Cotopaxi Allpa 35L vs. Fjallraven Abisko Hike 35
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 | Fjallraven Abisko Hike 35 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| N | Compression | S |
| 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 | S |
| 0 | Water Bottle Holder | 0 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 1680D ballistic nylon paneling | G-1000® Eco: 65% polyester, 35% cotton G-1000® HeavyDuty Eco S: 65% polyester, 35% cotton |
Fjallraven Abisko Hike 35
| Capacity | 35 L |
| Weight | 1.4 kg |
| Dimensions | 61×28×26 cm |
| Airline fit | 30% |
| Price | $174 |
Starting on size and weight, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L and the Fjallraven Abisko Hike 35 have roughly the same capacity, both holding a decent 35 liters. However, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is a bit shorter, wider, and less deep than the Fjallraven Abisko Hike 35. This might make the Cotopaxi feel less bulky when fully packed. When it comes to weight, they are almost on par, with the Fjallraven Abisko being just slightly lighter.
The materials and construction are where we begin to see real differences. The Allpa is made from rugged 1680D ballistic nylon paneling, a sturdy material known for its resistance to tears, scuffs, and abrasions. The Fjallraven bag, on the other hand, is made from an Eco blend of polyester and cotton, which gives it a softer feel and a unique, faded look.
- Height: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L (20 inches) is shorter than Fjallraven Abisko Hike 35 (26 inches)
- Width & Depth: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L (30x51 inches) is wider but less deep than Fjallraven Abisko Hike 35 (28x61 inches).
- Weight: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L (1.5 pounds) weighs more than Fjallraven Abisko Hike 35 (1.4 pounds).
- Material: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L uses 1680D ballistic nylon, while Fjallraven Abisko Hike 35 uses G-1000® Eco material.
- Laptop Compartment: Only the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L can fit a 15 inch laptop.
- Airline Compatibility: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L (80%) much more airline compatible than the Fjallraven Abisko Hike (30%).
A very significant difference is the laptop compartment. The Allpa boasts a padded laptop compartment perfectly suited for a 15-inch laptop. Reviewers rave about its smart design and intuitive organization, with several calling it the perfect addition for an urban or outdoorsy traveler. Unfortunately, the Abisko lacks this feature completely, making the Allpa the go-to for digital nomads.
Lastly, let's look at some reviews as to why these bags could be great purchases. Not only does the Allpa bag impress with its array of useful accessories—like a rain cover, laundry bag, shoe bag, and water bottle sleeve—but its comfortable straps are hinted in its reviews. The Fjallraven Abisko Hike 35, on the other hand, stands out for its craftsmanship, durableness, and organizational design. One notable feature is the zippered side access to the main compartment, which reviewers found to be a real game-changer, given its top-loading design. So in the end, your choice would hinge on whether you value aircraft compatibility and laptop storage or craftsmanship and portability more.