Osprey Porter 46 vs. Exped Mountain Pro 20

Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.

Osprey Porter 46

Front facing view of the Osprey Porter 46
Capacity46 L
Weight1.5 kg
Dimensions56×36×23 cm
Airline fit47%
Price$150

Feature by feature

Osprey Porter 46FeatureExped Mountain Pro 20
Storage
S Compression N
None Expanded Capacity None
4 Opening 3
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 0
Y Water Resistant Y
Material
Nylon420 D Oxford nylon, PU coated, 3'000 mm water column

Exped Mountain Pro 20

Front facing view of the Exped Mountain Pro 20
Capacity20 L
Weight1.12 kg
Dimensions50×29×17 cm
Airline fit81%
Price$250

When it comes to carry on backpacks, two notable contenders emerge; the Osprey Porter 46 and the Exped Mountain Pro 20. At first glance, both backpacks offer a sleek design and promise rugged durability. However, the distinctions between them are worth exploring for both the casual carrier and the avid backpacker.

The Osprey Porter 46 is a behemoth when it comes to size and capacity. With its 46-liter capacity, there is barely a limit to what you can stuff into it. It's also a heavyweight in terms of durability with its Nylon construction. On the downside, its size is not universally airline-friendly, with compatibility around 47%. It does, however, offer a laptop compartment that can fit a 1-inch laptop.

The Exped Mountain Pro 20, on the other hand, is more compact and a bit lighter due to its 20-liter capacity. It has a higher airline compatibility rate at 81%, but lacks a laptop compartment. Constructed from 420 D Oxford nylon, PU coated, it offers a water resistance of up to 3'000 mm.

The overall consensus among reviewers suggests that the Osprey Porter 46, despite its size, is a hardy, spacious and practical bag suited to the urban traveler. Its suspension system and smart design features were particularly praised. The Exped Mountain Pro 20, conversely, impressed with its weatherproof construction and internal organization. Its box-shaped and minimalist design appealed to users as well.

Choosing between the Osprey Porter 46 and the Exped Mountain Pro 20 comes down to personal preference and needs. If you're looking for a bag with a lot of space for your things and don't mind its big size, go for the Porter 46. Conversely, if you're after a lightweight, sleeker and more professional looking bag, the Mountain Pro 20 might be the bag for you. Both offer great value and will serve as reliable travel companions.