Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. Amazon Basics Laptop Computer Backpack

Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.

Hill People Gear Tarahumara

Front facing view of the Hill People Gear Tarahumara
Capacity16 L
Weight0.7 kg
Dimensions43×23×10 cm
Airline fit96%
Price$175

Feature by feature

Hill People Gear TarahumaraFeatureAmazon Basics Laptop Computer Backpack
Storage
2 Compression Y
None Expanded Capacity None
0 Opening 4
back Passport N
N Passthrough N
Carry
Y Backpack Y
removable Hip Belt N
Y Sternum Strap N
Inside
N Laptop 17in
2 Main Compartments 3
N Organizer N
Outside
× Hard Shell ×
N Rain-fly N
2, side Water Bottle Holder 2
Y Water Resistant Y
Material
500d CorduraPolyester

Amazon Basics Laptop Computer Backpack

Front facing view of the Amazon Basics Laptop Computer Backpack
Capacity0 L
Weight0.6 kg
Dimensions49×34×21 cm
Airline fit73%
Price$42

Key differences between the Hill People Gear Tarahumara and Amazon Basics Laptop Computer Backpack

Both have: backpack straps, water resistant.

Which airlines take each bag as a carry-on

We checked both bags against the carry-on size limits of 189 airlines. 138 accept both. 43 accept only the Hill People Gear Tarahumara, and 0 accept only the Amazon Basics Laptop Computer Backpack.

Only the Hill People Gear Tarahumara fits

Air Baltic, Air China, Air Malta, Air Niugini, Air Serbia, Air Seychelles, Air Tahiti, American Eagle, Asiana Airlines, ATA Airlines, Belavia, Blue Air, Bulgaria Air, China Eastern, easyJet, Emirates Airlines, Enter Air, flybe, Great Lakes Airlines, Gulf Air, Icelandair, InselAir, Juneyao Airlines, Luxair, Meridiana Fly, Nordwind Airlines, Ravn Alaska, Regional Express, Royal Brunei Airlines, Ryanair, S7, Shandong Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, Sun Express, TAP Air Portugal, TAROM, Tianjin Airlines (A320 & E190), TUI, Ukraine International, VIM Airlines (Closed), Virgin Australia, Volotea, Xiamen.

When it comes to choosing a carry on backpack, let's examine two possible contenders: the Hill People Gear Tarahumara from Hill People Gear and the Amazon Basics Laptop Computer Backpack from Amazon. At first glance, both look durable and convenient, with the Tarahumara measuring 44x24x10 inches and the Laptop Computer Backpack sizing up at 34x21x49 inches. However, with the Hill People's pack weighing in slightly heavier at 0.7 pounds compared to Amazon's 0.6 pounds, one might lean towards the latter for lightness alone.

The Tarahumara flaunts a capacity of 16 liters and compatibility with 100% of airlines, undoubtedly catching the eye of frequent flyers. The fact that it's crafted from 500D Cordura indicates an emphasis on quality material. However, it's worth noting that it can't fit a laptop—a significant downside for digital nomads. On the other hand, the Laptop Computer Backpack, while having zero given capacity, is compatible with 98% of airlines and has a prominently emphasized 17-inch laptop compartment. Made of Polyester, it seems to be a choice for practicality rather than luxury.

To summarize the differences:

According to some consumers, the main advantage of the Tarahumara is its reliability in terms of build quality and materials. Its size and central zip feature make it ideal for day hiking. On the other hand, the Laptop Computer Backpack stands out for its value for money, an organizational structure that keeps items in place, and suitability for airplane travel.

Ultimately, the choice between the Hill People Gear Tarahumara and the Amazon Basics Laptop Computer Backpack comes down to the individual user's needs. If lightweight materials and a laptop compartment are a must, Amazon's pack could be the way to go. However, for the frequent traveler seeking reassurance in more durable materials and airline compatibility, the Tarahumara would make an excellent companion.