Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Chrome Rostov

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 35LFeatureChrome Rostov
Storage
N Compression 2
None Expanded Capacity None
4 Opening 0
Y Passport front
N Passthrough N
Carry
H Backpack Y
R Hip Belt N
S Sternum Strap R
Inside
15 Laptop 15
3 Main Compartments 2
Y Organizer Y
Outside
× Hard Shell ×
N Rain-fly N
0 Water Bottle Holder 1 side
Y Water Resistant Y
Material
1680D ballistic nylon panelingAbrasion resistant 1050d nylon exterior 1680d ballistic nylon bottom panel

Chrome Rostov

Front facing view of the Chrome Rostov
Capacity23 L
Weight0.9 kg
Dimensions47×31×16 cm
Airline fit98%
Price$115

At first glance, both the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Chrome Rostov are impressive carry-on backpacks. Striking a balance between style and function, they each bring noteworthy features to the table, guaranteeing a memorable travel experience. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is slightly heftier, with 35 liters of storage capacity offering the comfort of additional storage space. Standing at 20 inches tall, with a width of 30 inches and a depth of 51 inches, it is also bulkier. The Chrome Rostov, however, is a more compact option measuring 47 inches tall, 31 inches wide and 16 inches deep.

Some primary differences between the two are:

For many travellers, the durability and build of a backpack are crucial. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L comes with a rain cover which offers an element of added security and also keeps potential damage at bay. The Chrome Rostov impresses with its abrasion-resistant nylon exterior, adding to its long life. Both bags offer comfortable shoulder straps, hip belts, and adjustable sternum straps that support a snug fit.

We find that both backpacks are praised highly by reviewers. While one finds the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L's internal organization to be its strongest aspect, calling it possibly the best configuration, another recommends it as the perfect graduation gift for budding world travellers. Apart from this, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L comes with handy extras such as a collapsible mesh laundry bag, nylon shoe bag, and a mesh water bottle sleeve, boosting its practicality. All of these elements altogether make either backpack an excellent pick.