Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Millican Mathew

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 35LFeatureMillican Mathew
Storage
N Compression N
None Expanded Capacity None
4 Opening 0
Y Passport N
N Passthrough N
Carry
H Backpack
R Hip Belt N
S Sternum Strap N
Inside
15 Laptop 15
3 Main Compartments 4
Y Organizer N
Outside
× Hard Shell ×
N Rain-fly
0 Water Bottle Holder
Y Water Resistant Y
Material
1680D ballistic nylon paneling100% organic cotton canvas outer (weatherproofed)Waterproof 100% recycled polyester rain cover100% organic cotton lining70% vegetable tanned leather.

Millican Mathew

Front facing view of the Millican Mathew
Capacity22 L
Weight1.2 kg
Dimensions40×33×15 cm
Airline fit99%
Price$180

In the realm of robust, travel-ready backpacks, two models stand out quite distinctly: The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Millican Mathew. With key differences in size, weight, material, and capacity, both bear unique features that cater to different types of travelers. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L, with its hefty 35 liters of space, entails a larger size – 20 inches tall, 30 inches wide, and 51 inches deep to be precise - offering an exploratory gallivanter enough room to carry their world with them. On the contrary, the Millican Mathew is slightly tinier in comparison with its 22 liters of capacity, but that's what possibly makes it the more lightweight option — weighing in at 1.2 lbs as opposed to the Cotopaxi's 1.5 lbs.

While both these models inch closer in their compatibility with airlines - Cotopaxi Allpa 35L with 80% and Millican Mathew with a staggering 99%, their material makeup sets them from the same cloth, but apart as well. The Cotopaxi goes a sturdy route with 1680D ballistic nylon paneling whilst the Millican Mathew ensconces itself in 100% organic cotton canvas outer body, waterproofed naturally, with recycled polyester rain cover and organic cotton lining. The imagery of vegetable tanned leather sprinkled in the Mathew's canvas does add a tenderness to its ruggedness.

From the testimonies of experienced reviewers, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L swings attention for its simple, comfortable, and durable backpack experience. Its "internal organization" has been touted as intuitive and perhaps the best configuration ever used. Additionally, its comfortable shoulder straps, hip belt, and adjustable more appealing. A combination of collapsible mesh laundry bag, nylon shoe bag, and mesh water bottle sleeve makes it the top pick for light and easy travelers. On the other hand, Millican Mathew stands as a connoisseur's choice celebrating an organic and waterproof approach wherein its aesthetic appeal might be the magnetic draw for a discerning nomadic connoisseur. Just pack your style and taste of travel, you're bound to find a companion in either of these two.