Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. STM Trilogy
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 | STM Trilogy |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 4 |
| Y | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | N |
| S | Sternum Strap | N |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 15 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| Y | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | 100% polyester |
If you are looking for a dependable carry-on backpack, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the STM Trilogy are both worthy contenders. Each backpack brings something unique to the table in terms of design, functionality, and aesthetics, but discerning which is best for you will weigh on your requirements and personal preferences.
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L, renowned for its robust construction, is built from a strong 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, ensuring a long-lasting performance. Heavily designed with travellers in mind, it boasts a spacious 35L capacity and compatibility with 80% of airlines. This backpack also includes a convenient laptop compartment fitting a 15-inch laptop. Now, if you shift your focus to STM Trilogy, it strikes a balance between lightness and functional depth. Weighing only 0.64 lbs, the bag is made out of 100% polyester, manifesting a sleek look. It has a 24L capacity and fits a 15-inch laptop in its compartment. Interestingly, it's compatible with 83% of airlines, slightly edging out the Allpa.
- The Cotopaxi and STM are both 30 inches wide. But Cotopaxi is slightly taller and deeper (20 and 51 inches respectively) than STM (16 and 46 inches).
- The Cotopaxi (1.5 lbs) is heavier than STM (0.64 lbs).
- Cotopaxi has larger capacity (35L) compared to STM (24L).
- The materials used are different, Cotopaxi uses 1680D ballistic nylon, whereas STM uses 100% polyester.
- Both bags can accommodate a 15-inch laptop.
- The compatibility with airlines slightly differs. Cotopaxi matches up with 80% while STM works with 83%.
The customer reviews to date align with the design philosophy of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L -- they commend its simple yet intuitive internal organization, with many lauding it as the "perfect graduation gift for budding world travellers," or the "best configuration used so far." As for the STM Trilogy, its statement for premium practicality holds water with reviewers extolling its well-distributed padding, effective notebook protection, and its suitability for students, office workers and regular travellers.
When it comes to added value, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is sold with a rain cover for added protection, comfortable straps for easy carrying, and a pack of travel accessories including a laundry bag, shoe bag, and water bottle sleeve. On the other hand, the STM Trilogy stands out with its superior craftsmanship, competitive price point, and ample organization for smooth travels. Your decision between these two backpacks should essentially boil down to whether convenience while travelling (Cotopaxi) or lightness and utility (STM) is more important to you.