Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Ortlieb Velocity

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

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

Front facing view of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L
Capacity35 L
Weight1.5 kg
Dimensions51×30×20 cm
Airline fit80%
Price$200

Feature by feature

Cotopaxi Allpa 35LFeatureOrtlieb Velocity
Storage
N Compression N
None Expanded Capacity None
4 Opening 2
Y Passport N
N Passthrough N
Carry
H Backpack S
R Hip Belt R
S Sternum Strap R
Inside
15 Laptop 15
3 Main Compartments 1
Y Organizer N
Outside
× Hard Shell ×
N Rain-fly N
0 Water Bottle Holder 0
Y Water Resistant Y
Material
1680D ballistic nylon panelingPD620, PS620C

Ortlieb Velocity

Front facing view of the Ortlieb Velocity
Capacity23 L
Weight0.88 kg
Dimensions50×30×16 cm
Airline fit82%
Price$135

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Ortlieb Velocity are two stand-out carry-on backpacks on the market. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is a robust, highly organized pack designed with the world traveler in mind. It boasts a large 35-liter capacity and is crafted from 1680D ballistic nylon paneling. The Allpa 35L is also airline compatible, signing off with 80% of carriers and featuring a dedicated 15-inch laptop compartment. Reviewers credit this pack with extraordinary internal organization, remarkable comfort, even when fully packed, and brilliant adjustability in terms of shoulder and waist straps.

On the other hand, the Ortlieb Velocity, while smaller in capacity at 23 liters, exemplifies a different kind of brilliance. It is a lightweight pack weighing under a pound that projects a sleek and clean design. Also engineered from strong materials, PD620 and PS620C, it can carry a 15-inch laptop as well. Noteworthy is Velocity's compatibility, stretching to 82% of airlines. Its comfort doesn't fall short either, and it is often lauded for its weatherproof character.

To summarize, here are the main differences:

Both the Allpa 35L from Cotopaxi and the Velocity from Ortlieb have garnered rave reviews for their durability and comfort. Each pack serves a distinct demographic of travelers. The Allpa 35L seems to cater more towards a globetrotter who values functionality, organization, and a bit of extra room for unforeseen purchases. It comes with additional accessories like a rain cover, shoe bag, and water bottle sleeve to bolster its travel-friendly nature. On the other hand, the Velocity's lightweight, minimalist design seems perfect for a traveler looking for a reliable and stylish daypack. Apart from its weight and design, the Velocity also scores for its weatherproof attributes.