9 Best Laptop Backpacks For Women, Reviewed For Commuting

Why do you need a backpack?

According to The Physio Company, one-sided shoulder bags are the least recommended style of bag for commuting – while a dedicated laptop backpack is far more beneficial for your spine. They said that one-sided shoulder bags place “your body out of balance by putting more pressure on one side of the spine, especially when crammed full and heavy. The thin and usually non-padded straps of the bag can cut into the shoulder, placing pressure on the nerves that pass through that area from the neck into the arm.”

Posture aside, now that I own a laptop backpack, I’ve been awoken to their many other pros, too – like many of them having designated pockets for everything you’ll ever need to carry. Sure, it’s true that very little can be done to improve the whole commuting experience (though fewer train strikes would be fab), but a rucksack that’ll fit everything but your kitchen sink inside is a step in the right direction. Trust me; they’re a must-have item for anyone who travels to and from the office every day.

Unaccustomed to laptop backpacks? While messenger bags, travel backpacks and briefcase-style handbags often feature pockets that’ll happily fit a 15-inch screen size, laptop backpacks have padded, secure compartments specifically for storing them. The best part is that they’re surprisingly chic, too – no Velcro in sight. So much so that you’d be happy to be seen out with them on the weekends (though maybe sans anything work-related).

What are the most important features to look for in a backpack?

After you’ve found a design that will fit the dimensions of your device, the next thing to think about is fabric. Opting for a waterproof or roll-top design is a good place to start – the last thing you want is soggy, malfunctioning tech. This sand-coloured iteration from Stubble & Co offers exactly that, plus a capacity of up to 20L, with added features such as a cushioned air-flow back panel with fully adjustable straps. The second thing to look for is a fairly streamlined silhouette; something that’ll work for a multitude of occasions, such as cycling to and from work and squeezing under train/plane seats. Antler’s Essential backpack being a prime example.

And why a laptop backpack over a laptop bag?

If you have a long daily commute and/or have a bit of a walk to get to the office, you’re better off with a backpack than you are with a laptop case or pouch. They’re much better for your spine and shoulders for everyday use, thanks to the double (and adjustable) straps, and they spread the weight more evenly so you don’t get an achy arm. Don’t worry, though, you don’t have to go full-on hiker style with one that features a sternum strap.

Pre-2020 a lot of us didn’t even have laptops, but if we did they’d be left at our desks when we went home each night. Now that hybrid working is a more permanent arrangement, taking your valuables with you wherever you go is somewhat of a non-negotiable, so it’s important you acquire the correct protection for carrying them around. Yes, we’re making direct eye contact with those of you who think one of those free cotton tote bags you get from the bookstore is a suitable method of transportation for your worldly goods.

How to wear a laptop backpack correctly

In terms of how to carry your laptop backpack, this is what The Physio Company recommends:

• Avoid anything heavier than 10% of your body weight.
• Go for the smallest design possible (making sure your laptop still fits) to avoid overpacking it and carrying unnecessary items.
• Don’t go for anything wider or longer than your own torso, as this will affect your balance.
• Tighten your straps as much as feels comfortable to keep the backpack close to your spine.
• If you do end up wearing it over one shoulder for any reason, try swapping sides as often as possible to avoid tension.

How to pack a backpack

There are a few simple rules to follow when it comes to packing your rucksack. Pack mid-weight items at the bottom, then stack your heaviest items against your back so as not to throw off your centre of gravity. Anything light can go at the front or top (as long as it’s not fragile) and anything you need more urgently should be stored in a side or “easy access” pouch or pocket. Water bottles, for obvious reasons, go in the waterproof water bottle holders provided – and your laptop, Kindle or iPad can go in the laptop pouch.

How to wash a backpack

It totally depends on what your backpack is made of. If it’s made of nylon or polyester, you should leave it to dry before brushing off mud and using a warm, soapy cloth to spot-clean stains. You shouldn’t use bleach, nor should you use a stain remover, as both can ruin the fabric. If in doubt, follow instructions presented by the retailer when you bag arrives.