Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. MEC Trail 24
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 | MEC Trail 24 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 4 | Opening | 0 |
| Y | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| H | Backpack | |
| R | Hip Belt | |
| S | Sternum Strap | |
| Inside | ||
| 15 | Laptop | |
| 3 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| Y | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | Polyurethane-coated Polyester |
MEC Trail 24
| Capacity | 24 L |
| Weight | 4.3 kg |
| Dimensions | 47×28×21 cm |
| Airline fit | 68% |
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.