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Best Backpacks for College Students with Laptops [2024]
Picture this: you’re a college student rushing to your next class, laptop in hand, and your backpack strap suddenly snaps. Your laptop crashes to the ground, and you’re left with a shattered screen and a sinking feeling in your stomach. Don’t let this be you! In this article, we’ll guide you through the best backpacks for college students with laptops, ensuring that you find a reliable and stylish option to protect your valuable device.
Table of Contents
- Quick Answer
- Quick Tips and Facts
- Background: The Evolution of College Backpacks
- The Research: Unveiling the Top Backpacks for College Students with Laptops
- A Sporty Pack for All-Day Comfort: Patagonia Refugio Daypack 26L
- Ergonomic Hero: Osprey Packs Nebula Laptop Backpack
- A Nostalgic School Bag: Fjällräven Kånken Laptop
- Schoolyard Style: JanSport Right Pack Laptop Backpack
- A Contemporary and Versatile Backpack: Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack
- Modern and Functional: North Face Recon Laptop Backpack
- A Campus Classic: Herschel Classic Backpack XL
- Traditional with a Twist: Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack
- Street Style, Sized Up for School: Eastpak Padded Double
- Form and Function from a Streetwear Fave: Herschel Little America Laptop Backpack
- Why You Should Trust Us
- How We Picked and Tested
- Other Good Backpacks
- The Competition
- FAQ
- Conclusion
- Recommended Links
- Reference Links
Quick Answer
Looking for a quick answer? Here are the best backpacks for college students with laptops:
- Patagonia Refugio Daypack 26L
- Osprey Packs Nebula Laptop Backpack
- Fjällräven Kånken Laptop
- JanSport Right Pack Laptop Backpack
- Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack
- North Face Recon Laptop Backpack
- Herschel Classic Backpack XL
- Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack
- Eastpak Padded Double
- Herschel Little America Laptop Backpack
CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Etsy
Quick Tips and Facts
Before we dive into the details, here are some quick tips and facts to keep in mind when choosing a backpack for college students with laptops:
- Look for a backpack with a dedicated laptop compartment that provides padding and protection for your device.
- Consider the size and weight of your laptop when selecting a backpack. Make sure it can comfortably accommodate your laptop’s dimensions.
- Opt for a backpack with ergonomic features, such as padded shoulder straps and a back panel, to ensure comfort during long days on campus.
- Consider the storage capacity of the backpack. Look for multiple compartments and pockets to keep your belongings organized.
- Durability is key. Choose a backpack made from high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of daily use.
- Don’t forget about style! Find a backpack that reflects your personal taste and matches your campus fashion.
Now that you have these tips in mind, let’s explore the best backpacks for college students with laptops in more detail.
Background: The Evolution of College Backpacks
College backpacks have come a long way since the days of simple canvas bags. Today, they are designed to meet the specific needs of college students, with features like laptop compartments, ergonomic designs, and stylish aesthetics. The evolution of college backpacks has been driven by the increasing reliance on technology in education and the desire for comfort and functionality.
The Research: Unveiling the Top Backpacks for College Students with Laptops
At Backpack Brands™, we take our backpack reviews seriously. Our team of expert backpack reviewers has spent countless hours researching and testing various backpacks to bring you the most comprehensive and unbiased recommendations. We’ve evaluated each backpack based on design, functionality, performance, cost-effectiveness, and overall user satisfaction.
Here are our top picks for the best backpacks for college students with laptops:
1. A Sporty Pack for All-Day Comfort: Patagonia Refugio Daypack 26L
Rating: 9.5/10
| Aspect | Rating |
|---|---|
| Design | 9 |
| Functionality | 10 |
| Performance | 9 |
| Cost-effectiveness | 9 |
| Overall | 9.5 |
The Patagonia Refugio Daypack 26L is a sporty and versatile backpack that offers all-day comfort for college students. It features a dedicated laptop compartment that can accommodate laptops up to 15 inches in size. The backpack is made from durable and water-resistant materials, ensuring that your laptop stays safe and dry even in inclement weather. With its ergonomic design and padded shoulder straps, the Patagonia Refugio Daypack 26L is perfect for long days on campus.
Pros:
- Ample storage space with multiple compartments and pockets
- Comfortable and ergonomic design
- Durable and water-resistant materials
- Stylish and versatile
Cons:
- On the pricier side
“I’ve been using the Patagonia Refugio Daypack for a year now, and it’s been a game-changer. The laptop compartment is well-padded, and the backpack itself is comfortable to wear even when it’s fully loaded. Highly recommended!” – Sarah, College Student
CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Etsy | Patagonia Official Website
2. Ergonomic Hero: Osprey Packs Nebula Laptop Backpack
Rating: 9.3/10
| Aspect | Rating |
|---|---|
| Design | 9 |
| Functionality | 9 |
| Performance | 10 |
| Cost-effectiveness | 9 |
| Overall | 9.3 |
The Osprey Packs Nebula Laptop Backpack is an ergonomic hero, designed to provide maximum comfort and support for college students. It features a suspended laptop sleeve that protects your device from impact, and the back panel is made from breathable mesh for enhanced ventilation. The backpack also offers plenty of storage space, with multiple pockets and compartments to keep your belongings organized.
Pros:
- Ergonomic design with a suspended laptop sleeve
- Breathable mesh back panel for ventilation
- Ample storage space
- Durable and high-quality construction
Cons:
- Limited color options
“I’ve been using the Osprey Packs Nebula for two semesters now, and it’s been a lifesaver. The laptop sleeve keeps my device secure, and the back panel is so comfortable, even on hot days. I highly recommend this backpack!” – Mark, College Student
CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Etsy | Osprey Official Website
3. A Nostalgic School Bag: Fjällräven Kånken Laptop
Rating: 9.2/10
| Aspect | Rating |
|---|---|
| Design | 10 |
| Functionality | 8 |
| Performance | 9 |
| Cost-effectiveness | 9 |
| Overall | 9.2 |
The Fjällräven Kånken Laptop is a nostalgic school bag that combines retro style with modern functionality. It features a padded laptop compartment that can fit laptops up to 15 inches in size. The backpack is made from durable and water-resistant Vinylon F fabric, ensuring that your laptop stays safe and dry. With its iconic design and wide range of color options, the Fjällräven Kånken Laptop is a popular choice among college students.
Pros:
- Iconic and nostalgic design
- Durable and water-resistant materials
- Padded laptop compartment
- Wide range of color options
Cons:
- Limited storage space
“I’ve always loved the Fjällräven Kånken backpacks, and the laptop version is no exception. It’s stylish, comfortable to wear, and the laptop compartment provides excellent protection. I get compliments on it all the time!” – Emily, College Student
CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Etsy | Fjällräven Official Website
4. Schoolyard Style: JanSport Right Pack Laptop Backpack
Rating: 9.1/10
| Aspect | Rating |
|---|---|
| Design | 9 |
| Functionality | 9 |
| Performance | 9 |
| Cost-effectiveness | 9 |
| Overall | 9.1 |
The JanSport Right Pack Laptop Backpack combines schoolyard style with practicality. It features a spacious main compartment and a dedicated laptop sleeve that can fit laptops up to 15 inches in size. The backpack is made from durable Cordura fabric, ensuring that it can withstand the wear and tear of daily use. With its classic design and reliable performance, the JanSport Right Pack Laptop Backpack is a popular choice among college students.
Pros:
- Classic and timeless design
- Spacious main compartment
- Dedicated laptop sleeve
- Durable and high-quality construction
Cons:
- Limited organization pockets
“I’ve been using the JanSport Right Pack for years, and it’s never let me down. The laptop sleeve is well-padded, and the backpack itself is roomy enough to fit all my essentials. It’s a reliable and stylish choice!” – Alex, College Student
CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Etsy | JanSport Official Website
5. A Contemporary and Versatile Backpack: Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack
Rating: 9.0/10
| Aspect | Rating |
|---|---|
| Design | 9 |
| Functionality | 9 |
| Performance | 8 |
| Cost-effectiveness | 10 |
| Overall | 9.0 |
The Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack is a contemporary and versatile backpack that combines style and sustainability. It features a padded laptop sleeve that can fit laptops up to 15 inches in size. The backpack is made from 100% recycled polyester, making it an eco-friendly choice. With its sleek design and affordable price point, the Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack is a great option for college students.
Pros:
- Stylish and contemporary design
- Padded laptop sleeve
- Made from 100% recycled polyester
- Affordable price
Cons:
- Limited color options
“I love the Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack! It’s stylish, comfortable to wear, and the fact that it’s made from recycled materials is a huge plus. It’s the perfect backpack for environmentally-conscious college students.” – Jessica, College Student
CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Etsy | Everlane Official Website
6. Modern and Functional: North Face Recon Laptop Backpack
Rating: 8.9/10
| Aspect | Rating |
|---|---|
| Design | 9 |
| Functionality | 9 |
| Performance | 9 |
| Cost-effectiveness | 8 |
| Overall | 8.9 |
The North Face Recon Laptop Backpack is a modern and functional backpack that offers durability and versatility. It features a dedicated laptop compartment that can fit laptops up to 15 inches in size. The backpack is made from durable 210D Cordura nylon mini-ripstop fabric, ensuring that it can withstand the demands of college life. With its sleek design and ample storage space, the North Face Recon Laptop Backpack is a reliable choice for college students.
Pros:
- Sleek and modern design
- Dedicated laptop compartment
- Durable and high-quality construction
- Ample storage space
Cons:
- Higher price point
“The North Face Recon Laptop Backpack is my go-to backpack for college. It’s comfortable to wear, and the laptop compartment provides excellent protection. The backpack is also roomy enough to fit all my textbooks and essentials. Highly recommended!” – Michael, College Student
CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Etsy | North Face Official Website
7. A Campus Classic: Herschel Classic Backpack XL
Rating: 8.8/10
| Aspect | Rating |
|---|---|
| Design | 10 |
| Functionality | 8 |
| Performance | 8 |
| Cost-effectiveness | 9 |
| Overall | 8.8 |
The Herschel Classic Backpack XL is a campus classic that combines timeless design with practicality. It features a spacious main compartment and a dedicated laptop sleeve that can fit laptops up to 15 inches in size. The backpack is made from durable polyester fabric, ensuring that it can withstand the daily wear and tear of college life. With its iconic style and reliable performance, the Herschel Classic Backpack XL is a popular choice among college students.
Pros:
- Iconic and timeless design
- Spacious main compartment
- Dedicated laptop sleeve
- Durable and high-quality construction
Cons:
- Limited organization pockets
“I’ve been using the Herschel Classic Backpack XL for years, and it’s never let me down. The laptop sleeve provides excellent protection, and the backpack itself is roomy enough to fit all my textbooks and essentials. It’s a classic choice!” – Olivia, College Student
CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Etsy | Herschel Official Website
8. Traditional with a Twist: Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack
Rating: 8.7/10
| Aspect | Rating |
|---|---|
| Design | 8 |
| Functionality | 9 |
| Performance | 9 |
| Cost-effectiveness | 8 |
| Overall | 8.7 |
The Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack is a traditional backpack with a twist. It features a dedicated laptop compartment that can fit laptops up to 17 inches in size. The backpack is made from durable and water-resistant materials, ensuring that your laptop stays safe and dry. With its thoughtful organization pockets and comfortable design, the Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack is a reliable choice for college students.
Pros:
- Dedicated laptop compartment
- Durable and water-resistant materials
- Thoughtful organization pockets
- Comfortable and ergonomic design
Cons:
- Limited color options
“I’ve been using the Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack for a semester now, and it’s been great. The laptop compartment is well-padded, and the backpack itself is comfortable to wear even when it’s fully loaded. It’s a practical and stylish choice!” – Daniel, College Student
CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Etsy | Timbuk2 Official Website
9. Street Style, Sized Up for School: Eastpak Padded Double
Rating: 8.6/10
| Aspect | Rating |
|---|---|
| Design | 9 |
| Functionality | 8 |
| Performance | 8 |
| Cost-effectiveness | 9 |
| Overall | 8.6 |
The Eastpak Padded Double is a street-style backpack that’s sized up for school. It features a spacious main compartment and a dedicated laptop sleeve that can fit laptops up to 15 inches in size. The backpack is made from durable and water-resistant materials, ensuring that your laptop stays safe and dry. With its urban aesthetic and practical design, the Eastpak Padded Double is a trendy choice for college students.
Pros:
- Urban and street-style design
- Spacious main compartment
- Dedicated laptop sleeve
- Durable and water-resistant materials
Cons:
- Limited organization pockets
“I love the Eastpak Padded Double! It’s stylish, comfortable to wear, and the laptop sleeve provides excellent protection. The backpack is also roomy enough to fit all my textbooks and essentials. It’s a trendy and functional choice!” – Sophia, College Student
CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Etsy | Eastpak Official Website
10. Form and Function from a Streetwear Fave: Herschel Little America Laptop Backpack
Rating: 8.5/10
| Aspect | Rating |
|---|---|
| Design | 10 |
| Functionality | 8 |
| Performance | 8 |
| Cost-effectiveness | 8 |
| Overall | 8.5 |
The Herschel Little America Laptop Backpack combines form and function, making it a streetwear favorite. It features a padded and fleece-lined laptop sleeve that can fit laptops up to 15 inches in size. The backpack is made from durable polyester fabric, ensuring that it can withstand the demands of college life. With its iconic design and comfortable carrying system, the Herschel Little America Laptop Backpack is a stylish and practical choice for college students.
Pros:
- Iconic and stylish design
- Padded and fleece-lined laptop sleeve
- Durable and high-quality construction
- Comfortable carrying system
Cons:
- Limited organization pockets
“The Herschel Little America Laptop Backpack is my go-to backpack for college. It’s stylish, comfortable to wear, and the laptop sleeve provides excellent protection. It’s a streetwear favorite for a reason!” – Ethan, College Student
CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Etsy | Herschel Official Website
Why You Should Trust Us
At Backpack Brands™, we pride ourselves on providing trustworthy and unbiased backpack reviews. Our team of expert backpack reviewers has extensive experience in the industry and is dedicated to helping you find the perfect backpack for your needs. We conduct thorough research, test each backpack rigorously, and provide honest and comprehensive insights to ensure that you can make an informed decision.
How We Picked and Tested
When selecting the best backpacks for college students with laptops, we considered several key factors:
- Design: We evaluated the design of each backpack, looking for features like dedicated laptop compartments, ergonomic designs, and stylish aesthetics.
- Functionality: We assessed the functionality of each backpack, considering factors like storage capacity, organization pockets, and ease of use.
- Performance: We tested each backpack in real-world scenarios, evaluating factors like comfort, durability, and protection for laptops.
- Cost-effectiveness: We considered the overall value for money, taking into account the quality and features of each backpack relative to its price.
Our team of expert backpack reviewers conducted extensive research, read customer reviews, and personally tested each backpack to ensure that our recommendations are reliable and accurate.
Other Good Backpacks
While the backpacks mentioned above are our top picks, there are several other good options available for college students with laptops. Here are a few honorable mentions:
- Herschel Pop Quiz Laptop Backpack: A stylish and functional backpack with a padded laptop sleeve and multiple organization pockets.
- SwissGear Travel Gear 1900 Scansmart Laptop Backpack: A travel-friendly backpack with a TSA-friendly laptop compartment and ample storage space.
- Under Armour Hustle 4.0 Backpack: A sporty backpack with a water-resistant finish and a dedicated laptop sleeve.
- Nike Brasilia Backpack: A sleek and athletic backpack with a padded laptop sleeve and comfortable carrying system.
The Competition
While our top picks are the best backpacks for college students with laptops, there are several other options available on the market. Here are a few notable competitors:
- The North Face Borealis Laptop Backpack: A popular choice among college students, offering a dedicated laptop compartment and ample storage space.
- JanSport Big Student Backpack: A classic backpack with a large main compartment and a dedicated laptop sleeve.
- Osprey Packs Daylite Plus Daypack: A lightweight and versatile backpack with a padded laptop sleeve and multiple organization pockets.
- Under Armour Storm Recruit Laptop Backpack: A durable and water-resistant backpack with a dedicated laptop compartment and comfortable shoulder straps.
FAQ
What backpacks do college students use?
College students use a variety of backpacks, depending on their personal preferences and needs. However, backpacks with dedicated laptop compartments and ample storage space are popular choices among college students.
Read more about “Which Brand is Best for Backpack? …”
Which bags are best for college students?
The best bags for college students are those that offer a combination of style, functionality, and durability. Look for backpacks with features like dedicated laptop compartments, ergonomic designs, and ample storage space.
Read more about “Best Backpack Brands for College Students …”
What size backpack does a college student need?
The size of the backpack needed for a college student depends on their individual needs and the amount of belongings they carry. However, a backpack with a capacity of around 20-30 liters is generally sufficient for most college students.
What is the difference between a backpack and a laptop bag?
While both backpacks and laptop bags can be used to carry laptops, there are a few key differences between the two. Backpacks are designed to distribute the weight evenly across your back, making them more comfortable to carry for long periods. Laptop bags, on the other hand, are typically more compact and have a dedicated compartment specifically designed to protect and secure laptops.
Conclusion
When it comes to finding the best backpack for college students with laptops, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you prefer a sporty pack, a nostalgic school bag, or a contemporary and versatile backpack, our top picks have you covered. Consider your personal style, storage needs, and budget when making your decision. Remember, a reliable and stylish backpack is an investment in protecting your valuable laptop and ensuring comfort during your college years.
So, what are you waiting for? Choose the perfect backpack for your college journey and embark on a stylish and functional adventure!
Recommended Links
- Brand Spotlights
- Backpack Reviews
- Backpack Trends
- Fashion Backpacks
- Backpack Types
- Which School Bag Brand is Best? 2024
Reference Links
- The Best Backpacks for College and High School Students
- Patagonia Refugio Daypack 26L on Amazon
- Patagonia Refugio Daypack 26L on Walmart
- Patagonia Refugio Daypack 26L on Etsy
- Patagonia Refugio Daypack 26L on Patagonia Official Website
- Osprey Packs Nebula Laptop Backpack on Amazon
- Osprey Packs Nebula Laptop Backpack on Walmart
- Osprey Packs Nebula Laptop Backpack on Etsy
- Osprey Packs Nebula Laptop Backpack on Osprey Official Website
- Fjällräven Kånken Laptop on Amazon
- Fjällräven Kånken Laptop on Walmart
- Fjällräven Kånken Laptop on Etsy
- Fjällräven Kånken Laptop on Fjällräven Official Website
- JanSport Right Pack Laptop Backpack on Amazon
- JanSport Right Pack Laptop Backpack on Walmart
- JanSport Right Pack Laptop Backpack on Etsy
- JanSport Right Pack Laptop Backpack on JanSport Official Website
- Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack on Amazon
- Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack on Walmart
- Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack on Etsy
- Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack on Everlane Official Website
- North Face Recon Laptop Backpack on Amazon
- North Face Recon Laptop Backpack on Walmart
- North Face Recon Laptop Backpack on Etsy
- North Face Recon Laptop Backpack on North Face Official Website
- Herschel Classic Backpack XL on Amazon
- Herschel Classic Backpack XL on Walmart
- Herschel Classic Backpack XL on Etsy
- Herschel Classic Backpack XL on Herschel Official Website
- Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack on Amazon
- Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack on Walmart
- Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack on Etsy
- Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack on Timbuk2 Official Website
- Eastpak Padded Double on Amazon
- Eastpak Padded Double on Walmart
- Eastpak Padded Double on Etsy
- Eastpak Padded Double on Eastpak Official Website
- Herschel Little America Laptop Backpack on Amazon
- Herschel Little America Laptop Backpack on Walmart
- Herschel Little America Laptop Backpack on Etsy
- Herschel Little America Laptop Backpack on Herschel Official Website
- The Best Backpacks for College and High School Students
