10 Best Backpacks For Work that are Professional and Stylish
Our top 10 picks for the best backpacks for work that are professional yet stylish. These men's backpacks can be worn with suits or in business casual settings.
Archer Brighton Jack Utility Backpack (Buy on Amazon)
Tumi Harrison Archer Backpack (Buy on Amazon)
Knomo Hudson Leather Backpack (Buy on Amazon)
Timbuk2 Cask Laptop Backpack (Buy on Amazon)
Matt & Nat Dean Vintage Backpack (Buy on Amazon)
Briggs & Riley Atwork Medium Multi Pocket Backpack (Buy on Amazon)
Jack Spade Cargo Backpack (Buy on Amazon)
Skagen Kroyer Twill Backpack (Buy on Amazon)
SOLO Executive Laptop Backpack (Buy on Amazon)
Rains Backpack (Buy on Amazon)
Our top 10 picks for the best backpacks for work that are professional yet stylish. We review the best business laptop backpacks, business casual backpacks and sophisticated backpacks to wear with a suit.
Best business laptop backpacks
Shopping for a business laptop backpack that is office appropriate can be tricky if you don’t know all of your options. A laptop backpack with too many bells and whistles can leave you looking unprofessional. But a stylish backpack that looks clean and professional can sometimes lack the features needed for comfortable laptop carry. Here we review our top picks for the best business laptop backpacks that are the best of both worlds in terms of sophistication of style.
Briggs & Riley AtwOrk Medium Multi Pocket Backpack Review
Briggs & Riley set out to make a professional backpack that is an organizational goliath with their Atwork Backpack. With multiple compartments and organizational pockets this backpack is made for everyday work carry and travel. Briggs & Riley offers a lifetime warranty on this backpack that even includes airline damage.
This backpack is made of premium materials like a durable ballistic nylon body, leather-like accents and all metal hardware. With features like these it’s no wonder the Briggs & Riley Artwork is considered one of the best business laptop backpacks.
Dimensions: 17 x 13 x 6 inches
Padded sleeve for a laptop up to 15.6 inches
Multiple easy to access compartments and organizers
Smaller pocket with RFID blocking lining to protect passports and wallets inside.
Simple as that® Lifetime warranty
Knomo Hudson Leather Backpack Review
The Knomo Hudson backpack is an office backpack for men that exudes sophistication with it’s sleek modern design and premium materials. We love that Knomo designed this backpack with functionality in mind.
The backpack is compact and does not look too bulky even when full but the inside compartments are perfect for carrying all of your daily office essentials. The bag even has a water-resistant zip pocket on the side especially made for important small items like your phone, keys or passport. The bag is made of premium leather which gives it a mature look that is perfect for the office. The Knomo Hudson leather backpack is by far one of our favorite office backpacks for men.
Dimensions: 15.7 x 11.8 x 3.5 inches
Laptop sleeve fits laptop up to 15 inches
Built in RFID blocker lining
Generous main compartment with organizational pockets
Easy access zip pocket on the side large enough to carry a phone, wallet or passport
Padded shoulder straps for extra comfort
Modern leather flap design for hassle free access to the main compartment.
SOLO Executive Laptop Backpack Review
Solo offers up a great office laptop backpack with their Executive series. Although one of the most affordable backpacks on the list, it’s feels and looks extremely well made. It’s structured silhouette looks great with business casual or office wear.
With multiple pockets and compartments for a laptop, tablet and other work items you can really tell that attention was payed to everyday needs and utility. Overall the Solo Executive laptop backpack is a stylish men’s bag that cuts no corners in functionality.
Dimensions: 17 x 12.5 x 6 inches
Laptop sleeve fits laptop up to 15.6 inches
Multiple front pockets including two snap button pockets
Comfortable: Padded shoulder straps and back
Dual zippers in the main compartments for quick and easy access.
Business casual backpacks
The best business casual backpacks are a cross between sophisticated design and on-trend style. These stylish men's backpacks for work are functional enough to fit all of your daily office essentials but mature enough for a business casual setting.
Timbuk2 Cask Laptop Backpack Review
Timbuk2 is known for their high quality backpacks and stylish designs. The Cask Laptop Backpack is beautifully crafted bag made of waxed canvas with premium leather accents throughout. It’s clasped front pocket gives it a modern urban look common in many satchel bags.
The backpack's main features are geared towards utility with a padded sleeves for a 15” Macbook and iPad, expandable side pockets for water bottles and organizer pockets through out. The Timbuk2 Cask backpack is the perfect mix of urban explorer meets practical office backpack.
Dimensions: 18.3 x 11 x 4.5 inches
Padded laptop sleeve for Macbook up to 15 inches
Expandable side pockets for water bottles or umbrellas
Internal organizer for keys, wallet and other smaller accessories.
Made of high quality genuine leather and waxed canvas
Matt & Nat Dean Vintage Backpack Review
The Dean Vintage by Matt & Nat is a modern men’s backpack that will sharpen up any office look. Made with recycled nylon lining, this backpack is constructed out of natural sustainable materials that give it a high quality look and feel that rivals similar leather backpacks.
The backpack features a deep main pocket with an accompanying 13” padded laptop sleeve. Front and side pockets allow for even more storage without adding too much bulk to the profile when worn. Anyone looking for a stylish men’s backpack should consider the Matt & Nat Dean Vintage as their go-to work backpack.
Dimensions: 12 x 16 x 7 inches
Padded sleeve for laptop up to 13 inches
Top zipper access to main compartment
Slit pockets on side
Adjustable shoulder straps
Sustainable: Made with 100% recycled nylon lining
Skagen Kroyer Twill Backpack Review
Skagen is known for their modern minimalist high end designs. The Kroyer Twill features a modern yet mature backpack that would compliment any business casual outfit. The backpack is made of a water resistant coated twill with sophisticated leather accents in the top handle, zipper pull tabs and shoulder straps.
As for everyday functionality you can expect a padded laptop sleeve, plenty of pockets for smaller items and a main compartment that zips 3/4 around the body for easy access to the contents inside. It’s minimalist design and practical utility makes the Skagen Kroyer Twill an ideal backpack for work.
Dimensions: 11.81 x 5.12 x 17.72 inches
Padded sleeve for laptop up to 15 inches
2 zip side pockets
Zip pocket in the back that becomes hidden when the backpack is worn
Made of water resistant coated twill
Premium leather shoulder straps and top handle
Jack Spade Cargo Backpack Review
The Jack Spade Cargo is a thoughtfully designed backpack that has tons of great features like a padded laptop sleeve and useful internal organizational pockets for daily essentials. Instead of the traditional side pockets the Cargo backpack has an internal water bottle pocket in the main compartment. This feature allows the outside of the backpack looking clean and sleek with minimal ornamentation.
It's minimalist silhouette makes it a great business casual backpack that will look professional whether you dress up or down at the office. Commuters will be glad to know that outer shell is made out of a Cordura, a durable fabric that is more resistant to tears and rips. Jack Spade has really designed a quality backpack for men that is tough, functional and incredibly stylish with their men’s Cargo backpack.
Dimensions: 16.3 x 11.8 x 4.7
Padded laptop sleeve and padded tech pocket for tablet or phone
Zippered outer pocket fits an iPhone 6 and other similarly sized phones
Made of durable and water resistant cordura fabric
Padded shoulder straps for comfort
backpacks for working professionals
Wearing a backpack with a suit is not impossible if you have a professional looking backpack that compliments your look. Here we list our top picks of sophisticated backpacks for men that are office appropriate thanks to their minimalist designs, mature colors and quality materials.
Tumi Harrison Archer Backpack Review
The Harrison Archer backpack by Tumi is a high end bag made for those who need a professional looking backpack that has all of the common utilitarian features of a more casual travel bag. The Tumi Harrison Archer is crafted from quality leather that feels supple and gives the backpack a stylish look sleek enough to wear daily to the office.
Inside of the backpack you will find a padded laptop compartment, plenty of compartments for small items like keys and pens, and a roomy main compartment for your larger office essentials. Anyone looking for a functional backpack for suits will find the Tumi Harrison Archer well fitting in professional environment.
Dimensions: 17.76 x 12.25 x 5.75 inches
Padded sleeve for a laptop up to 15 inches
Leather wrapped shoulder straps. Adjustable and padded for comfort.
Exterior made of supple leather. Interior is lined. High quality stitching throughout
Generous main compartment.
2 medium sized front zip pockets and smaller zip pockets on the sides.
Archer Brighton Jake Utility Backpack Review
The Jack Utility backpack from Archer Brighton is a beautifully crafted backpack with a sleek minimalist exterior that is jammed packed with functional features inside. It’s sophisticated design and slim profile is why we chose it as top pick for backpacks to wear with a suit. It’s internal utility makes it a great go-to everyday backpack that will have everything you need to conquer the day.
The Jack Utility backpack has a padded laptop sleeve that can fit up to a 17” Macbook Pro. It also has a useful compartments like a separate sleeve for a full sized iPad, pen holders and a medium sized mesh pocket for laptop chargers and other loose items. One cool feature that we love is the secret pocket that can be found on the inside of the backpack for valuable items.
Dimensions: 16.9 x 11.8 x 4.7 inches
Foam padded sleeve for a laptop up Macbook Pro up 17 inches
Includes an additional 13” tablet sleeve
Inside is lined with waterproof nylon to keep your valuables safe and dry
Comfortable air-mesh leather shoulder straps
Rains Backpack Review
The Rains backpack is a stylish and sophisticated backpack for men that takes the classic rucksack design and updates it into a modern minimalist bag perfect for wearing to the office. The backpack is made out of a sleek vinyl that is water resistant, making this a great bag for urban commuters. Unlike bulkier backpacks, the Rains backpack features slim straps and a minimalist profile that will look great when paired with a suit jacket or dress shirt.
Dimensions: 18.5 x 11.4 x 4.1 inches
Internal pocket for a laptop up to 15 inches + 1 phone pocket
Magnetic snap button and classic rucksack strap secure front pocket.
Made of water-resistant vinyl
Adjustable non-padded shoulder straps
How To Choose a Backpack for Work that is Sophisticated and Stylish
Is your backpack work appropriate? We offer a simple guide on how to choose a professional looking backpack for work that is sophisticated and stylish.
From left to right: Matt & Nat Dean Backpack - Jack Spade Cargo Backpack - Tumi Harrison Archer Backpack
Classic business attire calls for a clean briefcase but with so many stylish and sophisticated backpacks on the market who says you can’t wear a professional looking backpack to work? Backpacks are easy to manage, comfortable to wear and are jammed packed with useful features that are especially important for commuters. Maybe it's time to reconsider the briefcase and choose your new perfect backpack for the office.
Here is a quick guide on how to choose an office appropriate backpack for work.
Choose Quality Materials
A backpack made out of good high quality materials will often dress up your look. Choose backpacks made out high quality materials like leather and waxed canvas. Metal hardware instead of cheap plastic adds another level of sophistication and professionalism to the look.
Quality materials give backpacks a more sophisticated and professional look.
Avoid loud colors and designs
Backpacks that are simple in design with clean lines can be a refined addition to your work outfits. Avoid backpacks that are very busy on the outside with carabiners or too many pockets. Instead go with a backpack that has a simple yet defined silhouette to compliment your overall look. Colors should be mature and compliment your work wardrobe: Black, brown, tan and navy are all safe bets.
Avoid Unstructured Backpacks
Leave your basic polyester backpack at home. Opt-in to a nicely structured backpack that retains it’s shape even when empty. This will allow for a cleaner and more put together look.
Avoid unstructured backpacks in loud colors. Go for a structured leather backpack like the Knomo Hudson Backpack
AVOID SPECIALTY BACKPACKS & LOUD BRANDING
Sports, hiking and other specialty backpacks should be avoided. If it looks like you are ready to embark on an epic hiking trip then maybe the backpack may not be office appropriate. The same goes for sport brand backpacks with loud branding that would be better suited for gym days. Avoid backpacks that look too "student". Although brands like Jansport have some well designed models, nothing screams "I'm a college student" louder than a Jansport Right Pack. Instead go for a backpack with understated branding for a cleaner and more grown-up look.
Check the Fit
Avoid backpacks that are too large or too small for your frame. Make sure the shoulder straps are adjustable so that the backpack can sit just right on your back. Hanging your backpack too low on your back looks sloppy and unprofessional.
Don’t Forget About Function
Before purchasing a new backpack make sure it has all of the features you need for everyday carry. Does it need a laptop compartment? What about enough room for lunch or gym clothes? Are you a commuter that needs a water proof backpack? A great looking backpack should also be functional.
Make sure the backpack you choose fits your daily carry needs.
Ultimately the backpack you choose comes down to how conservative or casual your workplace is. If you work in a business casual environment you may have more leeway to sport a more casual backpack at the office. Or maybe your workplace is a strict suit and tie environment where a more formal looking backpack is the only considerable option. Either way with so many different backpack styles currently available you should have no problem finding one that works for you.
If you want to see our top picks for office appropriate backpacks check out our list of 10 Best Men's Backpacks for Work & 10 Best Women's Backpacks for Work.
Anatomy of a Backpack - Common Terms & Definitions
A quick guide on common backpack terms and definitions. Learn all there is to know so you can make an informed choice when shopping for a new backpack.
We have updated this guide! Click here for an updated Anatomy of a Backpack.
The Anatomy of a Backpack guide is a quick breakdown of common backpack terms and definitions so that you can make the best informed decision when shopping for a new backpack in-store or online. Below we break down a simple everyday backpack and define feature.
Featured backpack: Vaschy Classic Backpack (Amazon)
Common backpack features DEFINED:
Loop handle - Usually made out of nylon or leather in higher end backpacks. A loop handle is usually present for easy handling or for the ability to hang up the backpack on a hook or closet when not in use.
Bike light attachment - A small square sewn on to the front of the backpack that most commonly made out of leather or synthetic leather material. Originally a safety feature to help bicyclists on the road, it's main purpose is to have the ability to attach a clip-on bicycle light although some fashion brands use it as a decorative feature.
Front Pocket - A smaller zipper pocket found on the front of the backpack for quick access to smaller items like pens, wallets or cell phones.
Side Pocket - Narrow and deep pockets found on the side of a backpack. Usually used to hold water bottles and umbrellas. Some backpacks add velcro or zippers to keep these pockets closed when not in use.
Reinforced Bottom - Usually made of leather or another tough synthetic material. This feature prevents the bottom of the backpack from premature wear and tear when being placed on the ground. Not all backpacks have this feature, but it's a nice addition and one to look out for when shopping for a new backpack.
Padded back - Most backpack backs are padded to provide a nice cushion when worn. Some backpacks include extra back features to aid in overheating or extra padding for comfort. These features can be different with every manufacturer.
Shoulder straps - Should straps can be made of a variety of material and like padded backs, can include special features to be more ergonomic when worn. Most backpacks have padded shoulder straps, especially ones made for heavy load carry like hiking or school backpacks.
Shoulder strap adjustments - The hardware on the shoulder straps that allow you to adjust it length. This allows for the wearer to adjust where the backpack sits on their back when worn. Most modern backpacks have this feature.
Main Compartment - The largest pocket in the backpack is called the main compartment. Some main compartments feature smaller accessories pockets to compartmentalize smaller items.
Mesh pocket - A small pocket usually sewn into the main compartment made out of mesh.
Other common terms:
Laptop Compartment - A piece of foam or material that creates a pocket in the main compartment that can fit a laptop or tablet. Laptop compartments can be padded for extra protection.
Hardware - A term used that refers to the zippers and other small parts in a backpack. For example: Metal hardware i.e. metal zippers, zipper pulls, etc.
Pull tabs - Usually a piece of leather, nylon or other material attached to the end of a zipper to make it easier for the user to open and close the zippers.
Campus Style: 6 Cute Backpacks for College 2018
Our top picks of cute backpacks for college that are functional and stylish. Discover which college backpacks for women made the list for the 2018 school year.
State Kent Backpack (Buy on Amazon)
Doughnut Macaroon Backpack (Buy on Amazon)
Marc Jacobs Nylon Biker Backpack (Buy on Amazon)
Fjallraven Kanken Laptop Backpack (Buy on Amazon)
Jansport Big Student Backpack (Buy on Amazon)
Herschel Supply Co. Settlement Mid-Volume Backpack (Buy on Amazon)
Having a great backpack should be an essential item on your back to school list. But we know how tough it can be picking out the perfect college backpack with so many options currently available.
In this list we showcase our top 6 picks for super cute backpacks that are also functional for everyday carry at school. Yes, we avoided all those little backpack satchel purses that you often see on fashion blogs. Instead, these cute backpacks have enough room for books, a laptop or tablet and other college essentials.
We also focused on college backpacks for women, meaning these backpacks will be a better fit on smaller frames unlike those common bulky backpacks you may see other students carrying on campus or in stores.
Most of these backpacks come in multiple colors and patterns so make sure to click on the Amazon links to see the most current pricing and what colors are currently available.
Our top 3 - Cute Patterns & Functional design
Our top 3 picks for the best backpacks for college that are super cute yet packed with enough features to make it through the school year like a champ.
Jansport Big Student Classic Backpack
Jansport makes tons of super cute college backpacks and the Big Student Classic backpack is no exception. The backpack is designed for ultimate organization with tons of inside and outside pockets for your daily essentials. Below is what we absolutely love about this backpack:
Dimensions: 17.5 x 10 x 13 inches
24 liter capacity - One of the largest backpacks to make our list.
Ergonomic curved shoulder straps to relieve stress from your shoulders.
Mesh pocket on side the fit a water bottle and other smaller items.
Two large main compartments can fit multiple books, notebooks and binders.
Accessory pockets for phones, pens, headphones and more.
The Jansport Big Student Backpack also comes in a variety of other cute designs and colors. Check the Amazon button above for available options.
Fjallraven Kanken Laptop Backpack
The Kanken laptop backpack by Fjallraven makes our top 3 for good reason: It's has a clean design, comes in a ton of awesome colors, and has ton of room for your everyday essentials like books, a laptop and extra shoes. Here are some of our favorite specs:
Weatherproof: Can be worn in the rain without worrying about the contents inside getting ruined.
Padded laptop sleeve keeps your Macbook or PC safe during transport.
Comes in a variety of sizes to fit your laptop: From 13" to 17"
Special shoulder straps are ergonomically designed to disperse weight off of your shoulders and back so you can carry a heavier load with ease.
The Fjallraven Kanken backpack is available in a variety of beautiful colors to fit your vibe. Check the Amazon button above to see what's currently available.
Herschel Supply Co. Settlement Mid-Volume Backpack
Herschel Supply Co. brings you a neatly designed backpack with a great fit with their Settlement Mid-Volume backpack. Unlike their original Settlement backpack, the Mid-Volume version is smaller in size and perfect for people with smaller frames. Although smaller, it still has tons of great features like a padded compartment for laptop carry and tons of room for your college essentials. Here are some of the main features of this super cute backpack:
Dimensions: 16.6 x 11.25 x 4.5 inches
Padded laptop compartment for laptops up to 13 inches
Convenient front pocket
Inside you can find a media pocket with a headphone port
Beautifully crafted with a clean and minimalist design.
The Herschel Settlement Mid-Volume backpack comes in a dozen different colors and design. So you are sure to find one that fits your lifestyle and mood.
Runner Ups: Cute College Backpacks for Women
We've reviewed our top 3 backpacks above, now let's take a closer look at the rest of the backpacks on the list. Not only do these backpacks have a cute fun style but they also make amazing backpacks for college. They are the perfect blend of on trend style and everyday function.
STATE Women's KENT Backpack
STATE is a backpack brand that blends beautiful minimalist design with great features that are perfect for an everyday college backpack. Their Kent backpack is especially made to fit a woman's frame and isn't too bulky. It's understated design makes it a cute backpack for school, work or a daytrip. Here our our favorite features:
Dimensions: 15 x 11.75 x 5.75 inches
Padded sleeve for a laptop up to 13 inches
Quick front stash pocket for small items
Special iPad pocket on the inside
The STATE Kent Backpack is the ideal backpack for those of you who want a clean design while still keeping a cute backpack look around campus.
Doughnut Women's Macaroon Backpack
Doughnut is a Hong Kong based brand that mixes fun designs with full functionality for school or travel. We absolutely love their new Macaroon backpacks that mix wanderlust vibes with cute elements like brass buckles and leather accents.
The generous main compartment has enough room to fit your books and other school essentials. A padded laptop sleeve and interior zip pockets make tech organization a breeze.
Dimensions: 14” x 11” x 6”
Padded laptop sleeve
Internal organizers in main compartment for pens, chargers and other small items.
Designed in Hong Kong
Made of durable tech twill material.
Marc Jacobs Nylon Biker Backpack
Marc Jacobs has recently released a nylon version of their popular Biker Backpack and we absolutely love it. It’s made of a durable nylon that is lightweight and won’t hold you down on your busiest days on campus.
This backpack is small-medium in size so it’s not ideal for those who need to carry more than a few classes worth of books. But for a couple of books and binders, this backpack would be awesome. Plus it looks absolutely great. This backpack is an easy way to upgrade any campus look.
Dimensions: 15” H x 12” L x 7” W
Roomy main compartment for daily essentials
Two smaller front zip pockets for smaller items
Made of lightweight nylon
Booq Daypack Backpack
The Booq Daypack is a roomy and functional backpack that is made for everyday carry for school. The roomy main compartment is large enough for multiple textbooks, notebooks and binders. A dedicated laptop sleeve is perfect for laptops up to 15 inches. The ergonomically shaped padded shoulder straps make the backpack comfortable even under heavy loads. The Booq Daypack is available in multiple colors making this cute backpack for college that will match any style.
Dimensions: 18.5” x 13” x 6.3”
Capacity: 19 Liters
Padded sleeve for laptops up to 15.6”
Made of cotton canvas
