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The 16 Best Work Backpacks for Women in 2023

Enjoy a hands-free commute with these stylish and versatile tech-friendly backpacks.

By Rebecca Norris and Ysolt Usigan
best work backpacks for women lxy vegan leather laptop backpack and himawari travel school backpack
LXY/Himawari

Once upon a time, if you were traveling to work and had things to carry in order to get your job done (or if you were planning to go somewhere at the close of business), a briefcase or spacious purse was the obvious choice. Nowadays, however, with more and more folks commuting — as opposed to driving themselves — it's normal to need a little extra space, not to mention a more convenient way of carrying office essentials. Thankfully, work backpacks for women exist. (Though that's just a term; anyone can use these backpacks. Today, we're here to focus on particularly posh silhouettes.)

When shopping for a women's work backpack, there are a few things you'll want to keep in mind: look for a spacious design, plenty of organization, and multi-use features — such as a trolley sleeve or hidden shoe compartment, should you want to use your backpack for pre- and post-work activities. Thankfully, there are many backpacks on the market, a few of which check all these boxes and more. While few brands offer as colorful and convenient of styles as Calpak, there are plenty of budget-friendly bags to choose from. To prove it, we've rounded up 16 of the best laptop backpacks for women.

The best work backpacks for women in 2023:

  • The ReNew Transit Backpack

    Most Spacious Backpack for Commuters

    Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack

    $95 at Everlane
    Read more
  • Laptop Backpack

    Simple and Sophisticated

    Bostanten Laptop Backpack

    Read more
  • Leather Laptop Backpack for Women

    Stylish Everyday Pick

    Leather Laptop Backpack for Women

    Read more
  • Orion Mid-Volume Backpack

    Best for Going From Work to Happy Hour

    Herschel Supply Co. Orion Mid-Volume Backpack

    Read more
  • Vegan Vintage Leather Backpack

    Best Value Work Backpack

    Vegan Vintage Leather Backpack

    Read more

Ready to make commuting far more convenient? Uncover your ideal work backpack, ahead.

For more of the best bags and backpacks for women, check out our top guides:

Best Work Bags for Women | Best Weekender Bags | Most Stylish Travel Backpacks for Women

Most Spacious Backpack for Commuters

Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack

The ReNew Transit Backpack
Most Spacious Backpack for Commuters

Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack

Now 37% Off
$95 at Everlane
Pros
  • Made of eco-friendly materials
  • Treated with a water-repellent coating
  • Extremely spacious design
Cons
  • Only sold in neutral colors

This Everlane backpack, which is made of 100% recycled polyester, is a commuter's dream. Not only can you safely secure your laptop inside, its many pockets and two water bottle holders make it perfect for traveling to and from the office. If you're commuting overnight, there's a pass-through strap to attach safely to your rolling luggage.

What Will Fit: Standing at 15-inches, this backpack's exterior laptop pocket can fit a standard-sized laptop, such as a MacBook. Zip pockets throughout can safely hold other essentials, such as your passport, wallet, phone, and more.

Colors5
MaterialWater-repellent recycled polyester
Dimensions17.5"H x 12"W x 7.25"D
Useful Features of NoteTwo main zip compartments plus a back-side zip laptop sleeve
Simple and Sophisticated

Bostanten Laptop Backpack

Laptop Backpack
Simple and Sophisticated

Bostanten Laptop Backpack

Pros
  • Classic black leather backpack
  • Adjustable straps
  • Features rear anti-theft pocket
Cons
  • Only sold in neutral colors

If you love a bag with pockets, this backpack from Bostanten will easily become your new favorite. The sleek leather design and neutral colorways give it an air of luxury while still retaining the best part of a backpack: compartments.

What Will Fit: Either of the two main compartments can fit a laptop of up to 15.6-inches. With 14 different pockets, this bag can hold everything you may need for a day at the office or traveling.

Colors4
MaterialGenuine Leather
Dimensions11.42" x 15.7" x 5.12"
Useful Features of Note14 different pockets, trolley sleeve, water-resistant
Stylish Everyday Pick

Leather Laptop Backpack for Women

Leather Laptop Backpack for Women
Stylish Everyday Pick

Leather Laptop Backpack for Women

Credit: Bromen
Pros
  • Sold in a variety of neutral colorways
  • Double zipper for easy opening
  • Built-in laptop sleeve
  • Leather bottom to protect against sitting on the ground
Cons
  • Not available in bright colors

Made of high-quality vegan "leather," this stylish bag is both durable and versatile. Choose from 9 different colors that showcase your personal style.

What Will Fit: At 15.75-inches in height, this bag can accommodate most standard-sized laptops. Your 16-inch MacBook Pro won't be able to fit, though. Use this backpack's many sections for your belongings: one internal pocket with a zipper, two slip pockets inside, two outside pockets for easy access, and one laptop sleeve with a strap.

Colors9
MaterialVegan Leather
Dimensions15.75"H x 11.02” W x 4.72”D
Useful Features of NoteSpacious hidden back zipper pocket, adjustable straps, durable faux leather bottom
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Best for Going From Work to Happy Hour

Herschel Supply Co. Orion Mid-Volume Backpack

Orion Mid-Volume Backpack
Best for Going From Work to Happy Hour

Herschel Supply Co. Orion Mid-Volume Backpack

Now 33% Off
Credit: Herschel
Pros
  • Versatile minimalist design
  • Built-in trolley sleeve
  • Built-in padded laptop sleeve
Cons
  • Only sold in one color

Purveyor of awesome, trendy bags, this pick from Herschel Supply Co. is unlike many of their other options. Created with textured nylon and CareSmart leather trim, this padded backpack features adjustable straps, zip enclosures that go two ways, and the top-carry handle that Herschel is known for.

What Will Fit: At 15.5-inches in height and 12-inches in width, this bag can accommodate laptops smaller than a MacBook Pro in its built-in laptop compartment.

ColorAsh Rose
MaterialNylon and leather
Dimensions15.5"H x 12"W x 5.25"D
Useful Features of NoteDouble zippers, two water bottle sleeves, and a built-in padded laptop sleeve
Pros
  • Adjustable straps
  • Magnetic front closure
  • Adjustable main compartment
Cons
  • Only sold in two colors

If dark academia or vintage charm is your aesthetic, this super affordable (and super cool!) vegan "leather" backpack might just be for you. Made of quality faux leather, its durable hardware is made of solid metal. And if you don't have as much to pack or you don't want it to look too bulky, you can adjust the straps to streamline.

What Will Fit: At 14.3-inches in height, you can fit a MacBook or regular-sized laptop inside — sorry, MacBook Pros! Six compartments of varying sizes can house other daily essentials.

ColorsBrown, Black
MaterialFaux Leather
Dimensions14.3''H x 11''LWx 3.9''D
Useful Features of NoteAdjustable straps, hidden front and back pockets
Most Practical Pick

Laptop Backpack

Amazon’s Choice
Laptop Backpack
Most Practical Pick

Laptop Backpack

Now 37% Off
Credit: KROSER
Pros
  • Two side pockets, perfect for water bottles and umbrellas
  • Spacious front zip compartment
  • Easy-to-carry top handles
Cons
  • Only sold in neutral colors

With over 19,000 five-star ratings, this sneaky backpack looks like it could be a regular professional work bag at first glance. It also comes outfitted with a USB port and luggage strap, making it super travel-friendly.

What Will Fit: This backpack has a laptop pocket that can fit computers 15.6-inches or smaller, a compartment made for an iPad or tablet, the main compartment with many small pockets, a front zip pocket, and two side pockets for your water bottle or umbrella. As a bonus, the nylon exterior is water-repellent.

Colors4
MaterialPU Leather/Nylon
Dimensions16.9"H x11.15"W x7.5"D (15.6" size) and 17.3"H x12.2"W x 8.7"D (17" size)
Useful Features of NoteFramed wide open mouth design
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Designer Style

Ted Baker Belax Mock-Croc PU Backpack

Belax Mock-Croc PU Backpack
Designer Style

Ted Baker Belax Mock-Croc PU Backpack

Pros
  • Hidden side zip pocket for phone or wallet
  • Chic faux-croc silhouette
  • Adjustable straps
Cons
  • Only sold in one color

If you dislike bags with a lot of compartments because it's easy to lose your things in all of the nooks and crannies, this bag is the one for you. It's essentially one large pocket. Zipped to close with adjustable straps and a top handle, it's a minimalist for the light packer. Bonus: It has a hidden back side pocket for easy-to-reach items like a phone and keys.

What Will Fit: At 10.25-inches in height, this sleek backpack can fit an iPad mini or Kindle but not a standard-sized laptop or iPad.

ColorBlack
MaterialExterior: Polyurethane, Interior: Cotton
Dimensions10.25" x 9.4" x 3"
Useful Features of NoteOne internal pocket, narrow straps
Chic and Versatile

Monos Metro Backpack

Metro Backpack
Chic and Versatile

Monos Metro Backpack

Pros
  • Great range of color options
  • Includes detachable Metro Classic Kit
  • Can exclude Metro Classic Kit for $30 credit
Cons
  • Reviewers note bag is quite heavy

This sleek, two-in-one backpack is great for those who need to fit not only work items but gym-related items in their backpack as well, such as sneakers and a change of clothes. There is a waterproof compartment that's perfect for workout garb. The detachable front pocket can be left on for additional space or taken off for a slimmer appearance. It slides through a loop and adheres via magnet. There is also a hidden pocket on the back of the backpack for items such as a passport, wallet, or other valuables you may wish to conceal.

What Will Fit: The backpack's 16.5-inch height means it can easily fit a 15-inch laptop. The interior pocket made of waterproof fabric is perfect for sweaty gym clothes or an extra pair of shoes, and the detachable front pocket is great for smaller, additional items such as keys, charging cords, and a wallet. If you're traveling, the small, detachable bag could also act as a carrier for toiletries.

Colors9
MaterialNylon or Vegan Leather
Dimensions11.5" × 16.5" × 6"
Useful Features of NoteTwo-year limited warranty, water and scratch-resistant, adjustable shoulder straps
Best Laptop Backpack for Travel

Calpak Kaya Laptop Backpack

Kaya Laptop Backpack
Best Laptop Backpack for Travel

Calpak Kaya Laptop Backpack

Credit: Calpak
Pros
  • Sold in 21 colors, including neutrals and brights
  • Built-in luggage trolley sleeve
  • Separate laptop compartment
Cons
  • Slimmer in nature so not the most spacious

Made of faux leather, the Kaya backpack earns our "best for travel" spot because of the organization it provides. Plus, it has a thick sleeve to attach to your rolling luggage. This Calpak backpack is available in over a dozen limited and classic colors, from this gorgeous papaya to timeless caramel and charcoal grey.

What Will Fit: A zippered back compartment can house a 15-inch laptop. Various interior pockets can also help you stay organized.

Colors21
MaterialFaux Leather
Dimensions15.5"H x 11.5"W x 4.5"D
Useful Features of Note 15-inch padded laptop sleeve, trolley sleeve, adjustable straps
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Best Business Casual Work Backpack

Calpak Luka Laptop Backpack

Best Seller
Luka Laptop Backpack
Best Business Casual Work Backpack

Calpak Luka Laptop Backpack

Credit: Calpak
Pros
  • Sold in vivid and neutral colors alike
  • Fun, padded design
  • Much more spacious than it looks
Cons
  • Some shoppers report poor scuff-resistance

This unique, business-casual backpack is not only convenient for workers on the go, but it's also very trendy thanks to its puffy silhouette — a favorite style of 2023. The beloved backpack is sold in nine bright colors, as well as in four neutral core shades.

What Will Fit: So much more than you'd expect! It features a front zip pocket, a main compartment with slip pockets and a mesh zip pocket inside, a back laptop pocket that accommodates up to a 15-inch laptop, and a shoe compartment at the bottom. But that's not all. The back of the pack, which is equipped with adjustable padded straps, features a trolley sleeve with another hidden zip pocket, perfect for storing valuables such as a passport, wallet, and phone. Needless to say, we're big fans of this fashion-forward laptop backpack.

Colors13
MaterialPolyester
Dimensions16"H x 12"W x 7"D
Useful Features of NotePadded laptop sleeve, shoe compartment, trolley sleeve with hidden pocket, various interior pockets in main compartment
Equipped With Anti-Theft Features

Anti-Theft Signature Nylon Slim Backpack

On Sale
Anti-Theft Signature Nylon Slim Backpack
Equipped With Anti-Theft Features

Anti-Theft Signature Nylon Slim Backpack

Now 23% Off
Credit: Travelon
Pros
  • Ample interior slip pockets and card slots
  • Convenient key leash
  • Can be worn as a backpack or messenger bag
Cons
  • Only sold in one color

The backpacks from your youth were probably on the bulkier side, holding all of your textbooks and miscellaneous school supplies. This super slim and soft navy bag is a great grown-up version that will make your daily commute much smoother. One unique feature is the ability to lock the front zipper pocket for added security.

What Will Fit: One of the littler bags on our list, this pick can only hold the smallest of laptops or iPads. If you like to travel light, this is the backpack is for you. It also comes with an RFID-blocking card/passport compartment.

Colors1
MaterialWater-resistant nylon
Dimensions13"H x 11"W x 2"D
Useful Features of NoteRFID blocking technology
Fashion-Forward Vegan Leather Backpack

Matt & Nat Alex Vegan Backpack

Alex Vegan Backpack
Fashion-Forward Vegan Leather Backpack

Matt & Nat Alex Vegan Backpack

Pros
  • Very minimalist design
  • Hidden back zip pocket
  • Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
  • No additional interior pockets

This backpack made out of durable vegan leather comes equipped with a 13" padded laptop pocket for keeping your computer safe and organized. As a bonus, according to the vegan and cruelty-free brand, the interior lining of all of their bags is made from 100% recycled water bottles.

What Will Fit: This bag can snugly fit one standard-sized laptop, such as a MacBook Air (but not a MacBook Pro) in its padded laptop sleeve. You'll also find a small, zippered outside pocket on the back of the bag.

ColorBlack
MaterialVegan PVC
Dimensions11"L x 15"H x 3.5"W
Useful Features of NoteAdjustable straps, accommodates 13-inch laptops
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Colorful Choice

Travel School Backpack with USB Charging Port

2-Day Shipping!
Travel School Backpack with USB Charging Port
Colorful Choice

Travel School Backpack with USB Charging Port

Now 48% Off
Credit: himawari
Pros
  • Sold in 22 colors
  • Spacious front zip pocket
  • Built-in USB charger
Cons
  • Some shoppers report a strong smell upon arrival

Just because your backpack is going to the office doesn't mean you have to shy away from a pop of color. This cool backpack also comes equipped with a USB charging port — a definite bonus if you have a lengthy commute to work.

What Will Fit: Measuring 16-inches in height, this function-forward backpack can fit a laptop that's up to 15.6-inches long. Two small, open pockets on the inside, two outside side pockets, and one front pocket with a zipper are also available to store other odds and ends.

Colors22
MaterialWaterproof canvas
Dimensions16"H x 11"W x 8"D
Useful Features of NoteBuilt-in USB, easy-to-carry top handles, padded back with hidden pocket
Work-to-Weekend Pick

Vintage Laptop Backpack

Vintage Laptop Backpack
Work-to-Weekend Pick

Vintage Laptop Backpack

Credit: Modoker
Pros
  • Built-in USB charger
  • Easy-to-clean nylon
  • Magnetic straps
Cons
  • Some reviewers note the side pockets are small

This nylon and polyester backpack with vegan "leather" trim is another affordable option that will look great going into the office every day. Its external USB charging port makes it a standout, as does its many pockets (six in total!). You'll appreciate the adjustable, padded shoulder straps, too.

What Will Fit: You can fit up to a 15-inch laptop inside. There are six pockets to house your belongings: one main compartment, one laptop pocket, one zipper pocket to hold smaller items of value, one pencil case, and two side pockets for water or an umbrella.

Colors5
MaterialNylon
Dimensions16.5"H x 11.8"W x 5.1"W
Useful Features of NoteRoomy main compartment and secondary smaller compartment
Best Lightweight Work Backpack

Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack

Dakota Neoprene Backpack
Best Lightweight Work Backpack

Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack

Credit: Dagne Dover
Pros
  • Made of water-repellent neoprene
  • Very organized design
  • Chic padded silhouette
Cons
  • Neoprene can be difficult to clean

Love the look of a classic backpack but crave a modern textile? This water-resistant neoprene backpack from Dagne Dover is the perfect pick. Sold in three sizes and six colors, the cushy-yet-lightweight backpack features adjustable straps, a front zipper pocket with little elastic slots for lip balm, a main interior compartment with a padded laptop sleeve, two mesh slip pockets, and three zip pockets, as well as a separate back zipper laptop compartment. (Yes, this backpack comes with two places to store a laptop securely.) Additionally, it features a hidden slip phone pocket at the top of the pack, as well as a detachable pouch that connects to a key leash.

But there's more! The backpack also comes with a shoe bag, so if it doubles as your gym bag, you have a protected place to store whatever shoes you're not wearing at the moment. In short, it's one of, if not the most, organized work backpack on the market. That's likely why everyone and their mother carries one in New York City and San Francisco.

What Will Fit: At 17-inches in height, this designer find can house a standard-sized laptop, such as a 13-inch MacBook and larger items alike.

Colors6 Core, 2 Seasonal
MaterialNeoprene
Dimensions13"H x 9.5"W x 5"D (S size); 17"H x 11.5"W x 5"D (M size); 17.5"H x 13.25"W x 5.25"D (L size)
Useful Features of NoteKey leash, hidden phone pocket, adjustable straps, lip gloss holders in front pocket
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Best Budget Work Backpack

Laptop Backpack for Women

Laptop Backpack for Women
Best Budget Work Backpack

Laptop Backpack for Women

Credit: BRINCH
Pros
  • Built-in USB charging port
  • Easy-to-carry top handles
  • Adjustable straps
Cons
  • Obvious logo front and center

One of the best budget buys on our list, this durable, nylon backpack offers a USB charging port, as well as different compartments to suit your device needs. This super roomy backpack also has padded shoulder straps, so your shoulders will be strain-free on your way to work.

What Will Fit: At 15.7-inches in height, this backpack can fit a standard-sized laptop, such as a MacBook comfortably. A tablet pocket perfect for a 10.5-inch iPad, two smaller inner pockets, pen slots, two dual-side pockets for water bottles, and an exterior zip pocket are also provided.

Colors7
MaterialWater-repellent nylon
Dimensions15.7"H x 11"W x 7.8"D (15.6" size) and 17"H x 12.5"W x 9.5"D (17.3" size)
Useful Features of NoteBuilt-in USB charger, wide-mouth open pocket design

What to look for when shopping for work backpacks for women

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✔️ Size: Do you prefer a slim backpack or one with more depth? Do you want an expandable design or one with set parameters? Generally speaking, a backpack that's at least 15-inches tall is ideal, as it will be able to accommodate most laptops. If you have a larger laptop, such as a Macbook Pro, opting for a backpack in the 17-inch range is advised.

✔️ Material: If you'll be wearing your backpack out and about while commuting, it'll be helpful to have a water-resistant bag. Otherwise, it could soak through and affect the contents, many of which are tech-related. Additionally, some materials, such as faux leather, are easier to clean than, say, nylon or neoprene.

✔️ Key features: A few features that are especially convenient in a work backpack include key leashes (so you don't have to hunt for your keys), designated phone pockets, hidden compartments (great for wallets and IDs), and a variety of interior zipper pockets (that make staying organized less of a hassle).

FAQ

linebreak
  • Are work backpacks professional?
    Absolutely! While some materials, such as faux leather, will look more polished, nylon, neoprene, and polyester laptop backpacks are considered commonplace in formal and business casual offices as well.
  • What size backpack is best for commuting?
    It ultimately depends on your size, as you don't want to be weighed down by your backpack. That said, a 15- to 17-inch-tall backpack is typically best.
  • How do I find a comfortable backpack for commuting?
    Look for ones with padded backs and adjustable straps, that way you can tailor their wear.
Headshot of Rebecca Norris
Rebecca Norris
Freelance Writer

Rebecca Ravee Norris is a full-time freelance writer with a decade's worth of lifestyle media experience. Based out of the Washington metropolitan area, she writes for a variety of publications, covering everything from beauty and wellness to style and celebrity news. She is a graduate of George Mason University. There, she earned her B.A. in Media: Production, Consumption, and Critique, along with a minor in Electronic Journalism. When she's not working, she can be found with her beloved Jack-Chi, Cash, adventuring with family and friends, working through reps at the gym, dreaming up her next home decor project, testing a new recipe, getting lost in the pages of a book, or catching up on her favorite shows. 

Headshot of Ysolt Usigan

Ysolt Usigan is a lifestyle writer and editor with 15+ years of experience working in digital media. She has created share-worthy content for publishers Shape, What To Expect, Cafe Mom, TODAY, CBS News, HuffPo, The Bump, Health, Ask Men, and Best Gifts. A working mom of two, her editorial expertise in parenting, shopping, and home are rooted in her everyday life. 

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