Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Exped Verglas 40
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 | Exped Verglas 40 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | S |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 3 |
| Y | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | R |
| 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 | 0 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | 210 D Robic HD Ripstop Nylon Carbonate PU, 2'500 mm water column |
When it comes to selecting the ideal carry-on backpack, a head-to-head comparison between contenders such as the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Exped Verglas 40 is invaluable. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is of medium size, weighing in at 1.5 pounds and boasting dimensions of 20 inches in height, 30 inches in width, and 51 inches in depth. This provides a comfortable 35 liters of capacity—an ample amount for most travelers. The material, 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, promises durability and longevity. Its compatibility with a whopping 80% of airlines also bodes well for those who frequently fly. Not to be overlooked is a laptop compartment which can comfortably accommodate a 15-inch laptop.
On the other side of the ring, there's the Exped Verglas 40. Slightly larger, this contender stands proud at 26 inches tall, 32 inches wide, and a generous 63 inches deep, offering a superior capacity of 40 liters. Comprised of 210 D Robic HD Ripstop Nylon Carbonate PU with a 2,500 mm water column, the backpack is undoubtedly robust and water-resistant. Although this model beats the Cotopaxi Allpa in size, it falls short in terms of airline compatibilities, catering to only 19% of airlines.
Comparison Points
- Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is slightly smaller and heavier while the Exped Verglas 40 offers more space and is lighter.
- Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is compatible with more airlines compared to Exped Verglas 40.
- Cotopaxi offers a 15-inch laptop compartment while Exped Verglas 40 does not have a dedicated laptop space.
- Different material construction—ballistic nylon for Cotopaxi versus ripstop nylon for Exped.
Favorable reviews and a plethora of useful features give the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L a strong competitive edge. Testimonials heap praises upon its practicality, simplicity, and excellent internal organization. It comes with extras as well—a rain cover for additional protection, a collapsible mesh laundry bag, a nylon shoe bag, and a mesh water bottle sleeve. Comfort also gets a nod, with comfortable shoulder straps, hip belt, and adjustable sternum straps earning praise.
While the Exped Verglas 40 may lag behind in airline compatibility, it shines when it comes to outdoor usage. Its durability, weatherproof build, and various attachment points for outdoor gear are prominent strengths. In addition, the backpack offers side access to the main compartment—a convenient feature that saves users from having to open the top flap when they need to retrieve something from the bottom of the bag. Furthermore, the removable hip belt features highly convenient pockets for small items.
The choice runway, simply put—the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L for urban or light travelers who prioritize organization and extras, and the Exped Verglas 40 for outdoor enthusiasts who value durability and functionality.