Backpacks: from 10 to 60 litres, laptop and cabin

A backpack is chosen based on three criteria: the capacity in litres, the actual use, whether daily or for travel, and the presence of a compartment for a laptop. Count 10 to 20 litres for the city, 20 to 30 litres for a day of classes or work, 40 litres for a weekend, and 50 litres or more for a trek.

What capacity of backpacks to choose in litres?

The capacity in litres is the first filter, before colour and before the brand, because it directly translates into usage.

• 10 litres: the bare essentials, phone, water bottle, windbreaker, for a short trip.
• 20 litres: the typical day, classes or work, with a 13 or 14-inch laptop.
• 30 litres: the busy week, binders, sports kit, large-format laptop.
• 40 litres: the weekend without hold luggage, a day hike.
• 50 litres and more: the trek and long trips, the bag that replaces the suitcase.

Our capacity pages follow this breakdown, from 10L to 60L and more, to compare at the same volume.

Laptop backpacks, from 13 to 17 inches

The number in inches measures the diagonal of the screen, never the bag. A model advertised for 15.6 inches can accept a device whose diagonal does not exceed this value, provided the specifications state the maximum size accepted. Three details separate a real laptop pocket from a simple divider: the padding, a raised base that keeps the device above the bottom of the bag, and an opening wide enough to take out the device without emptying everything.

Carry-on backpacks accepted by airlines

There is no single template: each airline publishes its own, distinguishing between luggage that fits under the seat and that which goes in the overhead bin, and it can change without notice. Therefore, we won't provide any specific dimensions here; the only source that counts is the baggage page of your airline. The method that works: measure the three dimensions of the bag, height, width, and depth, including exterior pockets, then compare them one by one with the published template. For travel, also check the zippered back pocket and closures that are flush against the back, which are much harder to open in a boarding line.

Affordable leather backpacks, what formats

Leather is heavier than coated fabric, it ages beautifully instead of wearing out, and requires regular maintenance rather than machine washing. Fabric and polyester are lighter, clean easily with a sponge, and handle rain better. Leather backpacks come in two families: wide formats designed for a laptop and a folder, and more compact sizes that stop at A4 format. The real criterion is the length of the back and the adjustment of the straps, not the label printed on the tag.

Affordable branded backpacks, from Eastpak to Kipling

Going through the brand remains the quickest way in when you already know what you're looking for.

• Eastpak: fabric, city and class formats.
• Nike and adidas: sport, training, and gym trips.
• Kipling: soft, lightweight shapes, multi-pocketed.
• Dakine: outdoor, cycling, and mountain.
• Safta, Loungefly, and Karactermania: licensed designs, from cartoons to pop culture.

Our affordable backpacks are not a separate range: they are the same brands, with discounted models. Sale backpacks and clearance items are found in this selection. The affordable Eastpak backpacks illustrate the principle: it’s the colour that is discontinued and goes on promotion, the fabric and cut remain those of the current model. Just check the stated capacity, as the same model name can sometimes exist in two sizes.

Two uses prevail in our category: travel backpacks, designed for cabin use and weekends, and sports backpacks, which add a ventilated shoe compartment. Hiking and cycling fall under our technical and outdoor bags. Sale backpacks are identified by the price banner on the thumbnail.

Our Backpack category in detail

• Types
• Capacity
• Top Brands