The 14 best work backpacks for women to buy for style and comfort in 2022
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COMMUTING just got a lot more appealing with a new, stylish but comfortable work backpack.
Whether you're lugging your laptop back and forth or hauling a hefty folder, nifty two-strapped designs look after your posture and are a lot easier to carry.
If recent runway shows have taught us anything, it's that just because a rucksack is functional, there's nothing stopping it from looking chic and stylish.
With the rise in flexible hours and freelancers bringing in relaxed office dress codes, workwear isn't what it used to be either, so you can have fun with your fashion choices.
There are even some smart sportswear options which could add a sleek streetwear edge to your office's smart-casual dress code.
Not just reserved for "gap yah" students, hitchhikers or boy-scouts, backpacks can look chic and sophisticated too.
Just take a look at our list: we’ve found all the best bargains and fashion statements available online now.
Best backpacks for work at a glance:
Best desk-to-dinner bag: Longchamp Le Pliage Club Backpack
If you pack light for work, then you can get a little more chic with the Longchamp Le Pliage Club backpack.
Decorated with tonal leather trimming, this bag has adjustable shoulder straps and enough room for essentials like notebooks, water and even your iPad too.
As it's so sleek, we can definitely see this being taken from the desk straight for dinner, no questions asked.
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Best soft backpack: Seasalt Cornwall's Island Tradition backpack
A little traditional Cornish style is always a good thing.
We're loving this roomy backpack by Seasalt Cornwall, which proves that backpacks don't have to be made of hard fabrics with sharp edges.
Made from 100 percent recycled polyester with an adjustable roll-top and straps, this handy bag features a zipped side compartment, water bottle pocket and an internal slip pocket for your phone.
It comes fully lined and is available in two other colours too — offering great value.
Best backpack with shoe compartment: UA Hustle Pro Backpack
Wear trainers to work to then swap into your smart brogues? You might want to check out this UA Hustle Pro Backpack.
Made for our real hustlers, it's equipped with a shoe compartment so you can pack them in easily.
Available in silver, black or blue, it's water-resistant, with a laptop sleeve as well.
Best work and weekend backpack: Accessorize Mini Zip Around Backpack
The Mini Zip Around backpack from Accessorize will complement a range of outfits.
Made from faux leather, it has zip fastenings to keep your laptop safe and a top handle so you can take it off when squeezing onto the Tube.
So technically, by buying this bag, you’re thinking of your fellow commuters.
It's also available in red, perfect for if you have an informal workwear dress code.
Best rucksack with wheels: Sweet Pea Frame Wheeled Backpack
If you often pack heavy for work then a wheeled backpack will work well for you.
First of all, it's made from recycled plastic bottles. Second of all, Cath Kidston's Sweet Pea Frame Wheeled Backpack isn't just great for your posture, taking the weight off your shoulders, it's pretty to look at too.
It's got a telescopic handle for manoeuvring, as well as several pockets to slot your stuff. Ideal.
Best bargain backpack: ASOS DESIGN canvas backpack with laptop compartment
Looking for an affordable go-to for stocking your laptop whilst travelling to and from the office? The ASOS Design Canvas Backpack is just £30.
Complete with a top handle and back straps, this all-black design has adjustable straps and sturdy closure with front clasps and a press-stud fastening.
It might look like a no-nonsense work backpack but this one definitely ticks off the utility-fashion trend too.
Best designer work backpack: Radley Redchurch Street Large Flapover Backpack
When it comes to Radley bags you can pretty much guarantee great quality.
This beautifully crafted leather bag has a zip top and flapover front to keep all your things safe and secure on the go.
Plus, you'll find a handy internal zip pocket for your phone.
It's got space for all your work essentials and isn't too bulky if you're squeezing onto packed public transport.
The Radley London foil branding and dog tag will ensure everyone knows this is the real deal.
Bestseller work backpack: Fjällräven's Kanken classic pink backpack
This list would be incomplete without a trusty Fjällräven Kanken backpack, aka those stylish Swedish bags you see absolutely everywhere.
Dating back to 1978, this brand makes backpacks for school kids and commuters alike.
From the top handles to the reflective iconic badge on the front, they’ve really thought of everything for your journey to work.
We love this one in a beautiful candy pink tone; it will add a bit of pizzazz to even the most ordinary work-wear wardrobes.
But there are many, many more colours to choose from - the choice is yours.
Best backpack for work and gym: Adidas by Stella McCartney backpack
Classify yourself as a certified gym bunny? The Adidas by Stella McCartney Backpack is the coolest gym-to-work backpack around.
And it's made from recycled fabric.
Featuring a simple black design, this sturdy, water-resistant bag is big enough to fit a change of clothes, your water bottle and a towel too.
It's an investment for sure - you'll thank yourself in years to come when this is still looking after your sports' gear in style.
Best mini backpack: Boohoo All Over Check Mini Backpack
The five metal bees make this standout backpack a winner, and extra cute given the diminutive size.
Measuring 28 x 20cm, the bag features two compartments fastened by metal zips, as well as two shoulder straps and a main strap with stud detail.
If you're pro-bee (and who isn't?) what's not to love—the bag is faux leather too, for extra animal-friendliness.
Best for runners: Sweaty Betty's running backpack
With lives getting busier and busier, many runners have found that running to or from work is a really efficient way to get in the miles.
If that's you, then it's well worth investing in Sweaty Betty's iconic backpack.
It's designed in a super lightweight, breathable fabric for on-the-go comfort and comes with adjustable padded shoulder straps as well as a secure chest and hip strap.
There's plenty of space to fit your water bottle, your work gear and even a laptop—a must for every runner.
Best women's work backpack with laptop compartment: Herschel Supply Co's Dawson backpack
Herschel Supply's backpack is good for those who need a large bag to carry everything: from their laptop and office essentials to gym gear.
It might be pricey but it is a solid investment that comes with a lifetime guarantee.
Made from a lightweight fabric, this Herschel backpack features signature striped fabric lining, a 13" laptop sleeve, adjustable drawcord closure as well as external storage compartments, a classic woven label and a sturdy reinforced base.
It's ideal to go from the gym to the office or roomy enough to take with you on a weekend adventure.
Best for rainy weather: Rains backpack daypack
Cycling to work come rain or shine? We would recommend investing in a Rains backpack.
In addition to being completely waterproof, this bag also feels like a bottomless pit that you can keep loading without it ever feeling bulky.
We love the blue colour, but it's also available in cream, scarlet red and black.
Best laptop backpack: M&S Collection Leather Backpack
This spacious faux leather backpack has plenty of space for everything you need to take to work.
Plus, the flapover with magnet fastening will keep your laptop safe and secure.
We love all the little pockets with gold buckle details - and the adjustable, padded shoulder straps also mean it's super comfortable to wear.
What features should I look for in a work bag?
The features of your work bag are highly dependent on your job and your habits.
You might need to carry a laptop, notepad or water bottle; in that case, it's best to choose a backpack with a padded laptop pocket and additional storage space.
But if all you need is your purse and your phone, you might get away with a stylish smaller model.
Some backpacks are also specifically designed for runners or for those who run-commute.
On hectic days like these, you need as many pockets and dividers in your bag as possible, to ensure easy access and organisation for those flustered and stressful moments.
Are backpacks better for your back?
The main benefit of using a backpack is that it balances out the weight on your shoulders, making it easier to carry your stuff.
That way, there isn't loads of pressure on just one side of your body, giving you better posture and generally better back-health.
You'll also find that you are able to carry a heavier load, because the weight is being split in two across your body, rather than weighing down one side with a huge handbag.