Best Backpacks for Nurses Illustration

The 7+ Best Backpacks for Nurses and Students (2024)

by | Updated: Jan 14, 2024

As medical professionals, nurses often have to juggle various responsibilities and need tools that help them stay organized and prepared. One such essential tool is a reliable backpack that can store everyday items and medical supplies.

A well-designed backpack for nurses provides convenience and functionality while also being easy to clean and maintain.

As we dive into our top picks for the best backpacks for nurses, keep these considerations in mind to find the perfect match for your needs, and let us help you streamline your daily routine.

Best Backpacks for Nurses

LOVEVOOK Laptop Backpack for Nurses
Best Overall
  • Laptop storage up to 15.6 inches
  • External USB charging port
  • Water-resistant fabric
  • Multi-pocket design
  • Padded straps and back
MOSISO Sling Backpack
Budget Pick
  • Quick-access crossbody design
  • Multiple compartments
  • Water-repellent polyester
  • Adjustable strap
  • Lightweight, slim profile
THE NORTH FACE Women's Jester Laptop Backpack
Upgrade Pick
  • Padded sleeve for 15-inch laptops
  • FlexVent™ support system
  • Reflective bike-light loop
  • Dual water bottle pockets
  • Durable construction
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LOVEVOOK Laptop Backpack for Nurses

This backpack is a great choice for nurses who need a large, functional, and stylish bag to carry their everyday essentials.

Best Overall
LOVEVOOK Laptop Backpack for Nurses

A multi-pocket backpack with a dedicated laptop storage space, ergonomic design, and external USB charging feature.

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Pros

  • Large capacity with 19 pockets
  • Durable, water-resistant, and tear-resistant materials
  • Built-in padded laptop compartment and USB charging port

Cons

  • Might be too big for some people
  • Heavier than some other backpacks
  • Power bank not included for USB charging

The LOVEVOOK Laptop Backpack for Nurses is designed specifically for those in the nursing profession, offering a large capacity and numerous pockets to accommodate all your daily needs.

With 19 pockets and large dimensions of 12″L * 16″H * 7.5″D, this backpack can easily hold a laptop, A4 folders, bottles, umbrellas, clothes, college supplies, and travel essentials.

One of the standout features of this backpack is its durable construction. Made from tear-resistant, water-resistant, and abrasion-resistant polyester, the bag is not only stylish but also long-lasting.

The reinforced edges, steel frame, and cushioned cotton sewn around the laptop compartment all combine to provide additional protection for your essentials.

The built-in USB charging port is another practical feature that makes this backpack a must-have for busy nurses on the go. Although the power bank is not included, the charging port allows you to easily charge your phone while out and about, ensuring you’re never caught with a dead battery.

The LOVEVOOK Laptop Backpack for Women is a fantastic choice for nurses who need a durable, functional, and stylish bag to carry their belongings.

Its large capacity, numerous pockets, and added features such as the padded laptop compartment and USB charging port make it a practical and convenient option.

MOSISO Sling Backpack

This MOSISO Sling Backpack is perfect for nurses who are always on-the-go, providing convenience and versatility while keeping belongings organized.

Budget Pick
MOSISO Sling Backpack

A lightweight, water-repellent sling backpack with quick-access crossbody design, ideal for those on-the-move.

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Pros

  • Spacious compartments for various items
  • Adjustable and comfortable strap
  • Earphone hole for easy music access

Cons

  • Only one shoulder strap
  • Style may not be suitable for all customers

The MOSISO Sling Backpack is designed with nurses in mind, focusing on accessible storage solutions and comfort. The larger zippered compartment of the backpack is compatible with various tablets and iPads, ensuring that everything you need during your shift is within reach.

With multiple compartments and functional pockets, you can easily store your accessories, water bottles, and other essential items.

One standout feature of this backpack is its flexible satchel shoulder strap, which can be adjusted from 18 to 36 inches, accommodating various body types. The two available carrying options – left or right shoulder – relieve pressure while providing comfort.

The back panel is lightweight and breathable to make it more comfortable during long days at work.

Additionally, the MOSISO Sling Backpack has an earphone hole on the front pocket, so you can easily listen to music during your breaks without having to dig through your bag.

Made of durable, soft polyester material, this backpack features smoothly gliding zippers and secure strap clips for easy access to your belongings.

Designed specifically for adults, the MOSISO Sling Backpack is an excellent choice for nurses who need a comfortable, convenient, and versatile bag to keep them organized and ready throughout their shifts.

THE NORTH FACE Women’s Jester Laptop Backpack

The North Face Women’s Jester Laptop Backpack is an excellent choice for nurses seeking durability, comfort, and organization in a backpack.

Upgrade Pick
THE NORTH FACE Women's Jester Laptop Backpack

A durable backpack offering padded laptop storage, advanced FlexVent™ support, and enhanced visibility features.

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Pros

  • Endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association
  • FlexVent suspension system for comfort and support
  • Various compartments for organization and storage

Cons

  • Front pocket design may be inconvenient
  • Limited color options
  • More expensive than other options

The North Face Women’s Jester Laptop Backpack is designed with the needs of nurses in mind. The backpack is endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association, ensuring that it provides the necessary support and comfort for individuals who are constantly on their feet.

With a padded laptop sleeve, this backpack protects electronics from bumps and falls, which is a great feature for professionals needing to transport their devices.

One of the major highlights of this backpack is the FlexVent suspension system. This feature includes custom injection-molded and flexible shoulder straps, a padded mesh back panel, and a breathable lumbar panel, ensuring that wearers experience comfortable and ventilated support.

In addition, the backpack boasts multiple compartments for organization and storage, including a front compartment with secure-zip pockets, a tablet sleeve, key clip, and exterior water bottle pockets.

However, some users have expressed concerns regarding the front pocket design, as the zipper fully unzips the flap, which could lead to items spilling out. Additionally, there are limited color options available for this backpack, which restricts personalization.

It is also worth noting that this product is not intended for children under the age of 12, limiting its target audience.

Hap Tim Laptop Backpack

The Hap Tim Laptop Backpack is a top choice for nurses seeking a versatile and comfortable backpack with ample organization features.

Our Top Pick
Hap Tim Laptop Backpack

A spacious and versatile backpack designed for both work and leisure, ensuring organized storage and comfort.

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Pros

  • Excellent laptop protection with adjustable sleeve
  • High storage volume and numerous pockets
  • Doctor bag style large opening for easy access

Cons

  • Slightly stiff construction
  • Limited color options

The Hap Tim Laptop Backpack offers solid laptop protection for nurses on the go, thanks to its durable water-resistant exterior and well-padded adjustable sleeve for laptops up to 15.6 inches.

The adjustable sleeve ensures a snug fit, preventing laptops from swinging and bumping, a feature not found in many other bags.

Organization is a strength of this backpack, making it perfect for nurses who need to carry various items. With multiple pockets and sections, it accommodates essential items like pens, keys, tablets, smartphones, headphones, power banks, and cables.

Its doctor-bag style large opening allows for easy packing and unpacking, as well as quick access to exterior pockets.

The shock-absorbing shoulder straps and thick back padding provide maximum comfort, essential for long days in the medical field. However, some users might find the bag slightly stiff, but this could be attributed to its newness.

The backpack is available in limited color options and is not designed for children under 12. Overall, the Hap Tim Laptop Backpack is a reliable and functional bag for nurses who prioritize organization and comfort.

ETRONIK Lunch Backpack for Nurses

This ETRONIK backpack is a versatile choice for nurses seeking convenience and style, with an integrated lunch bag and USB charging port.

Our Top Pick
ETRONIK Lunch Backpack for Nurses

Specifically crafted for nurses, this backpack offers an insulated compartment for meals, ensuring freshness during long shifts.

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Pros

  • Detachable insulated lunch bag
  • Laptop protection and storage compartments
  • USB charging port

Cons

  • Reduced main compartment space when lunch bag is full
  • Limited to 15.6-inch laptops

The ETRONIK Lunch Backpack stands out due to its unique 2-in-1 design, combining a backpack and a lunch bag. This feature enables nurses to carry meals and snacks without occupying space in the main compartment.

The detachable lunch bag is insulated and made from cleanable materials, ensuring optimal food temperature and hygiene.

Designed with professionals in mind, this backpack offers ample storage and organization options. The main compartment includes a laptop sleeve that can accommodate up to a 15.6-inch device and separate sections for items like tablets, power banks, and documents.

Additionally, the side pockets are perfect for water bottles or umbrellas.

One of the most appealing aspects of this backpack is its built-in USB charging port, allowing you to charge your phone on-the-go (power bank not included).

The backpack’s durability and functionality make it a versatile companion for any nurse, teacher, or traveler looking for a combined laptop and lunch-carrying solution.

The ETRONIK backpack is designed for users over the age of 12, and when the lunch bag is full, the main compartment space is somewhat reduced.

However, the innovative design and thoughtful features make this backpack a top contender for nurses seeking a stylish and convenient option for work, travel, or everyday use.

MATEIN Nurse Backpack for Women

This MATEIN nurse backpack is a top choice for nursing professionals seeking organization, durability, and comfort.

Our Top Pick
MATEIN Nurse Backpack for Women

A stylish yet functional backpack tailored for female nurses, combining organizational pockets with a sleek design.

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Pros

  • Large capacity with many pockets
  • Multifunctional and removable organizer
  • High-quality, waterproof material

Cons

  • May be too large for some users
  • Straps may feel too heavy for some
  • No color options

The MATEIN Nurse Backpack for Women is designed with nursing professionals in mind, offering ample space and organization options. Its large capacity and numerous pockets make it easy to store and access all essential nursing supplies, such as a laptop, medical tools, and personal belongings.

Besides serving as a fantastic nursing backpack, this versatile bag can also be used for work, travel, college, and other activities by simply removing the medical supplies organizer. This feature makes it an ideal choice for those who need a multipurpose backpack for various aspects of their life.

The backpack is made from high-quality, waterproof material to ensure its longevity and protect the contents from damage. However, its size and straps might not be suitable for all users. Some may find it too large for their needs, while others could perceive the straps as too heavy.

Overall, the MATEIN Nurse Backpack for Women is a reliable and versatile option that meets the demands of nursing professionals.

With its extensive storage options, multifunctionality, and quality materials, it is definitely worth considering for those in need of an efficient backpack tailored to their occupation.

FALANKO Laptop Backpack for Nurses

A stylish and functional backpack choice for nurses who need a durable, spacious, and water-resistant bag with great organization features.

Our Top Pick
FALANKO Laptop Backpack for Nurses

Prioritizing both storage and style, this backpack provides ample space for nursing essentials and personal electronics.

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Pros

  • Large capacity and multiple pockets
  • Water-resistant and environmentally friendly materials
  • USB charging port and power bank pocket

Cons

  • Might be bulky for some users
  • No mention of warranty

The FALANKO Laptop Backpack for Nurses is a versatile and practical option for nurses in need of a reliable backpack. It is designed with multiple compartments and pockets, making organization and storage of essentials a breeze.

With its water-resistant and environmentally friendly materials, your belongings will be well protected in various settings.

The backpack features a convenient USB charging port and power bank pocket, ensuring that your electronic devices stay charged throughout the day.

Meanwhile, its wide opening design offers easy access to the contents, making it convenient for those always on the go. Comfort is also prioritized with padded back panels and adjustable shoulder straps, delivering a comfortable carrying experience.

As a note of caution, the backpack is not intended for children 12 and under. Its size may be bulky for users who prefer smaller and compact bags. Also, there is no mention of warranty, which buyers may want to consider before purchasing.

Nonetheless, the FALANKO Laptop Backpack for Women is a worthy investment for nurses seeking a stylish, functional, and durable backpack to accommodate their daily needs.

How to Choose the Best Backpack for Nurses

Choosing the best backpack for nurses is vital because they spend long hours on their feet, moving from one place to another, and require a reliable bag to store both their professional and personal essentials.

Nurses wearing backpack in hospital illustration

Here’s a guide to help you select the perfect backpack:

  • Storage Capacity: Nurses need to carry various items ranging from medical instruments, books, and laptops to snacks and personal items. Look for a backpack with multiple compartments and pockets to organize your stuff effectively.
  • Durability: The backpack should be made of high-quality materials that can withstand the daily wear and tear of a hospital or clinic environment. Opt for water-resistant or waterproof materials for added protection against spills.
  • Ergonomic Design: Long hours on the job mean a backpack needs to be comfortable. Padded shoulder straps, a ventilated back panel, and an adjustable sternum strap can make all the difference. The weight should be distributed evenly to prevent back or shoulder strain.
  • Easy to Clean: Given the environment nurses work in, the backpack should be easy to clean or wipe down. This will help maintain hygiene and ensure the bag looks new for a longer time.
  • Safety Features: Some backpacks come with anti-theft zippers or RFID protection pockets, which can be useful if you’re carrying personal items or electronic devices.
  • Size: Ensure the backpack fits the size of your laptop or tablet if you’re carrying one. Additionally, it shouldn’t be too large that it becomes cumbersome or too small that it can’t fit all your essentials.
  • Aesthetics: While functionality is crucial, you may also want a backpack that matches your personal style or professional appearance. There are many sleek and modern designs available that don’t sacrifice functionality for looks.
  • Price: While it’s essential to invest in a quality backpack, it doesn’t necessarily mean the most expensive one is the best. Determine your budget and compare features within that range to get the best value for your money.
  • Customer Reviews: Check out reviews from other nurses or professionals who have similar needs. This can give you insight into the real-world performance of the backpack.
  • Versatility: Consider a backpack that can be used in various settings – not just at the hospital but also for travel, studies, or everyday use.

Note: The best backpack for nurses should combine functionality, durability, and comfort. Take the time to assess your specific needs and preferences before making a decision. Investing in the right backpack can make a noticeable difference in your daily routine and long-term comfort.

FAQs About the Best Backpacks for Nurses

What are the Top Backpack Features for Nursing Students?

When choosing a backpack for nursing students, several features stand out as essential. We believe that the top features include: durable construction, multiple compartments for organization, accessibility, and ease of cleaning, as well as overall comfort.

A water-resistant or waterproof material will also prove beneficial in case of spills or inclement weather.

Which Backpacks Have the Best Organization for Nursing Supplies?

Backpacks with multiple compartments, pockets, and sleeves are ideal for nursing students.

Look for backpacks that offer several sections to organize and store your nursing supplies, such as stethoscope holders, designated spaces for medical instruments, and secured pockets for your laptop and textbooks.

How Do Nurse-Specific Backpacks Compare to Popular Brands Like North Face?

Nurse-specific backpacks designed with the unique needs of medical professionals in mind can offer advantages over popular brands like North Face.

These specialty bags often incorporate dedicated compartments and pockets specifically for medical equipment, so they may facilitate better organization of your essential supplies.

However, North Face and other popular brands may offer better general durability and comfort for everyday use.

Are There Any Backpacks Designed Specifically for Male Nurses?

While many backpacks are designed to be unisex, there are a few that cater specifically to men. Brands like Herschel, Timbuk2, and some styles from SwissGear offer backpacks with a more masculine aesthetic, such as darker colors and sleeker designs.

Functionally, these backpacks should be similar in terms of organization and storage capacity compared to their unisex or female counterparts.

Do Nurses Commonly Use Backpacks During Their Shifts?

In general, most nurses do not carry a backpack during their shifts. Instead, they typically rely on designated storage areas, rolling carts, or waist pouches to keep their essential supplies organized and within reach.

However, backpacks can be invaluable for transporting supplies to and from work, as well as during clinical rotations and field placements as a student.

What Size Backpack is Ideal for Nursing School Demands?

The ideal size of a backpack for nursing students will vary depending on individual needs and workloads.

In general, look for a backpack with a minimum capacity of 20-30 liters, which should be ample space to store your laptop, textbooks, and nursing supplies.

Adjust the size as needed based on your daily needs. Ensure that the backpack offers a comfortable fit while not being too bulky or cumbersome for daily use.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the best backpack for nurses hinges on prioritizing functionality, durability, and ergonomic comfort. Nurses often face long shifts and require a reliable pack to carry essential gear, from medical tools to personal items.

A great nurse backpack should offer ample storage, be easy to clean, and stand up to the daily wear and tear of hospital life.

By investing in a high-quality bag tailored to their needs, nurses can ensure they’re well-equipped and organized, allowing them to focus on their crucial role in patient care.

John Landry, BS, RRT

Written by:

John Landry, BS, RRT

John Landry is a registered respiratory therapist from Memphis, TN, and has a bachelor's degree in kinesiology. He enjoys using evidence-based research to help others breathe easier and live a healthier life.