Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Fjallraven Kanken Laptop 17"
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 | Fjallraven Kanken Laptop 17" |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 4 |
| Y | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | N |
| S | Sternum Strap | N |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 17 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| Y | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | Vinylon F: 100% vinylal |
Fjallraven Kanken Laptop 17"
| Capacity | 20 L |
| Weight | 0.5 kg |
| Dimensions | 42×30×18 cm |
| Airline fit | 84% |
| Price | $130 |
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Fjallraven Kanken Laptop 17" are two backpacks vying for that coveted carry-on spot. Each brings its own unique qualities to the table, making it a stiff challenge to choose between the two.
Let's start with the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L. Boasting a 35-liter capacity and weighing just 1.5 pounds, this backpack is designed for the traveler who likes to pack light and smart. It fits a 15-inch laptop in its dedicated compartment, and is made of 1680D ballistic nylon for durability. On the compatibility front, it's accepted on around 80% of airlines. Its strength lies in its abundant capacity and its organization system which, as acknowledged by some reviewers, is one of the best. Additionally, Cotopaxi throws in a rain cover, collapsible mesh laundry bag, a nylon shoe bag, and a mesh water bottle sleeve, enhancing its travel-friendly nature.
Fjallraven's Kanken Laptop 17" backpack, is lighter, at 0.5 pounds, and carries a capacity of 20 liters. Despite having a smaller capacity than the Allpa, it can fit a larger, 17-inch laptop. Made from 100% vinylal, it can be carried onto 84% of airlines. The bag is praised by reviewers for its classic aesthetic, fit for outdoor or urban environments, comfortable shoulder straps, and convenient laptop compartment access.
Here's a quick bullet-point comparison:
- Size and Weight: The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is larger and heavier than the Fjallraven Kanken Laptop 17".
- Capacity: The Allpa offers a larger packing capacity.
- Laptop Size: The Kanken accommodates larger laptop sizes.
- Material: The Allpa is made of 1680D ballistic nylon paneling while the Kanken uses Vinylon F.
- Airline Compatibility: The Kanken edges out the Allpa by 4%.
- Bonus Features: The Allpa comes with rain and damage protection, while the Kanken scores for aesthetics and easy laptop access.
In the fight between these two carry-on contenders, the choice boils down to personal preference. If capacity and organization are key, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is your go-to. For the style-conscious traveler, who prioritizes lightness, the Fjallraven Kanken Laptop 17" is worth a look.