Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Deuter Trans Alpine 32 EL

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 35LFeatureDeuter Trans Alpine 32 EL
Storage
N Compression S
None Expanded Capacity None
4 Opening 4
Y Passport N
N Passthrough N
Carry
H Backpack S
R Hip Belt S
S Sternum Strap S
Inside
15 Laptop 0
3 Main Compartments 1
Y Organizer Y
Outside
× Hard Shell ×
N Rain-fly S
0 Water Bottle Holder 2
Y Water Resistant Y
Material
1680D ballistic nylon paneling210D PA, 600D PES

Deuter Trans Alpine 32 EL

Front facing view of the Deuter Trans Alpine 32 EL
Capacity32 L
Weight1.26 kg
Dimensions58×28×24 cm
Airline fit30%
Price$150

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Deuter Trans Alpine 32 EL are both travel-friendly rucksacks perfect for carry-on travel, but of course, they're not created equal.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is a neat package of convenience and durability. It is slightly smaller compared to the Deuter Trans Alpine 32 EL. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L has a hold capacity of 35 liters and its dimensions are 20x30x51 inches. It is made out of sturdy 1680D ballistic nylon paneling that can surely withstand the wear and tear of travel. Travelers will delight in its laptop compartment that can snugly fit a 15-inch laptop. But its standout feature might be its wide compatibility, being fit for 80% of airline size restrictions.

On the other hand, the Deuter Trans Alpine 32 EL weighs slightly lighter at 1.26 pounds, but it has a slightly smaller capacity of 32 liters within its 24x28x58-inch dimensions. Made of 210D PA and 600D PES, it guarantees durability in a different style. Unfortunately, it doesn't match up with airline compatibility, only pass muster with 30% of them. The lack of a laptop compartment is a glaring disadvantage as well.

==> A Quick Recap

The Cotopaxi Allpa comes with several enticing extras for convenience - a rain cover, a collapsible mesh laundry bag, a nylon shoe bag, and a mesh water bottle sleeve. This, along with its comfortable shoulder straps, hip belt, and adjustable sternum straps makes for a snug and personalized fit that easily adapts to you. High praise from reviewers testifies to its merits, they recommend it for urban and outdoorsy travelers alike, dubbing it the top pick for light and easy travel.

At the end of the day, your choice between the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Deuter Trans Alpine 32 EL will come down to your specific needs and travel style. If size, capacity, and airline compatibility matters more to you, Cotopaxi Allpa 35L takes the cake. But for a slightly lighter carry with exclusive material aesthetic, Deuter Trans Alpine 32 EL could be your go-to. Happy pack-picking!