Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Exped Serac 25
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 Serac 25 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | N |
| 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 | 420 D ripstop nylon, TPU film laminate, >10'000 mm water column |
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Exped Serac 25 are both high quality backpacks suitable for carry on, but they cater to different traveller needs. The former being roomy and having a strong emphasis on organization, while the latter focuses on being light, sturdy and ready to face any weather condition.
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is spacious, boasting a 35 liters capacity compared to the Exped Serac 25’s 25 liters. At 1.5 pounds, it’s a bit heavier than the Serac 25, which weighs in at 0.765 pounds. However, it’s easy to see where the extra weight comes from. The Allpa 35L is designed with 1680D ballistic nylon panelling and has a myriad of storage compartments, including a laptop sleeve capable of fitting a 15 inch laptop. From numerous reviewers praises, what stands out is its intuitive internal organization, perfect for those faithfulness in neat packings.
On the other side, the Exped Serac 25 has been highlighted by users as an exceptional waterproof pack suited for the adventurous and active traveller. Even though it's not as voluminous as the Allpa 35L, it’s light and rugged, made from a 420 D ripstop nylon with a laminate coating. It doesn’t have a laptop compartment, hence the focus shifts towards efficient accessibility with side zippered access to main compartment, and multiple gear attachment points for outdoor adventures.
- Dimensions: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L measures 20x30x51 inches while Exped Serac 25 measures 21x25x55 inches.
- Weight: The Allpa 35L weighs 1.5 pounds, while the Serac 25 is lighter at 0.765 pounds.
- Capacity: The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L has a 35 liter capacity, while the Exped Serac 25 offers 25 liters.
- Airlines compatibility: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is compatible with 80% airlines, while Exped Serac 25 is compatible with 63% of airlines.
- Materials: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L utilizes 1680D ballistic nylon paneling while Exped Serac 25 is made from 420 D ripstop nylon and TPU film laminate.
- Laptop compartment: The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L can fit a 15 inch laptop, while the Exped Serac 25 has no dedicated laptop compartment.
Ultimately, choosing between these two depends on what kind of traveller you are. If you’re someone who likes to bring along a lot of gear, place a priority on organization, and might need to carry a laptop, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L sounds up your alley. But if you’re aiming for light and fast missions where versatility and weatherproof capabilities are required, then the Exped Serac 25 should be your backpack of choice.