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Home » Gear » best travel laptop

10 BEST Travel Laptops (MUST READ! • 2024)

From the sleek and mighty powerhouses to the budget-friendly gems, our list is tailored for diverse itineraries and preferences. Imagine unwinding in a quaint café with a laptop that boasts a battery life longer than your layover, or editing your travel vlog on a device that handles heavy graphics like a breeze.

I put this guide together with one goal in mind – to help you find the best travel laptop for YOUR travel style. With the help of this epic guide, you’ll easily to be able to know which laptop is best for your needs, style, and budget.

Alllrighty then, do you wanna find out what the best computer for travel is? Well, let’s get to it!

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Quick answer: The Best Portable Travel Laptops

What type of traveller are you, best overall laptop for travel – macbook air, best laptop for professionals – macbook pro, best midrange travel laptop – dell xps 13″, best value for money laptop – samsung galaxy book4 pro, best budget travel laptop – lenovo ideapad, other great budget laptops for travel, the best overall travel laptop, what specs to consider before buying the best travel laptop, choosing the best travel laptop faqs, how we tested the best travel laptop, faq about the best travel laptop, final thoughts on the best laptops for travel.

• Macbook Air – Best Lightweight Laptop
• 16.2 Inch MacBook Pro – Best Laptop for Professionals
• Dell XPS 13″ – Best Midrange Laptop
• SAMSUNG Galaxy Book4 Pro – Best Value Laptop
• Lenovo Idea Pad – Best Budget Laptop
• Jump to –> Travel Laptop Reviews

Macbook Air

• Price > $1,444.99
• Portability > 6.3 lbs
• Battery Life > 18 hour battery
• Storage Space > 256 – 512GB SSD
• Processing Power > M3 chip
• Operating System > Mac OS Ventura

16.2 Inch Macbook Pro

• Price > $2,549
• Portability > 8.3 lbs
• Battery Life > 22 hour battery
• Storage Space > 512 GB – 1 TB SSD

Dell XPS 13

• Price > $599
• Portability > 2.7 lbs
• Battery Life > 7 hour battery
• Storage Space > 128 GB SSD
• Processing Power > Intel Core i5-7200U 3MB cache, up to 3.10 GHz 8G memory 128G SSD
• Operating System > Windows 10

Samsumg Galaxy Book4 Pro

• Price > $1,149.99
• Battery Life > 15.5 hour battery
• Storage Space > ?512 GB
• Processing Power > Intel Core 7 Ultra Processor
• Operating System > ?Windows 11 Home

Lenovo Ideapad

• Price > $569
• Portability > 5 lbs
• Storage Space > 500 GB Hard Drive
• Processing Power > Intel Pentium 4405U (2M Cache, 2.10 GHz), 2 cores, 4 threads
• Operating System > Windows 10 Pro

My laptop has literally changed my life – not only can I earn money online but I can also stream Game of Thrones wherever I go… and I think we can all agree that that’s pretty damn important.

But what about your needs?

You see, “the best travel laptop” is a pretty broad statement since there are many different types of travelers. The question is – which kind of traveler are YOU?

Here are some extremely important things to consider…

1. Do you need to get work done on your laptop?

If you aren’t planning on using your travel laptop for online work, you don’t necessarily need to splash out on a top of the range laptop.

While it might be tempting to spend $2,000 on the new best laptop, the truth is that only digital nomads and other professionals really need that sort of tech. If you don’t have any work deadlines to meet, it might be better to keep it simple.

2. What will you use your laptop for?

Will you be working on the road (writing, editing, etc.), or mainly surfing the web? Do you need the processing power to run multiple editing programs, or is your prime concern staying connected to social media?

Identifying exactly what you need a laptop for will help you decide on which one is best for your travels.

3. Do you have any size requirements?

Are you traveling with minimal room in your backpack? Are you bringing a bag with certain size requirements?

For instance, some expensive daypacks can’t fit 15-inch laptops, or some laptop sleeves can’t fit larger than a 13 inch. If you buy a special backpack for your laptop , then most of your needs should be met. Either way, make sure to keep these in mind.

4. Are you traveling heavy or light?

The more powerful the laptop, the more it weighs. The difference between a 1.5 lb tablet and a 7 lb professional laptop is HUGE.

Remember that a light traveler is a happy traveler, so if you don’t need a heavier laptop, there’s no reason to cause extra strain on your body.

There are different specs you need to considers when choosing the best laptop for you…

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Two quick things….

• If you are a digital nomad, working professional, or aspiring to work online. Do not pick this travel laptop.
• If you hate Macs or iOS. Do not pick this computer.

Everyone else. This is the best travel laptop. 

If you’re an Apple user, this is Apple’s best Mac laptop for the money and this was the first laptop I took traveling which was adequate for working online. The pros (as with any MacBook) are its integration with apple products, ease-of-use, trackpad and keyboard, design, and reliable performance. It’s also the lightest laptop for travel, so that’s a major win.

I’ve used MacBooks for 7 years now (my first one from 2010 is still alive and kicking!), and I’ve never needed repairs (except to replace an old battery). I can’t say the same for any of the PCs I’ve owned, which is why I think Macs are the best user-friendly laptops if you don’t have a computer background.

If you want a MacBook for browsing, streaming, social, and office, the MacBook Air is fast enough, especially with 2024’s updated processor speed and default memory. But if you want a Retina resolution screen, “Kaby Lake” processors, and more power for editing programs, you’ll have to fork out the money for a MacBook Pro instead.

I recommend you go for as much storage as you can afford if you plan on storing music, images or video because you can’t add storage to Apple computers after purchase. If your laptop is used for browsing and light document work (Excel, Word, etc.) the 256GB SSD should be fine.

• Fast and durable!
• Lightweight (super important)
• Can handle your internet needs and then some
• Not as powerful as other options
• Not good for working professionals

Is the MacBook Air for you?

If you are looking for a light laptop that can handle all of your basic internet needs and then a little bit more – the MacBook Air is my highest recommendation. It’s light and sleek design makes it ideal for travelers, and it comes at a reasonable price.

If you are interested in making money online, you need to invest in a great laptop. The MacBook Pro is my highest recommendation. Its starting price plus lack of ports can be a deal breaker for many, but I still think it is the most versatile, user-friendly laptop out there and mine has allowed me to start and run several businesses from all over the world. I love my MacBook Pro and investing in it was the smartest move I made.

Whether you are freelancing, doing graphic design, blogging or editing photo or video – if you are a traveling professional, it’s hard to beat the MacBook Pro. If you’re in the market for the best lightweight laptop that still has a ton of storage space, the 16.2-inch MacBook is the best choice for you. Weighing less than a 2 kg, this is the best lightweight laptop for travel. Overall, the MacBook Pro is one of the fastest computers on the market. It’s the best traveling laptop for digital nomads, but you have to pay for it.

This is a great choice for bloggers, freelance photographers , etc too. It outperforms the other laptops on this list, but if you’re not set on the Mac OS system, the Dell XPS and Microsoft Surface Book have competing specs for a much more affordable cost.

• Powerful – can handle anything
• Great battery life
• Great for Digital Nomads or professionals
• Unnecessary for normal web users

Is the MacBook Pro for you?

If you can afford a notebook above $1800, or have to bite the bullet because of work, these laptops are going to be fantastic options because they have powerful processors, larger storage space, and better quality build.

High-end laptops are the best laptops for travelling photographers, videographers, laptop bloggers, etc., but not necessary for the average traveller.

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The Dell XPS is best mid-range laptop for travel because of its superb battery life, 7th-generation Core performance and excellent Wi-Fi range. I love that it has more ports than on competing laptops, as well as an SD port. It also has a touch-screen higher-resolution option (for a bit more weight and quite a bit more money).

As for its design, the Dell XPS has a comfortable soft-touch, carbon-fibre deck, infinity display, and rose-colour option. Often the trade off for a thin, best ultralight laptop is shorter battery life and too few ports. The XPS 13, however, gives you nearly 14 hours of battery power, and all the connection options you need while also remaining pretty light and compact for travel.

If you are a PC user, the Dell XPS 13″ is the best travel computer within the $1000 range. Though if you want more memory than 256MB, or an i7 processor, you will have to pay more money. This is a high quality laptop at a great price…

• Incredible value
• Powerful – good for those who  work and travel
• Great alternative if you don’t like Apple products
• Pricey for a PC
• Touch screen option is very expensive

Is the Dell XPS right for you?

For under $1000, you should be able to find a high quality travel laptop for many of the specs that matter most to the average traveler: weight, portability, and reliability. If you are willing to spend a couple hundred more, I would recommend picking up the Dell…

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When it comes to weight, size, features, and battery, the Galaxy Book4 Pro is the best travel laptop for your money. It’s compact size and lightweight design make it highly portable, perfect for on-the-go use. The vibrant display offers crisp and clear visuals, ideal for multimedia consumption and productivity tasks. If you are going pro and embracing the digital nomad lifestyle, I would recommend getting a Macbook instead.

It’s got a powerful Intel Core Ultra 7 Processor, ideal for keeping you productive without the frustration of slow-loading apps. I had used a touchscreen laptop before but I was very impressed with the responsiveness and how much I used it. One downside is it doesn’t come with a stylus you will have to purchase one of these separately.

• Great value
• Laptop AND a tablet
• Overall pick for best value
• Not powerful enough for professionals/Digital Nomads
• Not as durable

Is the Galaxy Book4 Pro right for you?

If you’re travelling and looking for a lightweight, portable laptop that can get the job done this one is for you. If you need something with a bit more processing power then I’d recommend looking into the Macbook Pro.

The Lenovo is one of the best ultra-lightweight laptops in the budget price range. This Windows OS laptop has 9 hours of battery life, a nice design, and is one of the cheapest light laptops for travel. The performance is good enough for web surfing, editing documents, and viewing movies. The keyboard and touchpad’s quality, however, is less than subpar.

Overall, this is a cheap laptop and a solid choice for the minimal traveller, who wants to stream online and run basic programs. This is definitely not adequate for anybody who needs to work online and certainly the Lenovo cannot handle Lightroom or other photo editing programs.

The team felt this was a great option for those with pretty basic needs looking for something lightweight, affordable and that performs well enough given the tasks expected of it. For those working mostly on word processors and looking to store their travel photos, this is a great option. The standard edition comes with a massive hard drive too making it great for storing and doing some basic processing to travel photos on the road.

• Good for basic surfing and Netflix-ing
• Not durable

Is the Lenovo right for you?

If you are trying to get any work done or be productive, the Lenovo is NOT for you. This is a budget computer that can handle some basic browsing and streaming for the few years it lasts. If that is what you need it for, then this is one of the best budget options!

What are 2-1 Laptops?  They are travel tablets that can be converted into full laptops. Unlike conventional tablets, they’re made to be used offline and can run computer programs. Moreover, unlike with normal tablets, 2-1 laptops allow you to upload data (music, videos, photos, documents).

Just keep in mind, 2-1 laptops rarely have enough storage space for a lot of videos and photos. A 2-1 tablet/laptop isn’t the best laptop for GoPro users or videographers either since they cannot run intensive video editing programs without sacrificing performance and speed.

1. Samsung Chromebook

The Samsung Chromebook Plus offers a decent design, long battery life, touchscreen, and a hybrid hinge that turns it into a tablet, and is the lightest Chromebook on this list.

Unlike other ChromeBooks, this one is using the sister system, that allows you to download Android apps and use them offline, making it a great Chromebook for travel.

As an alternative to expensive and heavy Macbooks, the team felt the Samsung Chromebook Plus was a really viable option for those not wanting to travel with that kind of laptop but wanting similar performance levels.

2. Acer Chromebook

The Acer Chromebook is one of the better budget lightweight laptops on the market. The laptop has ultra portability, a comfortably sized keyboard, and a touchscreen. The downside is it does feel very “cheap” with a plastic like frame. At 1.1 Kg and 11.6 inches, this is one of the best budget laptops for surfing the internet, and a great option if you’re looking for a small, portable laptop to stream movies on or run other basic tasks with.

Note:  I have listed the starting price for the storage space available. Often you can add more storage space for a higher price.

3. Lenovo Yoga 910

An alternative to the Surface Pro and another one of the best tablets for traveling is another hybrid with cool features like a fingerprint sensor. At 1.4kg (3.09lbs), the Yoga 910 is a heavier than most 2-1s, but also has more storage space to start, an all-metal finish, the latest Kaby Lake processors (i7), and 14in HD display.

It’s reasonably well-priced for a hybrid of this quality, but there is a cheaper, more basic version called the Lenovo Yoga 710 if you’re trying to save some cash. The 910, however, is the best no-compromise option for work and pleasure making it one of the best laptops for travel and digital nomad life.

Tie Between MacBook Pro and Dell XPS 13 for the best travel laptop

MacBook Pro

MacBook Pro is the best laptop for travel for Mac users, who want the fastest, most reliable computer on the market. The MacBook Pro uses Kaby Lake processors (Intel’s seventh generation chips), has a sleek design, retina (2560 x 1600-pixel) display, touch ID, and the best rated audio sound.

The Dell XPS is the best Windows 10-based laptop. It comes with 13.3 HD display, nearly 14 hours of battery power, and all the connection options you while remaining plenty light and compact for travel. This is a great choice if you want to save a bit of cash and avoid Macs…

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Price is probably the most important factor when choosing the best laptop for traveling.

Unless you are working online, you really don’t need to spend $1000+ to get the best travel laptop. There are several cheap travel laptops and mid-range options that make great laptops for travel.

Remember that high-value items, such as a top of the range laptop, are often harder to claim for on insurance. There are some cheap lightweight laptop options on the market too and overall the price of laptops continues to come down… You get what you pay for though so if you need a laptop for work, I recommend not going for the cheapest laptop option.

2. Portability

Portability is especially essential for the on-the-go, minimal traveler, and an important factor to consider when choosing the best laptop for travel.

You want something lightweight so that your backpack doesn’t end up weighing too much (As we say in the hiking world, ounces add pounds and pounds add pain!). If you haven’t yet picked up a backpack for your trip, check out this post for plenty of backpack inspiration. 

Your laptop’s size is also important (usually correlating with weight) to easily pull your computer in/out of your bag at the TSA security line, etc. The smallest travel laptops and tablets have less storage space and processing power, but they are also cheap and highly portable. If you are going to be on the road a lot, I recommend trying to find a lightweight laptop.

If you have a smaller unit, you can also invest in a smaller laptop bag . So portability not only applies to the laptop itself, but what you’re going to use to carry it.

3. Battery Life

It’s always nice to have a reliable battery life, especially if you are taking your laptop up into the mountains. The best laptops on the market have at least 8 hours of battery life, and some can last for an entire day. If you are spending a lot of time off the grid and still need access to your laptop then consider picking up a portable battery capable of charging a laptop.

Quick travel tip: make sure your wi-fi and blue tooth are turned off (when you’re not using them) to save battery!

4. Storage Space

Most of the top travel laptops (with ample battery life and affordability) lack a large amount of storage space, and if you’re going to store a lot of photos and videos from your travels, it’s important to have ample hard drive space!

I’ve found it’s well worth investing in a cloud drive and/or an external hard drive, especially since photos and videos take up a lot of room. This way you don’t have to sacrifice laptop portability for storage space on the actual laptop.

My first backpacking laptop, a MacBook Air, didn’t have too much storage space so I kept a lot of my photos and videos on Dropbox and stored my movies on a nearly bulletproof portable hard drive .

Typical external drives with 1 terabyte cost around $80 USD, and cloud storage (through Google, Dropbox Microsoft, etc.) average around $10 a month. It’s also important to back up your files in case your travel laptop gets stolen (like my friend Ana’s did in Costa Rica)!

5. Processing Power

If you are running editing programs and high-resolution videos, you should also prioritize the processing power.

The CPU is like the “brain” of your computer. At the moment, Intel Core i7 is the highest performer, but also the most expensive. Intel Core i5 should work for most of the best travel computers, and anything older is fine if you’re just surfing the web.

A separate graphics chip allows gamers, 3D designers, and high-res video editors to run their programs without taking up a ton of RAM and slowing the overall performance of the computer.

An integrated graphics chips (one that shares system memory) is just fine if you don’t have these needs.

If you want a separate graphics chip, keep in mind Apple only puts separate graphics chips in their MacBook Pro 15in computers. The 15 inch MacBooks are more expensive, and in my opinion, anything over 13 inches is too large to be considered one of the best laptops to travel with.

6. Do you prefer Mac, Windows, or Chrome OS?

Most laptops run one of these three operating systems: Windows, Chrome OS, or Mac OS X (for MacBooks only).

Windows notebooks offer the largest range of options for the best travel laptop. The newest window computers offer cool features like touch screens, 2-1 convertible tablets, fingerprint readers, and dual graphics chips.

Mac’s newest operating system, MacOS Sierra, comes with all Apple computers. Once you get the hang of Apple’s programs and trackpad/keyboard short cuts, Mac is the best user-friendly laptop (in my opinion) for the average person who knows nothing about computer engineering or coding.

Macs are expensive, but also reliable, which is important when you are travelling around the world and don’t have time/money to take a computer in for repairs.

Chrome-OS is Google OS’ – simple and secure operating system, usually available on small portable laptops. The drawback? It’s mainly limited to surfing the web, checking email, and navigating social networks, not doing stuff offline. Still, ChromeBooks are the best cheap and light laptops for the minimal traveller.

Conclusion? Most travellers are going to need to prioritise versatility , weight , battery life , and price when picking the best travel laptop. Digital nomads and travellers working remotely are going to need powerful laptops for travel to handle multi-tasking and intensive programs.

Q. What is the best laptop for the money?

In my humble opinion, the best value laptop is definitely the Microsoft Surface Book  – from a specs / weight / price ratio, this laptop outperforms all the others.

Q. What is the best cheap laptop?

The Lenovo Idea Pad  is the best cheap laptop on the market at the moment. It is adequate for streaming movies and casual web browsing but that’s about it… Still, for less than $300, it’s a steal.

Q. What is the lightest travel laptop?

The MacBook Ai r is the most compact, thinnest and lightest laptop for traveling on the market… If space and weight is your primary concern, this is the laptop to choose.

Q. What is the best laptop for blogging?

The Macbook Pro  is the best laptop for bloggers and photographers – it can handle whatever you throw at it and edit photos without any problems, even on very advanced, space hungry, software.

Q. What is the smallest travel laptop?

The Macbook Air  takes the gold again for the smallest laptop for traveling…

Q. What is the most durable laptop?

The Macbook Pro  is the toughest laptop in this list and if you put it in a case it can take some knocks… Still, be careful with it.

Q. Should I travel with a laptop or a tablet?

A 2-1 will give you a lot more versatility than just traveling with a laptop or a tablet. If you ARE a fan of tablets, I recommend that you consider getting a 2-1 laptop / tablet combo rather than just a tablet. The Microsoft Surface 7 Pro  is definitely the best 2-1 laptop / tablet on the market.

There is no perfect or exact science when it comes to testing out what the best work travel laptop is. Having been digital nomads for a number of years, we think we’re in a decent position to give our 2 cents on the matter!

So when it came to assessing the best travel computers, we looked at a few different factors like specific performance for certain jobs and tasks, memory, storage, speed, weight and durability too. Of course, when it comes to the best laptop for travel and work, much of what is needed is individual depending on your needs. But we tried to cover most of the common uses as well as generalised purposes for travelling with a laptop.

Finally, we also take into account how an item is priced. Travel computers vary wildly in price and the most expensive isn’t always the best for your needs and your trip. However, we did scrutinise the more expensive laptops and gave the cheaper ones a bit more leeway.

Still have some questions about the best laptops for travel? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What is the overall best travel laptop?

The perfect all-rounder for digital nomads is the Macbook Air . It packs style, efficiency, plenty of battery life and storage space and a solid operating systen in one little rectangle. For even more storage space, we’d suggest upgrading to a Macbook Pro .

What is the most affordable travel laptop?

The Lenovo Ideapad is one of the best budget options for digital nomads. While the value might not be as high as a Macbook, you’ll definitely get some real bang for your buck.

Which is the lightest travel laptop?

The Macbook Air is one of the best lightweight travel laptops on the market, with only 2.5lbs!

Should I get an insurance for my laptop during my travels?

Hell yes! If you’re relying on your laptop, having your electronics insured is one of first steps to travelling without any worries.

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There you have it!

Our epic reviews of the most versatile laptops, the most cost-efficient laptops, the best laptop for blogging and digital nomads and, of course, the best budget laptop on the market.

Overall, I don’t think you can go wrong with any of the listed choices. I personally tend to lean towards MacBooks because of their reliability and my own personal experiences.

However, some of the newest Microsoft, Lenovo, and Dell laptops have unique, useful features like touch screen, and 2-1 convertibility that give them a leg up as the best traveling laptops.

If you just want the best cheap travel laptop to surf the web and stream online, one of the budget laptops or Chromebooks would be perfect for you.

You will need to upgrade from the ChromeBooks and budget options to one of the travelling tablet 2-1’s or more expensive laptop options if you want to store data but you can get around this by buying a portable hard drive. Personally, I’m a big fan of Macbook Pros but what does the data say? When we compare all the factors, what is the best laptop for traveling?

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31 Comments

Your writing is so relatable and down-to-earth It’s like chatting with a good friend over a cup of coffee Keep sharing your wisdom with us

Great article and certainly needed. However, I wouldn’t use a Lenovo product, even if you gave it to me for free. They have lots of problems!

Nicely comprised info for travelers. Like you, I once brought a laptop while traveling, only for it to not turn on due to the none air conditioned climate. It worked fine once I got back to the air conditioned USA. Do you have a laptop suggestion for those traveling to poor areas where cool flowing air is not an option? I’ve heard someone say there are ASUS laptops that can take the heat, but I have yet to find an article that states this.

This is a tough question because I feel like most laptops would be susceptible to this problem. You should buy a laptop with a high-quality frame or invest in an industrial-grade laptop.

Hey, thanks for your effort. I love working outside and i am trying to become more independent. After going through your choices real quick, the microsoft surface pro seems to be the most fit for me. Although i would love to be able to use a powerbank or something to charge it. Any suggestions in that regard?

The most important information thats missing for me is, the ability to work outside. Are all of them equal in that regard? Will i be able to work in the sun? Because my current notebook will not let me do that.

Hey Flo! I’m working off a Surface Pro 4 and I love mostly love it…. Mine has a factory error that dates back to 2016, but new ones should be fine. I’m able to work in the sun… if I need to. But working in the sun is both miserable and can cause eye damage. You’re not meant to be focusing on tiny text on a screen while inundated with blazing sunlight!

The best Windows 10 option for creatives and travelers needing versatility, speed, and power. While technically a powerful laptop, this is also one of the best tablets for travel. I will go for it.

I think this is great and you have totally nailed it by making that statement. Right on.

Thanks for the review. I am going to making some tour videos and for that, I will buy a laptop for video editing. I hope MacBook Pro will do that job greatly.

very informative blog, to bring a laptop while traveling actually I am making a plan to go an India for some time before that I definitely will check your mention points like battery life, processing power etc.

I’ve had my MacBook Air for a couple years now and it’s starting to show signs of needing replacement. Kinda nervous about this and what Apple is currently offering. Hopefully, it will hold out for a bit longer to see what else Apple might have in store.

You should really add the “Surface Laptop” to the list, it’s a great little laptop that allows you to choose how much storage you want along with three different processor options

I am looking for a new laptop and your list is helpful. Thank you.

Thank you for sharing this. A lot of people recommended me to buy the MacBook pro definitely expensive but worth every penny especially for us freelancer who like to travel and do work not just outside our home. Anyways, thank you for sharing this list. I love that you also share how informative and being detailed about the pros and cons.

Glad you found our laptop reviews helpful Esther! I’m a Macbook Pro man myself! 🙂

Please stop using the term “Digital Nomad.” It’s cringeworthy… Also, being a “DM” isn’t the only reason to have a high-powered laptop.

If you have heaps of money to spend on a high end laptop purely for leisure then good for you dude but for most people that kind of investment is only worth making if you’re going to be working online, with your laptop, as you travel.

that was wonderful details on the travel laptpops for all the techno freaks. Good post with all the essential details.

The performance of the SurfaceBook 2 is everything you could want form a laptop and thanks to the dual battery the battery life on offer here is impressive from a performance-focused device.

While choosing the laptop for traveling it is most important to consider which specs will optimize the digital experience. Which type of laptop is best for traveling and also how you plan to use your laptop while traveling

I’m definitely a windows user! The surface book 2 is just awesome, I’m gonna buy it soon.

Chromebooks are pretty much the perfect laptop for travelling. I mean not only are they cheap and super light and portable, but you can’t do much on them – which hopefully means you’ll STAY THE HECK OFF OF THEM and actually enjoy your vacation 😉

Comprehensive and detailed. I love that you have included comparison and required specs of the different travel laptops. I’d go for portability, memory, and battery life. Thanks for providing the best choices!

Hii Will Hatton,

I would like to say big thank you for your post. I really love to read it , this is such a very appreciable & informative post for each travelers. Keep posting

Yeah portability is what makes laptops great 🙂

I’ve been looking for a laptop to use for my business when I am away from home. So glad I found your blog. It has great info and I think I’ve narrowed it down to 2 different ones. Price is going to effect my choice, but that’s how it goes.

Hi, I’m going to India this winter but I’m also a student so I do have to be checking my laptop to see if my assignments and homework. I’m a little worried about wifi coverage. When you go to 3rd world countries how do you get reliable wifi? What provider/coverage plan do you use?

You’ll be fine – WiFi can be found in most places these days, which is kind of a shame. I don’t have reliable WiFi when I travel, I just get on with it.

Yes, but what no travel writer thinks to mention is which of these computers, all or none or in between, can connect to Channels 12 (in Canada and the rest of the world) 13 (in Europe and the rest of the World) and 14 in Japan. I’ve bought devices in the past, for world traveling, only to discover that the devices had been needlessly throttled for US customers at the firmware level. In other words, they could only connect on Channels 1-11.

Hi Will, Great detailed post. For me, a travel laptop has to be extra portable and have long-lasting battery. Chromebooks tend to meet those requirements and I always keep one for when I am on the road.

I’m truly impressed with your business finesse while traveling in some really interesting places. Nicely done!

I used to be a MacBook fan, but this last one as well as my latest iPhone has made me look elsewhere. The Dell XPS and the Lenovo Yoga products definitely seems to get great reviews and rock solid performance. I think I’ll be checking them out next. And, of course, your travel on $10 a day…didn’t think that was possible anymore! Thanks for some great reads

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• Best Mid-Range
• Best Budget
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Recent updates, all reviews, the 6 best travel laptops - summer 2024 reviews.

When shopping for a travel laptop, a couple of requirements immediately come to mind: size, weight, and battery life. Finding a thin and light laptop isn't so much a problem when it comes to general productivity and media consumption devices, but finding a relatively portable mobile workstation or gaming laptop can still be challenging. You must also ensure that portability doesn't come at the cost of a flimsier, cheaper-feeling build, or that it hampers performance. Screen brightness is another thing to consider, as you want a display that can overcome glare in bright settings, and you'll want a good keyboard and touchpad, as they're your primary input methods. A good port selection is a must if you don't want to carry around a hub or dock, and webcam quality is important if you're often on video calls. Biometrics isn't necessary but nice to have, especially if you don't like typing out your password or PIN in a public area.

We've bought and tested over 125 laptops. Below are our recommendations for the best laptops for travel you can buy. You can also see our recommendations for the best laptops , the best business laptops , and the best laptops for college .

Best Laptop For Travel

The best travel laptop we've tested is the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3, 2023). This 14-inch workstation has nearly everything you could ask for in a premium model: a sturdy all-metal chassis, a compact design, tons of processing power, and a long battery life. It sports a bright 120Hz Mini LED display, a spacious keyboard, and a gigantic, easy-to-use haptic touchpad. The display is suitable for color work, as it has full DCI P3 coverage and superb factory calibration. Its 1080p webcam is excellent, so your colleagues can see and hear you clearly on video calls.

New in this generation of MacBook Pro is the addition of a base M3 model, similar to the discontinued 13-inch model with Touch Bar. This can be a great option if you don't need all the processing power but still want the 'Pro' features, like the display and up-firing speakers. The main downside is that the RAM and storage aren't user-replaceable, and upgrading them increases the total cost considerably.

See our review

Best Upper Mid-Range Laptop For Travel

If your workload includes lighter tasks like text processing, web browsing, spreadsheets, and video playback, get the Apple MacBook Air 13 (2024) instead. It's also a high-end model that provides a premium user experience; however, its base M3 SoC doesn't have as much processing power as the M3 Pro or Max variants, so you aren't overpaying for performance you don't need. While its IPS panel isn't as impressive as the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3, 2023) 's 120Hz Mini LED display, it's still pretty and bright enough for outdoor use. The main drawback is the port selection, which comprises two USB-C/Thunderbolt 3 ports; these support two external displays, but only if you close the laptop's lid.

A Windows alternative would be the HP Spectre x360 14 (2024) . Though slightly bulkier and heavier than the MacBook Air, this 14-inch model still fits easily into most bags. As its name implies, this is a 2-in-1 convertible, which means you can flip the screen around and use it as a tablet. Its 120Hz 2.8k OLED display also supports pen input if you want to take handwritten notes or draw, though you may have to buy the stylus separately, depending on the retailer. You get Wi-Fi 6E, a 4k webcam, and a wider port selection with multi-display support. Two things to know about: the display doesn't get as bright as the MacBook Air's, so visibility won't be as good in well lit settings or outdoors in broad daylight, and the screen flickers at 480Hz, which might bother those sensitive to flickering.

Best Mid-Range Laptop For Travel

If you want a more affodable mid-range option, check out the HP Pavilion Aero 13 (2024). Available with AMD Zen 4 CPUs, this 13-inch ultraportable can easily handle general productivity tasks like web browsing and spreadsheets, as well as more demanding workloads like programming. It only comes with 16GB of soldered RAM, which is both good and bad, as you don't have to spend more money to upgrade from the measly 8GB found in most base models, but you also can't get more or add more later. As for the display, you can choose between an FHD+ or QHD+ IPS panel; both get bright enough to provide good visibility in well lit settings.

The biggest difference between this model and the more premium models mentioned above is build quality. Its chassis—a mix of aluminum and plastic—exhibits a fair amount of flexing, and the device as a whole feels hollow. Additionally, the finish is prone to scratches even from regular, everyday use. The keyboard feels spacious, albeit a tad fatiguing over an extended period of use, and the touchpad is responsive but makes some actions like dragging and dropping hard to perform. Its 1440p webcam supports Windows Hello facial recognition, allowing you to log in quickly and avoid typing your password in public areas.

Best Budget Laptop For Travel

The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3i Chromebook 14 (2023) is the best travel laptop we've tested with a budget-friendly price. This 14-inch model is a great option if you only need a portable device to browse the web or get some light work done while on the go. It feels decently well built for the price, sporting an aluminum and plastic chassis, and its battery life is outstanding at around 12 to 13 hours. You get Wi-Fi 6E, a surprisingly excellent 1080p webcam, and a decent port selection with two USB-As, one USB-C. and an HDMI. The keyboard feels spacious but a tad mushy, and unfortunately, the touchpad is small and sometimes unresponsive.

While there are many CPU and display configuration options available, we recommend getting a Core i3 model with 8GB of RAM and a 1080p IPS display, which you can regularly find on sale for about $400 to $500 USD via  Lenovo . The N100/N200 models with 4GB of RAM are likely fine if you only use the laptop to access the internet and want to pay as little as possible; just know that you'll experience more frequent stutters and slowdowns when multitasking. Lastly, remember that Chrome OS is limited in the type of applications you can install, so make sure you can do everything through a Chrome browser or Android app.

Best Compact Laptop For Travel

If you need something compact to browse the web or answer emails on the go, get the Microsoft Surface Go 3 (2021), a 10.5-inch tablet PC with a built-in kickstand and a detachable keyboard. It's super compact, and its battery lasts a little over seven hours of light use. Its FHD+ display looks very sharp, gets bright enough to combat glare, and supports pen input. You get an excellent 1080p webcam, a second back-facing camera, and a facial recognition IR camera for quick logins. Like all Microsoft 2-in-1 tablets, you must buy the keyboard and stylus separately. The keyboard is worth getting, as it's much more comfortable to type on than an on-screen keyboard, and it protects the screen from scratches.

The Surface Go 3 is available with an Intel Pentium Gold or Core i3 CPU. They perform well enough for this tablet PC's intended use, which is to say simple tasks like web browsing, emails, and video playback, but don't expect to do anything remotely intensive. If your budget allows, it's worth upgrading the memory to 8GB, as you'll get a much smoother experience with fewer slowdowns when multitasking. Port selection is limited; you only get a USB-C, a headphone jack, and a proprietary Surface Connect charging port.

Best Gaming Laptop For Travel

For gaming on the go, we recommend the sleek and compact ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 (2024). This 14-inch model is available with AMD Ryzen CPUs and NVIDIA 40-series GPUs (up to an RTX 4070), providing plenty of processing power for a smooth gaming experience in intensive AAA titles. Its 120Hz 2.8k OLED display has a fast response time, so you get a clear image in fast-moving games and great input responsiveness, and there's also VRR support to minimize screen tearing. There's a wide port selection for peripherals and external displays, including four USBs, a MicroSD card reader, and an HDMI 2.1. Unfortunately, there's no Ethernet port, though you do get Wi-Fi 6E.

Configuration-wise, every model can handle gaming at 1080p, but if you want to play at 1440p or at the display's native 2.8k resolution, we recommend going up to an RTX 4060 or 4070 GPU, as the RTX 4050 will struggle to reach 60 fps in highly intensive titles. Storage configuration maxes out at 1TB, which isn't a lot these days, but thankfully, you can easily replace the SSD, as this laptop uses a standard M.2 SSD. Unfortunately, the battery life lasts less than two hours when gaming, so you'll need to bring the charger when gaming on the go.

• ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED (2024): If you want a Windows alternative to the Apple MacBook Air 13 (2024) with a more traditional clamshell form factor, check out the ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED (2024). It has a 120Hz 2.8k OLED display like the HP Spectre x360 14 (2024), but its battery life is shorter at around eight hours of light use, and its CPU throttles significantly under load. See our review
• Framework Laptop 13 (2023): The Framework Laptop 13 (2023) is a good alternative to the Apple MacBook Air 13 (2024) if you want a laptop that's easy to repair or upgrade. You can replace any component in the laptop, even the CPU and motherboard. All the parts are available via Framework, and the company provides manuals to guide you through the replacement process. However, its keyboard, touchpad, speakers, and webcam aren't as good. Also, depending on where you live, it might be harder to get one because you can only get it via Framework's website. See our review
• Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 11 (2023): The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 11 (2023) is a great ultraportable alternative to the Apple MacBook Air 13 (2024). It has a wider port selection and Thunderbolt 4 support, and its SSD is user-replaceable. However, it's slightly bulkier, and its battery doesn't last as long. It's also more expensive. See our review
• Lenovo Yoga 6 13 (2023): The Lenovo Yoga 6 13 (2023) is a cheaper alternative to the HP Pavilion Aero 13 (2024). It has a sturdier build and a better touchpad; however, its display doesn't get as bright, and its webcam is significantly worse. It also doesn't perform as well because it uses slower AMD Zen 3-based CPUs, whereas the HP uses newer Zen 4 processors. See our review
• Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5 (2021): The Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5 (2021) is a good alternative to the Microsoft Surface Go 3 (2021) if you only need a device for media consumption. It has a much nicer OLED display, and its battery lasts longer. It's a 13-inch device, though, so it isn't as portable as the Surface Go 3. See our review

Aug 01, 2024: Replaced the Acer Chromebook Spin 714 (2022) with the HP Pavilion Aero 13 (2024) because the Acer is an older model and harder to find. Replaced the Acer Swift 3 14 (2020) with the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3i Chromebook 14 (2023) because the Acer is discontinued. Replaced the Razer Blade 14 (2022) with the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 (2024) because the ASUS is easier to find and available with NVIDIA 40-series GPUs.

May 13, 2024: Replaced the Apple Macbook Air 13 (2022) with the Apple Macbook Air 13 (2024). Replaced the LG gram 14 (2023) with the HP Spectre x360 14 (2024) as an alternative to the Apple Macbook Air 13 (2024). Added the HP Omen Transcend 14 (2024) as a Notable Mention. Minor text changes to reflect the changing availability of Dell XPS 15 (2023).

Mar 15, 2024: Removed the Lenovo Slim Pro 7 14 (2023) from the Notable Mentions because it's discontinued. Added the Framework Laptop 13 (2023) as a Notable Mention. Minor text changes to provide information about new models of the Dell XPS 15, Apple MacBook Air 13, and Razer Blade 14.

Jan 23, 2024: Replaced the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M2, 2023) with the Apple MacBook Pro 14 (M3, 2023) because Apple no longer sells the M2 model.

Nov 16, 2023: Minor text changes to provide information about the new M3 MacBook Pro and to add the Dell XPS 15 (2023) as a Windows alternative to the MacBook Pro. Added the Lenovo Slim Pro 7 14 (2023) and Lenovo Yoga 7i 16 (2023) as Notable Mentions.

Our recommendations above are what we think are currently the best travel laptops you can get. In addition to the test results, we factor in the price (a cheaper laptop wins over a pricier one if the difference isn't worth it), feedback from our visitors, and availability.

If you prefer to make your own decision, here’s the list of all of our laptop reviews. Keep in mind that most laptops are available in various configurations, and the table only shows the results of the model we tested, so it’s best to see the full review for information about other variants.

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9 Best Travel Laptops for Digital Nomads

What to look for in a travel laptop

Portability, battery life.

Connectivity

Best travel laptops from hp, 1. hp elitebook notebook.

What makes it great for travel

• Weight : Starting at 2.74 lbs (non-touch); starting at 2.96 lbs (touch)
• Dimensions : 12.11 x 8.05 x 0.7 inches
• Battery life : Up to 14 hours and 15 minutes
• Durability : Distinctive, ultra-slim aluminum design
• Connectivity : Intel AX201 Wi-Fi 6 (2 x 2) and Bluetooth 5 combo, non-vPro; Intel XMM 7360 LTE-Advanced Cat 9; Qualcomm Snapdragon X55 5G LTE Cat 20
• Instantly block prying eyes from the ability to view your screen with HP Sure View Reflect
• Find your PC with Tile using the mobile application even when it’s turned off
• Know if someone has tried to open your laptop’s cover thanks to HP Tamper Lock intrusion detection technology
• Windows 10 Pro 64
• 11th Generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processor
• Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics
• 13.3-inch diagonal, FHD (1920 x 1080), IPS, anti-glare, 250 nits, 45% NTSC display
• 8GB memory (RAM) up to 64GB
• 256GB SSD storage up to 2TB
• 720p HD camera

2. HP Elite Dragonfly notebook

• Weight : Starting at 2.18 lbs
• Dimensions : 11.98 x 7.78 x 0.63 inches
• Battery life : Up to 24.5 hours
• Durability : Built with lightweight magnesium; durable, iridescent dragonfly blue finish, diamond cut accents
• Connectivity : Intel Dual Band Wireless-AX201 802.11a/b/g/n/ac (2 x 2) WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5 Combo vPro
• HP Sure View Reflect for defense against prying eyes
• Guard against malicious surveillance with HP Sure Shutter, an integrated physical shutter activated by a dedicated key on the keyboard
• Lock your laptop if it’s been physically opened or compromised with HP Tamper Lock
• 11th Generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processor with 4 cores
• Intel Iris Xe Graphics
• 13.3-inch diagonal BrightView LED FHD touchscreen with Corning Gorilla Glass display
• 16GB RAM up to 32G
• 256GB NVMe SSD up to 2TB
• 720p HD+IR camera with integrated electronic privacy shutter

3. HP Elite x2 convertible notebook

• Weight : Starting at 1.83 lbs (tablet); starting at 2.58 lbs (tablet with keyboard)
• Dimensions : 11.39 x 8.5 x 0.35 inches (tablet); 11.39 x 8.74 x 0.56 inches (tablet with keyboard)
• Battery life : HP Long Life 2-cell, 47 Wh Li-ion polymer; Fast-charging to 50% in 30 minutes
• Durability : Crafted from durable premium CNC aluminum with diamond cut accents; kickstand helps stabilize the PC
• Connectivity : Intel WiFi 6 AX201 (2x2) and Bluetooth 5 combo, vPro
• Protect from prying eyes with the physical shutter of HP Privacy Camera
• Rear and front (IR camera enabled for facial recognition)
• Block others from viewing your screen with HP Sure View Gen 3
• Secure your system when you browse the internet or view untrusted documents with HP Sure Click
• Detect attacks or removal attempts and restore applications to their original state with the continuously operating HP Sure Run
• 11th Generation Intel Core i5 processor
• 13.0-inch WUXGA+ (1920 x 1280) touchscreen display
• 8GB RAM up to 16GB
• 720p HD IR camera (user-facing), 8MP rear camera (world-facing)

4. HP Spectre x360 convertible laptop

• Weight : Starting at 2.88 lbs
• Dimensions : 12.08 x 7.66 x 0.67 inches
• Battery life : Up to 22 hours
• Durability : Crafted from a single piece of aluminum; 360-degree-rotating hinges that are innovatively engineered, strong, easily adjustable, and protect the display
• Connectivity : Intel WiFi 6 AX 201 (2 x 2) and Bluetooth 5 Combo
• Fingerprint reader
• Integrated FHD IR webcam with unhackable privacy camera kill switch
• Dedicated microphone mute button; optional integrated privacy screen
• Windows 10 Home 64
• 10th Gen Intel Core i5 processor up to an Intel Core i7 (both 4 cores)
• Intel Iris Plus Graphics
• 13.3-inch diagonal FHD or optional 4K UWVA BrightView micro-edge AMOLED multitouc h display
• 8GB to 16GB RAM

5. HP Chromebook x360 convertible laptop

• Weight : Starting at 2.98 lbs
• Dimensions : 10.71 x 8.5 x 0.68 inches
• Battery life : Up to 13 hours and 15 minutes
• Durability : Optimized, streamlined, and premium metal design
• Connectivity : Intel Wireless-AC 9560 802.11 b/g/n/ac (2x2) WiFi and Bluetooth 5 Combo (MU-MIMO supported)
• Security : Kensington Nano Security Slot

Additional features

• Intel Celeron dual-core processor
• Intel UHD Graphics 600
• 12-inch diagonal HD+ touch display IPS micro-edge WLED-backlit multitouch-enabled edge-to-edge glass (1366 x 912)
• 32GB eMMC storage

6. HP ENVY notebook

• Weight : 2.88 lbs
• Dimensions : 12.07 x 7.66 x 0.67 inches
• Battery life : Up to 18 hours
• Durability : Elevated keyboard hinge for easy, ergonomic typing
• Connectivity : Intel WiFi 6 AX 201 (2x2) and Bluetooth 5 combo (supporting Gigabit file transfer speeds)
• Security : HP Sure View Privacy Screen; camera privacy shutter
• 11th Gen Intel Core i5 processor up to Intel Core i7 (4 cores)
• Intel Iris Xe Graphics up to NVIDIA GeForce MX450 (2GB)
• 13.3-inch diagonal FHD, IPS, BrightView, micro-edge, WLED-backlit display
• 256GB SSD storage up to 1TB

7. HP ENVY x360 convertible notebook

• Weight : 2.92 lbs
• Dimensions :12.07 x 7.66 x 0.65 inches
• Durability : Tested, highly durable metal hinges with a long lifespan
• Connectivity : Realtek Wi-Fi 5 (2x2) and Bluetooth 5 combo and Intel WiFi 6 AX 200 (2x2) and Bluetooth 5 combo
• HP Sure View Privacy Screen
• Camera privacy shutter
• Microphone mute button
• AMD Ryzen 3 processor with 4 cores up to AMD Ryzen 7 4700U (8 cores)
• AMD Radeon Graphics
• 13.3-inch diagonal FHD multitouch-enabled display IPS, BrightView, WLED-backlit, 1000 nits
• 8GB up to 16GB RAM
• 128GB up to 1TB SSD storage

8. HP ProBook laptop

• Weight : 2.2 lbs
• Dimensions : 12.11 x 8.05 x 0.71 inches
• Battery life : Up to 20 hours
• Durability : Robust all-metal chassis and aerodynamic edges; spill resistant, backlit HP Premium Keyboard with drain and DuraKeys
• facial recognition camera; manage authentication policies with HP Client Security Manager Gen6
• Connectivity : Realtek RTL8822CE 802.11ac (2x2) and Bluetooth 5 and Intel AX200 Wi-Fi 6 (2x2) and Bluetooth 5
• HP Sure View Reflect
• Stay protected with HP Sure Start Gen6, the self-healing BIOS that automatically recovers itself from attacks or corruption
• Fortify data security with multiple authentication factors such as optional fingerprint sensor and IR
• AMD Ryzen 3 APU Processor with 4 cores up to AMD Ryzen 7 5800U with 8 cores
• 13.3-inch FHD display
• 8GB up to 32GB RAM
• 128GB up to 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD

9. HP ZBook mobile workstation

• Dimensions : 12.73 x 8.45 x 0.71 inches
• Battery life : Up to 14 hours
• Durability : Designed for ultimate durability having undergone 19 intense MIL-STD 810H tests
• Connectivity : Intel WiFi 6 AX201 (2x2) and Bluetooth 5 combo, non-vPro
• HP Sure Start
• HP Tamper Lock
• Defend against firmware and malware attacks with HP Sure Sense
• 11th Generation Intel Core i5 processor up to i7 with 4 cores
• Intel Iris Xe Graphics or NVIDIA T500 graphics
• 14-inch diagonal FHD IPS, anti-glare, HP DreamColor display
• 8GB up to 64GB RAM
• 256 GB up to 2TB SSD storage

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The Best Travel Laptop for Remote Workers and Business Travelers

When it come to travel these days (and especially business travel ), a laptop is an essential addition to your carry-on . But the best travel laptop isn’t always the same device you'd use while at the office. And sure, many laptops might tout that they’re great for taking on the go, but we've learned that not every option is created equal.

To identify the best travel laptop on the market, we spent the past few months working, watching movies, editing photos , and gaming on several different models before narrowing down to our six favorites. In choosing our favorites, we took a few key factors into account:

Weight: When you’re carrying a laptop around with you all day, be it to a coffee shop or in transit to your destination, an extra pound can make a dramatic difference. Almost all of the options on our list weigh in at less than two and a half pounds; some are even lighter.

Battery life: You want a laptop that’s going to be able to make it from point A to point B on a single charge, not one that’s going to run out of battery power halfway through your cross-country flight.

Performance: A light laptop won’t do you any good if you can’t get all your work done on it. We looked for laptops that packed a punch in a tiny package.

Below, the six best travel laptops to buy now, whether you're looking for something that can double as a tablet for easy vacation reading , the lightest option out there, or a laptop that functions just as well as a WFH back-up for when you're stuck at home.

All products featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Best overall: MacBook Air 2020

The MacBook Air has been the gold standard for travelers for a while now, due to its ability to handle complex tasks without added bulk. This year’s Air replaces Apple’s problematic butterfly keyboard with a new Magic Keyboard, and offers faster graphics and double the storage capacity of previous versions. You can purchase models with up to 2TB of internal SD storage, enough to hold over 70 hours of 1080p video. You can also watch up to 12 hours of video on the device on a single charge.

Touch ID makes unlocking the laptop a snap, and the edge-to-edge Retina display offers a resolution of 2560 x 1600, making everything from web pages to videos crisp and easy to read or see. The computer weighs in at 2.8 pounds, which, while once considered light for Macs, is a bit heavier than some of the other options out there. That said, if you use a Mac already, transitioning to the Air will be a relatively seamless experience and that extra pound will likely only come into play if you have to carry the laptop around for long periods of time.

Pros: This full-powered computer with a great keyboard is easy for Mac users to transition to.

Cons: While great for web-based work, the computer gets overloaded if you need to have multiple software programs or a large volume of browser tabs open at once.

Buy now: $1,000, amazon.com

Best for work and entertainment: Lenovo Yoga C940

Lenovo’s Yoga C940 is our favorite for both work and play, thanks to its 4K display and powerful Intel Core i9 that can handle heavy photo and video editing software, on top of basics like word processing.

The keyboard side easily folds back to put the device in tablet mode, perfect for watching a movie on your tray table, and the C940 is available with storage up to 2TB, so you can queue up viewing materials for your entire trip without running out of space. The Yoga’s Dolby Atmos speaker system also makes it a solid choice for watching movies; however, the laptop weighs in at 4.41 pounds, which is almost double the weight of other options on our list.

Pros: The device's pen fits into its side, making it easy to carry around without losing it.

Cons: Travelers having to carry their gear for extended periods of time will notice the laptop’s 4.41-pound weight.

Buy now: From $1,050, lenovo.com

Best combination laptop and tablet: LG Gram 2-in-1

LG’s 2-in-1 does double duty as both a laptop and a tablet. The 2.3-pound device folds easily in half, turning the keyboard into a stand for when you want to binge watch or video chat. It's battery life was also among the best we’ve seen, with the computer able to last up to 21 hours on a single charge.

Like some of the other Windows options we tested, the Gram 2-in-1 offers smart pen support. The laptop ships with a AAA-powered LG Stylus Pen that you can use to take handwritten notes on the screen, or mark up drawings and documents. Fingerprint recognition makes signing in as easy as touching the computer’s power button, and the laptop comes with two USB slots, in addition to the USB-C port used for power, so you can connect a few devices to it without using dongles.

Pros: The ability to fold it in half, and multiple USB ports, make this ultraportable device especially convenient.

Cons: The included pen doesn’t have a way to attach to the laptop, so you have to carry it separately. (We recommend a tech organizer like Bellroy's so you don't lose it.)

Buy now: $1,599, amazon.com

Best thin laptop: Samsung Galaxy Book S

Samsung’s Galaxy Book S is both thin and lightweight, at just .46 inches thick and 2.12 heavy, making it a great choice for travelers whose carry-on space is at a premium.

The laptop has a built-in SIM card slot, so you can also use it to connect to mobile networks through your phone plan. With the fingerprint sensor built into the power button, signing in is a breeze (and you can feel good about the added security). Since the device is so thin, it doesn’t offer any full-sized USB ports, just two USB-C ports, which means you’ll need to pack a dongle to attach any additional devices like keyboards or cameras.

The laptop isn’t as high-powered as some of the other options, so it's not the best choice for running a lot of programs at once—but those who mainly work with documents and spreadsheets on the go will have all the power they need.

Pros: The built-in SIM slot allowing access mobile networks on-the-go, and the laptop’s thin design, make it easy to use on the move.

Cons: No built-in traditional USB ports means that using the laptop with other devices is challenging, and while great for things like web browsing and word processing, the laptop lags when trying to handle more complex tasks.

Buy now: From $1,000, samsung.com

Best lightweight laptop: Microsoft Surface Pro X

Technically, this is actually a tablet that works like a laptop—but if you’re looking for something ultra-light, you’re not going to find anything as compact as Microsoft’s 1.7-pound Surface Pro X.

The tablet is 7.33mm thick (just over a quarter of an inch), making it thinner than many cell phones, even with the removable keyboard attached. (Bonus: There's a stylus tucked inside the keyboard.)

The device’s battery lasts up to 13 hours, ensuring you’ll have enough juice to make it through the day. If that battery does wane on long journeys, you can get it back to 80 percent in just an hour thanks to a quick charging feature. LTE support also allows you to stay connected even when WiFi isn’t available, helpful for road trips where you need to stay connected from the passenger seat. One downside: While it’s able to handle things like word processing, email, and spreadsheets with ease, it is a tablet after all. If you need to run more complex software, like for video editing, you might need to opt for a more high-powered machine.

Pros: Fast charging means you’ll always have power when you need it, and the ultra thin profile makes it easy to carry around. (Plus, we love a stylus that stores inside the keyboard like this one.)

Cons: The Surface Pro X tablet can’t run many applications you might use on your regular computer.

Buy now: From $1,000, microsoft.com

Best for those who need big displays: Microsoft Surface Laptop 3

While most people think of the tablet version when they hear “Surface,” Microsoft also makes a pretty solid laptop by the same name. The touchscreen laptop comes in both 13.5” and 15” varieties, the larger being the best for those who need a little extra screen to work with. The laptop’s battery can last up to 11.5 hours on a single charge, and, like the Surface Pro X, it can charge to roughly 80 percent after just an hour of being plugged in, so you could potentially get enough juice to make it through your long-haul flight just by charging up at the gate.

The Smart Pen support allows you to precisely draw on the screen or mark up documents. However, that extra screen space is reflected in the device’s weight: The 13.5” version of the laptop weighs in at 2.84 pounds, while the larger 15” is 3.40 pounds. (Both, it's worth noting, weigh less than the Lenovo Yoga, the heaviest on our list.)

Pros: The 15” version is a powerful machine with a ton of screen in a small package; and while that brilliant screen drains the battery, fast charging ensures you’ll have power when you need it.

Cons: The larger version can be heavy to carry around for longer periods of time, and the laptop is overall bulkier than other options on our list.

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10 best travel laptops – ultimate buyer’s guide

Whether it’s for the daily commute, business trips, holidays or blogging, I know that having the best laptop for travelling can make so much difference. Finding the best travel laptops isn’t like choosing a laptop solely for use at home, however.

As someone who works from all over the world and is constantly on the move, I understand the importance of having a travel laptop that ticks all the boxes.

My guide will help you choose a laptop for travelling, whether for short-haul trips, use on a daily basis or heading off around the world.

For business travel and commuting to holidaymakers and digital nomads, discover 10 of the best travel laptops – based on my own personal experience, plus recommendations from fellow travellers.

In this guide, you’ll also find all the technical details you need (and none that you don’t).  The options to consider come from some serious brands.

Apple, of course, is represented twice in the following list (and is a personal favourite. Other options well worth considering include lightweight yet portable powerhouses from HP, Lenovo, Microsoft and more. 

From a small, light laptop for travelling that won’t break the budget to powerhouses capable of video editing, gaming and much more, here’s the full lowdown on buying the right one from yours truly.

But before listing 10 of the best travel laptops, let’s take a look at what I think you should consider when choosing. 

Author Bio: Jessie Moore

Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

What to look for in a travel laptop

If you want to find the best lightweight laptop for travel, then this has to be number one.

A travel laptop is by definition something you’re going to carry around. So you need to find one that’s as portable as possible. 

The lightest laptop listed in my guide is a little over 500 grams, while the heaviest is around three times that. So it’s something to look at closely when choosing the best laptop for travelling. 

Screen size

There’s little point in buying the best budget laptop for travel if you cannot see the screen properly when working or playing.

So do bear in mind that the best cheap travel laptop, for example, is more likely to have a smaller screen. 

A hack I’d recommend to get around this – when working at home or in the office – is plugging a compatible laptop into a larger monitor. This is what I do when I’m at home.

Battery life

How you travel may affect the relationship between the best laptop for travel and business and its battery life.

If you always have access to a power socket on the train, for example, then it may not matter so much. But what if you have an aisle seat without this connection? 

The best laptop for travel and work is therefore always going to be one with a good battery life. In fact, this is one of the key reasons why I’m recommending the laptops on this list. 

When choosing the best laptop to take travelling, it’s worth asking yourself this question.

What do I want to use the laptop for? Is it for work or leisure, for starters? But beyond that, what do you do most when sitting in front of your computer? 

The best gaming laptop for travel, for instance, may be completely different to the best laptop for travel vlogging. Or the best lightweight laptop for business travel.

Try to choose a computer with the technical features to fit your intended purpose(s) – that may be watching the latest box set or making your latest YouTube video.  

Whether you want the best laptop for travel blogging, your corporate role or a trip around the world, I’d recommend thinking long term.

Buying a cheap laptop can be a false economy, as it may not last for as long as a more expensive product.

A really good laptop may last you for many years, meaning it actually pays in the long run. 

If you want the best Windows laptop for travel, then good brands include Lenovo, Asus, Microsoft, Acer, Zenbook and HP.

Otherwise, Apple Macbooks come highly recommended. The Pro in particular, if your budget can stretch to it. 

Best travel laptops – quick comparison

Note that prices are based on the best price available at the time of writing. These may fluctuate depending on special offers.

10 best laptops for travellers

1. macbook pro 13 inch.

Best video editing laptop

• Price: £1,349.00
• Battery life: Up to 20 hours
• Weight: 1.4kg
• Screen size: 13-inch
• Features: Up to 24GB memory, play and edit up to 11 streams of 4K and up to 2 streams of 8K ProRes video, touch ID and touch bar
• Good for: Video editing, battery

If you’ve got a bigger budget, then I really think that the 13 inch MacBook Pro is worth splashing out on – this is the laptop that I am currently using.

It’s arguably the best travel laptop for photographers, writers, viewers and workers alike. And it truly leads the field when it comes to making videos.

If you have a YouTube channel or are planning to give it a go, I’d really recommend picking this one. It’s also the leader in terms of battery life, as it can last for up to 20 hours on a single charge.

All without heating up, thanks to the effective cooling system that’s built in. 

This is the most portable model of the Apple Pro range, weighing in at 1.4 kilos. It also has a FaceTime HD camera – ideal for making you feel connected to the loved ones you may have left at home.

M2 chip technology makes it super fast, and you can also stream 4K and 8K ProRes video with ease. 

In fact this laptop is up to six times faster than an Intel laptop, and up to 1.4 times faster than the previous M1 models.

The display is incredibly clear, with realistic colours and crisp images. Plus there are studio-quality microphones perfect for video and podcast producers. 

If you want to find the best laptop of the bunch, this is my favourite and the one I use personally. 

2. Zenbook S UX393

Best touchscreen travel laptop

• Price: From £1,099.00
• Battery life: Up to 14 hours
• Weight: 1.35kg
• Screen size: 13.9-inch
• Features: NanoEdge touchscreen, facial recognition, 10th Generation Intel® Core™ processor
• Good for: Lightweight, battery life, touchscreen

The Zenbook S UX393 can go for up to 14 hours on a single charge, and is an ultra lightweight choice too.

For portability, I think this one scores serious points as it’s super thin. It also weighs in at a little over a kilo, yet is packed with power and useful features.

These include facial recognition protection and an intuitive NanoEdge touchscreen. The Generation Intel® Core™ processor makes this Zenbook a great all-rounder, perfect for multitasking.

For an even longer battery life from the same brand, check out the Zenbook S 13 OLED.

3. Microsoft Surface Pro 9

Best travel tablet hybrid

• Price: From £1,075.00
• Battery life: Up to 15.5 hours or 19 hours with 5G
• Weight: 879g
• Features: Front and rear 1080p camera, rear 4k video, 2 in 1 can add keyboard
• Good for: Lightweight, 2 in 1 

If you want to find the best small laptop for travel that involves business trips, I’d recommend considering the Surface Pro 9 from Microsoft.

At under 880 grams, it’s also one of the lightest models on the market. I love that it can also be used as a tablet, so may save you from carrying two devices around.

High-speed 5G connectivity is an optional extra here too, which is ideal if you want to work without delay while on the go. Do check regarding 5G availability in the area, though, if you’re relying on this.

Unlike laptops from other makes, this Microsoft one comes preloaded with Windows 11. So you can set to work – or play – straight away.  

4. ROG Zephyrus G14 Gaming Laptop

Best gaming travel laptop

• Price: £1,799.00
• Battery life: Up to 8 hours
• Weight: 1.65kg
• Screen size: 14-inch
• Features: AMD Ryzen™ 9 processors, Nebula Display, fast charging, intelligent cooling, Dolby Atmos® audio
• Good for: Gaming

In my opinion, the ROG Zephyrus G14 is the best on-the-go laptop for any keen gamer. Its powerful AMD Ryzen™ 9 processor ensures reliable speed and a true powerhouse laptop. 

This ROG gaming laptop also features intelligent cooling to avoid overheating, as well as the ROG Nebula Display for excellent graphics.

Care has also been taken when it comes to sound, as this laptop has Dolby Atmos® for crystal clear audio. 

At a weight of 1.65 kilos, it’s not the lightest in this list – but it’s surprisingly compact considering its powerful function. The battery life is up to 8 hours.

Finally, I think it’s wonderfully sleek for a gaming laptop so it hits the aesthetics points too.

5. Microsoft Surface Go 3 

Best lightweight travel laptop

• Price: £369.00
• Battery life: Up to 12 hours
• Weight: 544g
• Screen size: 10.5-inch
• Features: Touchscreen, pen compatibility, lightweight, 1080p HD cameras
• Good for: Ultra-lightweight, on the go, budget

I’d recommend the Microsoft Surface Go3 as an ideal option for those seeking a lightweight laptop for travel. It’s also a very pocket-friendly pick. 

A 10.5 inch touchscreen and a kickstand combine to give you great flexibility here.

Whether you want to watch a film, study, work, play or surf the internet, this incredibly lightweight little machine can help you out. At 544 grams, it’s the lightest one featured in this article. 

Despite the modest weight and price tag, this Microsoft Surface device offers a battery life of up to 12 hours, plus 1080P HD cameras and a high resolution touchscreen.

I love that it’s also pen compatible for those who like to take notes or get creative. 

6. MacBook Air M2 

Best for portability and video quality

• Price: From £1,249
• Battery life: Up to 18 hours
• Weight: 1.24kg
• Screen size: 13.6-inch
• Features: Ultra-thin (1.13cm), play and edit 4K and 8K ProRes videos, made with recycled materials, touch ID, 1080p camera and three-mic array
• Good for: Video-editing, lightweight, video calls

In my opinion, the best travel laptop for video editing is the MacBook Air M2 . For many people (myself included), there’s no going back to other operating systems once they’ve tried a Mac.

Apple products work a little differently to the likes of Windows laptops, yet are very easy to get used to. 

The benefits of the MacBook Air M2 include a battery life of up to 18 hours, advanced audio and visual tech and an ultra-thin build.

This latter feature places this among the most portable laptops on the market. Being made from recycled materials, this is also an eco-conscious choice. 

Video-friendly features of the MacBook Air M2 include a 1080p camera and the ability to edit and play 4K and 8K ProRes videos.

There’s also three microphones for sound recording plus a touch ID for security purposes. 

7. Acer Aspire 5 A515-57 15.6 inch Laptop

Best travel laptop for work

• Price: £699.99
• Battery life: 11 hours
• Weight: 1.8kg
• Screen size: 15.6 inch
• Features: HD camera with dual microphones and AI noise reduction, 4k streaming
• Good for: Working remotely

It’s not always about the best laptop screen size for travel. Sometimes it’s even more important to choose a laptop with a screen of a decent size, so you can see what you’re doing very clearly at all times.

Especially when your eyes are tired at the end of a long day!

The Acer Aspire 5 A515-57 15.6 inch laptop scores highly on visuals, with wide viewing angles, Quad HD resolution and true-to-life colours. It also has a backlit keyboard so you can see better, even in dim lighting. 

A 12th Gen Intel core, 16GB of RAM and pre-installed Windows 11 means you have power at your fingertips when using this laptop.

Features making it particularly work-friendly include the HD webcam and AI noise reduction for those online meetings, plus a raised hinge for more ergonomic posture.

I don’t know about you, but I could definitely do with a better posture when hunched over my laptop!

8. ASUS Chromebook Flip CM3 (CM3200) 

Best for work, rest and play  

• Price: From £219.99
• Battery life: Up to 16 hours
• Weight: 1.1kg
• Screen size: 12-inch
• Features: 360° hinge to turn into a tablet
• Good for: Budget, lightweight, 2 in 1

I love that the ASUS Chromebook Flip CM3 stands out from the crowd because of its innovative design.

It’s called the Flip because you can turn it up the other way, which means that the keyboard is no longer in your way. This is known in the trade as “tent mode”.

If you can’t decide between a laptop and a tablet, this device offers you the best of both. All you need to do is fold back the screen however you like. A 360 degree hinge gives you full flexibility here.

The ASUS Chromebook Flip CM3 is a great all-rounder. You can use it to watch TV or a movie in bed or take it to the boardroom fully powered up, ready to go for up to 16 hours.

It’s fast, lightweight and versatile, and you can also connect it to a monitor if you like using a large screen. 

9. LENOVO IdeaPad Duet 10.1″ 2 in 1 Chromebook

Best budget travel laptop

• Price: From £260.00
• Battery life: Up to 10 hours
• Weight: 920g
• Screen size: 10.1-inch
• Features: 2 in 1 keyboard included, HD touchscreen, 1 year guarantee
• Good for: Lightweight, budget, 2 in 1 

I’d recommend this IdeaPad Duet 10.1 inch 2 in 1 Chromebook as a great bet if you’re on a budget. Because of the modest price tag, I think it also makes the perfect starter laptop for teens.

The battery life on this one is limited to 10 hours, however. Weighing only 920 grams, it’s not asking too much even if you want to carry this one around all day long.

A one year guarantee is provided for peace of mind, and a clever detachable keyboard means you can use it as a tablet. 

As well as being the best laptop size for travel, this IdeaPad Duet 2 in 1 Chromebook weighs just 450 grams when used solely as a tablet. You can also use it for watching full HD videos. 

10. HP ENVY x360 13.3″ 2 in 1 Laptop – Intel® Core™ i5

Best for blogging

• Price: £999.00
• Battery life: Up to 17.5 hours
• Weight: 1.3kg
• Screen size: 13.3-inch
• Features: Full HD touchscreen, includes stylus for note taking
• Good for: Blogging, battery life

If you want to source the best laptop for travel photography, writing and taking notes, the HP ENVY x360 1.3 inch 2 in 1 laptop is a very good bet indeed.

Like the ASUS Chromebook Flip CM3, you can flip this one up the other way for viewing the screen via the 360 degree hinge.

This is ideal for online meetings – or winding down with a film at the end of a long, demanding day. 

This laptop comes with a full HD touchscreen. Unlike others, I love that a stylus is also part of the package, so you won’t need to buy one of these separately.

If you appreciate good sound, you’ll also love the fact that this laptop comes with Bang & Olufsen speakers, no less. 

A powerful 12th gen Intel® Core™ i5 processor, an edge-to-edge HD touchscreen and Intel® Iris® Xe integrated graphics are all features to wrte home about.

You can also transfer files without wires via HP QuickDrop, or load up a video by using Intel® WiFi 6E.

There’s even a webcam privacy shutter for when you’d rather not be seen on screen.

Of course this isn’t a comprehensive list of the best travel laptops, but these are my personal pick of the best. To keep your laptop safe while on the move, discover my guide to the best travel laptop bags .

Plus, read my tips on how to become a digital nomad or how to protect yourself online when travelling .

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Jessie is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

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Pocket Wanderings is a luxury travel and lifestyle brand run by London-based content creator, Jessie Moore. Here you’ll find a community of fellow wanderlusters and adventurers.

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13 Best Travel Laptops for Digital Nomads

1. MacBook Air

Pros and Cons

2. dell xps 13.

3. Microsoft Surface Go

4. Lenovo Ideapad Flex 5 14

5. Acer Spin 3

6. HP Envy X360 13

7. Acer TravelMate P6 (2022)

8. Lenovo Yoga 6

9. Asus ZenBook

10. HP Elite Dragonfly Chromebook

11. Dell Latitude 7370

12. Asus Chromebook Flip C302

13. HP Pavilion x360 Convertible Touchscreen Laptop

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Best Travel Laptop in 2023: Portable & Powerful

Need a laptop that’s good for travel? Something small and lightweight, but which is still powerful enough that you can perform your everyday tasks on it? Perfect – that’s exactly what I will be talking about in this review!

I will show you 10 excellent laptops for travel, in all different price ranges. From $200 Chromebooks to Mac and Windows laptops that cost well over $1000 – whatever it is that you are looking for, I’m sure you will find something suitable right here!

At A Glance: Our Top Travel Laptops

• best lightweight travel laptop Dell XPS 13 UHD InfinityEdge Jump To Review
• BEST WINDOWS TRAVEL LAPTOP Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Jump To Review
• BEST APPLE TRAVEL LAPTOP Apple MacBook Air 13” Jump To Review
• BEST CHROME OS TRAVEL LAPTOP ASUS C302CA-DHM4 Chromebook Flip 12.5” Touchscreen Jump To Review
• best budget travel laptop Lenovo 11.6" HD IPS Touchscreen 2-in-1 Chromebook Jump To Review

I’ll start you off with some portable Windows laptops, and then I will move on to the MacBooks and Chromebooks. So, scroll down to your preferred operating system to find the best laptop for travelers and digital nomads!

Top Product Overview

Best travel laptops, dell xps 13 uhd infinityedge.

If you’re okay with  Windows 10 Home , then you’ll really like this laptop. This Dell XPS 13 has  a 13.3” 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) display,  which is amazing for any graphic work.

And not to mention that you’ll have an amazing experience watching movies and TV shows on this Dell.

There are  two storage options on the Dell XPS 13– one includes a 512 GB SSD, and the other one includes a 1 TB SSD .  The difference between the two is only $100, so I would definitely recommend you go for the 1 TB device.

Both storage space options feature  16 GB of RAM,  so you will easily be able to multitask on this laptop. The Dell XPS 13 version here features an i7 processor , so you can be sure that it will easily handle any task you throw at it.

But it is not all great with this Dell XPS. This lightweight laptop has a camera at the bottom of the display, which could be an issue if you’re not used to it. It is a really weird angle, so you might want to go for a different laptop if you spend a lot of your time video chatting.

And then there’s the battery life, which varies significantly depending on how you use it. The 4K resolution is quite demanding, so  if you spend a lot of time watching 4K videos, the battery won’t last too long .

However, if most of your day includes web browsing and emails, this could almost get you through the workday on a single charge. Which is pretty great.

Another thing worth mentioning is that the Dell XPS 13 laptop is recycle-friendly. Around 90% of its parts can be reused or recycled, and the packaging trays it comes with are 100% recyclable. It’s not a very important feature, but it’s always a plus in my book when companies care about the environment.

• High resolution touchscreen display
• Very powerful computer
• Recycle friendly
• No HDMI port
• Battery life could be improved

Product Information

• Display: 13.3'' 4K Ultra HD (3840 x 2160) Infinity Edge touch display
• Processor: 4 GHz Intel Core i7
• Dimensions: 7.84” x 11.88” x 0.46”
• Weight: 2.67 lbs

Microsoft Surface Book 2

By now, you should be familiar with the Microsoft Surface computer. The Microsoft Surface Book is the most powerful lightweight laptop out of the bunch, and it’s  an amazing all-in-one machine . What makes it one of the most popular travel lightweight laptops is the (only 3.62 lbs), versatility, functionality, and amazing battery life.

You can easily get  over 10 hours of battery life with normal use in laptop mode, which is pretty good. However, if you want to use it only as a tablet, you will need to keep the charger handy. The battery life is nowhere near as good when you detach the actual batteries from the display –  you could get some 3-4 hours at best.

The detachable display of the Microsoft Surface is amazing for on-the-go, and it is a great option for people who spend most of their time drawing. It allows you to leave the keyboard part of the laptop at home and shed even more weight.

Make no mistake, this is a powerful machine, with some specs only seen in gaming laptops. With16 GB of RAM, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 GPU, and Windows 10 Pro preinstalled, this is capable of handling pretty much any task you can throw at it, including some demanding PC games.

And the one thing that truly pains me is that you will still experience the usual Windows glitches on this. It’s a lightweight laptop made by Microsoft, so you would expect that Apple level of hardware/software compatibility. But, they never cease to surprise us.

The one upside is that the Microsoft Surface Book 2  wonderfully takes advantage of the fact that Windows 10 was designed for both laptops and tablets.

• Very powerful machine
• Detachable display and 360 hinge
• Long battery life in laptop mode
• Battery life in tablet mode is disappointing
• Not as slim and lightweight as other options
• Pretty pricey
• Display: 13.5" 3000 x 2000 PixelSense Display,
• 1.9GHz (Up To 4.2GHz) Intel Quad-Core i7-8650U4 GHz Intel Core i7
• Dimensions: 2.44” x 13.86” x 10.63”
• Weight: 3.62 lbs

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon

If you’re a hardcore Windows user, then you have several amazing options – the X1 Carbon is one of those. It’s an amazing travel laptop that just so happens to be very portable, because of its lightweight. At less than 2.5 lbs, this one of the lightest laptops in this entire review.

The X1 Carbon comes with  16 GB of RAM, a 512 GB SSD storage space , and a stunning 14” touchscreen display. Don’t let the small size fool you – this is a very powerful machine that is capable of handling nearly every task.

You get  up to 15 hours of battery life  on the X1 Carbon, depending on how you’re using it. And with Lenovo’s Rapid Charge technology, you can juice up your laptop to 80% battery in just one hour. Which is pretty insane.

One thing I absolutely adore about this laptop is that it has an integrated ThinkShutter – a cover for the webcam . If you’re as paranoid as me and tend to cover up the webcam on all your laptops, you will love this feature.

There are two USB 3.0 ports, two USB C ports and an HDMI port on this thing. And the laptop also has  a fingerprint reader,  which allows you to log in in a matter of seconds.

The X1 Carbon comes with  Windows 10 Pro (64-bit) preinstalled,  so no surprises there. If you’re a business user looking for the perfect Ultrabook, I think this might just be the best laptop out there for you.

• High resolution touchscreen
• Rapid Charge technology
• Fingerprint reader
• Not the best option for gaming
• Heats up easily and the fan is loud
• Display: 14" FHD Touchscreen Display
• Processor: 8th Gen Intel Core i7-8650U Processor
• Dimensions: 12.7” x 0.6” x 8.6”
• Weight: 2.49 lbs

Dell Latitude 7370 12.5” FHD

If you want a really good Windows laptop for your life as a digital nomad, but can’t afford a really expensive one, this is a good option. The catch is that  it is a refurbished laptop , but it works and runs like new.

Plus,  the price tag is pretty amazing,  especially when you take a good look at all the specs of this Dell laptop .

It has  16 GBs of RAM and a 256 GB SSD storage space ,  so it will be able to handle anything you throw at it. The high amount of RAM also makes it an excellent option for multitasking , especially if you’re one of those people that always have 20+ tabs open in Chrome.

The laptop comes with Windows 10 Professional preinstalled (64-bit), which is great. The (touchscreen) display is Anti-Glare,  so you should be able to use these even in sunlight.

In addition to that, this laptop also features  a backlit keyboard,  which is awesome.

One downside is the battery life.  It’s nowhere near as great as with most other laptops I’ve shown you. In fact, it’s exactly what you’d expect from an older, used Windows laptop –  some 3 hours on average.

But if that is okay with you, then by all means take a really good look at this laptop.

The price point is really good for the performance you get. Plus, it is small and lightweight, so it’s a really great option for travel. As long as you’re okay using this plugged in most of the time, you will really enjoy the Latitude 7370.

• Great price point
• Backlit keyboard
• Anti-glare touchscreen display
• A refurbished computer
• Battery life is not great (some 3 hours)
• Display: 12.5 Inch FHD (1920 x 1080) Anti-Glare Infinity Edge Display
• Processor: Intel Core m7-6Y75 (Dual Core, up to 3.10 GHz)
• Dimensions: 12” x 8.3” x 0.56”
• Weight: 2.5 lbs

Apple MacBook Air 13”

The MacBook Air is a classic, so you bet it’s going to be at the top of our list. It’s the perfect laptop for those who are always on the go because  it is reliable, lightweight and has a monster M1 chip and battery life.

One of the reasons to get the latest M1 Macbook Air from 2020 and beyond is the new M1 chip from Apple. This chip is a game-changer, and not in the way that Apple or other computer companies usually say. It is fast, powerful and does not suck the life out of the battery. I ran a video compression tool recently that used to take 1 minute per minute of video, and it compressed an hour in 5 minutes!!!

So, if you do any heavy-duty work on your computer like gaming or video editing then this will change your life, seriously! Bonus tip: You can check out Veed – a powerful video editing software that works on your Mac computer, with no software download or plugin required.

The 13 inch Macbook Air also has a Retina display, with a much higher native resolution than the previous model. And Apple has solved that pesky butterfly keyboard issue from a few years ago.

You will have zero issues with a light workload – if it’s mostly replying to emails and writing, you won’t ever hear your computer operating (there is actually no fan), and your battery will last you a long time (18 hours according to Apple, but in reality less).

But if you’re looking for Apple’s best portable laptop, then you’ve found it – the Macbook Air. It  weighs less than 3 lbs, the display is just the right size that you can do anything on it  – from watching Netflix or gaming to editing videos and programming – and the battery can last you a really long time, depending on what you’re using the computer for.

I have had my original Macbook Air 13 inch for nearly 6 years. And sure, the battery does not last like it used to, but it’s still one of the lightest and best machines I have seen amongst other travelers.

• Insane M1 processor
• Top-notch battery life
• Very reliable
• Lightweight and portable
• Not cheap by any means
• Can’t go higher than 16 GB RAM
• Display: 13.3-inch (Retina display)
• Processor: M1 from Apple
• Dimensions: 11.97 x 0.63 x 8.36 inches”
• Weight: 2.8 pounds (1.25 kg)

Apple MacBook Pro 13"

The MacBook Pro was never really considered a portable machine. But that was in the days of yore when it was still a fat, heavy laptop. Nowadays ,  the smallest Pro is as light as the MacBook Air, and it is the perfect option for all of you who need an incredibly powerful travel laptop.

It  weighs only 3.02 lbs , so the difference between it and the Air is almost negligible. Especially when you consider just how much more powerful this machine is; if you consider yourself a Pro user, then this is definitely the travel laptop you should be getting.

There are two versions of the 13” Macbook Pro to consider – the one with the Touch Bar and the one with the regular F keys.

If you are old-fashioned like me,  go for the older Macbook Pro model – not only does it look exactly like a laptop should, but it is also about $400 cheaper.  And if you like trying out new things, go for the Touch Bar version – it is a convenient feature for people that edit a lot of videos or photos.

The Macbook Pro that I am talking about here comes with 8 GB of RAM, and there are two SSD options – 256GB and 512GB storage space . It has four USB-C ports  and  a battery that can last up to 10 hours,  depending on what your workload looks like.

Overall, if you’re looking for an Apple laptop that’s portable but still capable of handling even the most demanding software, the 13” Pro is undoubtedly the right option for you.

• Insanely powerful
• Excellent battery life
• Quite pricey
• Butterfly keyboard issue possible
• Display: 13.3-inch (diagonal) LED-backlit Retina display
• Processor: 2.4GHz quad-core Intel Core i5 (Turbo Boost up to 4.1GHz)
• Dimensions: 11.97” x 8.36” x 0.59”
• Weight: 3.02 lbs

Apple MacBook 12”

Size-wise, this is probably the best macOS laptop you can get. It’s the  smallest Apple laptop that exists these days, since the 11” Macbook Air was discontinued a while ago. It is a pretty powerful laptop, and it will be able to handle most of the tasks that you throw at it.

But what makes the regular MacBook one of the best travel laptops that exist is its portability. Out of all the laptops in this review, this is easily the lightest one, as it weighs in at mere 2.03 lbs (1 lb lighter than the Macbook Pro) .  It will fit into your every backpack and purse, and you will barely feel that it’s there.

Now, there are two types of the MacBook to choose from. There’s the  256 GB SSD model, which comes with an Intel m3 processor, and a 512 GB model that features the Intel i5 processor.  The two CPUs are very different, so you should choose the model based on what you tend to do on your laptop.

Go for the m3 version if you spend most of your time editing videos or gaming – this is the one area where this CPU really outshines the i5. However, the i5 is the better choice in all other areas – it is faster and more efficient.

The MacBook has  a great battery life of up to 10 hours and a stunning Retina display  that really allows you to enjoy videos, even when you’re watching them on a really small display.

• Extremely lightweight and portable
• Powerful laptop
• Very pricey
• Rose Gold option is discontinued (RIP)
• Display: 12-inch (diagonal) LED-backlit Retina display
• Processor: 1.2GHz dual-core Intel Core m3 with Turbo Boost up to 3.0GHz
• Dimensions: 7.4” x 11.04” x 0.52”
• Weight: 2.03 lbs

ASUS C302CA-DHM4 Chromebook Flip 12.5” Touchscreen

The C302 Chromebook by Asus is a great option if you’re looking for  a portable and affordable laptop . It currently costs less then $450, which is a pretty great price point for a laptop. And it is  very lightweight, at only 2.65 lbs.

The  battery can last you up to 10 hours , which is pretty great. But, you’re only getting  64 GBs of SSD storage space,  and that is quite disappointing. The good news is that this Chromebook  supports a microSD card, and you can add up to 256 GBs to it . Plus, SD cards are usually cheaper than external hard drives, so you will save some money there as well.

The  360 hinge allows you to use this laptop however you want , which is very convenient. You can play Android games on it in tablet mode, and then reply to emails and do some light work in laptop mode.

However , the 4 GBs of RAM are a little bit disappointing.  Especially because most smartphones these days have at least 8 GBs. But it’s a completely different processor, so it should be  enough for a light workload .

Keep in mind that you can’t really run any demanding software on this and that you are limited to apps like Google Docs, Gmail, etc.

Overall, if you’re in need of something affordable and efficient, this laptop is a good option for you. Especially if you like the idea of being able to use it as both a tablet and a laptop.

• Supports microSD card up to 256 GB
• In the pricier range of Chromebooks
• Only 4 GB of RAM
• Display: 12.5” Full-HD touchscreen
• Processor: 2.2 GHz Intel Core m3
• Dimensions: 8.3” x 12” x 0.5”
• Weight: 2.65 lbs

Lenovo 11.6" HD IPS Touchscreen 2-in-1 Chromebook

If you’re on a really tight budget, I suggest you check out this Lenovo Chromebook . It is  one of the most affordable laptops in this review , with a price tag that is under $250. Yes, for a laptop – I don’t think you can even get a smartphone for that amount of money these days!

This laptop is a good option for you if most of the work you do is online and you don’t need a lot of storage space. You can watch movies on Netflix, and do pretty much anything in Chrome. However,  it only has 32 GBs of eMMc storage,  which is just too little these days.

Another thing to consider is that it has  eMMc storage, which is slower, less reliable and efficient than an SSD . But it is also  a lot cheaper,  hence that super attractive price tag on this Chromebook.

You also get  4 GBs of RAM,  which hurts my heart a little bit. But, I consider myself a pretty heavy user – if you’re not,  4 GB should be plenty for light web browsing and work.

The Lenovo laptop features a 360 hinge, which means you can use it both as a laptop and a tablet. And honestly, when you look at its storage specs, it is a pretty decent tablet. If you’re okay with mostly being in touchscreen mode, you will really like this computer.

One issue I have with this laptop is the size of those bezels. It’s 2019 – haven’t we moved on from those thick nasty bezels? They are a bit of an issue, especially considering how small this laptop is – the actual screen is even smaller than that.

• Very affordable
• Only 32 GB of eMMc storage
• Very thick bezels on the display
• Display: 11.6" HD (1366x768) IPS touchscreen display
• Processor: MediaTek MT8173C Quad-Core Base Clock Speed 1.3 GHz (Maximum Boost Speed 2.16
• Dimensions: 11.7" x 0.8" x 8.1"

Samsung Chromebook 3, 11.6"

Samsung’s Chromebook 3 is one of the most affordable laptops in this review. It is small, lightweight, and pretty efficient for people who are comfortable with chromeOS. It does not have a touchscreen, so keep that in mind.

One interesting thing to note is that I am talking about the most expensive Chromebook 3 here – the one with  4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of eMMc storage . There are two options with less storage, which are even cheaper than this one.

Samsung claims you can get up to 11 hours of battery life from a single charge, which sounds a bit optimistic. But you can get  some 9 hours of light use  without any issues, and that is still pretty good.

Another cool thing about this laptop is that it has  a water-resistant keyboard.  So if you’re anything like me and you tend to spill stuff a lot, you will find that pretty convenient. Especially if you’re always eating or drinking something while using your laptop.

This is a great option for people who don’t need a powerful machine. If you’re happy with Google’s apps, Play Store, and the 11.6” anti-reflective display, you will find that this laptop is a good fit for you. Plus, it is so small and lightweight that you can carry it wherever you want, and you will barely feel its weight.

• Small and portable
• Water-resistant keyboard
• No touchscreen display
• 64 GB of storage is maximum option
• Display: 11.6” HD anti-reflective Display
• Processor: 1.6 GHz Intel Celeron N3060 Processor
• Dimensions: 11.37” x 0.7” x 8.04”
• Weight: 2.54 lbs

What To Look For In A Travel Laptop

There are lots of options and specs when it comes to laptops, so it pays to know what you want, more or less, before you start. The following will help you find the perfect laptop, to go in that handy travel backpack along with your travel router !

Size And Weight

Obviously, choosing the best laptop for travelers is going to involve finding one that is lighter and smaller than your favorite 17” machine. Because of that,  I’m only showing you laptops up to 14” in this review.  I know, there are some 15” laptops that are pretty lightweight and portable, but they just didn’t make the cut.

A 13-14” laptop is just  easier to carry around , you can’t argue with that. It will  fit into most backpacks and purses,  and it is almost always going to be lighter than anything larger.

Plus, if you just can’t live without a large display,  you can always get yourself  a portable monitor .

Operating System – Windows, Mac or Chromebook

I will show you three types of laptops here – Windows laptops, Apple laptops and Chromebooks.  And it is important to know what you can expect from each of them.

If you’re already a Windows user, then you’re probably looking for a Windows laptop for travel. You will see several excellent options here, from the best manufacturers .  If you’re considering getting a Windows laptop for the first time, you should know that it is  a full-grade OS , which is capable of pretty much anything.

The same cannot be said for Chromebooks – even though they are perhaps the best travel options because they are cheap and lightweight , they are not capable of much. The  ChromeOS on these laptops is designed around Google’s browser . So, you can’t run any demanding software on these laptops – forget about Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator, and even Microsoft Word. Instead, you will need to make due with various online programs – Google Docs, Pixlr or even Microsoft Office Online.

Some of the newer Chromebooks can run many Android apps, so they’ll be great for playing the casual phone game . In general, these are a great option if you want something inexpensive, which you can use to reply to emails, browse the Internet and watch a movie on Netflix.

If you’re an Apple user, then you already know exactly what to expect from macOS.  It’s a full grade operating system with a  remarkably simple and intuitive UI . It is also more reliable and efficient than Windows, in terms of bugs, RAM usage and energy impact.

Price Range

Laptops are not cheap toys, and I think you know that. So, I will try to show you options for different budgets – from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

Here’s the thing – if you want a cheap and portable travel laptop and you want it now, go for one of the Chromebooks. They will get the job done if you need something for simple tasks and the occasional movie, and they’re usually in the $300-500 range.

The Apple and Windows laptops are going to be a lot more expensive than that. You will rarely see anything below $1000, with a few exceptions of course.

But if you’re looking for a full-grade OS in a portable and travel-friendly machine, that’s the amount of money you will need to cough up for it.

Best Laptops For Travelers: Our Favorites

Not sure which is the best travel laptop to pick up? Go for one of our favorites – they are the best value for money in each category!

If you want a Windows laptop, I’m recommending the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon . It is an amazing laptop –  slim, lightweight, and incredibly powerful.  It will be able to handle any task you throw at it, so it’s a good option regardless of what you primarily use your laptop for.

It has  a great battery life, a built-in fingerprint reader, and a very inviting keyboard that makes replying to emails an enjoyable task. The Dell XPS 13 is also a popular option, but I prefer the Lenovo.

• Brand Lenovo, Model 20KH002JUS
• Product Type: Ultrabook, Processor Manufacturer: Intel, Processor Type: Core i7, Processor Generation: 8th Gen, Processor Model: i7-8650U, Processor Speed: 1.90 GHz, Processor Core: Quad-core (4 Core), Standard Memory: 16 GB, Memory Technology: LPDDR3, Solid State Drive Capacity: 512 GB, Screen Size: 14", Display Screen Type: LCD,

If you’re looking for an Apple laptop, then the MacBook Air is probably the best option. It is really good value for money. But you’re sacrificing that Retina display, which won’t really be that big of an issue.

This is a  thin and lightweight laptop that you fit into almost any backpack and purse, and that has amazing battery life. The Macbook Pro is obviously way more powerful, but it’s just too heavy for travel.

• 1.8GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 Processor
• Turbo Boost up to 2.9GHz

And if you are a very light user and just want something cheap and efficient, go with the ASUS C302 Chromebook . It’s one of the best Chromebooks you can buy, and it’s actually a solid laptop.

The 360 hinge allows you to use it as both a laptop and a tablet,  while the backlit keyboard lets you work in the dark. It’s  one of the few Chromebooks that features an SSD,  so you know it will be fast and reliable.

• The flexible 360 Degree hinge and 12.5 inches full HD touchscreen lets you use the C302 in tablet or laptop mode
• Intel Core Processor with 64GB storage and 4GB RAM for fast and efficient performance with a bright backlit illuminated keyboard

Head over to Amazon to see the prices of all of these laptops, and see all of the configurations that are available.

Check out our related posts to get some other gear for that travel laptop you choose!

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7 BEST travel laptops for digital nomads 2024 (+ SAVINGS TRICKS)

By: Author Mitch Glass

Posted on Last updated: December 31, 2023

A portable laptop for travel is a digital nomad’s best friend.

Most normal travelers can get by without packing a computer, but not digital nomads. (After all, it’s called the “laptop lifestyle” for a reason!)

And not only do you need a laptop, but you need the right kind of laptop.

The best laptops for digital nomads have some unique characteristics (which we’ll get to in a sec), and a budget laptop for working from home may not cut it.

If you buy a crappy non-portable laptop, digital nomad life isn’t gonna be fun.

Since you will be using it on a daily (or almost daily) basis to earn a living while traveling , it’s an investment you’ll want to take seriously.

Let me tell you from experience…it’s no fun having your travel laptop poop out on you in the middle of nowhere, then having to throw down big bucks to get a whatever type of emergency replacement is available (Long story short, Day now works with a Thai keyboard…)

A quality laptop is a must. 

And after nearly 50 hours of research (plus quite a bit of first-hand experience), I’ve narrowed it down the list of best digital nomad laptops to 7 rock-solid options in 2024.

Now, since every digital nomad’s needs are different, the best laptop for you might not be the best laptop for me. 

That’s why in this list, I’ll break up each recommendation based on what type of traveler you are, and what you will use your travel laptop for.

Whether you’re looking for the cheapest possible option, the most ultraportable and lightweight laptop, or the most powerful high-end computer…I’ve got you covered.

We’ll start with what to look for when comparing laptops for digital nomads. Next, we’ll take an in-depth look at each of the top picks. And finally, I’ll share some tips on how to save money when buying your travel laptop and building your digital nomad office setup . 

Let’s dive in!

Important: Even with the absolute best laptop for digital nomads, you’re not going to get far without a reliable internet connection you can take on the go. For that, check out these handy mobile wifi hotspots for digital nomads that you can fit in your pocket. You’ll also want some sturdy anti-theft digital nomad luggage to protect and carry your laptop.

Table of Contents

TL;DR: The Best Travel Laptops for Digital Nomads

Laptop vs. tablet for travel (or both), 1 –  macbook air (best all-around portable laptop for travel and work), 2 – macbook pro (best laptop for photographers and youtubers), 3 – apple ipad pro (best travel tablet for digital nomads), 4 – dell xps 13 (best apple alternative laptop for digital nomads), 5 – acer spin 5 – (best value travel laptop), 6 – lenovo flex 5 14 (best budget travel laptop), 7 – lenovo yoga c940 (best 2-in-1 laptop for travel), how to save money on your travel laptop, recap: what’s the best laptop for travel and work, frequently asked questions.

Macbook Air (M2) – Best portable laptop for MOST digital nomads Macbook Pro 13 (M2 ) – Best laptop for travel professionals who use heavy graphics Ipad Pro – Best travel tablet Dell XPS 13 – Best Apple alternative travel laptop (for Apple-haters) Acer Spin 5 – Best value digital nomad laptop Lenovo Flex 5 14 – Best budget travel laptop Lenovo Yoga C940 – Best 2-in-1 laptop for travel

What to Look for in a Digital Nomad Laptop

Lightweight : Most of the laptops on this list are under 3.5 pounds. You want something compact that won’t weigh your backpack down (and break your back), and ideally something that is usable in tight spaces like airplanes. Your best bet is a 13” screen laptop that weighs less than 3.5 pounds. But keep in mind, the lighter you go, the more sacrifices you’ll have to make in other areas.

Sturdy : As I mentioned, replacing a laptop for remote work while you’re traveling is not fun. You want something that’s not going to snap in half when you’re on some remote tropical island. It’s easy to feel the difference between a quality piece of equipment and a chintzy one.

Accessible Parts and Repair : If your laptop does run into a technical glitch while traveling (and you can’t fix it yourself), having access to repair centers and computer parts is a life-saver. Luckily, most countries have authorized repair and service providers for brands like Apple and Dell.

Fast/Reliable : You are making a living from this machine. If you buy a crappy laptop, work will be miserable. The best laptop for digital nomads will have an i7 chip or better. Apart from the chip, the higher the clock speed (usually stated in GHz or MHz) and number of cores, the better.

Ports: To keep travel laptops portable and lightweight, you might have to sacrifice some ports. If you find a laptop with all the ports you need, consider it a plus. But if there are limited ports, it’s not the end of the world. You’ll get used to carrying around an adaptor. That said, ideally your choice will have at least a USB-C port, as they are the “ports of the future”.

Memory: Memory (or RAM) is the short-term storage in your computer that allows it to access information and run quickly. 8GB should cover most digital nomad needs. But if your digital nomad job involves editing 4k video, 3D modeling, or running tons of apps at once, then 16GB might be a better option. Keep in mind that some laptops have upgradeable memory, while others do not (i.e. you’re stuck with whatever you buy).

Battery Life: Sometimes outlets are few and far between when on the road, so long-lasting batteries are a must. A good travel laptop should have at least 8-hours of battery life. I recommend looking for 3rd-party reviews when researching battery life, as the manufacturers tend to exaggerate.

Brightness: If you dream of working from a hammock out in the sun, you’ll need a bright display. Shoot for a minimum of 400 nits.

Storage: Running out of storage on the road SUCKS. This happens fast if you’re taking lots of videos (especially 4k). 256GB should be enough for normal people. But if you work with a lot of images and videos, you’ll want more. Keep in mind that some storages (like Macbooks) are not expandable. So if you don’t get enough when you buy, you’ll need to end up using external drives (which isn’t the end of the world—this is what Day does).

Note for online teachers: If you work as an online teacher while traveling, check out these best laptops for teaching online as well. Most digital nomad laptops should do the trick, but since online teachers have specific needs, it’s nice to have options.

For the past five years, I’ve traveled with just a laptop. Now that I’m turning into a bit of a slower traveler—setting up shop for several weeks at a time (or more)—I was delightfully surprised when Day bought me this entry-level iPad .

At first I thought I wouldn’t use it much, but it’s turned out to be the best travel gift ever!.

I love using it as an extra monitor so I don’t have to keep switching tabs as I work on a small laptop screen. I realize you can do this cheaper with a lightweight portable external monitor (like the ASUS ZenScreen ). But I have a rule that if something takes up space in my backpack, it better have multiple uses. (Plus I LOVE drawing on it and making graphics for the blog, and it’s way more comfortable to use on planes, trains, and buses).

You definitely don’t need both, but it can make your digital nomad setup more productive. 

Also, if you like the idea of both a laptop and a tablet, but don’t want to carry around two separate devices, I’ve included some awesome 2-in-1 laptop/tablet combo options on this list. That way, you get the best of both worlds!

Recommended articles: How to become a digital nomad (complete blueprint) How to make money living in a van (10 epic van life jobs)

Dimensions (H x W x D): 0.44” x 11.97” x 8.46” (11.2 x 304 x 215mm) Weight: 2.7 lb (1.24 kg) Storage: Up to 2TB SSD (non-upgradeable) RAM: Up to 16 GB (soldered) Processor: 3.49 GHz Apple M2 chip Ports: Thunderbolt 4 USB-C (x2) Battery Life: Up to 18 hours

The new Macbook Air with the Apply M2 chip is a super lightweight laptop for digital nomads that you really can’t go wrong with. It won’t blow you away with high-tech features, but it’ll do everything you need it to (and do it well). 

In the past, it was more for casual users who didn’t work on their computer for a living. But after recent upgrades, it’s now a powerful machine that can handle most tasks.

I say most because if you’re looking to do graphics-intensive work like editing 4k video, you’ll probably want to choose something on this list with a bit more power (but that’s not to say it’s impossible !)

The Macbook Air is one of the lightest and most compact travel laptops on this list, weighing in at just 2.7 pounds (1.24 kg), it won’t take up much space in your carry-on bag (and is comfortable to use on a plane). 

The base model comes with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of SSD storage, which is plenty for the average user. And if you think you’ll need more, you can soup it up even further (but at that point, you might be better off just getting the Macbook Pro).

Best of all, the new M2 chip boasts a whopping 18-hour battery life. This is clutch for remote working in places without outlets.

✅ Lightweight, ultraportable laptop with incredible battery ✅ Unlike older models, recent upgrades make it powerful enough for most digital nomads ✅ Apple products are built to last ✅ Super convenient if you already use an iPhone, iPad, etc. ✅ Thousands of Apple service centers worldwide if repairs needed

❌ Not as powerful as Macbook Pro for things like video editing ❌ Limited ports ❌ Doesn’t have some cool feature that other non-apple laptops have in this price range ❌ Can’t do aftermarket upgrades

Who It’s Best For: The Macbook Air is best for digital nomads who like/already use Apple products, don’t need to do a lot of graphic-intensive work, and don’t care about touchscreen or tablet capabilities.

Dimensions (H x W x D): 0.61” x 11.97” x 8.36” (15.6 x 304 x 212mm) Weight: 3.0 lb (1.4 kg) Storage: Up to 2TB SSD (soldered) RAM: Up to 16 GB (non-upgradeable) Processor: 3.49 GHz Apple M2 Chip Ports: Thunderbolt 3 (x2) Battery Life: Up to 20 hours

When it comes to the new Macbook Pro, the latest model comes with the new Apple M1 chip. Compared with the previous M1 chip, the M2 is not only 1.4 faster, but it also takes up less power, so for most digital nomads, this is the best choice.

The Macbook Pro is about the same size as the Air, but at 3.0 pounds, it’s just a teensy bit heavier. That said, the performance packed into those 3.0 pounds is far FAR from teensy.

I’ve been traveling with a Macbook Pro for the past 5 years, and it’d be hard to convince me to use something else. For most people, the Macbook Air might be sufficient. But if you’re going to be editing videos, you’ll want the power of the Pro.

The downside of using a Macbook Pro as your travel laptop is obvious—It’s expensive. And you’ll always have to worry about it getting damaged or stolen on the road. (A Pacsafe gives me a little peace of mind, though).

That said, if you’re going to be using it to make a living, spending long hours behind it—you’ll thank yourself for choosing quality. 

It’s also reassuring to know that these things were built to last (and hold their value). I gave my 2009 Macbook Pro to my brother, and it’s still kicking just fine. A few months ago my wife sold her 2013 Macbook Pro to another traveler for $250, which we used towards her new one. These things last.

Basically, the Macbook Pro is like the Air on steroids. It has much more processing power, a bigger trackpad, louder speakers, a better display, and more customization options. To top it off, it can get up to TWENTY hours of battery life. That is unheard of!

The question is—how important are those things to you?

If they’re important, choose the Pro. You will not be disappointed.

If they don’t matter much, save your money and stick with the Air (or other non-Apple choice on the list, which have some pretty sweet features not found on Macs).

✅ Enough power to crush any task  ✅ Plenty of expandability options ✅ Insane battery life ✅ Similar dimensions as Air (and only slightly heavier) ✅ Last a LONG time (in our experience) ✅ Thousands of Apple service centers worldwide if repairs needed

❌ Expensive (compared to Windows laptops with similar specs) ❌ Can’t do aftermarket upgrades ❌ Lacks some cool features that non-Apple products in this price range have ❌ Touch bar is stupid and annoying

Who It’s Best For: The Macbook Pro is best for those who prefer/already use Apple products, need a lot of power, want something that stands the test of time, and don’t care about touchscreens or tablet options.

Dimensions (H x W x D): 11-inch model (0.23” x 9.74” x 7.02”); 12.9-inch model (0.25” x 11.04” x 8.46”) Weight: 11-inch model (1.04 lb / 0.47 kg); 12.9-inch model (1.42 lb / 0.68 kg) Storage: Up to 2TB RAM: Up to 16 GB (non-upgradeable) Processor: Apple M2 chip Ports: Thunderbolt 3 / USB (x1) Battery Life: Up to 10 hours; up to 9 hours for WiFi + Cellular models

While not an actual laptop, the Apple iPad deserves to be on this list. If you go with the latest iPad Pro and connect it to a magic keyboard, you can do almost the same (and sometimes more ) than most laptops on this list. 

However, there are some drawbacks…

• The keyboard is small, so typing isn’t quite as comfortable as a normal laptop
• Some apps still don’t have cursor support (but that will probably improve)
• Multi-tasking is easier on a laptop (but might be good enough on the iPad)
• There’s only one USB-C port, so connecting multiple devices is complicated
• Editing apps are limited (and some aren’t even available) on the iPad

That said, if none of these are deal-breakers for you, the iPad Pro might be just what you’re looking for.

This is especially true for artists, as drawing on the iPad is AMAZING (and addicting!).

You also have the option of buying a celular-equipped iPad, which lets you use a SIM card to stay connected.

If none of that bothers you and you prioritize saving space, then this might be the option for you.

So, depending on what your needs are, it’s possible you can nix the laptop altogether, do everything you need to do with an iPad, and travel super light.

The other, not-so-light option would be to do what I do and use an entry-level iPad (which is WAY cheaper than the Pro model) in addition to my Macbook. It fits right alongside my Macbook in my laptop case and works as the perfect second monitor for maximum productivity.

✅ Allows you to travel super light ✅ Easy to use in small spaces like airplanes ✅ 5G celular models can stay connected with a data SIM ✅ Touchscreen, drawing, and notetaking is awesome

❌ See bullets in description above

Who It’s Best For : The iPad Pro is best for ultralight and carry-on only travelers who don’t mind the limitations of not having a normal travel laptop. It’s also great for people who love art. 

Dimensions (H x W x D): 0.55” x 11.6” x 7.8” (14 x 296 x 199mm) Weight: Touch: 2.8 lb (1.27 kg); Non-touch: 2.64 lb (1.22 kg) Storage: Up to 1TB SSD RAM: Up to 32GB (soldered) Processor: Up to 12th Gen Intel i7 1250U Ports: Thunderbolt 4 USB-C (x2), (USB-A 3.0 and USB-C headset adaptor also included) Battery Life: 12+ hours

The Dell XPS 13 is one of the best laptops for travelers for those who aren’t tied to Apple.

In fact, some would say it even outshines the Macbook in a few different areas. 

For one, it’s even lighter and more compact than the Macbook Air, making it the most ultraportable travel laptop on this list.

It comes in three different options: a regular clamshell laptop, a touchscreen laptop, or a 2-in-1 laptop.

The XPS 13 also boasts a 12+ hour battery life (some tests even show 15 hours). This is longer than Macbooks with the Intel chip, but can’t quite compete with the Apple M1 chip battery life. That said, how often do you actually need more than 15 hours of battery without charging?

You have the option of choosing between a Full HD screen (1920 x 1200) or 4K Ultra HD (3840 x 2400), but with a 13” laptop, all you really need is Full HD (this will also extend your battery even longer).

As far as tech specs go, you can build it out exactly as you need it. Choose from an 12th-gen i5, or i7 processor, beef the RAM up to 32GB, or expand the hard drive up to 1TB—there’s a customization option for every need.

Similar to Macbook laptops, you’re stuck with only a couple USB-C ports. But really, it’s a small price to pay for such a lightweight and portable travel laptop. Plus, unlike Apple, they’re nice enough to include a USB-C to USB-A adaptor in the box.

✅ Compact and powerful ✅ Quality materials and slick looking ✅ Great battery life ✅ Tons of customization options to suit your needs ✅ Can upgrade hard drive later if you need more space

❌ Lack of ports ❌ Adding specs to base model can get pricey ❌ Poor quality webcam

Who It’s Best For : The Dell XPS 13 is the best lightweight laptop for travelers who aren’t tied to Apple’s ecosystem.

Dimensions (H x W x D): 0.67” x 12.3” x 8.6” Weight: 2.9 lb (1.31 kg) Storage: Up to 1TB RAM: Up to 16GB Processor: 12th Gen Intel Core i7-1260P Processor (Up to 4.7GHz) Ports: Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C (x2), USB 3.2 A (x1), SD card reader, HDMI, SD card reader, HDMI Battery Life: Up to 12 hours

If you can’t justify plopping down over a grand for a new digital nomad computer, the Acer Spin 5 might be right up your alley.

And as you’ll see, even at a lower price point, it has some pretty awesome features not found on the more expensive models we’ve covered so far. 

The first of which is that it’s a 2-in-1 laptop. That means you can:

• Use it as a regular “clamshell” laptop
• Fold the screen backward into a screen stand (perfect for movie-watching in tight spaces)
• Fold it completely backwards to use as a tablet

That said, the 2-in-1 option does come with a downside:

The Acer Spin 5 is a bit bulkier and about a pound heavier than some of the other options on this list. But unless you’re traveling carry-on only and counting every ounce, are you really going to tell a one pound difference?

That’s for you (and your budget) to decide.

It’s good to know that the weight is put to good use, though, with the base model boasting some higher specs than other laptops costing several hundred dollars more. Also, with a bigger laptop also comes more space ports (yay!). 

A rechargeable stylus is also included with the Spin 3, so if you like to draw or take digital notes (and don’t want to fork over several hundred dollars for an iPad and Apple Pencil), this is a great alternative.

Overall, this is one of the best budget laptops for remote work.

✅ Impressive value for the price ✅ 2-in-1 flexibility ✅ Extra ports ✅ Good battery life

❌ No USB-C ❌ Heavier and bulkier ❌ Awkward keyboard

Who It’s Best For : The Acer Spin 3 is the best computer for digital nomads looking for the best value for their money. If you can get over the fact that it’s slightly heavier, it’s a great bang for your buck.

Dimensions (H x W x D): 0.7” x 12.32” x 8.85” Weight: 3.42 lb (1.55 kg) Storage: Up to 1TB SSD RAM: Up to 16GB Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 7730U (2.00 GHz up to 4.50 GHz) Ports: USB-A (x2), USB-C (x1), HDMI, SD card reader Battery Life: Up to 15 hours

If you’re looking to get a quality travel laptop as cheaply as possible, you can’t go wrong with the Lenovo Flex 5 14.

In many ways it is similar to the Acer Spin 3, though not quite as powerful. You’re not going to want to edit photos and videos on this bad boy, but it’s perfectly fine for most tasks.

With the Flex 5 14, you get the flip-around screen with stylus. So despite it not being the smallest laptop on the list, the tablet mode makes it portable enough for flights and other cramped spaces.

It also boasts a surprising 16GB of RAM, which is more than what you’d expect for a digital nomad laptop at this price point.

And, while chunkier than some of the other ultraslim laptops on this list, at least you’ll enjoy a dongle-free experience as it comes with two USB-A ports, a USB-C port, HDMI port, and SD card reader.

You might consider this a “starter” laptop for digital nomads. But other than being slightly heavier and having a not-so-bright screen, this laptop is perfect for those on a tight budget.

✅ Super affordable ✅ Converts into tablet with stylus ✅ Lots of ports

❌ Not a bright enough screen for extended outdoor use ❌ Heavier and bulkier than more expensive options

Who It’s Best For : The Lenovo Flex 5 14 is the best portable laptop for digital nomads who are on a tight budget, have a little extra space to spare, and don’t plan on spending too much time working outside.

Dimensions (H x W x D): 0.6” x 12.6” x 8.5” Weight: 3 lb (1.4 kg) Storage: 512GB SSD RAM: 12GB Processor: Intel 10th Gen Core i7-1065G7 1.3 GHz Ports: USB-A (x1), Thunderbolt 3 USB-C (x2) Battery Life: Up to 15 hours

So far we’ve covered a couple different 2-in-1 laptops for digital nomads. They’re both great bargains that’ll get the job done. But there’s only so much you can expect at those lower price points.

If you love the idea of a 2-in-1, but want something lighter with top-of-the-line specs, the Lenovo Yoga C940 is exactly what you’re looking for.

Weighing in at 3 pounds, it’s lighter than the other bulkier 2-in-1s on this list. It also boasts a whopping 15 hour battery life (with the FHD screen)—perfect for those travel days where it’s hard to find a place to charge.

And if you want to draw or take notes, the included stylus has a nice handy storage slot in the back.

The Yoga C940 also has one of the most bumping sound systems on this list. It makes the perfect mini entertainment system for netflix binges when you need a break from all that hard digital nomad work.

You’re also covered with both a USB-A and two USB-C ports, so you can ditch those pesky adaptors and save space in your backpack.

Overall, the Lenovo Yoga C940 is a super versatile pick and is a great choice for those looking for the best laptop for travel and work.

✅ You can feel the quality ✅ Powerful enough for pretty much anything ✅ Bumping sound system ✅ Super long battery life ✅ Lighter than other 2-in-1s

❌ Pricey ❌ Still heavier than other ultralight weight models on this list

Who It’s Best For : The Lenovo Yoga C940 is the best laptop for digital nomads who love the 2-in-1 concept, aren’t on a tight budget, and are looking for the best quality.

The best time to buy a travel laptop is when you don’t need a travel laptop. That way, you have the flexibility to shop around for deals.

Here are some top tips for making your money stretch as far as possible:

Compare cost of third-party upgrades. If the laptop you choose is upgradable, it may be cheaper to buy the cheapest base model and upgrade it yourself (vs. buying it with top specs out of the box). You can learn how to do anything with Youtube these days!

Only buy what you need. Just because you see everyone else with their fancy Macbook Pros doesn’t mean you need one too. Remember, the best travel laptop for writers won’t necessarily be the best travel laptop for video editing and other “heavy” jobs. If you’ve got money to blow and want the absolute best (or you do a lot of photo and video editing like we do), then go for it. You won’t be disappointed. But other than that, it’s probably overkill. 

Consider a fast SSD external hard drive. If you’re buying a non-upgradable laptop (like Macs), it may be cheaper to buy a fast SSD external hard drive than buying a laptop with a bigger hard drive. This is what we did when we bought our emergency laptop in Thailand. It’s kind of a pain to have to plug in all the time, but it also adds flexibility to your setup. 

Research the cheapest countries to buy in. Speaking of Thailand, laptop prices vary from country to country (and Thailand is NOT the cheapest…at least for Apple products). If you do buy abroad, remember that you can usually get reimbursed for taxes when you leave the country. This usually only works if you are flying out though. We learned the hard way that you can’t do it at land border crossings.

Buy refurbished. Before buying anything new, check for Amazon Renewed products or the Apple Refurbished pages. You might be able to save a couple hundred dollars and still get a “good as new” digital nomad laptop with a warranty.

Wait for holidays. If you’re able to wait until Black Friday (or at least the next big holiday of the year), you’re bound to find cheaper prices.

Open a rewards credit card. Whenever I’m planning to make a big purchase, I always open a new rewards credit card. For example, if you open the Chase Sapphire Preferred and spend $4000 within the first 3 months, you get a 60,000-point sign-up bonus (at the time of writing). That’s equivalent of $750+ in flights. So if you think about it, it’s kinda like getting a $750 discount on your computer…just in the form of flights. A lot of these credit cards also will double the laptop’s manufacturer warranty, so you won’t have to pay for an extended protection plan.

Even if you find a great deal on a digital nomad laptop, it can still be stressful traveling with expensive equipment. If you’re worried about your equipment, it might be worth buying travel insurance that covers your lost or stolen electronics (make sure to read the conditions though).

The best laptop for travel and work really comes down to your needs, budget, and desired features.

If you are just starting out and don’t have an extra grand (or more) to plop down on one of the top laptops for travel, then a budget option like the Lenovo Flex 5 14 is a great starter option.

But if you are able to free up some budget for a more powerful machine, look into either a Macbook (for Apple lovers who want incredible battery life) or the Dell XPS 13 (for Windows lovers who want one of the smallest, lightest travel laptops on the market).

In the end, the simplest way to determine the best digital nomad laptop for you is to:

Step 1.) List out all the laptops that fall in your budget Step 2.) Circle the laptops that have the “dealbreaker” features you want your computer to have Step 3.) From the laptops you circled, choose the most powerful, highest quality option

As a digital nomad, you won’t regret investing in the best equipment that your budget allows. You’ll be using this machine to earn a living for years to come, and the better the machine you have, the easier (and more enjoyable) the experience will be.

Traveling with a laptop is safe if you take the proper precautions. Be careful about where you pull it out, always have a place to lock it up, and consider buying travel insurance that covers your laptop. 

The best travel laptop depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you have no operating system preference, the best overall travel laptop for most people is the Dell XPS 13.

Fifteen-inch laptops get a bit bulky when it comes to traveling light. That said, I’ve seen many digital nomads using them. If your work requires extra screen space, you have plenty of room, and you don’t mind the extra weight—go for it!

You can protect your laptop while traveling by only taking it out in safe places, getting it covered by insurance, buying a Pacsafe to keep it secure in your room, and making sure you have a way to protect it from water (e.g. a backpack rain cover)

Bringing too many laptop accessories when traveling can be tricky. So it’s best to stick with the essentials like your charger, external hard drive, or laptop sleeve. If you have enough room, you can always throw in an ergonomic mouse or portable keyboard.

Mitch is your typical nomadic backpacker. Or at least, he was . But after stopping in Colombia to take “one week” of salsa lessons, his life took a sharp left turn. He met a cute Colombian girl in dance class, fell in love, and got married. Over half a decade has passed since he left his career to travel the world as a digital nomad, and he’s never looked back.

Nowadays, he’s the blogger behind Project Untethered — where he runs an awesome email newsletter and Youtube channel teaching adventure-craved wanderlusters how to escape the rat race, earn money from anywhere, and build an “untethered life”.

His advice has been featured in Forbes, USA Today, Yahoo, MSN, Reader’s Digest, Condé Nast Traveler, and more.

Mitch's Travel Recommendations: Travel Planning Resources - Everything you need to plan your trip on one convenient page. Going Cheap Flights Newsletter - Get flight deals from your airport up to 90% off sent straight to your inbox. Safetywing Insurance - This cheap travel insurance has saved me over $15,000 in medical bills. Booking.com - Book accommodation without adding your credit card (in case you need to cancel). Trusted House Sitters - Take care of pets in exchange for free (sometimes luxury) accommodation. Flexjobs - Find remote jobs without having to sift through crappy ones. Skillshare - Free trial to take unlimited classes that teach digital nomad skills. Wise - Send and receive money abroad cheaply (great for freelancers).

Sunday 14th of February 2021

i was just planning to buy a laptop !! I really liked the Acer Spin 3, the design looks so good. Keep it up!

Monday 15th of February 2021

It's definitely a great bang for your buck! Let me know which one you end up going with and how you like it!

Monday 8th of February 2021

Do you think that the MacBook Air is the best laptop for writers? Because I heard their keys are very good for typing for long periods of time. Which makes it seem like a good laptop for writers by default, if that's the case.

Wednesday 10th of February 2021

It's definitely a good choice if you can afford it. In the end, it comes down to your budget. If you have the budget, you won't be disappointed. But if all you're doing is typing in a doc all day, you can certainly survive with something cheaper.

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10 Best Travel Laptops of 2023: The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide

In your travels, whether for leisure or business a laptop surely comes in handy when your phone or tablet does not suffice.

There are times where there are no other options but a good laptop for you to work while you travel. Mobile devices and tablets are not handy while multitasking as you face limitations working on a touch interface. 

Professional tools are a hassle to use in a tablet or mobile interface. These tools in a tablet or mobile interface may be limited in function or unavailable altogether.

Editing photos, coding, or video compilation work happen a lot faster using a good laptop. The reason being a laptop’s top-end processing power which mobile or tablet cannot compare to.

While researching for your best travel laptops you may want to pay attention to the price and the hardware specification. 

Whether you have a tight budget to follow or are affluent enough, travel full, or want something for casual travel we have got it covered.

Before we get into our list of best travel laptops, we can understand the things to consider while buying your best travel laptop to take while you are on a vacation.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay any extra penny, but I’ll get a small commission that encourages me to deliver more helpful content for you.

What To Look For to Purchase A Good Travel Laptop

What’s the purpose :.

During your travel, consider the kind of work that you will do. Laptops generally are divided by: 

Light use: For browsing the internet, email, social media or organizing digital photos, etc. 

Medium use: Streaming movies, TV-series, using spreadsheets, and creating documents.   

Heavy use: Using the laptop to multitask opening multiple tabs, coding, advanced graphic work, photo, and video editing.  

When you are traveling and working, you shouldn’t forget to carry a WiFi router. Here is our another top article on the best wireless travel routers to travel and work .

Operating System

A software that helps manage all other software and hardware in your laptop. It helps you interact with your laptop through a visual interface. According to your use and preference, you may choose the best-suited OS for you.

The popular choices of OS in best travel laptops would be:

Mac OS : Mac is installed only on Apple computers, with an easy-to-use interface as well as very few issues with viruses and malware. With a sleek look and feel and impressive battery life support a Mac OS is a choice to consider.

Windows OS : This OS was designed to support a seamless touchscreen interface that helps you with more navigation options. The Windows OS has high security and is supported in a large selection of laptops, unlike the Mac.  

Chrome OS : All Chromebook laptops run on Chrome OS. The interface is fast but simple to use.

The Chrome OS shines in the area of leveraging the Google Play Store, to download and run apps from their huge selection. 

This caters to your travel needs of downloading photo edits or document creation apps at a moment’s notice.  

Screen Features

Touch Screens

Using a touch interface gives us the navigation ease of a tablet or smartphone whereas the powerful hardware gives you great processing speed. You may tap to select, drag it to move, pinch to zoom in and out increasing your mobility while doing your tasks. 

The best laptops for travel and photography generally avail of the touch screen feature for greater navigation options.  

Screen size

Laptop screens when measured diagonally their sizes have a range of 11 to 17 inches approximately. You may choose the screen size as per your use. Gaming, movies, photo and video editing can be done on a larger screen. 

Whereas emails or light work documentation or keeping track of your business metrics can happen over a smaller screen as well.

A laptop with a higher resolution will display better picture quality. You have a choice on the resolution you prefer, here are a few choices to consider.

• 4K Ultra HD : 3840 x 2560 and 3840 x 2160 resolutions with four times pixels of full HD. Great for viewing and editing high-end images.
• QHD (Quad HD) and QHD+ : With 2560 x 1440 and 3200 x 1800 resolutions, with a high pixel density that creates crisp and sharp detail, ideal for professional graphics work and watching high-definition videos. 
• Retina display : 2560 x 1600 and 3072 x 1920 resolutions are found in Mac 13 inch and 16-inch laptops. 
• Full HD : 1920 x 1080 resolution, can play movies and videos in Blu-ray, and have good detail while playing games.
• HD+ : 1600 x 900 resolution is good only for casual gaming and watching movies.
• HD : 1366 x 768 resolution is the standard followed on mainstream laptops. It’s great for web surfing, email as well as consume less battery 

Read Also :

• 10 Best Water Filter For Travel & Hiking
• Best Hiking Shorts for Men and Women

The laptop’s processing power is decided on the kind of processor you will be using. 

The advantage of good processing power is the smoother and faster functioning of critical software, graphic work, or multitasking on different software.

The most popular processors belong to Intel, which gives you the widest choice among the laptops you will choose. 

The AMD Ryzen processors deliver great multitasking performance, stunning visuals, and good battery life.

The Apple M1 chip designed for Mac is found in the latest generation of Apple laptops. It is known to integrate CPU, GPU, and more to deliver on a good performance and power efficiency. 

The best gaming laptops for travel consider processing power as one of their key selling points.

The Random-access memory commonly known as RAM helps your processor tackle multiple tasks at once. A 12 Gb RAM or more is recommended if you have advanced graphic design to do whereas a 2 Gb RAM is sufficient for casual web browsing and emails. 

Internal Storage

If you intend to store high-resolution photos and videos on your laptop, you should at least have a storage drive of 512 GB. 4K movies and high-def games will require 1 TB at the least.

Any laptop with good internal storage will come quite handy as a laptop for travel vlogging as it helps you store your massive amount of raw footage to edit, at your convenience. 

Battery Life

Battery life is one of the most important factors to consider while traveling. Laptops that have higher specs generally have a higher consumption of battery charge so it’s important to balance specs with usage to ensure healthy battery use. 

A solid-state drive is preferred to a mechanical hard drive to improve power efficiency.

Now that you have an idea of what to look for while buying a travel laptop, we can now get into the List of the 10 Best Travel laptops.

Related Post : 10 Best Headphones for Teens: The Ultimate Buying Guide

List of 10 Best Travel Laptops: Which One to Choose?

1. acer aspire 5 slim laptop for business travel.

As per Acer the Aspire 5 features an AMD Ryzen 3 3200U Mobile Processor which can tackle complex jobs easily. 

It has sharp and crisp visuals on the 15.6” Full HD IPS screen providing a Clear HD viewing experience for you.

The thin bezel provides you more space to work with, making it a perfect companion to take with you while you travel.  

The battery life lasts a good 7.5 hours and the 128 GB hard disk will help store those memorable photographs during your trip. 

All of these simple yet important features make the Aspire 5 as one of the best laptops for travelers.

•  Weight: 3.97 pounds
•  Dimensions: 14.31 x 9.74 x 0.71 inches
•  Battery Life:7.5 Hours
•  Storage:128 GB Flash Memory Solid State
• RAM:4 GB DDR4

2. ASUS L210 Ultra-Thin Budget Travel Laptop

To be productive all day while on the move is what the ASUS laptop L210 is built for. This lightweight and compact 11.6-inch laptop is perfect to carry around to watch your emails and business metrics while traveling. 

Entrepreneurs can easily catch up on work due to the good processing power provided by the latest Intel processor.

The L210 has a standing battery life of 12 hours which lets you work free from the worry of power backups. 

With eMMC storage, your data is safe and secure. The Windows 10 in S mode offers great compatibility with a variety of software and applications you may use for your work, all such features making it one of the best and cheap travel laptops for air travel.

• Weight: 2.31 pounds
• Dimensions: 11 x 7.5 x 0.67 inches
• Battery Life:12 Hours
• Storage: 64 GB
• RAM: 4 GB DDR4 SDRAM

3. Apple MacBook Air with Apple M1 Chip 

The Apple MacBook Air has the Apple-designed M1 chip which provides a faster CPU, GPU, and machine learning performance. 

This laptop has one of the highest-rated battery life extending to 18 hours. 

The 8-core CPU that delivers 3.5x faster processing and 8 GPU cores which provide 5x faster graphics performance contribute greatly to the fluid navigation across multiple tabs. 

The laptop is very adept at handling complex work which requires high processing power. 

Featuring Superfast SSD storage and 8 GB of memory (RAM) the MacBook Air has all the features to deliver a powerful and portable performance. 

Additional Apple features like one-touch security, Wi-Fi 6 enabled and the thunderbolt USB are also available for your use. 

All these amazing features make the MacBook Air one of the best travel laptops for business.

• Weight: 2.8 pounds
• Dimensions: 11.97 x 0.63 x 8.36 inches
• Battery Life: 18 Hours
• Storage: 512 GB SSD
• RAM: 8 GB 

Read Next: 15 Most Affordable Hiking Boots: Buyer’s Guide

4. Lenovo Ideapad Flex 5

The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5   gives you tons of creative choices by blending in performance with affordability and a sleek design and feel to boot. 

With the AMD Ryzen 5 4500U mobile processor and Radeon graphics, this laptop offers you great all-around performance, graphics, and productivity during your travels.

The laptop also offers privacy features like a physical shutter on the webcam ensures you are safe from unwanted attention. 

This laptop can be used in multi-modes such as the Tent mode or Stand mode or the Tablet mode.

Each mode corresponds to a task like Tent mode can be used for sharing things, Stand mode for binge-watching, or the Tablet mode for more intuitive interaction.

With such great features brought to the table, the Lenovo Ideapad is for sure to be on the list of best travel laptops for either business or leisure.  

• Weight: 3.63 pounds
• Dimensions:12.66 x 8.56 x 0.82 inches
• Battery Life: 10 Hours
• Storage: 256 GB Flash Memory Solid State
• RAM: 16 GB DDR4

5. Acer Chromebook Spin 311 Portable Laptop for Travel

The Acer Chromebook Spin 311 can easily transform into any mode as per your needs. It is versatile to rotate to an angle of your desire, transforming this laptop into a notebook or tablet easily. The laptop also has a stand-up display or the tent mode. 

Its 360-degree hinge lets you do all of these without any complications allowing for a cool laptop that you can take anywhere and use everywhere. 

The laptop features a wide-angle HD Webcam that supports HDR imaging enhancing your video calling experience during your travel. The battery backup extends to 10 hours which is quite sufficient for your work. 

The flexibility of using the Acer Chromebook as well as the availability of a wide variety of app choices places the Acer Chromebook as one of the best lightweight travel laptops on the list.

• Weight:2.62 pounds
• Dimensions: 11.65 x 8.11 x 0.79 inches
• Storage: 32 GB embedded multimedia card
• RAM: 4 GB LPDDR

6. Dell Inspiron 15 5502 : Best Lightweight Travel Laptop

Dell Inspiron 15 is thin and light, engineered with the 11th gen Intel i5 processor and a 15.6-inch Full HD with anti-glare LED Backlight Narrow Border WVA Display. 

The 8 GB 3200 Mhz DDR4 RAM helps run complex tasks seamlessly.    

The platinum silver color is an elegant touch that brings modern aesthetics to the laptop. 

The ExpressCharge will help recharge your battery in a flash making the Dell Inspiron one of the best laptops to take traveling. 

A multifunctional USB type-C port gives great compatibility with other laptop accessories. 

Other features in the Dell Inspiron 15 5502 include a lid-open sensor that will turn on the laptop even when completely off, as well as the fingerprint reader that provides hassle-free yet secure log-in. 

• Weight: 3.78 pounds
• Dimensions: 9.23 x 14.02 x 0.7 inches
• Battery Life: 8 Hours
• Storage: 512GB M.2 PCIe NVMe Solid State Drive
• RAM: 8 GB DDR4

Read Next : 10 Best Beach Coolers with Wheels

7. Acer Swift 3 : Best Laptop for Travel Blogging

This Ultra-thin and lightweight laptop sports a magnesium-aluminum metal chassis with a high screen-to-body ratio and a long-lasting battery. 

One of the best laptops for travelers, weighing only 2.65 pounds it is not cumbersome to carry at all. 

The ultra-notebook features an AMD Ryzen 7 4700U processor for fast and smooth workflow and a silver-colored chassis to complete the look. 

The 14-inch FULL HD IPS display will surely give you an amazing multimedia experience, along with features like dual-band Intel® Wi-Fi 6 (GIG+) (802.11ax) which provides 1,700 Mbps download speeds and the Thunderbolt 4 USB for ultra-quick data transfer (40 Gbps).

All of these features will surely make your work experience pleasant during your travels, making this laptop one of the best lightweight travel laptops.

• Weight: 2.65 pounds
• Dimensions: 12.73 x 8.62 x 0.63 inches
• Battery Life: 17 hours
• Storage: 512 GB Flash Memory Solid State
• RAM: 16 GB LPDDR4

8. Dell Inspiron 5000 : Best Travel Laptops

The Dell Inspiron 5000 sports a high 32 GB RAM to run multiple software smoothly while browsing the web, giving you a perfect multi-tasking experience. 

The 1 TB solid state drive has ample space to store your high-spec media files. 

The Intel i5 processor helps you switch between tasks without lag and the 15.6 inches FULL HD display is a visual treat while editing your media files.  

With the newer Intel processor and a docking station, it’s much easier to edit videos and perform cloud computing tasks.

This laptop was built to help you do those heavy-duty graphic edits or run software that will not lag even with multiple tabs open.  

Such great computing capabilities make the Dell Inspiron one of the best laptops for travelers.

• Dimensions: 14.02 x 9.23 x 0.7 inches
• Battery Life: N/A
• Storage: 1TB PCIe Solid State Drive
• RAM: 32 GB DDR4

9. HP Pavilion x360 Convertible Touchscreen Laptop

The HP Pavilion x360 can easily convert into four versatile modes. Drawing or note-taking feels as natural as on paper. 

The laptop easily supports online video meetings with its solid Wi-Fi 6 connection, the wide vision HD webcam, and dual-array microphone gives a wide-angle clarity which makes things look closer. 

Equipped with BIOS recovery and protection which automatically checks the health of the laptop and protects against unauthorized access.  

HP Pavilion has a 14 inch FULL HD IPS, micro-edge, WLED-backlight, multi-touch enabled, edge to edge glass touch screen display, which gives an amazing viewing experience.

The battery life lasts up to 9 hours and 15 minutes at normal usage. Amazon Alexa voice service is also one of its trendy features to use making this laptop one of the best laptops for travel and photography.

• Weight: 3.5 pounds
• Dimensions: 12.76 x 8.78 x 0.81 inches
• Battery Life:9.25 Hours

10. ASUS VivoBook

The ASUS VivoBook is one of the best lightweight travel laptops you can purchase with equal attention to performance. The RAM is upgraded to 12 GB DDR4 memory for adequate multitasking and a smooth running of applications. 

The internal storage is ample enough with the 1 TB variant to store your important digital data whereas the 15.6-inch FULL HD LED nano edge bezel display gives you an amazing visual experience. 

The AMD Ryzen 5 3500U processor provides maximum high-efficiency power to run all work tasks smoothly.

The Asus VivoBook is the best laptop for travel blogging with great internal storage and a powerful processing unit it will make your blogging and vlogging edits as easy as it can get. All such features make this laptop a sure feature in the list of top 10 best travel laptops.

• Weight: 3.51 pounds
• Dimensions: 14.1 x 9.1 x 0.8 inches
• Storage: 1 TB Flash Memory Solid State
• RAM: 12 GB DDR4

These top 10 travel laptops here will surely fulfill your needs while traveling. 

The things you need to take note of are generally the weight, processing power, and battery life to make your travel hassle-free in terms of using a laptop. 

The laptops featured in have a lot more to offer though. Travel laptops in this list offer you choices in the higher and lower price ranges. 

The laptops with a slightly lower price may offer less processing power due to hardware restraints but they do not compromise in the quality and are great for emails, checking business metrics, browsing the web, etc. 

The laptops with high-end specifications do not compromise processing power giving you a seamless navigation experience while editing your media files, however, the battery backup may not be as great as the lower priced models. The trade-off here will depend on your usage. 

All the laptops featured here have high-security measures, a few also have the finger touch verification enabled ensuring security while you travel.

With Wi-Fi 6 enabled in almost all laptops, the connectivity will also not be an issue. All of these features were designed for a great travel experience and hopefully, the list of the best laptops for travelers will help you choose yours.

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12 best travel laptops you can buy in 2024 [for all budgets].

Bradley and I have been digital nomads for around 5 years now.

And one of the most important things we’ve invested in is our laptops. 

They are what we use to run our business and if they didn’t work well, then we’d be in trouble!

Over the years, we’ve used a number of brilliant laptops for travel, and we thought it would be a good idea to give you some guidance on the best travel laptops on the market this year. 

We’ve done a lot of research, and we’ve included all the best ones we’ve found, including the laptops we currently use, and laptops we have previously used. 

So, if you’re in search of a laptop to suit your travel needs, then look no further. We’ve got you covered!

Want a quick answer? Our top pick is the Asus Zenbook 13 .

Travellerspoint

Quick roundup of our top picks

What to look at when choosing a travel laptop

The best laptops for travelers excel in many or all of the following categories ...

Before actually thinking about the features and specs of the laptop, make sure you know your budget. It’s also worthwhile to compare laptops on a similar price point so you can choose the best one, without spending more than you should.

2. Weight and Size

The portability of a laptop matters too, especially for travel. Is it lightweight and small enough to make it convenient to travel with? Would it need a suitcase to fit? How heavy is it to lug around on a two-week backpacking trip ? Can it breeze through airport security?

These are just some questions to consider in terms of your laptop’s weight and size. It helps to know what you need!

3. Battery Life 

Longer battery life typically correlates with a higher price tag, but if you’re working on the road, having a long battery life can make your life so much easier!

Even if you’re stuck on a long flight or train journey where you can’t plug your laptop into a power source, a powerful laptop means you can still work.

4. Storage Space 

Again, you’ll pay more for more storage, but think of this as a long-term investment. Storage is especially crucial if you create content such as videos and photos, as they take up more space than mere word documents.

An option is to buy an external hard drive to expand your storage capacity. It can be a great alternative if you don’t have the budget to buy a higher storage capacity to begin with.

5. What RAM do you need?

RAM (Random Access Memory) is where your laptop stores data before processing them, and its size affects how well your laptop can handle “multi-tasking”.

Imagine editing photos on Lightroom, then writing a blog article on Google Docs, and then watching a YouTube video ( p.s. Check out our channel ). Having a large RAM lets you switch between tasks smoothly.

Here’s a quick summary of the most common RAM sizes:

• 4GB: Great for general browsing, word editing software, and writing emails.
• 8GB: Everything above, plus video calls and light photo editing. If you’re running a simple blog without doing anything too heavy, 8GB of RAM should be enough.
• 16GB : You’ll need at least this amount for editing up to 4K videos and photos while multitasking. It’s the minimum RAM size for digital nomads. Trust us, it will make your life (and travel) much easier!
• 32GB: Usually used in gaming laptops or heavy video editing, and by that we don’t mean travel or Youtube videos, we’re talking movie quality stuff!

Of course, the more RAM, the more expensive the laptop, so it’s important to strike a balance between what you need your laptop to do, and your budget. 

6. Processing Power 

If you are running editing programs and high-resolution videos, you should also prioritize the processing power. Trust us, this will make working on your laptop so much more enjoyable.

The CPU is like the heart and brain of your laptop. For high-power activities like video editing, you need to go for at least an i7, although the i9 is now on the market and the most powerful.

We opted for high processing power as Adobe Premier Pro can be very demanding for video editing, especially during the rendering process. Cloud/browser based video editors like Clipchamp may be less demanding for laptops with lower processing power.

i5 will work for a travel laptop if you’re not doing anything too heavy, or don’t mind editing at a buffering pace and have a lot of patience. However, anything less than an i5 processor (i3) will not be suitable as a travel laptop unless you just plan on answering emails and surfing the internet.

A separate graphics chip allows gamers, 3D designers, and high-res video editors to run their programs without taking up a ton of RAM and slowing the overall performance of the computer.

I use an i7 CPU and this allows me to edit video footage, including 4k very easily, and I can edit on Lightroom, Photoshop, and After Effects without any issues. It can also perform multiple of these tasks at one without crashing, which is a real testament to the quality! 

7. Do you have a software preference: Windows vs Apple vs Chrome OS?

Apple may seem like the quintessence of all technology brands, but if you don’t already use their products or like the Apple software system, there is no point in getting an Apple laptop. 

But if you already use Apple and want easy integration with their other products, then it would make sense to choose one of their laptops. 

For us, we don’t like Apple products and opt for Windows instead. It has never let us down so far, and there are so many more options to choose from!

Pros of Windows Operating System

• Excellent compatibility with Microsoft software
• Easier to upgrade
• Familiar interface, even for non-techy users
• More budget and model options

Cons of Windows Operating System

• More vulnerable to virus and hackers
• Windows updates may feel disruptive
• The huge range of options can be overwhelming

Pros of Apple Operating System

• Seamless integration with other Apple devices
• Feels premium and very durable
• Excellent for video, photo, and audio editing

Cons of Apple Operating System

• Extremely pricey and limited choice
• Few options for hardware
• May need to buy tons of adaptors

Pros of Chrome Operating System

• Feels fast compared to Windows laptop of the same price
• Easy set-up and usage 
• Chromebooks have great battery life

Cons of Chrome Operating System

• Cannot run Windows software
• Most web-based apps won't’ work without connection
• Weaker build, screen and audio quality

The 12 Best Travel Laptops

1. asus zenbook 13 - best overall travel laptop.

Weight: 1.11 kg

Battery Life: Up to 13 hours

Specs: Intel® Core™ i7-1165G7 Processor, 16 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD

Display: 13.3", Full HD 1920 x 1080p

Operating system: Windows

In terms of weight, size, power and price, we decided that the ASUS Zenbook 13 comes out top as the best travel laptop you can currently buy.

It's not the most powerful on this list, but it is still an absolutely amazing piece of kit and is the exact laptop I have been suing since late 2018 on our trip to Sri Lanka .It is still working 100% the same as it did when we first bought it and I have used it to run our website for more than 3 years now.

It does everything most travelers could possibly need, and more; and costs roughly 40% less than it's slightly more powerful counterparts (the DELL XPS 13 and Apple MacBook Air 13 - both discussed below).

Battery life is also a key component of any great travel laptop and the ASUS Zenbook 13 boasts up to 18 hours of battery life, which in addition to its compact and ultralight design, makes it perfect for travelling.

Plus, the Zenbook 13 is the world’s thinnest 13” laptop that still has complete I/O ports, including USB-A and HDMI. It's small enough to even fit in my Loctote Flak Sack , which is testament to it's power-to-size ratio.

If you like having a number pad but don’t want to carry large laptops around, the innovative ASUS ScreenPad 2.0 will excite you! You can activate this feature and watch the touchpad light up.

Pros of the ASUS Zenbook 13

• Excellent battery life of 18 hours
• Ultra-thin design but still complete I/O ports
• Unique NumberPad 2.0 technology

Cons of the ASUS Zenbook 13

• Fan is easily triggered, which can be a bit loud
• You can’t upgrade RAM after purchasing
• Extra function keys may make keyboard feel cramped

2. Dell XPS 13 - Most powerful 13 inch travel laptop

Weight: 1.27 kg

Battery Life: Up to 4 hours

Specs: 11th Generation Intel Core i7-1195G7 Processor, 16 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD

Display: 13.4", Full HD 1920 x 1080p

I would say that the DELL XPS 13 is definitely my second top pick for travel laptops.

Perfect for those of you that need a slightly more powerful laptop that the ASUS Zenbook 13 and are happy to pay the higher price tag.

But why is it better than the XPS 15? (discussed below).

Well, it’s not quite as powerful, but has a lower price tag, smaller screen size, weighs less, and is absolutely perfect for 90% of travellers. It’s what we would travel with if we didn’t need the video editing capabilities of the XPS 15.

At only 1.27 kg, it can easily fit into your backpack and you won’t even remember it’s there! Perfect if you’re moving around a lot and don’t want a heavy laptop. (On that note, be sure to check out the range of digital-nomad-friendly backpacks from Solgaard ).

The Dell XPS 13 has an Infinity Edge screen that is nearly borderless, so you can still enjoy beautiful colors on this display. Whether it’s for watching films or editing videos, a large screen can be very useful!

Moreover, it features the Killer 1535 Wireless-AC card , which means you will get impeccable Wi-Fi performance. It can be a lifesaver if you are travelling and working somewhere with limited connection.

Pros of the Dell XPS 13

• Extremely sleek and portable
• Infinity Edge Display with anti-glare finish
• Killer Wi-Fi performance, literally (Killer AX 1650 WiFi 6)

Cons of the DELL XPS 13

• Only one USB-C port
• No USB-A port
• Awkward camera angle

3. Dell XPS 15 - Best travel laptop for video editing

Weight: 2.05 kg

Battery Life: Up to 13.5 hours

Specs: Intel Core i7-10750H Processor, 8 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD

Display: 15.6", Full HD 1920 x 1200p

If you’re a video editor, then you can’t go wrong with the Dell XPS 15 . It’s the one we currently use and has proven to be absolutely amazing.

You can edit 4K videos without lagging and multitask with no problem. In fact, it’s probably one of the best laptops on the market today.

It is pretty thin and easy to store in a van (as we are currently travelling in), but it’d be excellent to travel with even if we were still using a backpack.

With incredible performance and storage space, the Dell XPS 15 is a great choice if you need a high-performance laptop and aren’t too bothered by its relatively heavier weight.

One minor issue is that this laptop overheats easily. While this doesn’t actually shut down the system or affect its running, you can feel it get super hot, which is quite uncomfortable.

Top tip: If you are editing a lot, and want the extra screen space, I have been using the Duex Max Portable Screen Monitor . You plug it in via the USB port and it's a convenient way to have some extra woring space.

Pros of the DELL XPS 15 

• Super fast performance, excellent for travel vloggers and bloggers
• High-resolution screen for editing photos and watching films
• Excellent battery life, even when doing heavy work

Cons of the DELL XPS 15

• It may feel a little too heavy for backpackers
• The price can be an investment 
• It can overheat easily

4. MacBook Air M1 - 13 inch - Best Apple travel laptop

Weight: 1.29 kg

Battery Life: Up to 18 hours

Specs: Apple M1 chip and Octa-core Processor, 8 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD

Display: 13.3", Quad HD 2560 x 1600p

Operating system: MacOS Big Sur (11.0)

Maybe Windows isn’t your thing, and you prefer using Apple OS for your travel laptop. In that case, our top recommendation would be the MacBook Air M1 . It’s thin, premium-looking, and incredibly fast.

And because it's so slim and lightweight, it can even fit in most decent camera backpacks ; great if you already carry lots of tech with you when travelling.

Obviously, the new Apple M1 chip offers astounding performance. It’s 3.5x faster and has excellent thermal efficiency. There is no fan inside the machine so it operates silently.

Better yet, it can perform heavy tasks without using up too much battery, which means you can use this laptop for up to 18 hours! We cannot stress how life-changing this can be, especially for a digital nomad who moves around a lot.

There are also additional features such as the Retina Display screen, True Tone technology , and massive 512 GB solid state drive for instantaneous loading. Plus, the updated Touch ID sensor ensures all your data is secure while you’re on the road.

Pros of the MacBook Air 

• Excellent battery life lasting whole day (18 hours)
• M1 chip is incredibly fast and powerful
• Inclusive built-in software like iMovie and GarageBand can be useful

Cons of the MacBook Air

• Limited connectivity with only two ports 
• Doesn’t support multiple screen displays
• No embedded 4G/5G option

"The MacBook Air M1 is the latest MacBook series with a custom Apple designed processor in it, tuned for the efficient execution of MacOS applications compared to the old ones. The design is thin and lightweight, similar to a ChromeBook but has the processing power of a high end laptop making it a perfect choice for travelling.

I used to travel with my ChromeBook, but it was not sufficient for travel content creation applications, whereas the MacBook solves this problem. All the Adobe applications (Lightroom, Photoshop and Illustrator) as well as Davinci, designed for video creation, work smoothly on this laptop with efficient battery usage.

This laptop is a perfect combination to go with the latest Iphone 12 Pro as your blogging camera and have all your travel content easily accessible to share on social media on the same day. MacBook Air M1 is certainly an optimized laptop from Apple with user experience in mind, perfect for travellers, due to its weight and content creation capabilities."

5. MacBook Pro 13 Inch - Most powerful Apple travel laptop

Weight: 1.4 kg

Battery Life: Up to 20 hours

Specs: Apple M1 chip and Octa-core Processor, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD

Again, if you're an Apple-fan and want the most powerful travel laptop you can get, look no further than the MacBook Pro 13” . It’s a true workhorse that can handle any intensive tasks while on the go.

Its M1 chip is obviously an advantage, but we also love that it features the Magic Keyboard. With a redesigned scissor mechanism and 1 mm of key travel, as well as an integrated Touch Bar, you can now streamline your workflow and make it super effective.

And if you thought the MacBook Air has a great battery life, then the MacBook Pro 13” is exceptional. Imagine having up to 20 hours of playback when using Apple TV, or 17 hours of wireless browsing !

It’s slightly heavier, but at 1.4 kg this is still a lightweight travel laptop that can easily fit in your backpack.

Our only complaint would be the low standard of 256 GB SSD, which despite being quite large, is still only half of most laptops nowadays. Considering the steep price tag, it’s also disappointing that the MacBook Pro 13” doesn’t come with a 1080p webcam.

Pros of the MacBook Pro

• Has one of the longest battery life for a laptop
• Fast and powerful performance from M1 chip
• Touch Bar and Touch ID fingerprint sensor
• Features Magic Keyboard for the best typing experience

Cons of the MacBook Pro

• Lower storage standard at 256 GB SSD
• Webcam is only 720p, which is mediocre for its price
• Only two Thunderbolt or USB-C ports

"I took my 13 inch Macbook Pro around the world for 14 months and couldn’t have been any happier with it. Its fast graphics performance, large storage, long lasting battery and retina display made video and picture editing a breeze. I also love the thin sleek look of it.

The 13” Macbook Pro is on the high end of laptops for price, however it’s worth the splurge if you plan to use large programs for video or picture editing on your travels. The 13” size and 3 lbs weight also make it easy to store and carry around in your backpack."

6. HP ENVY 13.3" Laptop - Intel® Core™ i5 - Best HP travel laptop

Weight: 1.3 kg

Battery Life: Up to 9.5 hours

Specs: Intel® Core™ i5-10210U Processor, 8 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD

The HP Envy 13.3” laptop offers a stylish design and powerful performance, while its relatively affordable price tag makes it the perfect go-to laptop for those on a tighter budget.

It’s the first travel laptop we ever bought and is what we used for our first ever 4 month backpacking trip around South America.

We personally feel that this laptop could be the best laptop for travel photography, mainly because of its incredible performance. The NVIDIA GeForce MX450 graphics also lets you edit videos with relative ease, though you can still expect a certain degree of buffering.

The HP Envy has a screen with 400 nits, which is pretty bright and useful for working in bright spaces. Some might find the reflective screen a little distracting, but we don’t think it should be a problem for most.

Even better, you can get the model which supports a 4K display for stunning graphics and accurate colors. You can use this to view mesmerizing images at 8.2 million pixels!

Pros of the HP Envy

• Fast performance that is useful for editing high-quality images
• Bright display of 400 nits
• Powerful and excellent speakers

Cons of the HP Envy 

• Shorter battery life compared to other travel laptops
• No HDMI and Thunderbolt 3
• Reflective screen makes it harder to see in outdoor work spaces

7. ASUS C223 11.6" Chromebook - Best budget travel laptop

Weight: 1 kg

Battery Life: Up to 10 hours

Specs: Intel® Core™ Celeron N3350 Processor, 4 GB RAM, 32 GB eMMC

Display: 11.6", HD Ready 1366 x 768p

Operating system: Chrome OS

Those on a budget would love the ASUS C223 11.6" Chromebook , which in our opinion is probably the best budget travel laptop on the market today.

It’s extremely lightweight and has a thin profile (this is one of the thinnest Chromebooks). In addition to the 10 hour battery life , it really is an excellent travel companion.

However, this laptop is only suitable for basic functions like writing blog posts and basic internet browsing. It’s not capable of heavy tasks such as video or intensive photo editing. 

If all you need is a laptop to stream Netflix, Facetime your friends, reply to emails, and other less demanding tasks, this Asus Chromebook is perfect.

And coming in at under $200, it's even a viable gift for backpackers .

Pros of the Asus Chromebook

• Very affordable, especially considering its fast performance
• Lightweight and thin, so it’s easy to carry around
• High-definition images for watching films and videos

Cons of the Asus Chromebook

• Not suitable for heavy and intensive tasks
• Limited RAM of only 4 GB
• You can only use Microsoft products through subscription

8. Microsoft Surface Pro 7 - Best laptop for business travellers

Weight: 0.77 kg

Battery Life: Up to 10.5 hours

Specs: Intel® Core™ i5-1035G4 Processor, 8 GB RAM, 128 GB SSD

Display: 12.3", Quad HD 2736 x 1824p

The Microsoft Surface Pro 7 may not be the best choice for creative workers, including graphic designers and video editors, but it excels for business functions.

This 2-in-1 model which combines a laptop and tablet into one device is perfect for the travelling businessman or entrepreneur. 

In terms of versatility, it’s an absolute dream! You can use it in Tablet, Laptop, or even Studio Mode, depending on what you need at the moment. Unfortunately, you have to purchase the keyboard and pen separately, and the extra costs can add up.

However, this makes room for plenty of personalization as you can choose any color or design you want for each of the accessories.

The Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is also very lightweight, at just 0.77 kg. Meanwhile, the high-resolution PixelSense Display and Dolby Audio Premium ensure you can enjoy a good movie comfortably.

Pros of the Microsoft Surface Pro 7

• Extremely lightweight and portable
• Switch between Laptop, Tablet and Studio Mode
• Sharp display and crisp images

Cons of the Microsoft Surface Pro 7

• Keyboard and pen are sold separately
• No Thunderbolt port
• No fan means performance can drop when used for long

9.  LENOVO IdeaPad Flex 5 - Best notebook for travel

Weight: 1.5 kg

Battery Life: Up to 10 hours battery life

Specs: Intel® Core™ i5-1035G1 Processor, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD

Display: 14", Full HD 1920 x 1080p

Compared to a laptop, a notebook is essentially its smaller, cheaper, and less powerful counterpart. But don’t worry, that doesn’t mean it’s bad!

In fact, if you’re looking for a more portable and versatile option for non-intensive tasks, then you might be better off buying the LENOVO IdeaPad Flex 5 . It’s not the lightest 2-in-1 laptop, but the design is still slim enough to fit in your laptop backpack .

This model is also something of an in-between. It’s both a laptop and tablet, while the touch screen and 360-degree hinge let you switch between modes easily.

You can be writing articles one second, scrolling through images the next, and catching up on your favorite show after that.

Also, the 10-hour battery life is pretty impressive. You can easily take only the IdeaPad to a nearby cafe or local library, and you won’t need to charge it the whole day!

Pros of the LENOVO IdeaPad

• 2-in-1 design with touch screen
• Durable, soft, and stylish chassis
• Privacy shutter for webcam

Cons of the LENOVO IdeaPad

• Relatively heavy for a 2-in-1 model; not the most portable
• 250-nit display is quite dim
• 4GB RAM is unsuitable for heavy multitasking

10. HP Spectre x360 i7

Battery Life: Up to 19.5 hours

Specs: Intel® Core™ i7-1065G7 Processor, 8 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD

The HP Spectre x360 i7 has a 16:9 aspect ratio, which makes it excellent for streaming your favorite films and shows. Not to mention that the near borderless display is stunning too.

Aside from that, you can use this laptop to work on almost anything. It has a pretty powerful processor and 8GB RAM so you can multitask and handle heavy tasks comfortably.

However, the true charm of the HP Spectre x360 is in its exterior. It has an exquisite gem-cut design that feels premium, while the all-aluminum body is both durable and beautiful.

This HP laptop has some excellent security features too, including a fingerprint reader and privacy switch for the camera.

Lastly, true to its name, you can easily flip the screen 360-degree to get the desired viewing angle. It also works well on Tent mode for viewing texts or watching.

Pros of the HP Spectre x360

• Excellent and fast performance
• Great security features (fingerprint and face recognition
• Beautiful gem-cut design with all-aluminum body

Cons of the HP Spectre x360

• Overheats quite easily
• Fan noise can be loud and distracting
• Maximum volume may produce harsh audio

"I love my HP Spectre 360 i7 because of its top-of-the-line quality, while still being light and small enough to bring along without it being a hassle. It fits easily in my carry-on or day pack without taking up needed space.

I find that flipping between laptop and tablet modes is helpful when trying to get some work done or entertain myself, in smaller spaces such as during a train ride, on an airplane, or in the back seat of the car.

When you are a travel writer, you need to be able to easily get work done on the go. The touch screen is helpful as well when you cannot have a full desk setup. It is one of the best ultra-portable travel laptops I have had, without having to sacrifice power or usability."

11. DELL Inspiron 13

Battery Life: Up to 17 hours

Another excellent travel laptop to consider is the DELL Inspiron 13 . This is another versatile model that you can use in Laptop, Tablet or Tent Mode.

Like the IdeaPad Flex, you can use the DELL Inspiron 13 in different viewing modes and fold the screen into Tablet Mode. However unlike the Microsoft Surface laptop, you cannot actually detach the monitor from the keyboard.

Moreover, it has spectacular battery life of up to 17 hours. This is truly incredible, considering the powerful performance it also offers. With 16 GB RAM and 512 GB SSD, you can use this laptop for editing or even gaming.

You’ll also love the Windows Hello feature , which uses the webcam to automatically unlock the computer. Additionally, you can use the privacy shutter to feel more secure when browsing.

Pros of the Dell Inspiron 13

• Excellent battery life
• Incredible performance for a 2-in-1 model
• Full HD screen with touchscreen or Active Pen support

Cons of the Dell Inspiron 13

• Onboard memory cannot be upgraded
• Few ports and limited connectivity options
• On the heavy side for a 2-in-1 model

12. HP 14a 14" Chromebook

Weight: 1.46 kg

Specs: Intel® Celeron® N4020 Processor, 4 GB RAM, 64 GB eMMC

If you’re looking for a budget Chromebook to bring with you on your travels, the HP 14a 14" Chromebook is a brilliant choice.

We recommend this for simple tasks that can be done easier on a laptop than a smartphone. From researching or planning your journey, to streaming blockbuster films, and catching up on social media.

Plus, the virtually borderless Full HD screen is great if you’re planning to watch lots of movies or shows on the road!

Not to mention that it offers high-quality audio , thanks to the custom tuning by experts over at Bang & Olufsen.

One of the biggest drawbacks of using the HP 14a, much like other Chromebooks, is that you cannot run desktop-based software. This includes Microsoft Office, Photoshop and any graphics-intensive game. Instead, you can run them on a browser, but this will limit the functionality.

With that said, you can access Google Play, which means you will have a pretty much endless choice of apps for your every need. It’s great if you prioritize user-friendly interface and convenience over powerful performance.

• Affordable Chromebook for travel
• Large 14-inch screen for comfortable viewing
• Limitless app choices for everything
• May not be the best for demanding tasks
• You can’t run desktop-based software
• Not suitable for offline work

Other things to consider when buying a travel laptop

1. Do you need your laptop for work-related purposes?

If your job requires the use of a laptop and you’re planning to work while travelling, it’s a good idea to invest more and buy a higher-grade laptop. This is especially important if your work is related to your travels, for example if you’re a travel blogger or vlogger .

It’s better to spend more in the beginning than getting a bargain and discovering later that you can’t work because your laptop is unreliable!

2. What else will you use your laptop for?

Are you going to use your laptop just for entertainment on long journeys? Watching Netflix and browsing the internet in the evenings? For planning your travels? Editing photos and videos?

It’s great to know what you’ll be using your laptop for so you can buy accordingly, as some laptops are better suited for certain tasks.

For example, if you’re going to be editing, you might want a laptop with excellent colors and fast performance. Alternatively, for watching films, it’s nice if your laptop has high-quality audio and resolution.

If you solely want it to help plan upcoming trips , booking accommodation and finding what to do, then something more basic will be fine.

3. How light and portable do you need your laptop to be?

Travelling with a backpack immediately reduces the size and weight of the laptop you should buy. After all, you wouldn’t want your laptop to take up half the capacity of your bag.

If you plan on traveling with a larger suitcase, you might have more room for a larger laptop when packing for your trip . This also means you can enjoy more flexibility in terms of price. If you want a recommendation for a great laptop backpack, check out our Matein review .

4. What are your budget constraints?

Just like buying any gadget or electronic device, you should only buy a laptop within the price range you’re comfortable with. Our top tip is to set a budget before even starting your research. 

It will help you stick to it and not be enticed by the latest technologies and cool features which you might not necessarily need. Plus, it helps to be realistic of what a certain price point can get you.

After so long spent saving money for your travels , you don’t want to blow too much on an unnecessarily high performance laptop.

Reasons why you should travel with a laptop

If you’ve been pondering over the idea of whether getting a laptop for travel is the right choice for you. Let’s delve into some of the top benefits and reasons why getting a laptop for your travels is an awesome decision. 

1. You’re more productive 

Yes, phones have become extremely powerful and practical that you can probably perform most simple computing tasks on it. But working on a laptop is much easier and more motivating.

Even with things such as replying to emails, writing blog posts, or editing travel photos , you’ll find that a laptop allows you to do them faster. If you’re a creative individual, you may find it impossible to function on the road without a laptop.

2.  Better access to entertainment

Imagine being stuck in a hotel room with poor WiFi, or on extremely long train journeys with nothing else to do. A good laptop equals an excellent source of entertainment, whether that’s video games or watching downloaded movies.

Sure, you can do all these on a phone, but any film or TV show will surely seem more exciting on a laptop screen! Additionally, it is easier to play games together on a laptop than on a phone.

3. Easier to backup photos and videos 

If you take a lot of photos and videos throughout your travels, investing in a laptop can be worth it. It’s especially true for individuals who create for a living and might be worried about losing your content.

There are more ways to backup files on your laptop than on a phone. This includes an external hard drive, on the laptop itself, or cloud services - more options, more security!

4. Travel planning is much easier

Finally, a laptop can make planning your travels infinitely easier! It’s much simpler to book hotels, train tickets and flights, as well as map your journey on a laptop interface.

There is quite literally more space to search, open multiple tabs and plan your route, which can be frustratingly difficult on a small screen. You’ll be more efficient, which can probably save money. 

Travel laptop FAQs

What is the best travel laptop for blogging .

The Dell XPS 13 would be a good option for blogging because it’s lightweight and perfect for running all aspects of a blog.

We personally use the XPS 15, but that’s because we like the bigger screen for video editing. If you’re like us and “vlogging” as well as blogging, then the XPS 15 would be a better investment. Otherwise, the XPS 13 should be enough!

What is the best cheap laptop for travel? 

Chromebooks offer the best value for money. Out of the two listed above, we recommend going for the HP Chromebook , simply because the software in HP laptops works well. We have also used HP in the past and have never had any issues with it.

What is the lightest travel laptop? 

Strictly speaking, the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 , weighing just 0.77 kg, would be the lightest travel laptop around. But it’s a 2-in-1 tablet and laptop that is more suitable for business purposes and lightweight functions. But if you’re planning on doing more intensive tasks, the ASUS Zenbook would a better bet.

Is a tablet a better option than a laptop?

Not if you’re planning on working remotely. This includes running a business, blogging, vlogging, or anything that requires heavy work, even editing pictures. A smaller laptop would still be a better investment than a tablet.

But if you simply want to stay connected on a bigger screen, watch Netflix, or reply to emails and do meetings, then a tablet would work perfectly. It’s much lighter, smaller, and more portable than even the most lightweight laptop.

Which travel laptop is right for you?

As you can see, there are a LOT of fantastic options out there.

Ultimately, which travel laptop you go for depends on …

• What you plan on using it for
• How often you travel
• How much space you have
• Your budget

Regardless of which sort of traveller you are, you should be able to find the perfect laptop from the list above.

Now, over to you …

Which laptop do you think you will go for?

Do you have any other ideas that aren’t on this list?

Just drop a comment below and let me know!

Other gear guides you might like:

• Best portable power stations
• Best GoPro alternatives
• Best travel drones

Leave a comment

Let us know what you think.

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Best Laptops for Travel in 2024

G oing on a trip with the right travel partner can transform your experience, and when it comes to tech, nothing beats the perfect travel laptop. There are many laptops for every type of traveler, from digital nomads to busy professionals. Finding a laptop with good performance, portability, and long battery life is important for a better travel experience. So, if you're getting ready to travel, you'll want to check out our expertly curated selection of the best laptops for travel.

Asus ROG Strix Scar 16 Gaming Laptop

Msi raider ge78 hx 17.3 gaming laptop, alienware x14 r1 gaming laptop, asus tuf f17 gaming laptop, razer blade 18 gaming laptop (rtx 4090), hp victus 15, choosing the ideal travel laptop.

When selecting a laptop for travel, consider these essential factors:

• Portability and Weight : Lighter laptops make travel more comfortable without sacrificing screen size or quality.
• Battery Life : Long-lasting battery life keeps you going with productivity and entertainment throughout long flights or layovers.
• Durability : A strong build can handle the challenges of travel, including airport security and bumpy rides.

Choosing the best laptop for travel sets the stage for work and enjoyment on the move. But pairing it with the right accessories can further improve your experience. Discover the best wireless mice for laptops , designed for easy connectivity and portability, ensuring your setup is as mobile as you are.

The Best Gaming Laptops for 2024

Game rant's best laptops for travel.

The ASUS ROG Strix Scar 16 Gaming Laptop comes packed with features including a Mini-LED 2K display, the best Intel laptop CPU money can buy, and plenty of storage and RAM in a neat 16-inch package that still allows you to get the performance you need versus competing 17-inch laptops.

Operating System Windows 11 Pro

CPU Intel Core i9-13980HX

GPU RTX 4090 Laptop GPU

Storage 2TB (1+1TB in RAID 0 config)

Battery 4 cell 90WHr Battery

Display (Size, Resolution) 2K (2560 x 1600), Mini-LED, 240Hz

Camera 720P Camera

Speakers 4 Speakers

Memory 32GB DDR5

Ports USB-C, USB-A, Thunderbolt, Ethernet, Headphone Jack, HDMI 2.1

Network Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, 2.5G Ethernet

Dimensions 13.94" x 10.39" x 0.89"

Weight 5.73 lbs

Brand ASUS ROG

Power 330W AC Adapter

• Intel Core i9 for high-end performance
• Stunning 2K Mini-LED 240Hz display
• Dual 1TB SSDs in RAID 0 for speedy storage
• Heavier laptop for carrying around
• Premium price point

The ASUS ROG Strix Scar 16 tops our list as the best overall laptop for travel. It has the latest Intel Core i9 processor and RTX 4090 Laptop GPU in a travel-friendly 16-inch size. Its 2K Mini-LED display at 240Hz makes everything look amazing on your trips. Also, with 32GB DDR5 RAM and two 1TB SSDs, you get plenty of storage and speed to handle any task.

Its size and weight might challenge some carry-ons, but paying for such high-end specs is often worth it for those needing exceptional performance on the go. Given these considerations, the ASUS ROG Strix Scar 16 secures its position as the best overall laptop for travelers, especially for gamers and creators who demand no compromise on performance and quality during their travels.

The MSI Raider GE78 HX 17.3-inch Gaming Laptop is one of the best all-around RTX 4090 PCs players can currently grab with the top-of-the-line Intel Core i9 processor, the RTX 4090. It also has an excellent display coupled with plenty of RAM and SSD space.

Operating System Windows 11 Home

GPU RTX 4090 16GB GDDR6 175W

Storage 2TB NVME SSD

Battery 4-Cell 99 Whr Battery

Display (Size, Resolution) 2K (2560x1600) 17.3'', 240Hz

Camera 1080P 30FPS

Speakers 2x 2W Speakers, 4x 2W Woofers

Colors Core black

Ports USB Type-C, USB Type A, SD Card, HDMI, Ethernet

Network Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, 2.5G Ethernet

Dimensions 380 x 298 x 23 mm

Weight 6.8 lbs

Form 17.3''

Power 330W AC Power Adapter

• Stunning 2K 240Hz display
• Massive 2TB NVMe SSD storage
• Flexible 32GB DDR5 RAM
• Heavy 6.8 lbs build
• Expensive price tag

The MSI Raider GE78 HX is our top choice for a gaming laptop suitable for travel. It's a high-performing machine specifically crafted for gamers who are frequently on the move. This model is powered by the latest Intel Core i9-13980HX processor and an RTX 4090 GPU, delivering uncompromised gaming performance in terms of both speed and graphics quality.

The Raider GE78 HX impresses with its excellent specifications and surprising portability, featuring a durable build and a long-lasting battery. Whether gaming in a hotel room or editing videos on a flight, this laptop is the best gaming laptop for travel, offering a perfect blend of high performance and easy portability.

The Alienware X14 R1 is a super lightweight and ultra-thin gaming laptop with a clean white case. Powered by NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060, 16 GB of RAM, and a 12th Gen Intel Core i7-12700H, gamers can expect decent specs despite the impressively compact packaging. Weighing just over four pounds with a thickness of only 0.6 inches, this laptop is one of the thinnest and lightest gaming-specific laptops on the market.

Operating System Windows 11

CPU Intel Core i7-12700H

GPU Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060

Storage 512GB M.2 NVMe PCIe SSD

Display (Size, Resolution) 14-inch, 1920 x 1080

Dimensions 12.7 x 10.3 x 0.6 inches

Weight 4.1 pounds

Brand Alienware

Connectivity Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2

• Ultra-slim 0.6-inch profile
• Powerful Intel i7 and RTX 3060 combo
• Exceptional portability at 4.1 pounds
• Limited upgradability due to compact size
• High performance can lead to heat build-up

The Alienware x14 R1 stands out as the best lightweight laptop for travel on our list, offering powerful gaming capabilities in a sleek, thin design perfect for on-the-go gaming. Equipped with an Intel Core i7-12900HK processor and an NVIDIA RTX 3060 graphics card, it effortlessly manages the most demanding games, making it an excellent choice for traveling gamers. The 14-inch FHD display delivers vibrant visuals, while the 16GB RAM and 512GB NVMe SSD ensure fast performance and ample storage.

Even with its powerful hardware, the x14 R1 maintains a remarkably light and slim profile, which is uncommon among gaming laptops. While some may find the keyboard space a bit limited, the superior build quality and gaming experience it provides are second to none. For those who prioritize gaming performance as well as travel convenience, the Alienware x14 R1 is an unparalleled choice, standing out as the best lightweight laptop for travel without any compromise on performance or portability.

Read the full review here.

The ASUS TUF F17 is a laptop powered by an Intel Core i5-11400H processor with six cores and a boost speed of up to 4.5 GHz. It features an Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 graphics card with 4 GB of GDDR6 RAM. The display on the laptop is a 17.3-inch Full HD (1920x1080) IPS panel with a refresh rate of 144 Hz.

As part of the TUF Series, this laptop is designed for durability and meets the MIL-STD-810H military standard. It uses a dual-fan system for cooling.

CPU Intel Core i5-11400H Processor

GPU NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 4GB GDDR6 Graphics

RAM 8 GB DDR4 3200MHz

Storage 512 GB M.2 NVMe PCIe 3.0 SSD

Memory Memory Speed 4.5 GHz

• Fast Intel Core i5-11400H processor and Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050
• Impressive 17.3-inch FHD 144Hz IPS display for vibrant visuals
• 512 GB M.2 NVMe PCIe SSD and 8 GB DDR4 RAM
• Larger size may not be ideal for portable needs
• 8 GB RAM might need upgrading for intensive multitasking

Meet the ASUS TUF F17, our top pick for the best mid-range laptop for travel. It's an outstanding choice for those who seamlessly blend travel with work. Equipped with an Intel Core i5 processor and a GeForce RTX 3050, it guarantees that users won't have to compromise on work or enjoyment, even while traveling. The 17.3-inch screen vividly brings every detail to life, enhancing the travel experience with more colorful and enjoyable visuals.

While it offers exceptional performance, the ASUS TUF F17 is big and heavy, which might not be ideal for those who want portability. But its durability and specs make it an excellent choice. For a travel laptop that strikes a balance between performance, durability, and visual excellence, the ASUS TUF F17 stands out as the best mid-range option.

The Razer Blade 18 Gaming Laptop is a laptop that pushes the boundaries of what people can genuinely call a gaming laptop (but in a good way). Razer has no qualms about it, calling it the ultimate desktop replacement with a feature-packed offering that also comes with some of the most premium pricing on the market.

• Desktop-grade performance in a portable design
• 240Hz 2K display for stunning visuals
• 32GB DDR5 RAM for superior multitasking
• High price point
• Shorter battery life under heavy use

The Razer Blade 18 Gaming Laptop is the best high-end option for those seeking to merge top-tier performance with portability. Equipped with an Intel Core i9-13950HX 24-core processor and an NVIDIA RTX 4090 GPU, it delivers desktop-like performance, making it an excellent choice for both gamers and professionals. Its 240Hz 2K screen offers stunning visuals, elevating gaming and content creation to an immersive experience.

The Razer Blade 18's premium price reflects its exceptional build quality and advanced components, often matching a desktop's performance and setting a high standard among Windows laptops. Its powerful features and solid build may exceed the needs of regular users, and its larger size could be a factor for those who prefer more compact travel options. However, for those who prioritize exceptional performance on the go, the Razer Blade 18 is unrivaled, making it the best high-end travel laptop, catering to those who refuse to compromise on power and quality while traveling.

With a decent Intel Core i5 12th generation processor and a GTX 1650 GPU powering it, the Victus 15 isn't the fastest laptop, but it does offer decent pricing, a 144Hz display, and a healthy slew of ports.

CPU Intel Core i5-12450H

GPU GTX 1650

Storage 512 GB NVMe SSD

Battery 52.5 WHr

Display (Size, Resolution) 15.6", 1080p, 144 Hz

Camera 720p

Colors Mica Silver

Memory 8 GB DDR4 3200 MHz

Ports 1 USB Type-C, 2 USB Type-A, Ethernet, HDMI 2.1, SD Card Reader

Weight 5.06 lbs

• Powerful 12th Gen Intel Core i5 performance
• Amazing 15.6" 1080p 144Hz display
• Plenty of storage with 512GB NVMe SSD
• 8GB RAM may need upgrading for heavy multitasking
• Larger design compared to ultraportables

For budget-conscious travelers seeking a combination of affordability, performance, and portability, the HP Victus 15 emerges as the best choice. It is equipped with a 12th Gen Intel Core i5-12450H CPU and NVIDIA GTX 1650 GPU, making it adept at handling both work related tasks and entertainment needs while traveling. The laptop's fast display enhances the smoothness of visuals, perfect for photo editing or enjoying games during layovers.

While the HP Victus 15 features a sturdy design and a comprehensive selection of ports for added versatility, travelers should consider its noise level and battery life. Even with these factors in mind, the overall value of the HP Victus 15 is exceptional, making it an outstanding choice for travelers seeking the best budget laptop at an affordable price.

Best Laptops for School in 2024

Final thoughts on choosing your travel companion.

Picking the best travel laptop is all about finding the right balance between its specs and what fits your travel style and needs. When considering purchasing a laptop for travel, don’t forget about three, very important concerns. These are portability and weight, battery life, and durability.

Portability and Weight

The ideal travel laptop should be your go-to gadget without being too heavy. Look for models that balance lightweight design and screen size perfectly, so you don't sacrifice usability for portability.

Battery Life

Long flights and travel layovers require a laptop that can keep up. Choose laptops with extended battery life to make sure you are still working or enjoying entertainment, no matter how far off from home your travels may take you.

Travel can be unpredictable, so your laptop should be designed to handle some rough and tumble. Durable materials and a solid design can protect your laptop from bumpy rides, airport security, etc.

Q: How important is a laptop's durability for travel?

Extremely important. Travel laptops should have a solid body to handle the challenges of moving from place to place, offering peace of mind on your trips.

Q: Can travel laptops handle demanding tasks like video editing?

Many travel-friendly laptops have high-performance specs that can handle demanding tasks like video editing and gaming and offer a great balance of power and portability.

Q: How do I secure my laptop while traveling?

Look for laptops with advanced security features like fingerprint readers or facial recognition to keep your data safe while traveling.

Best 11-inch mini laptops: tiny portable computers for travel and remote working

Even the best 11-inch mini laptops might seem too underpowered to be useful to creatives, but these might surprise you

The best 11-inch mini laptops are great if you want to travel light - and are perfect to give you computing power without adding bulk to your backpack or camera bag. But due to their small form factor, there’s not much room to accommodate and support powerful components. It also doesn't help that manufacturers seem to generally make them to just serve as budget alternatives to the more popular 13-inch and 14-inch laptops, which lessens their chances of getting more robust specs even more.

Don't forget we have separate guides to the best laptops for photo editing and the best laptops for video editing if you need something beefier. And if the screen size is an issue, we also have guides to the best monitors for photo editing and the best monitors for video editing .

There are a few exceptions to this small is weak rule. Some mini notebooks are beating the odds, proving that just because a device is small, it doesn’t mean that it cannot handle the more intricate tasks.

Of course, that also doesn’t mean that the best 11-inch and mini laptops won’t come with disadvantages. That small form factor, after all, means small everything else, including the display, keyboard, and trackpad, which could feel a bit cramped for some workflows like video editing. They also tend to be very limited in terms of ports – you’d be lucky to get an SD card reader, for example – and we all know how important ports are to creative professionals.

On the plus side, these devices make for excellent travel companions due to their size and weight. Even with the best Ultrabooks gunning for the thinnest and lightest record, these mini laptops remain unbeatable. Some of them, you can even conveniently slip in a purse or small camera bag, which makes travelling with gear even easier. They’re also a little less obnoxious to use in public spaces like a train or an aeroplane when there’s not a lot of space.

But, again, not all 11-inch and mini laptops can be an ideal addition to a photographer, filmmaker, or graphic designer’s arsenal. If you want to pick one up for yours, you have to be just a bit more discerning, keeping in mind that the screen resolution, availability of ports, and components inside should match what you’ll be using it for. Also pay close attention to the amount of storage it comes with, even if there are plenty of excellent portable SSDs out there that will make it a non-issue.

Assuming that you expect to be able to do some level of creative tasks on whichever you pick, whether it’s just the occasional quick, on-the-fly editing of a couple of photos you’ve taken a few minutes earlier or it’s full-on trimming, re-sequencing, and colour grading entire videos, we found the best 11-inch and mini laptops for every creative need.

The best 11-inch mini laptops in 2024

Why you can trust Digital Camera World Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out how we test.

1. Apple iPad Pro 11-inch

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

Although not technically classified as a laptop, the iPad Pro 11 is so powerful that it might as well be. This excellent laptop replacement is designed specifically with creative pros in mind. It’s powered by Apple ’s superb M1 chip that’s capable of tackling complex video editing workflows, a 600-nit Liquid Retina display with an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate and P3 colour gamut, and all the tools you need for actually shooting the footage you need, from its Pro system camera and studio-quality microphones to its impeccable image stabilization technology. 

When it serves as both your camera and your laptop, you’re not only able to travel extremely light, but you’re sure to save money as well. Though do bear in mind that to turn it into a traditional laptop of sorts, you’ll have to buy the Magic Keyboard separately. 

2. Acer Chromebook Spin 311

Maybe you don’t need a device to do all your heavy editing on, but something that can handle all your productivity needs in the field? The Acer Chromebook Spin 311 is that device. Not only is it rugged enough to go with you on shoots, but it’s more than capable of handling the business side of things, whether that’s keeping up with emails, taking notes, or even backing up files to the cloud via its included microSD reader. It can even tackle the occasional photo editing task if you need to do it on the fly.

You won’t want to do any serious editing as the screen is too dim for accurate colours. However, if you need something to take care of your productivity needs while on a shoot, the Acer is a surprisingly comfortable device to use.

3. Lenovo ThinkPad 11e Yoga Gen 6

If you’re looking for a tough mini laptop to take in the field, then the Lenovo ThinkPad 11e Yoga Gen 6 is for you. From the scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla glass to the rubber bumpers and mechanically anchored keys, this is one tough device. In fact, it’s rated to MIL-STD 810G military standards. If that’s not enough, it comes with a smorgasbord of ports including a USB-C, HDMI, and microSD reader. 

There’s even a pen loop for securing a stylus, though that has to be purchased separately. Don’t worry, though, if you didn’t budget for a stylus pen. You can use a number 2 pencil on the screen without scratching it.

4. Apple iPad Air (2022)

The iPad Air might not be the flagship model in Apple’s tablet lineup, but it is plenty powerful in its own right, not to mention cheaper than the iPad Pro. Packing an A14 bionic chip and Apple 4-Core GPU, it is more than capable of handling just about any photo editing or graphic design work you can throw at it. And, the end result will look stunning and, more importantly, accurate thanks to the bright liquid retina display sporting 500 nits of brightness and 264 pixels per inch density. 

The storage capacity could be better, and it only has a single port. But, its shortcomings end there. This powerful, sleek machine is a surprisingly capable asset to any photographer or graphic designer, especially when paired with a Magic Keyboard (sold separately). And, it’s the only model in Apple’s lineup of iPads to come in 5 different colorways.

5. Samsung Galaxy Tab S7

Samsung set out to create an iPad Pro killer with the Galaxy Tab S7. Whether or not the company succeeded, it at the very least created a viable alternative for users who would rather stick with the Android ecosystem. And, though there are fewer worthy apps for your creative work, the S7 is more than able when it comes to editing photos and videos thanks to the powerful 8-Core Qualcomm processor. 

Of course, that performance doesn’t matter if the screen isn’t up to the task. But, thankfully it is. Not only does the touch display have a high enough resolution to go head-to-head with the iPad Pro, but it also has a 120Hz refresh rate for a smooth viewing experience. For the traditional laptop experience, the Samsung Keyboard cover is worth the additional purchase.

6. Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook

No other notebook can last as long in the field as the impressive, energy-efficient Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook. In fact, there’s enough battery life to last a full day and then some. If you do happen to use up all the battery, 15 minutes of charging will provide another 2 hours of use. And, though its design is a bit dated aesthetically, including some unfortunately large bezels, it’s a well-built machine that can take a tumble or two and keep on ticking. 

It might not be ideal for editing purposes – its screen offers only 250 nits of brightness – but it’s a valuable tool for getting through your daily emails, writing up proposals, and putting together contracts, thanks to its touchscreen and its 2-in-1 form factor.

• The best laptop stands
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• Best Chromebooks  
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Michelle is a writer and photographer based in Los Angeles, California. She regularly writes for Fodor's Travel, Steve's Digicams, Thrillist and Techlicious, and is currently a freelance SEO and Production Editor for TechRadar.

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The 10 Best Laptop Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We love a laptop backpack that's spacious, has organizational pockets, and will keep our laptops safe during travel.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
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Travel + Leisure /Conor Ralph

Since a laptop usually comes at a high price, it’s well worth it to invest in a backpack designed to protect your technology when you’re on the go. Whether you’re traveling on an airplane or trekking through campus, a comfortable, well-made backpack with a padded laptop pocket is a must-have.

Because comfort and durability are arguably the two most important factors when investing, we tested more than 50 laptop backpacks on several occasions in our New York City lab and in the real world to find the best ones for everyday wear with these considerations in mind. We packed each bag with computers, iPads, sweatshirts, and more, and carried them around to see how they felt. We then tossed each one onto the ground from a tabletop to test the bag’s durability (using dummy laptops, of course). Keep reading to learn more about our top picks for style, comfort, value, and more.

Best Overall

Stubble & co. the everyday backpack.

This versatile backpack will keep you organized with pockets galore in all different sizes.

The chest straps came off during testing, and we couldn’t figure out how to reattach them.

​​This Stubble & Co. backpack was part of our waterproof backpacks test , and we thought the stylish design and ample pockets makes this our favorite laptop backpack. Like the name suggests, this is a great everyday backpack — slim and compact but still spacious enough to fit a laptop, headphones, a charger, a jacket, a water bottle, a notebook, a travel pouch, and a small toiletry case. 

“The sheer amount of pockets would keep even the most chaotic packer organized,” says Travel + Leisure testing editor Jackie Cucco , who tested this option in our New York City lab. “I especially love how there’s a variety of pocket sizes and shapes to give all different types of items their own little home.” There is one back compartment for a 16-inch laptop and other flat items, one main compartment with six pockets, one small top pocket, a teeny pocket on one of the straps (for something small like earbuds), two water bottle pockets on the sides, and one large front pocket on the outside. There’s an adjustable chest strap as well, though it fell off during testing, and we weren’t able to reattach it.

In addition to the useful pockets, we also loved how this backpack is waterproof — we held it underneath multiple showerheads to soak it, and all of our electronics inside remained totally dry, so you can feel secure wearing this even on rainy days.

The Details: 18. 1 x 11.8 x 5.5 inches | 20 liters | 2.2 pounds | Recycled PET, recycled RPET lining, polyester air mesh | 16-inch laptop pocket | Waterproof

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Leather

Bee & kin the midi nomad backpack.

The sleek leather material looks nicer than a typical nylon backpack.

The straps are a bit too long, even when they are adjusted to the shortest setting.

Constructed with soft and sleek Italian leather, this midsize backpack has the perfect combination of style and functionality. It’s big enough to fit a laptop up to 13 inches long, but it’s small enough that you can use it beyond traveling or commuting for everyday activities like running errands. After four months of use, we found this to be the perfect medium-size bag that is easy to clean, making it a perfect option for everyday use. It can easily fit a laptop, water bottle, wallet, notebook, and headphones with plenty of room left over. While we love the size for versatility, it still has plenty of thoughtful features for travelers like a pocket for a wireless charger ( sold separately ) and several interior pockets for storing accessories.

The leather material has a soft and plush feel to it which makes carrying the bag comfortable, but we wish the straps were a little shorter since the bag sits a little low on the back. Since the backpack is smaller and lightweight, this isn’t a huge issue and we still think the high-quality backpack is worth it for traveling, commuting, and everyday use.

The Details: 13 x 11.6 x 5.5 inches | 2.6 pounds | Leather | 13-inch laptop pocket

Best Expandable

Samsonite elevation plus backpack.

The expandable zippers add tons of extra space.

We wish there were more color options.

I've tested dozens of backpacks and it can be hard to find a backpack that stands out from others, which is why I'm a big fan of this one from Samsonite, which I personally tested in the lab. While it has a simple design from the outside, the backpack is filled with special features that make it better than your average backpack. It has tons of pockets to store every travel essential you could ever need, including laptops, tablets, notebooks, chargers, passports, and it has a water bottle pocket on the side that keeps a bottle secure (it didn't even fall out when I threw the pack off a table several times). The laptop pouch creates a hammock-like effect that suspends the laptop and gives it protection from getting knocked around on the floor. My favorite part of the pack is the expandable zipper that adds 1.5 inches of extra space, which came in handy when I packed the bag with an extra jacket. Plus, it fits underneath an airplane seat with ease, and there's extra padding in the back paneling and shoulder straps for superior comfort while traveling.

The Details: 17.8 x 12 x 6.5 inches | 22.75 liters | 2.2 pounds | Recycled polyester | Expandable

Best Solar-powered

Solgaard lifepack backpack.

It’s made out of recycled plastic bottles found on beaches and has a built-in, solar-powered USB charger.

The capacity is smaller than other backpacks we tested.

While this backpack impressed us during testing, it also won us over thanks to Solgaard’s sustainability mission in which all of its products are made with ocean-bound recycled materials. The brand uses its patented Shore-tex material to create this backpack with recycled plastic water bottles found on beaches or river banks. In addition, the backpack includes a solar-powered USB charging port so you can charge on the go without having to worry about the life of your power bank. In our testing lab, we were able to fit all of the items on our packing list, including a sweatshirt, a laptop, an iPad, a notebook, and a water bottle, but there wasn’t a lot of space left over. The laptop sleeve is in the back of the bag, and although it’s just a fleece-lined slip pocket, it wasn’t damaged during our durability tests. When it comes to padding, the backpack is outfitted with ample cushioning that makes it comfortable to wear with the adjustable, supportive chest strap, too.

The Details: 12.4 x 6.9 x 19 inches | 19 liters | 4.85 Pounds | Anti-theft lock | USB port

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Splurge

Lo & sons rowledge.

The nylon material and leather accents give the backpack a sleek look without sacrificing protection.

The laptop compartment is too small for any computers over 13 inches long.

Lo & Sons’ The Rowledge laptop backpack is one of the most expensive bags we tested, but it seriously delivered in performance. The nylon exterior outfitted with leather accents makes this sleek, timeless bag a dream for travelers and office-goers. While it may small from the outside, we found that it was possible to fit a sweatshirt, a laptop, an iPad, a notebook, and a water bottle with ease. Our only gripe is that the laptop pocket can only fit laptops that are 13 inches or smaller, so you'll want to consider that if you own a larger computer. The adjustable straps and ample padding throughout the entire backpack add to the comfort and durability of the pack. Although the bag felt a little stiff at first, the material quickly contours to the shape of your shoulders and back over time for a more comfortable fit after a few wears. After tossing the bag off of a tabletop, the laptop remained unharmed in the designated sleeve in the back of the bag, and the exterior showed no signs of damage, so we think this sturdy, well-made backpack is worth the splurge.

The Details: 16.5 x 11.5 x 6.75 inches | 21 liters | 3.2 pounds | Nylon, leather | 13.5-inch laptop pocket

Best Budget

Tzowla travel laptop backpack.

This affordable bag has lots of smart features for travelers.

The materials feel lower in quality than others we've tested.

This wallet-friendly backpack exceeded expectations during testing due to all of the thoughtful designs that rivaled the most expensive bags we tested. After four months of regularly using the bag, we especially love the padded laptop sleeve that protects laptops up to 15.6 inches long. The backpack has a variety of other smart features including a USB port, a passcode lock, and a headphone port to make traveling with electronics a breeze. We found that the main compartment is very spacious and easy to pack with bulkier items like a jacket or lunchbox, and the front compartment has tons of little pockets for organizing smaller items.

Made with polyester fabric, the backpack feels fairly durable and didn’t get damaged during our durability tests, but it is noticeably lower quality than the other bags we tested with a higher price point. However, the straps have comfortable padding and adjustable buckles, so the bag is still very comfortable to carry.

The Details: 18.5 x 11.8 x 5.5 inches | 34 liters | 1.83 pounds | Polyester blend | 15.6-inch laptop pocket | USB and headphone port | Password lock

Best Organization

Timbuk2 authority laptop backpack deluxe.

It has plenty of pockets for organizing all of your belongings efficiently.

The capacity could have been bigger.

The Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe has a variety of interior and exterior pockets to help you stay organized on the go. There’s a designated spot for all of your must-haves with a padded laptop pocket in the back, a main compartment with slip and zippered pockets, and a spacious front pocket for items like a notebook. Plus, there’s a side slip pocket for your water bottle and a trolley sleeve for attaching the pack to a suitcase. We love the ability to access your laptop from the back zipper or through the main compartment of the backpack. Additionally, we appreciated the sleek pack’s compression straps so you can adjust the capacity of the bag, but we still thought the main compartment could have been a bit larger. The padded backpack straps are comfortable to wear for long periods of time, and if you live in a rainy climate, the durable recycled nylon exterior is also water-resistant.

The Details: 18.9 x 11.42 x 5.31 inches | 20 liters | 2.51 pounds | Recycled nylon | 17-inch laptop pocket | Water-resistant

Most Versatile

Monos metro backpack.

The front pocket comes off so you can travel with or without the extra space.

The original model has visible snaps when the front pocket is removed, but that's been updated with the newer version.

The Monos Metro Backpack has a removable front pocket that adds quite a bit of extra space which is so useful for traveling. For other times when you may not need the excess room, all you have to do is pull the discrete cord in the back of the pouch to release pouch and take it off. Best of all, when you remove the pouch, the backpack still looks sleek, and it doesn't look like any part of the bag is missing thanks to the brand's modular system for taking on and off the pouch.

We love the soft vegan leather look of the backpack and found the materials to provide protection against laptop damage when we dropped it. There are several pockets inside the main compartment, and the laptop pocket is in the back, separated from the rest of the bag. Whether you're traveling on an airplane or heading into the office, this stylish bag is ideal for those looking for a versatile backpack. It also comes in nylon fabric with more colors to choose from.

The Details: 11.5 × 16.5 × 6 inches | 18 liters | 3 pounds | Vegan leather or nylon | 15-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Best for Students

Fjällräven räven 28.

The backpack is comfortable and breathable to wear while walking.

The polyester blend wasn’t as durable as we hoped.

For students walking across campus or between classes, the Fjällräven Räven 28 Backpack is our favorite option. We love how breathable the back padding is and that it provides plenty of cushioning and support when it's on. The design itself is not bulky, so we weren't worried about brushing up against other people while walking through crowded places during our real-world test. Plus, there are tons of pockets in the main compartment for classroom essentials, and each side of the backpack has a water bottle slip pocket.

We did notice that this bag easily collects dust or lint after it is tossed on the ground. Despite the slight dirtiness of the fabric, we found that the backpack does an excellent job of protecting a laptop in the designated padded sleeve in the back. It's not difficult to fit varying needs, even after using it on a daily commute for two months, and we found it battled the elements well, keeping a computer untouched by rain, too.

The Details: 18.5 x 14 x 6.1 inches | 28 liters | 2.2 pounds | Polyester and cotton with wax coating | 15-inch laptop pocket | Water-resistant

Béis The Backpack

It has a simple, no-frills design for extra versatility.

It may be too large for everyday use.

We love the simple design of the Béis backpack and found that it’s packed full of thoughtful features making it the perfect backpack for travelers , students, and commuters alike. We were impressed with the large capacity of the main compartment that could easily fit all of the items on our packing list, including tech items like a laptop and iPad on the inside and a water bottle in one of the two slip pockets on the sides. The main compartment has several smaller pockets and a designated padded laptop sleeve. After we did our drop test to evaluate the durability, the padding did a good job of protecting the laptop, but there isn’t padding at the bottom of the bag which had us questioning how much protection the backpack offers. Even when it was completely packed, the padded straps were comfortable to wear, and the back had more padding for added comfort.

The Details: 19 x 13 x 5.5 inches | 22 liters | 1.8 pounds | Cotton, PVC, polyester | 14.5-inch laptop pocket

Other Laptop Backpacks We Liked

Here are some other backpacks we've tested that are worth mentioning, all of which we liked for various reasons but found some slight issues with.

Away The Everywhere Zip Backpack : The design is sleek and functional, but we think there isn’t enough padding for comfort or laptop protection if the bag is handled roughly.

Vohler Laptop Backpack With Charger : This pack was a serious contender for the best budget bag thanks to its sturdy build and protective padding, but our above pick had a few more standout features than this one.

Swissgear Travel Gear 1900 Scansmart TSA Laptop Backpack : Ideal for students, travelers, or commuters, we loved that this bag is durable and has plenty of storage solutions, but it wasn’t as comfortable as we hoped.

Between several different lab testing occasions, we tested more than 50 laptop backpacks from highly rated brands like The North Face, Away, Samsonite, Swissgear, and more. We evaluated each pack based on capacity, design, comfort, and durability.

First, to test for capacity, we used a packing list to fill the bag with objects like a laptop, an iPad, a sweatshirt or jacket, a water bottle, a notebook, and a toiletry bag. During the packing process, we evaluated the design of each bag, and our top picks for the design category had plenty of padding around the laptop pocket, a variety of helpful pockets, and handles or straps that made carrying the backpack effortless and intuitive.

Then, we put on the backpacks and walked around for at least 10 minutes to get a feel for the bag. We looked out for any pain caused by shoulder or sternum straps, pinching, or any other type of discomfort. The best bags for comfort were outfitted with padding in the back and straps and didn’t cause any awkwardness or irritation from the pack. To test for durability, we pushed the backpacks off of a tabletop and checked the interior contents and exterior for any scuff marks, scratches, or damage. The backpacks also went out for four months of long-term testing in the real world so we could monitor the quality and functionality to ultimately decide which products tested best .

As we continue to test more backpacks, we will update this article with our findings.

Watch Us Test the Best Laptop Backpacks

Tips for buying a laptop backpack, check the laptop sleeve size.

Most laptops measure anywhere from 10 to 17 inches in length, so it’s important to double-check the dimensions of the laptop sleeve to ensure it fits in the designated pocket. Usually, you can find the laptop length capacity of a backpack in the “specification” description of the bag.

Padding is key for protection and comfort

The more padding around the laptop, the better protected it will be if that bag is handled roughly . Since the laptop pocket or sleeve is usually in the back of the bag, there should be padding in the back to add comfort while wearing the backpack. Also, be on the lookout for additional padding on the straps to make the bag even more comfortable to wear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should i put my laptop in a backpack without a case.

During our tests, we placed the laptop directly into the pocket without a case on it and found that the top-performing bags had enough padding to protect the laptop from getting damaged. However, if you feel more comfortable slipping it into a laptop case and placing it in the backpack, feel free to do so.

How do you measure a laptop for a backpack?

Laptops often measure anywhere from 13 to 17 inches, which is the diagonal measurement of the screen. To get the right measurement, take a tape measure and place it from one screen corner to the opposite diagonally to get the right measurement. Most laptop pockets will say what dimensions the space will fit so be sure to double-check your laptop size to get the right backpack.

Is a laptop backpack a personal item?

It always depends on the airline you fly and the luggage restrictions that come with your ticket, but generally, a backpack can be a personal item on a flight in addition to a carry-on. However, if your laptop backpack is too large to fit underneath the seat in front of you, it could potentially count as a carry-on instead, so it's important to check with your airline ahead of time.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L commerce writer Anna Popp writes most of the team's tested content and participates in every lab and real-world test to try out luggage, outdoor, and beauty products. Anna owns several laptop backpacks including picks from Monos, Troubadour, and Lo & Sons. She pulled from her own experiences traveling with backpacks and combed through thorough testing insights to recommend the best laptop backpacks.

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Tzowla Travel Laptop Backpack Water Resistant Anti-Theft Bag with USB Charging Port and Lock 15.6 Inch Computer Business Backpacks for Women Men Work College Gift,Casual Daypack

SupersafeV2 15.6inch

Supersafe 15.6inch

Purchase options and add-ons

• [Large Capacity and Organized] Tzowla backpack has one separate laptop compartment that can hold any laptop up to 15.6 inch. It also has one spacious compartment for storing any item like daily necessities, tech related items, accessories, toiletries and many more. The front compartment comprises of many pockets, key hook to store your item in an organized manner and easier to find.
• [USB and Headphone Port] This backpack has external USB port with built-in charging cable offers convenient charging your cellphone by connecting your own power bank. The headphone port outside gives easy access to Earphone usage as well.
• [Anti-Theft Design] This backpack has fixed password lock and sturdy metal zippers. You can rest assured that the items inside are safe and secure without worrying about theft.
• [Multipurpose Design] This backpack is made up of high-quality polyester fabric material and comfortable wide padded shoulder strap design which makes it easy to carry around. It is also unisex design and has various built-in compartments as well which makes it perfect for daily use at office and travel.(This product is suitable for people over 15 years old.)
• [Sturdy] The outer dimensions are 18.5 x 11.8 x 5.9in（47 x 30 x 15cm）and made up of water resistant 300D outer nylon and a protected soft cushioned inside give exceptional sturdiness and longevity. The tough materials will withstand ripping and abrasion, ensuring a long-lasting use. It can also carry your equipment like water bottle, tablets, journal, pen, cellphone, etc.

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PRODUCT CERTIFICATION (1)

Carbonfree Certified determine the carbon footprint of the product, and associated carbon emissions are offset with reduction projects.

From the brand

Tzowla is a company specializing in the design and product of backpacks.We are committed to providing our customers with products great-designed,high-quality,and continually improve our products to meet the needs of our customers.Our ultimate aims are to provide a practical,comfortable and perfect experience for the customers.

Tzowla Anti Theft Backpack

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Tzowla Travel Laptop Backpack

Backpack can accommodate a 15.6 inch laptop to meet your daily business or short trip needs.

Backpack with Lock

Protect your valuables, belongings.

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Comfortable wide padded shoulder strap design which makes it easy to carry.

Large size backpack，storage items like books and daily.

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Product description.

Laptop Backpack for Men & Women

Tzowla backpack has one separate laptop compartment that can hold any laptop up to 15.6 inch.

Leisure Business Backpack

Tzowla backpack can meet your daily business or short trip needs.

School Backpack

Organized book bag，It also has one spacious compartment for storing any item like books and daily.

Multi-occasion Use

Tzowla backpack perfect for daily use at office, travel, college and school.

Easy to Carry Around

High-quality polyester fabric material and comfortable wide padded shoulder strap design.

Anti Theft Backpack

This backpack has fixed password lock and durable metal zippers.

The tough materials will withstand ripping and abrasion, ensuring a long-lasting use.

USB and Headphone Port

External USB port,convenient charging your cellphone by connecting your own power bank.

Luggage Strap

The backpack is firmly placed on the luggage, making travel more convenient.

Best Gift for Men & Women

Backpack can be given to sweetheart, relatives, friends, college students，colleagues.

360° Superior Protection

Soft fluffy interior, thick protective ridge around the zipper and waterproof material exterior offers your device 360° superior protection from scratch, knocks, bumps or accidental dropping.

Premium-standard 300D Nylon

Water-resistant 300D exterior nylon as well as protective soft padded interior, provides incredible sturdiness and durability. The robust materials will survive from tearing and abrasion, which offers a confident long-lasting usage.

Pocket with Magnetic Buckle

One side pocket with Magnetic Buckle, which provide quick access and secure storage of small items.

Black Tone Zippers

Black Tone zippers of high quality known for their durability and smoothness.

Sturdy Side pockets

Sturdy pockets on both sides, fit water bottle, small compact umbrella and other items.

Breathable Mesh

Breathable widen shoulder straps,very durable comfortable.

Separate Laptop Compartment

How to Set Your Code?

1.Put the dials at its original numbers 0-0-0.

2.Press down the reset button with a tool until hear the “Ckick” sound.

3.Set your combination by turning the dials,for example 6-6-6.

4.Then push the button towards to the direction of arrow and the reset buttonwill be back when you hear the “Click” sound.

Multipurse Organized Pockets

One separate laptop compartment , One spacious packing compartment roomy for daily necessities,tech electronics accessories. Front compartment with many pockets, pen pockets and key fob hook, make your items organized and easier to find.

Durable & Comfortable

Tzowla backpack with high quality Waterproof Polyester Material. Serve well as a professional laptop backpack. Adjustable Padded Shoulder Straps for optimal comfort and ergonomic support.

This backpack has external USB port with built-in charging cable offers convenient charging your cellphone by connecting your own power bank. The headphone port outside gives easy access to Earphone usage as well.

Tzowla Laptop Backpack

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My Review of This Travel Backpack

✅ Real Reviews by the Houghton Family

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Product information, technical details, additional information, warranty & support, customer reviews.

• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 5 star 78% 13% 5% 2% 2% 78%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 4 star 78% 13% 5% 2% 2% 13%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 3 star 78% 13% 5% 2% 2% 5%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 2 star 78% 13% 5% 2% 2% 2%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 1 star 78% 13% 5% 2% 2% 2%

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the quality, pockets and the bag itself. They mention that it's well constructed, has room for everything and that it has a built in lock feature. They appreciate the charging port.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the quality of the backpack. They say it's well constructed, sturdy, and provides everything they need and wants. Some customers also mention that the wires came in great shape and the lock works well. Overall, most are happy with the quality and functionality of the product.

" Well constructed , with large center area that fits my 17" laptop, clothes, shoes, water bottle holder, padded straps and back strap to slip over..." Read more

"Best product for it's price, amazing quality . Very spacious and reliable backpack. We liked it so much that we bought a second one. Highly recommend." Read more

"...I got it for my son for college. Provides everything he needs and wants . It’s very comfortable and durable." Read more

"...Or a woman. It has so many compartments to hide things and the durability is fantastic ...." Read more

Customers like the pockets in the backpack. They say it has room for everything, has well-thought-out compartments, and has pockets in all the right places. Some mention that it's big enough to hold a decent size laptop and textbooks.

"Well constructed, with large center area that fits my 17" laptop, clothes, shoes, water bottle holder, padded straps and back strap to slip over..." Read more

"Best product for it's price, amazing quality. Very spacious and reliable backpack. We liked it so much that we bought a second one. Highly recommend." Read more

"...It is lightweight, comfortable, and has tons of pockets/dividers ...." Read more

"This product has lots pockets , places to put things, with the width and depth to accommodate the design without being too bulky...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the backpack. They mention it has a ton of room for all their daily travel gear, it's the perfect bag, and it holds just about everything they need including a laptop. Some say it'll make excellent bug out bags.

" Great backpack and super fast delivery" Read more

"...It also doubles as a toolbox I wear on my back and my "make it home" bag I keep in my car...." Read more

" Excellent back pack " Read more

"The color, the size, the make everything is great .. definitely worth the price" Read more

Customers like the appearance of the backpack. They say it looks good, has comfortable fabric, and the color is sleek. Customers also appreciate the attention to detail in the design. They mention that it's lightweight, perfect for exploring the beautiful streets of Italy, and doesn't show stains.

"... Great looking . Slide unde airplane seat and away you go!" Read more

" Looks good and has adjustable straps.. highschooler approved!" Read more

"...This backpack is well made, looks nice , and I use it for work and travel." Read more

"...In summary, if you are looking for a stylish and secured backpack to use for your business needs or for that typical college or even high school..." Read more

Customers like the security of the backpack. They mention that it has a numerically set lock safe on the unbreakable zipper to main compartment. They appreciate the nice security features, including the locking mechanism. Some say that the bag is easy to carry around and the combo lock is super convenient.

"...I love the ease of use of the lock and felt much safer carrying around things of value (like my passport, money, credit cards) in the locked pocket...." Read more

"...The lock on it was easy to program for the password (I don't use it much because I don't need to)...." Read more

"I liked very thing about this bag. It had a lock on it setting the combination was very easy. I had coworker that will go through your things...." Read more

"Well made travel backpack. It can hold a lot and has a safe place for passports and currency ." Read more

Customers appreciate the value of the backpack. They mention it's a great buy and has plenty of pockets.

" Best product for it's price , amazing quality. Very spacious and reliable backpack. We liked it so much that we bought a second one. Highly recommend." Read more

"...makes allot of noise, kinda like ringing noises, it’s a great cheap college student book bag " Read more

"...After trip, it has replaced my older, heavier commuting backpack. Great value ." Read more

"...This backpack is extreme inexpensive but extremely capable of packing whatever you might need and is ready to be closed, locked up, and slung over..." Read more

Customers like the charging ports in the backpack. They mention that it has a USB charging port and headphone jack. Some appreciate the built-in charger and compartments. Overall, customers are happy with the charging features of the product.

"...The cord works for charging , it was very comfortable and breathable...." Read more

"... Charging port is fantastic and convenient saving me numerous times from phone dying...." Read more

"...than I expected, wasn't as durable as I would like and the chord didn't work to charge as well as I thought...." Read more

"...I love the lock for the main zipper. Love the compartment for the extra cell phone battery , the water bottle holder, and I love all the pockets...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the size of the backpack. Some mention it has lots of pockets and is not too big but not too small. They say it fits everything that needs to go in there, including a laptop, a cooling pad, e tablet, and a smart phone. Others say that it's difficult to use and the backpack is very small.

"...has lots pockets, places to put things, with the width and depth to accommodate the design without being too bulky...." Read more

"...the straps, I have no problem, my only mistake is noticing the size of my laptop which doesn’t fit in the computer slot, the zipper makes allot of..." Read more

"This backpack is suitable for a man . Or a woman. It has so many compartments to hide things and the durability is fantastic...." Read more

"...It is perfect size without being too bulky ...." Read more

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The 18 Best Laptop Backpacks We Tested for Commutes, Travel, and More

With finds from Amazon, Monos, Béis, and Fjällräven

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Tried
• What to Know

Behind the Scenes

Why trust people, what is people tested.

People / Conor Ralph

Whether for personal or business use, laptops are deeply ingrained into our daily routines and it’s difficult to leave them behind when traveling. With a laptop backpack, you can take your work or entertainment with you. Even celebrities like Bradley Cooper, Gigi Hadid, Taylor Swift, and Emma Stone have been seen toting stylish and functional backpacks around because they act as easy storage, transport, and fashion accessories.

“When looking for the ideal travel laptop bag, I seek out style and overall functionality,” celebrity fashion stylist and consultant Chelsea Volpe tells PEOPLE. She also looks for timeless designs rather than ones that will come and go with the season. Other factors to consider are durability, storage design (”Pockets are your friend,” Volpe says), and tech features such as a USB charging port.

We tested 53 of the best laptop backpacks for travel in the lab and at home for two months, and compared qualities like the capacity of the bags, the design, and the durability of materials — a quality we tested by dropping backpacks with laptops in them. After literally carrying this test on their backs, we found a group of bags that are worthy of being your and your laptop’s next travel companion.

These are the best laptop backpacks for travel that PEOPLE Tested.

Best Overall

Solo re:define backpack.

Sustainable materials held up to durability tests and actual traveling

Has cushioned straps and distributes weight evenly to reduce pressure on your shoulders

Extremely spacious despite small size

Shoulder straps are narrow at the top

Though the Solo Re:Define Backpack looks small and unassuming, its capacity seems nearly limitless. During our lab tests, we were able to fit a laptop, a pair of shoes, toiletries, a shirt, a pullover, and a pair of joggers, as well as a book, wallet, keys, and lotion. Even packed to the brink, the backpack weighed maybe 15 pounds — not a huge burden to tote around an airport. The storage options varied between a protected laptop sleeve, small organization pockets, and water bottle pockets; in addition to a battery pack pocket for USB storage and on-the-go charging capabilities. 

The materials lend themselves to a durable and low-maintenance design. Made with recycled polyester sourced from plastic water bottles, this backpack is water-resistant and can be cleaned with a gentle wipe-down. It also held up to wear and tear, with no marks or visible damage after our durability test.

The cushioned straps are comfortable on your shoulders, though they’re close together up top so it could be uncomfortable for some folks if it rubs your neck. That said, we think it’s one of the most comfortable and well-fitting backpacks of the day. When you consider the storage, durability, high-quality materials, comfort, and low price, this bag is a must for any regular traveler.

How it's held up:

When we tried this backpack in the real world, we were continually impressed with its capacity. It’s a bit of a Mary Poppins bag because it almost feels bottomless. The zippers had smooth closures, and the padded straps made the backpack comfortable to wear throughout the day when traveling. We agree with the lab’s assessment of the straps’ narrowness at the top. That said, this lightweight backpack distributes its weight and you feel the impact more on your hips than your shoulders. The sustainable materials are easy to wipe down after a trip — even after traveling across the country, there wasn’t a single scuff or scratch on this backpack.

Laptop Size: 15.6 inches | Colors: Black, gray | Material: Recycled PET polyester | Extra Features: Trolley sleeve for luggage, USB port, RFID data protection pocket

People / Jessica Juliao

Best Overall, Cheaper

Himawari laptop backpack with usb charging port.

Lightweight and comfortable to carry

Lots of protective cushioning on laptop and tablet pockets

Available in more than 20 colors

Most inner compartments don’t have closures so belongings aren’t fully secure

Outer water bottle pockets are too small for large bottles

Himari’s laptop backpack is an excellent value for travelers, students, and commuters. It includes well-padded laptop and tablet sleeves, adjustable straps, two outer side pockets for water bottles, a USB charging port with a built-in cable, and more — all for under $40.

We put this backpack to the test over a four-day trip that included a flight to Florida, as well as during a work commute in New York. We were impressed with its 17-liter capacity — it was flexible and roomy, though still structured enough to stand up on its own. (Case in point: It fit a 15-inch laptop and charging cable, a Kindle, a book, a thick cardigan, a wallet, and keys and still felt spacious.)

It was also comfortable to carry, lightweight even when full, and it distributed weight evenly. The padded straps are also adjustable and can work for people with a wide range of heights and builds. We felt it was durable, too; its waterproof canvas material kept its contents completely dry, both in the Miami humidity and during a light rain storm in New York.

Though we loved the number of pockets in this backpack, we wished its smaller inner compartments — perfect for keys or earbuds — had closures. Our things occasionally slipped out in transit. Also, its two outer side pockets don’t have much give, which makes the bag look more streamlined but makes it difficult to fit larger water bottles inside.

Laptop Size: 15 inches | Colors: 24 | Material: Waterproof canvas | Extra Features: Dedicated laptop pocket and tablet sleeve , large zippered front pocket, 2 inner small pockets, 2 side pockets, padded back panel, adjustable shoulder straps, USB port with built-in charging cable (power bank not included)

People / Jhett Thompson

Best Budget

Bagsmart bonchemin laptop backpack.

So many pockets and compartments to fit everything you need on a trip

Most inexpensive bag on our list, just under $50

Has a charger port so you don’t have to worry about your phone battery dying mid-journey

Laptop compartment has zippers that must be clipped or the weight of the laptop will cause the bag to open

This favorite from Bagsmart comes with all the qualities you want in a laptop backpack, but with a price tag that will make you raise your eyebrows — it’s that good. We love the large compartment space (which can fit multiple laptops), soft material, stylish design, and comfort. Our shoulders felt light after taking off the bag, despite having carried it around for a bit. 

It also survived — nay, thrived — during our durability tests. The test laptop survived the drop in this bag and came out with no scuffs and no marks. We initially judged the bag based on its basic appearance but were so wrong. We were delighted by the extra features like the charger port, capacity, and quilted cloth design. For the price, this bag is so worth it.

If you're looking for a bag that doubles as an everyday work backpack and a travel one, we took this backpack on a nine-day trip to Ireland, and continue to use it as an everyday work bag. One thing we learned is that you have to fasten the zippers with the clips on the laptop sleeve or the weight of the laptop can open the bag (unfortunately, we learned this while riding the subway). However, there are also so many compartments and pockets, that you can fit everything you need, and more.

Laptop Size: 15.6 inches | Colors: Black, beige, gray, pink, black 17.3, pink rose | Material: Water-resistant polyester | Extra Features: Some hidden pockets, adjustable straps, USB charging port

Best Carry-On

Bagsmart blast quick access carry-on travel backpack.

Spacious storage capacity

Several useful pockets, including a dedicated shoe compartment

Laptop pocket cumbersome to open

Chest buckle feels awkward and uncomfortable

This is the ideal carry-on bag for a short trip or an all-day expedition. Inside, it’s incredibly spacious, though we also found it easy to organize our things thanks to six zippered outer pockets, including a dedicated compartment for shoes — a game changer for gym-goers or those on a weekend trip.

This backpack was comfortable to carry during a full-day excursion in New York City, and its nylon material felt lightweight but durable. Though we appreciated that its adjustable shoulder straps were versatile enough to fit a variety of heights and body types, we could have done without its chest buckle, which felt restrictive and in the way. 

While we love the laptop sleeve, the bulky size of the bag makes it a better carry-on travel option rather than a daily laptop bag (for, say, a quick jaunt to a café to work). When full, it can carry a laptop, extra clothes, chargers, notebooks, boots, a water bottle, and toiletries.

Laptop Size: 15.6 inches | Colors: 3 | Material: Nylon | Extra Features: 6 external pockets, shoe compartment, inner/outer compression straps, 4 carrying modes (top/side handles, back luggage strap), water-resistant, machine-washable

Best Investment

Lo & sons rowledge.

Stylish design comes in two sizes

Proved very protective of our laptops over two months of testing

Water-resistant and durable material

Doesn’t fit 15-inch laptops

If fashion is your priority, this stylish Lo & Sons bag is undoubtedly eye-catching. We were in awe of the design because it's very chic with the brand logo, zipper tassels, and leather design. But it’s not just a good-looking backpack, it’s functional too. It looks small on the outside, but once you open it, there is more than enough space for a sweater and any tech you have; there’s even a zippered section for a water bottle. While the bag is only available in black, there are several interior colors available as well as various hardware options.

While it comes in two sizes, neither fits a laptop larger than 13 inches. The premium nylon material is water-resistant and quite durable, and because it’s padded all the way through, the laptop survived the fall test. We noticed the material was a little stiff at first, but it became more flexible and adjustable as time went on. You can also use it as a backpack or a tote, thanks to the sleek top handles.

How it's held up: For two months, we’ve used this bag for our office commute and as a travel bag for airport trips. It’s proved to be sleek, protective, and comfortable throughout long days of wear. It also thoroughly protected our laptop and provided lots of storage and organization options.

Laptop Size: 13 inches | Colors: Black with 7 hardware/interior options | Material: Premium nylon | Extra Features: Convertible design, luggage trolley sleeve

Best Weatherproof

Peak design everyday backpack.

Many hidden compartments; room for pens, a camera, a laptop, and more

Adjustable and padded straps, which makes the bag super comfortable to wear

Made with a weatherproof poly-coated nylon material

One of the most expensive backpacks on our list

Fastener wasn’t as secure as we would have liked

For certain adventures, your travel backpack might face inclement weather, and if you have your laptop in tow, you’ll want a bag that keeps it protected. This backpack is thoughtfully designed with plenty of features for photographers or people traveling with technology gadgets. It scored well in terms of capacity because it has a spacious interior, two removable dividers for separating items that could be fragile, and an expandable magnetic clip.

Despite the size, it also proved quite comfortable. It’s so lightweight, and combined with cushioned and adjustable straps and durable and weatherproof poly-coated nylon material, this bag is highly durable and will keep your laptop safe — much like it did when we dropped the backpack and the laptop stayed intact. Though expensive, the price is completely fair for the high-quality design and materials.

How it's held up: We used this primarily as a work bag, and were impressed with the storage capacity and organizational compartments. The chest strap fits nicely, and the laptop sleeve has held up in protecting our computer. We do wish the backpack fastener was a little more secure.

Laptop Size: 16 inches | Colors: Black, midnight blue, charcoal, ash | Material: 400D double poly-coated nylon canvas shell | Extra Features: Trolley sleeve, adjustable straps

Best Faux Leather

Monos metro backpack.

Even when you fill it to capacity, it’s comfortable to carry around

Deep pockets have more than enough room for anything you need to carry

Nylon and faux leather options with this backpack model

Small bag attached on the front falls off occasionally

No small compartments which makes it harder to find things in the bottom

No water bottle holder on the exterior of the bag

This is a gorgeous bag that’s as eye-catching as it is effective. The design is perfect for everything from commuting to air travel. Even without the detachable bag on the front, there was a good amount of room for storage. The backpack comes in durable nylon or vegan leather options, and both materials are water- and scratch-resistant. The only initial hiccup with the design was the lack of a water bottle holder on the exterior of the bag. 

We loved the look of the vegan leather and though it feels slightly stiff, the bag is comfortable to wear. This bag kept the dummy laptop secure during the drop test — we were impressed with its durability. We think it’s a well-made backpack with thoughtful features like padded handles, plenty of pockets, and a detachable front pouch for staying extra organized.

While home testing for two months, we noticed that the front attached bag falls off occasionally which isn’t ideal, and the deep pockets can be a recipe for losing items at the bottom of your bag. While we love the capacity of this backpack, it might be better suited for travel with larger items than as a commuter bag carrying smaller pens, notebooks, etc.

Laptop Size: 15 inches | Colors: Saddle tan, mahogany, ivory (plus four colors for nylon material) | Material: Ultra-microfiber vegan leather | Extra Features: Water- and scratch-resistant materials, trolley sleeve, top handle

Best Durable

Troubadour orbis 1-pocket backpack.

Dropped seven times without any scuffs or damage marks

Strap padding is highly cushioned making for comfortable wear

Large number of pockets for extensive organization options

Main compartment opening tapers down slightly making it harder to get into

Back padding isn’t super breathable

When you travel with a backpack, it has to endure quite a bit of wear and tear. This one-pocket backpack from Troubadour was the most durable among those we tested. Its canvas-like material is actually a recycled polyester, and though lightweight it can sustain a good beating. After dropping it seven times during our tests, it didn’t have any scuff marks or damage and still looked brand new. The amount of padding on the straps creates a super cushioned feel, though it wasn’t super breathable and our tester got a little sweaty when carrying it around.

In addition, the capacity was impressive — we could fit a surprising amount of clothing and cosmetics. The large number of pockets allows for extensive organization, and the water bottle pockets can fit up to a 24-ounce bottle. The design is sleek, and the main compartment is spacious, but we did notice the top of the compartment tapers down slightly, so the opening is a little hard to get into. Though slightly inconvenient, the slides’ fabric expands to help you access the compartment better. Overall, this is a well-designed, durable, and comfortable backpack to invest in.

We found this bag to be spacious, durable, and comfortable for regular commutes. It has a series of pockets and compartments for organization, as well as a protected laptop pocket, which is easy to access and unzip. The main pocket issue also existed in our real-world testing; basically, it’s hard to get into this backpack on the go, because the zipper lives under a tapered flat. So we just had to stop and take the backpack off to get into it. However, the padding was extremely thick and comfortable to wear throughout the day. It has remained durable without any scuff marks during our real-world testing, and frankly, given the amount of padding, we would feel confident kicking the bag even with our laptop in it. 

Laptop Size: 16 inches | Colors: Black | Material: Recycled polyester | Extra Features: Smooth zippers, clever pockets, waterproof fabric, 5-year guarantee

Best Design

Béis the backpack.

Lots of storage compartments and organization options

Water-resistant lining to protect your laptop from rain or spills

Comfortable to wear (when not overpacked)

No padded bottom in laptop sleeve

Reusable water bottle doesn’t fit in the drink pouch

Feels heavy to carry when filled to the brim

As a standout piece in Shay Mitchell’s luggage brand , Beis, this backpack offers extensive storage, a chic design, durability, and comfort when wearing it. This bag was definitely designed by travel pros because there's a ton of capacity — the bag wasn't even close to half full with the items we packed in. The capacity includes water bottle holders, a laptop sleeve, zippered compartments, and more. When this backpack appears on a list of Cyber Monday luggage deals, definitely snap it up.

Though we were nervous about the laptop sleeve not having a padded bottom, the backpack kept the laptop protected during our drop test. We were, though, impressed with the comfort. The straps are nicely padded and adjustable, and a good width apart to feel comfortable around our frame. The overall features of this bag make it very convenient and portable: Its comfortable and durable design, expansive capacity, water-resistant lining, and protective laptop storage make it a fabulous laptop backpack for travel.

We used this bag on two international trips and it fits an astonishing amount. It fully opens, which makes it easy to see where everything is inside (no digging around!). We noticed that a reusable water bottle did not fit super easily in the water pouch, which was disappointing. It also felt super heavy when full, but we do love the organization options.

Laptop Size: 15 inches | Colors: Black, beige | Material: Cotton, PVC, polyester | Extra Features: Trolley sleeve, water bottle pockets

Best Capacity

Lovevook laptop bag.

Spacious and includes large, useful pockets

Comfortable to carry

Great value

Lacks padding in laptop sleeve and back panel

Strap adjustment mechanism felt flimsy

When we tested this backpack during work commutes, we were shocked by its spaciousness. In its main compartment, we stored a laptop, a notebook, two medium-sized makeup pouches, a pair of large over-ear headphones, and a packed lunch. Plus, the front pocket fit AirPods, tissues, and several other smaller items, and the side pockets were secure but stretchy enough to fit a large Stanley cup. (We also utilized the USB pocket with a built-in charging cable for on-the-go power.)

The bag had several smaller hidden pockets, which helped us organize smaller personal items; it felt like there was no wasted space. However, the laptop sleeve itself had what we’d consider a minimal amount of padding compared to other options, though there were enough protective layers to keep it safe during low-impact trips.

Though its adjustable shoulder straps were thick and plush, the adjustment sliders felt a bit flimsy — we noticed that they often moved on their own during transit, which made the bag looser and more uncomfortable to carry. As a result, we noted some strain on our shoulders and neck after commuting with a full bag; for this reason, we believe it’s a better fit for smaller loads or shorter distances.

Laptop Size: 15.6 inches | Colors: 18 | Material: Nylon | Extra Features: 2 front compartments, luggage strap on back, USB charging port, theft-proof back pocket, 2 side pockets

Best for Organization

Timbuk2 authority laptop backpack deluxe.

Tons of capacity for storage, including pockets for organization

Water-resistant material

Adjustable padded straps

No cons detected during testing

This deluxe backpack from Timbuk2 is an organizer’s dream. With pockets and hidden compartments inside, outside, and on the sides of this backpack, there are countless ways to organize this bag. The main compartment fits all of the packing items without issue, and it’s super sleek and thin — plus there are tons of pockets for staying super organized.

We loved the lightweight feel of this backpack, as well as the padding and cushioned feel of the adjustable straps when wearing it. We felt like we could wear this all day and not feel any pinching or immediate pain. It also passed our durability test with flying colors, as the laptop sleeve is super padded, and the bottom of the bag has a waterproof material, so nothing seeps through. While it might not be able to hold all of your essentials for a longer trip, we feel like this bag would last a really long time with daily use.

Laptop Size: 17 inches | Colors: Black deluxe, eco black deluxe, nightfall, static, olivine, titanium | Material: 100 percent recycled nylon | Extra Features: Trolley sleeve, air-mesh back panel, compression straps

Best Padded

Swissgear 1900 scansmart laptop backpack.

Extensive organization and capacity options for every kind of usage: commuting, travel, running errands, and more

Scansmart tech for faster airport travel

Gets a little heavy to carry around if you overfill it

Swissgear offers a highly durable, comfortable, and spacious backpack to keep your laptop protected during travel. The polyester material is washable and waterproof, the large zippers are all metal, and the material is thick and seemingly well-constructed, so we can see this bag lasting for years while being used daily. We also appreciated the extra padding on the straps and back panel, which we would describe as exceptionally soft.

The capacity proved spacious and allowed for organization with various pockets and sections to keep your things in place. With a plethora of pockets and compartments, this bag makes sure everything has its rightful spot. It also has Scansmart technology to speed up the TSA process. We loved the overall look and design, and while some might find it a bit utilitarian in appearance, considering the price and all the features, we’d say it’s a steal.

How it's held up: Upon receiving this backpack, we threw our old backpack away (literally at the office) and have never looked back. We carry it around two to three days per week, and it works beautifully for shopping (and loading up on gifts and goodies), commuting, going to the gym, and traveling. We’re huge fans of the compartment options and organization capabilities, though it does get a little heavy to carry around when overfilled.

Laptop Size: 17 inches | Colors: Blue, gray, heather gray, black, and more | Material: 1200 D polyester | Extra Features: Scansmart tech to speed up TSA process, adjustable straps, padded airflow back panel

Bee & Kin The Midi Nomad Backpack

Has a front pocket with wireless charging capabilities for your phone

Didn’t scuff or scratch when dropped for durability test

It sits a little low on your back even when the straps are on the tightest setting

Could be too expensive for some budgets

Despite being a smaller backpack, this bag fits everything we wedged into it during testing. In addition to the spacious main compartment, there’s also a front pocket designed as a wireless charger (though the actual charger is sold separately) and a protective laptop sleeve. It felt lightweight, and while there wasn’t padding, it didn’t really need any since it’s so small. 

While walking around, the bag was comfortable on our shoulders, even when fully packed. It sat a little low on our backs but that’s not a dealbreaker. It passed the durability test without any marks of scuffs, but since it’s a genuine leather bag, we would advise you to be mindful of its care. Given the material, we understand the higher price tag, but it could be too expensive for some budgets. Overall, we think this is a sleek, quality backpack that would be a fun accessory to take your work on the go. 

How it's held up: When we tried this backpack outside the lab, it fit everything we needed to carry around. We really liked the front pocket for storing quick-grab items like your keys, wallet, and phone. And the fact that it can charge your phone while you’re out doesn’t hurt. We like the look of the buckle straps but in terms of comfort, the backpack sits a little low on our backs. We weren’t particularly careful with the bag, and it still hasn’t scratched. The design and small size would make this an ideal work bag for commuters.

Laptop Size: 13 inches | Colors: Green, red, black, tan | Material: 100% genuine Italian leather | Extra Features: Charging pocket, outer pocket, water bottle pocket

Best with Charger

Vohler laptop backpack.

Built-in USB charger which makes traveling so much more convenient

Lots of organization compartments and pockets to store different sized items

Luggage strap makes for easy transport as you can throw it on top of your suitcase and wheel it around

Only comes in dark colors

The fabric inside the liner frayed and ripped in the two months of use

If you want a bag that provides plenty of storage when you travel and lets you charge your devices on the go, this Vohler pick is a good choice. We love the organization compartments, USB charger, durable material, and stylish design. We were able to sort everything within the multiple pockets, and there are extra hidden pockets for more valuable items. 

We appreciated the compact size, which can fit wonderfully under a seat and in the overhead compartment on a plane. This contemporary bag offers a built-in USB charger, high quality, and durable fabric that’s water-resistant. The bottom padding helped during our impact test, keeping the laptop intact when dropped via the backpack. We loved this well-designed bag, and thinks it will last for many trips to come.

How it’s held up: We’ve used this backpack for two months for work and travel. Though one of the pocket liners frayed and ripped, the majority of the bag has shown incredible durability — we’ve thrown it under plane seats, overpacked its capacity, and taken it on many road trips. We love the luggage strap and how easy it is to throw on top of our suitcase to wheel around the airport. It has a ton of pockets and compartments for storage, and we’ve utilized the USP charger many times which adds a layer of convenience to traveling.

Laptop Size: 15.6 inches, 17 inches | Colors: Black, blue, grey, rose red | Material: Water-resistant polyester | Extra Features: Built-in USB charger

Best for Business Travel

Samsonite just right standard backpack.

Plenty of compartments and organizer pockets for storing various items

Sleek, sophisticated design that received lots of compliments when we used it on trips

Not a huge capacity

If you’re popping out for a quick business trip, this backpack is the perfect work bag for brief commutes. It easily fits a laptop and iPad and could definitely fit another computer. In fact, everything from the test fit in the bag, but it’s definitely more of a commuter bag or a second carry-on, rather than a main bag for a trip. It’s a highly cushioned bag, with plenty of support when wearing it, as well as padding around your laptop for extra protection. 

Other cool features include the USB cord, all of the various organization pockets and compartments, and a trolley strap to attach it to luggage when you don’t feel like carrying it. Our one lament was that there was only one water bottle pocket, and it was not very large. The overall design is super lightweight, and we think the outer and inner materials both seem high quality and durable — plus, nothing was damaged during the drop test. It’s a very sleek bag that doesn’t have a huge capacity, but it looks professional and is extremely organized. It would be a great bag for work commutes or as a personal item on a plane.

How it's held up: Over two months, we learned this bag has just enough pockets to stay organized without allowing you to overpack and cause bulkiness. It goes with everything, and we always get compliments on it when out and about. It doesn’t fit too much, which we liked because it prevents us from overpacking, but this could be inconvenient for those who need more spacious bags.

Laptop Size: 15.6 inches | Colors: Black | Material: Nylon | Extra Features: Adjustable straps, included cable for charging devices, trolley sleeve

Best for Commuters

Aer city pack.

High-quality materials and design

Sturdy laptop compartment

Has ample pockets elevated details

Slightly heavy

May not be as comfortable for petit users

Aer’s City Pack is aptly named — in our testing, we noted it was the ideal bag for commuters. We tested this 14-liter-capacity bag on work commutes in New York; it comfortably fit a 14-inch Macbook Pro laptop, a sketchbook, a pencil case, a 32-ounce Swell water bottle, a pair of foldable over-ear headphones, a battery charger, a travel-sized sunblock, and keys.

What made this bag stand out was the attention to detail in its design and special features, including organized compartments (shoutout to the tiny pocket specifically for bag trackers like AirTags !), a strap and clip for keys , a deep water bottle pocket that expands, and a quick-grab side handle for convenient carrying. Its laptop compartment also felt extremely sturdy and safe; it’s padded generously and has a soft lining. Plus, the nylon exterior is thick, rigid, and durable, and we didn’t see any signs of wear and tear after weeks of testing it every day. 

The bag has adjustable shoulder straps and a chest buckle for stability, and it’s extremely comfortable to carry thanks to cushy, high-quality padding. It was a bit heavy compared to other laptop backpacks — a factor that could be a game changer, particularly for someone shorter or more petite. 

Laptop Size: 16 inches | Colors: 3 | Material: 1680D Cordura ballistic nylon | Extra Features: Contoured back panel, exterior water bottle pocket, smart tracker pocket (designed for Apple AirTags), padded side handle, strap and clip for keys

Best for Students

Fjällräven räven 28.

Huge storage capacity with numerous pockets and compartments

Protected laptop during drop test, and when we placed the bag in spilled water

Comfortable, supportive straps that don’t dig into your shoulders when wearing it

We wish the water bottle pockets on the side were bigger

If you’re in the market for a backpack for school, field trips, and the like, this bag provides vast storage capacity for supplies, notebooks, and laptops, and is easy to transport. We found that this bag easily fit everything in our packing test with tons of pockets to spare. The padded laptop compartments can fit two laptops and an iPad. In addition to two water bottle holders (which we wish were a bit larger), there are several hidden pockets for valuables, and many more for organizing. 

We also loved the design of this backpack. The straps and back are also mesh which is great for breathability. Plushy straps, a leather top handle, and classic canvas material are just a few features of this versatile backpack. We were somewhat worried about the canvas collecting dust and being susceptible to stains, but it fared well during testing. It held up during our impact test and protected the laptop from sustaining any damage. We would recommend this product, especially to a student or someone commuting. 

How it's held up: Over two months, we used this backpack about three times per week for work and various times for travel. It offers plenty of space and numerous compartments for storage, organization, and more. It sits flat against your back, which makes it great for commuting, especially on the subway. It’s supportive and super comfortable to wear and doesn’t dig into your shoulders. And when we accidentally set it down in spilled water, the laptop remained dry and protected.

Laptop Size: 15 inches | Colors: Basalt, foliage green, navy, terracotta brown, port, and more | Material: Polyester, cotton | Extra Features: Mesh organized pockets, adjustable padded straps

Best for Outdoors

Solgaard lifepack backpack.

USB ports for charging devices, which are discreetly hidden

Plush drop-proof laptop sleeve, which protected our computer during the drop test

Design is made with recycled materials, and includes anti-theft lock

Solarbank is sold separately

Pockets in the front compartment could be more versatile

If you’re adventuring into the wilderness, or perhaps just a casual backyard campout, this Solgaard backpack has space for everything you’ll need. It has a large capacity and spacious interior. Overall, we loved the design and were impressed with how much it can fit. Plus, the cushioned straps and chest strap made this backpack incredibly comfortable. Plus, its material is made from 100 percent recycled plastic, so you can feel good about your purchase.

This backpack has a plush drop-proof laptop sleeve which proved effective during testing — protecting the test laptop from sustaining damage. The backpack feels very durable and offers lots of cushion for the items inside. It’s also compatible with Solagaard’s sister product — the Solarbank Boombox — which acts as a portable charger, Bluetooth, and sound system. The only hiccup is you have to purchase the Solarbank separately. 

How it's held up: We used this for our work commute and travels for over two months and we love the innovation with this backpack. It contains incredible storage for technology like laptops, chargers, iPads, and more. The plugs and wires in the bag are very discreet. If we have to name a con, we’d say the pockets in the front section could be more versatile — they’re rather small and don’t fit larger items. 

Laptop Size: 17 inches | Colors: Baltic black, Atlantic blue, charcoal, Granada green camo, Granada green | Material: Shore-Tex, recycled plastic | Extra Features: Anti-theft lock, connects with Solarbank for portable charging and music on the go

Tripsavvy / Conor Ralph

Other Laptop Backpacks We Tried

Lululemon Everywhere Backpack 22L : Lululemon’s answer to an everyday backpack has a large, deep main pocket that easily accommodates a 16-inch laptop, books, and personal items. However, the water bottle holders are small, there’s minimal padding on the back, and a lack of internal organizational pockets, which can make it tougher to find smaller items.

Herschel Kaslo Tech Backpack 30L : Herschel’s 30-liter backpack is highly spacious and designed for optimal organization, featuring multiple zippered compartments that accommodate a significant amount of equipment. We found that its padding and cushioning effectively protect its contents, even during accidental falls, and that it showed no signs of wear and tear after use. However, the bag's large size can be overwhelming for smaller frames, and its material — EcoSystem 600D fabric made from 100 percent recycled post-consumer water bottles — is rough to the touch and can cause discomfort. It’s best for those carrying equipment, like DJs or tech wizards, rather than those who only need to transport a couple of laptops and chargers.

What to Know About Laptop Backpacks

When you’re buying a backpack, especially one for transporting a laptop, you should consider the capacity and how much will fit. Some backpacks only fit certain size laptops, others might just fit a laptop and a few other things, and some can store several clothes as well as notebooks, laptops, and more. And bonus points if there are lots of pockets and compartments for organizing your items. “Compartmentalizing work items creates ease of navigation on the go,” Volpe says.  

Durability 

“Another factor in purchasing a travel laptop bag is durability,” says Volpe. She points out various travel hazards like spilled coffee on planes and rainstorms where a good backpack material can be the difference between a ruined day and momentary inconvenience. “Durable materials like leather are lux and long lasting,” says Volpe, adding that “they also take wear and tear nicely.” She points out that the look of leather improves over time, so even once it’s worn down over time, it will retain that vintage leather aesthetic. 

“Another great option for durability is high quality polyester,” she says (as well as nylon). She adds that this material generally costs less than leather, and can “outlast torrential downpours and being crammed into an overhead compartment.”

The design of a backpack can aid or hinder your travels, so you want to look for features that add to the overall comfort, durability, and use of the bag. Features like adjustable straps, the ability to connect to a charger, and the number of pockets and storage compartments are all important factors to look for. 

In terms of style, Volpe says, “Instead of being too trend forward I look for a travel laptop bag that has an aesthetic which can last for three to four years versus one season.” She suggests avoiding wild prints/patterns and looking for solid colors that will pair well with many outfits and occasions. “A travel laptop bag isn't something you just throw away like a budget friendly evening clutch,” exclaims Volpe. “It has to be appropriate to take to business meetings and while working from your local coffee shop.” 

But it doesn’t have to be boring, she adds. “Color is A-Okay for the creative and fun loving types. Combination neutrals like cream, brown and gray are chic, mature and versatile to coordinate with any outfit,” she says. And for the tech savvy shopper? “You may want a travel laptop bag that has a headphone port, RFID-blocking ID slots, and/or an external USB with a built-in charging cable.”

The price of a laptop backpack can range from $50 to nearing $500, so you just have to keep your budget in mind, as well as the features you’re not willing to compromise on and find a bag that meets both of those criteria. Certain materials like leather will cost more, whereas you can find less expensive bags via materials like polyester. Tech features, like charging capabilities, can also add to the cost.

Our team tested 53 of the top-rated laptop backpacks for travel in our lab, comparing qualities like design, capacity, durability, level of comfort, and overall value. After testing these features, 18 bags came out ahead as our winners.

• Setup: First our team assessed the design of the bags, looking at storage capacity, various pockets and compartments, ability to be organized, and so forth. Then they simulated packing a bag for a trip with real items like a prop laptop, prop iPad, chargers, notebooks, a layer of clothing, a water bottle, and a cosmetic bag. 
• Functionality: Once the bag was packed, our team tested its functionality, considering how much it weighed, how comfortable it was to carry around, and if any part of the design aided its overall use and portability (like adjustable straps for instance).
• Durability: To test the durability and level of protection, we dropped each bag with a prop laptop inside twice, to see if it provided adequate cushioning to keep the computer intact. The laptops were then checked for scratches and damage and turned on to see if the internal hardware had been affected by the impact. Our chosen laptop backpacks for travel were supportive and cushioned and kept the laptops from experiencing damage. We continued testing for two months in the real world to collect additional insights.

Frequently Asked Questions

During the TSA check process at the airport, it’s all about efficiency and helping security see what’s in your bag without other items getting in the way. Some backpacks have a dedicated laptop sleeve that can help this process because it separates your laptop from the other items in your bag. Additionally, backpacks that can be fully unzipped, so agents can easily see the contents inside, would also be considered TSA-friendly.

As a general rule, most airlines won’t let you carry on a backpack that’s bigger than 22 inches long, 14 inches wide, and nine inches deep. This is to ensure the bag will fit comfortably underneath the airplane seat or in the overhead compartment. If you have a backpack that exceeds these measurements, you’ll have to check it, so keep the dimensions in mind when making a selection.

A durable nylon or polyester will be the most enduring material for a travel bag. Both materials are water-resistant, and less susceptible to rips and tears than other materials. In some high end bags you’ll see leather used, which is fairly durable, and also provides an element of style. So the best material depends on if you care more about fashion or function.

Madison Yauger is a shopping editor for PEOPLE who has a penchant for travel bags — owning a handful of suitcases, duffels, carry-on bags, and backpacks. For this article, Yauger also spoke to celebrity fashion stylist and consultant Chelsea Volpe . She also drew on insights from our lab tests in evaluating purchasing decision factors such as price, capacity, the durability of materials, design, and comfort of carrying to determine the best laptop backpacks for travel.

Avery Stone is a contributing freelance writer for PEOPLE who updated this story with our latest tested laptop backpacks. Avery has words in Nylon, The Cut, The Wall Street Journal, and more.

Our Expert Panel

Chelsea Volpe is a celebrity fashion stylist and consultant.

We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

But we don’t stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we’ve awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.

Related Articles

I've reviewed 70+ laptops and these are my top 7 laptops for college students

We've handpicked the best laptops for college students

• Best overall
• Best for creatives
• Best Windows laptop
• Best 2-in-1
• Best for DIYers
• Best gaming laptop
• Battery life results
• How to choose
• How we test

The list in brief 1. Best overall 2. Best value 3. Best for creatives 4. Best Windows laptop 4. Best 2-in-1 5. Best for DIYers 6. Best gaming laptop Battery life chart How to choose How we test

I remember preparing for college, and the stress of finding the perfect laptop for my studies. You need advice on what will meet the demands of your studies — be it an ultra thin and light for essays or a power-packed machine for intense work — and all you're left with is some shop assistant just asking "what do you want the laptop to do?"

This decision-making process is a difficult one, so I'm here to help you find the perfect option for you. We review all the latest and greatest laptops (in my career, I've reviewed a nice 69), and even put them through strenuous tests in our performance lab. That means we can confidently put our stamp of approval on every single one, as they have been personally tested by me and my team.

So whether you need a machine that is capable of handling web browsing and typing (for those essay-centric degrees) or you're looking for something more specialized for the likes of creative arts or advanced programming, these laptops are going to be best for college use.

Based on that experience, here are the best laptops for college students that I recommend!

The quick list

In a hurry? Here's a brief overview of the laptops on this list, along with quick links that let you jump down the page directly to a review of whichever laptop catches your eye.

The best laptop for most students

The MacBook Air M3 is what we most often recommend to students. You get fantastic performance from the new M3 chip, a bright display and more than 15 hours of battery life in an ultraportable package that's easy to tote to class.

Read more below

Best for students on a budget

Samsung's Galaxy Chromebook 2 is low key one of the best budget laptops for college students, and one that is discounted regularly. From its eye-catching Fiery red design and zippy ChromeOS performance to that QLED touchscreen and ergonomic keyboard, this is a top option for essay work.

The best laptop for creatives The MacBook Pro M3 is the best laptop for college students that do creative work like video editing or graphic design. The new M3 chip is faster and more powerful but you also get a bright display and 17 hours of battery life based on our tests. The MacBook Pro M3 even comes in a new Space Black finish. 

The best Windows laptop for students Microsoft's big move to using Snapdragon X Elite for has allowed HP to make one of the best Windows college laptops. This is a performant powerhouse with power and battery life that rivals the M3 MacBook Air!

The best 2-in-1 for most students When it comes to that perfect blend of laptop and tablet for students, nothing comes close to the Surface Pro 11. Thanks to important keyboard cover upgrades, a drop dead gorgeous OLED touchscreen, and Snapdragon X Plus or Elite chips giving you peak performance and power efficiency.

The best laptop for DIY types and accident-prone

The Framework Laptop is a truly unique Windows ultraportable that's more repairable and upgradeable than any other. It's designed to be easy to upgrade and repair, making it a great investment for tech-friendly (or accident-prone) students.

Load the next 1 laptop...

The best gaming laptop for students

Lenovo's Chromebook Duet 3 is a well-built sub-$500 Chrome tablet that offers a nice screen and enough power to get work done. It's suited to browsing the web or remote learning, and the included keyboard cover is good enough for writing emails or short assignments. 

Read more below 

I've been reviewing laptops for over four years, so I know a thing or two about what makes for a great buy for students heading off to college. Picking the right one for your studies is a huge decision, as it will be your daily driver for the next few years and you need that perfect mix of performance, power efficiency and reliability. I can help you find that!

The best college laptops you can buy right now

Why you can trust Tom's Guide Our writers and editors spend hours analyzing and reviewing products, services, and apps to help find what's best for you. Find out more about how we test, analyze, and rate.

The best overall

1. Apple MacBook Air M3 (2024)

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

There's a reason why we call the M3 MacBook Air "a small wonder." On the face of it, this is merely a spec bump from last year's M2 MacBook Air, but in use, it is so much more than that.

It all comes down to three key things: design, performance and battery life. Starting with the build quality, this aluminum unibody inspires confidence in its durability and reliability, while also being super slim at just 0.44 inches and light at 2.7 pounds. Plus, with a gorgeously utilitarian aesthetic, you're sure to be the coolest kid on campus!

Next, the M3 chip is a mini wonder of a chipset that drastically improves app performance, graphical capabilities and even enables speedy AI thanks to its beefed up Neural Engine. Whether you're multitasking between Chrome and Pages with Apple Music in the back, or straining it with a Premiere Pro 4K edit, the Air can do it all (especially with that bright and color accurate Liquid Retina display).

And finally, if your college experience is anything like mine was, you'll be running between classes without access to a power outlet. Well, in our own intense battery life testing, we saw the 13-inch M3 MacBook Air last 15 hours and 13 minutes. That's "worry-free battery life" territory!

Top it all off with the slickness of macOS for getting work done by day and playing games/binge watching by night, and you've got what I believe is the best laptop for most college students.

Read our full Apple MacBook Air M3 (2024) review . 

The best cheap laptop for students

2. samsung galaxy chromebook 2.

OK look, I know there are technically cheaper Chromebooks I could've picked for the best budget laptop. But don't make a decision you'll regret by settling for one of them — that Intel Celeron processor and tiny battery will be the bane of your existence after the first few months!

That's why I'm pointing you towards the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2. At under $500, this is an absolute steal for what you get. ChromeOS is one of the least CPU-intensive operating systems out there, so that combo of 10th gen Intel and 8GB RAM make it absolutely fly.

For wiring in to do those essays, the keyboard's key travel may be a little small, but the tactility of it means you'll be comfortable typing away for hours, and the speakers get plenty loud enough for all your Lo-Fi (if that's what helps you concentrate like me).

And for running between classes, that battery life of 7 hours and 50 minutes ensures you'll be able to jot down notes from a full day of lectures. Oh, and the QLED display up top is gorgeous for those moments where you want to tumble down a YouTube rabbit hole.

Read our full Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 review .

The best for creatives

3. MacBook Pro 14-inch M3

Out of the three MacBook Pros on offer, the 14-inch Pro with the standard M3 chip is the best for providing the right amount of horsepower for nailing that creative college degree. And even better, it's regularly discounted at up to $150 off.

Of course, with a saving like that, you could opt for upping that performance with something like the M3 Pro MacBook Pro , and get that additional Thunderbolt 4 port in the process. But for what you may be doing in 4K video editing, graphic design, music production or photography, you really don't need that additional oomph (as is clear from how quick it can roll through our Photoshop benchmark).

So that's a big fat "check" on creative performance. As for having confidence in color accuracy, the MacBook Pro features a 14-inch, mini-LED Liquid Retina XDR display and in our lab tests, we saw that it's display is even brighter than its predecessor. Not only that, but with a Delta-E color accuracy score of 0.11 (one of the lowest I've ever seen, and lower is better), you will feel reassured that what you're looking at is true to life before sending it for print.

Add in the juicy extras that came with killing the 13-inch Pro and opting to give everyone this fresh 14-inch chassis — such as a full-size SD card slot, HDMI port, amazing keyboard and a battery life that exceeds 17 hours, and I think we've got a creative winner on our hands.

Read our full MacBook Pro 14-inch (M3, 2023) review .

The best Windows laptop

4. HP OmniBook X

With the dawn of Copilot+ PCs, Windows laptops are starting to become amazing options for students, and the HP OmniBook X leads the charge on this in terms of face-melting performance and astonishing battery life — all in a durable (and gorgeous) chassis with a fantastic typing experience.

This all comes down to Microsoft shedding the skin of its x86 past and adopting an Arm architecture with Snapdragon X Elite chips. You don't really need to know the differences (if you're curious, I go into a ton of detail at the beginning of my Asus Zenbook S 16 review ). But all you need to know is that the move to Snapdragon silicon has been the Windows 11 equivalent of when Apple ditched Intel and created its own chips. The impact on performance and battery life has been mind blowing.

Top all of that up with a beautiful lightweight aluminum design (2.9 pounds) that ensures durability, and a lovely keyboard/touchpad experience that you'll really enjoy typing on for hours on end, and you've got one of the MVPs of Microsoft's new Copilot+ PC movement.

So whether you're a Windows lover, or you've found out that your college's IT infrastructure leans more heavily towards you making the most out of it with a Microsoft machine, the OmniBook X is one of the best to do it.

Read our full HP OmniBook X review.

The best 2-in-1

5. Microsoft Surface Pro 11

It's taken a while, but the Microsoft Surface Pro 11 has finally nailed the 2-in-1 formula — making this a perfect hybrid for college students. Turns out the secret sauce to achieving greatness is Snapdragon X.

As you saw with the HP OmniBook X, the use of Qualcomm's chip has dramatically sped up the system, with particular props to transcoding media (important for video editing) and its multitasking performance. Meanwhile, the OLED display (optional in more expensive models) is a flash flood of gorgeous color and aids the battery life too. 

All of this has been packed into that same beautiful design that is just 0.37 inches thick and weighs a mere 1.97 pounds. Plus, with critical improvements made to the typing experience on that keyboard cover (including a wireless connectivity so you can disconnect it from the Surface Pro and keep on typing), this is a fantastic choice for the next step in your education.

Of course, moving to Arm means that certain apps may be incompatible, but the core set you need (or want) are supported for your studies and keeping yourself entertained. This includes Chrome, Office, Photoshop and much more.

Read our full Microsoft Surface Pro 11 review .

The best for DIYers

6. Framework Laptop

Upgradeability is not necessarily something people think about when it comes to a good college laptop, but it makes a lot of sense, and the Framework Laptop is my top pick for this for its impressive modularity.

Put simply, you can customize, repair and upgrade every component to an unprecedented degree — all while remaining affordable and ultraportable. And when it comes to replacing key components like the screen and mainboard, all you need is the screwdriver that Framework ships with it.

It's not for everyone, but if you're the DIY type and love the idea of being able to tinker with your laptop's innards this is the best laptop for you. The Framework laptop is currently only available for purchase from the Framework  website , and the price tag starts at around $1k — though you can pay even less for the DIY Edition if you're willing to assemble your laptop yourself and provide your own memory, storage, operating system, and Wi-Fi card. It's a great ultraportable that doubles as a learning device you can take apart and fix or upgrade yourself, and for some students it's perfect.

Read our full Framework Laptop review .

The best gaming laptop

7. MSI Cyborg 15

OK, so I can imagine some confused faces here — why am I recommending a gaming laptop for college students? Well, as I'll explain in handpicking the MSI Cyborg 15, you get so much more than you think.

It starts with the ability to handle design-intensive college work well with its dedicated GPU. This will allow it to handle beefy animation tasks impressively well, and thanks to Nvidia's AI toolbox of features, you can be sure of strong horsepower.

And also, there is that gaming performance. Maybe you've got a dense Steam library that you want to play while in your dorm room? This will handle gaming admirably at 1080p, and that RTX 4050 unlocks the combo breaker of gaming and AI that is DLSS 3.5 to give you impressive frame rates.

Of course, it's a gaming laptop, so stamina is not its forte. Only go for this if you can be sure of power outlet availability, and if you're feeling confident whipping out an in-your-face gaming laptop in class without judgemental looks. 

But for what you get at a price below $1,000, if you can forgive battery life, this could be the all-in-one productivity and gaming machine that will carry you through college easily.

Read our full MSI Cyborg 15 review .

Battery benchmarks: comparison

How to choose the best laptop for you.

Performance: If you're going to be spending years studying engineering, you're going to need a computer with enough power to handle anything your teachers throw at you. We recommend at least a new mid-range CPU (Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5) and at least 8 GB of RAM, though if you can afford to spend more on on a laptop with better specs it will pay off in the long run.

Graphics and gaming: Most gaming laptops come with discrete graphics cards so they can run the latest games well, but the same card can be equally vital to engineering students who will be using CAD (computer-assisted design) and 3D analysis programs. These kinds of applications really benefit from the power of a good GPU, so if you're expecting to do any graphics or 3D work it's a good idea to invest in a laptop with a discrete Nvidia or AMD graphics card.

Operating system: Laptops typically come in three flavors: Windows (most mainstream PCs), macOS (MacBooks) and Chrome OS (Chromebooks). Chrome OS isn't good for much besides web surfing, file management, and light computing, so a Chromebook isn't a great choice for serious schoolwork. However, a crafty student could install Linux on a high-powered Chromebook to turn it into a decent laptop for engineering work.

Many engineering students spend a lot of time working with specialized or self-developed software, so Windows is often preferable over macOS because it throws up fewer roadblocks when using such tools. However, even Windows can sometimes get in the way of serious engineering work, which is why many engineering students get Windows laptops and install Linux on them so they can dual-boot into either operating system.

As mentioned above, when making your buying decision be sure to consult your teachers and/or the engineering department at your school for more specific advice on what you'll need for your studies. Whichever system you decide on, it's a good idea to pair it with the best mouse for your particular work situation.

How we tested these laptops

How we test the best laptops for students.

To find the best laptops we run every machine through a rigorous suite of benchmarks and real-world tests to gauge how it will perform during everyday use. 

We measure the average brightness and color quality of each laptop's display using our in-house light meter and colorimeter. For general performance, we run our machines through tests that include Geekbench 6 (CPU performance), as well as various 3DMark tests to measure graphics capabilities. We also run a file transfer test to measure how fast a machine's hard drive is, and a custom battery test that has the machine browse the internet over Wi-Fi until it runs out of juice.

Plus, we run the graphics benchmark test in Sid Meier's Civilization VI: Gathering Storm to get a sense of how well a laptop can handle basic games. When testing dedicated gaming laptops, we run benchmarks for a number of games such as Shadow of the Tomb Raider and Far Cry: New Dawn.

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Jason brings a decade of tech and gaming journalism experience to his role as a Managing Editor of Computing at Tom's Guide. He has previously written for Laptop Mag, Tom's Hardware, Kotaku, Stuff and BBC Science Focus. In his spare time, you'll find Jason looking for good dogs to pet or thinking about eating pizza if he isn't already.

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Best Laptop Backpacks: Here’s Where to Get Backpacks From Mous, Able Carry, Herschel and More Online

These premium backpacks make it easy, stylish and comfortable to bring your laptop to school or to the office.

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With students heading back to school soon and more people returning to the office instead of working from home, you may need a new laptop backpack to keep all of your school or office supplies together in one easy-to-carry bag.

We rounded up the best laptop backpacks in 2024 from top brands, including Able Carry, Mous, Herschel Supply Company, Timbuk2 and others.

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Scroll down and shop the best laptop backpacks for back-to-school or return-to-office use, below:

Able Carry Daily Plus

The Able Carry Daily Plus is ideal for everyday use that’s comfortable, spacious and stylish. It has a number of clever (and even hidden) pockets that’s smartly engineered for protection and easy access to the things you bring to school or the office.

Mous Extreme Commuter Backpack

If you’re a photographer, then the Mous Extreme Commuter Backpack is a must — thanks to its clever design, comfortable fit and secure lid with heavy-duty locks. The backpack will also keep what’s inside safe and dry from roaming pickpockets or nasty weather.

Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe

For students and professionals who commute to school or work, the Timbuk2 Authority Laptop Backpack Deluxe is best for daily use. It has a two compartment system for folders and books, as well as a dedicated space for your laptop.

Mission Workshop Rhake

If organization is your thing, then the Mission Workshop Rhake is the backpack for you. It’s a 22-liter waterproof backpack with a large number of secure compartments for everyday carry from a laptop to charging cables and pens to a water bottle. Just about everything has its place with this backpack.

Mous Day Backpack

The Mous Day Backpack features a wide main compartment that’s best for those who don’t like to rummage through a backpack to find what they want. The whole compartment zips open to reveal everything inside.

Monos Metro Backpack

For something with a more professional look, the Monos Metro Backpack is sleek, stylish and designed to just get the job done. It’s spacious enough for a laptop, tablet and files, while it’s made to go with a power suit at the office.

Fjällräven Kånken

The Fjällräven Kånken backpack is big enough to carry a laptop up to 17 inches in size, while it’s stylish enough to turn heads during your daily commute to school or the office. It comes in 12 fun colors, including sky blue (pictured), blackberry, ox red and more.

Herschel Retreat

The Herschel Retreat is a no-frills backpack that’s stylish on the outside and surprisingly spacious on the inside. It has a main compartment with a dedicated laptop sleeve and small dump pocket on its front for easy to access things, like keys or hand sanitizer. Overall, it’s comfortable to wear, while it keeps your belongings safe and secure in a minimal design.

Away Quilted Everywhere Zip Backpack

For something different, the Away Quilted Everywhere Zip Backpack is padded all around with a fun design that resembles a puffy jacket. It has two compartments: One for your things, like books and folders, and another for your laptop. The backpack also has a passthrough sleeve for a rolling suitcase, just in case you want to take it on your next business trip or spring break.

If you’re still not finding what you’re looking for, we found more laptop backpacks that might be a better fit for you and your unique use-case.

Best of all? The laptop backpacks found below are all on sale for up to 35% off list prices at Amazon and Target , so you can pick up a laptop backpack and save some money at the same time. Scroll down and shop more of the best laptop backpacks, below:

• The North Face Recon, $89 (reg. $99) , Amazon
• JanSport Laptop Backpack, $41 (reg. $55) , Amazon
• Alpine Swiss 16-inch Laptop Backpack, $45 (reg. $60) , Target
• Kipling Seoul Large 15-inch Laptop Backpack, $80 (reg. $124) , Target
• Wrangler Industry Backpack Classic, $29 (reg. $43) , Target
• The North Face Vault, $52 (reg. $65) , Amazon
• Thule Crossover 2 Laptop Backpack, $226 (reg. $280) , Amazon

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• Letter O Monument

Learn about the local history of Cherepovets when you take a trip to Letter O Monument. Amble around the area's beaches or experience its theater scene.

History and Heritage Administration

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Cherepovets (CEE)

Cherepovets Airport is an international airport in Botovo village, Cherepovetsky District, Vologda Oblast, Russia, located 18 kilometres north of Cherepovets. The airport has the head office of Severstal Air Company.

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Address Russia

Coordinates 59°16'46.633" N 38°1'21.418" E

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