Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
| Osprey Porter 46 | Feature | Ortlieb Atrack CR |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | N |
| 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 | 1 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| Nylon | PS33 |
| Capacity | 25 L |
| Weight | 1.22 kg |
| Dimensions | 56×26×25 cm |
| Airline fit | 38% |
| Price | $265 |
When it comes to backpacks, the devil is in the details. Thus, let's examine two high quality, carry-on options: the Osprey Porter 46 and the Ortlieb Atrack CR. The Osprey Porter 46 is a beast of a pack, towering at 23 inches tall, 36 inches wide, and 56 inches deep. It's bigger size is also paired with larger capacity, as it can hold up to 46 liters. The trade-off is that it weighs slightly more than the Ortlieb at 1.5 pounds. The pack is made of durable nylon material and has a wide range of airline compatibility, approximately 47% of airlines to be exact. For those who travel with technology, rest assured because your one-inch laptop will fit snugly in the Porter's dedicated compartment.
On the other hand, the Ortlieb Atrack CR, hailing from a German legacy of high-quality gear, is a blend of daypack and travel duffle. It's a bit taller than the Porter, standing at 25 inches, but more narrow with a 26 inch width. The Atrack CR has a holding capacity of 25 liters, almost half of the Porter, but weighs slightly less at 1.22 pounds. This pack is crafted from PS33, a tough and resilient material. It's compatible with 38% of airlines, and unfortunately lacks a dedicated compartment for laptops.
Here's a quick comparison:
Osprey Porter 46
Ortlieb Atrack CR
Now, it's not just about the nuts and bolts. Generally, users find the Porter's massive capacity beneficial, along with its clamshell opening for speedy packing. However, they didn't miss the Porter's additional weight, which, in comparison to the Atrack CR, is noticeable.
Then there's the Ortlieb Atrack CR. Users seem to love its adjustable harness system for a perfect fit, along with its top-notch durability and weatherproofing. Though it lacks the Porter's expansive room, it makes up for it in comfort, ruggedness, and a few extra points for its eco-friendly manufacturing. The choice all depends on what you value more in a travel pack.