Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. Mission Workshop "The Sanction : AP"

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 TarahumaraFeatureMission Workshop "The Sanction : AP"
Storage
S Compression S
None Expanded Capacity None
0 Opening 3
N Passport N
N Passthrough N
Carry
S Backpack S
R Hip Belt O
S Sternum Strap S
Inside
0 Laptop 15
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 CorduraHT500, Waxed Canvas, or MultiCam-Black Cordura

Mission Workshop "The Sanction : AP"

Front facing view of the Mission Workshop "The Sanction : AP"
Capacity20 L
Weight1.2 kg
Dimensions46×31×13 cm
Airline fit99%
Price$265

When looking for a reliable carry-on backpack, two top contenders are the Hill People Gear Tarahumara and the Mission Workshop "The Sanction : AP". Each has its own set of attributes that sets it apart from the other.

The Hill People Gear Tarahumara stands out for its slighter dimensions and lighter weight, clocking in at 44 inches tall, 24 inches wide, 10 inches deep, and only 0.7 pounds. The durability of 500D Cordura bolsters the build quality of this bag, promising unrelenting resilience. Although the Tarahumara does not include a laptop compartment, the 16-liter capacity more than compensates for this lack. Reviewers praise its design and size as ideal for day hiking.

On the other hand, the Mission Workshop "The Sanction : AP" is a beast of a bag, being 13 inches tall, 46 inches wide, and 31 inches deep, and weighing in at 1.2 pounds. The durable HT500, Waxed Canvas, or MultiCam-Black Cordura offers rugged longevity, while a 15-inch laptop compartment boosts utility. Its 20-liter capacity outmatches the Tarahumara, accommodating greater storage needs. Despite having just 1% less airline compatibility, this bag earns commendation for its blend of quality build and timeless design.

Both backpacks are lauded for their build quality, with the Tarahumara earning additional accolades for the convenience and security of its center zip function. The Sanction, on the other hand, stands out for its weatherproof design and Arkiv() closure system — silent and secure. Hike or travel, both backpacks are strong contenders.