If you're commuting on a regular basis then the best work backpacks for women are an essential for your daily needs. While they might be most associated with back-to-school vibes, they offer a smart and easy way of carrying items. With that in mind, we've found a luxe range of backpacks in top fabrications and designs that will take you from work to weekend in style.
While we love the best designer bags for unrivalled sartorial style, when it comes to the practicality of a day-to-day commute, sometimes we have to admit defeat and opt for one of the best work backpacks to lug our essentials around. The best work backpacks for women have space for everything; from laptops to gym kits and even your lunch, you can team one with any of the best crossbody bags to keep your wallet, phone, and keys close by too. Backpacks also offer added health benefits as they spread the weight of what you're carrying across your back, leaving you largely hands-free. The padded straps can help prevent digs and pain too, making them all together a more ergonomic wear.
When shopping for the best backpack, consider what you'll need to fit in and when you'll use it to ensure you get the right fit and style for you. According to the British brand Aspinal of London, the average woman carries 17 items in her handbag at any one time, weighing roughly the same as three bags of sugar. So getting a good fit is a must! These are our best work backpacks for women, from super stylish to waterproofed fabrics and practical fastenings.
Best work backpacks for women, as chosen by our fashion team
The best work backpacks for women should combine style and practicality. Versatile designs can also double up as the best weekend bags, with waterproof detailing making them also ideal companions for camping and adventure. The best backpacks should be roomy enough for your essentials, with plenty of practical storage solutions to help you organise your life, but without compromising on design. These are our favourites.
RRP: £38
Dimensions: W28 x L36cm
This backpack comes highly recommended by woman&home's content director Lucy Searle, who says "this is my second Classic Zip Around Backpack. It's easily big enough for a sizeable laptop, and recently, I took it on a one-night work trip. Though it was quite full, the backpack held everything from my laptop and notebook to my toiletries, hair straightener and a change of clothes. In other words, it's versatile. Once I've worn this one out (estimate based on the last one - a good couple of years), I'll definitely buy another."
Reasons to buy: the material is pretty much indestructible and water resistant
Reasons to avoid: not real leather - although it's convincingly smart
RRP: £105
Dimensions: H28 x W26 x D10cm
Made of lightweight recycled polyamide canvas and trimmed with leather, this backpack folds down to a fraction of its size, making it an ideal extra bag when packing for a holiday. The khaki hue makes it smart enough for the office, but it's available in several other colourways too. One reviewer wrote: "bought this for my holidays... it's big enough without being too big. I bought it to fit in a bottle of water, suncream and a purse if we are out and about. Folds into a small shape so perfect for that extra bag on holiday and could even put in hand luggage."
Reasons to buy: Waterproof, folds up for easy storage
Reasons to avoid: Only one pocket
RRP: £69.99
Dimensions: 27cm x 23cm x 11.5cm
A stylish minimalistic backpack that will slot in easily with any work outfit. The hidden clasp and metal detailing offer an elevated feel. This design can be personalised too, so it would make a beautiful gift. One customer said: "Such a gorgeous product, perfect size and perfect for everyday use. Quality is next to none and the team at Katie Loxton are incredible! Very quick turnaround and shipping... I love their products and they make the best gifts!"
Reasons to buy: Can be personalised
Reasons to avoid: Not big enough for a laptop
RRP: £179
Dimensions: H42 x W29.5 x D12cm
Knomo backpacks are a hit in the woman&home office. Editor Kerrie Hughes says: "I bought mine just before lockdown, and so while it spent a time patiently at home waiting to be used, it's been with me ever since we were 'released'. Despite using it every day, it's showing virtually no signs of wear. Where others are happy to spend money on shoes and clothes, it's bags for me, and my Knomo backpack was an investment piece. They look so much more expensive than the price tag – and the quality and longevity you get make them excellent value for money."
Reasons to buy: Comes with a red lining that oozes luxury (think Louboutin's red soles)
Reasons to avoid: not waterproof
RRP: £95
Dimensions: H44 x W36 x D13cm
This backpack is one of our favourite multipurpose bags, doubling as one of the best gym bags thanks to its numerous and spacious pockets. A classic black hue, this bag will pair with almost any outfit, and we've spotted similar designer styles for a lot more. One five star reviewer commented: "Bought this backpack for an emergency weekend away via British Airways flight. Light, easy to pack, fits in loads. Love the zip picket at the back for passport etc. a fantastic buy." We love the chunky buckle and sports luxe aesthetic.
Reasons to buy: Plenty of pockets
Reasons to avoid: Customers say the water bottle pockets are small
RRP: £230
Dimensions: H36 x W25.5 x D9cm
A polished backpack, this oxblood vintage-style bag comes in a portrait silhouette, ideal for paperwork and laptops. With a feeling of Dark Academia, this backpack is ideal for work or weekend and adds a smart finish to tailored outfits. The brand also offers a repairs service - repairs carried out within the first year of purchase are covered under warranty if there is a defect with the product.
Reasons to buy: Can be carried by top handle or shoulder straps
Reasons to avoid: Buckles aren't the easiest to open
RRP: £129
Dimensions: 13 x 5.95 x 18 inches
From work to the weekend, the Cromwell backpack is super versatile. With a padded compartment for your laptop and an organised interior, you can rest easy that your items are safe from the rain with its thermoplastic waterproof fabric. Roll tops are also increasingly popular this year, making it a trendy pick. We love the attention to detail too - it has card slots and even 2 pen loops to organise your essentials.
Reasons to buy: Secure, roll-top design
Reasons to avoid: Colour won't go with everything
RRP: £549
Dimensions: 12.5"W X 16"H X 8"D
If monogram isn't really your thing but you still want a backpack with some designer edge, look no further. In a timeless tan hue, that feels instantly polished, this work-ready design will help you to master how to dress simple but stylish, whilst the leather ensures a bag that will wear well. Also available in classic black, we love the metal hardware for a sportier look.
Reasons to buy: The trolley sleeve makes it easy for taking on holiday
Reasons to avoid: One of the pricier options
RRP: £95
Dimensions: 480 x 270 x 180mm
With the ability to be folded or rolled, this bag is ideal for the concrete jungle and beyond. With an internal document sleeve, water bottle pocket, and a raised sunglasses pocket with water-resistant zip, this lightweight bag is made from durable ripstop, created from 100% recycled PET plastic bottles. Incredibly light (hence the name), it's designed for work and play.
Reasons to buy: Can be folded, lots of internal organisation
Reasons to avoid: Items can feel bulky with the lightweight fabric
RRP: £1,150
Dimensions: W30 x H40 x D11cm
Surely one of the smartest backpacks you can buy, Smythson's Panama style proves that you mean business. A Quiet Luxury bag, it's available in black, navy or taupe, and we love the subtle brand stamp and front zip detail.
Reasons to buy: Will never date
Reasons to avoid: One of the priciest options
RRP: £475
Dimensions: 16cm (6.3") x 25cm (9.8") x 27.5cm (10.8")
The combination of cream canvas and tan leather on this rucksack is seriously dreamy. The metal detailing is instantly recognisable as the work of Strathberry, a brand which can count the Royal Family as fans. So you'll be in good company!
Reasons to buy: One for fashion fans
Reasons to avoid: One of the more compact styles on our list
RRP: £80
Dimensions: 43 x 32 x 20 cm
With room for your gym gear, lunch, and everything else, this has convenient top handles for easy carrying and comes in several colours so there's something for everyone. The padded main compartment is designed for a laptop, while the rectangular shape makes it ideal for work files too.
Reasons to buy: Colourful options
Reasons to avoid: More pockets would be helpful
RRP: £225
Dimensions: 40cm / 15.7in x 33cm / 13in x 12cm / 4.7in
The leopard print trend is huge for 2024, and Ganni does it best by a mile. Everything the Scandi brand touches seems to turn to gold at the moment, and this backpack is as practical as it is stylish. It features adjustable and padded shoulder straps, a top handle, front buckle fastenings, front pockets, a foldover top and the brand logo.
Reasons to buy: 100% Certified Recycled Polyester
Reasons to avoid: A trend piece
RRP: £75
Dimensions: 17.25" x 11.50" x 6.00"
One of the best work backpacks for women in terms of space and storage, the colour block is just one of 16 timeless and considered colourway options for this crowd-pleasing bag. Natalie Portman has been spotted with a Settlement backpack, and one reviewer wrote : "great quality bag with strong zippers, durable fabric and spacious without the bulk."
Reasons to buy: A good all-rounder
Reasons to avoid: Straps are quite thick and wide
RRP: £350
Dimensions: 11.75” W x 14” H x 5.5” D
The monogram trend was a big hit in this season's fashion trends, injected into the best Gucci bags as well as, Michael Kors utilising logos to up-style accessories. With an upper and lower compartment for easy organisation, the gold hardware adds a touch of luxe.
Reasons to buy: Recognisable brand
Reasons to avoid: Coated canvas, not leather
RRP: £120
Dimensions: 47cm x 31cm x 21cm
Ideal for carrying a laptop or other office essential equipment, the Raven 28L backpack offers multiple compartments. Throw in the best wallets for women or keep your cards in the handy security pocket. Made from durable recycled materials, it is suitable for all manner of outdoor jaunts.
Reasons to buy: Trusted brand
Reasons to avoid: A strap to attach to a suitcase would be helpful for travel
RRP: £149
Dimensions: 45 x 30 x 16 cm
The free easyJet cabin bag size is 45 x 36 x 20 cm, so this one should be ideal - but be careful to check with whatever airline you're flying with, and don't overfill in case you exceed the size restrictions. Sleek and compact, this 18L backpack can fit a surprising amount inside. With pockets for a 15-inch laptop, notebook, and chargers, plus inside compartments for valuables, this is the ultimate everyday bag. The light grey colour keeps this bag versatile for all seasons.
Reasons to buy: Water-resistant and leather-free
Reasons to avoid: Magnetic fastening not foolproof
RRP: £1,700
Dimensions: 32cm x 30cm x 15cm
If you have a slightly bigger budget and want to invest in a truly luxurious and timeless staple, you can't do much better than a Prada backpack. Made from nylon canvas and a saffiano leather trim, it is the perfect size for all your essentials. The detachable zip pouches and outer pockets also mean that you won't lose smaller items like keys or your work pass deep inside the bag.
Reasons to buy: Super chic
Reasons to avoid: Price point
FAQs
How we tested the best backpacks
While we have not rigorously tested each bag, our selection of the best work backpacks does take into account the most popular styles from leading accessory and fashion brands. We have also spoken to writers and editors who own a number of the bags in the list to get their honest opinion on their purchases, and we've monitored which styles are popular on various retailers.
How to choose work backpacks
Size is obviously the biggest consideration, so think carefully about how much you carry round on a day to day basis. If a heavy laptop is on the list for every day then you need to prioritise your own comfort - carrying heavy items on one shoulder can lead to injuries.
Look for timeless styles and good quality fabric that will last. Strathberry founder Leeanne Hundleby tells us "for work bags I’d look for practicality paired with style. I love a timeless and versatile design which can effortlessly complement any outfit, along with exceptional quality in the craftsmanship of the bag, meaning it will keep up with a busy life. I’m always running about between work and family, so this is an essential for me!"
Smythson's Creative Director Luc Goidadin agrees "other than looking beautiful, a good backpack should be comfortable and, above all, functional. When designing our backpacks, we spend a lot of time fine-tuning each style to make sure they are lightweight, have perfectly padded leather straps, and feel capacious enough to carry everything."
What backpacks are in style right now?
The beauty of a good backpack is that it will never go out of style. However, if you want a bag that you can rely on to always look trendy and chic, we recommend sticking to classic black, cream, camel, or grey. However, you can take inspiration from the spring/summer fashion colour trends 2024 if you want to go for something a little more daring for the season ahead.
In terms of shape, you can't really go wrong no matter what you pick. But this year, backpacks with a roll top are becoming increasingly popular, as are styles with flaps at the top. As long as your backpack of choice can comfortably hold everything you need and fits in with your personal wardrobe, it's a winner.
Are backpacks appropriate for work?
In the age of hybrid working, most commuters are carrying laptops around with them, which means backpacks are commonplace. Depending on your office dress code, you might want to go towards the smarter end of the spectrum, but truly, the backpack is the new briefcase.
Our experts:
Strathberry is an Edinburgh-based and internationally known brand specialising in luxury leather goods, founded in 2013 by husband-and-wife team Guy and Leeanne Hundleby.
Formerly Burberry's Chief Design Officer, Luc has been Creative Director of Smythson - a brand that represents over 130 years of British craftsmanship - since 2018.
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