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 | Deuter Aviant Voyager 60+10 SL |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | S |
| None | Expanded Capacity | 70L |
| 0 | Opening | 3 |
| N | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | R |
| S | Sternum Strap | R |
| Inside | ||
| 0 | Laptop | 13 |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 2 | Water Bottle Holder | 1 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500D Cordura | 600D PES, 420D PA |
| Capacity | 60 L |
| Weight | 2.73 kg |
| Dimensions | 80×32×26 cm |
| Airline fit | 19% |
| Price | $258 |
The Hill People Gear Tarahumara is a solid carrier for hikers and short-trip adventurers. With its 16 liters of carrying capacity, it's impressively lightweight at 0.7 pounds and, in spite of its compact nature, can hold a surprising amount of gear. One salient feature is its 500D Cordura make - a robust and reliable material that withstands the rigors of outdoor pursuits. Though compact, it may not deliver when it comes to laptop carriage, as there's no provision for that. However, as many users have expressed, it's an excellent choice for a daypack, with a brilliant balance of resilience, security, and ease of access.
On the contrary is the Deuter Aviant Voyager 60+10 SL, a pack meant for those who have more to bring along. With a grand capacity of 60 liters, it dwarfs the Tarahumara in terms of space and weight - roughly four times heavier at 2.73 pounds. The Voyager, made from 600D PES and 420D PA, also offers better protection for your devices with a 13-inch laptop retaining compartment. This bag's compatibility with airlines, however, comes in significantly lower at just 19%, which could be problematic for travelers. But if you're not planning to fly, and have a lot to carry, this could be your go-to choice, especially for women appreciating the tailored SL carry system.
As praised by reviewers, the Tarahumara is the 'best overall solution', with a simplicity that belies its brilliance. It can fit quite a variety of essentials without overloading the carrier. If a day hike is the plan, or an adventure requiring light packing, then the Tarahumara earns its keep with a priestly dedication to quality, durability, and efficiency.
On the other hand, Deuter's Aviant Voyager 60+10 SL serves the long-haul traveler well. Its substantial size and tailored fit make it a comfortable option for roving far and wide. While it may not seem airline-friendly, on terra firma, it reigns supreme, garnering high praises for its ample storage and sympathetic design, particularly for the ladies. So, in the end, choosing between the two is a matter of the journey you're planning to undertake.