Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. MEC Trail 24

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

By: Cotopaxi Front facing view of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

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Size Details
Capacity 35L
Capacity per Weight 23.3L
Weight 1.5kg 3.3lbs High
Capacity per KgLbs 23.3 10.6 Low
Dimensions 51x30x20cm 21x12x8in
Cubic Space 30600cm³ 2016in³
Capacity Diff -4L Low
Airline Compatibility

✈️ 80% (159/199)

This bag can be used as a carry on in 80% of airlines.

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Features

Storage
N Compression
None Expanded Capacity None
TopZip Opening Other
Y Passport N
N Passthrough N
Carry
H Backpack
N Frame N
2 Handles
R Hip Belt
N Shoulder Strap
S Sternum Strap
Inside
15 Laptop
N Hydration
3 Main Compartments 1
Y Organizer N
Y Shoe Compartment N
Outside
2 Lash Points
N Hard Shell N
N Molle N
N Rain-fly
0 Water Bottle Holder 2
Y Water Resistant Y
Material:
1680D ballistic nylon paneling Polyurethane-coated Polyester

MEC Trail 24

Front facing view of the MEC Trail 24
Size Details
Capacity 24L
Capacity per Weight 5.6L
Weight 4.3kg 9.5lbs Avg
Capacity per KgLbs 5.6 2.5 Low
Dimensions 47x28x21cm 19x12x9in
Cubic Space 27636cm³ 2052in³
Capacity Diff 3L Avg
Airline Compatibility

✈️ 68% (135/199)

This bag can be used as a carry on in 68% of airlines.

Link to Manufacturer


Both the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the MEC Trail 24 are solid contenders in the carry-on backpack market, offering utility and comfortability tailor-fit for the savvy traveler. They share important features that a seasoned voyager would value, but also have distinct attributes that set them apart in varied use scenarios.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L, standing at 20 inches tall and spanning 30 inches wide, carries a respectable volume of 35 liters. It’s a lightweight option with its 1.5 pound total weight, and provides robust protection due to its 1680D ballistic nylon paneling. A standout feature of the Allpa 35L is its laptop compartment that can accommodate up to a 15 inch laptop - an important addition for the digital nomad. Meanwhile, the MEC Trail 24, compact at a volume of 24 liters, is slightly heavier at 4.3 pounds. Its durable Polyurethane-coated Polyester shell guarantees stability in a variety of outdoor environments, but it lacks the laptop compartment that the Allpa 35L offers.

  • Comparison Points:
    • Dimensions: Allpa 35L (20''x30''x51''), Trail 24 (21''x28''x47'')
    • Weight: Allpa 35L (1.5 lbs), Trail 24 (4.3 lbs)
    • Capacity (L): Allpa 35L (35), Trail 24 (24)
    • Material: Allpa 35L (1680D ballistic nylon), Trail 24 (Polyurethane-coated Polyester)
    • Laptop Compartment: Allpa 35L (Yes), Trail 24 (No)

If airline compatibility is a concern, the Allpa 35L wins by a small margin. It is compatible with 80% of airlines as opposed to the Trail 24 that's only compatible with 68%. Beyond that, the Allpa 35L's superior internal organization, as cited by reviewers, makes it a joy to pack and adds to its overall appeal as a valuable companion for light, easy travel.

On the other hand, the MEC Trail 24’s aptitude for outdoor settings shouldn't be easily dismissed. Despite the absence of a laptop compartment, its combination of robust materials, compact size, and commendable storage capacity makes the Trail 24 a reliable companion for the adventurously inclined. Overall, the choice between these two backpacks boils down to the specific needs of the user, with the Allpa 35L more suited for urban and digital travelers and the Trail 24 for the outdoorsy and adventurous.