Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus vs. Arcido Akra
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 | 71% |
| Price | $179 |
Feature by feature
| Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus | Feature | Arcido Akra |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 1 |
| Y | Passport | top |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| Y | Backpack | Y |
| N | Hip Belt | removable |
| N | Sternum Strap | removable |
| Inside | ||
| 15in | Laptop | 15in |
| 1 | Main Compartments | 7 |
| N | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| N | Water Bottle Holder | 2, side |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| Venture-weave polyester and leather | Body Fabric: 500D Blendex Kodra - With PU coating Bottom Scuff Fabric: 1000D Codra - With PU coating Lining: 150D Premium Polyester Oxford |
Key differences between the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus and Arcido Akra
- Opening: Top zip on the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus; Clamshell on the Arcido Akra.
- Passport pocket: Yes on the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus; Top on the Arcido Akra.
- Hip belt: No on the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus; Removable on the Arcido Akra.
- Sternum strap: No on the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus; Removable on the Arcido Akra.
- Main compartments: 1 on the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus; 7 on the Arcido Akra.
- Built-in organizer: No on the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus; Yes on the Arcido Akra.
- Water bottle pockets: No on the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus; 2, side on the Arcido Akra.
Both have: backpack straps, laptop sleeve, water resistant.
Which airlines take each bag as a carry-on
We checked both bags against the carry-on size limits of 189 airlines. 129 accept both. 5 accept only the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus, and 33 accept only the Arcido Akra.
Only the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus fits
Cayman Airways, Liat Airlines, Scoot, Tiger Airways, WestJet.
Only the Arcido Akra fits
Air Baltic, Air China, Air Malta, Air Serbia, Air Seychelles, Asiana Airlines, ATA Airlines, Blue Air, Bulgaria Air, China Eastern, Emirates Airlines, Enter Air, flybe, Icelandair, InselAir, Juneyao Airlines, Luxair, Meridiana Fly, Nordwind Airlines, Royal Brunei Airlines, Ryanair, S7, Shandong Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, Sun Express, TAP Air Portugal, TAROM, Tianjin Airlines (A320 & E190), TUI, Ukraine International, VIM Airlines (Closed), Volotea, Xiamen.
Comparing the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus and the Arcido Akra brings out unique strengths of both competitive carry-on backpacks. The former, made by Bellroy, is a tidy package of Venture-weave polyester and leather, with its dimensions spanning 21 inches tall, 30 inches wide, and 52 inches deep. It is lightweight at 1 pound and can accommodate a volume of up to 22 liters. Compatible with 65% of airlines and housing a laptop compartment that comfortably houses up to a 15 inch model, this bag is defined by its sleek exterior and organizational skill. The Arcido Akra, meanwhile, stands taller, wider, and less deep at 55 inches by 35 inches by 20 inches, respectively. Crafted out of a blend of durable fabrics with PU coating, it tips a bit heavier on the scales at 1.3 pounds. That weight, however, carries a much larger capacity of 35 liters and is compatible with a greater number of airlines (78%). Similar to the Bellroy, it also contains a designated compartment for a 15 inch laptop.
- Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus:
- Height: 21 inches
- Width: 30 inches
- Depth: 52 inches
- Weight: 1 pound
- Capacity: 22 liters
- Airline compatibility: 65%
- Arcido Akra:
- Height: 55 inches
- Width: 35 inches
- Depth: 20 inches
- Weight: 1.3 pounds
- Capacity: 35 liters
- Airline compatibility: 78%
Reviewer feedback further validates the qualities of these bags. For the Bellroy, commentaries feature praises for its "clean aesthetic, lots of organization, and excellent build and materials", with one particular reviewer commending its "balance of form and function". The Arcido Akra, on the other hand, has been described as having a "polished", "innovative design" and "unique features and smart functionality". Another reviewer declared it as "one of the best travel backpacks of its size on the market".
In conclusion, both backpacks come highly recommended for their unique features and robust build quality. The Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus has been praised for its superior craftsmanship, sleek and minimalist design, and excellent organization. On the other hand, the Arcido Akra has been applauded for its passport compartment, superior organization within its tech compartment, and excellent harness system. The Ping Jing Pianist is also considered a worthwhile purchase, given its water-resistance. The choice ultimately rests on personal preference and specific travel needs.