Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. Timbuk2 Uptown
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 | Timbuk2 Uptown |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 0 | Opening | 0 |
| N | Passport | top |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | N |
| S | Sternum Strap | R |
| Inside | ||
| 0 | Laptop | 15 |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 4 |
| N | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 2 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500D Cordura | |
On the surface, the Hill People Gear Tarahumara and the Timbuk2 Uptown may seem like just rugged backpacks. But dig deeper, and you'll find two very different beasts. The Tarahumara, clocking in at 44 inches tall, 24 inches wide, and 10 inches deep, features a manageable and compact size. If you're keen on long hikes or quick daytrips, it's hard to beat its 0.7-pound lightness. Its Cordura fabric means it's made to last, and the 16 liters of capacity packs a decent punch for its size. And plus, its universal airline compatibility makes it a traveller's friend.
Meanwhile, the Timbuk2 Uptown boasts its own set of strengths. It's a bit larger—50 inches tall, 30 inches wide, 17 inches deep—which makes it perfect for those who need room to pack. This larger size equates to 30 liters of capacity. It may weigh a bit more at 1.1 pounds, but you get a lot of storage for that weight. The Uptown accommodates a 15-inch laptop and has more pockets for organization. However, its compatibility in airlines dips to 98%, a small concession for the extra storage.
- Size: The Tarahumara is smaller (44x24x10) compared to the Uptown (50x30x17).
- Weight: The Tarahumara (0.7 pounds) is lighter than the Uptown (1.1 pounds).
- Capacity: The Uptown has almost double the capacity (30 liters) of the Tarahumara (16 liters).
- Airline Compatibility: The Tarahumara is universally compatible where the Uptown is 98% compatible.
- Material: The Tarahumara is made of 500D Cordura, while the Uptown's material isn't specified.
- Laptop Compartment: The Uptown accommodates a 15-inch laptop compared to the Tarahumara, which lacks this feature.
Looking at user reviews, the Tarahumara excels in its design and durability—a backpack that that'll last you a lifetime, according to one user. Another praised its impressive interior space despite its small exterior appearance. For the Uptown, reviewers have highlighted it as an excellent travel companion for light packers and appreciated its durability and versatility.
In conclusion, both the Hill People Gear Tarahumara and the Timbuk2 Uptown are solid options for carry on backpacks. If you are after something lightweight, durable and universally compatible with airlines, the Tarahumara might just be your best bet. On the other hand, if you need more storage space, laptop accommodation, and don't mind a slightly heavier pack, the Uptown should suit you just fine.