Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Osprey Quasar 28L

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 35LFeatureOsprey Quasar 28L
Storage
N Compression S
None Expanded Capacity None
4 Opening 0
Y Passport N
N Passthrough N
Carry
H Backpack S
R Hip Belt S
S Sternum Strap S
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 paneling210/420/630D Nylon Dobby Blend

Osprey Quasar 28L

Front facing view of the Osprey Quasar 28L
Capacity28 L
Weight0.8 kg
Dimensions34×28×6 cm
Airline fit100%
Price$149

When sizing up the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Osprey Quasar 28L backpacks, it's clear they both bring a lot to the table, particularly in matters of design, convenience, and durability. The Cotopaxi Allpa bag has a solid construction, with its 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, giving assurance against wear and tear. Space is another clear advantage with an impressive 35 liters of capacity perfect for the weight-conscious traveler. Suitable for 80% of airlines, it's a safe bet for those who find themselves frequently airborne. Add to that, it's got comfortable shoulder straps, a hip belt, and adjustable sternum straps making it easy to bear.

As for the Osprey Quasar 28L, it's a nimble bag with a fairly compact profile. The 28L capacity may not rival its Cotopaxi counterpart, but it certainly doesn’t compromise on functionality. It has an air of lightness, weighing in at just 0.8 pounds. Made from a unique blend of 210/420/630D Nylon Dobby, it reflects a thoughtful balance of strength and flexibility. Perhaps the real game-changer is its airline compatibility. This backpack covers them all, banishing travel anxiety for good.

Here are the differences at a glance:

Buyers have found numerous reasons to love these bags. Reviewers familiarized with the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L express a fondness for its simple, comfortable, intuitive design, which makes it an attractive pick. Not one to be outdone, the Osprey Quasar 28L thrives on rave reviews that flag its superb functionality as a commuter backpack.

Choosing between these two is less about finding the “better” backpack, and more about identifying what suits you, the traveler. Whether it’s the generously spaced Cotopaxi Allpa 35L, or the feather-light and airport-friendly Osprey Quasar 28L, it's going to be a promising carry-on experience.