Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Millican Smith 25L
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 | Millican Smith 25L |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | S |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 2 |
| Y | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | R |
| S | Sternum Strap | R |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 15 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 4 |
| Y | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 0 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | Weatherproof Bionic Canvas |
Millican Smith 25L
| Capacity | 25 L |
| Weight | 1 kg |
| Dimensions | 53×28×19 cm |
| Airline fit | 99% |
| Price | $170 |
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Millican Smith 25L are both versatile and sturdy backpacks suited for carry-on travel. Both carry-ons are praised for their impressive design, generous space, and high-quality materials. The Allpa, a product of Cotopaxi, is slightly larger with a capacity of 35 liters compared to the 25 liters offered by Millican's Smith. The Allpa edges out the Smith with its durable 1680D ballistic nylon paneling. On the other hand, the Smith has a weatherproof Bionic Canvas exterior, lending it a rustic and natural feel.
When we examine the two packs side by side, several differences come to our attention:
- Dimensions: The Allpa stands at 20 inches by 30 by 51, while the Smith measures 19 by 28 by 53.
- Weight: The Allpa weighs 1.5 pounds, and the Smith comes in lighter at 1 pound.
- Capacity: The Allpa boasts a total capacity of 35 liters, while the Smith offers 25 liters.
- Airline Compatibility: The Allpa is compatible with 80% of airlines, while the Smith is almost universally acceptable – compatible with 99% of airlines.
- Material: The Allpa is made from 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, while the Smith makes use of weatherproof Bionic Canvas.
- Laptop Compartment: Both backpacks house a laptop sleeve that fits a 15-inch laptop.
Reviewers have generally shared positive feedback on both products. They spoke of the Allpa as the "perfect graduation gift for the budding world traveler," and "a simple, easy, comfortable, and durable" bag suited for both urban and outdoorsy travelers. Meanwhile, the Smith 25L earned acclaim for its stylish and functional design, seamlessly incorporating modern features while maintaining an old-school aesthetic. Users seemed to love the Smith for its comfort, capacity, and the company's commitment to sustainable materials.
The Allpa 35L and the Smith 25L stand out for specific features. The Allpa 35L comes with a rain cover, adding extra security and preventing damage, and includes accessories such as a collapsible mesh laundry bag, nylon shoe bag, and a mesh water bottle sleeve. For the Smith 25L, features worth noting include truly comfortable back padding and great ventilation, plus a secret pocket for sensitive items. As you decide on your next purchase, both these packs bring unique offerings to consider. Whether you're leaning towards a heritage aesthetic with modern comforts or the perfect backpack for a globetrotter, you can't go wrong with either.