Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. REI Co-op Flash Pack 22
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 | REI Co-op Flash Pack 22 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 3 |
| Y | Passport | top |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | R |
| S | Sternum Strap | R |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 15 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 3 |
| Y | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | |
| Y | Water Resistant | N |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | Nylon |
REI Co-op Flash Pack 22
| Capacity | 22 L |
| Weight | 0.4 kg |
| Dimensions | 46×26×21 cm |
| Airline fit | 100% |
| Price | $55 |
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the REI Co-op Flash Pack 22 are both wonderful choices for a carry-on backpack depending on your needs. Designed with 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, the Allpa offers durability along with a spacious 35-liter storage capacity, enough for a weekend getaway. It boasts more features including a laptop compartment that can fit a 15-inch piece, collapsible mesh laundry bag along with a shoe bag and a mesh water bottle sleeve. It's compatible with most airlines, although not all which could potentially limit your travel options.
The REI Co-op Flash Pack 22, on the other hand, offers a more minimalist design in both feature and construction. Composed of nylon, this extremely lightweight pack is perfect for those looking for efficiency and simplicity while hiking. It has a capacity of just 22 liters but it compensates with its great suspension - a perfect balance of minimalism and functionality. Unlike the Allpa, the Flash pack is compatible with all airlines, offering greater flexibility in your travel plans.
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Cotopaxi Allpa 35L:
- Size: 35 liters
- Weight: 1.5 pounds
- Material: 1680D ballistic nylon paneling
- Airline Compatible: 80%
-
REI Co-op Flash Pack 22:
- Size: 22 liters
- Weight: 0.4 pounds
- Material: Nylon
- Airline Compatible: 100%
Mixed reviews for both backpacks demonstrate their respective strengths and weaknesses. Reviewers have praised the Allpa for its excellent internal organization and intuitive design making it excellent for both urban and outdoor use. The Flash Pack, meanwhile, has found favour for its stripped-down design, formidable suspension and lightweight nature, for an unbeatable budget-friendly price.
Overall, when looking for a carry-on backpack, your choice between the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the REI Co-op Flash Pack 22 would depend on your needs and mode of travel. The Allpa, with its greater capacity and durable material, is perfect for those intending to use the bag in diverse environments and longer trips. The Flash Pack is ideal for those wanting a light and uncomplicated pack, with a design concentrated on essential features and proven functionality.