Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. GORUCK GR2 34

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 TarahumaraFeatureGORUCK GR2 34
Storage
S Compression N
None Expanded Capacity None
0 Opening 0
N Passport N
N Passthrough N
Carry
S Backpack S
R Hip Belt N
S Sternum Strap N
Inside
0 Laptop 17
2 Main Compartments 3
N Organizer N
Outside
× Hard Shell ×
N Rain-fly N
2 Water Bottle Holder 0
Y Water Resistant N
Material
500D Cordura1000D Cordura

GORUCK GR2 34

Front facing view of the GORUCK GR2 34
Capacity34 L
Weight2.2 kg
Dimensions53×32×23 cm
Airline fit97%
Price$400

The Hill People Gear Tarahumara is a beast of a carry-on backpack. Standing at 44 inches tall, this behemoth is one of the taller carry-on backpacks of its kind. With a weight of just 0.7 pounds, despite its larger size, it remains lightweight and easy to handle. With 16 liters of capacity, it can fit a decent amount of gear. The only downside is the lack of a laptop compartment.

On the other hand, the GORUCK GR2 34 takes the crown in terms of width and depth, running at 53 and 32 inches respectively. Its 23-inch depth is nearly double that of the Tarahumara, and it weighs more at 2.2 pounds. It steps up in the capacity department as well, with a hefty 34 liters. This allows it to fit more gear, plus it features a laptop compartment for up to a 17-inch device.

Both backpacks are highly appreciated by reviewers, for their durability and design. Many commend the Tarahumara's build quality, stating that it's a product that could last a lifetime, and praise its functional design. On the other hand, the GR2 is consistently rated as being nearly indestructible, topping it off with a lifetime warranty. It's also loved for its versatile and customizable design, thanks to the presence of MOLLE webbings.

Given their individual strengths, both the Hill People Gear Tarahumara and the GORUCK GR2 34 make for a good purchase. If you're searching for a lightweight and tall backpack, the Tarahumara is your choice. If a wider, deeper, and slightly heavier pack with greater capacity and a larger laptop compartment is what you're after, the GR2 would be a great fit.