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 | Evergoods Civic Half Zip 26L |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | 17 |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 2 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 2 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500D Cordura | 500d High Tenacity Nylon 6,6 with Air Textured Yarn and Water Repellent Finish, 420d HT nylon with PU coating |
| Capacity | 26 L |
| Weight | 1.2 kg |
| Dimensions | 49×31×23 cm |
| Airline fit | 97% |
| Price | $263 |
Getting straight down to business. The Hill People Gear Tarahumara and the Evergoods Civic Half Zip 26L are both highly sleek and purpose-built carry on backpacks, there's no doubt about it. Nonetheless, they do vary in several aspects and the question comes down to which pack best suits your needs.
The Tarahumara by Hill People Gear is the lighter of the two, weighing in at a mere 0.7 pounds which can be of great advantage for those looking to shave weight. Its compartments leave a lot to be desired as it has no laptop sleeve, a potential deal-breaker for tech-savvy travellers. Made of 500D Cordura, it's robust and sure to withstand the trials of travel. It boasts a large 44-inch height, beneficial for those taller individuals or those wanting extra storage height.
As for the Evergoods Half Zip, it's a heavier yet has more to offer in terms of storage capacity, accommodating up to 26 liters. The laptop sleeve comfortably fits a 17-inch laptop making it friendlier for business travellers or digital nomads. Its material is a blend of 500d High Tenacity Nylon 6,6 and 420d HT nylon, both complemented with a Water Repellent Finish, ensuring your equipment stays dry. The pack is slightly less compliant with airlines at 97%.
A bulleted comparison between the two:
According to reviews, the Hill People Gear Tarahumara is commended for its perfect size for day hiking and praised for its robust build quality. It's said that the center zip lends itself to convenience in access to the main compartment. On the other hand, the Half Zip's comfort, functional pockets, and liter independent compartments have left reviewers feeling satisfied.
Remember, the best backpack for you depends wholly on your needs. If you're a light traveller or hiker searching for durability and a pack that stands tall, the Tarahumara could be the right choice. But if you're in need of a sturdy, laptop-friendly backpack with generous capacity, the Half Zip may be the pack for you.