The Best Bags For Gamers & Travellers

With the world reopening and more people travelling, we at CGMagazine wanted to revisit the age-old question of which is the best laptop bag. As the magazine heads to more events and needs to take all our gear with us, we found ourselves in the same situation—trying to find the best bag for the job. We needed to figure out how to take our precious laptops safely on upcoming trips to game previews and events. While plenty of alternatives are available, both in stores and online, finding the right one can be a challenge.

With that in mind, we’ve put together a list of recommendations for the best laptop bags, whether you’re heading on holiday, going back to school, or travelling for work. We reviewed a wide range of bags to find the best options across various price points and features, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

We have compiled a list of the best laptop bags based on price, value, style, and features. This list may be updated as more bags become available throughout the year. We only include bags that we at CGMagazine would personally use, so while there may be many more options on the market, if we wouldn’t trust one of these bags for carrying our laptops or gear, it won’t make the list.

Peak Design Travel Crossbody 3L

Brand: Peak Design
Price: 99.95 USD
Store Link: Kickstarter

I tend to pack more than I need for any kind of travel, but that is not always the best approach. Sometimes, travelling light is the best way to experience a new place. The Peak Design Travel Crossbody 3L is built for exactly that. It lets you bring only what you need while keeping everything easy to reach on the go. The body is made from Peak Design’s Versa Shell recycled nylon, which feels solid in hand and holds up well against rain and spills. The aluminum hardware adds a clean, premium touch. The bag weighs just over 12 ounces, so it is easy to forget it is on your shoulder during a long day out, from morning to night, while exploring a new city.

This sling really shines on the inside, which is one reason I like the concept so much. Peak Design borrowed from its popular Tech Pouch, one of my favourite travel organizers, and added origami-style dividers that split the main compartment into four neat sections. Smaller slots hold items such as battery banks or point-and-shoot cameras, while the larger channels can fit a paperback or a compact gimbal. There is also a zippered pocket along the back interior wall with a key leash and a hidden tracker pocket tucked inside. These are useful touches for anyone focused on keeping valuables secure in busy airports or transit stations, especially in places such as Paris or London. Three additional pockets on the front wall round things out, along with a slot for a pen or stylus.

On the outside, a magnetic rear pocket offers a fast way to grab your phone, boarding pass or passport without unzipping anything, something you may not realize you will love until you use it. The strap is thin and unpadded, which keeps the profile slim. However, it can dig in if you are wearing a light shirt and have the bag loaded. That said, the swivel attachment points where the strap meets the bag help it sit flat against your body as you move. It feels more secure than many slings in this size range and is surprisingly comfortable.

If you want a secondary carry option that pairs well with a larger travel backpack and keeps your daily gear within arm’s reach, this one is worth considering. It has become my go-to bag when I want to travel light.

Bellroy Classic Messenger Gaming Edition

Brand: Bellroy
Price: $139.99 USD
Store Link: Bellroy

We have already included several Bellroy bags on this list, but the company’s latest offering feels tailor-made for gamers. The Bellroy Classic Messenger Gaming Edition is an excellent choice for those who travel light and do not need a full backpack for every outing but still want to bring a handheld system with them. Its eight-litre capacity is better suited to a portable gaming setup than a large gaming laptop, making it a smart companion for a Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, compact controller, headphones, charging adapter and the usual collection of cables that seems to follow every gamer out the door.

Bellroy also included storage for up to eight game cards, a small but welcome detail that makes the bag feel purpose-built rather than like a standard messenger with gaming branding added. While many players buy their games digitally, others still prefer physical copies, and the Classic Messenger Gaming Edition accommodates both.

Although I appreciate its gamer-focused features, the bag retains the clean, iconic look Bellroy is known for, making it easy to recommend. The messenger design provides quick access while walking through an airport or convention floor, while the adjustable shoulder strap and classic flap closure make it comfortable to wear across the body. At 19.8 ounces, it should remain comfortable during a full day of commuting or event coverage. For gamers who want an organized everyday-carry bag that looks equally at home in a café, office or LAN event, the Classic Messenger Gaming Edition is a stylish and practical alternative to the usual oversized gaming backpack.

Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe

Brand: Timbuk2
Price: $185 USD
Store Link: Timbuk2

If you are like me and your mobile setup involves more cables, dongles and drives than a single pouch can handle, the Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe may be the answer to your organizational needs. It is, without question, a workhorse that prioritizes structure and order over a simple open-sack design. While many travel bags focus on cramming in clothes, this pack is built for tech-heavy users who need a specific place for every piece of gear in their kit.

What makes this Deluxe model stand out is how well it balances capacity with a slim profile. I am not exaggerating when I say it can hold a significant amount of gear. Even when loaded with a 16-inch gaming laptop like the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G16 and a tablet, the compression straps allow everything to be cinched down, reducing the chance of bumping into people on a subway or bus. It also features a luggage pass-through and a ventilated air mesh back panel. Both are especially useful when moving quickly through a terminal to catch a connection, something I am sure we have all done more than once.

What makes it most appealing for me, and for anyone who wants to ensure their gear arrives safe and sound, is just how durable the Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe is. The body is made from 100 per cent recycled nylon and features a water-resistant bottom boot, which means there is no need to panic if it is accidentally set down in a puddle at a coffee shop. Whether commuting to a studio or heading out for a weekend of remote work, this bag keeps expensive equipment well organized and surprisingly secure.

Bellroy Transit Check-In

Brand: Bellroy
Price: $399
Store Link: Bellroy

We at CGMagazine have looked at a range of bags and luggage from Bellroy, and it has long been a favourite for carry-ons and everyday bags, so when the brand made its first move into checked luggage, you better believe we took notice. The result is exactly what you would expect from a company this highly regarded: a 69-litre hardside roller (also comes in a 101L version) that brings genuine design elements to a bag type that rarely feels unique. The shell is made from roughly 80% recycled polycarbonate with a matte, textured finish that absorbs scuffs rather than showing every scrape, and the rounded corners are engineered to reduce the impact points most likely to cause cracks over time. At 3.9 kg, it sits in a reasonable range for a full-size check-in, and the 60mm HINOMOTO Miraclent ball-bearing wheels handle cobblestones and uneven terminal floors with a noticeably smoother roll than most competitors.

For gamers, students, or creators, the bag is incredibly configurable and offers plenty of options to fit your gear and belongings while keeping everything relatively safe. Rather than defaulting to a standard compression strap system, Bellroy uses magnetic mesh panels that snap shut over your clothing in seconds, making packing and unpacking far less of a chore. An integrated packing cell at the top of the compartment adds an extra layer of organization for undergarments and smaller items. But, for us, what really makes the bag something worth considering is Bellroy’s repair-first approach: the wheels, telescoping handle, and TSA lock are all consumer-replaceable using a hex key and Bellroy’s Fix-it Kits, no return shipping required. Backed by a 10-year warranty, the highest tier Bellroy offers, this is a suitcase built to outlast a passport or two.

Razer Rogue Backpack V4 18″

Brand: Razer
Price: $139 USD
Store Link: Razer

For gamers who want to bring their battle station with them, the Razer Rogue Backpack V4 18-inch is one of the most capable gaming-focused backpacks on the market right now, built to carry everything you need for your next session in one place. Built around a padded laptop sleeve that fits devices up to 18 inches, including the Razer Blade 18 and comparably sized gaming rigs, this bag is purpose-built for people who carry serious hardware. The tear- and water-resistant outer shell is made from rugged recycled materials, with protective zipper tape along the seams to guard against rain and the kind of daily punishment that comes with hauling gear to events, campuses or offices.

Structured compartments, hidden pockets and a built-in headphone strap keep everything organized and accessible without the usual rummaging. A trolley sleeve and integrated cable pass-through mean it plays nicely with rolling luggage and keeps devices charged mid-transit, a small detail that makes a real difference on a long travel day. The ergonomic padded carry system and ventilated mesh back panel keep things comfortable even when loaded to its generous 36 L capacity. For dads and grads who want a bag that goes from the desk to the airport without missing a beat, the Razer Rogue Backpack V4 18-inch delivers.

ALPAKA Flight Satchel

Brand: ALPAKA
Price: $119 USD
Store Link: ALPAKA

While testing bags for this list, we noticed a common gap in the travel lineup, the space between a heavy carry-on and a small pocket-dump sling. The ALPAKA Flight Satchel fills that gap effectively, serving as an ideal seatback companion. With a capacity of 11 litres, it strikes a balance that is substantial enough to carry essential gear while remaining slim enough to slide under the seat in front without cutting into valuable legroom, an issue taller travellers like me often face when carrying a larger bag.

For the travelling gamer, this bag is a standout. We found it comfortably fits a Steam Deck or Nintendo Switch OLED, along with noise-cancelling headphones and other in-flight essentials. It features a dedicated padded sleeve officially rated for a 13-inch laptop, which works well for a MacBook Air or iPad Pro. We were also able to fit a 14-inch MacBook Pro, depending on the bulk of the other gear inside. However, the bag struggles with larger gaming laptops. Even the ROG Zephyrus G14 did not fit. The internal organization is intuitive, keeping cables and chargers from becoming a tangled mess at 30,000 feet.

What sets this satchel apart, and what I really liked about the bag, is its construction. Made from ALPAKA’s Axoflux 210D ripstop nylon, it is incredibly lightweight and malleable, which means it moulds to the body rather than feeling like a rigid box. It includes a luggage pass-through, allowing it to be stacked securely on a roller during terminal sprints. For those who need a secondary bag that carries tech and gaming handhelds without the bulk of a backpack, the Flight Satchel is a top-tier option.

Bellroy Tokyo Totepack

Brand: Bellroy
Price: $199

The Bellroy Tokyo Totepack is the newest addition to Bellroy’s Tokyo Tote collection. Featuring both a 20L and 14L option, the Totepack is the perfect compact pack solution for those looking for style and functionality. With tuck-away padded shoulder straps, the Totepack can quickly flex between a backpack or tote bag with ease. Two nylon handles located at the top of the pack allow for easy grabbing when used as a tote. 

With storage for up to a 15” electronic device, the Totepack offers an incredible amount of storage in its slim form factor. Multiple internal pockets help keep things organized and accessible thanks to the top entry that zippers closed to secure all of your items. Additional concealed front zip pouches allow for storage and quick access to items while on the go. To round out the incredible storage options are two pop pouches that can easily fit water bottles or umbrellas, allowing you to take the Totepack with you no matter the situation.

To further protect your cargo from the elements, the Tokyo Totepack is comprised of water-resistant woven fabric ideal for repelling light rain. Measuring 17.2” L x 14.96” W x 3.9” D, the Totepack is the perfect size for on-the-go travellers, easily fitting into small spaces while offering a host of storage options. Priced at $199.00 ($245.00 CDN), the Tokyo Totepack from Bellroy is the perfect travel companion for those looking for a compact and fashionable solution.  

​​TIMBUK2 Mode Belt Bag

TIMBUK2 Mode Belt Bag
Brand: TIMBUK2
Price: $59 USD
Store Link: TIMBUK2

While a heavy-duty backpack handles the bulk of your rig, there are moments during travel when you only need the essentials close at hand. Thankfully, TIMBUK2 offers a solution that is ideal when you want to travel light. The TIMBUK2 Mode Belt Bag provides a streamlined option for times when hauling a full setup feels unnecessary. Whether you are dodging people on a convention floor, rushing through airport security or exploring a new city after dropping your luggage at the hotel, this compact carrier keeps your phone, passport and cards secure without weighing you down.

Designed with a sleek profile that avoids the bulk of traditional waist packs, the Mode Belt Bag adapts easily to your style. It can be worn comfortably around the waist or slung across the chest for quick access. The bag features a durable build typical of the San Francisco-based brand, ensuring it can handle the daily grind of a creator on the move. For gamers and travellers who want to keep their pockets empty and their hands free, it serves as an ideal sidekick to a larger gear bag. This small but meaningful addition to any travel arsenal offers a practical option when you want to travel light while keeping essentials close and secure.

Alienware AW5625P & AW7825P Backpacks

Brand: Alienware
Price: $69.99-129.99

For gamers and creators who want to carry their laptop in a style all their own, the Alienware AW5625P (16-inch) and AW7825P (18-inch) backpacks are standout choices that blend futuristic design with real-world protection and organization. Both bags feature Alienware’s signature moulded body and 3D iridescent reflective logo, making them instantly recognizable by anyone who knows their brand—a perfect match for anyone looking to stand out at events or LAN parties, or just want to travel in gamer style. 

Functionally, these backpacks are engineered for serious travel and gaming. The AW5625P supports laptops up to 16 inches, while the AW7825P accommodates devices up to 18 inches, including gaming laptops and even compact consoles like the Xbox Series S. Each bag is built with breathable 3D mesh to prevent overheating, a moulded shell and internal bumper for drop protection, and weather-resistant materials to guard against the elements. Multiple compartments—including side pockets and a dedicated tablet sleeve (on the AW7825P)—ensure accessories and cables stay organized and accessible, something any creator will appreciate, especially while working on the go.

What sets these Alienware backpacks apart is their generous volume—21 litres for the 16-inch and 28 litres for the 18-inch—and robust construction, making them ideal for transporting not just laptops but also your gear, tablets, controllers and accessories in one secure, stylish package. Whether you’re heading to a gaming event or jet-setting for work, these bags deliver the protection and visual flair that any gamer or traveller will appreciate. It’s a well-thought-out option and a great selection that makes bringing your gaming laptop that much easier.

Mystery Ranch 3 Way 18 Expandable Briefcase

Brand: Mystery Ranch
Price: $199.00

I didn’t know much about Mystery Ranch before trying the 3 Way 18 Expandable Briefcase, but I have to say I’m impressed. This brand—now owned by Yeti—has created a robust and well-rounded bag designed to handle whatever adventure the world throws your way. This shapeshifting bag seamlessly transforms between three carry modes: briefcase, shoulder bag, and backpack, making it an ideal companion for the modern professional.

Starting at 18 litres and expanding to 23 litres, the briefcase offers impressive flexibility for varying carry needs. The main compartment includes a well-padded laptop sleeve that accommodates devices up to 15 inches, while the front admin section provides organized storage for daily essentials.

The bag’s 500D recycled nylon construction strikes an excellent balance between durability and professional aesthetics. While not the most minimalist design, its functional appearance works well in both office settings and during city exploration. This versatility also makes the 3 Way 18 Expandable Briefcase one of the largest over-the-shoulder bags I’ve ever used, but its adaptability ensures it can suit a variety of needs.

However, I would recommend considering other options if you plan to use this bag in a crowded space like a comic con or other large event—a slightly slimmer bag might be better suited for such situations. I used it during Lucca Comics and Games in Italy, and while the space was nice, when I was trying to squeeze through groups of people, it did feel a bit large.

Even with that one complaint, I have to say the Mystery Ranch 3 Way 18 Expandable Briefcase was incredibly comfortable, even when I carried it filled with a laptop for a full day. The removable shoulder strap allows for easy access to contents, while the hideaway backpack straps provide surprisingly comfortable support when needed.

At $200, the Mystery Ranch 3 Way represents a significant investment, but its versatility and build quality make it a compelling option for those seeking a do-it-all professional bag.

Flint Black Leather Laptop Backpack

Brand: Alaskan Leather Company
Price: $155.00

When travelling, the ability to carry everything you need—without the bag becoming a hindrance to in-flight comfort—is essential. That’s where the Flint Black Leather Laptop Backpack comes in: a smaller yet sophisticated option for both gamers and travellers. It offers ample storage without being too bulky to lug around on long trips.

Crafted from genuine full-grain cow leather and finished with antique-style silver hardware, this backpack delivers a timeless, professional look that easily transitions from office to airport or campus while still offering the modern compartments and protection your tech requires. Its minimalist design is complemented by a cotton twill lining and reinforced with durable polyester stitching, ensuring both style and long-lasting performance.

I was surprised by how much I could fit into the bag. When I headed off to Summer Game Fest this year, I brought it along and easily packed a laptop, tablet, sound equipment, chargers and cables, snacks (you’ve got to have snacks), and all the swag I picked up at the event.

The central zippered compartment features a dedicated laptop sleeve that accommodates laptops up to 15 inches, making it ideal for securely carrying compact gaming rigs like the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 or work essentials. Additional interior and exterior pockets—including two front compartments and open side pockets—offer generous storage for chargers, accessories, and everyday items. With padded shoulder straps and a comfortable carry handle, it’s easy to transport even during long travel days.

Blending durability, classic design, and smart organization, this backpack is one you’ll want to bring everywhere—offering a splash of style along with the practicality today’s on-the-go life demands.

Alpaka Elements Backpack Pro

Brand: Alpaka
Price: $189 USD
Store Link: Alpaka

For creators and gamers who need their gear sorted and secure without looking like they are heading into the wilderness or on a 12-mile hike, this bag is a strong contender. The Alpaka Elements Backpack Pro builds on the sleek profile of the original model and adds a dedicated front admin panel, which is a fantastic help when organizing cables, chargers, and controllers that often get tangled. It also features a dedicated sleeve that accommodates laptops up to 16 inches, like the ASUS ROG Strix SCAR 16, making it a solid option for users with larger gaming rigs or editing setups.

While it is listed with a 26-litre capacity, the bag’s slim design keeps it close to the body. This makes it well-suited for moving through crowded terminals, but it also means packing light may be necessary. The weatherproof materials, available in X-Pac or Axoflux, help ensure expensive tech stays dry during sudden downpours. Comfort is also a priority, with space cell foam padding on the straps that helps distribute weight during longer walks. It is a smart, durable option for travellers who value organization and style over maximum carrying capacity.

Bellroy Tokyo Work Bag

Brand: Bellroy
Price: $189.00

With its split front pockets, tasteful leather accents, and durable coated zipper, the Bellroy Tokyo Work Bag projects an aura of refined readiness and is our current top choice for the best laptop bags for 2023. The ultra-wide main zipper provides easy access to the deceptively spacious and neatly organized interior. Under the minimalist exterior lies an array of pockets, including slip and zip compartments, that neatly stow small essentials and eliminate awkward rummaging.

This clever commuter bag is constructed using sustainably-sourced materials like recycled PET plastic from water bottles and nylon from industrial offcuts, diverting waste from landfills. The result is a durable, eco-friendly bag that reflects Bellroy’s commitment to responsible production.

Designed to serve as an office away from the office, the Tokyo Work Bag features a padded 16-inch laptop sleeve to protect your tech and a tablet slip pocket for your iPad. The divided front pocket with built-in organization and key clip keeps smaller items in their place. A luggage pass-through slides smoothly over a suitcase handle for easy transport.

With its fusion of minimalist design, urban practicality, and conscious craftsmanship, the Bellroy Tokyo Work Bag is a sophisticated choice for professionals who value both style and function. Its versatility allows it to transition seamlessly from boardroom to cafe and everywhere in between.