Best Backpacks to Buy for College: Top Stylish and Functional Picks

Last Updated on December 18, 2025 by Cassie Moorhead

Starting college is exciting, but carrying everything you need can quickly become a hassle. Imagine rushing between classes with a heavy, uncomfortable backpack that strains your shoulders and makes you late.

It’s frustrating to dig through a messy bag just to find your charger or notebooks. Choosing the right backpack can change all that. A good backpack keeps your laptop safe, organizes your stuff, and even charges your devices on the go.

It makes daily life easier and less stressful. In this article, I’ll share some of the best backpacks for college that combine style, comfort, and smart features. Whether you need something spacious, durable, or tech-friendly, these picks have you covered. Keep reading to find the perfect backpack that fits your needs and helps you feel ready for anything on campus.

Matein Travel Laptop Backpack

The MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack is ideal for professionals, students, and frequent travelers who need a reliable, stylish, and functional bag to carry their laptops and essentials. If you are looking for a slim, sturdy, and water-resistant backpack with advanced features like anti-theft protection and a built-in USB charging port, this backpack is designed to meet your needs. It fits laptops up to 15.6 inches, making it perfect for college students, business commuters, and tech-savvy individuals.

Pros:

• Anti-theft design keeps your valuables safe during travel or daily commutes.
• Integrated USB charging port provides convenient charging on the go.
• Made from water-resistant material to protect your electronics from rain and spills.
• Slim yet spacious compartments to organize laptops, books, and accessories.
• Lightweight design weighing only 1.56 pounds for comfortable carrying.
• Stylish Austere Grey color suitable for both men and women.

Cons:

• Limited color options may not suit everyone’s personal style.
• The slim design might not accommodate very bulky items or larger laptops beyond 15.6 inches.

The MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack combines functionality with modern design, making it a versatile choice for daily use and travel. Its anti-theft features ensure peace of mind, especially in crowded places, while the USB charging port keeps your devices powered without the hassle of searching for an outlet. The water-resistant fabric adds an extra layer of protection, ideal for unpredictable weather conditions.

Additionally, this backpack’s compact dimensions (Height: 7.8 inches, Width: 12 inches, Length: 18 inches) and lightweight build enhance portability without sacrificing storage space. The multiple compartments allow users to neatly organize laptops, documents, and accessories, making it a perfect companion for both college and business environments. Overall, the MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack offers a blend of convenience, security, and style tailored to meet the demands of modern users.

To buy this product, click here.

Shrradoo Extra Large 50l Travel Laptop Backpack

The SHRRADOO Extra Large 50L Travel Laptop Backpack is ideal for students, professionals, and frequent travelers who need a spacious and durable bag to carry their laptop and essentials. Perfect for those attending college or high school, business trips, or daily commutes, this backpack supports laptops up to 17 inches and offers convenient features like a USB charging port.

Pros:

• Large 50L capacity to hold laptops, books, and travel essentials
• USB charging port for on-the-go device charging
• Airline approved size for hassle-free travel
• Durable and lightweight design weighing just under 3 pounds
• Sleek black color suitable for both men and women

Cons:

• May be bulky for users needing only a small daypack
• Limited color options available

The SHRRADOO 50L Travel Laptop Backpack features a robust design with ample space to organize all your belongings efficiently. Its dimensions of 19.5 x 11 x 15 inches provide a perfect balance between capacity and portability, making it suitable for airline carry-on requirements. The integrated USB charging port allows users to conveniently charge smartphones or other devices while on the move, enhancing productivity throughout the day.

Built from durable materials, this backpack withstands the rigors of daily use whether at school, work, or travel. The padded compartments protect laptops up to 17 inches, ensuring safety during transit. Its unisex design and sleek black finish make it a versatile choice for men and women alike, combining style with functionality. Overall, this backpack is an excellent investment for those seeking a reliable, spacious, and tech-friendly travel companion.

To buy this product, click here.

Swissdigital Design Travel Laptop Backpack

The Swissdigital Design Travel Laptop Backpack is perfect for students, professionals, and frequent travelers who need a reliable and stylish way to carry their laptops and essentials. If you own a laptop up to 16 inches and want a backpack that combines functionality with modern features like a USB charging port, this backpack is an excellent choice.

Pros:

• Lightweight design at only 1.61 pounds for easy carrying
• Fits laptops up to 16 inches with secure padding
• Convenient built-in USB charging port for on-the-go device charging
• Spacious compartments for organizing college or work essentials
• Sleek black color suitable for both men and women

Cons:

• Limited external pockets for quick access items
• May not accommodate larger laptops beyond 16 inches

The Swissdigital Travel Laptop Backpack boasts a smart design that prioritizes user convenience. Its dimensions—17.5 inches height, 12.5 inches width, and 6.75 inches length—offer ample room without being bulky. The dedicated laptop compartment ensures your device stays protected, while the additional storage spaces help keep accessories organized and accessible. The backpack’s lightweight nature means you can carry it comfortably throughout your day, whether moving between classes or commuting to work.

One of the standout features is the integrated USB charging port, allowing users to charge their smartphones or other devices without opening the backpack. This modern convenience is particularly beneficial for travelers and busy students who rely on their gadgets to stay connected. Crafted in a stylish black color, the backpack suits both men and women, making it a versatile and practical choice for anyone in need of a dependable laptop backpack.

To buy this product, click here.

The North Face Vault Everyday Laptop Backpack

The North Face Vault Everyday Laptop Backpack is ideal for professionals, students, and travelers who need a reliable and stylish bag to carry their daily essentials, including laptops and documents. Its water-repellent finish and spacious compartments make it perfect for commuters and anyone frequently on the move in varying weather conditions.

Pros:

• Durable water-repellent finish protects belongings from rain and spills
• Spacious main compartment offers ample storage for laptops, books, and accessories
• Lightweight design at just under 0.9 pounds enhances comfort during long commutes
• Sleek TNF Black-NPF color fits professional and casual settings
• Compact dimensions (18 x 11 x 8.5 inches) suitable for overhead compartments and daily use

Cons:

• Limited color options may not appeal to users seeking more vibrant styles
• One size may not accommodate users needing larger or smaller backpack dimensions

The North Face Vault Everyday Laptop Backpack features a well-designed spacious main compartment that comfortably fits laptops and other daily essentials, making organization effortless. The water-repellent finish is particularly beneficial for users who commute or travel, ensuring that valuable electronics and documents stay dry even in unexpected weather. Additionally, the lightweight construction reduces strain during extended wear, which is a significant advantage for students or professionals who carry their backpacks for hours.

Its sleek TNF Black-NPF color and minimalist design make it a versatile choice that pairs well with both casual and business attire. The compact size fits easily into crowded public transport or airplane overhead bins, enhancing its appeal for travelers. Overall, this backpack combines functionality, durability, and style to meet the needs of everyday users looking for a dependable laptop backpack.

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 that can safely carry a 15″ laptop along with other essentials. If you are someone who values organization, water resistance, and rugged construction in a backpack, this item is tailored for you.

Pros:

• Made with durable, water-resistant materials to protect belongings from the elements.
• Includes a padded 15″ laptop sleeve for secure and convenient laptop storage.
• Features multiple organizational compartments to keep accessories and essentials neatly arranged.
• PFAS free construction for a safer and more environmentally friendly product.
• Lightweight design at just 1.0 pound with compact dimensions for easy carrying.

Cons:

• The 3.0 inches width may limit space for bulkier items.
• Limited color options, available only in black.

The Carhartt 25L Classic Laptop Backpack is built for durability and functionality. Its water-resistant fabric ensures that your electronics and other belongings stay dry even in wet conditions, making it perfect for daily commuting or outdoor use. The dedicated 15″ laptop sleeve provides extra protection with padding, reducing the risk of damage while on the move.

In addition to durability, the backpack excels in organization with multiple compartments designed to hold everything from chargers and notebooks to smaller accessories. This thoughtful layout helps users stay organized and access items quickly. Its lightweight build and ergonomic design make it comfortable to carry throughout the day, whether at work, school, or on an adventure. Being PFAS free adds an eco-conscious benefit for users seeking safer materials in their gear.

To buy this product, click here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Backpacks Fit Laptops Up To 17 Inches?

The SHRRADOO Extra Large 50L backpack fits laptops up to 17 inches. It offers spacious storage and USB charging ports, ideal for college and business use.

Are These Backpacks Water-resistant For Daily College Use?

Yes, the MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack and The North Face Vault have water-resistant finishes. They protect your gear from rain and spills during daily use.

Do These Backpacks Include Usb Charging Ports?

MATEIN, SHRRADOO, and Swissdigital backpacks feature built-in USB charging ports. This allows convenient device charging while on the go, perfect for busy students.

Which Backpacks Have Anti-theft Features?

The MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack offers anti-theft features like hidden zippers and secure compartments. It keeps your belongings safe in crowded college environments.

Are These Backpacks Suitable For Both Men And Women?

Yes, all listed backpacks are designed for men and women. They offer versatile styles and sizes to suit diverse college students’ needs and preferences.

Which Backpack Offers The Best Organizational Compartments?

Carhartt 25L Classic Laptop Backpack provides multiple organizational compartments. It helps keep laptops, books, and accessories neatly arranged and easy to access.

Conclusion

Choosing the right backpack for college is important for comfort and convenience. The backpacks listed offer good space, durability, and useful features. Whether you need a slim, anti-theft design or a large, travel-friendly option, there is something for everyone. USB charging ports and water resistance add extra value to daily use.

Make sure to pick a backpack that fits your laptop size and carries all your essentials. A sturdy backpack helps you stay organized and reduces strain on your back. Remember, a well-chosen backpack can make your college life easier and more comfortable.

Take your time to compare features and find the best match for your needs. With the right backpack, you can focus more on your studies and less on carrying your stuff. A good backpack is a smart investment for every college student.