If you’re like me, you know the importance of a good travel backpack. It’s not just about carrying your essentials; it’s about security, style, and functionality. In my search for the perfect bag, I’ve tried both the Pacsafe Citysafe and the Nordace Siena backpacks, as well as their shoulder bags and cross body purses.
As a seasoned traveler and a devout fan of Pacsafe for over a decade, I wondered if Nordace could really compete. Here’s everything to consider when buying Nordace vs. Pacsafe backpacks and bags:
Unique Features of Nordace vs. Pacsafe
Let’s get the biggest difference out of the way first – Nordace’s products are more dedicated to being ‘smart’ bags that have ports for charging devices, and Pacsafe is all about anti-theft technology, with only a little crossover.
While the Nordace Siena (read our full review) does have ‘hidden’ pockets, Pacsafe products all have zippers that clip and would need to be manually unlocked to open, and their bags are slash-proof. It makes it tough for a pickpocket to open them and make a quick getaway, which makes them great for summer in Europe. Both brand’s bags have RFID-blocking pockets to prevent scanning of passports and credit cards. Another standout feature of the Pacsafe is its eco-friendly construction of some of their bags. Made from recycled water bottles, the Citysafe in particular is not only durable but also environmentally conscious.
Nordace, on the other hand, has a convenient charging port on the outside of some of their bags. You’ll still need to purchase a power bank to use it, but it’s a unique feature Pacsafe lacks. However while the Nordace Siena may offer nice features as well, it lacks the sustainable ethos and anti-theft technology that sets Pacsafe apart.
Nordace vs. Pacsafe Price
When it comes to investing in a travel bag, upfront cost as well as long-term use potential/quality are essential to consider. Both made in China, Pacsafe tends to be pricier than Nordace. Here are the comparable options:
| Pacsafe | Nordace |
| Citysafe 17L Backpack and 25L | Siena Smart 19L Backpack |
| Crossbody bag | Crossbody bag |
| Carry on backpack | Shoulder Weekender Duffel |
Pacsafe’s shoulder bags are also pricier, but this is one of the more important places to have the anti-slash technology if you’re visiting a destination with high pickpocketing rates (I’m looking at you Barcelona, Berlin, Paris, the list goes on!). Since the bags are slash proof and have locking zippers, it’s better for security.
That said, I like the look of Nordace’s crossbody bag more. It feels a bit more luxurious with leather finishes, and looks a bit more chic to me. For parts of the world where pickpocketing is less common, I like it better.
Pacsafe also doesn’t have smaller shoulder weekender bags like Nordace does, though they have some great carry on backpacks.
Nordace vs. Pacsafe Aesthetics:
While some may argue that aesthetics are secondary to functionality, I believe a stylish backpack or bag is important, too. Nordace certainly wins points in this department. With its leather accents on some bags and vibrant color options, it’s a fashion-forward choice. However, don’t count out the Pacsafe Citysafe just yet. When I first started using Pacsafe products, they weren’t all that pretty look at, but now they’re coming out with cuter designs in pinks and blues which can compete a bit more with the Nordace Siena’s range of colors. Still, the volume of options of the Siena still wins out.
Even though Pacsafe is pricier, and a bit more sturdy, the Nordace bags tend to look nicer with the leather accents on some bags. The locks and thick slash proof straps on Pacsafe bags simply don’t look quite as good as bags without that functionality.
Nordace vs. Pacsafe Who Wins?
When it comes to travel bags, Pacsafe is generally my pick thanks to the theft-safe qualities. I’ve taken it all over the world from Southeast Asia to Patagonia and France. The only time I was pickpocketed over the past decade of traveling was when I didn’t bother to lock the zippers in Berlin, and I couldn’t believe how quick those guys could unzip my bag and rob me without me realizing. But had I actually locked the zippers and been more careful, they wouldn’t have had the time.
If you want a one and done bag that can be used all over the world, including places where theft is an issue, Pacsafe has been a leader in making theft-proof bags for over a decade, and it shows. Between the two brands, it’s the one I prefer.
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