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 | Mission Workshop "The Rambler" |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | S |
| None | Expanded Capacity | 44L |
| 4 | Opening | 3 |
| Y | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | O |
| S | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 13 |
| 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 paneling | HT500 & MultiCam Cordura |
| Capacity | 22 L |
| Weight | 1.7 kg |
| Dimensions | 49×34×13 cm |
| Airline fit | 98% |
| Price | $335 |
For the frequent travelers among us, a reliable backpack is an absolute necessity. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Mission Workshop "The Rambler" both compete valiantly for that space on your back. Let's start our analysis with the Cotopaxi. This beast of a bag comes in at a sizable 35 liters of capacity, with overall dimensions of 20" tall, 30" wide, and 51" in depth - all while just weighing 1.5 pounds. What's probably its most prominent feature would be its large laptop compartment, capable of fitting a 15-inch machine. Beyond its physical attributes, its 1680D ballistic nylon paneling is a tough barrier against harm’s way. One can't ignore its compatibility with 80% of airlines globally, proving it to be a great travel buddy.
On the other side, we have the Mission Workshop "The Rambler", slightly lighter in capacity but heavier in weight. With 22 liters of storage and weighing at about 1.7 pounds, it offers dimensions of 13" in height, 49" width, with a 34-inch depth. What outshines here is the compact laptop compartment designed for a 13-inch device. It features the robust HT500 & MultiCam Cordura material and the winning edge of compatibility with 98% of worldwide airlines.
Here are the distinguishing points summarizing their differences:
Despite the stark differences, the conclusions of the reviewers speak volumes about both. These bags are lauded for their minimalistic design, multifunctionality, and comfort. In particular, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L consistently scored high marks for its intuitive internal organization and high-grade materials. Meanwhile, warmth poured in for the Mission Workshop "The Rambler" for its expansive capacity, extreme durability, and the assurance of a lifetime guarantee.
So which bag should accompany you on your next expedition? If a spacious bag with sectionalized organization is top priority, you might want to lean towards Cotopaxi Allpa 35L with its added accessories like the rain cover, collapsible laundry, and water bottle sleeve. On the other hand, if versatility, full weatherproofing, and lifelong reliability rank higher, the Mission Workshop "The Rambler", with its expandable capacity, might be unbeatable. A decision like this is personal and hinges on individual biases. Yet, the guarantee is that both bags will facilitate your travel, contribute to your comfort, and survive the harshest of beatings. So, dive in, choose wisely, and travel with ease.