The Best Backpacks for MacBook Pro (13-inch & 15-inch) of 2018 The MacBook Pro is a laptop built to be versatile, so it's no wonder you want to take it with you wherever you go. Whether that's in your carry-on luggage for a flight out of town or in your back while you bike to work, a backpack is the easiest way to transport your MacBook safely and securely.
The best Mac accessories and Apple Macbook accessories curated from our team. From Macbook cases, to smart chargers and everything in between.
Best backpack for MBP? Discussion in 'MacBook Pro' started by Edwardz, Jul 15, 2007.
So without further ado, here are the best iPad Pro 12.9 bags, cases, sleeves, backpacks and folios, part 1: Leather iPad Pro 12.9 Briefcase Although this is the newest addition to the MacCase line, the Premium Leather iPad Pro 12.9 Briefcase has become a customer favorite.
The AmazonBasics Laptop bag is everything you’d expect from the Seattle-based shopping giant. It’s relatively comfortable and easy to carry, conveniently equipped with a padded interior that offers a separate space to hold your laptop without adding any unnecessary bulk.
The minimalist shoulder bag’s multi-compartment design also provides all the necessary space for housing your cables and pens, and given the rock-bottom pricing, you could feasibly purchase a separate bag for each device in your arsenal. The bags accommodate laptops and tablets ranging between 7 and 17 inches, so you don’t need to worry about finding the right size for you. Just don’t expect anything fit for a fashionista, or an indestructible build–pick a durable laptop to complement this bag!
JanSport Right Pack
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This simple, durable backpack is an affordable choice that comes in a huge range of different colors, all with that distinctive brown suede leather bottom section. You’ll find a large main compartment which includes a sleeve for laptops that are 15 inches and smaller. There’s also a front pouch, with some organizing pockets for pens and accessories, and a handy clip.
You’ll find a quick stash pocket on the front of it. The padded shoulder straps are comfortable, it’s not too bulky, and it comes with a lifetime warranty. The laptop pocket isn’t padded, so you might want to combine this with a laptop sleeve.
Herschel Supply Company Retreat Backpack
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It’s hard to beat the unique style of a Herschel Supply Co bag, and the Retreat is no exception. Available in a variety of colors, this spacious pack is dressed in coated polyester, with a reinforced bottom so you don’t break anything when you set it down quickly.
The laptop sleeve is perfect for keeping your computer steady or holding onto anything you don’t want to be mixed with everything else in your pack. When you need to close everything up, the flap on the top provides adequate protection, with a pull cord inside, and metal clasps to really batten the hatches when the elements try to get the best of you. The Retreat comes in at an appealing price point, and there are sizes above and below it if your needs differ a little from the norm.
Asus ROG Nomad V2 backpack
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If you’ve got a massive 17-inch gaming laptop, and you’ve just gotta bring all your stuff with you to the LAN party, the Asus ROG Nomad is a top pick.
With a laptop compartment specifically designed for the Asus ROG G750 series of gaming laptops, you can carry any 17-inch laptop, along with your keyboard, mouse, peripherals, power supply, extra controllers, snacks, drinks, a tablet, a change of clothes, and a jacket. That might be an exaggeration, but only a slight one. It looks great too, boasting the same detail and aesthetic as the Asus ROG G750 series. With plenty of organizational pockets and lots of room, the Asus ROG Nomad is more of a weekend warrior than a work bag.
Hynes Eagle Soft Canvas Messenger Bag
Designed for 17-inch laptops, this Hynes Eagle bag accommodates larger laptops that may not fit into small sleeves—and backs up this room up with versatility. The bag includes two main compartments, two front pockets, a zipper pocket, three interior slip pockets, two mesh pockets, and a sleeve section for the laptop. In other words, you can carry nearly whatever you need, making this bag a great selection for commuting or school.
Aer Fit Pack 2
The Fit Back is specifically designed for fitness lovers and gym goers who want an effective pack to store their electronics as well as their gym/workout gear. It includes a main compartment for gym stuff and a padded laptop side pocket that fits laptops up to 15.6 inches. There’s also a ventilated shoe compartment on the bottom and a top pocket for smaller devices, along with numerous internal pockets. Even if you don’t go to the gym, consider this pack if you have to change your outfit on the go.
Mancro Business and School Backpack
The immensely popular Mancro backpack does a little of everything. It comes with a waterproof laptop compartment that can hold up to a 15.6-inch laptop, a separate compartment for your tablet, and plenty of other spaces for books, clothes, wallets, phones, water bottles, and other items. It also includes a built-in lock for greater safety and reduced change of theft, and a USB charge and cable built in for easier charging via the backpack. All this is encased in a water-resistant nylon fabric. It’s a backpack that pretty much everone can appreciate at an affordable price.
Rugged and weatherproof
Incase Range Backpack
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Believe it or not, Incase does more than simply manufacturer iPhone cases on the cheap. The company offers an entire line of laptop-friendly backpacks, further highlighted by standout products such as the Range Backpack. It’s essentially a no-frills cycling pack, one outfitted with high-vis reflective details and padded shoulder straps for added comfort and ergonomic support. An adjustable sternum strap also comes standard for stability purposes, as does a padded compartment designed to cradle your notebook with a plush, fleece lining. The multiple organizer pockets — specifically the compartment used for housing your U-lock — make it even more suitable for the average bike commuter, especially when combined with the nylon construction.
Mission Workshop R6 Arkiv Field Pack
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The Mission Workshop R6 Arkiv is built around a modular rail system that lets you easily move storage components around, customizing the bag to your own liking. Buying the different pieces will cost you a little more, but for professionals who never stop moving and working, it might be the perfect system for getting exactly what you need out of your bag. Inside the hybrid roll-top/flap-down closure system, you’ll find a bag well-suited for a lot of stuff on its own, with a 15-inch laptop compartment to use for your computer or other documents. If two straps isn’t really your thing, you can also buy a separate strap to convert the Arkiv Field Pack into a sling bag.
Filson Padded Computer Bag
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The Filson Padded Computer Bag is proof that classic “originality” can go a long way when you outfit it with a subtle touch of leather. The durable pack features a rugged twill that’s just as easy on the eyes as it is capable of repelling bad weather, and for those who seemingly bring their entire workspace with them on the go, the Original offers a massive interior compartment lined with dividers for laptop and accessory organization.
Leather reinforcements and an adjustable shoulder strap round out the bag’s hallmarks, not to mention a zipper and storm flap closure designed to keep the contents in and weather out. Prices for this American-made bag can rise above $400, but you can find this bag for much cheaper if you choose the right color. Just make sure you pick a high-quality laptop to match!
Business chic
Noreve Urban Backpack
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If you’re after some serious style, then look no further, because the Urban Backpack from Noreve is genuine full-grain leather perfection. With an elegant, business look this backpack sports a large main compartment that can house a 15-inch laptop. There’s a compartment at the back with an elasticated Velcro strap, a couple of pockets for smartphones, and some smaller pen or stylus holders.
There’s also a zipper compartment on the other side. Back on the exterior, you’ll find two side pockets with invisible magnetic closures and a classic double-zipper front pouch. Adjustable shoulder straps and a strong leather handle round out this impossibly smart backpack. You can get it in beige, brown, or our favorite, black. The only drawback here is the hefty price tag.
Large Expandable Knack Pack
Sometimes you need a larger bag, like when you are carrying around several sets of clothes or a bunch of books. Sometimes you need a smaller bag, like when you are trying to fit it into overhead or underseat spaces. The Knack Pack is designed to do both with an expanding compartment. It also has a separate room for up to a 17-inch laptop, a fleece pocket for a tablet, a hidden water bottle pocket, and a key leash. The pack is made of water-resistant body fabric, with a foam back panel. Overall it’s a great mix of quality materials and versatile design that you can take just about anywhere.
Pad & Quill Messenger Bag
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Pad & Quill has created an excellent tote for your favorite laptop — assuming it measures 15 inches or less. The company’s apt-titled Messenger Bag includes plenty of internal pockets, an external pocket for your smartphone, and a stylish combination of bridle leather and waxed canvas for added protection.
Designed specifically for college students entering the professional world, this bag showcases a casual approach to style, and it’s hard to see a situation where it wouldn’t be useful. The downside is the high price tag, though the bag does come with a 25-year warranty.
Mobile Edge Eco Messenger Bag
The rugged cotton canvas of Mobile Edge’s messenger bag is all natural and eco-friendly, while the compact design makes the bag easy to handle. In fact, ease-of-use is a common theme here. There’s a removable ID holder that you can anchor into position wherever is most convenient, and an integrated tablet pocket if you prefer to use two mobile devices at the same time and have a particularly great computer tablet.
Jack Spade Slim Supply Brief
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It’s pricey, but if you can afford it, Jack Spade produces some of the finest bags and cases on the market, with high-quality materials and sleek, professional design. The exterior of the bag is covered in tech grey textured nylon, for a lightweight, modern feel. Inside, you’ll find a padded tech pocket for your laptop or other computing necessities, and a spacious main compartment for your notebooks, reference materials, and whatever else you need to bring to the meeting. There’s also an outside pocket for storing anything you need to access quickly and easily.
Moshi Urbana Briefcase
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Blending stylish design and comfortable fit, the Moshi Urbana is fit to carry a laptop of up to 15 inches, with a padded compartment that also has room for your tablet or smartphone. The strap has an adjustable cushion, and you can have it fitted just the way you like. With a wide variety of interior and exterior pockets, as well as a water-resistant outer coating, you’ll keep all of your valuables safe and dry, and won’t have to dig through a huge bag to find your charger. The Urbana is available in three colors that range from exciting and trendy to professional and subdued, for a look that matches you and what you get up to every day.
MooseAndPine MacBook Pro Messenger Bag
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Nothing says “artsy” quite like Etsy. Aside from the usual offerings of handmade beard beanies and vintage Danish lights, the up-and-coming craft site also boasts a number of laptop bags for those who truly want something that’s one of a kind, right down to the stitching and color wash. Each of Etsy store MooseandPine’s small, dark denim messenger bags feature an off-white cotton canvas compartment suitable for 13-inch ultrabooks and other similarly sized laptops.
Although two outer rivet-reinforced pockets provide just enough space for your cell phone or charger, the three additional inside pockets allow ample room for bulkier items, making the bag versatile whether you want to cram in a few classic novels or keep it light with no more than your laptop. While not all Etsy products are dependable, MooseAndPine keeps reliable stock so this bag should be available — and occasionally on sale.
Outdoors
Tom Bihn Synapse 19
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The Synapse 19 is a more traditional backpack done very, very well: The materials used by the Seattle-based Tom Bihn include nylon ripstop for fabric lining and exterior components, closed-cell foam for support, and an option for 400d – 1000d denier Cordua. The result is a water-resistant backpack with not only a compartment for notebooks or laptops (including a removable pouch), but also room for cameras, flashlights, sunglasses, first aid kits, and a little of everything else. The Synapse has a dedicated focus on internal pouches and compartments so that the outside remains free of mesh bags and confusing straps, creating a clean, stylish pack suitable for outdoor use in all types of weather. Laptop pouches can be customized according to size, and if you find the 19 too small, you can try the Synapse 25 instead!
Arc’teryx Gr1nville Backpack
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Not only is Arc’teryx considered to be one of the most premiere outdoor brands of all time in most circles, but it’s also oft considered one of the most expensive. The high price tag associated with the Granville Backpack is warranted, though, considering the taped seams and weather-resistant construction. The 20L pack also features a zippered back panel for quickly accessing your laptop or tablet from the padded 15-inch sleeve, as well as a reflective logo for increased viability, a key clip, and a convenient pocket for securing smaller items. The peppering of the color choices — Bengal Copper, Black, Marine, and Biome — make it even more accessible, whether you want to go with something subtle or a bit more flashy.
Osprey Cyber Port Daypack
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In recent year’s, Osprey’s name has become as synonymous with outdoor packs as Tide is with detergent — and rightly so. However, the aptly-titled Cyber Port was designed more so for the tech aficionado than the one heading into the back-country on a seven-day trek. Available in a bevy of attractive colors that tie retro style with modern sensibility, the panel-style daypack features a melange of storage compartments, each of which is intended for a different purpose. A padded sleeve provides adequate space for 15-inch laptops, while the main compartment houses important documents and a front pocket supplies a scratch-resistant space for your shades. Best of all, a zippered sleeve located in the front panel allows you to use utilize your tablet without ever taking it out of the pack. And did we mention the lifetime guarantee?
Photography and travel
Lowepro ProTactic 350 AW Camera and Laptop Backpack
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While the Lowepro is a camera bag at its core, it has a great laptop compartment and enough features to warrant a look even if you don’t have a digital camera. The main compartment is broken up by a series of padded dividers, so you can have individual storage for all of your lenses and equipment, or whatever random stuff you’re carrying around with you.
There are three access panels, one on each side so you can pull the bag under your arm, and one on top for larger items. The back is covered in attachment straps for all manner of extra packs, tripod mounts, and easy access storage. The ProTactic comes in two sizes, both capable of holding one or two DSLR bodies, plenty of lenses, and your laptop.
Kastel Bags DonJon Black
If you’re looking for class and a laptop bag that’s meant for traveling, the (vegan) leather-adorned DonJon is right up your alley. Although it features a traditional laptop compartment — one technically designed for MacBooks — it also comes with numerous pockets for housing phones, cables, chargers, notebooks, and an array of other pint-sized devices.
This makes it well-suited for a variety of situations, from a cross-country train ride to a busy weekend in the city. The removable shoulder strap also provides plenty of options for carrying the bag, and the price here is lower than expected given the quality of design and space you get in return.
Timbuk2 Command TSA-Friendly Messenger
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Timbuk2 is a mainstay when it comes to messenger bags, or at least it has been since the San Francisco-based company first entered the foray in the early ’90s. The Command Messenger is one of the most generic, sure, but it’s also a brilliant ode to simplicity. A host of external pockets provide ample room for your power chords and gear, while a Tricot-lined pocket protects your sunglasses and smartphone from unwanted scratches.
Additional touches, such as the durable aluminum hardware and the TSA-compliant sleeve, add to the appeal, the latter of which allows you to check through airport security without having to remove your devices. Said feature — and the equipped Vista loops — make the Command worth more than just a cursory glance. Prices for this older model tend to be more affordable, but if you can’t find it look for newer versions of the Command bag.
Cocoon NoLita II Laptop Sleeve
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The market for vertical laptop sleeves seems scarce, but Cocoon builds a solid neoprene one with a padded handle and form-fitting construction. The slender sleeve uses premium quality lycra fabric and provides lightweight protection and accommodation for laptops up to 13 inches without tacking on excess and surely unwanted bulk.
The bundled Grid-It system is also an interesting method of organization that firmly holds your belongings in place using rubberized woven elastic bands and versatile construction. Though customization and features are limited beyond that, it’s available in three colors (racing red, gun gray, and black), so toss it in a backpack or suitcase for a bit of added protection on the move.
Kelly Moore Unisex Pilot Backpack
If you want a tough backpack that can hold a little bit of everything, including your DSLR camera (plus extra lens) and 15-inch laptop, this highly versatile Kelly Moore pack could be your ideal companion. It comes with everything from a removable padded basket to a credit card organization. The leather flap is secured with brass hardware and magnetic locks for basic protection.
Editors' Recommendations
As the summer draws to a close, your mind starts to focus on the academic year ahead. Whether you’re just starting college, or going back to school for another year, you’ll want a backpack that is both functional and fashionable. And one that can carry your laptop safely too.
It’ll need to fit all your college textbooks and provide secure, safe storage for your laptop and other gadgets. We know there’s a lot of choices out there, so we’ve rounded up the seven best backpacks for college students with laptops!
1. The North Face Access Pack
The North Face Access Pack BackpackThe North Face Access Pack Backpack Buy Now On Amazon
And that can be a very enticing offer. On the plus side, you get security software that is free, and in many respects is just as good as it’s paid for siblings, at least when it comes to basic security.
Most backpacks for college students look pretty much the same and come in reasonably common colors. But not The North Face Access Pack. This backpack has laptops and gadgets in mind, with pulley systems granting easy access to the bag’s many compartments.
The Access Pack is designed for comfort too, with OrthoLite padding and ladderlocks for the shoulder straps. The interior pockets are fleece lined, while the rest of the bag is durable polyester and nylon.
Although it is one of the most expensive options out there, the backpack does at least come with a lifetime warranty. The compartmentalized bag is particularly suited to those students who like to keep their belongings organized while on the go.
2. Booq Cobra Squeeze Backpack
Booq CSQ-Gry Cobra Squeeze Backpack, GrayBooq CSQ-Gry Cobra Squeeze Backpack, Gray Buy Now On Amazon
The Booq Cobra Squeeze fits your modern life, with easily accessible laptop, tablet, and smartphone compartments. All the compartments have padding for extra security. The top pocket has a non-scratch lining, making it the perfect place to stash your smartphone.
The domed backpack redistributes weight, making it comfortable to wear throughout the day. A blend of recycled PET plastic and cotton coats the exterior of the bag for full waterproofing. The Cobra Squeeze can fit any Mac and laptops up to 15 inches. Each bag comes with a unique serial number to help you recover a lost bag. Although, you may find it easier to learn how to stop losing your stuffHow to Stop Losing Your Stuff (And 7 Trackers to Help You Do It)How to Stop Losing Your Stuff (And 7 Trackers to Help You Do It)There are a number of personal item trackers on the market that can help you find lost items -- or just make sure they're not lost in the first place.Read More.
3. STM Banks Backpack
STM Banks Backpack for Laptop & Tablet Up to 15' - Tornado Grey (stm-111-148P-20)STM Banks Backpack for Laptop & Tablet Up to 15' - Tornado Grey (stm-111-148P-20) Buy Now On Amazon $129.95
The STM Banks Backpack looks much more like a traditional college backpack, but a very stylish one. The monochrome color choices (blue, brown, green, grey) help give the bag a modern and minimalist look. The STM Banks comes fitted with the obligatory laptop compartment for devices up to 15 inches. But it’s real strength is hidden from view inside the 18 liter bag.
The backpack comes equipped with a cable-routing system. Pop a portable charger like the flexible and highly rated RAVPower PowerStationRAVPower 27000mAh Portable Charger ReviewRAVPower 27000mAh Portable Charger ReviewToday we're taking a look at the RAVPower portable AC-capable battery pack, with a humongous 27,000mAh charge capacity.Read More in one compartment. Then you can run the cable throughout the bag to where it’s needed.
This lets you make sure your devices are topped up, while also keeping your bag organized. STM’s SlingTech provides extra protection to your devices by keeping them securely away from impact zones.
4. Thule TCBP-417 Crossover Backpack
Thule TCBP-417 Crossover 32 L Backpack, BlackThule TCBP-417 Crossover 32 L Backpack, Black Buy Now On Amazon
The Thule Crossover Backpack blends the company’s expertise in active lifestyles with the comfort of an everyday backpack for college students. The Crossover comes equipped with a sizable 32 liters of storage space. There is even a padded, zippable interior laptop compartment suitable for devices up to 15 inches.
Well packed bags are often a dangerous environment for fragile items like sunglasses. Fortunately, the Crossover comes with a crush-proof SafeZone which can be locked or even removed altogether.
Laptops and other gadgets come with a lot of accessories, chargers, and cables. The Crossover has an interior organization compartment that keeps them tidy but at hand.
5. Eastpak Out Of Office Backpack
Eastpak Men's Out Of Office Backpack, Black, One SizeEastpak Men's Out Of Office Backpack, Black, One Size Buy Now On Amazon $39.19
No matter where you travel to in the world, you’ll spot an Eastpak bag. Their ubiquity is annoying to some. However, there’s a good reason for their title as one of the best backpacks for college students. The Eastpak Out Of Office Backpack keeps the easily recognizable design but updates it for the digital age.
There are only three compartments; a zippered front pocket, the main compartment, and an interior 13 inch laptop sleeve. An interior mesh pocket helps you keep track of smaller items.
The zip-down front panel makes it easy to access and load the main compartment. The back and shoulder straps are padded to keep the bag comfortable to carry.
6. Herschel Supply Co. Heritage Backpack
Best Backpacks For Women
Herschel Heritage Backpack, BlackHerschel Heritage Backpack, Black Buy Now On Amazon $50.00
Herschel backpacks are a staple of college life. Their minimal, modern design and affordable price make them a handy companion. The Heritage Backpack keeps things simple with just one front pocket and the main compartment. Though, there is an easy access interior 15 inch laptop sleeve.
This simplicity means that there is plenty of space in the main compartment which you can fill with books, clothes, food, and anything else you may need to get you through a day at college.
There is also an internal media pocket for your phone or media player with a port to run your headphone cable through. Given that there are wireless earphones for every budgetThe 6 Best Wireless Earbuds for All BudgetsThe 6 Best Wireless Earbuds for All BudgetsLooking for the best wireless earbuds? We've rounded up the best earbuds for sports fans, audiophiles, those on a budget, and more.Read More, you may not use this particular feature very often.
7. AmazonBasics Laptop Backpack
AmazonBasics Laptop Computer Backpack - Fits Up To 15 Inch LaptopsAmazonBasics Laptop Computer Backpack - Fits Up To 15 Inch Laptops Buy Now On Amazon $30.99
AmazonBasics, the online retailer’s affordable own-brand range, has been around since 2009. The past few years have even seen them introduce a variety of tech products that are actually pretty good10 AmazonBasics Tech Products That Are Actually Pretty Good10 AmazonBasics Tech Products That Are Actually Pretty GoodWhich AmazonBasics tech products are worth buying? Which will save you money? Here are our top picks.Read More. The AmazonBasics Laptop Backpack is a surprisingly affordable and functional bag.
The bag is designed to fit laptops up to 15 inches, although there is a slightly more expensive version which fits 17 inch devices. There are multiple interior compartments and pockets for easy organization.
Best Backpacks For Macbook Air
The shoulder straps are padded too, which should keep the bag from getting uncomfortable. It isn’t exactly fashionable but, given the price, it’s a great backpack to throw about through college.
Which Backpack Will Get You Through College?
Best Backpacks For College
Whether you’re heading there for the first time or returning for another year, these are some of the backpacks for college students with laptops. If these bags didn’t quite excite the techie in you, then you might be interested in these backpacks for techie studentsThe Best Backpacks for Techie StudentsThe Best Backpacks for Techie StudentsWhat are the best backpacks for techie students? Some backpacks include power banks and solar chargers. Others have space for gaming equipment. The best depends on your budget. We've got six of the best!Read More instead.
Best Backpacks For Women
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Best Backpacks For Machu Picchu
Seems Amazon got its idea (and hopefully its license as well) from Case Logic.