Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus vs. Hill People Gear Umlindi
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus
| Capacity | 22 L |
| Weight | 1 kg |
| Dimensions | 52×30×21 cm |
| Airline fit | 65% |
| Price | $179 |
Feature by feature
| Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus | Feature | Hill People Gear Umlindi |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | S |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 4 |
| Y | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | S |
| N | Hip Belt | R |
| N | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 0 |
| 1 | Main Compartments | 2 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| Venture-weave polyester and leather | 500d Cordura |
Hill People Gear Umlindi
| Capacity | 23 L |
| Weight | 1.3 kg |
| Dimensions | 49×28×17 cm |
| Airline fit | 99% |
| Price | $220 |
Let's talk backpacks, namely the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus on one side and the Hill People Gear Umlindi on the other. Both are impressive options for carry-ons, but their strengths lie in different aspects. The Bellroy Classic offers a sleek combination of venture-weave polyester and leather, measuring up at a solid 21" x 30" x 52" and weighing only a pound. Not to mention, its clean, modern design is sure to attract the eye. Something that's been praised by reviewers across the board. This Bellroy baby also steps up with a generous capacity of 22 liters and a nifty laptop compartment capable of housing a 15 incher.
The Hill People Gear Umlindi, on the other hand, sports a rugged, ready-for-anything 500d Cordura body. It's a tad heavier at 1.3 pounds, but still highly manageable. It's also noticeably taller, coming in at 49" x 28" x 17", and offers a slightly larger capacity at 23 liters. The Umlindi's compatibility with 99% of airlines is certainly noteworthy, but come laptop accommodations and it draws a blank. Still, it's been hailed as "a great pack for all-round outdoor use", with a uniquely effective harness system.
Summary of Differences:
- The Bellroy Classic comes in venture-weave polyester and leather, while the Hill People Gear Umlindi is made of 500d Cordura.
- The Bellroy Classic measures 21" x 30" x 52", while the Hill People Gear Umlindi measures 49" x 28" x 17".
- The Bellroy Classic is lighter at 1 pound; the Hill People Gear Umlindi is slightly heavier at 1.3 pounds.
- The Bellroy Classic offers a laptop compartment fitting a 15-inch laptop; the Hill People Gear Umlindi has no laptop compartment.
- The Bellroy Classic is compatible with 65% of airlines; the Hill People Gear Umlindi is compatible with 99% of airlines.
Great craftsmanship resonates from both these backpacks. The Bellroy Classic scores with its elegant aesthetic and excellent organization, making it a hit for anyone seeking a versatile everyday carry for work. The Hill People Gear Umlindi attests to an exceptional compression strap system and a unique harness structure for load distribution - a backpack that can take on the rough and tumble of outdoor adventures or a light hunting trip. I suppose the deciding factor really boils down to your lifestyle. Also, it never hurts to have more than one great backpack.