GBY Ultralight Laptop Day Pack

GBY Ultralight claims that their Ultralight Laptop Day Pack is the lightest laptop backpack in the world… and we believe it! This backpack weighs only 12.8 ounces and still manages to squeeze in a protective high density foam sleeve for a laptop or tablet. While other backpacks may be light, very few make laptop protection a priority like the GBY Ultralight Laptop Day Pack does.

Although much of the design-inspiration comes from lightweight outdoor packs the Ultralight Laptop Day Pack is ultimately designed for urban carry and daily commuting. A single slip pocket on the inside is great for small items or documents while a weatherproof side zip pocket allows for quick access to essentials like a water bottle, passport or sunglasses. The laptop sleeve is fully padded with a false bottom so your laptop doesn’t touch the bottom of the bag when placed on the ground.

What we like

• It’s not a gimmick - this is the lightest laptop backpack we have ever come across. The difference between the GBY Ultralight and your standard laptop backpack is night and day.

• Water resistant fabric and zippers makes it great for commuting on rainy days.

• Really comfortable - the light weight + ergonomic shoulder straps feels like wearing air.

What we don’t like

• Organization is limited. You are limited to only two pockets for smaller items - one slip pocket on the inside and the side zip pocket on the outside. Could use another small pocket for organizing things like pens, keys and charging cables.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19” H x 11 W" x 6.7" D

• Weight: 12.8 oz.

• Volume: 20L

• Materials:  Japanese SS2-Ultra waterproof fabric, YKK water resistant zippers

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

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Nomatic Travel Pack

The Nomatic Travel Pack is a great option for anyone who wants a smaller weekender backpack for short trips. At a 30 liter max capacity, it’s the perfect size for one or two nights away. Features like a TSA-friendly laptop compartment and roller bag sleeve make it ideal for airport carry.

Nomatic also does a great job with its generous pocket and compartment placement. Not only do you have essential pockets like an RFID safe pocket and a top pocket for sunglasses or a wallet, but you also have a generous front compartment with tons of organizers for smaller items. It’s a great way to keep you organized no matter how busy your travels.

What we like

• Lifetime warranty

• Lots of pockets and great organization options for smaller items.

• Can be carried as a backpack or briefcase.

• Awesome magnetic water bottle pocket keeps the bag’s profile clean and professional when not in use.

What we don’t like

• It’s heavy - at over 4 lbs the backpack gets heavy quick when filled to capacity.

• Great as a travel bag but impractical to use as a daily backpack. It’s a bit too bulky and heavy (see above) to use as a work backpack.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18.5” H x 12” W x 9.5" D

• Weight: 4.16 lbs

• Volume: 20-30L (expandable)

• Materials:  Polyester with PVC coated water resistant fabric on the front

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

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Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack

The ReNew Transit is Everlane’s modern take on the travel backpack. Packed with accessible pockets, a roomy main compartment and even a separate-access padded laptop sleeve, the ReNew Transit is Everlane’s most versatile backpack design to date.

Designed for both men and women, the Everlane ReNew Transit backpack is a medium-sized bag with a roomy 27 liter main compartment making it perfect for everything from busy work commutes to weekend trips.

For a hands-on look, check out our full Everlane ReNew Transit backpack review.

What we like

• Stylish minimalist design that is sleek enough to wear to work or on casual days.

• Carefully placed pockets on the front and top of backpack makes grabbing small items easy.

• Airline friendly size - can be used as a personal item backpack on flights.

What we don’t like

• Side water bottle pocket is not gusseted so it can be a tight squeeze when backpack is full.

• No organizers for things like a phone, pens or a passport

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 17.5” H x 12” W x 7.25” D

• Capacity: 27L

• Materials: Recycled Polyester with environmental friendly CO water-resistant finish

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

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North Face Borealis Backpack

The North Face Borealis is a versatile backpack that can be used for anything from school to light travel. Its medium size has made it popular with those who want a functional backpack without the bulk.

Unlike the similar North Face Jester, the Borealis offers a separate premium laptop compartment for incredible protection of your expensive tech. The front compartment includes a fleece-lined tablet pocket and tons of smaller pockets for organization. Use the front bungee system to quickly stash jackets, blankets and other larger items when you are on the move.

Note: The North Face face offers the men’s Borealis and women’s Borealis so that you can find the perfect fit. The women’s Borealis is better suited for those with slimmer shoulders and shorter torsos.

What we like

• Great laptop compartment with suspended bottom for extra protection from drops.

• Upgraded bungee systems allows for easier attachement of bulky items

• Best in class organization - lots of smaller pockets and compartment

• DWR finish adds great water resistance to fabric.

What we don’t like

• Side bungee cords are a good replacement for compression straps but can get in the way of the water bottle pockets.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19.5” H x 12” W x 6.5” D

• Capacity: 28L (27L women’s)

• Material: 210D recycled nylon ripstop, 300D heathered polyester, 600D polyester, non-PFC DWR finish

• Weight: 2lbs 5oz

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

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AmazonBasics Slim Carry On Backpack (Weekender)

With the AmazonBasics Slim Carry on Travel backpack, Amazon takes a shot at offering a stylish yet functional travel backpack for those who need a reliable carry-on for flights. Our first thoughts when coming across the AmazonBasics Slim Carry On Backpack was that it was a noble competitor to the popular eBags Professional Weekender at almost half the price.

The AmazonBasics Slim Carry On Backpack comes in two sizes; the weekender version which we review here and the smaller and thinner overnight version.

What we like

• Tons of useful organizers and pockets. Great for organizing work, tech and personal items.

• Bright orange lining makes it easy to locate and find things in a hurry.

• For the price, we are impressed with the quality. The materials and construction compete with more expensive travel bags.

What we don’t like

• Clips that hold the shoulder straps in place are made of cheap plastic. Not sure how they will hold up over time.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 20” H x 13.5” W x 8” D

• Weight: 3lbs

• Materials: 100% Polyester

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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AmazonBasics Slim Carry On Backpack (Overnight)

With the AmazonBasics Slim Carry on Travel backpack, Amazon takes a shot at offering a stylish yet functional travel backpack for those who need a reliable carry-on for flights. Our first thoughts when coming across the AmazonBasics Slim Carry On Backpack was that it was a noble competitor to the popular eBags Professional Weekender at almost half the price.

The AmazonBasics Slim Carry On Backpack comes in two sizes; the overnight version which we review here and the slightly larger weekender version.

What we like

• Tons of useful organizers and pockets. Great for organizing work, tech and personal items.

• Stylish yet understated design. Can be used for both business and personal use.

• For the price, we are impressed with the quality. The materials and construction compete with more expensive travel bags.

What we don’t like

• Clips that hold the shoulder straps in place are made of cheap plastic. Not sure how they will hold up over time.

• Main “suitcase” compartment really can’t hold more than a change of clothes. If you need more room than go with the AmazonBasics Weekender version.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18” H x 12.5” W x 7.8” D

• Weight: 3lbs

• Materials: 100% Polyester

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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eBags Professional Slim Laptop Backpack

When it comes to organization, very few work backpacks come as close to the thoughtful design of the eBags Professional Slim. The bag does two things very well; organizing your stuff and keeping a slim and professional look that won’t look out of place in a corporate setting.

The backpack can be divided into 3 sections; the front organizer zip pocket and “garage” pocket on the bottom, the main compartment with L-shape zip access, and finally the padded laptop compartment.

eBags offers this bag in two sizes - the eBags Professional Slim (21.6 liters) and the smaller eBags Professional Slim Junior (16.7 liters). The specs on this page are for the regular 21.6 liter version.

What we like

• Tons of useful organizers and pockets. Great for daily work commuting or business trips.

• Water bottle pocket can be tucked away when not in use.

• Great for those with large laptops (fits up to 17-inches)

What we don’t like

• At almost 4 pounds, the backpack is a bit on the heavy side considering its size.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18” H x 12.75” W x 8.5” D

• Capacity: 21.6L

• Weight: 3lbs 13oz

• Materials: 840D & 900D Twisted Dobby Fabric

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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Briggs & Riley Cargo Backpack

The Briggs & Riley Cargo is perfect for anyone looking for a professional looking weekender backpack to take with them on busy work trips. The main compartment opens up like a suitcase for full access to clothes, shoes and other personal items. The front pockets are perfect for smaller items and provide quick-access to essentials such as an iPad, pens, passports and eyeglasses.

What we like

• Structured professional design. Looks and feels like a quality backpack.

• Small enough to be used as a carry-on or airline personal item. Fits underneath airplane seats.

What we don’t like

• Not fully weatherproof. Leaks are a possibility if caught in a heavy downpour which is a disappointment at this price point.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18” H x 11.5” W x 8” D

• Capacity: 24L

• Weight: 2.3 lbs

• Material: Proprietary nylon twill

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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Chrome Hondo Backpack

The Chrome Hondo is a midsize water resistant backpack for those who need a reliable commuter pack for work, school or exploring the city. The backpack keeps it simple with only a laptop sleeve and organizer in the main compartment and two side pockets and a front stash pocket on the outside. The Hondo is great for those who prefer a back-to-basics backpack that doesn’t have a million pockets and organizers for stuff to get lost in.

What we like

• Water resistant design makes it ideal for cyclist and city commuters.

• The bag looks and feels high quality. 1050D nylon feels like it will hold up to abuse and the metal buckle on the sternum strap is a nice touch.

What we don’t like

• Side pockets have no give to them. It can be hard to fit a water bottle in there if the pack is full.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 17.5” H x 11” W x 5.5” D

• Capacity: 21L

• Materials: 1050D Nylon

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

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Chrome Urban EX Rolltop Backpack

The Chrome Urban Ex is a waterproof rolltop backpack that packs a punch with a roomy main compartment, laptop sleeve and separate padded iPad sleeve. The outside of the pack offers a small quick stash pocket on the top of the bag while loops on the front of the bag act as attachments for bike locks.

The Chrome Urban Ex Rolltop backpack comes in three sizes:

• 28L Urban Ex

• 22L Urban Ex Gas Can

• 18L Urban Ex

The photos and specs on this page are for the 28 liter version.

What we like

• Padded shoulder straps and back are comfortable and distributes weight evenly when pack is full.

• Waterproof design makes it ideal for cyclist and city commuters.

What we don’t like

• Lack of outside pockets for things like water bottles and other quick access items. Only outside pocket is the top pocket for a small item like a passport or phone.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 21” H x 14” W x 6” D

• Capacity: 28L

• Materials: 600D Polyester/Nylon upper and synthetic rubber bottom

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15” + padded iPad sleeve

Where to buy

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Burton Annex Backpack

The Burton Annex is a versatile everyday backpack inspired by vintage rucksack designs. What you won’t find in the Burton Annex is a complicated backpack with too many pockets and compartments. Instead Burton decided to keep things simple with a deep and roomy main compartment that stays true to its vintage rucksack inspirations. Side pockets are available for smaller items while a laptop compartment can be accessed from the main compartment or the back.

At 28 liters, the Burton Annex is the larger cousin of the Burton Tinder backpack in both size and design.

What we like

• Multifunctional backpack that’s great for school, outdoor activities or short trips.

• Front straps can be used to fasten things like a yoga mat or jacket.

• Laptop sleeve with separate tablet sleeve in main compartment.

What we don’t like

• Main compartment is one big abyss. Easy to lose smaller items and it can become a hassle to find things at the bottom of the bag.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 20” H x 10.5” W x 7” D

• Capacity: 28L

• Materials: Varies by color

• Weight: 2 lbs

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

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Topo Designs Daypack

The Topo Designs Daypack is a versatile daily carry bag for work, school or the hiking trail. Designed to be a true path to pavement backpack, the Daypack features everything you would need for both city life and outdoor adventuring with a laptop sleeve, internal pockets, side water bottle pockets and plenty of loops and tabs for attaching things to the outside of the bag.

The Topo Daypack comes in a few flavors: The premium Daypack Heritage Canvas (Made in the USA), Daypack Tech and the more affordable Daypack Classic.

What we like

• Beefy YKK zippers

• Tough nylon construction makes the bag feel sturdy and incredibly well-built.

• Cool throwback mountaineering design. Lots of color options.

What we don’t like

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19” H x 11” W x 5” D

• Capacity: 21.6L

• Materials: 1000D Recycled Nylon, 210 Recycled Nylon Liner

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

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Timbuk2 Never Check Expandable Backpack

The Timbuk2 Never Check is a carry-on travel backpack that can double as a daily work or weekend bag. A gusseted main compartment allows the backpack to expand when you need more room while smaller pockets on the front are perfect for passports, water bottles and other smaller items.

What we like

• Design is sleek and pairs well with business casual attire.

• Side laptop compartment access allows you to grab your tech without having to rummage through the main compartment.

• Versatile - can also be used as a daily work bag.

What we don’t like

• Front zip pocket can be hard to access, especially when the bag is full.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19.5” H x 12” W x 6.3” D

• Weight: 2.6lbs

• Capacity: 24L

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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Timbuk2 Division Backpack

With the Division backpack, Timbuk2 set out to design mature backpack for those who want great functionality without looking like a high school student. The Timbuk2 Division is made up of two main sections; a roomy main compartment with an organizer panel and the separate padded compartment for your laptop that rests against the back.

If 22 liters is a bit too small for your carry needs, Timbuk2 also offers the 28-liter Authority backpack that has a lot of the same design features as the Division with more storage space and a few more pockets.

What we like

• Great commuter backpack. Slim profile looks clean and professional enough to wear at the office.

• External compression straps allows the backpack to hold more than you would expect.

What we don’t like

• Items in the font outside pocket can be hard to access when the main compartment is full. The pocket is deep and narrow.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 17.3” H x 11” W x 4.33” D

• Weight: 2.1lbs

• Capacity: 22L

• Material: Varies by color

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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United By Blue Rift Pack

United By Blue offers a versatile backpack for everything from short hikes to city commuting with their Rift Pack. The backpack is made of a tough water repellent polyester with vegetable tanned leather accents to give it a vintage heritage flare. At 25 liters, the Rift can hold a fair amount in its main compartment without being too bulky.

What we like

• Water repellent polyester makes this backpack durable enough for outdoor wear, travel or city commuting.

• Plenty of organizers for smaller items.

What we don’t like

• Front outside pocket is fastened by a magnet which doesn’t feel too secure.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19” H x 14” W x 7.75” D

• Capacity: 25L

• Materials: 100% Recycled Polyester with water repellent finish

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

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eBags Professional Flight Laptop Backpack

Whether you need a reliable carry-on backpack for vacations or a professional looking bag for business trips, the eBags Professional Flight laptop backpack is the perfect balance of form and function for those on the move.

At almost 29 liter capacity, the eBags Professional Flight backpack is large enough to carry one or two changes of clothes, work items and your tech while still being small enough to be used as a personal item or carry-on on many airlines.

What we like

• Lots of smaller pockets and organizers for personal, work or tech items.

• Small enough to be used as a personal item or carry-on on many airlines.

• Top headphone pocket comes in handy when the backpack is stored under an airplane seat. Things like headphones and snacks can be accessed without having to pull the bag out from under the seat.

What we don’t like

• Zippers aren’t as smooth as other eBags backpacks like the Professional Weekender and Professional Slim Laptop Backpack.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 17.5” H x 12.75” W x 8” D

• Capacity: 28.8L

• Weight: 3lbs

• Materials: 840D Twisted Polyester

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15.6”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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Timbuck2 Tuck Pack Backpack

Timbuk2 offers a back-to-basics rolltop backpack with some modern flare with their Tuck Pack. Some modern upgrades to the classic rolltop design include a side access padded laptop compartment and organizers inside the main compartment. Side pockets are perfect for water bottles or bike locks making the Timbuk2 Tuck a great option for daily urban carry.

What we like

• Good small/mid size backpack for everyday commutes. Stylish enough to be worn just about anywhere.

• Rolltop style allows for more storage vertically.

• Side access to laptop compartment so you don’t have to undo the rolltop to access your tech.

What we don’t like

• Outside pockets (side and front) can be hard to access when the main compartment is full.

• Clip that secures the rolltop is made out of plastic. Not sure how that will hold up over time.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 17.1” H x 15.4” W x 6.30” D

• Weight: 1.5lbs

• Capacity: 20L

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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Timbuk2 Authority Backpack

With a slim and modern design, the Timbuk2 Authority is the perfect backpack for work commutes or daily carry in the city.

The bag is made up of three main sections. The front compartment features an organizer panel for your small items, the main compartment can fit bulkier gear and a separate padded compartment keeps your laptop accessible while protecting it from bumps and drops.

At 28 liter capacity, the Timbuk2 Authority can be described as a larger upgrade to the 22 liter Timbuk2 Division backpack.

What we like

• Structured and slime profile looks clean and professional enough to wear at the office.

• Padded laptop compartment can fit larger laptops up to 17-inches.

• Airmesh back and padded shoulder straps are very comfortable, even when the bag is fully loaded.

What we don’t like

• Narrow compartments makes it hard to store bulkier items. Bag shape makes it feel like less than 28 liter.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18.1” H x 11.4” W x 5.91” D

• Weight: 2.4lbs

• Capacity: 28L

• Material: Nylon or 600D Melange Polyester (varies by color)

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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Samsonite Kombi Large Backpack

The Samsonite Kombi is a large laptop backpack that is perfect for anyone who needs a professional looking bag for work or travel. The main compartment is large enough for books, binders or even extra clothes. There are also tons of compartments, organizers and pockets throughout the bag for all of your tech, personal and business gear.

Samsonite offers the Kombi in two sizes; the large version featured here and the more compact Kombi Small backpack.

What we like

• Contrasting orange interior lining makes finding your items easy. This is especially helpful with small items that tend to get lost at the bottom of the bag.

• Backpack bottom is flat enough to allow the backpack to sit up when placed on the floor. A small detail, but one worth noting.

• Includes trolley sleeve and can be carried on luggage handles while traveling.

What we don’t like

• Structured design makes the backpack look large and bulky even when not full.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 17.5” H x 12” W x 7” D

• Weight: 2.5lbs

• Material: Ballistic Nylon with leather details

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15.6”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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Samsonite Modern Utility Paracycle Backpack

Versatile enough for work, school or travel; the Samsonite Modern Utility Paracycle backpack offers a twist to the popular rucksack style with loads of modern features.

The Modern Utility Paracycle backpack is split into three compartments, a roomy main compartment, a separate laptop compartment and the front organizer for small items. Add in tough ripstop polyester and comfortable air mesh back and shoulder straps and you have an urban commuter backpack that is ready for just about anything.

What we like

• Spacious main compartment is perfect for overnight stays, daily school/work carry or travel.

• Includes trolley sleeve and can be carried on luggage handles while traveling.

What we don’t like

• If heavy items are placed in the front zip pocket it can tilt the bag forward and make accessing the organizer underneath annoying.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 17.75” H x 12” W x 8” D

• Weight: 2lbs

• Material: Ripstop Polyester

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15.6”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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