Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus vs. Aer Fit Pack 3
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 | 71% |
| Price | $179 |
Feature by feature
| Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus | Feature | Aer Fit Pack 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 4 |
| Y | Passport | Y |
| N | Passthrough | Y |
| Carry | ||
| Y | Backpack | Y |
| N | Hip Belt | N |
| N | Sternum Strap | Y |
| Inside | ||
| 15in | Laptop | 16in |
| 1 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | optional |
| N | Water Bottle Holder | 1 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| Venture-weave polyester and leather | 1680D Cordura® ballistic nylon exterior |
Key differences between the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus and Aer Fit Pack 3
- Luggage passthrough: No on the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus; Yes on the Aer Fit Pack 3.
- Sternum strap: No on the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus; Yes on the Aer Fit Pack 3.
- Laptop sleeve: 15in on the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus; 16in on the Aer Fit Pack 3.
- Rain cover: No on the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus; Optional on the Aer Fit Pack 3.
- Water bottle pockets: No on the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus; 1 on the Aer Fit Pack 3.
Both have: passport pocket, backpack straps, water resistant.
Which airlines take each bag as a carry-on
We checked both bags against the carry-on size limits of 189 airlines. 134 accept both. 0 accept only the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus, and 45 accept only the Aer Fit Pack 3.
Only the Aer Fit Pack 3 fits
Air Baltic, Air China, Air Malta, Air Serbia, Air Seychelles, Air Tahiti, American Eagle, Asiana Airlines, ATA Airlines, Belavia, Blue Air, Bulgaria Air, China Eastern, easyJet, Emirates Airlines, Enter Air, Etihad Airways, flybe, Gulf Air, Icelandair, InselAir, Juneyao Airlines, Luxair, Meridiana Fly, Nordwind Airlines, Oman Air, Qatar Airways, Ravn Alaska, Regional Express, Royal Brunei Airlines, Royal Jordanian, Ryanair, S7, Shandong Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, Sun Express, TAP Air Portugal, TAROM, Tianjin Airlines (A320 & E190), TUI, Ukraine International, VIM Airlines (Closed), Virgin Australia, Volotea, Xiamen.
The Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus (hereafter referred to simply as "Bellroy") and the Aer Fit Pack 3 (let's call it "Aer") are two leading picks among frequent flyers. Each shines in their own way, so let’s put these contenders side by side for comparison sake.
The Bellroy offers a little more packing room with its 22 litre capacity compared to the Aer's 18.7 litres. This backpack is also slightly larger with dimensions of 21x30x52 inches. The Aer, however, surprisingly weighs less. When made to measure against the altitude rulers of major airlines, the Aer has a better compatibility rate, fitting the size requirements of 83% of airlines versus Bellroy's 65%. Both bags can handle a laptop, but the Aer has an edge here too – it accommodates a laptop of up to 16 inches versus Bellroy's 15.
Judging by reviews, users appreciate the attention to detail in both backpacks. Each has been lauded for their admirable craftsmanship and practical design. Both make good companions for the daily commuter, but the Aer seems to outshine the Bellroy in handling the work-gym transition.
Here's a quick rundown of the differences.
- Size & Capacity: Bellroy has larger dimensions and more packing space, but Aer scores better on airline compatibility
- Weight: Despite being smaller, Aer actually weighs less than the Bellroy
- Material: While Bellroy is made from Venture-weave polyester and leather, Aer banks on 1680D Cordura® ballistic nylon for durability
- Laptop Space: Both provide laptop compartments, but Aer has room for a bigger device
In conclusion, Bellroy sets the bar high with its sleek design and organizational potential that has the reviewers nodding in approval. On the other hand, the Aer, while slightly smaller, presents itself as a highly versatile pack delivering on many fronts - from daily commute to gym sessions. It's also slightly more airline-friendly and makes room for a larger laptop. In the battle between the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus and the Aer Fit Pack 3, it all comes down to user requirements and personal style. Both of these backpacks have standout features to suit different needs.