Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. Kathmandu Nowaki 32L Pack
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 | Kathmandu Nowaki 32L Pack |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 0 | Opening | 3 |
| N | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | S |
| S | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 0 | Laptop | 0 |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| N | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | O |
| 2 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | N |
| Material | |
| 500D Cordura | 100% Polyester |
Kathmandu Nowaki 32L Pack
| Capacity | 32 L |
| Weight | 1.04 kg |
| Dimensions | 62×29×26 cm |
| Airline fit | 19% |
| Price | $200 |
When in the market for a durable, user-friendly carry-on backpack, the options can sometimes be overwhelming. Two worthy contenders, Hill People Gear Tarahumara and Kathmandu Nowaki 32L Pack, stand out for their unique features and numerous positive reviews. Both bags offer exceptional durability, high-quality workmanship, and ample storage space with the Tarahumara offering a simpler, minimalist design, while the Nowaki focuses more on attachment points and a unique harness system.
The Hill People Gear Tarahumara, standing 44 inches tall, 24 inches wide, and 10 inches deep, is a relatively compact carry-on option. Weighing a mere 0.7 pounds, this 16-liter capacity bag is made from robust 500D Cordura material. The minimalist design doesn’t offer a laptop compartment, but reviewers have applauded its design, build quality, and the top-notch customer service associated with the brand.
On the other hand, the Kathmandu Nowaki 32L pack is a larger bag with dimensions of 26 inches by 29 inches by 62 inches. At a weight of 1.04 pounds, it caters to those seeking more volume with its 32-liter storage space. Made of 100% Polyester, it too lacks a laptop compartment. Its most distinctive feature is the breathable Air Pod System Light harness that offers impressive padding and airflow for the wearer's comfort. With numerous external attachment loops, this bag maximizes functionality.
A quick summary of the differences:
- Size - Tarahumara (44 x 24 x 10 inches) vs. Nowaki (26 x 29 x 62 inches)
- Weight - Tarahumara (0.7 pounds) vs. Nowaki (1.04 pounds)
- Capacity - Tarahumara (16 liters) vs. Nowaki (32 liters)
- Material - Tarahumara (500D Cordura) vs. Nowaki (100% Polyester)
- Laptop Compartment - Both Lack
- Additional Features - Tarahumara is simple and durable, while Nowaki features the breathable harness and multiple attachment points.
In conclusion, if your preference leans towards a lighter, more straightforward design, the Tarahumara may be a better fit. On the flip side, if you're after a bag with more storage and exceptional features focused on comfort and functionality, then the Kathmandu Nowaki 32L Pack may tick all your boxes. Each backpack has its unique strengths, making them great choices depending on individual needs and preferences.