Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus vs. Timbuk2 Aviator
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 | Timbuk2 Aviator |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 0 |
| Y | Passport | |
| N | Passthrough | |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | |
| N | Hip Belt | |
| N | Sternum Strap | |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | |
| 1 | Main Compartments | 0 |
| N | Organizer | |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | |
| Y | Water Resistant | |
| Material | |
| Venture-weave polyester and leather | |
Let's set our sights on the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus first. It's a decent-sized backpack, measuring 21 inches tall, 30 inches wide, and 52 inches deep. Weighing just a pound, it's a light piece to carry around. With a sturdy venture-weave polyester and leather finish, the backpack has a fine, consistent look tailored to your everyday carry needs. You can fit a 15-inch laptop with ease in its compartment. With a capacity of 22 liters, space is adequate for your travel basics. However, it's worth noting that it's compatible with only 65% of airlines.
On the flip side, we have the Thule's Timbuk2 Aviator. Marginally larger than its counterpart, it stands tall at 24 inches, with a width of 58 inches and a 39-inch depth. Weighing 2 pounds, it's a bit more substantial but not overly hefty. Its laptop compartment is noticeably absent, which might be a point of contention for some. Despite that, it offers a robust 30 liters of capacity, and it fits well with 91% of airlines.
Comparison Points:
- Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus measures 21" x 30" x 52"; Timbuk2 Aviator measures 24" x 58" x 39"
- The Bellroy Classic weighs 1 pound, lighter than the 2-pound Timbuk2 Aviator.
- Both provide ample space, but while the Aviator provides 30 liters, the Bellroy Classic offers 22 liters.
- The Aviator lacks a laptop compartment, which the Bellroy Classic has for a 15" laptop.
- Compatibility with airlines differs significantly, with the Aviator being compatible with 91% of airlines and Bellroy Classic with 65%.
Reviewers have lauded the Classic Backpack Plus for the visible care put into its construction. Its design carries an understated elegance, quite apt for any environment. The attention to detail, resulting in a well-organized pack, trumps many of its counterparts. Across these customer reviews, it remains evident that this pack holds its end up splendidly, from aesthetics to functionality.
Finally, let's stress this point again: both packs have their strengths. If craftsmanship, minimalist style, and superior organization are high on your checklist, the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus may well be your go-to. If size, capacity, and wider airline compatibility hold more weight for you, the Timbuk2 Aviator may just swing the vote in its favor. Armed with this comparison, you are well set to make a choice tailored to your needs.