Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. Deuter Freerider Pro 32+ SL
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 | Deuter Freerider Pro 32+ SL |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 0 | Opening | 4 |
| 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 | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 2 | Water Bottle Holder | 0 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500D Cordura | 420D PA Ripstop Clear TPU, 330D PA 6.6 Ripstop |
Deuter Freerider Pro 32+ SL
| Capacity | 32 L |
| Weight | 1.26 kg |
| Dimensions | 56×35×18 cm |
| Airline fit | 47% |
| Price | $144 |
The Hill People Gear Tarahumara and the Deuter Freerider Pro 32+ SL, are two worthy adversaries in the carry on backpack game. Simple, yet highly functional, the Tarahumara stands just 44 inches tall. This smaller stature is balanced with its dimensionally generous 24-inch width, letting it snugly fit within the carry on guidelines of any airline you throw at it.
The Deuter Freerider, on the other hand, is a bold beast. Bigger in all dimensions, this 18 inch tall and 35 inch wide pack is quite the armful, yet its oversized dimensions limit its airline compatibility to 47%. Don't let this dissuade you, though, as the Freerider beats out the Tarahumara in both overall weight and carrying capacity, coming in at 1.26 pounds with a whopping 32 liters of space. Take that how you will.
When comparing these two powerhouses, the differences stand out:
- The Tarahumara weighs less than the Freerider (0.7 lb vs 1.26 lb)
- The Freerider has double the capacity of the Tarahumara (32 liters vs 16 liters)
- The Tarahumara is airline compliant with 100% of airlines, while the Freerider only 47%
- The Tarahumara is comprised of a solid 500D Cordura fabric, while the Freerider is constructed of a mix of 420D PA Ripstop Clear TPU and 330D PA 6.6 Ripstop
- Both bags can accommodate a 0 inch laptop
Although the Freerider seems to win in the numbers match, its compatibility limitations might make it a less suitable carry on option for frequent flyers. However, the bag certainly doesn't lack in praise. Many users commend the bag for its hierarchical design and its SL carry system which fits shorter individuals remarkably well.
The Tarahumara, by contrast, has received enthusiastic comments on its build quality and perfect dimensions for day hiking. The general consensus states that this pack was crafted with attention to detail and a well-thought-out design. So if you value simplicity and utility over added features and weight, the Tarahumara is sure to be your pack of choice. Just don't count on carrying your laptop. But hey, less screen-time has never put anyone off the beaten path. The world's your oyster. Go conquer it.