Aer Tech Pack 3 X-Pac vs. Aer Tech Pack 2

Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.

Aer Tech Pack 3 X-Pac

by Aer
Front facing view of the Aer Tech Pack 3 X-Pac
Capacity16 L
Weight1.4 kg
Dimensions46×31×18 cm
Airline fit94%
Price$250

Feature by feature

Aer Tech Pack 3 X-PacFeatureAer Tech Pack 2
Storage
4 Compression N
None Expanded Capacity None
0 Opening 1
top Passport top
Y Passthrough Y
Carry
Y Backpack Y
N Hip Belt N
Y Sternum Strap Y
Inside
16in Laptop 16in
4 Main Compartments 3
Y Organizer Y
Outside
× Hard Shell ×
N Rain-fly N
1, side Water Bottle Holder N
Y Water Resistant Y
Material
VX-42 X-Pac (also in 1680D Cordura ballistic nylo)1680D CORDURA® ballistic nylon exterior (bluesign® approved)

Aer Tech Pack 2

by Aer
Front facing view of the Aer Tech Pack 2
Capacity12 L
Weight0.8 kg
Dimensions45×31×8 cm
Airline fit95%
Price$125

Key differences between the Aer Tech Pack 3 X-Pac and Aer Tech Pack 2

Both have: passport pocket, luggage passthrough, backpack straps, sternum strap, laptop sleeve, built-in organizer, water resistant.

Which airlines take each bag as a carry-on

We checked both bags against the carry-on size limits of 189 airlines. 177 accept both. 0 accept only the Aer Tech Pack 3 X-Pac, and 2 accept only the Aer Tech Pack 2.

Only the Aer Tech Pack 2 fits

Air Tahiti, Gulf Air.

Aer Tech Pack 3 X-Pac vs. Aer Tech Pack 2: which should you pack?

The Aer Tech Pack 3 X-Pac carries 4L more than the Aer Tech Pack 2 (16L vs. 12L), while the Aer Tech Pack 2 is the lighter pack at 0.8kg (vs. 1.4kg). For carry-on flexibility, the Aer Tech Pack 2 fits 95% of the airlines we track — the higher of the two. If you prioritise packing volume, choose the Aer Tech Pack 3 X-Pac; if you want to travel lighter, the Aer Tech Pack 2 is the better call.