Bellroy Apex Backpack vs. Aer Duffel Pack 2
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Bellroy Apex Backpack
| Capacity | 26 L |
| Weight | 1.4 kg |
| Dimensions | 55×33×20 cm |
| Airline fit | 86% |
| Price | $449 |
Feature by feature
| Bellroy Apex Backpack | Feature | Aer Duffel Pack 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 0 | Opening | 0 |
| N | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| Y | Backpack | Y |
| N | Hip Belt | N |
| removable | Sternum Strap | Y |
| Inside | ||
| 15in | Laptop | 15in |
| 1 | Main Compartments | 3 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 1 | Water Bottle Holder | 1 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| Recycled Baida Nylon and premium, environmentally certified leather | 900D eco-dyed polyester exterior |
Key differences between the Bellroy Apex Backpack and Aer Duffel Pack 2
- Sternum strap: Removable on the Bellroy Apex Backpack; Yes on the Aer Duffel Pack 2.
- Main compartments: 1 on the Bellroy Apex Backpack; 3 on the Aer Duffel Pack 2.
Both have: backpack straps, laptop sleeve, water bottle pockets, water resistant.
Which airlines take each bag as a carry-on
We checked both bags against the carry-on size limits of 189 airlines. 163 accept both. Every airline that takes one takes the other.
Bellroy Apex Backpack vs. Aer Duffel Pack 2: which should you pack?
The Bellroy Apex Backpack carries 1.3999999999999986L more than the Aer Duffel Pack 2 (26L vs. 24.6L), while the Aer Duffel Pack 2 is the lighter pack at 1.1kg (vs. 1.4kg). For carry-on flexibility, the Bellroy Apex Backpack fits 86% of the airlines we track — the higher of the two. If you prioritise packing volume, choose the Bellroy Apex Backpack; if you want to travel lighter, the Aer Duffel Pack 2 is the better call.