Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Patagonia Refugio Backpack 28L

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 Refugio Backpack 28L
Storage
N Compression S
None Expanded Capacity None
4 Opening 4
Y Passport N
N Passthrough N
Carry
H Backpack S
R Hip Belt N
S Sternum Strap S
Inside
15 Laptop 15
3 Main Compartments 1
Y Organizer N
Outside
× Hard Shell ×
N Rain-fly N
0 Water Bottle Holder 2
Y Water Resistant Y
Material
1680D ballistic nylon paneling630-denier 100% nylon, 450-denier 100% polyester (56% recycled) ripstop

Patagonia Refugio Backpack 28L

Front facing view of the Patagonia Refugio Backpack 28L
Capacity28 L
Weight0.666 kg
Dimensions49×31×21 cm
Airline fit67%
Price$89

When it comes to travel, the perfect carry-on backpack makes all the difference. Meet the key players: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and Patagonia Refugio Backpack 28L. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is a master of space, boasting a 35-liter capacity within its 20-inch tall, 30-inch wide, and 51-inch deep frame. It's a bit on the hefty side, weighing in at 1.5 pounds, but it more than makes up for it in versatility and durability. Fashioned from 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, Allpa 35L is not just tough—it's a fortress ready to take on the harshest of travel conditions. Its compatibility with 80% of airlines is a bonus, and on top of all that, it comes equipped with a compartment capable of accommodating a 15-inch laptop.

Comparatively, the Patagonia Refugio Backpack 28L shines in its own right. This titan of travel is 21 inches tall, 31 inches wide, and 49 inches deep. It may be a bit smaller in terms of storage, holding 28 liters, but it's also lighter at 0.666 pounds. The Refugio Backpack 28L is made of 630-denier 100% nylon and 450-denier 100% polyester (56% recycled) ripstop, making it resistant to tears and pulls. This backpack is compatible with 67% of airlines and also contains a compartment perfect for a 15-inch laptop.

Here's a quick summary of their differences:

Customer testimonials for the Allpa 35L consistently reference its ideal suitability for globetrotting adventures, noting its perfect size and intuitive internal organization. Reviewers call this bag "simple, easy, comfortable, and durable", making it a top pick for light and easy travels.

In contrast, the Refugio Backpack 28L is exalted as a multi-purpose pack that doesn't compromise on daily utility for travel capability. A perfect companion for commute and running errands, even scaling mountains, the Refugio is seen as a "solid, fully-featured casual daypack" with organization at the heart of its functionality. It's also praised for being lightweight and comfortable to use. So if you're seeking a reliable travel companion—pick your choice between Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and Patagonia Refugio Backpack 28L.