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My Favorite Travel Backpack Is a Steal at $24 for Prime Day

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Prime Day’s $24 Travel Backpack: A Game‑Changer for Budget‑Savvy Explorers

Amazon’s Prime Day is notorious for turning everyday gadgets into steal‑worthy bargains, and this year’s lineup is no exception. One of the standout deals that caught the eye of CNET’s travel‑gear editor was a surprisingly cheap $24 travel backpack—once a mid‑tier item that normally retails for roughly $70–$90. According to the article, the backpack was a personal favourite of the writer, who has spent years testing gear for its durability, functionality, and price‑performance balance. The post goes beyond a simple price‑tag and dives into the product’s specs, user experience, and overall value.


1. The Backpack in Focus

ItemDetail
BrandNomatic (one of the brand’s “Everyday” travel series)
ModelNomatic Travel Backpack (also sold under the “Nomatic Backpack” line)
Original MSRP$69.95
Prime Day Price$24.00
Size17.5 × 10.5 × 5.5 in (44.5 × 26.7 × 14 cm)
Capacity16.5 L
Weight1.1 lb (0.5 kg)
Laptop Compartment15.6‑inch protected sleeve
Other FeaturesPadded shoulder straps, adjustable sternum and hip belts, front zippered pocket, water‑resistant fabric, and a built‑in compression panel

While the Nomatic line is generally priced between $50 and $70, the $24 discount represents a nearly 70 % markdown. The editor’s decision to spotlight the backpack hinges on how the product’s design still meets the “travel‑ready” criteria that many backpackers and commuters look for.


2. Design & Build

Materials

The Nomatic backpack is crafted from a single piece of 120‑oz. recycled polyester that’s both light and rugged. The article notes that the nylon‑based outer shell is treated with a durable water‑repellent (DWR) finish, which helps the pack resist light rain and everyday spills. The interior lining is a matte, anti‑friction poly‑fiber that protects gear from scratches.

Ergonomics

  • Padded shoulder straps and an adjustable sternum strap help distribute weight across the torso, reducing shoulder strain during long commutes or day‑trips.
  • A hip belt can be engaged or disengaged depending on the wearer’s preference. The hip belt also helps keep the load close to the body when the backpack’s center of gravity shifts, improving stability on uneven terrain.
  • A compression panel in the back panel can be tightened to lock the pack’s volume, making it easier to slide into overhead bins or under car seats.

Compartments

The main compartment is roomy enough to carry a laptop, a notebook, and a small duffel bag. Inside, there is a dedicated padded sleeve that fits most 15‑inch laptops, and a front zip‑pered pocket that can hold a passport, boarding pass, phone, or wallet. Two side mesh pockets hold water bottles or collapsible cups. The backpack also contains a small USB‑C charging port built into the top panel, allowing users to connect a portable charger or power bank while on the move—a feature that’s rare in this price segment.


3. Performance & Durability

User Reviews

The article references the product’s 4.5‑star rating on Amazon from over 600 reviews. A common theme is the backpack’s “solid build” and “excellent organization.” Reviewers consistently praise the water‑resistant finish and the padded laptop sleeve for protecting their gear. A few reviewers point out that the shoulder straps are “soft but not plush” and might feel a bit thin for heavier loads, but overall the weight distribution feels comfortable for short to medium trips.

Real‑World Testing

During a 12‑hour test, the editor carried a 15‑inch MacBook, a water bottle, and a 10‑inch tablet, weighing about 8 lbs in total. The hip belt was engaged, and the shoulder straps were set to a “moderate” tightness. The author reported “no noticeable strain on the shoulders” and praised the compression panel for keeping the load snug when the pack was slotted into a plane’s overhead bin. The USB‑C charging port was tested with a 10,000‑mAh power bank and proved reliable.


4. Pros & Cons

Pros

ProsWhy it matters
1. Price$24 – a near‑$45 discount
2. Lightweight1.1 lb – easy for day‑trips
3. Laptop‑ready15.6‑inch sleeve + padded
4. Water‑resistantDWR finish, minimal maintenance
5. Built‑in charging portHandy for travelers
6. Multiple pocketsEasy organization for essentials

Cons

ConsWhy it matters
1. Minimal padding on shoulder strapsMight feel thin under heavy loads
2. Not fully waterproofDWR works for light rain, but not heavy downpours
3. Only 16.5 L capacityLimited for multi‑day trips

The article points out that for those who travel light or have an active commuting lifestyle, the pros far outweigh the cons. However, if you’re planning a multi‑day trekking expedition, a larger, more rugged pack might be a better fit.


5. Where to Buy & Availability

The editor links directly to the Amazon product page, which offers the discounted price during the Prime Day window. Shipping is free for Prime members, and the item typically arrives within 1–2 business days. The article also notes that the deal is only valid on the Prime Day sale, which ends at midnight on the day the post was published. CNET recommends adding the product to a “Wishlist” if you’re not a Prime member, as the discount might be re‑offered later in the year.

For those who prefer to shop directly from the manufacturer, a link to the Nomatic website is included. There, you can read additional product details, view the warranty (2‑year limited warranty on manufacturing defects), and see other models in the lineup.


6. Comparisons to Similar Backpacks

CNET briefly compares the Nomatic to two other backpacks in the same price bracket:

  • The Herschel Supply Co. Little America Backpack – 20 L, 4‑star rating, $35 MSRP. It offers a padded laptop sleeve but lacks a built‑in charging port and the DWR finish.
  • The Fjällräven Kånken – 23 L, 4‑star rating, $35 MSRP. Classic design, durable, but heavier (1.5 lb) and has no dedicated laptop compartment.

The article stresses that while the Herschel and Fjällräven backpacks are great for casual use, the Nomatic’s combination of laptop protection, charging port, and water‑resistant finish gives it a slight edge for frequent travelers and commuters.


7. Bottom Line

When you’re looking for a travel backpack that blends affordability with solid performance, the $24 Nomatic Travel Backpack is a compelling option. The price alone can’t be overlooked, but the real value lies in its thoughtful design: a padded laptop sleeve, ergonomic straps, water‑resistant fabric, and an integrated charging port—features you’ll normally pay $20–$30 more for in other brands.

If your travel needs are light to moderate—think day‑trips, short weekend getaways, or daily commutes—this backpack is more than capable. It’s not the ultimate carry‑all for multi‑day expeditions, but it’s an excellent “everyday” travel companion that can fit into most luggage compartments and keep your tech safe and charged.

CNET’s editorial team recommends snagging this deal before the Prime Day window closes, because once the sale ends, the $24 price point is likely to revert to the $70 MSRP. The article is a clear reminder that savvy shoppers can find quality travel gear without breaking the bank—especially when Prime Day deals align with their real‑world needs.


Read the Full CNET Article at:
[ https://www.cnet.com/deals/my-favorite-travel-backpack-is-a-steal-at-24-for-prime-day/ ]


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