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 | ebags Mother Lode Jr Travel Backpack |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | S |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 0 | Opening | 1 |
| N | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | H |
| R | Hip Belt | N |
| S | Sternum Strap | R |
| Inside | ||
| 0 | Laptop | 18 |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 2 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500D Cordura | 840 Denier polyester, YKK and eBags brand hardware |
| Capacity | 41 L |
| Weight | 1.4 kg |
| Dimensions | 50×36×23 cm |
| Airline fit | 97% |
| Price | $140 |
If you're in the market for a robust and reliable backpack, two models come to mind immediately: the Hill People Gear Tarahumara and the ebags Mother Lode Jr Travel Backpack. The Hill People Gear Tarahumara is a titan in its own right, measuring 44 inches high, 24 inches wide, and 10 inches deep. Petit and lightweight at 0.7 pounds, it still manages an impressive carrying capacity of 16 liters. Crafted from 500D Cordura, it promises toughness and long-lasting performance. This backpack has been designed to be airline-friendly, achieving 100% compatibility.
On the other hand, the ebags Mother Lode Jr Travel Backpack is larger and more substantial. Clocking in at 23 inches tall, 36 inches wide, and 50 inches deep, the backpack weighs in at 1.4 pounds. But the slightly heavier weight makes space for an awe-inspiring carrying capacity of 41 liters. Made from 840 Denier polyester and accented with YKK and eBags brand hardware, this bag's compatibility with airlines is close behind, at 97%.
To summarize the differences:
Reviews speak highly of both backpacks. Hill People Gear Tarahumara users love the well-executed design and the fact that the HPG team is always available for support and advice. The backpack's perfect size for day hiking, great build quality, and convenient center zip are worth every penny. On the other hand, fans of the ebags Mother Lode Jr Travel Backpack rave about the excellent value, the backpack's durable materials, and the multitude of slots and compartments for organization, even saying that it can hold more than it looks. Both are good to buy, it's just a matter of your personal preferences.