How do you wash a rolling backpack?

Traditional backpacks can sometimes be can be laundered in a washing machine. However, since the rolling variety has metal and plastic components, this method won't work. Like suitcases, most rolling packs can be wiped down with a damp cloth or disinfectant wipe. For stuck-on residue or stains, use a mild solution of soap and water and a soft brush if needed. In any case, make sure to let your backpack air dry completely before packing it or storing it.

How should you pack a rolling backpack?

For travel, the best way to pack your rolling backpack is to roll up all your clothes as tightly as possible to save space or use packing cubes . Then use the various compartments and pockets to pack and organize your toiletries, tech gadgets, chargers, and other essentials. If you're using a rolling backpack for school, place your textbooks in the largest compartment and your laptop in the designated sleeve. Then pack your pens, folders, notecards, and anything else you need for class in the other pockets.

How do you attach a backpack to a rolling suitcase?

If your backpack doesn't already have a luggage strap or sleeve, you can buy an add-on strap which will let you secure any backpack to the handle of your luggage. You could also use the shoulder straps to secure it to the suitcase, but this tends to be less stable.

Do college students use rolling backpacks?

Most college students use traditional backpacks, but it's not uncommon to see students and professors toting their books in a rolling backpack. If you are carrying a lot of stuff, rolling backpacks are much better to use in order to prevent shoulder and back strain. However, some college students may avoid using them because they are bulky and take up more space when walking through busy hallways and up and down stairs.

The 11 Best Rolling Backpacks of 2023

Whether you need something for business travel, your daily commute to work or college classes, vacation, or are prepping for the back-to-school season, there's a wheelable backpack out there for you.

Rolling backpacks offer enough space and pockets for all of your work or school essentials without the stress on your back and shoulders. Plus, many options are super stylish and come in a variety of different colors to choose from.

When browsing options, you'll want to consider the size, material, pockets, and compartments. We researched the best rolling backpacks on the market to help you find the perfect one for you.

In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust The Spruce

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Matein.com

What We Like

Waterproof
Lots of storage compartments
Designated laptop sleeve

What We Don't Like

Doesn't fit as a personal item

For the best in quality, performance, and aesthetics, the winner is without a doubt made by MATEIN. Most traditional backpacks are made of polyester, but this option also features a water-resistant construction, and the bottom panel is completely waterproof.

This wheelable pack has a roomy main compartment, a built-in sleeve for laptops up to 17 inches, a zippered file holder, and a separate multi-pocket compartment for organizing all your smaller items. There's also a larger option for commuters or college students that have a bit more gear to tout every day. Just note, this option may be too large for a personal item on a flight.

Slightly larger than most standard rolling backpacks, this pack has a 35-liter capacity, so it’s great for kids looking for a pack they can grow into and keep for years to come. The pull handle can be conveniently tucked into the unit or locked into place at two different heights. There are also well-padded shoulder straps in case it needs to be carried from time to time.

Price at time of publish: $80

_{Size: 19.6 x 13 x 9 inches | Material: Polyester, aluminum handle | Extra Features: Waterproof, laptop pocket, 2 mesh water bottle pockets | Number of Wheels: 2}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Home Depot View On Walmart

What We Like

Budget-friendly
Lots of colors
Suitable for adults or kids

What We Don't Like

Small

The wallet-friendly Rockland Double Handle Rolling Backpack is an excellent choice for adults and kids alike. Note that it's slightly smaller than average, but the compact design makes it all the more portable.

This backpack-suitcase combo is made of durable polyester with a plastic stand and a metal telescoping handle. It comes in a handful of colors and patterns, including sophisticated neutrals, polka dots, and leopard print.

Price at time of publish: $80

_{Size: 13 x 10 x 17 inches | Material: Polyester, plastic | Extra Features: Side mesh water bottle holder, telescoping handle | Number of Wheels: 4}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Adorama.com

What We Like

Compact size
Designated laptop sleeve
Convenient compartments

What We Don't Like

Heavy for its size

Targus' Compact Rolling Business and Travel Commuter Backpack is a great lightweight and reliable pack versatile enough for everyday use that's also durable enough for travel. Stash away your on-the-go food containers in the large, main zippered compartment with a fully-padded interior sleeve designed to fit laptops up to 16 inches, and two mesh pockets on either side of the exterior.

Made with durable polyester and a soft-touch neoprene carrying top handle, it’s resistant to wear and tear and includes quiet roller wheels for a smooth commute. Its retractable handle is easy to use and the optional tuck-away shoulder straps convert it into a traditional backpack when needed. The best part? An optional extended compartment for when you need to pack a little heavier.

Price at time of publish: $135

_{Size: 13.8 x 9 x 19 inches | Material: Polyester, neoprene | Extra Features: Laptop pocket, two side mesh pockets/water bottle holder | Number of Wheels: 2}

Walmart

View On Amazon

What We Like

Reasonably priced
Suitable for children
Comes in kid-friendly prints

What We Don't Like

Wheels may wear if bag is overstuffed

The J World Sunrise is an excellent kid-friendly backpack that we loved during testing. It comes in several kid-friendly prints, like strawberries, colorful dots, and owls, as well as some simpler hues.

Air-mesh cushioned shoulder straps make it comfy to carry, while a push-button handle and smooth wheels allow kiddos to roll it around with ease. We also like that it has a mesh water bottle pocket, a key fob, and a pencil holder. Inside, there are plenty of pockets and organizers to store books and other school supplies. During testing, the backpack withstood being maneuvered multiple times by a 3-year-old, proving its durability. Even when using it in the rain, we noticed no stains or odor. The only concern we have it about posture for kids when using a rolling backpack, but this one easily converts to a normal backpack if the child prefers.

Price at time of publish: $75

_{Size: 18 x 13 x 9 inches | Material: Polyester, metal handle | Extra Features: Airflow back panel, water resistant, reflecting tape, 2 mesh water bottle pockets | Number of Wheels: 2}

Swiss-army-victorinox-vx-sport-wheeled-cadet-backpack

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Victorinox.com

What We Like

Sleek design
Designated laptop sleeve
Meets carry-on size requirements

What We Don't Like

Wheels may be noisy

If you've got a trip coming up, you might consider getting this rolling backpack from Swiss Army. "The Victorinox is an easy choice with an affordable price-point and quality," says travel expert Sarah Dandashy of Ask a Concierge. "Its look is a little more rugged, but you can never go wrong with anything Victorinox."

This pick is spacious for your essentials, like a toiletries bag, but still compact enough to pass as a carry-on for air travel. Also, it has a padded laptop sleeve, an electronics pocket, and zip-away shoulder straps for ultimate convenience and versatility.

Price at time of publish: $190

_{Size: 20.8 x 14.4 x 10.23 inches | Material: Polyester | Extra Features: Laptop pocket, padded straps, built-in air-flow channels | Number of Wheels: 2}

The 7 Best Luggage of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Netpack-stand-alone-35-2-wheeled-travel-duffel

Amazon

View On Amazon

What we like

Ball-bearing wheels
Moisture-resistant
Spacious main compartment

What we don't like

Only one color option

Need something a bit more spacious? Check out this rolling duffle bag from Netpack. You'll have plenty of packing room in the main compartment, not to mention the four side pockets.

The durable outer material is laminated for moisture resistance, and a thermoplastic frame helps it stand up straight without support. Ball-bearing wheels and a gripped telescope handle make this versatile luggage easy to tote around too.

Price at time of publish: $181

_{Size: 14 x 16 x 35 inches | Material: Polyurethane, vinyl, nylon | Extra Features: Water resistant, non-slip strap | Number of Wheels: 2}

Amazon

View On Amazon

What We Like

Roomy
Sleek design
Sturdy and stable

What We Don't Like

Not many pockets

Whether walking around campus or traveling from class to class, college students have a ton of essentials they need on hand at all times. This sleek rolling backpack easily fits a laptop or tablet, textbooks, notebooks, binders, and more—making it a gift a college student can really use, along with shower totes and gripper socks. Stick a water bottle or umbrella in the side mesh pockets and you're on your way.

The water-resistant polyester fabric proves durable and sturdy, while an adjustable handle and cushioned straps make this pick perfect for all types of students. There's even an external USB charging port to keep all of your college student's devices charged on the go.

Price at time of publish: $100

^{Size: 13 x 9 x 19 inches | Material: Polyester fabric | Extra Features: Laptop sleeve, cushioned straps, water bottle holder | Number of Wheels: 2}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Belk.com

What We Like

Fits under airport seats
Lightweight
Fun colors and designs

What We Don't Like

Not as sturdy as other options

For a lightweight option that won't hurt your back or your arms when pulling, look to the Everest rolling backpack. At just four pounds, this pick doesn't sacrifice space: It provides tons of pockets for office or travel essentials, like a trusty notebook. The backpack features two main compartments, six front pockets, and three side pockets so everything stays organized and accessible. We love that it comes in fun color options like bright pink or turquoise blue.

Price at time of publish: $60

_{Size: 13 x 7 x 18.5 inches | Material: Not Listed | Extra Features: Six front pockets, three side pockets | Number of Wheels: 2}

Amazon

View On Amazon

What We Like

Fits large laptop
Tall handle
Spacious

What We Don't Like

Backpack unzips fully so content may fall out

If you need to transport a large laptop to or from class or work, consider the rolling backpack from Ambor. It fits a laptop up to 15.6 inches in a padded, protective sleeve. Additionally, it includes a compartment for files, tablets, or E-readers and side compartments for water bottles or umbrellas.

Unlike other picks, the Ambor backpack has a cover for your wheels when worn as a backpack. This way, dirt from the wheels won't get on your back or clothes. The anti-tear fabric resists water as well, for a truly durable and long-lasting luggage option.

Price at time of publish: $90

_{Size: 21 x 14 x 7 inches | Material: Polyester | Extra Features: Laptop sleeve, tablet compartment, water bottle holder | Number of Wheels: 2}

Amazon

View On Amazon

What We Like

Waterproof
Fun patterns
Comes with lunch bag

What We Don't Like

Bag can tip over if full

From cacti and kiwis to dinosaurs and donuts, Tilami has all of the fun designs to make back to school or back to the office a bit more exciting. The multiple compartments can hold books, laptops, and more, while the wheel covers keep your clothes clean.

Even better, this option comes with a matching lunch bag, so your elementary or middle schooler has everything they need for their day. They can choose their favorite print for a cohesive look for their school essentials.

Price at time of publish: $95

_{Size: 16 x 12.5 x 6 inches | Material: Not Listed | Extra Features: Comes with lunch bag | Number of Wheels: 2}

Walmart

View On Amazon View On Walmart View On Jansport.com

What We Like

Durable and long-lasting
Detachable straps
Tons of room

What We Don't Like

Pricey

For weekend trips when you just want to take one bag with you, this option easily transitions from a carry-on to a day-to-day bag. The Jansport Driver 8 features detachable straps to roll your items through the airport with ease. It fits snugly in the overhead compartment of a plane or train.

Once you arrive at your destination, add the straps back on for a comfortable bag to accompany you during your travels. The spacious interior fits all of your clothing or devices, while the materials prove to be long-lasting and durable for years to come.

Price at time of publish: $150

_{Size: 21 x 14 x 10 inches | Material: Denierpolyester, Denier Nylon | Extra Features: Detachable straps, laptop sleeve | Number of Wheels: 2}

Final Verdict

If you're looking for a high-quality rolling backpack that'll last you several years or more, your best bet is the MATEIN Wheeled Backpack. You'll appreciate its generously sized compartments, maneuverable design, and weather-resistant material. For those looking for something more budget-friendly, we recommend the Rockland Double Handle Rolling Backpack (view at Amazon). While this rolling pack is on the smaller side, it's suitable for kids and adults and comes in a range of colors.

Size

When shopping for a rolling backpack, the most important consideration is the overall size. Mid-size options are about 21 x 14 x 9 inches, which passes as carry-on luggage for air travel and is usually plenty big for most laptops. Smaller designs are closer to 19 x 13 x 9 inches, give or take, and typically fit smaller laptops. If you need the space, you can also find some larger duffle-style options, which will be more like 35 x 16 x 16 inches.

Material

Like traditional backpacks, the outer material on most rolling backpacks is polyester or nylon. The durable fabric is often laminated or otherwise treated for water resistance. Nylon is often more weather and water-resistant, as seen in the Jansport Driver 8 Backpack. You'll also find hard-shell options, which are typically made of polycarbonates (PC), a type of heavy-duty thermoplastic.

Extra Features

Rolling backpacks typically come with at least a few pockets, but if you need something specific, look out for extra features. This may include a designated laptop sleeve, like our Best Overall pick, water bottle holder (there are two on the J World New York Sunrise Kids Rolling Backpack), key fob, secret hidden compartment, file divider, tech pocket, cord port, zip-away straps, or weather-proof flaps for stormy weather.

"For me, having multiple compartments for all of my electronics as well as being lightweight are the two most important features of a rolling backpack," says Dandashy. "Of course, a nice sleek design is imperative too—something classy yet functional."

FAQ

How do you wash a rolling backpack?

Traditional backpacks can sometimes be can be laundered in a washing machine. However, since the rolling variety has metal and plastic components, this method won't work. Like suitcases, most rolling packs can be wiped down with a damp cloth or disinfectant wipe.
For stuck-on residue or stains, use a mild solution of soap and water and a soft brush if needed. In any case, make sure to let your backpack air dry completely before packing it or storing it.
How should you pack a rolling backpack?

For travel, the best way to pack your rolling backpack is to roll up all your clothes as tightly as possible to save space or use packing cubes. Then use the various compartments and pockets to pack and organize your toiletries, tech gadgets, chargers, and other essentials.
If you're using a rolling backpack for school, place your textbooks in the largest compartment and your laptop in the designated sleeve. Then pack your pens, folders, notecards, and anything else you need for class in the other pockets.
How do you attach a backpack to a rolling suitcase?

If your backpack doesn't already have a luggage strap or sleeve, you can buy an add-on strap which will let you secure any backpack to the handle of your luggage. You could also use the shoulder straps to secure it to the suitcase, but this tends to be less stable.
Do college students use rolling backpacks?

Most college students use traditional backpacks, but it's not uncommon to see students and professors toting their books in a rolling backpack. If you are carrying a lot of stuff, rolling backpacks are much better to use in order to prevent shoulder and back strain. However, some college students may avoid using them because they are bulky and take up more space when walking through busy hallways and up and down stairs.

Theresa Holland is an experienced commerce writer with a background in travel and lifestyle. She has been contributing to The Spruce since 2019, where she covers home goods, kids' products, and everyday essentials. For this story, she spoke with a travel expert and considered dozens of rolling backpacks, carefully evaluating the size, material, compartments, and extra features of each item before making her selections.

Additional reporting was done by Julia Fields, a lifestyle writer for The Spruce covering all things surrounding toys, gifts, and the holidays since October 2021. Before that, she covered similar topics including toy reviews, product round-ups, crafts, and more.

Expert advice was provided by travel expert Sarah Dandashy of Ask a Concierge.