Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Exped Torrent 30
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 | Exped Torrent 30 |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | S |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 0 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| Y | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 0 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | 840 D Oxford nylon, TPU film laminate, >10'000 mm water column |
When you're about to hit the road, picking the right backpack is sort of like choosing the right travel buddy. Today, we'll be perusing two travel companions: the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Exped Torrent 30. First, let's analyze the Allpa. This beast boasts 35 liters of storage in a compact body that stands 20 inches tall, stretches 30 inches wide, and sinks 51 inches deep. With its 1680D ballistic nylon construction, the Allpa is optimized for durability. Weighing in at 1.5 pounds, it won't weigh you down for those sprints to your gate. One of its standout features is the laptop compartment that can carry a 15-inch laptop, a prized feature in an era where work and play converge.
On the other hand, we've got the nimble Exped Torrent 30. This backpack is a bit leaner, with a 30-liter capacity housed in a body that's 20 inches tall, 27 inches wide, and 55 inches deep. Even though it's smaller than the Allpa, it's still built with robust 840D Oxford nylon and TPU film laminate for a waterproof finish. We find its weight of 1.13 pounds feather-light and an excellent choice for those looking to pack light and fast. Sadly, this pack stumbles with its lack of laptop storage, which limits its versatility.
To net it out, here's a bulleted rundown:
- Size: Allpa is larger (35L vs. 30L capacity).
- Weight: Torrent is lighter (1.13 lbs vs. 1.5 lbs).
- Material: Both high quality with Allpa's 1680D ballistic nylon paneling vs. Torrent's 840D Oxford nylon, TPU film laminate.
- Laptop storage: Allpa wins with a 15-inch space; Torrent does not have this feature.
- Airline compatibility: Allpa pips Torrent at the post (80% vs. 77%).
Now that you've got the critical differences, let's hear from users. Allpa 35L users rave about its intuitive internal organization and comfortable carry, calling it "top pick for light and easy." It's touted as an ideal bundle for high school or college seniors or budding world travelers. Exped Torrent scores big on its waterproof feature, superb suspension system, and useful attachment loops. One reviewer sums it up as "Simple but proven design; tough enough for serious trips; absolutely waterproof..."
Would Ernest go for the Allpa, robust and brimming with space and organization, or the Torrent, light and waterproof with a failsafe design? That's a choice you've gotta make. Both have their merits - safe travels!