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 | Deuter Gigant |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | S |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 4 |
| Y | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | R |
| S | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 17 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 2 |
| Y | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | O |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 1 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | 300D PES Ripstop |
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is a standout amongst carry-on backpacks. Built for the rough and tumble, it utilizes 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, a fabric famous for its sheer toughness. Slightly bigger than the Deuter Gigant, the Allpa 35L can hold 35 liters worth of your belongings. It's also compatible with 80% of airlines, which ought to alleviate some of your airport stress. One of its best features is a laptop compartment designed to fit a 15-inch laptop securely, making it an excellent choice for the traveling techie.
Just as impressive is the Deuter Gigant. This bag is a lightweight beast, tipping the scales at 1.1 pounds. Made with 300D PES Ripstop, it is also rugged and capable of holding up to harsh conditions. Although it's slightly smaller than the Allpa 35L with a 32 liters capacity, it outperforms when it comes to laptop accommodation, thanks to a spacious laptop compartment that can accommodate a 17-inch laptop. However, note that it is only compatible with 66% of airlines.
Here's a recap of the differences between the two:
Buyers rave about the Allpa 35L, with one reviewer noting it as 'the perfect graduation gift for the budding world traveler', and another praising its 'simple, easy, comfortable, and durable' design. Despite its praises, the Gigant holds its own with its great features. Its 'airstripes system' assures great back ventilation and a secure fit, and its document compartment makes it ideal for traveling with important documents.
In conclusion, the choice between the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Deuter Gigant boils down to personal preference and specific needs. If you're prioritizing capacity and airline compatibility, you might lean towards the Allpa 35L. Meanwhile, if you value light-weight, greater laptop accommodation, and document safety, the Gigant is your bag. Both are robust, multi-compartment packs that will serve any world traveler well.