Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus vs. Thule Subterra 34L

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

Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus

Front facing view of the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus
Capacity22 L
Weight1 kg
Dimensions52×30×21 cm
Airline fit65%
Price$179

Feature by feature

Bellroy Classic Backpack PlusFeatureThule Subterra 34L
Storage
N Compression N
None Expanded Capacity None
4 Opening 0
Y Passport N
N Passthrough Y
Carry
S Backpack S
N Hip Belt N
N Sternum Strap N
Inside
15 Laptop 15
1 Main Compartments 4
N Organizer Y
Outside
× Hard Shell ×
N Rain-fly N
0 Water Bottle Holder 2
Y Water Resistant Y
Material
Venture-weave polyester and leather800D nylon

Thule Subterra 34L

Front facing view of the Thule Subterra 34L
Capacity34 L
Weight2.8 kg
Dimensions53×31×24 cm
Airline fit92%
Price$160

When it comes to trusty travel companions, look no further than the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus and the Thule Subterra 34L – both solid choices when considering the world of carry-on backpacks. The Australian company, Bellroy, known for their sleek and minimalistic designs, puts forth the Classic Backpack Plus. It's roughly 21 inches tall, 30 inches wide, and 52 inches deep and weighs in at a feather-light 1 pound. It boasts a 22-liter capacity and assures compatibility with approximately 65% of airlines. Bellroy decks out this pack with Venture-weave polyester and leather, providing both durability and a clean aesthetic. There’s also a specially made compartment that can snugly hold a 15-inch laptop.

On the other side, we have the Subterra 34L by Thule, a Sweden-based company globally acclaimed for their travel and automotive products. The Subterra 34L stands at a somewhat taller 53 inches, a slight width increase at 31 inches, and is 24 inches deep while carrying a bit of extra weight at 2.8 pounds. But that extra weight does justice to its significantly larger 34 liters capacity. More robust airline compatibility of 92% ensures fewer headaches at the boarding counter. The Subterra 34L is solidly built with 800D nylon and also includes a provision for storing a 15-inch laptop.

Just to summarize, below are the key differences:

As for the real-world application, the Classic Backpack Plus shines with reviewers praising its excellent build quality, great craftsmanship, and the fine balance of form and function. They mention that its stylish design and organizational capacity make it ideal for everyday work purposes or student use. For the Subterra 34L, with larger capacity and higher airline compatibility, it has been hailed as versatile, travel-centric, and tech-friendly. Reviewers appreciated its functional pockets and notable inclusion of a side pocket and a packing cube for better organization and easy accessibility.

In conclusion, both the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus and Thule Subterra 34L have their own strengths. For a lightweight, stylish pack suitable for daily use, the Bellroy is a fantastic pick. But if you're after something a bit roomier with enhanced capacity and travel features, the Subterra 34L by Thule could well be your go-to backpack.