Best laptop bags for women: sleek, stylish and commuter-friendly designs
The Evening Standard's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Our working lives look incredibly different now compared to five years ago. While most of us will certainly agree that work-life balance has changed for the better, the cushy hybrid working scenario that we’ve managed to make the norm might not exist for good if certain office-happy CEOs get their way.
Nevertheless, for the time being at least, hybrid and remote working is part of daily life across the globe. Perhaps the only setback associated with being able to work remotely from the beach (and we’re really pulling at straws here), is the fact that you have to bring the office with you. That means having your laptop, chargers, notepads, pens, reusable water bottles, headphones and sticky pads ready to go at all times.
The solution is simple. Briefcases have long been the preferred accessory of the corporate elite, but they tend to have inherently masculine undertones. Of course, if that’s your style – by all means, opt for a luxurious, high-end leather option with sterling silver buckles. However, if you’re in the market for a more contemporary, feminine aesthetic with essential modern features like a laptop sleeve, you’ve arrived in the right place.
What to consider before investing in a laptop bag
- Internal and external waterproofing: British weather and unscrewed water bottles take no prisoners.
- Multiple straps: Work bags can be heavy, so consider investing in an option which can be worn multiple ways to put less strain on your neck, shoulders and back.
- Padded laptop compartment: Keep your tech protected from unnecessary bumps and bruises while on the move.
- Water bottle holder: Having a hydration station is key to ensuring you feel awake and alert throughout the day.
We’ve curated a selection of the best laptop bags for women, to take you from home to the office and beyond the border (we won’t tell if you don’t). Shop the hybrid working essential below.
Lundi Victory Briefcase, Chestnut Leather
Invest in heritage luxury with the help of Lundi’s unisex Victor Briefcase. Available with or without a luggage strap, this surprisingly spacious and wonderfully chic accessory is perfect for the travelling, working woman. Robust yet elegant, it’s made of a combination of smooth and grained leather and features a central pocket lined with protective felt for your laptop.
Rains Texel Laptop Case 15″/16″
There’s nothing more terrifying than realising your water bottle has leaked into your workbag. Take away any anxiety surrounding technological water damage with this brilliant, spacious waterproof laptop cover from Rains. It’s padded for protection, has a plush microfibre lining and has two incredibly handy external compartments for extra bits and bobs.
Stubble & Co The Tote bag
Described as having a ‘minimalist design with the maximum function’, this waterproof tote by Stubble & Co is available in three attractive hues with a detachable shoulder strap. It has a padded laptop sleeve, a dedicated internal pocket for your water bottle, water-resistant zips for security, and even a luggage sleeve.
Mismo M/S Brief
Highly durable, waterproof and made with recycled nylon, this stylish briefcase has a full-grain bridle leather trim and silver-dark gunmetal accessories for a neutral yet subtly dramatic aesthetic. Though it doesn’t have a dedicated laptop compartment, it can fit up to a 15” MacBook Pro.
Monos Metro Duffel
The ultimate travel accessory for jet-setting work trips, this forest green duffel is crafted from water-resistant nylon twill with vegan leather details. With a roomy design intended to keep your daily essentials organised, it also features a sleeve which fits up to 15” and some inner side pockets for additional accessories.
Camper Buenasnoches
Though not your traditional laptop bag, this ultra-padded tote will certainly keep your work tech safe. We love the stylish pink and green leather panels which are crafted from calfskin leather, and the super soft cotton interior.
Kipling Superworker
Known for its utilitarian style and that classic furry monkey keychain, Kipling is a fine choice when it comes to high-functioning laptop protection. The Superworker is a classic lightweight and feminine design, featuring a 15” laptop sleeve and three spacious internal compartments, as well as a bottle holder. Carry it like a tote, wear it as a cross-body or sling it over one shoulder.
Frederic St James Women’s Full Grain Italian Leather Backpack
If you’ve ever been lucky enough to travel to Italy, you’ll have likely walked through countless markets specialising in full-grain Italian leather. Like us, you may just have regretted not purchasing anything. This is where Frederic St James comes in. This women’s convertible leather backpack is offered in a beautiful, deep cherry red hue with multiple padded compartments for all your commuter needs.
Samsonite Ongoing 15.6" Laptop Briefcase
Utilitarian chic takes centre stage in Samsonite’s laptop briefcase. The sleek khaki bag is a lightweight choice for city-dwellers that doesn’t sleep on functionality. An abundance of pockets are concealed within a recycled nylon exterior, that is complete with a trademarked Recylex material lining that provides additional protection against bashing and bumping. Attach yours to a small suitcase for work dos abroad or use the long strap to hook over your shoulder when out and about.
Comfyable Puffy Laptop Sleeve
Available in every colour under the sun from blossom pink to tangerine, lime green to cream and more, Comfyable’s laptop case is a Gen-Z must-have. The padded case features a square design and on-trend quilting and can house 14 or 13-inch laptops including MacBook Pros and MacBook Airs. Secure the item with the magnetic close and the soft fleece lining will prevent scratches and scuffs.