Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Exped Cloudburst 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 Cloudburst 25 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 2 |
| 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 | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 0 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | 70 D taffeta nylon, PU coated, 10'000 mm water column |
Exped Cloudburst 25
| Capacity | 25 L |
| Weight | 0.3 kg |
| Dimensions | 54×28×21 cm |
| Airline fit | 98% |
| Price | $69 |
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Exped Cloudburst 25 are two formidable carry-on backpacks. The Allpa 35L is a durable and spacious bag, well-designed for those with urban or outdoorsy sensibilities. Made from 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, it’s about as tough as it gets. Plus, its 35-liter capacity is no joke, and the fact that it's compatible with 80% of airlines gives you substantial flexibility when you travel. A dedicated laptop compartment can house up to a 15-inch laptop, which is a big plus for digital nomads. One testimonial says it all, “It might just be the best [bag] configuration I’ve used so far". So, it's got the robustness you need and the space you'll crave on your adventures.
But let's not sell the Exped Cloudburst 25 short, it has its unique draws too. This bag is lighter, weighing a meager 0.3 pounds, and a slightly smaller footprint. Despite its limited 25-liter capacity, its compatible with 98% of airlines, a slight edge over the Allpa 35L. Crafted from 70 D taffeta nylon and coated with PU, this bag is waterproof, providing an extra layer of security against the elements. It may not have a laptop compartment, but its lightweight construction and emphasis on function with an external bungee system are compelling. As one reviewer succinctly puts it, "Lightweight yet truly durable".
- Comparison Bullet Points:
- Cotopaxi Allpa 35L weighs 1.5 pounds and Exped Cloudburst 25 weighs 0.3 pounds
- Cotopaxi Allpa 35L has a capacity of 35 liters and Exped Cloudburst 25 has a capacity of 25 liters
- Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is made of 1680D ballistic nylon paneling and Exped Cloudburst 25 is made of 70 D taffeta nylon, PU coated
- Cotopaxi Allpa 35L has a 15-inch laptop compartment and Exped Cloudburst 25 has no laptop compartment
- Cotopaxi Allpa 35L has 80% airline compatibility and Exped Cloudburst 25 boasts 98% airline compatibility
While the added capacity and laptop compartment make it an excellent option for longer, more gear-intensive journeys, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L's real appeal is its durability and intuitive internal organization. It is perfect if your travels land you in less than forgiving conditions. But if you're seeking something simpler, then the Exped Cloudburst 25 might be more your speed. The lighter weight, high airline compatibility, and waterproofing make it an excellent choice for easy, minimalist travels. It's a fine line but one that could tip the scales depending on your travel needs. In essence, both backpacks have their merits and appeal to different types of travelers. The choice comes down to personal preferences and specific trip requirements.