Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Deuter Freerider 28 SL

Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

Front facing view of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L
Capacity35 L
Weight1.5 kg
Dimensions51×30×20 cm
Airline fit80%
Price$200

Feature by feature

Cotopaxi Allpa 35LFeatureDeuter Freerider 28 SL
Storage
N Compression S
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 Y
Outside
× Hard Shell ×
N Rain-fly N
0 Water Bottle Holder 0
Y Water Resistant Y
Material
1680D ballistic nylon paneling330D PA 6.6 Ripstop, 210D PA Ripstop

Deuter Freerider 28 SL

Front facing view of the Deuter Freerider 28 SL
Capacity28 L
Weight0.98 kg
Dimensions52×34×18 cm
Airline fit79%

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Deuter Freerider 28 SL are two options for the casual or serious backpacker. The Allpa 35L is a true all-rounder, meeting 80% of airline compatibility standards and coming with a generous capacity of 35 liters. With 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, it's durably made and features a laptop compartment accommodating large 15-inch models. Also, reviews for this backpack highlight how well-suited it is for both urban or outdoorsy travels. Its intuitive internal organization comes highly recommended and it boasts pleasing extras like a collapsible mesh laundry bag, nylon shoe bag, and a mesh water bottle sleeve.

Let's briefly compare these two in bullet points:

Next, the Deuter Freerider 28 SL, while smaller in capacity at 28 liters, is lighter and well-suited to female travelers due to the adjusted SL carry system. Its material construction is a combination of 330D PA 6.6 Ripstop and 210D PA Ripstop which ensures durability. However, it does lack a laptop compartment, which might be a deterrent for those requiring tech storage on their travels. Where it lags in airline compatibility (79%), it makes up for with its well-tailored design appealing specifically to certain body dimensions.

In essence, both backpacks have their unique strengths and cater to specific needs depending on travellers' requirements. If you're looking for more space, laptop storage, and an all-rounder, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L might serve you better. Alternatively, if weight and a design tailored to a woman's body is a priority, the Deuter Freerider 28 SL could be more suitable.