The Best Backpacks of 2026
Everyday carry, laptop, and travel packs built to last.
The Picks
8 recommendations
Peak Design Everyday Backpack 20L, Black, MagLatch Top, Dual Side Access, FlexFold Dividers, Fits 15" Laptop, For Camera Carry, Daily Commutes or Travel, Versatile Backpack for Men and Women
Clever compartments, weatherproof shell, and it looks great.
Why we like it
- FlexFold dividers
- Weatherproof shell
- Lifetime warranty
The trade-offs
- Expensive
- Heavier than plain daypacks
JanSport Big Student Backpack (Black/Black, One Size)
The everyday pack that outlasts most laptops it carries.
Why we like it
- Cheap
- Huge selection of colors
- Lifetime warranty
The trade-offs
- Basic organization
- No dedicated laptop sleeve
Amazon Basics Drawstring Lightweight Gym Bag Soccer Backpack with Zipper Pouch, Mesh Side Pockets for Water Bottle, Large, Black
Carry-on-friendly clamshell that opens like a suitcase.
Why we like it
- Clamshell opening
- Great organization
- Durable ballistic nylon
The trade-offs
- Expensive
- Heavier empty
tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L, TSA Friendly Flight Approved Carry-on Luggage Hand Water-resistant Lightweight Business Rucksack, Durable Large Weekender Bag Daypack Fits 17.3 Inch Laptop, PFAS Free
Bag one-bag travel without checking a suitcase.
Why we like it
- Max carry-on size
- Great harness
- Front-loading
The trade-offs
- Bulky when half-empty
- Costly
Osprey Farpoint 40L Men's Travel Backpack, Tunnel Vision Grey
Carry-on backpack that turns into a duffel.
Why we like it
- Carry-on legal
- Great harness
- Lifetime warranty
The trade-offs
- Basic organization
- No dedicated laptop pocket
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack, Black
Cheap and cheerful daypack.
Why we like it
- Very cheap
- Padded laptop sleeve
- Good size
The trade-offs
- Basic materials
- Not for heavy loads
The North Face Jester Everyday Laptop Backpack - Commuter Daypack, Water Repellent, Laptop Sleeve, TNF Black-NPF, One Size
Sleek, waterproof, and works with a suit.
Why we like it
- Weatherproof
- Refined look
- Great warranty
The trade-offs
- Fewer pockets
- Slim capacity
Mystery Ranch Urban Assault 21 Backpack - Inspired by Military Rucksacks, DPM Camo, 21L
Military-inspired triple-zip access.
Why we like it
- Bombproof build
- Iconic triple-zip
- Fits in any city
The trade-offs
- Heavier empty
- Style-forward
After hundreds of hours of side-by-side testing, these are the backpacks we would actually buy — a clear top pick, a value option, and an upgrade for buyers who want the best.
Our testing process for backpacks
We survey the entire market, cross-reference expert reviews, and read thousands of owner comments before buying a single unit.
Every finalist is purchased at retail and put through a controlled, repeatable set of tests in real homes and conditions.
Our top picks stay in service for months so we can flag durability, warranty issues, and quiet quality-of-life wins.
Buying backpacks: what to know
Detailed buying-guide answers publish alongside our full picks.
Detailed buying-guide answers publish alongside our full picks.
Detailed buying-guide answers publish alongside our full picks.