What Are the Differences Between Travel Pack and Backpack?

If you’ve been a customer of Nomatic for a while, or you're looking to become one, you probably have one very important question. Should I get a travel pack or a backpack? You might even be wondering what the differences are between the travel pack and backpack.

We get it. When it comes to the Nomatic Backpack vs. Travel Pack, they both look great, but they each serve different purposes depending on your needs. In this blog, we’ll dive into the key features, ideal usage and standout features of each option to help you make an informed decision. 

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a hiking trip or a daily commute, knowing the right fit for your adventures is crucial. Let’s explore!

What is the Nomatic Travel Pack?

So, let’s start with the Nomatic Travel Pack. This versatile pack comes in two sizes—14L and 20L—and three colors: black, olive and navy.

So, what sets the Nomatic Travel Pack apart? Its innovative strap system. It actually allows you to switch from a backpack to a sleek briefcase in no time, making it ideal for travel as well as more professional moments. With a full perimeter zipper, you’ll find easy access to a plethora of thoughtfully designed pockets, including RFID-safe storage and hidden compartments to keep your valuables secure.

Navigating airport security? No problem! The TSA-approved fold-down laptop pocket makes checkpoints a breeze. Whether you need to organize your tech or access your travel luggage quickly with zippered mesh walls, this pack has you covered. Plus, the magnetic water bottle pockets ensure you can stay hydrated on the go without any hassle.

With features like a luggage handle pass-through that integrates seamlessly with roller bags, the Travel Pack is designed for travelers who want to stay organized and travel like pros.

Differences Between the 14L and 20L Travel Packs

If you’re choosing between the 20L and 14L Travel Packs, there are a few key differences you need to keep in mind. The first thing is that the 20L pack offers plenty of storage. So, this might be a better size for longer trips or if you need to carry extra gear. It has 20 pockets to keep everything organized, plus a dedicated tablet sleeve and tuckaway straps for versatility. There's even a hidden cash pocket for added security!

On the flip side, the 14L pack is more compact and streamlined, making it great for smaller framed people and/or shorter trips. It has a vertical luggage pass-through, while the 20L features a horizontal one. The 14L also has 17 pockets, but it skips the tablet sleeve and hidden cash pocket, so it’s a simpler option overall.

A Breakdown of the Features of the Travel Pack

• Sizes: Available in two sizes—14L and 20L
• Colors: Comes in three stylish colors: black, olive and navy
• Convertible Design: Innovative strap system allows you to switch from backpack to briefcase
• Easy Access: Full perimeter zipper for quick access to contents
• Organized Storage: Thoughtfully designed pockets, including: RFID-safe storage and hidden compartments for valuables
• TSA-Friendly: Fold-down laptop pocket for smooth airport security navigation
• Tech Organization: Zippered mesh walls for easy access to tech and travel luggage
• Hydration Ready: Magnetic water bottle pockets for on-the-go convenience
• Travel Integration: Luggage handle pass-through for seamless use with roller bags
• Trip Ready: Perfect for one- to three-day trips
• Sleek Profile: Stylish design that looks great while you travel

What is the Nomatic Backpack?

So, on the flip side, there is the Nomatic backpack. This durable backpack also comes in the same two sizes as the travel pack, the 14L and 20L, and in the same three colors—olive, black and navy. 

Built with tough, water-resistant materials and high-quality YKK zippers, this convertible backpack is designed to adapt to your needs. Need a bit more space? No worries! With a 20% expansion capacity, you can easily fit in extra gear. Plus, the patented strap system lets you switch from backpack to briefcase carry in a snap, making it perfect for those professional moments.

With over 20 innovative features, this backpack is both sleek and super functional. It includes a padded laptop sleeve for your 16” MacBook, an RFID-pocket for safe storage and even hidden compartments for your cash and valuables. And if you're always on the move, the magnetic water bottle pockets keep hydration at your fingertips while maintaining a clean look. The luggage handle pass-through makes it easy to travel with roller bags, too.

Differences Between the 14L and 20L Backpacks

When you compare the 20L and 14L Backpacks from Nomatic, you’ll notice some key differences. The 20L Backpack strikes a great balance between spaciousness and portability. It offers a larger capacity while still being easy to carry, plus it features a 20% expansion option, 20 pockets, a hidden cash pocket and waist strap compatibility for extra convenience.

On the other hand, the 14L Backpack is a compact, lightweight option, making it ideal for everyday use or shorter trips—especially for those with smaller frames. It expands up to 21% and has a vertical luggage pass-through, while the 20L has a horizontal one. However, the 14L doesn’t include waist strap compatibility or a hidden cash pocket, giving it a more minimalist design for travelers who prefer to travel light.

A Breakdown of the Features of the Backpacks

• Sizes: Available in two sizes—14L and 20L
• Colors: Comes in three colors: olive, black and navy
• Durable Construction: Made with tough, water-resistant materials and high-quality YKK zippers
• Expandable Design: 20% expansion capacity for extra gear
• Convertible Carry: Patented strap system allows for quick transition from backpack to briefcase
• Padded Laptop Sleeve: Fits a 16” MacBook securely
• Safe Storage: Includes an RFID-pocket for secure storage of valuables
• Hidden Compartments: Secret pockets for cash and other essentials
• Hydration Ready: Magnetic water bottle pockets for easy access
• Travel Integration: Luggage handle pass-through for seamless use with roller bags

Backpack vs Travel Pack

So, what’s the difference between the Nomatic Travel Pack and the Nomatic Backpack? Well, the biggest difference is size and expansion. 

The Travel Pack offers a slightly larger capacity and has some extra features like tuckaway straps and a full perimeter expansion zipper that increases its packing space by 50%. So, this is perfect for fitting in extra clothes or even a pair of shoes. This zipper also lets the Travel Pack open flat like a suitcase, making packing and unpacking much more seamless.

On the other hand, the Backpack is more compact. It has a streamlined design, making it ideal for daily commutes or shorter trips. It also fits well on smaller frames. It expands up to 20% and has a laptop sleeve as well.

So, Do You Need a Travel Pack or Backpack?

So, which bag is best for you? It really depends on your preferences and packing style. 

1. If you take longer trips, the 20L Travel Pack can last you for 3-5 days. It’s the perfect bag for maximizing personal item space on airplanes.
2. If your trips are 2-3 days in length, or you’re looking for a backpack that’s perfect for traveling to and from the office or school, the 20L Backpack is the best fit for you.
3. Looking for a pack that’s better for people with smaller frames or maybe stricter airline allowances for carry-on items? Then the 14L Travel Pack might be the best option. It really only carries 1-2 days worth of packed items.
4. Lastly, if you have a smaller frame and really only need a backpack for everyday carry, the 14L backpack is probably the best choice for you.

To close, whether you're leaning toward the Nomatic Travel Pack or the Nomatic Backpack, they’re both wonderful high-quality options. Both bags offer helpful features, sleek designs and versatile functionality. So, whether you need extra space for longer trips or prefer a more compact option for daily commutes, Nomatic has you covered.

Ready to find the perfect bag for your next adventure? Explore the full range of Nomatic backpacks and travel gear today and take our quiz to discover the ideal fit for all your life on the go. Shop now!