Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus vs. Exped Skyline 15
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 | Exped Skyline 15 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 4 |
| Y | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | S |
| N | Hip Belt | S |
| N | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 0 |
| 1 | Main Compartments | 3 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | S |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| Venture-weave polyester and leather | 210D Robic HD Ripstop Nylon, PU Coated 1500mm |
The Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus and the Exped Skyline 15 both offer a compelling blend of functionality and style. The Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus demonstrates a keen attention to detail with its robust venture-weave polyester and leather construction. This pack is sizable, sporting dimensions of 21 x 30 x 52 inches, and a weight of just 1 pound. It can accommodate a 15-inch laptop and offers a generous volume of 22 liters. Notably, this backpack is compatible with 65% of airlines, making it a decent companion for frequent travelers.
The Exped Skyline 15, on the other hand, is a powerhouse in its own right. It boasts a slightly larger height of 53 inches, albeit with a narrower width and depth at 26 x 17 inches. This backpack is slightly heavier at 1.1 pounds, but offers an impressive compatibility with 99% of airlines. However, it offers a relatively less capacious volume of 15 liters. It is uniquely crafted from 210D Robic HD Ripstop Nylon, PU Coated 1500mm, signifying its durability. An interesting feature is the absence of a laptop compartment.
In terms of comparison, the two backpacks demonstrate differences in the following areas:
- Dimensions: Bellroy (21 x 30 x 52 inches), Exped (53 x 26 x 17 inches)
- Weight: Bellroy (1 lb), Exped (1.1 lb)
- Capacity: Bellroy (22 liters), Exped (15 liters)
- Airline Compatibility: Bellroy (65%), Exped (99%)
- Material: Bellroy (Venture-weave polyester and leather), Exped (210D Robic HD Ripstop Nylon)
- Laptop Compartment: Bellroy (Yes), Exped (No)
Reviewers have lauded the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus for its great craftsmanship, minimal yet stylish design, and superb organization. On the flip side, the Exped Skyline 15 has been hailed for its unique switchback suspension system, inclusion of a rain cover, and extensive organizational pockets. Despite difference in capacities and design details, both backpacks promise to offer functional value and durability. Your choice between the two will likely hinge upon personal preferences and specific needs. Maybe the Bellroy if you need a solid everyday work companion, or perhaps the Exped if you're going on rough outdoor adventures. At the end of the day, both backpacks can hold their own in their respective niches.