Osprey Porter 46 vs. Fjallraven Ulvö 30
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Feature by feature
| Osprey Porter 46 | Feature | Fjallraven Ulvö 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 | N |
| Inside | ||
| 1 | Laptop | 15 |
| 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 | Bergshell®: 400D 100% polyamide |
Fjallraven Ulvö 30
| Capacity | 30 L |
| Weight | 0.9 kg |
| Dimensions | 51×28×26 cm |
| Airline fit | 30% |
| Price | $150 |
Let's break it down between the two backpacks, the Osprey Porter 46 by Osprey and the Fjallraven Ulvö 30 by Fjallraven. Both are trusty travel companions, but they cater to different needs and they're not cut from the same cloth.
The Osprey Porter 46 is a relentless pack mule, swallowing up 46 liters of gear with ease. It dwarfs the Fjallraven Ulvö 30 which maxes out at 30 liters. If you're constantly fighting to cram in one more pair of pants, the Porter 46 might be the solution, and at 1.5 pounds, it's surprisingly light for its size. The Fjallraven Ulvö 30, on the other hand, is slighter in stature but only shaving off 0.6 pounds. The Fjallraven Ulvö 30 does outshine the Porter 46 in material, though – Fjallraven uses Bergshell®: 400D 100% polyamide, an impressive, waterproof fabric that's tough as nails.
Here's a bullet-pointed comparison summarizing the differences:
- The Osprey Porter 46 is larger (46 liters) than the Fjallraven Ulvö 30 (30 liters).
- The Osprey Porter 46 is slightly heavier (1.5 pounds) than the Fjallraven Ulvö 30 (0.9 pounds).
- While both have laptop compartments, the Osprey Porter 46's is larger, accommodating a 17" laptop, while the Fjallraven Ulvö 30's compartment fits a 15" laptop.
- The Osprey Porter 46 is made of nylon, while the Fjallraven Ulvö 30 is made of a durable and waterproof Bergshell®: 400D 100% polyamide.
- The Osprey Porter 46 is compatible with more airlines (47%) compared to the Fjallraven Ulvö 30 (30%).
Then there's compatibility to consider. The Porter 46 speaks well with more airlines at 47%, whereas the Ulvö 30 courts fewer at 30%. The Fjallraven's understated aesthetic might be the deciding factor. It leans minimal and business-like, yet equipped for the trail with its outdoor-ready material.
And don't overlook the compartments. It's often the smaller specs that make a pack the right fit. Porter 46 has a laptop sleeve that fits up to a 17" laptop, larger than the 15" capacitated compartment of Ulvö 30. While both are well-reviewed, reviews of the Porter 46 speak to its solid construction and excellent value. On the other hand, reviewers highlight the Ulvö 30's durability and weather resistance.
Finally, the verdict comes down to your travel style. If you're a heavy packer and aren't too concerned about weight, the Osprey Porter 46 will stand you in good stead. If you travel light and need waterproof gear, the Fjallraven Ulvö 30 is an excellent pick.