These are two of the most popular trouble backpacks in the market today. We take an in depth look at both the Nomadic and Alpaka Travel bags. The video below shows each bag in detail comparing each feature, pocket, handle, materials to give the best side by side comparison. If you are shopping for a travel backpack and considering either of these you definitely need to watch the video below.
Alpaka Features
- 300D Honeycomb Ripstop Nylon lining
- 35L capacity
- Three compartments, one front quick access pocket and one side quick access pocket.
- Padded, suspended laptop pocket with soft lining (fits up to 16″ laptop)
- Main compartment with side mesh pockets
- Front admin-style compartment
- Space cell foam padding on shoulder straps
- Luggage passthrough
- Quick-access and hidden front pocket
- Smart internal organization for your everyday essentials
- Contoured back panel for enhanced comfort and excellent fit
- One external water bottle pockets (Fits large 1L water bottles)
- Padded, quick-grab top handle for versatile carrying
- Magnetic Sternum Strap included
- Waist Belt included (valued at $49 USD)
- Bottom straps (included) for carrying extra items
- Weatherproof fabrics
- YKK Aquaguard waterproof, lockable zippers
- AirTag pocket
- Loop on shoulder straps (Easily attach your Modular Sling or HUB Accessories . Items sold separately)
Nomatic Features
- Seamless Carry: Transitions from backpack to briefcase carry
- TSA-Ready: Dedicated laptop and tablet compartment makes checkpoints easy
- Room for Everything: Full expansion zipper increases storage from 20L to 30L and 14L to 21L
- Dedicated Storage: 22 pockets to keep you organized
- Travel like a Pro: Luggage handle pass-through integrates with roller bags for travel
- Hidden Compartment: Secret pocket holds cash, AirTag, and other valuables
- Packs For: One-to-three-day trips comfortably
- Two waterbottle pockets: Magnetic water bottle pockets close when not in use for a sleek profile
- Includes: Sunglasses Case & Retractable Key Leash
| Alpaka Elements | Nomatic Travel | |
| Cost | 35L – $250-$299 | 20L-30L – $299 14L – $279 |
| Sizes | 35L | 20L expands to 30L 14L |
| Length: 31 cm (12.20″) Height: 52 cm (20.47″) Depth: 20 cm (7.87″) Volume: 35L Weight: 1.6 kg | 20L Travel Pack • Weight: 4.16 lbs • Capacity: 20L (expands to 30L) • Dimensions: 18.5″ H x 12″ W x 6–9.5″ D • Laptop Compartment: Fits up to 14″ x 10″ x 1.5″ • Tablet Compartment: 12.5″ x 10″ 14L Travel Pack • Weight: 3.46 lbs • Capacity: 14L (expands to 21L) • Dimensions: 17.5″ H x 11″ W x 5.5–6″ D • Laptop/ Tablet Compartment: Fits up to 13″ x 10″ x 1″ | |
| Materials | Exterior X-Pac® VX42 in Black Axoflux Recycled Fabric (POLY 600D) in Black, Army Green & Blue Interior 200D Blood Orange Honeycomb Ripstop Polyester lining (X-Pac® version) 300D Cool Grey Honeycomb Ripstop Polyester (Axoflux version) | • Face coated nylon & polyester materials • YKK + Zoom zippers • Hypalon zipper pullers • Foam padded back panel • Nylon webbing • Mesh pockets • Polyester liner • Structural foam panels |
Final Thoughts
I think the alpaca travel bag leans more toward the user looking for professional and adventure travel. The bag is capable of carrying additional items strapped to the bottom such as a tent or sleeping pad or even a yoga mat. The rugged external material as well as the large volume interior make it perfect for holding many different items for both business, clothing, or camping. You still get the laptop sleeve and other electronic protection as well as many other features.
The Nomadic backpack has a more professional sleek look, especially when the backpack straps are stowed away. You can carry this into a business meeting as a briefcase and still look very professional right off the plane. It comes with a few extra features like the sunglass case, and collapsible pack that might make you lean towards the Nomadic backpack.
I hope this detailed overview was helpful in making the decision between two amazing travel backpacks. It can be hard to choose between them without seeing them in person. I hope the details provided helps you make an informed purchasing decision. If you would like to support us please use the affiliate links below to purchase either of the bags. Also check out our other travel bag reviews from Thule.