Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Dakine Gemini
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 | Dakine Gemini |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 0 |
| Y | Passport | top |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | Y |
| R | Hip Belt | N |
| S | Sternum Strap | F |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 17 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 2 |
| Y | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 1 side |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | 600D Polyester |
Dakine Gemini
| Capacity | 28 L |
| Weight | 1 kg |
| Dimensions | 56×34×24 cm |
| Airline fit | 92% |
| Price | $125 |
When it comes to carry-on backpacks, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and Dakine Gemini both pull their weight, but feature distinct differences. The Allpa, designed by the ambitious outdoor retailer, Cotopaxi, tips the scales at 1.5 pounds and is built from 1680D ballistic nylon paneling. 20 inches tall, it’s a perfect fit for a 15-inch laptop and has a capacity of 35 litres, making it ideal for the avid traveller needing plenty of space. What sets it apart further are the included add-ons of a rain cover, collapsible mesh laundry bag, nylon shoe bag, and a mesh water bottle sleeve.
The Dakine Gemini, however, brings its own charm to the playground. It boasts a slightly larger profile at 56 inches tall while holding a surprisingly lightweight frame of just 1 pound. Made up of 600D Polyester, it accommodates a 17-inch laptop and offers a capacity of 28 litres. Though it gives up some space capacity to the Allpa, it compensates with a higher airline compatibility rate of 92%.
To summarize, we can bullet these differences for a clearer picture:
- Size: Cotopaxi Allpa (20 inches) vs. Dakine Gemini (56 inches)
- Weight: Allpa (1.5 pounds) vs. Gemini (1 pound)
- Laptop Compatibility: Allpa (15-inch) vs. Gemini (17-inch)
- Capacity: Allpa (35 litres) vs. Gemini (28 litres)
- Material: Allpa (1680D ballistic nylon) vs. Gemini (600D Polyester)
- Airline Compatibility: Allpa (80%) vs. Gemini (92%)
- Included Extras: Only with Cotopaxi Allpa
Lauded by critics alike, both backpacks possess attributes that make them desirable. The Cotopaxi Allpa has been praised for its simple, easy, and comfortable construction, along with being 'the perfect graduation gift for the budding world traveller'. The Dakine Gemini, on the other hand, hasn't been discussed as much but shines with its impressive laptop compatibility and higher airline acceptance.
While both merit consideration, your choice will invariably rest on personal requirements and, ultimately, preference. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L promises a high-capacity, durable option; the Dakine Gemini banks on its significant laptop compartment and wide airline compatibility. Either way, whether you're an urbanite or an outdoor enthusiast, both are competent companions for the long haul.