Greenroom136 Rainmaker vs. Fjallraven Vardag 28
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Greenroom136 Rainmaker
| Capacity | 22 L |
| Weight | 1.7 kg |
| Dimensions | 40×28×21 cm |
| Airline fit | 100% |
| Price | $120 |
Feature by feature
| Greenroom136 Rainmaker | Feature | Fjallraven Vardag 28 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 4 |
| side | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | S |
| N | Hip Belt | N |
| S | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 15 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| Y | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 1 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1000D Cordura | G-1000® HeavyDuty Eco S: 65% polyester, 35% cotton |
Fjallraven Vardag 28
| Capacity | 28 L |
| Weight | 0.59 kg |
| Dimensions | 44×32×16.5 cm |
| Airline fit | 83% |
| Price | $91 |
When you're comparing carry-on backpacks, two names stand out: the Greenroom136 Rainmaker and the Fjallraven Vardag 28. Starting with the former, the Rainmaker is a behemoth in terms of size, measuring 40 inches in height, dwarfing the Vardag's modest 16.5 inches. However, the Rainmaker loses out in terms of weight as it's almost three times heavier than the Vardag, weighing in at 1.7 pounds as against Vardag's light 0.59 pounds. If size is the priority, the Rainmaker is your go, but for those who value lightness over space, the Vardag makes a compelling case.
In terms of capacity too, the Vardag takes a small lead. It offers 28 liters of storage space, marginally overshadowing Rainmaker's 22 liters. But the win in capacity comes at a compromise with airline compatibility. The Vardag is compatible with 83% of airlines, compared to the unbeatable Rainmaker's 100%.
Here's a quick summary:
- Size: Greenroom136 Rainmaker (40" H, 28"W, 21" D), Fjallraven Vardag (16.5" H, 32" W, 44" D)
- Weight: Greenroom136 Rainmaker (1.7 lbs.), Fjallraven Vardag (0.59 lbs.)
- Capacity: Greenroom136 Rainmaker (22L), Fjallraven Vardag (28L)
- Airline Compatibility: Greenroom136 Rainmaker (100%), Fjallraven Vardag (83%)
The build material of the backpacks also plays a decisive role in choosing the right one. The Rainmaker is crafted with 1000D Cordura, known for its sturdiness and water-resistance. On the other hand, the Vardag is made from a mix of 65% polyester and 35% cotton, in a concoction named G-1000® HeavyDuty Eco S that prides itself on durability and eco-friendliness.
For the tech-savvies, both these backpacks are an excellent choice as they house a laptop compartment with room for a 15” laptop. To conclude, both the Rainmaker and Vardag have their unique strengths. If rugged customisability and 100% airline compatibility are what you're looking for, then the Rainmaker is worth considering. But if you value eco-friendly materials, a lighter frame, and a bit more room, the Vardag makes a persuasive argument.