Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Briggs & Riley Cargo Backpack

You've set your sights on the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Briggs & Riley Cargo Backpack, two outstanding packs that promise comfort, robustness, and sound organization. The Allpa 35L, as its name suggests, offers a generous volume of 35 liters, while the Briggs & Riley option settles at a mere 24 liters--a difference that can equate to an extra change of clothes, or perhaps a pair of shoes. Size might not be all there is to consider though. While the Cargo Backpack is slightly longer in height, it weighs only 0.9 pounds, compared to Allpa's 1.5 pounds. A backpack might not be the first thing that comes to mind when considering losing a couple of pounds.

In terms of construction, Cotopaxi doesn't mess around with its 1680D ballistic nylon paneling. It's a sturdy companion for the rough-and-tumble world traveller or the everyday urbanite. The Cargo Backpack, on the other hand, sports 800D ballistic nylon--not as tough but perhaps more flexible. More noteworthy, amongst the stated features are the safety measures that each bag offers. Briggs & Riley highlights two RFID shielding pockets that offer the security of your personal data in today's digital age. The Allpa 35L adapts to the natural elements and equips itself with a useful rain cover.

Digging deeper into each bag's functionality, you'll find that they both accommodate your mobile workstation. Allpa 35L has a dedicated 15-inch laptop compartment, which falls short when compared to the Cargo Backpack's ability to house a 17-inch laptop. In spite of this, reviews can't deny how Cotopaxi's internal organization feels "intuitive and helpful," perhaps even the "best configuration" used thus far.

Lastly, let's look at their travel compatibility; Cotopaxi Allpa 35L boasts 80% airline compatibility, which may be a significant advantage over the Briggs & Riley Cargo Backpack's 68% airline compatibility, especially if you're frequently airborne. The fine balance of size, weight, and utility presents an exciting decision to make between these two packs.

Comparison Bullet Points

• Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is heavier (1.5 pounds) than the Briggs & Riley Cargo Backpack (0.9 pounds)
• Cotopaxi Allpa 35L has a larger capacity (35 liters) compared to Briggs & Riley Cargo Backpack (24 liters)
• Cotopaxi Allpa 35L's construction, 1680D ballistic nylon, is sturdier compared to the Briggs & Riley Cargo Backpack's 800D ballistic nylon
• The laptop compartment of Cotopaxi Allpa 35L can fit a 15-inch laptop, Briggs & Riley Cargo Backpack can accommodate a 17-inch laptop
• Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is compatible with 80% of airlines, while the Briggs & Riley Cargo Backpack is only compatible with 68% of airlines.

In the end, your choice boils down to your specific needs. If you're looking for a lighter, slimmer backpack with more laptop space and built-in data security, Briggs & Riley Cargo Backpack might be your best bet. If you're after a higher-capacity, sturdy, more airline-friendly, and weather-proof pack, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L comes out as the stronger contender.