NOMATIC Navigator 32L: Is it THE travel backpack? My honest review

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NOMATIC Navigator 32L: Is it THE travel backpack? My honest review
Have you been on the search for the perfect backpack? I've been looking and looking, and I finally decided to give the NOMATIC Navigator Travel Backpack a try. Use my firsthand experience and in-depth research to find out whether this pricey bag is worth it for your type of travel in my comprehensive review.
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I've been searching for a backpack I'm in love with for a while. Unfortunately, it's more challenging than it should be.

After all, a great backpack should at least meet the following needs: Be versatile, stylish, have lots of utility, and be value for money. And, to be honest, the perfect backpack needs to offer a lot more!

In the past, I've tried the Urth backpack personally, and my colleagues have also reviewed products like fan-favorite Osprey and Gregory backpacks. They just weren't my cup of tea...

Enter the NOMATIC Navigator 32L Travel Backpack. It's advertised as a feature-packed product meeting an adventurer's needs. This includes water-resistant materials, loads of functional compartments, and tamper-resistant zippers.

But with a price tag of over US$399, is it really worth it? Because if I'm spending that amount on a bag, it better be my favorite, and it better last a crazy length of time.

I grabbed one for myself to answer this crucial question. I tested it by using it for a work trip to Colombia, and this allowed me to experience what packing was like, its comfort when carrying it over long durations, and using it as a multi-use bag while abroad. 

So, before you dole out all your hard-earned money, learn about the NOMATIC Navigator Backpack from someone with firsthand experience. I promise I'll cover as much as possible so you'll feel you've got all the details you need to make an informed decision!

Let's find out whether it's the backpack you've been waiting to fall in love with...

Holding up the Navigator backpack tag while packing
Captured by ©Pilot

What Is NOMATIC's Navigator Travel Backpack?

NOMATIC is a well-known name in the travel gear industry. In fact, its concept was so popular among travelers that it holds the title of the most funded travel bag in crowdfunding history. 

Its focus is on creating durable, high-quality designs that are made specifically for travelers and daily users. 

And like many of the company's other products, the NOMATIC Navigator Travel Backpack 32L is designed with the modern traveler in mind. It offers a spacious main compartment, multiple pockets for organized packing, and durable construction. It's also advertised as specifically designed to be comfortable to carry, even with heavier loads.

You'll find that you can fit up to 5 days worth of clothes and have room for all your electronics. All that in a carry-on-sized bag! Sounds like this backpack has the potential to be your go-to bag.

My Initial Thoughts on the Bag

My Navigator bag was in very chic packaging when I first got it. The plastic bag was nice enough to keep and use for a while!

Once I unwrapped it, I immediately felt it was high-quality, with great fabric and materials. Not only that, but it also looked damn good—something I would 100% feel stylish walking around with.

I knew from the photos online that this bag looked good, but it was actually true in person too! Too many times, I've been disappointed after getting bags that look different online and in person.

One thing I was surprised at was how heavy the Navigator backpack was without anything in it. I was also confused by the overwhelming number of zippers, all leading to different compartments. I opened the wrong compartments at times, which continued to happen for a while until I got used to the design.

The NOMATIC Navigator backpack on top of packing cubes on my sofa
Captured by ©Pilot

Let Me Introduce You to the Navigator Travel Backpack

Before I go too much into my personal experience and thoughts on the bag, I'll give you more of a rundown on the physical aspects of the Navigator.

Overall Specifications

NOMATIC's Navigator Travel Backpack in the 32L size is meant to be a carry-on bag. It starts at 32L but can be expanded to 41L—this is especially good for those who love bringing back lots of souvenirs!

The bag's standard measurements are 22" in height, 14" in width, and 9" in depth. But if you use the expansion feature, the depth will increase.

The NOMATIC website says it's 5.2 lbs, but it did feel heavier than that to me when I was handling it. 

Material

As I've mentioned, the materials feel high-quality, and this bag seems like it'll last the test of time. I've only used it for a few months and one trip so far, but it feels very durable.

The Navigator is made from 100% synthetic materials and is vegan. Rejoice, all eco-warriors! Specifically, it's made of 100% nylon on the outside, and the inside material is Nylon.

Zippers

There is more to these tamper-resistant Zoom zippers than meets the eye. Not only are they built to withstand theft attempts, but they're also designed to be durable, smooth, and water-resistant. 

All these features are essential for a backpack you'll be lugging around everywhere! You'll definitely find that the thought behind these are security, durability, and convenience. That means a boost to the overall appeal and functionality of the backpack.

Interior Compartments

There's one large compartment where I put most of my large items and clothes. This compartment also has two small zippered pockets that would be good for small or flat items. 

When I used the bag, I stored extra currency in one pocket and a couple of face masks for my group and me in the other.

The other more substantial compartment is the front area. Inside is space to store your electronics and other miscellaneous items. There's also a total of 5 pockets, 2 of which have zippers. One of them is even an RFID-safe pocket!

Exterior Pockets

Aside from the 2 more substantial compartments, the Navigator backpack has several other practical external pockets.

There's a hidden front pocket that only opens from one side. It's a great place to put cash or your most essential items for easy access. There's also a useful key leash here!

There is also a minor top pouch, which is just big enough to hold your cell phone, passport, and even a pair of glasses. I used this pouch and the hidden front pocket interchangeably.

There are 2 multi-use "bottle pockets" on each side of the bag. I did fit my regular Hydroflask bottle in one of them, although it was a very snug fit. Alternatively, you can put small items like gum or writing instruments.

The last pocket was the one I found most helpful, and it was a hidden laptop compartment right at my back. This zippered pocket will fit a laptop of up to 17".

Backpack's Other Features

Multiple Handles - So that you can pick up the bag in virtually any way.

Support Buckles and a Waist Strap - The support buckle at the top is adjustable based on height, making it super convenient. The waist strap is also removable. If your packing habits vary like mine, having options is nice!

External Carry Straps - On the front of the bag, carrying straps allow you to go hands-free even if you have an extra jacket.

Clamshell Open Style - No more digging around for all your stuff at the bottom of your backpack! This was a feature I didn't even know I needed, but I enjoyed packing a backpack for once.

Luggage Strap - I actually got away with using this bag as a personal item, so I had both the Navigator and a rolling carry-on suitcase. The luggage strap was a lifesaver, even if it was a bit tough to use because of how stiff it was.

Breathable Back Panel - So that you can stay as comfortable as possible carrying a heavy backpack!

The unique features of the NOMATIC backpack up close
Captured by ©Pilot

Packing With a NOMATIC Bag

Packing the Nomatic 32L was an easy experience. 

In the largest compartment, I fit 2 packing cubes in it and my camera at the top. I also put extra clothing around the items to keep everything secure and use space as best as possible. As I mentioned above, I also used the 2 zippered pockets for money and face masks.

I packed the little things I thought I'd need quick access to in the front compartment. I put my pencil case, a small notebook, wallet, Kindle reader, neck pillow, and electronics with cords in the front compartment. 

I put extras in the other small pockets I can't fully remember—things like my glasses, snacks, extra money, and medications. I sometimes put things back in a different place, but I used all the smaller exterior pockets at least a few times on my trip.

1-Week Vacay Experience Using the Navigator Backpack

It definitely lived up to expectations of how easy it was to transport all my things! No matter how much I had, I could fit it into my bag and move items around nicely if necessary.

I've mentioned this before, but I found it quite heavy. I'll admit I'm pretty average, not overly fit or very tall. I needed to take breaks when carrying the full bag or use the luggage strap to put the backpack on my rolling luggage.

The weight and comfort issue was probably my only complaint about the NOMATIC backpack. I know it's advertised as designed for extra comfort, no matter how heavy. Unfortunately, I found that this wasn't true in my experience.

One thing I enjoyed is that it was versatile and stylish enough for me to want to use it as my everyday bag! I could easily take out my packing cubes and carry all my work gear to WeWork for our work days.

I'm just remembering this now, but I didn't need to use this backpack's expansion feature! This speaks to just how much room it has and the overall functionality.

NOMATIC backpack in the bunk bed at the hostel in Colombia
Captured by ©Pilot

My Quick Ratings

  • Durability: 4.5/5 - I'm basing this off what the quality feels like when I use the bag, but I do admit I've only had limited time with the bag. But I will update my review over time if needed!
  • Comfort: 3.5/5 - When there isn't much in the bag, it's very comfortable to wear. But, since the backpack is advertised as a comfortable carry-on bag, it didn't meet my expectations. I often felt it was too heavy and uncomfortable and needed to stop carrying it for a while.
  • Organization: 4.9/5 - This bag won't disappoint you if you're all about pockets and compartments! I loved this—although sometimes I forgot which area I put an item.
  • Capacity: 5/5 - I didn't need to use the expansion feature, and I still felt it could carry everything I needed!
  • Design/Aesthetics: 4.0/5 - I personally found it very stylish with a sleek and minimalist design. I do find it sad that there aren't many color options, and it's just a bit boxy for my taste. I just mention these downsides if I'm being picky, though!
  • Value for Money: 3.7/5 - There are some comparable items at a more affordable price. Some of the materials could be a bit more premium at this price. That being said, it's very worth it to purchase NOMATIC products because of the massive amount of helpful features, durability stylish design!
  • Versatility: 4.6/5 - I found this bag useful as luggage for a 1-week trip and an everyday work bag. I probably wouldn't take it hiking since I'd be worried about getting it too dirty.
  • Security: 4.5/5 - This bag has excellent safety features, tamper-resistant zippers, hidden pockets, and an RFID protection pocket. The only thing missing is locks—this would be a welcome feature, especially at the premium price point!

Who I Think Will Love This Bag

  • People who are looking for a backpack that'll do it all
  • Digital nomads or people who are traveling for work
  • Those who love to organize based on compartments and pockets
  • Travelers who leave with more stuff than they came with
  • Individuals who are happy to spend a sizeably amount of money on a valuable item with longevity in mind.

People Who Should Avoid This Bag

  • Anyone who's on a budget or doesn't like to spend a lot in one go
  • Outdoor enthusiasts that are mainly looking for a hiking bag
  • People who want a very light pack or who can't carry heavy items well
  • Style-focused users who wish for a bag that looks either more traditional or unique
I'm opening up the front secondary compartment in the backpack here
Captured by ©Pilot

Other Reasons to Buy NOMATIC Products

NOMATIC Backpack Repair Kits

What I really like about NOMATIC is the ability for you to repair your backpacks right from the comforts of your own home!

NOMATIC lists all of their repair kits and accessories for purchase, so if you ever get your backpack damaged, you're able to quickly replace them with a new one. This mostly applies to NOMATIC suitcases, but there are some parts available for its backpacks as well.

NOMATIC Lifetime Warranty

I think warranty is one of the best things to look at before purchasing anything! That's because I find that a company that stands behind its products with a fantastic warranty makes high quality gear you won't regret buying.

NOMATIC is obviously very confident in the quality of its products since it offers manufacturer's lifetime warranty on its backpacks. Although it doesn't cover every possible mishap, it'll help you if you run into the following problems with your backpack:

  • Broken Zippers
  • Torn Zipper Track
  • Broken Buttons
  • Seal & Seam Defects

So what doesn't it cover? NOMATIC's lifetime warranty won't help you cover issues relating to general wear and tear, accidental damage, damage due to misuse, airline mishandling, or lost items. It also doesn't cover items that are final sale, clearance or refurbished.

One more thing, you must be the original owner! That means if you like to buy secondhand, NOMATIC won't cover any product purchased from others.

NOMATIC Summer Sale on Now!

Have I convinced you that I loved my experience using NOMATIC yet? If so, I've got even better news for you!

NOMATIC is currently having its summer sale... That means lots of fantastic savings for you! You'll be able to save up to 40% off top gear and 70% off the All-Day Armour Line.

Remember to check out the bomb savings before you miss out.

Is the NOMATIC Navigator Travel Backpack Worth It?

Based on my personal experience using the bag, I think the 32L NOMATIC Navigator Travel Backpack is worth the purchase. Yes, it has a high price tag. But with the vast amount of helpful features, durability, and organization capabilities, you'll find yourself with a bag for years to come!

There are so many things to like about this backpack. After using it for travel, my favorite things are the easy-to-access laptop slip, versatile pockets, and sheer capacity. It didn't hurt that I got some nice compliments on it while abroad. And all of my co-workers were envious!

It doesn't get a perfect score, of course. There are some small things I have to complain about, like the fact the zippers/compartment system isn't 100% clear at first. There's also the fact that it becomes more uncomfortable once it gets overloaded with stuff.

Overall, if you're a digital nomad or an organized traveler who wants to make one purchase, this bag is for you. You'll definitely have a reliable item for a long time, and you won't be disappointed by the many unique features.

Plus, you may not even experience the difficulties I had! You may find this backpack extremely comfortable if you're taller or more muscular than me.

But if you're budget-conscious or want different bags for particular uses, then skip this bag!

My Rating: 4.2/5

Pros:

  • Lots of compartments for organization
  • Many security features
  • Water-resistant
  • Feels very durable
  • Great capacity even at the standard size
  • The bag can expand if needed
  • Stylish and minimalistic design
  • RFID protection and secret pockets
  • Can be used in many situations

Cons:

  • Very pricey
  • Zippers and compartments can be confusing at first
  • Not as comfortable as it gets heavier
  • Luggage strap somewhat challenging to use
  • Heavy for its size

Find Your Fav Travel Backpack!

Now you've got the down-low on this uber luxury travel backpack. Whether you've decided to pick up one for yourself, or you think you still need to search for the most suitable backpack, you're one step closer to a better travel experience.

And, once you have the perfect travel gear for your unique needs, make sure that you keep your next trip itinerary organized and all in one place. That's what a good trip planner like Pilot can do for you.

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Disclosure: Pilot is supported by our community. We may earn a small commission fee with affiliate links on our website. All reviews and recommendations are independent and do not reflect the official view of Pilot.

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