Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. The North Face Surge
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L
| Capacity | 35 L |
| Weight | 1.5 kg |
| Dimensions | 51×30×20 cm |
| Airline fit | 80% |
| Price | $200 |
Feature by feature
| Cotopaxi Allpa 35L | Feature | The North Face Surge |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 0 |
| Y | Passport | |
| N | Passthrough | |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | |
| R | Hip Belt | |
| S | Sternum Strap | |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| Y | Organizer | |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | |
| Y | Water Resistant | |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | |
The North Face Surge
| Capacity | 31 L |
| Weight | 1.26 kg |
| Dimensions | 50.8×30.5×17.8 cm |
| Airline fit | 80% |
When it comes to carry-on backpacks, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and The North Face Surge are two contenders that cannot be ignored. On one hand, the Allpa 35L by Cotopaxi, measures 20 inches in height, 30 inches in width, and 51 inches in depth, thus providing a total capacity of 35 liters. Weighing in at a decent 1.5 pounds, it’s compatible with 80% of airlines making it a great travel companion. One unique feature is its 1680D ballistic nylon paneling which assures durability. It also comes with a laptop compartment that can house a 15 inch laptop.
On the other hand, The North Face Surge trails closely behind in terms of capacity with its stature of 50.8 inches in height, 17.8 inches in width, and 30.5 inches in depth offering a total capacity of 31 liters. It weighs slightly less than the Allpa at 1.26 pounds. It’s also compatible with 80% of airlines. However, it does not include a laptop compartment.
Here's a summary of the comparison:
- Size: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is smaller but wider than The North Face Surge.
- Weight: The North Face Surge is lighter than Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.
- Capacity: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L has a larger capacity as compared to The North Face Surge.
- Material: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L uses 1680D ballistic nylon paneling.
- Laptop compartment: Only Cotopaxi Allpa 35L has a laptop compartment.
- Airline Compatibility: Both are compatible with 80% of airlines.
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L does come with high accolades from reviewers. One stated, "It would have been perfect for my past travels," emphasizing its practicality for both heavy and light travels. Another highlighted its unique design, applauding it for being "smartly designed for carry-on compliance". The simplicity, ease, and durability of the Allpa 35L was praised by a third reviewer, while another commended its "intuitive and helpful" internal organization.
Finally, the Allpa 35L's purchase value is increased with the inclusion of a rain cover, which not only helps prevent damage to the bag but also adds a layer of security. Its comfortable shoulder straps, hip belt, and adjustable sternum straps ensure comfort during use. Additionally, buyers receive a collapsible mesh laundry bag, a nylon shoe bag, and a mesh water bottle sleeve, presenting it as a perfect graduation gift, especially for the budding world traveler, echoing one reviewer's sentiment.