Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Ortlieb Messenger Bag

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 35LFeatureOrtlieb Messenger Bag
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 R
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 panelingPD620, PS620C

Ortlieb Messenger Bag

Front facing view of the Ortlieb Messenger Bag
Capacity39 L
Weight1.3 kg
Dimensions50×39×15 cm
Airline fit63%
Price$140

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Ortlieb Messenger Bag, both boast an extremely durable construction and a design that focuses on travel efficiency. However, differences can be spotted in their make, size, weight, capacity, and airline compatibility. The Allpa 35L, being a larger carry-on at 20x30x51 inches and a weight of 1.5 pounds, provides extra space. It is built from tough 1680D ballistic nylon and has a 35-liter capacity. Additionally, it can house a 15-inch laptop. With its impressionable design, it holds compatibility with 80% of airlines.

On the other hand, the smaller Ortlieb Messenger Bag comes with a size dimension of 15x39x50 inches and is slightly lighter at 1.3 pounds. Unlike Allpa 35L, the Messenger Bag lacks a laptop compartment. It is made from PD620, PS620C, and a little larger than Cotopaxi with a 39-liter capacity. The compatibility with airlines is a bit lower than Allpa 35L at 63%.

Reviews for both bags draw impressive parallels. In praises of Cotopaxi Allpa 35L, users highlight its intuitiveness, durability, internal organization, and overall ease of use. It makes for a successful travel companion. However, the Ortlieb Messenger Bag is hailed for its resilience, even after strenuous routine use. Its practicality and large capacity make it a viable option, unphased by a bit of edge-wear.

In conclusion, both the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Ortlieb Messenger Bag prove themselves to be worthy companions for the avid traveller. The choice between the two would largely depend on your personal preference regarding aesthetics, laptop compatibility, and airline compatibility. The Allpa 35L, with its larger size, extra laptop compartment, and superior airline compatibility, is suited for those who prefer streamlined organization. However, if you value compactness, durability, and a bit more storage space, then the Messenger Bag stands out. It may lack a laptop compartment, but it shines in practicality and its large capacity.