Lugging around a laptop, charger, and daily essentials can quickly turn a stylish outfit into a burden. But for women, searching for a comfortable and functional laptop backpack often goes beyond just practicality. We desire a bag that complements our style and seamlessly integrates into our busy lives.
Moreover, traditional backpacks may sometimes lack ergonomic design for the female frame, potentially leading to discomfort and back pain. But luckily, various options are available in the market designed specifically for women, catering to different needs and styles.
Photo by Ketut Subiyanto
So, after taking cues from industry insiders, I’ve curated a list of the best laptop backpacks for women. So, scroll down and find the perfect one for you!
5 Best Laptop Backpacks for Women - Quick Overview
Below is a quick overview of the top best laptop backpacks for women:
- Dakota Neoprene Backpack -Overall best.
- Calpak Kaya Faux Leather Laptop Backpack: Best women’s laptop backpack for the office.
- Pacsafe Metrosafe LS350 Daypack - Best women's laptop backpack for business travel.
- Lubardy Laptop Bag for Women - Best women's budget-friendly laptop backpack.
- Cuyana Leather Backpack - Best women's leather laptop backpack.
Detailed Guide
Finding the perfect laptop backpack is essential for women who balance style and functionality daily. This detailed guide explores the top five best laptop backpacks for women, considering their comfort, durability, style, organizational features and other factors.
1. Dakota Neoprene Backpack - Overall Best
Price at time of publish: $155 at dagnedover.
The Dakota Neoprene Backpack is a versatile and stylish option for everyday use. Crafted from 100% premium water-resistant neoprene, it's durable and easy to care for with hand washing.
This lightweight backpack has a spacious main compartment, a dedicated air mesh tablet sleeve, two interior pockets, and two exterior zipper pockets for organized storage. It also features a signature key leash for easy access.
Moreover, the Dakota Neoprene Backpack is also 100% vegan and features a lining made from recycled plastic bottles.
Ideal Laptop Size: Its medium size is best for a 13’’ laptop.
Specifications: Available in small, medium and large sizes | Dimensions: 9.5" L x 5” W x 13" H | Volume: 8L | Weight: 1 lb 10 oz
Pro Tip: Don’t keep this bag flat or compressed heavily to avoid neoprene creasing.
What Customer Says About Dakota Neoprene Backpack
“I ordered the large backpack in black for my husband to use commuting into work. He loves it and has used it even while raining. Although it's not waterproof, the bag is still water resistant and managed to hold up even on a rainy day. My husband said the straps are the most comfortable he's ever had and the material is great.”
Pros |
Cons |
Water-resistant |
Not machine washable, may crease or pill. |
Lightweight |
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Various kit options |
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2. Calpak Kaya Faux Leather Laptop Backpack: Best Women’s Laptop Backpack For Office
Price at time of publish: $158 at calpaktravel.
Calpak Kaya's stylish backpack combines functionality and aesthetics with its chic faux leather exterior and convenient zippered front pocket for quick access essentials. Moreover, you can adjust its straps for a comfortable fit. It also features a trolley pass-through, convenient for travel.
It features a convenient zippered front pocket for quick access to essentials like your phone or glasses. At the same time, the spacious main compartment keeps your belongings organized.
Angela said, “I have been using the Calpak Kaya Laptop Backpack for three weeks now and I can’t see myself going back. It’s easy to grab and go and very professional looking. It’s great for an office or even a college campus.”
Ideal Laptop Size: It’s best for a 17’’ laptop.
Specifications: Size: 16.25" x 11.75" x 4.5" | Material: Faux leather | Material: Vegan leather with whip-stitch detailing
Pro Tip: Avoid overpacking to maintain the backpack's appearance.
Pros |
Cons |
Stylish design |
The material might not be as durable as real leather |
Spacious and secure laptop compartment |
It can't be used for heavy loads. |
Multiple compartments for organization |
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Comfortable to carry |
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3. Pacsafe Metrosafe Ls350 Daypack - Best Women's Laptop Backpack For Business Travel
Price at time of publish: $123.51 at Amazon.
The Pacsafe Citysafe 28L backpack is a stylish and functional option for commuters, travelers, and urban adventurers seeking security, comfort, and organization. Made with cut-proof materials and lockable zippers, it safeguards your belongings against theft. An RFID-blocking pocket further protects your credit cards and IDs from unauthorized scans.
It has two lockable exterior pockets for easy access, a padded and suspended interior laptop sleeve to protect your device, two side water bottle pockets, and two interior zipper pockets.
Additionally, you can carry it comfortably even on long commutes due to its padded shoulder straps (24.2" to 32.2") and breathable back. Weighing 1.46 lbs, this backpack has enough space for a laptop, camera, headphones, water bottles, and other essentials for daily activities. However, it’s not ideal for carrying heavy loads or extensive outdoor activities.
After using this backpack for 2 months in Thailand and Malaysia, Kensho Quest said, “This 15-liter backpack is a nice small low-profile bag. It works great as a daypack for a woman or for a man, and it can also be taken on an airplane as a personal item. It's plenty small enough to fit under the seat in front of me on the airplane”
Ideal Laptop Size: It’s best for a 13"-15" laptop.
Specifications: Dimensions: (16.54" H x 11.61" W x 5.12" D) | Material: Polyester, Nylon | Size: One Size
What Customer Says About Pacsafe Metrosafe LS350 Daypack
“It serves its purpose like any theft, it is very comfortable and spacious to pack, nice material, I can really recommend this backpack.”
Pros |
Cons |
Water-resistant |
Not suitable for long hikes. |
Backed by a 5-year Pacsafe warranty |
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It fits essentials without looking bulky. |
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4. Lubardy Laptop Bag - Best Women's Budget-Friendly Laptop Backpack
Price at time of publish: $33.99 at Amazon.
The Lubardy tote bag is a versatile and stylish option for women seeking a spacious and functional bag for everyday use. Made from prime crocodile pattern leather and polyester lining, it's water-repellent and scratch-resistant.
This versatile bag features a spacious interior with multiple compartments, including a padded laptop sleeve and various pockets for documents, tech accessories, and everyday essentials.
Angeles said, “I did the switch from a Denim tote bag to this one and its so worth! the long strap makes it so much easier to carry & the bottom is very sturdy that it wont fall on the side.“
It can be comfortably carried by hand or on the shoulder thanks to its adjustable and detachable straps. However, some inner compartments might feel less luxurious compared to the overall aesthetic.
Ideal Laptop Size: Fits up to 15.6-inch laptops.
Specifications: Dimensions: 16.9 x 5.5 x 12.2 inches | Weight: 2.1 pounds | Material: Prime crocodile pattern leather and polyester lining
Pro Tip: Air out the bag for several days to eliminate any initial odor.
What Customer Says About Lubardy Laptop Bag
“So sturdy, beautiful colors, I have the black and darker green and get compliments all the time at the office. People are SHOCKED when I say Amazon. A few thought it was a designer bag! Roomy, with compartments and fits everything I need.”
Pros |
Cons |
Large capacity with multiple compartments |
Lacks an external pocket. |
Convertible: can be used as a tote, shoulder, or handbag. |
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Suitable for various occasions (work, travel, everyday use) |
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5. Cuyana Leather Backpack - Best Women's Leather Laptop Backpack
Price at time of publish: $498 at cuyana.
Made from premium leather, the Cuyana Leather Backpack is a stylish and functional choice for the modern woman on the go. It caters to various needs and is available in mini, 13-inch, and 16-inch sizes.
After using this bag, Hitha said, “The most notable feature is the weight. There’s a magic in Cuyana bags that make them feel lighter than other ones. I’ve easily carried my backpack, Rho, and his backpack the 8 blocks to summer camp. At the end of the day, my back and neck feel less sore when I’ve toted this bag.”
The larger sizes (13-inch and 16-inch) have a built-in padded laptop sleeve, while multiple interior compartments offer ample space for everyday essentials.
Moreover, it has adjustable back straps with multiple notches for comfortable carrying, and the variety of colours adds a touch of versatility to your style.
Ideal Laptop Size: 13-inch or 16-inch, depending on the chosen backpack size.
Specifications: Material: Italian pebbled leather | Dimensions: 13-inch: 13.3" (H) x 9.6" (W) x 7.2" (D), 16-inch: 15.1" (H) x 11" (W) x 7" (D) | Weight: 13-inch: 1.75 lbs, 16-inch: 2.6 lbs | Strap length: Adjustable from 15.2" to 23.5"
Pro Tip: Wipe clean with a damp cloth for easy care.
What Customer Says About Cuyana Leather Backpack:
“I’ve put a laptop, chargers, gym sneakers and clothes, small water bottle and some toiletries in the main compartment and stuffed the outer pockets with things like my card holder, keys, sunglasses, AirPods and phone.”
Pros |
Cons |
Stylish and sophisticated design |
May not be suitable for heavy loads due to its sleek design |
Made from high-quality leather |
Lacks external water bottle pockets. |
Versatile for both travel and work. |
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Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Laptop Backpacks for Women
Choosing the best laptop backpacks for women includes finding a balance between style, functionality, and comfort that caters to your specific needs. Here's a guide to help you choose the best one for you:
Laptop Size
Measure your laptop to ensure the backpack can accommodate it comfortably. Opt for a dedicated laptop sleeve within the bag for added protection.
Carrying Habits
How will you use the backpack? If you commute often, prioritize comfort and weight distribution with padded shoulder straps and breathable back panels.
Choose a multi-compartment design for everyday use to organize various essentials, from notebooks and water bottles to gym clothes and lunch.
If you're a business professional, opt for compartments specifically designed for laptops and tablets, and consider hidden compartments for valuables like passports or wallets.
Storage Requirements
When choosing a laptop bag as a woman, remember your storage requirements. Multiple compartments and pockets help organize your notebooks, chargers, water bottles, and personal items.
Adjustable Straps
Look for straps that can be adjusted to fit your torso length and distribute weight evenly across your shoulders. A laptop bag with padded straps provides additional comfort during extended carrying.
Breathable Back Panel
When you’re choosing a laptop backpack for women, it’s important to choose one with a breathable back panel to prevent sweat buildup during hot weather or long commutes.
Compartment Organization
Choose a backpack with compartments that suit your needs. Padded laptop sleeves and dedicated pockets, chargers, and water bottles ensure everything has its designated space.
Material
Leather offers a touch of sophistication, while nylon or polyester provides durability and weather resistance. Consider your style and how the backpack complements your wardrobe.
Design
Choose a design that aligns with your taste, whether it's sleek and minimalistic or incorporates trendy elements. Remember, the backpack will likely be an everyday companion, so opt for a style you enjoy carrying.
Water Resistance
Opt for a water-resistant or waterproof material to safeguard your belongings from unexpected downpours.
Weight
Consider the overall weight of the backpack, especially if you plan to carry it for extended periods.
Are Backpacks Better For Your Back Than Shoulder Bags?
Yes, backpacks are better for your back than shoulder bags because they distribute weight evenly across both shoulders. Thus, they reduce strain and promote better posture, especially when carrying heavier loads or for longer periods.
What Is The Safest Place To Put A Laptop In A Backpack?
The safest place to put a laptop in a backpack is in a dedicated laptop sleeve. These sleeves are padded and designed to snugly fit the laptop for protection against impacts and scratches. Moreover, they are usually located closest to the wearer's back for additional stability and security.
Are Laptops Safe in Backpacks?
Yes, laptops are generally safe in backpacks, especially if the backpack is designed to hold and protect laptops with padded compartments and secure closures. However, it's important to handle the backpack with care and avoid dropping or mishandling it to prevent damage to the laptop.
Conclusion
The best laptop backpacks for women are functional and fashionable. However, you must consider your unique preferences when choosing the one for you. After testing and studying experts, I can say that the Dakota Neoprene Backpack is perfect for everyday use because it’s versatile and stylish. It's lightweight, water-resistant, and comfortable to carry.
If you prioritize security and organization for business travel or commuting, the Pacsafe Metrosafe LS350 Daypack is a solid option for you. For professionals seeking a touch of sophistication, the Cuyana Leather Backpack is a timeless investment.