Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Deuter Giga EL
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 | Deuter Giga EL |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | S |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 17 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| Y | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | R |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | 300D PES Ripstop |
When it comes to carrying your essentials, two distinct choices stand out: The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Deuter Giga EL. The Allpa brings a certain rugged durability to the table with its 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, strong enough to withstand the rigors of travel while keeping your belongings safe. Its real charm, as many users have noted, lies in its internal organization, simple, intuitive, and considered by many to be one of the best on the market. Meanwhile, a laptop compartment accommodating a 15-inch laptop, rain cover, a collapsible mesh laundry bag, nylon shoe bag, cushioned shoulder straps and hip belt blend for a perfect travel companion.
On the flip side, we've got the Deuter Giga EL, a lighter backpack at 1.05 pounds crafted from 300D PES Ripstop, which adds an extra layer of durability. With a larger laptop compartment fitting a 17-inch laptop and an excellent document compartment to keep your documentation wrinkle-free, it offers an air of practical class. Also worth noting is its additional length, making it an ideal fit for taller individuals, and the popular Airstripes back system that ensures the secure fit of the bag while providing back ventilation.
A rundown of their differences would look like:
- Weight: Cotopaxi Allpa - 1.5 lbs, Deuter Giga EL - 1.05 lbs
- Width: Cotopaxi Allpa - 30 inches, Deuter Giga EL - 33 inches
- Build Material: Cotopaxi Allpa - 1680D ballistic nylon, Deuter Giga EL - 300D PES Ripstop
- Laptop Compartment: Cotopaxi Allpa - fits 15 inch laptop, Deuter Giga EL - fits 17 inch laptop
- Capacity: Cotopaxi Allpa - 35 liter, Deuter Giga EL - 32 liter
- Initial compatibility: Cotopaxi Allpa - 80% airlines, Deuter Giga EL - 79% airlines
All in all, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is a reliable, compact companion for nimble exploring, whether urban or rural. Commended by users for its simplicity, comfort, and durability, this backpack was singled out as an excellent graduation gift for budding travelers. Uncommon perks like a rain cover and a collapsible mesh laundry bag underline Allpa's thoughtful design and attention to detail.
But for the taller traveler or those with larger tech needs, the Deuter Giga EL edges out with its larger laptop compartment and extended length. Its specialization in organization, ventilated back system, and dedicated document compartment put it a notch above the rest, marking it as a compelling contender in the carry-on backpack contest.