Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Exped Mountain Pro 30
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L
| Capacity | 35 L |
| Weight | 1.5 kg |
| Dimensions | 51×30×20 cm |
| Airline fit | 80% |
| Price | $200 |
Feature by feature
| Cotopaxi Allpa 35L | Feature | Exped Mountain Pro 30 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | S |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 3 |
| Y | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | R |
| S | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 0 |
| 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 | 420 D Oxford nylon, PU coated, 3'000 mm water column |
Exped Mountain Pro 30
| Capacity | 30 L |
| Weight | 1.29 kg |
| Dimensions | 58×30×24 cm |
| Airline fit | 30% |
| Price | $279 |
When it comes to choosing a carry-on backpack, two models come to our mind are the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Exped Mountain Pro 30. Both are solid options with different pros and cons, designed for different types of travelers.
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L shines in terms of its size and its compatibility with a majority of airlines. Its small but mighty stature houses impressive features like a laptop compartment to fit a 15-inch laptop. Made from 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, this pack is built to withstand the rigors of travel. The Allpa 35L seems particularly suited for those who want an easy-to-manage pack for urban exploration or quick trips. Internal organization is where the Cotopaxi Allpa truly excels, with myriad compartments to help keep your stuff ordered and accessible.
Here's a quick summary of their differences:
- Size & Weight: Cotopaxi is shorter but deeper with 20x51 inches and a bit more weight with 1.5 pounds vs. Exped’s 24x58 inches and weight of 1.29 pounds.
- Capacity: Cotopaxi with a volume of 35 liters outpaces Exped’s 30 liters.
- Airline Compatibility: Cotopaxi compatible with 80% airlines, Exped with 30%.
- Material: Cotopaxi utilizes 1680D ballistic nylon vs. Exped's 420 D Oxford nylon, PU coated, 3'000 mm water column.
- Laptop Compartment: Cotopaxi can fit a 15 inch laptop, while Exped doesn’t have one.
In contrast, the Exped Mountain Pro 30 takes a more rugged approach. It's made from durable, weatherproof 420 D Oxford nylon and shines in its outdoor-friendly design. Its main talking point is arguably its weatherproof construction, perfect for those who enjoy adventurous activities. Additionally, it offers a well-thought-out internal organization, and multiple webbing straps and attachment points for outdoor gears.
In conclusion, both the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Exped Mountain Pro 30 are great options, but served for different needs. The Cotopaxi is more suitable for urban explorers and frequent travelers requiring a lot of organization, while the Exped might be a better fit for the outdoor enthusiasts thanks to its rugged design and weather resistance.