Nomatic Travel Pack

The Nomatic Travel Pack is a great option for anyone who wants a smaller weekender backpack for short trips. At a 30 liter max capacity, it’s the perfect size for one or two nights away. Features like a TSA-friendly laptop compartment and roller bag sleeve make it ideal for airport carry.

Nomatic also does a great job with its generous pocket and compartment placement. Not only do you have essential pockets like an RFID safe pocket and a top pocket for sunglasses or a wallet, but you also have a generous front compartment with tons of organizers for smaller items. It’s a great way to keep you organized no matter how busy your travels.

What we like

• Lifetime warranty

• Lots of pockets and great organization options for smaller items.

• Can be carried as a backpack or briefcase.

• Awesome magnetic water bottle pocket keeps the bag’s profile clean and professional when not in use.

What we don’t like

• It’s heavy - at over 4 lbs the backpack gets heavy quick when filled to capacity.

• Great as a travel bag but impractical to use as a daily backpack. It’s a bit too bulky and heavy (see above) to use as a work backpack.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18.5” H x 12” W x 9.5" D

• Weight: 4.16 lbs

• Volume: 20-30L (expandable)

• Materials:  Polyester with PVC coated water resistant fabric on the front

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

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Shieldon Travel Carry-On Backpack

Shieldon offer a feature-packed yet affordable travel bag with their Travel Carry-On Backpack.

For those who travel with lots of tech, Shieldon makes plenty room for items like a laptop, tablet and accessories. The backpack features a generous 17” laptop compartment plus an entire front organizer pocket for easy-access to small items like external hard drives or a keyboard.

The main compartment is expandable from 23 liters to 38 liters which allows you to turn this carry-on backpack into a daily backpack by just compressing the main compartment zipper.

To get a hands-on look check out our Shieldon Travel Carry-On Backpack review.

What we like

• Expandable main compartment - use as a daybag or travel backpack.

• Includes a heavy plastic toiletries pocket to keep things like bottles of shampoo or body wash away from the rest of your stuff.

• Really affordable - Shieldon does a great job at adding features usually only found in more expensive carry on bags.

What we don’t like

• Internal mesh pockets feel a little cheap and it’s questionable if they will hold up over time.

• Only the front panel is made out of coated water resistant material.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 17.7” H x 11.5 W" x 6.3" D

• Weight: 12.8 oz.

• Volume: 23-38L (expandable)

• Materials:  Polyester with PVC coated water resistant fabric on the front

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

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Targus 15" Newport Backpack

The Targus Newport is a modern take on the classic laptop backpack. Unlike other women’s backpacks that are primarily “style-focused” and leave much to be desired when it comes to actual carry, Targus makes a real effort to incorporate useful pockets and compartments that make all the difference. There are pockets and organizers for everything from a laptop, charging cables, small personal items and more.

A clean design, intuitive pockets and small footprint is what makes the Targus 15” Newport backpack one of our favorite travel and work backpacks for women.

What we like

• Clean design and mature colors makes the Targus Newport a polished alternative to most casual backpacks.

• Lots of pockets and compartments for everyday items and tech. Separate laptop pocket makes it easy to keep things organized.

What we don’t like

• There isn’t much we don’t like if we are being honest. But if we would have to nitpick it would be how the faux-leather bottom and panels will hold up over time.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18” H x 11.13 W" x 5.25" D

• Dedicated compartments for a slim laptop or a tablet, clothes, and everyday accessories

• Lots of smaller organizer pockets

• Materials: High-density water-repellent twill nylon and faux-leather accents

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

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Travelpro Maxlite 5 Backpack

If you are looking for a small backpack for travel or daily commuting then the Travelpro Maxlite 5 women’s backpack may be just the ticket. Made to compliment Travel Pro Maxlite luggage, we love its travel features such as a luggage trolley-sleeve, separate laptop pocket and roomy front pocket for quick stashing of cell phones and wallets when passing through airport security.

As a daily carry backpack, the Travelpro Maxlite 5 backpack also packs a punch thanks to its various organizer pockets on the inside of the main compartment and water and stain resistant DuraGuard coating to protect your important essentials on rainy days.

What we like

• Lots of small pockets and compartments for easy-access to essentials.

• Laptop pocket is separate from the main compartment - no rummaging through stuff to access your tech!

• Includes a trolley-sleeve for easy attachment to rolling luggage. Small enough to be considered a personal item bag on most airlines.

What we don’t like

• Laptop pocket is better suited for very slim Macbooks or tablets. Thicker devices may have trouble fitting in.

• Main compartment carry is limited. May not be able to fit multiple large objects (large water bottle + bulky sweater) if you are using the internal organizer pockets.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 15” H x 10” W x 5.5” D

• Capacity: 19L

• Materials: Polyester with DuraGuard water resistant coating

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 14”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

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Everlane The ReNew Transit Backpack

The ReNew Transit is Everlane’s modern take on the travel backpack. Packed with accessible pockets, a roomy main compartment and even a separate-access padded laptop sleeve, the ReNew Transit is Everlane’s most versatile backpack design to date.

Designed for both men and women, the Everlane ReNew Transit backpack is a medium-sized bag with a roomy 27 liter main compartment making it perfect for everything from busy work commutes to weekend trips.

For a hands-on look, check out our full Everlane ReNew Transit backpack review.

What we like

• Stylish minimalist design that is sleek enough to wear to work or on casual days.

• Carefully placed pockets on the front and top of backpack makes grabbing small items easy.

• Airline friendly size - can be used as a personal item backpack on flights.

What we don’t like

• Side water bottle pocket is not gusseted so it can be a tight squeeze when backpack is full.

• No organizers for things like a phone, pens or a passport

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 17.5” H x 12” W x 7.25” D

• Capacity: 27L

• Materials: Recycled Polyester with environmental friendly CO water-resistant finish

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

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North Face Borealis Backpack

The North Face Borealis is a versatile backpack that can be used for anything from school to light travel. Its medium size has made it popular with those who want a functional backpack without the bulk.

Unlike the similar North Face Jester, the Borealis offers a separate premium laptop compartment for incredible protection of your expensive tech. The front compartment includes a fleece-lined tablet pocket and tons of smaller pockets for organization. Use the front bungee system to quickly stash jackets, blankets and other larger items when you are on the move.

Note: The North Face face offers the men’s Borealis and women’s Borealis so that you can find the perfect fit. The women’s Borealis is better suited for those with slimmer shoulders and shorter torsos.

What we like

• Great laptop compartment with suspended bottom for extra protection from drops.

• Upgraded bungee systems allows for easier attachement of bulky items

• Best in class organization - lots of smaller pockets and compartment

• DWR finish adds great water resistance to fabric.

What we don’t like

• Side bungee cords are a good replacement for compression straps but can get in the way of the water bottle pockets.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19.5” H x 12” W x 6.5” D

• Capacity: 28L (27L women’s)

• Material: 210D recycled nylon ripstop, 300D heathered polyester, 600D polyester, non-PFC DWR finish

• Weight: 2lbs 5oz

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Similar Backpacks

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AmazonBasics Slim Carry On Backpack (Weekender)

With the AmazonBasics Slim Carry on Travel backpack, Amazon takes a shot at offering a stylish yet functional travel backpack for those who need a reliable carry-on for flights. Our first thoughts when coming across the AmazonBasics Slim Carry On Backpack was that it was a noble competitor to the popular eBags Professional Weekender at almost half the price.

The AmazonBasics Slim Carry On Backpack comes in two sizes; the weekender version which we review here and the smaller and thinner overnight version.

What we like

• Tons of useful organizers and pockets. Great for organizing work, tech and personal items.

• Bright orange lining makes it easy to locate and find things in a hurry.

• For the price, we are impressed with the quality. The materials and construction compete with more expensive travel bags.

What we don’t like

• Clips that hold the shoulder straps in place are made of cheap plastic. Not sure how they will hold up over time.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 20” H x 13.5” W x 8” D

• Weight: 3lbs

• Materials: 100% Polyester

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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AmazonBasics Slim Carry On Backpack (Overnight)

With the AmazonBasics Slim Carry on Travel backpack, Amazon takes a shot at offering a stylish yet functional travel backpack for those who need a reliable carry-on for flights. Our first thoughts when coming across the AmazonBasics Slim Carry On Backpack was that it was a noble competitor to the popular eBags Professional Weekender at almost half the price.

The AmazonBasics Slim Carry On Backpack comes in two sizes; the overnight version which we review here and the slightly larger weekender version.

What we like

• Tons of useful organizers and pockets. Great for organizing work, tech and personal items.

• Stylish yet understated design. Can be used for both business and personal use.

• For the price, we are impressed with the quality. The materials and construction compete with more expensive travel bags.

What we don’t like

• Clips that hold the shoulder straps in place are made of cheap plastic. Not sure how they will hold up over time.

• Main “suitcase” compartment really can’t hold more than a change of clothes. If you need more room than go with the AmazonBasics Weekender version.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18” H x 12.5” W x 7.8” D

• Weight: 3lbs

• Materials: 100% Polyester

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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Chrome Summoner Backpack

The Chrome Modal is all about smart carry by providing easy access to your essentials while you are on the move. Just like the larger Chrome Macheto, the Modal’s main compartment is made of up of a dual organizer system that allows for separation of items.

Even when the main compartment is zippered shut, each section is easily accessible from the outside. The front compartment can be accessed from the front like a duffel bag while the back compartment that holds your laptop can be accessed from the top of the bag.

What we like

• Really sleek modern design that gives you easy access to virtually every pocket and organizer inside the bag.

• Dual internal organizational compartments keeps things neat and separate inside the main compartment.

What we don’t like

• No external water bottle pockets.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19.5” H x 13” W x 8.5” D

• Capacity: 32L

• Materials: Polyester/600D Twill melange fabric

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

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Aer Travel Pack 2

The Aer Travel Pack 2 is a comprehensive travel backpack that is perfect for one bag travel. Its roomy main compartment opens up like a suitcase for instant access to multiple days worth of clothing and personal items. Organizing your daily essentials has never been easier thanks to the Travel Pack’s front panel organizer, separate laptop compartment and smaller pockets for quick access items.

What we like

• Lots of accessible pockets which are perfect for organizing smaller items.

• Incredibly durable ballistic nylon feels rugged enough to withstand years of heavy use. Zippers also feel high quality.

• We love the addition of a separate shoe/dirty clothes pocket.

What we don’t like

• Main compartment doesn’t include any tie down straps or mesh dividers to keep clothing and items from spilling out when opening. If you plan on using packing cubes than this shouldn’t be an issue.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 21.5” H x 13.5” W x 8.5” D

• Capacity: 33L

• Materials: 1680D Cordura® ballistic nylon

• Weight: 3.7 lbs

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15.6”

Where to buy

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eBags Professional Weekender Backpack

The eBags Professional Weekender is a larger travel version of the everyday eBags Professional Slim. Changes to the design include a larger carrying capacity, more organizer pockets and a Travel Sentry approved laptop compartment that is TSA-friendly.

The bag is considered a convertible thanks to its stowable shoulder straps that can be tucked away as needed. Size-wise, the eBags Professional Weekender is small enough to fit in overhead storage bins on smaller domestic airlines.

What we like

• Tons of useful organizers and pockets. Great for organizing work, tech and personal items.

• Has a TSA-friendly laptop compartment and a separate pocket for a tablet.

• Perfect for extra large laptops - can fit a laptop up to 18-inches.

What we don’t like

• The bag is not versatile - its size and weight keeps it strictly a travel bag. As a daypack or daily carry bag, it’s simply too bulky and heavy.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 21” H x 14” W x 8” D

• Capacity: 31.9L

• Weight: 3lbs 7oz

• Materials: 840D & 900D Twisted Polyester

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 18”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

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eBags Professional Slim Laptop Backpack

When it comes to organization, very few work backpacks come as close to the thoughtful design of the eBags Professional Slim. The bag does two things very well; organizing your stuff and keeping a slim and professional look that won’t look out of place in a corporate setting.

The backpack can be divided into 3 sections; the front organizer zip pocket and “garage” pocket on the bottom, the main compartment with L-shape zip access, and finally the padded laptop compartment.

eBags offers this bag in two sizes - the eBags Professional Slim (21.6 liters) and the smaller eBags Professional Slim Junior (16.7 liters). The specs on this page are for the regular 21.6 liter version.

What we like

• Tons of useful organizers and pockets. Great for daily work commuting or business trips.

• Water bottle pocket can be tucked away when not in use.

• Great for those with large laptops (fits up to 17-inches)

What we don’t like

• At almost 4 pounds, the backpack is a bit on the heavy side considering its size.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18” H x 12.75” W x 8.5” D

• Capacity: 21.6L

• Weight: 3lbs 13oz

• Materials: 840D & 900D Twisted Dobby Fabric

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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Briggs & Riley Cargo Backpack

The Briggs & Riley Cargo is perfect for anyone looking for a professional looking weekender backpack to take with them on busy work trips. The main compartment opens up like a suitcase for full access to clothes, shoes and other personal items. The front pockets are perfect for smaller items and provide quick-access to essentials such as an iPad, pens, passports and eyeglasses.

What we like

• Structured professional design. Looks and feels like a quality backpack.

• Small enough to be used as a carry-on or airline personal item. Fits underneath airplane seats.

What we don’t like

• Not fully weatherproof. Leaks are a possibility if caught in a heavy downpour which is a disappointment at this price point.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 18” H x 11.5” W x 8” D

• Capacity: 24L

• Weight: 2.3 lbs

• Material: Proprietary nylon twill

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

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Chrome Hondo Backpack

The Chrome Hondo is a midsize water resistant backpack for those who need a reliable commuter pack for work, school or exploring the city. The backpack keeps it simple with only a laptop sleeve and organizer in the main compartment and two side pockets and a front stash pocket on the outside. The Hondo is great for those who prefer a back-to-basics backpack that doesn’t have a million pockets and organizers for stuff to get lost in.

What we like

• Water resistant design makes it ideal for cyclist and city commuters.

• The bag looks and feels high quality. 1050D nylon feels like it will hold up to abuse and the metal buckle on the sternum strap is a nice touch.

What we don’t like

• Side pockets have no give to them. It can be hard to fit a water bottle in there if the pack is full.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 17.5” H x 11” W x 5.5” D

• Capacity: 21L

• Materials: 1050D Nylon

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

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Chrome Urban EX Rolltop Backpack

The Chrome Urban Ex is a waterproof rolltop backpack that packs a punch with a roomy main compartment, laptop sleeve and separate padded iPad sleeve. The outside of the pack offers a small quick stash pocket on the top of the bag while loops on the front of the bag act as attachments for bike locks.

The Chrome Urban Ex Rolltop backpack comes in three sizes:

• 28L Urban Ex

• 22L Urban Ex Gas Can

• 18L Urban Ex

The photos and specs on this page are for the 28 liter version.

What we like

• Padded shoulder straps and back are comfortable and distributes weight evenly when pack is full.

• Waterproof design makes it ideal for cyclist and city commuters.

What we don’t like

• Lack of outside pockets for things like water bottles and other quick access items. Only outside pocket is the top pocket for a small item like a passport or phone.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 21” H x 14” W x 6” D

• Capacity: 28L

• Materials: 600D Polyester/Nylon upper and synthetic rubber bottom

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15” + padded iPad sleeve

Where to buy

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AmazonBasics Carry-On Travel Backpack

The AmazonBasics Carry On Travel backpack is a large capacity backpack for those who seek a reliable one-bag solution for travel. Style-wise, the Amazon Carry On Travel backpack can be best compared to the popular eBags TLS Mother Lode backpack but at a much cheaper price. Both backpacks are essentially suitcases with shoulder straps and allow you to carry a trip’s worth of clothing and items in one convenient bag.

What we like

• Front organizer does a great job at storing smaller items that need quick access.

• Flexible main compartment that compresses and expands as needed.

• Huge padded laptop compartment is perfect for larger laptops.

What we don’t like

• Waist strap feels flimsy and does not do a good job at distributing weight.

• No water bottle pocket on the outside of the bag.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 20.1” H x 15” W x 6.5” D

• Weight: 3.64lbs

• Materials: 100% Polyester

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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Burton Annex Backpack

The Burton Annex is a versatile everyday backpack inspired by vintage rucksack designs. What you won’t find in the Burton Annex is a complicated backpack with too many pockets and compartments. Instead Burton decided to keep things simple with a deep and roomy main compartment that stays true to its vintage rucksack inspirations. Side pockets are available for smaller items while a laptop compartment can be accessed from the main compartment or the back.

At 28 liters, the Burton Annex is the larger cousin of the Burton Tinder backpack in both size and design.

What we like

• Multifunctional backpack that’s great for school, outdoor activities or short trips.

• Front straps can be used to fasten things like a yoga mat or jacket.

• Laptop sleeve with separate tablet sleeve in main compartment.

What we don’t like

• Main compartment is one big abyss. Easy to lose smaller items and it can become a hassle to find things at the bottom of the bag.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 20” H x 10.5” W x 7” D

• Capacity: 28L

• Materials: Varies by color

• Weight: 2 lbs

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 17”

Where to buy

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Topo Designs Daypack

The Topo Designs Daypack is a versatile daily carry bag for work, school or the hiking trail. Designed to be a true path to pavement backpack, the Daypack features everything you would need for both city life and outdoor adventuring with a laptop sleeve, internal pockets, side water bottle pockets and plenty of loops and tabs for attaching things to the outside of the bag.

The Topo Daypack comes in a few flavors: The premium Daypack Heritage Canvas (Made in the USA), Daypack Tech and the more affordable Daypack Classic.

What we like

• Beefy YKK zippers

• Tough nylon construction makes the bag feel sturdy and incredibly well-built.

• Cool throwback mountaineering design. Lots of color options.

What we don’t like

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19” H x 11” W x 5” D

• Capacity: 21.6L

• Materials: 1000D Recycled Nylon, 210 Recycled Nylon Liner

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

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eBags TLS Mother Lode Weekender Convertible

The TLS Mother Lode is one of eBag’s most popular travel bags thanks to its large carry capacity and thoughtful design that makes travel organization easier than ever. At almost 60 liters, the Mother Lode is perfect for one-bag travelers or for those who need a large airline carry-on backpack.

eBags offers the TLS Mother Lode backpack in two sizes:

• TLS Mother Lode (59.8 liters)

• TLS Mother Lode Jr (41.6 liters)

The photos and specs on this page are for the full size 59.8 liter TLS Mother Lode.

What we like

• Tons of useful organizers and pockets with a large main compartment for clothing. Perfect for 7+ day trips.

• Durable fabric and construction. Feels like it will hold up to common travel abuse.

• Great for extra large laptops - can fit a laptop up to 19-inches.

What we don’t like

• Chest and waist straps are actually pretty crappy. Chest strap has the tendency to come loose when in use while the waist strap is thin and provides very little support.

• No TSA friendly laptop compartment.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 22” H x 14” W x 9” D

• Capacity: 59.8L

• Weight: 3lbs 15oz

• Materials: 840D & 900D Twisted Polyester

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 19”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

Similar Backpacks

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Bellroy Classic Backpack

Made for modern urban carry, the Bellroy Classic Backpack was designed for anyone who wants a small reliable backpack for everyday use.

The Classic Backpack’s design is mature enough to wear to work, gym or on the weekends without feeling like you are lugging around a kid’s school bag. Its size is not too overbearing or bulky but somehow it manages to comfortably carry our essentials thanks to it’s thoughtfully designed pocket placement and roomy main compartment for bulkier items.

What we like

• Well constructed design that feels quality. Leather accents give the bag a premium feel.

• Laptop and file sleeves in the main compartment are well designed. Able to safely hold laptop, files or tablet and pen.

What we don’t like

• No other outside pockets except for a small valuables pocket on the top of the bag. This means you have to open the main compartment to fetch smaller items like sunglasses or water bottle.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 19.29” H x 14.57” W x 2.76” D

• Capacity: 17L

• Materials: Venture-weave polyester with leather accents

• Laptop Compartment: Up to 15”

Where to buy

Buy on Amazon

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