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 | Mission Workshop Rhake |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | S |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 0 | Opening | 0 |
| N | Passport | top |
| N | Passthrough | Y |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | N |
| S | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 0 | Laptop | 15 |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 6 |
| N | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 2 | Water Bottle Holder | 1 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500D Cordura | Available in HT500 or MultiCam Black Camo Cordura |
| Capacity | 22 L |
| Weight | 1.4 kg |
| Dimensions | 54×34×13 cm |
| Airline fit | 98% |
| Price | $365 |
The Hill People Gear Tarahumara backpack and Mission Workshop Rhake backpack share similarities but have key points that set them apart. The Tarahumara has a minimalist, rugged appeal with dimensions of 44 inches tall, 24 inches wide, and 10 inches deep, weighing only 0.7 pounds. It can carry up to 16 liters with full compatibility across all airlines. Constructed with 500D Cordura, it's durable and intended to last. However, it lacks a laptop compartment, emphasizing its simplicity for light gear.
The Rhake, in comparison, is larger, boasting dimensions of 54 inches tall, 34 inches wide, and 13 inches deep, with a weight of 1.4 pounds. With increased size comes increased capacity, clocking in at 22 liters. While it slightly falls short compared to the Tarahumara in airline compatibility, at 98%, it compensates with an aptitude for organization. It comes with a 15-inch laptop compartment and is available both in HT500 or MultiCam Black Camo Cordura.
As for user experiences, both backpacks come with glowing excellent reviews. Many reviewers argue that the Tarahumara is the best go-to bag for day hiking due to its perfect size, high build quality from reliable materials and the advantage of its secure, easy-to-access center zip compartment. On the other hand, dichotomously reviewers laud the Rhake for its suitability for daily and travel use - it's slim, thoughtfully designed with plenty of pockets, comfortable to use and made with weather-proof materials making it durable enough to last a long time. To sum it up concisely, it's a debate between simplicity versus organization.