Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Aer Capsule Pack Max (40L)
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 | Aer Capsule Pack Max (40L) |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 1 |
| Y | Passport | Y |
| N | Passthrough | Y |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | H |
| R | Hip Belt | O |
| S | Sternum Strap | R |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 15 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| Y | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | O |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 1 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | 1680D Cordura® ballistic nylon exterior |
Aer Capsule Pack Max (40L)
| Capacity | 40 L |
| Weight | 0 kg |
| Dimensions | 55.9×35.6×22.9 cm |
| Airline fit | 47% |
| Price | $250 |
If you're in the market for a carry on backpack, two strong contenders are the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Aer Capsule Pack Max (40L). Both offer substantial carrying capacity and organizational elements that frequent travelers will appreciate.
The Allpa 35L by Cotopaxi offers a well-balanced combination of durability, convenience, and airline compatibility. Made of 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, this robust backpack lives up to the harsh challenges of frequent traveling. It's light, weighing just 1.5 pounds, yet offers a sizeable 35 liter capacity. The internal organization is impressive and the backpack comes with a number of extras, including a rain cover and collapsible laundry bag. More than that, the Allpa 35L enjoys wide compatibility, fitting the carry-on size requirements of 80% of airlines.
On the other end, the Aer Capsule Pack Max (40L) is slightly larger and comes with its own unique features. Though it offers 5 liters more in capacity, it's a zero-weight bag due to its 1680D Cordura® ballistic nylon exterior. However, it may not fit as many airlines' size requirements, showing compatibility with just 47%. The organization options are ample and the comfort of wear stands out, making it perfect for long-term travel. What's more, the Capsule Pack Max promises durability, a trademark of Aer products.
Here's a quick comparison:
- Size: Allpa 35L measures 20 x 30 x 51 inches; Capsule Pack Max measures 22.9 x 35.6 x 55.9 inches
- Weight: Allpa 35L weighs 1.5 pounds; Capsule Pack Max is weightless
- Capacity: Allpa 35L offers 35 liters; Capsule Pack Max offers 40 liters
- Airline compatibility: Allpa 35L is compatible with 80% of airlines; Capsule Pack Max with 47%
- Material: Both made of 1680D ballistic nylon, with Allpa 35L featuring paneling, and Capsule Pack Max a Cordura® exterior
- Laptop compartment: Both fit a 15 inch laptop
- Extras: Allpa 35L includes a rain cover, collapsible mesh laundry bag, and mesh water bottle sleeve; Capsule Pack Max's main compartment is conveniently designed and it boasts extensive pockets and organization options
The choice between the Allpa 35L and the Capsule Pack Max will ultimately come down to your specific needs and preferences. Whether it's durability, size, or extra features that you prioritize, both backpacks offer substantial benefits. Your destination? That, as they say, is up to you.