the things I wanted to keep with me when boarding, including my toiletry bag , a pouch with medicine, another with makeup, and a bathing suit and pool cover-up ,” she says. What we love most about this duffel: its many pockets, water-resistant material, polished look, and durability. “I've had this for a few years now and it hasn't started to show any signs of wear.”

Pros : Deep exterior pockets; trolley sleeve; leather protective feet; water-resistant exterior Cons : No dedicated shoe compartment

July Carry All Weekender Plus

Weight: 4.2 lb. Dimensions: 22" x 9" x 12.5" Capacity: 50L Separate shoe compartment : No

The best part of this weekender: the clamshell opening, which allows the bag to lie completely flat for easy packing. With a roomy 50-liter capacity and an internal padded pocket that fits a 16" laptop, you've got a good amount of space in here for an overnight stay or a two-night trip. Contributor Juliet Izon was able to pack “everything I needed for a four-day trip to Asheville , North Carolina, including all the outfit changes I wanted for a weekend in the unpredictable weather of the mountains.” Its smart design, sleek look, and spacious compartments make it deserving of a spot on our list of favorites once again.

Pros : Clamshell opening; trolley sleeve; gunmetal feet on base Cons : No dedicated shoe compartment

Paravel Grand Tour duffel

Weight : 4 lb. Dimensions:  20" x 11" x 10" Separate shoe compartment : No

Our editors love Paravel for its commitment to sustainable sourcing and use of post-consumer recycled material (and its chic looks, too). The Grand Tour duffel is a new favorite of global digital director Arati Menon , who says the bag proves you don't need to compromise on quality or style when being eco-conscious. “Since I got this bag a few months ago, it has accompanied me on long weekends in Upstate New York , a weeklong trip to Belize, the Grand Prix in Monaco , and more—I’m quite sure it’s going to continue to be a constant on my travels.” Featuring a canvas exterior with vegan leather details, the duffel is equally stylish and sturdy. “This bag is so roomy, fitting about almost a week’s worth of dresses, shirts, jeans, workout gear, and a pair of shoes—I am a notorious overpacker and this bag indulges me” says Menon. She appreciates that it features two zippered interior compartments, which she uses to hold a makeup bag, chargers, and a book or two (there's two exterior pockets as well). “I love this bag’s sporty good looks: think Grand Slam tennis chic,” she says. “Paravel is known for making great-looking luggage—clean, minimalistic lines, good-quality hardware, and excellent finishes.” We recommend this for city breaks and long weekends in the countryside.

Pros : Can be personalized; very spacious; detachable shoulder strap Cons : No trolley sleeve; scuffs must be cleaned right after a trip to prevent them from settling in

Away The Overnight Bag

Weight: 3.2 lb. Dimensions: 17.7" x 11" x 9" Capacity: 28L Separate shoe compartment : No

Away is a trusted brand among Traveler editors for quality and functionality. Associate editor Matt Ortile has been using the brand's sleek overnight bag as a commuter-slash-gym bag and brought it with him as a personal item on a six-night trip to Las Vegas . Made of a water-resistant nylon and leather trim, the Overnight Bag features a clamshell opening, which offers easy access to its main compartment—a big plus for Ortile. “I thought the clamshell opening would be a detriment if I ever have to quickly grab something from it, but it works no different from any other weekender, where you have to dig through the whole thing.” He was also pleasantly surprised at how much the bag fit: “On an everyday basis, I fit gym clothes, a packed lunch, a 15” laptop, and a little grooming kit—leaving plenty of room for extras, like a bottle of wine that I pickup from my local shop on the way home.” Compared to other weekenders, the bag is quite sophisticated and feels elevation, while still remaining highly functional and roomy.

Pros : Clamshell opening; padded laptop pocket; water-resistant fabric Cons : A little heavy; the shoulder strap adds half a pound, which is a noticeable difference

Monos Metro Duffel

Weight: 3 lb. (nylon); 3.6 lb. (vegan leather) Dimensions: 16" × 7" × 11" Capacity: 22L Separate shoe compartment : No

Monos’s Metro line features polished bags made of only vegan materials, including the equivalent of 16 repurposed plastic water bottles per bag. “This is not just a beautiful bag (get used to the compliments!), it’s also the most organized duffel I’ve ever owned, with a spot for everything,” says Menon. “The interiors are incredibly roomy, and come with pockets that fit everything from your laptop to water bottle. And when you run out of space inside, just snap on one of Monos’ interchangeable kits to the front to put all your necessities (phone, wallet, passport) within easy reach. You could even snap off a kit to double up as a clutch in a pinch.”

Pros : Removable exterior pouch; laptop compartment; trolley sleeve Cons : The main zipper doesn't open very wide

Baggallini Deluxe Fifth Avenue Weekender

Weight: 2.10 lb. Dimensions:  18.5" x 14" x 9.4" Separate shoe compartment : Yes

Baggallini's roomy travel bag is research associate Anna Gladwin's go-to travel bag for camping trips and long weekends away. “The bag is much more spacious than others that I've tried and it has a far greater variety of pockets” she says. “The bag has a lid-top opening which provides easy access to the main compartment and there are two exterior zip-up pockets at the front of the bag which are useful for small items.” More features we love: a padded laptop pocket that fits a 16" model, a large shoe compartment, and a detachable crossbody strap. Made of water-resistant fabric, Gladwin notes the bag is easy to clean and has held up well.

Pros : Trolley sleeve; padded laptop pocket; roomy exterior side pockets Cons : Too large to fit under the seat on a plane

HalfDay The Premium Garment Duffel

Weight: 3.4 lb. Dimensions:  23" x 13" x 12" Capacity:  45L Separate shoe compartment : No, but there are shoe pockets

HalfDay's Premium garment duffel is the most unique on our list; it's not your traditional weekender bag, but its thoughtful design and smart organizational features make it worth a spot among our top picks, especially for frequent business travelers or anyone attending a destination wedding . It comes recommended by Spurrell, who snagged this garment-duffel-bag-hybrid with short trips for weddings in mind. “This bag is interesting, because you can essentially zip it open until it lies flat. You place your garment bag in first, zip that section shut, add shoes to the internal side pockets, then roll the entire thing shut. From there, you can tuck PJs, a Dopp kit , and any other basics in the hollow space created by rolling up the garment bag." The garment bag section can fit two to three suits or dresses , and you'll have space for a couple other items in the main section, like jewelry or belts. There's also a tie pocket, a padded laptop sleeve, and other small pockets for things like your passport and phone. Not only does traveling with this bag make your packing process smoother, it helps you stay organized once you arrive at your hotel or Airbnb. “It’s nice to have your hanging garments wrapped in so you don’t have your hands full with hangers and another duffel” says Spurrell. We also appreciate the padded shoulder strap and that it features abrasion- and water-resistant nylon fabric.

Pros : Keeps dresses and suits wrinkle-free; folds flat for easy storage; stabilized feet; trolley sleeve; laptop sleeve Cons : Not ideal for a typical weekend trip; can be bulky to carry when completely full

Tumi Harrison Nelson Duffel

Weight: 4.1 lb. Dimensions:  11" x 20.5" x 8.5" Separate shoe compartment : No

Tumi is known for its high-quality, polished luggage and travel bags that are all built to last. Associate editor Charlie Hobbs agrees, boasting that the Harrison Nelson duffel is the nicest weekender he's ever carried. “I've traveled with this bag all over the place—for weekend trips to see family in Connecticut, for hotel stays in the tristate area, and more" he says. “It fits a solid weekend’s worth of clothing and essentials, plus more depending on your levels of determination or desperation." Hobbs tells us the duffel has held up well after countless trips, thanks to its sturdy material. The sleek duffel features a small exterior pocket for your phone, a zippered exterior pocket for keeping your passport or wallet secure, and a few interior pockets. It can be carried by the long adjustable strap or top handles for lifting it into a car trunk or the overhead bin on a flight. It comes with a hefty price tag, but its durability and functionality make it a worthy splurge.

Pros : Can be monogrammed; luggage tag; trolley sleeve; key leash Cons : Very pricey

Béis The Weekender Bag

Weight: 3.86 lb. Dimensions: 19.5" x 10" x 16" Capacity: 49L Separate shoe compartment : Yes

With a water-resistant and pocket-filled interior, plus an extra roomy bottom compartment that fits several pairs of shoes or those souvenirs you can’t bear to leave behind, this understatedly chic travel toyr has enough nooks and crannies to keep even the worst overpacker in line. And the structured frame opening on top keeps the bag wide open—or securely shut—when you need it to be. In addition to gaining a ton of buzz on social media for its “cool girl” aesthetic, the Béis Weekender is also a favorite among Traveler editors, including Flager. It's her go-to tote for true weekend trips—“I use the outer pocket for my phone and ID, and I love the key leash—it’s nice to have a dedicated spot for my house keys so I’m not digging around upon return,” she says. The Béis Weekender is available in a mini size , too, which is better suited as a personal item or a one-night bag.

Pros : Removable shoulder strap; trolley sleeve; separate shoe compartment; padded laptop sleeve Cons : You can fit a lot, which means it can get heavy when packed to the brim

Paravel Fold-Up Bag

Weight: 1 lb. Dimensions: 18" × 11" × 11.5" Separate shoe compartment : No

This lightweight fold-up duffel, which packs down to next to nothing is associate articles director Megan Spurrell 's go-to for overnighters. Spurrell says it fits as much as her other duffels, and has held up over the years; she regularly brings it along as a just-in-case bag to carry home souvenirs on longer trips. “I've used it for a couple staycations where I just need to throw things in a bag for a night or two,” she says. “It's nice that it doesn't have a solid structure and is only as big as what you've put inside.” If you’re gifting this bag, include a personal touch with a monogram, which can be added on for $15. A major plus: At just one pound, it's the lightest duffel on our list, yet still holds plenty.

Pros : Trolley sleeve; folds completely flat; can be personalized Cons : It's not as durable or sturdy as a bag with more structure

Dagne Dover Landon Carryall

Weight: 2 lb. Dimensions: 16.5" x 9" x 11" Capacity: 29L Separate shoe compartment : No

Don’t be fooled by the streamlined look of this neoprene number. The washable carryall houses a dust bag for shoes, detachable key leash, removable zip-top pouch for essentials, and plenty of air mesh interior pockets, including one for your water (or wine) bottle. The genius exterior phone slot is just the cherry on top. Former Traveler editor Alex Erdekian calls it a “beautiful, keep-forever bag." Dagne Dover's Landon carryall comes in a few different sizes, but the large and extra-large sizes are your best bet for weekend's away. “Because the bag itself is so lightweight, it’s really easy to throw over your head into a bin even if you’ve packed it with a carry-on level amount of stuff,” says Erdekian. She's been able to fit four to five days' worth of clothes inside. And as far as aesthetics, “I adore the look of this bag. It honestly improves any outfit I’m wearing and makes for a chic, classic summer vacation look—we all know that effortlessly glam duffel-bag-slung-over-your-shoulder pose as you’re walking up the driveway of your friend’s lake house.”

Pros : 16" laptop sleeve; trolley sleeve; comes with a shoe bag and dust bag; super-soft exterior Cons: No dedicated shoe compartment

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag 70L

Weight: 3.28 lb. Dimensions: 28" × 13" × 17.5" Capacity: 70L Separate shoe compartment : No

Made from 100 percent recycled fabric, Patagonia's weather- and abrasion-resistant duffel is one of the most durable on our list. It's also is one of our largest options, holding 70 liters of gear. The padded and removable ergonomic shoulder straps let you carry this duffel like a backpack and detach them when not in use. Senior features editor Rebecca Misner easily packed enough clothes for a two-week road trip from San Fransisco and says it held up beautifully—even after constantly throwing it around the back of her car. And it wicks water, so the unexpected shower that came when she was unpacking the car in Portland, Oregon , was no big deal. Its U-shaped top zipper allows the bag to open wide for easy access to everything in the main compartment, which makes packing it and finding belongings a breeze. “It’s a fantastic piece of luggage for a road trip or any adventure travel, but I wouldn't take it on a plane unless I was going on a trip where very minimal lifting would be required. If you keep the weight down, most people should be able to carry it comfortably by its straps,” says Misner. “I don't worry about throwing it in the back of the car with my skis—scratching or tearing isn't an issue. Plus, if it gets wet from my ski boots or if I’m loading it in snow, it will wick away any moisture.”

Pros :  Ergonomic shoulder straps; weather-resistant material; padded base Cons : Best suited for outdoorsy trips, so it probably wouldn't be your go-to weekender

Herschel Supply Co. Tech Novel duffel

Weight: 3 lb. (nylon); 3.6 lb. (vegan leather) Dimensions: 20.5" × 11" × 12.75" Capacity: 45L Separate shoe compartment : Yes

Available in classic colors like black, navy, green, and light and dark gray, this sleek weekender from Herschel is made with 100 percent recycled materials. It features a long, padded adjustable strap, a shoe compartment, a trolley sleeve, and a slew of organizers to help keep devices from getting jumbled. This spacious duffel was tested by Kenny, who says this: “It's versatile enough to take you from the gym to a camping trip to a weekend stay down the shore. The bag’s design is simple yet elevated enough to work for any type of traveler at any age.” She noted the ultra-soft laptop compartment is separate from the bag's main section, so your laptop is well-protected during transit. Kenny recommends this to travelers planning to bring their laptops with them—"I usually don't bring my laptop with me on weekend trips, but if I'm traveling for work or want to bring it just in case, I leave my Luka duffel at home and travel with this more protective option instead," she says. Travelers can easily fit three days of clothing in this duffel, making it a great option for extended weekend trips away. And at $160, it's well priced and will be a great travel companion for years to come.

Pros : 16" laptop compartment; removable padded shoulder strap; trolley sleeve, Cons : Trolley sleeve is very slim

Lo & Sons The Catalina Deluxe

Weight: 2.6 lb. (canvas), 2.26 lb. (recycled poly) Dimensions: 18" x 8.5" x 6" Separate shoe compartment : Yes

This travel-friendly tote is a bestseller for accessories brand Lo & Sons, and it’s not hard to see why. The overnight bag features several interior and exterior pockets sized for everything from iPads to sanitizing wipes to sunglasses , a long removable strap with memory foam padding, and a trolley sleeve that converts into a zipper pocket. It was tested by Traveler 's former global director of audience development Lara Kramer ; she brought it on an overnight staycation in Brooklyn and a four-night stay at the hospital for the birth of her baby. “You can easily fit a long weekend’s worth of clothes (and shoes!) in this bag. And, in our case, an abundance of pajamas, towels, and home comforts—think portable fan , slippers , a sound machine , and framed photos of family and our pet cat—for a long hospital stay,” she says. There's a handy bottom compartment that can hold two to three pairs of shoes (or your dirty clothes) that also features a removable padded tray that can be washed as needed. Kramer did note that because of its generous size and ample storage, this bag can hold a lot of weight. However, the padded messenger strap made of memory foam does take the comfort level up a notch.

Pros : Trolley sleeve; padded removable strap; available in several colorways; can be folded or rolled to store away nicely Cons : It's on the heavy side when full

Lululemon City Adventurer large duffel bag

Dimensions: 18" x 9" x 12" Capacity: 29L Separate shoe compartment : Yes

If you're a fan of Lululemon's ultra-popular fanny pack , you'll likely fall in love with this weekender, too. Made of a similar smooth, water-repellant fabric, the sporty bag comes in silver or black. This is another favorite of Kenny's: “It’s the perfect size for a weekender bag—not too big or too small. It gives you just enough room for two outfits and a pair of shoes without becoming too heavy or bulky to carry around. Plus, it fits under the seat on an airplane, making it a great personal item" she says. “Its main compartment is a little smaller than other weekenders I've tested, but I didn't totally mind this—it meant the bag has never felt too heavy for me to carry and isn't too large for a one-night stay.” This lightweight duffel has two mesh pockets and a zippered compartment for keeping important items extra secure. Carry it by the top handles or across your body, and use the trolley sleeve to secure it to luggage when needed. “It's also a great size and style to double as a gym bag—I've taken it with me to workout classes and to the gym on several occasions” says Kenny. Another plus: It can be folded up nearly flat to store away when not in use.

Pros : Trolley sleeve; detachable strap; padded laptop pocket; doubles as a gym bag Cons : Main compartment is smaller than other duffels I've tried

Baboon to the Moon Go-Bag Small (40L)

Weight: 3.5 lb. Dimensions: 20.5" x 12.5" x 10.5" Capacity: 40L Separate shoe compartment : No

We're big fans of Baboon's indestructible bags—they will stand up to any cargo bin, overhead compartment, or car trunk they're tossed in. Flager has taken this on several adventure-type trips and says, “it’s exactly what you want when you don’t want to be concerned about the elements damaging your bag.” And with a selection of bold, bright colors with fun interior patterns, it'll be easy to spot on a luggage carousel and put a smile on your face when packing. The detachable, adjustable shoulder straps are a nice touch, too. While it's a great option for two to four days away, we wouldn't recommend this as a true backpacking bag because of its fabric, which can feel a little stiff.

Pros : Backpack straps and removable shoulder strap; waterproof shell; easy to clean Cons : Too large for a true weekend trip, more ideal for extended getaways

Arlo Skye The Weekender

Dimensions: 20.5" × 9" × 11" Capacity: 31L Separate shoe compartment : Yes

Arlo Skye's sleek weekender is lightweight and made of a scratch-resistant nylon with full-grain Italian leather trim, with an antimicrobial lining. It was tested by Flager, who says you can squeeze a lot in here—use it for long weekends, or as a carry-on to fill with odds and ends when heading out on longer trips. “It's a little too big for an under-the-seat item, but has tons of pockets and separate compartments to keep you organized,” Flager says. “If you pack lightly, it could be your main carry-on on short trips.” There's a separate shoe or dirty clothes compartment, a trolley sleeve if you're rolling it on top of a checked bag , and an exterior slip pocket that's the right size for your phone, passport, and keys.

Pros : Trolley sleeve; laptop sleeve; anti-microbial lining Cons : A little too large to fit under the seat in front of you on the plane

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13 Genius Laptop Bags That Will Make You the Most Efficient Person in the TSA Line — From $13

Featuring backpacks, tote bags, and luggage options from Samsonite, Calpak, and more.

Travel + Leisure / Reese Herrington

When you’re getting ready for a well-earned vacation or a fun weekend away, the last thing you want to deal with is a big hassle on the airport security line. But if you have all of your items organized and ready to take out if needed, then TSA should (hopefully) be a breeze — which is why having a great laptop bag when you travel is so important. 

Whether you prefer keeping your laptop secure in a tight carrier , tucked away in a backpack’s padded sleeve , or placed carefully in a suitcase’s specialized compartment , there are a multitude of ways to keep your computer safe and sound when you travel. And luckily, you don’t have to spend a fortune for a high-quality item, as we’ve rounded up the 13 best laptop bags that cost under $100 below. Explore top-performing picks from Samsonite, Calpak, and more that will make the perfect travel companions.

Mancio Vintage Laptop Business Backpack

Available in six colors, this beautiful backpack can fit laptops up to 15.6 inches in size in its main compartment. It's stocked with four additional pockets that are big enough to store tablets and other smaller electronics, and it even features a USB port and a built-in cable inside, so you can charge your devices on the go. Plus, the bag has a comfy shoulder strap, stylish leather belts, and two water bottle compartments.

"This was so perfect for me," a reviewer exclaimed . “My large laptop fits great and [the bag] still has extra space for me to bring anything else I need." 

Lovevook Laptop Tote Bag

Want to carry your laptop in a gorgeous tote? Then check out this great faux-leather bag, which comes with a thick, foam padded sleeve and secure velcro strap to protect your laptop, as well as a magnetic buckle, zip closure, and multiple other pockets in the front and back. Choose from a whopping 27 colors, from bold cyan blue to classic dark brown. Its 16.5-inch by 6.1-inch by 10.4-inch frame and spacious design makes it a great personal bag on flights, as well as a quality commuter bag and everyday purse. 

“This is an amazing laptop bag,” one shopper said , adding that it has “a beautiful design [and is] soft and easy to carry around.”

The North Face Jester Luxe Backpack

Buying a backpack with a padded laptop compartment can be a major convenience, and we love this pick from The North Face. The sizable backpack (which comes in two colors) not only has a thick sleeve that can fit up to 16-inch laptops, but it features tons of pockets and helpful bungee cords within its supportive design. If you're not traveling with your laptop, you can easily use the backpack as a daypack on a hike or outdoor excursion. 

This backpack is “worth every penny,” according to one Nordstrom customer, who also noted that it “fits my laptop and everything I need for work perfectly" and feels "great on my back.”

Empsign Rolling Laptop Bag

You can wheel your laptop around the airport with this pretty quilted roller bag, which features a padded compartment inside for 15.6-inch devices. Other perks include its carry-on size, waterproof design, telescoping handle, and trolley strap to attach to your other luggage pieces — and, of course, its various pockets. There's even an RFID-blocking pocket to keep your valuables safe from theft. You can pick from two colors: black or light pink.

“I can literally put three laptops in this bag, plus any other things that I could carry,” an Amazon shopper quipped . "It's the best bang for the buck."

Lenovo Laptop Shoulder Bag

Don’t let this laptop bag’s simple design and low price fool you; it’ll still keep your computer safe and secure during travels. Made for laptops up to 15.6 inches in size, it’s a compact, lightweight bag that’s easy to take on the go. And thanks to its adjustable shoulder strap and handles, you can carry it in three different ways. Best of all, it has a handy trolley sleeve so you can securely attach it to your carry-on suitcase's handles for hands-free convenience.  

“I really love this carrying bag,” one reviewer shared . They also added that they especially appreciate the “extra pockets to store stuff like a DVD drive and cables," among other items.

Fjällräven Vardag Totepack

This fantastic everyday tote-pack (tote backpack) allows you to choose your own adventure with its two-in-one design; carry it like a backpack with its padded shoulder straps or keep it sleek on your arm with its top carrying handles. It's spacious and stylish, with a padded interior sleeve that can fit a 15-inch laptop. Other standout features include the mesh organizer in the front pocket, roomy main compartment, and heavy-duty fabric that makes it incredibly durable. It’s available in six attractive colors, from deep forest green to striking royal purple.

According to one shopper, this totepack is “perfect" and "exactly what I needed for work.” They also raved, “I love [that] it can also be carried as a tote.”

Coolife Carry-On Luggage With Laptop Compartment

While this suitcase may seem like any other piece of luggage at first glance, it stands out for its unique front pocket that can fit smaller laptops up to 13.3 inches. Thanks to its user-friendly construction, it's easy  to unzip the compartment and remove your laptop for the TSA security line without messing up your packing. We also love the 20-inch carry-on bag’s durable hardshell exterior, interior net pockets, adjustable telescoping handle, and double TSA-approved lock, too. Make sure to clip the on-site coupon to save an extra $20. 

“I love the front pocket that holds a laptop, notebook and charger,” one reviewer wrote , adding that the bag “rolls very smoothly” and “fits perfectly in the overhead [bin].”

Kenneth Cole Reaction Chelsea Chevron Laptop and Tablet Backpack

This stylish quilted backpack will be your new favorite travel companion thanks to its padded laptop pocket that fits 15-inch devices, separate padded tablet pocket, adjustable shoulder straps, built-in trolley strap, and, of course, its elegant design. You can pick from three colors and patterns, all of which feature attractive gold-plated zippers for that extra-luxe look.

"The pockets are great and easy [to] access," one reviewer was happy to report . “It was so simple to pull out my laptop and tablet in security and I can tell the bag will hold up well over time."

Calpak Luka Expandable Laptop Tote

This isn’t your ordinary tote. With a padded 15-inch laptop sleeve, luggage trolley sleeve, expandable (by 4 inches!) bottom, and subtle zippered side pockets, this bag can handily fit all of your essentials for a weekend trip, day at the office, and more. The soft and puffy accessory comes in 18 colors ranging from rose gold to chocolate brown. And, it's still on sale from Black Friday.

“I love how versatile it is,” one Calpak shopper wrote, adding that “the color is beautiful and [the] number of pockets are awesome. I even love the ‘secret’ zipper pocket for stuff I don't want my nosey kids getting their hands on." 

Vera Bradley Laptop Crossbody Workstation

This stunning quilted laptop carrier can be used in multiple ways: as a tote, shoulder bag, or even as a workstation that props your computer up as you type. Available in five colors and on sale for up to 50 percent off, the unique bag has a 15-inch laptop sleeve, multiple zippered and slip compartments to hold your chargers, cords, and other essentials, a retractable handle, a crossbody strap, and more.

"I travel a lot for work and needed to make sure that I had a way to keep my laptop protected," an Amazon shopper began their review. "This Vera Bradley laptop case is made of a thick quilted material so you don't have to worry about it getting scratched while transporting." 

Matein Carry-On Laptop Backpack

If you’re looking for a more heavy-duty laptop carrier, this travel backpack may be just the pick. The seriously-roomy bag can fit 17-inch laptops, as well as clothing, shoes (in a separate compartment!), tablets, and so much else. There’s even a built-in USB charging port, a comfortable luggage strap, and lockable metal zippers to keep all of your items safe. You can choose from eight lovely color options.

One reviewer called it an “amazing travel pack for the price,” explaining that they were “blown away by [the] amount of storage and quality of the stitching, padding, and construction.”

Samsonite Mobile Solution Deluxe Carryall Tote

Behold, the ultimate personal bag. A spacious and elegant carry-on tote, this nylon Samsonite Mobile Solution Deluxe bag comes with a padded laptop sleeve that can fit computers of up to 15.6 inches. It’s a roomy-yet-lightweight bag that has an assortment of zippered and slip pockets, a retractable luggage sleeve, and a water-resistant design. Get it in either black or navy blue while it's still 30 percent off during Cyber Week. 

The size of this carryall is “perfect,” said one customer, noting that “it feels sturdy even if I put my laptop, iPad, and their chargers plus some clothes for the weekend.”

Bagsmart Laptop Bag

Last but not least, check out this simple and sophisticated laptop carrier, which is fully padded with protective foam to keep a 15.6-inch laptop safe from harm. The briefcase-like bag also features a separate (and easily accessible) large pocket for other tech items, an adjustable padded shoulder strap, and an attachable luggage strap, and it comes in black or pink colors.

“This bag is smart-looking and works perfectly carrying my laptop and extra papers [and] folders," according to one Amazon reviewer , who couldn't resist calling it "very stylish.” 

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Related Articles

• Eco-Friendly
• Carry-On Luggage
• Checked Luggage
• Luggage Sets
• Travel Accessories
• Crossbodies
• Business Cases
• Card Cases & Wallets
• Laptop Sleeves

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