Osprey Porter 46 vs. Lowe Alpine AT Lightflite Carry-on
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Feature by feature
| Osprey Porter 46 | Feature | Lowe Alpine AT Lightflite Carry-on |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 0 |
| N | Passport | top |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | H |
| H | Hip Belt | N |
| H | Sternum Strap | N |
| Inside | ||
| 1 | Laptop | |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 2 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| Nylon | |
Lowe Alpine AT Lightflite Carry-on
| Capacity | 40 L |
| Weight | 0.8 kg |
| Dimensions | 51×36×21 cm |
| Airline fit | 98% |
| Price | $110 |
The Osprey Porter 46 is one beast of a backpack that's often compared to the synonymous workhorse, the Lowe Alpine AT Lightflite Carry-On. The Porter 46, true to its name, offers a hefty 46 liters of capacity, making it ideal when you need to pack a little extra, whether for a long vacation or for a kick-off backpacking expedition. It’s noteworthy that it weighs 1.5 lbs, more substantial than its Lowe Alpine counterpart, but offers a laptop compartment that can fit a 1-inch device, a function you won't find in the Lightflite. However, its compatibility with airlines is on the lower side, passable on almost half of them, around 47%.
The Lowe Alpine AT Lightflite Carry-on, on the other hand, is a lighter option, weighing only a little over half a pound at 0.8 lbs. Its dimensions top at 51 inches tall and while it only has 40 liters of capacity, it is compatible with approximately 98% of airlines. This makes it an appealing option for those seeking maximum airline compatibility. However, the lack of a laptop compartment may be a deal-breaker for those who regularly carry one.
- Dimensions: Osprey Porter 46 is 23” x 36” x 56” | Lowe Alpine AT Lightflite Carry-on 51” x 36” x 21”
- Weight: Osprey Porter 46 is 1.5 lbs | Lowe Alpine AT Lightflite Carry-on is 0.8 lbs
- Capacity: Osprey Porter 46 offers 46 liters | Lowe Alpine AT Lightflite Carry-on offers 40 liters
- Airline Compatibility: Osprey Porter 46 - 47% | Lowe Alpine AT Lightflite Carry-on - 98%
- Materials: Osprey Porter 46 is made of Nylon | Lowe Alpine AT Lightflite Carry-on is made of
- Laptop Compartment: Osprey Porter 46 - Yes (fits a 1" device) | Lowe Alpine AT Lightflite Carry-on - No
To buy or not to buy - that is the question. According to reviews, the Osprey Porter 46 is deemed an excellent value at its price point of $140. Comments range from it being an ideal mid-sized bag for great organization to a durable product suitable for those who tend to carry more. The Porter is praised for its spaciousness, convenient clamshell opening for packing, and its compression strap to keep the bag looking tidy. These factors make the Osprey Porter 46 a considerable contender in the backpack market. However, the Lowe Alpine AT Lightflite Carry-On shines in its own right promising maximum airline compatibility and a lighter weight. In the end, the choice boils down to personal preferences and travel needs.