Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Nordace Gisborne

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 35LFeatureNordace Gisborne
Storage
N Compression N
None Expanded Capacity None
4 Opening 4
Y Passport Y
N Passthrough Y
Carry
H Backpack H
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 1
Y Water Resistant Y
Material
1680D ballistic nylon panelingPOLYESTER & MICRO-FIBER LEATHER

Nordace Gisborne

Front facing view of the Nordace Gisborne
Capacity22 L
Weight1.15 kg
Dimensions42×31×15 cm
Airline fit84%
Price$157

The Cotopaxi Allpa and the Nordace Gisborne, two formidable contenders in the world of carry-on backpacks. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L, as its name designates, holds up to 35 liters -- a renowned champ when it comes to volume. With its rugged 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, this beast is a trooper for the adventurous wanderer. Included perks like a rain cover, collapsible mesh laundry bag, shoe bag and water bottle sleeve stand tall among other features. Those who've journeyed forth with it vouch for its comfortable shoulder straps, hip belt, and adjustable sternum straps.

On the flip side, the Nordace Gisborne wields a sleek and versatile image, willing to play the roles of both a tote bag and a backpack as the situation dictates. With its water-resistance ability and polyester and microfiber leather make, it stands sturdy amidst unpredictable adventures. Let alone its appreciable knack for internal organization, complete with an RFID pocket to guard against digital thieves. It may skimp on volume, holding only 22 liters, but this backpack isn't shy when it comes to retaining stylish aesthetics.

From these stats, it'd seem the two backpacks differ substantially in their areas of excellence. The Allpa 35L is a thorough deliverer of practical solutions for the frequent traveler, baring robust features and considerable carrying capacity. It’s touted for its easy and intuitive internal organization. In contrast, the Nordace Gisborne slims down on the volume in favor of a more versatile, contemporary profile – one that would be at home in a sophisticated business setting as much as on a distant trailhead.

Giving a gnarled, old travel adage justice, these backpacks prove that every journey is indeed different, and the choice between them boils down to functionality versus aesthetics. Both the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Nordace Gisborne earn their stripes in their respective corners, each with a gift to offer to different kinds of travelers – from the ruggedly carefree to the chicly organized. These two, undeniably, carve their own trails in the world of carry-on backpacks.