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 | Alpha One-Niner Recon Nine Evade 1.5 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | S |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 0 | Opening | 0 |
| N | Passport | back |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | N |
| S | Sternum Strap | R |
| Inside | ||
| 0 | Laptop | 17 |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 5 |
| N | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 2 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500D Cordura | Solid Color 500D Nylonor Camouflage 500D Nylon Corduraor 420D Diamond Ripstop Nylon |
| Capacity | 27 L |
| Weight | 1.6 kg |
| Dimensions | 47×31×18 cm |
| Airline fit | 98% |
| Price | $160 |
In the realm of travel backpacks, one warrior stands tall — the Hill People Gear Tarahumara. Built with durability and longevity in mind, the streamlined composition is ideal for day hiking or commuting in bustling districts. Made from 500D Cordura, this compact backpack comes in at a feather-light 0.7 pounds and 44 inches tall. The main compartment can hold 16 liters' worth of gear, all of which would be approved for transit by every airline worldwide. However, travelers looking to tote around their laptop will find this bag lacking in that specific compartment.
Facing off against the Hill People Gear Tarahumara is the Alpha One-Niner Recon Nine Evade 1.5. Its solid color 500D Nylon, Camouflage 500D Nylon Cordura, or 420D Diamond Ripstop Nylon construction isn't the only thing that makes this backpack hefty. Coming in at 1.6 pounds and measuring a sizable 47 inches tall, this bag packs a punch in terms of capacity. The Evade 1.5 can easily accommodate 27 liters within its compartments, though it loses slight points against the Tarahumara for its 98% airline compatibility. A notable highlight of the Evade 1.5 is its spacious 17 inch laptop compartment.
Reviewers of the Hill People Gear Tarahumara praise it for its ideal size, well-thought-out design, and reliable build quality. They love the center zip for easy access, and gush over how the main compartment has enough capacity to fit day hiking essentials comfortably. The Alpha One-Niner Recon Nine Evade 1.5, on the other hand, earns reviewers' kudos for its great internal organization, concealed carry zippered compartment, and its clamshell opening for easy packing and unpacking. Even in crowded places, the Evade 1.5 has a slim profile that doesn't make the carrier look like a Ninja Turtle.
No matter your choice, either of these backpacks will set you up for comfortable travel and convenience. The ideal choice between them ultimately hinges on the specific needs and preferences of the wearer. Depending on whether you prioritize lightweight portability or extensive storage capacity, the Tarahumara and Evade 1.5 stand ready to shoulder your load.