Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. GORUCK GR3
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Hill People Gear Tarahumara
| Capacity | 16 L |
| Weight | 0.7 kg |
| Dimensions | 43×23×10 cm |
| Airline fit | 96% |
| Price | $175 |
Feature by feature
| Hill People Gear Tarahumara | Feature | GORUCK GR3 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| 2 | Compression | 4 |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 0 | Opening | 1 |
| back | Passport | top |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| Y | Backpack | Y |
| removable | Hip Belt | N |
| Y | Sternum Strap | removable |
| Inside | ||
| N | Laptop | 17in |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 4 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 2, side | Water Bottle Holder | N |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500d Cordura | 1000D Cordura w/ 210D Back Panel |
If you're in the market for a rugged, reliable carry-on backpack, you'd be hard-pressed to do better than the Hill People Gear Tarahumara or the GORUCK GR3. The Tarahumara, a small but mighty compact pack, comes in at 44 inches tall, 24 inches wide, and just 10 inches deep. It weighs a mere 0.7 pounds and offers a respectable 16 liters of carry capacity. Its 500D Cordura construction guarantees durability, but do note that it lacks a laptop compartment.
On the other hand, the GORUCK GR3 is decidedly larger and more suitable for individuals needing copious amount of carry space. Measuring 23 inches tall, 36 inches wide, and a whopping 56 inches deep, it accounts for a 45 liter capacity. This pack weighs in at 2.3 pounds and is fashioned from 1000D Cordura, a step up from the Tarahumara in terms of material toughness. The standout feature here is, of course, its laptop compartment that can comfortably accommodate a 17 inch device.
Comparison Pointers:
- Dimensions: Hill People Gear Tarahumara (44" tall, 24" wide, 10" deep) vs GORUCK GR3 (23" tall, 36" wide, 56" deep)
- Weight: Hill People Gear Tarahumara (0.7 pounds) vs GORUCK GR3 (2.3 pounds)
- Capacity: Hill People Gear Tarahumara (16 liters) vs GORUCK GR3 (45 liters)
- Airline compatibility: Hill People Gear Tarahumara (100%) vs GORUCK GR3 (97%)
- Material: Hill People Gear Tarahumara (500D Cordura) vs GORUCK GR3 (1000D Cordura)
- Laptop compartment: Hill People Gear Tarahumara (No) vs GORUCK GR3 (Yes, can fit a 17" laptop)
Based on customer reviews, both packs have their merits. Users of the Tarahumara appreciate its compact size for day trips, and its center zip for convenient, secured access to main compartment. The GORUCK GR3 earns praise for its extreme durability and versatility, the velcro interior aiding in organization, and its comfortable usage even when loaded to the brim.
So, here's the crux: choose the Hill People Gear Tarahumara if you prioritize lightweight, compact size, and straightforward access to your belongings. If you find yourself needing more space, value greater durability, need a laptop compartment, and prefer organization assistance, then the GORUCK GR3 is your bag of choice. It all depends on your distinct travel demands and preferences. Happy gearing!