Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Able Carry Max Backpack
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 | Able Carry Max Backpack |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 1 |
| Y | Passport | Y |
| N | Passthrough | |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | N |
| S | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | 16 |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 2 |
| Y | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 1 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | 1000D Cordura Nylon |
Able Carry Max Backpack
| Capacity | 30 L |
| Weight | 1.72 kg |
| Dimensions | 52×32×20 cm |
| Airline fit | 79% |
| Price | $260 |
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L takes no prisoners when it comes to quality. The bag's 1680D ballistic nylon paneling is near bulletproof and it carries this durability while only weighing a slim 1.5 pounds. This doesn't mean lack of space, though; it has a 35L capacity that makes it a friend to travellers, fitting perfectly within 80% of airlines' specifications. While most pros would be pleased with a safe laptop compartment, Cotopaxi went the extra mile to ensure it not only secures your laptop (up to 15 inches) but comes with additional niceties: a mesh laundry bag, nylon shoe bag, and a water bottle sleeve.
The Able Carry Max Backpack isn't far behind. Made of 1000D Cordura Nylon, this bag brings just as much strength and endurance as it's competitor. Weighing slightly more at 1.72 pounds, the Max Backpack compensates by having more wiggle room width and depth wise. It's narrower on space, with 30L capacity, but offers a larger laptop compartment that generously fits a 16 inch laptop. Where this pack stands out, however, is in its organization and revolutionary "Dual-Use Design" that separates the work compartment from the main one.
-
Cotopaxi Allpa
- 35L capacity
- Weighs 1.5 pounds
- 1680D ballistic nylon paneling
- Fits a 15 inch laptop
- Approved by 80% of airlines
-
Able Carry Max
- 30L capacity
- Weighs 1.72 pounds
- 1000D Cordura Nylon
- Fits a 16 inch laptop
- Approved by 79% of airlines
Reviewers have had only high praise for both bags. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L received raving remarks for its quality construction, comfortable straps, and thoughtful added accessories - consolidating it as a high-value purchase for those favoring long treks or frequent flights. The Able Carry Max, meanwhile, had testers singing the praise of its harness system along with its durably impressive materials and organization that brought an element of mess-free order to even the busiest of travels. Depending on your requirements, both of these backpacks would make a solid, trusty companion for the road, air, or even just a daily commute.