We tried a lot of backpacks. The ones listed here are all good options that we think you’ll be satisfied with depending on your needs and budget.
Aer Designs Slim Pack for $115: We like this bag for quick trips where you don’t have to carry everything you normally keep at your desk. It’s only 8.5 liters – which is less than half of some of our picks – but it still fits a laptop and charger, wallet, water bottle, phone, plus food light, mask and hand sanitizer. Its durable polyurethane coating can be easily wiped clean.
STM Goods Myth 18L Backpack for $120: Review editor Julian Chokkattu found that, despite the Myth’s compact 18-liter size, he could easily fit a 16-inch MacBook Pro and its accessories inside. The laptop hangs so it doesn’t get damaged by accidental drops, and the thick padding helps it rest comfortably on your back. There’s a handy cord loop you can use to hang headphones or cables, and a microfiber-lined top pocket for fragile things, but no side pockets for water bottles or umbrellas.
Targus 2 Office Antibacterial Backpack for $120: Julian is also a fan of this bag, which is for people who often switch between working from home and working in the office. The two front pockets are attached via a looped Velcro strap, so they can be easily removed if you want light storage. Key contacts on the backpack near the zipper have a protective finish against bacteria, which Targus says will prevent microbial growth. Don’t expect this to do much, but it can give you more peace of mind.
Iconic Incase Backpack with Woolenex for $200: Incase has a wide selection of backpacks, but Adrienne prefers the durable, low-weave weave of the Icon line with Woolenex (Incase’s exclusive wool-polyester blend). It is resistant to abrasion and repels moisture but looks much more polished and feels more fabric than nylon.
Mission Workshop Shake for $380: This roll bag has a ton of the bag and the weather-resistant double-layer construction and Velcro closure keep the contents of the main compartment dry. It’s not particularly quick or easy to reach many of these bags, it’s really heavy, and while it’s eye-catching, the price is pretty steep.
Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack for $145: The Dagne Dover bag is attractive and goes with everything, with a loop for attaching to luggage. Neoprene may be water resistant and vegetarian, but it not environmentally friendly. The company says it is working towards being more environmentally conscious. We didn’t try Vida Tote ($145), but it holds a 13-inch laptop and is made of organic cotton if you want to try a different material.
