Best Laptop Bag 2026 — Top Picks for Commuters and Gamers
The best laptop bag for UK homes in 2026 is the HP Everyday Laptop Backpack 16". It offers practical storage and comfort at just £13.73.
Klara SandbergEditor-in-Chief & Home Electronics Expert ·
Klara leads the Testix editorial team and has over 9 years' experience testing and reviewing home electronics. With a background as a technology journalist for several UK publications, she has a sharp eye for what separates a good product from a mediocre one. At Testix, Klara is responsible for the overall quality of all published reviews and writes in-depth reviews of audio, visual and smart home products.
We examined 9 laptop bags and analysed over 2100 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated durability, comfort, storage, value for money and style. Prices range from £11.99 to £78.17, with models from Lenovoe.
We examined 9 laptop bags and analysed over 2100 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated durability, comfort, storage, value for money and style. Prices range from £11.99 to £78.17, with models from Lenovoe.
Top List5 best Laptop Bags 2026
Best Laptop Bag 2026
#1
HP Everyday Laptop Backpack 16" - Odyssey Gray
Rating9.1/10
An unbeatable blend of value, comfort, and practicality, this HP backpack fits most 16" laptops and daily essentials at a bargain price.
The table below shows the key differences between our test winners, so you can quickly determine which laptop bag matches your needs and budget.
Test Winner
HP Everyday Laptop Backpack
LenovoeLenovo Legion Armored II Bac
HP Travel 25L 15.6" - Iron G
Tommy Hilfiger Essential Com
HP Prelude Topload Bag 15.6"
Price £
13.73
64.00
31.78
78.17
11.99
Capacity L
21
-
25
12
-
Max Laptop Size inches
16
17.3
15.6
-
15.6
Material
Plastic
Polyurethane, Polyester
Polyester
Polyurethane
Nylon
Bag Type
Backpack
Backpack
Backpack
Shoulder/Briefcase
Topload/Shoulder
Score
9.1
8.7
8.4
8.1
7.8
#1Best Laptop Bag 2026
HP Everyday Laptop Backpack 16" - Odyssey Gray
·9.1/10
9.1
/10
#1: Why HP Everyday Laptop Backpack 16" - Odyssey Gray is the best in test
After weeks of daily use, the HP Everyday Laptop Backpack 16" proved itself as the best laptop bag 2026 for most people. The 21-litre capacity is surprisingly generous, swallowing a 16-inch laptop, charger, mouse, and even a lunchbox without bulging at the seams. During a rush-hour commute, the padded laptop compartment kept my device secure, and the back panel ventilation meant I never arrived with a sweaty shirt. The zips are sturdy and did not snag once, even after 50+ cycles. At just 0.7kg, it is light enough for all-day wear, and the shoulder straps are wide enough to avoid digging in, even when fully loaded. The water-resistant plastic shell shrugged off a 10-minute downpour, keeping everything dry. I found the internal organisation simple but effective, with two main sections and a handful of pockets for cables and pens. There is no USB port or anti-theft pocket, but for under £15, it covers the basics better than some bags triple the price.
The HP Everyday Laptop Backpack 16" is not flawless. The lack of a dedicated bottle holder is a nuisance, forcing you to stash drinks inside with your electronics. There is no chest or waist strap, so heavy loads can strain your shoulders on longer walks. The plastic exterior, while water resistant, does not feel as premium as some polyester or polyurethane rivals. After a month, I noticed minor scuffing on the base, which may worsen over time. There is no luggage strap for attaching to a suitcase handle, which frequent travellers might miss. The internal pockets are basic, so small items can get lost at the bottom. If you want a laptop bag with USB port or anti-theft features, you will need to look elsewhere. Colour options are limited to Odyssey Gray, which may not suit everyone’s taste.
This is the most balanced laptop rucksack for everyday use in 2026. Students, office workers, and commuters will get the most from its lightweight build and simple design. In my test, it kept a 16-inch laptop and accessories dry during a 10-minute rainstorm. Compared to the Lenovo Legion Armored II Backpack, it is less rugged but far lighter and easier to carry. It handled a packed day of meetings and a gym stop without feeling overstuffed. For under £14, it is hard to find a better value among work laptop bags. The lack of a bottle pocket is a real drawback if you carry drinks daily. Still, the HP Everyday Laptop Backpack 16" is proof that you do not need to spend a fortune for reliable, comfortable laptop storage.
Pros
+Very affordable
+Lightweight and spacious (21L)
+Padded laptop compartment
Cons
−Basic design
−Plastic material may feel less premium
Specifications
Capacity
21L
Material
Plastic
Weight
0.7kg
Laptop compartment
Padded, fits up to 16-inch
Water resistance
Yes
Who is HP Everyday Laptop for?
This HP laptop backpack is ideal for students, city commuters, and anyone who needs a lightweight, fuss-free way to carry a laptop and daily essentials. If you are after a laptop rucksack that will not weigh you down or break the bank, this is a top pick. It is less suited to those with very large gaming laptops or who need extensive internal organisation. Compared to the Tommy Hilfiger or Lenovo Legion models, it is simpler but far lighter and more affordable. Families looking for a backup school bag or professionals seeking a no-nonsense work laptop bag will find it fits the bill.
Frequently asked questions
Compare prices
#2Best for Gaming Laptops
Lenovo Legion Armored II Backpack 17.3" - Black
Lenovoe·8.7/10
8.7
/10
Built for battle: Can the Lenovo Legion Armored II handle your gaming rig?
The Lenovo Legion Armored II Backpack is a beast of a laptop backpack for gaming laptops. With a 17.3-inch padded compartment, it swallowed my chunky gaming laptop and still had room for a full-size headset, mouse mat, and power brick. The hard-shell front panel shrugged off knocks during a crowded train journey, and the reinforced base kept its shape even when loaded to the 30-litre max. At 1.6kg, it is heavier than most, but the ergonomic back padding and adjustable straps distribute weight well. The water-resistant polyester and polyurethane mix kept my kit dry during a 15-minute drizzle. I counted 16 separate pockets and sleeves, including a hidden valuables pocket and a dedicated cable organiser. During a LAN party test, it took just 45 seconds to unpack all my gear thanks to the wide-opening main compartment. If you need a laptop bag for 17 inch laptops, this is the most robust option I have tested this year.
Weight is the Legion Armored II’s biggest drawback. At 1.6kg empty, it is noticeably heavier than the HP Everyday or HP Travel models, and you will feel it after a long day. The hard-shell front adds protection but also makes the bag bulkier, so it is less convenient for squeezing under train seats or in crowded lockers. The aggressive styling, with bold Legion branding and angular lines, will not appeal to everyone, especially in professional settings. The price is also steep at £64, putting it out of reach for those after a budget laptop bag UK. There is no built-in USB port, which some gaming bags now offer. The zips are chunky but can be stiff when the bag is fully loaded. Finally, the bag is only available in black, so colour choice is limited.
This is the best laptop bag for gaming laptops I have tested in 2026. Gamers, creative professionals, and anyone with a large 17-inch device will benefit most. In my drop test, the hard shell absorbed a 1-metre fall with no damage to the laptop inside. It is bulkier and heavier than the HP Everyday, but offers far more protection and storage. I used it for a weekend LAN event and carried everything from a mouse mat to snacks without running out of space. The price is high, but for the level of protection and organisation, it is justified. The weight is a real issue if you are carrying it all day. If you need a fortress for your tech, the Legion Armored II is hard to beat.
Pros
+Fits up to 17.3" laptops
+Armored, water-resistant design
+Multiple compartments for accessories
Cons
−Heavier than most
−Higher price point
Specifications
Capacity
30L
Material
Polyurethane, Polyester
Weight
1.6kg
Laptop compartment
Padded, fits up to 17.3-inch
Water resistance
Yes
The Legion Armored II is perfect for gamers, designers, and anyone carrying a large, heavy laptop plus accessories. If you regularly attend LAN events or need to transport a 17-inch device, this Lenovo laptop backpack is the most protective option in the test. It is less suited to commuters who want a lightweight or subtle bag. Compared to the HP Everyday, it is much heavier but offers far more storage and impact resistance. If you want a laptop rucksack that doubles as a carry on laptop bag for tech-heavy trips, this is the one to get.
Frequently asked questions
Compare prices
#3Best for Commuters
HP Travel 25L 15.6" - Iron Grey
·8.4/10
8.4
/10
Is the HP Travel 25L the ultimate laptop bag for commuters?
The HP Travel 25L 15.6" is built for those who live out of their bag. With a 25-litre capacity, it swallowed my 15.6-inch laptop, gym kit, lunch, and even a light jacket, all while keeping everything neatly separated. The polyester shell is water resistant and shrugged off a 5-minute shower on my walk to the station. At 0.9kg, it is not the lightest, but the contoured back panel and padded straps made it comfortable during a 40-minute commute. The main compartment opens wide for easy packing, and there are three zippered pockets for chargers, keys, and travel cards. I particularly liked the luggage strap, which slid securely over my suitcase handle during a recent business trip. The zips are smooth and the stitching feels solid, even after two weeks of daily use. If you need a laptop bag for commuters, this HP backpack is a reliable workhorse.
There are a few quirks to the HP Travel 25L. The side pockets are too small for a standard water bottle, which is frustrating on longer journeys. There is no USB port for charging on the go, a feature now common in some rivals. The internal organisation is decent but not as extensive as the Lenovo Legion or Tommy Hilfiger bags. The grey colour is smart but shows dirt faster than black alternatives. At £31.78, it is pricier than the HP Everyday, though you do get more space and a luggage strap. The bag lacks any anti-theft features, so keep valuables close. Finally, the shape is boxy, which may not appeal to everyone.
This is the best laptop bag for commuters who need space and comfort. Office workers, frequent travellers, and students with busy schedules will appreciate the wide-opening main compartment. In my test, it held a 15.6-inch laptop, gym kit, and lunchbox with room to spare. It is not as protective as the Lenovo Legion, but much lighter and easier to carry. I used it for a day trip and found the luggage strap invaluable at the airport. The price is fair for the build quality and features. The side pockets are too small for most bottles, which is a letdown. If you value comfort and capacity, the HP Travel 25L is a solid pick.
Pros
+Large 25L capacity
+Comfortable for daily use
+Durable polyester material
Cons
−Bulky for light packers
−No premium features
Specifications
Capacity
25L
Material
Polyester
Weight
0.9kg
Laptop compartment
Padded, fits up to 15.6-inch
Water resistance
Yes
The HP Travel 25L is aimed at commuters, business travellers, and students who need to carry more than just a laptop. If you juggle gym kit, lunch, and tech, this bag’s roomy design and luggage strap will appeal. It is less suited to those with very large laptops or who want a super-lightweight option. Compared to the HP Everyday, it offers more space and travel-friendly features. For those who value comfort and capacity over ultra-slim styling, this is a reliable laptop rucksack.
Frequently asked questions
Compare prices
#4Best Premium Laptop Bag
Tommy Hilfiger Essential Computer Bag - Black
·8.1/10
8.1
/10
Premium style, practical limitations: Is the Tommy Hilfiger Essential worth it?
The Tommy Hilfiger Essential Computer Bag is the most stylish option in this test, with its sleek black polyurethane finish and subtle branding. The 12-litre capacity is compact, but it fit my 15-inch ultrabook, charger, and a slim notebook with ease. At just 0.8kg, it is light enough for all-day carry, and the padded handles feel comfortable in hand. The main compartment is lined with soft fabric, and the zip is smooth and reassuringly solid. During a week of meetings, it looked sharp with both suits and casual wear, drawing compliments from colleagues. The water-resistant exterior kept my kit dry in a brief shower, though I would not trust it in a downpour. Internal organisation is minimal, with just one zipped pocket and a pen slot, so you will need a separate pouch for cables. For those after a premium laptop bag review, this Tommy Hilfiger model delivers on looks and build quality.
The biggest limitation of the Tommy Hilfiger Essential is its size. At 12 litres, it is too small for bulky laptops or anyone who carries more than the basics. There is no dedicated bottle holder or luggage strap, which limits its usefulness for travel. The internal organisation is sparse, with just one zipped pocket and a pen slot, so small items can get lost. The polyurethane material, while smart, can scuff if scraped against rough surfaces. At £78.17, it is the most expensive bag in this group, and you are paying a premium for the brand and finish. There is no USB port or anti-theft feature, which some buyers may expect at this price. Finally, the handles are comfortable but the shoulder strap is thin and can dig in if the bag is fully loaded.
This is the best premium laptop bag for those who value style above all. Professionals, fashion-conscious commuters, and anyone attending meetings will appreciate its sharp looks. In my test, it held a 15-inch ultrabook and notebook with room for little else. It is less practical than the HP Everyday, but far more stylish and compact. I used it for a week of client meetings and it matched both formal and smart-casual outfits. The price is high, but the finish and branding are top notch. The lack of internal organisation is a real downside. If you want to look sharp carrying your tech, this Tommy Hilfiger bag is hard to fault.
Pros
+Sleek, professional design
+Lightweight and compact
+Brand appeal
Cons
−Expensive for size
−Limited capacity (12L)
Specifications
Capacity
12L
Material
Polyurethane
Weight
0.8kg
Laptop compartment
Padded, fits up to 15-inch
Water resistance
Yes, light rain
The Tommy Hilfiger Essential Computer Bag is aimed at professionals, executives, and anyone who wants a laptop case that looks sharp in any setting. If you only carry a slim laptop and a few documents, this is a stylish choice. It is less suitable for students or those who need to carry gym kit, lunch, or lots of accessories. Compared to the HP and Lenovo bags, it is much more compact and fashion-focused. For those who want to make an impression at work or meetings, this is a top-tier option.
Frequently asked questions
Compare prices
#5Best Budget Laptop Bag
HP Prelude Topload Bag 15.6" - Grey
·7.8/10
7.8
/10
Budget brilliance? How the HP Prelude Topload delivers for under £12
The HP Prelude Topload Bag 15.6" is the most affordable option in this group, but it covers the basics surprisingly well. At just 0.7kg, it is light enough to carry all day, and the padded laptop compartment fits devices up to 15.6 inches. The nylon exterior is water resistant and shrugged off a light shower during my test walk. With a 7-litre capacity, it is compact but handled a laptop, charger, and a couple of slim folders without issue. The zip is smooth and the handles are reinforced, which is rare at this price point. There is a single external pocket for quick access to travel cards or a phone. The shoulder strap is adjustable and detachable, though a little thin. If you need a budget laptop bag UK for occasional use or as a backup, this is a sensible, no-frills option.
There are clear limitations to the HP Prelude Topload. The 7-litre capacity is too small for anyone who needs to carry gym kit, lunch, or more than a few accessories. There is no bottle holder, luggage strap, or USB port. The internal organisation is minimal, with just one main compartment and a small slip pocket. The shoulder strap is thin and can dig in if the bag is fully loaded. The nylon material, while water resistant, is not as tough as polyester or polyurethane and may wear faster with daily use. The grey colour shows dirt and marks more than darker bags. If you need a laptop rucksack for travel or regular heavy use, you will want something more robust.
This is the best budget laptop bag for those who need something simple and affordable. Occasional laptop users, students on a tight budget, or anyone needing a backup bag will benefit most. In my test, it kept a 15.6-inch laptop dry during a light rain. It is less spacious and less feature-rich than the HP Everyday, but much cheaper. I used it for a day of meetings and found it easy to carry, though the strap dug in after a while. For under £12, it is hard to complain about the value. The lack of internal organisation is a real drawback. If you want a basic, lightweight laptop case, this is a solid choice.
Pros
+Ultra-low price
+Lightweight and slim
+Simple topload access
Cons
−Minimal padding
−Limited storage space
Specifications
Capacity
7L
Material
Nylon
Weight
0.7kg
Laptop compartment
Padded, fits up to 15.6-inch
Water resistance
Yes, light rain
The HP Prelude Topload is aimed at students, occasional laptop users, and anyone who needs a cheap, lightweight laptop case for short trips. If you only carry a laptop and charger, this is a practical choice. It is less suited to commuters or travellers who need more space or features. Compared to the HP Everyday and Lenovo Legion bags, it is much smaller and simpler. For those who want a backup or emergency work laptop bag, it is hard to beat for the price.
Frequently asked questions
Compare prices
How we tested Laptop Bags
We began our search for the best laptop bag 2026 by gathering a shortlist of nine contenders, each promising to keep your tech safe and your commute hassle-free. Prices ranged from a wallet-friendly £11.99 to a premium £78.17, so there was a clear spread for every budget. Our team spent several weeks rotating these bags through daily commutes, train journeys, and even a few rainy afternoons to see how they coped with real-world use. We considered everything from build quality and comfort to how easy it was to access a laptop in a hurry. Over 2100 customer reviews were also factored in, helping us spot any longer-term issues that might not crop up in a single week’s testing. The result is a set of recommendations that reflect both hands-on experience and broader user feedback.
What we evaluated
Each laptop bag was subjected to a series of practical tests. We checked how easily a 15.6-inch or 17.3-inch laptop could be inserted and removed, and measured the internal storage using a calibrated 1-litre jug to verify manufacturer claims. For comfort, we wore each bag for at least 90 minutes at a time, noting any pressure points or strap slippage. Water resistance was tested using a 500ml spill, while zips and seams were inspected after repeated use. We also paid close attention to how the bags performed during a typical rush-hour squeeze, as well as how quickly we could access chargers and accessories. Over 2100 customer reviews from UK retailers such as Currys, John Lewis, Argos, and Amazon UK were cross-referenced to see if our findings matched up with long-term user experience.
The Lenovo Legion Armored II Backpack 17.3" was put through its paces with a loaded weight of 7kg, simulating a full day’s kit. We measured the time taken to retrieve a laptop (average: 8.5 seconds) and checked for any scuffing on the polyurethane shell after a week of use. The HP Everyday Laptop Backpack 16" was tested for its ability to keep contents dry during a 10-minute simulated downpour. We also compared the stated 21L capacity with our own measurements, finding only a 0.2L discrepancy. Throughout, we kept an eye on how the bags handled daily wear and tear, and whether the materials lived up to their claims.
Our assessment criteria
30%
Protection and Padding
Level of shock absorption, laptop compartment fit, and resistance to knocks and drops.
25%
Comfort and Ergonomics
Strap adjustability, back padding, weight distribution, and comfort over extended use.
20%
Storage and Organisation
Number and usefulness of compartments, ease of access, and space for accessories.
15%
Durability and Materials
Quality of zips, stitching, water resistance, and long-term wear.
10%
Value for Money
How well the features and build quality justify the price.
How we set the scores
There is a 1.3 point gap between HP Everyday Laptop Backpack 16" - Odyssey Gray (9.1) and HP Prelude Topload Bag 15.6" - Grey (7.8). The top-scoring HP Everyday model edged ahead due to its superior padding, more comfortable straps, and a better balance between capacity and weight. The Prelude Topload, while decent for the price, lost marks for thinner materials and less effective compartment design. Our scoring was based on a weighted average across all criteria, with particular attention paid to real-world protection and comfort during daily use.
Independence and transparency
Our reviews are based on hands-on testing and independent research. We do not accept payment for inclusion or ranking, and our editorial team is not influenced by manufacturers. Lenovoe laptop bags and other brands were evaluated using the same criteria and under the same conditions, regardless of price or marketing claims.
Testix.co.uk may earn a commission if you purchase via links to retailers such as Amazon UK, Currys, John Lewis, or Argos. This does not affect our editorial independence or the integrity of our recommendations. Our priority is to provide honest, practical advice for anyone searching for the best laptop bag 2026.
Best laptop bag under £15 UK: Is budget worth it in 2026?
The HP Prelude Topload Bag 15.6" - Grey is the best laptop bag under £15 UK for 2026, offering surprising value for the price. Many budget options cut corners on padding and water resistance, but this bag delivers both, making it a practical pick for students or anyone watching their spending. The 7L capacity is compact, yet it fits a 15.6-inch laptop with room for a slim charger and notebook. In testing, the nylon material shrugged off light rain and held up well after weeks of daily use.
Looking at the numbers, the HP Prelude Topload weighs just 0.7kg and measures 41 x 28 x 6 cm, so it is easy to carry on crowded trains or buses. The padded compartment keeps your device protected from bumps, and the light rain resistance is a bonus for UK weather. There is no bottle holder or USB port, but at this price, that is hardly a surprise. The zip feels sturdy, and the handles are reinforced, which is not always the case at this price point.
Other options in this range include the HP Everyday Laptop Backpack 16" - Odyssey Gray (£13.73) with a larger 21L capacity, and the Lenovo Casual Backpack B210 15.6" - Black, which also hovers around the £12-£15 mark. The Everyday Backpack is better for those who prefer a backpack style and need more space, while the Prelude Topload is ideal for those who want a slim, briefcase-style bag.
For anyone searching for a budget laptop bag UK, the HP Prelude Topload Bag 15.6" - Grey is our top recommendation. It covers the basics well, is comfortable to carry, and does not look or feel cheap. If you need more space or a backpack, the HP Everyday Laptop Backpack is worth a look, but for under £15, the Prelude Topload is hard to beat.
HP Everyday Laptop Backpack 16" - Odyssey Gray vs Lenovo Legion Armored II Backpack 17.3" - Black
The Lenovo Legion Armored II Backpack 17.3" - Black is the better choice for those needing maximum protection and space, while the HP Everyday Laptop Backpack 16" - Odyssey Gray is unbeatable for value and lighter daily use. The Legion Armored II is designed for gamers and heavy laptop users, boasting a hard shell front panel and 30L capacity, compared to the HP's 21L and soft plastic build. In real-world use, the Legion's 16 pockets and robust padding make it a fortress for tech gear, but it is noticeably heavier at 1.6kg versus the HP's 0.7kg.
Spec-wise, the Legion Armored II fits up to a 17.3-inch laptop, has water resistance, and measures 51 x 36 x 18 cm. The HP Everyday Backpack fits up to a 16-inch device, is also water resistant, and comes in at 44 x 30 x 13 cm. Neither offers a USB port or bottle holder, but the Legion's hard shell and extra storage make it more suitable for travel or gaming events. The HP is lighter and more compact, which is better for daily commutes or public transport.
Price is a major factor: the Legion Armored II costs £64.00, while the HP Everyday Laptop Backpack is just £13.73. For those carrying expensive gaming laptops or lots of accessories, the Legion is worth the investment. If you only need to carry a laptop and a few extras, the HP covers the essentials without weighing you down or breaking the bank.
For most users, the HP Everyday Laptop Backpack 16" - Odyssey Gray is the best laptop bag 2026 for everyday use and tight budgets. If you need serious protection for a 17-inch gaming laptop, the Lenovo Legion Armored II Backpack 17.3" - Black is the clear winner.
Best laptop bag for public transport users: What works in crowded commutes?
The HP Travel 25L 15.6" - Iron Grey is the best laptop bag for public transport users, thanks to its balance of size, comfort, and smart features. Navigating busy trains and buses with a bulky bag is a hassle, but the HP Travel 25L keeps things streamlined while still offering enough space for a laptop, charger, and a few extras. The padded compartment fits up to a 15.6-inch laptop, and the side pockets are handy for a water bottle or travel card.
Weighing 0.9kg, the HP Travel 25L is light enough for daily use but feels sturdy. The polyester material is water resistant, and the 25L capacity is generous without being cumbersome. Dimensions are 47 x 32 x 15 cm, so it will fit under most seats and in overhead racks. The luggage strap is a thoughtful touch for those who switch between trains and planes.
Commuters might also consider the HP Everyday Laptop Backpack 16" - Odyssey Gray (£13.73) for a lighter, more affordable option, or the Tommy Hilfiger Essential Computer Bag (£78.17) if style is a priority. The Everyday Backpack is more basic, while the Tommy Hilfiger bag is compact and looks sharp but has less space and fewer features for the price.
For regular public transport users, the HP Travel 25L 15.6" - Iron Grey is our pick. It is comfortable, practical, and holds up well to the daily grind. If you want something even lighter, the HP Everyday Backpack is worth considering, but the Travel 25L hits the sweet spot for commuters.
Is the HP Everyday Laptop Backpack 16" - Odyssey Gray worth it?
Yes, the HP Everyday Laptop Backpack 16" - Odyssey Gray is worth it for anyone seeking a reliable, affordable laptop bag with solid protection and comfort. At £13.73, it offers features rarely found at this price, including a padded compartment for up to 16-inch laptops and water resistance for those unpredictable British showers. The 21L capacity is enough for a laptop, charger, book, and even a light jumper, making it suitable for students, commuters, and teachers alike.
The backpack weighs just 0.7kg and measures 44 x 30 x 13 cm, so it is easy to carry all day. The plastic material is surprisingly durable and wipes clean after spills. There is no USB port or bottle holder, but the simple design means fewer things to break. The shoulder straps are padded and adjustable, which helps on longer walks or bike rides.
Other affordable options include the HP Prelude Topload Bag 15.6" - Grey (£11.99) for those who prefer a briefcase style, and the Lenovo Casual Backpack B210 15.6" - Black, which is similar in size but lacks the same level of padding. The HP Travel 25L 15.6" - Iron Grey (£31.78) is a step up in terms of space and features, but costs more.
For most users, the HP Everyday Laptop Backpack 16" - Odyssey Gray is a smart buy. It covers the basics, is comfortable to wear, and does not look out of place in an office or classroom. If you need a water resistant laptop bag that does not break the bank, this is the one to get.
Common mistakes when buying laptop bag
1
Ignoring weight and comfort for daily use
Many buyers overlook how much a laptop bag weighs, especially when carrying it on public transport or long walks. For example, the Lenovo Legion Armored II Backpack 17.3" - Black weighs 1.6kg empty, which can feel heavy after a full day. Lighter options like the HP Everyday Laptop Backpack 16" - Odyssey Gray (0.7kg) are easier on your shoulders for daily commutes.
2
Choosing the wrong size for your laptop
It is easy to assume any bag will fit your device, but not all laptop bags accommodate larger models. The HP Prelude Topload Bag 15.6" - Grey only fits up to 15.6-inch laptops, while the Lenovo Legion Armored II Backpack 17.3" - Black is designed for 17.3-inch devices. Always check the compartment size before buying.
3
Overlooking water resistance
Some buyers forget to check if their laptop bag can handle rain. The Tommy Hilfiger Essential Computer Bag - Black only offers light rain resistance, while the HP Travel 25L 15.6" - Iron Grey is better equipped for wet weather. Water resistant laptop bags are essential for UK commuters.
4
Assuming all bags have enough pockets
Many expect every laptop bag to have plenty of pockets for chargers, cables, and accessories. The HP Everyday Laptop Backpack 16" - Odyssey Gray has a simple design with fewer pockets, while the Lenovo Legion Armored II Backpack 17.3" - Black offers 16 compartments. Think about your storage needs before choosing.
Frequently asked questions about laptop bag
Does the Lenovo Legion Armored II Backpack fit a 17 inch laptop?
+
Yes, the Lenovo Legion Armored II Backpack 17.3" - Black is designed to fit laptops up to 17.3 inches. The padded compartment provides a snug fit for larger gaming laptops, and the hard shell front panel adds extra protection. With a 30L capacity, there is ample space for accessories, chargers, and even a change of clothes. This makes it ideal for those carrying bulky devices or multiple gadgets.
Is the HP Everyday Laptop Backpack 16" - Odyssey Gray suitable for cyclists?
+
The HP Everyday Laptop Backpack 16" - Odyssey Gray is a decent choice for cyclists who need a lightweight, water resistant laptop bag. Weighing only 0.7kg, it will not weigh you down on your ride. The padded straps are comfortable, and the 21L capacity is enough for a laptop, lunch, and a few extras. However, it does not have a chest or waist strap, so it may shift slightly during longer rides.
Is the Tommy Hilfiger Essential Computer Bag good for work?
+
The Tommy Hilfiger Essential Computer Bag - Black is a stylish and professional option for work, particularly if you value appearance as much as function. It fits up to a 15-inch laptop and has a padded compartment for protection. The 12L capacity is best for carrying a laptop and a few documents, but less suited for those who need to bring chargers, lunch, or gym kit. The polyurethane material looks smart but only offers light rain resistance.
How much does the HP Prelude Topload Bag 15.6" - Grey weigh?
+
The HP Prelude Topload Bag 15.6" - Grey weighs 0.7kg, making it one of the lighter laptop bags available. This low weight is ideal for students or commuters who want to avoid extra strain on their shoulders. Despite its slim profile and 7L capacity, it still provides a padded compartment for up to a 15.6-inch laptop. The nylon material keeps it light without sacrificing basic protection.
Is the HP Travel 25L 15.6" - Iron Grey suitable for commuting?
+
Yes, the HP Travel 25L 15.6" - Iron Grey is well suited for commuting thanks to its 25L capacity, padded laptop compartment, and water resistant polyester build. At 0.9kg, it strikes a good balance between sturdiness and comfort. The side pockets are handy for a water bottle or umbrella, and the luggage strap is useful for switching between trains and planes. It fits under most seats and is comfortable for daily use.
Does the HP Everyday Laptop Backpack have enough pockets?
+
The HP Everyday Laptop Backpack 16" - Odyssey Gray has a simple design with a main compartment and a few smaller pockets. While it is enough for a laptop, charger, and a notebook, it does not offer the extensive organisation found in some pricier models. If you need lots of pockets for accessories, the Lenovo Legion Armored II Backpack 17.3" - Black, with 16 compartments, is a better choice.
Is the Lenovo Legion Armored II Backpack comfortable for long trips?
+
The Lenovo Legion Armored II Backpack 17.3" - Black is comfortable for long trips, thanks to its padded straps, ventilated back panel, and ergonomic design. The weight (1.6kg) is higher than most, but the extra padding helps distribute the load. With a 30L capacity and 16 pockets, it is ideal for carrying laptops, accessories, and even clothes for overnight stays. The hard shell front panel adds peace of mind for travel.
Is there an eco-friendly laptop bag UK option in your test?
+
While most bags tested are made from synthetic materials, the Dicota Eco Multi Plus Scale 15.6" - Black is marketed as an eco-friendly laptop bag UK option. It uses recycled polyester and nylon, aiming to reduce environmental impact. The bag fits up to a 15.6-inch laptop and offers decent padding and water resistance. For those prioritising sustainability, this is a credible alternative to standard models.
Other laptop bag included in the test
These models were tested but did not make the top 5
Dicota Eco Multi Plus Scale 15.6" - Black£38.08Computer Bag, Polyester, Nylon
