7 Best Locking Laptop Bags to Buy in 2025

If you’re tired of lugging heavy gear through airports or hauling a bulky briefcase on business trips, the BAGSMART Rolling Laptop Bag is a game-changer. This 40L powerhouse combines the smooth glide of dual rubber wheels, a telescoping trolley handle up to 25.6 inches, and a TSA-approved locking zipper system—making it a top-tier travel companion for professionals who demand both security and convenience. With a padded 17.3-inch laptop compartment, it’s built for those who carry high-value electronics and need all-in-one portability without sacrificing protection.

In real-world testing, this rolling bag slips effortlessly into overhead bins and handles uneven airport tiles, curbs, and train platforms with surprising ease. The tested rubber wheels resist jamming, while the trolley strap lets you pair it with larger suitcases—perfect for multi-city trips. The interior layout shines with dedicated spaces for files, accessories, and even a few days’ clothing, making it ideal for overnighters. However, the rigid structure and weight (when fully loaded) make it less practical for walking long distances—this isn’t a bag for urban commuters who hoof it across city blocks.

Compared to traditional briefcases or backpacks, the BAGSMART rolls where others struggle, offering superior load distribution and TSA-friendly access. It’s the clear choice over shoulder-strapped alternatives when luggage endurance and airport efficiency are priorities. While it’s larger than most day bags, its versatility bridges the gap between briefcase and carry-on, outperforming flat laptop cases in storage and mobility. For frequent travelers, it delivers more functionality per square inch than any non-rolling contender in the lineup.

The Omnpak 15.6-inch Locking Briefcase is a sleek, no-nonsense solution for professionals who want instant access and theft deterrence in a single slim profile. What sets it apart is its side-mounted combination lock—a rare feature that instantly elevates it above standard messenger bags by securing zippers with a flick. The polyester foam padding and soft-lined interior provide solid bump protection, while the compact 16.1-inch length ensures it won’t snag in crowded elevators or train aisles. It’s the kind of bag that says “I mean business” without screaming it.

During daily commutes and short trips, this briefcase proves incredibly efficient—its 1.7-pound frame disappears on your shoulder, and the front organizer pocket keeps pens, adapters, and IDs within reach. The 15.4-inch laptop sleeve fits most mainstream models snugly, though oversized gaming laptops or thick MacBook Pro cases may push the limits. On rough pavement or rainy days, the water-repellent fabric holds up well, but the lack of full waterproofing means prolonged exposure will eventually seep through. It’s not built for monsoons, but it handles drizzle like a pro.

When stacked against the bulkier rolling bags or USB-packed backpacks, the Omnpak wins on minimalism and discretion. It’s not trying to do everything—just protect your laptop and keep it locked. That makes it a smarter pick than feature-heavy rivals for lawyers, notaries, or anyone who walks into courtrooms or client meetings where professional appearance and quick access matter. While it lacks charging ports or expandable storage, it delivers more polish and security than any backpack under $50, making it the benchmark for locking briefcases.

The WENIG Anti-Theft Laptop Backpack packs a surprising amount of tech-savvy features into a budget-friendly shell, making it a standout performer for value seekers. What grabs attention first is the built-in USB charging port—a rare inclusion at this price—paired with a fixed password lock and hidden anti-theft back pocket, delivering serious peace of mind for students and urban commuters. The 17.7-inch height fits under airplane seats, and the 9 inner pockets keep everything from pens to power banks in their rightful place. It’s the kind of bag that turns chaos into order.

In real-world use, the water-resistant Oxford cloth shrugs off light rain, and the metal zippers glide smoothly even after weeks of daily use. The padded laptop sleeve fits 15.6-inch devices securely, while the side pockets comfortably hold a 20oz water bottle and compact umbrella. The built-in headphone jack lets you listen on the move without digging through pockets—perfect for podcast lovers. However, the strap padding is thinner than premium models, so extended wear on hot days can feel a bit oppressive. It’s efficient, but not built for marathon hikes.

Against similarly priced rivals, the WENIG outshines most with its thoughtful feature set and anti-theft focus. It’s more secure than basic backpacks and far more functional than minimalist totes. While it doesn’t have the rugged durability of pricier bags, it offers 80% of the performance at 25% of the cost. For students, freelancers, or travelers who need a reliable, charging-ready pack without breaking the bank, it’s a smarter long-term investment than the ultra-cheap no-name alternatives.

Don’t let the ultra-low price tag fool you—the Mancro Laptop Backpack is a quiet overachiever in the sub-$20 category, delivering essential security and convenience without fluff. Its fixed anti-theft lock, USB charging port, and S-curve padded shoulder straps make it feel like a much more expensive bag, especially for students or budget-conscious professionals who still want reliable laptop protection. The 18-inch height ensures airline under-seat compatibility, and the multiple internal pockets keep gadgets and documents sorted with ease.

On daily commutes, the sturdy polyester fabric stands up to backpack jostling, and the metal zippers show no signs of snagging or fraying. The 15.6-inch padded compartment fits most laptops securely, though the back panel lacks ventilation, making it slightly stuffy during summer walks. The USB port works seamlessly with power banks, and the side pockets fit standard water bottles—small wins that add up. Where it falls short is in drop protection; the padding is adequate but not shock-absorbent, so a hard fall could spell trouble for fragile devices.

Compared to the WENIG model, the Mancro trades some pocket organization for better strap comfort and build consistency. It doesn’t have as many internal dividers, but the ergonomic S-curve straps reduce shoulder strain noticeably. For anyone who carries their bag for hours, this subtle difference can be a game-changer. While it won’t match premium backpacks in durability, it offers the best balance of comfort and security under $20, making it a smarter pick than no-name clones.

If you’re packing a large 17-inch laptop or need massive storage for travel, the LOVEVOOK 17-inch Backpack is a rare find—a true big-laptop carrier that doesn’t sacrifice security or style. With a 45L capacity and 18 pockets, it’s engineered for digital nomads, engineers, or creatives who carry heavy gear and refuse to check bags. The lay-flat opening design is a security checkpoint dream, letting you spread the bag open like a suitcase for easy screening—no more unpacking at TSA. Add a fixed password lock and dual-zippered padded compartment, and you’ve got serious anti-theft credentials.

In real-world testing, this backpack handles heavy loads with stability, thanks to its wide padded shoulder straps and built-in luggage strap. The 18.9-inch height fits most carry-on requirements, and the high-density polyester shrugs off rain like a raincoat. The USB charging port works flawlessly with external batteries, and the key ring holder prevents lost keys in chaotic transitions. However, the bulkiness becomes apparent in tight spaces—subway crowds or narrow airplane aisles—and the weight climbs fast when fully packed. It’s a powerhouse, but not a stealthy one.

Against other large-capacity packs, the LOVEVOOK stands out by supporting 17.3-inch laptops—a feature most competitors ignore. While the Mancro and WENIG focus on compactness, this model embraces maximum utility. It’s less agile than smaller bags but unmatched in raw storage and organization. For professionals who need one bag to rule work, travel, and tech, it delivers more space and security than any similarly priced 15.6-inch alternative, making it the undisputed king of large-laptop travel.

The LOVEVOOK Unisex Laptop Backpack is a masterclass in organization, boasting over 20 pockets across 6 compartments—a feature set that feels almost obsessive in its attention to detail. Whether you’re a nurse juggling shift supplies, a teacher packing lesson plans, or a student hauling textbooks, this bag anticipates your chaos and tames it. The dedicated laptop and iPad compartments are padded and zipped, while the anti-theft back pocket and fixed password lock ensure your essentials stay safe in crowded spaces. It’s not just a backpack—it’s a mobile command center.

During daily use, the high-density polyester proves tear-resistant and water-repellent, surviving rain showers and rough handling. The 12-inch depth offers surprising volume, and the two water bottle pockets are perfectly sized for standard bottles. The USB charging port adds modern convenience, though like others, it doesn’t include a power bank. Where it stumbles is in strap breathability—the padding lacks airflow, leading to sweat buildup on hot days. And while the pocket count is impressive, some are so small they’re more clutter than help.

Next to the Omnpak briefcase or Mancro pack, this LOVEVOOK model wins on sheer organizational power. It’s not the slimmest or lightest, but for anyone who needs maximum compartmentalization, it’s unmatched. While the WENIG offers better value, this one delivers more structure and storage. For professionals who carry multiple devices, documents, and personal items, it offers better long-term usability than simpler designs, making it the top pick for organized multitaskers.

The LOVEVOOK Women’s Leather Laptop Tote redefines what a professional laptop bag can be—stylish, secure, and surprisingly functional. Crafted from water-resistant cross-pattern PU leather, it exudes boardroom-ready elegance while offering practical security features like a magnetic outer pocket and anti-theft zip-top closure. The reinforced flat bottom with 4 rivets prevents scuffing, and the stretchable key fob makes finding your keys a breeze—small touches that reflect thoughtful design. It’s the rare bag that looks expensive without costing a fortune.

In real-world use, the 16.9-inch length fits 15.6-inch laptops comfortably, and the interior layout includes pen slots, document pockets, and side sleeves for power banks or bottles. The removable shoulder strap (adjustable up to 49 inches) allows crossbody wear, perfect for hands-free commuting. The included 8.7-inch clutch is a standout bonus—ideal for storing passports, snacks, or earbuds. However, the lack of padding on the exterior means drops can damage the structure, and the non-padded handles can dig into your palms when fully loaded.

Compared to the utilitarian backpacks in this lineup, this tote trades tech features for aesthetic refinement. It doesn’t have USB charging or anti-theft locks, but it outshines them in professional appearance. While the Omnpak briefcase is more secure, this one delivers more polish and versatility for women who move between office, classroom, and client meetings. For those who value style as much as function, it offers better visual impact and gifting appeal than any other model—making it the ultimate professional statement bag.