Backpack for work

[Dreamerinme]

I’m looking for a new backpack for work and was hoping I might find something in the sales.

It needs to be waterproof, have zip opening, big enough for daily essentials plus lunch and water bottle. Must have decent shoulder straps rather than thin strips which I’ve found uncomfortable before.

I’d like leather but realise that for up to £50 I won’t get that, but I’d like it to look smartish, as opposed to a canvas gym bag. A neutral colour like black, tan or brown.

Has anyone got anything similar? I realise I’m looking for a practical item that hopefully looks nice enough, rather than a high fashion item!

I've got this one - I haven't really tested just how waterproof it is, but it's got plenty of room for everything I need for work:

https://amzn.eu/d/6QhC9qT

Not in your budget I'm afraid but I quite like https://kapten-son.com/en/p/bergen-sandstone-4

Think it is worth investing in a decent backpack that will go the distance.

I dont recall the bag name but the lining was dark turquoise

Pocket Top Handle Backpack Black | Backpacks | Accessorize UK
I have this one and its perfect. The last one I had lasted ages and they have slightly changed the front pocket for the better. Great price and in other colours.

I have a Gandy's Bali - lots of room (especially since its wider at the bottom) and a non-black lining, so that I can find stuff. It's a bit more 'edgy' than a standard backpack, and I like their ethics. Been using it for more than 3 years and it's still waterproof. Only complaint is the lack of pockets/ sections to separate/ find all the little bits!
https://gandysinternational.com/collections/bags-new?srsltid=AfmBOopz6W0LsmXdv1FdAhTRmfAjED3hllenpRrxkoXtQ708cA5MC-gw
(edited to add link, as it didn't work in my original message)

There is a thread on here showing what a few people have got already. I’ve treated myself now!

I have that and it holds so much. But it is quite heavy , so may be a consideration for some ,

Highly recommend Eastpak backpacks. They are made out of waterproof material but I don't think the seams are fully taped so sold as water resistant rather than waterproof.... but in my experience they are actually waterproof and more importantly they are just brilliant quality and look like new after even years of (ab)use (they have a 30 year guarantee).

If you really want fully waterproof you can buy a waterproof cover to go over any backpack.

@Stuck1001 , I have more than one and they're brilliant. I can get lots in them and even use one for work at times. I have a padded sleeve for the laptop.

Eastpak Padded Pak'R Backpack, 40 cm, 24 L, Black, TU : Eastpak: Amazon.co.uk: Fashion

Buy elsewhere not the company in the link.

Oops, mine go in the washing machine regularly due to having cats, you're supposed to hand wash them.

I came on to suggest the Mia tui Sydney, too. I have it in aubergine and I love it.

https://www.sweatybetty.com/shop/accessories/bags/essentials-motion-backpack-SB9307_Black.html#start=0&sz=24

I've used a version of this bag for work for 6 years, carry my laptop and lunch and notes in it and it's still going strong. Waterproof and has inside pocket and pocket for water bottle. Appreciate it's much higher than your budget and not leather but they have 20% off if you sign up and I would say well worth it for the durability. I also take it as hand luggage

@TheEllisGreyMethod nice bag but nearly twice the budget the op said

Sorry about the budget, but I have a Doc Marten's leather one (a pre-Covid model which still looks virtually brand new). It gets compliments ALL THE TIME and the Kiev box model is on offer ATM..
https://www.drmartens.com/uk/en_gb/kiev-leather-box-laptop-backpack-black/p/AB104001

It's incredibly comfortable to wear (as with musical instrument cases, comfort and feeling good is a lot more important than actual weight).

If you really can't justify busting the budget in this way, this one also looks interesting and excellent value, although I can't vouch for its comfort. https://www.amazon.co.uk/HULSH-Genuine-Leather-Backpack-backpack/dp/B07W22GPZJ?crid=37YUGH4B5R2LD&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.lpyhYEy5YxzLsz733LSKvVkWqikCMkE47vFWD3YKO1rJsjnJRFc38HSbYiBVqTxmiHKnuzM6amj2v_5_TjWvPfPHwWj0ZbSooT0GUpcTSA7bGzkhJ-3qokQPy8_SVJMiIM1z-oJuznKz9t3BDqfJQcnsDMAyy_e54vsGjZfFteSh7TpndksrcNmhgXGRREjROEKHX4WaHXs-dHW_-dTn7z0diE9CdUXlyH4dEZBIW7_ELrd1J2W3yDa-2JqnJv2tU8yKtrPWNnNb45CvTBJHcQNUhUJmv9UIz2TygJ0ls4fGHMGyOu6GwDA8V7usz0va_F7fMPDTyjIlV0DUzix5SkEbNQH7rZU7HuZiIXCZd7h9jWV00KPc57xlOTH9Gg0fQg7jTEJNMyvsCD9l2xzaO_df9XHzG9pyG5zkFYZTIhDk64UUoUkBQ9uDg44YcgRu.vId9Fmx0phfLCqFXXnubbPUF14Gcsg189pTrOLmb8Vc&dib_tag=se&keywords=leather+backpack+women&qid=1735334991&sprefix=leather+bac%2Caps%2C96&sr=8-57

Yep as I mentioned in my post with advice on how to get money off 👍

@TheEllisGreyMethod I looked at it the other day, do you use it often? The one I saw has threads which put me off.

I've used mine on weekdays for work since 2018 and I've used it on weekends away/hand luggage so it has had a fair bit of use but is still in great condition. Mine doesn't have threads though.

I like the Kah and Kee pleather backpacks with the doctor bag style zip openings. 😍

Multi-pockets, external bottle holders, many colour options, supportive straps. More professional looking than your average backpack. And only £40.00.

Kah&Kee Leather Laptop Backpack for Women, Waterproof & Anti-Theft, Ideal Nappy Bag for Work, Travel, Doctors & Teachers (Black II) : Amazon.co.uk: Computers & Accessories

I would describe them as water-resistant rather than waterproof though.

DH swears by eastpak, he cycles to work and they are spacious, weather proof and have good straps. I have a leather one with thin straps but it was more than your budget in the sale and tbh I love the way it looks but it's not practical

Bloody good post!
Amazing knowledge - genuinely impressed.

knomo backpacks - I know above your budget; but this is such a good bag, has lasted me 10 years and is still going strong - they have other styles as well. is very robust and worth the money

Roka is a nice brand of backpack. Some are in neutral colours.

https://kapten-son.com/en
I’m not sure if they have any sales on at the moment but I bought myself an excellent Tromso in a pre Black Friday sale for £47 and bought a Flynn as a present for Christmas for £70 (another sale price). I noticed the brand on a well dressed woman on a train

I have this from Amazon. It’s great. It opens wide so you can see everything inside. Been using it for 3 years and still good as new.

I've always loved my Herschel backpacks

They're really well made and last for years

herschelsupplyco.co.uk/shop/backpacks/classic-backpack-xl-26l?showSales=1&v=11380-05456-OS

herschelsupplyco.co.uk/shop/backpacks/heritage?showSales=1&v=10007-02093-OS