Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. Mission Workshop "The Rambler : VX"
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Hill People Gear Tarahumara
| Capacity | 16 L |
| Weight | 0.7 kg |
| Dimensions | 43×23×10 cm |
| Airline fit | 96% |
| Price | $175 |
Feature by feature
| Hill People Gear Tarahumara | Feature | Mission Workshop "The Rambler : VX" |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| 2 | Compression | Y |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 0 | Opening | 3 |
| back | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| Y | Backpack | Y |
| removable | Hip Belt | optional |
| Y | Sternum Strap | Y |
| Inside | ||
| N | Laptop | 13in |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 2, side | Water Bottle Holder | N |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500d Cordura | Dimension Polyant VX-21 |
Mission Workshop "The Rambler : VX"
| Capacity | 22 L |
| Weight | 1.6 kg |
| Dimensions | 49×34×13 cm |
| Airline fit | 91% |
| Price | $410 |
Key differences between the Hill People Gear Tarahumara and Mission Workshop "The Rambler : VX"
- Compression straps: 2 on the Hill People Gear Tarahumara; Yes on the Mission Workshop "The Rambler : VX".
- Opening: Other on the Hill People Gear Tarahumara; Top flap on the Mission Workshop "The Rambler : VX".
- Passport pocket: Back on the Hill People Gear Tarahumara; No on the Mission Workshop "The Rambler : VX".
- Hip belt: Removable on the Hill People Gear Tarahumara; Optional on the Mission Workshop "The Rambler : VX".
- Laptop sleeve: No on the Hill People Gear Tarahumara; 13in on the Mission Workshop "The Rambler : VX".
- Main compartments: 2 on the Hill People Gear Tarahumara; 1 on the Mission Workshop "The Rambler : VX".
- Water bottle pockets: 2, side on the Hill People Gear Tarahumara; No on the Mission Workshop "The Rambler : VX".
Both have: backpack straps, sternum strap, water resistant.
Which airlines take each bag as a carry-on
We checked both bags against the carry-on size limits of 189 airlines. 172 accept both. 9 accept only the Hill People Gear Tarahumara, and 0 accept only the Mission Workshop "The Rambler : VX".
Only the Hill People Gear Tarahumara fits
Air Niugini, Air Tahiti, American Eagle, easyJet, Great Lakes Airlines, Gulf Air, Ravn Alaska, Regional Express, Virgin Australia.
We're looking at two leading carry-on backpacks that lead the market in their own specific ways: the Hill People Gear Tarahumara and the Mission Workshop "The Rambler : VX". Both of these bags have been touted for their design, durability, and capacity, but there are distinct differences that make them stand out in their own right. Known for its freedom of movement and rugged durability, the Tarahumara is beloved by adventurous spirits. It's a bag that wears its quality on its sleeve, made of 500D Cordura, promising lifelong companionship as per many testimonies by satisfied users. On the other hand, The Rambler pushes the envelope with its capacity and versatility, made from the equally durable Dimension Polyant VX-21.
- Tarahumara is smaller overall (44" tall x 24" wide x 10" deep) vs Rambler's larger build (13" tall x 49" wide x 34" deep)
- Lightweight (0.7 lbs) of the Tarahumara contrasts with Rambler's heftier weight (1.6 lbs)
- Tarahumara provides 16 liter capacity compared to Rambler's 22 liters
- Tarahumara is 100% airline compatible, Rambler falls short by being 98% compatible
- Tarahumara is made from 500D Cordura while Rambler is made from Dimension Polyant VX-21
- The laptop compartment in Tarahumara is absent while Rambler can accommodate a 13" laptop
The Tarahumara's smaller overall size makes it an ideal choice for light travelers, and its commendable weight is a nod to the portability of the backpack. A reviewer was quoted saying it's "the perfect answer to the one-daypack question" and applauded its quality and simplicity. Furthermore, it provides features most hikers appreciate, like its zip center for quick and easy access.
The Rambler, conversely, caters to those needing greater storage capacity without compromising on quality. To quote a satisfied customer, it's a bag that is "well-constructed using high-quality materials such as 'Dimension Polyant VX-21' which is sturdy and waterproof." Its distinct feature is it doubles up as a top flap or rolltop bag offering greater flexibility. But what truly makes it stand out is the high water resistance, making it a perfect companion who can brave all weather conditions. It not only protects essentials from elements but does so comfortably with its well-padded straps and load lifters. These attributes make each bag a unique choice for the individual traveler.