ILE Apex XL vs. Deuter Vertrail 16

Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.

ILE Apex XL

by ILE
Front facing view of the ILE Apex XL
Capacity18 L
Weight0 kg
Dimensions51×28×13 cm
Airline fit90%
Price$165

Feature by feature

ILE Apex XLFeatureDeuter Vertrail 16
Storage
N Compression N
None Expanded Capacity None
2 Opening 2
N Passport N
N Passthrough N
Carry
Y Backpack Y
N Hip Belt N
removable Sternum Strap removable
Inside
16in Laptop N
1 Main Compartments 1
N Organizer N
Outside
× Hard Shell ×
N Rain-fly N
N Water Bottle Holder N
Y Water Resistant Y
Material
Cordura, XPAC Sailcloth, or Waxed Canvas220D PA PLAIN TPU

Deuter Vertrail 16

Capacity16 L
Weight0.5 kg
Dimensions51×23×18 cm
Airline fit90%
Price$210

Key differences between the ILE Apex XL and Deuter Vertrail 16

Both have: backpack straps, sternum strap, water resistant.

Which airlines take each bag as a carry-on

We checked both bags against the carry-on size limits of 189 airlines. 170 accept both. Every airline that takes one takes the other.

ILE Apex XL vs. Deuter Vertrail 16: which should you pack?

The ILE Apex XL carries 2L more than the Deuter Vertrail 16 (18L vs. 16L), and the two are closely matched on weight. For carry-on flexibility, the ILE Apex XL fits 90% of the airlines we track — the higher of the two. If you prioritise packing volume, choose the ILE Apex XL; if you want to travel lighter, the Deuter Vertrail 16 is the better call.