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 | Osprey Talon 33 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | S |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 3 |
| Y | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | S |
| 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 | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | bluesign®-approved recycled 100D x 210D wave check high-tenacity nylon, PFC-free DWR |
When it comes to adopting an ideal carry-on pack, the choice narrows down to your style, preference, and on-ground needs. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and Osprey Talon 33 are both frontrunners in the industry, boasting distinct features that crown them leaders in their different capabilities. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L, a compact backpack compatible with 80% of airlines, is designed with 35-liters of capacity, perfect for adventurers needing extra space. This feature-rich backpack includes a 15-inch laptop compartment and is enticingly lightweight at 1.5 pounds.
The Osprey Talon 33, on the other hand, presents itself as an incredibly lightweight alternative at just 0.9 pounds. Made with bluesign-approved recycled high-tenacity nylon, this backpack has a slightly smaller capacity of 31 liters. It, however, is compatible with up to 89% of airlines, making it a good fit for frequent travelers. Unlike the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L, this backpack does not include a laptop compartment.
Reviewers have lauded both backpacks for their distinctive features. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L has been praised for being "simple, easy, comfortable, and durable", with an "intuitive and helpful" internal organization. Users have mentioned it could be the best configuration they’ve used so far. On the other hand, The Osprey Talon 33 has been hailed as an "incredibly versatile, and well-made" backpack, perfect for both light mountaineering and summer hiking.
Buying these backpacks has distinct advantages too. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L offers comfortable shoulder straps, a hip belt, and adjustable sternum straps for comfy carriage, a rain cover for protection, and additional space for a water bottle sleeve. The Osprey Talon 33 is beloved for being lightweight with a comfortable hip belt, lots of organized pockets, and an AirScape back panel suspension system that increases comfort and ventilation. In essence, both backpacks have their highlights and are tailored to cater to different needs, preferences, and adventures.