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If you’re a remote worker or frequent business traveler, you’re probably well acquainted with certain challenges that crop up on the road—specifically, finding decent Wi-Fi and hauling your laptop everywhere you go. While the internet issue can be solved with the right work-from-anywhere technology, the laptop conundrum requires an in-depth exploration of the travel bag market.
Not to worry, though: I’ve done the research for you. As a travel writer who never boards a plane without two laptops (one for my full-time job, one for personal projects), I’ve made it my mission to find a laptop bag that’s comfortable, versatile, and, most importantly, functional. Along with my computers, I need it to hold multiple chargers, a reusable water bottle, a book, headphones, small toiletries, and my passport and wallet.
For the last 15 months, that bag has been a Lo and Sons backpack. Called the Rowledge and marketed as a “do-it-all” bag—it also converts into a tote or briefcase, thanks to convertible straps—the Rowledge has the capabilities of both a high-quality laptop carrier and a multifaceted travel bag. It’s made of premium nylon and leather, comes in seven colorways, and comes in two sizes—I use the large one, but the small is less than an inch shorter. The backpack is designed with organization and purpose in mind, as evidenced by its multiple pockets and practical compartments,.
I use the two largest compartments of the bag, which close with water-resistant zippers, the most during my travels. While my 13-inch laptop slides smoothly into the dedicated laptop compartment, I can also fit my 16-inch laptop into the spacious middle section—with plenty of surrounding room. I often fill that space with a book, an extra layer, or a thin pouch or Dopp kit. A secret zippered passport pocket sits between those two main compartments; when I’m not traveling internationally, I’ll use this area to hold anything I need easy access to—like my credit card case and AirPods.
To avoid any unfortunate incidents involving electronics and liquids, I prefer to have my water bottle separate from the contents of my bag. The Rowledge checks this box with two outer zippered pockets that keep drinks safe and secure. When not in use, the pockets lay flat and out of the way. One additional pocket on the front of the bag rounds out the backpack’s organizational features. Roomy and easily accessible, it’s the perfect place to stash lip balm, hand sanitizer, and tissues. Even with all of these additional pockets and compartments, the backpack is far from bulky. When packed to the brim, the Lo and Sons backpack still classifies as a personal item, comfortably sliding beneath most airplane seats.
As you can imagine, two laptops tend to weigh down my backpack. Although the Rowledge’s shoulder straps are padded and adjustable, I’ll give my shoulders a break whenever possible. It’s during those times that the back panel pass-through sleeve comes in handy. Instead of carrying the bag by its top handles, I’ll slip it over my suitcase’s retractable handle, alleviating any extra weight and pressure I’ve been carrying around.
If you, like me, are a frequent traveler, a remote worker, or just someone who could use a little help in the organization department, there is no better option than the Rowledge backpack. While the $465 price tag is steep, you’ll use this laptop bag for years to come. Plus, it’s often marked down anywhere from 30 to 50 percent off, so keep an eye out for sales and promotions, especially with the holidays coming up.
