Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Deuter Trans Alpine 28 SL

Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

Front facing view of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L
Capacity35 L
Weight1.5 kg
Dimensions51×30×20 cm
Airline fit80%
Price$200

Feature by feature

Cotopaxi Allpa 35LFeatureDeuter Trans Alpine 28 SL
Storage
N Compression S
None Expanded Capacity None
4 Opening 4
Y Passport N
N Passthrough N
Carry
H Backpack S
R Hip Belt S
S Sternum Strap S
Inside
15 Laptop 0
3 Main Compartments 1
Y Organizer Y
Outside
× Hard Shell ×
N Rain-fly S
0 Water Bottle Holder 2
Y Water Resistant Y
Material
1680D ballistic nylon paneling210D PA, 600D PES

Deuter Trans Alpine 28 SL

Front facing view of the Deuter Trans Alpine 28 SL
Capacity28 L
Weight1.19 kg
Dimensions52×26×22 cm
Airline fit65%
Price$145

If you're in the market for a reliable travel backpack, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Deuter Trans Alpine 28 SL are two options worth considering. Both bring their unique strengths to the table. Constructed with robust 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is designed for durability and boasts an intuitive internal organization that can hold up to the rigors of travel. It is larger than its counterpart, offering a capacity of 35 liters as opposed to the Deuter's 28. It can comfortably house a 15-inch laptop in its dedicated compartment, and the bag itself weighs 1.5 pounds.

Despite being smaller, the Deuter Trans Alpine 28 SL is not to be overlooked. It benefits from a 210D PA and 600D PES make-up, contributing to a lighter weight of just 1.19 pounds. It shies away from integrating a laptop compartment, but what it lacks in technology accommodation it makes up for the adjustability. This is particularly useful for users with a shorter stature as it is designed to be more proportionate to a woman's body size.

Despite the differences, both bags have received positive reviews from users and rank highly for their quality and durability. One customer expressed surprise at the effectiveness of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L's internal organization, calling it perhaps "the best configuration I’ve used so far". This backpack also includes a rain cover for added protection and added elements such as a collapsible mesh laundry bag and a nylon shoe bag.

On the other hand, the Deuter Trans Alpine 28 SL, while lacking in some elements, is praised for fitting women's body sizes better, something that the standard sizes often disregard. As such, it all comes down to personal preference as both bags offer unique features and strengths.