Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Patagonia Ascensionist Pack 55L

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 35LFeaturePatagonia Ascensionist Pack 55L
Storage
N Compression R
None Expanded Capacity None
4 Opening 0
Y Passport N
N Passthrough N
Carry
H Backpack S
R Hip Belt R
S Sternum Strap R
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 paneling420-denier 100% recycled nylon ripstop, 0-denier 100% nylon ripstop

Patagonia Ascensionist Pack 55L

Front facing view of the Patagonia Ascensionist Pack 55L
Capacity55 L
Weight1.28 kg
Dimensions67×32×20 cm
Airline fit18%
Price$219

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is a travel-ready backpack designed to glide in and out of airports with ease. Its compact build and intuitive organization make it perfect for carry-on compliant travel, and its durable 1680D ballistic nylon paneling ensures it’s prepared for the rugged daily use. The unique thing about the Allpa 35L is its compatibility with most airlines; it fits into 80% of airlines without issues. The Allpa 35L carries a generous 35-liter volume and features like a laptop compartment, which can fit a 15-inch laptop, providing an ideal storage space.

On the other hand, the Patagonia Ascensionist Pack 55L is built with the traveler in mind, tailored for the more challenging outdoor use like climbing, hiking, and camping. Crafted with 420-denier 100% recycled nylon ripstop, it’s an eco-friendly pack that doesn’t skimp on durability. Despite this backpack’s larger 55-liter capacity, it's still incredibly lightweight, weighing only 1.28lbs. However, it lags in compatibility, fitting just 18% of airlines, and it lacks a laptop compartment feature.

Here are the top differences:

Reviewers have praised the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L as the ideal bag for the budding world traveler, with high praise for its ease of use, comfort, durability, and intuitive organization. They see it as the perfect travel companion. The Ascensionist 55L is lauded for its durability and adaptability. Many noted its additional storage capacity and lightweight build for the load it can carry—making it ideal for ascents and multi-day adventure trips.

In conclusion, either backpack can be great depending on your needs. If you're frequently traveling via airlines and require good organization and laptop space, then the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L could be your ideal companion. But if you're an outdoor enthusiast and need a lightweight bag for intensive activities with larger carrying space, then the Patagonia Ascensionist Pack 55L is designed for your needs. Make your choice based on what you prioritize more, such as durability, storage capacity, weight, laptop space, or airline compatibility.