Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Kifaru Antero

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 35LFeatureKifaru Antero
Storage
N Compression N
None Expanded Capacity None
4 Opening 4
Y Passport N
N Passthrough N
Carry
H Backpack S
R Hip Belt R
S Sternum Strap S
Inside
15 Laptop 15
3 Main Compartments 3
Y Organizer N
Outside
× Hard Shell ×
N Rain-fly N
0 Water Bottle Holder 2
Y Water Resistant Y
Material
1680D ballistic nylon paneling500 Denier CorduraLined with 400 D packcloth

Kifaru Antero

Front facing view of the Kifaru Antero
Capacity24.5 L
Weight1.4 kg
Dimensions49×26×16 cm
Airline fit99%
Price$300

Let's dissect the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Kifaru Antero, two top-ranking carry-on backpacks, like expert wilderness guides. The Allpa 35L cinched the top of the list, compact, portable with its 20-inch height, 30-inch width, and 51-inch depth - a proper fit for any urban or outdoorsy travel you have in mind. Now, this doesn't mean that with its 49-inch height, 26-inch width, and 16-inch depth, that the Kifaru Antero is a pushover. On the contrary, it has proven its mettle. Despite its larger size, it comes surprisingly lighter at 1.4 pounds compared to Allpa's 1.5 pounds.

However, if storage capacity is a pressing concern, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L irrefutably packs more punch with its 35-litre volume against Antero's 24.5 litres. Though Kifaru's Antero gratifies with enhanced airline compatibility, being appropriate for 99% of airlines versus Allpa's 80%. Both are durably designed, with Allpa boasting 1680D ballistic nylon paneling and Antero featuring 500 Denier CorduraLined with 400 D packcloth.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is touted for its internal organization, intuitive and resourceful, arguably embodying the best configuration thus far. Concatenate this with its included rain cover, durable material, and optional extras like the collapsible mesh laundry bag, nylon shoe bag and a mesh water bottle sleeve, and it's easy to see why this is the recommended pack for the "budding world traveler."

On the flip side, the Kifaru Antero, though not as compact, is voluminous in its features. The magnetic pull lies in its neat organization, complete with front-pouch attachment compatibility – a graceful nod to Kifaru's outdoor company roots. Its quick-access zippers to the main compartment and the comfortable back panel with solid ventilation adds the icing to the bag's appeal.

You decide based on your travel style and requirements. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and Kifaru Antero are both top contenders in their category. Each has its standout features and is likely to serve any traveler, whether urban or adventurer, withcertifiable reliability and convenience.