OffroadAdmin
Bottom Line
The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 is an extremely well-made pack that offers some of the best protection and durability out of our picks for the best travel backpacks. We love this pack for protecting delicate items thanks to its thick construction, extra padding, and protective laptop compartment. With a host of features, it is sure to be a favorite of any one-bag traveler or those looking to pack a lot into a sturdy bag.
At 46 liters, it is the largest bag in our lineup that is still carry-on compliant. This makes it great for those going on longer trips or for slightly heavier packers. We found that it easily fit everything we needed for a week-long trip and even had room to spare. Standout features include easily stowed shoulder straps and waist belts for a secure duffel mode, locking zippers, and a TSID luggage registration tag. With its sturdy external compression straps and four attachment points, Osprey Daylite and Farpoint daypacks can be attached to the exterior securely and comfortably.
Even so, the Sojourn Porter does have some limitations, particularly when loaded down. The main compartment lacks segmentation aside from two small mesh pockets. Compression straps help keep larger items in place, but we found our belongings became jumbled and disorganized. The shoulder straps and back panel are not as comfortable as others we tested. However, the Sojourn Porter remains a top pick for travelers requiring a durable pack that quickly transforms from backpack to duffle.
How We Tested
Every travel backpack tested got put through a standardized packing test where we investigated the organization of the bag by packing it with everything we needed for a five-day trip. We carried the bag up and down stairs, through airports, and on trails to test its durability, comfort, and performance across multiple months of use.
Quick Specs
Osprey Sojourn Porter 46
Most protective travel backpack
CleverHiker Rating:
4.5/5
Price:
$195
Volume:
46 L
Weight:
3 lb. 7 oz.
Dimensions:
18 x 15.8 x 12.2 in.
Organization:
4.4
Features:
4.4
Comfort:
4.6
Durability:
4.8
Pros
- Durable
- Spacious
- Good compression
- Good suspension
- Main compartment opens fully
- Streamlined pocket organization
- Laptop compartment
Cons
- Bulky
- A little large for carry-on with some airlines
- Sidewalls can get in the way when packing
Organization & Storage
The Osprey Sojourn Porter is defined by its voluminous main compartment. With a 46-liter capacity, this is the largest pack in our lineup. But without any dividers in the large cavity, items become jumbled and disorganized while in transit. Internal compression straps help secure larger items, but we were still left wanting more for organization. Two smaller zipped mesh pockets along either side are nice for smaller items but can only fit a few layers of clothing.
On the outside, the Sojourn Porter has one of the largest external zip pockets of any we tested. This is great for quick access to our essentials. However, the large external straps run across both this and the main zipper, requiring unbuckling for access. A unique, side-access water bottle pocket is one of the largest we tested – it can fit a 1.5-liter bottle. With only one main compartment for storage, we found ourselves using packing cubes and stuff sacks more with this bag than others. With a little modification, the Sojourn Porter has plenty of room for week-long trips or for heavier packers.
Features
With four handles around the pack, grabbing the Sojourn Porter out of a car trunk, overhead bin or baggage carousel is easy. The large compression straps are great for cinching down the volume. Osprey’s thick, StraightJacket straps add more compression and durability. With these straps and four more attachment points, the Sojourn Porter is compatible with Daylite and Farpoint daypacks. Simply clip on the smaller day packs for one secure travel system.
The Sojourn Porter also features an easy-to-use system for converting the backpack to a duffel. Simply unclip the load tensioner and bottom tensioner on the shoulder strap and tuck them into their zippered pocket. The waist belt folds away to make a sleek and streamlined duffel in seconds. It’s relatively fiddle-free and secure, leaving no straps exposed. With just enough features to be functional, but not too many to be overwhelming, the Sojourn Porter finds a balance between streamlined and technical.
Comfort & Fit
The Sojourn Porter incorporates Osprey’s signature AirScape back panel to help reduce back sweat when on the go. However, we found that this back panel had significantly less breathability than other bags tested with less mesh to enhance airflow. The stowaway shoulder straps and hip belt are comfortable but felt maxed out and uncomfortable when we carried more than 15 pounds. Even though it’s not the most comfortable pack when we’re carrying a heavy load, the Sojourn Porter still works for backpackers and one-bag travelers carrying gear for long periods.
Durability & Protection
The Sojourn Porter is built with 460-denier, high-tenacity recycled nylon. This construction is both extremely durable and certified sustainable. With a DWR treatment, this pack is not fully waterproof but is enough to keep your gear dry if caught out in the rain. The exterior of the pack is surrounded by Osprey’s unique StraightJacket straps, which look like broad wings around the exterior. While these are primarily for compression, their thick padding also provides enhanced durability and protection. With a thickly padded laptop compartment, the Sojourn Porter is one of the most protective and durable packs on the market. We like it for travelers needing to protect fragile gear and equipment.
Should You Buy The Osprey Sojourn Porter Travel Pack?
With its large volume, the Osprey Sojourn Porter is a great one-bag option for those who pack a little heavier or go on extended travels. It is the largest bag in our lineup that is still TSA-compatible. The large main compartment may be a benefit for those packing larger items, but small items become jumbled and disorganized in transit due to limited subdividers. With its excellent external compression, streamlined conversion to duffel, and the ability to pair with other Osprey daypacks, the Sojourn Porter meets different travel demands. It’s versatile and comfortable to wear for extended periods, making it perfect for those travelling with a single piece of luggage.
What Other Travel Backpacks Should You Consider?
Check out our full gear guide to see all of our favorite travel backpacks.
Osprey Farpoint 40: Slightly smaller than the Sojourn Porter, the Farpoint can be attached to the Sojourn Porter through its external tensioning straps.
Matador GlobeRider45 Review: Another durable pack, the GlobeRider45 boasts impressive protection but in a more comfortable platform to carry on long walks.
Cotopaxi Allpa Review: If you’re looking for a bag lighter than the Sojourn Porter but still has many of the same features, the Allpa may be the perfect fit.
