21 Stylish Laptop Backpacks for Women 2023

By Shauna Beni-Haynes and Brittany Romano

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Your laptop is a major investment, and like your phone, is probably something you couldn’t live very long without. That’s why it pays to have the best laptop backpack for women to protect your computer when you’re toting it to and from class or work.

The most popular laptop backpacks have one thing in common: they distribute the weight evenly for a more comfortable commute — and the ones on this list that feature separate padded compartments to keep your tech safe are no exception.

While many retailers like Amazon offer high-quality backpacks that are great for your laptops, plenty of fashion brands are upping the ante, too. Brands such as The North Face and Patagonia, traditionally known for their outwear, also have stylish backpacks for college students similar to traditional purses and water-resistant messenger bags that double as carry-ons and are TSA-approved.

Whether you prefer a designer choice for college (this Kate Spade one will make the perfect college backpack!) or a water-resistant leather backpack, we took the time to find the creme de la creme by searching through hundreds of customer reviews. Ahead, find 22 of the cutest laptop backpacks for school.

There are a few things to consider when searching for the best laptop backpack. Of course, you'll want the style to fit your taste, but you should also look for unique features to keep you feeling comfortable, like memory-foam shoulder straps, padded laptop sleeves, and ventilated back panels. A good bag will also have multiple straps, so you can switch up different ways to hold it with either a removable cross-body strap, top handles, or shoulder straps.

Best Leather Laptop Backpack

Samsonite Classic Leather Slim Backpack

Amazon

Macy's

Samsonite

Despite its sleek silhouette, this leather travel bag has two large interior compartments, including a padded laptop sleeve that fits up to a 15.6-inch device. Additionally, it has a zippered front pocket for smaller essentials. Choose from two sophisticated shades — black or cognac — both with brushed silver hardware.

Pros: ✓Can fit up to two laptops ✓Offers a limited three-year warranty ✓Has a full-size organizable pocket inside

Cons: ✓Some users said they were cautious it contained DEHP phthalates

Color(s): 2

Size: 5.51 x 10.63 x 16.14 inches

Materials: Leather

Amazon Customer Review: "This seems to be a very well made backpack. It’s even better looking in person and I got compliments on my first trip with it. Protects your laptop and other devices well, with room for a notebook, water bottle (inside), etc. I don’t think you’d be able to fit a change of clothes with shoes and your laptop, if that’s what you’re looking for.This suited my needs and fit extremely well under the plane seat."

VANKEAN Laptop Backpack

Amazon

This cute laptop backpack is made of environmentally-friendly nylon that repels water to keep your tech gear safe. The large bag has four compartments and two side pockets, including a separate laptop sleeve. The best part? It also has a built-in USB charging port, so you can charge your phone anywhere/anytime.

Pros: ✓Waterproof fabric ✓Feels extremely lightweight

Cons: ✓Shoppers said the material left a lot to be desired

Color(s): 2

Size: 16.9 x 11.15 x7.5 inches

Materials: 100% Nylon

Amazon Customer Review: "[I] love that the bag actually stands up instead of flopping flat on the floor! I’m a pocket junkie and this bag has plenty for the smaller items I carry with me. Plenty of room for laptop and cable, iPad, small notebook, makeup bag, wristlet, and other miscellaneous stuff plus my cornicle water bottle in the outside pocket with room to spare."

Best Laptop Backpack for School

ESTARER Women PU Leather Backpack

Amazon

Y2K fashion is having a moment right now and this faux leather backpack is a throwback must-have. No matter what you pair it with — T-shirt and jeans, slip dresses, or skirts — it will add a vintage-inspired feel to every lewk! The special features include a padded laptop sleeve, a padded iPad pocket, and a small security pocket for your wallet.

Pros: ✓Has adjustable shoulder straps ✓Sturdy and durable

Cons: ✓Some found it bigger than they needed

Color(s): 4

Size: 13 x 4 x 16 inches

Materials: 100% Faux PU Leather

Amazon Customer Review: "I’ve put my laptop, iPad, planner, umbrella, headphones, water, and other miscellaneous items in all at once, and it was still convenient to use while traveling on the train. A plus is the bag has received many compliments, [and] people are surprised when I tell them it’s from Amazon."

Modoker Vintage Laptop Backpack

Amazon

Consider this a budget-friendly dupe of the Herschel bag. It’s got the same classic style — canvas fabric with contrasting buckles — and is just as functional, thanks to a total of six pockets, including a roomy main compartment for books, a laptop pocket, a front zipper pocket for smaller accessories and gadgets, a pencil case, and two side pockets for water bottles.

Pros: ✓Has a total of six pockets ✓Includes an external USB charging port

Cons: ✓ The side pockets don’t have a lot of stretch

Color(s): 5

Size: 11.8 x 16.5 x 5.1 inches

Materials: Lightweight 600D Polyester, Leather Trim Exterior

Amazon Customer Review: "I ordered this for my daughter’s first year away at college. She took that bag everywhere, to every class and club meeting and the dining hall and in between, and now at the end of the year, it [still] looks brand new. It’s big enough to hold her notebooks, textbooks, and laptop and isn’t bulky. I highly recommend this backpack! I might even order a second one in case this one ever wears out so we have a backup."

LOVEVOOK Laptop Backpack

Shop Now

Available in 23 different colors, you can get a Lovevook laptop backpack to match every piece of clothing in your closet. The spacious book bag also has several interior pockets, including a sleeve for your laptop, two front zip pockets, two side pockets for a water bottle, and a USB charging port for your tech gadgets.

By Kara Nesvig

By Sara Delgado

By Liv McConnell

Pros: ✓Durable fabrications ✓Multiple pockets for organization

Cons: ✓ The interior pockets are not very spacious

Color(s): 23

Size: 12.5 x 17 x 7.8 inches

Materials: Nylon

Amazon Customer Review: "It is an amazing backpack. Great for traveling to put on top of a suitcase, and for school. I used this backpack for school [and] it was able to carry all my books and binder, and it even had more space. It has many pockets but is a little bigger than expected, but overall it was an amazing backpack."

KROSER Laptop Backpack

Walmart

Amazon

This sleek nylon commuter backpack can double as a purse, thanks to its shape. It features chic gold hardware, top carry handles, and an exterior zip pocket. On the backside, you'll find wide comfortable straps to hook over your shoulders. The interior also has multiple compartments, including a spot for laptops and tablets and small mesh pockets to store cards and wallets.

Pros: ✓Has a built-in USB port ✓Has multiple compartments for laptops and tablets

Cons: Limited colors/prints

Color(s): 4 (varies by retailers)

Size: 16.9 x 11.15 x 7.5 inches

Materials: 100% PU/Leather, Nylon

Amazon Customer Review: "I love my backpack. It’s lightweight but durable and good quality. [There are] lots of interior compartments to keep you organized. I had a Fjallraven and realized how much I disliked it for work because of the size and lack of organization and that it made me look like a kindergarten student. This is the opposite. It’s sleek and didn’t overwhelm my 5’2 frame. At a glance, it looks like a Tumi.

Best Laptop Backpack for Work

Béis The Backpack

Nordstrom

Béis

Need one of the best school backpacks? You can take this one from the classroom to after-hour work events and on weekend trips. It's spacious and durable and comes with plenty of compartments. You'll find two exterior side pockets to store water bottles, one exterior zip pocket, an interior mesh pocket, and a separate laptop compartment.

Pros: ✓Laptop friendly ✓Two water bottle pockets

Cons: ✓ Some reviewers hated the straps

Color(s): 2

Size: 13 x 19 x 5.5 inches

Materials: Polyester, PVC, Nylon, Metal

Nordstrom Customer Review: "I love this bag. As a chronic over-packer, my goal was to pack for a weekend, and it delivered. I was able to pack five outfits, two pairs of shoes, all my makeup and toiletries, and a laptop! Score."

Best Designer Laptop Backpack

Herschel Survey Backpack ll Weather-Resistant

Herschel

Saks Fifth Avenue

You might have already spotted this popular backpack on your social feeds and there are many reasons why it has a huge fanbase. Aside from its sleek exterior, the roomy compartments are just as impressive. The main pocket is water-resistant, triple-lined, and houses a smaller padded, fleece-lined pocket that can fit laptops up to 15 inches.

Pros: ✓Made from recycled materials ✓It’s water-resistant

Cons: ✓ On the expensive side

Color(s): 7 (varies by retailer)

Size: 11.5 x 16.25 x 5.5 inches

Materials: 100% Polyester

By Kara Nesvig

By Sara Delgado

By Liv McConnell

Herschel Customer Review: “My favorite, inside out! I think it's a backpack that stands out with its distinctive style. I love the matte texture and yes, it might get a little sweaty on a hot summer day, but it's perfect in a city where it rains a lot. Optimal in size: has enough space for a laptop as well as other items and looks good on the back of an adult.”

Best Stylish Laptop Backpack

Rains Mini Reflective Waterproof Backpack

Nordstrom

Amazon

Anyone who is a fan of the Rain Backpack will go crazy over this down-sized version. This mini reflective backpack is smaller and more compact, with the same ever-contemporary waterproof rucksack designed for durability and smoothness. With an internal laptop pocket and concealed external phone pocket (on the back panel), you can keep your electronic devices hidden or visible for easy access.

Pros:✓Waterproof ✓Has an internal laptop pocket

Cons: ✓ Only available in black

Color(s): Varies by retailer

Size: One size

Materials: 100% Polyester

Amazon Customer Review: “This backpack is great! The soft touch, water-resistant material feels very premium and the matte hardware feels sturdy. Straps are on the shorter side but that’s okay as I’m a thinner build so it fits me well. The minimalist style of this backpack makes it look much more expensive than it is. Well worth every penny. I’d easily pay twice for this backpack as I feel it’s definitely worth it. I appreciate that I can dress this up for business or dress it down for flights.”

Fjällräven Kanken Laptop Backpack

Amazon

Fjällräven

Nordstrom

This Fjällräven Kanken backpack is a Teen Vogue reader favorite, so you know we had to include it on our list. It comes in various colors and sizes and features top handles, which means you can tote it around like a regular handbag. It also has a 17-inch padded laptop sleeve and an exterior zip pocket.

Pros:✓Extremely durable ✓Ample space

Cons: ✓Some reviewers noted that they couldn't fit their water bottles inside properly

Color(s): 10

Size: 15.79 x 11.54 x 2.68 inches

Materials: 100% Vinylal

Amazon Customer Review: "Bought this to carry my 17" laptop from home to work. It fits perfectly and I have extra room for carrying an umbrella, water bottle, etc. The only con is that shoulder straps have very little padding and hurts my neck and shoulders a bit. Will try to find something to add to the straps. otherwise very sturdy, highly recommend."

New Crew Backpack 22L

Lululemon

If you spend a lot of time at the gym (or sports practice), this might be the best backpack for you. It's designed for the most active person, featuring a water-repellant fabric, and a zippered exterior for ventilation (excellent for sweat-soaked clothing and sneakers). It also has an exterior padded laptop sleeve that can fit tablets or laptops up to 16 inches.

Pros: ✓Water-repellent material ✓Designed for those on the move

Cons: ✓ Some shoppers note that they had trouble with the zipper

By Kara Nesvig

By Sara Delgado

By Liv McConnell

Color(s): 4

Size: 11.4 x 7.3 x 16.5 inches

Materials: 100% Nylon

Lululemon Customer Review: “[I] absolutely love this backpack! So cute but so useful at the same time. It’s perfect for school and has plenty of room. Totally recommend you buy it!”

Thompson Medium Backpack

Kate Spade

Want something that looks and feels oh-so-luxurious? Reach for this Thompson backpack. It's crafted from pebble leather, which gives it that smooth and sleek look. Plus, it comes with plenty of storage compartments, including interior card slots, interior zip pockets, and an exterior slip pocket.

Pros: ✓Has a magnetic strap closure ✓Triple compartments

Cons: ✓The strap broke for some easily

Color(s): 2

Size: 11.25 x 11.25 x 5 inches

Materials: Pebbled Leather

Kate Spade Customer Review: "It is a must-have for backpack lovers, I highly recommend it. The compartments are well thought out and the zip in the middle keeps the wallet safe! The front lock is pushed up to open. I love everything about this backpack. Thanks to the designer!!! It comes with a pink color dust tote!"

Dagne Dover Small Neoprene Backpack

Saks Fifth Avenue

Dagne Dover

Keep things simple with this cute and tiny neoprene backpack. The water-resistant material is spill-proof and can easily be hand washed. It's also available in six shades: Onyx, Heather Grey, Dark Moss, Stormy, Dune, and Camel. Did we mention it has a special side pocket for your cell phone?!

Pros: ✓100% vegan materials ✓Comes in S-L sizing

Cons: ✓ Some reviewers note the backpack is extremely small

Color(s): 6 (varies on retailer)

Size: 9.5 x 5 x 13 inches

Materials: 100% Neoprene

Review: "This is my second small Dakota, so I knew what I was getting, a bag just big enough for my iPad and 32oz Nalgene, with a handy organization for all the little essentials. Everything has its place, and I love the zipper pockets along the back of the bag, where I keep my wallet (easy to move the bag with one arm and grab, but secure against my body to protect from pickpockets). The black looks professional for my commute and doesn't make me feel like a student, but it's still casual enough to be my go-to bag for days in the city or hikes in the woods."

Timbuk2 Tuck Laptop Backpack

Amazon

Nordstrom

This laptop backpack is made from recycled polyester and has a surprisingly large interior compartment. You'll find a 15-inch laptop sleeve, side slip pockets, and an exterior zip pocket. As a bonus, the Vista loop on the front can easily attach to bikes.

Pros: ✓The Vista loop can attach easily to bikes ✓Rear-access laptop compartment

Cons: ✓Some reviewers didn’t love the quality of the material

Color(s): 3

Size: 19.96 x 16.54 x 2.95 inches

Materials: 100% Recycled Nylon and Polyester

Amazon Customer Review: "[This] new bag has been delightful to carry. The placement of the shoulder straps keeps it nicely close to one's back without a waist or chest strap. The side pockets, although not mesh or expansive as on some other bags, including my old Osprey, hold a good amount and is quite deep. There are three main compartments, the one under the flat, a zippered one in the front that is convenient for carrying things like a notebook or 8" tablet, and there is a zippered back pocket, which nicely holds a 15.6" laptop, without disturbing the main part of the bag. There is a small, nearly hidden zippered compartment handy for cards or a smartphone."

CALPAK Kaya Faux Leather Laptop Backpack

Nordstrom

Calpak

If you're looking for a good bag to invest in, look no further, This structured laptop backpack is made from a smooth faux leather and has a gorgeous whipstitched trim all around the exterior. It also comes with a top handle and two shoulder straps, making it super versatile for various occasions.

By Kara Nesvig

By Sara Delgado

By Liv McConnell

Pros: ✓Two-way top zip closure ✓ Has a top carry handle

Cons: ✓ Some reviewers found the stitching didn’t last very long

Color(s): 2

Size: 15 ½ x 11 ½ x 4 ½ inches

Materials: Faux leather

Nordstrom Customer Review: “I love this backpack for work! It is very sturdy, and it is great for traveling! The slip on the back allows you to attach it to your suitcase. I got the blush color, and it is everything! I am considering getting it in black for the fall/winter. You will not be disappointed!”

Longchamp Le Pliage Backpack

Nordstrom

Amazon

Everyone is familiar with the Longchamp tote bag, but we're here to tell you, don't sleep on the Le Pliage backpack. It comes in beautiful vibrant hues (including Barbiecore pink!) and has the dark brown signature textured leather trim. It's also crafted from a water-resistant fabric, so you won't have to worry about it getting messed up on rainy days.

Pros:✓ A great bag for travel ✓Water-resistant

Cons: ✓No pockets

Color(s): 5 (varies by retailer)

Size: 7.48 x 5.98 x 1.73 inches

Materials: 100% Nylon

Nordstrom Customer Review: “This is the perfect size for travel. It folds up to envelope size in the suitcase, is small enough that you do not have to check it in the museums, holds as much as a purse, is lightweight, and distributes weight evenly so one shoulder isn't carrying the weight, pickpocket-proof, and you can toss it into the washing machine. Best of all: it is highly water resistant and will keep your things dry in a downpour."

himawari Laptop Backpack

Amazon

Why blend in when you can stand out with this bright blue eco-friendly backpack? Available in dozens of colors, you can go as bold or subtle as you want, and it features an all-over waterproof canvas. You'll also find plenty of interior pockets and spaces to store your class essentials, as well as a built-in USB port.

Pros: ✓Features a USB port ✓ Made from eco-friendly materials

Cons: ✓The backpack isn’t as waterproof as reviewers hoped

Color(s): 35

Size: 16.5 x 12 x 8 inches

Materials: Lightweight canvas

Amazon Customer Review: “Love this backpack. My electronics feel protected when I’m using it. I love the zipper at the top and all of the compartments. [I] haven’t used it for travel so far, but I will be taking it on my next trip. Love the color, too!”

BOSTANTEN Laptop Backpack Purse

Amazon

Backpacks should be simple, cute, and easy to carry, like this pick genuine leather select. The soft cowhide leather gives it an overall elevated feel, and we love the beige and brown colorway. It comes with adjustable shoulder straps, multiple interior pockets, and silver hardware.

Pros: ✓Two-way zipper for added protection ✓Fits up to a 15.6-inch laptop

Cons: ✓ Some reviewers noted that the straps were flimsy

Color(s): 4

Size: 12.59 x 5.90 x 15.74 inches

Materials: Cowhide Leather

Amazon Customer Review: "This bag is good quality, what you’d expect for the price. It is really pretty and looks just like the pictures. It is not bulky, but it holds my 16-inch MacBook Pro. I’m really happy with this bag so far [...], it’s just what I wanted. It's large enough to hold my MacBook and charger, not bulky, and elegant."

CLUCI Leather Laptop Backpack

Amazon

Ditch your shoulder bag and invest in this leather laptop backpack; it's the ultimate 2-in-1. Available in a slew of tri-toned color-block shades, the gorgeous structure is sleek and sophisticated and will hold all your essentials safely. It can also fit plenty of items thanks to the multiple storage compartments. You'll find a padded laptop sleeve, two inner slots, two pen loops, and three card slots.

By Kara Nesvig

By Sara Delgado

By Liv McConnell

Pros: ✓Has three main compartments for storage ✓High-quality design ✓ Beautiful gun-toned hardware

Cons: ✓While it’s listed as genuine leather, some shoppers said it wasn’t

Color(s): 12

Size: 11.81 x 3.93 x 16.53 inches

Materials: 100% Genuine Leather

Amazon Customer Review: "I purchased this bag because I would often carry two bags. A small one for my items and then a computer bag, and my shoulders paid the price. I hate to call it a backpack because it's so pretty! I've gotten countless compliments basically every time I wear it. This bag has tons of storage space and all these hidden compartments. The wide straps make it comfortable if you're wearing it over one shoulder or behind your back. The leather is soft and has a quality look and feel."

Vera Bradley Campus Backpack

Amazon

Vera Bradley

Vera Bradley's cotton backpacks are a staple come college. This specific Campus backpack has one of the broadest ranges of colors and designs on our list. It comes complete with multiple compartments, two mesh tech sleeves for laptops and tablets, and a zippered front pocket for easy access to essentials like your dorm room key card. Best of all? You can toss the whole thing into the washing machine for a quick refresh.

Pros:✓Made from sustainable material ✓ Machine washable

Cons: ✓ Some wish it was bigger

Color(s): 61 (varies by retailer)

Size: 7.5 x 12 x 16.5 inches

Materials: 100% Cotton

Amazon Customer Review: “This is a pretty roomy bag. [It] has enough pockets for keys, wallet, bottle drink on the side(s), will fit around the handle of a suitcase, if needed. Will hold laptop, books, and a tablet. I use it as a daily bag, to and from the gym, boxing, etc. I scored it on Prime Day Deals and it's definitely a keeper!”

Herschel Settlement Backpack

Amazon

This Settlement backpack is a top-rated pick among Amazon reviewers. It feels lightweight on the shoulders, has a heavy-duty cotton canvas that can withstand any scuff or spills, and is available in 17 colors and patterns. It also features multiple zipper pockets and a solid back panel.

Pros:✓Lifetime warranty (depends on retailer) ✓Includes a headphone port

Cons: ✓ Some said the backpack they ordered didn’t look like the picture

Color(s): 16

Size: 4.5 x 11.25 x 16.25 inches

Materials: Polyester fabric

Amazon Customer Review: “Great overall backpack. This backpack is really for those that are just looking for a simple backpack. The material feels really sturdy and it seems to hold its shape really well when carrying heavy stuff like textbooks and laptops. The front pocket has just enough space for small things like your phone, calculator, etc. My only complaint is that on the front pocket, it doesn't have a pocket to hold pens or small things that you would normally get with like a Jansport backpack.”