Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Fjallraven Rucksack No. 21 Medium

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

By: Cotopaxi Front facing view of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

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Size Details
Capacity 35L
Capacity per Weight 23.3L
Weight 1.5kg 3.3lbs High
Capacity per KgLbs 23.3 10.6 Low
Dimensions 51x30x20cm 21x12x8in
Cubic Space 30600cm³ 2016in³
Capacity Diff -4L Low
Airline Compatibility

✈️ 80% (159/199)

This bag can be used as a carry on in 80% of airlines.

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Features

Storage
N Compression N
None Expanded Capacity None
TopZip Opening TopFlap
Y Passport N
N Passthrough N
Carry
H Backpack S
N Frame S
2 Handles 1
R Hip Belt N
N Shoulder Strap N
S Sternum Strap S
Inside
15 Laptop 15
N Hydration N
3 Main Compartments 1
Y Organizer N
Y Shoe Compartment N
Outside
2 Lash Points 0
N Hard Shell N
N Molle N
N Rain-fly N
0 Water Bottle Holder 2
Y Water Resistant Y
Material:
1680D ballistic nylon paneling G-1000® HeavyDuty Eco: 65% polyester, 35% cotton

Fjallraven Rucksack No. 21 Medium

By: Fjallraven Front facing view of the Fjallraven Rucksack No. 21 Medium

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Size Details
Capacity 20L
Capacity per Weight 20.8L
Weight 0.96kg 2.1lbs Low
Capacity per KgLbs 20.8 9.5 Low
Dimensions 44x28x13cm 18x12x6in
Cubic Space 16016cm³ 1296in³
Capacity Diff -3L Low
Airline Compatibility

✈️ 84% (168/199)

This bag can be used as a carry on in 84% of airlines.

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The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Fjallraven Rucksack No. 21 Medium are two heavyweight contestants in the carry-on backpack arena. Both come with storied histories and strong user feedback. But every backpacker has unique needs, and choosing between these two bags requires a careful comparison of specifications and features.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L comes in a larger size with its dimensions being 20" tall, 30" wide, and 51" deep, offering a hefty capacity of 35 liters. The hardy 1680D ballistic nylon paneling gives it a rugged build. It's also lighter at 1.5 pounds and comes with extras like a 15" laptop compartment and several utility accessories. On the other hand, the Fjallraven Rucksack No. 21 Medium sports a more compact form, with dimensions of 13" tall, 28" wide, and 44" deep. While it offers a bit less in terms of capacity at 20 liters, it's also lighter, weighing in at just 0.96 pounds. The standout feature is its G-1000® HeavyDuty Eco build, a proprietary blend of polyester and cotton that delivers durability and environmental friendly. Like its counterpart, it also can accommodate a 15" laptop.

  • Comparison Bullet Points:
    • The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is larger and offers more capacity but weighs more.
    • Both backpacks have a 15" laptop compartment.
    • The Fjallraven Rucksack No. 21 Medium is lighter and has a more eco-friendly build.
    • Both backpacks are highly compatible with airlines, with the Fjallraven Rucksack leading slightly at 84% compatibility.
    • The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L comes with utility accessories like a collapsible mesh laundry bag, nylon shoe bag, and a mesh water bottle sleeve, which the Fjallraven Rucksack lacks.

As a final verdict, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L stands strong as a travel workhorse fit for all types of backpackers, versatile and sturdy. The Fjallraven Rucksack No. 21 Medium, however, leans towards a more compact, sustainable, and stylish design. It may cater to the more urban, stylish, environmentally conscious traveler. Whichever your preference, both these bags have shown themselves to be strong contenders for the best carry-on backpack, and either choice will undoubtedly step up your travel game.