Best Backpacks for College: Stylish, Durable, and Tech-Friendly Picks

Last Updated on December 18, 2025 by Cassie Moorhead

Have you ever rushed to class only to realize your old backpack can’t fit your laptop and all your books? It’s frustrating to dig through a messy bag, wasting precious time and energy.

Choosing the right backpack can change all that. A good backpack keeps your laptop safe, your things organized, and even makes carrying heavy loads easier. When your backpack fits your daily needs, life on campus feels smoother and less stressful.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best backpacks for college that combine style, comfort, and smart features. Whether you need a water-resistant bag or one with a USB charging port, these picks will help you stay ready for anything. Keep reading to find the perfect backpack that makes your busy college days a little easier.

The North Face Borealis Commuter Laptop Backpack

The The North Face Borealis Commuter Laptop Backpack is ideal for professionals, students, and daily commuters who need a reliable and stylish backpack to protect and carry their electronic devices and everyday essentials. Those looking for a durable, water-repellent backpack with organized compartments and a comfortable fit will find this backpack particularly suitable.

Pros:

• Water Repellent Finish protects belongings from unexpected weather conditions.
• 16″ Laptop Sleeve offers secure and padded storage for laptops.
• Large Main Compartment provides ample space for everyday carry items.
• Comfortable design with padded shoulder straps and back panel for extended wear.
• Durable construction from The North Face, a trusted and reputable brand.

Cons:

• Only available in TNF Black/TNF Black-NPF color, limiting customization options.
• One size may not fit all body types perfectly.
• Weighs approximately 2.0 pounds, which could be slightly heavy for some users.

The The North Face Borealis Commuter Laptop Backpack measures 19.5 inches in height, 12.0 inches in width, and 6.5 inches in length, offering a balanced size that fits comfortably on the back while providing sufficient storage space. Its water repellent finish ensures that your laptop and other valuables remain dry even during light rain, making it a dependable choice for daily commuting or travel. The dedicated laptop sleeve fits laptops up to 16 inches, providing padded protection against bumps and scratches.

Beyond laptop storage, the large main compartment and multiple pockets allow for easy organization of books, chargers, accessories, and personal items. The backpack is designed with user comfort in mind, featuring padded shoulder straps and a breathable back panel that reduce strain during extended use. With its sleek TNF Black/TNF Black-NPF color and durable build, this backpack combines functionality with a professional look suited for various environments.

To buy this product, click here.

Matein Travel Laptop Backpack

The MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack is ideal for professionals, students, and travelers who need a reliable and stylish way to carry their laptops and essentials. If you are looking for a backpack that combines anti-theft features, durability, and convenience, especially designed to fit laptops up to 15.6 inches, this bag is an excellent choice for both men and women who value security and functionality on the go.

Pros:

• Anti-theft design with hidden zippers and pockets for enhanced security.
• Built-in USB charging port for easy access to power on the move.
• Water-resistant material that protects belongings from rain and spills.
• Slim and sturdy build making it comfortable to carry and durable for daily use.
• Spacious compartments designed to fit laptops up to 15.6 inches along with other essentials.
• Lightweight design with a weight of only 1.56 pounds for ease of transport.

Cons:

• Limited color options, primarily available in Austere Grey.
• Dimensions might be slightly bulky for users preferring ultra-compact backpacks.
• USB charging cable needs a power bank which is sold separately.

The MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack boasts a slim yet sturdy design that perfectly balances style with practicality. Its anti-theft features such as hidden zippers and secure pockets offer peace of mind, making it a great companion for crowded commutes or travel. The built-in USB charging port adds a modern convenience, allowing users to charge their devices easily without digging through the bag. Constructed with water-resistant materials, this backpack safeguards your electronics and documents from unexpected weather conditions.

With dimensions measuring approximately 18 x 12 x 8 inches, the backpack provides ample space for a 15.6 inch laptop alongside books, gadgets, and other daily essentials. Despite its generous storage, it remains lightweight at just 1.56 pounds, ensuring comfortable wear throughout the day. Whether for business, school, or travel, the MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack offers a perfect blend of security, functionality, and sleek aesthetics suitable for both men and women.

To buy this product, click here.

Swissdigital Design Travel Laptop Backpack

The Swissdigital Design Travel Laptop Backpack is ideal for students, professionals, and frequent travelers who need a reliable and stylish backpack to carry their 16-inch laptops and daily essentials. This backpack is perfect for both men and women seeking a durable, functional, and modern solution for commuting, college, or business trips.

Pros:

• USB charging port for convenient on-the-go device charging
• Lightweight design weighing only 1.61 pounds for easy carrying
• Spacious compartments fitting laptops up to 16 inches and additional accessories
• Durable black exterior with sleek Swissdigital branding
• Multiple pockets for organized storage of gadgets, documents, and personal items

Cons:

• Limited color options available, only in black
• May not have extensive padding for heavy-duty protection
• USB charging cable not included with the backpack

The Swissdigital Travel Laptop Backpack offers a blend of style and functionality, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize convenience and organization. Its built-in USB charging port allows users to stay connected by charging devices on the move, which is a significant advantage for busy commuters and travelers. With dimensions of 17.5 inches in height, 12.5 inches in width, and 6.75 inches in length, this backpack comfortably fits a wide range of laptops and essentials without feeling bulky.

Designed with a focus on lightweight portability, the backpack weighs just 1.61 pounds, reducing strain during long commutes or travel. The sleek black color and minimalist design make it suitable for both professional and casual settings. Additionally, its multiple compartments provide ample space for organizing notebooks, chargers, and other personal items, ensuring users can easily access everything they need throughout their day.

To buy this product, click here.

The North Face Women’s Jester Everyday Laptop Backpack

The North Face Women’s Jester Everyday Laptop Backpack is ideal for commuters, students, and travelers who need a reliable, stylish, and functional bag to carry their essentials daily. If you are looking for a durable backpack with a water-repellent finish that can protect your laptop and keep your belongings organized, this backpack in Pink Moss is a perfect choice.

Pros:

• Spacious main compartment with dedicated laptop sleeve fits most laptops securely
• Water-repellent finish protects contents from light rain and spills
• Comfortable padded shoulder straps designed for daily wear
• Compact and lightweight design (1.5 pounds) makes it easy to carry
• Attractive Pink Moss color adds a stylish touch to everyday use

Cons:

• Limited color options available
• Not suitable for carrying very heavy loads due to size constraints
• One size fits all may not be perfect for all body types

The North Face Jester Backpack features an 18-inch height, 11-inch width, and 6.75-inch length, providing ample space to organize your daily essentials without being bulky. The built-in laptop sleeve ensures your device stays protected and separate from other items, reducing the risk of damage. Additionally, the water-repellent finish offers peace of mind during unpredictable weather, keeping your belongings dry and safe.

Designed with comfort in mind, the backpack’s padded shoulder straps and lightweight design make it an excellent option for long commutes or travel days. The stylish Pink Moss color appeals to those who want both functionality and fashion, making this bag a versatile choice for various occasions. Whether heading to work, school, or exploring the city, this backpack combines practicality with a modern aesthetic.

To buy this product, click here.

Carhartt 25l Classic Laptop Backpack

The Carhartt 25L Classic Laptop Backpack is ideal for professionals, students, and outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable and durable backpack to protect their 15″ laptop and organize their essentials efficiently. This backpack is perfect for those who value both functionality and rugged style, especially individuals who require a water-resistant and environmentally conscious product.

Pros:

• Durable water-resistant construction protects belongings from the elements.
• Dedicated 15″ laptop sleeve ensures secure and safe laptop storage.
• Multiple organizational compartments for easy access to accessories and gear.
• PFAS Free materials provide an eco-friendly choice.
• Lightweight design weighing only 1.0 pound for comfortable carrying.

Cons:

• Limited color options available, only black.
• May be narrow for users needing extra storage beyond the 25L capacity.

The Carhartt 25L Classic Laptop Backpack features a robust design made by Signature Products Group (SPG), providing a height of 18.0 inches, width of 16.0 inches, and length of 3.0 inches. Its water-resistant exterior safeguards your belongings against unexpected weather conditions, making it a dependable choice for daily commutes or outdoor activities. The backpack’s lightweight and compact structure make it easy to carry without adding unnecessary bulk.

Inside, the backpack boasts a padded 15″ laptop sleeve that offers excellent protection for your electronic devices. Additionally, multiple compartments allow users to neatly organize their accessories, documents, and personal items, enhancing convenience and efficiency. The use of PFAS Free materials reflects a commitment to environmental safety without compromising durability. Overall, this backpack combines functionality, protection, and sustainability in a sleek black design.

To buy this product, click here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Features Make The North Face Borealis Ideal For College?

The North Face Borealis offers a water-repellent finish and a 16″ laptop sleeve. Its large main compartment fits everyday essentials, making it perfect for students.

How Does The Matein Travel Laptop Backpack Enhance Security?

The MATEIN backpack includes an anti-theft design and a USB charging port. It is water-resistant and fits 15. 6-inch laptops, ideal for college use.

Can Swissdigital Backpacks Charge Devices On The Go?

Yes, Swissdigital backpacks have a built-in USB charging port. They fit laptops up to 16 inches, blending style and functionality for students.

Is The North Face Women’s Jester Suitable For Daily Use?

Absolutely, The North Face Women’s Jester features a water-repellent finish and spacious compartments. It includes a laptop sleeve and is perfect for commuting.

What Makes The Carhartt 25l Classic Backpack Durable?

Carhartt’s backpack is water-resistant and PFAS free. It offers a 15″ laptop sleeve and multiple compartments, ensuring durability and organization for college students.

Conclusion

Choosing the right backpack can make college life easier and more organized. The options listed offer great features like laptop sleeves, water resistance, and USB ports. Whether you need something stylish or sturdy, there is a backpack for every preference.

Think about how much space you need and what extra features matter most. Comfort and durability are also key for daily use. A good backpack keeps your belongings safe and helps you stay focused on studies. Remember, investing in a quality backpack is smart for both school and travel.

Take your time to pick the one that fits your needs and style best. With the right backpack, carrying books and gadgets becomes simple and hassle-free. College is busy enough—your backpack should make things easier, not harder. Choose well and enjoy your campus days with confidence and comfort.