Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus vs. Nomatic Travel Pack

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 PlusFeatureNomatic Travel Pack
Storage
N Compression N
None Expanded Capacity None
4 Opening 1
Y Passport N
N Passthrough Y
Carry
S Backpack H
N Hip Belt N
N Sternum Strap S
Inside
15 Laptop 15
1 Main Compartments 4
N Organizer N
Outside
× Hard Shell ×
N Rain-fly N
0 Water Bottle Holder 1
Y Water Resistant Y
Material
Venture-weave polyester and leatherKodra 500D Tarpaulin

Nomatic Travel Pack

Front facing view of the Nomatic Travel Pack
Capacity20 L
Weight1.6 kg
Dimensions47×30×13 cm
Airline fit98%
Price$220

If you're in the market for a carry on backpack, the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus and the Nomatic Travel Pack are two contenders that demand your attention. Both have significant pros that make them excellent choices for a variety of travelers. The Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus comes in slightly larger at 21 inches tall, 30 inches wide, and 52 inches deep, and weighs in at a modest 1 pound. Made of a quality venture-weave polyester and leather, this pack offers style, durability, and importantly, a laptop compartment fitting a 15 inch laptop. An apt review captures its essence, "The Classic Backpack Plus from Bellroy has a clean aesthetic, lots of organization and some excellent build and materials...well suited to be your everyday carry for work."

On the other hand, the Nomatic Travel Pack cuts a sleeker profile at 47 inches tall, 30 inches wide, and 13 inches deep. Also, fit for a 15 inch laptop, it's a touch heavier at 1.6 pounds, but the additional weight rewards with tons of features, including hideaway straps, hidden pockets and magnetic water bottle handles. Made from Kodra 500D Tarpaulin, this pack ensures waterproof protection. A reviewer sums up, "Extremely slick and smooth look with some extra styling makes this bag visually stand out from the crowd."

Both these backpacks have their unique strengths and weaknesses. Here's a quick rundown:

Ultimately, your choice between the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus and the Nomatic Travel Pack will depend on your particular needs. If you prefer longevity and stylistic versatility, the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus's use of high-quality materials and its sophisticated design make it an excellent pick. If you need something more functional and easy to use, the Nomatic Travel Pack's thoughtful features and compact form make it a standout choice. But really, you can't go wrong with either of these top-tier carry on backpacks.