Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. STM Saga
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 | STM Saga |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 0 | Opening | 3 |
| N | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | N |
| S | Sternum Strap | N |
| Inside | ||
| 0 | Laptop | 0 |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| N | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 2 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500D Cordura | 100% polyester |
The Hill People Gear Tarahumara and the STM Saga are two carry-on backpacks that are likely to draw your attention if you're looking for reliable travel companions. On the surface, they slightly resemble each other, but a deeper dive reveals distinctive divergences in design, capacity, airlines compatibility, construction material, and weighs.
The Tarahumara crafted by Hill People Gear, weighs a mere 0.7lbs and measures 44x24x10". Undoubtedly, the dimensions make it a snug-fit for planes with 100% airlines compatibility. It's crafted from 500D Cordura, giving it discretion and robustness that a frequent traveler needs. Inside, it packs a decent 16 liters of storage. However, for those who carry their tech around, the missing laptop compartment could come as a flaw.
The STM Saga, a creation of STM, though almost a midget compared to the Tarahumara at 15x29x44", holds its own with a larger capacity of 20 liters, weighing 0.51lbs. Constructed from 100% polyester, it's hardier but does compromise a bit on the airline compatibility with compatibility for 84% of airlines. The missing laptop compartment is also a common flaw with the Saga.
Specifications Comparison:
- Weigh: Tarahumara (0.7lbs), Saga (0.51lbs)
- Size: Tarahumara (44x24x10"), Saga (15x29x44")
- Capacity: Tarahumara (16 liters), Saga (20 liters)
- Airline Compatibility: Tarahumara (100%), Saga (84%)
- Material: Tarahumara (500D Cordura), Saga (100% polyester)
- Laptop Compartment: Tarahumara (No), Saga (No)
But issues and differences aside, there are a few features that users love. The Tarahumara has been praised for its perfect size for day hiking, exceptional build quality, and convenient center zip. Conversely, STM Saga possesses functional pocketing and sleeves, a tech sleeve that offers good protection, excellent water resistance, and sleek look that is universally acceptable.
Although the choice between the two essentially hinges on personal preference, the Tarahumara seems well-suited for casual hikes or day travels bestowing due to its rugged construction and size. On the other hand, the Saga, with its higher capacity, water resistance and tech protection, seems perfect for longer journeys or tech-savvy travelers.