Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. GORUCK Echo 16L
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 | GORUCK Echo 16L |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 0 |
| Y | Passport | |
| N | Passthrough | |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | |
| R | Hip Belt | |
| S | Sternum Strap | |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 0 |
| Y | Organizer | |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | |
| Y | Water Resistant | |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | |
Heading into the market for a sturdy, reliable carry-on backpack? Cotopaxi's Allpa 35L and Goruck's Echo 16L, both worthy contenders, come chalked full of features to satisfy the wanderlust in you. However, there are some glaring differences between the two.
The Allpa 35L, living up to its name, boasts a spacious 35-liter capacity. Measuring 20 x 30 x 51 inches, it dwarfs the Echo 16L, which has a 16-liter capacity and is apparently dimensionless. At 1.5 pounds, the Allpa 35L carries a bit of weight, but in return, offers ample internal organization and added benefits such as an included rain cover, collapsible mesh laundry bag, nylon shoe bag, and a water bottle sleeve. As one reviewer fondly declared, this bag could be "the perfect graduation gift for the budding world traveler."
On to some specifics:
- Size: Allpa 35L(20x30x51 inches ; 35-liter capacity), Echo 16L (0x0x0 inches ; 16-liter capacity)
- Weight: Allpa 35L (1.5 pounds), Echo 16L (0 pounds)
- Airline Compatibility: Allpa 35L (80%), Echo 16L (100%)
- Material: Allpa 35L (1680D ballistic nylon paneling), Echo 16L (Unknown)
- Laptop Compartment: Allpa 35L (Yes - up to a 15-inch laptop), Echo 16L (No)
Despite its smaller size and apparent lack of dimension, don't be too quick to brush the Echo 16L aside. Compatibility with all airlines surely is an appealing factor, and with its weight clocking in at zero pounds, it surely promises a hassle-free, lightweight travel experience. Data about the material is currently MIA, but if we draw from GORUCK's reputation, we can be assured that it's designed to last. However, one sticking point could be the lack of a dedicated laptop compartment, a feature that the Allpa 35L proudly hosts.
No matter your final choice, both the Allpa 35L and Echo 16L come with their unique selling propositions. If the sheer size and added utility of the Allpa 35L appeal to you, it's a solid choice, being lauded as "smartly designed for carry-on compliance." However, if you prefer a featherlight travel experience and don't particularly yearn for a laptop compartment, the Echo 16L may just be the better option. Keep in mind your specific needs and preferences and choose accordingly. Safe travels!