Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
| Osprey Porter 46 | Feature | Hill People Gear Tarahumara |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | S |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 0 |
| N | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| H | Hip Belt | R |
| H | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 1 | Laptop | 0 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 2 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| Nylon | 500D Cordura |
| Capacity | 16 L |
| Weight | 0.7 kg |
| Dimensions | 44×24×10 cm |
| Airline fit | 100% |
| Price | $125 |
The Osprey Porter 46 backpack is in a class of its own with the capacity to boast. Standing tall at 23 inches, with a width of 36 inches and an impressive depth of 56 inches, it's a giant in the space. The bag is made of durable nylon material, tipped the scale at 1.5 pounds. It may not weigh like a feather but given its features, it's worth the compromise. The Porter 46 offers an outstanding 46 liters of space and includes a laptop compartment that fits as much as a 1-inch laptop. Unfortunately, its compatibility with airlines is not universal, standing at 47%. However, its minimalistic design coupled with its clamshell opening and compression strap keeps the bag from looking sloppy - making it a perfect travel companion.
On the other hand, the Hill People Gear Tarahumara is compact yet robust, well-adjusted in height, width, and depth - 44 inches, 24 inches, and 10 inches respectively. Its 16 liters of space might be small considering the Porter 46, but for a day journey, it's size and 0.7 pounds weight would suffice. The bag is made of 500D Cordura, known for its strength and resistance to wear and tear. Additionally, the Tarahumara is universally compatible with airlines and is known for its solid build quality, a trait that is often expected from Hill People Gear products.
Here's a quick comparison:
While the Porter 46 and the Tarahumara are both excellent carry-on backpacks and share similarities, they also illustrate a differentiation in purpose. If a large capacity is a priority, coupled with added features like a laptop compartment, the Osprey Porter 46 presents itself as the better option. Conversely, for the minimalist traveler — one who prefers day journeys, lean towards lightweight, and 100% airline compatibility — the Hill People Gear Tarahumara would be the best suit. In the end, the set of needs and preferences would set the tone for which of these would make your perfect travel companion.