Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Deuter Ypsilon

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 Ypsilon
Storage
N Compression N
None Expanded Capacity None
4 Opening 4
Y Passport N
N Passthrough N
Carry
H Backpack S
R Hip Belt R
S Sternum Strap R
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 panelingPES 600 Coat, 600D PES

Deuter Ypsilon

Front facing view of the Deuter Ypsilon
Capacity28 L
Weight1.2 kg
Dimensions45×29×24 cm
Airline fit50%
Price$135

Understanding your needs when it comes to a carry-on backpack is key to choosing the right one. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Deuter Ypsilon are two worthy contenders that provide different options depending on your traveling style. The Allpa, known for its durability and impressive organizational features, boasts a laptop compartment for a 15 inch machine, a capacity of an ample 35 liters, and compatibility with 80% of airlines. With usages ranging from urban excursions to adventure travels, it indeed lives up to the praise of reviewers, one of which highlighted its intuitive internal organization as potentially the best configuration they've ever used.

On the other hand, the Deuter Ypsilon opts for a more compact design at 28 liters. It's both lighter than the Allpa, at 1.2 pounds, and smaller in size. Constructed with a durable PES 600 Coat, 600D PES, the Ypsilon presents a sturdy option for travelers who enjoy a simpler setup and folks who plan to fly with airlines that accommodate smaller carry-on luggage. However, it lacks a dedicated laptop compartment, which could be a deciding factor depending on your travel needs or preferences.

To sum up, let's list the main comparison points for both backpacks:

The Allpa's advantages include a set of additional accessories that can prove quite useful for neat packers, such as a collapsible mesh laundry bag, a nylon shoe bag, and a mesh water bottle sleeve. Comfort is also a highlight with well-thought-out straps design. The rain cover is another bonus that could give relief to travelers facing unpredictable weather or rough handling.

Ultimately, choosing between the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Deuter Ypsilon will come down to personal preferences and travel requirements. They both offer versatile options with differing focuses - with the Allpa veering towards the designed-for-everything route and the Ypsilon choosing to keep things minimalist and compact. So, consider your needs – size, weight, laptop compartment, airline compatibility – and pick accordingly. As the reviewers have noted – whether you are an outdoorsy traveler, a city roamer, or just someone looking for simple and durable, it is hard to go wrong with either. Cheers for your journey.