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 | Jansport Hatchet |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | S |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 0 | Opening | 3 |
| N | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | N |
| S | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 0 | Laptop | 15 |
| 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 | 600 Denier Polyester |
| Capacity | 28 L |
| Weight | 0.6 kg |
| Dimensions | 46×31×20 cm |
| Airline fit | 82% |
| Price | $76 |
The Hill People Gear Tarahumara and the Jansport Hatchet are both solid options for a carry-on backpack, but they differ significantly in various ways. The Tarahumara, as reviewers attest, is well designed, well built, and well executed, expected to last a lifetime. It's spacious and versatile, accommodating everything from keys to jackets, and has a surprisingly capacious main compartment. It's made to withstand the test of time, crafted from 500D Cordura, tipping the scale at a light 0.7 pounds. This top-commended bag also boasts 100% airline compatibility.
Contrarily, the Hatchet from Jansport is hailed as a comfortable, stylish, and functional bag at an incredibly competitive price point. Unlike the no-nonsense design of Tarahumara, the Hatchet flaunts a design more akin to a high-end knapsack. Crafted from 600 Denier Polyester, it's slightly lighter than the Tarahumara at 0.6 pounds. It stands out for its excellent organization features, especially for tech gadgets, and its numerous pockets for miscellaneous items. However, it falls short in airline compatibility compared to Tarahumara, with a compatibility rate of 82%.
Overall, both bags have their unique strengths. If you value durability, spaciousness, and versatility, Hill People Gear Tarahumara could be your best bet. Its compact size and great build quality make it an excellent choice for hikers and travelers. Jansport Hatchet, on the other hand, presents attractions to those with an affinity for modern design and versatility. It's superb for tech organization, has numerous pockets, and comes at a good price point given its quality. It very much depends on travel habits and personal aesthetic preference when choosing between Tarahumara by Hill People Gear or the Hatchet by Jansport.