Which is better, a laptop bag or a backpack?
If you have a long daily commute and/or have a bit of a walk to get to the office, you’re better off with a backpack than you are with a laptop case or pouch. They’re much better for your spine and shoulders for everyday use thanks to the double (and adjustable) straps, and spread the weight more evenly so you don’t get an achy arm. Don’t worry, though, you don’t have to go full-on hiker style with one that features a sternum strap.
Pre-2020 a lot of us didn’t even have laptops, but if we did they’d be left at our desks when we went home each night. Now, since hybrid working is a more permanent thing, taking your valuables with you wherever you go is somewhat of a non-negotiable, so it’s important you acquire the correct protection for carrying them around. Yes, we’re making direct eye contact with those of you who think one of those free cotton tote bags you get from the bookstore is a suitable method of transportation for your worldly goods.
How to wear a laptop backpack correctly
In terms of how to carry your laptop backpack, this is what The Physio Company recommends:
- Avoid anything heavier than 10% of your body weight.
- Go the smallest design possible (making sure your laptop still fits) to avoid overpacking it and carrying unnecessary items.
- Don’t go for anything wider or longer than your own torso, as this will affect your balance.
- Tighten your straps as much as feels comfortable to keep the backpack close to your spine.
- If you do end up wearing it over one shoulder for any reason, try swapping sides as often as possible to avoid tension.
How we tested the best laptop backpacks in this round-up:
We at GLAMOUR all work in London at least three days a week and travel in from various areas in England, so we’ve been hunting for something that’ll help those early starts feel a little less stressful – and that’s where laptop backpacks come in. We’ve tested our faves (see the above three) and rated the below designs out of five stars in terms of their durability, price, capacity and style credentials. We’ve also provided specifications to save you the time of searching for them yourself, alongside pros and cons to consider before purchasing. Read more about how we test here.
For more from GLAMOUR UK’s Senior Commerce Writer Georgia Trodd, follow her on Instagram @georgiatrodd.
