When you’re living the laptop lifestyle, traveling from place to place, staying at new Airbnbs every couple of months and working from coworking spaces – a trusty, reliable digital nomad backpack is a must.
As digital nomads, we are always focused on making everything we have more efficient, multi-functional and of course portable! Why?
It comes down to this: your digital nomad backpack carries your entire office!
I’ll be honest though – Matthew and I didn’t have ‘fancy/great’ backpacks when we started the digital nomad lifestyle. We upgraded our backpacks a year into our journey and it’s been the best thing we’ve done. So don’t feel pressure to get the best digital nomad backpack right away and take the time to see how you like to travel then you’ll know what backpack will work for you.
There are a lot of factors that go into choosing your digital nomad backpack. You need it to be comfortable, secure, lightweight and so much more. But there’s a huge selection of digital nomad luggage coming at you – how do you even choose?!
This blog is how! Here’s a list of digital nomad backpacks we researched while looking for our own and we believe each bag is good for different reasons. We aren’t going to bombard you with 27+ bags and leave you with analysis paralysis. So here are our 10 favorite digital nomad backpacks based on your budget!
Quick Answer: Best Digital Nomad Backpacks For Everyday Use
- Best Budget Digital Nomad Backpack Under $100: Matein Travel Laptop Backpack
- Best Moderate Digital Nomad Backpack Under $200: The Siena ll Daily Backpack by Nordace
- Best Luxury Digital Nomad Backpack Under $300: Nomatic Backpack by Nomatic
2 Questions To Ask Yourself BEFORE You Buy a Digital Nomad Backpack
Before we can get into the list of the 8 best digital nomad backpacks – we need to understand what makes a backpack great? After being on the road since 2018, here are some factors we consider when buying a digital nomad backpack.
What will you use the digital nomad backpack for?
The first thing you need to do is determine what the main use of the backpack will be for. There are typically only 2 use types for digital nomad backpacks – day backpacks or luggage backpacks.
What’s the difference?
Day backpacks are usually only used for taking your office with you to the coworking space. You may also use it as your carry-on luggage like us. Your whole life typically isn’t stuffed into this backpack.
Luggage backpacks are usually when you have most (if not your whole) life packed into them. These bags are slightly bigger and meant to carry more stuff. While it can sometimes be passed as carry-on (unless you’re flying Ryanair iykyk), our friends tried to only have one backpack with them for their travels.
For this blog post – we will be focused on the digital nomad backpacks for everyday use.
What’s your budget for a digital nomad backpack?
Choose a number and stick to it! Our budget was less than $100 for a digital nomad backpack each. We found this to be a good budget for day ones but not luggage-style ones. If you have more to spend then get the works! We’ve had ours for nearly 2 years and they are still going strong!
5 Things A Backpack For Digital Nomads Must-Have
There are some non-negotiables when it comes to choosing the right digital nomad backpack. And the right one…
…will have all 5 listed below.
Laptop Sleeve/Pocket
What’s a digital nomad’s backpack if it doesn’t come with it’s own separate laptop sleeve. As digital nomads, our laptops are basically our lives – where we work to make money, book our flights and accommodation.
Theft-proof Pockets
Those secret pockets that no thief should figure out? Yeah, you should have one of those. I’ve started to see a lot more bags start to add this to their designs. You can put cash, your passport or anything valuable you don’t people to steal!
Water-Resistant/Waterproof Capabilities
Ever been caught in the rain with your whole office on your back and nothing to protect it? Yeah it’s not great. We made sure to get backpacks that are d
Organizational Pockets
Pockets and more pockets! I love a pocket that is dedicated to a single thing. For instance, my backpack has a pocket just for my sunglasses or a pocket designed for a portable charger. You know it’s a good bag when they’ve thought of little things like these to make your life easier.
Lightweight and Comfortable
You are going to be carrying this bag from one coworking space to another; one city to another and it’s tough when it’s heavy to carry around. Find a lightweight bag that won’t use up your luggage weight and make it comfortable for you to carry…everywhere!
Best Budget Digital Nomad Backpack
Are you on a budget but still want to upgrade? Well…you’ve got plenty of choices! Just because you have to stick to a budget doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice quality. This category will include digital nomad backpacks that cost $100 USD or less.
1. Kalibre Multifunction Raven Backpack
This is Matt’s backpack! We desperately needed to replace his bag because it was just not functional and started to really hurt his back/shoulders. We were Bali digital nomads at the time and so we went to a mall nearby and found this brand.
After some research, we decided it was a good choice for him to buy it now rather than wait later till we got to Australia or somewhere. He’s had the Kalibre backpack since 2019 and it’s still going strong – there aren’t any signs of wear and tear.
What Matt likes about the bag:
- Water-resistant (includes a cover as well)
- Comfortable straps
- Separate laptop sleeve
- Lots of space and pockets
- Folds out into a flat-lay layout
What he dislikes about the bag:
- the bag can feel bulky
Matt says “I love the bag and I’d recommend it to everyone”. The only thing is…it might only be available throughout Southeast Asia. I’ve checked on Amazon US but it’s not there. Your best bet to get this bag is to go through websites like Shopee, Lazada, or Tokopedia! Matt paid around $100 AUD for this backpack.
Stand Out Features: Works for everyday use and weekend trips!
2. Matein Travel Laptop Backpack
This is the cheapest bag on the list but don’t look past this too quickly. With over 48,000 reviews and a rating of 5 stars – you’ve got to at least check out the Matein Travel Laptop Backpack. The features of this bag have all of the must-have I listed above and the reviews to back it up:
- A long list of pockets (phone, pen, front, back, rear-padded and more)
- Secure laptop sleeve
- Luggage strap and multi-panel airflow back
- Anti-theft secret back pocket
- External USB charging port
Cons of this backpack:
- A bit ugly (in my personal opinion)
What about the price? You’ll pay a whopping $29.99 USD for this digital nomad backpack!
$29.99?! I couldn’t believe my eyes either. With an overwhelming rating of 5 stars with 48,000 reviews – I don’t think you can beat the value for money with the Matein Travel Laptop Backpack.
Stand Out Features: The price of course plus the number of pockets.
3. The Backpack By BEIS
If you’ve ever been a Pretty Little Liars fan like myself, this bag company is owned by none other than Shay Mitchell. You can tell she’s worked hard and created a very successful and thoughtful business. The bags are beautifully designed and super functional. That’s why I’m recommending The Backpack by BEIS.
If you want a sleek design while still paying less than $100 – this is the bag for you. The bag looks beautiful and it will match any of your outfits. This bag includes all the must-haves and more:
- laptop sleeve
- expandable space
- water bottle pocket
- built-in luggage strap
Cons of this backpack:
- Could be too small for weekend trips
The Backpack by BEIS costs $78 USD. They have been able to make this backpack really versatile while still giving off stylish vibes. The main compartment has a large section to add things for day trips and multiple pockets so you don’t have to dig again!
Stand Out Feature: Can’t get past the style!
Best Moderate Digital Nomad Backpack
These digital nomad backpacks are a little more up-market as they cost anywhere between $100-$180 USD. They boast of sleek design and style while still keeping up with the multi-functional demands we digital nomads have.
1. The Siena ll Daily Backpack by Nordace
This is my backpack! This is the first FB ad that’s worked on me and I’m so glad it did. I love this digital nomad backpack from the design/color to the functionality of it all. There are so many pockets I’ve lost count and there are design elements I never knew I needed sideway zippers on the front of the bag. I bought this backpack in early 2020 for our next digital nomad adventures (we all know what happened next). The first real time I got to test this backpack out was really when we were Playa del Carmen digital nomads so I was happy I could still use it!
My favorite features of this bag are:
- Cute design and colors available
- So. Many. Pockets.
- Anti-theft pocket for passport, money, etc.
- 15″ Laptop Sleeve
- Side access on the front of the backpack
- Fleece-lined pockets for sunglasses
- (NEW) feature is the MagLock Safe system
Cons of the backpack:
- I’m left digging for a thing in the bottom of the backpack
- Looks quite big on me (I’m pretty small though so that’s easy)
- My Hydroflask fits in the bottle pocket but it’s tight so it’s a little hard to put it there
I ordered the Classic Siena but if I had to buy a new one again – I’d buy the Nordace Siena ll Daily Backpack instead because of the fancy new upgrades like the MagLock system, charging connectivity is much simpler and compact plus so much more! I’ve used this backpack for trips to the coworking space or cafe and it’s spacious enough for weekend trips too. This digital nomad backpack costs $129.99 USD and it’s worth every penny!
2. The Backpack by Day Owl
If you want a minimal style backpack – then the Day Owl The Backpack is the one for you. They have focused on sustainability and it shows throughout all their products. You can use this digital nomad backpack for everyday use for trips to the coworking space and day/weekend trips. If you want a slimmer version, they have a slim backpack available.
Some of their great features include:
- Sustainable and First Mile recycled canvas
- 16″ Padded laptop sleeve
- Stain and water repellant
- Floating top pockets for miscellaneous things like sunglasses, lip balm, etc.
- Anti-theft pocket
Cons of the Day Owl The Backpack:
- Not enough pockets for organization
This is a great earth-conscious backpack made with recycled materials for digital nomads to carry their every day! The beautiful colors, minimal design and sturdy material make it a great backpack for digital nomads. The Backpack by Day Owl costs $149 USD.
Stand Out Features: Free US Shipping & Returns plus sustainable
3. The Brevitē Backpack by Brevitē
If I got tired of my Nordace backpack, the Brevitē backpack would be my next best choice (and it’s not just cause it went viral on Tiktok). I love the way they designed the bags and with 10 beautiful colors to choose from – it’s so hard to pick your own! They are very functional as digital nomad backpacks and best of all?
…They have pockets galore!! There are a few pockets on the main compartment then they have lots on the exterior of the bag. They are a great size and look very compact.
Here are some great features:
- 16″ Laptop sleeve
- Water bottle holder
- 10 colors to choose from
- Front pocket has great organizational functions
- Anti-theft hidden pockets on the sides
- Strap to secure tripods
- Luggage strap
Some cons of this digital nomad backpack:
- Straps could be a bit stiff at first
- Shipping delays
Writing this makes me want to get the Brevite Backpack already but as a minimalist, I don’t want to have 2 backpacks that serve the same purpose. The sleek look with the one front pocket looks great and is still really functional for a digital nomad backpack. The price of the Brevite Backpack is $169.00 USD and sells out quickly due to viral Tiktok videos – so get in quick!
Stand Out Features: Free US Shipping/Returns and Limited Lifetime Warranty
Best Luxury Digital Nomad Backpack
Ready to splurge on a digital nomad backpack that will last you at least a couple of years? This is the category for you. Any of the backpacks on this list range from $180-$260+ USD. The designs are thoughtful with every pocket serving a certain purpose and of the highest quality.
1. Nomatic Backpack by Nomatic
What’s a digital nomad backpack roundup blog without the OG backpack? The Nomatic Backpack by Nomatic originally began as a Kickstarter and it’s safe to say they have been successful ever since. This is the backpack digital nomads probably think of when you mention backpacks!
This digital nomad backpack has a real sleek, compact design while still giving you lots of functionality. The bag is designed to fit your digital nomad needs such as hidden pockets, an innovative strap system and a 15″ laptop sleeve. More than that, this OG digital nomad backpack is durable, expandable (for when you need to add more stuff in) and even has magnetic water bottle pockets.
Here are some great features:
- 15″ Laptop sleeve
- Magnetic water bottle pocket
- 24 different compartments for organization
- Hidden security pocket
- Innovative strap system
Some cons of this digital nomad backpack:
- Only 1 color available
From their humble beginnings on Kickstarter, this digital nomad-focused company has soared to success and fame! The price can be justified by the high-quality materials and thoughtful design that went into the bags makes it the perfect backpack for digital nomads.
Stand Out Features: 30-day money-back guarantee.
The Nomatic Backpack by Nomatic costs $279.99 USD.
2. Zip Backpack by Away
Away is widely known for its beautiful, minimalist design and highly functional suitcases. They have since then expanded their collection to totes and backpacks. The Zip Backpack by Away is unique firstly because it is made with resistant nylon which you can see simply from the photos. The padded shoulder straps make it comfortable to carry and the thoughtful designs just make sense in this digital nomad backpack.
Here are some great features:
- 15″ Dedicated laptop sleeve
- Magnetic lockable zippers for security
- Full wraparound zip opening
- Anti-theft hidden pockets
- Detachable key clip
Some cons of this digital nomad backpack:
- Might feel a little rigid/structured
- Only 1 color available
- No water bottle pocket
This digital nomad backpack is just plain beautiful. The minimalist design is sleek and stylish without sacrificing practicality make it a great bag for anyone that needs an upgrade.
Stand-Out Features: Made with high-quality material
The Zip Backpack costs $195 USD.
3. HEXAD Access Duffel Backpack by WANDRD
Another Kickstarter backpack! WANDRD is known mostly for its beautifully designed camera backpacks which were mainly used for storing your camera gear. They have since then created digital nomad and travel backpacks for everyday use. The HEXAD Access Duffel Backpack is a great day pack to carry your laptop, tech stuff and anything you’d bring to a coworking space.
Here are some great features:
- 15-inch laptop sleeve
- Zippered compartments for organization
- Lay fat packing
- Expandable laundry compartment
- Anti-theft hidden pockets
- Removable backpack straps
Some cons of this digital nomad backpack:
- A bit big and chunky
The storage space in this bag is pretty generous so it also does great as your carry-on cabin luggage. The piece of gear has 4 grab handles on all 4 sides of the bag – this means you have a few ways different ways to carry your bag i.e. backpack-style or tote bag style. Again because the company initially designed bags mainly for photography gear there are some cool features in this bag like the quick draw side access so you never miss a shot.
Stand Out Features: A durable and comfortable backpack for long-term travel.
The HEXAD Access Duffel Backpack costs $259 USD.
4. Dakota Neoprene Backpack by Dagne & Dover
I added this bag onto this list because it’s a little out there but it’s super cool (at least to me). The Dakota Neoprene Backpack is made with recycled materials and its minimal design makes it a unique choice for a travel pack.
The thing I love most about this digital nomad backpack is how thoughtful they designed the interior of the bag – thinking of every little detail. For example, they have an interior padded laptop compartment which I would use for my iPad or if you also have a portable keyboard – another great space to keep it safe!
Here are some great features:
- 16-inch Padded laptop compartment (if you get the Large size)
- Zippered compartments for organization
- Adjustable straps
- 3 sizes available: Small, Medium & Large
- Exterior top panel for your phone (yes you read that right!)
- Pockets. Pockets. And more pockets!
- Shoe bag included
Some cons of this digital nomad backpack:
- No anti-theft hidden pockets
The Dakota Neoprene Backpack is a great backpack for digital nomads who love simplistic and elegant design while still being super practical. If I were to buy a ‘luxury’ digital nomad backpack – this would be my choice. I just feel the others on this list don’t have a great range of colors and compact designs.
Stand Out Features: Sleek design, 3 sizes to choose from and pockets galore!
The Dakota Neoprene Backpack costs $200 USD.
The Digital Nomad Backpack You Pick Matters
As digital nomads who have taken in the minimalist lifestyle, we have to be very intentional with the stuff we buy. We typically try to buy high-quality things so they last us much longer. The digital nomad backpack you choose to buy matters to make your travels easier, more organized and hopefully more comfortable on the back and shoulder of yours especially if it’s for everyday use.
We recommend going through this list again, deciding on a budget and picking 2 digital nomad backpacks that are within your budget. From there, decide which one will work FOR you and not against you!
