Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. GORUCK GR1 26
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 | GORUCK GR1 26 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 4 |
| Y | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | N |
| S | Sternum Strap | N |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 17 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 3 |
| Y | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 0 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | 1000D Cordura |
If we were to do a side-by-side comparison of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the GORUCK GR1 26, some interesting contrasts emerge. Both backpacks are lightweight, checking in at 1.5 pounds each, making them comfortable for daily carry or carry-on travel. However, the Allpa 35L, as its name suggests, boasts a larger overall capacity, making it the front runner if you're looking to stuff as much as you can into your pack.
The GR1 26, on the other hand, gains the edge when it comes to compatibility with airlines. At a 98% compatibility rating, it just nudges out the Allpa 35L's 80% rating. If you're a frequent flyer who values the simplicity of carrying on, the GR1 26 might be your best bet.
Here are the bullet points:
-
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L
- Measures 20x30x51 inches
- Weighs 1.5 pounds
- Has a 35L capacity
- Compatible with 80% of airlines
- Made of 1680D ballistic nylon paneling
- Can accommodate a 15-inch laptop
-
GORUCK GR1 26
- Measures 51x31x18 inches
- Weighs 1.5 pounds
- Capacity of 26L
- Compatible with 98% of airlines
- Crafted from 1000D Cordura
- Can house a 17-inch laptop
Material wise, the Cotopaxi leans on 1680D Ballistic Nylon Paneling, providing it with a resilient outer layer, while the GR1 26's 1000D Cordura offers robustness and durability too, making both packs suitable for rough and tumble travel conditions. Items of value are also well protected, with separate laptop compartments available in both – the Allpa 35L catering to 15-inch machines, and the GR1 26 accommodating beefier 17-inch models.
Reviews for both these packs have been largely positive. Users have hailed the Allpa 35L's intuitively designed organization and convenience, making it an ideal giftpiece for the aspirant globetrotter. The GR1 26, in contrast, is lauded for its rugged durability, and seen as a bag that can hold its own in both formal and more tactical or outdoor environments, offering the user a chance to customize it to their liking. Therefore, either of these packs would make a solid choice, depending on your specific needs and aesthetic preferences.