Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Eagle Creek Wayfinder 40L
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 | Eagle Creek Wayfinder 40L |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 4 |
| Y | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | H |
| S | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 17 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| Y | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | R |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | 300D Dual-Diamond Heather Ripstop, 500D Poly RPVB Coating |
Eagle Creek Wayfinder 40L
| Capacity | 40 L |
| Weight | 1.17 kg |
| Dimensions | 53×35.5×21 cm |
| Airline fit | 60% |
| Price | $130 |
When it comes to the perfect carry-on backpack, both the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Eagle Creek Wayfinder 40L have a lot to offer. The former is a compact yet roomy piece of equipment, compatible with 80% of airlines and crafted out of robust 1680D ballistic nylon paneling. At the same time, the 35L capacity allows for a decent amount of stuff to carry, and the laptop compartment seems perfect for a 15-inch laptop.
On the other hand, the Eagle Creek Wayfinder 40L presents itself as a slightly larger venture, boasting a capacity of 40 liters and dimensions of 21x53x35.5 inches. Its compatibility may drop to 60% of airlines, but the construct of dual-diamond heather ripstop with a poly coating promises a strong and durable lifetime. Plus, the ability to house a 17-inch laptop could be a major winner for some.
- Size: Cotopaxi Allpa is 20x30x51 inches; Eagle Creek Wayfinder is 21x53x35.5 inches
- Weight: Cotopaxi Allpa weighs 1.5 pounds; Eagle Creek Wayfinder weighs 1.17 pounds
- Capacity: Cotopaxi Allpa has 35L; Eagle Creek Wayfinder has 40L
- Airline compatibility: Cotopaxi Allpa is more widely accepted at 80%, while the Eagle Creek Wayfinder is a little lower at 60%
- Material: Cotopaxi Allpa is made from 1680D ballistic nylon paneling; Eagle Creek Wayfinder uses 300D Dual-Diamond Heather Ripstop, 500D Poly RPVB Coating
- Laptop Compartment: Cotopaxi Allpa can fit a 15 inch laptop, while Eagle Creek Wayfinder houses a 17 inch one.
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L has had quite some rave reviews, with people praising its simple yet effective design and awesome internal organization. The reviewers seem to agree upon its suitability for both urban and outdoorsy travels, finding its strengths mainly around the easy accessibility and durability.
On the contrary, Eagle Creek Wayfinder 40L was celebrated as the best budget option for one-bag travel in 2021. It got high marks for the secure zip toggles, spacious hidden electronics pocket, and the comfortable harness system even when fully loaded. Some may argue that it's wandering too much between travel pack and bookbag, but if the organization scheme works for you, this could be the winning ticket.