Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Patagonia SnowDrifter Pack 30L
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 | Patagonia SnowDrifter Pack 30L |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | S |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 4 |
| Y | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | S |
| S | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 0 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 2 |
| Y | Organizer | Y |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 0 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | 420-denier 100% recycled nylon , 200-denier 100% recycled polyester |
Patagonia SnowDrifter Pack 30L
| Capacity | 30 L |
| Weight | 1.91 kg |
| Dimensions | 54×30×18 cm |
| Airline fit | 79% |
| Price | $169 |
Right up front, it's important to note that both these packs are titans in their own right. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Patagonia SnowDrifter Pack 30L are renowned for being viable contenders in the carry-on backpack market. Designed by reputable outdoor outlets, both offer commendable features suited to the adventurous traveler. The Allpa, with its burly construction and enhanced capacity, and the SnowDrifter, with its emphasis on sustainable fabrication and impressive versatility.
- Size & Weight: The Allpa has a slightly larger overall size (20 x 30 x 51 inches) compared to the SnowDrifter (18 x 30 x 54 inches), allowing for greater packing capacity (35 liters versus 30 liters). Surprisingly, the sleek Allpa is also lighter, weighing in at 1.5 pounds compared to the SnowDrifter's 1.91 pounds.
- Material & laptop Compartment: The Allpa boasts 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, a considerable advantage in durability against the SnowDrifter's 420-denier 100% recycled nylon and 200-denier 100% recycled polyester. Both packs include laptop compartments, with the Allpa accommodating a 15 inch laptop and the SnowDrifter, none.
- Accessories & Organization: Each backpack comes with its fortés. The Allpa includes a rain cover, collapsible mesh laundry bag, nylon shoe bag, and a mesh water bottle sleeve. The SnowDrifter empowers excellent harness system, hip belt pockets, various attachment points, and multiple access points to the main compartment.
- Compatibility: While both packs meet the compatibility requirements of most airlines, the Allpa edges ahead with 80% compatibility versus the SnowDrifter's 79%.
Now let's dig deeper. The Allpa scores high on durability and versatility. Reviewers praise the bag's comfort, internal organization, and necessary accessories. With an intuitive layout and a bundle that includes rain cover and shoe bag, it's perfect for urban and outdoorsy travelers alike.
On the flip side, the SnowDrifter takes the cake for the eco-conscious adventurer. Being made from 100% recycled materials, this pack also stands its ground in the outdoors. It flaunts superior organization, a reliable harness system, and a flexible carry structure for outdoor gear such as snowboards. So, in short, whether you're hitting the city streets or traversing mountain trails, both the Allpa and the SnowDrifter pack are strong contenders. Your choice, in essence, boils down to what specific features meet your unique travel needs.