How to Retrieve The Traveler Al’s Bag in Octopath Traveler 2

If you’re just starting out Octopath Traveler 2 as Throne, you will happen across a man named Al when you leave New Delsta. He warns about the thieves on the Highroad. He’s a victim of their activities. He quickly explains how they stole from him and he can’t continue on his way. This “The Traveler’s Bag” side quest serves not only as a Side Stories tutorial, but also one about changing the time from day to night in Octopath Traveler 2.

To find the Traveler Al’s bag in Octopath Traveler 2, you need to press the shoulder button to toggle from day to night. Then, head north at the crossing heading to Winterlands. There’s a small alcove with a fire, and you should see a bandit there. (There is also a covered wagon and some boxes, which are present regardless of the time of day.) Talking to him causes him to talk about his “score” ended up not being everything you fought. It is then possible to opt to take the bag back.

This will trigger a short fight. Throne should be at level 5 by this point, if you started with her. Also, this bandit is weak against daggers. Attacking as normal, boosting when you can, should get you through it. Completing this will get you the traveler’s bag back, and all you need to do is head south to the crossing and return it to Al to complete your first Octopath Traveler 2 Side Story.

Octopath Traveler 2 is available for the Switch, PS4, PS5, and PC. A demo is available.