Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Bellroy Shift Backpack

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 35LFeatureBellroy Shift Backpack
Storage
N Compression N
None Expanded Capacity None
4 Opening 3
Y Passport N
N Passthrough N
Carry
H Backpack S
R Hip Belt N
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 1
Y Water Resistant Y
Material
1680D ballistic nylon panelingVenture-weave polyester

Bellroy Shift Backpack

Front facing view of the Bellroy Shift Backpack
Capacity22 L
Weight1.25 kg
Dimensions55×30×20 cm
Airline fit78%
Price$169

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Bellroy Shift Backpack are both designed to meet the needs of travelers, but they offer unique features and benefits depending on your specific needs. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L, being taller and wider, reigns superior in terms of capacity. It is specially designed to hold up to 35 liters, while Bellroy Shift Backpack only has a capacity to hold up to 22 liters.

Despite its higher capacity, the Allpa 35L weighs significantly less, which can make all the difference if you're constantly on the move. It weighs just 1.5 pounds as compared to Bellroy Shift Backpack which weighs 1.25 pounds. In terms of dimensions, both bags stand 20 inches tall and 30 inches wide but their depths are different, Bellroy comes an extra 4 inches with its 55 inches of depth compared to Cotopaxi’s 51 inches.

Here are the key differences at a glance:

Both bags seem to have effective design when it comes to carrying electronics, with a laptop compartment that can fit a 15-inch device. It's essential to note, though, that the material they are made of is different. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is made of robust 1680D ballistic nylon paneling which affords durability, whereas the Bellroy Shift Backpack is made from Venture-weave polyester which is known for its sleek aesthetic appeal.

Notably, reviewer comments have generally been favorable for both bags, with the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L praised for its intuitive internal organization and the Bellroy Shift Backpack lauded for its adaptability and elegant visuals. As with any product, the better choice ultimately depends on personal preference and specific needs.