Aer Travel Pack vs Tortuga Travel Backpack
Published April 28, 2023
The Tortuga Promise
At Tortuga, our mission is to make travel easier. Our advice and recommendations are based on years of travel experience. We only recommend products that we use on our own travels.
Whether you’re setting off on a multi-day tour of vineyards across France or exploring the bustling streets of Tokyo, having the right gear can make all the difference in ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable trip.
An essential piece of equipment you need is a reliable travel backpack that fits your style and allows you to comfortably carry everything you need while you explore the world’s greatest cities.
Two popular options on the market are the Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L and the Aer Travel Pack 3 X-Pac.
Let’s compare these two backpacks and see which one is the best for your travel needs.
The Aer Travel Pack vs Tortuga Travel Backpack
| Tortuga | Aer Travel Pack 3 X-Pac | |
| Volume | 40L | 35L |
| Hip Belt | Included | $25 extra |
| Packing Space | Max international | 5L less capacity |
| Comfort | Height-adjustable suspension system and hip belt | Fixed suspention system and no hip belt |
| Packing Style | Opens to the side, like a suitcase, for easy packing on a bed or luggage stand. | Opens downward making it harder to pack. |
| Weather Protection | Waterproof sailcloth material and water-resistant zippers. No extra rain cover required. | The nylon (non-X-Pac) version isn’t waterproof. A rain cover is sold separately for an extra $29. |
Pack everything you need without checking a bag.
- Carry-on-sized
- Easy to pack
- Comfortable to carry
- Built to last
Carry On Capacity
The size of a backpack is measured in liters (abbreviated with an “L”) and should play a significant role in your decision-making process. One factor to keep in mind is that 40L is the most volume and most compatible across airlines when traveling internationally.
Having less than the maximum volume allowed limits how much you can pack, especially for those who want to carry the most possible in one bag only.
The Tortuga
If you want to be as prepared as possible—whether it’s for a change in weather, outdoor activities, or room for souvenirs—invest in the backpack built to bring the maximum allowed.
Pro Tip: Going above 40L capacity can lead to you paying extra fees or checking your bag. You can check the carry on requirements for your specific airline.
Comfortable to Carry
Comfort is a must for backpacks, especially for travelers going on long trips who like to carry everything they need with them at all times. Carrying a heavy and uncomfortable bag can lead to shoulder pain and back issues in the long run.
The most important comfort feature is a hip belt because it takes the weight off your shoulders and hips and transfers it to your stronger hip and leg muscles, reducing the strain on your body during travel days.
The Tortuga
- A height-adjustable suspension system customizable to fit your body
- A weight-bearing hip belt that takes 80% of the backpack’s weight off your shoulders
- Thick, soft shoulder straps with foam padding
These features ensure a comfortable fit for travelers of all sizes.
Pro Tip: Get a
travel backpack with a hip belt. A hip belt that takes 80% of the backpack’s weight off your shoulders.
Weather Protection
Weather can be unpredictable, and having a backpack that can protect your belongings from the elements is important, especially for those traveling with valuable cameras, laptops, and electronics.
The Tortuga
The backpack’s weather-resistant features offer peace of mind to travelers. You’ll know your belongings are safe and dry even in the worst and most unpredictable weather conditions.
Ease of Packing
A backpack that opens like a suitcase ensures that your belongings stay organized while remaining easily accessible and secure. You’ll want your backpack to open this way to quickly access your gear and keep it organized.
Tortuga’s
The Verdict
When comparing the Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L and the Aer Travel Pack 3, Tortuga outperforms Aer in critical areas for serious travelers.
The Aer backpack is a slightly cheaper option for infrequent travelers who do not prioritize comfort or the safety of their contents.
The Tortuga
- More packing space
- A hip belt for comfortable carrying
- Superior weather protection
- Easy access like opening a suitcase
If you’re a serious traveler looking for the most reliable and functional backpack, the Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L is an excellent investment for you.
Pack everything you need without checking a bag.
- Carry-on-sized
- Easy to pack
- Comfortable to carry
- Built to last
Benefits of Buying Tortuga
Check out the other benefits that come when you buy a Tortuga backpack:
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Ben Beck
Ben Beck is the director of marketing at Tortuga Backpacks. He is a recovering full-time RVer who traveled all around the USA and now lives in Texas. He also enjoys exploring National Parks, eating tacos, and traveling with the family.