Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. MEC Trail 24
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 | MEC Trail 24 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 0 | Opening | 0 |
| N | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | |
| R | Hip Belt | |
| S | Sternum Strap | |
| Inside | ||
| 0 | Laptop | |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | |
| 2 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500D Cordura | Polyurethane-coated Polyester |
MEC Trail 24
| Capacity | 24 L |
| Weight | 4.3 kg |
| Dimensions | 47×28×21 cm |
| Airline fit | 68% |
The Hill People Gear Tarahumara and the MEC Trail 24 are both top contenders in the carry-on backpack game. Let's level the playing field first - both packs are well-built using quality materials. The Tarahumara, named after a Mexican tribe known for their long-distance running abilities, is constructed from 500D Cordura, ensuring durability and toughness. The MEC Trail 24, on the other hand, sports a Polyurethane-coated Polyester exterior, ensuring water resistance while remaining lightweight.
The Tarahumara eases itself into a niche perfect for day hikers - weighing only 0.7 pounds with a 16-liter capacity, it has received praise for its perfect size, excellent build quality, and the convenience of the center zip. The Trail 24, contrary to its name, boasts a larger 24-liter capacity and weighs in at a hefty 4.3 pounds - ideal for those who prefer extra space but don't mind the added weight.
Here's our quick-fire comparison:
- Height: Tarahumara (44 in), MEC Trail (21 in)
- Width: Tarahumara (24 in), MEC Trail (28 in)
- Depth: Tarahumara (10 in), MEC Trail (47 in)
- Weight: Tarahumara (0.7 lbs), MEC Trail (4.3 lbs)
- Capacity: Tarahumara (16 L), MEC Trail (24 L)
- Airline Compatibility: Tarahumara (100%), MEC Trail (68%)
- Material: Tarahumara (500D Cordura), MEC Trail (Polyurethane-coated Polyester)
- Laptop Compartment: Tarahumara (Yes), MEC Trail (No)
High praise has been littered about the Tarahumara, with one reviewer saying, "It’s a well-designed, well-executed, and well-built bag that’ll last you a lifetime." Standing out as a potentially lifetime companion, the Tarahumara is touted as the "best overall solution" to the day-pack question.
The MEC Trail 24, while lacking a laptop compartment, appeals to a different crowd - those seeking greater capacity. It's a formidable opponent, but may fall short in comparison if airline compatibility is a key deciding factor for your travels. Whether you're a light packer or not, these packs' unique strengths cater to all. Don't be fooled by the Tarahumara's slim profile – like a Tardis, it boasts a surprisingly roomy interior. So, where does your allegiance lie? Are you a Tarahumara speedster or a MEC Trail powerhouse?