Osprey Porter 46 vs. Ortlieb Gear-Pack

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 46FeatureOrtlieb Gear-Pack
Storage
S Compression N
None Expanded Capacity None
4 Opening 2
N Passport N
N Passthrough N
Carry
H Backpack R
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
NylonPD620, PS620C

Ortlieb Gear-Pack

Front facing view of the Ortlieb Gear-Pack
Capacity32 L
Weight1.2 kg
Dimensions64×29×18 cm
Airline fit30%
Price$185

The Osprey Porter 46 and the Ortlieb Gear-Pack are two top-rated backpack options, both offering unique features that make them stand out. The Osprey Porter 46 impresses with its considerable size, excellent durability and outstanding capacity. With 46 liters of storage room, the backpack is compatible with 47% of airlines and weighs a mere 1.5 pounds. The reviewers commend it for being a big, durable pack that goes along with those who tend to carry more. The Porter 46 has a built-in laptop compartment that can accommodate up to a 1-inch thick laptop. While most backpacks zip open from the top, the Porter 46 presents the convenience of a suitcase-clamshell opening.

On the other hand, the Ortlieb Gear-Pack has more of a drybag style, being completely waterproof and having multiple attachment points for outdoor gear and luggage accessories. The Gear-Pack offers 32 liters of capacity and is compatible with 30% of airlines and weighs slightly less at 1.2 pounds. The whole harness system is not only detachable but also adjustable, which means it can perfectly fit to the user's body. Unfortunately, there is no laptop compartment in this backpack.

Here is a quick summary for the comparison:

The Porter 46, offering a clamshell opening, makes packing and unpacking fast and easy, preventing the bag from looking sloppy with a compression strap. Reviewers particularly enjoy the good suspension and the ample room. The Gear-Pack, on the other hand, is entirely waterproof, durable, and also offers additional attachment points for your outdoor gear. Its whole harness system is adjustable and detachable, making it compact and dangle-free for storage.

Both of these backpacks are fantastic bringing their own unique features to the table. The Porter 46 provides more space making it an ideal choice for those who carry a lot, while the Ortlieb Gear-Pack's waterproof design and customizability make it a great companion for outdoor aficionados. Weigh your needs carefully before choosing!