Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
| Capacity | 35 L |
| Weight | 1.5 kg |
| Dimensions | 51×30×20 cm |
| Airline fit | 80% |
| Price | $200 |
| Cotopaxi Allpa 35L | Feature | Millican 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 paneling | 100% organic cotton canvas outer (weatherproofed)Waterproof 100% recycled polyester rain cover100% organic cotton lining70% vegetable tanned leather. |
| Capacity | 22 L |
| Weight | 1.2 kg |
| Dimensions | 40×33×15 cm |
| Airline fit | 99% |
| 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.