Pacsafe V 24L vs Thule Aion 28L: Which Travel Backpack Fits?
By Travel Style Luggage: Buy Premium Bags & Travel Gear | Published: 2026-11-01
Category: Comparisons
Compare the Pacsafe V 24L Active Backpack and Thule Aion Travel Backpack 28L on security, capacity, and laptop protection to choose the right one for your trips.
Quick answer
Choose the Pacsafe V 24L Active Backpack if security and a dedicated laptop sleeve are your top priorities; choose the Thule Aion Travel Backpack 28L if you need expandable capacity and a suitcase-style opening for active trips.
Security and access: lockable vs. open
The Pacsafe V 24L Active Backpack is built around anti-theft features, with two roomy lockable compartments that let you secure your gear when you're in crowded areas or leaving your bag at a hostel. The Thule Aion Travel Backpack 28L does not list lockable compartments in its supplied specs, so it relies on zipper placement and your own vigilance. If you often travel through busy transit hubs or want peace of mind when setting your bag down, the Pacsafe's locking design is a clear advantage.
Capacity and packing style: 24L vs. 28L (expandable to 32L)
The Thule Aion 28L offers more base capacity than the Pacsafe V 24L and expands to 32L, giving you 15% more packable space when you need it. That makes it more flexible for weekend trips or days when you pick up extra items. The Pacsafe V 24L is a fixed 24L, which suits minimalist packers or day hikes where you want to carry only essentials. Consider how often you need that extra room: if you regularly travel with bulky gear or souvenirs, the Thule's expansion is a practical benefit.
Laptop protection and organization
The Pacsafe V 24L includes a dedicated laptop sleeve designed to fit a 13-inch MacBook, so your computer stays separate from other gear and is easier to access. The Thule Aion 28L's supplied facts do not mention a laptop sleeve, so if you need padded, dedicated laptop storage, the Pacsafe is the safer choice. The Thule does offer a stowable divider with TPU lining to organize gear and separate everyday items from active gear, which helps keep dirty shoes or wet clothes away from clean belongings. Neither bag's specs list a padded laptop compartment for the Thule, so don't assume one.
Key trade-offs to decide
- Security vs. capacity: The Pacsafe V 24L gives you lockable compartments for anti-theft peace of mind, but caps you at 24L. The Thule Aion 28L offers more space (expandable to 32L) but lacks listed lockable zippers. Decide whether security or extra room matters more for your typical trips. If you often leave your bag unattended in hostels or cafes, prioritize lockable compartments.
- Laptop carry vs. flexible packing: The Pacsafe V 24L has a dedicated 13-inch laptop sleeve, making it a better fit for digital nomads or commuters who carry a computer daily. The Thule Aion 28L focuses on expandable, suitcase-style packing and a TPU-lined divider for gear separation, but doesn't list a laptop sleeve. If you need a laptop, the Pacsafe is the more straightforward choice. Check your laptop size: the Pacsafe sleeve is designed for a 13-inch MacBook, so larger laptops may not fit.
- Day hikes vs. multi-day travel: The Pacsafe V 24L's adjustable sternum strap and hip belt make it comfortable for active day hikes, while its luggage slip lets you slide it over a rolling suitcase handle. The Thule Aion 28L's expandable capacity and full back-panel opening suit weekend trips and longer travels where you need more gear. Match the bag to your primary activity. For hiking-focused trips, the Pacsafe's harness is a plus; for travel with varied gear, the Thule's expansion wins.
Product facts
- Pacsafe® V 24L Active Backpack: Two roomy lockable compartments and a dedicated sleeve for a 13-inch MacBook. You can secure your valuables and keep your laptop protected and separate from other items.
Pacsafe® V 24L Active Backpack - Thule-Aion Travel Backpack 28L: Expands from 28L to 32L and has a back panel that opens like a suitcase. You get extra capacity when needed and can pack and unpack more easily, especially in tight spaces.
Thule-Aion Travel Backpack 28L
Which backpack fits your trip?
Best for
- Travelers who prioritize anti-theft security and lockable compartments
- Digital nomads or commuters carrying a 13-inch laptop
- Day hikers who want a comfortable harness with hip belt and sternum strap
Not for
- Travelers who need expandable capacity for bulky gear or longer trips
- Users who prefer a suitcase-style opening for easy packing
- Those carrying a laptop larger than 13 inches (Pacsafe sleeve may not fit)
