Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. Nomatic Navigator Collapsible Backpack

Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.

Hill People Gear Tarahumara

by Hill People Gear
Front facing view of the Hill People Gear Tarahumara
Capacity16 L
Weight0.7 kg
Dimensions43×23×10 cm
Airline fit96%
Price$175

Feature by feature

Storage
2 Compression N
None Expanded Capacity 20L
0 Opening 4
back Passport top
N Passthrough Y
Carry
Y Backpack Y
removable Hip Belt N
Y Sternum Strap removable
Inside
N Laptop 16in
2 Main Compartments 2
N Organizer N
Outside
× Hard Shell ×
N Rain-fly N
2, side Water Bottle Holder 2, side
Y Water Resistant N
Material
500d CorduraWear- and water-resistant nylon

Nomatic Navigator Collapsible Backpack

by Nomatic
Front facing view of the Nomatic Navigator Collapsible Backpack
Capacity17 L
Weight0.4 kg
Dimensions48×27×15 cm
Airline fit93%
Price$100

Key differences between the Hill People Gear Tarahumara and Nomatic Navigator Collapsible Backpack

Both have: backpack straps, water bottle pockets.

Which airlines take each bag as a carry-on

We checked both bags against the carry-on size limits of 189 airlines. 176 accept both. 5 accept only the Hill People Gear Tarahumara, and 0 accept only the Nomatic Navigator Collapsible Backpack.

Only the Hill People Gear Tarahumara fits

Air Tahiti, American Eagle, easyJet, Gulf Air, Ravn Alaska.

When considering durability and convenience for a day hike, the Hill People Gear Tarahumara makes a strong case. With a build quality that of superb 500D Cordura, this backpack was made to endure. Its size makes it perfect for those single-day outdoor adventures, and the center zip offers a great combination of easy access and security for your gear. But, it isn't all sunshine and rainbows. One 'feature' a lot of users might miss is a laptop compartment, that’s simply non-existent in this model.

Now, the Nomatic Navigator Collapsible Backpack is a whole different story. If you're one of those tech-savvy nomads, always dragging around laptops and gadgets, this might be your bag. It not only features a laptop compartment for a 16-inch laptop but also doubles up as a water bladder sleeve. This bag is made from wear-and-water-resistant nylon, so again durability isn't something you'd need to worry about.

Now, one unique advantage that Nomatic Navigator Collapsible Backpack boasts is its ability to be folded away when unused. When you're on a long journey and need a secondary bag, this one can definitely fit the bill. Plus, its tamper-resistant zippers ensure the security of your gear from pickpockets — a much-appreciated feature.

On the other hand, if you're a minimalist who enjoys the mountains or just the simplicity of nature, the Hill People Gear Tarahumara might be your ideal choice. Ready to be pushed to its limits, this rugged backpack doesn't offer fancy features; it's all about functionality and endurance in the great outdoors. Finally, regardless of the choice you make, you can't really go wrong with either option; it's all about what suits your needs best.