10 Best Men's Work Backpacks 2026 in the United States

The Thule Aion Travel Backpack 28L offers a versatile size that expands from 28 to 32 liters, giving you extra space when needed without making the bag bulky. Its polyester and canvas construction promises good durability, and the easy-to-clean TPU divider is a smart feature to keep your belongings separated and fresh. The backpack includes a dedicated laptop compartment, which is essential for work use, and multiple pockets like a zippered top pocket and an external stash pocket help keep small items organized and easily accessible. Comfort is enhanced by compatibility with the optional Thule Aion Sling Bag, which can serve as a supportive hip belt, though this accessory is sold separately. The design in Dark Slate is stylish yet professional, suitable for daily work and travel.

Weighing about 2.7 pounds, it’s not the lightest option, and some users might find the 28L capacity a bit limiting if they carry a lot of gear regularly. Security features are basic, with standard zippers but no advanced anti-theft measures. This backpack represents a solid choice for those seeking a durable, moderately spacious, and well-organized bag that looks good in both office and travel settings.

The Fjällräven Skule 28 Backpack is a solid choice for men needing a reliable work backpack with enough room for daily essentials. Its 28-liter size offers good capacity without being overly bulky, suitable for carrying a laptop (up to 15 inches) comfortably in the padded sleeve. The use of hardwearing Oxford fabric and recycled polyester lining makes it durable and eco-friendlier, which is great if you want something that lasts and has a lower environmental impact. Comfort is well addressed through padded shoulder straps and a breathable back panel, which help reduce strain during longer wear.

Organizationally, it includes a zippered front compartment with mesh pockets, useful for keeping smaller items tidy, though it might not have as many pockets as some other work backpacks designed specifically for tech gear or office supplies. Style-wise, its navy color and simple design lean towards a clean, versatile look that fits professional and casual settings. A unique plus is the hydration system compatibility, which is uncommon in work backpacks but handy if you stay active or travel a lot.

On the downside, while it offers security with zippered compartments, there are no advanced anti-theft features like lockable zippers or hidden pockets, which might be a consideration for urban commuters. The backpack is lightweight at just 4 ounces, making it easy to carry but possibly less padded in some areas compared to heavier-duty options. This backpack suits men who want a durable, comfortable, and stylish bag with enough space for a laptop and daily items, but who don’t necessarily need extensive security features or heavy organization.

The Thule Subterra Backpack 21L is designed with work professionals in mind who need a reliable and organized daily backpack. Its 21-liter capacity is compact yet sufficient for carrying essentials without feeling bulky, making it ideal for commuting or office use. The padded laptop compartment fits most 15.6" PCs and 16" MacBooks securely, while a separate soft-lined sleeve protects tablets up to 10.9"—both offering good protection for your devices. Organization is a strong point here, with dedicated pockets for pens, cords, keys, and even a power brick, helping to keep everything neatly in place.

The additional padded pocket for fragile items like sunglasses and a security back panel pocket for valuables such as passports or wallets add thoughtful touches for daily convenience and peace of mind. Comfort-wise, while specific ergonomic details aren’t highlighted, Thule backpacks generally have decent padding and straps suitable for daily wear. The dark slate color and sleek design strike a professional yet modern look without being flashy.

At just under 2 pounds, it’s lightweight enough for easy carrying, but some users looking for a larger capacity or more rugged material might find it limited. If you want a stylish, well-organized backpack primarily for work and electronics protection, this Thule Subterra 21L is a solid choice, especially if you prefer a smaller size that keeps things neat and secure.