Best 17-Inch Laptop Backpacks in 2023| CleverJourney (2024)

Finding a decent backpack that fits your extra-large laptop is hard because most laptop backpacks are built for 15.6-inch screen laptops. Some even advertise that they’re large enough for a 17-inch laptop when in reality, they won’t fit bulkier laptop models. I’ve encountered this issue myself because I use a 17-inch laptop for video editing.

We compared all the most popular laptop backpacks and shared the 12 best ones down below. All of them have dedicated laptop sleeves that fit 17-inch laptops. We made sure to include backpacks for many different occasions (for office, everyday use, cycling, and traveling) and ones in different styles (minimalist, adventure, regular, and gaming). You’ll also learn what to look out for when buying a 17-inch laptop backpack.

Top-Rated 17-Inch Laptop Backpacks

1. Best overall laptop backpack: Matein 17-inch business laptop backpack
2. Best office laptop backpack: eBags Professional Slim 17-inch laptop backpack
3. Best budget office laptop backpack: Matein 17-inch collage laptop backpack
4. Most minimal office laptop backpack: Kroser 17-inch laptop backpack
5. Best-looking laptop backpack: Fjallraven – Kanken 17-inch laptop backpack
6. Best travel laptop backpack: Osprey 17-inch laptop backpack
7. Best budget travel laptop backpack: Yorepek Extra Large 17-inch travel laptop backpack
8. Most popular travel laptop backpack: SwissGear Travel Gear 1900 17-inch laptop backpack
9. Best modern travel laptop backpack: VANKEV Travel Backpack, Extra Large Laptop Backpack
10. Best gaming laptop backpack: Lenovo Legion 17-inch laptop backpack 2
11. Most minimal laptop backpack: Kopack 17-inch laptop backpack
12. Best convertible laptop backpack: TOTWO Laptop Backpack, Extra Large Backpack

Tips on Buying a Laptop Backpack (Guide)

Selecting the Correct Type of Laptop Backpack

1. Office Laptop Backpacks for Everyday Use

If you’re using your backpack every day, and you commute by public transport or car, then you need an ‘office’ or ‘business’ laptop backpack. They’re usually a bit slimmer, aren’t waterproof, have a less-spacious main compartment, and have lots of pockets and compartments for organization. Most of them will also retain their shape when they’re empty because people usually carry a half-empty backpack to the office with just a laptop, water bottle, and not much else.

2. Waterproof Laptop Backpacks for Cycling

Essentially, these types of backpacks are similar to office backpacks, only waterproof or water-repellant. That’s because many people nowadays like to commute with a bicycle or an electric scooter and may get caught up in light rain. Most of them have a roll-down top, which is better for keeping the contents of your bag dry. That said, no backpack is truly waterproof, which is why we’d recommend also getting a waterproof backpack cover, even if the manufacturer says the backpack is waterproof.

3. Travel Laptop Backpacks

Travel laptop backpacks usually put less emphasis on the laptop compartment and more on having a spacious main compartment. Most of them come with a TSA-approved laptop compartment, which unzips at 180 degrees, so you don’t have to take out your laptop when going through airport security. In general, they’re a bit larger, but they still fit within the carry-on size requirements. They’re also built from more durable materials for withstanding all the abuse that comes from travel, they’re often water-repellent, and they have fewer pockets and compartments for organizing everyday items.

Understanding What Size Backpack Should You Get

If you’re planning on using your backpack only for everyday use and not for traveling, then the size doesn’t really matter. Just get something that’s comfortable, fits your laptop, has plenty of pockets and compartments for organizing all the smaller stuff, and looks good when half-empty.

But if you’re planning on traveling, then your backpack needs to fit certain size requirements. If you’ll be using your backpack as a personal item, then it needs to be below 16 x 12 x 6 inches (40 x 30 x 15 cm) to fit under the airline seats. Some airlines will allow slightly larger personal items. But in general, if you’re traveling with a 17-inch laptop, you should pack it inside your carry-on, not personal item. If you’ll be using your backpack as a carry-on for traveling, then it needs to be under 22 x 14 x 9 inches to fit in the overhead compartments.

That said, take these size restrictions with a grain of salt because backpacks aren’t stiff, unlike suitcases. This means that if they aren’t packed too full, you’ll be able to squeeze them slightly to fit the airline requirements. You can get a backpack that’s one or two inches above the limit and use it anyway.

Other Things to Look out for Before Buying 17-Inch Laptop Backpacks

• What materials is it made from? The most durable backpack fabrics, ranked from the most durable to least, are ballistic nylon, canvas, Cordura nylon, nylon, ballistic polyester, oxford cloth, and polyester. Many brands use different, innovative materials, such as twisted dobby fabric or Vinylon F. It’s hard to tell which ones are better than others, but among the most common materials, nylon will always be better than polyester.
• Is it water-repellant? No backpack is 100% waterproof, even if the manufacturer says that it is. Backpacks coated with a water-repellant finish won’t get wet instantly in light rain. Waterproof, roll-top backpacks will be able to withstand extended periods of light rain. But no backpack will be able to withstand heavy rain, which means that you shouldn’t risk getting your laptop wet. For additional protection, you could get a waterproof backpack cover, but an even better solution would be to always put your laptop inside a waterproof laptop sleeve.
• Is the main compartment roomy enough? If you’ll be traveling or bringing your own lunch to the office, you’ll need a backpack with a somewhat spacious main compartment.
• Does it come with enough compartments for organizing your items? If you’re getting an everyday laptop backpack, we suggest you find one with a lot of pockets and compartments for organizing all of your chargers and other smaller items.
• Is it made by a reputable brand? Although that’s not always true, generally, reputable brands will be more durable compared to Chinese manufactured brands. Reputable backpack brands include Samsonite, Eagle Creek, North Face, SwissGear, eBags, Osprey, Fjallraven, Rei, and a few others.
• Does the bag retain its shape when empty? Personally, I really hate it when a backpack sacks down when it’s half-empty. It just looks weird. Pretty often, I’m carrying just my laptop in there, and I want the backpack to still look good. That’s why it’s important to find a bag that keeps its shape when packed half-empty.

Best 17-Inch Laptop Backpacks in 2023 Compared

1. Best Overall: Matein 17-Inch Business Laptop Backpack

Personally, I own the slightly smaller version of the Matein 17-Inch Business Laptop Backpack, which is meant for 15.6-inch laptops. Instead of 19 x 13.8 x 7.8 inches, it’s 18 x 12 x 7.8 inches inches in size. I’ve been using it as a personal item when traveling, and I believe that the slightly larger 17-inch version still wouldn’t be too large to be used as a personal item. I’ve owned this backpack for about two years now, and it still looks brand-new even though I’m using it as my daily backpack.

Although in the medium-low price range, you can find several similar options, the Matein laptop backpack is by far the most popular one, with over 50,000 reviews on Amazon. And it’s there for a reason – it’s well-made, exceptionally well-reviewed, and packed with many useful features.

On the 17-inch version, the laptop compartment unzips all the way around and opens up at a 180-degree angle. This is great for airline security because this means that you won’t have to take the laptop out of the backpack.

Although it’s made out of polyester, I haven’t gotten any tears in the fabric, and its stitching still looks in a good condition. I’ve used it in light rain several times, and although the fabric definitely isn’t waterproof, my laptop didn’t get wet.

At first glance, the main compartment seems quite small, but actually, it’s pretty spacious. It also comes with many smaller pockets inside, which are great for organizing all of my cables, laptop accessories, and all the other smaller items. Although it has a USB charging port at the side, personally, I’ve never used it.

But what I like the most about this bag is that it retains its shape even when it’s empty or half-full. Also, I really like the hidden pocket at the back, which is great for storing my passport and wallet when I’m traveling because I don’t have to check if anything is stolen every 15 minutes.

This bag has been through a lot. I’ve been in 13 different countries with it, in addition to riding my bicycle to the office every day when I’m not traveling. Currently, it’s the best laptop backpack on the market, especially when you consider how affordable it is.

2. Best for Office: eBags Professional Slim 17-Inch Laptop Backpack

If you can afford to pay extra, then you should really consider getting the eBags Slim 17-Inch laptop backpack instead of the more affordable Matein backpack. It’s very cleverly designed, and although overall it has less space, it’s better for everyday office use. The eBags backpack will look good even if you’re dressed in a suit because it’s very discreet and professional.

It’s built from durable twisted dobby fabric, which people reported holds well even after a few years of use. We couldn’t find if it’s weaved polyester or nylon, but from the looks of it, it’s probably polyester, just weaved in a more durable “twisted dobby” weave. eBags hasn’t mentioned that this bag is waterproof or water-repellant, but people said that even after 10 minutes of heavy rain, nothing got wet, which means that it’s somewhat water-resistant.

The laptop compartment is pretty large and padded from all sides. The bottom padding of the laptop compartment is removable to accommodate even larger laptops. Even though the main compartment isn’t too large, this backpack comes with plenty of pockets and compartments for organizing all the smaller items. You’ll find a larger pocket for headphones at the bottom of the pack, several smaller ones ad the front of the pack, and another one at the side of the pack.

Compared to other backpacks we’ve mentioned here, this one is on the smaller side, which is great if you’re using it for everyday use and if you’re planning on using it as a personal item. What sets it apart, though, is all the unique organization features, which you won’t find on other backpacks, and exceptional build quality.

3. Best Budget Office Backpack: Matein 17-Inch College Laptop Backpack

If you’re looking for a super cheap 17-inch laptop backpack that looks good and does the job just right, then you should choose the Matein 17-Inch College laptop backpack.

Although Matein says it’s waterproof, we wouldn’t bet on it. No backpack is really waterproof, especially if it’s priced so cheaply. What’s great, though, is that they’ve used nylon instead of polyester for the fabric, which isn’t typical for an affordable backpack. Nylon is more durable and more water-resistant, which is good if you’re commuting with a bicycle.

The largest drawback that you get with this bag is that it doesn’t retain its shape when empty or half-full. Essentially, it has just one large main compartment with a padded sleeve for a laptop and a tablet and a few smaller pockets on the sides for organizing all the smaller items. From the outside, it’s fitted with two side pockets and a larger front pocket for all the smaller quick-grab items.

We’d say that this backpack is better for traveling and day-hiking, but also can be occasionally taken to the office for work. It lacks the organization features and the “structure” to be used as an everyday office laptop backpack, but it’s roomy enough and just in the right size to be used as a personal item when you’re traveling.

If you’re looking for a versatile, but affordable 17-inch laptop backpack, this one is probably your best choice.

4. Most Minimal Office Backpack: Kroser 17-Inch Laptop Backpack

If you’re looking for a backpack for everyday use that looks professional and doesn’t cost too much, the Kroser 17-inch laptop backpack is a rock-solid choice. It’s affordable, practical, and well-rated, which is why it’s one of the best choices out there.

This backpack is made out of polyester, and although the manufacturer says it’s water-repellant, really, the contents get soaked pretty quickly. So this option would be better for those who use a car or public transport to get to the office. Otherwise, you should get an additional waterproof backpack cover. In size, this backpack is quite compact, which means that you can use it as a personal item when traveling.

In the back, it’s fitted with a laptop pocket that holds additional tablets and chargers. The main compartment is quite simple, and because this backpack is so slim, it’s perfectly sized for everyday use. When the backpack isn’t packed full, it retains its shape, which is nice. Other than that, it’s fitted with four additional smaller pockets for organizing all the smaller items, which will come in handy if you’ll be using it every day. One drawback is that the two shoulder straps could be a bit more padded.

For a somewhat affordable option, this is a really great backpack for everyday office use.

5. Best-Looking: Fjallraven – Kanken 17-Inch Laptop Backpack

The Fjallraven – Kanken 17-Inch Laptop Backpack is a good-looking, versatile laptop backpack that’s good for traveling and everyday use. We think that this backpack is the best-looking one on this list.

Fjallraven is a well-known brand, especially in Europe, and they make durable products that last a really long time. This backpack is made from Vinylon F (their signature material), which is durable, naturally water-resistant, and doesn’t get dirty too fast. If you’d get caught in light rain, your laptop wouldn’t get wet, which is nice.

In the back, this backpack comes with a padded laptop sleeve that opens halfway. It isn’t TSA-friendly, so you’ll have to remove the laptop when you go through security.

The main compartment is quite simple and roomy. It has just one large pocket for several smaller items and nothing more. From the exterior, this bag is fitted with a side pocket for a water bottle and a front pocket for smaller items.

This bag lacks all the smart organization features that you would find on most other office laptop backpacks. Instead, it’s made in a simple, minimalist way. It’ll be a solid option for traveling or for college because it’s good-looking, versatile, and roomy. That said, it is pretty expensive.

6. Best for Traveling: Osprey 17-Inch Laptop Backpack

If you’re mainly looking for a backpack for traveling, then you should get the Osprey Packs Nebula. This bag is built to withstand rough traveling. It’s perfect for digital nomads who work from a cafe one day and fly to Asia on the next one.

Although it’s quite expensive, it will last a long time because it’s built from durable materials. Osprey is known to make some of the most durable backpacks out there, which is why they’re one of the most popular choices for hardcore travelers. That said, many people complained that this backpack could be more waterproof, so we’d advise also getting a waterproof backpack cover or a waterproof laptop sleeve.

The padded 17-inch laptop compartment unzips fully, which means that you won’t have to remove the laptop when going through the security. The main compartment is quite roomy, which is nice for those who mainly use it for traveling. It doesn’t do a good job of retaining its shape when packed half-empty, but it comes with compression straps on the sides, which will make the bag slimmer when you need to. Speaking of straps, it also has a chest strap and a hip belt, which is great for day hiking.

Unfortunately, this bag doesn’t come with too many organization features, unlike most laptop backpacks that are meant for everyday use. Essentially, in terms of organization, this bag has just two side pockets for water bottles and one front pocket for organizing all the smaller items.

If you’re mainly planning on traveling, then you won’t find any laptop backpack better than the Osprey Packs Nebula. It’s durable, spacious, and comfortable, yet sleek enough to occasionally be used in the office.

7. Best Budget Travel Backpack: Yorepek Extra Large 17-Inch Laptop Backpack

The Yorepek Extra Large 17-inch laptop backpack is a really great option for traveling. On Amazon, it’s incredibly well-reviewed and really popular. Essentially, it’s a slightly more affordable version of the SwissGear Travel Gear 1900, which we placed 7th on this list.

It’s not made in the modern-minimalist style, which is the preferred look for digital nomads. Instead, they went for a more classic travel backpack look. It’s made out of polyester and comes with durable waterproof zippers. Because the fabric is quite thick, people said that this bag still looks almost brand-new even after a few years of use.

The padded laptop compartment is unzippable all way round, which means that when you go through the airport security, you won’t have to remove the laptop from the bag. The main compartment is quite large, which is great for traveling. Out of all the bags we’ve mentioned in this list, this one is definitely on the larger side, which means that when it’s packed full, you most likely won’t be able to use it as a personal item and have to use it as a carry-on instead. From the exterior, it’s also fitted with quite a few pockets and compartments for organizing all the smaller items.

Because this bag is intended for traveling, we’d like to see chest and belly straps, as well as a hidden anti-theft pocket in the back, but unfortunately, the Yorepek doesn’t come with any. We think that this backpack is one of the best options if you’re planning on traveling because it’s so durable, versatile, roomy, and cheap.

8. Most Popular Travel Backpack: SwissGear Travel Gear 1900 17-Inch Laptop Backpack

The SwissGear Travel Gear 1900 laptop is very similar to the Yorepek laptop backpack, ranked in 6th place. The only differences are that the Swissgear’s model is slightly smaller, built by a much more reliable brand, and it’s slightly more expensive.

SwissGear is a very reputable and well-known brand among travelers. Although their suitcases aren’t made to the top standards, their backpacks are known to be one of the most durable ones on the market. And what’s even better, usually they’re also quite affordable. If you didn’t know, they’re the same company as Wenger and Victorinox, which make the famous “Swiss Army Knife.”

Similar to the Yorepek, this backpack is also aimed at travelers. It’s mainly built for traveling, but you can also use it for the office. Because of the slightly more compact size, you’ll be able to use this backpack as a personal item when traveling. Compared to Yorepek’s model, this one is made out of ballistic polyester instead of regular polyester, which means that the fabric threads are slightly thicker and more durable. That said, some people complained that the contents of the bag easily get soaked in rain, so you’d also have to get a waterproof backpack cover.

On the backside, it’s fitted with a fully unzippable laptop compartment, which means that you won’t have to remove the laptop when going through the security. The main compartment is quite large, despite the backpack’s smaller size, which will be great when you use this backpack for day trips and vacations. From the outside, it’s fitted with many smaller pockets for organizing everything, which is nice.

If you’re looking for an affordable, well-made backpack for traveling, then the SwissGear Travel Gear 1900 is a really good choice.

9. Most Modern Travel Backpack: VANKEV Travel Backpack, Extra Large Laptop Backpack

Introducing the VANKEV Travel Backpack – the ultimate companion for women and men embarking on their educational journeys, professional endeavors, or thrilling adventures. This backpack stands out as a versatile and functional accessory designed to cater to the needs of students, business professionals, and travelers alike.

The VANKEV Travel Backpack boasts an extra-large design to accommodate all your essentials effortlessly. With its spacious interior, it can easily house a 17-inch laptop, making it ideal for students and professionals who rely on technology for work or study. Multiple compartments and pockets provide organized storage for textbooks, notebooks, gadgets, and personal items, ensuring you stay well-prepared throughout your day.

Security is paramount, and this backpack understands that. Crafted with an anti-theft design, it keeps your belongings safe and secure during your travels. The hidden zippers and pockets deter potential thieves, giving you peace of mind in crowded areas. Moreover, the TSA-approved design allows for convenient and hassle-free airport security checks, saving you time and stress.

Stay connected on the go with the built-in USB charging port. Charge your devices conveniently, whether you’re on a long flight, in a bustling coffee shop, or on campus. Keep your smartphone, tablet, or other electronic gadgets powered up and ready for action.

Constructed with high-quality materials, this backpack is built to withstand the rigors of daily use and travel. The sleek and modern design, highlighted by the vibrant blue color, adds a touch of style to your look, whether you’re in a classroom, boardroom, or exploring a new destination.

VANKEV Travel Backpack is a versatile and stylish choice for individuals seeking an extra-large backpack with an array of features. From its spacious interior and anti-theft design to the convenient USB charging port, it’s an ideal companion for students, professionals, and travelers who value functionality, security, and style in one comprehensive package. Elevate your daily commute or journey with the VANKEV Travel Backpack and experience the perfect blend of form and function.

10. Best for Gaming: Lenovo Legion 17-Inch Armored Laptop Backpack 2

The Lenovo 17-inch laptop backpack belongs to the “Gaming” backpack type. Other laptop manufacturers have made similar options, such as Dell, ASUS, and others. We looked at many, but this gaming laptop backpack from Lenovo was the best one.

If you’re a programmer or a gamer, then you’ll probably enjoy the looks of this bag. This backpack is actually one of the most durable ones mentioned on this list, which is useful if you’ll be carrying an expensive gaming laptop. The exoskeleton is made out of a weatherproof vinyl hard shell, which helps with protecting your laptop from any damage. This backpack is actually pretty comfortable because a lot of padding has been used, and it’s also quite weatherproof, so the contents of your bag won’t get wet after a light rain. But the best part is probably that this backpack retains its shape, even when it’s empty.

The only cons of this bag are that it’s too large to be used as a personal item when traveling and that you don’t get too many pockets for organizing all of your smaller items. In addition to the padded laptop compartment in the back, you also get a spacious main compartment and a smaller front pocket with a built-in organizer for all the smaller gadgets.

If you’re down with the gaming look, this backpack is a really solid choice for everyday use. Although it isn’t cheap, it isn’t too expensive either, which is nice.

11. Most Minimal Backpack: Kopack 17-Inch Laptop Backpack

The Kopack 17-inch laptop backpack is probably the most minimalist backpack on this list. But hidden beneath the simple and professional looks, it also comes with quite a few pockets and compartments for organizing all the smaller items. It’s an affordable and well-rated option, which will be great for everyday use in the office.

It’s made out of nylon, and a lot of people said that in light rain, the contents of the bag won’t get wet. In size, it’s quite tall, which means that you’ll have to use it as a carry-on when traveling. It’s nicely padded in the back and around the straps, so it’s also quite comfortable. It’s worth noting that this bag will retain its shape when empty, which is nice.

In the back, it has a padded laptop compartment and a hidden anti-theft pocket for storing your phone, passport, wallet, e.tc. In the middle, it has one large main compartment for storing all the larger items. And from the exterior, it’s fitted with a medium-sized front pocket, a smaller pocket with a zipper on the side, and a side bottle holder.

We think that this is a really solid choice for an everyday backpack – it’s cheap, good-looking, well-reviewed, and organized.

12. TOTWO Laptop Backpack, Extra Large Backpack

Introducing the epitome of convenience and functionality, the Extra Large Laptop Backpack is designed to cater to the diverse needs of both men and women in today’s fast-paced world. Crafted with precision and innovation, this laptop backpack is more than just a bag; it’s your reliable companion for all aspects of life. With an expansive interior, this backpack offers ample space to accommodate up to 17-inch laptops, ensuring that tech-savvy individuals have room for their most essential gadget. Beyond laptop storage, it features multiple compartments and pockets to keep your belongings organized. Whether you’re a student carrying textbooks or a professional with a myriad of accessories, this backpack ensures everything has its place.

Never worry about running out of battery again with the integrated USB charging port. This backpack empowers you to stay connected on the go. Simply connect your power bank to the external USB port, and you can charge your devices hassle-free, making it perfect for those long commutes, business trips, or college lectures.

Built with durability in mind, the backpack is constructed from water-resistant materials, safeguarding your valuables from unexpected drizzles or spills. Additionally, it features an anti-theft design with concealed zippers and pockets, providing an added layer of security when you’re on the move, especially in crowded or unfamiliar environments.

Frequent flyers will appreciate the TSA-approved design, which ensures a seamless experience during airport security checks. You can keep your laptop snug in its designated compartment while the backpack unfolds easily, allowing for hassle-free screening.

The sleek and timeless black design of this laptop backpack exudes professionalism. It’s perfect for students, business individuals, and travelers who want a versatile and stylish accessory that complements any outfit or setting.

The Extra Large Laptop Backpack is a testament to the fusion of form and function. Whether you’re a student, professional, or frequent traveler, this backpack caters to your specific needs. Its roomy interior, USB charging port, water-resistant construction, anti-theft features, and TSA-approved design make it a go-to choice for those who demand practicality, security, and style in their everyday lives. Elevate your daily routine with this exceptional laptop backpack and experience the perfect blend of convenience and sophistication.

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