Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Exped Skyline 25
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 Skyline 25 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 4 |
| Y | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | S |
| S | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 0 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| Y | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | S |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | 210 D Robic HD Ripstop nylon, PU coated, 1'500 mm water column |
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Exped Skyline 25 are both top-of-the-line backpacks with unique features catered to specific user needs. The Cotopaxi, with its ballistic nylon paneling and generous 35-liter capacity, offers ample space for both daily essentials and less expected travel necessities. Its host of thoughtful touches—from a 15-inch laptop compartment to its high compatibility with airlines—make it an ideal travel companion. What's interesting is its glow-in-the-dark zipper design, something that can come in extremely handy during twilight treks.
On the other side of the ring, we have the Exped Skyline 25—a completely waterproof backpack with multiple functional pockets and a switchback suspension system for maximum comfort and ventilation. Made with high-density nylon, it's lightweight yet remarkably resilient, capable of withstanding rough treatment. Although smaller than the Cotopaxi, with a room of just 25 liters, it serves the purpose of making traveling light without compromising on the essentials.
Here's a quick side-by-side comparison to help highlight the main differences between the two:
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Dimensions and Weight:
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L = 20' x 30' x 51', 1.5 lbs
Exped Skyline 25 = 24' x 26' x 52', 1.03 lbs -
Capacity and Material Used:
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L = 35 liters, 1680D ballistic nylon paneling
Exped Skyline 25 = 25 liters, 210 D Robic HD Ripstop nylon, PU coated -
Laptop Compartment Size and Airline Compatibility:
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L = 15', 80% airline compatibility
Exped Skyline 25 = N/A, 47% airline compatibility
Indeed, both bags have their distinct strengths catering to different lifestyle requirements. Individual users are likely to find one more appealing than the other based on their needs. If the demands of your travel/trails lean more on comprehensive organization, space, and airline compatibility, Cotopaxi Allpa 35L has the edge. If weatherproofing, functional pockets, and a lightweight yet durable bag are your priorities, the Exped Skyline 25 offers a potent solution. Furthermore, the value-for-money aspect of the Exped Skyline has been highlighted by users and reviewers alike, giving it a significant advantage for money-conscious backpackers.