Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. Cabin Zero Varsity 26L
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 | Cabin Zero Varsity 26L |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 2 | Water Bottle Holder | 0 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500D Cordura | 600D Polyester |
Cabin Zero Varsity 26L
| Capacity | 26 L |
| Weight | 0.44 kg |
| Dimensions | 40×30×16 cm |
| Airline fit | 87% |
| Price | $90 |
The Hill People Gear Tarahumara is an impressive beast of burden. It's taller and narrower than the Cabin Zero Varsity 26L with dimensions clocking in at 44 by 24 by 10 inches versus the latter's 16 by 30 by 40 inches. It's also slightly heavier, weighing 0.7 pounds compared to the Varsity's light 0.44 pounds; however, users rate it as a reliable and tough bag built to last. It's smaller carrying capacity, 16 liters compared to the Varsity's 26 liters, also doesn't seem to be a disadvantage as one user's compliment in its clever interior design has proven.
The Tarahumara takes the edge when it comes to air travel too. It's compatible with 100% of airlines, while the Cabin Zero Varsity 26L doesn't seem to fit the bill for some, with only 87% compatibility. Material-wise, the Tarahumara is made of 500D Cordura which is highly durable and resistant to tears, scuffs, and abrasions. The Varsity, on the other hand, is made of 600D Polyester that is robust, lightweight, and economical.
- Tarahumara is taller and narrower (44x24x10 inches) vs. Varsity (16x30x40 inches)
- Tarahumara is heavier (0.7lbs) but durable vs. Varsity (0.44lbs)
- Tarahumara has less capacity (16L) but evidently efficient use of space vs. Varsity (26L)
- Tarahumara is made of resilient 500D Cordura vs. Varsity's lightweight 600D Polyester
- Tarahumara is compatible with 100% of airlines vs. Varsity's 87%
Another handy feature in the Tarahumara is the laptop compartment. For digital nomads or the working traveler, this could be a critical deciding factor, especially since the Varsity lacks this feature. The Tarahumara's center zip has also been praised for its convenient access and security. Reviewers of the Tarahumara do not withhold their admiration: this backpack is described as the "best overall solution", "well designed, well executed", and "like a vacuously spacious Tardis".
In comparison, the Cabin Zero Varsity 26L is markedly broader and more compact. While it does boast of a larger capacity, it cannot accommodate laptops and has lower airline compatibility. Nevertheless, it scores for its lightweight build. The choice therefore lies in what you value more in a carry-on: durability and design, or lightness and capacity.