Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Osprey Hikelite 26
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 | Osprey Hikelite 26 |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | 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 | 100D Nylon Mini Diamond Shadow |
Osprey Hikelite 26
| Capacity | 26 L |
| Weight | 0.7 kg |
| Dimensions | 49×28×28 cm |
| Airline fit | 90% |
| Price | $100 |
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Osprey Hikelite 26 are both top-tier options for carry-on backpacks. Both possess the robust and functional design synonymous with their manufacturers. The Allpa 35L by Cotopaxi comes in a compact 20 inches in height, 30 inches in width, and 51 inches in depth, with a weight of about 1.5 pounds. This backpack is designed to withstand substantial wear, thanks to its 1680D ballistic nylon paneling. Meanwhile, the Hikelite 26 by Osprey stands taller at 28 inches, but maintains similar width and depth measurements as the Allpa 35L. With a noticeably lighter weight of 0.7 pounds, the Hikelite 26 offers a commuter-friendly carry.
- Size: The Osprey Hikelite 26 is taller but otherwise similar in sizing to the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.
- Weight: The Osprey Hikelite 26 is less than half the weight of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.
- Capacity: The Allpa 35L boasts a larger capacity at 35 liters, versus the Hikelite 26's 26 liters.
- Airline Compatibility: While the Allpa 35L is compatible with 80% of airlines, the Hikelite 26 inches ahead with 90% airline compatibility.
- Material: The Allpa 35L is made with tough 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, while the Hikelite 26 uses 100D Nylon Mini Diamond Shadow.
- Laptop Compartment: The Allpa 35L can house a 15-inch laptop, as opposed to the Hikelite 26, which has no dedicated laptop compartment.
When it comes to features that promote usefulness and comfort, each bag offers a few noteworthy perks. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L shines with a laptop compartment that can accommodate a 15-inch device. Furthermore, this bag comes with a slew of handy additions such as a rain cover, a collapsible mesh laundry bag, a nylon shoe bag, and a mesh water bottle sleeve. It also possesses comfortable shoulder straps, a hip belt, and adjustable sternum straps. Concerning the Osprey Hikelite 26, the backpack's lightweight construction paired with its suspended-mesh Airspeed Hikelite backpanel makes it absolutely convenient for travelers. Coupled with a "shove-it" front pocket and an included rain cover, the Hikelite 26 is a powerhouse of functionality and lightweight comfort.
In summary, both the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Osprey Hikelite 26 have their strong suits. The Allpa 35L impresses with its roomy design, robust build, and myriad of helpful add-ons. Meanwhile, the Hikelite 26 shines with its lightweight, commuter-friendly design, and great ventilation feature. No doubt, choosing between these two quality harbinger will boil down to your specific travel needs and preferences.