Updated - November, 2025

By Michael Santoro

When it comes to carrying your 16-inch Apple laptop, you want a MacBook Pro bag or MacBook backpack that not only provides protection but also offers convenience and style.

The term "best" can be subjective because each person's needs are different. This guide to the best bag to carry a 16-inch MacBook Pro will offer three options. We hope is that you'll see a "best bag" to meet your needs and find one that works for you. 

For this article, we'll look at three excellent options that cater to different preferences and needs:

• A 16-inch MacBook Pro backpack,

• A MacBook Pro Messenger Bag,

• A 16-inch Premium Leather MacBook Pro Case

Let's take a closer look.

Watch One of the Best Bags to Carry a 16 MacBook Pro

Which Bag Suits You?

  • On the Go? The Backpack is your go-to for travel or campus life, with room for all your gear and Eco-friendly materials.

  • Need Professional Flair? The Messenger Bag balances style and function for meetings or coffee shop work sessions.

  • Want Luxury? The Leather Shoulder Bag elevates your MacBook Pro’s protection with unmatched elegance.

Best Bag to Carry a 16-inch MacBook Pro: Backpack

A 16-inch MacBook Pro backpack is a versatile and practical choice for those who prefer a backpack-style bag. Made from durable rPET nylon material, a well-designed, well-made backpack provides excellent protection for your Apple laptop.

rPET nylon weaves recycled plastic bottles into durable fabrics, giving waste that would end up in a landfill or even worse, the ocean, a second life and reducing your environmental footprint. Look for a pack utilizing this cutting-edge material. 

Benefits of 16-MacBook Backpack

A well-designed pack features a padded laptop compartment that fits the 16-inch Apple laptop perfectly, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit. With multiple compartments and pockets, a well-designed backpack should offer ample storage space for all your accessories, including chargers, cables, and even your iPad.

A backpack's ergonomic design and adjustable shoulder straps make it comfortable to carry, even for extended periods. Whether you're a student, a professional, or a frequent traveler, a well-designed, well-made 16-inch MacBook Pro backpack is a reliable and stylish choice that will meet all your needs.

[Explore 16-inch MacBook Pro Backpack →]

Best Bag to Carry a 16-inch MacBook Pro: Messenger Bag

If you prefer a more traditional messenger bag style, a MacBook Pro Messenger Bag is an excellent choice. Look for a model crafted from environmentally friendly rPET nylon that's assembled with precision and attention to detail. This detail can be expressed through the thoughtful leather touch points used across the bag.

Look for a MacBook Pro Messenger Bag that features a dedicated laptop compartment that fits the 16-inch Apple portable perfectly. The bag's interior should be lined with soft fabric to protect your Mac from scratches and impacts.

Benefits of 16-inch MacBook Messenger Bag

The rPET nylon exterior can withstand daily wear and tear. In addition to the laptop compartment, a well-designed-well-made messenger bag offers plenty of storage space for your accessories, documents, and personal items. Look for an adjustable shoulder strap made from automotive seat belt webbing. This allows you to customize the fit for maximum comfort.

Whether you're heading to the office, a business meeting, or a coffee shop, a MacBook Pro Messenger Bag will keep your Apple laptop safe and secure while adding a touch of sophistication to your look.

[Shop 16-inch MacBook Pro Messenger Bags →]

Best Bag to Carry a 16-inch MacBook Pro: Shoulder Bag

For those who appreciate the timeless luxury of leather, a 16-inch MacBook shoulder bag is the perfect choice in a cross-body bag style. Look for a design handcrafted from ethically sourced premium leather. This design will exude elegance and sophistication.

A well-designed, well-made MacBook shoulder bag will feature a custom-designed compartment that fits your 16-inch Apple laptop perfectly. The interior should be lined with soft fabric to protect your Mac Pro from scratches and dust. Look for models so well built, there is even a replacement shoulder strap available in case yours wears out before the rest of the case does. 

Benefits of 16-inch MacBook Shoulder Bag

Look for a compact design that has a removable exterior pouch for storing accessories and personal items. With its slim profile and sleek design, a well-designed, well-made 16-inch MacBook shoulder bag is perfect for those who prefer a minimalist and stylish approach to carrying their high-end Apple laptop.

Some 16-inch MacBook shoulder bags are also offered with an optional set of backpack straps that turns the world-class shoulder bag into a world-class backpack. An optional shoulder pad may also be available. 

Whether you're a business professional, a creative artist, or a fashion-forward individual, a 16-inch MacBook Pro shoulder bag will elevate your style while providing superior protection for your MacBook Pro.

[Shop Leather 16-inch MacBook Pro Shoulder Bag →]

leather macbook case in vintage brown by maccase

The Best Bag to Carry a 16-inch MacBook Pro

When it comes to choosing the best bag to carry your 16-inch MacBook Pro, MacCase offers three exceptional options: the MacCase 16-inch MacBook Pro backpack, the MacBook Pro Messenger Bag, and the MacCase 16-inch MacBook Pro "Flight Jacket" shoulder bag.

Each option provides excellent protection, convenience, and style, catering to different preferences and needs. Whether you prefer the versatility of a backpack, the classic elegance of a messenger bag, or the timeless luxury of leather, MacCase has the perfect bag to complement your 16-inch Apple hardware.

Choose the bag that suits your style and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your MacBook Pro is well-protected wherever you go.

[Shop All 16-inch MacBook Pro Bags →]

About Michael Santoro

With over three decades of experience at the highest levels of design, Michael Santoro built a career defined by innovation, timelessness, and mentorship. From award-winning designs for Chrysler to his ground-braking creation of the Apple-specific case market with MacCase, to shaping the next generation of creatives, his work spans industries and institutions.

Further Reading - 

• What Type of MacBook Case is Best?

• Are MacBook Pro and MacBook Air Cases the Same?

• What is a MacBook Snap Case?

Jody K. Deane
by Michael Santoro January 26, 2024

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