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 | Aer Travel Pack 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | S |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 0 | Opening | 4 |
| N | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | Y |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | R |
| S | Sternum Strap | R |
| Inside | ||
| 0 | Laptop | 15 |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 5 |
| N | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 2 | Water Bottle Holder | 1 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500D Cordura | 900D eco-dyed polyester |
The Hill People Gear Tarahumara and Aer Travel Pack 2 are both compelling options in the backpack market. Each has unique features that position it to serve distinct types of travelers. The Tarahumara, with a slim, lightweight design and a respectable 16 liters of capacity, is the epitome of convenience for the minimalist traveler. The compact size of this backpack meets the carry-on requirements of every airline, not to mention its robust build from 500D Cordura promising longevity. Hill People Gear Tarahumara, however, lacks a sizable laptop compartment - its pocket measures a negligible 0 inch.
The Aer Travel Pack 2 picks up where the Tarahumara comes short. Built of a sturdy 900D eco-dyed polyester, it is slightly heavier, weighing 1.7 pounds yet offering double the capacity at 33 liters. This large storage caters to those keen to carry more in their travels. Moreover, the Aer Travel Pack 2 features a laptop compartment that can snugly house a 15-inch laptop, a convenience that digital nomads will appreciate. However, its larger size disqualifies it from being accepted as carry-on baggage by a few select airlines.
Overall, the comparison points out:
Both backpacks receive substantial praise in the review sphere. Customers love the Tarahumara for its compactness and no-frills approach. Reviewers extol it as sturdy, elegant, and capable of covering the basics in terms of carrying capacity. The Aer Travel Pack 2, while also applauded for its build quality, is admired more for its clever organization and stylish urban aesthetic. Reviewers frequently highlight its notable features, like its protected laptop compartment and practical design tweaks from earlier models.
In conclusion, while the bare-bones approach of the Hill People Gear Tarahumara resonates with hikers or those traveling light, the Aer Travel Pack 2 offers more for travelers whose adventures often include a digital component. Where the Tarahumara impresses with its reliability and ruggedness, the Travel Pack 2 wins with its comprehensive features and smarter use of space. Ultimately, the decision between the two boils down to individual needs, preferences, and style of travel.