Osprey Porter 46 vs. Bellroy Transit Backpack
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Feature by feature
| Osprey Porter 46 | Feature | Bellroy Transit Backpack |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| 2 | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 1 | Opening | 1 |
| top | Passport | top |
| Y | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| hideable | Backpack | Y |
| hideable | Hip Belt | N |
| Y | Sternum Strap | Y |
| Inside | ||
| 16in | Laptop | 16in |
| 4 | Main Compartments | 4 |
| Y | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| N | Water Bottle Holder | 2, side |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| bluesign®-approved Recycled 500D Nylon Packcloth PFC Free DWR | Baida Nylon |
Bellroy Transit Backpack
| Capacity | 28 L |
| Weight | 1.1 kg |
| Dimensions | 53×36×19 cm |
| Airline fit | 81% |
| Price | $250 |
Key differences between the Osprey Porter 46 and Bellroy Transit Backpack
- Compression straps: 2 on the Osprey Porter 46; No on the Bellroy Transit Backpack.
- Luggage passthrough: Yes on the Osprey Porter 46; No on the Bellroy Transit Backpack.
- Backpack straps: Hideable on the Osprey Porter 46; Yes on the Bellroy Transit Backpack.
- Hip belt: Hideable on the Osprey Porter 46; No on the Bellroy Transit Backpack.
- Water bottle pockets: No on the Osprey Porter 46; 2, side on the Bellroy Transit Backpack.
Both have: passport pocket, sternum strap, laptop sleeve, built-in organizer, water resistant.
Which airlines take each bag as a carry-on
We checked both bags against the carry-on size limits of 189 airlines. 116 accept both. 0 accept only the Osprey Porter 46, and 37 accept only the Bellroy Transit Backpack.
Only the Bellroy Transit Backpack fits
Air Baltic, Air China, Air Malta, Air Serbia, Air Seychelles, Asiana Airlines, ATA Airlines, Blue Air, Bulgaria Air, China Eastern, Croatia Air, Emirates Airlines, Enter Air, Icelandair, Juneyao Airlines, Liat Airlines, Luxair, Meridiana Fly, Nordwind Airlines, Pakistan International, Royal Brunei Airlines, Ryanair, S7, Scoot, Shandong Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, Sun Express, TAP Air Portugal, TAROM, Tianjin Airlines (A320 & E190), Tiger Airways, TUI, Ukraine International, VIM Airlines (Closed), Volotea, WestJet, Xiamen.
When it comes to choosing the perfect carry on backpack, two contenders stand out: The Osprey Porter 46 and the Bellroy Transit Backpack. Both are designed for durability, functionality, and the convenience of the urban traveler, but come with clear differences in terms of size, weight, capacity, compatibility, and material.
The Osprey Porter 46 is a tad larger standing at 23 inches in height, 36 inches wide and 56 inches deep, plus it weighs a bit heavier at 1.5 pounds. It's bulked up size allows for a carrying capacity of 46 liters. Its large volume capacity predisposes it to be compatible with only 47% of airlines though. Constructed with Nylon material, a hard-wearing fabric, the Porter 46 is designed to withstand heavy use and harsh environments. Not to mention its laptop compartment can fit a laptop up to 1 inch.
On the other hand, the Bellroy Transit Backpack is a bit more compact at 18 inches tall, 36 inches wide, and 54 inches deep. It's a lighter option, weighing only 1.1 pounds. It's smaller but still spacious enough with a 28-liter capacity, and is compatible with a whopping 98% of airlines. The Transit Backpack has a more plush build, made from Polyester and Nylon combined with leather detail. Furthermore, it has a laptop compartment able to fit a 16-inch laptop.
Comparing the two side-by-side:
- Dimensions: The Osprey Porter 46 is larger (23"x36"x56") compared to the Bellroy Transit Backpack (18"x36"x54").
- Weight: The Osprey Porter 46 weighs more (1.5 pounds) compared to the Bellroy Transit Backpack (1.1 pounds).
- Capacity: The Osprey Porter 46 has a larger capacity (46 liters) compared to the Bellroy Transit Backpack (28 liters).
- Compatibility: The Bellroy Transit Backpack is more airline friendly (98% compatibility) compared to the Osprey Porter 46 (47% compatibility).
- Material: The Osprey Porter 46 is made of Nylon while the Bellroy Transit Backpack is made of a Polyester/Nylon blend with Leather accents.
- Laptop Compartment Size: The Bellroy Transit Backpack can accommodate a larger laptop (up to 16 inches) compared to the Osprey Porter 46 (up to 1 inch).
Customer reviews reveal that the Bellroy Transit Backpack has been highly endorsed for its superb construction, innovative design, excellent organization, and protective tech compartment. It's ideal for light, one-bag travel and doesn't look out of place even when full. It's noted as a top-notch option for big commutes, business travel, and regular adventure travel.
The Osprey Porter 46, on the other hand, is lauded for its generous space, good suspension system, and its clever compression strap that keeps the bag from looking sloppy. Its clamshell opening is a hit for making packing and unpacking fast and convenient. Its bulk and weight, however, are a downside for some travelers. The Porter 46 is celebrated as a rugged, reliable and well-organized gear-hauling pack that offers excellent value for its price.
In summary, the choice comes to personal preference and travel needs. If size, durability and space matters the most, the Osprey Porter 46 is worth considering. For travelers who prioritize compatibility, sleek design and sophisticated organization, the Bellroy Transit Backpack could be the best match.