Osprey Porter 46 vs. Matador Freerain22 Waterproof Packable 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 46FeatureMatador Freerain22 Waterproof Packable Backpack
Storage
S Compression N
None Expanded Capacity None
4 Opening 2
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 1
N Organizer N
Outside
× Hard Shell ×
N Rain-fly N
0 Water Bottle Holder 2
Y Water Resistant Y
Material
Nylon70D Robic® nylon UHMWPE, PU waterproofing 50D nylon mini ripstop

Matador Freerain22 Waterproof Packable Backpack

Front facing view of the Matador Freerain22 Waterproof Packable Backpack
Capacity22 L
Weight0.3 kg
Dimensions49.5×26.7×17.8 cm
Airline fit82%
Price$100

The Osprey Porter 46 is the beast of carry-on backpacks. While this might be slightly too large for some, it more than makes up for its size with its cavernous 46 liters of capacity. This versatile pack can be bulked up or cinched down, depending on your needs, and its durable construction makes it a formidable companion for those who tend to carry more. Moreover, its laptop compartment can handle a substantial 1 inch laptop, and it's a backpack that feels solid while traveling in an urban setting.

In contrast, the Matador Freerain22 Waterproof Packable Backpack is no slouch either. Slightly more compact, this backpack measures 17.8 inches in height, 26.7 inches in width, and 49.5 inches in depth, but offers a respectable 22 liters of capacity. Even though its laptop compartment is not as accommodating as the Porter's, it compensates by focusing on being lightweight and packable. This backpack won't weigh you down on your travels; it's a featherweight at just 0.3 pounds.

Here are the key differences:

Where the Matador Freerain22 Waterproof Packable Backpack shines is in its waterproof quality. An unexpected downpour during your travel won't be an issue. It can also be packed into a small pouch when not in use, making it an excellent secondary bag for weeklong travels. Its admirable weight distribution capabilities make it an absolute delight to have on your shoulders.

Contrasting that, the Osprey Porter 46 is known for its impressive suspension. It is spacious enough to house all your essentials, while its clever design and compressions straps prevent the bag from looking sloppy, regardless of how much you pack in. When it comes to providing plenty of room and staying lightweight for its size, the Porter takes the lead. So, whether you opt for the Porter’s ample space and durability, or the Freerain22’s lightweight and packable features, you’re getting a phenomenal backpack that delivers on its promises.