Patagonia MLC vs Osprey Porter 46
If you are looking for a lightweight travel bag with nice capacity and great durability, these two bags can be suitable choices for you. Both Patagonia MLC and Osprey Porter 46 are praised for the lightweight and easy to carry designs. Patagonia MLC is a “maximum legal carry-on” bag, meaning that the bag is still allowed to be brought along to your seat if you are going on an airplane. On the other hand, Osprey Porter 46 is only very slightly bigger, and it is usually still allowed as a carry-on bag on most airlines with just a few exceptions. So, should you get Patagonia MLC or Osprey Porter 46? Read the comparisons below for the answer!
Design
Patagonia MLC has been around for several generations, and it continually gets better and better. The current design features a padded laptop compartment that can also function as a clothing organizer. There is also the main pocket with two compartments, a secondary pocket for shoes, and two exterior pockets for quick access to travel documents and small gear. But the most distinctive feature of Patagonia MLC is the versatile carrying positions. You can wear it normally on your back like a pack, carry it like a briefcase, or hang it on your shoulder like a messenger. The bag is made from the highly durable Cordura nylon, offering 45 liters capacity.
Osprey Porter 46 is rated at 46 liters, only slightly bigger than Patagonia MLC, but still meets the carry-on restrictions on most airlines. The StraightJacket compression system creates padded wings that function to protect and secure any load size. The unique feature is the reinforced cord loops on the front which enable you to attach the Osprey Daylite daypack for additional storage. The bag is well-padded, ensuring maximum comfort for prolonged wearing periods, and features a laptop compartment, zip-away straps, hipbelt, and hipbelt pocket. The material is Ripstop nylon.
Performance
Both models are highly durable. They hold well to carry your belongings. For comfort, Osprey Porter 46 clearly has the better edge due to the excellent padding, but Patagonia MLC’s versatile carrying positions are also very nice. Surprisingly, Osprey Porter 46 is also quite lighter than Patagonia MLC. In general, if you are going to carry your bag for lots of walking, you will find Osprey Porter 46 to be more comfortable. Patagonia MLC is more suitable for quick walks from here to there.
Patagonia MLC vs Osprey Porter 46
Conclusion
If you are going to go on an airplane, make sure that you check the carry-on restriction first. Being slightly smaller, Patagonia MLC may be the one that is more suitable as a carry-on bag. The versatile carrying positions are also very nice. However, if you are looking for a comfortable bag for prolonged wearing and lots of walking, Osprey Porter 46 is your best bet.
