Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
| Osprey Porter 46 | Feature | Exped Cascade 25 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 4 |
| N | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| H | Hip Belt | R |
| H | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 1 | Laptop | 15 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 0 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| Nylon | 420 D Oxford nylon, TPU film laminate, >10'000 mm water column |
When it comes to picking a carry on backpack, the decision-making process heavily dwells on your needs. The kind of trips you take, what you need to carry, and where you'll be carrying the pack – these factors determine an ideal choice for you. Taking into account these considerations, let's take a closer look at two significant contenders: the Osprey Porter 46 and the Exped Cascade 25.
The Osprey Porter 46 is known for its roominess and durability. It's large - 23 inches tall, 36 inches wide, and 56 inches deep, and weighs 1.5 pounds. Yet, this doesn't limit its functionality. The Porter 46 carries a handsome 46 liters volume capacity that caters to your needs. Made of sturdy Nylon material, this backpack with a laptop compartment that fits a 1-inch laptop offers good suspension, fast and convenient unpacking due to its clamshell opening, and keeping your items unsloppy via compression straps.
On the other hand, the Exped Cascade 25 is lighter yet equally robust. It weighs lighter at 0.9 pounds and measures 21 inches tall, 29 inches wide, and 49 inches deep. The material is a durable combination of 420 D Oxford nylon, TPU film laminate, and >10'000 mm water column, ensuring a waterproof bag. Despite its smaller 25 liters volume capacity, it offers a laptop compartment fitting a 15-inch laptop, and it's easy to get to since it's separated from the main compartment.
In a nutshell, here are their differences:
The final showdown ultimately depends on your requirements. If you're in for an extensive carrying capacity, the Osprey Porter 46 with its vastness, durability, and compressing straps to counter any sloppiness deserves your consideration. However, if your trips demand compactness and lightness yet threatening weather conditions, the waterproofed and durable Exped Cascade 25 is the one to go.