Osprey Porter 46 vs. Matador Freerain32 Waterproof Packable Backpack
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Feature by feature
| Osprey Porter 46 | Feature | Matador Freerain32 Waterproof Packable Backpack |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | S |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 2 |
| N | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| H | Hip Belt | S |
| H | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 1 | Laptop | 0 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 2 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| Nylon | Waterproof 30D Cordura® ripstop nylon |
Matador Freerain32 Waterproof Packable Backpack
| Capacity | 32 L |
| Weight | 0.3 kg |
| Dimensions | 51×28×23 cm |
| Airline fit | 98% |
| Price | $95 |
When it comes to choosing a carry-on backpack, it can be tricky to pick the best suited to your needs. Here we have two noteworthy options: the Osprey Porter 46 from Osprey and the Matador Freerain32 Waterproof Packable Backpack from Matador. Each of these backpacks brings its own unique features to the table.
Starting off with the Osprey Porter 46, this backpack is a significant pack with an impressive load capacity of 46 liters. Being 23 inches tall, 36 inches wide, and 56 inches deep, gives it a substantial amount of space for all your belongings. In addition to a laptop compartment for a 1-inch laptop, it is made from durable Nylon material. However, with an airline compatibility rating of just 47%, this pack might restrict your travel options slightly. It may be bulky, but it’s clear reviewers have noted that it’s a solid choice for an urban traveler who needs room to carry more stuff.
On the other side, we have the Matador Freerain32 Waterproof Packable Backpack. This backpack is slightly smaller at 23 inches tall, 28 inches wide, and 51 inches deep, but still packs 32 liters of load capacity. It has a substantial edge over the Osprey Porter 46 when it comes to airline compatibility, boasting a compatibility of 98%. Its standout feature is its construction from Waterproof 30D Cordura® ripstop nylon, which ensures your gear remains dry regardless of weather circumstances. As an added bonus, it weighs almost a quarter of the Porter 46, at just 0.3 pounds.
To summarize the differences:
- Size: Osprey Porter 46 is larger; Matador Freerain32 is more compact
- Weight: Osprey Porter 46 is heavier (1.5 pounds); Matador Freerain32 is lighter (0.3 pounds)
- Capacity: Osprey Porter 46 is larger (46 liters); Matador Freerain32 is smaller (32 liters)
- Compatibility: Osprey Porter 46 is compatible with 47% of airlines; Matador Freerain32 is compatible with 98% of airlines
- Material: Osprey Porter 46 is made of Nylon; Matador Freerain32 made of waterproof 30D Cordura® ripstop nylon
- Laptop compartment: Osprey Porter 46 can fit a 1 inch laptop; Matador Freerain32 does not have this feature.
In conclusion, each backpack has its unique strengths and weaknesses. The Osprey Porter 46 is a large, roomy, durable pack designed for the urban traveler with lots to carry. Alternatively, the Matador Freerain32 Waterproof Packable Backpack, being smaller, waterproof, super lightweight, and packable is potentially an excellent option for the worry-free traveler who likes to travel light and stay on the move. Ultimately, the best backpack for you would depend entirely on your personal needs and travel style. It's not a question of which is better overall; it's about which one is better suited for you.