For as long as I can remember, I was advised to wear a backpack to save my posture, instead of trendy totes and cross-body bags. I guiltily ignored this – but fast forward a few decades, I am on a mission to find the best women’s backpacks that are practical, durable, versatile, comfortable and stylish.

For the modern woman, there’s a vast range of backpacks to suit every occasion, need and contents. Many assume these cumbersome designs compromise on style – though I beg to differ.

Whether you’re replacing your reliable backpack that has weathered every storm (quite literally), looking for a robust backpack for travelling and the commute, or a chic backpack for everyday wear, look no further.

I consider myself a bag connoisseur and a serial overpacker. In fact, I have acquired the nickname “Maisie Poppins” because I carry everything but the kitchen sink in my bags.

Over a couple of months, I’ve tested backpacks on aesthetics (style, fabric quality, personalisation, among other intricate design features), alongside waterproof credentials and durability. I noted the backpacks’ capacity and whether the designs had separate compartments to fit my 13-inch MacBook Air and smaller valuables.

I considered how comfortable and durable each backpack felt with a heavy load – did the straps support my shoulders or dig in? Lastly, I noted the cost of each backpack to assess whether the quality matched the price tag.

Read more: 5 best women's work bags for back-to-the-office, chosen by a fashion expert

What we love: Numerous compartments including an anti-theft pouch for valuables and laptop sleeve, holds 12 litres, is lightweight, sleek design, water-repellent, compact backpack and versatile.

Take note: Can attach to a pram with buggy straps, but they are not included.

This lightweight backpack has garnered over 1,000 glowing reviews, and I can see why. Eerything has a home, and, as a person who loves a pocket, I’m extremely grateful for it. Inside the large compartment is a slim zip pouch for valuables, a laptop sleeve that housed my MacBook Air, and even more space for other belongings. There is a deep pouch at the front of the backpack to house other taller items, such as a notebook or valuables, and a secret anti-theft zip-up pocket near the back for my valuables.

Kapten & Son has paid close attention to the finer details too. The main compartment features an elastic pouch for a water bottle or umbrella inside to avoid tipping over and ruining the contents, or losing on the streets of London. However, I personally prefer a bottle holder to sit outside of a bag just to avoid any possible spillages. Plus, there are two small loops at the top of the bag that fasten to a buggy, which proves how versatile this backpack is.

Forced to find fault, the matte-finish can show greasy fingerprints, so let your hand cream fully absorb before reaching for this bag. That said, this sleek design swiftly became my go- to bag for everyday wear, it was robust enough for several commutes on the London Underground, and received many compliments.

• Sizes available: Tromso and Small Tromso
• Laptop compartment: Yes for 13” laptop

What we love: Most affordable backpack, numerous compartments, large main compartment, laptop section is padded for extra protection, adjustable straps, chic design with textured exterior.

New Look items sell out fast.

I have tested a variety of designs from New Look, including accessories, and they truly do stand the test of time, deliver on comfort and look stylish. Case in point is the Black Faux Leather Rectangle Zip Pocket Backpack, which looks more premium than it’s sub-£30 price tag thanks to the contrasting textures and gold-tone accents.

I largely used this backpack to carry my laptop in, and the rectangular shape created sufficient space to do so without crushing the device. Plus, the laptop insert is padded, and provides extra protection, which is a huge green flag. This backpack also features a front pocket, a separate section inside dedicated to my phone, as well as adjustable straps. However, the straps are slim, so take care not to overload this bag to prevent the straps from snapping after consistent wear. It’s also important to note that this bag is not water- repellent, so take care of the faux suede section in the rain. Top tip: I sprayed a suede protector on the bag just to be safe.

• Sizes available: One size
• Laptop compartment: Yes – 14” laptop

What we love: Stylish and compact design, available in numerous colours, features adjustable straps, main compartment has zip and button closure for safety, easy to fold away and store when not in use.

Take note: Limited pockets, lighter colours can scuff easily, and expensive.

While many own the Le Pliage Tote, the Le Pliage One Backpack is worth having on your radar too, though is better suited for everyday wear, rather than cross-country expeditions.

This charming design follows the brand’s signature style, as it has been crafted from recycled polyamide canvas and a contrast leather trim for a premium finish, which is available in five colours. The beauty of Le Pliage designs is that they are compact. This creation is lightweight and slimline to wear, plus it folds into a neat envelope to store when not in use, which I appreciated as I have limited storage space in my London flat.

Le Pliage One Backpack features one main compartment, which was large enough to house my slimline laptop, as well as a small pouch that held my wallet and a small set of keys, though it was too small for my iPhone 14. Admittedly, I would have liked more pockets to keep all my belongings organised, and space is limited. That said, the main compartment can be securely fastened with a zip and snap-button closure, while the straps are thicker and more durable than I expected.

• Sizes available: One size
• Five – black, beige, anthracite, burgundy and lime
• 26 cm (L) x 37 cm (H) x 11 cm (W)
• Recycled canvas with cowhide leather trim
• Laptop compartment: No

What we love: Personalisation available, made from vegan fabric, laptop compartment, the main compartment is spacious, features two smaller front compartments, available in two colours, the straps are adjustable and it is comfortable to wear.

Take note: Would prefer an additional zip fastening inside for extra protection.

Katie Loxton’s bags are among my most used everyday bags because they are durable and stylish. I swapped out the designer-inspired woven Nova Shoulder Bag for the Tara Twist Lock Backpack, and it did not disappoint.

The Tara Twist Lock Backpack has been crafted from smooth vegan leather, which is supple yet durable, and features gold-tone hardware that elevates this backpack. What makes this backpack stand out is that it can be personalised with monogramming or embroidery, which I appreciated as I struggled to find my name on any stationery as a child.

This backpack not only looks chic, but is surprisingly spacious. The padded laptop sleeve easily housed my MacBook Air, while the main compartment had enough room for a just-in- case jumper, umbrella, notebook and bottle. The backpack also boasts two separate front pockets, perfect for accessing my keys, and a side water bottle pouch. My only criticism is that all three compartments have a twist-lock closure, and I would have preferred an additional zip fastening, particularly in the main section, for extra security. It also felt heavier than other designs when I filled it with the same daily essentials, which was unusual.

• Sizes available: One size
• Laptop compartment: Yes, up to 15” laptop

Backpack with several compartments

What we love: Spacious backpack, several compartments to house all your belongings safely, water-repellent, padded straps for extra comfort.

Take note: The backpack sits longer in the body.

New Balance has struck the perfect balance between a functional yet stylish bag. The Wayfinder Backpack features six external compartments, including a large laptop sleeve to fit my laptop in its padded case, and a laptop slip inside the main compartment, so rest assured there is sufficient space to house larger models safely, which was reassuring for me.

The two front pockets on this backpack were spacious enough to fit my keys, sunglasses, card holder, phone, and other bits and bobs in one, which was another pleasant surprise. Plus, the wide padded straps made this backpack ultra-comfortable to wear without digging into my shoulders, even when the backpack was filled to the brim. While it is not listed as water-repellent, this bag endured a drizzly September day without ruining the contents inside.

The only slight drawback is that the bag feels longer compared to other designs, such as Kapten & Son, though it’s not as large as Proviz or Columbia’s backpacks. For reference, I’m 5’11”, and I could feel the bag skimming the top of my JLo derrière (I wish). So, if you are shorter in the body, this bag may feel like it falls longer or sits lower down the back.

• Sizes available: One size
• One – dark night
• 47cm H x 35.6 cm W x 17.8 cm D
• Laptop compartment: Yes

What we love: Handcrafted design, premium backpack, durable and robust, can be personalised, features front pocket and main compartment, can hold a 13” laptop.

Take note: Rigid structure doesn’t stretch, buckle fastening on the straps is long, personalisation comes at additional £7, and most expensive.

I have long admired Cambridge Satchel’s iconic Saddle bags, but the backpack style is more practical for the office as it looks more sophisticated than other backpacks.

The bag features a large compartment, as well as a smaller front pocket. Although there isn’t a dedicated laptop slip, the portrait shape and rigidity of this backpack lend themselves to carrying a laptop carefully inside. This backpack can be secured with a buckle fastening, though this can be fiddly to undo in a rush or in the dark. In my opinion, the Portrait Backpack could benefit from a magnetic fastening for ease, or an additional zip fastening across the main compartment to prevent rain creeping inside – or worse. The straps are also quite long, and even on the tightest option the backpack sits low down my back.

Like all the brand’s designs, this backpack is an investment piece as it has been handcrafted in England using sustainably sourced leather, which achieves a rigid rectangular structure and a robust design to withstand a busy Underground carriage, though there isn’t much stretch, so pack the contents carefully.

Although the Portrait Backpack isn’t technically water-repellent, and I’ve not chanced wearing this bag in a downpour, it kept my belongings protected during a bout of fine rain. That said, the Portrait Backpack needs TLC, and Cambridge Satchel Co. recommends applying a leather conditioner to maintain the supple texture and prevent the leather from drying out. Although I haven’t needed to do this step yet, Cambridge Satchel also offers a repair service to mend the design, just in case.

• Sizes available: The Backpack and the Small Portrait Backpack
• 36cm x 25.5cm x 9cm
• Laptop compartment: Yes fits 13-inch laptop

What we love: Unique layout with open flap, durable design, features a back strap to fit to the suitcase handle, numerous compartments, has a hidden valuables area, eco-conscious creation, lightweight, compact and streamline design, suitable cabin bag for most airlines.

Take note: The lighter colourways can mark easily.

I am the proud owner of numerous Antler suitcases, so I had high expectations for the brand’s Urban Light Backpack, which exceeded my expectations.

This backpack is versatile, compact, streamlined, lightweight, spacious, and ultra-chic, which makes it perfect for travelling, especially as it fits the cabin bag measurements for most airlines, as well as my commute. This design claims to hold up to 17 litres, which I equate to a MacBook Air, notebook, three outfits, trainers, a water bottle and my valuables. This streamlined design boasts three external pockets, including a dedicated laptop sleeve, and two side pouches to hold a water bottle, as well as numerous internal compartments, which is ideal for a Type A person like me. The shoulder straps are wide and padded for comfortable wear, while the backstrap slips neatly over the handle of a suitcase to whizz through the airport effortlessly.

The recycled polyester has a buttery-soft, velvet texture, which elevates this travel-friendly backpack. But the standout feature is its open layout, like the flap-style design of a suitcase, which makes it easy to pack, and pull out specific items without rummaging through the entire contents. Admittedly, I was dubious about the flap opening, and I feared my clothes would fall out when I unzipped the bag, but the side poppers prevent that faux pas.

• Sizes available: One
• Four – Taupe, navy, forest green and black.
• 41.5 x 28 x 15 cm
• Laptop compartment: Yes

What we love: Numerous pockets and pouches, separate laptop sleeve, durable fabric, stylish design, water-resistant, and adjustable straps.

Take note: Straps are thin and have adjustable buckle fastening that doesn’t feel secure.

Luella Grey’s Casey Backpack is a chic design that is perfect to wear every day and to the office. The main compartment is well sized to fit a laptop, a book, as well as a jumper and my valuables, which I divided between the inner zip pouch and inside slip pocket to keep smaller items organised. I also appreciated the dedicated laptop compartment with a zip closure at the back of the bag, which claims to fit a 13” laptop, though I think there is space for larger models. The main compartment features a twist-lock closure, as well as magnetic fastenings on the side to cinch in the bag to prevent areas from gaping open, though these popped open when I overfilled the bag.

The PU fabric offers a pebble grain faux-leather texture, which feels more premium than other designs. Although it isn’t waterproof, it was durable enough to withstand light rain. The main downside was that the straps are thin, so they dug into my shoulders after long wear. I also feared the adjustable buckle fastenings on the straps would come loose, and the bag would drop off, or the thin straps would break after consistently cramming this bag for weeks on end. While it is spacious inside, the Katie Loxton backpack can hold more.

• Sizes available: One size
• Three – Fawn, black and black cherry
• 34 cm x 27 cm x 12.5 cm
• Laptop compartment: Yes - fits 13” laptop

What we love: Fabletics members can shop for £28.20, several compartments including a padded laptop compartment, features a luggage sleeve, water-repellent and wrinkle resistant fabric, and padded adjustable straps.

Take note: Limited colourways, and only discounted for Fabletics members.

Fabletics’ aptly named The Sleek Backpack is a worthy contender for those looking for a multifunctional, durable and spacious backpack. But, don’t be put off by the £94 price tag, Fabletics members can purchase this bag for £28.20, which is incredible value for money considering the quality, design, and durability.

This backpack has been crafted from Don RepelKnit fabric, which is water-repellent, wrinkle-resistant, and super soft. Inside, this backpack boasts two large compartments, including a padded laptop sleeve that fits my MacBook Air with extra space to house other stationery, as well as another large compartment to fit a change of gym clothes. The front features three zip-up pockets, which I used to store my keys, sunglasses, hand sanitiser and headphones to avoid them getting lost in the larger compartments. I’m usually wary about storing valuables in front pockets, but the discreet fastening on the top of each pocket felt safe.

This backpack also features adjustable, padded straps, which made this design ultra-comfortable to wear, even when the backpack was full. It also features a top handle and a luggage sleeve, similar to Antler, which makes this a versatile bag to take anywhere, even when travelling.

• Sizes available: One size
• Approx 41 cm x 31 cm x 14 cm
• Laptop compartment: Yes

Backpack for large capacity

What we love: Holds up to 35 litres, roll top and air valve can compress the bag to be more compact, durable design, dedicated laptop compartment to fit large devices, heavy duty design, waterproof and taped seams for extra protection from rain.

Take note: The side water bottle pouches need to be tighter.

Delta Roam’s Roll Top Backpack is the largest, most durable and heavy-duty backpack I have tested, which is perfect for those who love the outdoors and travelling. With an impressive capacity of 35 litres, this backpack has more than enough space to hold my laptop, notebook, a Stanley water bottle, umbrella, valuables, a change of gym clothes, jumper, jacket, and a small food shop, with plenty of room to spare. This backpack features numerous compartments inside and outside, including a dedicated laptop compartment to store my laptop in its case safely. My only frustration was that the side pockets were loose and shallow, which meant my water bottle kept falling out.

However, the care and attention set this backpack out from the crowd. I appreciated the waterproof PU fabric and reinforced taped seams, which prevent moisture from seeping inside and spoiling the contents – essential for hiking. The air valve is another innovative design feature, which allowed me to release air when I was wearing the bag, and compress it after use to store it neatly away. Plus, the trio of fastenings - zip, roll top and buckle closures - kept my belongings protected.

• Sizes available: Two – Roll Top Rucksack and Roll Top Large Rucksack
• Three – Black, green and blue.
• Unrolled – 31cm x 18.5cm x 70cm
• Laptop compartment: Yes – 15” laptop

Backpack for colour variety

What we love: Numerous pockets (inside and out), concealed anti-theft pocket, a laptop sleeve, robust adjustable straps, vegan-friendly, multiple colours and prints available, also available in different sizes

Take note: The laptop sleeve may be too small for larger devices.

With over 60 colourways to choose from, it’s safe to say I was spoilt for choice. I opted for the leopard print Canfield Backpack because it’s a timeless fashion trend, and it’s rare to find an animal print backpack.

This backpack has been crafted from recycled nylon, which felt thicker and more hard-wearing than other backpacks I have tested. The cotton woven straps are thick, durable and robust enough to hold my hefty backpack without digging into my shoulders or fraying after consistent wear. The bag itself boasts several compartments, which I loved. Inside there is a large compartment with a laptop sleeve big enough to house my device, internal zip pockets where I kept my valuables, and a secret slip pocket outside the backpack, as well as a front pocket for easy access and two side pouches for a water bottle or umbrella.

Similar to the Delta Roam bag, this design features a zip fastening, a roll-top design and magnetic holders, so this bag felt super safe. However, the roll top only rolls once, so if the bag isn’t full, it can look saggy, though that’s a small gripe.

• Sizes available: Two – Small and Medium
• 24.0cm x 12.0cm x 34.0cm (Small size) and 30.0cm x 13.0cm x 42.0cm
• Laptop compartment: Yes

What we love: Compact backpack, has a large two-litre capacity, durable design, reflective detail for safety, water resistant main zip opening to protect the contents, adjustable back and shoulder straps, which are padded and breathable for comfort, and reasonable price.

Take note: Limited colourways, and the backpack feels rigid.

For those who run or cycle to work, or regularly hike, this backpack is a practical choice for user safety. The front has been crafted from the brand’s signature reflective fabric, made from reflective glass beads, so this grey backpack reflects a bright white light and enhances visibility.

The backpack is lightweight and claims to hold 20 litres, though I’m not wholly convinced by this. The main compartment could fit my laptop in the dedicated sleeve, a journal, and a change of clothes for after my gym session, but I expected more space inside. That said, I appreciated the deep front slip, which I used to store the essentials I needed easy access to, as well as discreet zip pockets on the waist straps that are just about big enough to fit my keys or a few sweets to fuel my commute.

Other thoughtful design elements include the padded shoulder straps, as well as the chest and waist straps, which are adjustable to ensure a secure fit on hikes, cross-country runs, or cycling commutes. But I must admit, this design was not the most comfortable backpack, as the back had a stiff insert that felt hard against my back.

• Sizes available: One size
• One – grey with reflective tone
• Reflective material crafted from reflective glass beads
• Laptop compartment: Yes

What we love: Large capacity, durable design, water-repellent, padded laptop compartment, several pockets and a belt fastening inside to keep the contents secure.

Take note: The main compartment opens like a book, so take caution when trying to access belongings; it could benefit from additional holdall straps.

Columbia’s Unisex Street Transit III Backpack reminds me of a larger-scale version of Antler’s backpack, because it boasts a similar flap-like opening and miniature suitcase layout inside. But, unlike Antler’s design, this backpack opens like a book and has to be laid flat to access the contents without everything falling out.

This design is larger than Antler’s cabin bag option, and it filled my entire back. Inside, one half of the main compartment is completely open to lay clothes flat, while the opposite side features two mesh compartments for smaller items. At the back of the bag, there is a padded laptop compartment, which I appreciated to protect my devices. Plus, the outer shell has been crafted from a water-repellent and stain-resistant Omni-Shield fabric, which was durable enough to withstand the elements, trust me.

The backpack also features padded shoulder straps, as well as a short strap on the top of the bag, and two handles on the front to slip over the handle on a suitcase. However, I would have preferred a longer strap, or a detachable multiway strap, to transform it from a rucksack into a holdall or over-the-shoulder bag.

• Sizes available: One size
• Three – Black, sandy tan and stone green (limited edition)
• 43.2 x 29.8 x 15.2 cm
• Laptop compartment: Yes