Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
| Capacity | 22 L |
| Weight | 1.7 kg |
| Dimensions | 40×28×21 cm |
| Airline fit | 100% |
| Price | $120 |
| Greenroom136 Rainmaker | Feature | Fjallraven Ulvö 30 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | S |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 4 |
| side | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | S |
| N | Hip Belt | N |
| S | Sternum Strap | N |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 15 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| Y | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1000D Cordura | Bergshell®: 400D 100% polyamide |
| Capacity | 30 L |
| Weight | 0.9 kg |
| Dimensions | 51×28×26 cm |
| Airline fit | 30% |
| Price | $150 |
Let's talk carry on backpacks. We're considering two models: the Greenroom136 Rainmaker by Greenroom136 and the Fjallraven Ulvö 30 by Fjallraven. The Rainmaker stands a good 14 inches taller than the Ulvö but is narrower and not nearly as deep. It carries 1.7 pounds of weight empty while the Ulvö is almost weightless at 0.9 pounds. Remember, you got to look at the liters capacity when it comes to backpacks. The Rainmaker offers 22 liters of storage, but the Ulvö takes the cake with a 30 liter capacity.
It's not just dimensions, though. The Rainmaker is compatible with every airline you could think of, as opposed to the Ulvö, picky thing, that only agrees with 30%. Rainmaker has also got a rugged exterior, thanks to 1000D Cordura, which gives it an edge for many. The Ulvö on the other hand relies on Bergshell® for its hard-wearing and waterproof properties. Both accommodate a 15-inch laptop snugly.
Reviewers love the Rainmaker for being a no-nonsense, fully-functioning pack that does the job, and does it well. It's lightweight, yet sturdy and water-resistant. Plus, you can play around with it quite a bit, thanks to its customization options. Multiple pockets ensure your stuff stays in place, no matter how you hustle. Ulvö fans, meanwhile, rave about its hidden compartment for stashing away valuables and the simplicity of its look. Its minimalistic vibe manages to fit right, wherever you might take it. The pack offers great internal organization and you better believe people talk about how functional this thing is.
To wrap it up, whether you're a minimalist traveler or an EDC enthusiast, you can't really go wrong with either. Both the Rainmaker and the Ulvö offer durability, functionality, and plenty of room for your stuff. If you're still on the fence, remember what that one reviewer said about the Rainmaker: "It’s a solid pack that values function above all else...This is one of the best value bags on the market, hands down." As for the Ulvö, its waterproof material and sneaky side compartment won it some serious love. In the end, the choice is yours. So pick your pack, and let the adventure begin.