The Best Backpacks for Digital Nomads in 2024

When you’re living the digital nomad life, your backpack becomes a lot more than just a bag.

It’s your mobile office, your closet, and, on tougher days, your survival kit.

It carries everything essential—laptop, clothes, sometimes even a few comforts from home—and keeping it all organized is key to making travel less of a hassle.

Here’s a rundown of some top backpack choices for digital nomads in 2024, with options for different needs, so you can find one that keeps up with your lifestyle.

Best Backpacks for Digital Nomads by Category

Best Overall: Nomatic Travel Bag 40L

Good for: Digital nomads looking for a carry-on size bag that provides ample storage and organization.

Best Overall

Nomatic Travel Bag 40L

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Product Highlights

• Water-resistant materials: Keep contents safe from rain or spills.
• 20+ compartments: Separate storage for clothes, shoes, tech, and more.
• Convertible design: Switch between backpack and duffle bag modes.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Highly organized with specialized compartments for various items.
• TSA-compliant and fits easily in overhead bins.
• Versatile design adapts to multiple travel needs.

Cons

• Pricey, making it an investment.
• Can feel bulky due to multiple compartments.

Bottom Line

If you have a bigger budget and love a well-organized bag, the Nomatic 40L is a fantastic choice for a digital nomad who doesn’t want to compromise on quality or functionality.

The Nomatic Travel Bag 40L is a solid choice if you’re after a bag that’s built to handle the demands of a digital nomad lifestyle.

It’s designed to keep up, with durable, water-resistant materials that can handle unpredictable travel conditions.

With over 20 compartments, it helps you keep everything in its place—from clothes to tech gear—so you’re not digging around for your essentials.

Plus, it switches easily between backpack and duffle modes, giving you flexibility whether you’re navigating a city or heading out for a weekend trip.

Best Budget: Matein Travel Laptop Backpack

Good for: Budget-conscious digital nomads who need a reliable, tech-friendly backpack.

Best Budget

Matein Travel Laptop Backpack

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Product Highlights

• USB charging port: Conveniently charge devices on the go.
• Water-resistant material: Protects items from light rain.
• Multiple compartments: Organize essentials without hassle.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Very affordable for the features it offers.
• Lightweight and compact, making it ideal for everyday use.
• Anti-theft back pocket for valuables.

Cons

• Limited capacity, so it’s not ideal for extended trips.
• Not fully waterproof.

Bottom Line

For those looking for a simple, affordable, and functional backpack, the Matein Travel Laptop Backpack is hard to beat.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on features, the Matein Travel Laptop Backpack is worth a look.

At under $30, it packs in surprising functionality—think a USB charging port, a secure laptop compartment, and multiple pockets that make organizing your gear a breeze.

Made with durable, water-resistant materials, it’s built to handle everyday use without breaking down, making it a reliable choice if you’re just getting started or need a straightforward travel companion.

Best Expandable: BANGE 35L Travel Backpack

Good for: Nomads who need a bag that can expand for extra space when needed.

Best Expandable

BANGE 35L Travel Backpack

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Product Highlights

• Expandable design: Adjust the size from 22L to 35L based on your needs.
• Wet pouch: Keep toiletries separate from electronics.
• Laptop sleeve: Fits up to a 17.3″ laptop.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Lightweight design, even when fully expanded.
• Water-resistant material protects contents.
• Affordable for an expandable backpack.

Cons

• Can feel bulky when fully expanded.
• Lacks padded support straps, which may reduce comfort over long periods.

Bottom Line

If you’re a minimalist who occasionally needs extra space, the BANGE 35L is a flexible and affordable choice.

The BANGE 35L Travel Backpack is all about flexibility, making it a solid pick for digital nomads who need one bag to handle both day-to-day use and quick getaways.

Its expandable capacity lets you shift from 22L to 35L, so you can carry light when you want or pack a bit extra when you need it.

With a dedicated laptop sleeve and a waterproof pouch for toiletries, it’s easy to keep your tech and personal items organized without hassle.

Best for Photographers: Nomatic McKinnon Camera Pack

Good for: Photographers who need a durable backpack with dedicated compartments for camera gear.

Best for Photographers

Nomatic McKinnon Camera Pack

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Product Highlights

• Expandable from 35L to 42L: Adds extra space for personal items.
• Customizable dividers: Arrange compartments for various types of camera gear.
• Weather-resistant material: Keeps contents safe in all conditions.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent protection for valuable camera gear.
• Dedicated laptop compartment for convenience.
• Quick-access pockets for essential items.

Cons

• Heavier than most backpacks due to padding for camera equipment.
• Higher price point.

Bottom Line

For digital nomads who need to keep camera equipment safe and organized, this backpack is a valuable investment.

The Nomatic McKinnon Camera Pack, designed with input from travel photographer Peter McKinnon, is ideal for digital nomads who need a reliable way to carry camera gear.

This pack comes with customizable dividers, so you can keep all your equipment organized and secure.

Built to be tough and weather-resistant, it’s ready to handle the wear and tear of frequent travel, keeping your gear protected no matter where you’re headed.

Best for Minimalists: CabinZero ADV Pro 42L

Good for: Minimalists who prefer to travel light without sacrificing quality.

Best for Minimalists

CabinZero ADV Pro 42L

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Product Highlights

• 42L capacity: Ideal size for essentials in a streamlined design.
• Water-resistant fabric: Adds a layer of protection from light rain.
• Padded support: Comfortable on shoulders and back.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Lightweight and durable for long-term use.
• Simple, no-frills design for ease of use.
• Compact but spacious enough for minimalist travel.

Cons

• Limited organizational features.
• No extras or fancy compartments.

Bottom Line

For travelers who prefer simplicity and function, the CabinZero ADV Pro is a top choice for carrying just the essentials.

The CabinZero ADV Pro 42L backpack is a no-fuss, sleek option for those who embrace the “one-bag” lifestyle.

With enough room for your essential tech and clothes, it’s all about simplicity and functionality.

Its minimalist design makes it a great fit for digital nomads who want to keep their gear streamlined in a single, compact, and stylish setup.

Best for Long-Term Travel: Osprey Farpoint 40L

Good for: Digital nomads looking for a lightweight, durable backpack that’s comfortable to carry over long distances.

Best for Long-Term Travel

Osprey Farpoint 40L

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Product Highlights

• Lightweight frame: Designed for maximum comfort without added weight.
• Clamshell opening: Makes it easy to access everything inside.
• Stowable suspension system: Allows the straps to tuck away, ideal for air travel.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable to wear for long periods due to ergonomic design.
• Durable materials and sturdy construction for rugged use.
• Meets carry-on size requirements for most airlines.

Cons

• Smaller capacity may require efficient packing for longer trips.
• Limited internal compartments compared to other long-term travel bags.

Bottom Line

If you’re looking for a long-term travel companion that combines durability, comfort, and convenience, the Osprey Farpoint 40 is a great choice. It’s perfect for digital nomads who value portability and want a pack that’s easy to carry without sacrificing functionality.

The Osprey Farpoint 40 is a solid choice for digital nomads looking for a reliable travel companion on extended trips.

It combines comfort, smart organization, and durability in a lightweight yet tough design.

With a supportive suspension system—padded shoulder straps and a hip belt—it spreads the weight evenly, making those long journeys easier on your back.

Plus, its compact size is carry-on compliant, so you can skip baggage fees and keep your essentials close by.

Best for Security: PacSafe Venturesafe EXP45

Good for: Travelers who prioritize security in their gear.

Best Security

PacSafe Venturesafe EXP45

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Product Highlights

• Anti-theft features: RFID blocking, lockable zippers, and wire mesh for added protection.
• 45L capacity: Spacious for longer trips.
• Durable, water-resistant material: Protects belongings from the elements.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent for security-conscious travelers.
• Spacious with easy access through clamshell opening.
• Durable and water-resistant.

Cons

• Heavier than typical backpacks due to added security features.
• Higher price point.

Bottom Line

The PacSafe Venturesafe EXP45 is ideal for digital nomads who prioritize security and need a reliable backpack for high-risk areas.

The PacSafe Venturesafe EXP45 is built with security as a priority, making it a smart choice if you’re heading to places where theft might be a concern.

It comes loaded with PacSafe’s anti-theft tech, including RFID-blocking material, lockable zippers, and stainless steel wire mesh to prevent slash-and-grab attempts.

This bag is all about giving you peace of mind, so you can focus on the journey without constantly worrying about your gear.

Conclusion

Picking the right backpack as a digital nomad can make all the difference in how smoothly you travel.

With the right pack, you’ll have your essentials organized, secure, and within reach, no matter where you’re headed.

Whether you need a budget-friendly choice, an expandable pack for flexibility, or something built for long-term adventures, each of these backpacks brings something different to the table.

Choose the one that fits your style and travel needs best, and hit the road knowing you’ve got dependable gear on your back.

Complete Your Nomad Setup

For more tips on creating an efficient and comfortable travel workspace, check out this guide:

• The Ultimate Guide to Setting Up the Perfect Digital Nomad Workspace – Explore essentials for building a workspace that supports your productivity and comfort, wherever you are.

With the right backpack and workspace setup, you’ll be ready to work and explore seamlessly, wherever the journey takes you.

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The Anonymous Nomad

The Anonymous Nomad is a digital nomad, software engineer, and traveler who traded the office life for the freedom to work and explore on his own terms. He writes about earning a location-independent income through freelancing, passive income, and self-reliance, while also diving into the world of adventure. From reviewing reliable gear to uncovering hidden destinations, his work is about helping others find the tools and inspiration to embrace a life of exploration—whether it’s through travel, work, or both.