Osprey Porter 46 vs. Pacsafe Go 25L Anti-Theft Backpack

Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.

Osprey Porter 46

Front facing view of the Osprey Porter 46
Capacity46 L
Weight1.5 kg
Dimensions56×36×23 cm
Airline fit47%
Price$150

Feature by feature

Osprey Porter 46FeaturePacsafe Go 25L Anti-Theft Backpack
Storage
S Compression N
None Expanded Capacity None
4 Opening 4
N Passport Y
N Passthrough N
Carry
H Backpack S
H Hip Belt N
H Sternum Strap N
Inside
1 Laptop 16
3 Main Compartments 1
N Organizer N
Outside
× Hard Shell ×
N Rain-fly N
0 Water Bottle Holder 1
Y Water Resistant Y
Material
Nylon600D Recycled polyester, 150D Recycled polyester

Pacsafe Go 25L Anti-Theft Backpack

Front facing view of the Pacsafe Go 25L Anti-Theft Backpack
Capacity25 L
Weight0.72 kg
Dimensions46×31×14 cm
Airline fit82%
Price$110

The Osprey Porter 46 and the Pacsafe Go 25L Anti-Theft Backpack each cater to a unique subset of the travel population. The Porter 46 is a behemoth, effortlessly swallowing luggage for multi-day trips or gear-heavy endeavors. It's slightly heavier at 1.5 pounds, attributed to the nylon construction and the strong suspension system it offers. At a 46-liter capacity, it lives up to its name — a reliable porter, always on hand to carry your extra load. Reviewers express appreciation for the Porter's expansive inside, noting that the full-clamshell opening simplifies the otherwise daunting task of packing and repacking.

On the other hand, the Go 25L is a much more compact backpack, ideal for day trips or as a carry on supplement to a bigger suitcase. Aesthetically, it shines with its minimalist design and eco-friendly construction — 600D to 150D recycled polyester. Despite its size, it manages to pack a punch, with space for a 16-inch laptop in the dedicated compartment. What really sets it apart, however, are the anti-theft features that Pacsafe is known for, such as eXomesh slashguards, lockable zippers, and RFID blocking pockets.

In terms of comfort, while the Osprey Porter 46 offers a good suspension system that can comfortably carry larger loads, the Pacsafe Go 25L, even though it's smaller, is also praised for its comfort. Bottom line — both backpacks offer unique strengths. If volume and capacity are what you need, the Porter 46 is your calling. But for daily or light travel scenarios, where theft protection is of importance, the Go 25L surpasses expectations.