Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. Macpac Rapaki 25
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 | Macpac Rapaki 25 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 0 | Opening | 4 |
| N | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | R |
| S | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 0 | Laptop | 15 |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 2 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500D Cordura | 200D Recycled Polyester, 420D Oxford Nylon |
Macpac Rapaki 25
| Capacity | 25 L |
| Weight | 0.91 kg |
| Dimensions | 52×30×25 cm |
| Airline fit | 47% |
| Price | $140 |
When you're looking for the perfect carry on backpack, it's all about balancing size, weight, and functionality. If it's ruggedness you're after, the Hill People Gear Tarahumara might just be your ideal match. Standing 44 inches tall, 24 inches wide, and 10 inches deep, this backpack weighs in at a feather-light 0.7 pounds. Its 500D Cordura makes it a durable beast on any trail or airport terminal. With 16 liters of packing capacity, it's designed for convenience with its center zip entry. The backpack's compact size matches 100% of airlines' carry-on requirements. However, the lack of a laptop compartment might be a turn-off for some tech-savvy travelers.
On the other hand, for those seeking a middle ground between size and functionality, the Macpac Rapaki 25 comes out on top. It is 25 inches tall, 30 inches wide, and 52 inches deep. Weighing a tad more at 0.91 pounds, this backpack offers a generous 25-liter capacity. Constructed from 200D Recycled Polyester with 420D Oxford Nylon, it gives you ample room and protection for your gear, including a 15-inch laptop. It fits fewer airlines at 47%, but the additional space may well be a worthwhile trade-off.
- Backpack Dimensions: Hill People Gear Tarahumara is 44-inch tall, 24-inch wide, and 10-inch deep, while the Macpac Rapaki 25 stands at 25 inches tall, 30 inches wide, and 52 inches deep.
- Weight: The Tarahumara weighs 0.7 pounds, slightly less than the Rapaki, which weighs 0.91 pounds.
- Capacity: The Tarahumara has 16 liters, while the Rapaki boasts 25 liters.
- Airline Compatibility: The Tarahumara is suitable with all airlines, as against the Rapaki, which is compatible with 47% of airlines.
- Material: The Tarahumara uses 500D Cordura, while the Rapaki uses 200D Recycled Polyester along with 420D Oxford Nylon.
- Laptop Compartment: The Tarahumara lacks a laptop compartment, while the Rapaki can fit a laptop up to 15 inches.
Reviewers rave over the Tarahumara's build quality and durability, its perfect size for day hiking and the convenience of its center zip. As for Rapaki, reviews are not provided, but its larger size, durable material, and laptop compartment could make it a winner for many travelers.
While it may not be as universally adaptable as the Tarahumara, the Rapaki's larger size and laptop compartment make it an appealing option for those needing a bit more space and tech-readiness. On the flip side, the Tarahumara is a prime choice for simplicity, durability, and compatibility with carry-on requirements. The final call, as always, depends on your unique travel necessities.