Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Exped Black Ice 30
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 | Exped Black Ice 30 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 2 |
| Y | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | R |
| S | Sternum Strap | S |
| 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 paneling | 400 D HD ripstop nylon, TPU film laminated, 10'000 mm water column |
Exped Black Ice 30
| Capacity | 30 L |
| Weight | 0.1 kg |
| Dimensions | 57×27×23 cm |
| Airline fit | 91% |
| Price | $175 |
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is the lightweight carry-on with robust features. Weighing in at 1.5 pounds and compatible with 80% of airlines, it's a traveler's friend indeed. Made of 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, it adds personality to durability and takes the shape of an efficient backpack. A distinct feature is its 35 liters of capacity suitable for a good deal of belongings. The capable 15-inch laptop compartment serves the modern-day traveler well. You can tag it along for a simple journey or a quick escapade, and it'll never disappoint.
On the other hand, the Exped Black Ice 30 is a lean, mean, adventure companion. With a weight of just 0.1 pounds, it's so light you might forget it's there. Despite its feather-like weight, it's amazingly compatible with 91% of airlines. It's constructed with 400 D HD ripstop nylon, TPU film laminated — a build for serious outdoor adventures. Its 30-liter capacity is generous, and the lack of a laptop compartment doesn't take away from its essence — a tough, weatherproof and reliable backpack.
- Cotopaxi Allpa 35L: Weighs 1.5 pounds, compatible with 80% of airlines, 35L capacity.
- Exped Black Ice 30: Weighs 0.1 pounds, compatible with 91% of airlines, 30L capacity.
- Cotopaxi Allpa 35L: Made from 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, can carry a 15 inch laptop.
- Exped Black Ice 30: Made from 400 D HD ripstop nylon, TPU film laminated, doesn't have a laptop compartment.
The Allpa 35L comes with outstanding recommendations from reviewers who cite its ability to combine convenience and durability. It's handy for both seasoned or budding world travelers. As for the Black Ice 30, it earns acclaim for being a versatile and long-lasting daypack that can withstand the harshest of outdoor conditions. It was designed to go where you go without adding extra weight.
In its own right, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is an excellent purchase. It comes with a rain cover for protection, comfortable shoulder straps, hip belt, and adjustable sternum straps for ease of carriage, and useful extras like a collapsible mesh laundry bag, nylon shoe bag, and a mesh water bottle sleeve. Meanwhile, the Exped Black Ice 30 is a good investment for outdoor enthusiasts. It is lightweight, durable, weatherproof, feature multiple attachment points for outdoor gear, and offers minimalistic and straightforward functionality. Each backpack has clear strong points depending on your needs and preferences.