Best Men's Backpacks for Work in 2021
Briefcases and messenger bags won't do—you need to be ready to go at your leisure, and for that, you need a stellar, workplace-friendly backpack. There are a very specific type and style of backpacks that's appropriate for maintaining a professional and serious image, and we've found the cream of the crop. Pick from twelve different best men's backpacks for work, and scan the buying guide below for more information on key features that you shouldn't compromise just for style. Function and maintaining your professionalism—we've got you covered.
1. Modoker Vintage Laptop Backpack
The Modoker Vintage Laptop Backpack offers the perfect mixture of modern materials and a vintage design. It has the look of an old-school college backpack, an aesthetic that never seems to go out of fashion. If you don't want to turn up to work with a hiking backpack that makes you look like you're about to climb Everest, this is a great alternative.
It's made from 600D nylon fabric, a lightweight and tough material that can handle a lot of weight. The total capacity is only 25-liters, so it's not the biggest backpack on this list by any stretch. However, the limited space is cleverly assigned, with separate pockets for your tablet, laptop, water bottle, and more. It's also water-resistant, scratch-resistant, and won't tear if you get it snagged on something sharp.
2. Osprey Nebula Men's Laptop Backpack
We've said it on GearHungry time and time again – Osprey is the backpack king. If you're looking for the best backpack on the market and you've got money to spend, Osprey should be your first port of call. They used the highest-quality materials, design packs with the user in mind, and incorporate hiking technology for comfort. The Osprey Nebula is the perfect Osprey pack for work.
In terms of pockets, it has a dedicated TSA-approved laptop sleeve (up to 17”), a front panel stretch mesh pocket, and two mesh water bottle pockets. The internal space is cleverly divided so you can keep all of your work equipment separated. Whether you're heading out on a tough hike, jumping on a cross-country flight, or going to the office, this pack is one of the best.
3. AmazonBasics Classic School Backpack
Sometimes basic is best. You don't need an endless list of features on a backpack. You just need it to carry your work gear comfortably. The AmazonBasics Classic School Backpack is probably the most basic backpack on this list. In fact, it's one of the simplest designs on the market. It's similar to classic school backpacks from Herschel and JanSport, just a lot cheaper. The exterior has a pencil-case style pocket on the front and a water bottle pocket on each side.
The interior of the bag is surprisingly spacious, thanks to the wide-open zips. It can comfortably fit a small laptop, all of your documents, a packed lunch, and a spare change of clothes. It's ideally suited for one-day use. The only thing it really falls down on is the back and shoulder support. The straps are basic and the back section is just flat. This isn't a problem for short distances but it's not ideal for walking long distances.
4. Swiss Gear Travel Gear Lightweight Men's Backpack for Work
If you've never owned a piece of Swiss Gear, whether a laptop case or wallet, then we're truly sorry. There are few that dare to contest with the superior construction of Swiss Gear—with 900D polyester, this professional bag boasts the emblazoned Swiss Gear iconic logo (which is a sign that you're a man who focuses on quality), and an all-black exterior. While there is designated laptop storage space, it's not padded, so don't overstuff your bag.
One seriously awesome feature of this back is the D-ring accompanied by a headphone port. Listening to your tunes on-the-go has never been easier. Apart from the killer construction, you get dedicated organizational storage sleeves on the inside, allowing for quick access to material that matters. You'll never have to look foolish by stumbling through your bag to find work-related items again. You could say were a bit Swiss Gear Hungry (see what we did there?)
5. Carhatt Legacy Workplace Backpack
Supporting your shoulders and looking good while doing it, the Carhatt Legacy upholds your professional and respectable appearance, while providing excellent storage. This one-of-a-kind company produces a respective one-of-a-kind product, giving you front pocket organization pockets, YKK zippers for maximum durability and security, all wrapped-up in triple stitching to keep your pack on your back even with the heaviest of loads.
With all the hardware and additional stitching power, we were shocked to find that empty, this pack only weight 1.4lbs, which seriously helps when carrying around a laptop, tablet, and additional materials for work. Speaking of laptops and tablets, there's a dedicated storage space for each with full padding—you've got all you need right on your back with Carhatt.
6. Victorinox Almont Professional Fliptop Pack
Victorinox is one of our favorite brands—from watches to backpacks, they really have it all on lockdown. Their Almont pack comes with the same great durability and ferocity that you'd expect. With a padded back pad and adjustable shoulder straps, fatigue will be kept at bay. Excellent storage and a smart design (with the emblazoned logo, of course) make this as functional as it is professional.
Victorinox knows you're not just on a single device (none of us are), so they added a dedicated tablet sleeve alongside the 15"laptop compartment for maximum gadget wielding. Speaking of gadgets, this comes with a pretty unique feature—two vertical zipper pockets on the exterior give you quick-access storage, but also come with a built-in bottle opener. Durable, long-lasting and functional, Victorinox delivers on their good name.
