Osprey Porter 46 vs. Thule Subterra 34L
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Feature by feature
| Osprey Porter 46 | Feature | Thule Subterra 34L |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 0 |
| N | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | Y |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| H | Hip Belt | N |
| H | Sternum Strap | N |
| Inside | ||
| 1 | Laptop | 15 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 4 |
| N | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| Nylon | 800D nylon |
Thule Subterra 34L
| Capacity | 34 L |
| Weight | 2.8 kg |
| Dimensions | 53×31×24 cm |
| Airline fit | 92% |
| Price | $160 |
Osprey and Thule are both well-known in the travel industry for their highly durable and travel-friendly bags and equipment. In particular, their carry on backpacks - Osprey's Porter 46 and Thule's Subterra 34L - prove to be crowd-pleasers among seasoned travelers. The versatility and adaptability of each bag cater to different types of packers and their respective needs.
The Osprey Porter 46 surpasses in sheer spaciousness with a whopping 46 liters of packing capacity. This nylon-made titan of a bag is perfect for over-packers who love to have extra space for souvenirs and other finds along their journey. It has a laptop slot that can neatly store a 1-inch laptop. With its impressive size, however, it's only airline-compatible by 47%. Measuring 23 inches tall, 36 inches wide, and 56 inches deep, it weighs only 1.5 pounds.
Contrasting Osprey's sizeable offering is the sleek and compact focus of the Thule Subterra 34L. While a comparatively smaller capacity at 34 liters, this bag, made of 800D nylon, shines in its extensive compatibility with 92% of airlines. Despite being a bit heavier at 2.8 pounds, its dimensions are more condensed,with a height of 53 inches, width of 31 inches, and depth of 24 inches. It features a compartment fit for a 15-inch laptop.
Here's a roundup of the notable differences:
- Dimensions: Osprey is 23x36x56, Thule is 53x31x24
- Weight: Osprey weighs 1.5 lbs, Thule weighs 2.8 lbs
- Capacity: Osprey has 46 liters, Thule has 34 liters
- Airline compatibility: Osprey works with 47% of airlines, Thule accommodates 92%
- Material: Osprey uses Nylon, Thule uses 800D nylon
- Laptop compartment: Osprey fits a 1-inch laptop, Thule fits a 15-inch laptop
Below the surface, it's evident that these packs speak to two different markets. The Porter 46 is more favorable for heavy-duty travelers who need extra space and aren't as concerned about airline restrictions. On the other hand, the Subterra 34L seems to fit urban wanderers who desire a versatile pack that smoothly transitions between travel and daily life, with bonus points for fitting nicely in the overhead bin. Whichever backpack you choose, both Osprey and Thule promise reliability, function, and a touch of adventure with each design.