Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
| Capacity | 35 L |
| Weight | 1.5 kg |
| Dimensions | 51×30×20 cm |
| Airline fit | 80% |
| Price | $200 |
| Cotopaxi Allpa 35L | Feature | Kathmandu Dash 20L Lightweight Backpack |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 3 |
| 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 | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | O |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 1 |
| Y | Water Resistant | N |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | 210 Nylon HT Rip Stop Cordura™, 210 Polyester Oxford |
| Capacity | 20 L |
| Weight | 0.44 kg |
| Dimensions | 46×25×22 cm |
| Airline fit | 68% |
| Price | $100 |
The travel-ready Cotopaxi Allpa 35L backpack and the Kathmandu Dash 20L Lightweight Backpack, both undeniably popular choices, have stood out in a sea of countless backpack options. The Cotopaxi Allpa sports an impressively spacious 35 liters capacity, made for travelers and adventurers who like a bag that can take it all. Cloaked in water-resistant 1680D nylon paneling and equipped with a 15-inch laptop sleeve, the Allpa is designed for sturdiness without compromising on your gadgets' safety. Additionally, it weighs 1.5 pounds, making it relatively lightweight for its sturdy construction.
The Kathmandu Dash, on the other hand, is a true featherweight champion. Weighing a mere 0.44 pounds, the Dash is designed for those who love a super-light carry. It has a capacity of 20 liters, enough to accommodate your essentials while being small enough to encourage packing light. This pack uses impressive 210 Nylon HT Rip Stop Cordura™ construct, exhibiting sturdy endurance behind its lightness. However, there is no laptop compartment in the Dash, which might be a caveat for tech travelers.
Summary of Differences:
Beyond design and functionality, the user reviews were leaning in favor of the Cotopaxi Allpa, with many users praising its thoughtful internal organization and durability through various travels. Comments also highlight it as a 'light and easy' bag, perfect for potentially less comfortable travel situations. The reviews were sparse for the Kathmandu Dash; however, the one provided emphasized comfort, practicality, and product quality, hinting at its appropriateness for city exploration and day trips.
In conclusion, both bags hold their ground well, with Cotopaxi leaning towards comprehensive packing and Kathmandu towards ultra-light packing. Your choice might boil down to how much luggage you usually carry and if you require a laptop compartment. But whichever you choose, both backpacks promise to make your trip enjoyable.