Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus vs. Mountainsmith Divide

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 PlusFeatureMountainsmith Divide
Storage
N Compression N
None Expanded Capacity None
4 Opening 4
Y Passport front
N Passthrough N
Carry
S Backpack S
N Hip Belt R
N Sternum Strap N
Inside
15 Laptop 15
1 Main Compartments 4
N Organizer Y
Outside
× Hard Shell ×
N Rain-fly N
0 Water Bottle Holder 1
Y Water Resistant Y
Material
Venture-weave polyester and leather610d CORDURA® HP 210d Nylon Heat Emboss Liner

Mountainsmith Divide

Front facing view of the Mountainsmith Divide
Capacity15 L
Weight0.8 kg
Dimensions44×28×14 cm
Airline fit100%
Price$80

Bellroy’s Classic Backpack Plus and Mountainsmith’s Divide are two attractive choices for someone in search of an easy-to-carry everyday backpack. The Bellroy model offers more capacity with 22 liters, which could be a selling point for those needing a larger backpack. In contrast, the Mountainsmith Divide with a 15-liter capacity, while slightly smaller, may be favored for being lighter at a mere 0.8 pounds.

Visually, the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus exemplifies craftsmanship with its Venture-weave polyester and leather body. This backpack's clean aesthetic and organization make it a natural pick for both work and everyday use. Suiting a 15-inch laptop, it furnishes enough space for office gear or study material, making it ideal for professionals or students. However, in terms of airline compatibility, it loses out to its competitor, the Mountainsmith Divide.

Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus versus Mountainsmith Divide differences:

Moving to the Mountainsmith Divide, it stands strong with 100% airline compatibility, which makes it a terrific choice for regular flyers. This backpack is also made from high-quality 610d CORDURA® HP 210d Nylon Heat Emboss Liner, known for its sturdiness and durability. Plus, the Divide, rather than using a simple design, provides clever pockets to keep belongings tidy.

To conclude, the Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus shines in its larger capacity, aesthetic look, and choice material, but loses some favorability for frequent travelers due to its lower airline compatibility. Alternatively, the Mountainsmith Divide's advantage is its airline compatibility and quality, lightweight materials, albeit smaller in size. Each backpack has its unique qualities and appeals, and the choice depends on whether you prioritize capacity and style or travel compatibility and weight.