Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. GORUCK GR3
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 GR3 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | S |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 0 |
| Y | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | |
| S | Sternum Strap | |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 17 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 2 |
| 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 |
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the GORUCK GR3 are two of the best carry-on travel backpacks on the market—each with its unique feature set. The Cotopaxi Allpa, lightweight and compact, is impeccably designed with utility in mind. It sports durable 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, with a 35-liter capacity storage. This mid-sized carry on is ideal for a couple weeks travel and surprisingly compatible with 80% of airlines globally. It also keeps digitized nomads in mind with a laptop compartment suitable for a 15-inch device. Several reviewers commend this pack for its simplicity, durability, and intuitive internal organization.
When it's about the GORUCK GR3, we talk about resilience and generosity in space. It is a bit larger, weighing 2.3 pounds, built with a near-indestructible 1000D Cordura while offering a generous 45-liter capacity. At 23 inches tall, it's roomy enough to serve as a one-bag solution for extended trips and, impressively, compatible with 97% of airlines. This beast houses a laptop compartment large enough for a 17-inch laptop. Multiple reviews point to it as a tank of a pack, ideal for those needing a unique mix of carry-on size and extensive space.
- Size and Weight: The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L measures 20x30x51 inches and weighs 1.5 pounds, while the GORUCK GR3 measures 23x36x56 inches and weighs 2.3 pounds.
- Capacity: 35 liters for Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and 45 liters for GORUCK GR3.
- Airlines Compatibility: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is compatible with 80%, and the GORUCK GR3 is with 97% of airlines.
- Material: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is made of 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, while the GORUCK GR3 is constructed from 1000D Cordura.
- Laptop Compartment: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L can fit a 15-inch laptop, while GORUCK GR3 accommodates a 17-inch laptop.
Buyers of both the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the GORUCK GR3 have their solid reasons. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L's several outstanding features—rain cover for enhanced protection and additional security, comfortable straps and hip belt, and included miscellaneous accessories such as a collapsible mesh laundry bag, nylon shoe bag, and a mesh water bottle sleeve—make it a popular option among frequent travelers.
Then, GORUCK GR3's reputation precedes it for an array of positive reasons. Its extreme durability and superior quality build, interior velcro layout for organized storage, customizable features, and great comfort even when fully loaded have made avid globetrotters take a liking to this model. In comparison, the two offer distinct yet commendable sets of features suited to different traveling styles and demands.