Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro vs Lite 40L - Hands-on Comparison
We get hands-on and explore the key differences between the Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro and Travel Backpack Lite. This comparison delves into size, materials, and features to help you make the right choice.
As more travelers seek lighter and more budget-friendly gear without sacrificing quality, Tortuga has answered the call by launching the Travel Backpack Lite. At 1lb lighter and a whopping $100 cheaper than its predecessor, the Travel backpack Pro, it made us wonder: Why? What’s missing? And are these missing features going to be dealbreakers for travelers?
To uncover the truth, we tested each Tortuga Travel Backpack side by side to reveal 7 key differences that will help you decide which backpack is the right choice for you.
Video Review
Quick Specs
 |
 |
|
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 40L | 40L |
| Materials | SHELL200 waterproof material, water resistant YKK zippers |
630D Cordura Ballistic nylon YKK fabric zippers |
| Dimensions | 21.7” (H) x 13.8” (W) x 7.9” (D) | 21.7” (H) x 13.8” (W) x 7.9” (D) |
| Weight | 4.5 lbs | 3.5 lbs |
| Laptop Storage | 16" Laptop Compartment with tablet sleeve |
16" Laptop Compartment |
| Adjustable Back Panel | Yes | No |
| Chest Strap | Yes | Yes |
| Hip Belt | Yes | Yes |
| Price |
Difference #1: The Lite Has Less Adjustments
Key Takeaways:
Both backpacks are the same dimensions and have a 40-liter capacity
The Lite is missing the adjustable height back panel
Model height 5’6” - Tortuga Travel Backpack 40L Pro vs Lite
Despite the Tortuga Travel Backpack Lite being 1 pound lighter, both the Pro and Lite still manage to be the exact same exterior dimensions with an internal carrying capacity of 40 liters. When worn, you can expect both the Pro and Lite to have the same profile on the back.
The big differences are found with the fit of each backpack.
The Pro offers a 4-point adjustment system for the perfect fit:
adjustable height back panel
shoulder straps (bottom straps and top lift loaders)
chest strap
hip belt
The adjustable back panel stands out as the star of the show as it allows you to customize the back panel height to match your torso length, ensuring a perfectly dialed-in fit. This feature is very useful if you are shorter or taller than average and often struggle to find a travel backpack that fits well. You’ll notice the Pro does sit higher on the back when worn on the 5’6” model pictured above. This is a subtle detail of the adjustable height back panel in action.
The Lite instead has a 3-point adjustment system:
shoulder straps (bottom straps and top lift loaders)
chest strap
hip belt
Shoulder straps and hip belt fit - Tortuga Pro vs Lite
As a result we would describe the Tortuga Travel Backpack Lite as a “one size fits most” travel pack since the back panel is static.
Difference #2: The Lite has Less Padding
Key Takeaways:
Comfort is mixed: the Lite has a more comfortable back panel, the Pro has a more comfortable waist belt
To reduce weight on the Lite, Tortuga has decided to remove some padding on the back panel and waist belt and you can feel the difference when wearing each backpack fully loaded.
Believe it or not, we preferred the thinner back panel on the Lite since the reduced cushion gave it a bit more flex for a more contoured fit. However, the extra padding on the Pro's waist belt made it extremely comfortable, feeling like two pillows against your hip bones, while the Lite's waist belt was nothing special. As for the shoulder straps, both backpacks felt the same.
Difference #3: The Lite has Tuckable Straps
The Tortuga Travel Backpack Lite has stowable straps
A huge upgrade on the Lite is the ability to tuck away the shoulder straps and hip belt for a neater experience when carrying the bag by its top or side handles. This is a huge feature, and in our opinion, may be a big reason for sticking with the more affordable Travel Backpack Lite.
Difference #4: The Pro is More Water Resistant
Key Takeaways:
The Pro offers amazing water resistance thanks to its waterproof SHELL200 exterior and water resistant zippers.
The Lite uses Cordura Ballistic Nylon paired with regular fabric zippers. Quality is on par with most other travel packs at the $200+ price range.
Tortuga Pro SHELL200 vs Lite Cordura Nylon water resistance
The differences in materials used in each Tortuga Travel Backpack might be the most important for travelers concerned with water resistance.
The Pro is constructed using Tortuga’s best materials with an exterior made with the brands own waterproof SHELL200 fabric paired with water-resistant YKK zippers. This combination offers amazing protection against rain and makes the Pro a beast in bad weather. Along with being waterproof, SHELL200 is also known for it’s toughness and rip-resistance.
In an effort to reduce costs, the Lite version uses a water repellent 630D Cordura ballistic nylon, a fabric that has great tear and puncture resistance and is commonly used among many premium backpacks. However, the Lite uses standard reverse-coil YKK zippers instead of the coated water-resistant ones on the Pro. As a result, the water resistance of the Lite is nothing special and on par to what you'd find in most travel backpacks on the market.
Despite the more cost-effective materials used on the Lite's exterior, it's important to note that this backpack maintains a high quality comparable to other high-end travel packs in the $200+ range. Both models feature the same interior ripstop lining and use the same durable buckles, ensuring a level of quality and durability that Tortuga is known for.
Difference #5: The Lite Has Fewer Pockets
Key Takeaways:
The Pro offers more pockets and compartments for smaller items
The Lite is missing the large front organizer compartment
The side mesh pocket on the Lite can fit larger water bottles
In order to make the Lite both cheaper and lighter, Tortuga has made a lot of big changes to its pockets and compartments. While both backpacks offer the same top pocket with a key leash for quick access to smaller items, that’s where their similarities end.
Tortuga 40L Pro vs Lite: Same top pocket with key leash.
The Pro features a massive front compartment that is completely missing on the Lite. This front compartment is packed with smaller pockets with organization for everything from pens, tech chargers to business cards. There is even a soft-lined slip pocket for a small tablet like a Kindle e-reader or iPad Mini.
The Tortuga Travel Backpack Lite is missing the front organizer compartment
On each side of the Pro, you’ll also find a side pocket for a water bottle or umbrella, while the Lite only offers one mesh side pocket. The important detail here is that the side pocket on the Lite can actually fit larger bottles, accommodating sizes up to 32oz or 40oz. The side pockets on the Pro aren’t as stretchy, limiting you to thinner bottles 24oz and under.
Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro vs Lite: the Lite can fit a larger water bottle
Finally, both packs feature a vertical front panel pocket, but to cut down on weight, the Lite's front pocket is much smaller. For perspective, the Pro's front pocket can hold a light jacket, while the Lite's can only fit a hat. Huge difference!
DIfference #6: The Pro Has More Tech Storage
Key Takeaways:
Both backpacks can fit up to a 16-inch laptop
The Pro has an entire tech compartment with a laptop sleeve, tablet sleeve and mesh pocket
The Lite has no tablet sleeves while the Pro has two (standard tablet + smaller e-reader)
Laptop compartments on the Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro vs Lite
Each Tortuga Travel Backpack features rear laptop storage. The Pro can be best thought of as a tech compartment with a 16-inch laptop sleeve, seperate tablet sleeve and an extra pocket for tech accessories. While the Lite simply has a 16-inch laptop sleeve with no other extra pockets.
If you are wondering about laptop protection, you’ll be pleased to know that both laptop sleeves are well-padded and feature a generous false bottom to protect your laptop from drops.
Difference #7: Different Pockets in Packing Compartment
Key Takeaways:
Pro and Lite offer the same 40 liters of packing space
The Lite has two smaller mesh pockets while the Pro has one large mesh pocket
The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L has one large mesh pocket
The Tortuga Travel Backpack Lite 40L has two smaller mesh pockets
Tortuga has decided to make some interesting changes in the main packing compartments. Both backpacks do have the same 40 liters of packing space and our testing found that both can hold the same amount of clothing.
The main difference is that the Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro offers one large mesh compartment that is very similar to what you would find in a standard suitcase. The Lite, on the other hand, splits this space into two smaller mesh pockets.
Which one is better really comes down to personal packing preference. The larger mesh pocket on the Pro is better for larger items like shirts and jackets. While the smaller mesh pockets on the Lite does a better job at packing smaller items like socks and underwear. If you plan on using packing cubes, you’ll appreciate the larger mesh pocket on the Pro.
Which Tortuga Travel Backpack Should You Buy?
Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L
Tortuga Travel Backpack Lite 40L
Choose the Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro if you value organization and water-resistance. The exterior pockets and compartments offers amazing access to stuff like tablets, jackets, headphones and smaller travel essentials. Those who carry a lot of tech will also appreciate the large tech compartment with both a laptop and tablet sleeve. Furthermore, the SHELL200 construction offers best-in-class water-resistance for those braving the rain.
Choose the Tortuga Travel Backpack Lite if you don’t carry a lot of tech, value being able to tuck away the shoulder straps and want to save some cash. At the end of the day, the Lite is still a tough travel pack that holds up to the quality Tortuga is known for. The ability to tuck away the shoulder straps and hip belt is a huge upgrade that will save you some heartache when stowing away the bag in overhead compartments.
6 Affordable Tom Bihn Alternatives
Looking for a more affordable Tom Bihn alternative? We've found six cheaper Tom Bihn alternatives for their popular Aeronaut and Synapse 25 backpack.
Timbuk2 Command Backpack (Buy on Amazon)
Pacsafe Venturesafe 25L GII Backpack (Buy on Amazon)
Fjallraven Raven 28 Daypack (Buy on Amazon)
Tortuga Travel Backpack 44 Liter (Buy on Amazon)
eBags TLS Mother Lode Weekender Convertible Backpack (Buy on Amazon)
Incase EO Travel Pack (Buy on Amazon)
Tom Bihn makes great quality backpacks that are loved by many travelers and backpack enthusiasts alike. Here we look at cheaper Tom Bihn alternatives for their popular Synapse 25 and Aeronaut bags.
Tom Bihn Synapse Alternative
The Tom Bihn Synapse backpack has gained popularity with everyday carry and travel enthusiasts and it’s easy to see why. This backpack is multiple clever compartments for organizing and features a high quality build. Here we list three of our favorite cheaper Tom Bihn Synapse 25 alternatives that won’t break the bank. These bags are great quality and have similar features as the popular Synapse 25 backpack.
Timbuk2 Command Backpack Review
The Timbuk2 Command backpack is a nicely designed pack especially made for daily commuters and travelers alike. We recommend the Timbuk2 Command as a Tom Bihn Synapse 25 alternative for those who want a slightly larger backpack that has internal organizers, a roomy main compartment, and a sleek modern design.
Unlike the Tom Bihn Synapse which has a 25 liter capacity, the Timbuk2 Command offers a generous 32 litters. This is due in part for the larger main compartment that is designed to hold books, jackets and more. On the outside of the bag you will find a floating pocket that is lined to protect cell phones and sunglasses. A separate TSA friendly clamshell compartment fits both a tablet and a laptop.
Dimensions: 13 x 11.4 x 18.9
Capcity: 32L
Padded sleeve fits laptop up to 15 inches
Tablet compartment
Side pockets for water bottles
Internal organizers for small essentials
Airmesh back panel for extra ventilation
The Timbuk2 Command travel backpack is available in a variety of colors.
Pacsafe Venturesafe 25L GII backpack review
Pacsafe is a travel bag and accessories brand that specializes in anti-theft designs for safer trips and journeys. Their Venturesome 25L GII features an anti-theft features called Slashguard which protects against nimble thieves from cutting through your backpack to get into the contents inside. It also features RFID blocking pockets, lock security hooks and specially designed zippers.
Like the Tom Bihn Synapse 25, the Venturesafe has an capacity of 25 liters. It also features comprehensive organizational section in it’s exterior pocket for pens, passports, glasses and other small but essential items. A 3L hydration pack compartment allows the backpack to be used for hiking. While it’s molded foam back allows you to comfortable wear the pack during day trips. This backpack is extremely versatile and will suit just about any traveler. We recommend this backpack as a Tom Bihn Synapse 25 alternative to anyone who wants a great quality backpack with extra safety features.
Dimensions: 19.7 x 11.4 x 7.9 inches
Capacity: 25L
Waist strap, side compression straps, and molded foam back for extra support
Organizational pockets and compartments in main compartment and secondary front zip compartment
Side stretch pockets for waterbottles, umbrellas and more
3L hydration pocket
Pacsafe Venturesafe 25L is available in multiple colors.
Fjallraven Raven 28 Daypack Review
We decided to add the Fjallraven Raven to our list of Tom Bihn backpack alternatives because of it’s quality build, great features and overall affordability. The Fjallraven Raven 28 is a 28 liter daypack that is slightly larger than the Tom Bihn Synapse 25 in capacity but generally all not that larger in overall size. In fact, it looks deceptively slim when worn. The materials used in the construction are G-1000 HeavyDuty Eco which is a combo of recycled polyester and organic cotton. The bag is weather proof and can get your through a rainy day.
As for organization, the Fjallraven Raven 28 has a generous main compartment coupled with it's own zippered laptop pocket (up to 15”). Other compartments include 2 side pockets, a zippered front pocket and two additional zippered pocket with compartments in each for extra organization. We love the overall minimalist look of the Fjallraven Raven daypack as are glad to know that Fjallraven could design a backpack that is as functional as it is fashionable.
Dimensions: 12.2 x 18.11 x 11.02 inches
Capacity: 28L
Zippered padded compartment fits a laptop up to 15 inches
Fleece lined pockets for sunglasses and phones
Hidden internal security pocket
Padded back and contoured shoulder straps for extra comfort
Fjallraven offers the Raven 28 Daypack in many different color options.
TOM BIHN AERONAUT ALTERNATIVE
The Tom Bihn Aeronaut is a convertible backpack duffel bag that is made for carry-on air travel. It’s 45 liter capacity and multiple organization compartments makes the Tom Bihn Aeronaut the ideal travel backpack for multi-day trips. Here we review three cheaper Tom Bihn Aeronaut alternatives that pack a lot of the same features.
Tortuga Travel Backpack 44 Liter Review
Tortuga is a maximum sized carry on backpack just like the Tom Bihn Aeronaut. At 44 Liter capacity it’s around the same size as the Aeronaut with very similar internal zip compartment and out pocket features as the Tom Bihn Aeronaut.
Unlike the Tom Bihn Aeronaut, the Tortuga Travel Backpack does not convert into an over the shoulder bag. But it does include a sturdy top handle to allow one hand carry as a duffel. It’s clamshell design allows for easy packing and unpacking. One of our favorite features is it’s padded laptop sleeve for laptops up to 17 inches. The laptop compartment is lockable with your own TSA lock to prevent theft. These features and more make the Tortuga Travel Backpack a good candidate for anyone looking for a good Tom Bihn Aeronaut alternative.
Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9
Capacity: 44L
Separate padded compartment for laptop up to 17”
Lockable zipper on all main compartments
External side pockets for water bottles and other small items.
Small enough to use as a check-in bag but large enough for multi-day air travel.
eBags Mother Lode Weekender Convertible Review
The Mother Lode Weekender bag is a larger Tom Bihn Aeronaut alternative that is packed with a ton of similar features at a lower price point. The Mother Lode weekender has a generous capacity of 54L, almost 10 liters as much as the Tom Bihn Aeronaut. Like the Aeronaut, the Mother Lode Weekender is made for airplane travel is it’s dimensions fit the maximum capacity for a carry-on bag.
eBags packed a lot of great features in this bag such as useful separation walls and straps in the main compartment and a secure laptop compartment that is accessed separately. The front zip pocket is packed with organizers for pens, passport and other small items that require easy access. There is even an awesome full expansion zipper that allows you to fit even more in the bag during your travels.
Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9
Capacity: 54L
Separate access compartment for a laptop
Discrete water bottle pocket
Compression straps to keep your items in place when the bag is not full
Convertible: Can be used as a backpack, duffel or luggage.
The eBags Mother Lode Weekender travel backpack is available in mutiple color options.
Incase EO Travel Backpack Review
Incase has hit a home run with their EO Travel Backpack. This backpack is a great Tom Bihn alternative for those of you who can use a smaller bag with many of the same features. Incase has emphasized tech carry so you can expect to see plenty of pockets and compartments for your laptop (up to 17 inches), tablets, cables and chargers throughout the backpack.
The main compartment is roomy enough for a weekend trip. It features a full clamshell opening that allows for easy access of your essentials. Zipped mesh compartments keeps everything neat and tidy while traveling. The backside laptop compartment also features a clamshell opening to allow for easy TSA access. All of these features make the Incase EO an ideal carry on travel backpack.
Dimensions: 18.5 x 12.8 x 6.3
Separate compartments for laptop up to 17 inches and a tablet.
Padded back panel and shoulder straps for extra comfort
Main compartment expands 35% for easy packing of clothes and other overnight essentials.
Backpack use only: not convertible
