Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Fjallraven Ulvö Rolltop 23

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 35LFeatureFjallraven Ulvö Rolltop 23
Storage
N Compression S
None Expanded Capacity None
4 Opening 2
Y Passport N
N Passthrough N
Carry
H Backpack S
R Hip Belt N
S Sternum Strap S
Inside
15 Laptop 15
3 Main Compartments 1
Y Organizer N
Outside
× Hard Shell ×
N Rain-fly N
0 Water Bottle Holder 2
Y Water Resistant Y
Material
1680D ballistic nylon panelingBergshell®: 400D 100% polyamide

Fjallraven Ulvö Rolltop 23

Front facing view of the Fjallraven Ulvö Rolltop 23
Capacity23 L
Weight0.65 kg
Dimensions43×26×12 cm
Airline fit84%
Price$135

Overland or air, desert or tundra, Cotopaxi's Allpa 35L or Fjallraven's Ulvö Rolltop 23 can shoulder the load. The Allpa is a hefty 1.5 pounder, cut from 1680D ballistic nylon and built to fit in with 80% of the airlines. Touting 35 liters of capacity, it's a bag that doesn't skim on space or function. Inside you'll find an organised hive of compartments, including one fit snugly for up to a 15-inch laptop. As one reviewer aptly put it, the Allpa's smart design suits "urban and outdoorsy travellers alike."

On the other hand, the Ulvö Rolltop 23, made from 400D 100% polyamide blends durability and lightness into a 0.65 pound package. It swears allegiance with 84% of the airlines, a bit more than the Allpa. Its capacity is only 23 liters but makes up for that with a laptop compartment as well as its rolltop opening, a selling point for extra water protection. Described as a bag that can smoothly transition from the office to the wilderness, one reviewer appreciated its refined look and impressive weather-proofing.

Comparison Points:

Coming to the extras, the Allpa really shines even brighter. Bundled with it are a rain cover, a collapsible mesh laundry bag, nylon shoe bag, and mesh water bottle sleeve. While, the Ulvö Rolltop 23, focuses on comfort, protective laptop storage and a nice touch with a hidden pocket for valuable possessions.

In essence, whether your trip is a grad gift or a necessary work jaunt, you can't go wrong with either the Allpa 35L or the Ulvö Rolltop 23. Both bags combine toughness, smart design, comfort and functionality into portable carriers. It's not about which one is better, but rather, which one aligns better with the carrier's spirit.