If you are going back to school, you are going to need a great backpack. We can certainly help you there and we will make sure our recommendations have plenty of pockets and security to protect your laptop, tablet, and any other tech you see fit for everyday carry. Also, these picks will help you show off a little bit of style. The only thing we can't help with is your decision to use one strap or two straps on your first day back.
Incase Designs Corp ICON Backpack
Sometimes the best choice is something sleek and simple that has all the features necessary to get the job done. I think the ICON, from Incase, is one of those bags with a fairly streamlined design and an assortment of pockets and compartments to keep things organized. The top two most important are going to be the dedicated 15" laptop compartment and a side zip pocket that is perfect for holding a tablet. The main compartments offer slip pockets for organizing your notebooks and papers while a front pocket organizer will keep your pens and electronic accessories nice and safe. On top of this, it has side zip storage pockets, a plush-lined top drop pocket ideal for phones, and adjustable shoulder straps. It also comes in Black, Anthracite, Bronze, Deep Red, Gray, Navy, and Red.
Lowepro StreetLine BP 250 Backpack
Going to college in a big city and want something smaller that won't make you enemies every time you step into a subway car? I would have to recommend the StreetLine BP 250 Backpack, from Lowepro. This is a slimmer and smaller option, designed for everyday carry, and has the added benefit of a removable FlexPocket System for holding your photography equipment when the day calls for it. This system will hold a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a couple of smaller lenses, flash, and some accessories. As for your other electronics, the pack has a 13" laptop pocket and can also fit a tablet with ease.
Made from 600D Oxford polyester and cotton blend with a 3X PU weather and abrasion coating, the bag will hold up in some inclement weather. It has a reinforced bottom for durability and is trimmed with weather for added style. There are more organization options, as well, with a zipper pocket on the top flap, a side-access zipper to the interior compartment, a side pocket for accessories, and more. There is even a padded shoulder harness and waist belt for all-day comfort.
Thule Subterra Daypack
Another commuter-friendly option is the Thule Subterra Daypack, available in Dark Shadow (black), Poseidon (blue), and Sand (tan). It holds a 15" MacBook and a 10.1" tablet with bumper protection specifically for the laptop pocket. There is also two-way access to your devices and a removable accessory compartment. A quick-access expandable front pocket is perfect for items like chargers, while a hidden vertical pocket will be good for holding headphones or a wallet. Additionally, it has a dual daisy-chain attachment system, which lets you hook up carabiners, lights, bungee cords, and more to store additional items.
Pelican MPB25 Mobile Protect Backpack
Pelican is widely known for its impressive hard cases. They are generally completely waterproof and able to get thrown from a moving truck and survive. Even so, Pelican does have some soft bags in its arsenal, and I want to highlight the MPB25 Mobile Protect Backpack. As the name implies, and Pelican's long history of durable gear, this pack is designed to keep your portable electronics safe. Inside the main compartment you will find a padded sleeve for your laptop. Also, this bag features organization pockets in the main compartment and side pockets with tuck-away attachment loops. The bag is also water resistant and made from a 1000D nylon coated in DWR. This is a solid, reliable bag with reflective logos for safety at night. You can pick it up in OD Green, Black or Gray, and it also comes in 20L and 35L versions.
Peak Design Everyday Backpack
My everyday backpack is, well, the Everyday Backpack from Peak Design. Available in 20L and 30L varieties, I find the smaller 20L to be a better pick for daily use, and you can read about my experiences with it here. However, one important thing to note about this bag is that you may struggle to fit your textbooks in it. Designed as a camera bag first, if set up properly it could easily find itself at home in the classroom. The main advantage of this bag is the FlexFold system, allowing you to adjust the bag quickly and easily to hold various gear, such as a camera body and multiple lenses. These can be moved around and completely taken out to make more space if needed for versatility. Also, the top of the bag has a MagLatch System for quickly expanding and contracting the bag to make room based on what you are carrying that day. There are two side pockets that can even hold a tripod, and it is constructed from a Kodra fabric with a weatherproof DWR coating. You can purchase this bag in Ash, Black, Charcoal, and Heritage Tan.
Do you have a favorite backpack? Tell us about it in the Comments section, below!