Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus vs. Nomatic Travel Backpack
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 | Nomatic Travel Backpack |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 1 |
| Y | Passport | back |
| N | Passthrough | Y |
| Carry | ||
| Y | Backpack | hideable |
| N | Hip Belt | N |
| N | Sternum Strap | Y |
| Inside | ||
| 15in | Laptop | 15in |
| 1 | Main Compartments | 4 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| N | Water Bottle Holder | 2, side |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| Venture-weave polyester and leather | Waterproof tarpaulin |
Nomatic Travel Backpack
| Capacity | 20 L |
| Weight | 1.8 kg |
| Dimensions | 47×30×13 cm |
| Airline fit | 93% |
| Price | $330 |
Key differences between the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus and Nomatic Travel Backpack
- Opening: Top zip on the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus; Clamshell on the Nomatic Travel Backpack.
- Passport pocket: Yes on the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus; Back on the Nomatic Travel Backpack.
- Luggage passthrough: No on the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus; Yes on the Nomatic Travel Backpack.
- Backpack straps: Yes on the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus; Hideable on the Nomatic Travel Backpack.
- Sternum strap: No on the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus; Yes on the Nomatic Travel Backpack.
- Main compartments: 1 on the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus; 4 on the Nomatic Travel Backpack.
- Water bottle pockets: No on the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus; 2, side on the Nomatic Travel Backpack.
Both have: laptop sleeve, 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 41 accept only the Nomatic Travel Backpack.
Only the Nomatic Travel Backpack fits
Air Baltic, Air China, Air Malta, Air Niugini, Air Serbia, Air Seychelles, Asiana Airlines, ATA Airlines, Belavia, Blue Air, Bulgaria Air, China Eastern, Emirates Airlines, Enter Air, Etihad Airways, flybe, Icelandair, InselAir, Juneyao Airlines, Luxair, Meridiana Fly, Nordwind Airlines, Oman Air, Qatar Airways, 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 and the Nomatic Travel Backpack are two highly rated, value for money carry-on backpacks that can accommodate a myriad of travel scenarios. The nuances of these backpacks are what make the distinction between them.
The Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus is a sleek model with a 22 liters capacity, made of Venture-weave polyester and leather, tipping the scales at a lightweight one pound. At 21 inches tall, 30 inches wide, and 52 inches deep, it fits well with the requirements of 65% of airlines for carry-on backpacks. It provides an ample laptop compartment that can house a 15-inch machine with ease. Venture-weave polyester and leather give it a classic elegance. Reviewers praise its organizational structure and premium material quality, recommending it particularly for professionals and students alike.
On the flip side, the Nomatic Travel Backpack, made from waterproof tarpaulin, is sturdier and slightly heavier at 1.9 pounds. It has a slight reduction in carry capacity at 20 liters, but its dimensions of 47 inches tall, 30 inches wide, and 16 inches deep ensure compatibility with 98% of airlines - a significant advantage for frequent travelers. It houses a laptop compartment of similar dimensions to the Bellroy and comes with extra features like RFID-safe pockets, a hidden money pocket, and a removable shell for glasses. Reviewers note its multiple compartments and pockets improve user organization while its waterproof quality provides reassurance against unexpected weather changes.
- Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus is lighter (1 lb) than Nomatic Travel Backpack (1.9 lbs)
- Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus has a higher carry capacity (22 liters) compared to Nomatic Travel Backpack (20 liters)
- Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus is suitable for 65% of airlines, while Nomatic Travel Backpack is compatible with 98% of airlines
- Both backpacks can fit a 15-inch laptop
- Bellroy made of Venture-weave polyester and leather, Nomatic made of waterproof tarpaulin
- Nomatic has extra features like RFID-safe pockets, a hidden money pocket, and glasses shell
Taking everything into account, these backpacks are both formidable contenders. Given their different characteristics, the decision mostly depends on the needs of the end-user. If you prefer a lighter, higher capacity backpack with great craftsmanship and a slick design, then the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus is for you. But if you travel frequently across various airlines, appreciate royal features, and need more durability that comes with additional weight, then the Nomatic Travel Backpack is worth taking into consideration. Regardless, both options make a stylish and functional companion for your travels.