I’ve carried an extra battery pack in my carry-on for years, but now that I’m in the market for a new travel backpack, I decided to take a look at some of the best charging backpacks to see if they match up to the hype.
The short version? It’s great having a backpack that is actually organized around the assumption that, yes, you will need to be charging your devices!
As technology progresses and our reliance on gadgets like smartphones, tablets, and laptops increases, having a convenient and reliable way to keep them charged is crucial.
Best Charging Backpacks
Backpacks that charge your phone and other devices are innovative and convenient for modern travelers. With their stylish design and practicality, these backpacks are a must-have for tech-savvy individuals seeking a reliable charging solution while on the move.
But – and this is key – most are designed to allow on-the go charging, and make it super-convenient, but the vast majority are “batteries not included!” See our buying guide later in this article for more on this.
We’ve compiled a list of the best charging backpacks for you to choose from. These backpacks will not only make your life more organized, but they’ll also keep your devices charged on-the-go!
With no further ado, let’s get into the list!
MATEIN Travel Laptop Backpack
This MATEIN travel laptop backpack delivers a stylish, durable, and multifunctional experience for anyone seeking an efficient charging backpack.
Pros
- Lots of storage space and pockets
- Comfortable, supportive, and breathable design
- USB charging port and anti-theft pocket
Cons
- Some people felt the laptop compartment padding was limited
- Water-resistant fabric, but not fully waterproof
The MATEIN travel laptop backpack will quickly become your go-to bag for daily commuting and longer travels.
Its generous storage capacity includes a snug laptop compartment that holds up to a 15.6-inch laptop, while the spacious main packing area can easily accommodate everyday essentials and tech gadgets.
The front compartment is filled with many pockets, making it a breeze to organize your items and quickly find what you need.
Comfort is an important aspect of any backpack, and MATEIN has nailed it with this one. The soft padded back, coupled with thick yet breathable multi-panel ventilated padding, ensures maximum support and comfort, even when worn for extended periods. The adjustable shoulder straps are also nicely padded
The anti-theft pocket on the back of the bag provides extra security for your most valuable items.
Overall, the MATEIN travel laptop backpack has proven to be a reliable and stylish choice for commuting, traveling, or daily use. Its comfortable design, ample storage, and handy USB charging port make it a worthy investment for adventure-seekers and busy professionals alike.
BANGE Business Smart Waterproof Backpack
OK, this is one of those “odd” brands that shows up sometimes with weirdly-translated instructions.
Nevertheless, we included it in our list because it just doesn’t look like every other backpack out there – it’s an unusual look that people either love (and some really love it) or give hard pass to.
If you’re in the former camp, we think this is a great choice for commuters, business travelers, or university students seeking a durable, high-quality backpack with smart organization and convenient charging capabilities.
Pros
- Waterproof and scratch-resistant oxford cloth material
- 180° opening laptop compartment for easy access
- Multiple well-designed pockets for storage and organization
Cons
- No feet to keep the bag from scuffing on the floor
- Shoulder straps sometimes slip from desired position
- Limited size for some users
We appreciate the high-density waterproof and scratch-resistant oxford fabric, which should provide peace of mind during harsh weather conditions. The 180° opening laptop compartment easily accommodates a device up to 15.6 inches and makes it convenient to access a laptop quickly.
One feature that is particularly helpful is the well-thought-out pocket organization. It includes double side pockets, one for a power bank with an external USB port, and the other for a water bottle, or other daily essentials. The two front pockets are ideal for smaller items such as wallets, pens, and other easily accessible items.
While we love many aspects of this backpack, there are a few downsides. The lack of feet on the bottom lets the bag get scuffed on the floor. Additionally, the shoulder straps aren’t the firmest – some people have reported them slipping after being picked up a few times. Finally, the size of the bag may be limited for those with a larger laptop or needing to carry bulkier items.
Overall, we think the BANGE Business Smart Waterproof Backpack is an impressive blend of functionality, durability, and style, suitable for various purposes, from daily commuting to business trips or university life. Despite some minor flaws, it’s a solid investment, and quite the looker.
SwissGear 5358 USB ScanSmart Backpack
We’re big fans of Swissgear, so it’s probably no surprise this is our top choice.
We think this backpack is perfect for the tech-savvy traveler, combining innovative storage solutions and maximum durability for a reliable everyday companion.
Pros
- TSA-friendly lay-flat laptop compartment
- Built-in USB port for charging
- Numerous organizational pockets and compartments
Cons
- Slightly heavy at 3 pounds
- Not ideal for those carrying heavy textbooks
We love this backpack for its combination of contemporary design and functional features. Its TSA-friendly laptop compartment, padded for a 16-inch laptop or tablet, is a huge plus point for me, making it easier to go through security checks without any hassle.
The built-in USB port, numerous pockets, including the essentials organizer for power cords and chargers, as well as the insulated side pocket for water bottles, keep all your belongings neatly organized and accessible throughout the day.
That being said, the backpack weighs nearly 3 pounds when empty. That could be a show-stopper for those who like to travel super-light. As a recommendation, we advise buyers to thoroughly inspect the stabilizer straps upon receiving the bag for any defects as some users have reported issues.
Overall, the SwissGear 5358 USB ScanSmart Backpack makes a great choice for tech-savvy individuals and frequent travelers – its durable construction and innovative storage solutions are perfect for staying organized and connected while on the move.
Mancio Vintage Laptop Backpack with USB Charging Port
Mancio’s Vintage Laptop Backpack is a versatile and stylish choice for those in need of a durable charging backpack.
Pros
- Unique vintage design with PU leather accents
- USB charging port for convenient device charging
- Comfortable, well-padded, and adjustable shoulder straps
Cons
- May not fit all belongings for heavy packers
- Side pockets for bottles could be bigger
- Bag might feel stiff initially
Here’s another style-forward option. We like this unique design that combines a vintage look with modern features. The PU leather accents and magnetic-snap belt flap give this backpack a distinctive, stylish appearance that sets it apart from other charging backpacks.
It’s designed to accommodate a 15.6-inch laptop, and there are multiple compartments to organize your belongings efficiently.
The shoulder straps are padded and adjustable. However, for those who need to carry a lot of belongings (such as textbooks or work materials), the backpack may feel a bit cramped. Also, the side pockets for bottles and umbrellas could be more spacious to accommodate larger items.
The initial stiffness of the bag might be off-putting to some, but it lessens with use. Overall, we believe the Mancio Vintage Laptop Backpack is a fantastic option for those looking for a stylish and versatile charging backpack for work, school, or travel.
Volher 17 Inch Laptop Backpack
The Volher 17 Inch Laptop Backpack is another great choice for those seeking a durable, secure, and convenient option for carrying their electronics and other essentials.
Pros
- Spacious storage and pockets
- Comfortable and sturdy design
- USB port and headphone jack for convenience
Cons
- Lacks waterproofing
- Limited color options
This backpack also accommodate laptops up to 15.6 inches, while the main compartment is spacious enough to accommodate clothes and other larger items. The mesh pockets at the side are ideal for holding a water bottle or compact umbrella, keeping everything organized and easy to find.
The comfort and sturdiness of the backpack’s design are also worth mentioning. The padded, multi-panel ventilated back support provides excellent airflow, while the adjustable shoulder straps help to alleviate stress on the shoulders. The foam-padded top handle makes it easy to carry for extended periods.
Like the other backpacks in this list there is a built-in USB charger, though this pack also comes with a headphone jack so you can listen to your favorite tunes with your device safely stored inside.
Overall, the Volher 17 Inch Laptop Backpack is a solid if perhaps unexciting choice for those in need of a reliable and functional backpack for daily use, business travel, or weekend getaways.
Buyer’s Guide: What Makes a Great Charging Backpack?
When it comes to selecting the best charging backpack, it’s essential to consider features like the number of charging ports, and the overall design of the backpack.
The ideal charging backpack should provide ample storage for your devices, as well as dedicated compartments for cables and accessories.
Additionally, the power bank you choose should have a high enough capacity to charge all your devices throughout the day and offer compatibility with the types of gadgets you use most frequently.
Important Point! "Charging Backpacks" are designed around the assumption you have lots of electronic devices and will likely need easy access to a battery pack while traveling or commuting. Typically they will have protected eyelet holes to thread a cable through at minimum. Many provide a USB port that can be accessed without opening the bag. What they don't have? A built in charger! You will almost always have to buy a battery pack yourself to go with these backpacks. What they do offer is easy access from outside the pack, dedicated compartments to hold a battery pack snugly, etc. This makes sense when you realize everyone's power needs are different, but we wanted this to be crystal clear!
As with any other backpack though, another critical factor to consider when purchasing a charging backpack is its durability and construction.
A well-constructed backpack will not only protect your devices from external damage but should also be able to withstand the wear and tear of daily use.
Lastly, comfort is not optional! (Especially for long commutes or travel.) The best charging backpacks should have padded straps and ergonomic design to ensure you can wear them for extended periods without discomfort.
With so many charging backpacks to choose from, finding the best one can be a daunting task. That’s where we come in!
In this guide, we’ll take a look at the top options, so you can stay powered up while on the move.
Before You Go….
Charging backpacks are a trend we expect to see grow, they’re a gift the traveler and commuter who loves to stay organized. Our favorite is the SwissGear:
- 16-Inch Laptop Backpack: This highly functional backpack features a padded, TSA-friendly SmartScan tech compartment that fits a 16” laptop and an 11” tablet and lays flat through airport security; the built-in USB outlet lets you charge on the go, while an impressive array of integrated organizers keep essential pens, electronic accessories, and even a spare pair of shoes within reach
- Constructed for Comfort: The Airflow back panel and ergonomically contoured suspension straps feature padding and mesh fabric for maximum comfort; handle with ease thanks to a wire-reinforced grab handle and exterior compression straps
- Thoughtfully Designed: With an elastic mesh water bottle pocket, insulated zipper pocket, exterior quick access pockets, and a pass-thru trolley sleeve for luggage compatibility, this bag is packed with convenient features that add delight to your daily carry; At just 3 lbs, this 18x11.5x7 in backpack offers 31.4 liters of carrying capacity
- 10-Year Warranty: Rigorously tested to meet our highest standards and covered by a 10-Year Warranty against defects in materials and workmanship, so you can rest easy knowing your purchase is protected
- Often Imitated But Never Equaled: Every SwissGear product is the culmination of our 125-year commitment to innovation, Swiss principles of design, and only the highest standards of quality
But before you head off – we have a great article on backpacks that are designed to fit under an airplane seat that you might want to check out also:
Best Backpacks For Under An Airplane Seat
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