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15 Best Laptop Bags and Backpacks That Are So Chic

Fashion and function, we love to see it.

By Siena Gagliano, Mekita Rivas and Alexis Bennett
laptop bags
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We love the mini bag trend as much as the next person, but some days call for a bag that’s big enough to carry allll your essentials, not just a single lip gloss. The most important (yet also most inconvenient) thing to carry when you're on the go? Your trusty laptop. Whether you're commuting to the office, traveling, or just running errands, having a secure bag that's big enough to hold your laptop is key—how else are you gonna pretend to work from cute coffee shops along your way?

But your laptop is precious cargo, people! And as such, it deserves a quality bag where it can stay nice and secure while still earning you style points. A regular ol’ canvas tote bag or a pocket-less handbag probably won’t offer your laptop much protection. The right laptop backpack or bag, however, will not only keep it safe, but it’ll also be designed for peak ~optimization~. From compartments galore to built-in USB chargers, a laptop bag will forever change how you get work done on the go. And to make your life easier, we've found the best of the best.

Our top picks for the best laptop bags in 2023:

  • Baggu Horizontal Duck Bag Canvas Tote

    this budget-friendly tote

    Baggu Horizontal Duck Bag Canvas Tote

    $38 at Amazon
    Read more
  • Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack

    this durable backpack

    Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack

    Read more
  • Everlane The Gallery Tote

    this minimalistic leather tote

    Everlane The Gallery Tote

    Read more
  • Rains Backpack

    this water-resistant backpack

    Rains Backpack

    Read more
  • Modern Picnic Women's The Grained Vegan Leather Tote

    this tote that's also great for food

    Modern Picnic Women's The Grained Vegan Leather Tote

    Read more

Whether you’re searching for a backpack with lots of pockets to keep you organized or a fashion-forward work bag that won’t clash with your #OOTD, there’s an option perfect for you and your laptop. Keep scrolling to shop all our favorite laptop-friendly bags below.

this budget-friendly tote

Baggu Horizontal Duck Bag Canvas Tote

Baggu Horizontal Duck Bag Canvas Tote
this budget-friendly tote

Baggu Horizontal Duck Bag Canvas Tote

$38 at Amazon
Pros
  • machine washable
  • available in 14 colors and prints!
Cons
  • not waterproof to protect things from rain or spills

If you're looking for a quality laptop bag or backpack, chances are that you'll spend over $100. But not in this case—the Baggu Duck Bag Canvas Tote comes in at a whopping $34 (!!!), and it's legit the sturdiest, most perfect, everyday work bag you can find, trust.

Glowing Review: "I absolutely love this bag. I’ve been wearing it daily as a school bag for the past month or so and it’s holding up well. When I first got it, I instantly fell in love. I could really tell that it was good quality. I definitely recommend this bag."

this durable backpack

Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack

Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack
this durable backpack

Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack

Pros
  • built-in laptop sleeve with enclosure
  • available in 10 colors
Cons
  • a little pricey

Made out of flexible neoprene fabric, this backpack can withstand all the demands of your day. It also features a built-in laptop sleeve that fits laptops up to 13" and has five (!!) pockets. In other words, go ahead and stuff this one to the max⁠—the outer pocket alone can fit so. many. things!

this minimalistic leather tote

Everlane The Gallery Tote

Everlane The Gallery Tote
this minimalistic leather tote

Everlane The Gallery Tote

Pros
  • Great color options
  • sustainably-sourced leather
Cons
  • doesn't have a long strap option

If you want a sleek, minimalistic laptop bag that will go with every single outfit you wear, get yourself the Gallery Tote by Everlane. Made with Italian leather, this bb is so freaking chic. If you want other colors, it comes in black and brown.

Glowing Review: "Our office is transitioning to back in person and I needed a good work bag for all my stuff. I walk to work— this bag is super sturdy + fits all of my things + super comfy shoulder strap. Fits my laptop + cosmetic bag + notebook nicely. Also, the leather is soooo dreamy but not too soft. "

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this water-resistant backpack

Rains Backpack

Rains Backpack
this water-resistant backpack

Rains Backpack

Pros
  • internal laptop pocket
Cons
  • no water bottle pocket

The slim, sleek design here is enough to fall in love with, but as an added (and very important) bonus, it's also water resistant! Bring this one with you on rainy days to keep your laptop protected (and dry).

this tote that's also great for food

Modern Picnic Women's The Grained Vegan Leather Tote

Editor’s Choice
Modern Picnic Women's The Grained Vegan Leather Tote
this tote that's also great for food

Modern Picnic Women's The Grained Vegan Leather Tote

Pros
  • insulated
Cons
  • will cost ya a pretty penny

Okay, this baby is my newest obsession. This vegan leather tote by Modern Picnic comes with a removable, insulated pouch that is perfect for carrying your lunch on the go—without getting in the way of your laptop. And not only can you shove a sh*t ton in the actual bag itself, but the pouch can fit so. much. freaking. food.

Glowing Review: "Gosh where to begin! I started with one and LOVED it. I get soo many compliments on how cute my bag is, and when they find out it’s insulated, they freak out wanting to know where I got it. Fast forward a year, and I have too many to count. I love them so much that I got them for all of my friends and family for Christmas."

this convertible tote bag

Neil J. Rodgers Obi Tote & Clutch

Neil J. Rodgers Obi Tote & Clutch
this convertible tote bag

Neil J. Rodgers Obi Tote & Clutch

Pros
  • has a separate laptop divider
  • can be converted from a tote bag to a clutch
Cons
  • a splurge

This luxe Italian leather tote may be a splurge, but it's seriously impressive (not to mention chic). Yes, it features a separate divider for your laptop, but it also has specially designed straps that can be fully removed to convert the bag into a clutch for nighttime (um, genius?!). The brand offers different bag and strap options you can mix and match—from leather to shearling to suede, so there's a look for everyone.

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this large backpack

ASOS Canvas Backpack

ASOS Canvas Backpack
this large backpack

ASOS Canvas Backpack

Pros
  • adjustable straps
  • includes laptop pouch
Cons
  • only comes in black

A timeless black backpack will easily match all your outfits. And this one will keep your laptop extra safe with a pouch designed specifically for laptops.

this affordable designer one

Marc Jacobs The Tote Bag

Marc Jacobs The Tote Bag
this affordable designer one

Marc Jacobs The Tote Bag

Pros
  • Legit so roomy
Cons
  • no organization pockets

So you want to invest in a designer laptop bag, but don't necessarily want to dish out your entire paycheck, huh??? Enter: The Marc Jacobs Tote Bag, which comes in at a pretty affordable price for designer, and can fit sooooo many things—your laptop included.

Glowing Review: "Simple and spacious. I was hesitant at first when I purchased this bag because of the price but as soon as I opened the box, I loved it! It’s so simple, and spacious but classy at the same time. Idk how, but it just works! Using it as my everyday bag for work post this Covid-19 era which requires me to carry so much more with me (laptop, iPad, books, sanitizer, planner, pump, and some bottles for my newborn) it all fits! A great buy!"

this designer tote

Off-White Day Off Monogram Canvas Tote

Off-White Day Off Monogram Canvas Tote
this designer tote

Off-White Day Off Monogram Canvas Tote

Now 40% Off
Pros
  • will go with everything
Cons
  • $$$$

Now, if you're willing to drop a pretty penny on a designer bag, may as well get one that's both giant in size and totally cool, like this one by Off-White. This canvas tote will last you foreverrrr, plus it'll never go out of style thanks to its minimalistic and subtle design.

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this affordable backpack

Modoker Vintage Laptop Backpack

On Sale
Modoker Vintage Laptop Backpack
this affordable backpack

Modoker Vintage Laptop Backpack

Credit: Courtesy
Pros
  • padded straps
Cons
  • no stretch in material

You don't have to spend a ton of money for something that's beautiful and roomy. This backpack features a separate laptop compartment, is less than 30 bucks, and currently comes in three hues: black, gray, and green (shown here).

Glowing Review: "I use this everyday to transport my work laptop from work to home. I love the old fashioned look. It’s a trendy color and there is plenty of space."

This IG famous one

Telfar Large Shopping Bag

Telfar Large Shopping Bag
This IG famous one

Telfar Large Shopping Bag

Pros
  • super durable and fashionable
Cons
  • Always sold out

You've seen this bad boy everywhere, let's be real. But the problem is, it's always freaking sold out! That's why it's best to get the Telfar Large Shopping Bag second-hand. Check out some options on The Real Real for a chance to score this coveted bag. Plus, it's good for the environment!

this faux leather option

Calpak Kaya Laptop Backpack

Calpak Kaya Laptop Backpack
this faux leather option

Calpak Kaya Laptop Backpack

Credit: Courtesy
Pros
  • dozens of colors
Cons
  • stiff material

For dressier moments, a faux leather backpack with a stitched trim and tassel will come in handy. The zippered back compartment is designed for easily stashing your laptop (up to 15") when you're in a hurry.

Glowing Review: "I had a Kaya backpack that has gone with me around the world. I love how much it can hold and how well it has held up over the last 4 years. The laptop backpack is meeting all expectations. It easily holds my laptop, accessories, and even my travel dual screen. It's comfortable and cute to carry. Perfect for meeting with clients."

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this nylon backpack

Caraa Cirrus

Caraa Cirrus
this nylon backpack

Caraa Cirrus

Now 22% Off
Pros
  • so many pockets
Cons
  • might be *too* compact

When durability is top of mind, consider a nylon style that's super lightweight and water-resistant. Noteworthy elements of this design include a luggage sleeve and a hidden passport pocket.

this travel-friendly backpack

Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack

Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack
this travel-friendly backpack

Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack

Now 43% Off
Credit: Courtesy
Pros
  • pass-through strap attaches to rolling luggage
  • separate laptop pocket
Cons
  • material may stain easily

With a 15" exterior laptop pocket, getting through airport security will be a little less stress-inducing with this backpack. The catch-all zip pockets are great for storing passports and tickets, and there are not one but two water bottle holders.

Glowing Review: "This is a very well designed product. Perfect amount of room for taking lunch, water bottle, etc. to work with some room to spare. It's comfortable to carry and very sleek looking which I love. Nice work!"

this convertible backpack

Béis The Hanging Backpack

Béis The Hanging Backpack
this convertible backpack

Béis The Hanging Backpack

Credit: Courtesy
Pros
  • key leash
Cons
  • a little heavy

A backpack that turns into... a shelf? Yes, it exists and yes, you need it. Not only does this bag feature a water bottle pocket and a trolley pass-through, but it also transforms into a nifty shelving system that you can hang. Think of it like a transportable closet!

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What should I look for in a laptop bag?

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Built-in compartments and designated pockets ftw!!

The last word on finding a laptop bag you love: Keep an eye out for bags with built-in compartments or pockets specifically designed for your laptop and other gadgets.

If you're the type who always has a water bottle on hand (hi, it's me), a separate water bottle pocket is also essential—especially if you don't want to worry about any accidental spillage. And in order to carry everything stylishly and comfortably, adjustable and/or removable straps are always key.

Here's how we chose these stylish laptop backpacks

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Cosmo's fashion team is constantly curating the internet to bring you the chicest, trendiest options like it's our job (because it is, heh).

We have pretty high standards when it comes to clothing and accessory recommendations. Each of our shopping articles adheres to the 15 Percent Pledge and includes pieces for all sizes. And you better believe we read those product reviews (and test many of the brands IRL) so you don't have to. You're welcome!

Headshot of Siena Gagliano
Siena Gagliano
Associate Editor

Siena Gagliano is the associate editor at Cosmopolitan, where she primarily covers beauty in the makeup, skin, and hair spaces, as well as some fashion and lifestyle. Wanna know how to get the best brows of your life? Gotchu. What about how to achieve ridiculously glowing skin, a super bouncy blowout, or exactly how to use that viral face mask? Check, check, and check. Before joining Cosmopolitan, Siena was a writer at Bustle and several other media outlets. As NYC's newest resident, she has vowed to find the best (extra) dirty martini this city has to offer—and yes, that means ~attempting~ to try every cute cocktail spot in the city (hit her up with some recs, pls). Follow Siena on Instagram where you'll see that her account is mostly dedicated to pics of her cute dog and that magazine life.

Headshot of Mekita Rivas
Editor

Mekita Rivas is an editor at Cosmopolitan, where she primarily covers fashion, culture, and lifestyle. She writes about everything from the best leather totes and books she can't put down to plants, podcasts, and politics. Prior to joining Cosmopolitan, she was a senior contributing fashion editor at PopSugar and Bustle. Her writing has been published in dozens of publications including The New York Times, Vogue, Harper's BAZAAR, Women's Health, Refinery29, and others. She currently splits her time between New York City and Washington, D.C. Follow Mekita on Instagram, where you'll typically find a mix of her snapshots from fashion week and various editor travels.

Lettermark
Alexis Bennett is the Shopping Editor at Cosmopolitan. She lives for a good sale. You can follow her shopping obsession here and on Instagram.
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