Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. Patagonia Altvia Pack 36L

Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.

Hill People Gear Tarahumara

Front facing view of the Hill People Gear Tarahumara
Capacity16 L
Weight0.7 kg
Dimensions44×24×10 cm
Airline fit100%
Price$125

Feature by feature

Hill People Gear TarahumaraFeaturePatagonia Altvia Pack 36L
Storage
S Compression S
None Expanded Capacity None
0 Opening 0
N Passport N
N Passthrough N
Carry
S Backpack S
R Hip Belt S
S Sternum Strap S
Inside
0 Laptop 0
2 Main Compartments 1
N Organizer
Outside
× Hard Shell ×
N Rain-fly S
2 Water Bottle Holder 2
Y Water Resistant Y
Material
500D Cordura140-denier 100% recycled nylon ripstop, 210-denier 100% recycled nylon ripstop

Patagonia Altvia Pack 36L

Front facing view of the Patagonia Altvia Pack 36L
Capacity36 L
Weight0.992 kg
Dimensions60×31×27 cm
Airline fit19%
Price$179

The Hill People Gear Tarahumara and the Patagonia Altvia Pack 36L are two great options for carry-on backpacks, each with their own unique strengths. The Tarahumara, shining in the realm of lightweight efficiency, stands at 44 inches tall, 24 inches wide, and 10 inches deep. It's a featherlight pack, tipping the scales at only 0.7 pounds. On the other hand, the Altvia Pack 36L provides more storage space at 27 inches tall, 31 inches wide, and 60 inches deep, though it is slightly heavier at 0.992 pounds.

Both packs feature quality construction materials, with the Tarahumara's 500D Cordura contrasting the Altvia Pack 36L's recycled nylon ripstop. Though, neither pack can accommodate a laptop, they more than make up for it with their notebook-enhanced features. For the Tarahumara, it's well-regarded for being a "well designed, well executed, and well-built bag that'll last you a lifetime." Reviewers also lauded its size as perfect for day hiking, its excellent build quality, and the convenience of its center zip. For the Altvia Pack 36L, one reviewer even praised its capacity to handle their full climbing load despite its lightweight design.

Prospective buyers ought to consider that while the Tarahumara is compatible with 100% of airlines, the Altvia Pack 36L's compatibility is significantly lower at 19%. This, alongside reviews praising the Tarahumara's enduring quality and convenient design, establishes it as a reliable option. The Altvia Pack 36L manages to shine through with reviews praising its lightweight and durable construction, proficient storage, and comfort during prolonged use. Each pack’s unique features and strengths warrant proper consideration, ensuring the best fit for your travel needs.