Do you lug a big laptop around? Maybe for school, work, or just for fun? Then you know that a regular backpack just won’t cut it. You need something tough and smart to keep your precious tech safe. But finding the perfect backpack for your 17-inch laptop can feel like a quest! There are so many to choose from, and it’s tough to know which one is best.
You worry about your laptop getting bumped around or getting soaked in the rain. You want pockets for all your gear, like chargers, notebooks, and maybe even a snack! It’s a big decision, and you don’t want to waste your money on something that doesn’t work. That’s where we come in. This post is all about helping you find the best 17-inch laptop backpack. We’ll show you what to look for, what features matter, and how to pick the one that’s just right for you.
Get ready to discover the top contenders and learn how to make a smart choice. By the end of this guide, you’ll feel confident about choosing a backpack that protects your laptop and carries all your essentials with ease. Let’s dive in and find your perfect travel buddy!
Our Top 5 17 Laptop Backpack Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 17 Laptop Backpack Detailed Reviews
1. DUSLANG 17 Inch Laptop Backpack for Travel Water Resistant College Backpack for Men/Women Laptop Bag with USB Charging Port
Rating: 9.0/10
The DUSLANG 17 Inch Laptop Backpack is a fantastic choice for anyone needing a reliable and feature-packed bag for travel, college, or work. Its smart design and durable materials make it a perfect companion for your daily adventures.
What We Like:
- It has a dedicated laptop compartment that fits up to 17-inch laptops and a separate spot for a 9.7-inch iPad.
- The main compartment is super roomy, holding clothes for a few days, books, and all your tech gear.
- Lots of pockets keep you organized: a front one for power banks, pens, and keys, plus mesh pockets for water bottles and an umbrella.
- A small strap pocket is perfect for your bus or metro card, and a glasses holder is a nice touch.
- The airflow back design and padded straps make it really comfortable to wear, even for long periods.
- It easily slides onto your luggage handle, making airport travel a breeze.
- A hidden anti-theft pocket keeps your valuables safe from pickpockets.
- The built-in USB port lets you charge your phone on the go – just plug in your power bank inside!
- It’s made from tough, water-resistant polyester fabric with strong metal zippers, so it lasts a long time.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product is not meant for children aged 12 and under.
This backpack offers great organization and comfort for all your needs. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a versatile and dependable bag.
2. SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart 17” Laptop Backpack Black/Black – Reflective Tech Backpack with ScanSmart Compartment – Multiple Organizer Pockets & RFID Scan Blocking Technology
Rating: 8.9/10
The SwissGear 1900 ScanSmart 17” Laptop Backpack in Black/Black is a smart choice for anyone who travels or just needs to keep their tech organized and safe. This backpack makes getting through airport security a breeze with its special ScanSmart compartment that lets you keep your laptop in its case. It’s built to hold a lot and keep everything neat and tidy.
What We Like:
- The ScanSmart compartment is a real time-saver at airports.
- It has a dedicated, padded pocket for your tablet, keeping it safe.
- Organization is easy with many pockets, including a main compartment with an accordion file holder.
- Your personal information stays secure thanks to the RFID-blocking organizer pocket.
- It’s comfortable to wear, even when full, with padded straps and airflow back padding.
- The add-a-bag trolley strap makes it easy to attach to rolling luggage.
- Quick-access pockets are handy for items you need fast.
- Mesh side pockets are perfect for water bottles or umbrellas.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it fits a 17-inch laptop, some larger or thicker models might be a tight squeeze.
- The RFID pocket, while useful, is not a replacement for a full wallet or purse.
This backpack offers excellent organization and security for your devices. It’s a sturdy and comfortable option for students and travelers alike.
3. DUSLANG 17 Inch Laptop Backpack for Travel Water Resistant College Backpack for Men Women Laptop Bag with USB Charging Port Key Hanging Ornament Christmas Decorative
Rating: 8.7/10
The DUSLANG 17 Inch Laptop Backpack is a versatile and practical bag designed for both travel and daily use. Its water-resistant polyester fabric and sturdy construction make it a reliable companion for college students, professionals, and travelers alike. This backpack offers a smart solution for keeping your gear organized and charged on the go.
What We Like:
- It holds a lot of stuff. A separate laptop sleeve fits up to a 17-inch laptop, and there’s room for a 9.7-inch iPad. The main area easily fits 3-5 days of clothes and A4 books.
- Lots of pockets keep things neat. There are pockets for power banks, shavers, pens, socks, gloves, and even a hidden one for papers. Mesh pockets hold water bottles and umbrellas.
- It’s comfortable to wear. The padded back and adjustable shoulder straps make it easy to carry, even for long periods. A foam-padded handle is nice for grabbing and going.
- It makes traveling easier. A luggage strap lets you slide it onto your suitcase handle. The anti-theft pocket keeps valuables safe.
- You can charge your devices anywhere. The built-in USB port lets you charge your phone while you walk.
- It’s built to last. The water-resistant fabric and strong zippers mean it can handle daily use and weekend trips.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product is not for children 12 and under.
This backpack is a solid choice for anyone needing a functional and durable bag. It offers great organization and convenient charging features for your busy lifestyle.
4. MATEIN Extra Large Backpack
Rating: 9.0/10
The MATEIN Extra Large Backpack is a fantastic option for anyone needing a spacious and functional bag. It’s designed to carry your laptop, books, and essentials with ease. This backpack is perfect for students, commuters, and travelers alike.
What We Like:
- It has over 15 pockets, so you can keep everything organized.
- The main compartment fits laptops up to 17.3 inches.
- A built-in USB charging port lets you charge your phone on the go.
- The shoulder straps are comfortable and adjustable, making it easy to carry even when full.
- A hidden anti-theft pocket keeps your valuables safe.
- It has a luggage strap to attach it to your suitcase.
- The dimensions are 19×13.8×7.8 inches, fitting most slim laptops.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it has many pockets, some might find it overwhelming to keep track of everything.
- The “extra large” size might be a bit too big for someone who only needs to carry a few items.
This MATEIN backpack offers great organization and convenient charging. It’s a reliable companion for your daily adventures and trips.
5. SHRRADOO Extra Large 50L Travel Laptop Backpack with USB Charging Port
Rating: 8.6/10
The SHRRADOO Extra Large 50L Travel Laptop Backpack is a versatile bag designed for students, travelers, and professionals. It offers ample space and smart organization for all your essentials, from laptops to clothing, and even includes a convenient USB charging port.
What We Like:
- Huge Capacity and Organization: With 20 pockets and three main compartments, this backpack easily stores everything you need, keeping your items tidy.
- Built-in USB Charging: Keep your devices powered up on the go with the external USB port and included charging cable.
- Travel-Friendly Design: It unfolds 90-180 degrees, perfect for airport security checks, and features a password lock for extra security.
- Comfortable to Wear: The U-shaped ventilation on the back and padded shoulder straps make it comfortable to carry, even when fully packed.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality polyester fiber, this backpack is built to last.
- Airline Approved: Its size is suitable for most airline carry-on requirements, making travel a breeze.
- Excellent After-Sales Service: The company offers a one-year warranty with easy replacement for any quality issues.
What Could Be Improved:
- Size for Shorter Individuals: The “extra large” size might be a bit bulky for smaller individuals.
- Material Weight: While durable, the heavy-duty material might add some weight to the backpack itself before you even pack it.
This backpack is a fantastic choice for anyone needing a large, organized, and comfortable bag for travel or daily use. Its thoughtful features and solid warranty make it a worthwhile investment.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Your Perfect Laptop Backpack
Choosing the right laptop backpack makes a big difference. It keeps your gear safe and makes carrying it easy. This guide helps you find the best backpack for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a laptop backpack, several features are important.
1. Laptop Compartment Protection
- Padded Sleeve: A good backpack has a special sleeve for your laptop. This sleeve is padded to protect your laptop from bumps and drops.
- Size Fit: Make sure the sleeve fits your laptop snugly. Too big and your laptop can slide around. Too small and it won’t fit.
2. Organization and Pockets
- Multiple Compartments: Look for backpacks with different sections. This helps you keep your laptop separate from other items.
- Small Pockets: Handy for pens, chargers, keys, and your phone. These pockets keep small things from getting lost.
- Water Bottle Holder: Many backpacks have side pockets for water bottles. This is convenient for staying hydrated.
3. Comfort and Ergonomics
- Padded Straps: Shoulder straps should be thick and soft. This makes carrying the backpack more comfortable, especially when it’s full.
- Back Padding: A padded back panel helps air flow. It also stops sharp objects inside the bag from poking your back.
- Adjustable Straps: You can adjust the straps to fit your body. This helps distribute weight evenly.
4. Durability and Security
- Strong Zippers: Zippers should be smooth and sturdy. They should not get stuck easily.
- Secure Closures: Some backpacks have buckles or locks for extra security. This is good for keeping your belongings safe.
Important Materials
The material of your backpack affects how long it lasts and how well it protects your laptop.
- Nylon: This is a very common and strong material. It is also water-resistant, which is great for protecting your laptop from rain.
- Polyester: Another durable option. Polyester is often used in good quality backpacks. It can also resist water.
- Leather: Leather looks stylish and is very durable. However, it can be heavy and might not be as water-resistant as synthetic materials.
- Canvas: Canvas is a strong fabric. It can be a good choice, but it might not offer as much water protection as nylon or polyester.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a backpack great, while others can make it less ideal.
What Improves Quality:
- Reinforced Stitching: Stronger stitches at stress points (like where straps attach) mean the backpack will last longer.
- Water-Resistant Coating: This coating on the fabric helps keep water out.
- Ergonomic Design: A backpack designed to fit your body well reduces strain.
What Reduces Quality:
- Thin, Flimsy Fabric: This material tears easily and offers little protection.
- Weak Zippers: Zippers that break or get stuck are frustrating and can make the backpack unusable.
- Poor Padding: Lack of padding in the laptop sleeve or on the straps makes carrying uncomfortable and risky for your device.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you will use your backpack. This helps you choose the best one.
- Students: Students need backpacks that can hold laptops, books, and other school supplies. Lots of pockets for organization are very useful. Comfort is key for long days on campus.
- Commuters: People who travel to work or school by bus, train, or bike need a secure and comfortable backpack. Water resistance is important for all weather.
- Travelers: For short trips, a laptop backpack can serve as a carry-on bag. Look for features like USB charging ports and easy access to your laptop for airport security.
- Professionals: A sleek and professional-looking backpack is good for business meetings. It should protect your laptop and look good.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the most important feature of a laptop backpack?
A: The most important feature is a well-padded and securely fitting laptop compartment. This protects your valuable device.
Q: How do I know if a backpack will fit my laptop?
A: Always check the backpack’s dimensions and compare them to your laptop’s size. Most product descriptions will list the maximum laptop size it can hold.
Q: Are water-resistant backpacks really worth it?
A: Yes, especially if you live in a rainy area or travel often. They protect your laptop and other electronics from water damage.
Q: How much weight can a good laptop backpack hold?
A: A good quality backpack can typically hold between 20-30 pounds comfortably. However, always check the product’s weight limit if it’s specified.
Q: Should I choose a backpack with lots of pockets or fewer?
A: This depends on your needs. More pockets help with organization, but too many can be confusing. Think about what you carry daily.
Q: What is the best material for a laptop backpack?
A: Nylon and polyester are excellent choices because they are durable and water-resistant. They offer good protection for your gear.
Q: How important is back padding?
A: Back padding is very important for comfort. It also helps with air circulation, keeping your back cooler, and prevents hard items from poking you.
Q: Can I use a laptop backpack for travel?
A: Absolutely! Many laptop backpacks are designed with travel in mind, offering easy access to your laptop and enough space for essentials.
Q: What does “ergonomic design” mean for a backpack?
A: Ergonomic design means the backpack is shaped and padded to fit your body comfortably. It helps distribute weight evenly and reduces strain on your shoulders and back.
Q: How often should I replace my laptop backpack?
A: With good care, a quality laptop backpack can last for many years. You might consider replacing it if the zippers break, the fabric tears, or the padding wears out significantly.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.