Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Kifaru Urban Ruck
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 | Kifaru Urban Ruck |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | S |
| None | Expanded Capacity | 27L |
| 4 | Opening | 3 |
| Y | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | R |
| S | Sternum Strap | R |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 0 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 3 |
| Y | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | 500 Denier CorduraLined with 400 D packcloth |
Kifaru Urban Ruck
| Capacity | 22.9 L |
| Weight | 0.8 kg |
| Dimensions | 46×29×17 cm |
| Airline fit | 99% |
| Price | $231 |
If you're on the hunt for a rugged and road-tested carry-on backpack, you're likely to come across the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Kifaru Urban Ruck. Both have unique features that set them apart. The Allpa 35L, made by the ethically driven outdoor gear brand Cotopaxi, offers a combination of practical design and function, standing at 20 inch tall, 30 inches wide, and 51 inches deep. The Urban Ruck, produced by Kifaru International, a brand known for their high-quality tactical gear, is slightly larger, with dimensions of 46 inches tall, 29 inches wide, and 17 inches deep.
Here's a quick rundown of the key differences:
- Dimensions: The Allpa is smaller (20x30x51 inches) compared to the Urban Ruck (46x29x17 inches).
- Weight: The Allpa weighs more (1.5 pounds) than the Urban Ruck (0.8 pounds).
- Capacity: The Allpa has a larger capacity (35 liters) than the Urban Ruck (22.9 liters).
- Airline Compatibility: The Allpa is compatible with 80% of airlines, while the Urban Ruck works with 99% of airlines.
- Material: The Allpa is made of 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, while the Urban Ruck is made of 500 Denier CorduraLined with 400 D packcloth.
- Laptop Compatibility: The Allpa can carry a 15 inch laptop; the Urban Ruck does not have a separate laptop compartment.
Feedback from user reviews reinforces the unique features each bag brings to the table. Reviewers laud the Allpa 35L's uncomplicated, intuitive internal organization as being one of its standout features. They also highlight the bag's comfort, durability, and ability to appeal to both the urban and outdoor minded travelers.
The Urban Ruck is acknowledged for its blend of classic design elements and modern features, its high-quality build, and materials, and for the optional "chamber sliders" which deliver an extra dose of organization. Their stretchable water bottle pockets, which add a layer of security for carrying smaller items, are also appreciated by its users.
Ultimately, the decision between the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Kifaru Urban Ruck comes down to your personal preference and needs. If you desire a bag that has intuitive internal organization and that comes with travel packing extras, then the Allpa 35L is your go-to. However, if a lighter bag with a classic look, stretchable pockets, and enhanced organization features is more your style, then the Urban Ruck fits the bill. Each offers its unique strengths, and you can't really go wrong with either.