Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Ortlieb Commuter Daypack High Visibility
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 | Ortlieb Commuter Daypack High Visibility |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | R |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 15 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| Y | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 0 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | PS50CX |
Ortlieb Commuter Daypack High Visibility
| Capacity | 21 L |
| Weight | 0.86 kg |
| Dimensions | 50×30×15.5 cm |
| Airline fit | 82% |
| Price | $250 |
First, we have the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L. It's a sturdy, robust traveler pack, designed with durability in mind. Its exterior is made from 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, built to withstand knockabouts. Despite its solid construction and wealth of features - such as its specific laptop compartment that can comfortably house a 15-inch laptop - it still manages to weigh a mere 1.5 pounds. With a 35-liter capacity, it's ample enough for a serious traveler, and it's flight-friendly too, compatible with four-fifths of airlines.
On the other hand, The Ortlieb Commuter Daypack High Visibility is a lighter, trimmer option, weighing only 0.86 pounds. This one is crafted from PS50CX, designed specifically for visibility in mind that could rank it as the best bag for bikers or night-travelers. Although it offers a smaller capacity - 21 liters, to be exact - it more than compensates with its portability and compact profile. Like the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L, it also allows for a 15-inch laptop. It also enjoys more widespread airline compatibility at 82%.
Here are quick comparison bullet points highlighting the differences:
- Cotopaxi measures 20x30x51 inches; Ortlieb, 15.5x30x50 inches
- Cotopaxi weighs 1.5 pounds; Ortlieb, 0.86 pounds
- Cotopaxi capacity is 35 liters; Ortlieb, 21 liters
- Cotopaxi is compatible with 80% of airlines; Ortlieb, 82%
- Cotopaxi is made from 1680D ballistic nylon paneling; Ortlieb from PS50CX
Regarding the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L, testimonials from independent buyers affirm its value. One reviewer highlighted its suitability for globetrotting graduates, another commended its smart design for urban and outdoorsy travelers. Others appreciated the simplicity, comfort, durability, internal organization, among many other features.
In the Ortlieb camp, buyers have commended its high visibility, lightweight nature, and waterproofing. These features, coupled with the simplicity of its design and the ergonomic nature of its straps, make it a strong contender in the realm of commuter packs. The rolltop design was singled out as particularly effective at keeping water out while maintaining the neatness and safety of the bag’s contents. Both packs have unique selling propositions; it depends on what you need from your travel companion.