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 | Exped Verglas 30 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | S |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 0 | Opening | 3 |
| N | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | R |
| S | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 0 | Laptop | 0 |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 2 | Water Bottle Holder | 0 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500D Cordura | 210 D Robic HD Ripstop Nylon Carbonate PU, 2'500 mm water column |
When searching for a carry-on backpack, both functionality and durability are vital. Two options worthy of consideration are the Hill People Gear Tarahumara and the Exped Verglas 30. Both of these packs offer unique features tailored to different needs, whether you're an urban traveler or an outdoor enthusiast. The Tarahumara, standing at 44 inches tall, 24 inches wide, and 10 inches deep, is compact and lightweight at 0.7 pounds. On the other hand, the Verglas 30, with dimensions of 21 inches tall, 30 inches wide, and 55 inches deep, offers a bit more space, but comes in heavier at 1.5 pounds.
Both backpacks come highly recommended from users in various reviews. "It’s a well designed, well executed, well built bag that’ll last you a lifetime," one reviewer touted about the Tarahumara, while another focused on its carrying capacity despite the small size. Comparatively, the Exped Verglas garnered accolades as the "most weatherproof backpack of 2021", with reviewers noting its flawless performance even under challenging Alaskan conditions.
Of course, your final decision will depend on what you value in a backpack. The Hill People Gear Tarahumara boasts a great build quality that is hardy, well designed, and extremely airline friendly, while the Exped Verglas 30 shines in its high durability, weatherproof material, and abundance of attachment points for additional gear. Nonetheless, both backpacks will serve you well on your adventures, whether they take you to the city or the open trail.