Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. Atom Packs "The Atom"
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Hill People Gear Tarahumara
| Capacity | 16 L |
| Weight | 0.7 kg |
| Dimensions | 43×23×10 cm |
| Airline fit | 96% |
| Price | $175 |
Feature by feature
| Hill People Gear Tarahumara | Feature | Atom Packs "The Atom" |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| 2 | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | 40L |
| 0 | Opening | 2 |
| back | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| Y | Backpack | Y |
| removable | Hip Belt | removable |
| Y | Sternum Strap | Y |
| Inside | ||
| N | Laptop | N |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 2, side | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500d Cordura | VX07 |
Atom Packs "The Atom"
| Capacity | 30 L |
| Weight | 0.4 kg |
| Dimensions | 45×24×18 cm |
| Airline fit | 96% |
| Price | $185 |
Key differences between the Hill People Gear Tarahumara and Atom Packs "The Atom"
- Compression straps: 2 on the Hill People Gear Tarahumara; No on the Atom Packs "The Atom".
- Opening: Other on the Hill People Gear Tarahumara; Rolltop on the Atom Packs "The Atom".
- Passport pocket: Back on the Hill People Gear Tarahumara; No on the Atom Packs "The Atom".
- Main compartments: 2 on the Hill People Gear Tarahumara; 1 on the Atom Packs "The Atom".
- Water bottle pockets: 2, side on the Hill People Gear Tarahumara; 2 on the Atom Packs "The Atom".
Both have: backpack straps, hip belt, sternum strap, water resistant.
Which airlines take each bag as a carry-on
We checked both bags against the carry-on size limits of 189 airlines. 181 accept both. Every airline that takes one takes the other.
The Hill People Gear Tarahumara is a solid, reliable option for those looking for a compact backpack that can withstand the harsh conditions of outdoor activity. Designed and built with a heavy-duty 500D Cordura, this pack is touted to "last you a lifetime" by one reviewer. Its size is perfect for day hiking, while its compact silhouette belies an impressively spacious interior. The central zip offers a great balance of security and convenience when accessing the main compartment. However, it has no room for a laptop and its capacity is fairly limited at just 16 liters.
The Atom Packs "The Atom," on the other hand, is a lightweight and durable choice for the minimalist hiker. Made from the lightweight but durable VX07 material, this pack is designed for those who have their gear dialed in to an absolute minimum. Despite its lighter weight, it has nearly double the capacity of the Tarahumara, with a 30-liter volume. The Atom also offers great customization options, with the ability to select specifications including fabric. Regrettably, like the Tarahumara, it lacks a laptop compartment.
Here's a summary of their differences:
-
Size: The Atom is slightly larger than the Tarahumara in all dimensions.
-
Weight: The Atom is lightest, at just 0.4 pounds against the Tarahumara's weight of 0.7 pounds.
-
Capacity: The Atom has significantly larger capacity (30 liters) compared to the Tarahumara (16 liters).
-
Airline Compatibility: The Tarahumara is compatible with all airlines, while the Atom Pack is compatible with just 84% of airlines.
-
Material: The Tarahumara is made of 500D Cordura, while the Atom is made of VX07.
-
Customization: The Atom offers more in terms of customization options.
In conclusion, the Tarahumara and The Atom cater to slightly different users. The Hill People Gear Tarahumara is built for those aiming for sturdiness, top-notch build quality, and airline convenience. Conversely, the Atom Packs "The Atom" caters to lightweight hikers with bigger storage needs who would like a more personalized pack. Decision lies in understanding one's needs and preferences, whether that might be durability and simplicity, or lighter weight and customization.