Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Away The Zip Backpack
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L
| Capacity | 35 L |
| Weight | 1.3 kg |
| Dimensions | 56×30×25 cm |
| Airline fit | 26% |
| Price | $225 |
Feature by feature
| Cotopaxi Allpa 35L | Feature | Away The Zip Backpack |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 1 | Opening | 4 |
| front | Passport | Y |
| Y | Passthrough | Y |
| Carry | ||
| hideable | Backpack | Y |
| hideable | Hip Belt | N |
| Y | Sternum Strap | N |
| Inside | ||
| 15in | Laptop | 14in |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| Y | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 1, side | Water Bottle Holder | 1 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 100% recycled 840D TPU-coated nylon | Nylon with leather |
Away The Zip Backpack
| Capacity | 20 L |
| Weight | 1.1 kg |
| Dimensions | 45×30.5×15 cm |
| Airline fit | 95% |
| Price | $236 |
On the one hand, we've got the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L, a sturdy and spacious backpack built to withstand your wildest adventures. With its 35 liters of capacity, 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, and a laptop compartment that can fit a 15 inch laptop, it's no doubt this bag means business. Reviewers rave about its simplicity and durability, with one noting its configuration might be the "best" they've used so far. Plus, it comes packed with extra goodies like a rain cover, a collapsible mesh laundry bag, nylon shoe bag, and a mesh water bottle sleeve – everything you need to stay organized on-the-go.
On the other side of the spectrum, we have the sleek and detail-focused Away The Zip Backpack. This bag doesn't compromise style for size, packing a punch with a 20 liter capacity, a laptop compartment for a 14 inch laptop, and a body made from nylon with leather. It might be a touch lighter than the Allpa but it boasts about being compatible with a more extensive list of airlines. What sets this bag apart are its unique features - an external hidden zip pocket for valuables, minimalistic-yet-sophisticated look, and superior internal organization.
- The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is larger (35L vs. 20L), more substantial (1.5 pounds vs. 1.1 pounds), and made for rougher travels (1680D ballistic nylon paneling).
- The Away The Zip Backpack is lighter, slightly more versatile with airlines, and sports a sophisticated feel with its nylon and leather composition.
- The Cotopaxi offers a larger laptop compartment (15 inches vs. 14 inches) and several add-ons like a rain cover and extra organization bags.
- The Away Bag offers heightened security with a hidden zip pocket and superior internal organization.
Of course, it all boils down to your personal travel style. If you need a pack that's tough, can fit all your gear, and is structured for easy organization, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is an ideal fit. But if you favour a bag that's lightweight, oozes sophistication, and prioritizes security and tidiness, the Away The Zip Backpack has you covered. Both excellent choices, the deciding factor lies in your travel needs and preferences.