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 | Pacsafe Metrosafe X Anti-Theft 20L Backpack |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 0 | Opening | 4 |
| N | Passport | Y |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | N |
| S | Sternum Strap | N |
| Inside | ||
| 0 | Laptop | 15 |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| N | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 2 | Water Bottle Holder | 1 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500D Cordura | 750D Recycled polyester, 150D Recycled polyester |
| Capacity | 20 L |
| Weight | 0.73 kg |
| Dimensions | 45×30×13 cm |
| Airline fit | 84% |
| Price | $140 |
When discussing travel gear, two titans rise to the top: the Hill People Gear Tarahumara and the Pacsafe Metrosafe X Anti-Theft 20L Backpack. Each of these is intertwined with sound design and utility. The Tarahumara, for instance, sticks out with its 16-liter capacity, nimble 0.7-pound weight, and compatibility with all airlines. It's crafted with 500D Cordura and packs down into a tight 44 inches tall, 10 inches deep, and 24 inches wide. It's simple and sturdy, ready to face any adventure. However, don't expect a dedicated laptop compartment in this one.
The Pacsafe Metrosafe 20L is a different breed. It slightly overshadows the Tarahumara with its 20-liter capacity, though it measures a little heavier at 0.73 pounds. Dimensionally it's substantially different, standing at 13 inches tall, 30 inches wide, and bulging at a broad 45 inches deep. Made from a mix of 750D and 150D recycled polyester, it assures an edgy eco-conscious touch. And unlike the Tarahumara, it has a dedicated compartment fit for a 15-inch laptop. However, its compatibility with airlines stands at 84%, falling short of the Tarahumara.
"Incredible design, execution, and durability," a reviewer says about the Tarahumara. Words like "simple," "spacious", and "stoutly built" are echoed across reviews. It's a bag that doesn’t need bells and whistles to fill purpose. On the flip side, it's the Metrosafe 20L's extras that garner its acclaim. "Lockable zippers, hidden pockets, and sturdy build quality," a reviewer notes, adding to its core deliverable of peace of mind, especially with its theft-deterring exomesh slashguard. While these two bags may be competing in the same arena, they offer distinctly different approaches, which begs the question: what do you need from your backpack?