Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. Mei Voyageur
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 | Mei Voyageur |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | S |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 0 | Opening | 1 |
| N | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | S |
| S | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 0 | Laptop | 0 |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 3 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 2 | Water Bottle Holder | 0 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500D Cordura | 1000 denier Cordura® |
Mei Voyageur
| Capacity | 48 L |
| Weight | 1.6 kg |
| Dimensions | 56×36×20 cm |
| Airline fit | 47% |
| Price | $136 |
In the world of carry-on backpacks, two models stand out for their convenience, durability, and design: the Hill People Gear Tarahumara and the Mei Voyageur. Both possess unique characteristics that cater to different travel needs. The Tarahumara is petite and lightweight, clocking in at 44” tall, 24” wide, 10” deep, and 0.7 pounds. It trades storage capacity for a sleek 16-liter design that is compatible with all airlines. The bag is constructed from a sturdy 500D Cordura, and although lacking a compartment for electronics, one reviewer lauded Tarahumara for its impressive storage ability, despite its small exterior.
On the other hand, the Mei Voyageur is a colossus, with dimensions of 56” by 20” by 36” and a solid weight of 1.6 pounds. What it lacks in airline compatibility (47%), it more than makes up for in space, boasting a whopping 48 liters of storage. The pack is composed of ultra-durable 1000 denier Cordura®. Like the Tarahumara, this model does not feature a laptop compartment, but its large carrying capacity seems to compensate for this, as one reviewer mentioned the bag’s ability to make a heavy load feel much lighter than it is.
There are clear differences between the two:
- Size: Tarahumara boasts a leaner design (44" x 24" x 10") while Voyageur is larger (56" x 20" x 36").
- Weight: Tarahumara is lighter (0.7 pounds), while Voyageur is heavier (1.6 pounds).
- Capacity: Tarahumara has a less storage (16L), while Voyageur is more roomy (48L).
- Material: Tarahumara (500D Cordura) is less robust compared to Voyageur's construction (1000 denier Cordura®).
- Airline compatibility: Tarahumara is fully compatible while Voyageur is only compatible with 47% of airlines.
- Laptop compartment: Neither model features a compartment for laptops.
The Hill People Gear Tarahumara has attracted a lot of praise for being the perfect size for day hiking, having great build quality, and a secure center-zip for easy access to the main compartment. The Mei Voyageur, accompanied by an affordable price considering its craftsmanship and material, has been noted for comfortably carrying heavy loads, generous storage, and customization options. Both packs are recommended as valuable travel companions due to their unique advantages. The final decision comes down to personal preference and travel needs.