Size guide for a laptop backpack
Choosing the right size laptop backpack might seem simple, but between inches, your device's actual dimensions, and bag capacities, it's easy to make a mistake. This guide helps you measure your laptop , understand the correlation between screen sizes and compartments , and select a bag perfectly suited to your needs: studies, work, or business trips.
How do you measure your laptop?
Most bags advertise their compatibility in inches . But be careful: this measurement only corresponds to the diagonal of the screen , and not the complete dimensions of the computer.
Steps for accurate measurement:
-
Diagonal (in inches) : Measure the diagonal of the screen (without the borders) in inches. To convert to cm, multiply by 2.54.
-
External dimensions : measure the width, height, and thickness of the closed computer.
-
Add a margin of 1 to 3 cm to prevent the device from being forced against the sides of the bag.
🔍 Example:
A 15-inch computer measures on average 36 x 25 x 2 cm → you need a compartment of at least 38 x 27 cm .
Screen size conversion chart (inches) to backpack dimensions
|
Screen size (inches) |
Screen diagonal (cm) |
Average computer dimensions (cm) |
Recommended size of the bag compartment |
|---|---|---|---|
|
12" |
30.5 cm |
28 x 19 x 2 |
30 x 22 cm |
|
13" |
33.0 cm |
31 x 22 x 2 |
33 x 24 cm |
|
14" |
35.6 cm |
33 x 23 x 2 |
35 x 25 cm |
|
15" |
38.1 cm |
36 x 25 x 2 |
38 x 27 cm |
|
15.6" |
39.6 cm |
38 x 26 x 2.5 |
40 x 28 cm |
|
16" |
40.6 cm |
39 x 27 x 2.5 |
41 x 29 cm |
|
17" |
43.2 cm |
41 x 28 x 3 |
43 x 31 cm |
Always check the actual dimensions of your device : two 15" computers can have different sizes.
What size laptop backpack should I choose depending on my needs?
|
Computer size |
Recommended bag type |
Main use |
|---|---|---|
|
11 to 13 inches |
Compact, slim, lightweight bag |
Students, digital nomads, urban commutes |
|
14 to 15 inches |
Medium-sized bag, good internal support |
Offices, higher education, professional mobility |
|
15.6 to 17 inches |
Large bag with reinforced padding |
Remote work, travel, gaming PC, airplane cabin |
Volume in litres: what capacity do you need?
|
Bag volume (L) |
Possible content |
Type of use |
|---|---|---|
|
15 to 20 L |
Computer, notebook, tablet, charger |
Light daily life (office, high school) |
|
20 to 30 L |
Device + accessories + kit/meal |
Long days, classes, mobility |
|
30 to 50 L |
Device + clothing + personal belongings |
Travel, short trips |
|
50+ L |
Multimedia, clothing, equipment |
Long trips, optimized cabin bag |
Essential features to protect your computer
Here are the elements not to be overlooked to guarantee the safety of your equipment:
-
Padded compartment : cushions shocks and protects against friction.
-
Adjustment margin (1-3 cm) : the computer must not move or force.
-
Strap or Velcro fastener : prevents slipping inside.
-
Reinforced base : prevents impacts when the bag is placed down.
-
Dedicated accessory pockets : cables, mouse, charger, tablet.
In summary: the steps to avoid making a mistake
-
Measure your laptop (diagonal + width/height/thickness).
-
Add 1 to 3 cm to determine the minimum compartment size.
-
Choose the volume in litres according to your use (work, classes, travel).
-
Opt for a padded compartment with internal support.
-
Opt for an ergonomic bag (padded back, comfortable straps).
Need help choosing?
On Bag Haven , each product page specifies the exact compatible laptop size , the bag's volume , and the interior compartment dimensions . Our selection covers all uses: school, office, air travel, or remote work. Discover our ranges of laptop backpacks for women and men and find models perfectly suited to your laptop.
