14 Best Convertible Laptop Backpacks - Tote, Briefcase and Shoulder Bags
A convertible laptop backpack offers a best of both worlds solution between comfortable hands-free carry and a sleek professional look. Few other bag options offer this amount of versatility and style in one bag and this is why we love them!
In this buying guide we take a closer look at our favorite convertible laptop backpacks for work, weekends and travel. Each one of these bags has a dedicated laptop compartment to keep your tech safe plus some great convertible features that allow you to carry how you want when you want.
Best Convertible Laptop Backpacks
Troubadour Bivy Tote Backpack
Troubadour offers a sleek convertible laptop backpack for both work and play with the Bivy Tote Backpack. Made of waterproof materials with a generous main compartment and plenty of pockets for organization - the Bivy Tote Backpack is one of our favorite convertible backpacks for those seeking an elevated look.
Learn more about the Troubadour Bivy Tote Backpack
What makes the Troubadour Bivy Tote the best convertible laptop backpack?
Sleek cohesive design that looks great as both a backpack and tote
Large 17” laptop sleeve and plenty of internal pockets for organization
Waterproof materials and zippers
Shoulder straps are well hidden when in tote-mode.
Comfortable padded shoulder straps that feel great even as the bag gets heavy
One bag that can do it all
With a 21 liter main compartment, the Bivy Tote Backpack makes a great convertible laptop backpack option for both daily work commutes and travel. The compact dimensions make it perfect to use as an airline personal item backpack while the inside is packed with enough pockets and compartments to keep you organized on busy days.
The bag features a generously padded laptop sleeve inside the main compartment that can accommodate up to a 17” laptop. Inside the main compartment you’ll also find plenty of pockets to keep your tech and personal items nice and organized. An exterior vertical pocket with a key leash makes grabbing essentials quickly a breeze while two side pockets can accommodate water bottles or an umbrella.
Converting the Bivy Tote Backpack into a stylish tote is as easy as unclasping the shoulder straps and tucking them into a hidden back pocket. We love this bag for its minimalist silhouette, mature colorways and premium waterproof materials that feel as good as they look.
Everyman Hideout 5-Way Commuter
Designed for both daily commuting and travel, the Everyman Hideout 5-Way Commuter is the one bag that can do it all. This convertible laptop backpack features a 5-way design that allows you to carry the bag as a backpack, briefcase, messenger bag, sling bag or clutch due to its stow-away backpack straps and detachable long single shoulder strap. When you add waterproof zippers and an ultra-tough ballistic nylon exterior - you have a bag you can rely on for years to come.
Learn more about the Everyman Hideout
What makes the Everyman Hideout the best convertible laptop backpack?
Separate laptop compartment with extra pockets for organizing accessories
18L main compartment is the perfect size for daily carry or overnight travel
Polished minimalist design that looks great in backpack and briefcase mode
Made with premium materials: 1680 PU ballistic nylon exterior, waterproof zippers and felted wool lining
A 5-in-1 Convertible Laptop Backpack for Work and Travel
The Everyman Hideout 5-Way Commuter can be divided into two compartments that lay-flat for easy packing and stress-free moments in the airport TSA line. The first is the clamshell wool-lined laptop compartment that features a laptop sleeve and extra pocket to keep your work and tech items nice and organized.
The second lay-flat compartment is the main compartment that was designed to be used with the included velcro packing cubes that attach right against the walls of the main compartment. These packing cubes are perfect for travel packing or just for keeping your daily items organized. You can also remove the packing cubes for a large and open main compartment to accommodate larger items.
Lo & Sons Rowledge
Designed with modern carry in mind, the Lo & Sons Rowledge proves that you don’t have to choose between a sleek backpack or a stylish tote. Premium leather accents, tons of functional pockets and a discreet separate laptop compartment are just some of the features of one of our favorite convertible laptop backpacks to date.
Learn more about the Lo & Sons Rowledge
What makes the Lo & Sons Rowledge such a great convertible laptop backpack?
Available in two sizes (Small & Large) for the perfect fit
Stowable shoulder straps makes it simple to switch between backpack and tote bag
Made of premium materials such as buttery soft leather and fine weave water resistant nylon
Discreet zippered side pockets for water bottles or an umbrella that blend in when not in use
Tons of interior pockets for organizing your daily essentials
Dedicated 13” laptop compartment
Best of Both Worlds Carry in One Sleek Package
The Lo & Sons Rowledge offers best of both worlds carry in one sleek bag. Whether you are looking for the professional women’s work bag, cute gym backpack or a tote for travel - the Rowledge has you covered.
Some standout features include a generous array of internal pockets inside the main compartment to keep you organized, a trolley sleeve on the back panel for attaching to luggage and discreet side water bottle pockets that stay flat when not in use for a sleeker look.
Targus Work+ Convertible Daypack
The Targus Work+ Convertible Daypack was designed for professionals who demand more from their daily carry. One of our favorite design elements is that both the tote handles and shoulder straps can be tucked away and hidden for a sleeker look in both tote and backpack modes.
Other great features include an expandable main compartment that gives you 33% more capacity when you need it, a hidden exterior compartment that can expand to fit clothing or shoes and water resistant exterior fabric for peace of mind on gloomy days.
Learn more about the Targus Work+ Convertible Daypack
What makes the Targus Work+ Convertible Daypack a great convertible tote backpack?
Expandable main compartment
Padded 16” laptop pocket and plenty of pockets to keep you organized
Gym ready - hidden expandable compartment can fit shoes or extra clothing
Lockable main compartment zippers with magnetic closures
Weather resistant materials for confidence while commuting
One Convertible Backpack for Work, Gym and Travel
The Targus Work+ Convertible Daypack is a versatile convertible laptop backpack designed for both work and play. Inside you’ll find a padded 16” laptop sleeve plus extra pockets to keep you organized. This main compartment is also expandable to give you up to 33% more room on busier days.
One of our favorite features is the separate exterior shoe bag that attaches to the front of the backpack for instant storage of shoes, clothing and other items you want to keep separate. The shoe bag tucks into a hidden pocket on the Work+ Convertible Daypack and stays out of the way until you need it.
Although many convertible tote backpacks allow you tuck away the shoulder straps, few give you the option to also hide the tote handles. This small design element allows for a cleaner and cohesive look in both backpack and tote bag modes.
Peak Design Everyday Totepack
The Peak Design Everyday Totepack is a convertible laptop backpack with a clean urban design for those who don’t want to choose between quality and style.
Every detail on the Everyday Totepack has been thoughtfully considered to maximize function while still looking great. Some examples include 3 ways to access to the main compartment, internal Flexfold Dividers to keep you organized and rugged yet attractive weatherproof materials for additional peace of mind.
Learn more about the Peak Design Everyday Totepack
What makes the Peak Design Everyday Totepack a great convertible laptop backpack?
Stowable backpack straps for a clean tote bag look
Dedicated 15” laptop and 11” tablet sleeves
20L main compartment (25L with the rolltop extended)
Weatherproof exterior material
Organize and protect your everyday or photography gear with included Flexfold Dividers
Side zippers to quickly grab items inside the main compartment
Not Just a Camera Bag
The Peak Design Everyday Totepack is not only our favorite women’s camera backpack but it also thrives as a unisex convertible laptop backpack thanks to its fixed tote bag handles and stowable backpack straps that allow for a clean look no matter how its worn.
Although the Everyday Totepack is marketed with photographers in mind it also thrives as an everyday convertible bag for non-photographers thanks to its versatile design. The internal Flexfold Dividers can be used to organize the main compartment (think separating your lunch from a change of clothes) or they can be removed all-together to take advantage of the roomy main compartment like you would a traditional backpack.
What makes Peak Design products some of the best on the market is their amazing attention to small design details that add up to a comfortable and functional carry experience. One example on the Everyday Totepack are how the shoulder straps are attached with axial adjustments on the top. This means the shoulder straps can swivel to accommodate people of all sizes for an instantly customizable and comfortable fit.
Other great details include anodized aluminum buckles and adjusters to prevent failure from wear and tear, separate padded laptop and tablet sleeves, and three ways to access the main compartment - top zipper and two side zippers.
Briggs & Riley Delve Convertible Briefcase Backpack
The Thule Crossover 2 is a convertible laptop backpack for professionals with an emphasis on secure daily carry of tech and valuables. Some stand out features include a mature office-ready design, padded laptop and tablet sleeves plus special pockets for power cords, sunglasses and documents.
Learn more about the Thule Crossover 2
What makes the Briggs & Riley Delve a great convertible briefcase backpack?
3 way carry options: backpack, briefcase and messenger bag with included long shoulder strap
Padded 15” laptop and 11” tablet sleeves
Special RFID-blocking pocket and plenty of pockets for tech accessories and fragile items
Dedicated file and document pocket
Made with weather resistant PVC coated materials
A Convertible Laptop Backpack for Professionals
The Briggs & Riley Delve is a convertible backpack briefcase that allows you to conquer the workday in confidence. The bag includes stowable shoulder straps that tuck into the back panel for an instantly clean briefcase look when needed. A removable shoulder strap also allows you to carry the Briggs & Riley Delve as a messenger bag.
When it comes to work carry - the Briggs & Riley Delve has you covered. Along with generously padded laptop and tablet sleeves the Delve also features a separate document pocket to keep your important files and folders safe.
One of our favorite features on the Briggs & Riley Delve is the PVC coated body fabric that keeps your important items safe and dry in case of less than stellar weather. This fabric is also wear and abrasion resistant to keep the bag looking clean and professional over time.
Samsonite & Sarah Jessica Parker: The Carried Away Convertible
Samsonite has partnered with actress Sarah Jessica Parker to bring you a stylish convertible bag that can be worn as a backpack, shoulder bag, crossbody bag or carried like a traditional tote. The Carried Away Convertible even includes a removable clutch bag with RFID protective lining for when you need to carry just the essentials on nights out.
Available in a few different cute colors, Samsonite & Sarah Jessica Parker Carried Away Convertible is one of the most versatile and innovative convertible laptop backpacks on the market today and definitely one of our top picks.
Learn more about the Samsonite Carried Away Convertible
What makes the Samsonite Carried Away Convertible the best convertible laptop backpack?
4 modes of carry - backpack, crossbody, shoulder bag and handheld tote
2 additional carry options - includes a removable clutch that can be converted into a small sling bag
Dedicated 14.1” laptop compartment
Tons of pockets for organization including a stealth security pocket discreetly located in the back panel
Stylish and versatile design that’s perfect for work, travel or weekend carry
The Ultimate Convertible Tote Backpack Purse
Few convertible laptop backpacks have as many carry options as the Samsonite & Sarah Jessica Parker Carried Away Convertible. Along with a traditional backpack mode, the Carried Away Convertible can also be worn as a shoulder or crossbody bag with the included removable single strap. Tuck in the backpack shoulder straps and use the Carried Away Convertible as a tote bag on days when you want to look more polished.
A great feature of the Samsonite & Sarah Jessica Parker Carried Away Convertible is the integrated clutch bag that is stored in the front pocket. Made with RFID-protected lining, the clutch can even convert into a sling bag by attaching the crossbody shoulder!
No matter how you decide to carry - The Carried Away Convertible will leave you looking your best.
Topo Designs Commuter Briefcase
The Topo Designs Commuter Briefcase is one of Topo’s most popular bags thanks to its 3-way carry (backpack, briefcase and shoulder bag) and functional design that’s filled with pockets and compartments to keep you organized.
What we love most about the Commuter Briefcase is that each bag is made in the USA using premium materials such as Cordura nylon, Horween leather and heavy-duty YKK zippers. For a more refined look, Topo offers the Commuter Briefcase in a Heritage Canvas version that swaps out the Cordura nylon body for a handsome cotton canvas.
Learn more about the Topo Commuter Briefcase
What makes the Topo Commuter Briefcase a great convertible backpack briefcase?
Made in USA with durable materials
Stowable backpack straps and detachable single-shoulder strap allows you to convert the bag in seconds
Padded 15” laptop sleeve
Roomy 15L internal volume - perfect for daily carry
Great internal organization - plenty of pockets for smaller items and accessories
For Those Who Expect More From Their Daily Bag
Topo Designs offers a convertible backpack briefcase with an emphasis on quality construction and top-notch materials. The Horween leather bottom and carry handles adds a rugged yet sophisticated touch while the ultra-tough 1000D Cordura exterior fabric and robust YKK zippers brings the Commuter Briefcase into “buy it for life” territory.
The three-way carry design allows you to wear the Topo Commuter Briefcase as a backpack, briefcase and messenger bag with the included long shoulder strap. The backpack straps can quickly be stowed away for a clean look when in briefcase-mode.
Inside the Topo Commuter Briefcase you’ll find a laptop sleeve that can fit a laptop up to 15-inches plus extra pockets for organizing smaller accessories. A roomy zippered pocket on the front gives you quick access to items while on the move while two compression straps on the bottom allows you to adjust the depth of the bag as needed for a sleeker look on light carry days. All in all the Topo Designs Commuter Briefcase is an American made convertible laptop backpack that’s designed to get you to any destination with confidence.
Timbuk2 Scheme Convertible Briefcase Backpack
Designed for modern professionals, the Timbuk2 Scheme is a convertible laptop backpack that transforms into a shoulder bag or briefcase in seconds. Padded integrated handles allows you to carry the bag in vertical or horizontal orientation while a detachable shoulder strap gives you quick and easy messenger-style carry.
Learn more about the Timbuk2 Scheme
What makes the Timbuk2 Scheme a great convertible briefcase backpack?
3-way Carry - backpack, shoulder bag or briefcase
Sleek professional design
Roomy 25L interior
15” laptop compartment
Plenty of pockets and compartments for organization
United by Blue Convertible Carryall
United By Blue offers a stylish convertible tote backpack that’s available in a variety of fun colors and pattens with all of the features you need for the daily work grind and fun weekend adventures.
The padded 15” laptop compartment and various pockets throughout make organizing your carry a breeze while United By Blue’s recycled (R)evolution fabric offers a water and stain resistant material that’s also good for the planet.
Learn more about the United By Blue Convertible Carryall
What makes the United By Blue Convertible Carryall a great convertible tote backpack?
Padded 15” laptop compartment
Stowable backpack shoulder straps for a clean tote bag look
Roomy 25L main compartment for school, work, gym or weekend trips
Made of eco-friendly recycled materials
Expandable side pockets for water bottles, umbrellas and more
A Sustainable Convertible Tote Backpack
Each United by Blue Convertible Carryall is made with the brand’s signature (R)evolution fabric that’s made out of recycled plastic water bottles for less waste. In addition to being vegan this fabric is also water resistant and stain resistant to keep your tote backpack looking fresh for years to come.
Osprey Daylite Tote Pack
The Osprey Daylite Tote Pack is a lightweight and water resistant convertible laptop backpack for those looking for just one bag that can do it all. Plus its available in lots of fun colors and patterns so you are sure to find one you love.
This tote backpack was designed with versatility in mind. Want to go for a day hike? The internal laptop sleeve can also hold a hydration bladder. Visiting the farmers market? Switching to tote-mode is as easy as tucking away the backpack shoulder straps. From work commutes to weekend adventures - the Osprey Daylite Tote Pack has you covered!
Learn more about the Osprey Daylite Tote Pack
What makes the Osprey Daylite Tote Pack a great convertible tote backpack?
Made with eco-friendly and recycled materials
Hide-away backpack shoulder straps
Internal padded laptop sleeve and can also be used as a hydration sleeve
Roomy 20L interior
Side mesh pockets for water bottles
Luggage pass through backpanel for travel
Black Ember Forge
The Black Ember Forge is an expandable, modular and completely waterproof bag with a 3-way design that transforms it from a backpack to a briefcase or shoulder bag when you need it.
One could say this convertible laptop backpack is “over-engineered” but that’s exactly what makes the Forge a force to be reckoned with. Each bag features thoughtfully designed compartments for modern tech and its laser-cut components translates into a waterproof state-of-the-art design that is sure to turn some heads.
Learn more about the Black Ember Forge
What makes the Black Ember Forge a great convertible laptop backpack?
3-Way Design: backpack, briefcase and shoulder bag
Modular handles and accessories
Waterproof construction
20L-30L expandable capacity (make room for travel or the gym)
Tech-focused pockets and compartments
Suspended laptop sleeve for extra protection
A Bag For the Modern Urban Commuter
The Black Ember Forge is an expandable and modular bag for urban commutes and travel that features a 3-way design that transform it from a backpack to a briefcase or shoulder bag. As a convertible laptop backpack we appreciate the ability to remove the side-handles all together for a sleeker look when in backpack mode. Other great modular features include a removable backpack sternum strap, shoulder bag strap and the option to add accessories such as compression straps and extra handles.
Need a bag for travel? No problem! The Black Ember Forge can expand an additional 10-liters to accommodate your packing.
Cotopaxi Todo Convertible
Fun and versatile, the Cotopaxi Todo Convertible allows you to switch between backpack and tote bag thanks to its stowable shoulder straps.
The internal 16-liter capacity gives you enough room for a busy work day while keeping a rugged construction for weekends on the trail or at your favorite farmers market. Other great features include a 15” laptop sleeve, fleece lined pocket for valuables and a lightweight recycled nylon ripstop construction.
Learn more about the Cotopaxi Todo Convertible
What makes the Cotopaxi Todo a great convertible tote backpack?
Hide-away shoulder straps for a cleaner look when using as a tote bag
15” internal padded laptop sleeve
Available in a ton of fun colors
A dedication to sustainability - each Todo Convertible is made from recycled nylon and manufactured in a factory commited to fair social labor
CoolBELL Convertible Briefcase Backpack
CoolBell offers an affordable budget convertible backpack briefcase with a vintage flare that’s packed with useful features for work and travel. Some of its best features include a large 17.3-inch laptop compartment, plenty of pockets for organizing accessories and a luggage trolly sleeve for easy transport while traveling.
Learn more about the CoolBell Convertible
What makes the CoolBell Convertible a great convertible laptop backpack?
3-way convertible design: backpack, briefcase and messenger bag
Separate 17-inch laptop compartment
Roomy main compartment for daily carry or travel
Lots of smaller pockets for organization
Affordable price (grab one for under $65)
Choosing a Convertible Laptop Backpack
A convertible laptop backpack usually comes in two flavors: a convertible tote backpack or a convertible briefcase backpack. Although both styles can give you similar functionality there are some differences to consider when choosing between the two.
The Convertible Tote Backpack
A convertible tote backpack makes it easy to switch between a backpack and tote in seconds thanks to their stowable backpack shoulder straps that stay out of the way as needed.
Unlike a briefcase backpack, convertible tote backpacks are usually larger in size and have many of the features you would normally find in a regular backpack such as a dedicated laptop sleeve and extra pockets for organization. Their orientation does not change when switching modes from tote to backpack giving you more of a traditional backpack experience with an extra carry option.
Convertible Tote Backpack - Troubadour Bivy Tote Backpack
Features to look out for:
Dedicated tote top handle for easy tote carry (bonus points if they can hide away when in backpack-mode)
Backpack shoulder straps that tuck away when using as a tote
Keeps its vertical orientation in both tote and backpack mode
Larger main compartment then a briefcase
The Convertible Briefcase Backpack
A convertible briefcase backpack allows you to carry the bag vertically in backpack-mode and horizontally with a side briefcase handle for a more professional appearance when needed. Many briefcase backpacks also include a longer shoulder strap so that you can carry the bag as a messenger bag or sling pack.
Unlike a convertible tote backpack, a convertible briefcase usually favors “briefcase-mode” in its pocket orientation. This means that when worn as a backpack the zippered pockets will be on the side of the bag instead of up top like a regular backpack.
Convertible Briefcase Backpack - Topo Designs Commuter Briefcase
Features to look out for:
Integrated side handle for easy briefcase carry
Stowable shoulder straps that stay hidden and out of the way when using as a briefcase
A detachable shoulder strap for use as a messenger bag or sling pack
Slim and sleek design for a mature and professional look
Dedicated laptop compartment and pockets for tech
