Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Patagonia Black Hole® Mini MLC® 26L

Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

Front facing view of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L
Capacity35 L
Weight1.3 kg
Dimensions56×30×25 cm
Airline fit26%
Price$225

Feature by feature

Cotopaxi Allpa 35LFeaturePatagonia Black Hole® Mini MLC® 26L
Storage
N Compression N
None Expanded Capacity None
1 Opening 1
front Passport top
Y Passthrough Y
Carry
hideable Backpack hideable
hideable Hip Belt removable
Y Sternum Strap removable
Inside
15in Laptop 16in
3 Main Compartments 3
Y Organizer Y
Outside
× Hard Shell ×
N Rain-fly N
1, side Water Bottle Holder 1, side
Y Water Resistant Y
Material
100% recycled 840D TPU-coated nylon8.7-oz 300-denier 100% postconsumer recycled polyester ripstop with a postindustrial recycled TPU-film laminate

Patagonia Black Hole® Mini MLC® 26L

Front facing view of the Patagonia Black Hole® Mini MLC® 26L
Capacity26 L
Weight1.3 kg
Dimensions52×30×18 cm
Airline fit88%
Price$200

When it comes to carry on backpacks, Cotopaxi’s Allpa 35L is a powerhouse player. Sized at 20x30x51 inches, you gain an impressive 35 liters of carrying capacity. Its lean 1.5-pound weight is attributable to its durable 1680D ballistic nylon paneling. The convenience doesn't end there. It flies with 80% of airlines, houses a 15-inch laptop with ease, and comes accessorized with standout items like a rain cover and mesh water bottle sleeve. Buyers' reviews affirm that its standout internal organization is commendable.

Now, let’s consider Patagonia's Black Hole® Mini MLC® 26L. Despite its smaller size (16x50x32 inches) and lighter weight (1.2 pounds), this backpack cuts no corners on practicality. It’s engineered with 300-denier postconsumer recycled polyester ripstop, and swears by a clamshell opening for quick packing. It's also friendly with 81% of airlines and houses a 15-inch laptop comfortably. Its rave review: the feature-full dynamic offers versatility - you can lug it around as a backpack, messenger bag, or duffel bag.

Here's a tidy sum of differences highlighted above:

In terms of consumer thoughts, the Allpa 35L is hailed as the top pick for simplicity and comfort, and is recommended as a great gift for young travellers. Cotopaxi banked in further by including a collapsible mesh laundry bag and a nylon shoe bag. Meanwhile, the Patagonia backpack wins big on durability, lightweight, and versatility, boosted by Patagonia’s Ironclad Guarantee.

Ultimately, if you lean towards more spacious carrying capacity and love a well-organized backpack, Cotopaxi might just be the backpack of your dreams. Conversely, if environmentally friendly materials, a multitude of carrying styles, and lightweight carry hold greater significance to you, the Patagonia Black Hole® Mini MLC® 26L might be the way to go. In summary, both are powerful players in carry-ons, excelling in unique areas to cater to diverse travelling needs.