The Best Backpack For College And Travel In 2024

Scott Nelson By, Scott Nelson
Updated
Best backpack for college and travel
Best backpack for college and travel

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Matein Travel Laptop Backpack, Business Anti Theft Slim Laptops

This lightweight and stylish laptop backpack has a built in USB charger so you can charge your phone while walking. It's a great tech gift for him from wife, daughter and son. Featuring hidden anti theft pocket on the back, this travel laptop bag is functional and safe to carry with you on international flights. Read Review

2. Runner Up: KROSER Travel Laptop Backpack 17.3 Inch XL Computer Backpack

KROSER has designed this backpack for those who need it to be durable, comfortable and smart. You can count on this laptop backpack for a lifetime of use. This practical laptop backpack is made from high-quality water-repellent ballistic fabric. It features a sturdy handle with steel cable on the top for carrying, side compression straps keep the exclusive backpack at whatever size you require. Read Review

3. Best Realiable: Kenneth Cole Reaction Women's Chelsea 15" Laptop Bag Computer Bookbag

The Kenneth Cole Reaction Women's Chelsea 15" Laptop Bag is a stylish and functional laptop bag with features that give you the convenience you need to travel in style. It comes in two colors: Black and Navy, and it offers breathable, adjustable shoulder straps that relieve stress from your shoulders for maximum comfort while on the move. Read Review

4. Best Convenient: Travel Laptop Backpack,TSA Large Travel Backpack for Women Men

You don't have to sacrifice your daily routine when you're on the road. With this TSA-approved travel laptop backpack, you can stay connected with your favorite devices - like your laptop and tablet - without worrying about their safety. It has an interior pocket for a tablet, and a single compartment for laptops up to 17. 3 inches, and another pocket for accessories. Read Review

When it comes to finding the perfect backpack, you want something that will last you a long time but also look great and feel comfortable while doing so. Luckily, there are so many great options when it comes to finding the best backpack for college and travel. Whether you’re headed off to college or looking for a bag that can handle everyday wear and tear, these backpacks have everything you need.

From the ideal size of each compartment to the durability of materials used and even how light they are; we’ve checked every box for you. In this article, we will discuss everything about the best backpacks for students in colleges and universities. We will explore different factors that determine the best backpack for you. Let’s get started!

Our team had to focus on researching for 13 hours to get such results for readers. This type of study uses customer star ratings and customer interviews on their product experiences. In addition, Matein Travel Laptop Backpack, Business Anti Theft Slim Laptops is one of the most wonderful models available, and it comes highly recommended by us. We also show the other fantastic alternatives with a complete guide which is worth your consideration below.

Our Top Picks

  • ★USB PORT DESIGN: With built in USB charger outside and built in charging cable inside,this usb backpack offers you a more convenient way to charge your phone while walking. It's a great tech gift for him from wife, daughter and son. Please noted that this backpack doesn't power itself, usb charging port only offers an easy access to charge
  • ★COMFY&STURDY: Comfortable airflow back design with thick but soft multi-panel ventilated padding, gives you maximum back support. Breathable and adjustable shoulder straps relieve the stress of shoulder. Foam padded top handle for a long time carry on
  • ★FUNCTIONAL&SAFE: A luggage strap allows backpack fit on luggage/suitcase, slide over the luggage upright handle tube for easier carrying. With a hidden anti theft pocket on the back protect your valuable items from thieves. Well made for international airplane travel and day trip as a travel gift for men
  • ★LOTS OF STORAGE SPACE&POCKETS: One separated laptop compartment holds 15.6 Inch Laptop as well as 15 Inch,14 Inch and 13 Inch Laptop. One spacious packing compartment roomy for daily necessities,tech electronics accessories. Front compartment with many pockets, pen pockets and key fob hook, make your item organized and easier to find
  • ★DURABLE MATERIAL&SOLID: Made of Water Resistant and Durable Polyester Fabric with metal zippers. Ensure a secure & long-lasting usage everyday & weekend.Serve you well as professional office work bag,slim USB charging bagpack,college high school big student backpack for boys,girls,teens
  • USB PORT DESIGN: Built-in USB PORT is convenient to charge your cell phone by the connected power bank in a safe way(POWER BANK is not included)
  • DURABLE & COMFORTABLE: This practical backpack with a sturdy handle with steel cable on the top for carrying, side compression straps keep the exclusive backpack at whatever size you requires. This laptop backpack is large and durable, which is perfect for College, travel, hiking, camping, business, and outdoor activities
  • MULTI-FUNCTIONAL COMPARTMENT: Our large travel backpack with separated compartments and pockets which can provide roomy space for your computer, iPad, power bank, A4 files, wallet, pens, cards, clothes and more your items. A zippered pocket and a mesh one at each side can hold your umbrella, water bottle, etc. A sunglass hard shell zone is designed on the top which is convenient and safe for you to put your sunglass, cell phone etc
  • FUNCTIONAL & SAFETY: A well-knitted luggage strap is quite convenient for you to fix the laptop bag on the trolley of your luggage, making your journey and travelling more convenient wherever you go. Design of an air-flow back padding system and a secret pocket ensures great comfort and safety in your journey.RFID Pockets with Identity protection function protects date encoded on most IDs, credit cards and passport
  • DURABLE MATERIAL: This stylish laptop backpack is made of high-quality water-repellent ballistic fabric; Dimensions: 18.6”x13.5”x10.8”, fits up to 17.3” laptop; Weight: 3.08LBS
TOP Choice #3 Kenneth Cole Reaction Women's Chelsea 15" Laptop Bag Computer Bookbag
Our Score:
9.6
Kenneth Cole REACTION
  • 【Fashion Forward Quality】Made of a stylish chevron quilted polyester-twill water-resistant exterior with gold-plated zippers. Interior features a fully lined tear-resistant stripe polyester lining that will stand up to daily use. The perfect 15-inch computer backpack to keep your business essentials organized while on the go.
  • 【Dimensions】Overall Size: 16” H x 10” W x 7.5” D. Laptop Compartment: 15.25” H x 10” W x 1.75” D. Product Weight: 2.15 lbs. Compatible with most tablets and fits most laptops with up to a 15-inch screen.
  • 【Storage Space & Pockets】Separate padded tech pocket fits most laptops with up to a 15-inch screen, as well 14 Inch Laptop or 13 Inch MacBook/Laptop. Padded tablet pocket in main compartment is compatible with most tablets. Front exterior features an extensive business organizer for all your needed essentials.
  • 【Comfy & Functional】Rear exterior features breathable and adjustable shoulder straps that relieve stress of shoulders for maximum comfort while on the move. Rear of backpack features a trolley strap that fits over most luggage upright handles for hands-free carrying. Convenient beverage holster pockets featured on both sides of backpack. Features a convenient, easy to carry, top grab handle.
  • 【Multipurpose】This backpack was designed to fit perfectly under an airplane seat when you are traveling or on business trip. Suitable for commuting or as a carry-on, can be easily stored. This backpack is lightweight and stylish which is perfect for school, college, travel, hiking, business trips, commuting to work, everyday use, outdoor activities, or even perfect as a gift.
  • ▶TSA Friendly Backpack: TSA-Friendly function is exclusively designed for airplane flight travel. At Checkpoint, unfolds the laptop travel backpack freely 90-180 degree and the laptop stays flat without taking it from the bag, making it getting through airport security checkpoint more easily. The laptop travel backpack is large enough for hiking, vacation, travel, weekend getaway, overnight trip
  • ▶GREAT GIFT IDEA: Graduation gifts for college student, high school students and middle school students. The best gift choice for men and women as Valentine's Day Gifts, Thanks giving Day gifts, or Christmas gifts. Special birthday day gift for him or her, your husband, daughter, son, father, mother and as a gift for friends
  • ▶Spacious Pockets: Sturdy laptop travel backpack has one separate laptop compartment for iPad, for hp, dell inspiration laptop(size up to 17. 3 inch) travel packing cubes, wallet, clothes, bottles, phone accessories, umbrella, other electronic devices and various items, Make your items organized and easier to find
  • ▶Water resistant & Multipurpose: 17. 3 inch laptop travel backpack is well made of water resistant and eco-friendly Polyester Fabric with metal zippers, which perfects for business traveling, professional office work bag and other outdoor activities, college high school student backpack for boys girls
  • ▶USB Charging Port and Luggage Sleeve: Durable 17 inch laptop travel backpacks with external USB charging port for women men and built-in charging cable can easily and conveniently charge your smart phone, tablet and other electronic devices while walking. Featuring the luggage belt on the its back, business traveller could fit backpack right on the luggage suitcase, which frees your hands
  • DESIGN: Water-resistant bottom panel Corner guards and a kick plate protect the bag from abrasion; Corner-mounted wheels provide an easy carrying for teen girls and boys; Metal Swivel Hooks can be adjusted at any time, Protect from Straps are turned; Lockable Metal Zippers design provide you to lock up the wheels backpack with your own lock, can safe to protect valuables from thieves
  • CONVENIENT CARRYING: Breathable and adjustable straps of this bookbags for middle school student can be tucked away into the zipper pocket, so they are not dragging while the backpack is rolling. can be used as a backpack when going up stairs or roll when moving to a new area; 2 in 1 wheels backpack offers comfort and casual style for day to day use and at anywhere for middle school, high school, college, vacation, travel, weekend getaway, occasional travel, business trip, overnight trip
  • COMPARTMENT: School rolling backpack built-in separate laptop pocket hold Laptops less than 15.6 Inch as well as 15 Inch, 14 Inch and 13Inch Macbook; 36L Large Main Compartment roomy hold books for school or clothing for trip; Second zippered file compartment to organize books and files; Organizer Compartment with many pockets make your items organized and easier to find; Mesh water bottle pockets at sides; A magic tape pocket at the back is convenient to carry a small towel
  • Dimensions: EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS – 19.6 X 13 X 9 inch, Item WEIGHT: 4.9 pound; 22 inch Aluminum Hideaway Telescoping Handle can freely adjust the length at your needs. The business and school business backpack for school students, teens, adults, men, women Great gifts choice for Valentine's Day gifts, Mother Day gifts, Father Day gifts, Thanksgiving Day gifts, Christmas gifts, Birthday gifts, Teacher gifts, Anniversary gifts
  • DURABLE MATERIAL: Back to school backpack well made of Durable Polyester Fabric with metal zippers and Waterproof bottom panel Corner guards and a kick plate; Adjustable padded shoulder straps with Sturdy Metal Hooks; Durable Aluminum Telescoping Handle and Strong & reliable rubber wheels
  • Comfortable Backpack - "S" curve padded shoulder straps and padded back panel relieve stress of shoulder. Durable top handles and back luggage strap for easy transport. Doctor bag-style wide opening for better access.
  • Convenient Pockets - Inner 2 storage pockets and 2 front zipped pockets allow you to put your daily necessities and tech electronics accessories. Backside anti-theft pocket to keep your passport, credit cards and other valuable items. Side pockets for water bottle or umbrella. Bagsmart backpack with well-designed, make your items in an organized manner.
  • Roomy Capacity - The laptop compartment fits up to 15.6'' laptop, tablet slot fits up to 12.9'' iPad. The large main compartment accommodates A4 folders, magazines, chargers, power bank and clothes. This back packs provide roomy capacity for your daily life, no matter you are in school, work, or travel.
  • Multi Occasions – This stylish backpack is perfect as work backpack, travel backpack, school backpack as well as nappy backpack, suitable for lots of occasions such as work, study, travel, daily commuting, business trip, etc. It's also a practical gift for women, girls, friends or family.
  • LONG-LASTING MATERIAL- Dimensions: 11.2"L x 7.5"W x 17"H/ weight: 1.25lb. Made of durable, water-resistant nylon fabric with gold-plated zippers. Steel frame of the main compartment keeps the shape and structure of laptop backpack. Bagsmart doctor back packs use high quality material and it’s durable of usage.
  • ★【Luggage Strap & Back Support】The luggage strap allows travel laptop backpack was placed on the suitcase tube to free your hands and back. Multi-panel padding back design, gives you maximum back support, adjustable padding shoulder straps help relieve the stress from your shoulder. Best choice as a college backpack, flight backpack, weekender backpack for travel, airplane carry on travel backpack, middle school backpack, professional business backpack, travel overnight backpack
  • ★【Expandable & Large Capacity】 Normal capacity is 29.5L, After Expanding:36.8L. This big school backpack for men with expandable feature offers you more packing capacity than slim laptop backpack.One separate laptop compartment hold 15.6 Inch Laptop or less. One spacious packing compartment roomy for daily necessities,tech electronic accessories.Front compartment with many pockets,pen pockets and key fob hook,make your items organized and easier to find
  • ★【USB Port & Anti-Theft】With built in USB charging cable, the 15.6 inch laptop backpack with usb port offers you a more convenient way to charge your phone while walking around the campus. The Anti Theft backpack have a hidden pocket on the back, can protect your valuable items from being stolen. The shoulder strap with zippered pocket for airline ticket, passport and such. As a men electronics backpack, it's nice tech gift for travel enthusiast,can use as Valentine's/Mother's/Father's day gift
  • ★【Durable Material & Best Gift Choice】This backpack for school is made of water resistant and sturdy polyester fabric with metal zippers. It provides more protection for your items in rainy day and long-lasting usage for everyday & weekend. A good gifts for men, gifts for women, gifts for travelers. Best Christmas gift/ New Year gift choice as a backpack for traveler, travel backpack for men women,laptop backpack for men, boys school backpack, high school backpack and middle school bookbag
  • ★【Multiple Pockets & Organized】 The large bookbag owns 17+ independent pockets for large storage and organization for small items. 3 spacious main compartments with many hidden pockets can accommodate lots of stuffs like school supplies, travel accessories, clothes, stationery, school books, cord organizer, side deep zipper pocket for easy access essentials, side elastic net pockets conveniently hold umbrellas and water bottles. Best highschool bookbag for high school student
  • Multi Compartments – Total 4 compartments: 1 separate laptop compartment, 1 main compartment and 2 front compartments provide super large capacity for your computer, A4 folder, books, clothes.
  • Comfortable & Durable – Many padding on the back, 2 ‘S’ curve padded shoulder straps, make it comfortable to wear. Luggage strap ensure the backpack stand upright and easy to slide. Bagsmart backpack made of durable polyester fabric, ensures long lasting usage.
  • Anti-theft Design – Back hidden pocket sits up against the wearer’s body. It’s difficult to steal your valuables without you feeling it. Self-locking zipper in laptop compartment protect your devices.
  • Laptop Protection - The dedicated laptop compartment fits up to 15.6’’ laptop, padded with EVA foam can offer the optimal protection for your laptop. Tablet slot fits up to 12.9’’ iPad. Mesh pockets for mouse, adapter, charging cord.
  • USB Charger Port – With inside charging cable and outside USB port, the backpack offers an easy way to charge your devices. No need to keep power bank on the hand, just keep up your phone and on the go.
  • Large Capacity- Up to 4 comprtments to provide super large capacity. Separate laptop compartment to fit laptop and other electronics; Main compartment with pockets has roomy space to store your books, A4 folders, clothes or daily necessities; Front compartment has many pockets to keep your items in an organized manner; Outer handy pocket helps you fast access to what you want in travel backpack.
  • USB Charge Port- Built-in USB port offers an easy way to charge your devices by the connected power bank which is placed in dedicated power bank pocket. No need to keep power bank on hands while walking. (POWER BANK IS NOT INCLUDED). The chic look of back bag makes it can be served as a school backpack, computer backpack, bookbag, travel backpack, backpack for women, girls, students.
  • Comfortable & Durable- Bagsmart backpack made of durable, water resistant polyester fabric, and metal double-way zipper pulls to ensure long lasting usage. Many padding on the back gives you maximum back support, 2 'S' curve padded shoulder straps are breathable and adjustable, help to relieve the stress of shoulders.
  • Funtional Back Pack- Back hidden zipper pocket can keep your values safe such as phone, passport. Two sides pockets to store water bottle or umbrella; Luggage strape allows backpack to slide over the luggage tube, ensures a easy airplane trip. 17.5*12*6.5 inch, perfect to throw under your seat on an airplane. It's perfect for professional office work, business travel, weekend getaway or school life.
  • Laptop Protection- Separate laptop compartment with EVA foam padded and self-locking zippers offer the optimal protection for your 15.6'' computer. Tablet slot fits up to 12.9'' iPad. Plus 3 pockets to store mouse, adapter, charging cord and other electronics.
  • 【QUALITY MATERIAL】: This stylish laptop backpack is made of durable and high-quality water-repellent ballistic fabric; Dimensions: 18.6”x13.5”x10.8”, fits up to 17.3” laptop; Weight: 3.08LBS
  • FUNCTIONAL & SAFETY】:A well-knitted “ luggage strap” is quite convenient for you to fix the backpack on the trolley of your luggage, making your journey and travelling more convenient wherever you go. Design of an air-flow back padding system and a secret pocket ensures great comfort and safety in your journey. RFID Pockets with Identity protection function protects date encoded on most IDs, credit cards and passport
  • 【MULTI-COMPARTMENT】: Our large travel backpack with separated compartments and pockets which can provide roomy space for your computer, iPad, power bank, A4 files, wallet, pens, cards, clothes and more your items. Functional front pocket with waterproof zipper. Side zippered pockets and mesh pockets can hold your umbrella, water bottle, small accessories etc. A hard shell zone is designed on the top which is convenient and safe for you to put your sunglass, cell phone etc
  • This practical laptop backpack is large and durable, which is perfect for college, travel, business, everyday use and outdoor activities. Practical gifts for teens, boys, girls, friends, mother, father, her or him
  • 【USB PORT DESIGN】: Built-in USB PORT is convenient to charge your cell phone in a safe way (POWER BANK is NOT included)

Which Characteristics To Consider On Selecting best backpack for college and travel For 2024?

To make a practical purchase, you guys need to be aware of best backpack for college and travel ultimately. Several key factors must be taken into account and evaluated. Of course, there are some challenges for you during the process of studying products. So we are available here to provide you with comprehensive advice and support.

Thanks to the evaluation supported by high technology, we have come up with some significant features for you to go through. Let’s check it below!

Organization

Some backpacks have no interior. Many backpacks are well-organized with many pockets and compartments.
For a lightweight backpack, you might choose a simpler design. However, you can also have multiple pockets to keep your essentials organized and easy access. You will find your belongings more easily distributed and accessible if there are many pockets and compartments in your backpack.

Size & Design

Once you have decided on your main purpose for your backpack (or what you need it to hold), you can get a good idea of the dimensions or the capacity of the bag.
Different sizes and designs will be used for different purposes.
A backpack for everyday use that holds 20-24 liters of water should suffice.
Some bags can be stiff while others are more flexible behind the back.
Last but not least, the style (color, or print) that you choose for your bag should reflect your personal taste. However, it can also be used to transition from one location to the next.

Ergonomic Carrying Options

Comfortable backpack carrying is essential, particularly if your travels involve a lot of walking and hiking. You can carry the backpack on your back, so your arms and shoulders aren't burdened. Make sure the backpack you select allows you to leave your hotel room whenever you like without putting your arms strain.

Durability

Your backpack's durability will depend on the material it is made from, as well as how it is packed and taken care of.
The size of the backpack is measured in liters. It is also related to the load it can support (measured in kilograms).

Comfort

Comfort is key. Make sure to look for contoured and padded back panels as well as padded straps to make sure your trip is comfortable.
You should also look out for waist and chest straps. They will help distribute the bag's weight, and prevent back pain.
Anatomical hand-straps are also useful for when you need to keep your bag in one hand while on the subway, bus or train.

Budget

We don't advocate buying something you cannot afford. However, it is important to avoid purchasing the most expensive option.
There is a direct correlation between quality and price. You don't want your bag ripping open or all of your stuff spilling onto the streets. You don't need to spend more for high-quality backpacks, although they will be more expensive.

Material

Sturdy backpacks will be made from a mixture of nylon heavy duty and YKK zips that are water-repellent. Avoid plastic zippers.
Polyester and canvas can also be very tough and resistant to water.

Security

Pickpockets can target foreign travelers, making it more difficult to avoid being attacked in bus stations and airports. Make sure you have two zips you can lock together in the bag that you choose. Some bags have a lockable mesh you can use to wrap the bag and attach it to something larger so no one else takes it.

Weight

Not only does it matter how heavy your items are, but so is the backpack. Lightweight backpacks are better as they will lower your overall back weight. But don't sacrifice strength. You should choose a lightweight backpack but one with enough strength.

FAQs

What Is The Average Life Expectancy Of Backpacks?

Material and design are key factors in the durability of backpacks. For education, a high-quality backpack can last for 3 to 4 years with a custom design. If you only use the backpack while on vacation, it can last even longer. A good backpack will last longer if you clean it regularly and don't use any harsh cleaning methods.

How Do I Clean My Backpack Properly?

The material of your backpack will affect the amount of cleaning needed. Nylon and water-resistant materials can be cleaned with a damp cloth. To maintain leather backpacks' integrity, it is a good idea to use a leather conditioner and cleaner. A damp cloth is sufficient for bags with metal or plastic elements.

What Is An Anti-theft Backpack?

Anti-theft backpacks can be found in many stores. This means that it is more difficult for anyone else to access your bag. Many backpacks come with zippers which allow you to access the main compartment from your bag while it's on. This means you won't need to remove it and put it in danger of someone picking it up. Some backpacks have webbing that covers the zipper openings. This makes it difficult for anyone to find and zip the bag.

Are All Backpacks Equipped With Compression Cords Inside?

This isn't the usual practice for backpacks. The compression cords are useful for packing and can be used in the same manner as a normal suitcase's compression strap. These are often included in some travel backpacks. If you want to pack more, invest in packing cubes. They will also help you organize your backpack.

Do I Really Need A Hip Harness?

This is an important feature to own if you intend on backpacking for long distances or hiking. This feature will distribute your backpack's weight more evenly across your body and provide you with greater comfort. This feature is standard on backpacks designed for outdoor adventure.

Do You Think It Is Unprofessional To Have A Backpack?

Not at all!
The backpack is a convenient and efficient way to transport all your daily essentials. It is important to find one that matches the style of your workplace.

Can You Wash Backpacks?

The type of backpack can be washed. You can wash a backpack made from nylon or canvas in the washing machine. Leather bags, on the other hand, cannot be washed in a washing machine. You will have to clean them with a leather cleaner. You can either put the bag in a laundry bag, or you can turn it inside-out and wash the bag in the washing machine with a gentle cycle.

Which Backpack Is Best For Daily Use?

This question is dependent on many factors, including your style preferences, budget and the features you need for daily life. We know it's difficult to choose the right backpack for you, so we created this comprehensive guide.

Are Backpacks Unisex?

Most backpacks can be used by both men and women. However, some brands offer modified versions for women. The backpack can be used to carry books, phone chargers and other small items, such as laptops, tablet computers, smartphones, and tablets. Many well-known brands have separate designs for men and women, with sizes. You will find the perfect backpack for you.

All in all, you guys now are able to stay up to date on best backpack for college and travel of 2024 with new information. As mentioned, on top of that, the fluctuation of sources like websites and forums, you must be aware of which is best reliable for you. 

Honestly, we are delighted to have the chance to support you with product-related issues and additional concerns as well. So it would be best if you didn't hesitate to contact us. Feel free for that!


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About Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson is a freelance writer who specializes in camping and wildlife topics for CampFireHQ. He has written for several outdoor magazines and websites, and he enjoys nothing more than spending a weekend in the woods with his family. Scott is an experienced camper and backpacker, and he has also spent considerable time studying the behavior of bears and other large mammals.

Read Scott's full bio