Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. Nomatic McKinnon Cube Pack
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Hill People Gear Tarahumara
| Capacity | 16 L |
| Weight | 0.7 kg |
| Dimensions | 44×24×10 cm |
| Airline fit | 100% |
| Price | $125 |
Feature by feature
| Hill People Gear Tarahumara | Feature | Nomatic McKinnon Cube Pack |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 0 | Opening | 4 |
| N | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | N |
| S | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 0 | Laptop | 0 |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 2 | Water Bottle Holder | 0 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500D Cordura | Nylon |
Nomatic McKinnon Cube Pack
| Capacity | 21 L |
| Weight | 0.6 kg |
| Dimensions | 45×34×19 cm |
| Airline fit | 99% |
| Price | $125 |
When it comes to carry on backpacks, both the Hill People Gear Tarahumara and the Nomatic McKinnon Cube Pack get the job done, but they do it in their own distinct ways. The Tarahumara, built in the Rocky Mountains, is a rugged and reliable pack made from sturdy 500D Cordura material. Reviewers rave about its impressive build quality and ideal size for day hiking, not to mention the convenience of its center zip for both security and easy access to the main compartment. On the other hand, the McKinnon Cube Pack is a versatile option for both photographers and travelers, featuring an easily customizable and protective camera cube. In spite its lightness, the Cube Pack is durable and water-resistant.
Comparison Summary:
- The Hill People Gear Tarahumara is larger in height than the Nomatic McKinnon Cube Pack, while the latter is wider and deeper.
- The Tarahumara is slightly heavier, though both are under a pound.
- The Cube Pack has a larger carrying capacity at 21 liters compared to the 16 liters of the Tarahumara.
- Both packs are compatible with most airlines.
- The Tarahumara is made of rugged 500D Cordura while the Cube Pack is made of nylon.
- Neither backpack has a laptop compartment.
- The Tarahumara is often lauded for its quality and convenience, while the Cube Pack stands out for its functional design and durability.
The functionality of the Nomatic McKinnon Cube Pack speaks volumes. It not only serves as a protective camera cube that is customizable, but it can also double as a backpack. This distinction is particularly worthy of mention as it offers two uses in one, saving space and making it a standout in versatility. Also, in comparison to other backpacks, it's relatively lightweight yet impressively durable and has admirable water resistance properties.
In a nutshell, both the Tarahumara and the McKinnon Cube Pack are solid companions for a day's journey. The choice boils down to personal needs. For something minimalist, rugged and highly functional, the Tarahumara is your bag. If you need more space and versatility, particularly for photography equipment, the versatile Nomatic McKinnon Cube Pack is your best bet.