Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. STM Kings
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 | STM Kings |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 4 |
| Y | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | N |
| S | Sternum Strap | N |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 15 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 2 |
| Y | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | 100% polyester |
When it comes to choosing a solid carry on backpack, there isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. With that in mind, let's delve into two solid contenders - the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the STM Kings. Both offer a variety of unique features that make them worth considering before your next jet-setting adventure.
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L, as its name suggests, boasts a whopping 35-liter capacity, bringing with it the possibility of packing that extra outfit or two. Yet, it does not compromise on portability - a comfortable shoulder strap, hip belt, and adjustable sternum straps make wearing this behemoth bearable. Although slightly large at 20 inches tall, it remains compatible with 80% of airlines. Made of durable 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, it will withstand the rugged life of travel. And of course, don't forget the added security and protection with the included rain cover and the extra goodies - a collapsible mesh laundry bag, a nylon shoe bag, and a mesh water bottle sleeve.
On the other hand, the STM Kings is a lighter, smaller alternative. It weighs in at only 0.95 pounds and has a slightly less capacity of 22 liters. Featuring the same 15-inch laptop compartment as the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L, the STM Kings is compatible with an even larger fraction of airlines at 83%. It's the perfect choice for professional nomads who value productivity – with the CableReady cable-routing system, a well-padded and suspended SlingTech pocket for device protection, and a separate pouch named "The Stash" to help organize smaller items.
To summarize:
- Cotopaxi Allpa 35L: Durable nylon fabric, larger capacity, compatible with 80% of airlines, and has copious well-thought-out extras (rain cover, collapsible laundry bag, shoe bag, water bottle sleeve).
- STM Kings: Lighter, more compact, with a device protection feature and a useful cable-routing system. It's more appropriate for a day trip or a quick overnight stay and is compatible with 83% of airlines.
So, it's clear that both the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the STM Kings shine in their unique ways. It all comes down to what you prioritize - space and durability or lightness and organization. Either way, both backpacks promise a smooth, organized travel experience you'll appreciate.