Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus vs. Away The Backpack

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 PlusFeatureAway The Backpack
Storage
N Compression N
None Expanded Capacity None
4 Opening 4
Y Passport Y
N Passthrough Y
Carry
S Backpack S
N Hip Belt N
N Sternum Strap N
Inside
15 Laptop 15
1 Main Compartments 3
N Organizer N
Outside
× Hard Shell ×
N Rain-fly N
0 Water Bottle Holder 1
Y Water Resistant Y
Material
Venture-weave polyester and leatherNylon, leather

Away The Backpack

by Away
Front facing view of the Away The Backpack
Capacity25.5 L
Weight1.3 kg
Dimensions44.5×31.5×18.2 cm
Airline fit83%
Price$206

The Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus and the Away The Backpack occupy the same space in the spectrum of travel gear. Both strike a balance between style and utility, with a touch of luxury tossed into the mix. What sets these two apart is not just their look, but functionality and design elements that make them slightly unique in their own right. Let’s discuss the nitty-gritty.

The Bellroy Classic Backpack Plus is sized 21 x 30 x 52 inches, marginally smaller than the Away The Backpack (44.5 x 18.2 x 31.5”). Bellroy is all about versatility, evident from its compatibility with 65% of airlines. The minimal weight of 1 pound indicates the superior design of using Venture-weave polyester and leather for enhanced durability. The 22 liters of capacity and a safe space for your 15-inch laptop, coupled with great craftsmanship and ample organization, make it a robust choice for any traveler.

On the flip side, the Away The Backpack is tad larger in a few dimensions (44.5 x 18.2 x 31.5”) and weighs a bit more at 1.3 pounds. Yet, its compatibility with 83% of airlines, and a slightly larger capacity of 25.5 liters, gives it an edge. Nylon and leather materials lend a premium and modern feel to the bag. The same laptop size is catered to, and the unique feature here is a hidden passport pocket in the back panel. Users have childrened the nicely padded straps which offer comfort during extended use.

Both backpacks serve their purpose with distinction and taste. Bellroy’s Classic Backpack Plus is all about minimalism, functionality, and versatile compatibility. The Away Backpack offers a slightly roomier alternative with a dash of hidden features, subtly indicating a modern, leisure design. The choice becomes a subjective one based on your preference for design, utility, and comfort.