Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Exped Metro 30
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 Metro 30 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 2 |
| Y | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | H |
| S | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 15 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| Y | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | 600 D ripstop polyester, PU coated, 1'200 mm water column |
Stepping into the battle of the backpacks, two major contenders make their way to the arena, Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and Exped Metro 30. Both are sturdy, brilliantly designed for minimalistic yet practical use, but subtle differences set them apart.
The Allpa 35L is a beast of a pack, boasting a hefty 35-liter capacity, more than enough for your essential travel or outdoor gear. Built to withstand rough handling, it features tough, 1680D ballistic nylon paneling. Designed for versatile carrying options, it packs an impressive compatibility with 80% of airlines. The Allpa 35L exemplifies thoughtfulness with an included rain cover and extra security, a collapsible mesh laundry bag, nylon shoe bag, and a mesh water bottle sleeve. It even has a dedicated 15-inch laptop sleeve. Reviewers find its internal organization intuitive and helpful, earning it their high praises.
The Exped Metro 30 shares a commonality with its competitor when it comes to a dedicated 15-inch laptop compartment but offers a sleeker, more inconspicuous aesthetic for urban use. It's designed with a 600D ripstop polyester, PU coated, 1'200 mm water column to endure everyday wear and tear despite its lighter construction. However, its smaller 28-liter capacity and airline compatibility of just 47% makes it less versatile.
- Size: While the Allpa 35L is larger at 20 by 30 by 51 inches (and bigger capacity), the Metro 30 is incrementally smaller at 19 by 29 by 56 inches
- Weight: The Metro 30 comes in lighter at 0.8 pounds compared to the Allpa's 1.5 pounds.
- Material: Allpa 35L brings durability with its 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, while Metro 30 goes for a 600D ripstop polyester, PU coated, 1'200 mm water column build.
- Compatibility: With 80% airline compatibility, Allpa 35L finds more favor than the Metro 30's 47%.
- Capacity: The Allpa 35L sports a more spacious 35-liter capacity, dwarfing the Metro 30's 28 liters.
- Reviews: Whereas Metro 30 is appreciated for its simple, stylish, and sustainable design, the Allpa 35L shines brighter with its robust organization, versatility, and durability.
The Exped Metro 30 fights back with its lighter construction, making it easier to carry around without compromising much on durability. It also comes with a liter-independent laptop compartment for convenience and less clutter. It tics sustainability boxes with its Bluesign Certification, translating into responsible and clean manufacturing. Reviewers commend the Metro 30 for its sleek aesthetics and good craftsmanship.
Caught in this backpack battle, the victor is up to preference. Whether you lean towards the robust and versatile Cotopaxi Allpa 35L or favor the lighter and sleeker Exped Metro 30, both stand out as phenomenal options.