Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. Nordace Laval -- Smart Backpack
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 | Nordace Laval -- Smart Backpack |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 0 | Opening | 1 |
| N | Passport | Y |
| N | Passthrough | Y |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | N |
| S | Sternum Strap | N |
| Inside | ||
| 0 | Laptop | 15 |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 2 |
| N | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 2 | Water Bottle Holder | 1 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500D Cordura | Nylon and Microfiber leather |
Nordace Laval -- Smart Backpack
| Capacity | 23 L |
| Weight | 1 kg |
| Dimensions | 44×28×18 cm |
| Airline fit | 99% |
| Price | $119 |
The Tarahumara by Hill People Gear is a truly hardworking backpack, engineered for the adventurer. As a carry-on, its size and weight are optimal—standing at 44 inches tall, 24 inches wide, and 10 inches deep, and weighing in at a meager 0.7 pounds. With 16 liters of storage capacity, the 500D Cordura-built pack is tough and ready for the rigorous demands of travel, able to fit into 100% of airlines' luggage restrictions. Though its laptop compartment can't accommodate a device, the bag's reputation speaks volumes. Buyers have hailed it as well-built, well-executed, and indeed a lifetime companion.
On the other hand, the Laval - Smart Backpack by Nordace is a stylish and versatile piece with a modern edge. Bigger than its competitor, it measures 18 inches tall, 28 inches across, and a sturdy 44 inches deep. It's slightly heavier at 1 pound, but it compensates with a 23-liter capacity. The nylon and microfiber leather build is sleek and smart, and compatibility with 99% of airlines makes it a fitting travel partner. With a sizeable 15-inch laptop compartment, it stands as a formidable choice among tech-savvy travelers.
- Size: Tarahumara is larger, specifically designed for towering tasks, while the Laval - Smart Backpack fits into most settings thanks to its compact dimensions.
- Weight: Tarahumara is lighter by 0.3 pounds, another nod to its outdoor-friendly design.
- Storage capacity: Laval wins here with 7 liters more space to store your belongings.
- Material: Different builders, different styles. Tarahumara uses 500D Cordura for resilience; Laval opts for nylon and microfiber leather for a refined look.
- Laptop compartment: Laval can accommodate a 15-inch laptop; Tarahumara offers none.
- Airlines compatibility: Tarahumara fits with every airline; Laval is compatible with 99% of airlines.
Customers have reasons to love either. The Tarahumara shines in day hiking and heavy-duty usage, touted for its center zip for security and access to the main compartment, as well as its build quality. Conversely, the Nordace Laval - Smart Backpack is beloved for its structure and internal organization, anti-theft pocket for cards and passport and the groundbreaking retractable USB charger. The decision ultimately boils down to personal preference and purpose. Either way, these bags have proven their worth and are solid investments.