Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. Patagonia Paxat Backpack 32L
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 | Patagonia Paxat Backpack 32L |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | S |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 0 | Opening | 4 |
| N | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | N |
| S | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 0 | Laptop | 15 |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 3 |
| N | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 2 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500D Cordura | 630-denier 100% nylon, 450-denier 100% polyester |
Patagonia Paxat Backpack 32L
| Capacity | 32 L |
| Weight | 0.9 kg |
| Dimensions | 51×31×23 cm |
| Airline fit | 97% |
| Price | $119 |
When it comes to the perfect companion on your travels, a reliable backpack is the first choice for many. Let's look at two solid contenders: the Hill People Gear Tarahumara and the Patagonia Paxat Backpack 32L.
First off is the Tarahumara, a rugged, lean bag by Hill People Gear. This backpack has the advantage in weight, coming in at a feather-light 0.7 pounds versus the Paxat's 0.9 pounds. At 44 inches tall, 24 inches wide, and 10 inches deep, it's smaller than the Paxat, yet still fits snugly in overheard compartments with a 100% airline compatibility score. This bag boasts an impressive capacity of 16 liters, and is constructed out of sturdy 500D Cordura. Unfortunately, it misses on laptop storage as it has no compartment to accommodate one.
- Dimensions: Hill People Gear Tarahumara (44" tall, 24" wide, and 10" deep), Patagonia Paxat Backpack 32L (23" tall, 31" wide, and 51" deep)
- Weight: Hill People Gear Tarahumara (0.7 pounds), Patagonia Paxat Backpack 32L (0.9 pounds)
- Capacity: Hill People Gear Tarahumara (16 liters), Patagonia Paxat Backpack 32L (32 liters)
- Airline Compatibility: Hill People Gear Tarahumara (100%), Patagonia Paxat Backpack 32L (97%)
- Material: Hill People Gear Tarahumara (500D Cordura), Patagonia Paxat Backpack 32L (630-denier 100% nylon, 450-denier 100% polyester)
- Laptop Storage: Hill People Gear Tarahumara (0 inches), Patagonia Paxat Backpack 32L (15 inches)
Next up, we have the Paxat Backpack 32L by Patagonia. Unlike the Tarahumara, it can accommodate a laptop up to 15 inches, a definite plus for the digital nomad or the coffee shop worker. In terms of size, it's heftier at 23 inches tall, 31 inches wide, and 51 inches deep. Made out of a blend of 630-denier 100% nylon and 450-denier 100% polyester, one can assure that it is as durable as it is good-looking. However, it falls slightly short in its airline compatibility, fitting into 97% of airlines.
In conclusion, both bags have their respective strengths. The Tarahumara leans towards the more minimalist, lightweight end of outdoor gear, making it ideal for day hikes, while the Paxat offers a greater carrying capacity and fits in most airlines but weighs slightly more. Regardless, both options lead to a well-chosen investment, painstaking craftsmanship, and design consideration visible from every angle. Just choose according to your needs.