Travel Backpack 40L Pro vs. Lite

What's Different?

Travel Backpack Pro 40L

The comfortable carry on for organized travelers.

  • More comfortable: Get the perfect fit for your body with the adjustable shoulder straps. The back panel, shoulder straps, and hip belt have thicker foam padding for a more cushioned carry.
  • More organized: If you’re obsessed with organization, you’ll get an additional front pocket (with an admin panel), a tablet sleeve, a mesh electronics pocket, a second water bottle pocket, and two hip belt pockets.
  • More water-resistant: Stay drier with waterproof materials and coated, water-resistant zippers.

Learn more about the Travel Backpack Pro 40L.

Travel Backpack Lite 40L

The lightweight carry on for most travelers.

  • Lighter weight: 22% lighter than the Pro. Save 1 pound of weight. The Lite offers one of the best volume-to-weight ratios among all travel backpacks.
  • Tuckable straps: Tuck the shoulder straps and hip belt away if you need to check your bag or to protect the straps in the overhead bin.
  • More familiar material: The 630D CORDURA nylon is more familiar and less technical-looking while still offering best-in-class toughness.
  • Lower priced: Save $100 compared to the Pro.

Learn more about the Travel Backpack Lite 40L.

What's the Same?

While these two bags have major differences as outlined above, the core features of all Tortuga backpacks are the same.

  • Carry-on-sized: Both bags are the same dimensions and volume, 40L, so you can max out your carry on space even on international and budget flights.
  • Comfortable to wear: Both bags have cushioned shoulder straps and weight-bearing hip belts. The hip belt will take 80% of your bag’s weight off of your shoulders for a lighter, more comfortable carry.
  • Easy to pack: Both bags open from the front, like a suitcase, for easy packing, organization, and access.
  • Built to last: All Tortuga products are built to handle the rigors of the road with best-in-class materials and hardware.

For us, these features are non-negotiable.

Learn more about the Travel Backpack Pro 40L or Travel Backpack Lite 40L.

If you’re still having trouble deciding which is best for you, take the Bag Finder Quiz.

Comparison Chart

Travel Backpack Pro 40L
Travel Backpack Lite 40L
Travel Backpack Pro 40L Travel Backpack Lite 40L
The comfortable carry on for organized travelers. The lightweight carry on for most travelers.
  • More comfortable
  • More organized
  • More water-resistant
  • Lighter weight
  • Tuckable straps
Type Carry on
Trip Length 1 week or longer
Dimensions (in) 21.7 x 13.8 x 7.9 in
Dimensions (cm) 55 x 35 x 20 cm
Volume (L) 40L
Weight (lb) 4.5 lb 3.5 lb
Weight (kg) 2.0 kg 1.6 kg
Fit One size fits all (Height-adjustable) 19-21” torsos
Shoulder Straps Not stowable Stowable
Material SHELL200 630D CORDURA re/cor™ RN6 nylon
Laptop Up to 16 in
Tablet Up to 12.9 in n/a
Price $350 $250
Shop Now Shop Now