Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Eagle Creek Convertabrief
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 | Eagle Creek Convertabrief |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | S |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 4 |
| Y | Passport | Y |
| N | Passthrough | Y |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | H |
| R | Hip Belt | N |
| S | Sternum Strap | N |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 17 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| Y | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 0 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | Bi-Tech™ Heather, 1000D Helix™ Poly Twill |
Eagle Creek Convertabrief
| Capacity | 26.5 L |
| Weight | 1.41 kg |
| Dimensions | 45×32×20 cm |
| Airline fit | 83% |
| Price | $199 |
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Eagle Creek Convertabrief carry-on backpacks are each designed with unique features to suit different travel needs and preferences. The Allpa is known for its substantial 35 liters of capacity built into a compact 20 inches tall, 30 inches wide, and 51 inches deep structure. It's a slightly heavier backpack, weighing in at 1.5 pounds but carries the durability of 1680D ballistic nylon paneling. For the tech travelers, it's got a laptop compartment that can fit a 15-inch laptop, fewer worries for those seeking to work while on the move.
The Convertabrief, on the other hand, offers a little less in space with a 26.5-liter capacity, but makes up for it with the extra maneuverability offered by its lightweight design of 1.41 pounds. It’s also 20 inches tall but slightly wider at 45 inches and less deep at 32 inches. Convertabrief also steps up the tech game, offering a laptop compartment that accommodates a 17-inch laptop. And it gets the brownie points for durability as well, constructed with Bi-Tech™ Heather, 1000D Helix™ Poly Twill.
- Dimensions: Allpa is 20" x 30" x 51", Convertabrief is 20" x 45" x 32"
- Weight: Allpa weighs 1.5 lbs, Convertabrief weighs 1.41 lbs
- Capacity: Allpa has 35 liters of capacity, Convertabrief has 26.5 liters of capacity
- Material: Allpa is made of 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, Convertabrief is made of Bi-Tech™ Heather, 1000D Helix™ Poly Twill
- Laptop Compartment: Allpa can fit a 15" laptop, Convertabrief can fit a 17" laptop
One is not categorically better than the other, but is rather dependent on individual travel style and needs. If high capacity and durable materials are your biggest considerations, the Allpa could be your new travel companion. The backpack was touted as the "perfect graduation gift for the budding world traveler," as well very comprehensive and intuitive when it comes to its internal organization.
Meanwhile, the Convertabrief is praised for its versatility and smart design that accommodates a mix of tech accessories and everyday essentials. It accommodates multiple carrying styles, serving well as a backpack, shoulder bag, or a briefcase depending on your need and preference. As one reviewer noted, "the bag can get really big when stuffed because there are just so many pockets." Plus, its stowable straps make it a versatile choice for various modes of travel, snugly fitting under airplane seats or stored conveniently in overhead cabins.