Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. Exped Torrent 20
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 | Exped Torrent 20 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| 2 | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 0 | Opening | 2 |
| back | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| Y | Backpack | Y |
| removable | Hip Belt | removable |
| 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 | 840 D Oxford nylon, TPU film laminate, >10'000 mm water column |
Key differences between the Hill People Gear Tarahumara and Exped Torrent 20
- Compression straps: 2 on the Hill People Gear Tarahumara; No on the Exped Torrent 20.
- Opening: Other on the Hill People Gear Tarahumara; Rolltop on the Exped Torrent 20.
- Passport pocket: Back on the Hill People Gear Tarahumara; No on the Exped Torrent 20.
- Laptop sleeve: No on the Hill People Gear Tarahumara; 13in on the Exped Torrent 20.
- Main compartments: 2 on the Hill People Gear Tarahumara; 1 on the Exped Torrent 20.
- Water bottle pockets: 2, side on the Hill People Gear Tarahumara; No on the Exped Torrent 20.
Both have: backpack straps, hip belt, 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. 174 accept both. 7 accept only the Hill People Gear Tarahumara, and 0 accept only the Exped Torrent 20.
Only the Hill People Gear Tarahumara fits
Air Tahiti, American Eagle, easyJet, Gulf Air, Ravn Alaska, Regional Express, Virgin Australia.
The Hill People Gear Tarahumara and the Exped Torrent 20 are both impressive carry-on backpack options, yet their various specificities cater to different needs. The Tarahumara, with its 500D Cordura construction, stands as a testament to durability and longevity. Weighing in at 0.7 pounds and standing 44 inches tall, this bag is significantly lighter and taller than the Exped. It provides 16 liters of storage capacity and boasts 100% airline compatibility, making it an ideal option for frequent travelers. Notably, despite its impressive height, this backpack does not present the feature of a laptop compartment.
The Exped Torrent 20, despite being shorter (only 17 inches tall) and slightly heavier (0.98 pounds), grants you more storage space with a capacity of 20 liters. Encased in robust 840 D Oxford nylon and offering a unique TPU film laminate with an impressive >10'000 mm water column, the Exped Torrent 20 showcases serious waterproof abilities. Furthermore, this option shines when it comes to carrying electronics, offering a compartment suitable for a 13-inch laptop. However, it falls short in terms of airline compatibility, fitting only 81% criteria.
-
Hill People Gear Tarahumara:
- Slightly lighter (0.7 pounds)
- Taller (44 inches)
- 16 litres capacity
- 100% airlines compatibility
- No laptop compartment.
-
Exped Torrent 20:
- Slightly heavier (0.98 pounds)
- Shorter (17 inches)
- 20 litres capacity
- 81% airlines compatibility
- Includes laptop compartment.
As per the user reviews, both packs have their individual merits. Reviewers commend the Tarahumara for its superior quality, capable of enduring for a lifetime. They appreciate its perfect size for day hiking and the convenience of its center zip. The Exped Torrent 20, on the other hand, wins commendation for comfort due to its superior suspension system. Although heavier, its waterproof construction and slash-proof build make it perfect for battling harsh outdoor conditions.
In conclusion, these two backpacks hold their own weight in the market. The Tarahumara presents a lighter, taller choice for those seeking simplicity and durability. The Exped Torrent 20, although heavier, provides an intelligent build for tech-savvy travelers and outdoor enthusiasts. While the choice between the two ultimately depends on individual need and preference, they both represent quality carry-on solutions.