Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Ortlieb Atrack ST

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

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

Front facing view of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L
Capacity35 L
Weight1.5 kg
Dimensions51×30×20 cm
Airline fit80%
Price$200

Feature by feature

Cotopaxi Allpa 35LFeatureOrtlieb Atrack ST
Storage
N Compression S
None Expanded Capacity None
4 Opening 4
Y Passport N
N Passthrough N
Carry
H Backpack S
R Hip Belt S
S Sternum Strap S
Inside
15 Laptop 0
3 Main Compartments 1
Y Organizer
Outside
× Hard Shell ×
N Rain-fly N
0 Water Bottle Holder 2
Y Water Resistant Y
Material
1680D ballistic nylon panelingPS33

Ortlieb Atrack ST

Front facing view of the Ortlieb Atrack ST
Capacity25 L
Weight1.41 kg
Dimensions56×26×25 cm
Airline fit38%
Price$250

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and Ortlieb Atrack ST are both reliable choices when it comes to carry-on backpacks. Both are renowned for their durability and versatility due to their ideal weight and size specifications. However, each backpack does have quite different qualities that set them apart complexly. The Allpa 35L, standing at 20 inches tall, 30 inches wide, and 51 inches deep, offers a fairly comfortable fit - and it's sleek 1.5-pound figure makes for a near weightless experience. Contrastingly, the Atrack ST, slightly taller at 25 inches, provides a spacious 26-inch width and depth of 56-inches. Its lighter weight of 1.41 pounds underscores the meticulous design focus on lightweight practicality.

A quick comparison of these two backpacks would look like this:

One of the stand-out points is the airliner compatibility. The Allpa 35L, having the edge, is admissible with 80% of airlines as opposed to the Atrack ST's 38% compatibility. This statistic becomes critical when considering long-haul, intercontinental flights where airline regulations are more strictly upheld.

Looking at the materials used, the Allpa 35L is constructed with 1680D ballistic nylon paneling - a sturdy yet lightweight material highly appreciated for its excellent durability and high resistance to wear and tear. Meanwhile, the Atrack ST is built using PS33, another commendable rugged material well-suited for outdoor activities. Lastly, to the advantage of digital nomads everywhere, the Allpa 35L includes a spacious laptop compartment that fits 15-inch laptops comfortably, while the Atrack ST, unfortunately, does not offer similar accommodation.

In the words of one reviewer, "the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is a great all-around bag that is smartly designed for carry-on compliance and can suit both urban and outdoorsy travelers alike." The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L, praised for its organization and comfortability, seems tailored to the easy-going yet prepared adventurer. Meanwhile, the Ortlieb Atrack ST comes highly recommended for those venturing into graver terrains. Its weatherproof properties and outdoor gear attachments are set to impress any undaunted explorer. It's a backpack that's well-developed, intuitive, and takes into account theft-deterrence design whilst providing comfort. Now, whether you're about to embark on an urban excursion or an adventurous hike, the choice is yours.