<p>That said, transporting a computer around town requires a laptop bag. It doesn’t need to be anything crazy technical—just a bag that comfortably fits your laptop will do the trick. From there, you can narrow down your search to ultimately find the laptop bag that’s best for you (find more tips at the end of this list!). For most people, laptop bags, <a href=”https://www.elle.com/fashion/shopping/g39563033/best-leather-totes/” target=”_blank”>leather tote bags</a>, and other <a href=”https://www.elle.com/fashion/shopping/g39970546/best-work-bags-for-women/” target=”_blank”>work bags</a> are basically synonymous. Because I know the power of personal recommendations, I’ve rounded up a list of shoppable options that ELLE editors have personally vouched for, plus a few additional options that are just too good to miss. </p>” />
Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
Undoubtedly, Telfar is the bag of the moment. (Thanks, Beyonce!) Although the viral style is often sold out, we recommend snapping one up if you get the chance.
Fits: Up to 13” laptop (for medium size)
Dimensions: Height: 10.7 inches x width: 10.7 inches x depth: 5 inches (for medium size)
ELLE’s endorsement: “I like to consider the medium Telfar Shopping Tote my ludicrously capacious bag. The beauty (and versatility) of Telfar’s popular Shopping Tote is that it can be whatever the hell you want it to be, because it holds everything you need to make it through the workday. Each morning, the bright champagne gold hue stands out among my pile of unsuccessful work ‘fits, and it houses all 12 of my nude lip glosses, my Macbook, a Tupperware packed with a homecooked meal, and a collection of ketchup packets (who loves dry fries, anyway?).”—Nerisha Penrose, beauty commerce editor
Pros
- Posture-friendly
- Lots of organization
- Luggage trolley
- Fits 15” laptop
Posture posse, rise up! Pick from 24 color options and organize all your bits and bobs in this pocketed faux leather backpack.
Fits: Up to 15” laptop
Dimensions: Height: 15.5 inches x width: 11.5 inches x depth: 4.5 inches
ELLE’s endorsement: “As a firm believer in backpacks for work, this Calpak bag is the one I get complimented on the most. It’s chic, comes in a variety of colors, and has plenty of pockets to keep your things organized.”—Carine Lavache, social media editor
This is the backpack that finally made me retire my (old) tried-and-true The North Face backpack. With plenty of organization, a detachable pouch, and a key leash, this bag really is all that.
Fits: Up to 15” laptop
Dimensions: Height: 16.5 inches x width: 12.2 inches x depth: 6.9 inches
ELLE’s endorsement: “Some bags seem to weigh even more than my laptop does, but this MZ Wallace backpack is feather light. I also appreciate the luggage sleeve that slips easily over my carry on handle when I’m traveling.”—Sara Austin, executive editor
Pros
- High quality
- Real leather
Cons
- Pricey
- Straps aren’t adjustable
For those looking to live la dolce vita, fine leather brand Tramontano is well worth a look.
Fits: Up to 12” laptop
Dimensions: Height: 11 inches x width: 9.8 inches x depth: 6.2 inches
ELLE’s endorsement: “Neapolitan brand Tramontano has been making some of the finest bags in the world since it was founded in 1865. The materials are soft but strong—and the brand’s large totes are big enough to hold your laptop plus a pair of commuting shoes and more.”—Rose Minutaglio, senior editor
One truly great, big black tote bag could likely replace your entire bag collection.
Fits: Up to 16” laptop
Dimensions: Height: 12.5 inches x width: 18 inches x depth: 12 inches
ELLE’s endorsement: “I just got this Commission bag and it’s officially my new LCB (Ludicrously Capacious Bag). Laptop, phone charger, portable fan, my entire toiletry bag…check!”—Kevin LeBlanc, fashion associate
Large and In Charge
Saint Laurent Leather Shopping Tote Bag
Large and In Charge
Saint Laurent Leather Shopping Tote Bag
Pros
- Real leather
- Investment piece
Cons
- Expensive
- Only available in black
This streamlined silhouette is classy, clean, and timeless. The detachable keyring? That’s pure function.
Fits: Up to 16” laptop
Dimensions: Height: 16 inches x width: 13 inches x depth: 5 inches
ELLE’s endorsement: “It may not be great for my back, but this tote bag holds my MacBook Air perfectly and has a pouch for miscellaneous belongings (keys, phone, AirPods).”—Claire Stern, digital deputy editor
Everyday Purse
Dagne Dover Cruz Messenger Bag
Everyday Purse
Dagne Dover Cruz Messenger Bag
Now 49% Off
This holds all your essentials (it even has an insulated neoprene water bottle holder!) and packs a real organizational punch, all the while, it looks like a handbag.
Fits: Up to 13” laptop
Dimensions: Height: 10 inches x width: 14.25 inches x depth: 4 inches
ELLE’s endorsement: “I’m a girl on the go. Most days, I’m running from work meetings to workout classes to happy hours all in one not-so-fell swoop. The problem? I don’t want that fact to be obvious. I’m tired of lugging around a giant backpack or juggling four overstuffed totes. This is basically a shoulder purse (very similar to one I love from Baggu), but it fits a laptop. Ingenuity.”—Meg Donohue, associate fashion commerce editor
I believe it’s your god-given right to put that hard-earned paycheck toward whatever you want. This bag makes a mighty fine option.
Fits: Up to 16” laptop
Dimensions: Height: 11.4 inches x width: 16.9 inches x depth: 3.5 inches
ELLE’s endorsement: “Saint Laurent has had a bevy of spacious bags come out in the last few years, including the Icare Maxi that was beloved by street style stars, and this season it’s continuing with the oversized trend we love with the Jamie 4.3 bag. It’s everything a classic black bag should have: gold hardware, plush quilted leather, and multiple ways to wear it. It’s also coincidentally perfectly sized for a laptop.”—Kevin LeBlanc, fashion associate
For a look that’s both posh and polished, a messenger briefcase style is the way to go.
Fits: Up to 15.6” laptop for smaller size, or 17.3” laptop for larger size
Dimensions: Height: 12.4 inches x width: 15.1 inches x depth: 4.13 inches (for smaller size)
Customer review: “The design and functionality of my bag make it a go-to favorite for everyday work usage. There is enough space for a 17” laptop, a wireless mouse, and other essentials. The computer is well padded and secured with a velcro strap and zippered section. I highly recommend this bag, and many have asked where to buy one.”
Pros
- Affordable
- Dual straps
Add this bag to the ever-growing list of things you just love about Target.
Fits: Up to 14” laptop
Dimensions: Height: 11.88 inches x width: 16.5 inches x depth: 5.25 inches
Customer review: “Really cute bag and well-made! The middle zipper pocket for your laptop expands however, the side pockets with the magnetic button closure can only take flat items such as a notebook or a flat bag for chargers and accessories. Love the Crossbody strap, and that the handles are big enough for you to carry it on your shoulder.”
Fan Favorite
BAGSMART Laptop Briefcase for Women
Fan Favorite
BAGSMART Laptop Briefcase for Women
Now 11% Off
Cons
- Only available in two colors
If you need a bag that really performs, this sleek style provides tons of organization, storage, and functionality.
Fits: Up to 17” laptop
Dimensions: Height: 12.5 inches x width: 17 inches x 4.5 inches
Customer review: “I really like this bag. Really, I live in this bag. There is so much room. Holds my laptop, tablet, iPhone, all the cords and connectors, paperwork, and if I don’t feel like carrying a purse, it holds all that stuff, too. The bag feels durable, is nicely padded, and protects the laptop well…This is definitely the best and most versatile computer bag I have ever owned.”
This bag looks like it could be designer, and that’s only one reason to buy it.
Fits: Up to 15.6” laptop
Dimensions: Height: 12.6 inches x width: 16.7 inches x depth: 5.7 inches
Customer review: “I bought this for an interview because I usually carry a backpack. I have received so many compliments and it has lots of room to carry my laptop, cables, notebooks, and water bottle. It can even double as your purse if you don’t want to carry two bags. I bought the tan color and it looks so expensive despite the reasonable price.”
Sturdy and Simple
Targus Classic Slim Business Bag
Sturdy and Simple
Targus Classic Slim Business Bag
You mean business. This bag shows it. It’s worth noting this briefcase has a reinforced back to help protect papers and important documents.
Fits: Up to 15.6” laptop
Dimensions: Height: 12.8 inches x width: 16.75 inches x depth: 3.25 inches
Customer review: “This bag is a great option for anyone who needs a functional, well-designed laptop case…Despite being quite spacious, this bag is not bulky or cumbersome to carry around. I appreciate that it can easily fit in tight spaces like under airplane seats or in overhead compartments. The bag is also very ergonomic, with a comfortable, adjustable shoulder strap that makes it easy to carry even for extended periods of time.”
Cuyana’s sustainable messenger bag is perfect for work on weekdays, leisure on the weekends, and travel anytime in between.
Fits: Up to 13” laptop, or 16” laptop for larger size
Dimensions: Height: 10.4 inches x width: 15 inches x depth: 3.9 inches (for larger size)
Tote Bag
Asos DESIGN Laptop Compartment Tote Bag
Tote Bag
Asos DESIGN Laptop Compartment Tote Bag
Now 20% Off
Pros
- Affordable
- Stylish
Cons
- Might not be durable
Dress for the job you want, right?
Fits: Up to 15” laptop
Dimensions: Height: 15 inches x width: 14 inches x depth: 5 inches
Customer review: “This bag is absolutely beautiful and has a lot more space than I imagined. It has nice space for laptop which is very firm and soft with extra protection. It also looks like it costs more than it actually does. Beautiful bag, don’t rethink it, GET IT!”
What to Consider When Buying a Laptop Bag
- Form: Do you have a preferred type of bag? If your laptop is particularly heavy, or you suffer from back or shoulder pain, it might be wise to consider a backpack rather than a shoulder or tote bag. Do you need something that securely closes at the top, or would you prefer easy access to the contents? Think about your routine and how you imagine you’ll use the bag. If you already have one, what do you wish was different about your current bag?
- Size: What size is your laptop? Be careful to check measurements and ensure your laptop will actually fit in the bag. Will you need to store anything additional in the bag? Do you need space to fit gym shoes, a change of clothes, or a lunchbox?
- Versatility: Think about whether you’re buying a bag strictly for your laptop or if you’re buying a bag that happens to hold your laptop. Will this be used for non-computer purposes, or is it your dedicated work bag?
- Features: You want your bag to be specific to you, as much as possible. If you’re constantly digging for your keys, look for a bag with a key leash. If you are an avid brown-bag luncher, perhaps one with insulation. If you, like me, don’t go anywhere without your water canteen, you’ll want to check if a bag has space for it. You can also look out for features like charging ports, detachable pouches/shoe bags, or luggage trolleys depending on your lifestyle and needs.
- Style: Lastly, style counts! If you want it to, that is. There’s no use in having a stunning bag that is barely of any real use. Trust me—I’ve got the shoulder pain to prove it. There are lots of bags that offer style and function, so don’t feel like you have to skimp on personal flair if you go with a smart option.
Associate Fashion Commerce Editor
Meg is the Associate Fashion Commerce Editor at ELLE.com where she researches trends, tests products, and looks for answers to all your burning questions. She also co-writes a monthly column, Same Same But Different. Meg has previously written for Cosmopolitan and Town & Country. Her passions include travel, buffalo sauce, and sustainability. She will never stop hoping for a One Direction reunion tour.
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