Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
| Capacity | 35 L |
| Weight | 1.5 kg |
| Dimensions | 51×30×20 cm |
| Airline fit | 80% |
| Price | $200 |
| Cotopaxi Allpa 35L | Feature | Alpha One-Niner Recon Nine Evade 1.5 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | S |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 0 |
| Y | Passport | back |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | N |
| S | Sternum Strap | R |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 17 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 5 |
| Y | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | Solid Color 500D Nylonor Camouflage 500D Nylon Corduraor 420D Diamond Ripstop Nylon |
| Capacity | 27 L |
| Weight | 1.6 kg |
| Dimensions | 47×31×18 cm |
| Airline fit | 98% |
| Price | $160 |
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Alpha One-Niner Recon Nine Evade 1.5 are top-notch carry on backpack choices, each built with the user in mind. But, despite their shared quality and versatility, the two offerings contrast in significant ways.
The Allpa 35L by Cotopaxi is engineered for adventure. It offers ample storage space at 35 liters and weighs a mere 1.5 pounds. It’s designed to fit easily in most overhead compartments, with an impressive compatibility range with 80% of airlines. Durability shines through in its construction of 1680D ballistic nylon paneling. It also comes with a laptop compartment that targets the modern, tech-savvy traveler, fitting devices up to 15 inches.
The Alpha One-Niner Recon Nine Evades 1.5, on the other hand, offers different strengths without compromising on quality. While more slender with a 27-liter capacity, it is overall larger and weighs slightly more at 1.6 pounds. Its compatibility is its biggest trump card as it fits into a whopping 98% of airlines. The backpack offers a variety of materials from Solid Color 500D Nylon, Camouflage 500D Nylon Cordura, or 420D Diamond Ripstop Nylon. The laptop compartment stands out in capacity, allowing up to 17 inch laptops.
Reviewers' opinions and use-cases illustrate that both bags have made waves for their thoughtful features. Notably, the Allpa has pulled in strong reviews for its efficient internal organization, earning it favor among many users. Conversely, the Evade has captured attention for its slim profile, making it an attractive choice in crowded spaces.
Both bags showcase unique perks and traits. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L fits the bill for the robust, world-trekking adventurers needing ample space and rugged durability. The Alpha One-Niner Recon Nine Evade 1.5, though smaller in capacity, impresses with wider airline compatibility, variety in material, and has a larger laptop compartment. These are top-tier choices, yet their ideal user varies based on the advantages that align best with their travel needs.