Osprey Porter 46 vs. MEC Trail 24
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Feature by feature
| Osprey Porter 46 | Feature | MEC Trail 24 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 0 |
| N | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | |
| H | Hip Belt | |
| H | Sternum Strap | |
| Inside | ||
| 1 | Laptop | |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| Nylon | Polyurethane-coated Polyester |
MEC Trail 24
| Capacity | 24 L |
| Weight | 4.3 kg |
| Dimensions | 47×28×21 cm |
| Airline fit | 68% |
The Osprey Porter 46 from Osprey brand is quite the contender for carry-on backpacks. A spacious package with 46 liters holding capacity, it earns its place among the behemoths of travel backpacks. What impresses me most about this piece is the laptop compartment. A 1-inch laptop lodging space is a coveted addition for digital nomads and business travelers alike. The pack's volume speaks to its sturdy make-up of Nylon and enticingly lightweight nature, weighing just 1.5 pounds. These pointers usher in the value of this pack, backed by enthusiastic reviews that highlight its value, resilience, and sophisticated organization as some of its enduring traits.
The pack does register some points on the downside. Bulk comes to mind when speaking of the Osprey Porter 46. The pack leans more on the large side, with dimensions of 23 inches in height, 36 inches in width, and a whopping 56 inches in depth. While this might assure you of ample room for packing, it doesn't always register as a popular choice among airline companies. The Porter 46's compatibility rate with airlines hovers around 47%.
On the other hand, we have the MEC Trail 24 by the MEC brand. Here's a quick comparison:
- Dimensions: Osprey Porter 46 (23" tall, 36" wide, 56" deep) vs MEC Trail 24 (21" tall, 28" wide, 47" deep)
- Weight: Osprey Porter 46 (1.5 pounds) vs MEC Trail 24 (4.3 pounds)
- Capacity: Osprey Porter 46 (46 liters) vs MEC Trail 24 (24 liters)
- Airline compatibility: Osprey Porter 46 (47%) vs MEC Trail 24 (68%)
- Material: Osprey Porter 46 (Nylon) vs MEC Trail 24 (Polyurethane-coated Polyester)
- Laptop compartment: Osprey Porter 46 (Fits 1-inch laptop) vs MEC Trail 24 (None)
The Trail 24 takes the cake when it comes to portability and compatibility. Its lesser dimensions of 21 inches by 28 inches by 47 inches warrant a relatively less voluminous appeal, which proves a winner with 68% of airlines. However, this doesn't mean it scrimps on quality. Polyurethane-coated Polyester assures long-lasting usage, but you'll have to bear the extra weight, with the pack tipping at 4.3 pounds. It might also let down travelers mega on tech since it lacks a laptop compartment.
Both these packs stand out in their unique ways. Those favoring the Osprey Porter 46 can expect a roomy, lightweight travel companion that offers excellent organization options and is comfortable on your shoulders. Meanwhile, the MEC Trail 24 is an excellent pick if you're after a compact, durable, and highly compatible pack. Hence, your decision to go with either the Porter 46 or the Trail 24 will essentially narrow down to personal preferences and travel requirements.