Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Thule Subterra 34L
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 | Thule Subterra 34L |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 0 |
| Y | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | Y |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | N |
| S | Sternum Strap | N |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 15 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 4 |
| Y | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | 800D nylon |
Thule Subterra 34L
| Capacity | 34 L |
| Weight | 2.8 kg |
| Dimensions | 53×31×24 cm |
| Airline fit | 92% |
| Price | $160 |
These two backpacks, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Thule Subterra 34L, are both good carries. You're going to get your money's worth no matter which way you go. But there are differences. Little things that may tip the scale one way or the other, depending on your personal needs.
The Cotopaxi Allpa is smaller and lighter. It's built tough with 1680D ballistic nylon paneling. It has a capacity of 35L and its compartment can snugly fit a 15" laptop. Aside from its size advantage, it is compatible with 80% of airlines. However, it comes with more testimonials – for instance, one reviewer claims it would have been perfect for his younger adventurous self. Another points out how intuitive and helpful the internal organization is. The bag also includes a rain cover for extra protection, comfortable shoulder straps, and a collapsible mesh laundry bag among other features.
- Dimensions: The Thule Subterra is bigger but weighs more.
- Materials: The Cotopaxi Allpa uses a stronger nylon paneling.
- Capacity: Both have similar capacities but the Cotopaxi Allpa has an extra liter of space.
- Airline Compatibility: The Thule Subterra beats the Cotopaxi Allpa in Airlines compatibility.
- Laptop Compartment: Both fit 15" laptops.
- Miscellaneous: The Cotopaxi Allpa comes with more accessories and organizational features.
On the other side of the ring, we've got the Thule Subterra. It's larger and heavier, which may or may not be a bad thing, depending on how much you're wanting to lug around. It's made of 800D nylon, which is robust but not as tough as the Cotopaxi Allpa. It also features a 15" laptop compartment and has a tiny bit less capacity at 34L. Where it shines is its phenomenal 92% airline compatibility that nudges it past the Cotopaxi Allpa. Reviewers seem to be generally happy with it too. One called it "functional and adaptable" and appreciated its ability to work as both a daily and travel bag. This pack also features a useful tech compartment, a side pocket for easy access and a packing cube for organizational assistance.
So when it comes to the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs the Thule Subterra 34L, they're both solid options with slight differences. It boils down to airlines compatibility, weight, and the additional features that you value most. Choose wisely. They're both bound to go the distance.