Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. Cotopaxi Allpa Travel Pack 42L
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 | Cotopaxi Allpa Travel Pack 42L |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | S |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 0 | Opening | 1 |
| N | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | H |
| R | Hip Belt | R |
| S | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 0 | Laptop | 15 |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | S |
| 2 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500D Cordura | TPU-coated 1000D polyester shell |
Cotopaxi Allpa Travel Pack 42L
| Capacity | 42 L |
| Weight | 1.905 kg |
| Dimensions | 55×34×22.5 cm |
| Airline fit | 63% |
| Price | $220 |
When it comes to exceptional carry-on backpacks, both the Hill People Gear Tarahumara and the Cotopaxi Allpa Travel Pack 42L are up there with the best. Both backpacks offer excellent build quality, fantastic features, and rave reviews—but with differing specifications.
The Tarahumara from Hill People Gear is a nice, sleek pack. At a compact 44 inches tall, 24 inches wide and 10 inches deep, and weighing in at a feather-light 0.7 pounds, this bag is perfect for the minimalist traveler. Despite its small size, it packs a punch with a capacity of 16 liters. It plays well with airlines too, boasting 100% compatibility, and it is made with a sturdy 500D Cordura material. While it lacks a laptop compartment, reviewers praise this bag for its well-thought design, longevity, and interior space.
On the other hand, the Cotopaxi Allpa Travel Pack 42L is impressively substantial. It achieves more capacity at 42 liters, but it’s a bit larger and heavier at 22.5 inches tall, 34 inches wide, 55 inches deep, and 1.905 pounds. It’s constructed with a TPU-coated 1000D polyester shell and even boasts a laptop compartment that can house a 15-inch laptop. However, it only has a 63% airline compatibility rating. Reviewers have highlighted its excellent internal organization, great storage space, and multiple carry options.
Comparison points:
- Hill People Gear Tarahumara is smaller and lighter than the Cotopaxi Allpa Travel Pack 42L.
- Cotopaxi Allpa Travel Pack 42L holds more than twice as much as the Hill People Gear Tarahumara.
- Hill People Gear Tarahumara is compatible with more airlines than the Cotopaxi Allpa Travel Pack 42L.
- Cotopaxi Allpa Travel Pack 42L has better internal organization yet greater weight and size.
Now let’s take a look at real-life experiences of users. The Hill People Gear Tarahumara is beloved by hikers for its perfect day-hiking size and reliable materials. The center zip is celebrated for security and easy access. Conversely, people appreciate the Allpa Pack for its harness system that stays comfortable even when full. The well-thought organization of the bag is lauded, as is the inclusion of a rain cover that increases weather protection.
In essence, the Hill People Gear Tarahumara and the Cotopaxi Allpa Travel Pack 42L serve different types of travelers. If you want a smaller, lighter backpack for simple day trips or hikes, the Tarahumara should suffice. But if you're looking for substantial storage, laptop compatibility, and a well-organized interior for longer travels, consider the Cotopaxi Allpa Travel Pack 42L. You won't be disappointed with either backpack's durability and excellent design.