Osprey Porter, for the Urban Backpacker

For a long time, urban backpackers were typically stuck with hiking packs to carry their belongings. While these are more convenient than dragging a suitcase, Osprey decided to create a travel pack that can go from the city to the wilderness and back again, resulting in the highly-praised Porter series, available in 30-, 46- and 65-liter sizes, the first two being carry-on compliant.

The company designed the bag as a combination backpack/duffel bag, with handles on three sides of the panel opening. It’s also minimal, with just four compartments built with sturdy walls, high-quality lockable zippers and touch nylon fabric. The padded hip wings tuck away in a hidden pocket, which can also store the shoulder straps to convert the bag into a true duffel, convenient for airplanes and cramped spaces.

Its roomy interior and compression straps ensure a secure load no matter how heavy. Keeping inline with the rest of Osprey’s product line, the Porter’s suspension system is comfortable and balanced, without adding too much weight to the pack. Long-term travelers who prefer to stick with a carry-on will appreciate how much the 30- and 46-liter versions can hold.