Osprey Porter 46 vs. Aer Travel Pack 2
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Feature by feature
| Osprey Porter 46 | Feature | Aer Travel Pack 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| 2 | Compression | 4 |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 1 | Opening | 1 |
| top | Passport | top |
| Y | Passthrough | Y |
| Carry | ||
| hideable | Backpack | Y |
| hideable | Hip Belt | optional |
| Y | Sternum Strap | removable |
| Inside | ||
| 16in | Laptop | 16in |
| 4 | Main Compartments | 5 |
| Y | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| N | Water Bottle Holder | 1, side |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| bluesign®-approved Recycled 500D Nylon Packcloth PFC Free DWR | Grey: 900D eco-dyed polyester Black / Blue: 1680D Cordura® ballistic nylon exterior |
In the world of travel backpacks, two heavyweights compete for your attention: the Osprey Porter 46 by Osprey and the Aer Travel Pack 2 by Aer. Both these bags have distinct features that make them deserving of a second look. Here's my take on them in a real, no-fluff, Hemingway-inspired review.
The Osprey Porter 46 is a hulk of a pack. It stands 23 inches tall, 36 inches wide, and 56 inches deep. Its sizeable frame weighs in at only 1.5 pounds but offers a hefty 46 liters of space. As if it isn't impressive enough, this versatile pack is crafted from durable nylon and includes a laptop compartment good for a 1 inch laptop. The Porter 46 isn't just about size—it's about adaptability, allowing you to expand or contract according to your needs, a feature reviewers highlight.
The Aer Travel Pack 2, on the other hand, combines compact design with utilitarian functionality. The bag shares the same depth and width as the Osprey but stands significantly taller at 56 inches. Despite being slightly heavier at 1.7 pounds, the Travel Pack 2 defines efficiency with a more conservative 33 liters of space. A standout feature is its compatibility with 97% of airlines, about double that of the Osprey. Made from 900D eco-dyed polyester and equipped with a dedicated 15 inch laptop compartment, it's a pack that screams practicality and style.
- Osprey Porter 46
- Larger dimensions
- Lighter weight
- Larger capacity: 46 liters
- Compatible with 47% of airlines
- Made from Nylon
- 1-inch laptop compartment
- Aer Travel Pack 2
- Smaller dimensions but taller
- Slight heavier weight
- Smaller capacity: 33 liters
- Compatible with 97% of airlines
- Made from eco-friendly 900D dyed polyester
- 15-inch laptop compartment
Reviewers concur that the Porter provides incredible value with mindfully included features and remarkable durability at just $140. The Travel Pack 2, however, doesn't miss a beat when it comes to combining simplicity, style, smart functionality and quality. Overall, your choice between these two giants will hinge entirely on your balance between space and practicality. Both demonstrate exceptional quality, but the Porter excels in providing space, while the Aer shines in compatibility and style.