6 Best Targus Laptop Backpacks (October 2026)

Targus has been making laptop cases longer than most backpack brands have existed, and that history shows in a catalog built around one idea: protect the computer first, then organize everything else. The keyword “Targus laptop backpacks” is a brand decision, so the real question is which Targus model fits your laptop and your routine. The range runs from a basic 16-inch commuter pack to an expandable 17-inch travel bag and a convertible pack for business trips, and the differences between them are easy to miss when the names all sound alike.

This guide is for office workers, students, and frequent travelers who already prefer a laptop-first brand and want to narrow six Targus models down to one. Looking at the market in 2026, the brand still sells a mix of long-running designs and refreshed versions, so listing details matter. Below you will find the stated specs for each bag, a checklist for matching a laptop size, short reviews limited to what the titles say, and scenario advice for common buyer situations.

Quick Picks

Targus 16 Inch Groove Laptop Backpack, Black - Fits Most Laptops up to 16", Water Resistant Travel Backpack for Business Commuters and Travel (CVR600)

One of the consumer electronics options compared in this guide.

View on Amazon →

Targus 17” Voyager EXP Travel Backpack, Expandable 27L–30L Laptop Backpack, TSA Checkpoint-Friendly, Water-Resistant, RFID-Blocking Pocket, Fits Up to 17 Inch Laptop, Carry-On Size, Black - TBB664GL

One of the consumer electronics options compared in this guide.

View on Amazon →

Targus Drifter II Laptop Backpack, Black/Gray – Backpack for Men for Business and Travel, Durable Water-Resistant Material, Fits up to 17" Laptops (TSB239US)

One of the consumer electronics options compared in this guide.

View on Amazon →

Targus Legend IQ Laptop Backpack Travel Backpack for Laptops up to 16-Inches Backpack for Men and Women, Black (TSB705US)

One of the consumer electronics options compared in this guide.

View on Amazon →

Targus 15-16 Inch Classic Laptop Backpack - Fits Most Laptops up to 16", Padded Travel Backpack for Business Commuters, College, and Travel (TBB943GL)

One of the consumer electronics options compared in this guide.

View on Amazon →

How to Choose

Match the stated laptop size to your actual machine

Targus backpacks are sorted by maximum laptop size: 15.6 inch, 16 inch, and 17 inch. A 15.6 inch laptop fits a 16 inch compartment with a little room, but a 17 inch laptop needs a bag that states 17 inches, otherwise corners will press on the zipper. Remember that “up to” describes the screen diagonal, and some thicker gaming and workstation laptops have wider bodies than their screen size suggests. If you own a 14 inch ultrabook, a 15.6 or 16 inch bag works but may leave the laptop sliding around.

A good habit is to look up your laptop’s published width and depth, then compare them with the compartment sketch on the product page. Two laptops with the same screen size can differ by an inch or more in footprint, especially when one has a thick bezel or a rear hinge that juts out. If you also carry a tablet, the extra sleeve space matters, but only where the listing says a tablet pocket exists; none of the six titles here promises one.

Decide whether you need expandability or a fixed shape

Most Targus backpacks keep a fixed volume, which is ideal for a commute. The Voyager EXP stands out as an expandable 27L to 30L pack, a small range that helps on trips where you buy a souvenir or pack a spare sweater. If you never need extra space, expandability adds a zipper to maintain, so choose it only if your loads fluctuate. Use a compression-friendly fixed pack when the weight stays steady.

Think about how the bag will sit when it is only half full. A fixed-shape pack with a stiff back panel stays upright on a desk or chair, while a softer, expandable one can slump and lean. For a commuter who sets the bag down several times a day, that small difference adds up. For a traveler who lifts it into an overhead bin, the ability to cinch it smaller is the more useful trait.

Check the travel and security features

For flying, look for checkpoint-friendly layouts that let the laptop sit in an easy-to-open section, and an RFID-blocking pocket if you carry a passport or contactless cards. Water-resistant fabric is common in the line, which helps in drizzle but does not make the bag waterproof. A trolley pass-through or convertible straps are useful if you roll a suitcase, but only where the listing mentions them.

What to ignore and where budget models cut corners

Ignore model numbers when comparing, since they identify a version but not a quality tier. Lower-priced Targus models usually economize on strap padding, interior organization, and the stiffness of the back panel, while pricier ones add expandability and travel features. Pay attention to the zipper size and the base fabric, because that is where wear shows up. If the listing does not mention a feature, assume the bag does not have it.

Finally, remember that a brand-focused search narrows your options but does not guarantee fit. Targus also sells several similar-looking packs at different sizes, and a bag one size too small is a more common return reason than a defective one. Take two minutes to read the maximum laptop size, then decide, rather than relying on the name or color alone.

The 6 Best Options

Targus 16 Inch Groove (CVR600)

The Groove is listed as a 16 inch laptop backpack in black that fits most laptops up to 16 inches. The title calls it a water-resistant travel backpack for business commuters and travel, so it targets daily office use with occasional trips.

• Strength: the stated 16 inch fit covers most mainstream laptops, including larger 15.6 inch models.
• Strength: water-resistant fabric suits damp commutes.
• Trade-off: the title gives no liter capacity or security feature, so compare it with the Voyager EXP if you travel often.

Skip it if you own a 17 inch laptop or need TSA-friendly layout details. It suits commuters who want a simple, laptop-first pack.

Targus 17″ Voyager EXP

This is the most travel-focused model of the six. The title lists an expandable 27L to 30L laptop backpack that is TSA checkpoint-friendly, water-resistant, and equipped with an RFID-blocking pocket. The Targus name and 17″ size stand at the front of the listing.

• Strength: the expandable 27L to 30L range adapts to trips and daily use alike.
• Strength: the TSA checkpoint-friendly design and RFID-blocking pocket suit airports.
• Trade-off: the expansion mechanism adds a zipper and some weight, and the title cuts off before listing the exact maximum laptop size.

Skip it if you want a minimalist commuter pack. It suits frequent flyers with a large laptop who value security features.

Targus Drifter II

The Drifter II appears in black and gray as a laptop backpack for men for business and travel, with durable water-resistant material and a fit for laptops up to 17″. It is a straightforward, larger-laptop option.

• Strength: a stated fit up to 17″ accommodates large work and gaming laptops.
• Strength: durable water-resistant material is listed for everyday use.
• Trade-off: the listing positions it for men, and no capacity or security feature is stated.

Skip it if you want a pack styled for women or a specific airport-friendly design. It suits business travelers who need space for a 17 inch laptop.

Targus Legend IQ (TSB705US)

The Legend IQ is described as a travel backpack for laptops up to 16 inches and is marketed for both men and women in black. It is a mid-size choice that emphasizes travel use.

• Strength: unisex positioning and a 16 inch fit make it flexible for different users.
• Strength: it is explicitly a travel backpack, suited to trips and commutes.
• Trade-off: the title does not list water resistance, capacity, or security features, so you must read the product page.

Skip it if you need a 17 inch fit or a stated rain-resistant fabric. It suits shoppers who want a Targus travel bag that is not tied to a specific gender look.

Targus 15-16 Inch Classic (TBB943GL)

The Classic lists a 15-16 inch fit and notes that it fits most laptops up to 16 inches, with padding and a role for business commuters, college, and travel. It reads as the most general-purpose pack in the group.

• Strength: a padded design and a 15-16 inch range suit most students and office workers.
• Strength: its role spans business, college, and travel, which makes it a versatile daily bag.
• Trade-off: no water-resistance claim or capacity is listed, so it is a safer pick for dry commutes.

Skip it if you want a stated water-resistant fabric or a 17 inch fit. It suits students and commuters looking for an uncomplicated everyday bag.

Targus Urban Convertible (TBB595GL)

The Urban Convertible is designed for the business traveler and fits laptops up to 15.6 inches, in black. The convertible label suggests it can change carrying styles, though the title does not spell out how.

• Strength: the 15.6 inch limit suits standard business laptops.
• Strength: a convertible design is listed, which can help a business traveler switch between carrying modes.
• Trade-off: the exact conversion method, capacity, and water resistance are not in the title.

Skip it if your laptop is 16 inches or larger. It suits business travelers with a 15.6 inch laptop who value flexibility in how they carry.

Which One Fits Your Situation

You fly often with a large laptop

The Targus 17″ Voyager EXP combines an expandable 27L to 30L body, TSA checkpoint-friendly design, and an RFID-blocking pocket. Confirm the maximum laptop size on the full listing before buying.

You own a 17 inch laptop for work or gaming

The Targus Drifter II lists a fit up to 17″, with water-resistant material. The Voyager EXP is the other 17″ choice with extra travel features.

You want an everyday bag for class or the office

The Targus 15-16 Inch Classic and the Targus 16 Inch Groove both fit most laptops up to 16″. The Groove adds a water-resistant label, which helps on wet walks.

You travel for business with a standard 15.6 inch laptop

The Targus Urban Convertible is designed for the business traveler and lists a 15.6 inch limit. The Legend IQ is a 16 inch alternative if you prefer a classic travel layout.

Common Mistakes

• Buying a 16 inch Targus for a 17 inch laptop and hoping it will fit.
• Assuming every Targus pack is water-resistant or TSA-friendly without checking the listing.
• Choosing an expandable pack when your load never changes, then maintaining a zipper you do not need.
• Relying on model numbers to compare quality instead of reading the stated features.
• Ignoring the back panel and straps, which determine comfort on long commutes.

Related guides

• Camera Backpacks With Laptop Compartment
• 2 In 1 Laptops With Detachable Keyboards
• Laptop Backpacks For Professional Women

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Targus backpack fits a 17 inch laptop?

Based on the listings, the Targus Drifter II and the Targus 17″ Voyager EXP are the 17 inch options. Confirm the maximum size on the full product page.

Are Targus backpacks waterproof?

The listings here describe several as water resistant, which is different from waterproof. They handle light rain, but heavy storms call for a rain cover.

What does TSA checkpoint-friendly mean?

It generally means the laptop compartment is designed to be accessed or opened flat at security. Rules differ by airport, so it is a convenience, not a guarantee.

Is an expandable backpack worth it?

If your load varies between daily commutes and trips, the 27L to 30L range of the Voyager EXP is useful. If your load is steady, a fixed-size pack is simpler.