Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. Ortlieb Packman Pro2

Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.

Hill People Gear Tarahumara

Front facing view of the Hill People Gear Tarahumara
Capacity16 L
Weight0.7 kg
Dimensions44×24×10 cm
Airline fit100%
Price$125

Feature by feature

Hill People Gear TarahumaraFeatureOrtlieb Packman Pro2
Storage
S Compression S
None Expanded Capacity None
0 Opening 2
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 N
Outside
× Hard Shell ×
N Rain-fly N
2 Water Bottle Holder 0
Y Water Resistant Y
Material
500D CorduraNylon fabric, PU coated

Ortlieb Packman Pro2

Front facing view of the Ortlieb Packman Pro2
Capacity25 L
Weight1 kg
Dimensions47×28×15 cm
Airline fit99%
Price$160

Starting off with the Hill People Gear Tarahumara, its compact design and light weight at just 0.7 pounds makes it a pleasure to carry around. Don't let the minimalistic design fool you, though. With a capacity of 16 litres, it leaves plenty of room for your daily necessities. And best of all, since it’s 44 inches tall, 24 inches wide, and 10 inches deep, it fits into 100% of airlines' carry-on dimensions. Crafted from 500D Cordura, it’s sturdy and built to last. Not to mention, reviews rave about its exceptional durability and the convenience of its center zip.

The Ortlieb Packman Pro2, on the other hand, is slightly larger and heavier, weighing in at 1 pound. It stands 47 inches tall, 28 inches wide, and has a depth of 15 inches, and offers a generous 25 liters of storage space. Although compatible with 99% of airlines, it gains an upper hand with its material – a PU coated Nylon that's notably waterproof. Moreover, it’s decked out with reflective material for increased visibility during night-time bike rides. Its extra space, sturdy build, and reflective and waterproof features garner positive reviews.

Summary Points:

Closing out with some pertinent commentary, the overall consensus on the Hill People Gear Tarahumara is that it's durable and robust, with a perfect size for day hiking and a great build quality. Its center zip is lauded for granting easy access to the main compartment. Meanwhile, the Ortlieb Packman Pro2 is hailed for its fully waterproof design and sneaky ability of holding more than it seems. The addition of a hydration bladder and a protected water opening for a drinking hose is a bonus, alongside the reflective material that ensures your visibility in traffic. A showdown of the sturdy - while both these backpacks are clear winners in their categories, your choice hinges on utility, volume, and material.