Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
| Capacity | 16 L |
| Weight | 0.7 kg |
| Dimensions | 44×24×10 cm |
| Airline fit | 100% |
| Price | $125 |
| Hill People Gear Tarahumara | Feature | Patagonia Tres Backpack 25L |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 0 | Opening | 1 |
| N | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | Y |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | H |
| R | Hip Belt | N |
| S | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 0 | Laptop | 15 |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| N | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 2 | Water Bottle Holder | 0 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500D Cordura | 630-denier 100% nylon, 200-denier 100% recycled polyester |
| Capacity | 25 L |
| Weight | 0.9 kg |
| Dimensions | 48×31×17 cm |
| Airline fit | 98% |
| Price | $129 |
The Hill People Gear Tarahumara and the Patagonia Tres Backpack 25L are both contenders for your next carry-on bag. They share many similarities, such as their sleek design and functionality. However, there are some notable differences that could sway your decision.
The Hill People Gear Tarahumara is taller and narrower, at 44 inches tall, 24 inches wide, and 10 inches deep. In contrast, the Patagonia Tres Backpack 25L is notably shorter and wider, with a height of 17 inches, a width of 31 inches, and a depth of 48 inches. The former is lighter, just 0.7 pounds compared to the latter's 0.9 pounds. The Tarahumara offers a 16-liter capacity, whereas the Tres backpack offers increased storage at 25 liters. Both are mostly airline compatible, with the Tarahumara boasting 100% and the Tres close behind at 98%. Material-wise, the Tarahumara is made of rugged 500D Cordura, while the Tres Backpack stands out with its blend of 630-denier 100% nylon and 200-denier 100% recycled polyester. The major drawback of Tarahumara is the lack of laptop compartment while the Tres can fit a 15-inch laptop.
Reviewers have only good things to say about both bags. For instance, one reviewer raved about the Tarahumara saying, "It’s a well designed, well executed, and well built bag that’ll last you a lifetime." Meanwhile, another reviewer praised the Patagonia Tres Backpack 25L saying, "Multiple ways to carry according to your needs. . . you can carry it as a briefcase, messenger bag, or backpack."
In conclusion, both the Hill People Gear Tarahumara and Patagonia Tres Backpack 25L have their merits. If you're after a lightweight, durable bag that's more vertical in shape, the Tarahumara could be the bag for you. However, if you need more capacity, a wider bag, or a compartment for a laptop, consider the Tres Backpack 25L. Both bags are well-regarded for their quality and design, so your decision should come down to which size and features better suit your lifestyle.