Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Arc'Teryx Arro 22

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 35LFeatureArc'Teryx Arro 22
Storage
N Compression N
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 15
3 Main Compartments 1
Y Organizer N
Outside
× Hard Shell ×
N Rain-fly N
0 Water Bottle Holder 2
Y Water Resistant Y
Material
1680D ballistic nylon paneling1260-denier Invista Ballistic Superpack nylon

Arc'Teryx Arro 22

Front facing view of the Arc'Teryx Arro 22
Capacity22 L
Weight0 kg
Dimensions55×30×25 cm
Airline fit91%
Price$180

If you had to pit the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L against the Arc'Teryx Arro 22 for the title of ultimate carry-on backpack, it'd be quite the contest. Both backpacks tout their features in size, weight, capacity, airline compatibility, materials, and laptop compartments. But what sets them apart lies in the subtleties. We must brush away the trumpets of marketing, and get down to brass tacks - or in this case, ballistic nylons and reviewer quotes.

Let's start with size, in the literal sense of the word. The Allpa 35L weighs a total of 1.5 pounds and provides a roomy 35 liters worth of packing capacity. In comparison, the Arro 22 seems lighter, with its non-existent weight, but offers only 22 liters of space. But where the Allpa boasts of 80% airline compatibility, the Arro only manages to be compatible with 47%. In this aspect, the Allpa might just be more world travel friendly.

Here's a brief breakout comparison:

The material both bags boast of is the best in terms of durability. Allpa 35L uses 1680D ballistic nylon paneling in its construction, while Arro 22 is made up of the 1260-denier Invista Ballistic Superpack nylon. Reviewers praise both packs for their durability, and the Arro 22 for its minimalistic aesthetic appeal and comfort.

In sum, the choice between the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Arc'Teryx Arro 22 ultimately boils down to the kind of traveler you are. Are you one who prefers a light pack with a sleek minimalist design or one who needs a heavy-duty pack that's world-travel ready and geared for organization? The traveler decides.