Backpacks are a great way to carry your laptop and other essential items without feeling like you’re lugging around a bulky briefcase. You can wear them slung over your shoulder or cinched up at the waist, and they come in a wide range of sizes and styles.

They’re also often designed to be more ergonomic than sling bags and hold a lot more than a typical briefcase. The right backpack can also help you to get through airport security more easily — and keep your laptop secure from metal detectors too.

The best backpacks for laptops feature multiple pockets and compartments for your notebook, accessories, pens, and other items. Some even offer a dedicated tech pouch for your computer, while others include an area that’s ideal for storing an iPad or tablet.

Besides having the right amount of space, a laptop backpack must provide the right kind of padding to protect your gear. That means making sure the padded sleeve or compartment fits the laptop snugly (without allowing it to shift around), as well as offering a false bottom that suspends the computer off of the ground for added protection from bumps and hard landings.

Water resistance is another important consideration. If you’re going to be using your backpack in the rain, make sure it has a breathable lining that helps to keep moisture away from your gear. This is especially important if you’re lugging a heavier laptop with you and you want to avoid any potential damage from getting wet.

Look for a bag that has a TSA lock that will allow you to pass through airport security without exposing your computer to the metal detectors. This is especially useful if you’re going to be traveling for business or on vacation.

If you’re a digital nomad, or even just someone who does remote work, then you’ll need to be able to comfortably carry your laptop around for long periods of time. Look for a backpack with padded straps, chest straps, and a top strap that can be tightened or adjusted to accommodate the weight of your laptop.

You’ll also want to look for a laptop backpack that has hidden straps that will not catch on things you might bump into, such as poles and handrails at airports and train stations. It’s also a good idea to choose a backpack that has a zippered main compartment so you can easily access your laptop and other belongings, instead of having to open the whole bag every time you need something from it.

Many of the backpacks we tested have a large main compartment and smaller zippered compartments for smaller belongings. This makes it easier to find things when they’re inside, and gives you plenty of room to store your lunch, headphones, a jacket, and anything else that you might need for the day.

The best backpacks for laptops offer a comfortable, stylish design that will last you a lifetime. They’re also built to keep your belongings safe, with features such as zippered compartments that are easy to access and TSA-approved locks for airport security.