The Best Laptop Bags for Business Travelers

Casual Friday long ago permeated every aspect of our work lives—though it’s notable that 2024 was the year neckties made a comeback, according to a variety of style pundits (no doubt some readers are either scoffing or delighted as they read this). Informal attitudes about office wardrobes often extend to accessories, as the backpack today dominates the choices for a functional piece that accommodates a laptop and other gear. While backpacks offer a variety of terrific features, few of them exude a polished vibe for anyone who desires to establish a suitable impression among fellow attendees at a meeting or trade show. If your career is rooted in any position that’s consumer-facing, likely you prefer a laptop bag that’s as refined as your people skills.

With that in mind, we sought out pieces with these qualities as a jumping-off point: a laptop-friendly style that could accommodate at least a 13-inch computer, and a design you’d be proud to carry into a job interview. This mix of men’s, women’s and unisex pieces suits both requirements.

Smythson Ultra Slim Briefcase with Zip Front

Smythson Ultra Slim Briefcase / Photo: Courtesy of Smythson

If your needs don’t extend far beyond laptop protection, the Ultra Slim Briefcase by London-based Smythson, crafted in a grained leather known as Ludlow, instantly communicates minimalism. You can stow a 13-inch laptop in a dedicated slip pocket, as well as documents and other items inside, while a gusseted front zip pocket will fit your iPhone. A removable leather shoulder strap adds to the case’s versatility.
$1,595, at smythson.com

Bucklesbury Croc-Embossed Italian Leather Laptop Bag

Bucklesbury Croc-Embossed Italian Leather Laptop Bag / Photo: Courtesy of Bucklesbury

London-based Bucklesbury is known for its signature umbrellas, handcrafting them since 1805. But we also love the styling of this laptop bag, especially how the zipper is fashioned along the top and full width of the bag, enabling its owner to access everything. These leather bags are handmade in Italy and can accommodate up to a 17-inch laptop, with additional pockets to hold a smartphone and other items. An LED light inside adds to the ability to find everything with ease, and the croc-embossed finish imbues this piece with a decidedly luxe look—without the price of genuine croc.
$854, at bucklesbury.com

Tory Burch Perry Triple-Compartment Tote

Tory Burch Perry Triple-Compartment Tote / Photo: Courtesy of Tory Burch

Lately Tory Burch is the designer label every fashion fan is reaching for when desiring pieces that convey style and ease—and that includes her collection of handbags. Burch designed this Perry Triple-Compartment Tote with a laptop in mind, adding a center compartment that fits a 13-inch computer and can be zipped closed, while surrounding features include three interior slit pockets for your phone and other items. The leather top handles offer a 10.2-inch drop, meaning this tote fits comfortably on your shoulder.
$398, at toryburch.com

Coach Soft Empire Carryall Bag 48

Coach Soft Empire Carryall Bag / Photo: Courtesy of Coach

A brand that each season highlights a bounty of celebrity ambassadors, Coach has created coveted items since 1941. Among its latest styles is a piece that honors Coach’s beginnings on Manhattan’s 34th Street, the Empire Carryall, seen here in a soft grained leather. Accommodating up to a 16-inch laptop, the Empire also fits a variety of other items via its roomy open compartment and slip pocket. A detachable strap allows you to carry the bag on the shoulder or as a cross-body, while buckles can be opened to create enough room to use this piece as an overnight bag.
$895, at coach.com

The Charcoal Case

The Charcoal Case / Photo: Courtesy of Charcoal

Charcoal should be considered a bit of a disrupter, creating a laptop bag that is decidedly forward-thinking in design and features. Start with the dial, which can be turned smoothly to open and close the bag, while the shoulder strap has a memory, not unlike a car seat belt. Accommodating up to a 16-inch MacBook, the case is crafted of a vegan fabric over an internal frame. Inside, fabric is used for smart pockets that conform to the shape of your laptop, iPad, earbuds and other everyday items, ensuring each can be removed and stored quickly. Get ready for colleagues to say, “Where did you get that bag?”
$760, at charcoal.inc