Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus vs. Tom Bihn Aeronaut 30L
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 | Tom Bihn Aeronaut 30L |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 0 |
| Y | Passport | side |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | H |
| N | Hip Belt | R |
| N | Sternum Strap | R |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | |
| 1 | Main Compartments | 5 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 0 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| Venture-weave polyester and leather | 1050 denier ballistic nylonOR ultralight 400d Halcyon/420d nylon ripstop 200 denier Halcyon/nylon ripstop fabric lining |
Tom Bihn Aeronaut 30L
| Capacity | 30 L |
| Weight | 1.3 kg |
| Dimensions | 51×33×21 cm |
| Airline fit | 98% |
| Price | $290 |
Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus and Tom Bihn Aeronaut 30L have distinct similarities and differences that set them apart from the crowd of carry-on backpack offerings. Let's start our review with the Bellroy. Exquisite in its design, this 21 inch backpack is built from venture-weave polyester and leather that gives it a sturdy and rich feel. It is relatively lightweight at one pound and boasts a carrying capacity of 22 liters. Notably, it's compatible with 65% of airlines so you'd have a fair bit of traveling options. Certainly, it can be the all-rounder backpack with good organization and carries a 15-inch laptop with ease, making it a perfect companion for everyday carry, be it work or school.
Against this, we have the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 30L, a slightly larger bag at 51-inch tall. This backpack weighs a tad bit more at 1.3 pounds but compensates this flaw by offering a whopping 30 liters of storage space. Bikers would find the righteousness of the bag in its 1050 denier ballistic nylon make and compatibility with 98% of airlines is undeniably a cherry on top. However, unlike the Bellroy, it lacks a dedicated laptop compartment - a bummer if you'd plan to take your tech around.
Comparisons:
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Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus is made from Venture-weave polyester and leather while Tom Bihn Aeronaut 30L is made from 1050 denier ballistic nylon.
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Bellroy has a laptop compartment that can fit a 15 inch laptop while Tom Bihn Aeronaut 30L does not.
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Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus weighs 1 pound while the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 30L weighs 1.3 pounds.
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Bellroy is compatible with 65% of airlines while Tom Bihn is compatible with 98% of airlines.
Given all these, here's our verdict. If you're a working aficionado or student who craves organization while carrying minimal gear, Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus would be your ideal choice giving thought to its good craftsmanship and materials. Classy in its design, it works in most environments and brings a sense of pleasure in use. On the other hand, travelers looking to carry a lot more stuff in go-for-it loops would find their fit in Tom Bihn Aeronaut 30L. Even though it has no dedicated laptop compartment, it provides a commendable water resistance and high capacity, making it worth the buy. So, before you splurge on these bags, consider your needs and choose wisely.