Stylish Yet Practical, Our Experts Love These Laptop Bags for Work Days (2024)

Whether you commute with your

laptop to and from the office, travel frequently or are enrolled in classes, a laptop bag is a must for keeping your device secure and protected among all your other accessories. Fortunately, the options are endless when it comes to finding the right laptop bag for you. Below you’ll find everything from stylish laptop messenger bags or totes to comfortable backpacks in a variety of colors, materials and price points, vetted by our experts.

At the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, our experts have tested everything from tote bags to travel backpacks, college backpacks, laptop sleeves and more. When selecting the best laptop bags, we tested more than 20 bags and placed laptops in each bag to rate how comfortably they fit inside and whether the bag contains any features (like a laptop sleeve) to keep it protected. Lastly, we gathered feedback from our editors and consumer testers regarding the bag’s comfort, appearance and laptop fit after using it for several weeks. Below you’ll find the best laptop bags of 2024 for all occasions, based on our real-world testing, rave consumer reviews and editor favorites from brands we know and love.

The Luka tote impressed GH analysts immediately. We love that it's available in a range of shades from bright hues to classic neutrals so all of our testers were able to find a look they loved. This bag has convenient zippered pockets on the top and side so you can easily access your phone, keys or wallet on the go, and you can even unzip the bottom of the bag to make it up to 4 inches larger for storing more accessories, like chargers, notepads or jackets.

In Lab tests, the laptop sleeve was suitable for devices anywhere between 13 to 17 inches. Our pros also love the bag's lightweight design and soft material, which makes it convenient to carry around whether you're traveling or commuting to the office. Plus, there's a luggage sleeve so you can slip it onto your carry-on for even easier transportation.

Laptop size: 15"

This sleek and simple laptop bag can be carried as a messenger bag or tote making it particularly versatile. It features a padded, built-in laptop sleeve as well as separate compartments and pockets to keep all your essentials organized. It’s also lightweight, weighing only 1.9 pounds. We love that this pick is available in 10 different colors and it's affordable enough to grab in multiple colors to match your whole wardrobe.

With over 11,000 reviews on Amazon, shoppers love that it’s sturdy — but not bulky — and fits everything they need. It also has a top zipper closure and a water-resistant outer fabric for extra protection.

Laptop size: 15.6"

Perfect for work, travel, running errands and more, we can't get enough of this super versatile laptop bag that fits everything you need all while looking both chic and professional. Our analysts loves that it features rounded shoulder straps for comfortable carrying, as well as a zippered top, small storage compartment and a hook for your keys. Bonus: There's a water bottle holder inside so you stay hydrated!

In Lab tests we were able to fit a 13" laptop inside easily, though larger laptops still fit inside the bag (just not inside the dedicated sleeve). And although we wish it was available in more than three colors, the bag's professional, timeless design more than makes up for it.

Laptop size: 13"

For under $100, you can wear this simple laptop tote as a crossbody or shoulder bag depending on what's more comfortable for you. But what we love most is that it comes with tons of organizational features, including credit card holders, zippered compartments and a laptop sleeve that's suitable for larger devices (though in Lab tests we noted that the Velcro wasn’t fully secure with 17” computers). It also has two easy grab pockets on the front, one zippered and one opened, as well as a luggage sleeve on the back that can be zippered shut as a pocket.

Made of synthetic materials, the bag is easy to wipe clean when needed, and unlike other laptop bags, it comes with two water bottle holders on the sides. It's both functional and practical, weighing in at just over one pound, and the perfect bag to bring along on hectic days.

Laptop size: Not listed (up to 17" according to tests)

Finally! A stylish laptop bag that doesn't cost a fortune. This popular pick on Amazon has adjustable straps and comes in four colors (including black and a pretty soft pink), and it fits laptops up to 15.6 inches in its padded laptop sleeve. We love the chic stitching and buckle details.

One GH Textiles Lab analyst used this laptop bag throughout college. She says the structured, professional look makes it perfect for interviews, and over 1,500 Amazon reviewers agree that it's worth the buy. Just note that it's a bit heavy at 2.56 pounds, so this pick might feel heavy for some, especially once you add a laptop.

Laptop size: 15.6"

If you'd rather carry everything on your back but hate the traditional look of backpacks, then try this fashionable laptop bag made of faux leather. Not only is it one of Calpak’s most popular styles, but it's a favorite among GH Lab analysts.

The laptop sleeve is located in a totally separate compartment in the back, so you don't have to worry about anything scratching it when you're digging for other items. It also has a trolley sleeve so you can secure it on the handle of your suitcase for easy traveling. In testing, we loved its appearance and appreciated the roomy interior that holds an impressive amount without looking like a traditional travel backpack. Note that the backpack straps aren't padded, so it's not ideal to wear it for long periods of time.

Laptop size: 15"

Known as a sustainable fashion brand, Cuyana is popular for its versatile totes, designed to be classic and long-lasting. The System Tote uses Italian leather and features a "timeless design" that our testers loved.

For ultimate organization, you can pair this bag with the brand's tote organizational system or sleek laptop sleeve, but note that these items cost extra. One tester shared, "I love the functional design of this bag! It always surprises me how protected my laptop feels once I place it in Cuyana's laptop sleeve, which actually snaps into the bag for a secure fit." While it is on the pricier side compared to other totes, its classic design and elegant colors ensure that it will never go out of style. But if you do have some extra wiggle room in your budget, our pros also love the brand's Double Loop Satchel bag, which features a built-in laptop sleeve and elevated design.

Laptop size: 13" or 16" options

Beis Travel is popular for offering smart solutions with trendy designs, and multiple GH staffers swear by this tote for work thanks to its stylish appearance and functional design. One said they "especially love the zipped top and metal feet on the bottom" that protect the bottom of the bag from touching the floor. This pick maintains its shape even when empty and has a luggage sleeve to fit nicely on top of a suitcase.

Testers loved its "classy and sleek" design and said, "The design of this tote works really well," and it's "surprisingly lightweight for such a spacious bag." Note that testers did find the straps quite thin, making it less comfortable to carry heavy loads.

Laptop size: 13" (larger option is available for 16" laptops)

It's a challenge to keep your laptop safe while traveling, so we love that this pick from Lo & Sons has a built-in padded laptop sleeve to keep your tech secure when on the go. It's nearly the size of a weekender bag, so this pick has a roomy interior to fit everything you need when jetting off on a work trip or vacation.

One Textiles Analyst swears that this is the ultimate overnight bag. It features a separate shoe compartment, convenient zippered pockets and a sleek nylon exterior that's easy to keep clean. "I especially love the built-in water bottle holder and luggage sleeve to fit on top of my suitcase," she says.

Laptop size: 13" in medium and large sizes

For a 100% leather bag, this tote is a total steal at just $100. The Quince laptop bag features a laptop sleeve, open compartments and zippered pockets. The top of the bag doesn't zip closed, but testers appreciated its structured shape.

"I like the look of the tote bag and how easy it is to pack: roomy in the center with a separate section for my laptop," says one tester. "Also, the roomy pockets inside are convenient and make sorting and separating contents easy so they are easier to find." Although this bag stands up on its own, testers wish the bottom had little feet to keep the base from touching the floor.

Laptop size: 13"

A backpack is often a more comfortable option than a tote, especially if you tend to carry a heavy load because it balances the weight on two shoulders instead of one. There are many laptop backpacks out there but we find this one extra comfortable thanks to the padded straps and smooth neoprene fabric. We love that this Dagne Dover bag is available in a range of colors. When we tested this at home, the straps felt soft and squishy, unlike some other backpack straps that can feel stiff or rough, making it feel luxurious to tote around.

It also has a laptop sleeve and an interior organization pocket. It comes with a pouch that can be attached to a leash to hold smaller items like lip balm or keys as well as a dust bag to keep shoes separate. One thing to note: GH Executive Director, Lexie Sachs, found her Dagne Dover neoprene bag tends to pill but she says she’s also very rough with her bags. Pro tip: To easily remove pills you can use a fabric shaver.

Laptop size: 13" (Medium), 16" (Large)

This roomy tote bag from Longchamp has been a favorite among students for years, thanks to its simple design that holds everything they need while looking stylish. Its classic look makes it versatile with many online reviewers saying they have used this bag through college and beyond.

"I LOVE how spacious this bag is and how many items I can fit in the bag without it feeling bulky or overfilled," says one GH Analyst. "I can comfortably fit my laptop, toiletries bag, lunch Tupperware and so much more in this bag daily." She notes that the bag easily packs up when not in use for simple storage. The only thing she wishes is that the bag offered more organizational features like pockets or compartments. "I cannot boast enough about this bag, and absolutely will be using it for many years to come and convincing all of my friends to get one for themselves!"

Laptop size: 13"

When traveling on public transit or storing your bag in an overhead compartment, a zippered closure top is a must to keep your belongings safe. Leatherology is a favorite brand among GH staffers for creating high-quality pieces with a range of customization options like hand painting and debossing, which cost extra. This pick is available in seven shades of supple, full-grain leather with a non-structured shape. Although there is no specific laptop compartment, we appreciate that this bag is over 20" wide to accommodate larger computers.

Laptop size: 16"

With many of us working from coffee shops and coworking spaces, a laptop bag no longer needs to be professional enough for office wear. The Transport Tote line from Madewell has a more casual, lived-in look while still using durable leather materials. This tote was a tester favorite for being ideal to use whether heading to work, running errands or traveling. Madewell also offers this bag in different sizes and materials too.

One tester said, "I have other leather totes that are more saggy and flexible, but I like how this one kept its shape. It really has been so versatile for me — I've used it for work, with my kids and going to events, and it always fits everything I've needed." Some GH staffers have even noted that their Transport Totes have stayed in great shape even after years of use.

Laptop size: 13"

✔️ Pockets: To conveniently grab items on the go, look for bags with a sufficient amount of pockets. We like styles that have a mix of open compartments and zippered pockets to keep items accessible and safe.

✔️ Laptop size: Before buying a laptop bag, consider the size of your laptop. Most bags will list what size computers they can accommodate, but if it's not listed, look at the bag's dimensions to ensure a good fit. While many laptop bags have a built-in or included laptop sleeve, not all do, so you may need to purchase a laptop sleeve separately in some cases.

✔️ Materials: Leather, faux leather and nylon are popular materials for laptop bags. While leather is more durable, faux leather is a more affordable option. Synthetic materials like nylon are easier to clean compared to leather styles.

✔️ Straps and handles: Tote bags feature shorter shoulder straps, but some also have a longer crossbody strap. If you plan to carry a heavier load, a padded crossbody strap can make it more comfortable to wear.

Emma Seymour is a senior textiles product analyst in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab where has been testing all types of bags, luggage and backpacks for over four years. She recently tested nearly 20 different tote bags for this story. With a degree in Fiber Science and Apparel Design from Cornell University, she has extensive research experience and product quality assessment expertise.

This story was most recently updated by GH Institute writer and analyst, Olivia Lipski, who covers everything from tech to travel, home, fitness and more. She frequently collaborates with the Textiles Lab and updated the picks above based on the Lab's most recent evaluations and feedback.