7 Best Nomad Backpacks for Digital Nomads Traveling in 2023

Living a nomadic lifestyle is becoming more and more popular these days. And, with good reason – it’s a great way to see the world!

If you want to join the digital nomad community, you’ll need the perfect backpack. A good nomad backpack can make all the difference when you live out of it daily.

This article will discuss the best nomad backpacks and how to choose the right one for you. We’ll review each bag’s features and highlight its strengths and weaknesses so that you can decide which digital nomad backpack is right for you.

What are the best nomad backpacks for digital nomads?

Here are the best nomad backpacks for digital nomads that are perfect for work and travel:

1. Nomatic Travel Bag (Best Overall)
2. Nomatic Travel Pack (Most Pockets)
3. Peak Design Everyday V2 (Best Anti-Theft)
4. Peak Design Everyday Backpack (Best for Electronics)
5. Bellroy Transit Backpack (Best for Travel)
6. Osprey Farpoint (Largest Capacity)
7. Lowepro Tactic (Best for Travel Photography)

1) Nomatic Travel Bag (Best Overall)

Specifications:

• Capacity: 30 – 40 liters
• Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches
• Weight: 4.05 pounds

Reasons to buy:

• It comes in two sizes (30 and 40 liters)
• Carry-on size, so it’s great for travel (fits under the seat or in the overhead compartment on a plane)
• Plenty of space for different occasions, whether that’s going to the gym, traveling, or heading to the office
• Built-in laptop and tablet sleeve to keep your most important electronics safe and secure
• Forget straps that dangle and get in the way. The strap design allows you to transition from a duffle bag to a backpack easily
• Dedicated pockets designed with all your things in mind, whether that’s shoes, liquids, technology, and more
• The zipper goes along the entire perimeter for easy packing
• RFID safe pocket to prevent your most important information and money from being stolen
• Mesh pockets for quick and easy identification while keeping your things secure
• An easy-access cord pocket to charge your devices while on-the-go
• Dedicated water bottle pocket
• Water-resistant pockets to keep your most valuable items  safe and dry
• Dedicated shoe compartment that fits two pairs of shoes with ventilation
• Convenient TSA-ready laptop sleeve so you can leave your laptop in your bag while passing through airport security
• Made of durable, long-lasting, water-resistant materials with zippers to last for years and keep your belongings safe

Reasons to avoid:

• It does not expand for more space
• It only comes in one color

If you’re on the hunt for a versatile bag perfect for the office, gym, or travel, look no further than the Nomatic Travel Bag. It’s designed to make your life easier and more organized.

This versatile digital nomad bag allows you to easily transition from a duffle bag to a backpack and comes in two sizes (30 and 40 liters) to find the perfect fit no matter where life takes you.

The Nomatic Travel Bag also has plenty of space for everything, including a laptop and tablet sleeve, dedicated pockets, an RFID-safe pocket, straps that don’t get in the way, a perimeter zipper for easy packing, and much more!

There’s no need to worry about leaving something behind ever again. With this stylish yet durable bag at your side, packed with features that enable smooth transitions between activities each day, you will be ready for anything life throws at you.

2) Nomatic Travel Pack (Most Pockets)

Specifications:

• Capacity: 14 – 30 liters
• Dimensions: 6 x 12 x 18.5 inches
• Weight: 4 pounds

Reasons to buy:

• Made of durable and water-resistant materials that will last a lifetime and prevent any damage from happing to your most important belongings
• Perfect for traveling and having as a carry-on on a plane
• Extremely functional with zippers to keep your things safe and secure
• The zippers go around the perimeter, giving you easy access and more efficiency when packing
• 22 pockets with a purpose: quick access, elastic and zipper mesh, RFID security to keep your information and money safe, a notebook pocket, and hidden pockets for valuables
• Holes for your cords to pass through so you can easily charge your devices without digging through your bag for a charger
• Magnetic water bottle pockets
• Retractable key leash so you never have to worry about losing your keys
• The bag expands, so you have 50% more space if needed
• Luggage handle to give your back a break and rest on other bigger pieces of luggage

Reasons to avoid:

• The capacity is a bit smaller than other nomad backpacks
• Does not transition to a duffle bag
• It only comes in one color

If you’re looking for a smarter and more secure way to travel, the Nomatic Travel Pack is for you.

The Nomatic Travel Pack is made of durable materials that can take any terrain or weather.

It also has 22 pockets designed with a purpose, from a quick access front pocket to RFID security, this pack has all your bases covered in one stylish and sleek bag. It even has holes for cords, so you can charge your devices without hassle!

Whether you’re an adventure seeker or traveling on business, this is the perfect companion to ensure you have everything stored safely and securely during your journey.

Its expandable design adds 50% more space in your bag if needed, which is impressive.

And that’s not all. The magnetic water bottle pocket will keep much-needed hydration close at hand, while the retractable key leash ensures that keys don’t mysteriously disappear en route (let’s face it, we’ve all been there).

3) Peak Design Everyday V2 (Best Anti-Theft)

Specifications:

• Weight: 4.64 pounds
• Capacity: 30 liters
• Dimensions: 7.8 x 14.2 x 20.5 inches

Reasons to buy:

• Versatile design with customizable pockets for all of your electronics, including your camera, laptop, or tablet
• The MagLatch design on the top provides reliable security and lightning-fast access to your things, so you never have to dig through your bag to find things
• Easily access your laptop with the external laptop compartment that carries a laptop that is up to 15 inches in size
• The bag is expandable up to an additional 8 liters, so you can fit all of your belongings and more
• 4 hidden straps on the outside of the bag to carry additional items with easy access
• Double PU-Coating for durability and water resistance to keep your things safe and dry
• Bluesign-certified and environmentally friendly as it is made from 100% nylon canvas
• The shoulder straps are contoured for ultimate comfort, especially if you plan on carrying your things all-day
• Removable sternum strap for added comfort and support
• Handles on both sides so you can quickly grab your bag
• Zip pulls prevent thieves from pulling your zippers and grabbing your things

Reasons to avoid:

• The laptop sleeve could be bigger to fit larger laptops
• The capacity is a bit smaller than other nomad backpacks
• Does not transition to a duffle bag

The Peak Design Everyday V2 is the ultimate bag to carry your belongings.

This digital nomad backpack has everything you need in one place. With customizable pockets and a MagLatch design, you can easily store your electronics safely and securely.

This bag is also expandable up to 8 liters, so you can fit more items than ever.

Plus, it features four hidden straps on the outside that help keep additional items secure while allowing easy access when needed.

What’s more, this product is Bluesign certified and environmentally friendly as it is made from 100% nylon canvas which provides durability against weather and adds an extra layer of protection for your things. It also features zip pulls to give you peace of mind and prevent thieves from grabbing your things.

No matter what kind of lifestyle you lead or where life takes you next, the Peak Design Everyday V2 offers functionality paired with comfort that will deliver a hassle-free experience each time.

4) Peak Design Everyday Backpack (Best for Electronics)

Specifications:

• Capacity: 15 – 20 liters
• Dimensions: 9.3 x 12.4 x 18.9 inches
• Weight: 3.19 pounds

Reasons to buy:

• It comes in four unique colors to reflect your personality
• Lightweight design
• Perfect for travel and airplane carry-on
• An external laptop sleeve that is easy to access and can fit laptops up to 15 inches to protect your laptop from any bumps when traveling
• Customizable dividers allow you to easily store and organize all of your electronics, from your camera to your laptop and tablet
• It has a single wrap-around durable zipper, so you have quick and easy access to all of your things without having to dig through everything
• 2 hidden straps on the outside of the bag to carry additional items with easy access
• Double PU-Coating for durability and water resistance to keep your things safe and dry
• Made of environmentally friendly 100% recycled nylon canvas

Reasons to avoid:

• The capacity could be bigger
• The laptop sleeve could be bigger to fit larger laptops
• It could have more straps to carry more things externally

If you are looking for the perfect backpack for everyday use, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack has your back.

This digital nomad backpack is here to help organize and protect your electronics, from laptops up to 15 inches in size to cameras and tablets.

It also comes with two hidden straps on the outside of the bag so that you can easily carry additional items without having to dig through it every time.

Moreover, its convenient custom dividers allow you to store all your items while keeping them organized, making this lightweight, travel-friendly bag an essential item! 

In addition, the Peak Design Everyday Backpack is extremely durable and water resistant due to its double PU coating construction.

Not only will it keep your things safe and secure, but its unique colors (black, ash, bone, or midnight blue) are sure to reflect your personality wherever life takes you! 

5) Bellroy Transit Backpack (Best for Travel)

Specifications:

• Capacity: 38 liters
• Dimensions: ‎12.99 x 9.45 x 21.65 inches
• Weight: ‎3.31 pounds

Reasons to buy:

• Large capacity while passing as a carry-on when traveling
• Available in 3 colors (black, night sky, or ranger green) to suit your personality
• The laptop compartment can fit laptops up to 15 inches and is easy to access, which makes passing through airport checks effortless
• Lightweight design
• A main compartment dedicated to your workout gear
• External hidden pockets that are easy to access and secretly store essential items like your passport, wallet, sunglasses, water bottle, and more
• It has internal compression straps that help with making the most use of the bag’s space, organizing your things, and reducing bulk
• The slim mesh pocket allows your shirts to stay wrinkle-free and crisp
• It’s environmentally friendly as it is made from a recycled woven fabric that is water-resistant
• It has a 3-year warranty

Reasons to avoid:

• It only comes in one size
• The laptop sleeve could be bigger to fit larger laptops
• No TSA-ready laptop sleeve, so you have to take your laptop out of the bag when passing through airport checks

The Bellroy Transit Backpack is the ultimate digital nomad backpack ideal for effortless traveling.

This modern carry-on nomad backpack is designed to make traveling easier.

It fits laptops up to 15 inches, has an internal compression strap that reduces bulk and organizes your items, and its lightweight design ensures comfort on long journeys. It comes in black, night sky, or ranger green, so you can choose one that best suits your personality.

With external pockets for easy access storage of important items like passports and wallets, a slim mesh pocket to keep shirts wrinkle-free, and its environmentally friendly material made of recycled woven fabric construction – this is the perfect bag for every traveler.

6) Osprey Farpoint (Largest Capacity)

Specifications:

• Capacity: 55 liters
• Dimensions: ‎26.2 x 14.2 x 4.3 inches
• Weight: 3.8 pounds

Reasons to buy:

• It comes in 2 different colors (volcanic grey and jasper red)
• It comes in 2 different sizes (small-medium and medium-large)
• The large lockable U-shaped zipper provides quick and easy access to all of your things
• Detachable daypack (two backpacks in one) when you want to carry something that is more compact and lightweight
• A designated laptop and tablet sleeve with a lockable zipper to keep your most expensive electronics safe and secure
• It has a zippable back panel, so you can conveniently stow away the shoulder straps and waist straps, so they don’t get in the way
• It has multiple scratch-free pockets to keep your sunglasses and other valuable items safe from damage

Reasons to avoid:

• Some more special features would be nice, like a retractable key leash or dedicated cord holes to easily charge devices when on-the-go

The Osprey Farpoint is the perfect solution if you’re tired of lugging around a big, bulky backpack. 

Yes, it’s large and has an impressive carrying capacity of 55 liters. But it’s the perfect travel companion, with features like a detachable daypack for a lighter and more compact backpack.

What’s more is that it has convenient laptop and tablet sleeves, multiple scratch-free pockets, and much more.

Plus, it comes in two color options (Volcanic Grey or Jasper Red), so you can choose which style best suits your adventures. 

You’ll have quick access to all your belongings without worrying about zippers or buckles getting in the way.

With its lockable U-shaped zipper and zippable back panel for storing away backpack straps, rest assured that your most important items are safe from damage and theft as you explore new places. 

7) Lowepro Tactic (Best for Travel Photography)

Alt text: A dark grey Lowepro Tactic sitting upright

Specifications:

• Capacity: 25 liters
• Dimensions: 13.70 x 10.63 x 19.21 inches
• Weight: 5.72 lbs

Reasons to buy:

• Designed with your camera gear in mind
• Room for all of your cameras, electronics, and accessories: it fits 1-2 DSLR cameras with up to 70-200mm f/2.8 lenses attached, 8 lenses/speed lights, a DJI Mavic Pro drone, a 15-inch laptop, tripod, and more
• Four external pockets are easy to access, so you never miss a shot
• It has a slip-lock strap system that keeps everything in place securely
• 5 modular accessories are included (a water bottle pouch, an accessory case, and more) for further convenience
• ActiveZone System technology gives you plenty of strap comfort for carrying heavy electronic gear all day long

Reasons to avoid:

• The laptop sleeve could be bigger to fit larger laptops
• It does not have the biggest capacity
• The bag itself could be lighter
• It only comes in one color

The Lowepro Tactic bag is the perfect solution if you are a photographer looking for ways to make your workflow more efficient.

With the Lowepro Tactic bag, you can carry your photography gear like your cameras, lenses, accessories, and even a laptop.

The ActiveZone System technology ensures strap comfort while carrying heavy gear all day. And with four external pockets that are easy to access, you won’t miss a shot! It also comes with five modular accessories – so you’ll have everything at hand when it matters most. 

Stop lugging around bulky bags and backpacks just to fit in your equipment. The Lowepro Tactic is designed for photographers like you who need space for many items but don’t want unnecessary bulkiness.

You will be ready and prepared wherever life takes you on your photographic journey with this lightweight yet roomy bag by your side!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a digital nomad?

A digital nomad is a unique type of individual who earns a living by working remotely from anywhere in the world. They have access to digital technology, such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones, and use Wi-Fi connections to stay connected with their employers or customers.

The desire for adventure and opportunity typically drives digital nomads; they often travel around the world, pursuing their financial dreams in different countries while exploring different cultures and making new friends.

The digital nomad life has become increasingly popular amongst younger generations over the past decade, providing financial freedom while simultaneously unlocking creative possibilities that would not be possible at a regular 9-to-5 day job.

What is a digital nomad backpack?

Alt text: Someone wearing a black jacket holding a DSLR camera with a large lens outside in a marshy location wearing a nomad backpack

A digital nomad backpack is a specialized bag with digital nomads in mind. Whether working remotely, traveling for business, or living out of your laptop, nomad backpacks are efficiently designed to protect and transport your laptop, gadgets, and other personal items easily.

They often have separate laptop compartments and designated pockets for work tools such as pens, keys, and earphone cables. As a result, nomad backpacks increase productivity and make it much simpler to maintain a nomadic lifestyle.

Digital nomads should consider investing in a quality nomad backpack to keep their devices safe and secure while remaining light on the go.

What should you look for in a digital nomad backpack?

When selecting a digital nomad backpack, there are some important criteria:

• Plenty of compartments to stay organized
• Adjustable shoulder straps and optionally waister straps to provide support but still be comfortable
• A dedicated shoe compartment with ventilation to keep your other belongings clean
• Waterproof material that is durable
• Ultralight materials to minimize weight
• Multiple carrying options like a side handle
• Additional straps to use as a backpack or crossbody
• A dedicated laptop compartment to keep your laptop safe and secure, especially when traveling
• A TSA-ready laptop sleeve is always a bonus, so you don’t have to take your laptop out of your bag when passing through airport security

With digital nomads usually needing different gear on different trips, select a digital nomad backpack that suits all your needs and offers versatility.

Conclusion

With all the different factors, it can be tough to pick out the best backpack.

Hopefully, this list has given you a few ideas and helped you narrow your choices.

We’ve listed nomad backpacks that are perfect for people who live out of their backpacks and need lots of space, are always traveling and on the go, and are constantly carrying around all of their gear.

Here’s one final summary of the best nomad backpacks for every type of digital nomad:

1. Nomatic Travel Bag (Best Overall)
2. Nomatic Travel Pack (Most Pockets)
3. Peak Design Everyday V2 (Best Anti-Theft)
4. Peak Design Everyday Backpack (Best for Electronics)
5. Bellroy Transit Backpack (Best for Travel)
6. Osprey Farpoint (Largest Capacity)
7. Lowepro Tactic (Best for Travel Photography)

When picking out the perfect digital nomad backpack for your needs, it’s important to keep a few things in mind:

• Your travel style
• Where you’re going
• What you’ll be doing there
• How long you’ll be gone

Do some research on each of these bags and find out which one suits your lifestyle the most.

Once you’re ready, pack up your new bag and head out to embark on your next great adventure!