The number of backpacks out there is endless, and they range in price from under $50 to several hundred dollars, but finding a life-changing bag isn’t easy. Whether you’re once again commuting to an office or school, working from coffee shops, or going on a weekend trip, a good backpack will carry your stuff and keep it organized. It’s also easier on your neck and shoulders than an overstuffed purse, duffle, or briefcase.
Whatever your needs, we have a fit and functional backpack for you. We inspect backpacks for a suspended, padded laptop sleeve; durable fabrics and water-resistant zippers; and versatile storage options. Don’t see anything you like here? Check out our other guides, including the Best Laptop Totes and Purses, Best Messenger Bags, Best Camera Bags, and the Best Travel Bags.
Updated August 2022: We’ve added the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag and Pacsafe X Slnt Anti-Theft bag as alt picks. We’ve also removed the Chrome Industries Naito Pack, which is no longer available, and updated prices and links throughout.
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Photograph: Tom Bihn
Best, but Expensive
Tom Bihn Synik 22
When WIRED reviews editor Adrienne So travels for work, she typically carries a Tom Bihn bag, and the clamshell Synik 22 is her favorite. It has a lot of pockets, and they’re all thoughtfully designed. For example, the zippered water bottle pocket is located in the middle of the backpack instead of on the side, so it won’t tip you off balance. The pen pockets are located in flaps on the side rather than in the middle top, for convenient access. The exterior is made from Bluesign-certified 400-denier ballistic nylon with top-of-the-line YKK water-repellent zippers. Each bag has a lifetime guarantee.
Because the bag is so small, the pass-through on the back is only 7 inches wide—too narrow to slip over the handle of a carry-on. And the dense fabric and plentiful hardware—the zippers, O-rings, and buckles—make it a little heavy. But in the 22-liter size, she didn’t notice the extra weight. It’s the perfect, organized conference companion, but it’s on the highest end of what we think is worth spending on a bag.
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Photograph: Rains
Most Stylish
Rains Backpack Mini
I am a working, grown adult, not a high schooler headed to algebra or a hiker traversing the Alps. When I leave my work-from-home bubble to venture outside, my bag should look like a perfectly curated accessory to my outfit, not a ragged relic or a rugged pack. The 8.5-liter Rains Backpack Mini helps me maintain my sense of style without stripping away function. It holds my 13-inch MacBook and the accessories I need for work. I’ve even packed this little bag with an extra outfit and toiletries (in addition to my laptop) for a night away. Plus, it looks so pretty.
You can upgrade to the 13-liter version ($110), but both sizes have the same-size laptop sleeve. They’re waterproof and come in fun colors (I bought it in lavender a few years back), and the Mini has held up well over the past few years. There’s a small phone zip pocket on the back panel, but when I’m commuting I like to keep my wallet there so I know no one can grab it. Look at Rains’ other backpacks if you like its understated, Scandinavian style.
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Photograph: Herschel
Best Budget Bag
Herschel Heritage Backpack
The Tom Bihn is priced out of many budgets, but you don’t have to settle for a crappy bag if you want to save money. Despite being more affordable than most other bags on this list, this Herschel looks just as nice and is just as capable as its peers. I used the Heritage as my school bag and filled it with a day’s worth of textbooks and a laptop in its dedicated 15-inch sleeve. But I’ve also used it as an overnight bag stuffed with clothes and a pair of shoes, and as a carry-on with essentials should my luggage get lost. It has since followed me into my work life too. It’s made from 600-denier polyester with a faux leather bottom and handle.
After years of heavy use, it has only recently started to show signs of wear, especially on the top handle. The bag itself hasn’t ripped, and the straps are holding strong. The downside? There’s no water bottle pocket. If the Heritage isn’t what you’re looking for, take a look at the rest of Herschel’s backpacks.
