Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. STM Prime
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 | STM Prime |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | 0 |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 0 |
| Y | Passport | top |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | Y |
| R | Hip Belt | N |
| S | Sternum Strap | Y |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 13 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 2 |
| Y | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 side |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | Polyester |
STM Prime
| Capacity | 15 L |
| Weight | 0.7 kg |
| Dimensions | 42×26×13 cm |
| Airline fit | 100% |
| Price | $80 |
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the STM Prime are both highly reputable carry-on backpacks. Both have distinguished features and unique selling points that set them apart.
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L
The Allpa 35L has a robust construction made from 1680D ballistic nylon paneling. With dimensions of 20x30x51 inches, the bag easily offers 35 liters of capacity, enough to store gears for a weekend trip. The bag is also airline-friendly, being compatible with 80% of airlines. Its laptop compartment can comfortably accommodate a 15-inch laptop. Weighing in at a reasonable 1.5 pounds, this bag is plenty portable without weighing you down. Plus, it comes bundled with additional items including a rain cover, a collapsible mesh laundry bag, a nylon shoe bag, and a mesh water bottle sleeve.
STM Prime
The STM Prime, on the other hand, sports a polyester construction and is significantly lighter at 0.7 pounds. Its dimensions are 42x26x13 inches. While it offers a smaller capacity at 15 liters, it's compatible with every airline. It has a laptop compartment that can fit a 13 inch laptop.
Comparison Highlights
- Size: Allpa 35L is 20x30x51 inches while the STM Prime is 42x26x13 inches.
- Weight: Allpa 35L weighs 1.5 pounds, and STM Prime weighs 0.7 pounds.
- Capacity: Allpa 35L has 35 liters of capacity, while STM Prime has 15 liters.
- Airline Compatibility: Allpa 35L is compatible with 80% of airlines, while the STM Prime is 100% compatible.
- Materials: Allpa 35L is made of 1680D ballistic nylon, and STM Prime is made of Polyester.
- Laptop compartment size: Allpa 35L fits a 15-inch laptop, while STM Prime can accommodate a 13-inch laptop.
The Allpa 35L has earned rave reviews for its durability and unmatched organization. One reviewer noted, "Its strongest aspect is the internal organization, which feels very intuitive and helpful. It might just be the best configuration I’ve used so far," and another added, "If you're looking for something simple, easy, comfortable, and durable, then look no further than the Cotopaxi Allpa." More still noted that, "The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is a great all-around bag that is smartly designed for carry-on compliance. It can suit both urban and outdoorsy travelers alike." The STM Prime doesn't have specific reviews available, but its lightweight and maximum airline compatibility make it a strong contender in the carry-on backpack market.
In conclusion, while both the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and STM Prime have their strengths, the ideal choice depends heavily on individual needs and preferences—whether it's larger capacity, airline compatibility, or lightweight portability.