Best Backpacks for College Guys: Durable, Stylish, and Functional Picks

Last Updated on December 18, 2025 by Cassie Moorhead

Picture this: you’re rushing to class, juggling books, laptop, and a coffee. Suddenly, your backpack strap snaps.

Frustrating, right? For college guys, a reliable backpack isn’t just about carrying stuff—it’s about starting your day without stress. Choosing the right backpack makes a huge difference. It keeps your gear safe, organized, and comfortable to carry. No more worrying about broken zippers or wet notebooks.

Whether you need a water-resistant pack, a laptop sleeve, or extra pockets, the right backpack helps you focus on what matters—your studies and campus life. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best backpacks for college guys in 2017. These picks combine durability, style, and smart features to make your daily routine smoother. Ready to find your perfect backpack? Let’s dive in.

Carhartt 25l Classic Laptop Backpack

The Carhartt 25L Classic Laptop Backpack is ideal for professionals, students, and commuters who need a reliable, durable, and water-resistant bag to protect their tech gear and organize daily essentials. Those looking for a sturdy backpack with a dedicated 15″ laptop sleeve and multiple compartments for easy access will find this pack a perfect fit.

Pros:

• Durable water-resistant material keeps belongings safe in various weather conditions
• Generous 25L capacity with multiple organizational compartments for efficient storage
• Dedicated 15″ laptop sleeve offers secure and padded protection
• Lightweight design at only 1.0 pounds for comfortable carrying
• Made with PFAS-free materials, promoting safer and eco-friendly use

Cons:

• Limited color options available, primarily in black
• May be narrow for users needing extra space beyond 25L capacity

The Carhartt 25L Classic Laptop Backpack combines rugged durability with smart design. Its water-resistant fabric ensures your laptop and belongings stay dry, making it ideal for daily commutes or outdoor use. The multiple compartments allow for efficient organization, so you can easily access your gadgets, documents, and personal items without hassle.

Featuring a padded 15″ laptop sleeve, this backpack offers excellent protection against bumps and scratches. Despite its sturdy build, it remains lightweight, reducing strain during long periods of wear. Additionally, the use of PFAS-free materials highlights Carhartt’s commitment to safety and environmental responsibility, making this backpack a practical and conscientious choice.

To buy this product, click here.

Carhartt Classic Laptop Backpack

The Carhartt 21L Classic Laptop Backpack is ideal for professionals, students, and travelers who need a durable, water-resistant pack with ample organizational compartments. If you carry a 15-inch laptop and value protection, convenience, and eco-friendly materials, this backpack is an excellent choice. Its sleek black design fits well in both casual and professional settings.

Pros:

• Water-resistant fabric keeps belongings dry in wet conditions.
• Dedicated 15″ laptop sleeve offers secure and padded protection.
• Multiple organizational compartments for easy access to essentials.
• Lightweight design at only 1.2 pounds reduces carrying strain.
• PFAS-free materials promote environmental safety.
• Compact dimensions (17.5″ x 12″ x 8″) balance space and portability.

Cons:

• Limited color options, available only in black.
• May lack extra padding for heavy loads beyond the laptop compartment.
• Not designed for specialized outdoor or hiking use.

The Carhartt 21L Classic Laptop Backpack features a sturdy build with water-resistant fabric that protects your laptop and other essentials from unexpected rain or spills. Its dedicated 15-inch laptop sleeve is padded to absorb shocks, ensuring your device remains safe during commutes. Additionally, the multiple compartments provide excellent organization for chargers, notebooks, and personal items, minimizing clutter and making it easy to find what you need quickly.

Weighing just 1.2 pounds, this backpack offers comfort for daily use without adding unnecessary bulk. Its compact dimensions make it suitable for both office and school environments, while the PFAS-free construction aligns with eco-conscious choices. Overall, this backpack combines functionality, durability, and environmental responsibility, making it a smart investment for anyone needing a reliable everyday laptop backpack.

To buy this product, click here.

Matein 17 Inch Work Laptop Backpack

The MATEIN 17 Inch Work Laptop Backpack is ideal for professionals, college students, and travelers who need a reliable and spacious backpack to carry their laptops and essentials. If you are someone who values organization, security, and convenience during daily commutes or business trips, this backpack is designed to meet your needs efficiently. Its large capacity and smart features make it perfect for those who carry multiple devices and accessories on the go.

Pros:

• Spacious 17-inch laptop compartment with TSA-friendly design for easy airport security checks
• Water-resistant material protects belongings from rain and spills
• Built-in USB charging port for convenient device charging on the move
• Lightweight yet durable construction, weighing only 1.94 pounds
• Multiple compartments and pockets for organized storage of books, gadgets, and accessories

Cons:

• Limited color options, available only in black
• Relatively larger size might be bulky for users seeking a compact backpack

The MATEIN 17 Inch Work Laptop Backpack features a TSA-approved laptop compartment that allows users to pass through airport security without removing their laptops, saving time and hassle during travel. Its water-resistant exterior ensures that your valuable electronics and documents stay dry even in unpredictable weather conditions. Additionally, the integrated USB charging port provides seamless connectivity for charging smartphones or other devices, making it highly practical for busy professionals and students alike.

Designed with both functionality and comfort in mind, this backpack boasts ergonomic padded shoulder straps and a breathable back panel to reduce strain during extended wear. The spacious interior and multiple organizational pockets allow users to keep their belongings neatly arranged, whether it’s textbooks, chargers, or business documents. Overall, the MATEIN Work Laptop Backpack combines durability, convenience, and style, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their daily carry experience.

To buy this product, click here.

Realcool Laptop Backpack

The RealCool Laptop Backpack is ideal for students, professionals, and travelers who need a versatile and durable bag to carry their essentials. Whether you are heading to college, a business trip, or daily commuting, this backpack fits laptops up to 17 inches and offers ample space for books, gadgets, and personal items. Its sleek black design makes it suitable for both men and women seeking a functional yet stylish backpack.

Pros:

• Spacious 31L capacity accommodates laptops and travel essentials comfortably
• Water resistant material protects belongings from rain and spills
• Fits laptops up to 15.6-17 inches, ideal for various devices
• Durable construction with high-quality materials ensures long-lasting use
• Multiple compartments and pockets for organized storage
• Comfortable padded straps for easy carrying during extended use

Cons:

• May be slightly bulky for users preferring ultra-light backpacks
• Limited color options, only available in black

The RealCool Laptop Backpack combines practicality with style, making it a perfect companion for both school and business trips. Its well-thought-out dimensions—17.32 inches height, 7.87 inches width, and 13.77 inches length—offer a balanced size that is spacious yet manageable. The water-resistant feature provides peace of mind during unpredictable weather, safeguarding your electronics and documents.

Designed with the modern user in mind, this backpack offers various compartments to keep your items organized and accessible. The padding on the shoulder straps enhances comfort, especially when carrying heavier loads over long periods. Overall, the RealCool Laptop Backpack delivers excellent value for anyone in need of a reliable, stylish, and functional travel backpack.

To buy this product, click here.

Proetrade Travel Backpack

The ProEtrade Travel Backpack is ideal for professionals, students, and frequent travelers who need a spacious, secure, and versatile bag. This backpack is perfect for those who carry a 17-inch laptop and require an organized space for school, business, or travel essentials. Its anti-theft features and TSA approval make it an excellent choice for anyone concerned about security during transit.

Pros:

• Extra large capacity fits laptops up to 17 inches and multiple accessories.
• Anti-theft design provides enhanced security for valuables.
• TSA-approved for hassle-free airport security checks.
• Built-in USB charging port for convenient device charging on the go.
• Lightweight design (approximately 2.14 pounds) reduces carrying fatigue.
• Durable black exterior suitable for both men and women.

Cons:

• Relatively bulky size might be cumbersome for light packers.
• Limited color options available (only black).

The ProEtrade Travel Backpack offers a well-thought-out design that balances functionality with security. Its spacious compartments allow users to organize their laptop, books, and work essentials efficiently, while the anti-theft features guard against pickpocketing and theft. The TSA-approved design also simplifies airport security procedures, making it a practical choice for frequent flyers.

Additionally, the integrated USB charging port ensures that users can keep their devices powered throughout the day without needing to remove the power bank from the bag. The lightweight yet durable construction makes it suitable for daily use, whether commuting to college, heading to the office, or traveling for business. Overall, this backpack meets the needs of those seeking a reliable, secure, and spacious solution for carrying their tech and personal items.

To buy this product, click here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Features Make Carhartt Backpacks Durable?

Carhartt backpacks use water-resistant materials and robust stitching. They include padded laptop sleeves and multiple compartments for organization. Their PFAS-free fabric adds eco-friendly durability, making them reliable for college use.

Are These Backpacks Suitable For Laptops Up To 17 Inches?

Yes, most backpacks reviewed fit laptops up to 15. 6 to 17 inches. They have dedicated padded laptop compartments for secure storage and easy access.

Do Any Backpacks Offer Usb Charging Ports?

Yes, the MATEIN and ProEtrade backpacks include built-in USB charging ports. This feature allows convenient charging on the go, ideal for busy college students.

Are These Backpacks Water Resistant For All Weather?

Yes, all backpacks listed have water-resistant materials. They protect your books and electronics from rain and spills during daily college activities.

Which Backpacks Provide Tsa-approved Security Features?

The ProEtrade backpack offers TSA-approved anti-theft features. It includes lockable zippers and hidden compartments, providing extra security for travel and campus use.

Conclusion

Choosing the right backpack can make college life easier and more organized. The backpacks listed offer good durability and water resistance. They have enough space for laptops and books, plus handy compartments for small items. Some even include USB charging ports for convenience on the go.

These backpacks suit different styles and needs, whether for classes, travel, or work. Comfort and protection for your devices are key features to consider. Picking one from this list means you get a reliable bag that fits daily college demands.

A practical backpack helps you stay prepared and focused throughout your busy day. Think about what matters most to you—size, extra pockets, or tech features. With these options, you can find a backpack that matches your lifestyle and keeps you ready for every challenge ahead.