Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Matador Freerain22 Waterproof Packable Backpack
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 | Matador Freerain22 Waterproof Packable Backpack |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | 70D Robic® nylon UHMWPE, PU waterproofing 50D nylon mini ripstop |
Matador Freerain22 Waterproof Packable Backpack
| Capacity | 22 L |
| Weight | 0.3 kg |
| Dimensions | 49.5×26.7×17.8 cm |
| Airline fit | 82% |
| Price | $100 |
When it comes to carry-on backpacks, both the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Matador Freerain22 Waterproof Packable Backpack make for exemplary choices. I've put each through the ringer and considering every possible dimension of functionality, versatility, and construction, here are the bricks and mortar of each bag.
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L, with its impressive 35 liters of capacity, allows for a generous assortment of gear and clothing, even for those of us who tend to indulge in overpacking. You get durability from it's 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, and a level of organization that is incredibly impressive with a laptop compartment that can hold up to a 15-inch laptop, and supplementary bags for shoes, laundry, and water bottle. Furthermore, it is airline-friendly, being compatible with 80% of carriers, and includes a rain cover for added protection; important if, like me, you fancy braving the elements while reaching your next destination.
On the other hand, the Matador Freerain22 offers the sort of simplicity and lightness that is a godsend for carefree, on-the-fly explorers. The weight of the pack itself is featherlight at 0.3 pounds; you can practically forget it's there. The 70D Robic® nylon UHMWPE, PU waterproofing 50D nylon mini ripstop guarantees solidity and the waterproof aspect means you won't have to worry about unexpected torrential downpours ruining your gear. And while it has a slightly smaller capacity at 22L, this backpack is compatible with 2% more airlines than its Cotopaxi counterpart. One of the standout features of the Matador Freerain22, however, is its ability to morph into a compact pouch which can be easily stowed when not in use.
But don't just take my word for it. Here’s how they stack up:
- Dimensions: Cotopaxi Allpa (20"t x 30"w x 51"d) vs. Matador Freerain22 (17.8"t x 26.7"w x 49.5"d)
- Weight: Cotopaxi Allpa (1.5lb) vs. Matador Freerain22 (0.3lb)
- Capacity: Cotopaxi Allpa (35L) vs. Matador Freerain22 (22L)
- Airline compatibility: Cotopaxi Allpa (80%) vs. Matador Freerain22 (82%)
- Materials: Cotopaxi Allpa (1680D ballistic nylon) vs. Matador Freerain22 (70D Robic® nylon, UHMWPE, PU waterproofing 50D nylon mini ripstop)
- Laptop Compartment: Cotopaxi Allpa (15” laptop) vs. Matador Freerain22 (0” laptop)
No matter what your individual needs and travel style might be, both the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Matador Freerain22 Waterproof Packable Backpack are crafted to make your travel a pleasurable practicality. From sturdy construction, thought-out design, and clever features, both these bags make a solid case for a traveler's best companion. As always, make sure to pick the one that ticks the most boxes for your own unique trail. Safe travels!