SwissGear Civic Pro Laptop Backpack, Black, 18"x13.25"x7"

MimolaUnited States

Everything I wanted and more

I traveled for many years with a SwissGear Wenger Ibex backpack that originally had been my husband’s. It wore like steel and held a ton. But after our last international trip, I realized some things about it were frustrating me and thus began my quest for a replacement. Ask anyone who knows me well and they’ll tell you I analyze things to the nth degree before I make a decision. So yes, it was a quest. The bottom line: After much research among many brands, I narrowed it down to four backpacks that, from their online descriptions, might fit my criteria. They were SwissGear models 5698, 2789, Shield, and Civic Pro. After comparing all four at home including test packing, the Civic Pro was my clear winner. My criteria: 1) Just two main compartments (including one for laptop and files) plus front access storage, without a lot of small pockets and zipped areas. This was really important because it had dawned on me that I spent a lot of time getting frustrated as I unzipped the Wenger Ibex’s many compartments and pockets, trying to find something I was looking for. As much as I told myself while packing to pay attention to where I put things, during travel that always went out the window. There were just too many compartments and zipped pockets to keep track of. I realized I’d do much better with big, uncluttered compartments that I could fill as desired with good use of packing cubes, ziplock bags, and other containers of my choice to keep stuff organized. 2) Fit airline rules for an under-seat personal item. The Wenger Ibex didn’t always do that, especially when packed full. 3) Two bottle pockets, one for my hot beverage and one for my water bottle. 4) A durable bottom to hold up to concrete sidewalks and airport floors. 5) Desired but not dealbreakers: Key fob, well-padded straps, trolley sleeve. The Civic Pro fits all those criteria and more. The front buckle straps are an unexpected bonus, great for carrying my travel blanket, pillow, and/or my jacket, instead of having to stuff them in an internal compartment or hang them from a carabiner. I also like being able store my pens, paper clips, mini stapler, scissors, and tape all together in one laminated, zipped pocket instead of dealing with the individual open pockets that many backpacks have for desk accessories. Excellent job, SwissGear!

MelanieUnited States

Best Backpack

I researched for a while and was still worried that the reviews weren’t 5/5, but I give it a 5/5 personally. It has a place for my laptop that is good quality along with a very good amount of pockets. I would buy this bag again. Definitely. If I ever needed to. I like putting my sweatshirt on the back of the backpack on the outside using the straps. It’s professional, good for the plane (which I have brought it on and also have put it on my suitcase handle when pulling that), and I have brought it to the gym. It’s stylish. I love the shape and the black metal logo. I just freaking love it.

SLFUnited States

Great for travel

We bought this as a replacement for air travel. Our previous back pack, which was a cheaper brand had the zipper break after just a few trips. This one seems to be really great quality and after our first trip we feel it works great. We love all the compartments to keep us organized. This should last for a long time and lots of trips!

rodarriUnited States

Spacious, compact and comfortable

I absolutely love this backpack. It is compact with tons of space to keep everything organized. I have plenty of space for my laptop, documents and lunch or workout clothes. The shoulder straps are comfortable and easy to carry. Best work back pack I have used..