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 | Salkan "The Backpacker" |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | R |
| None | Expanded Capacity | 55L |
| 0 | Opening | 3 |
| N | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | S |
| S | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 0 | Laptop | 15 |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 3 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | S |
| 2 | Water Bottle Holder | 4 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500D Cordura | 900D COTNA Polyester with wax finish |
| Capacity | 45 L |
| Weight | 3.4 kg |
| Dimensions | 66×32×22 cm |
| Airline fit | 19% |
| Price | $345 |
Hailing from Hill People Gear, the Tarahumara backpack is a great pick for compact and efficient carry-on luggage. Mirroring the company's reputation for consistency and quality, the bag is excellent for light-weight travel, weighing just 0.7 pounds. Alongside this, it offers a storage capacity of 16 litres. It’s size and weight are convenient for day hikes and short trips, with its 500D Cordura fabrication ensuring a durable, well-built bag that will stand up to the rigours of travel. One interesting thing is that this backpack is compatible with 100% of airlines, indicating its versatility. Customers have found this backpack impressive for its ample storage space despite its dwarf exterior size, likening the interior to the 'spacious Tardis'.
On the other hand, we have the Salkan "The Backpacker". Compared to the Tarahumara, it offers a superior storage size of 45 litres and is significantly larger in size dimensions. However, this larger capacity comes at a cost, with the Backpacker weighing in at a heavier 3.4 pounds. While this might not be ideal for those prioritizing lightweight travel, the trade-off is its extensive space and ability to fit a 15-inch laptop. The Salkan "The Backpacker" is made from 900D COTNA Polyester with a wax finish, offering a resilient and weatherproof design. Importantly, its compatibility with airlines is significantly lower, at just 19%.
Leaning towards the Tarahumara, users have commended it as a well executed and robust bag that will last for a lifetime. Buyers appreciate its simple but elegant design that can contain a decent amount of stuff. Additionally, its size has been noted as perfect for day hiking, and the centre zip has been lauded for its security and accessibility to the main compartment.
Swaying towards the Salkan "The Backpacker", several customers have found it incredibly practical for their travel needs, irrespective of the destination, whether it be Europe, South America, or Southeast Asia. They regarded it as an excellent bag combo for comfortable use and highly recommended for anyone seeking an adventure pack. Furthermore, buyers admire its weatherproof design, numerous features including security pockets and customizable compression straps, and an adjustable back system to align with the torso's length.