Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
| Capacity | 35 L |
| Weight | 1.5 kg |
| Dimensions | 51×30×20 cm |
| Airline fit | 80% |
| Price | $200 |
| Cotopaxi Allpa 35L | Feature | Arktype Dashpack II |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 4 |
| Y | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | N |
| S | Sternum Strap | N |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 13 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 3 |
| Y | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | 1680D DWR ballistic nylon YKK AquaGuard zippersInterior reinforced with 210D double-walled ripstop nylon |
| Capacity | 15 L |
| Weight | 0.9 kg |
| Dimensions | 47×28×12 cm |
| Airline fit | 99% |
| Price | $198 |
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Arktype Dashpack II are two distinctive carry-on backpacks that certainly deserve your attention.
The Allpa 35L, with its significantly larger capacity, offers 35 liters of space evident from its 20 inch height, 30 inch width, and impressive depth of 51 inches. It weighs slightly more than the Dashapack II, with a weight of 1.5 pounds, but offers compatibility with 80% of airlines. Substantially designed, it is crafted from sturdy 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, includes a laptop compartment that fits up to a 15 inch laptop, and comes with a generous array of accessories including a rain cover, a collapsible mesh laundry bag, a nylon shoe bag, and a mesh water bottle sleeve.
On the flip side, the Arktype Dashpack II provides a chic, minimalist alternative. It stands 47 inches tall, 28 inches wide, and 12 inches deep, with a 15-liter capacity, and a featherweight of 0.9 pounds. Compatibility isn't an issue - nearly every airline, 99% to be precise, accepts this backpack. The Dashpack II is constructed of 1680D DWR ballistic nylon YKK AquaGuard zippers, reinforced with 210D double-walled ripstop nylon, and features organized small pockets, a modern and sleek appearance, and water resistance. The laptop compartment fits a 13-inch laptop.
Overall, the distinction comes down to what you're looking for – a large, roomy backpack with a myriad of smart accessory attachments or a minimalistic, stylish, compact, and highly-compatible backpack. The Allpa 35L, solid and sturdy, is perfect for travelers wanting a durable bag that comfortably accommodates all their personal belongings. The Dashpack II, sleek and stylish, is a better fit for those seeking a minimalist approach to travel, in a backpack that transcends situations from urban to outdoors seamlessly with a modern flair. Reviews applaud both for their sensibility in design and durability, an indication that both are promising and worthy investments for the nomad in each of us.