Finding the perfect backpack can be a challenge, especially when you have specific needs like carrying a laptop or camera gear. However, the Engadget team has spent years testing and using various backpacks and has come up with a list of their favorites. Whether you’re a student or a working professional, these backpacks have got you covered.
First up is the Timbuk2 Lane Commuter bag. Made by the well-respected Timbuk2 company, this backpack is lightweight and comfortable to wear. It has plenty of pockets for all your accessories and even features a secret pouch in the bottom that holds a waterproof sleeve. Senior Reporter Andrew Tarantola has been using this bag for the past four years and says it has shown remarkably little wear and tear, making it a durable and reliable option.
Next is the Baggallini Soho Backpack. Senior Commerce Editor Valentina Palladino loves the stylish yet functional design of this backpack. Made with water-resistant nylon fabric, it can hold up to a 13-inch laptop and has plenty of pockets for all your belongings. Valentina particularly appreciates the front two pockets, which are perfect for quick-access items like a phone or keys. With its comfortable design and ample storage space, Valentina wishes she had this backpack during her college years to prevent back problems caused by inadequate bags.
For those who need a larger backpack to carry all their gear, the Peak Design 45L Travel Backpack is the perfect choice. Senior Reporter Sam Rutherford initially purchased Peak Design’s Everyday Messenger but found it a bit restrictive. The 45L Travel Backpack, on the other hand, offers endless organization options with its numerous pockets, zippers, and handles. Sam particularly likes the versatility of this bag, which can transform into a duffel or be slimmed down for carry-on duty. The only downside is its size, as it can make the wearer feel like a turtle, but overall, it’s a great option for those who need to haul a lot of gear.
If pockets are your top priority, the Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack is the one for you. Commerce Writer Nicole Lee loves the abundance of pockets in this backpack, allowing her to store a multitude of cables, accessories, and even a water bottle. The backpack is also roomy enough to fit a DSLR camera and a change of clothes, making it versatile for various occasions. Nicole appreciates the durability of the bag, as it is made of neoprene, a soft lightweight material that dries quickly if it gets wet. Although it may be pricey, Nicole believes the long-lasting quality of the backpack justifies the cost.
Lastly, the Waterfield Staad Attaché bag is a classic and durable choice. Senior Reporter Andrew Tarantola has been a customer of Waterfield for almost 20 years and keeps coming back to the Staad Attaché bag. Made with waxed canvas or ballistic nylon and a full-grain leather flap, this bag exudes class and sophistication. It is compact yet spacious enough to carry all your essentials, with built-in laptop and tablet sleeves, deep hand pockets, and a main compartment for larger items. The bright yellow interior lining adds a touch of practicality, making it easier to see what’s inside. Andrew attests to the durability of Waterfield products, stating that this bag can take a beating and still remain in perfect shape.
While the Engadget team may not need to carry textbooks anymore, they still understand the importance of a reliable and functional backpack. Whether you’re a student or a professional, these backpacks have been carefully chosen and tested to ensure they can handle all your needs. From durability to style, each backpack offers unique features that make it a standout choice for anyone in need of a dependable carrying solution.