Sometimes you’re just going on a short trip somewhere and you only need 5 days worth of clothing.  You don’t need a large 60L backpack but you do need is a bag that’ll be versatile, keeps your clothing and gear organized, and looks good.  

This is my review of the Cotopaxi Nazca 24L travel pack and why I’ve really enjoyed using it so far for short-trips.

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Cotopaxi Nazca 24L Travel Pack backpack product review

You can never have enough bags right?  The challenge I’ve always had is with the awkward 5 day or less trips.  You aren’t packing much but you’re bringing enough where a simple backpack is too small.

Tell me if you can relate.  It’s these trips where you could totally use your carry-on suitcase but it always feels a bit strange because you’re going camping, short work trips or weekend getaways.  The suitcase would totally work BUT it feels like overkill.

I’ve been in so many situations where I’m that guy that packed a hardcase suitcase while everyone else has showed up with a duffle.

So what’s wrong with the duffle?  Don’t get me wrong, you can fit a ton of stuff in there but the gripe I’ve always had with duffles is that they’re incredibly uncomfortable to carry on your shoulder as a messenger-type bag, and it’s hard to find things inside because you end up just throwing things inside.

Review of the Cotopaxi Nazca 45L

So what’s so great about the Nazca travel pack?

Cotopaxi Nazca In Backack Mode Side Profile

Knowing about Cotopaxi from the Del Dia I reviewed, I’ve had my eye on their products for awhile.  “Gear for good” is their motto and that’s always something I’ve appreciated.

Okay so onto the travel pack.  First of all, it’s called a travel pack because the Nazca has multiple personalities.  It can be transformable between being a backpack, messenger bag, or just something you want to hand carry.  This is probably the best feature of the bag because it gives you options.  If you’re going long distances, backpack will be more comfortable but if you want to sling it on your shoulder real quick as a messenger, just detach the shoulder straps and waist straps and tuck it in.

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Everyone knows my obsession around rolling clothes and packing efficiently.  The thing with duffles is that in order to stay organized, you’ll need a good assortment of organizers and cubes and even then it’s just stuff thrown into a bag.  Where the Nazca strives is how it has organizers built into the bag.  When you open up the main zipper, the bag opens up like a book and you get two organizers on each side.  It may not look like a lot of space but once you roll your clothes, you can fit quite a bit.

Beyond clothes, there’s all the things you’ll need quick access to and that’s where the front and back zippered pockets come into play.  On the front, you can throw in all of your essentials like sunglasses, charging cables, power bank, chapstick etc.  On the back side, there’s a slot that’s big enough for a 13″ laptop.

HOW TO PACK THE NAZCA

Worried about security?  I thought one thing that showed Cotopaxi’s attention to detail are the simple zipper safeguards that dissuades thieves and their prying hands.

Oh and did I say that it looks good?  I think the key thing is that it doesn’t look like something built as luggage.  It’s just your everyday looking bag that could easily be your off-the-street Hershel bag.

Features

  • Water-resistant 630D nylon/cotton canvas shell
  • Suitcase-style zippered opening with internal mesh storage compartments
  • Separate zippered, padded laptop sleeve (fits 15in laptop) for easy access
  • Tuck-away backpack straps and removable shoulder sling strap
  • Zippered, fleece-lined front pocket for sunglasses and electronics
  • Fits the carry-on restrictions for any airplane

What could be improved

No product is perfect right?  If I were to point out areas of improvement, this would be my list:

  • The padding on the shoulder and back is decent but would love to a bit more to increase comfort
  • 24L is good for the minimalist traveller but I’d be interested in seeing a slightly larger 30L for those that don’t necessarily travel as light
  • No water bottle holder or any sort of external quick-grab pockets which some are used to seeing in a backpack

WHERE TO GET YOUR HANDS ON ONE

Pick up your Cotopaxi Nazca travel pack
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Travel Resources For Your Next Trip

If you’re in the process of planning your trip and putting together your itinerary, these are genuinely the best resources that the Going Awesome Places team stands by 100%.

Credit cards: Don’t get burned by hidden fees on top of terrible exchange rates. When we travel now, we use the Wise Card. Simply load it with the currency you need before you go and use it as a regular VISA or their digital wallet card. Use their free app to track how much you have and top up when you need to.

Flights: Of all the booking search engines, Skyscanner is the most helpful and easy to use thanks to their Everywhere feature. Kayak is also another that’s we will often check as well.

Car Rental: If you’re looking to save money, these car rental coupon codes will be a true game-changer. Otherwise, DiscoverCars and RentalCars are great places to start.

Rideshare: For new Lyft users, use code WILLIAM4825 to get 50% off your first 2 rides (max $10 USD per ride). Offer valid for 14 days after you take your first ride. For new Uber users, use code psuqbjg4d7rn for the same offer except it’s valid for 30 days.

Airport Parking: You’ll need a spot to leave your car at the airport so why not book a spot at a discount. Use code AWESOME7 to get at least $5 off at Airport Parking Reservations or Park Sleep Fly packages.

eSIM: Lately, we’ve really loved using eSIMs. We’ve tested several over the years and we have access to a few special promotions.

  • AmigoSIM – Use GOINGAWESOMEPLACES to save 25% off. Code is re-useable.
  • Gigsky – Use TANG149 to get $3 USD when you sign up, then use code GOINGAWESOME to save 20% on all eSIM orders.
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Wifi Hotspot: We’ve been a huge fan of wifi hotspot devices such as PokeFi (use code GAP24300) because their rates are are hard to beat and it works globally. Solis is another that we recommend. Pros are that you can share the wifi with your whole group but cons are that you have to invest in a device and you have to charge it every night.

Hotels: Our go-to is Booking.com because they have the best inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs plus they have their Genius tier discounts. Expedia is also worth using especially with their One Key rewards program which is basically like cash. The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. Always do a quick check on TripAdvisor as well.

Vacation Rentals: Your first instinct will be to check Airbnb but we always recommend checking VRBO as well if you’re looking for a vacation rental (now eligible for One Key).

Tours and Activities: When planning our trips, we always check both Viator and GetYourGuide to at least see what’s out there in the destination that we’re going to. They often have different offerings and prices so check both.

Travel Insurance: Learn how to buy the best travel insurance for you. This isn’t something you want to travel without.

  • HeyMondo – Popular insurance provider for frequent travelers and comes with great coverage and special perks. By booking through our link to get a 15% discount (from June 19-29)!
  • RATESDOTCA – Search engine Canadians looking for the cheapest insurance including multi-trip annual policies.
  • SafetyWing – A perfect fit for long-term nomads.
  • Medjet – Global air medical transportation.
  • InsureMyTrip – Best for seniors, families, and those with pre-existing conditions.

If you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out our Travel Toolbox where we highlight all of the gear, resources, and tools we use when traveling.

William Tang of Going Awesome Places
About The Author

Will Tang

Will Tang, founder of Going Awesome Places, has traveled to 51 countries. He shares his insanely detailed itineraries, travel guides, and packing lists. Will’s travels have been featured on Huffington Post, Men’s Journal, and Entrepreneur.

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