Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
| Osprey Porter 46 | Feature | Jansport Gnarly Gnapsack 30 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | S |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 4 |
| N | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| H | Hip Belt | N |
| H | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 1 | Laptop | 17 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 2 |
| N | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| Nylon | 300 Denier Recycled Ripstop Poly / 600 Denier Recycled Poly / TPU Coated 600 Denier |
| Capacity | 30 L |
| Weight | 0.9 kg |
| Dimensions | 51×30×20 cm |
| Airline fit | 80% |
| Price | $75 |
The Osprey Porter 46 and the Jansport Gnarly Gnapsack, they're not exactly the backpacks you might have carried in school. These are mid-sized to large gear-hauling travel backpacks, with a sense of old-school flair. The Porter, as its name implies, is a true workhorse. Weighing in at a solid 1.5 pounds, this pack has a capacity of 46 liters, beautifully encased in tough, wipe-clean nylon. It stands tall and wide, designed for those who tend to carry more. Whether you're hiking in Yosemite or navigating the bustling streets of Barcelona, the Porter will efficiently hog your gear and keep you comfortable.
But the Gnarly Gnapsack from Jansport is not to be overlooked. This lightweight contender, just under a pound, has its own arsenal of impressive features. Yes, it offers a little less room at 30 liters, but it's compact, intricately crafted with 300 Denier Recycled Ripstop Poly and withstands unexpected sliding or weather conditions. Additionally, the Gnapsack is surprisingly deep, catering better to airlines - 80% compared to Porter's 47%.
Differences:
Both the Porter and the Gnapsack have their strengths. The Porter's padded side and top handles, D rings to clip an optional shoulder strap, and compression straps make it superbly versatile. Its enormous opening swallows gear like a hungry beast, while its laptop sleeve neatly cradles your tech. If that wasn't enough, reviewers hail it as an excellent value with a plethora of smart features that urban travelers will appreciate.
On the other hand, the Gnapsack offers a more respectable price, superb workmanship, and a lifetime warranty from Jansport. Plenty of pockets hold your belongings securely, and its superior airline compatibility makes it ideal for frequent flyers. So, if you prefer a bag that is more compact, lightweight, and kind to the environment, the Gnapsack could be the better choice for you.