When comparing The North Face Router Backpack vs Osprey Porter 30, the Slant community recommends Osprey Porter 30 for most people. In the question“What are the best carry on backpacks for travel that hold at least 30L?” Osprey Porter 30 is ranked 7th while The North Face Router Backpack is ranked 8th. The most important reason people chose Osprey Porter 30 is:
There are two padded grab handles, one at the top and the other at the side.
Specs
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Pros
Pro Nice looking pack
It's not always easy to find a travel backpack that also looks nice. The Router has a nice style and comes in 5 different colors.
Pro Fits larger laptops
The laptop compartment fits up to a 17" laptop.
Pro Padded carry handles
There are two padded grab handles, one at the top and the other at the side.
Pro Attachments for a daypack
Reinforced loops allow you to attach a daypack to the front of the Porter (designed specifically for the Daylite Pack).
Pro Stowaway harness
They quickly hide away in a zippered pouch to protect that harness when stowed, or to keep them out of the way when navigating tight places.
Cons
Con Laptop compartment isn't protective
The padding in the separate laptop compartment is fairly light, providing limited protection to your laptop.
Con Lack of support due to minimal hipbelt
The hip belt is just a nylon strap, it doesn't provide any padding.
Con Only one external pocket
The only external pocket is the front panel organizational compartment for papers, tablets and a laptop.
There are no pockets for food or anything else you may want quick access to.
Con Minimal support makes it uncomfortable to wear for long periods
The padding on both the shoulder straps and hip belt is quite light. Especially when heavy, the straps can dig into your shoulders and become uncomfortable.
Con No internal compression straps
There are no straps in the main compartment to help secure your belongings, so they may shift while traveling.