Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Tom Bihn Smart Alec
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 | Tom Bihn Smart Alec |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 0 |
| Y | Passport | |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | R |
| S | Sternum Strap | R |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 17 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 0 |
| Y | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 0 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | |
Tom Bihn Smart Alec
| Capacity | 26 L |
| Weight | 0.9 kg |
| Dimensions | 47×30×21 cm |
| Airline fit | 98% |
| Price | $190 |
When it comes to choosing a perfect carry-on backpack, size, weight, capacity and comfort are key considerations. Let's take a look at the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Tom Bihn Smart Alec.
The former is a robust one, measuring 20 inches tall, 30 inches wide and 51 inches deep, while the latter cuts a smaller figure at 47 inches tall, 30 inches wide, and 21 inches deep. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L, crafted from 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, is a tad heavier with its weight around 1.5 pounds. On the other hand, the 0.9-pound Tom Bihn Smart Alec, although light, still does a magnificent job. With regard to internal capacity, the Allpa 35L stays true to its name, offering 35 liters of space, whereas the Smart Alec, offering 26 liters, is indeed a smart choice for lightweight travel. Laptop compatibility is also substantial, where the Allpa offers a 15-inch laptop compartment against the 17-inch compartment of the Alec.
Comparison Points:
- Size: Cotopaxi Allpa is larger than Tom Bihn Smart Alec
- Weight: Tom Bihn is lighter in comparison
- Material: Cotopaxi opts for 1680D ballistic nylon, material of Alec is unknown
- Capacity: Cotopaxi has a higher capacity
- Laptop Compatibility: Tom Bihn can fit larger laptops
- Airline Compatibility: Tom Bihn is more broadly acceptable
Reviews present the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L as an excellent gear option for a budding world traveler. It's exceptionally comfortable and offers easy organization. The modular design of the Allpa provides a spacious main compartment which seems to be a crowd pleaser. On the other hand, one reviewer recommends the Smart Alec for those yearning for a minimalistic design with adaptive capabilities.
When you buy the Allpa, you receive a rain cover, adjustable and comfortable straps, collapsible mesh laundry bag, nylon shoe bag, and a mesh water bottle sleeve. The Smart Alec, on the other hand, is known for its durability and modular design, allowing customization according to preferences. So, whether you are hitting the road or catching a flight, either of these carry-ons would do the trick. Weigh the differences and see what ticks your boxes. Remember, travel is only as good as the comfort of your backpack.