Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. Jansport Driver 8 Backpack

Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.

Hill People Gear Tarahumara

Front facing view of the Hill People Gear Tarahumara
Capacity16 L
Weight0.7 kg
Dimensions44×24×10 cm
Airline fit100%
Price$125

Feature by feature

Hill People Gear TarahumaraFeatureJansport Driver 8 Backpack
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 N
Inside
0 Laptop 15
2 Main Compartments 4
N Organizer N
Outside
× Hard Shell ×
N Rain-fly N
2 Water Bottle Holder 1
Y Water Resistant Y
Material
500D Cordura600 Denier Polyester / 420 Denier Nylon

Jansport Driver 8 Backpack

Front facing view of the Jansport Driver 8 Backpack
Capacity36 L
Weight3 kg
Dimensions53×35×25 cm
Airline fit47%
Price$110

When it comes to carry on backpacks, the Hill People Gear Tarahumara and the Jansport Driver 8 Backpack stand as strong contenders. Each brings its own unique features and advantages to the table.

Starting with the Hill People Gear Tarahumara, you get a pack that's perfectly sized for day hiking. It weighs a mere 0.7 pounds, so it's light enough to carry around for extended periods without experiencing discomfort. The 500D Cordura material gives the bag its robust and durable characteristics; it's a bag that's built to last. And with 16 liters of capacity, it offers sufficient room for your essential items. However, it lacks a laptop compartment.

On the other hand, the Jansport Driver 8 Backpack is a bigger and heavier option, weighing in at 3 pounds. However, it’s made from high-quality 600 Denier Polyester / 420 Denier Nylon which guarantees durability. With a massive 36 liters of capacity, it surpasses the Tarahumara in terms of storage space. Moreover, it has a dedicated compartment that can fit a 15-inch laptop, making it a more suitable choice for students or professionals needing to haul their laptop around.

When users talk about the Tarahumara, they rave about its 'well designed, well-executed, and well-built' design. In contrast, users have praised the Jansport Driver 8's sturdiness, the ease of use of the telescoping handle, and the organization the bag offers.

In closing, both the Hill People Gear Tarahumara and the Jansport Driver 8 Backpack cater to different needs and preferences. If you're all about lightweight and durability combined with ample storage for a day hike, you might lean towards the Tarahumara. But if you're in search of a multifunctional bag that can convert from a backpack to a roller, hold a lot of things including a 15-inch laptop, and is available at a great price, the Driver 8 might be the way to go.