Heading back to school? Need a better laptop backpack? Come pick from the 20 best laptop backpacks for college students in 2024. You won’t regret it!
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First, let’s take a look at what actually makes a laptop backpack the best…
What Makes it The Best Laptop Backpack for College Students?
We will be judging the backpacks based on a 5 key factors:
- Size – How big is it? Can it fit the things that a college student needs?
- Durability – Will it last a long time? How strong is it? Cleanable?
- Comfort – Super important, since you’re carrying it on your hard working shoulders as you walk around campus
- Style – Does it look good on my back? Is it too bulky? Does it suit appropriate student fashion?
- Extra Features – Waterproof, Usb Charging, Laptop Sleeves, Extra Padding, etc.
These will be the main 5 that we will focus on for this review of the laptop backpacks. Keep in mind, certain things that may not match well for most, might match with you.
These bags and backpack options were based on a combination of actual experience, what I’ve seen around campus, and recommendations by actual college students.
Why Do I Need a Good Laptop Backpack for College in 2024?
You’re a busy college student and if you’re already looking down at screens all day, then you’re going to need the best of the best laptop bags to keep your shoulders, neck, and spine supported at all times.
Plus, you’re carrying a laptop to class! That weight is enough to strain your shoulders and back for all of college and potentially beyond.
Don’t make that mistake and get yourself something that can actually support not only your needs, but your body as well.
With that being said, let’s dive into the list for men and women!
20 Best Laptop Backpacks for College Students
This list will be divided up by their key differences such as backpack vs bag, price, and many other factors.
Hopefully these options help you find the right backpack for you!
Men’s Laptop Backpacks for College
1) JanSport Right Pack Backpack
This is such a popular backpack amongst the college community. Let’s go over a few features…
- Fits 15″ laptop
- Super simple and sleek design
- Not as much support, but good for light packers
- Long lasting
- Wide range of color options
Being one of the most classic backpacks on campus, you simply can’t go wrong with this one. Definitely consider this if you don’t have a heavy carry.
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2) Herschel Heritage Backpack
- Fits up to 15″ laptop
- Breathable pads of shoulder straps
- Easily Cleanable
- Headphone port for listening on the go
- Only 2 pockets
Slightly extra padding and headphone port may be the difference between getting this backpack and the one above. Keep it in mind.
3) Matein Travel Laptop Backpack
- Usb port
- Fits up to 17″ laptops
- Elastic pocket for water bottles
- Multiple smart compartments
- Sleek, modern design
- Breathable padding on back and straps
- Water Resistant
Need I say more! This backpack has everything and more to get you through your busy college day. Carrying extra weight? This backpack is one of your best bets to carry all of it comfortably.
4) JanSport Big Student Backpack
Contrary to popular belief, this backpack is not only for “big students”… just kidding ?.
It is however, a big backpack. Designed for college students who can afford to lose some style in exchange for storage…
- Fully padded back
- 2 Large Compartments (compared to just 1 for most other backpacks)
- Separate zipper for 15″ laptop
- Extremely durable and long lasting (some have passed this down to their kids!)
- Water bottle holder
- Not as stylish, but makes up for it in every other factor
If you’re in the need for a huge amount of storage, this is probably the closest you’ll get to having storage, comfortability, and style in one backpack.
5) Vaschy School Backpack
If this one looks similar to the Herschel backpack, that’s because they are almost the same. Just a few key differences make it stand out from its competition…
- Fully padded back
- Fits 15″ laptops (If you ask me, it can fit up to 17″)
- Water resistant
- Earphone port
- Reinforced Bottom
If you live in an area that rains a lot, you may want to consider this as your go-to backpack for college. Not only is it stylish, but it will also last you longer with water resistant material.
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6) Herschel Retreat Backpack
If you prefer smaller, quicker, and lighter, this backpack is for you! It’s 2024, you got to run out of class fast, I get it.
Plus, if you’d prefer to shove everything in one open compartment, I just found your soulmate. Here’s why…
- One giant compartment for easy pack up
- Laptop sleeve (up to 13″)
- Magnetic buckle + drawstring closure
- Unique style and color options
- Smaller size for aesthetics and weight
Don’t look past this point if you need a quick get away backpack. However, if you need something with some more usability, this backpack won’t cut it. It matches a very specific type of person/style.
7) Sharkbourough Supreme Backpack
- Full leather
- 15″ laptop compartment
- Adjustable straps
- Most stylish backpack on the list
- High price for high quality
If you walk around with this backpack, you will look like you know what you’re doing without even trying. It will last you long and carry your essentials while looking stylish. Sounds worth the price to me!
8) Kroser Laptop Messenger Bag
This is one of the best laptop backpacks for guys that prefer going to class with a laptop and a notebook. No more, no less. This will be your best bet and here’s why…
- Water repellant for laptop protection
- Sleek and minimal design
- Fits up to 15.6″ laptops
- Removable shoulder strap
- High quality design
- Maximum organization for its size
Looking and feeling like a businessman around campus is one of the best feelings. After recently switching to messenger bags, I felt the difference. Besides, what are you really using more than a laptop, notebook, and a few pens?
9) Kopack Slim Laptop Backpack
- Hidden laptop compartment
- Antitheft features (lockable zippers)
- Detachable usb cable (charge on the go)
- Ergonomic and breathable back design
- Tear/Puncture resistant
- Compartments for every necessity
- Long lasting water resistant material
The list can honestly go on and on, but I think you should just check it out for yourself if you’re interested. There is a full list of features on the amazon page.
I can’t believe it does all of that while also looking stylish and comfortable!
10) Yorepek Laptop Backpack
For everything it holds, I’m not sure you’ll find a slimmer laptop backpack. This guy hugs onto your back like a monkey and your belongings aren’t going anywhere! Take a look…
- Hole for usb and headphones
- Metal (lockable) zippers
- 10+ functional pockets for organized storage
- Padded back and straps for comfort
- Padded laptop compartment for added safety
- Only 7″ at full capacity (how far it will stick out from your back)
This full safety backpack can be taken beyond just your college campus, but you can bet that your essentials aren’t leaving your side. It even comes with a lock! Security is clearly this bag’s #1 priority.
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Women’s Laptop Backpacks for College
11) SHRRADOO Anti Theft Laptop Backpack
- Fits up to 15″ laptops
- Tons of storage, space, and pockets for your essentials
- Luggage strap included
- Usb charging port
- Adjustable shoulder straps
- Breathable mesh fiber for back
- Comes in 6 different color options
While some of the other bags on this list offer more femininity in exchange for practicality, this backpack delivers a very equal balance of both!
12) MANCIO Slim Laptop Backpack
- Fits up to 15.6″ laptops
- Tear-resistant design
- Buckle strap opening
- Water bottle compartment
- Usb charging port
- Incredibly lightweight
While the green was my favorite pick, this backpack actually comes with 6 different color options to choose from. You really can’t go wrong with this one!
13) LOVEVOOK Laptop Backpack for College Students
This is easily one of the best laptop backpacks for college students because of its waterproof features and size! Take a look…
- Large backpack fits up to 15.6″ laptops
- Usb charging port
- Waterproof heavy duty fabric
- Easy-to-store compartments
- Anti-theft for traveling and on campus
- Comes in 13 different colors and designs
If you’re looking for the ultimate backpack to suit all your needs then look no further. The best part is… it’s also one of the cheapest ones on the list!
14) Nubily Laptop Bag for Women Waterproof Lightweight Leather
- Classy and professional look
- Fits up to 15.6″ laptops
- 3 section compartment for storage
- Waterproof, odor-free leather
- Smooth metal zippers
- Easily adjustable straps
One negative you might find with this bag is the strap size. If you’re carrying a heavy load, you will likely hurt your shoulders dragging this simple bag around.
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15) Sunny Snowy Laptop Tote Bag
Durability and functionality would be the 2 best words to describe this nylon laptop backpack. Here’s why…
- Fits up to 15.6″ laptops
- 2 divided compartments for storage
- Laptop strap to prevent laptop from slipping out
- Secure zipper for theft protection
- Wide and long shoulder strap for added comfort
- Easy access pocket for quick items
- Water resistant material
If you’re looking for more of a tote bag that can carry your laptop and protect from environmental factors like the rain, definitely consider checking out this bag!
16) LOVEVOOK Leather Tote Laptop Bag for College Women
This is going to be one of the best laptop backpacks for college students who need a lot of compartments. Combine that with its fashionable design and you’ll be looking fantastic!
- Fits up to 15.6″ laptops
- Has 8 different compartments
- Durable quality faux leather
- Perfect for professional work use
- Small outer zipper for holding phone
- Comes in 14 different colors
Although it has 8 compartments, the straps are kind of thin which means you’ll be hurting your shoulders when carrying a heavy load. Keep this in mind.
17) BAGSMART 15.6 Inch Laptop Shoulder Bag Briefcase
- Fits up to 15.6″ laptops
- TSA friendly compartments for tech
- RFID protected pocket
- Leather handle and padded shoulder strap
- EVA foam padding for drop protection
- Luggage strap and multifunctional pockets
This bag has some of the most unique features on this entire list. It might not be for everyone, but you’ll know immediately if this is your perfect college backpack!
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18) EaseGave Laptop Bag for Women
- Fits up to 17″ laptops
- 7 different compartments + pen holders
- Beautiful minimalistic design and shape
- Reinforced padded soft foam
- Dual rolled top carry handles
- Comes in 13 different colors
Definitely consider getting this bag if you have a larger laptop and need to hold it in something sleek and fashionable!
19) Slim Pink Laptop Backpack for College Students
Design is the biggest factor when it comes to choosing the most fashionable backpacks for college. This is the one you’ll want for a pop of patterns and colors!
- Fits up to 15.6″ laptops
- 1 soft padded compartment and 1 zip pocket
- Includes RFID protected pocket for antitheft
- Canvas and faux leather build
- Comes in striped and dotted patterns
- Padded adjustable shoulder strap
This laptop bag won’t be for everyone, but the fashionistas of the world would enjoy a little flamboyancy in their choice of carry! Check out the other colors they offer.
20) Lenovo Laptop Carrying Case T210
- Sleek and modern design
- Padded shoulder strap
- Water resistant
- Fits up to 15.6″ laptops
- Luggage strap
- Extra storage pockets
- Comes in 3 different colors
If you’re looking for a super efficient and modern carrying case that can also fit a few notebooks and pens, look no further than this Lenovo bag!
These were the best laptop backpacks for college students in 2024 that I could find and have tested over the years. I hope you’ve found your match in this extensive list of options!
If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions leave them down below. Thanks for reading!
