Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Exped Mountain Pro 20
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 Mountain Pro 20 |
|---|---|---|
| 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 Oxford nylon, PU coated, 3'000 mm water column |
Exped Mountain Pro 20
| Capacity | 20 L |
| Weight | 1.12 kg |
| Dimensions | 50×29×17 cm |
| Airline fit | 81% |
| Price | $250 |
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Exped Mountain Pro 20 are both superb choices as a carry-on backpack. Cotopaxi's bag caters to every traveler, leveraging smart design, multiple amenities and durable paneling. Its 1680D ballistic nylon allows this pack to withstand rough handling meaning it can shrug off the beatings of an adventurous traveler. With a 35-liter capacity, the Allpa 35L can comfortably accommodate belongings needed for a week-long trip. Conversely, Exped's Mountain Pro 20 has a 20-liter capacity, making it more suitable for a shorter trip. The standout feature of Exped's backpack is its weatherproof construction using 420 D Oxford nylon. This sort of durability and water resistance is an assurance that your gear will stay dry.
Here is a bullet point comparison emphasizing the differences between the two backpacks:
- The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L has a 35-liter capacity while the Exped Mountain Pro 20 has a 20-liter capacity.
- The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is 1.5 pounds while the Exped Mountain Pro 20 is lighter at 1.12 pounds.
- The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L fits a 15" laptop, however, the Exped Mountain Pro 20 does not accommodate laptops.
- The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L has a comprehensive internal organization system, while the Exped Mountain Pro 20 focuses on a functional internal organization.
- The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L features 1680D ballistic nylon paneling while the Exped Mountain Pro 20 uses 420 D Oxford nylon, PU coated, yielding a 3'000 mm water column for higher water resistance.
When it comes to the reviews from front-line users, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L has been hailed for its simplicity, comfort, and internal organization system. It left one reviewer "pleasantly surprised", making it a top pick for users who value a seamless and intuitive backpack. Meanwhile, the Exped Mountain Pro 20's understated design is well received. Its clear and straight lines project 'professional backpack' to the eyes. The bag's minimalist aesthetic and practical design coupled with its weatherproof document bag make it a favorite among professionals or those who take shorter trips.
The decision to choose between Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Exped Mountain Pro 20 essentially boils down to individual needs and travel style. The Allpa 35L with its extensive capacity and internal organization is perfect for longer journeys, while the versatile Mountain Pro 20, with its weatherproof construction and slim design, is an excellent choice for short trips or daily commutes. Both provide comfort, durability, and thoughtful amenities, making them a worthy investment for any traveler.