Finding the right balance of function, comfort, and style.
As ways of working have changed over the last decade, backpacks have likewise undergone a transformation, becoming an essential part of every professional’s wardrobe.
Finding the best work backpack can be a game-changer for your daily routine. Whether you’re commuting to the office, cycling to work, hopping onto a bus or train, or embarking on a regular flight, the right backpack can make all the difference. The best ones keep your essentials organised and easy to access, protect your tech, and make your commute more comfortable.
A work backpack is about more than just convenience
It’s also about efficiency, comfort, and professionalism. A well-designed work backpack will transition seamlessly from your commute to the office to the gym, looking equally at home in the boardroom and the locker room.
Unlike traditional briefcases, which can be clunky and uncomfortable, a decent backpack distributes weight evenly across your shoulders and back, reducing strain and helping to protect your posture.
What to look for if you’re considering a work backpack
When choosing the best backpack for work, consider how you’ll use it. Do you need quick and easy access to items like your phone or passport? Do you need extra space for your gym kit? Do you fly frequently and need something carry-on approved?
For walkers, runners and cyclists: Opt for lightweight designs with weatherproof and durable materials. Make sure the backpack is comfortable when full – ergonomically designed shoulder straps and breathable back panels are essential.
For tech lovers: Look for backpacks with pockets and extra protection for electronics, such as padded and suspended compartments that ensure your laptop never touches the base of the bag – or the ground. A separate section with dedicated access to your laptop means you won’t have to rummage through the rest of your gear to grab your computer.
For frequent flyers: Choose a travel-friendly backpack with ample storage and thoughtfully located pockets. A luggage sleeve that lets you carry your backpack on a wheeled suitcase provides a more comfortable airport experience.
For gym regulars: It’s all about clever storage. Consider a backpack with a separate zipped section for your shoes or gym kit, so the rest of your gear stays clean and tidy. And look for convenient water bottle pockets.
Best work backpacks: advice from the experts
Investing in a high-quality work backpack is worth it for the comfort, protection, and enhanced organisation it offers. The best commuter backpacks are designed for intuitive access to everything you need on the move. They safeguard your gear and are built to last, saving you from the frustration of broken zippers or flimsy materials.
Here at Troubadour, we obsess over every aspect of how you carry and use your backpack. All our work backpacks are designed and engineered to make your daily journeys better organised, more comfortable, and much more enjoyable. And they’re made with sustainable materials, like waterproof fabric created from recycled plastic bottles, and revolutionary leather tanned using only the water in the hide.
Our recommendations: 5 best backpacks for work
Best all-round work backpack: Apex Backpack 3.0
Chosen by New York Times Wirecutter as “best laptop backpack”. This multi-award-winning best-seller is available in three sizes and a leather version.
Best work backpack for gym regulars: Pioneer Backpack 3.0
Dedicated storage for everything from your laptop to your running shoes. Designed in collaboration with customers, it’s larger, more intuitive and more comfortable than ever.
Best work backpack for slimline carrying: Ki Backpack
Lightweight and deceptively spacious, with a vegan leather cover for extra waterproofing and security.
Best work backpack for everyday carrying: Ember Backpack
The front folds down for quick and easy access to your gear. An ideal companion for your commute.
Best work backpack for sustainability: Orbis 2-Pocket Backpack
Made from 100% recycled materials and 100% recyclable. Pockets galore and a separate zipped section for your laptop and tech.
Whether you’re commuting, flying for business, or just running around town, the right work backpack can enhance your productivity and comfort. So, make the switch and enjoy the benefits of better organisation, improved posture, and a stress-free commute.
