Best over-the-shoulder laptop bag

An over-the-shoulder laptop bag keeps your hands free when commuting to work or school.

over-the-shoulder laptop bag
(Image credit: Amazon)

When you’re walking around, an over-the-shoulder laptop bag makes it easy to keep your electronics out of harm’s way. This is because the strap on this style of bag works more efficiently than handles, letting it hang closer to your torso. When choosing an over-the-shoulder laptop bag, it’s important to make sure your laptop will fit inside and that the bag has the number of pockets you need for accessories. We’ve gathered a list of our favorite options for you to check out.

Staff pick

over-the-shoulder laptop bag

(Image credit: Amazon)

AmazonBasics laptop shoulder bag

Smart-looking option without bulk

No frills with everything you need.  

Pros:

  • Weather-resistant
  • Zippers on pockets
  • Luggage strap

Cons:

  • Only one color option

It's easy to overload your laptop bag with too many items, causing strain on your back and shoulders. By choosing a simple option, like this one from AmazonBasics, you'll only be able to fit the essentials. This bag supports laptops up to 15.6-inches and has two additional storage pockets with zippers for your peripherals. 

Size it up

over-the-shoulder laptop bag

(Image credit: Amazon)

tomtoc laptop shoulder bag

Catered to MacBook users

Roomy side pockets easily hold extras.

Pros:

  • Variety of sizes 
  • Retractable handle 
  • Corner protection 

Cons:

  • Side zipper takes getting used to

If you have a MacBook Air or Pro, this option is perfectly suited to your needs. Each bottom corner of the case has extra protection for accidental drops, and the exterior is waterproof. This bag has two zippered pockets on the outside for your charger and mouse and comes in several colors and sizes, ranging from 13 to 16 inches.

Vibrant colors

over-the-shoulder laptop bag

(Image credit: Amazon)

MOSISO laptop shoulder bag

Fun shades to show off your style

 Organized storage for smaller items.  

Pros:

  • Spill-resistant surface 
  • Pen and pencil holders

Cons:

  • External zippered pocket is a bit small 

Tote this bag around by the two fixed handles or the shoulder strap, whichever is most comfortable or convenient. The soft, cushiony interior keeps your expensive electronics free of scratches, while the Velcro, zipper, and slip pockets keep cords or accessories tidy. Make sure to check the size chart so you know for sure that your laptop will fit in this bag. 

For the adventurer

over-the-shoulder laptop bag

(Image credit: Amazon)

NEWHEY messenger bag

Weathered look only gets better

 Crazy horse cowhide leather meets waxed canvas.  

Pros:

  • Durable 
  • Weather-resistant 
  • Spacious

Cons:

  • Extra space means extra weight 

Leather items like this bag develop a patina over time, showing wear patterns and adding to their charm. In addition to its durable exterior, this option from NEWHEY has pockets galore for all your items. The outer flap provides the attractive look of two straps but closes easily with a magnetic snap. 

Traveler's friend

over-the-shoulder laptop bag

(Image credit: Amazon)

CoolBELL convertible backpack messenger bag

Offers some tiny pockets for tiny items

Clothing storage makes this an ideal choice for trips. 

Pros:

  • Attaches to luggage 
  • Fits large laptops 

Cons:

  • Pockets may be excessive for laptop transport only 

Available in 15.6 and 17.3-inch sizes, this CoolBELL bag is focused on staying organized. There are two small zippered pockets for ID cards, pens, or keys, and two large zippered pockets for accessories. You can choose from many color options and even a floral print. In addition to the laptop sleeve, there is another compartment of the same size for a change of clothes or files.  

High capacity

over-the-shoulder laptop bag

(Image credit: Amazon)

KROSER laptop bag

Lots of extra space for files or a tablet

RFID protection offers extra security.  

Pros:

  • Replaces briefcase 
  • Light interior 
  • Angled shoulder strap

Cons:

  • Quite bulky 

Stay away from the need to carry two different bags to work or school. This KROSER bag has room to store up to a 15.6-inch laptop, along with a collection of files or a secondary tablet. The built-in RFID pocket brings added security for credit cards, making this your all-in-one bag.

An easy carry 

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When it comes to over-the-shoulder laptop bags, our favorite option is the AmazonBasics laptop shoulder bag. It has a slim profile and doesn’t bulk up with extra pockets or zippers. We also liked that it is weather-resistant in case you run into some light rain or accidentally spill your coffee on it. Overall, it’s a simple and effective choice if you’re not sure which bag is best.

For MacBook users, it’s hard to go wrong with the tomtoc laptop shoulder bag. This bag is specifically catered to MacBooks, but many other models will fit, too. It has reinforced corners at the bottom of the bag, which helps prevent bumps and drops from causing too much damage. Plus, it has a unique zipper closure that runs up the side of the bag instead of along the top.

Freelance Writer

Nicole Cozma is a freelance writer for Future. She's known for being inquisitive and finding the tiny details that may otherwise go unnoticed. When she's not writing about products, she can be found playing Blizzard game titles, doing copy editing work, cooking, or expanding her photography skills.