Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Exped Torrent 20
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 Torrent 20 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 2 |
| Y | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | R |
| S | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 13 |
| 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 | 840 D Oxford nylon, TPU film laminate, >10'000 mm water column |
When it comes to selecting a reliable backpack for your travels, there are few options as comprehensive as the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Exped Torrent 20. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L, measuring 20" x 30" x 51", is a touch larger than the Exped Torrent 20, which comes in at 17" x 27" x 50". The Allpa 35L, as the name suggests, provides a greater storage capacity of 35 liters compared to the Torrent's 20 liters, giving more room for the extra outfit or two. With a weight of a mere 1.5 pounds, the Allpa 35L is lightweight and robust with its 1680D ballistic nylon paneling. The Torrent 20, on the other hand, weighs in at just 0.98 pounds, with 840 D Oxford nylon with TPU film laminate playing the role of its fortress.
Quick comparison between the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Exped Torrent 20:
- The Allpa 35L is slightly bigger in size and offers a larger capacity of 35L.
- The Allpa 35L weighs slightly more, while the Torrent 20 is under a pound, making it lighter.
- The Allpa 35L is made of more robust 1680D ballistic nylon, while the Torrent 20 mixes 840 D Oxford nylon with TPU film laminate for durability.
- The Allpa 35L fits a laptop of up to 15", whereas the Torrent 20 fits a laptop measuring 13".
- The Torrent 20 edges out the Allpa 35L slightly in terms of airline compatibility, with 81% compared to Allpa's 80%.
Having these significant differences in mind, both backpacks have earned praises in the traveling community. Reviewers most notably appreciated Allpa 35L's sleek design and the intuitive internal organization. Not only is it considered an ideal bag for urban and outdoorsy travelers alike, but its durability makes it a 'Top Pick for Light and Easy.' The Torrent 20 also brings a lot to the table. With its waterproof build, it is perfect for outdoor activities. The bag's slashproof material and a great suspension system earn it high praise for its comfort and security.
Ultimately, both the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Exped Torrent 20 have notable attributes that make them worthwhile. The Allpa 35L comes complete with a rain cover, comfortable straps, hip belt, and adjustable sternum straps. Additionally, it offers a collapsible laundry bag, shoe bag, and a water bottle sleeve. The Torrent 20 doesn't fall short either. Aside from its commendable suspension system and waterproof design, it boasts a slashproof build which ramps up security, shielding your contents from potential thieves or pickpockets. The decision lies in the preferred specifics--extra capacity or extra comfort, more rugged material or more waterproof properties, all wrapped in a package that fits the budget and meets the travel needs.