Nurses are at the core of the healthcare system. From taking care of patients to treating patients’ families with empathy and care, working as a nurse is one of the most demanding, physically and emotionally draining jobs you can have.
Having the right backpack can make a nurse’s life so much easier. Being equipped with the right hardware can help set them up for success before their shift even begins.
Nurses don’t need a simple backpack, they need the best of the best. That’s why I have created my list of the best backpacks for nurses.
Whether you’re a nurse yourself or are wanting to treat a loved one to something they need, this article is here for you.
1. Matein Mlassic Travel Laptop Backpack
If you are looking for a backpack that offers space and organizational pockets, then the Matein Mlassic Travel Laptop Backpack is perfect for you.
It can store all of your food, laptop, shoes and more while keeping everything in separate compartments.
You can also charge your gadgets on the go with the built-in charger and USB wire. Whether you have a long shift at the clinic or hospital, or you forgot to charge your phone the night before, this backpack will keep your mind at ease.
With thick, soft, ventilated multi-panel cushioning and low-strain, adjustable shoulder straps, you can also count on outstanding back support.
It’s made with a robust black metallic zipper and water-resistant polyester fabric, and it comes in seven gorgeous hues that go beautifully with most nursing scrubs.
Pros
- Size. Easily fit a 15.6 inch laptop and other valuables throughout the compartmental design.
- Price. Affordable price for a high quality backpack.
- Anti-Theft Pocket. Keep your valuables safe with the protected anti-theft pocket located at the back of the bag.
Cons
- Padding. The laptop compartment could use more padding to ensure your valuables are kept safe and secure.
2. Swissgear 1900 ScanSmart Laptop Backpack
Every daily commuter’s first option and a bestseller for SwissGear, the famous 1900 ScanSmart Laptop Backpack was designed to accommodate your active lifestyle.
The Swissgear 1900 BackPack features Swissgears incredible ScanSmart technology and RFID pockets that act as a built-in laptop case for laptops up to 17 inches.
The heavily padded back panel is fitted with great airflow ventilation technology for cooling on hot days.
Whether you are a student or a fully qualified nurse this backpack will soon become your favorite accessory.
This bag is incredibly pleasant to carry thanks to the curved straps, lightweight bespoke fabric, and plush, padded sections that are created to reduce stress on the back.
The organized compartments means that you can easily find the right supplies at the right time so you never have to worry.
Pros
- ScanSmart. Speeding through airport security is made possible by the unobtrusive ScanSmart lay-flat design, which enables laptop-in-case scanning through TSA X-ray machines.
- Shoulder Straps. Contoured and padded to help with built in suspension to keep the pressure off your shoulders and back.
- Airflow. Mesh fabric back panel with padding and Airflow for better back support and ventilation
Cons
- Not Sturdy. While made of great materials this bag will not sit up straight and will often fall over when placed on a solid surface.
3. Amazon Basics Laptop Backpack
While other brands may seem more trustworthy, AmazonBasics is a great option for a sturdy, roomy backpack to carry all of your daily needs.
This black backpack is made to suit all your requirements as a nursing student and has a 17-inch computer sleeve, stylish mesh side pockets for water bottles, and various sections to store all your textbooks and other trinkets.
This lightweight backpack is made of 100% durable polyester fabric meaning that is set to last you throughout the academic year and into your career as a nurse.
As long as you can get over there being a lack of colors, this backpack is a great candidate for keeping all of your valuables safe and organized throughout the day.
Pros
- Lightweight. Weighing 1.98 lbs compared to competitors of 2+ lbs this backpack is great for keeping the weight off your back.
- Material. Made of 100% polyester fabric, this backpack is made to last you well into your career as a fully qualified nurse.
- Front Pocket. Perfect for holding smaller items such as keys, pens and your cellphone for easy access.
Cons
- Color Range. This backpack is only available in black.
- Price. Compared to competitors this product is rather expensive.
4. Under Armour Backpack Hustle
If you need a backpack that looks good while also having the ability to satisfy your needs then you need to try out the Under Armour Hustle.
The bag benefits from Under Armour’s Storm technology, which provides it a waterproof and weather-resistant finish to always keep your things safe. It is also quite roomy, strong, and comfy.
You also have the room to store your laptop in the padded 15 inch laptop sleeve, store your valuables in the abrasion resistant bottom panel and keep water on hand with the 2 side pockets.
This bag was made for keeping your items safe throughout your shift, classes and commute.
On a shift and need a change of shoes and scrubs? Store them in the gusseted laundry bag which is located at the bottom of the bag. Keeping your clothes separate from your lunch box and other items which may spill.
Pros
- Storm Technology. This technology keeps the backpack waterproof and weather resistant, keeping your items safe from water damage.
- Laundry Bag, Located at the bottom of the bag, you can store shoes and a spare set of scrubs for when you need a change of clothes.
- Storage. Store your 15 inch laptop, water bottles and other valuables within the abrasion resistant compartments.
Cons
- Price. Is rather expensive compared to other backpacks on the market.
5. LOVEBOOK Laptop Backpack
If you are looking for a backpack that will hold all of your daily belongings but keep you stylish at the same time, the LOVEBOOK laptop backpack is here to save the day. Giving up your own personal style for a backpack just isn’t the way to go.
This surprisingly lightweight backpack offers 20L of volume through 18 organizational pockets and 2 large compartments.
The main compartment is made to stay wide open, giving you quick access to textbooks, office supplies, and other small items that frequently disappear inside the purported Bermuda’s Triangle that appears to reside at the bottom of conventional backpacks.
Made of premium grade polyester, padded shoulder handles, slip-resistant zippers, and reinforced seams the LOVEBOOK laptop backpack is made to last while keeping you in style.
The built-in USB charging port allows you to keep your electronics charged while you work, study, or commute so your devices are always as ready as you are.
Pros
- Style. Chic, compact and available in 9 colors this backpack is sure to keep you looking and feeling your best.
- 20L Volume. With 18 small pockets and 2 main compartments you can easily store and organize all of your valuables.
- Boning. Unlike other backpacks this one has boning around the sides and along the zip to keep your valuables in place and make it last longer.
- USB Charging Port. Keep all of your devices charged and ready to go with the USB Charging port.
Cons
- Capacity for Bigger Items. While this bag offers quite a few smaller pockets, the larger compartments may not be able to hold all of your bigger items.
Buyers Guide
When searching for a new backpack it is important that you consider it a part of your uniform. You want your backpack to be just as important as your scrubs and footwear when you make the morning commute to your place of work.
There are 7 factors to be considered when selecting a backpack as a nurse. We cover each one in detail to make sure you pick the right backpack for you.
Durability & Comfort
Durability and comfort are crucial. Look for high-quality backpacks that are both useful and stylish when you are shopping. Finding a product that will stand the test of time and provide you with years of worthwhile use is important.
Therefore, give preference to items that are well-made and offer the most organization, adaptability, and all-day comfort.
Your bag should be designed to keep up with you because we know that nurses and nursing students have hectic personal and professional lives.
As you will be using your backpack every day you will want to consider ones that are fitted with supportive, ergonomic wide-shoulder straps with fully-padded back paneling.
This will help keep the pressure off your back and shoulders throughout the day.
Ensure to adjust the shoulder straps so that they fit your body, this is what allows the bag to take the majority of the weight.
Otherwise you may experience straining and pulling on the neck, shoulders and back which will lead to pain and discomfort.
Space & Capacity
The space and capacity of your chosen backpack is an important factor to consider. You will be using this backpack almost everyday and often require it to hold all of your daily items.
From textbooks, food, to extra clothes and shoes for when things get messy.
What makes a backpack great for nurses? Lots of zippered pockets that allow you to organize your items in a way that works for you.
Whether the pockets are inside or outside of the main compartment, you want to have lots of room to store different items.
Think about what items you typically day on a regular day and how much room you require for it all to fit nicely and secure within a backpack.
Water & Food
Nurses and nursing students must prioritize self-care in order to provide care for others. The correct backpack can support fundamental necessities like being hydrated and fed.
Pay attention to backpacks that include storage components of various sizes when purchasing in-person or online.
A brilliant feature for a backpack to have is a mesh side pocket that is large enough to hold water or thermoses on the sides. This will allow you to quickly and easily grab water when you are on the go.
You can also use this space to store small snacks that allow you to have something quick to eat between caring for patients.
Your backpack should also have a compartment large enough to store a regular sized lunchbox.
When working a long shift it is important to ensure you are fueling your body correctly with healthy, high energy meals and snacks.
Easy To Clean
This is an element which is often forgotten. However, in recent years it has become more common to ensure that even your work accessories such as your backpack are cleaned regularly.
Your backpack of choice should be able to be sprayed with antimicrobial solutions and antibacterial wipes in order to prevent the spread of any infections and viruses which may attach themselves to your bag whilst lying in your work environment.
Porous fabrics, such as cotton or canvas, should be avoided since they can attract dust, grime, and bacteria. Instead, search for backpacks made of robust, water-resistant or waterproof, machine-washable, and wrinkle-free materials like nylon.
The smallest things count, so it’s crucial to consider having a grab hold at the top of the pack when thinking about cleanliness.
Instead of placing the backpack on the floor or under a nurse’s station desk, you may hang it up in a locker or staff lounge thanks to the handle.
Your backpack should also be machine washable. With the inevitable drips and spills of liquids and foods, you want to be able to give your bag a deep wash in the machine every so often to ensure it is clean and looking good as new.
Materials
As a nurse, you will be working in all types of conditions. Come rain or shine, you will be caring for patients and making the commute to and from work.
If your bag is made of low-quality materials that are not made for different weather conditions then you may find yourself in need of a replacement a lot sooner than you would think.
Bags made of cotton or canvas are not ideal. While they will look rather stylish, this material offers little to no protection to your belongings. You want a backpack that can withstand the rain and handle a few bumps as you pass by busy commuters.
Bags made of polyester or Nylon are much more suited. They offer water resistance and are wrinkle free meaning that you don’t have to worry about your belongings getting soaked in the rain.
Your bag of choice should also include padded compartments to further protect your valuables such as a laptop.
If you are still scared that a Nylon bag won’t protect your items from the rain, wrap them in a plastic bag from the grocery store to offer extra protection.
Laptop Compartment
Don’t overlook your technological requirements. Another important factor to think about when looking for THE ideal backpack is how you will move your cell phone, tablet, and/or laptop.
Choose one with specialized technology compartments or sleeves for more protection against everyday wear-and-tear and liquid spills to give yourself peace of mind.
If personal security is a concern, many high-end backpacks also come with anti-theft zipped pockets for storing your wallet, cash, jewelry, or smartphones.
Style & Design
While this may not be the most important thing when selecting a backpack, it is important that your backpack reflects who you are and your style. Even while you are in your nursing scrubs.
Find a bag with a sleek design or that is available in a range of bright colors. You may prefer neutral colors that involve a fun design.
Ensure you are not lost underneath the layers of scrubs and pick a bag that makes you feel like you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Selecting a backpack as a nurse may seem like a straightforward task, you may still have some questions.
That’s why I have answered some of the most commonly asked questions in regards to the best backpacks for nurses.
Can Backpacks Be Professional?
For their comfort and convenience, millennial workers are switching from attachés and briefcases to backpacks.
However, we advise avoiding bright or colorful prints when wearing formal attire and opting instead for a backpack in neutral colors like black, beige, brown, white, etc.
What Does A Nurse Need In Their Bag?
There are a whole range of items a nurse needs to store in their bag. Including a water bottle. Bages, stethoscope (see also ‘How To Wear A Stethoscope‘), a book for breaks time, phone charge, umbrella, weekly planner, and lotion.
The contents of a nurse’s bag differ from person to person.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are a freshman entering their first year of nursing school or are a fully qualified nurse with years of experience under their belt, a high quality backpack is essential.
Your backpack should have lots of room for all of your essentials and be sturdy enough to last through the bumps and scrapes of everyday life.
Take a look at my 5 top picks for the best backpacks for nurses to ensure that you find the right backpack for you.