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Add to SafariWhen comparing REI Trail 40 Pack vs Osprey Porter 30, the Slant community recommends REI Trail 40 Pack for most people. In the question“What are the best carry on backpacks for travel that hold at least 30L?” REI Trail 40 Pack is ranked 4th while Osprey Porter 30 is ranked 7th. The most important reason people chose REI Trail 40 Pack is:
There is a [women-specific version](http://www.slant.co/topics/5119/viewpoints/7/~carry-on-travel-backpacks-for-women-that-hold-at-least-30l~rei-trail-40-pack-women-s) of the REI Trail 40 available, which has a slightly smaller torso fit range.
Specs
Question Ranking
Pros
Pro Women-specific version available
There is a women-specific version of the REI Trail 40 available, which has a slightly smaller torso fit range.
Pro Pockets on the hip belt for easy access
The hip belt has two zippered pockets which lets you store things for easy access (such as papers, money or snacks).
Pro Four zipper access to easily get to your belongings
The pack is front load with four zipper access, allowing you to unzip from either the top or bottom. This is great if you want to grab something from the bottom of your pack without opening it completely.
Pro Includes raincover
The pack comes with a rain cover that stows away in it's own zip pocket.
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 Pocket for hydration reservoir is difficult to access
The pocket for the hydration reservoir is external, located right behind the back panel. There is very little room, making it hard to access and can only fit a small amount of water (around 1.5L).
Con Internal bungee compression system can get in the way
The internal compression straps are a bungee system, which does not unclip the way most do. When your pack is full, this can make it a very tight squeeze if you want to access something in the back.
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.
