Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
| Capacity | 22 L |
| Weight | 1 kg |
| Dimensions | 52×30×21 cm |
| Airline fit | 65% |
| Price | $179 |
| Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus | Feature | Aer Travel Pack 1 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 0 |
| Y | Passport | Y |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | |
| N | Hip Belt | N |
| N | Sternum Strap | |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 15 |
| 1 | Main Compartments | 0 |
| N | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | |
| Y | Water Resistant | T |
| Material | |
| Venture-weave polyester and leather | 1680D Cordura® |
Bellroy's Classic Backpack Plus stands tall as a true workhorse of a backpack. Measuring 21 inches tall, 30 inches wide, and 52 inches deep, it's a snug backpack but filled with a plethora of pockets and compartments. Whether you're carrying a 15-inch laptop or multiple smaller gadgets, the Classic Backpack Plus has you covered. It's made of Venture-weave polyester and leather, combined with the craftsmanship and excellent materials, gives it a robust and stylish exterior. The backpack carries a modest weight of just a pound and with 22 liters of capacity, it strikes an impressive balance between a lightweight commute friend and a high capacity carrier. It is compatible with 65% of airlines making it a reliable travel companion.
The Aer Travel Pack 1 is not to be overlooked, either. Slightly larger in size at 22 inches tall, 34 inches wide, and 55 inches deep, it offers a generous 33 liters of storage space and can also snugly fit a 15-inch laptop. The pack, however, does weigh slightly more than the Classic, at 1.7 pounds. Constructed from 1680D Cordura® this bag also resonates a sturdy vibe while maintaining a light airiness. Its compatibility with 64% of airlines marks it as a good candidate for the frequent flyer, but perhaps not quite as versatile as the Classic Backpack Plus.
Settling the argument of which of these two backpacks is superior isn't quite so simple. Both Bellroy's Classic Backpack Plus and Aer's Travel Pack 1 offer unique propositions, and the decision would ultimately come down to personal preference. If minimalistic style, lightweight, and slightly increased airline compatibility matter to you, the Classic Backpack Plus is your bag. Conversely, if storage space and a more rugged aesthetic are your thing, look no further than the Aer's Travel Pack 1. Regardless of choice, both options are no doubt a solid investment toward day-to-day carry or travel needs.