Osprey Porter 46 vs. Kathmandu Parker Pack
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Feature by feature
| Osprey Porter 46 | Feature | Kathmandu Parker Pack |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| 2 | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 1 | Opening | 4 |
| top | Passport | N |
| Y | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| hideable | Backpack | Y |
| hideable | Hip Belt | N |
| Y | Sternum Strap | Y |
| Inside | ||
| 16in | Laptop | 17in |
| 4 | Main Compartments | 2 |
| Y | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | optional |
| N | Water Bottle Holder | N |
| Y | Water Resistant | N |
| Material | |
| bluesign®-approved Recycled 500D Nylon Packcloth PFC Free DWR | 100% Recycled Polyester |
Kathmandu Parker Pack
| Capacity | 28 L |
| Weight | 0.89 kg |
| Dimensions | 50×29×24 cm |
| Airline fit | 41% |
| Price | $90 |
Key differences between the Osprey Porter 46 and Kathmandu Parker Pack
- Compression straps: 2 on the Osprey Porter 46; No on the Kathmandu Parker Pack.
- Opening: Clamshell on the Osprey Porter 46; Top zip on the Kathmandu Parker Pack.
- Passport pocket: Top on the Osprey Porter 46; No on the Kathmandu Parker Pack.
- Luggage passthrough: Yes on the Osprey Porter 46; No on the Kathmandu Parker Pack.
- Backpack straps: Hideable on the Osprey Porter 46; Yes on the Kathmandu Parker Pack.
- Hip belt: Hideable on the Osprey Porter 46; No on the Kathmandu Parker Pack.
- Laptop sleeve: 16in on the Osprey Porter 46; 17in on the Kathmandu Parker Pack.
- Main compartments: 4 on the Osprey Porter 46; 2 on the Kathmandu Parker Pack.
- Rain cover: No on the Osprey Porter 46; Optional on the Kathmandu Parker Pack.
- Water resistant: Yes on the Osprey Porter 46; No on the Kathmandu Parker Pack.
Both have: sternum strap, built-in organizer.
Which airlines take each bag as a carry-on
We checked both bags against the carry-on size limits of 189 airlines. 62 accept both. 54 accept only the Osprey Porter 46, and 15 accept only the Kathmandu Parker Pack.
Only the Osprey Porter 46 fits
Air Asia, Air Canada, Air Macau, Air Wisconsin, AirAsiaX, Alaska Airlines, Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Austrian, Avianca , Azerbaijan Airlines, Bahamasair, Bangkok Airways, Biman Bangladesh, Brussels Airlines, Cambodia Angkor Air, Cathay Pacific, Cebu Pacific, China Airlines, CommutAir, Delta Airlines, Dragonair, Ethiopian Airlines, Eurowings, EVA Air, Fiji Airways, Flair Air, Garuda Indonesia, Hawaiian Airlines, Hong Kong Airlines, jetBlue Airways, Jetstar Airways, Jetstar Asia, Kulula, LOT Polish, Lufthansa, Mahan Air, Malaysia Airlines, Mango, Mesa Airlines, Norwegian, Porter Airlines, Qantas Airways, Republic Airways, SAS Scandinavian, Skywest, Inc., South African Airways, SriLankan Airlines, Swiss Int'l Air Lines, Trans States, Turkish Airlines, United Airlines, Vietnam Airlines, Virgin Atlantic.
Only the Kathmandu Parker Pack fits
Aerolineas Argentinas, Air France, Air India, Air Mauritius, Boliviana de Aviacion, Croatia Air, Etihad Airways, Indigo, Jet Airways, Kenya Airways, KLM, LATAM , Oman Air, Qatar Airways, Sky Airlines.
When it comes to packing for your next adventure, choosing the right backpack can make or break the trip. Two such options are the Osprey Porter 46 and the Kathmandu Parker Pack. Both are solid choices, however, their unique features mean they cater to different types of travelers.
The Osprey Porter 46 is defined by its substantial capacity and robust durability. With 46 liters of carrying space, it's best-suited for those who require a bit more room for their belongings. It's also great for individuals who value rugged toughness in their backpacks, as its nylon material is made to withstand the occasional rough handling. A true gear-hauling marvel as defined by a reviewer, this pack can convert into a deluxe duffel for added convenience. Yet, despite its ample space, the pack maintains its form, aided by a thoughtful compression strap to prevent bagginess.
On the other hand, the Kathmandu Parker Pack is an ideal choice for travelers who want to go light and do so in a sustainable manner. Made from 100% recycled polyester, it serves as a nod to eco-friendly travel. Moreover, it's nearly half the weight of the Osprey at just 0.89lbs making it a great option for those wanting to avoid any excessive load. Functionality is at the fore of this pack, with superb organization within the bag and handy external webbing straps for attaching additional gear.
To summarize:
- The Osprey Porter 46 is larger (46 liters) verses the Kathmandu Parker Pack's 28 liters
- The Osprey is heavier (1.5 lbs) than the Kathmandu (0.89 lbs)
- The Osprey is made of nylon, whereas the Kathmandu is made of 100% Recycled Polyester
- Both have laptop compartments with the Osprey accommodating slightly larger sizes
- The Osprey is compatible with slightly fewer airlines (47%) versus the Kathmandu's 49%
- Both packs have earned high marks for durability, functionality and style.
In conclusion, both the Osprey Porter 46 and the Kathmandu Parker Pack make for reliable travel companions. Whether you prefer to travel heavy or light, both packs offer great features that cater to their respective travelers. Decide what best suits your needs and make your choice accordingly.