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 | Hynes Eagle Travel 40L Flight Approved Carry on Backpack |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | S |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 0 | Opening | 1 |
| N | Passport | Y |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | R |
| S | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 0 | Laptop | 15 |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| N | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 2 | Water Bottle Holder | 1 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500D Cordura | 100% Polyester |
| Capacity | 40 L |
| Weight | 1.1 kg |
| Dimensions | 51×34×25 cm |
| Airline fit | 47% |
| Price | $60 |
The Hill People Gear Tarahumara by Hill People Gear, otherwise known simply as the Tarahumara, hails from the famously rugged Cordura brand. At a near-featherweight 0.7 pounds, this backpack is significantly lighter than most on the market, granting those long miles on foot a softer touch. Despite a rather modest capacity of 16 liters, users often remark at how much the Tarahumara can stow without feeling unnaturally bulky. The build quality is consistently praised, certainly a testament to the 500D Cordura it's carved from. With a laptop compartment that accommodates ... well ... none at all, this backpack is unquestionably designed with the hiker in mind rather than the urban traveler. Yet, this hasn't impeded its compatibility with airlines, as it well exceeds the requirements of 100%.
On the other hand, the Hynes Eagle Travel 40L Flight Approved Carry on Backpack by Hynes Eagle, or the Hynes Eagle 40L for brevity, lives a different lifestyle. Its dimensions render it larger than our former contender, though not dramatically, and its polyester construction offers a good blend of rigidity and flexibility. The Hynes Eagle 40L boasts almost thrice the cargo capacity of the Tarahumara, fitting every necessity of a well-planned adventure, and a 15-inch laptop. Despite these facilities, the Hynes Eagle 40L is only compatible with 47% of airlines worldwide, a low figure considering it is flight approved.
Let's summarise these differences quickly.
According to the many positive reviews, the Tarahumara more than makes up for its smaller capacity with its strong build and lightweight agility. Customers often praise it for a well-executed design that performs excellently as a daypack for hiking.
Yet, the Hynes Eagle 40L has its laurels to rest on too. Its size and pocket organization are universally acclaimed, making it a fitting backpack for an expedient traveler who refuses to compromise on packing. The clamshell opening undeniably grants it an edge in accessibility, whilst the stowable shoulder straps aid in its storage and manoeuvrability, especially in the claustrophobic confines of an airplane cabin.
In conclusion, the Tarahumara and the Hynes Eagle 40L seems to live different lives. The former serves as a reliable hiking companion, whilst the latter courts the frequent flyer.
As always, the choice between them boils down to your needs and preferences. Are you the laid-back hiker who values lightness over capacity, or the global trotter who needs organization and swift accessibility? Either way, both the Tarahumara and the Hynes Eagle 40L have proven they can keep up with your pace.