Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. Cotopaxi Allpa Travel Pack 42L Del Día
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 | Cotopaxi Allpa Travel Pack 42L Del Día |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 0 | Opening | 1 |
| N | Passport | Y |
| N | Passthrough | |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | H |
| R | Hip Belt | R |
| S | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 0 | Laptop | 15 |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| N | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | S |
| 2 | Water Bottle Holder | 0 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500D Cordura | 100% repurposed nylon |
Cotopaxi Allpa Travel Pack 42L Del Día
| Capacity | 42 L |
| Weight | 1.905 kg |
| Dimensions | 55×34×22.5 cm |
| Airline fit | 63% |
| Price | $200 |
When considering tools built for the journey, both the Hill People Gear Tarahumara and the Cotopaxi Allpa Travel Pack 42L Del Día stand out. The Tarahumara, with its compact dimensions (44 x 24 x 10 inches) and light weight (0.7 pounds) lends itself to being an exceptional option for short hikes and urban jaunts. It boasts robust build quality thanks to its 500D Cordura fabric. However, do note a lack of laptop compartment - a trade-off for its slim profile that will appeal to the minimalist explorer.
In contrast, the Allpa Travel Pack by Cotopaxi makes a name for itself with the space it affords - 42 liters of capacity in a frame slightly wider and far deeper than the Tarahumara (22.5 x 34 x 55 inches), whilst weighing more at 1.9 pounds. More importantly, it accommodates a 15-inch laptop and is engineered from 100% repurposed nylon, aiding those who value sustainability. Be aware, its larger size may mean compliance issues with certain airlines.
- Tarahumara: 44" tall, 24" wide, 10" deep, 0.7lb weight, 16L capacity, 100% airline compatibility
- Allpa: 22.5" tall, 34" wide, 55" deep, 1.9lb weight, 42L capacity, 63% airline compatibility
- Tarahumara: 500D Cordura fabric, lacks laptop compartment
- Allpa: 100% repurposed nylon, fits a 15" laptop
Enthusiasts cite the Tarahumara's simplicity and longevity, comparing its spaciousness to the cavernous Tardis, all in a package suited for a one day trip. The Allpa Travel Pack too, has its supporters, who laud its intuitive internal organization as best-in-class and recommend it for long trips while appreciating the unique, sustainable design of the Del Día line.
Carry-on backpack selection is as personal as the travels you embark on. The Tarahumara shines for its nimbleness and reliability, with an excellent center zip access. The Allpa, on the other hand, wins hearts with its comprehensive internal layout, comfort when fully loaded and added feature of a rain cover. Both options pack purpose into their own unique design philosophies. Choose according to your journey.