If you’re looking for an affordable, no-frills backpack that can handle your daily essentials—including a laptop—the AmazonBasics Backpack for Laptops up to 17 inches is a solid choice. Priced under $30, this backpack 
offers decent durability, ample storage, and a simple design that works for students, professionals, and travelers.
But is it the best budget backpack on Amazon? Let’s break down its features, compare it to similar backpacks, and see if it’s worth buying.
Key Features of the AmazonBasics Backpack
1. Spacious and Well-Organized
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Main compartment fits laptops up to 17 inches.
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Front pocket with organizer slots for pens, keys, and small items.
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Side pockets for water bottles or umbrellas.
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Zippered front pocket for quick-access items like phones or wallets.
2. Comfortable to Wear
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Padded shoulder straps reduce strain.
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Breathable mesh back panel for better airflow.
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Lightweight (only 0.75 lbs when empty).
3. Durable and Water-Resistant
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Made from polyester fabric with a water-resistant coating.
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Reinforced stitching for long-term use.
4. Simple, Minimalist Design
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Available in black, blue, gray, and red.
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No flashy logos—just a clean, professional look.
Pros and Cons
👍 Pros:
✔ Affordable (usually under $30)
✔ Fits most 17-inch laptops
✔ Lightweight and comfortable
✔ Decent organization pockets
✔ Water-resistant material
👎 Cons:
❌ Not as padded as premium backpacks
❌ Zippers can feel cheap over time
❌ Limited color options
Comparison Table: AmazonBasics Backpack vs. Competitors
| Feature | AmazonBasics Backpack | SwissGear Travel Gear 1900 | JanSport Right Pack | Matein Travel Laptop Backpack |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $19.95 | $72.99 | $45.00 | $29.99 |
| Laptop Size | Up to 17″ | Up to 17″ | Up to 15″ | Up to 15.6″ |
| Weight | 0.75 lbs | 2.2 lbs | 0.9 lbs | 1.0 lbs |
| Water-Resistant? | Yes (coated) | Yes (better protection) | Minimal | Yes (water-repellent) |
| Pockets | 3 + side pockets | 10+ (more organization) | 2 + side pockets | 5 + USB charging port |
| Warranty | 1-year limited | Lifetime | Lifetime | 1-year |
| Best For | Budget shoppers, students | Frequent travelers, professionals | Classic school use | Tech-savvy users, commuters |
Who Should Buy the AmazonBasics Backpack?
✅ Students – It’s affordable and fits textbooks, notebooks, and a laptop.
✅ Budget-conscious buyers – One of the cheapest decent backpacks on Amazon.
✅ Casual users – Great for daily commutes but not heavy-duty travel.
Who Should Look Elsewhere?
❌ Frequent travelers – The SwissGear 1900 offers better durability.
❌ Those needing extra padding – The Matein backpack has more cushioning.
❌ People who want a lifetime warranty – JanSport and SwissGear offer better warranties.
Final Verdict: 4/5 Stars
The AmazonBasics Backpack is a great budget option if you need a simple, functional backpack for school or work. It’s not the most premium, but for under $30, it does the job well.
If you want better durability or more features, consider the SwissGear 1900 or Matein Travel Backpack. But if you just need a reliable, no-fuss bag, the AmazonBasics backpack is a smart buy.
Need another option? Check this link for all School Backpacks on Amazon
Or read our Product Review about the Matein Backpack
