Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
| Capacity | 35 L |
| Weight | 1.5 kg |
| Dimensions | 51×30×20 cm |
| Airline fit | 80% |
| Price | $200 |
| Cotopaxi Allpa 35L | Feature | ebags Luxon Travel Backpack |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 1 |
| Y | Passport | Y |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | H |
| R | Hip Belt | H |
| S | Sternum Strap | R |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 19 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 2 |
| Y | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 1 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | Military-grade ballistic material with waterproof zippers and Hypalon reinforcements |
| Capacity | 0 L |
| Weight | 1.8 kg |
| Dimensions | 55×31×23 cm |
| Airline fit | 97% |
| Price | $250 |
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and ebags Luxon Travel Backpack are both top tier carry-on options, however they cater to different audience needs. Starting with the Cotopaxi, it's a lightweight option tipping the scale at only 1.5 pounds, ideal for minimizing carry weight during trips. It's 35L capacity is ample for a long weekend out, and with its ballistic nylon paneling you don't need to stress about it getting torn or worn out irrespective of where you take it. Resourceful by nature, it also comes with a rain cover for downpours, includes a bunch of useful accessories like a laundry bag, and optimizes internal organization - a feature that is highly praised by users. The Allpa 35L hits the sweet spot for people who prefer durability, intuitive design, and light traveling.
Shifting to the ebags Luxon, this larger backpack weighing 1.8 pounds and made from military-grade material is primed for all conditions. This backpack is a bit larger in size and will fit in 97% of airline overhead compartments. This, along with its ability to host a larger laptop, would initially suggest that it's more suited for the business traveler or someone who will use a flight to catch up on a Netflix series. However, it takes the lead on a few other unique features too that earns it a place on casual trips. These include the provision of packing cubes to keep your stuff organized, a wireless charging pocket for cordless power-up, and an anti-digital-theft RFID pocket.
Here's a succinct comparison:
Nonetheless, the Luxon is not just for the tech-savvy travelers. Its hidden secret is that the straps can be tucked away. For those caught in many situations where strap entanglement on other luggage in an overhead bin is a nightmare, this is the solution. Equally, if you need to slide it under your airplane seat, this feature comes in handy. Consider this the backpack of choice if you like a blend of technology, practical design, and durability all in one.
In the end, both backpacks shine in their respective fields – the Allpa 35L appealing to the intuitive packer and light traveler, and the Luxon showing its edge with tech-savvy features and larger size. Whichever you choose, you'll certainly be making a good choice.