Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Hylete Icon
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 | Hylete Icon |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 4 |
| Y | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | H |
| R | Hip Belt | N |
| S | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 15 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 5 |
| Y | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | Dual-Face TPU 600D |
When it comes to carry-on backpacks, it's hard to overlook the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Hylete Icon. Each pack brings its own unique blend of practical and comfortable features, designed with the seasoned traveler in mind. The Allpa 35L's standout attribute is its 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, offering durable protection for your belongings whether you're hitting the track or navigating busy city streets. In contrast, the Hylete Icon utilizes Dual-Face TPU 600D in its construction, ensuring resistance to wear and tear.
Marks for versatility go to the Allpa 35L, sporting a laptop compartment that snugly fits a 15-inch laptop, and comes bundled with a collapsible mesh laundry bag, nylon shoe bag, and mesh water bottle sleeve. Reviewers rave over its intuitive internal organization, even calling it the "best configuration" they've used. However, the Icon is not to be outdone. Aside from also fitting a 15-inch laptop, it doubles as a daypack, messenger bag, or duffel bag depending on your needs, proving to be a master of adaptability.
- The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L measures 20x30x51 inches, while the Hylete Icon measures 49x34x28 inches.
- Weighing in at 1.5 pounds, the Allpa 35L is heavier than the weightless Icon.
- The Allpa 35L can pack up to 35 liters of gear, whereas the Icon can contain up to 40 liters.
- The Allpa 35L is compatible with 80% of airlines, a fraction less than the Icon's 89% compatibility rate.
- The Allpa 35L uses 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, markedly different from the Icon's Dual-Face TPU 600D.
The Allpa's impressive design has won it high praise from users, with one stating it as perfect for work travel given its multiple forms and functions. Similarly, the Icon's clever design, paired with insulated side pockets and high volume capacity, has been hailed as highly functional and incredibly versatile.
In conclusion, selecting between these two packs boils down to personal preference. If internal organization and accessories are what you're after, the Allpa 35L may just be the one you need. Those seeking adaptability in a variety of situations may find the Hylete Icon ticking all their boxes. Either way, you're sure to gain a reliable travel companion in each backpack.