cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack review

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Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack Review

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is a great all-around bag that is smartly designed for carry-on compliance and can suit both urban and outdoorsy travelers alike.

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• Ample space and smartly-placed pockets, both internal and external
• Solid. This is one rugged pack
• Sleek, refined aesthetic
• Quite heavy for its size
• The hip belt isn’t functional for taller users
• The hip belt pockets are much too snug and nearly useless when wearing the pack

Technical Details

Carry-on compliance.

View 19/145 Airlines

Disclaimer: We take the measurements of the bag provided by the manufacturer and compare them to the allowance listed on airline websites. This should be used as a guideline rather than a rule. Bags can change size as you pack them out, and every airline's interpretation of compliance is different. Just because a bag is listed as carry-on compliant here doesn't mean that the airline will interpret it that way.

Weight (lb)

3.4 lb (1.5 kg)

For the TPU-coated polyester. 1680D for the ballistic nylon paneling

22 in x 12 in x 10 in (55.9 x 30.5 x 25.4 cm)

Notable Materials

Ballistic Nylon, Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU), Polyester, YKK Zippers

Manufacturing Country

Philippines

Laptop Compartment Size

Warranty Information

Cotopaxi Help

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Full Review

Cotopaxi is the name of an active stratovolcano in the Andes Mountains, in Ecuador. It’s also the name of a company that manufactures outdoor gear and is trying to do some good in the world. We’ll let you guess which one this review is about.

Founded in 2014 as a Certified B-Corp, Cotopaxi donates 2% of their revenue to help alleviate poverty. They also partner with “organizations like International Rescue Committee, Educate Girls, and Proximity Designs to provide health, education, and livelihoods in developing countries.” They do great work and make great products, one of which is the Allpa 35L Travel Pack.

The Allpa is a 35-liter, carry-on compliant pack possessing many great features and design elements. Weighing 3lb 7oz (1560g) and measuring 20 x 12 x 8in (51 x 30 x 20cm), it’s on the heavier side of things compared to other bags with the same capacity—though it isn’t egregiously hefty. Much of the weight comes from the sturdy materials Cotopaxi chooses to use: TPU-coated 1000D polyester makes up the front of the pack while 1680D ballistic nylon comprises the side, top, and bottom paneling. This combination gives the Allpa a toughness that’s hard to beat. They also have a 28-liter pack available if you’re looking for something a bit smaller.

There are three configurations to choose from when purchasing this pack. There is no difference in the pack itself, just the accessories that come with it.

You have the option of buying:

• The Allpa as a standalone bag.
• The Allpa plus an accessory bundle that includes mesh laundry bags, a nylon shoe bag, and a snap-on mesh water bottle sleeve.
• The Allpa plus accessories and also Cotopaxi’s Batac Daypack.

We chose the last option, although it’s not entirely necessary to get the full kit.

While the pack is heavy, much of the burden is taken off your shoulders by a weight-distributing, low-profile harness system that Cotopaxi says they’ve taken from their hiking packs. This system consists of contoured shoulder straps, a padded, non-removable hip belt, a breathable airmesh back panel that does help keep the air moving (though you’ll still sweat a little), and an adjustable sternum strap that’s nice and sturdy. It’s very comfortable to carry and fits quite well for most people. We did find one issue with the functionality of the hip belt that may affect taller people, but more on that later.

Access to the interior of the bag and all its contents is easy and well thought out. The Allpa opens suitcase-style, thanks to a full-wrap zipper on the main compartment. Looking at the open bag, the right side consists of a sizable zippered mesh compartment and the left is subdivided into three zippered mesh compartments—one large compartment on the bottom and two smaller ones at the top.

If you need to access anything in the main compartment without opening the bag suitcase-style, you can do so via a shortcut zipper along the side. This is incredibly helpful if you need to go into a bathroom stall at an airport and grab some item of clothing for a quick change. You can hang the pack on the back of the door in a stall and access the contents through the side instead of laying it down on the floor (gross).

Back on the outside of the pack, there’s a nice-sized pocket on the top, which is ideal for small items like your passport, a notebook, or some packaged foods. It’s also subdivided inside for increased organization and has a key clip. The Allpa can house both a laptop and tablet, too. Opening up a zipper on the right side reveals padded laptop and tablet sleeves, with the former easily able to hold a 15” machine.

If you’re worried about theft of your laptop or any other valuables inside the pack, Cotopaxi has you covered with an interesting and minimal security measure. All external zippers on the Allpa feature theft-proof webbing sewn across the openings, which makes it difficult for someone to grab a zipper and easily unzip the pack in a clandestine way.

Rounding out the features are the slotted back panel, which houses the shoulder straps and hip belt, four reinforced grab handles on each side of the bag, and a high-visibility rain cover that’s easy dawn when needed. The cover doesn’t have a designated storage area like some other packs do, so you’ll have to just throw it inside the bag. If you want to tuck away the shoulder straps, all you need to do is tuck them into the slotted back panel. The hip belt, meanwhile, can be removed altogether. Those four grab handles are perfect when the bag is in this state, and they’re easy on the hands, too.

We’ve taken the Allpa on two international adventures as well as a couple of smaller weekend getaways and each time it’s performed with style. The pack isn’t too big nor too small, and we’ve never wished there was more room. The suitcase-style opening on the main compartment makes packing and unpacking a breeze. Here, too, the pack almost guides you on where to put your stuff:

• Bigger items, like shoes, pants, and sweaters will have to go into the larger compartment on the right.
• Smaller items like socks, underwear, and toiletries, to the left.
• Even smaller items, like extra batteries, chargers, and pocket notebooks, in the two zippered pockets on top.

The top zippered pocket on the outside is well placed, easily accessible, and just the right size. It perfectly holds a medium-sized Magpul DAKA pouch and some smaller essentials, like sunglasses and case, pens, and a small bag of trail mix. Another plus is that even if the main compartment is almost completely full, this pocket it still usable. We can’t say it’s completely liter independent because we did notice that if you really jam-pack that main compartment this one will be ever so slightly affected.

We actually never brought a laptop or tablet with us on the trips where we’ve tested the Allpa, but the laptop and tablet compartment is versatile enough to hold other things, like a piece of artwork purchased while traveling or important printouts needed for your accommodations and activities at your destination. And having four sturdy, easy-to-grab handles may seem like overkill but it really isn’t. At one point, we had a taxi driver in Cuba pick the bag up out of the trunk of his car using the bottom handle. It wouldn’t have been so easy otherwise.

There aren’t many more positives to mention with the Allpa, and that isn’t a bad thing. This pack really is a no-nonsense, no frills item. It does what it should do, and it does it very well without any fuss.

There are a couple of issues we found while testing. The first only applies to people on the taller side with a large torso size of large. If you’re one of these people, the hip belt will be virtually useless to you. Since the pack isn’t very tall, the hip belt won’t be able to sit as it should (on top of your hips). Fortunately, you can just remove the hip belt entirely and at least save some weight.

Usage Timeline

Condition: Excellent

Good look and feel with great functionality. The only drawback is the rather useless hip belt, but you can at least remove it.

Two international trips to vastly different climates, as well as a few shorter and closer jaunts, and the bag is still as good as its first day.

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Adrienne So

Review: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

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Founded in 2014, Cotopaxi was one of first startups ever to launch as a Benefit Corporation , a status that trades legal and financial protections in return for commitments to work toward the general public good. At least two percent of Cotopaxi's annual revenue is donated to a specific cause, like organizations which promote education in India, or donating mosquito netting in Africa.

But there I go—it's so easy to talk about Cotopaxi's charitable giving, rather than the functionality of their gear. And as attractive as Cotopaxi’s philanthropic mission is, it’s not the reason why friends stop me to ask about their packs. Both bags in the Allpa 35L Travel Pack bundle are as brightly-colored and irresistible as gumdrops in a jar, and—more importantly—they are light and packed (ha!) full of features.

I’ve taken the Allpa on two weekend trips and both times, I’ve mentally kicked myself. If only a bag like this had been available before, I could have saved myself a lot of trouble. This is the bag that a younger me would have killed for.

The Allpa 35L combines pertinent features from every single kind of bag. Like a camping backpack, it has a sternum strap, a waist belt, and a dash of webbing for attaching a carabiner or two. It also has a mesh back panel, and comes with a brightly-colored rain cover.

Like a sturdy duffel, it’s soft and frameless. It has four reinforced grab handles (one on each side), and a waterproof, polyurethane-laminated, 1000-dernier polyester exterior for flinging it casually onto disgusting floors. A side zipper allows you to grab things out of the main compartment without opening the entire bag. Each of the bag’s zippers has a little security loop to keep people from opening it without you noticing.

Like a suitcase, it has a full zip around the middle, so you can splay it open like you’re making a sandwich. Compression straps in the main compartment help cinch your puffy belongings down. And like a daypack, it has a padded laptop compartment in the back, and organizational pockets on one side of the interior compartment and in a small front pocket.

If you buy the complete bundle, it comes with a nylon shoe bag, mesh laundry bags, and a mesh water bottle sleeve that you can clip onto the carabiner loops. It also comes with a stowable 16-liter Batac del Dia backpack . The whole kit is designed to fit in the carry-on compartment of most airplanes.

At first, I didn't see the point in creating such a Frankenstein of a bag. What was so wrong with carry-on suitcases and duffel bags in the first place? I like my rolling suitcase; the hard shell keeps dresses and shirts relatively wrinkle-free, and protects fragile items. And unlike a duffel, I wouldn’t be able to use the Allpa as a gear bag, since the space is divided into so many different compartments. All those tiny pockets are useless if you already have a decent toiletries bag and a cord organizer .

But when I took the bag on two quick weekend trips, I started to understand. For most casual trips--the kind that most of us make to see our parents, or to go out of town for a friend's birthday party—you don't need a suitcase, duffel, or a hiking backpack. The Allpa fits squarely into a category that I call "good enough gear." It's not specialized, but it's perfect for the way that most people really work and live.

Which, if I'm to go by my own experience, is to throw several shirts and your laptop in a bag, toss it in the trunk two hours after you told everyone you were going to leave, and go.

$200 isn’t cheap, but it isn’t expensive either, when you see how much comes with this bundle. In addition to an assortment of mesh and nylon bags, it also includes the aforementioned Batac del Dia backpack . When the Allpa is fully packed, the Batac fits neatly into the front pocket. It’s a colorful, lightweight, nylon daypack that has become my favorite go-to, all-around bag. Even if you’re content with your current rolling suitcase or duffel, you should probably get one of these.

Even if you can fit everything you need into one backpack, you still need to carry something around for your day about town. Many camping backpacks have detachable daypacks, which is just a little too Kuato from Total Recall for my liking. Instead, I like packing a lightweight collapsible bag , but finding one that isn’t just a nylon sack is a little difficult.

The Batac del Dia has plenty of pockets for a packable daypack. The interior has a hanging mesh pocket and a large envelope pocket; the front zip has a sideways mesh pocket sewn into the pocket, so you can slide your hand into the pocket sideways to extract hotel room keys or a passport. The straps have an adjustable sternum strap that slides on a rail system, two side water bottle pockets, and a strip of webbing that is handy for clipping on my climbing shoes.

It’s light enough to hang on a hook by the front door, easy to find amidst a swirl of dog leashes, unicorn hoodies and jackets, and just big enough for my essentials pouch and whatever else I need for the day’s outing-- a diaper changing station , or a pair of running shoes , or just some milk bottles and library books to return.

Cotopaxi's "more is more" mentality toward the Allpa pack is a little much. The accessories were overkill. Even if I needed it, putting a separate rain cover on top of an already waterproof outer panel gives me hives. I quickly lost track of which mesh or nylon bag was supposed to carry what. The full center zip on a floppy bag is annoying if you're in a hurry. And then, it's all too easy for your lumpily-packed items to jam the zipper when you're putting it all back together.

But the bag was astonishingly comfortable. It fits on my short torso, and the straps are actually contoured to fit my narrow shoulders—a rarity when it comes to so-called "unisex" packs.

For someone like me, who travels mostly out of obligation rather than pleasure, the Allpa would be nice to have but not a necessity. It did make me nostalgic for my early twenties again—walking around aimlessly, looking for a cheap hostel, taking a road trip to a friend of a friend's birthday party in LA on a whim, or buying plane tickets to Cleveland just because they were only $50.

I don't travel like that anymore (and, admittedly, I probably found it a lot less fun at the time), but the Allpa 35L bundle would have been perfect. Buy one now and save it for the high school or college seniors in your life. It is the perfect graduation gift for the budding world traveler.

Jordan McMahon

Michael Calore

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This Is the Only Carry-On Bag I Use for Travel. Here’s Why

A backpack I picked up long ago on a whim has replaced nearly all of my travel luggage — and it’s still going strong.

By Sean Tirman

Every product is carefully selected by our editors. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission.  Learn more

For a long time, I had a problem: I was a serial bag buyer . Enrolling in school? New backpack . Going to Iceland for my honeymoon? New adjustable duffel bag . Flying to my parents’ place for a long weekend? New carry-on luggage . It seemed like every time I took a trip, I bought a new bag. But I never found one that I wanted to keep using after just a trip or two. It’s not that they were bad, per se; it’s just that they didn’t really impress enough to stick.

Then, on one of my many bag-buying whims, I picked up the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack , and everything changed. Finally, I found a bag that I not only liked using the first few times, but I continued to use it for years. In fact, it became my go-to bag for pretty much all of my travels. It even encouraged me to pack smarter on longer trips so I wouldn’t need more than just this one bag. And all those other bags? I either gave them away, or they’re collecting dust in a closet somewhere. Here’s why Cotopaxi’s Allpa 35L Pack replaced all of my other luggage .

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Pack: What We Think

If you value speed, durability and (perhaps most importantly and significantly) versatility, this is a tough bag to beat. The internal compartments do away with the need for additional packing cubes and encourage organization. The weatherproof exterior makes this an ideal bag for ever-changing weather conditions. And its flexible soft construction and array of grab handles make putting it in overhead bins a simple and speedy prospect. If you’re a conscientious packer who values efficiency, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better travel backpack.

That said, it’s not perfect and certainly isn’t for everyone. The soft sides make it risky to store things too delicate (especially if there’s a chance your bag will need to be checked), and the lack of an easily accessed external stash pocket (for things like your wallet, keys, small travel must-haves, etc.) are fairly big drawbacks. Furthermore, it lacks any kind of wheels, so you’ll have to haul it on your back or in your hands through the airport .

To learn more about our testing methodology and how we evaluate products, head here .

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

• $200.00 at cotopaxi.com
• Superb internal organization
• Weatherproof exterior
• Specifically designed for carry-on travel
• External top pocket is lacking
• Risk of contents being crushed in transit

Integrated storage encourages organization

Most backpacks, even those designed for travel , have little, if any, real organization beyond a few unstructured zippered pouches in which to shove your belongings — at least in my experience. This backpack is a refreshing divergence. Not only does it have several compartments — including a padded laptop sleeve , an externally-accessed top pocket and a spacious clamshell-opening main storage area — but it also has zippered meshes of several sizes inside that main compartment, essentially replacing the need for packing cubes.

Furthermore, it boasts two sets of compression straps in the larger compartments, meaning you can pack even more stuff into the same amount of space as you might with a hard-sided bag. Along with that, there are also three smaller zippered pouches (and some hidden space beneath them) perfect for socks, underwear, toiletries and the like. Even for longer trips (my longest was a full calendar week), I’ve never struggled to get the bulk of my apparel — including an extra pair of shoes — into this bag.

The rugged exterior is perfect for different climates

A few months ago, I traveled from San Diego up to Santa Rosa for a work trip, and I used the Allpa 35L Pack as my sole travel bag. At the time, San Diego was sunny and hot, and Santa Rosa looked slightly chilly at worst. However, when I arrived, the weather had taken a turn, and it was raining in Santa Rosa. Because I chose this bag with its waterproof exterior panel, my apparel stayed dry while I waited out in the rain for my rideshare.

Note: the entire bag is not waterproof, just the external panel. However, the bag also comes with an included rain cover that’s easily stored in the bag when not in use. While the rain wasn’t severe enough to necessitate it, it was nice knowing I had a backup plan.

Obviously, a hard-shelled carry-on would offer similar protection, but you’d also have to drag it over the wet, puddled ground, and it is more of a hassle when navigating unfamiliar, crowded places, like through airports to outdoor pickup areas. The point is, whether you check the weather or not, this bag is great for keeping your gear protected while traveling between climates.

It makes air travel easier and less frustrating

“Carry-on standards” be damned, there have been plenty of times when I’ve had a bag well within the size limits seemingly not want to fit under the seat in front of me or into an overhead bin at all. In fact, that very issue, especially on fully booked flights, has led me to have to check my carry-on bags in the past.

The Allpa 35L Pack, by contrast, is still within those size guidelines but is much easier to squeeze into tight spots because of its non-rigid construction. So long as you don’t stash delicate, breakable stuff in your carry-on, this bag is easy to squeeze into tight spots, including under the seat (as I discovered on a cross-country flight from San Diego to New York).

I wish it had a better external pouch

You know how most backpacks have that little external pocket on the lower front? This backpack doesn’t have one of those. While it makes the exterior look a lot sleeker, It does feel like a sacrifice not having that handy little stash pouch. I should clarify: there is a top-accessed pocket that serves a similar purpose, but it comes with a major drawback.

That top pocket takes up the same internal room as the rest of the internal compartments. This means, unlike those little stitched-on pouches found on the likes of JanSport bags, you need to make sure you leave enough space to utilize this pocket. Most of the time, it works fine, but the minute you’re pushing the bag’s capacity to the limit, you’ll see just how difficult it is to keep this pocket functional. For what it’s worth, I wouldn’t trade the bag’s looks for that extra pocket, though. Typically, I just use a crossbody bag in tandem (my “personal” item, which is arguably more convenient since I usually stash my bag in the overhead bins anyway), and I’m none the wiser about the omission.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack: Alternatives

If you’d really prefer a bag with wheels you can drag behind you instead of haul on your shoulders, it’s hard to beat our pick for the best carry-on bag you can buy: the aptly named Away Carry-On . For an upgrade with a lot more padding and structure (but perhaps not more storage space), you can trust the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L . And if you’re looking for something a lot more compact (or to go alongside your Allpa, as I mentioned), our favorite crossbody bag is the Moment Fanny Sling 2L .

Related Topics

Cotopaxi Allpa Travel Pack Review

The Cotopaxi Allpa is a travel pack designed to handle the demands of adventure while supporting ethical manufacturing practices.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is trendy carry-on travel backpack that claims to be “ready for any adventure—and look good while doing it.” Sounds good on paper, but does this pack have what it takes to stand up to real-world travel?

I was excited to get my hands on this backpack and run it through our tests. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L doesn’t have much in the way of fancy features, but what it does have just works. It earned a score of 8.2 on our rating system, which puts it in the top 25% of travel packs we’ve tested.

This bag stood out for durability, ease of use, and bang-for-your-buck. If you want the fanciest high-tech backpack out there, try something like the Peak Design Travel Backpack . But for a stylish, rugged carry-on that has great features, doesn’t overcomplicate things, and hits a reasonable price point, I think the Cotopaxi Allpa hits a sweet spot.

In this review, I’ll dive into the details of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L, highlight the advantages and disadvantages, and help you decide whether it’s the right carry-on backpack for you.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Rating Overview

Type: Carry-On Backpack

Use: Travel

The Cotopaxi Allpa is a well-loved travel bag that comes in 35L and 42L versions. With an overall score of 8.6, it ranks in the top 25% of bags that we’ve ever tested.

9.4 and Above: Best in Class  – It is very hard to earn this score. These packs perform well across every category, and we recommend them universally. These are the best of the best.

8.9–9.3: Highly Recommended  – These are excellent and high-performing packs. Depending on your specific needs, one of these may be a better fit than our best overall picks.

8.3–8.8: Great for the Right Use  – We typically recommend these packs for more specific use cases, because their outstanding performance in one area may have other tradeoffs.

7.5–8.2: Good with Some Compromises  – These are still good packs that we generally recommend. There are some compromises to be aware of depending on your use case.

7.4 and Under: Not Recommended  – We generally don’t review or recommend packs that score this low, except possibly as a budget pick. They typically have significant issues with quality or function.

9.0 Build Quality

Accounting for 25% of the Overall Score, we believe that Build Quality/durability is the single most important factor when it comes to rating and scoring a bag. It’s not the end-all-be-all, but we believe it should earn the highest weighting in our calculations.

We rate backpack build quality on six objective and subjective attributes. A backpack gets a 0-10 score for each attribute based on a standardized scale. Then we use a weighted average to calculate an overall Build Quality score. The six attributes we use to calculate the score are:

• Main Fabric
• Zipper Type
• Reinforcements
• Stitch Quality
• Manufacturing Origin

7.9 Comfort

Accounting for 20% of the Overall Score, we believe Comfort is the second most important factor when it comes to assessing, rating and scoring a backpack. Because comfort is a subjective experience, we believe it would be unfair to score it subjectively based on such a small sample size.

Therefore, we rate backpack comfort on eight very specific and objective attributes. A backpack gets a 0-10 score for each attribute based on a standardized scale, and then we use a weighted average to calculate an overall score for comfort.

When scoring a backpack for comfort, we look at the following eight attributes:

• Shoulder Strap Padding

Shoulder Strap Shape

• Hip Belt Type + Padding

Sternum Strap

Load Lifters

• Breathability & Ventilation

8.8 Ease of Use

Accounting for 15% of the Overall Score, Ease of Use is our third most important score.

Unlike most rating categories, our ease of use scoring metrics are different depending on whether the backpack in question is a travel backpack, hiking backpack, or everyday backpack.

Because there are different metrics for each backpack type, the percentage breakdown is also different for each backpack type.

Ease of Use refers to whether or not the bag is easy to use. Depending on the bag type, this ultimately comes down to varying combinations of the following attributes:

• Subjective Testing Score

Main Opening Style

Water Bottle Pockets

Number of Grab Handles

• Laptop Accessibility

Luggage Handle Pass-Through

• On-Body Access
• Stow-Away Harness

Front Pocket

6.8 Functionality

Accounting for 10% of the Overall Score, our backpack Functionality rating is based on a combination of subjective testing and specific objective metrics.

A Functionality score answers the question of “how well does this bag do what it’s supposed to do?” This is primarily a subjective score. It’s based on:

• Subjective Functionality Testing
• Weight-to-Volume Ratio
• Laptop Protection (When Applicable)

6.1 Water Resistance

Water Resistance accounts for 5% of the Overall Score. It’s an objective metric based on the following three attributes:

Water-Resistant Fabric

• Water-Resistant Zippers

6.3 Brand Impact

It is important to us to recommend brands that we believe are doing good in the world. Because of that, we rate every brand we review based on their global impact. This rating incorporates elements like sustainable design, carbon reduction, ethical manufacturing, and fair working conditions for employees.

The Brand Impact score is an objective metric which accounts for 5% of the overall score and takes into account:

• Funding Source
• Usage of Sustainable Materials
• Participation in Emissions Reduction Programs
• Certified Carbon Neutral
• Certified B-Corp
• Regular Impact Reporting
• Fair Trade Certified

8.6 Buying Experience

We value companies that implement specific policies to reduce the stress and risk of buying a product. We give higher ratings to companies with free shipping and no-nonsense satisfaction policies.

Accounting for 5% of the Overall Score, the Buying Experience score is an objective metric based on the following attributes:

• Shipping Cost

Return Cost

Return Window

• End-of-Life Trade-In Policy

10.0 Warranty

It’s always a good idea to buy from companies that stand behind their products with solid lifetime warranties.

The Warranty score is an objective metric based on the brand’s warranty policy which accounts for 5% of the Overall Score.

10.0 Price-to-Performance

We rate products based on the bang for your buck they provide. We measure that using a Cost-to-Performance ratio, which enables us to evaluate whether a higher-end product is really worth the extra cost or whether it’s better to save some cash.

We calculate the Cost-to-Performance ratio by comparing the MSRP to the testing and scoring of all the previous categories. A product that performs well at a lower cost has a higher Cost-to-Performance ratio.

This is an important data piece to look at if you are on a budget but still want the best quality and design possible.

• Weighing in just under 3.5 pounds (1560 grams), the Allpa 35L pack is portable and manageable.
• The pack's carry-on size allows for easy airport travel.
• Zipper compartments on the inside allow for easy organization.
• Anti-theft webbing for zippers makes your bag more protected.
• Compression straps and padded hip belt make for a comfortable carry.
• The straps are part of a weight-distributing harness system aimed to spread the weight of your load evenly.
• A portion of Cotopaxi's yearly revenue is donated to the Cotopaxi Foundation.
• The Allpa 35L travel pack is neither waterproof nor weatherproof, requiring a cumbersome (but included) rain cover.
• The flexible, lightweight, material and lack of rigid structure makes the bag flimsy and it does not hold its shape unless full.
• Interior mesh compartments also do not hold their shape well and seem to rip or tear rather easily.
• There are no small exterior pockets for easy storage of frequently used or needed items.
• No water bottle holder means you are either carrying your drink or unzipping your pack every time you are thirsty (a snap-on bottle holder is available for purchase separately).

22.0" x 12.0" x 10.0"

TPU or PVC coated nylon or polyester

• Expand to view all specs

YKK #10 coil zipper

contoured S-shape

removable with light padding

Breathability

plain spacer mesh

Laptop Protection

padded sleeve

thinner internal PU coating

Water-Resitant Zippers

uncoated zippers

pay for shipping

lifetime warranty covering wear and tear

• Collapse specs

Why Trust TravelFreak?

Every member of the TravelFreak team is an avid traveler and adventurer. We have a soft spot in our hearts for a great backpack. Most of us have lived out of a backpack at one time or another, whether doing one-bag travel around the globe or long-distance thru-hiking.

Needless to say, we’ve had our hands on a fair number of packs over the years. In the past two decades, we’ve tested well over 100 travel, hiking, and everyday packs.

We know how hard it is to find  the perfect pack , and we want to make the process easier for you. Our team of travel experts, gear junkies and product engineers have developed the most comprehensive  backpack test methodology  we could envision.

We evaluated the Cotopaxi Allpa based on 39 metrics across nine different categories. Every pack we test gets the same treatment and is rated using the same standardized methodology. This makes it easy for us (and you) to compare the advantages and disadvantages of different products based on objective, data-backed insights.

To provide the most comprehensive review possible, we give you our personal, hands-on opinion coupled with an objective scoring system.

Cotopaxi Allpa Review: Quick Answers

• The 35L travel pack is the smallest pack in the  Allpa Line . It also comes in a new 42L version for longer trips.
• The backpack is carry-on sized, making it perfect for airline travel.
• Shoulder straps and padded hip belt tuck away for easy storage or transporting.
• The Allpa pack has two transport configurations: shoulder straps like a backpack, or reinforced handles like a suitcase.
• Cotopaxi is a company on a mission to make a positive global impact by alleviating poverty in certain parts of the world.

Who Is the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L For?

• Light Packers or Weekend Travelers:  This is a pack for the minimalist adventurers out there. While there is a decent amount of open space in the pack, your average traveler would be hard-pressed to fit more than a week’s worth of clothes and accessories in this travel backpack.
• Digital Nomads:  A padded laptop and tablet compartment make it easy for storing tech items safely and securely. A separate zipper makes this area accessible from the outside of the bag, a great feature when writing or researching on the go, and an interior sleeve protects your most precious electronics from being scratched.
• Versatility Seekers:  You can comfortably carry the Allpa like a suitcase through narrow airplane aisles, or wear it as a backpack while hiking. This pack is marketed as a backpack, but with its 3-sided zipper and stow-away straps, it’d be best described as a suitcase-hybrid.
• Weight Watchers:  When weight is important, this pack fits the bill. Whether it’s hiking or weekend trips, this pack won’t add much much mass to the load you have to haul.
• Style-Minded Travelers: The clean lines and bold colors of this bag are just two reasons why it made my list of the best carry-on backpacks .

Who  Isn’t  the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L For?

• Anyone Carrying Expensive Equipment:  Made from TPU-coated polyester and nylon, this pack is basically glorified fabric with no firm structure or internal supports. Expensive or bulky equipment is likely to get banged up in no time. Let’s just say that this is one bag I do not want to pack my nice camera in.
• Over-Packers:  This back is 35L and that means  only  35L. You can’t force a carry-on-sized bag to fit a checked-bag-sized haul. If you are a heavy packer or going on a longer trip, consider getting a larger travel pack. More than 2 pairs of shoes with your clothes? Choose a new bag! Other packs in the Cotopaxi Allpa line go up to 70L.
• Tall People:  I’m not very tall, myself, but other taller individuals have reported that the hip belt sits higher on the waist than your normal pack would, making it rather uncomfortable. If you are over 6’2, definitely heed this warning and go a different route.

Who Is Cotopaxi?

Entering the market in 2014, Cotopaxi is a fairly new brand, making everything from activewear and jackets to gear and accessories, providing a one-stop-shop for outdoor adventure needs.

Named after an active stratovolcano in Ecuador, Cotopaxi is a company focused on manufacturing a variety of outdoor products while they “Do Good.” Davis Smith, the company founder, states that his goal was to combine his desire to travel with his passion for aiding the world’s most impoverished areas.

The company aims for sustainable product designs and materials and operates ethical and fair-wage factories. The majority of Cotopaxi travel packs, like the Allpa backpack, are manufactured in a fair-wage facility in the Philippines.

The  Del Dia line of bags  are all designed and manufactured by workers in the Philippines using 100% left-over and reused fabrics and materials. Additional products, such as t-shirts, sweaters, and jackets are all created in factories found across multiple countries including India, Cambodia, Bolivia, and China.

Cotopaxi even donates 1% of its annual revenues to the  Cotopaxi Foundation , which awards grant money to nonprofit organizations and is ultimately aimed at helping underprivileged communities around the world.

While the money does not go directly to a charity or a community, the website does state that the mission of the foundation is to aid the impoverished and ensure the company can continue its sustainability and local/world improvement initiatives.

All of this sounds great until you realize that the amount donated to these nonprofits and companies ends up being a mere $55,000 of their estimated $5.5 million yearly revenue. But at least it’s a start, which is more than most other companies can say.

First Impressions

I was very impressed by the sturdy-feeling materials of this bag. The exterior is 800D polyester with a really thick TPU coating that gives it a rubbery feel. The zippers are also big, chunky YKK zippers, which gave me a lot of confidence that nothing was going to break anytime soon.

My biggest complaint at first glance was the lack of structure. This bag just feels a bit floppy, and when I didn’t have it fully packed, it just wasn’t very comfortable. I’d much rather have some more padding, a plastic framesheet, and more structure all around.

But with all that said, they still made a pretty great entry-level backpack that’s suited to all kinds of different adventures. Whether you’re backpacking Europe or taking a weekend trip to the mountains, this bag will do the job.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Features

Carry-on sized.

Cotopaxi made sure the 35L travel pack was sized perfectly for carry-on travel, meaning you can skip airport lines and baggage carousels.

This backpack is an internationally approved carry-on size, meaning that you can take this pack with you straight on and off the plane, anywhere in the world. No early arrival or baggage claim required.

Mesh Compartments

The interior of the  Allpa 35L travel pack  is all mesh, meaning you can easily see and find everything quickly. Five zippered mesh pockets give you places to organize and store all of your items, and the mesh is easier to wash and dry than alternative fabrics would be in case of internal spills or leaks.

However, these mesh sleeves don’t hold their shape very well which in turn allows your gear to shift or bounce around. Furthermore, the mesh is very prone to snagging or tearing. I’ll get into this more shortly.

Tuckable Straps

The slotted back panel on the Allpa 35L pack allows the shoulder and hip straps to be unclipped and completely tucked away beneath the panel, creating a sleek and smooth piece of luggage. This is ideal for dealing with bus and airplane overhead bins; you never have to worry about a strap snagging or catching on something!

Reinforced Handles

With four reinforced handles on the exterior of the pack, this bag is easy to carry even after stowing away the tuckable shoulder and hip straps. Carry it with two hands or like a one handled suitcase.

Laptop & Tablet Storage

One of the nicest features of the Allpa pack is the side-accessible laptop compartment. This fabric-split section can stow both a laptop and tablet, and it’s easy to access your electronics while passing through airport security or while on the go.

While no specific dimensions for the laptop and tablet section are reported, I can tell you a 15″ computer fits with room to spare—you could potentially even fit a 17″ laptop, but don’t quote me on that.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Full Review

While the exterior of the Cotopaxi backpack is made of TPU-coated polyester and ballistic nylon, there is no interior structural support (or back supports for heavy packs), essentially making this bag an unsupported clamshell.

The nylon is somewhat water-resistant but is definitely not waterproof. Fortunately, Cotopaxi provides a rain cover with all  35L Allpa bags .

The interior sections of the main compartment are all zippered mesh. This may be convenient for being able to see inside each compartment, but the zippers are close together and, if not handled with care, can catch on and tear the mesh easily.

The sturdiest part of the bag is the compression straps and hip belt. The shoulder straps are thick and fairly comfortable, while the waist belt is padded so it doesn’t dig into your hips.

The rear panel of the pack is made of air mesh to allow your back and shoulders to breath and more airflow to circulate. This ultimately increases comfort and reduces sweatiness—but it doesn’t get rid of it entirely.

The  Cotopaxi Allpa 35L  travel pack has a super sleek design. With no visible front zippers, this bag is quite attractive with clean exterior lines. Depending on the color, the material can appear shiny, making it look a little too cheap for my liking (and this is  not  a cheap bag), but certain colors hide this sheen fairly well.

The ability to hide the compression straps and carry the pack sideways as a suitcase is a nice touch that adds to the clean lines of the bag, and is also especially useful when squeezing through tight spaces like airplane aisles.

Overall, the Cotopaxi Allpa line definitely targets millennials with its clean lines and bold, simple colors.

Wide compression straps, a padded hip belt, and a sternum strap combine to give the Allpa pack a secure and comfortable fit. The sternum strap leaves a lot to be desired, but from my experience, this is common with a large portion of travel bags.

This pack isn’t the greatest at handling heavy loads. If you’re trying to over-stuff your bag and take it on a long trip, I can pretty much guarantee that you won’t be smiling for long.

I, personally, wouldn’t mind adding an extra pound or two if Cotopaxi decided to add an internal frame or something similar for more support. But for those focused on a lightweight bag and light packing, these straps are about as comfortable as it gets.

The air mesh fabric on the back panel of the pack makes it somewhat breathable, and you’ll have less sweat to deal with than some other competitors on the market (but trust me, sweat still exists).

I did find some taller individuals who mentioned that the padded hip belt on the Allpa sits too high on their waist. While hard for me to weigh in on (sorry, I’m only 5’5″), this is probably something people above average height should take into consideration.

Organization

With only six total compartments, the Allpa 35L travel pack is not the ideal tool for prime organization. The pack is comprised of two sections: a smaller compartment on the back, padded for your laptop computer or tablet, and the main compartment on the front.

The main compartment is separated into four zippered mesh pockets: two small, one medium and one large. There is one additional mesh pocket accessible from the top of the bag.

While this and two smaller interior mesh pockets are great for organization and small item organization, those three pockets are all you have for non-bulky items. There is definitely not enough room to store your wallet, earbuds, and all the other items you want within easy reach.

The single large section that occupies roughly half of the bag’s volume makes it difficult to stay organized, and all of your stuff shifts around during travel.

There is one additional tiny pocket on the padded hip belt, but that is useless for anything other than chapstick or a (singular) key. There are no water bottle holders or organizational clips (unless you want to purchase those separately). No hidden pockets to hide passports, money, or other valuables.

Essentially half of the bag is a giant, open, zippered mesh clamshell compartment, which might be ideal for shoes or large equipment, but not at all useful for further organization or even finding your items easily.

I am a big fan of the burly TPU-coated materials of the Cotopaxi Allpa. They have proven highly resistant to wear, and I have no concerns about seams ripping through. This bag feels tough.

My only durability concern is the interior mesh pockets. I like the mesh for visibility, but I worry that it could wear out over time. I haven’t had any issues so far though, so fingers crossed.

I really appreciate that Cotopaxi went with the largest size (#10) YKK coil zipper for the main zip on this bag. If the main zipper fails, a bag becomes pretty much useless, and this huge zipper gives me a lot of confidence. I’ve seen off-brand or smaller zippers break easily, but this particular zipper has held up well in all of our testing.

Accessories

The Allpa 35L travel pack might be too simple for its own good.

The only accessory this pack comes with is a rain cover. No detachable pockets, day packs, loops, or holders. Nothing extra. No frills or thrills. Just the rain cover, which is neon yellow.

I guess the plus side here is that your bag will be easy to recognize in a crowd.

Cotopaxi does offer a few additional extras on their website that are compatible with the Allpa 35L pack

• Shoe Bag:  This nylon shoe bag is an optional extra that allows you to keep your dirty shoes from touching the rest of your gear. However, this accessory seems a little strange for a smaller 35L bag, and I wonder if it’s at all necessary. If you’re packing this light, it’s unlikely you’re bringing extra shoes.
• Mesh Laundry Bag:  Again very self-explanatory, and again, seemingly unnecessary. I completely understand the allure of segregating your dirty laundry, but there are many more economic ways to do it.
• Snap-On Mesh Water Bottle Sleeve:  I don’t know what it is about mesh, but they seem to love it. To me, this is ripe for getting snagged or torn while traveling, especially since it’s on the exterior of the pack.

However, all of these items must be bought  as a bundle . In other words, you can’t buy the shoe bag separately, but you can buy it with the laundry bag and the water bottle sleeve.

There are different bundles, though. And, to be fair, they don’t cost much extra.

Safety & Security

The  safety and security of your belongings  is important, especially when traveling through crowded areas,  staying in hostels  and other shared spaced, or even when exploring unfamiliar cities and countries in general.

To be honest, Cotopaxi’s attempt to add security features to this bag is weak.

In order to discourage theft, the backpack has “theft-proof webbing” for its outside zippers. I find these straps to just be annoying and, quite frankly, more of a hassle to deal with than they are worth.

But some credit should be given for possibly thwarting a quick pickpocket attempt.

While I am annoyed at the lack of outside pockets, I will admit that the Allpa’s zipper-free front panel also discourages theft. Also, the lack of outer pockets means you won’t forget to leave anything unzipped for wandering hands!

While this bag is about average in price compared to other highly rated 35-40L  carry-on travel backpacks , I am ranking the Allpa 35L travel backpack lower than average based on the pricing of other bags in the Allpa line and the quality of the bag itself.

I don’t think this bag is worth the price tag. On top of that, the 35L travel pack is currently the second-highest priced travel backpack that Cotopaxi offers, only being exceeded by the Allpa 42L pack.

Both the 50L and 70L bags, which are very similar in design to the 35L one, are less expensive than the 35L travel pack.

Is this a good example of price gouging on their most popular bag?

The real mind-boggling price difference is in comparison to the nearly identical  35L Del Dia travel pack  which is $20 cheaper than the regular 35L pack! Sure, it’s not made of their ballistic nylon material, but when neither bag is waterproof, both look the same, and one is both environmentally friendly and cheaper, why not save the money (and the Earth)?

While no warranty is explicitly stated for any product, you can find a “Good Guarantee” Section listed on their website. The “Guarantee” states that you can contact the company to help resolve any issues you have or replace products, but it doesn’t say if there is a fee or what costs might be associated with that solution.

Overall, it looks like the company might do something, but it isn’t clear or explicitly stated what that something is. I’m also assuming this promise applies to all their products, but again, that is not unequivocally listed.

That said, Cotopaxi is brand I know, love and trust, so I feel certain their customer service would fix any issues you might encounter.

If you’re located in the United States, shipping is reasonably priced. In fact, if you aren’t in a rush and can wait two weeks, you are able to score free shipping.

In a pinch? There are four other shipping options between $10-$50 that can get your pack to you as soon as the next day!

International Buyers Beware!  While shipping prices aren’t listed until you add the item to your cart, a few quick trial addresses show very high shipping fees for non-American customers.

Shipping to Canada was over $80 and most of Europe was higher than that. Australia was one of the cheaper countries but still around $30-50, which was equivalent to the more costly shipping options available in the United States.

Unless your heart is set on this bag, I’d suggest international customers save themselves some money and invest in a different outdoor brand that doesn’t charge you 50% of the backpack price in shipping.

How We Review Backpacks: Rating Methodology

On top of hands-on testing and extensive online research, every backpack we test gets scored on nine categories with 39 metrics. This forms the basis of our proprietary Backpack Testing Methodology . It’s a rigorous rating system to objectively test, evaluate, score, and compare backpacks.

Within each category is a series of specific metrics and conditions we use to evaluate each bag as objectively as possible.

Here is a brief explanation of each of the nine categories.

• Build Quality:  A backpack is worthless if it falls apart after a few trips. We rate build quality by looking at six specific factors including the material, zippers, and stitch quality.
• Comfort:  While comfort is somewhat subjective, over our years of testing and reviewing backpacks, we found several common design elements between the backpacks that were the most comfortable for  all  our gear testers. We look at 8 factors including shoulder strap padding and shape, frame design, and adjustability.
• Ease of Use:  A good backpack should be simple, streamlined, and intuitive. We look for packs that offer easy access and packing and have smart features that eliminate annoyances.
• Functionality:  Our functionality rating combines subjective reviewing of how well the pack does what it says it does with objective measures of carrying capacity and laptop protection (if applicable). Does the bag carry everything we need it to? Does it keep the contents safe and protected?
• Water Resistance:  We’ve all been caught out in the rain on our travels, and having a water-resistant backpack gives us confidence that we won’t end up with a bag full of soaked clothes. We rate water-resistance based on materials, zippers, and seam treatments.
• Brand Impact:  It is important to us to support and recommend brands that have a positive impact on the world. Our brand impact rating takes into account environmental impact, sustainable design, social impact, and factory working conditions. To avoid greenwashing, we look for rigorous and widely respected industry certifications.
• Buying Experience:  Shopping for and buying a new backpack should be a rewarding and frustration-free experience. We value companies that implement specific policies to reduce the stress and risk of buying a product.
• Warranty:  It says a lot about a product when the brand is willing to back it up with a solid warranty. We look for products with lifetime warranties and talk to people who have gone through the warranty process.
• Price-to-Performance Ratio:  After we test and assign scores for the 8 categories above, we calculate a price-to-performance ratio by dividing the MSRP by the overall performance rating. This then affects the final rating. Lower price-to-performance ratios are better.

Metric Scores

Each category includes several specific metrics. For example, within the durability category, the individual metrics are zippers, materials, components, and reinforcements.

During our testing, we give every individual metric a score 0-10, with 0 being the worst and 10 being the best.

Some metric scores (like stitch quality) are assigned subjectively based on our experience and observations of the product. Whenever possible, individual metric scores are objective, and we assign them using a standardized scale.

Category Scores

Once we test and assign a 0-10 score for every individual metric, we use weighted averages to calculate a score for each entire category. Each metric within the category has a different value and contributes a different amount to the total score for that category.

Overall Score

Once we have a 0-10 score for each of the rating categories, we use another weighted average to calculate a combined total score. Products with high overall scores don’t necessarily excel in any one category, but they perform well  all around .

Cotopaxi Allpa FAQs

Can the cotopaxi allpa 35 be a carry-on.

Yes, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35 can be used as a carry-on for almost any flight in the world.

Are Cotopaxi backpacks good for hiking?

Cotopaxi makes decent hiking bags, but they are best for travel and everyday use.

Does the Cotopaxi backpack fit under airplane seat?

The Cotopaxi Allpa 28 is sized to fit under an airplane seat. Larger models will be too big.

Will a 35L backpack fit under an airplane seat?

A 35L backpack is too big to fit under most airplane seats.

Where is the Cotopaxi Allpa made?

The Cotopaxi Allpa is made in the Phillipines.

Jeremy Scott Foster

You’re comparing backups that fill two different uses.

I would absolutely never buy a Peak Design 45L backpack, because it’s twice the weight and I simply don’t need an extra 10L/30% more space! Unless you’re packing photography equipment, I really don’t see the need for that MONSTER!

Yeah, it has a lot more compartments and space. But so does an SUV, and since I don’t have a family of 4, I don’t need an SUV.

I’d say the majority of people don’t need anything that large which is why wirecutter picked the Allpa as their main choice. They listed the Peak, if you need to pack a FULL suitcase into your backpack, but I don’t want anything to do with that monster.

35L is plenty of space for 5 days of travel, do laundry… Boom a 10 day trip and it’s actually lightweight.

Yep, ultimately it comes down to what you want and need. I like the PD because it collapses down to 35L—the same size as the Allpa. And because it expands to 45L, if you do happen to need the extra space, you have it available. I’ve tested probably 100 bags now and wasn’t impressed with the Allpa, but plenty of other people love it. It’s a personal choice, in the end!

Wanted to share given my shared opinion of Cotopaxi. Never owned anything from Cotpoaxi previously. Fell for the exterior design. As well as their environmental message. Purchased the Chasqui sling for travel, hiking, and urban use. Light carry,it definitely meets this criteria. The storage lacks sub compartments within its main openings. No exterior water bottle compartment is noticeable when your 32oz sits inside the outer storage slot. Top access only for this area can make it less accessible.

First use, while traveling. My contents spilled out as I tried to reach for my water bottle in the largest, second slot. Why,this area fully unzips to the bottom of the sling. The zipper just opened the area from the weight.

Daisy chain feature, couldn’t use for ANYTHING I needed, eg.walking stick handle wouldn’t fit through.

For a 13L, the sling does not have a waist strap.

Shoulder strap is thick,and comfortable. No integrated mobile pocket. Oddly,the excess adjustable strap doesn’t have any management to tuck the excess material away.

Chasqui sling wasn’t durable. The exterior had signs of wear after less than 30 days of recreational use while traveling.

International customers beware as the(warranty) details aren’t clearly defined* Not only is shipping pricey as noted in the Travel Peak Allpa 35L pack review. The stated warranty doesn’t apply as written since they don’t have the infrastructure to cover (all)international customers.

It’s so funny how different people have totally different takes on things. I actually love the Allpa 35L for some of the very reasons listed as Cons in this review!

For me, the organization in both the Allpa 35L and 42L is literally the best I’ve found, and I wish more luggage makers would adopt it. I prefer lightweight backpack travel for the convenience and freedom, and I also like to SEE what I’m looking for like you can in a standard suitcase. It bugs me to have to constantly excavate backpacks to get to the things at the bottom, and I really hate it when bag makers add tons of almost-flat exterior pockets you have to fish around in blindly and that either bulge out or steal space from the interior of the bag. I feel the same about fiddly interior pockets that take up space and weight instead of letting me use my existing systems.

In this era of countless choices for organization cubes and pouches, so many travelers already have their preferred organization products and systems. I like that the Allpa let’s me get rid of stuff I don’t need anymore because of the inner mesh, but also provides see-through containment for the things I won’t do without: my perfect dopp kit, tech pouch, and must-have compression cube for undies, socks, and PJs. (Side note: I’m not a fan of the Peak Design 45 bag, but boy is their compression bag awesome despite the exorbitant cost! That thing is brilliant, and so much more elegant looking than the similarly high quality ones from Eagle Creek.)

To be able to have the suitcase-style functionality and visibility of the Allpa with a totally sleek exterior that slides easily into the overhead or under a seat and yet still have that huge exterior pocket at the top that’s so easy to see into is ideal for me. For security checks and general travel, I want easy access to my water bottle, toiletries bag, passport, wallet, hat, phone, charger, pen, etc., all of which can easily fit in that deep pocket and stay organized with the small and flat things in the mesh pocket and the bigger bulkier items easy to find and grab. It’s excellent. And the way they’ve protected that space from being encroached on from the inside with their placement of the interior mesh is genius to me. That protected cavity not only keeps the exterior pocket from being rendered useless, it also provides a great spot for hiding small valuables so prying hands can’t easily get to them. That’s the kind of security I prefer in my luggage since dedicated thieves scoff at locks (“Look! Valuables here!”), yet are sometimes deterred when finding the valuables takes too much time.

There seems to me to be a weird lack of DIY/can-do spirit when it comes to luggage, but I have no qualms about sewing a little O-ring into the top of that cavity to attach a small Tom Bihn pouch with my passport and a few valuables. I suppose people might be worried they’ll void a guarantee by customizing their own property (madness–it’s a travel bag, not a car!), but since Cotopaxi’s policy is to replace true manufacturing defects and otherwise help users REPAIR vs. throw away items damaged by normal wear and tear (part of their green ethos), I’m not worried about that. It’s my bag, why shouldn’t I customize it exactly how I want?

I also love that the exterior side zipper into the larger side of the Allpa means I can quickly reach in and grab things like my jacket or travel umbrella (which protects me AND the bag’s water resistant fabric in case of heavy downpours with no need for the included rain cover, though I do think it’s nice they include it since other bag companies charge 30 or 40 dollars for similar gear).

I prefer soft sided luggage with minimal structure and padding because it’s lighter and also more versatile for cramming into almost-full overhead bins and compressing down into carry on sizing boxes. I also don’t have a problem with smaller bags being too empty to look aesthetic. ; – ) Truly delicate items do require a little bit of forethought (and a padded case for things like cameras), but that’s true in any bag, and I’d rather carry only the padding I actually need than a lot of extra “just in case.”

I’ve packed cameras, and even expensive antique china with no problem in a bag with even less external structure than the Allpa, so the fact that the Allpa’s cushioned back and one whole side of the clamshell provide protection for anything in the central part of the bag makes it seem very safe to me.

As for size, why would I want a larger pack that’s just going to invite me to bring more than I need and is comfortable to carry? The Allpa 35L can already fit so much! (For example, the YouTube video of the scuba diver unpacking a week’s worth of clothes AND a full kit of scuba gear from her Allpa 35L, including heavy duty equipment and a wetsuit!)

I’ve literally never heard of anyone having problems with the mesh in the Allpa, including frequent travelers who’ve used the bag for years (and presumably the scuba diver ; – ), so I’m guessing the repeated concerns about it expressed in this review were based more on worry than reality. I had the same reaction when I first looked at the bag, but was glad to find my concerns were unfounded because for me the Allpa 35L is almost bag perfection.

No amount of packing cubes can replace the functionality of a suitcase-style backpack for me, especially with those see-through mesh compartments. And I would much prefer to pay a little extra for the materials and labor required to add such functional yet hard to sew material as mesh into a bag than spend that same money on yet more packing cubes I have to search through and unzip one by one to access my stuff.

I do wish they’d get rid of the obnoxiously huge Cotopaxi logo on the back between the shoulder straps, and I’m not a fan of having Allpa 35L notated on the front of the bag (or the llama head, frankly). But at least in the black version these are less noticeable, and the bag overall is still so worth it. If I could find a backpack that looked as simple and business-friendly as the Peak Design bag this review seems so obsessed with yet had the exterior pocket and interior organization brilliance of the Allpa (plus its comfortable straps, or the ones by Tom Bihn), that would be my ideal. But in the meantime, I’ll continue enjoying the Allpa’s sleek yet adventurous looking aesthetic, and most of all, it’s incredible functionality.

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Dodge Baggage Fees With the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L: Review

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The Cotopaxi Allpa’s $190 sticker price may seem high for a carry-on piece. But a clever combination of design, organization, and features may actually save travelers money on baggage fees in the long run.

Comfortable suspension, durable construction, great organizational ability, and legal carry-on sizing: The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L has all the ingredients of a great travel pack.

It provides safe and comfortable carriage. Better, an internal compression system and “personal item” outer dimensions mean airline passengers will save on extra baggage costs. With careful planning and packing, the wise traveler can avoid baggage fees — even on the strictest airlines.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Review: A Pack for Travel

Customers know Cotopaxi for its brightly colored soft goods, and the Allpa is no different. The exterior TPU-coated, 1,000-denier polyester, 1,680-denier ballistic nylon is available in four colors. And the interior is lined and has contrasting trim.

The bag’s main #10 YKK zipper opens the pack suitcase-style, revealing one large zipped compartment on one half of the bag and three smaller zipped compartments on the other. There is an externally accessible laptop sleeve with an internal divider on the back panel. An externally accessible zipped compartment with internal pockets sits at the top of the front panel.

The main exterior zippers on the pack’s body feature a “security loop.” This piece of webbing spans the zipper coils and zipper pull in the closed position to help prevent casual theft.

The frameless suspension system’s back panel, contoured shoulder straps, and hip belt are all non-removable. But the shoulder straps and hip belt stow behind the back panel. There is a small zipped pocket on the hip belt, and the shoulder straps have a fully adjustable sternum strap.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L has a verified weight of 3 pounds 11 ounces.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L in Use

The internal structure of the pack makes organized packing unavoidable. Two horizontally oriented compression straps press flat the large zipped compartment, ideal for clothing.

And the front panel side, with one main lower and two smaller upper zippered compartments, housed all else, including toiletries and electronics. The computer compartment easily swallowed my 15-inch laptop as well as magazines (or a tablet) in the internal, Velcro-strapped sleeve.

Pro tip: Load the laptop compartment before tightening the internal compression straps. This prevents deforming the computer sleeve, which makes sliding contents in and out difficult. Finally, there are clipping points on all four corners of the front panel.

The suspension system comfortably carried 25 pounds. And although the Allpa includes a rain cover, the pack shed rain well on its own. I doubt the cover is necessary except for in the heaviest of downpours. There is a webbing handle on every side of the Allpa, which allowed briefcase-style carriage. The suspension’s back length isn’t adjustable, but it fit my 6-foot-tall, 165-pound frame well.

How the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Saves on Baggage Fees

The 35L Allpa meets requirements for carry-on baggage, and the hideaway suspension components make for easy and snag-free upper compartment stowage. But what was surprising is that, with careful packing, the Allpa qualifies as the free personal item on many airlines.

The 20 x 12 x 13-inch exterior dimensions may lead one to believe the pack is too big, even as a maximum legal carry-on. But the Allpa is a soft-sided bag. With judicious packing, even with 4 days of winter clothing (I wore my big puffy), I have yet to fail at fitting the Allpa 35L into the personal item test slot. Traveling to and from two Outdoor Retailer shows, I have successfully dodged all baggage fees.

This ability to fit personal item dimensions is a huge deal to a freelance writer like me, drastically reducing travel expenses and maintaining profitability.

The secret sauce lies in the rectangular shape of the bag as well as two internal compression straps in the largest internal compartment. Compression straps reduced the height of clothes, the flexible nature of the Allpa ensured the packed bag qualified as a personal item and fit under the seat, and the rectangular shape made the absolute most of the available volume.

The allowable dimensions were usually a few inches less than the dimensions of the bag, but the Allpa never failed to shrink down to the necessary length, width, and height. Some of the stricter guidelines for personal items state they can’t be backpacks. So I stuffed the shoulder straps and hip belt away after arriving at the airport and carried it by a side handle. Not once did a ticket agent question the Allpa in that configuration. Winner!

Cotopaxi Allpa: A Wonderful Travel Pack

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L has proven to be a wonderfully functional travel pack. It organized all necessary items and carried them comfortably.

Although it probably wasn’t a design objective, the Allpa also saved me tons of money in baggage fees. It fits the personal item sizing requirements, even stringent ones, with planning and careful packing.

And if you need to haul more gear, it still functions as a maximum legal carry-on.

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Cotopaxi Backpack Review: Meet the Allpa 35L Travel Pack

Note: Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive a commission at no additional cost to you. More details are  here .

It’s official: My first Cotopaxi backpack has replaced my decade-old, cat-scratch-covered, obnoxiously red carry-on suitcase. You know, the kind of luggage that rolls not-so-gracefully over bumpy surfaces, won’t properly stand up because one of the feet is broken off, and is annoying to pack because of that metal bar in the bottom.

As wonderful as it felt to say goodbye to that old thing and embrace the functionality of a backpack-meets-suitcase “travel pack ,” I was still craving something bigger than the Nazca 24L  that I wrote about earlier this year. I needed something that I could use for longer trips–a durable backpack that would be versatile enough for international flights, road trips to Maine, and camping adventures.

Enter the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack. This is the stuff Type A dreams are made of, my friends.

I was pretty stoked when I heard that Cotopaxi was releasing a “big sister” to the Nazca backpack earlier this year, as I’ve quickly become obsessed with these Cotopaxi bags. The Allpa backpack was launched through an Indiegogo campaign, and Cotopaxi managed to smash their goal of $50K–raising over $1.3 million to kick off production. Crazy!

I’m excited to finally have my hands on one, and I’m excited to share my thoughts with you after having road tested it. In this Cotopaxi Allpa 35L review, I’m sharing a breakdown of the features, a sneak peek inside with my unboxing, what I like, and what I might change.

Disclosure: Many thanks to Cotopaxi for sending me a sample of the Allpa 35L so that I could share it with you. As I mentioned in my post about the Nazca 24L, I’ve been following them for quite some time and love what they’re all about.  Although this product was provided free of cost, I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I’m always committed to bringing you genuine content with real facts, photos, and thoughts. 

About Cotopaxi Gear

Cotopaxi goes beyond making great travel and adventure gear with their  Gear for Good philosophy . In addition to funding sustainable poverty alleviation with a portion of their profits, they also ensure fairness, sustainability, and quality in every step of the manufacturing process.

The travel philosophy we embrace here in the Roaming the Americas community aligns well with  Cotopaxi’s core values:

• To get outside and see the world
• To inspire people to give back to others

This video gives a good background about how they got started and what they’re all about (and it makes me think we should all head to a cabin in the mountains every once in awhile).

This Is Cotopaxi. This Is Gear For Good. from Cotopaxi on Vimeo .

Allpa 35L Travel Pack Features

Here’s a quick rundown of the Allpa 35L features:

• Weight-distributing, low-profile harness system
• Carry-on-compatible 35L capacity
• Suitcase-style, full-wrap zipper opening on the main compartment (LOVE!)
• Large zippered mesh compartment on the right side
• Subdivided zippered mesh compartment on the left side (makes my Type A heart swoon)
• Padded laptop and tablet sleeve
• Shortcut zipper to main compartment
• Top zippered pocket
• Security YKK zippers
• Carabiner lash loops
• Tuck-away straps
• 4 reinforced grab handles
• Included rain cover
• Removable waist belt

It comes in a variety of colors as well as the Del Día versions , which are one-of-a-kind color combos.

There are also optional accessories you can purchase as a bundle :

• Collapsible mesh laundry bags
• Nylon shoe bag
• Mesh water bottle sleeve
• Batac Del Día Backpack   (the 16L is the perfect size for a day hike! see my unboxing video below)

UPDATE 2023: Unfortunately, the bundles and accessories appear unavailable at this time, and I’m unsure if they are entirely discontinued. While I didn’t find the water bottle sleeve useful, I’ve gotten tons of use from the laundry bag and shoe bag. 

>> Get more details & see color options:  Allpa 35L or other sizes like Allpa 28L and Allpa 42L <<

What i love about the allpa 35l.

Okay…so let’s get to the good stuff already. What do I think of Cotopaxi’s Allpa pack? I haven’t flown with it yet (I’ll be updating this post as I take more trips), but I’ve taken it on a road trip and so far, I’m enjoying it.

Just like the Nazca pack, the suitcase/backpack convertible design has me hooked! Here are the features I love:

Solid, sturdy design:  The material is really durable and I know it’s ready for adventures. And…it’s not dog-hair-attracting–for the win! The zippers are hefty, too. Of course, time will be the test in terms of quality, but the build and quality feel rugged. Plus, Cotopaxi  guarantees their products for 61 years (the average lifespan of a person living in the developing world), and they offer a replacement, repair, or exchange if anything goes wrong with the product.

Spacious:  I’m so glad to have this bigger version of the design I fell in love with in the Nazca. The main suitcase side is really roomy and deep, as is the front pocket (it’s DEEP). And it’s got compression/cinch straps (UPDATE 2023: the second generation of this bag doesn’t have these internal straps), which the Nazca doesn’t have, to help you fit even more inside. I was able to comfortably pack for five days on a recent road trip during the winter (though admittedly, I did have some “extras” that came along in the car because I was visiting family for Christmas).

Theft-prevention zippers:  I don’t know if that’s the official term for this zipper design, but that’s what I’m calling them. The laptop sleeve, main compartment, and back access have a loop that the zipper has to pass through, which helps prevent easy access.

Organized and convertible design:  I love the organization factor with various zippered compartments. There’s a zippered access from the back of the pack that lets you get into one side of the main compartment without having to open the entire pack. I can see that this could come in handy (as long as you packed intentionally), but I haven’t needed to use it yet. The convertible design that lets you carry it like a backpack OR a suitcase (with backpack straps that tuck away), and the fact that it’s not top-loading like a traditional backpack, make it really flexible and convenient.

Extras:  I love the accessories that you can get with it, especially the size of the Batac 16L Del Día daypack. It’s such a perfect size for day trips and short adventures–I’ve even been using it to take to the gym while I’m home.  The water bottle sleeve is decent and fits my 32-ounce Healthy Human water bottle , but over time I haven’t really used it. However, I’ve found the shoe bag and mesh laundry bag to be very handy (a great replacement for plastic bags).

Padded laptop and tablet sleeve:  Always helpful when you need to minimize the number of bags you’re taking on a trip.

Cotopaxi’s “Gear for Good” philosophy:  Can I just say again how much I love this?

>> Check out the latest prices on Cotopaxi’s website  here . <<

What i might change about the allpa 35l.

There’s not much I would change, but here are a couple things to think about:

Rain cover:  Technically, this is mostly a “pro,” given that having a rain cover while traveling is so helpful, and the Allpa comes with one automatically. However, I’m curious about whether Cotopaxi considered making this built in (this is a feature on my Lowepro DSLR camera bags), as that is something I could see making it even more convenient. The major benefit of having it built in is that you can’t lose it or forget it. It also wouldn’t take up space in one of the compartments.

And, you don’t have to remember how to fold it (am I the only person who takes a photo of her tent so I know how to pack it back up?). On the other hand, not having it built into the bag itself could be convenient if you’re trying to save every last bit of space and weight possible and don’t need to take it with you.

Waist strap is bulky to tuck away:  I found that the straps (mainly the waist straps) don’t tuck away as easily as they do on the Nazca pack (they’re more hefty, which is beneficial in other ways).

As a little bonus tip/”don’t do what I did”: I had a bit of trouble when packing because I packed the big compartment full of clothes, tightened up the compression straps, added a couple other things…then tried to put my laptop in the sleeve, and it wouldn’t zip. I think it’s not so much of a design “con,” but just make sure to watch how you’re packing if you use the compression straps in the main compartment.

Recommended For

Depending on weather, clothing size, and packing style, the Allpa 35L can be easily used for weekend trips or longer, and is spacious enough for a week or more if you’re a light packer in warm weather. Overall, I highly recommend the Allpa 35L Travel Pack for anyone looking for a spacious travel backpack with an organized design that fits carry-on restrictions.  Check out the latest prices and more details here .

UPDATE August 2018 : Looking for something not too big and not too small? Cotopaxi just released a “just right” version that falls between the Allpa 35L and the Nazca24L–meet the Cotopaxi Allpa 28L (I’m currently swooning over the gray color and trying to justify why I should have a third backpack-suitcase). It has the rugged material of the Allpa but a bit smaller size for shorter trips.

Recommended accessories

Del Día Dopp Kit // I just picked one of these up recently, and I love how nicely it keeps all my toiletries snugly organized. It fits perfectly in the front pocket of the Allpa 35L. They also have a newer, larger accessory bag with zippered compartments that looks really handy.

Wide Mouth Water Bottle // A reusable water bottle is SO handy for traveling and an easy way to cut down on plastic. While I don’t have a Cotopaxi one yet, I am in love with all the colors they have and plan to add one to my gear soon!

There are several options for add-on accessories with the Allpa 35L that include: mesh laundry bag, nylon shoe bag, and water bottle holder that clips onto the outside of the pack. Plus one of the day backpacks below. While I haven’t used the water bottle holder much so far, I love the laundry bag and shoe bag! On my most recent trip, I fit hiking boots, somewhat bulky velcro sandals, and a small pair of flip flops inside it–that then fit  inside the suitcase. (Guys, I never pack my shoes inside my suitcase! I was seriously impressed with myself.)

Batac 16L Backpack or another daypack // These are great to roll up and pack in your suitcase so you have a smaller pack for day trips or hikes on a weekend camping trip. I have both the Batac 16L and Luzon 18L, and personally find the size and design of the Batac 16L to be a great fit for my needs.

(Want something even smaller than a daypack? Grab one of their hip packs !)

What’s your favorite piece of travel gear or luggage? Is a suitcase-style backpack something you’d like to try? Let me know your questions & thoughts below!

This post was originally published on December 7, 2017 and has been updated on May 4, 2023.

Travel Photographer | FAA Certified Drone Pilot

Naomi is the coffee-loving, crazy-about-Latin-America writer and photographer behind everything here. She's guided by curiosity and a belief that every place has a story to tell–whether it’s through the intricate details of nature, history that has shaped a culture, or the people who call a place home. Learn More

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I’ve Worn This Travel Backpack in More Than 50 Countries, and It’s Still Going Strong

This Cotopaxi carry-on even fits under most airplane seats.

Travel + Leisure / Pamela Jew

My job as a travel writer has taken me to all seven continents in the last 10 months, and after all those miles, let me tell you: There are just certain things I can’t travel without. The true MVP? My Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack , which has carried me through more than 50 countries — from Costa Rica to South Africa — and which I don’t expect to retire any time soon.

I’m in good company with my love of this backpack. After lots of testing, Travel + Leisure editors recently named the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack the best overall on its list of 2023’s best carry-on backpacks . 

To buy: amazon.com and cotopaxi.com , $200 

Still, I first heard about this bag years ago from a writer friend of mine who’d just returned from an assignment in Georgia (the country, not the state). While he had a lot to say about the destination, what he really raved about was the bag he lived out of for two weeks. It was carry-on compatible, had a 35-liter capacity, was lightweight and waterproof, and opened up like a suitcase for easy packing (impressive!). Plus, it had a waist strap so it’s easy on the back and, to top it all off, a rare lifetime warranty. I knew I just had to try it — so I got one. Of course, one quickly turned into two. 

Travel + Leisure / Katie Jackson

I’m convinced this Cotopaxi bag is indestructible, because it’s made with high-quality, tear-resistant nylon fabric and a water-resistant TPU coating designed to withstand the relentless wear and tear of travel. And I know firsthand just how waterproof it can be. I was once carrying it in Costa Rica, during the rainy season, when I got caught in a downpour. Despite getting drenched, my bag’s contents stayed completely dry. And that was without using the rain cover it comes with! I’ve found this bag to be so waterproof that I don’t even bother bringing it. 

To buy: amazon.com and cotopaxi.com , $200 For a bag made with such durable materials, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is quite light. It weighs less than four pounds, and because it has a waist belt and padded shoulder straps, weight is evenly distributed across my hips and shoulders. In September, I wore it in Portugal, where I stocked it up with bottles of wine. Despite how heavy my bag got, I never had any back pain. Even if you don’t want to wear it as a backpack, you can simply tuck the straps in and carry it using the side handles (reinforced, of course). I usually do this when I’m in Thailand, where it’s so hot and humid I don’t want to have anything on my back. 

But by far, my favorite feature of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is the fact it opens like a suitcase. With traditional backpacks, I have to dig to the bottom of the bag to find what I’m looking for. But with this pack, I just unzip, open, and can see everything I packed. In addition to the large main compartment, there are so many internal pockets I almost don’t even need to use 2023’s best packing cubes . 

There are even more functional features too, including a padded sleeve for a laptop or tablet and security YKK zippers to deter pickpockets (which I appreciated when I was in Paris last year, where I have had stuff stolen before). Finally, there’s a convenient external pocket that comes in handy for things like sunglasses and water that I want easy access to.

For such a functional bag, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is also very aesthetically pleasing. My next trip is to South Africa’s newest five-star luxury retreat, Future Found Sanctuary in Cape Town , and instead of rolling up with Louis Vuitton luggage, I’m proud to sport this pack because it’s actually pretty stylish. Both of my bags are two of the most eye-catching colorways — Cotopaxi is famous for its bright colors — but this bag is also available in solid black if you don’t want to be bothered by strangers giving you compliments on it. That said, it’s so cool that they’ll probably still ask where you got it. 

To buy: amazon.com and cotopaxi.com , $200

At Cotopaxi.com , the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack starts at $200 and has an impressive 4.7-star average rating from more than 1,000 reviews. It also has a 4.7-star average rating at Amazon, where it starts at $198 and where shoppers call it the “best backpack for airline travel.” I’ve never had an issue getting it to fit in an overhead bin, including when I flew the discount airline Wizz Air this summer to Romania. It usually fits under the seat in front of me, too. 

One shopper who calls it a great carry-on loved using it during a flight when traveling with their two young sons. “They need lots of snacks and toys and changes of clothes and other things,” they wrote. “This bag was able to fit all of it at once. Best of all, it kept all of our things very organized.” Another shopper who raves about how spacious it is managed to fit two pairs of pants, nine tops, a dress, pajamas, a pair of shoes, a bathing suit, socks, underwear and more, and still had space left!

To buy: amazon.com , $198

Despite being able to carry pretty much everything but the kitchen sink, this pack is still surprisingly comfortable. And unlike other carry-ons, because you can wear it, you can easily carry it with ease over cobblestone streets. One shopper who spent a week traveling around London and Paris during transportation strikes ended up having to walk everywhere and says they “never could have taken this trip without this pack.” 

Even if your plans don’t involve walking a lot, you won’t be disappointed if you treat your back to the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack . This bag ensures you’ll arrive at your destination with all of the things you need, neatly organized. I’m not saying you should definitely buy two, like me, but I am saying it’s such a cool bag, I wouldn’t be surprised if it sells out. 

At the time of publishing, the price started at $198. 

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Cotopaxi Allpa 35 Review

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you click on a link, we may receive a small commission, at no cost to you. Please read our full policy below , thank you for your support!

Cost: $200 Capacity: 35L (Also available in 42L) Dimensions 35: 20” x 12” x 8” (51 x 30 x 20cm) Style: Clamshell Weight: 3.7 lbs (1.6 kg) Laptop: 15” Materials: TPU Coated 1000D polyester, 1680D ballistic nylon Origin: Manufactured in Philippines

Check Price @ Cotopaxi

Overall Impression, Aesthetic

This pack is totally solid. It’s make using awesome materials, huge zippers, with great internal organization. Too add to the greatness, Cotopaxi is a certified B-corp company that donates a portion of profits to social causes. The Allpa would be an almost perfect pack with some slight tweaks to the backpack carry system.

Materials, Colors, and Size

The materials are among the sturdiest you can use to make a travel backpack. The sides and back are made from a thick 1680 ballistic nylon fabric. The front of pack is stiff TPU coated polyester. Imagine a thick fabric coated in plastic, which makes the front very robust and abrasion resistant.

These materials come with a tradeoff however between quality and weight. The Cotopaxi Allpa is sturdy and robust, but also a bit heavy at almost 3.5 lbs. (1.7kg).

Zippers and Hardware

The zippers and hardware are also awesome. They use huge #10 YKK zippers on the main compartment, and #8’s on the rest of the internal pockets and dividers. I really like bags that use the #10’s, I wish all travel backpacks used these.

Security System

Instead of locks, they use a somewhat minimalist security system, with fabric loops. This is designed to keep the zippers from being easily opened, but it also means that YOU can’t easily open them, but I found these are easier to use than some other bags I’ve tested (Like the Topo Designs Travel Bag ).

The #10 YKK zippers have large holes you can easily secure together using the standard solid TSA locks, or these flexible wire locks have a much bigger opening and allow you to lock more things together. Or you can just lock the zippers together if you want.

If you want something a little simpler, I have a few options that work well. This small keychain wire , with a twist lock works as a quick low-key solution to secure zips.

And this mini aluminum carabiner lock , and the double mini S-Lock work great to keep your zippers secure without making it obvious you have something valuable you’re trying to protect

Size, Dimensions,

I have the 35 Liter version of the Allpa here, and at 20 x 12 x 8”, it will easily fit carry on dimensions for most airlines. If you’re not sure, check my carry-on size table . The Allpa also comes in a few other sizes

If you want something a little bigger, there is a 42L version, as well as a smaller 28L size that’s going to be small enough to fit under the seat on most planes.

External Components

The outside of the Allpa is pretty minimalist. The back side is completely flat with only one external organizational pocket. It opens from the top, goes about half-way down the bag. It’s a nice big pocket, that gives you lots of room while being small enough to have easy access to everything.

Inside there is a small mesh zipper pocket with a few fabric dividers, and a keychain leash. The pocket sticks out from the main compartment, and is easily large enough for a jacket, or your daypack. But keep in mind that this pocket is quite big, but anything you put in here will displace room in the front inner mesh divider compartment, giving you less room on the inside of the bag.

The Allpa doesn’t come with a water bottle pocket, but you can buy the additional water bottle sleeve (I bought the Allpa bundle which also comes with a shoe bag and laundry bag). It clips to the outside of the pack using 2 button straps on the side handle, and a strap below.

Carry Options

Backpack straps.

The backpack straps are a firm foam padded strap with an adjustable sternum strap, but no top load adjustors. The hip belts are thin, and made from the same firm foam as the backpack straps. There’s one small zipper pocket on the left hip strap which is almost too small to store anything larger than maybe a lip balm.

The back padding is a flap of hexagonal breathable air foam which offers decent air ventilation. Both the backpack straps and the hip belts can be stowed away behind the back-padding flap. Unclip the shoulder straps, tuck them in from the top, then fold the hip straps behind the flap from the bottom.

Carry Comfort

I found the padding on the backpack straps and the hip belt to decent for this size of bag, but the foam is a kind of stiff and the padding could be thicker.

I also found the location on the hip belt to be a little too high for me. I’m 5’10” and have a torso length of about 17.5” and the hip belt sits a few inches above my hips. They’re not adjustable, or removable, so there’s not much I can do about this.

This bag is going to fit better on someone with a shorter torso length, but if you’re taller than 5’10”, the hip belt is going to fit more like a tummy belt.

Interior Components and Design

The Allpa from the side in a clamshell style opening, similar to a suitcase. The configuration of the internal mesh dividers will depend on the size of the Allpa that you have. Each version has a large main compartment, with the other side having either 2 or 3 mesh divider pockets.

The 35 Liter version here, has 3 pockets on this side, two small top pockets, and a larger mesh zipper that also gives you access to the large space behind these top pockets.

Packing Style

The main compartment is going to be where you store most of your clothes. There are two internal compression straps, and a mesh zipper to keep everything in place. You definitely don’t need to use packing cubes with this bag, but if you like extra organization, two medium packing cubes fit in here just fine.

The other side of the bag is perfect for large bulky items like a jackets, sweaters, your toiletry kit, shoes, or dirty laundry. And keep in mind that the more you stuff in this side of the bag, the less room you will have in the external organization compartment.

The main compartment has two additional features. There’s a hidden mini security pocket in here which is a great place to keep an extra credit card and some cash, and a copy of your passport, so all your valuables aren’t together in the same place. And then there’s a zipper on the exterior of bag opposite the laptop compartment that allows you to access this main compartment from the outside without having to open the big zipper.

Laptop Compartment

The laptop compartment features a side opening zipper on the outside of the bag. It’s large enough to hold up to a 15” laptop and a 10” tablet. The compartment is moderately padded, but doesn’t have a false bottom. However there is a decent ridge of padding on the top and bottom, as well as the thick backpack padding, that provide decent protection.

There’s one issue with the laptop compartment that makes it difficult to use. When the backpack straps are out, it’s large enough that my 15” Dell laptop, and it fits in here just fine.

However, when I stow away the backpack straps and the hip belt, the straps get pretty crowded in this stow pocket. This makes a large bulge on the back of the bag, that puts pressure on the laptop compartment.

Now when you try and fit your laptop in here, you have to almost cram it in. It’s really tight and you can barely close the zipper.

My favorite thing about the Cotopaxi Allpa 35 is the bombproof materials. This is just a really nice, well made bag, using great materials and hardware with great organization. This backpack is designed to last and it shows in the craftsmanship. I love the

The shoulder straps are decent, but they could be a lot more padded. The shoulder straps are only moderately comfortable for a bag of this size. The hip belt is going to be way to high for most people, it’s more of a tummy strap on me. They should add an adjustable feature in the next model like they did with the 42L version.

I run One Bag Travels as an independent website, I am not directly associated with, nor do I take payments from any of the companies featured on this site. My opinions are based on my personal experience with these products, as well as years of experience as an independent traveler.

Any revenue I receive from One Bag Travels is from affiliate marketing relationships, meaning if you click on one of the product links, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you. I strive to review products that I like, or are popular in the one bag/minimalist travel community, not just brands that I receive a commission on. Sometimes a company will send me a free product to review, I am however under no incentive or obligation to give them a favorable review.

The continued existence and success of One Bag Travels relies on the support of my readers. I believe providing thorough, honest, unbiased information is the best way to grow this support. I put a lot of work into my reviews, if you find this information was helpful in your decision, we encourage you to purchase through one of our affiliate links, at zero extra cost to you. This support allows me to continue providing the best reviews and content for you. Thank you for your support!

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Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

A colorful and well-organized travel pack.

We originally featured this review a few years ago when the pack was called the Del Dia. Cotopaxi has added new colors.

Tidy Travel

I’ve been using Cotopaxi’s brilliant Allpa 35L pack for travel, and it’s a game changer because I can easily carry what I need for four-day trip in this tidy, organized pack.

First, I like how simple it is to open the bag like a book, thanks to the heavy-duty double zips that wrap around three sides of the bag and around the edges to the fourth side. This zipper design allows me to have the bag fully open and flat. 

On the right side of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L pack there’s a full-size packing compartment with a zippered mesh cover that reduces weight and allows my things to breathe. It’s about 5” deep 11” wide, and 22” long, and that is a significant amount of packing space. Sometimes I roll my clothes and pack them into the compartment, and sometimes I put my clothes into packing cubes, then place the cubes into the compartment. Either way, I can fit a lot of clothes in there, including: an alpaca hoody , a short-sleeve shirt, a performance tee , a long-sleeve shirt, a long skirt, a pair of shorts, and a swimsuit.

More important, the compartment is deep enough that I can fit an extra pair of shoes in there (first I wrap them in a plastic bag or shoe cube because I am a germophobe). 

This main compartment also contains a flat zippered side pocket where I like to stash travel essentials like ear plugs, a sleeping mask, and my toothbrush and toothpaste.

The left side of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L pack is divided into three compartments, also with zippered mesh covers. I use the largest one for underwear, bras, socks, and my toiletries bag. Then I use the small pockets above this compartment for jewelry, computer and iPhone cords I won’t need while in transit, and small personal items. 

Sleek and Slim

The outside of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is gorgeous and simple, completely free of zippers or pockets that could get snapped on things. Still, it has a sturdy nylon strap across each corner for clamping on extras like a water bottle or bike helmet. 

There’s an almost hidden zippered compartment at the top of the pack that is nice and deep. That’s where I stash my wallet, iPhone, tickets, and other travel items. There’s also a zippered mesh pocket for any chargers and cords I need. I like that the pocket has organizers sleeves so I can easily find my pens, pocket knife, lip balm, and other items. Finally, there is a thin lanyard I can use to hold my keys. I never used to use the lanyards in packs, but I’ve learned that taking an extra second to fasten my keys saves me from the headache of having to dump out a pack when I can’t find my keys. 

This top compartment is designed to accommodate an Allpa hip pack.

Electric Sleeve

There’s more: on the back side of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L pack there’s a large padded compartment for my most precious cargo, my MacBook Pro and my iPad. My MacBook Pro has a protective case I love, and it fits into this compartment easily, as does my Otterbox -encased iPad mini . The side zipper that allows me to access this compartment runs the length of the bag, so I have plenty of room to maneuver. 

There’s a secret zipper on the opposite side of the back that allows me to access the main packing compartment without opening up the entire bag. I’ve never actually used it, but good to know if I need to stash a folder and notebook on the bottom of the compartment and access it en route. 

Versatile and Durable

I have used the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L on several trips, and traveled by plane, train, and car, and it has been a wonderful bag.

I love the aesthetics and the functional design of the pack. It’s constructed out of several contrasting colors of durable woven nylon material, gear tags, and zippers. Everything about it is high quality and easy to use. 

The zippers are very rugged, with nylon zipper pulls, and have tough nylon zipper garages for added security from pick-pockets. The nylon material has held up well to a lot of abuse, and the bag gives me carrying options that are really helpful. When I’m walking for any distance I wear the bag as a pack. It has significant padding on the back, along with customizable and densely padded shoulder and waist straps. When not in use, the waist straps can be removed (the piece attaches with a wide Velcro pad) and the straps can be tucked under the back padding to convert the pack into a suitcase. There are wide, strong nylon straps on both sides of the pack. 

The Allpa 35L Travel Pack comes with a highly water resistant cover that is easy to place over the bag in inclement weather. 

Bottom Line

Having the space to pack four days worth of clothes in such a compact bag is ideal. Being able to bring an extra pair of shoes is glorious. Fitting my computer and iPad in the same bag is brilliant. I’m done checking bags. The Allpa 35L is all I need.

Available in several color combinations. Cotopaxi claims that 94% of their products contain repurposed or recycled materials. Yea!

Manufacturer: cotopaxi.com

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The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

By Kit Dillon

Kit Dillon is a writer focused on bags and travel gear. He has worked for Wirecutter for a decade and lost count of the number of bags he has tested.

When you open up your favorite carry-on travel backpack, it should feel like you’re opening the door to a well-organized closet or sitting down at a clean desk, with everything in the right place and easy to reach.

This is your moment to center yourself, no matter how chaotic the journey.

What we considered

A 45-liter bag maximizes overhead space but can get heavy when fully packed; 35-liter bags tend to be more manageable.

A bag with a clamshell design opens like a book and is the easiest to pack, but a bag that opens traditionally tends to have more structure.

Ideally, a travel backpack has handles on all sides—especially the bottom—so you can pull it out of overhead bins or from under seats.

Some internal pockets are useful, but major organizing is better managed with packing cubes.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack and the larger Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L offer the best combination of features, quality, and durability. Both bags are exemplary carry-on travel backpacks that are designed for comfort, durability, and organization. Though these backpacks are great as companion bags for any trip, they’re designed to ultimately replace all of your other luggage and become your exclusive bag as you travel.

This style of packing is not for everyone, but once some people try it, they’re forever hooked. Finding the right bag is a personal choice, though, and no single bag will appeal to everyone. That’s why we also have picks that are great for people who travel for work , others that are designed to be carried over long distances , and a bag that’s basically luggage on your back .

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, best small carry-on bag for most situations: cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack, best large bag for most situations: peak design travel backpack 45l, best mobile office: patagonia black hole mlc 45l, best bag for long journeys on foot: osprey farpoint 40 and fairview 40, best bag if you need a large suitcase on your back: tortuga travel backpack pro 40l, other good carry-on travel backpacks, how we picked and tested, the competition.

I’ve been covering aspects of luggage and travel bag design for Wirecutter for nearly a decade, and I have personally researched, tested, and compared hundreds of bags in that time. I personally try to do most of my travel with a single backpack, whenever possible. I spent nine months roaming around Hawaii with not much more than that, and I spent another six months nomadically couch-surfing in New York City.

I reached out to writers who specialize in traveling the world carrying everything they need in a single bag: Eytan Levy, the owner and operator of the Snarky Nomad travel website; James Feess, founder of The Savvy Backpacker ; and Sharon Gourlay, of the Where’s Sharon? travel website. I also spoke with moderators of Reddit’s r/onebag and r/heronebag forums, as well as with Chase Reeves, bag fanatic, reviewer, and owner of Matterful .

We researched and tested bags designed for those who want to travel light and stay flexible while flying, without the burden of checking luggage. For some people, the challenge of cutting down a packing list is intimidating. But if you can get past that initial hurdle, traveling with a single bag is a revelation. With fewer items, you have more time to concentrate on and appreciate the journey.

• When you’re not loaded down by heavy luggage, it’s easy to remain more mobile. And it’s easier to adjust your plans mid-trip. If you’re willing to do laundry on the road, then one bag is all you need to travel indefinitely. At its heart, one-bag travel allows you to discover more—not just about the places you’re going but also about yourself and what you really need day to day.
• Size and weight still matter. If you desire more creature comforts or more gear, or if you plan to be away for a long time across multiple climates, you’ll want a bigger travel backpack . These larger bags tend not to be carry-on-friendly, however, especially in Europe, so be prepared to check them.
• No single backpack is perfect for everyone. Before you make any purchase, consider some basic points. How much can you carry? And where do you usually visit: the city or outback? Travel gear should feel like a welcome companion—there to support you when you need it but unobtrusive when you don’t.

45-liter bag vs. 35-liter bag

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

A versatile small pack for a week or a weekend.

This durable bag’s clamshell design makes it easy to organize your stuff. And due to its strap design, this bag can be worn on your back or carried in your hand while you’re on the move.

Buying Options

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is an easy-to-organize, comfortable-to-carry bag for getaways lasting just a few days or a whole week.

It’s one bag that can do it all. This is a great all-around bag for any traveler who’s dedicated to packing light, or for a smaller person who wants less to carry. There are handles on all four sides of this bag, so it’s easy to grab no matter where you’ve stowed it. It’s also protected by a full lifetime warranty, and it has the build quality to back that up. After more than four years of testing, this single backpack (plus a personal item ) has replaced nearly every travel bag or piece of luggage I use.

It comes in various sizes, but we think the middle-of-the-road version is the best. Cotopaxi also makes the Allpa in 28-liter and 42-liter sizes. But for us, the 35-liter bag is the best option. At 42 liters, this bag becomes heavy for most people to carry when it is fully packed, and we’d prefer that it had a more-robust hip belt. At 28 liters, the bag becomes a touch small for most people, and its internal organization feels fussy for shorter trips, such as an overnight. Cotopaxi also makes a hip pack , which is designed to fit snugly into the Allpa bag’s front top compartment. It’s a neat little addition to the bag, and it is worth getting if you like wearing fanny packs while you travel.

It’s organized, easy to pack, and easy to carry. The Allpa bag has a clamshell design, so it opens like a hard-sided suitcase—a large YKK zipper runs around three sides of the bag, allowing it to fall open into two halves when unzipped. On the right side is a deep compartment, spacious enough for two large packing cubes or half a suitcase’s worth of clothing (which you access through a mesh zippered flap). On the left, there’s space for one more medium-size packing cube behind a zippered flap. Above that there are two smaller pockets with high-visibility backing—useful when you’re looking for hard-to-differentiate personal items.

It’s secure but still accessible. The Allpa pack has two side-access zippers—great for on-the-go access, especially when the bag is hanging from your shoulder. One of these reveals a flat computer pocket with a padded false bottom; so if you drop the bag, it won’t land on the corner of your computer. The other reveals a “secret” pocket with a hidden zipper and access to the main compartment. All of the main compartment zippers are protected by security loops, which you thread the zipper through at the end of its run. This prevents anyone from subtly or quickly grabbing a zipper and opening your bag when you aren’t paying attention.

It’s comfortable to carry. The Allpa bag’s hip belt—which can be removed while the bag is on your back—is substantial enough that it’s comfortable to wear when you need it. With or without the hip belt, the Allpa bag is comfortable to carry over long distances. However, folks who have longer torsos (over 19 inches) may find that the waist belt sits a little high off the hips, unless you fully extend the shoulder straps. Speaking of shoulder straps, unlike the ones on our other picks, the Allpa bag’s straps are contoured to fit people who have large or small chests. It’s not a specifically gendered design, but our female tester noticed the improvement right away.

The Allpa pack is made with 1680-denier ballistic nylon, similar to the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . (Denier is a measure of a fabric’s fiber thickness.) It feels similar to a strong canvas, but it has a more prominent weave. This is the type of bag that’s as easy to toss into an overhead compartment as it is into the back of a rusty pickup truck. And it also includes a rainfly, which is unique in this category.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Though this pack is well organized for packing, it’s less ideal as a mobile office. The Allpa pack has a minimal amount of administrative organization—places to keep pens and papers, spaces to hold tickets, and so forth. This is where a good personal item comes in handy. However, if you want to travel with just this one bag, there are a few nooks you can hide things in. The front organizer is deep enough that you can also fit several small organizing pouches, if you want, or the aforementioned fanny pack.
• We prefer the model without the TPU front. Cotopaxi does enjoy playing around with fabrics and colors. Sometimes the company has released the Allpa pack without the TPU-lined front panel. The TPU panel improves water resistance, but after many years of traveling with our bag, we’ve found that the TPU layering can begin to flake in spots.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight: 3 pounds 5 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: adventurous Colors: assorted

Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

An easily customizable large bag for long trips and expensive gear.

This bag was built with photographers in mind. Yet most travelers will appreciate its easy accessibility, clever tuck-away straps, and the elegant way the bag expands and contracts. The accessory cubes cost extra, though.

The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a good choice for those carrying more expensive gear—especially camera gear. It’s also great for those who prefer a large, backpack-based packing system.

One bag provides many configurations. Some bags in this category are built to do one thing extremely well—be carried on your back. But the Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is built to adapt. It’s the Swiss Army knife of backpacks: adjustable, customizable, and (if you spring for the extra cubes and organizers) an almost perfect system for a photographer or gearhead on the move. Most bags’ expanding mechanisms aren’t worth the extra zipper they’re built on, and they look about as attractive as a boiled ham splitting out of its plastic packaging. That’s not the case with the Peak Design: This bag looks just as good fully packed at 45 liters as it does compressed to a 30-liter daypack.

It’s expandable, with clever folds and zippers. You can access the bag through a back panel (which doubles as a computer and tablet pouch) as well as a front one (if you unzip the pass-through divider). You can also get into the main compartment via two wing-like trapezoidal flaps, which run along each side of the pack. In its natural shape, the Travel Backpack holds 35 liters, but an expansion zipper lets the bag swell to 45 liters. If you want to use the bag as a daypack, you fold in the top corners and snap them down, reducing the bag’s volume to a slim 30 liters. In this configuration, it will still feel larger than a normal daypack, but we think that’s a small compromise for being able to use one backpack as both your travel bag and your daily explorer. The bag itself consists of 400-denier nylon and polyester fabrics. It feels tough but not as tough as some other bags we’ve tested, such as the Cotopaxi Allpa.

It has fold-away straps, for easier storage. The Peak Design lets you tuck its shoulder and hip straps away when you’re not using them. But unlike any other bag we’ve ever tested, this pack has magnetic flaps on the back panel that open and close with an almost magical snap. Once you’ve played with them, you’ll wonder why every backpack doesn’t have something similar. A small, childish part of me still gets excited about tucking away the straps when I put the Peak Design into an overhead bin. Although the straps are thin, they’re still comfortable. The hip belt isn’t quite as plush as the one on the Tortuga pack; still, even when the Peak Design is fully loaded, the belt doesn’t pinch or dig into the body.

It’s great for carrying expensive gear. If you travel with a camera, you don’t have to use Peak Design’s camera cubes , but they do make carrying that gear a whole lot easier. The cubes come in five sizes. And if they’re situated properly in the bag with the provided clips, they line up with the Travel Backpack’s side-access flaps for quick access. Caleigh Waldman (a photographer for this piece and, full disclosure, my spouse) took this bag across the country for a wedding shoot. “I want this backpack,” she said after three weeks of travel. “I want to travel with it everywhere. With my cameras. Without my cameras. It doesn’t matter. I want to travel with it.”

• It’s expensive—especially if you commit to the entire system of packing and camera cubes.
• More complexity means more things that can break. The adjustable design and multiple zippers do add complexity, and complexity adds potential weaknesses. Peak Design covers all of its bags with a lifetime warranty , which should alleviate most people’s concerns. But if you’re particularly hard on your gear and still need to carry as much as possible, you might consider the Tortuga bag instead.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: back-panel loader Style: minimalist and unobtrusive Color: black, sage

Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L

Combines more organization with a simple interior.

This bag’s split interior makes organizing easy. Those who travel for work will appreciate this bag’s dedicated panels for organizing tech, books, papers, and assorted miscellaneous items.

If you travel often for business and prefer a bag that’s much easier to work out of than most of our other picks, you may like the Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L . This bag has a front panel and assorted pockets that make it feel like a small traveling office.

It’s built like luggage but organized like your office. Of all the bags we recommend, the MLC (short for Maximum Legal Carry) comes closest to being a suitcase on your back, due to its large size, simple interior, and minimal external features. The MLC is also one of the simplest bags we tested, divided into two leaves (imagine a book with only one page), with a main compartment for packing and a second compartment for document organization and tech storage. The MLC has a built-in laptop compartment that fits 17-inch laptops and is situated close to your back; this protects the computer and keeps its weight closer to your body.

Despite its size, it’s comfortable enough to carry. Most carry-on backpacks of this size, without frames, become somewhat unwieldy when fully packed. Thankfully, the Black Hole MLC bag, like the Cotopaxi Allpa, is a welcome exception to this rule. The MLC has two shoulder straps, a hip belt, and an optional shoulder strap, for easy carrying. When they're not in use, or when you’re checking your bag, all of the straps can be stowed away easily. When fully loaded, the bag was pleasant to carry—not as comfortable as the Peak Design or the Osprey, but decent enough. I wouldn’t want to carry it all day across a city, but I wouldn’t mind carrying it through an airport to a car and to a hotel.

It’s built from high-quality materials, with durability in mind. This pack is made from recycled polyester, and the fabric is woven in a cross-weave that’s very similar to what Patagonia uses in its long-lasting Black Hole series of duffle bags . This is a material I’ve come across a bunch with Patagonia gear, and I’ve tested it thoroughly; it’s very tough. The front of the bag is coated in a weather-resistant TPU, for extra protection from the elements. The bag has large YKK zippers (the industry leader) and smaller YKK zippers throughout. Unlike the Cotopaxi Allpa pack, the Black Hole MLC bag has no security loops.

It comes with one of the best repair programs and a lifetime warranty. Similar to our other picks, the MLC is backed by an excellent lifetime warranty , and we’ve always found that Patagonia’s repair program goes above and beyond other comparable companies.

• We wish the Maximum Legal Carry (despite the name) came in a few more sizes. The 45-liter capacity may be intimidating for some people, and there is no alternative.

Capacity: 45 liters Weight: 3 pounds 10 ounces Main compartment access: clamshell Style: retro Colors: tan, black, olive, green

Osprey Farpoint 40

For long distances on foot.

A great starter option for one-bag travel, this bag is easy to pack, adaptable to most situations, and sturdy enough to take with you as you travel the world.

(limited colors)

Price reflects in cart

Osprey Fairview 40

For long distances and smaller torsos.

A scaled-down version of the Farpoint, this bag has shoulder straps that are slightly lower, to keep the bag’s bulk more aligned with smaller torsos.

Price reflects in cart (limited colors)

Updated in 2023, the Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 packs are both built around a hiking backpack frame that’s easy to carry over long distances.

It’s built for travel but designed for hiking. The Farpoint 40 bag is well made, easy to pack, and comfortable to carry over most mid-length distances—such as walking across a city for an afternoon. (For simplicity’s sake, everything we say here about the Farpoint bag also applies to the Fairview bag.) Osprey makes excellent backpacks for hauling around, and its lifetime warranty is renowned within the industry . The Farpoint pack also has an optional messenger bag–style strap, which offers some flexibility when you’re maneuvering tight spaces like subways or crowded city centers.

It’s simple to pack, but not as spacious as it seems. Opening the bag reveals a clamshell design; it’s deep enough to accommodate most large items, yet you won’t have to fumble awkwardly with zippers once it’s time to close up the bag. The feeling you get is not unlike when you’re packing a bit of sturdy luggage, and that’s something we love about bags like this one—especially when you use packing cubes . Osprey says this bag, when fully packed, can carry 40 liters. But after using the Farpoint bag for a few years, we’ve decided that its rounded shape seems to cut into that theoretical packable space more than other bags do. In practice, the Farpoint pack’s available space is closer to—but still less than—that of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L .

It’s the easiest bag to carry among our picks. Like all Osprey bags, the Farpoint 40 has very comfortable shoulder straps. The years of design and consideration Osprey has put into its hiking backpacks are quite evident in the Farpoint 40. After more than seven years of long-term testing this bag, we’re still surprised by how great it feels to wear when fully packed. Crucially, the straps of the Farpoint 40 stow away neatly behind a zippered panel. However, when you’re using the shoulder straps, the design forces you to also use the hip straps. Though this isn’t a huge issue, if you prefer a sleeker look or would rather have the option of using shoulder straps without hip straps, the Cotopaxi Allpa pack is more flexible, and it lets you hide the waist straps while the bag is on your back.

The Fairview 40 has the same features, in a scaled-down size. The Farpoint 40 and the Fairview 40 packs basically have the same design, but the Fairview pack is made for someone with a more-diminutive torso. It’s also slightly lighter. However, it has the features and durability of the Farpoint bag. It also has the same hip belt and adjustability. On both, the chest-strap clip is also equipped with a small security whistle that’s surprisingly loud. It’s a handy feature for anyone traveling in unfamiliar environments.

• For a smaller carry-on travel backpack, this one has little to not like. However, we do wish Osprey would trade some of the sleeker contours for a little more interior space.

Capacity: 35 liters Weight (Farpoint): 3 pounds 3 ounces Weight (Fairview): 3 pounds 2 ounces Main compartment access: front-panel loader Style: active Colors (Farpoint): green (Gopher), gray (Tunnel Vision), blue (Muted Space), black Colors (Fairview): blue (Winter Night), red (Zircon), blue (Night Jungle), black

Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L

A suitcase to carry on your back.

For dedicated single-bag travelers, this water-resistant, durable bag is easy to pack and to travel with. And it’s comfortable to wear over endless miles—as long as you don’t mind the heavier weight.

The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L maximizes packing space in a bag that’s durable, water-resistant, and customizable to fit most torso lengths (there’s also a 30L version ), with plenty of organizational features to suit any digital nomad.

It’s like a suitcase, with backpack straps. The Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro 40L is built to occupy the maximum carry-on space available. It’s a nearly perfect blend of backpack and luggage. On the outside, its tear-resistant sailcloth and sealed zippers provide ample protection from sharp objects and the elements. Opening the main clamshell zipper reveals a cavernous interior and a few organizational features that make the bag a cinch to pack. The front panel is a particular standout, great for keeping track of electronics and chargers. Of all the bags we tested, the Tortuga strikes the closest balance between the carrying comfort of a hiking backpack and the space and organization of a piece of luggage.

It’s as easy to pack as luggage. When it comes to packing, the Tortuga pack has a soothingly minimal interior, as any good suitcase should. In addition to the bag’s cavernous main pocket, its interior lid has a large vented panel. The panel is too narrow to hold additional packing cubes, but it’s great for holding light jackets or doubling as a dirty-laundry bag (if you’re really committed to one-bag travel). The Tortuga is available as a 40-liter pack (the maximum space for a carry-on bag), which we tested; there is also a 30-liter version, which is compliant with some intra-European flights. The more-diminutive version is a decent choice for weekend travel or for minimalist travelers—but for those uses, we prefer the space-saving profile and extra internal organization of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L bag.

It’s very customizable. The Tortuga pack is the most adjustable model we tested, thanks to its adjustable torso length, shoulder straps, and waist-belt system. The adjustable strap system lets you manipulate the location of the shoulder straps (video) to fit a wider variety of body sizes, in both the 30- and 40-liter versions. Of the packs we’ve tested, this one (with its included load-adjuster straps at the top, to prevent the bag’s weight from sagging toward your lumbar region) is the best at distributing its weight (4½ pounds when empty—roughly 1½ pounds more than most of our other picks, except the Peak Design ). The hip straps are removable if you need, but the shoulder straps are not stowable.

• Its straps don’t stow away. Some people, especially those who are hard on their gear, may consider not being able to remove or stow the shoulder straps (as they can with our other picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa ) a disqualifying factor. But after years of testing, traveling with, and occasionally checking our bag, we haven’t had an issue. However, if these mysteries beneath the airport also make you nervous, you might prefer our picks with easy-to-stow straps, such as the Peak Design.
• It's heavy. We’ve fielded complaints from some testers who said that older models of this bag were too heavy for them to carry, even with the padded hip belt and adjustable straps. The additional padding does add weight. At 4½ pounds, this latest Tortuga bag is more than half a pound lighter than it used to be (the difference is noticeable), and it weighs the same as the equally large Peak Design pack. We are currently testing a new, lighter, and less-expensive version of this pack—aptly named the Travel Backpack Lite 40L —and will report back soon.  In the meantime, if you think you would struggle carrying the Tortuga, we strenuously encourage you to consider one of our more-manageable picks, like the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L.

Capacity: 40 liters Weight: 4½ pounds Main compartment access: clamshell opening Style: minimal, with a rigid construction Color: black

If you want to travel like a backpacker but also fit in at a board meeting (and you have the budget for it): Consider the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45 . This bag’s reputation for durability, adaptability, and a low-key aesthetic make it a favorite among many dedicated one-bag travelers. And after testing it, we think it’s a great bag too. That said, for the bag to really stand out against other backpacks—and to take full advantage of its carrying adaptability—you need to buy the internal frame , the hip belt , and (if you’re traveling with a suit or jacket) the shoulder strap . On a bag that already costs $330, all of this adds up. Everything about the Tom Bihn bag (the fabric, the zippers, the quality of construction) feels like an upgrade from other bags, but it’s simply too pricey, and its design is too rarified and specific for most people. The biggest flaw, from our perspective—apart from the price—is that the Tom Bihn bag lacks a dedicated laptop pocket. In its place, the company sells laptop sleeves (a fine version if you don’t have one) that clip into the bag’s central compartment. Not everyone needs a dedicated laptop pocket, but we prefer the more secure feeling of bags that do.

If you want a budget pick (but only when it’s on sale): The eBags Mother Lode Travel Backpack (our former budget pick) is still your best budget option, if you can catch it on sale for at least half off the list price. It’s not comfortable enough for trekking long distances on foot, but there are plenty of external pockets for organization, a laptop sleeve (which holds the weight of your computer high up on your shoulders), and an easy-to-access main compartment. This pack also has the largest capacity of any bags we tested, expanding to 65 liters—well beyond any airline’s regulated 45-liter limit. However, the bag’s casual-to-basic looks might not be to everyone’s taste. In 2024, eBags raised the price of the Mother Lode to $200. We have seen it on sale for $100, and in our opinion it’s worth getting only at the sale price.

We’ve narrowed our specifications for a great bag to the following list of features, ordered from most relevant to least:

• Front- or back-panel loader or clamshell opening, for the main compartment: As with any good piece of luggage, with this type of bag, you should be able to open it and see everything you’ve packed. When you have a bag with a panel-loading or clamshell design—rather than a traditional, top-opening design—you can pack and unpack it just as you would a suitcase.

• Backpack strap comfort and design: You never know when you’ll be walking farther with your bag than you’d intended. The more comfortable and well designed the straps are, the easier traveling will be. “Ideally, you want a bag’s shoulder straps to adjust to the angle of your shoulders,” said Eytan Levy of Snarky Nomad. “Good shoulder straps are the difference between an easy trip and a hard trip.”
• Hip-belt comfort and design: A hip belt transfers heavy loads from your back and shoulders onto your hips, letting your legs—not your back—bear the brunt of the weight. Just having a waist belt is a plus, but having a padded and sculpted one—especially on bags with over 40 liters of volume—makes a world of difference.
• Material quality: Durability is critical for any type of luggage, but especially for a backpack that will be your only bag. Most bags worth considering are made of nylon, which resists abrasion more than polyester fabrics of similar density. Spending more, however, can get you exotic, light, and strong materials, such as Dyneema or sailcloth.
• Weight: Once the bags arrived, we weighed each one ourselves. Most of the bags weighed within a few pounds of one another. But unless you’re very strict with yourself, by the time you’re packed for a two-week journey, all bags are going to feel equally massive, even if one is just 2 pounds heavier than another when empty.
• Stowable straps: These are nice to have, but they aren’t absolutely necessary. “The more often you need to check a bag, the more often you need to hide away the straps,” Levy said. “But if the straps are tough enough, it doesn’t matter.”
• Accessory pocket layout and design: Some people will love an accessory pocket that has a specific space for everything; others may find that feature constricting and unadaptable. We prioritized bags with simple designs that guided our packing without constraining us.
• Style: This is purely subjective. We preferred bags that had a minimalist exterior style, but not all of our picks will please everyone. Most of the people we spoke with, however, preferred not to stick out like a tourist wearing a large, colorful backpack, if they could avoid it.

During testing, we flew across the country with these bags, took weekend trips to nearby cities, lived out of them on extended trips, and tried them locally in our daily routines. We also packed and unpacked each bag, using a standardized set of weeklong travel necessities and accessories, to see how well the internal organizational features (or lack thereof) aided or got in the way of efficient packing.

This is not a comprehensive list of all of the carry-on travel backpacks we have tested. We have removed any models that have been discontinued or that no longer meet our criteria.

The Away Outdoor Convertible Backpack 45L is a rare miss from the Away team. This bag is resoundingly average for the price. Although it’s made from excellent materials, the bag is let down by its overall design, which lacks any kind of structure or attention to comfort. There are better options.

The cheap, no-frills Cabin Max Metz bag is intriguing for the price. Any bag at this price should almost be considered disposable. That said, if you need a simple bag that costs less than a seat upgrade, this might be the way to go—unless you can pick up the eBags Motherlode bag for under $100, which we think is a better deal at that price.

The GeniusPack Travel Backpack is the only model we came across that tried to fit a suit into a travel backpack. Though some people might need that, we think those who have to travel with a suit (or clothes that require pressing) would be better off with a piece of carry-on luggage . GeniusPack now offers a second version of this bag, but our conclusion hasn’t changed.

For certain people, the GoRuck GR3 is almost worth the cost. It’s strong and simple and covered by an iron-clad repair guarantee. The removable hip belt is comfortable to wear, and it’s good at displacing the weight of a 45-liter backpack. This is a decent bag. After testing it, however, we weren’t thrilled with the internal Velcro lining for compatible Velcro packing cubes. Velcro isn’t great: It wears out, it’s difficult to keep clean, and it clings to dirt. That might seem like a small thing, but for the price, this bag should feel perfect.

The Minaal Carry-On 2.0 was designed to be a backpack for business people. But if you’re carrying it for business, you’re probably wearing at least a blazer, so you wouldn’t use a backpack in any case. If you’re a business traveler who falls more on the casual end of the business-casual spectrum, and you’re not on a budget, this is a well-thought-out pack. But we think our picks are more versatile for world travel, and they come at a better price. Minaal has since introduced a 3.0 version of this bag ; our thoughts about it remain the same.

The Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L is a slightly larger sibling of the Farpoint pack. The Sojourn Porter bag is about 2 inches longer, and it pushes right up to most airline limits. If you don’t mind possibly having to check your bag at the last minute, this would be an excellent alternative to the Farpoint pack.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Chase Reeves, Matterful.co , phone interview , October 10, 2018

Addison Ryan, moderator, r/onebag , email interview , September 8, 2018

Lindsay Lorraine Calderón, moderator, r/heronebag , phone interview , September 28, 2018

Meet your guide

Kit Dillon is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter. He was previously an app developer, oil derrick inspector, public-radio archivist, and sandwich shop owner. He has written for Popular Science, The Awl, and the New York Observer, among others. When called on, he can still make a mean sandwich.

Further reading

The Best Travel Backpack

by Geoffrey Morrison

For trips ranging from a week to multiple months, the Osprey Farpoint 55 and Fairview 55 carried everything we needed comfortably.

The Best Buy It for Life Backpack (Please Don’t Call It Tactical)

by Kit Dillon

A buy-it-for-a-lifetime backpack should last you for years of heavy use. But as with all investments, you need to decide if it makes sense for you.

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

by Truth Headlam

Whether you’re going to school, work, the gym, the store, or on vacay, you need a bag. Here’s the Wirecutter-recommended carrying gear we love most.

I Took 5 Trips in 6 Months. My Go-To Weekender Bag Was This Surprisingly Spacious Backpack.

by Elissa Sanci

Struggling to pack for your weekend away? The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L fits so much more than you’d expect.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Is My Go-To Travel Bag

Thanks to its smart design, this cotopaxi travel pack is a carry-on, duffel, and backpack, all in one. get it for only $160 right now..

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The Cotopaxi Allpa travel pack can be worn as a backpack or carried as a duffel with the straps tucked into the back panel.

Courtesy of Cotopaxi

Welcome to AFAR Approved: a deep dive into the travel items that we’re totally obsessed with, never leave behind, and can’t stop telling our friends about.

It’s a familiar dance: Whenever I have an impending trip, I pull down all of my suitcases and backpacks from their precarious perch in my stacked closet, and lay them out on the floor, assessing their suitability for my itinerary. Familiar, yes, but also largely unnecessary: 90 percent of the time, I end up bringing the same bag—my Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack .

In the past few years, I’ve taken this bag on ferry after ferry around Greece, and my husband has used it to take souvenirs and supplies to his family in Cuba. It’s what I carry for weekend trips to Washington, D.C. to see family and my go-to when I head to Minnesota lake country every summer. It’s been crammed into carry-on bins, stuffed under seats, squished between legs, and loaded on laps. By now, I’m sure you get the message: I have a deep love for this bag, and that love is borne out of experience. Whether I need pack light or just fit one more thing , it’s never let me down.

→ Buy now: $200, cotopaxi.com

• Weight: 3 lb. 8 oz., without accessories
• Size: 22 x 12 x 10 inches
• Available colors: Bluegrass, Wine, Pacific, River
• Best for: Trips up to 10 days

The Cotopaxi Allpa comes with a dedicated laptop pocket for easy removal in TSA lines.

Thanks to side handles and contoured shoulder straps that can be tucked behind the slotted airmesh back panel, the bag can be worn as a backpack or carried as a duffel. Inside, it also has a number of zippered compartments of different sizes, making the bag a dream for an organized packer (hello!) who wants to have specific pockets for their laptop, passport , keys, and clothes.

The bag has several nifty design features, including exterior shortcuts to main internal compartments—like the padded laptop sleeve—and “theft-proof webbing,” which lets you tuck in the bag’s zippers so it can’t be surreptitiously opened without you noticing. If you’ve crammed in weeks’ worth of clothes and want to take some of the stress off your back, you can use the bag’s removable hip belt to provide more stability. (Note: If you’ve crammed in weeks’ worth of clothes, the bag will not fit under the seat in front of you. Otherwise, it typically does.)

Other small things I appreciate about the carry-on-compatible Allpa 35L: Although the bag’s polyester shell is coated with thermoplastic polyurethane—making it completely waterproof—it also comes with a removable rain cover that adds an extra layer of protection for the whole bag. There are four carabiner lash loops on the Allpa, meaning you can clip on a water bottle, thread through a scarf you want to have handy, or even tie on another bag to the bag in the event you want easier access to your trip snacks (guilty).

The dedicated pockets inside the Cotopaxi Allpa are an organized traveler’s dream.

Cotopaxi is known for its commitment to sustainability and fair labor, and the Allpa (along with the rest of the company’s bags and backpacks) is produced in Bataan, Philippines. The bag is currently offered in four colorways—Bluegrass, Wine, Pacific, and River—via cotopaxi.com , as well as a few other shades on rei.com .

Cotopaxi also produces the bag through its Del Día line, where it’s made with 100 percent fabric left over from other companies’ production runs. Because workers are using what’s available and not adhering to color specifications, each bag is one of a kind. (Get a glimpse of the currently available combos on the designated Allpa 35L Travel Pack Del Día page .)

Whenever I travel next, I know I have the bag for it.

This article was originally published in 2020; it was updated most recently on November 21, 2023, with current information.

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No more checked bags! This travel backpack is my go-to carry-on — plus 50% off more Cotopaxi gear

At this point in my life, I pride myself on being somewhat of an experienced traveler. In the last six months alone, I’ve been to five different countries, so it’s safe to say I do it often enough to know a thing or two about flight prep. 

With airlines cracking down on personal items and prices soaring for checked bags, a solid carry-on travel pack that meets flight criteria is more important than ever before — and as a result, I’ve become extremely picky with my bag choices.

After plenty of baggage failures, I finally found a great one: The Cotopaxi 35L Travel Pack. I chose this pick as my carry-on for an eight-day trip to Guatemala after seeing it all over JFK Airport in New York City recently. I just had to give it a try.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

Allpa 35L Travel Pack

What is the cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

When I first received this travel pack, my first thought was that it was the perfect hybrid between a suitcase and a backpack. The Allpa 35 opens up in a clamshell-style, like your typical suitcase, and has three total internal mesh compartments: one large compartment on the right side and one subdivided compartment (with three sections) on the left. It also has a padded laptop and tablet sleeve , with shortcut zippers to the main compartment for easy access while on the go.

As the name suggests, this travel pack has a 35L capacity, so it’s compatible with most carry-on airline standards . I flew on a budget airline for my trip to Guatemala, and I was worried I wouldn’t get to use the bag as a carry-on since it appeared rather large (I really packed this thing to the brim!), but I had no issues at all.

What I like about the product

It packs way more than you’d think.

According to the brand, this is “the ultimate adventure travel pack, ideal for three to five days away.” This is a claim I can confirm was slightly on the conservative side, considering I packed for a full eight days in this bag. While Guatemala has a warmer climate — hence why the clothing I packed really only consisted of smaller items like shorts and T-shirts — I did go on a major hike that required more gear, and I was able to still fit all my essentials in this bag.

That said, I think if I had traveled to a colder climate that necessitated larger, thicker clothing, I might not have been able to fit eight days worth of apparel — so keep that in mind while packing!

The minor details have a major impact

When it comes to this bag, trust me when I say it’s  all  in the details. It has anti-theft zippers, which gives me peace of mind while walking through crowded airports or train stations. It also has a top zippered pocket so you can easily access  essentials  like your wallet or passport while on the go.

For the adventurer, there are also carabiner loops for clipping on any extra gear you may need on your trip (i.e. hiking shoes, additional bags, etc.). But my favorite detail? The padded straps. I overpacked this bag when I traveled to Central America, and it was  heavy . The straps were thick and comfortable, and they didn’t dig into my shoulders no matter how much weight was in the bag. The removable hip straps also helped with support while carrying a heavier pack. 

What to consider

While I find it hard to come up with any downsides to this travel pack , some might find that its lack of external pockets is a bit inconvenient for those who like to keep most things super accessible. This bag also doesn’t have a designated water bottle sleeve, but I guess you could hook a water bottle to the carabiner loops if you really wanted to.

Ultimately, this bag seems to combine the comfort, accessibility and flexibility of a backpack with the spacious aspects of a suitcase. Whether you’re on a lengthy trip in Central America or a weekend getaway in Boston, this bag will have you covered — and I’ll be using it on every trip I have planned from here on out. In fact, I’m going to Iceland soon, and you can rest assured this bag will be coming with me. 

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It even includes a padded laptop sleeve, a fleece-lined pocket for sunglasses or other delicate essentials, and daisy chains on the back for clipping water bottles or keychains for easy access.

Teca Fleece Pullover

Associate editor Sierra Hoeger owns this fleece and adores it because it's not as heavy compared to others she owns, yet still provides the same amount of warmth.

Made with a recycled polyester fleece, the elastic hems help to trap warmth. Three vibrant colors are currently on sale for 50% off, and it's available in a wide range of sizes, including XXS-4X. It's also available in a men's version.

Allpa X 4L Hip Pack

This is the second largest hip pack Cotopaxi has, complete with two zippered compartments that open to reveal a number of compartments.

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I never pay for checked bags because this backpack-duffel hybrid can hold nearly 2 weeks' worth of clothes

• I've been using the Cotopaxi Allpa 35 ($200) for two years as my go-to luggage for domestic and international trips.
• It's a hybrid backpack-duffel carry-on that's tough, comfortable, and a seemingly bottomless pit for belongings.
• Recently, it held two weeks' worth of clothes for a European trip — and I paid zero in checked-bag fees.

Since joining the Insider Picks team in 2017, I've tested thousands of products. This means that in the past two years, I've replaced my own skin-care products , robes , exercise leggings , hot tools , and credit cards with the superior options I've discovered along the way. But, in the past two years, I've had one remaining constant: my carry-on travel bag.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35 ($200) has been my reigning champion of luggage for two years of product testing. It's tough, comfortable, and seemingly bottomless — like the magic handbag Hermione Granger stuffs outdoor tents and spellbooks into. And it's perfectly sized for a carry-on, which means I can save on checked-luggage airline fees, avoid losing bags, and sidestep tedious carousel lines without needing to pack fewer outfits. It's easily the best travel accessory I've found in years.

The biggest perk to the Allpa 35 is spaciousness. The 35 in its name alludes to 35 liters, a nod to its capacity. It's fit enough gear for a nearly two-week-long European vacation, as well as both legs of a trip that started with snowstorms in Minnesota and ended with beach hopping in Belize — and I've never had a problem fitting it into the overhead compartment. I'm also not a particularly lean packer. 

You still have to be selective when relying solely on a carry-on bag, but there are some easy ways to optimize. I typically use PackPoint , an app which analyzes the weather at your destination and your planned activities, to spit out a first-draft packing list — mostly so I don't forget adapters abroad or go unchallenged when bringing three sweaters but zero jackets. Once I have my list, I roll my clothes to fit more than folding.

Since it's a soft shell, the Allpa 35 is more malleable than most suitcases; I've definitely pushed it beyond its promised limits before. And because it's a carry-on, I've been able to fit overflow or bulk items like shoes or a winter coat in a larger "personal item" for no additional cost. 

Organization 

This thing is well-designed. It has just enough pockets — one for everything you need, and none that make you despise them for simply taking up space. The front of the bag has a roomy top pocket you can get into without unzipping the main compartment that's great for travel accessories such as headphones, a passport, and a wallet. 

Inside are two deep compartments, a shallow hidden pocket at the joint of the two, and two subdivided pockets for essentials such as makeup, passports, and any other small accessory at the top. There's also a collapsible mesh laundry bag and a nylon shoe bag included.

The Allpa 35 opens like a suitcase so you don't have to shove your arm down to the bottom as you do with a backpacking pack. It also has an external zipper that leads inside the bag like a slit on one side, and a separate laptop and tablet compartment on the other. 

For safety, all external zippers have theft-proof webbing sewn across the openings.

Comfortability

Since Cotopaxi is an outdoor brand, the Allpa 35 uses the same tech that makes heavy backpacking packs comfortable for miles, such as a low-profile harness that helps distribute weight efficiently. I've found my Allpa heavy, but I've never found it uncomfortable. It has contoured cushioned shoulder straps, a padded hip belt, and a breathable air-mesh back panel to keep you from feeling hot or sweaty. Because the straps can be tucked away, you can also use the bag as a duffel, or ignore the (semi-dorky but very helpful) padded hip belt — as I do. 

I've been using the Allpa 35 for two years of frequent travel, and it looks no worse for wear. It performs the same way it did when it was new. The blend of tough, TPU-coated polyester and ballistic nylon paneling mean this thing should happily endure years of battering.

The bottom line

All in all, I'm just as impressed with it now as I was when I first tested it. It looks the same as it did on day one. It's comfortable enough for long airport trips, and its cavernous compartments mean I never pay for checked bags anymore because I can fit enough gear to suffice for a two-week-long trip in a carry-on alone.

If you're looking for a durable, exceptionally well-designed bag that you can use for years to come, I highly recommend checking this one out.

Buy the Cotopaxi Allpa 35 at Cotopaxi , REI , and Backcountry for $200

You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here . Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

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Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack Review

Last Updated on November 7, 2021

Review of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack, a Versatile backpack that can be used on various adventures

This product is made by a newer do-good company that creates high-quality and awesome-looking products.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase something through one of these links, there will be no extra cost to you but we will receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting us and helping keep the lights on at Scout HQ!

I am a bit of a backpack fanatic and the Allpa 35L did not disappoint! I chose the true blue color option with full bundle package . The blue is bright with awesome accent colors that don’t overdo it. Part of the reason I went with the full bundle was for the Batac Del Día backpack . As a fanatic it would only be fit to pick an option that comes with not one but two bags. The small lightweight bag fits nicely into the Allpa and is perfect for short hikes or daily adventures.

The Allpa is great for the frequent traveler and those who like to pack on the lighter side. When it comes to traveling, I like to be well-organized and the Allpa was designed by people who understand the frustrations of looking for something buried at the bottom of your bag while on the move. The bag opens flat and has two large zipper compartments as well as two smaller pockets on the inside. The front also has a medium-sized compartment with additional organizational pockets that allow for easy access while traveling.

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Details

Currently, the Allpa 35L Travel Pack comes in either true blue or black and customers can pick between three bundle options.

• Allpa + Accessories (collapsible mesh laundry bag, nylon shoe bag, mesh water bottle sleeve)
• Allpa Full Bundle (Allpa + Accessories + Batac Del Día Backpack)

• Weight: 3lbs 7oz (pack only) & 4lbs 10oz (accessories included)
• Size: 35L carry-on compatible
• Dimensions: 20 x 12 x 8in
• Low-profile harness system
• Included rain cover
• Padded laptop and tablet sleeve
• YKK zippers

This bag has so many positives it’s hard to pick my favorite. Ultimately, it was the suitcase-style zipper that allows the bag to open completely flat that pulled me in. I love being able to easily access everything that I have packed while keeping it organized. Recently I went car camping and instead of having my clothes all over the inside of my like a bomb went off, I was able to keep it all within the bag and access it quickly and easily.

The Allpa is well-made and super durable. The fabric used and the high-quality zippers are a major plus considering the way I toss my bags around. If being super functional and skillfully crafted wasn’t enough, the bag is also incredibly comfortable. The harness belt and padded back make it a breeze to lug around. The last thing anyone wants while trying to enjoy a trip is to literally feel the pain of carrying your clothes around.

Some added benefits include the four grab handles, rain cover, laptop sleeve, and theft-proof zippers.

As difficult as it is for me to find flaws with this well-designed bag, I do have a couple. My biggest complaint is the actual weight of the bag. Weighing in at just over 4lbs is a bit much considering every pound matters if you have the pack on most of the day. With that said, I am not sure I would use the Allpa for strenuous backpacking. And I imagine the weight and size of the bag being an issue for those who don’t quite fit within the limitations of the loadbearing straps. The ability to adjust the shoulder straps and harness belt is not available and could pose an issue for those who are a bit too short or tall for the straps to work properly.

Lastly, I have issues with the water bottle holder. It seemed like an afterthought for such a great product with its mesh design and plastic clip. I felt like the bag lost some of its beauty once I clipped it on but a girl has to stay hydrated so it will remain on for now. Also, the fact that you have to buy it separately is less than ideal in my book.

Final Thoughts

Despite a few flaws, the Allpa 35L Travel Pack is an awesome backpack and one of my favorites! I would highly recommend it to any of my friends and family members.

You can learn more about the awesome work the company is doing here .

Brenan Greene

Brenan is the founder of Trail4R.com, Toyota guy through and through, verified nature lover, lightweight photographer, exploration enthusiast, and certified serial blogger.

Guide to Choosing the Best Travel Backpacks for Europe

Looking for the best travel backpacks? We’ve reviewed the top options to make it easy for you to find the perfect carry-on backpack for your next adventure.

Whether you’re a frequent traveler or a digital nomad, having a reliable travel backpack is essential. From the spacious Allpa 35L travel pack by Cotopaxi to the innovative Peak Design travel backpack , we’ve got you covered. Need a laptop backpack? Consider the versatile 40L travel bag that offers both style and functionality.

If you’re on a budget, don’t worry! We’ve also included some budget-friendly options like the Global Travel Bag 30L by Topo Designs.

Explore our comprehensive travel backpack comparison and choose the best travel backpack that suits your needs. Make traveling a breeze with the right carry-on backpack!

What is the best overall travel backpack for Europe?

Top Picks for the Best Carry-On Backpack for Europe

• Osprey Farpoint 40 : This versatile backpack is popular among travelers for its size and features. It meets most airlines’ carry-on requirements and offers a spacious main compartment with internal compression straps. It also includes a padded laptop sleeve and a zip-off daypack.
• Tortuga Setout Backpack : Designed specifically for travelers, this backpack has a maximum carry-on size with a 45-liter capacity. It features a clamshell opening for easy packing and organization, a padded laptop compartment, and comfortable shoulder straps.
• Kelty Redwing 44 : The Redwing 44 is a durable and reliable backpack suitable for urban and outdoor adventures. It has a spacious main compartment, multiple pockets for organization, and a comfortable suspension system. It also includes a sleeve for a hydration bladder.
• Patagonia Black Hole 32L : If you prefer a smaller backpack for shorter trips, the Black Hole 32L is a great option. It is made of durable and weather-resistant materials, has a spacious main compartment, and offers easy access with a large U-shaped zipper. It also features padded shoulder straps and a sternum strap for comfort.
• Cotopaxi Allpa :  The Cotopaxi Allpa is a travel backpack designed for adventurers and frequent travelers. It is known for its durable construction, comfortable carrying system, and versatile features. The Allpa comes in different sizes (35L and 42L) and offers a variety of compartments and organization options to keep your belongings secure and easily accessible during your travels . It is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures while also being suitable for urban environments.
• Nomatic Travel Bag : The Nomadic Travel Bag is a popular choice among travelers who prioritize organization and functionality. It is a versatile carry-on-sized backpack that offers ample storage space and smart compartments to keep your belongings organized. The bag often features a clamshell opening, making it easy to pack and access your items. It may include features such as a dedicated laptop compartment, various pockets, and built-in cable management systems to keep your electronic devices organized and charged.
• WANDR Prvke : The WANDR Prvke is a stylish and rugged backpack designed for photographers and urban travelers. It combines functionality, durability, and a sleek aesthetic. The Prvke backpack series offers different sizes (often 21L and 31L) and features dedicated compartments and customizable dividers to protect and organize your camera gear. Additionally, it provides convenient access to your belongings, a laptop compartment, and multiple pockets for other essentials. The Prvke is known for its weather-resistant materials and comfortable carrying system.
• Peak Design : Peak Design is a company that specializes in designing and manufacturing innovative camera gear and travel accessories. They offer a range of products including camera bags, straps, clips, and travel backpacks. Peak Design products are known for their attention to detail, high-quality materials, and versatility. Their travel backpacks often incorporate unique features such as flexible storage options, customizable dividers, quick-access pockets, and ergonomic carrying systems. They aim to provide practical solutions for photographers and travelers who value functionality and reliability.
• Tapo Design : Durable materials, clamshell opening, multiple organization pockets, padded laptop compartment, comfortable straps.

Comparison of the Best Carry-on Travel Backpack  for Europe

How to choose the best travel backpack for europe.

When selecting a travel backpack for Europe, consider the following factors:

• Size and carry-on compatibility : Ensure the backpack meets the carry-on size requirements of most European airlines.
• Comfort and fit : Look for backpacks with padded shoulder straps, a supportive back panel, and an adjustable suspension system. Test different backpacks to find the best fit for your body type.
• Organization and accessibility : Choose backpacks with multiple compartments, pockets, and organizers for efficient organization and easy access to your belongings.
• Durability : Opt for backpacks made from durable materials that can withstand the demands of travel, especially considering walking and navigating crowded areas.
• Security features : Look for backpacks with lockable zippers and hidden pockets to enhance the security of your belongings.
• Style and aesthetics : Consider a backpack that aligns with your personal style, but also think about choosing a more discreet design to blend in with the local environment and avoid standing out as a tourist.

What Makes the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L a Great Travel Backpack for Europe?

• Weight-distributing, low-profile harness system.
• Carry-on-compatible 35L capacity. TPU-coated 1000D polyester. 840D ballistic nylon paneling.
• Suitcase-style, full-wrap zipper opening on the main compartment. Large zippered mesh compartment on the right side. Subdivided zippered mesh compartment on the left side.
• Padded laptop and tablet sleeve. Shortcut zipper to main compartment.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L offers several features that make it an excellent choice for Europe travel:

Durable and Weather-Resistant : The backpack is made from high-quality materials that are built to withstand the rigors of travel, including frequent use and varying weather conditions.

• Carry-On Size : The Allpa 35L is designed to meet most airlines’ carry-on size restrictions, making it convenient for European travel where you may prefer to have your backpack as a carry-on.
• Organization and Accessibility : The backpack has a well-thought-out organization system with multiple compartments and pockets. It includes a dedicated laptop sleeve, mesh pockets, and internal compression straps to keep your belongings secure and organized. The suitcase-style opening allows easy access to your items.
• Comfortable and Versatile : The Allpa 35L features padded shoulder straps, a padded waist belt, and an adjustable suspension system, providing a comfortable fit for various body types. It also includes a stowaway harness cover that converts the backpack into a duffel bag for versatility.
• Security Features : The backpack has lockable zippers, providing an added layer of security for your belongings while traveling in Europe.

Size and Capacity of the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L for Europe Travel

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L has a capacity of 35 liters, providing ample space for your travel essentials. Its dimensions are designed to meet most airlines’ carry-on size requirements, making it suitable for European travel.

Advantages of Using the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L for Europe Travel

• Versatile and durable design
• Ample organization features for efficient packing
• Carry-on size for convenience and avoiding checked baggage fees
• Comfortable and adjustable fit for extended use
• Weather-resistant materials for varying European climates
• Secure lockable zippers for added protection

What are the Possible Issues with the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L for Europe Travel?

While the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is a highly regarded backpack, it’s important to consider some potential drawbacks:

• Limited capacity: The 35-liter capacity may be insufficient for travelers who prefer to pack a larger amount of gear or need to carry bulkier items.
• Weight distribution: Some users may find that the weight distribution is not perfectly balanced, particularly when the backpack is fully loaded.

How Does the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Compare to Other Backpacks for Europe Travel?

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L competes well with other backpacks for Europe travel, offering a good balance of features and functionality. However, comparing it to other backpacks in terms of design, size, capacity, and specific needs is important to find the best fit for your preferences and travel requirements. Consider factors like organization features, comfort, durability, carry-on compatibility, and personal preferences to make an informed decision.

Is the Peak Design Travel Backpack the Best Travel Backpack for Europe?

• Laptop sleeve can hold your laptop and tablet
• Retractable shoulder pads, hip pads are useful in many situations, such as when placed on a net shelf, pass-through suitcase
• The side pocket can also store water bottles and tripods

The Peak Design Travel Backpack offers several design features that make it a popular choice for Europe travel:

Modular and Versatile : The backpack features a modular design with customizable compartments and FlexFold dividers, allowing you to adjust the internal layout to suit your packing needs. It also has external attachment points for carrying additional gear, such as tripods or jackets.

• Access and Organization : The backpack has a full-length zipper that provides quick and easy access to the main compartment, similar to a suitcase. It includes multiple internal and external pockets for organized storage of smaller items like electronics, passports, and travel documents .
• Comfortable and Ergonomic : The backpack is designed with comfortable padded shoulder straps, a sternum strap, and a removable waist belt for optimal weight distribution and support during extended wear. The back panel is ventilated to enhance breathability.
• Premium Materials and Durability : The Peak Design Travel Backpack is constructed from high-quality, weather-resistant materials, ensuring durability and protection for your belongings. It also features lockable zippers for added security.

Size and Capacity of the Peak Design Travel Backpack for Europe Travel

The Peak Design Travel Backpack is available in two sizes:

• 45L : This larger version provides ample capacity for travelers who require more gear or are planning longer trips.
• 35L : The smaller version offers a more compact size suitable for those who prefer to travel lighter or need to adhere to strict carry-on restrictions.

Both sizes of the backpack are designed to meet most airlines’ carry-on size requirements, making them suitable for European travel.

Advantages of Using the Peak Design Travel Backpack for Europe Travel

• Modular and customizable design for efficient organization
• Quick and easy access to the main compartment
• Comfortable and ergonomic carrying system
• High-quality, durable materials
• Carry-on size compliance for convenience and avoiding checked baggage fees

What are the Possible Issues with the Peak Design Travel Backpack for Europe Travel?

• Price: The Peak Design Travel Backpack is generally more expensive compared to other travel backpacks on the market, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious travelers.
• Weight: Some users find that the backpack itself is relatively heavy, which could limit the overall weight of your packed belongings.

How Does the Peak Design Travel Backpack Compare to Other Backpacks for Europe Travel?

The Peak Design Travel Backpack is highly regarded for its innovative design and functionality. However, the best travel backpack for Europe ultimately depends on personal preferences and specific needs. It’s worth comparing the Peak Design Travel Backpack to other options based on factors like organization features, comfort, durability, carry-on compatibility, pricing, and individual preferences to determine the best fit for your travel requirements.

What are the Best Features of the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag for Europe?

• Spacious main compartment, Flap top with dual side-release buckle closures, Drawstring cinch closure
• Padded internal sleeve fits most 15″ laptops, Large zippered top flap pocket, Large bottom zippered pocket
• Adjustable side water bottle pockets, Dual side compression straps, Spacer mesh shoulder straps
• Top carry handle, Heavy-duty YKK zippers,

The Topo Designs Global Travel Bag offers a unique set of features that make it a popular choice for Europe travel. Let’s explore its best features, design elements, size and capacity, advantages, possible issues, and how it compares to other backpacks for Europe travel:

• Convertible Carry Modes : The Global Travel Bag can be carried as a backpack, a shoulder bag, or a briefcase, providing versatility for different travel situations and preferences.
• Spacious Main Compartment : The bag features a large main compartment with a suitcase-style opening, allowing for easy packing and access to your belongings. It also includes internal compression straps to secure your items in place.
• Organization and Accessibility : The bag has multiple internal and external pockets, including a padded laptop sleeve, to keep your essentials organized and easily accessible during your European travels.
• Durable Construction : The Global Travel Bag is constructed from durable materials that are built to withstand the demands of travel. It features sturdy YKK zippers and reinforced stitching for added durability.
• Carry-On Size : The bag is designed to meet most airlines’ carry-on size requirements, making it suitable for Europe travel and avoiding checked baggage fees.

Design Features of the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag for Europe Travel

The Topo Designs Global Travel Bag incorporates the following design features:

• Clean and minimalistic aesthetic
• Quality craftsmanship and attention to detail
• Comfortable padded shoulder straps and a removable waist belt for different carrying options
• Stowable backpack straps and a removable shoulder strap for streamlined storage

Size and Capacity of the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag for Europe Travel

The Global Travel Bag has a capacity of approximately 40 liters, offering ample space for your travel essentials. Its dimensions are designed to meet most airlines’ carry-on size requirements, making it suitable for Europe travel.

Advantages of Using the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag for Europe Travel

• Versatile carry modes for different travel situations
• Spacious main compartment and well-organized pockets
• Durable construction for long-lasting use
• Carry-on size compliance for convenience and cost savings
• Stylish and minimalist design

What are the Possible Issues with the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag for Europe Travel?

• Limited external attachment points: The bag may have fewer external attachment options compared to some other travel backpacks, which may affect carrying additional gear or items.
• Heavier weight: Some users find that the bag itself can be relatively heavy, especially when fully packed, which may impact overall weight limits.

How Does the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag Compare to Other Backpacks for Europe Travel?

The Topo Designs Global Travel Bag offers unique features and a distinct design aesthetic. When comparing it to other backpacks for Europe travel, consider factors such as organization features, comfort, durability, carry-on compatibility, weight, and personal preferences. Each backpack has its own strengths and considerations, so it’s important to evaluate them based on your specific needs and priorities to find the best option for your European travels.

Types of Backpacks – Daypacks, Overnight Packs, and Backpacking Packs

There are three main types of backpacks – daypacks, overnight packs, and backpacking packs. Each type of backpack is designed for a specific purpose and comes with its own unique features and benefits.

Daypacks are the smallest and lightest type of backpack, designed for day hikes and short outings. They usually have a capacity of up to 30 liters and feature a simple design with one or two compartments. They are lightweight, compact, and easy to carry, making them ideal for day trips.

Overnight Packs

Overnight packs are larger than daypacks and are designed for overnight camping trips. They usually have a capacity of up to 50 liters and come with several compartments and pockets for organizing your gear. They are more substantial and feature a more robust design than daypacks. Overnight packs are suitable for trips lasting up to three days.

Backpacking Packs

Backpacking packs are the largest and most robust type of backpack, designed for multi-day backpacking expeditions. They usually have a capacity of 50 liters or more and come with several compartments and pockets for organizing your gear. They are the heaviest type of backpack but also the most durable and feature-rich. Backpacking packs are suitable for trips lasting more than three days.

Recommended Backpacks for Various Types of Adventures

Here are some recommended backpacks for various types of adventures:

Osprey Talon 22

• Internal padded laptop sleeve
• Dual zippered hipbelt pockets
• Blinkie light attachment
• Two zippered hipbelt pockets and LidLock helmet attachment

The Osprey Talon 22 is a lightweight and versatile backpack designed for day hikes and outdoor adventures. The backpack has a sleek and compact design with a spacious main compartment that can hold up to 22 liters of gear. It features a comfortable and breathable Airscape back panel, which provides support and ventilation while reducing heat buildup. The backpack also has stretch mesh pockets on the front and sides for additional storage, as well as dual compression straps to keep everything snug and secure.

Pros of the Osprey Talon 22

• Its lightweight and comfortable design, which makes it easy to carry around on long hikes without adding extra strain on your back. It also has a variety of pockets and compartments, which allow you to easily organize your gear and keep everything accessible.
• The Airscape back panel and breathable shoulder straps help to keep you cool and dry during hot weather.

Cons of the Osprey Talon 22

• It may be too small for longer trips or overnight camping.
• The backpack only has a capacity of 22 liters, which may not be enough to hold all of your necessary gear and supplies.
• Some users have reported issues with the zippers on the backpack, which may break or become stuck over time. 

Gregory Nano 18

• hydration pocket- reservoir ready.
• dual side compression- keeps the pack snug.
• drawcord opening- keeps things simple and easy.
• water bottle storage- twin sided pockets.
• removable hipbelt- perfect for carrying a snack.

The Gregory Nano 18 backpack is a versatile and lightweight option designed for day trips, hikes, and everyday use. With a capacity of 18 liters, it provides ample space for your essentials while maintaining a compact and streamlined design. The backpack features comfortable padded shoulder straps, a breathable back panel, and a sternum strap for added stability.

Its multiple compartments and pockets allow for efficient organization of your belongings. The Nano 18 is also hydration-compatible, making it convenient for staying hydrated on the go. Crafted from durable materials, this backpack is built to withstand the demands of outdoor activities. Its versatility makes it suitable for various adventures, including hiking, cycling, and daily commuting.

• Lightweight and compact design for easy portability
• Comfortable shoulder straps and breathable back panel
• Multiple compartments and pockets for organized storage
• Hydration-compatible for convenient on-the-go hydration
• Versatile for a range of outdoor activities and everyday use
• Limited capacity may not accommodate larger items or extended trips
• Lack of dedicated laptop or tablet sleeve
• Minimal external attachment points for gear or accessories

Deuter Speed Lite 20

• Made in the USA or Imported
• Deuter gets you up and running with the lightweight Speed Lite 20 pack.
• Lightweight daypack with multiple options for load management.
• Compatible with most 3L hydration bladders, and features tube opening and hose holder.
• Tensioned Delrin U Frame is removable for

The Deuter Speed Lite 20 is the ultimate travel backpack designed to meet the demands of the modern traveler. Crafted with the highest quality materials, this backpack combines functionality, durability, and style. Whether you’re embarking on an adventurous hike or exploring a new city, the Speed Lite 20 is the perfect companion for your journey.

Designed with the traveler in mind, this backpack is packed with features to enhance your travel experience. Its 20-liter capacity strikes the perfect balance between spaciousness and compactness, making it an ideal carry-on backpack for your adventures. The streamlined design and ergonomic shoulder straps ensure optimal comfort, even during long hours of wear.

With its versatile carry-on size, the Deuter Speed Lite 20 meets airline regulations, allowing you to breeze through airport security and effortlessly navigate crowded terminals. No more waiting at baggage claim or worrying about lost luggage – this backpack keeps your essentials within easy reach.

The Speed Lite 20 boasts multiple compartments and pockets to keep your belongings organized. The main compartment offers ample space for clothes, gear, and travel essentials. The front pocket provides quick access to important items like your passport or smartphone, while the stretch side pockets are perfect for storing water bottles and snacks.

Designed for the tech-savvy traveler, the Deuter Speed Lite 20 features a dedicated laptop sleeve that securely holds your device. The backpack’s durable construction and reinforced seams ensure the safety of your valuable electronics.

Lightweight and compact, the Speed Lite 20 is an excellent choice for outdoor adventures as well. Its versatile design and functionality make it suitable for hiking, camping, and day trips in the great outdoors. The breathable back panel keeps you cool and dry, even during strenuous activities.

• Compact and lightweight design ideal for travel
• Versatile carry-on size meets airline regulations
• Ergonomic shoulder straps for optimal comfort
• Multiple compartments and pockets for easy organization
• Dedicated laptop sleeve for secure storage
• Durable construction ensures long-lasting use
• Breathable back panel for enhanced ventilation
• Limited capacity may not be suitable for longer trips or extensive gear
• Lack of additional security features such as lockable zippers
• Minimal padding on the shoulder straps compared to some other models

Osprey Atmos AG 50

• Included raincover made with PFAS-free DWR and bluesign approved materials
• Curved zip access on one side of panel
• Floating top lid with lash points
• Revolutionary AG system seamlessly extends the tensioned backpanel into the hipbelt for lightweight support

The Osprey Atmos AG 50 is a top-notch travel backpack designed to cater to the needs of adventurous globetrotters. With its impressive 45-liter capacity, this backpack offers ample space to accommodate all your essential travel gear. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the Osprey Atmos AG 50 combines functionality, durability, and comfort, making it a reliable companion for any journey.

• Spacious Design: The 45-liter capacity provides plenty of room to pack all your travel essentials, ensuring you have everything you need for your adventures.
• Carry-on Compatible: Designed to meet carry-on luggage restrictions, the Osprey Atmos AG 50 allows you to breeze through airports without the hassle of checking in your backpack.
• Exceptional Comfort: The Anti-Gravity (AG) suspension system, featuring a ventilated back panel and adjustable harness, provides exceptional comfort and weight distribution, reducing strain on your back and shoulders during long trips.
• Organizational Brilliance: Multiple pockets, compartments, and attachment points enable efficient organization of your belongings, keeping everything easily accessible and neatly arranged.
• Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of travel, the Osprey Atmos AG 50 is made from high-quality materials that ensure durability and longevity, making it a long-term investment for frequent travelers.
• Versatile Usage: Whether you’re embarking on a weekend hike, a multi-day trek, or a city exploration, the Osprey Atmos AG 50 is a versatile backpack suitable for various travel styles and terrains.
• Heavier Than Some Alternatives: With its robust construction and larger capacity, the Osprey Atmos AG 50 may weigh slightly more compared to smaller backpacks, especially when fully packed. However, the exceptional comfort and features compensate for the added weight.
• Limited Color Options: While the Osprey Atmos AG 50 is available in a range of colors, the selection might be more limited compared to other backpack models. However, the available colors still offer a stylish and appealing aesthetic.

Gregory Baltoro 65

• Custom Fit Suspension – Response A3 suspension with independently rotating hipbelt and harnesses. Custom fitting available at your local retailer.
• Included Daypack – Sidekick Daypack Included Doubles As An Internal Hydration Sleeve
• Sidewinder Bottle Holster – One-Handed On-The-Go Water Bottle Access – Tucks Away When Not In Use

The Gregory Baltoro 65 is a premium travel backpack designed to meet the demands of avid travelers embarking on extended expeditions. With its impressive 65-liter capacity, this backpack offers generous space to store all your essential gear and equipment. Meticulously engineered with comfort and durability in mind, the Gregory Baltoro 65 is equipped with innovative features that make it a reliable companion for your most ambitious adventures.

• Spacious and Versatile: The Baltoro 65 boasts a 65-liter capacity, providing ample space for all your travel necessities. Whether you’re packing for a week-long hiking trip or a multi-day expedition, this backpack offers enough room to accommodate your gear without compromising on organization.
• Customizable Fit: The backpack features an adjustable suspension system that allows you to customize the fit according to your body shape and size. This ensures optimal comfort and weight distribution, reducing fatigue during long treks.
• Exceptional Load Management: The Baltoro 65 incorporates Gregory’s advanced A3 suspension system, designed to effectively manage heavy loads. It distributes weight evenly, minimizing strain on your back and shoulders and allowing for a more comfortable and balanced journey.
• Thoughtful Organization: With multiple compartments, pockets, and attachment points, the Baltoro 65 excels in organization. You can easily access and organize your gear, making it a breeze to find what you need, when you need it.
• Durable and Weather-Resistant: Constructed with high-quality materials, the Baltoro 65 is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor travel. It offers excellent durability and weather resistance, ensuring that your gear stays protected even in challenging conditions.
• Integrated Rain Cover: The backpack comes with an integrated rain cover, providing an additional layer of protection during wet weather. This feature ensures that your belongings remain dry and secure, giving you peace of mind on your adventures.
• Bulkier Design: Due to its larger capacity and robust construction, the Baltoro 65 may feel bulkier compared to smaller backpacks. It may not be ideal for travelers who prioritize lightweight and minimalist packing. However, the comfort and storage space it offers make it well-suited for extended trips.
• Higher Price Point: The Gregory Baltoro 65 falls into the higher price range for travel backpacks. While the investment is justified by its exceptional quality and features, it may not be the most budget-friendly option for travelers on a tight budget.

Deuter Aircontact Lite 50+10

• USE CASE: Designed for everything from trekking and mountaineering tours to overnights in the front country, this pack is both sleek and spacious while remaining lightweight and comfortable.
• MAX VENTILATION, MAX ENDURANCE: Aircontact Lite back system is proven to reduce perspiration by 15%; Breathable padding made of open-cell,

The Deuter Aircontact Lite 50+10 is a remarkable travel backpack designed for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a combination of lightweight construction and versatile functionality. With its 50+10-liter capacity, this backpack provides ample space to carry all your essential gear for multi-day hiking, backpacking, or camping trips. The Aircontact Lite 50+10 is crafted with precision and attention to detail, making it an ideal choice for adventurers who value comfort, durability, and organization.

• Optimal Comfort: The Aircontact Lite 50+10 is equipped with Deuter’s innovative Aircontact Lite back system. This system incorporates breathable padding and mesh panels that enhance ventilation, keeping you cool and dry during strenuous activities. The ergonomic design and adjustable harness provide a customized fit, reducing strain on your back and shoulders.
• Lightweight Design: Weighing in at just X pounds, the Aircontact Lite 50+10 is one of the lightest backpacks in its class. The lightweight construction allows for effortless maneuverability on the trails and minimizes fatigue during long journeys, ensuring you can go the distance without unnecessary burden.
• Versatile Storage Options: This backpack offers a 50-liter main compartment with an expandable 10-liter collar, providing flexibility for additional storage when needed. The top lid, front stash pocket, and multiple side and hip belt pockets offer convenient organization and quick access to essential items such as maps, snacks, and water bottles.
• Durability and Weather Resistance: Built to withstand rugged outdoor conditions, the Aircontact Lite 50+10 is crafted from high-quality materials that offer exceptional durability and weather resistance. The robust construction and reinforced seams ensure the backpack can handle the demands of challenging terrains and unpredictable weather.
• Integrated Rain Cover: The backpack comes with an integrated rain cover, protecting your gear from sudden downpours. The rain cover is easily deployable, providing instant protection for your belongings and giving you peace of mind when faced with unexpected weather changes.
• Limited Internal Organization: While the Aircontact Lite 50+10 offers ample storage space, the internal organization options may be relatively minimal compared to other backpacks in its category. Additional packing cubes or organizers may be necessary for those who prefer more structured compartmentalization.
• Not Ideal for Ultralight Backpacking: Although the Aircontact Lite 50+10 is lightweight compared to many other backpacks, it may not meet the requirements of ultralight backpackers who prioritize shedding every ounce of weight. For minimalist travelers aiming to go ultra-light, alternative options with a smaller capacity may be more suitable.

Osprey Aether AG 70

• A Custom Fit-on-the-Fly Hipbelt, Custom Fit-on-the-Fly Shoulder Strap and adjustable torso length allow for a fine-tuned fit for a variety of body shapes and sizes.
• Included raincover made with PFC-free DWR and bluesign-approved materials
• Top-loader cinch and front panel zip access to main compartment
• Removable top lid converts

• Removable top lid converts to DayLid daypack
• Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment
• Dual front panel zippered pockets for easy-access storage
• A Custom Fit-on-the-Fly Hipbelt, Custom Fit-on-the-Fly Shoulder Strap and adjustable torso length allow for a fine-tuned fit for a variety of body shapes and sizes

• Stripped down, lightweight, lean and mean for moving fast and getting the job done. Built with rugged dependability to keep you moving strongly toward your objective, no matter how big
• Removable floating top lid with zippered pocket with the integrated FlapJacket protects packed gear when lid is removed

The Osprey Aether AG 70 is a true powerhouse when it comes to backpacking gear. Designed for adventurers embarking on extended journeys, this backpack offers an impressive combination of capacity, comfort, and durability. With its 70-liter volume, the Aether AG 70 provides ample room to carry all your essential gear, making it the perfect choice for multi-day expeditions, backpacking trips , or remote wilderness adventures. Whether you’re traversing rugged terrains or conquering challenging trails, the Aether AG 70 is equipped to handle it all.

• Exceptional Comfort: The Aether AG 70 features Osprey’s revolutionary Anti-Gravity suspension system, which provides unparalleled comfort and load distribution. The suspended mesh back panel allows for excellent ventilation and effectively distributes weight across your back, reducing fatigue and enhancing your overall hiking experience.
• Spacious and Organized: With a generous 70-liter capacity, this backpack offers plenty of space to accommodate all your gear and essentials. The large main compartment, front panel access, and multiple zippered pockets ensure efficient organization and easy access to your belongings. The removable top lid can also be converted into a daypack for shorter excursions from base camp.
• Durable Construction: Crafted with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail, the Aether AG 70 is built to withstand the rigors of the outdoors. The robust fabrics, reinforced seams, and sturdy zippers ensure long-lasting durability, allowing you to rely on this backpack for countless adventures to come.
• Customizable Fit: Osprey’s adjustable harness and hip belt system enable you to achieve a personalized and secure fit. The Aether AG 70 is available in multiple sizes, ensuring that you can find the perfect fit for your body type. The adjustable torso length further enhances comfort and stability, making those long treks more enjoyable.
• Versatile Features: The Aether AG 70 is packed with thoughtful features designed to enhance your backpacking experience. It includes external attachment points for gear and trekking poles, dual ice axe loops for mountaineering adventures, and compression straps to stabilize your load. The integrated rain cover ensures that your gear stays dry during unexpected downpours.
• Size and Weight: While the Aether AG 70 offers ample space for extended adventures, its larger size and weight may not be suitable for ultralight backpacking or shorter trips where minimizing weight is a priority. For those seeking a lighter and more compact option, Osprey offers a range of backpacks with smaller capacities.
• Price: The Aether AG 70 falls into the higher price range compared to some other backpacking options. While the quality and durability justify the cost for avid adventurers, budget-conscious travelers may prefer more affordable alternatives if they have limited use or are just starting their backpacking journey.

Gregory Deva 70

• 3D Air hip belt and shoulder harness: gregory’s Precurve technology and multi-density foam construction combine to eliminate hotspots and relieve pressure in sensitive areas. The 3D Air Mesh wicks away moisture, increasing overall comfort
• Wishbone internal frame: A high-strength aluminum frame Defines the perimeter of the back panel,

• Made in Viet Nam
• Product type : BACKPACK
• Package dimensions : 26.77 ” x 12.99 ” x 8.27 “
• Package weight : 4.12 lbs

The Gregory Deva 70 is a remarkable backpack designed for fearless explorers who crave both comfort and performance during their outdoor escapades. With its impressive capacity, innovative features, and superior craftsmanship, the Deva 70 is an ideal choice for extended backpacking trips, remote wilderness adventures, or any journey that demands a reliable and versatile travel companion. Let the Deva 70 empower you to conquer new heights and embark on unforgettable experiences.

• Optimal Comfort: The Deva 70 is engineered with Gregory’s innovative Response A3 suspension system, delivering exceptional comfort and load-bearing capabilities. The adjustable back panel and ventilated design ensure maximum airflow, preventing excess perspiration during long hikes. The well-padded shoulder straps and hip belt provide excellent support, allowing you to tackle challenging terrains with ease.
• Spacious and Organized: With its 70-liter capacity, the Deva 70 offers abundant space to store all your essential gear and equipment. The large main compartment, multiple zippered pockets, and gear loops enable efficient organization and easy access to your belongings. The detachable daypack adds an extra level of convenience, allowing you to explore your surroundings without carrying the entire backpack.
• Exceptional Durability: Crafted with rugged materials and reinforced construction, the Deva 70 is built to withstand the toughest outdoor conditions. The robust fabrics, reinforced seams, and durable zippers ensure long-lasting performance, providing peace of mind during your wilderness ventures. This backpack is designed to accompany you on countless expeditions, becoming a trusted companion throughout your adventures.
• Customizable Fit: The Deva 70 features an adjustable harness and hip belt system, allowing you to achieve a personalized and secure fit. The backpack is available in multiple sizes, ensuring a comfortable fit for various body types. The advanced suspension system effectively distributes weight, reducing strain on your shoulders and hips and enhancing overall comfort even during extended treks.
• Versatile Features: The Deva 70 is equipped with a range of practical features tailored to enhance your outdoor experience. It includes external attachment points for gear and trekking poles, compression straps to stabilize your load, and a hydration sleeve for convenient access to water on the go. The integrated rain cover protects your gear during unexpected showers, keeping your belongings dry and secure.
• Weight: Due to its larger capacity and robust construction, the Deva 70 is not the lightest backpack on the market. For ultralight backpacking or those who prioritize minimizing weight, alternative options with smaller capacities may be more suitable.
• Price: The Deva 70 falls into the mid to high price range, reflecting its quality and durability. While it offers excellent value for avid backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts, individuals on a tight budget or occasional travelers may prefer more affordable alternatives.

Deuter ACT Lite 75+10

• Perfect load transfer and optimally balanced, secure fit thanks to the Aircontact contact back system.
• Slim, medium weight ergonomic hip fins with zip pockets.
• Back length adjustment thanks to adjustable shoulder height with the Variquick system.
• Device for drinking system (deuter Streamer 3.0 – not included!)

• Backpack-Application: Touring
• Backpack-Build: rear padding
• Volume-Large Category: 61 – 75l
• Volume-Backpack Volume: 65l

The Deuter ACT Lite 75+10 is a backpack designed for those who embark on extensive expeditions and require a reliable and spacious companion to carry their gear. Whether you’re embarking on a multi-day trek, planning a backpacking adventure, or venturing into remote wilderness, the ACT Lite 75+10 offers impressive storage capacity, exceptional comfort, and durable construction. This backpack is engineered to meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts seeking a dependable and versatile gear-hauling solution.

• Generous Capacity: The ACT Lite 75+10 boasts an impressive 75-liter main compartment, allowing you to pack all your essential gear and equipment for extended trips. Additionally, the expandable 10-liter capacity extension collar provides extra room for bulky items or when you need to carry additional supplies. This backpack ensures you have ample space to accommodate all your necessities.
• Superb Comfort: Deuter has integrated its Aircontact Lite back system into the ACT Lite 75+10, guaranteeing outstanding comfort during long hikes and demanding expeditions. The adjustable Vari-Quick back length system allows you to customize the fit according to your torso length, ensuring optimal weight distribution and reducing strain on your shoulders and back. The padded shoulder straps and hip belt enhance comfort, enabling you to trek for extended periods with ease.
• Durability and Stability: Constructed with high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship, the ACT Lite 75+10 offers exceptional durability and stability. The backpack is designed to withstand rugged terrains, harsh weather conditions, and heavy loads. Reinforced seams, robust zippers, and durable fabrics ensure longevity and provide peace of mind during your outdoor adventures.
• Versatile Access and Organization: This backpack features a front U-shaped zipper, allowing you to access the main compartment easily without having to unpack everything. The bottom compartment is separate and accessible from the outside, perfect for storing your sleeping bag or other gear that needs separate storage. Multiple pockets, gear loops, and attachment points provide excellent organization options, ensuring you can keep your belongings tidy and easily accessible.
• Adjustable Fit: The ACT Lite 75+10 is equipped with an adjustable harness system that enables you to customize the fit according to your body shape and size. The Vari-Quick system allows for easy adjustment of the back length, while the load adjustment straps help balance the weight and ensure stability. This backpack can be tailored to fit comfortably and securely, enhancing your overall trekking experience.
• Weight: With its larger capacity and durable construction, the ACT Lite 75+10 is not the lightest backpack available. It is designed for carrying heavier loads and providing durability, so individuals seeking an ultralight backpack may need to explore lighter alternatives.
• Bulkiness: Due to its size and capacity, the ACT Lite 75+10 may appear bulkier compared to smaller backpacks. It is important to consider your specific needs and the length of your trip when selecting a backpack, as this model may be better suited for longer expeditions or trips requiring extensive gear.

Backpack Care and Maintenance

To ensure your backpack lasts for several years, proper care and maintenance are essential. Here are some tips to help you care for your backpack:

• Clean your backpack after each trip to remove dirt and debris
• Store your backpack in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
• Avoid overloading your backpack beyond its capacity
• Use a rain cover to protect your backpack and gear from rain and moisture

What is the best budget travel backpack?

• NOT YOUR BASIC BACKPACK: Feature rich at this price point; Comfort and balanced backpack for men and women.
• TETON TOUGH: The best memories are made with the great durable gear; Perfect for any Adventure; comes in 45L, 55L or 65L sizes and adjustable to fit all; Pocket for

The best budget travel backpack is the Teton Sports Scout 3400 . This backpack offers excellent value for money, combining affordability with practical features and reliable performance. Here’s why the Teton Sports Scout 3400 is a top choice for budget-conscious travelers:

1. Affordable Price: The Teton Sports Scout 3400 is priced competitively, making it an affordable option for travelers on a budget. You don’t have to break the bank to get a reliable backpack that meets your travel needs.

2. Spacious Capacity: Despite its budget-friendly price, the Teton Sports Scout 3400 doesn’t compromise on space. With a 55-liter capacity, it provides ample room to store your clothing, gear, and essentials for multi-day trips or backpacking adventures.

3. Durable Construction: The backpack is constructed from sturdy materials that are built to withstand the rigors of travel. It features a durable 600D diamond ripstop shell that resists wear and tear, ensuring longevity even in demanding environments.

4. Comfortable Design: The Teton Sports Scout 3400 is designed with comfort in mind. It features padded shoulder straps, a cushioned back panel, and an adjustable suspension system that allows you to customize the fit according to your body shape and size. This ensures optimal comfort, even during long hours of carrying your backpack.

5. Versatile Features: This budget backpack offers a range of practical features to enhance your travel experience. It includes multiple compartments and pockets for organized storage, side and front compression straps to secure your load, and external gear loops for attaching additional equipment. It also has a built-in rain cover to protect your belongings from unexpected showers.

6. Trusted Brand: Teton Sports is a reputable brand known for producing high-quality outdoor gear. Their backpacks are designed with durability and functionality in mind, ensuring that you can rely on their products during your travels.

What is the best Laptop Backpack for Travel in Europe?

• Adjustable torso fit
• External Gear Attachment loops
• Padded top and side handles
• The harness and hipbelt stow away for safekeeping while checked and deploy quickly for any path or trail

When it comes to finding the best laptop backpack for travel in Europe, the Osprey Farpoint 40 is a top choice. This versatile and reliable backpack is specifically designed to meet the needs of travelers, providing a combination of functionality, comfort, and convenience. Here’s why the Osprey Farpoint 40 stands out as the best option for carrying your laptop while exploring Europe:

1. Carry-On Size: One of the key considerations for travel in Europe is adhering to carry-on size restrictions. The Osprey Farpoint 40 is designed to meet most airlines’ carry-on size regulations, allowing you to easily bring it on board without the hassle of checking it in. This is particularly important for travelers who want to save time and avoid extra fees.

2. Dedicated Laptop Compartment: The backpack features a dedicated laptop compartment that can accommodate up to a 15-inch laptop. This padded compartment provides excellent protection for your device during travel, keeping it secure and preventing any damage. You can have peace of mind knowing that your laptop is well-protected throughout your European adventures.

3. Comfortable and Adjustable: The Osprey Farpoint 40 is designed with comfort in mind. It features padded shoulder straps and a supportive back panel that provide excellent cushioning and airflow, reducing strain on your shoulders and back. The backpack also has an adjustable harness system, allowing you to customize the fit according to your body shape and size, ensuring optimal comfort during long days of exploration.

4. Organization and Accessibility: Staying organized while traveling is essential, and the Osprey Farpoint 40 excels in this aspect. It offers multiple pockets and compartments, including a front panel pocket for easy access to your essentials. The main compartment is spacious enough to hold your laptop, clothes, travel documents, and other personal items, while the internal compression straps keep everything in place.

5. Durable and Reliable: Osprey is renowned for its quality and durability, and the Farpoint 40 is no exception. It is made from high-quality materials that can withstand the demands of travel, ensuring that your backpack will last for many European adventures to come. The sturdy construction and reliable zippers provide added peace of mind, knowing that your belongings are secure.

6. Versatile Design: The Osprey Farpoint 40 is not just a laptop backpack; it’s a versatile travel companion. It can be carried as a backpack with its comfortable shoulder straps or transformed into a duffel bag with its padded top and side handles. This flexibility makes it convenient for various travel situations and allows you to adapt to different environments in Europe.

The best Compact and Versatile Backpack: Designs global travel bag 30l

• Foam structure with padded recycled ballistic nylon back panel
• U-shape entry to large main compartment
• Internal mesh organization pockets
• U-shape entry to secondary organization compartment
• Larger zippered security pocket and dual slip pockets

When it comes to a compact and versatile travel bag, the Designs Global Travel Bag 30L stands out as a top choice. This stylish and functional bag is designed to meet the needs of modern travelers who prioritize convenience and organization. Here’s why the Designs Global Travel Bag 30L is an excellent option for your travel adventures:

1. Compact Size: The 30L capacity of the Designs Global Travel Bag strikes the perfect balance between spaciousness and compactness. It provides enough room to carry your essential belongings while remaining compact enough to easily maneuver through crowded airports, bustling city streets, and various modes of transportation. Its sleek design ensures that it won’t weigh you down during your travels.

2. Thoughtful Organization: The Designs Global Travel Bag is thoughtfully designed with multiple compartments and pockets to keep your belongings organized and easily accessible. It features a main compartment for larger items such as clothing and travel essentials, as well as smaller pockets for storing accessories, electronics, and personal items. This level of organization helps you stay efficient and reduces the time spent searching for your belongings.

3. Durable Construction: Durability is essential for any travel bag, and the Designs Global Travel Bag delivers in this aspect. It is crafted from high-quality materials that are built to withstand the rigors of travel. The bag’s robust construction ensures that it can endure the demands of your journeys and provide long-lasting performance, making it a reliable companion for your travels.

4. Versatile Carrying Options: The Designs Global Travel Bag offers versatile carrying options to suit your preferences and travel needs. It features sturdy handles for easy hand-carrying and a removable shoulder strap for comfortable over-the-shoulder or cross-body carrying. This adaptability allows you to choose the most comfortable and convenient carrying method for each travel situation.

5. Travel-Friendly Features: This travel bag incorporates several travel-friendly features that enhance your overall travel experience. It includes a trolley sleeve that conveniently slides over the handle of your luggage, allowing you to effortlessly navigate through airports or train stations. Additionally, the bag may include a built-in USB charging port or a dedicated pocket for your power bank, enabling you to keep your devices charged while on the go.

6. Stylish Design: The Designs Global Travel Bag combines functionality with a sleek and contemporary design. It is available in various colors and styles to suit your personal taste and travel aesthetics. Whether you prefer a classic or more vibrant look, this bag allows you to express your style while exploring new destinations .

Overall, the Designs Global Travel Bag 30L offers a winning combination of compact size, thoughtful organization, durability, versatile carrying options, travel-friendly features, and stylish design. Whether you’re embarking on a weekend getaway or a longer journey, this travel bag provides the functionality and reliability you need to make your travels more enjoyable and hassle-free.

Choosing the right backpack for your next adventure requires careful consideration of several factors, including size and capacity, material and durability, comfort and fit, and features and organization. Whether you’re planning a day hike, an overnight camping trip, or a multi-day backpacking expedition, there is a backpack that’s perfect for your needs. By following the tips and recommendations in this guide, you’ll be able to find the perfect backpack to keep you comfortable, organized, and ready for anything.

FAQ – For Best Travel Backpack for Europe

What is a travel backpack, can i use a travel backpack as a carry-on, what is the best travel backpack for europe, what makes a good travel backpack, what is the difference between a travel backpack and a hiking backpack, what is the maximum size for a carry-on travel backpack, should i choose a backpack with a laptop compartment, what is the difference between a travel backpack and a travel pack, should i use packing cubes in my travel backpack, what is the best carry-on travel backpack for one-bag travel, how do i choose the perfect travel backpack, book cheap flights, book train tickets, book luggage drop, visa requirements, book cheap hotels, book bus tickets, book airport transfer, take an insurance, packing list.

Get your Notion Travel Planner Template!

Embark on your next adventure with the Wanderlust Planner , the ultimate Notion Travel Planner Template . Organize your wanderlust-fueled dreams and turn them into unforgettable journeys. Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or a newbie explorer, this template has you covered.

Sankalp Singh is the Founder and Author of Chasing Whereabouts. He is passionate about travel, photography, and food. He has travelled across Europe extensively to experience its quirks, culture, and diversity. He is a self-taught traveller and he has been exploring the world since the age of 25. When he is not travelling, you can find him at work being a Software Engineer in 9-5 Job.

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The 13 Best Carry-on Backpacks of 2024, Tested & Reviewed

N ot sure whether to take a rolling suitcase or a travel backpack on the plane? Both types of carry-on luggage certainly have their merits, but if you like keeping your arms and hands free when traveling, a backpack is the right choice for you. Furthermore, compared to a hard-sided suitcase , it's easier to squeeze a malleable backpack into an overhead bin or under the seat. And if your vacation is focused on adventure travel, you might value a durable pack on your back over wheels on the ground.

U.S. News compiled this list from extensive research and testing along with consumer reviews. Whatever your reason for choosing a backpack, there are plenty on the market to satisfy your needs. Read on for the best carry-on travel backpacks.

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(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand and other factors. Dimensions of backpacks are height by width by depth.)

Best Overall: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

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Price: $200 or less

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When it comes to bag travel, the Cotopaxi Allpa packs a serious punch. The carry-on backpack is available in three sizes – 42L, 35L and 28L – and a variety of colors, including the vibrant multicolor Del Día style. The 35L size not only fits everything you need for your next getaway, but it's also TSA-compliant as a carry-on item . On the outside, the Allpa features a removable waist belt, a padded laptop sleeve on the side, anti-theft zippers, carabiner lash loops for extra gear, a sternum strap and a front zippered pocket. The backpack straps can be tucked away if you're looking to save more room in the overhead bin or you want to carry the bag via its grab handles.

The bag opens suitcase-style; inside, you'll find one large zippered mesh compartment on the right and a subdivided zippered mesh compartment on the left, providing ample space for all your clothes, shoes and accessories. What's more, the bag comes with a rain cover (though it's already water-resistant).

What our editors say:

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Best Budget: ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Hiking Backpack 20L

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Price: $15.99 or less

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This backpack has three excellent things going for it: It's affordable, lightweight and durable. It's a great option for a weekend getaway bag and is an excellent little backpack to have on hand for tours and day trips once you make it to your destination. If you're planning to hike or kayak on your next getaway, you'll definitely want to have the ZOMAKE Ultra Lightweight Backpack in your back pocket – literally. It can be folded into a compact pouch and tucked away in a larger carry-on bag if you're planning to only use it as a daypack.

The lightweight travel bag is both tear- and water-resistant. With all of its pockets – including one on each side for water bottles or umbrellas – you'll be able to fit everything you need for an adventure-filled trip.

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Best Lightweight: MZ Wallace Metro Utility Backpack

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Price: $345 or less

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Constructed with recycled bluesign-approved quilted nylon, this chic bag is packed with pockets and organizational details. The interior has a padded 15-inch laptop sleeve, a large zip pocket with two slip pockets, two water bottle pockets and two removable pouches. On the front of the bag there's a deep phone pocket and multiple zippered pockets of various sizes, including a small one that's ideal for a boarding pass, earbuds or wipes.

A water bottle pocket sits on each side of the bag, and the back of the bag has a luggage trolley sleeve that can be zipped shut on the bottom to be a pocket when not attached to your suitcase. This backpack has a top-zip design, and can be carried by the two top handles or the adjustable padded backpack straps.

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Best for Business Travel: Dagne Dover Dakota Neoprene Backpack and Aer Travel Pack 3 (tie)

Dagne dover dakota neoprene backpack – large.

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Price: $215 or less

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This sleek, professional backpack by Dagne Dover is perfect for professional and casual settings alike, with a vast array of organizational features and a 20-liter capacity for the large size. On the outside, you'll find a zippered padded pocket for up to 16-inch laptops and a slip pocket for your phone, while an interior sleeve can fit a tablet or a second laptop, allowing you to travel with multiple devices. The inside of the bag has two mesh slip pockets and a zip-top pouch attached with a leash, as well as three zippered pockets in the front panel.

To help you stay even more organized, the exterior also features a zippered front pocket with pen loops and a key clip; two zippered side pockets; two slip side pockets; and straps to secure a small bottle. The water-resistant bag comes with adjustable shoulder straps, a luggage sleeve and a separate shoe bag.

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Aer Travel Pack 3

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Price: $249 or less

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With a pocket for everything, the clamshell-style Aer Travel Pack 3 keeps you organized to the max on business trips. Keep your laptop (up to 16 inches) safe in the padded, zippered laptop sleeve, and stow your passport in the quick-access side pocket. The front compartment features several sizes of pockets perfect for chargers, notepads, pens and more. Along with the lay-flat main compartment for clothes, there's also an interior pocket for small accessories as well as a hidden luggage tracker pocket.

Designed for one-bag travel, the durable Aer Travel Pack 3 also features a water-resistant nylon exterior along with load lifters for a more comfortable fit. You can purchase a hip belt separately.

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Best for International Travel: Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Pack

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Price: $185 or less

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The Osprey Farpoint is truly an all-in-one travel pack that combines quality with minimal weight. The clamshell-style carry-on bag features a substantial main compartment across from a large mesh pocket. There's an easy-to-access zippered laptop sleeve on the side for devices up to 16 inches.

For extra support and comfort, the backpack includes a sternum strap, back panel, harness and hip belt; the latter three can be zipped up for fully streamlined travel, and compression straps help slim the bag down even more. The Osprey Farpoint 40 meets most domestic carry-on size requirements and is compatible with the Farpoint/Fairview Travel Daypack , which can be brought onto the plane as a personal item .

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Best for Weekend Getaways: Solo Grand Travel TSA Backpack

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Price: $117.99 or less

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Perfect for weekend getaways , the Solo Grand TSA Travel Backpack opens like a regular suitcase. In the main compartment, you can secure several outfits with compression straps and store accessories and toiletries in two zippered mesh pockets. In the back, a padded compartment protects laptops up to 17.3 inches in size, and on the front there are a variety of pockets – even pockets within pockets – for your phone and other essentials. This backpack is also equipped with two side mesh pockets, a trolley sleeve, and side and top carry handles.

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Best for Women: TUMI Voyageur Celina Backpack

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Price: $475 or less

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This backpack blends function and fashion with a compact design. On the front of the bag are two zip compartments and a U-zip pocket with a card slot, a slip pocket and a pen holder. The interior of the bag is divided into two separate compartments: one zippered section with a padded laptop compartment (holds up to a 15-inch PC or 16-inch MacBook), and another large compartment with a zippered pocket and two slip pockets (ideal for glasses or charging cords).

There is also a zippered compartment on each side of the bag, one of which has a water-resistant lining for a water bottle. On the back of the bag you'll find a hidden phone compartment and a trolley sleeve to attach to a roller bag.

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Best for Men: Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L

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Price: $299.95 or less

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The Peak Design Travel Backpack 45L is a solid, rugged choice that will last. The nylon canvas shell of the backpack is weatherproof and water-resistant, with a waterproof bottom liner as well. You can unzip the back panel to access the main packing compartment, which is also accessible via zippers along each side of the bag and can be divided in two by a mesh sleeve. To keep you organized, this backpack has quick-access pockets for small items like passports and glasses, plus expandable side pockets for water bottles, tripods or umbrellas.

The bag meets carry-on size requirements but can expand by 1.5 inches if you need the extra room; the shoulder straps and hip belt tuck away if you plan to check it instead. If you prefer a smaller bag, the Peak Design Travel Backpack also comes in a 30-liter size .

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Best for Adventure Travel: Kelty Redwing 36

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Price: $134.95 or less

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If you'll be adventuring in the great outdoors for your next trip, consider purchasing the Kelty Redwing 36 backpack. You'll find two exterior water bottle pockets as well as a hydration-friendly inner pocket (for storing a water bladder). Tool loops can hold hiking poles, fishing poles, ice axes or other adventure gear. Organization is made easy with plenty of zippered pockets, including one on each side of the bag, a large one on the front and one on top that's perfect for storing travel documents such as a passport. Plus, a ventilated back panel helps keep you cool when you're hurrying through airports or hiking up a mountain.

If you need a bigger backpack, the Kelty Redwing 50 Tactical is a great checked bag option and has many of the same features as the Redwing 36 along with more straps and pockets.

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Best With Wheels: Samsonite Tectonic NuTech Wheeled Backpack

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Price: $159.99 or less

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If you want the flexibility to either carry or wheel your luggage, a wheeled backpack style may work best for you. The Samsonite Tectonic NuTech Wheeled Backpack transforms from a rolling bag into a backpack by just tucking in the handle, pulling out the stowed straps and using the wheel cover. The durable polyester material is water-repellent and has red accents.

There are three sections to this bag: a main compartment with space to pack for a weekend trip, a dedicated sleeve for both a laptop up to 15.6 inches and a tablet up to 11 inches, and a front pocket equipped with various organizational features. There are various small pockets, pen sleeves, card slots and a key leash within. You can tuck a water bottle and umbrella into the exterior pockets on either side of the bag. Just keep in mind that this bag may slightly exceed carry-on size restrictions on some airlines with stricter rules.

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Best Organization: augustnoa classic noa

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Price: $148 or less

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This sustainable water-resistant backpack is constructed with 100% recycled materials and has 10 pockets to organize everything. The spacious interior compartment has a 17-inch padded laptop sleeve and a tablet sleeve with a strap to secure it in place, as well as an interior mesh pocket for small items or charging cords and a removable shoe bag.

On the exterior, the front pocket has a built-in mesh organizer for pens, and there are mesh water bottle holders on each side of the backpack. The back of the bag has two adjustable padded straps, each with a built-in zippered compartment ideal for keys, ID or tickets. A hidden zip pocket makes for a secure space for a wallet or passport, and the trolley sleeve provides added versatility.

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Best Leather: Monos Metro Backpack in Vegan Leather

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Price: $230 or less

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For an upscale backpack that can be dressed up or down, this Monos style is an ideal choice. Constructed with sustainable vegan leather (there's also a nylon version with vegan leather accents), this structured style is both water- and scratch-resistant. The 15-inch laptop sleeve is separate from the main packing compartment so you can access your device easily. The brand's QuickSnap Modular Kit System means you'll have a detachable Metro Kit for small items that attaches magnetically to the front of the bag; this kit is interchangeable between Metro bags and can be swapped out for a different kit or removed entirely, depending on your needs.

The backpack's main compartment is designed for maximum functionality with a felt-lined document sleeve, a large zippered pocket, two slip pockets, and a waterproof zippered privacy compartment for a rain jacket or gym clothes. On the back, you can make use of a hidden slip pocket for your phone, a trolley sleeve and adjustable padded straps. There's also two top carry handles if you'd prefer to carry this backpack like a tote.

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How We Tested

From the comfort of the straps to the capacity of each bag, our team tested more than 20 carry-on backpacks from a variety of brands at a range of price points. We tested to see how the overall structure of the bag works for travel needs, along with the durability and details that make a difference. After taking these backpacks on a variety of adventures, we've selected these carry-on backpacks as the best for 2024.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Luggage Sets
• The Best Rolling Duffel Bags
• The Best Toiletry Bags
• The Best Fanny Packs
• The Best Travel Insurance

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

This article may contain affiliate links that Microsoft and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

Best Backpacks That Open Like a Suitcase

Backpacks are popular and practically a necessity for hiking, commuting to work, and school. They’re often top-loading with drawstring closures, but If you want to use your backpack for traveling, you might find a front-loading backpack more convenient.

These backpacks open like a suitcase so you can get to your things more easily. Let’s say you deboard at a destination much chillier than where you began your journey. You can unzip the bag and snatch a sweater or jacket without having to dig for it. And once you’re at the hotel or hostel, you can live out of it like a suitcase.

Our Top Picks

Osprey packs farpoint 40.

ArcEnCiel Tactical Army Backpack

Hynes Eagle Compression Travel Pack

Many front-loading backpacks are versatile for hiking excursions as well as a travel carry-on. And padded laptop compartments make them suitable for business trips and office commutes. Browse our collection of backpacks that open like a suitcase. You’re sure to find one that meets all your traveling needs.

Top Product Overview

Backpacks that open like a suitcase, timbuk2 wander pack.

The clamshell design of the Timbuk2 Wander Pack gives you an option for easy packing and access to your gear. It’s a high-volume backpack that converts into a duffel. The Wander Pack has a capacity of 40 liters, yet it’s lightweight at 3.7 lbs. The dimensions are 15 W x 22.8 L x 7.48 D.

Stowable straps tuck into a designated pocket, and the bag unzips all the way around. Carry it with the sturdy top handle. And when worn as a backpack, the straps are extra-cushy and have a hidden suspension feature for a more comfortable carry. The ventilated air mesh back panel keeps your back cool.

The bag unzips all the way around making it easier to get to the contents as well as quicker for any unexpected look-see request from security. For internal organization, a padded laptop compartment holds up to a 17-inc screen laptop. Other inside pockets hold smaller items like your phone, pens, and other accessories. A zippered pocket on the bottoms is roomy enough for shoes or toiletries.

The Wander Pack makes efficient use of space with well-designed features. It’s easy to live out of this backpack for at least a week.

• use as a backpack or duffel bag
• lightweight and comfortable
• spacious with well-designed features
• shoulder harness too loose

The Osprey Pack Farpoint 40 has a large zippered panel that gives easy suitcase-style access to the main compartment. It has a stowaway back panel, harness, and hip belt to give it a slim profile for traveling and meets carry-on requirements for most airlines. Fit them in a dedicated zippered pocket. With dimensions of 22 H x 14 W x 9 D inches, it holds up to 40 liters of gear.

Two internal compression straps keep your belongings secure, and dual front compression straps provide stability when wearing a backpack. Padded shoulder straps offer multiple carrying options. It features an internal frame suspension system that helps balance the load from the harness to the hip belt.

The main compartment has lockable sides. A laptop sleeve holds up to a 17-inch laptop in a lockable compartment. Exterior storage includes a front zippered panel slash pocket with sturdy, heat-embossed zippers and two front mesh pockets. Attachment points let you carry more gear.

Use the Osprey Pack Farpoint for a weekend getaway or for a trek in the wilderness. Osprey offers a lifetime guarantee to repair any damage or defect.

• removable straps
• suitcase-style access
• lockable laptop compartment
• pricier than some similar backpacks

Standard 35L Travel Backpack

The  Travel Backpack by Standard is a 3-in-1 carry-on with hideaway straps that can be used as a backpack, shoulder bag, or suitcase with an all-around zipper. It meets airline standards for carry-on and cabin luggage restrictions. With dimensions of 21.5 x 13.5 x 7.5 inches, the Standard has a capacity of 35 liters, and an expandable zipper adds an extra 10 liters.

The Standard is made of rugged 1680 water-resistant Denier fabric and features strong YKK lockable zippers. Ergonomically designed shoulder straps and a removable, adjustable hip belt, and a ventilated back panel make it comfortable to carry as a backpack. An included rollaboard strap lets you integrate the bag with your other rolling luggage.

Interior compression straps secure contents and maximize space. Mesh pockets help you organize contents, and a wrinkle-free pocket keeps clothing looking fresh. Additional pockets hold electronics including a 17-inch laptop pocket that’s detachable for easier TSA check-in.

Exterior storage includes a collapsable water bottle pocket and two front pockets, one for smaller items like your phone and one for documents. Other added features include a built-in safety whistle and a rain cover.

Overall, the Standard travel backpack meets many travel needs and the company offers a day pack and packing cubes you can order for even more.

• compression zipper for 10 added liters
• removable straps give multi-carry options
• removable laptop sleeve
• report of broken strap 2nd use
• weak zipper tabs

The ArcEnCiel Army Backpack has a tactical military design that makes it suitable for hiking and mountain sports, camping, and hunting. For traveling, stowaway straps convert it to a duffel or suitcase with a full perimeter zipper. No more digging from the top for your gear.

Add the shoulder strap, and it becomes a shoulder or crossbody bag. When not in use, the shoulder strap hides away in a dedicated storage layer.

Made of durable 1000D no-rip nylon, the bag’s dimensions are 25.6 x 13.8 x 9.8 and it holds 60 liters. A military-style MOLLE expansion system lets you add pockets, a water bottle pouch, and accessory kits.

For comfort, the back is thickly padded, and breathable sandwich fabric eases pressure on your back. A double-thick hand strap is comfortable and durable. A chest sliding adjustable system makes it more comfortable when worn as a backpack.

For internal organization, the main compartment has three sections separated by two dividers. Lots of pockets hold accessories. External storage includes two pockets on each side, one of which will fit a 10-inch screen tablet. A rain cover is included.

Overall, the ArcEnCiel is great for hiking, camping, and backpacking, or use it as a travel carry-on for lots of packing space.

• 3-way carry system
• MOLLE military-style design
• water-resistant
• includes rain cover
• no room for larger laptops
• not suitable for work or school
• somewhat heavy as a backpack

Cotopaxi Allpa Travel Pack

The Cotopaxi Allpa 28L Travel Pack has the comfort and style of a traditional backpack with the storage and accessibility of a suitcase. Carry-on compliant with dimensions of 19 x 12 x 9 inches, the travel pack is made of a tough blend of TPU-coated polyester and 1600D ballistic nylon paneling.

A padded, low-profile harness with contoured shoulder straps makes it comfortable as a backpack even when fully loaded. The air mesh back panel keeps your back cool, and an adjustable chest strap and nylon hip belt give stability.

Stow the shoulder straps away in a slotted back panel designed to prevent snagging on conveyor belts and carry the travel pack by four reinforced grab handles. Unzip the wraparound YKK security zipper to a well-organized main compartment with two halves secured by mesh dividers.

This helps all your gear stays tightly packed and secure. Keep your passport and other small necessities handy in the top compartment.

The right side of the bag has a roomy zippered mesh compartment, and a second sub-divided compartment is on the left. A padded pocket holds a 10-inch device, and a padded laptop sleeve accommodates a 15-inch screen laptop. Carabiner lash loops allow you to attach hiking gear. A rain cover is included.

The Cotopaxi Allpa is a quality backpack and the suitcase-style main compartment makes it suitable as a travel pack.

See our full review here

• carries comfortably as a backpack
• YKK security-zipped suitcase compartment
• carabiner lash loops for hiking
• backstrap slot is tight
• no water bottle pocket

Matein Carry-On Backpack

The Matein Carry-On Backpack expands to hold 40 liters easily. It holds loads of gear from clothing to packing cubes and meets the requirements as a carry-on for airlines to include Spirit and Jet Blue. Fit it in the overhead compartment or under the seat. The Matein is made of lightweight, durable nylon and has lockable zipper heads. Sturdy zippers and stitching make it highly durable.

Disconnect the shoulder straps, store them in the dedicated zippered back panel, and use them like a briefcase of a duffel with a minimalist look. An included luggage strap attaches to your other luggage and an upright handle makes carrying the travel pack easy.

As a backpack, the shoulder straps are adjustable and the air mesh back panel provides ventilation. A sternum strap is adjustable for distributing weight from the shoulders. Grab handles on the top and side make it easy to remove the bag from the overhead compartment.

Unzip the large main pocket to display your gear suitcase style. An organizer compartment holds your phone, wallet, and other small items. Internal compression straps work together with four external compression straps to hold contents secure. Store your passport and other documents in the front organizer pocket.

The Matein is roomy enough to hold clothing and essentials for one week yet is sized as a carry-on.

• Spacious yet fits as a carry-on
• double compression system
• removable straps convert to duffel
• no internal frame for hiking
• no padded designated laptop sleeve

The 44-liter Hynes Eagle Backpack has a main compartment that unzips clamshell-style for the convenience of a suitcase and fits the maximum size as a carry-on for an IATA flight.

The inner mesh compartment and pockets hold clothing and travel accessories for at least a week, and the bag compresses to 38 liters for lighter traveling. The exterior is soft, waterproof crinkle nylon for high durability.

As a backpack, the Hynes Eagle features an adjustable sternum and removable waist strap, and contoured backpack straps for comfort. The shoulder strap buckle has been upgraded for more durability. A back trolley panel lets you stack the bag over wheeled luggage. Remove the backpack straps and carry them by top and side carry padded handles.

The main “suitcase” compartment has two zip pockets for smaller accessories. A larger zip compartment will hold a toiletries case or packing cubes. Two easy-to-access front zip pockets are on the front, and one middle pocket contains multiple slip pockets for more organization. Four exterior compression straps reduce stress as well as hold contents tightly packed.

Overall, the Hynes Eagle is a top choice when you need a roomy carry-on, but it isn’t the best for hiking,

• fits as a carry-on for IATA flights
• lots of pockets for organization
• waterproof nylon
• may not suit smaller frames
• not best for hiking

Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack

The Tortuga Outbreaker is a carry-on backpack that gives you the flexibility and ease of packing of a suitcase. Once you’re at your destination, the carrying system is removable. With dimensions of 22 x 14 x 9 inches, the Outbreaker has a capacity of 45 liters and is available in a 35-liter size.

The outer shell is made of VX21 waterproof sailcloth and has water-resistant lockable YKK zippers to keep your gear safe from the elements.

The Outbreaker is extremely comfortable to carry for frames of any size. You’ll get a perfect fit with the height-adjustable suspension system. Duraflex buckles make the adjustment easier. A padded, removable hip belt shifts 80 percent of the weight of your load from your shoulders. The back panels are padded with soft, breathable Ariaprene foam.

The main compartment opens clamshell-style for ease in packing. Zippered pockets on both sides of the main compartment are handy for organizing and storing smaller items. The lid of the main compartment has two mesh pockets for more organization and is great for documents or other flat items.

The front compartment also opens clamshell-style and has multiple small pockets and slots for items like your phone, charging cords, pens and pencils, credit cards, and other similar items. A slide-in pocket holds a small notebook. The back of the bag has a TSA-compliant padded laptop sleeve that holds up to a 17-inch screen laptop and a 9.7-inch tablet.

Overall, the Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack is comfortable to carry and offers a high level of organization for extended traveling.

• comfortable, ergonomic carrying system
• TSA-compliant laptop compartment
• lots of internal organization
• no dedicated pocket for removable straps
• report of broken strap after light use

Peak Design Travel Pack

The versatile 45-liter travel pack by Peak Design was created around the idea that no two trips are alike. Although dural zippers give expandability to 45 liters, it collapses to a 35-liter day pack and meets the requirements of a carry-on bag. The main compartment opens suitcase-style for ease in packing and access to your gear.

The Pack Design’s outer shell is made of 100 percent recycled 400D nylon canvas for durability and weather-proofing. The interior is PU-coated nylon for water resistance. Front and back zippers are lockable and weatherproof. The bag sits upright and retains its sleek shape whether packed or empty.

The hip and shoulder straps have magnetic latches to hold them in place during check-in. Tuck the carrying straps away and use the 360-degree grab handles. A dedicated magnetic external pouch holds the removable straps.

For internal organization, the main compartment is divided by a zippered mesh sleeve. Use as two separate compartments or merge them into one. Organize and store items in softly-lined zippered stash pockets along the top and sides. The main back zipper gives you quick access to your laptop and tablet.

The laptop carry dimensions are 16 x 11 x 1 inches and the tablet carry dimensions are 9.5 x 7.5 x .06 inches. Dual side zippers give additional convenient access to your camera and other items. Side pockets can hold tripods or water bottles.

The Peak Design carry-on gives you lots of versatility, storage, and organization. The backpack has received three awards for Best in Show by outdoor retailers. You can order a variety of packing cubes and accessories for even more packing and versatility. It’s available in black or sage and comes with a lifetime warranty.

• highly versatile and durable
• compatible packing cubes available
• Best in Show awards
• lifetime warranty
• laptop sleeve not TSA-compliant
• straps uncomfortable with heavier loads

Aer Travel Pack 2

Go from backpack to day pack with the Aer Travel Pack 2 . The clamshell-style opening lets you live out of it like a suitcase once you reach your destination. It’s made of 1680D patented Cordura ballistic nylon and has durable YKK zippers. The zippers on the main and front compartments are lockable. The Aer holds 33 liters and is lightweight at 3.7 lbs.

Side compression straps give stability and comfort. There are attachment points for a hip belt that is available for purchase separately. An internal frame gives the bag support and structure. The back panel is padded mesh for breathability and extra comfort. A luggage passthrough allows you to attach the backpack to your other luggage.

The main compartment of the Aer Travel Pack 2 lays flat for ease in packing. Store shoes, dirty laundry, or toilets in a generously-sized shoe compartment. An organization panel has multiple mesh or zippered pockets for storing smaller items and documents. The suspended laptop pocket is easy to access and holds up to a 15.6-inch screen laptop. An expandable water bottle is on the side.

The Aer Travel Pack 2 is good for short trips or longer travels with some planning. Use it as a day pack or backpack. At home, the day pack is good for carrying to the gym.

• internal frame for support and structure
• multiple mesh and zippered pockets
• large shoe compartment
• hip belt is an extra purchase
• laptop compartment not TSA-compliant

What to Look for

Backpacks that open like a suitcase give you the versatility of portable travel combined with the convenience of living out of a suitcase once you reach your destination. Our collection includes transformable backpacks suitable for a variety of needs from weekends to longer-term travel and hiking or backpacking.

What you’re looking for comes down to your individual traveling needs and patterns. Consider the backpack’s main purpose and look for features that will compliment your travel style. Durability is an issue, and if you plan to do any hiking, even for short distances, take features for comfort into consideration.

Also, consider what you’re willing to spend. Remember, a roomy and efficient carry-on can save you much money on checked-in fees over time.

The main reason for a backpack that opens like a suitcase is for convenience in packing and accessing your gear. No more stopping and digging for an item you need in the middle of your trip. Even if you’re hiking or backpacking, front-loading backpacks are more convenient than top-loading.

Carry straps, hip belts, etc. are removable whenever a duffel or suitcase is better suited to your trip. And if you could use a gym bag or briefcase at home, you can find one to fit those needs.

Features like compressions straps, ventilating air mesh, and padding make the bags more comfortable to carry as a backpack. As a duffel, you’ll want comfortable, sturdy grab handles and perhaps a feature for strapping it to other luggage.

Consider your electronics needs and make sure there are padded sleeves to fit your devices. Also, consider features for an internal organization such as zippered or mesh pockets, and shoe compartments .

For durability, look for features like waterproofing and water resistance. All of the backpacks in our collection are made of durable fabrics. Strong sticking, zippers, and workmanship mean a more durable bag usually at a steeper price, but they last longer.

Size and Capacity

All the backpacks in our collection fit as carry-ons. Consider the size of your usual trips and check for packing capacity to suit your needs. Remember, a compression feature will allow you to pack more.

Best for Weekend Travel

The Osprey Farpoint is our pick for best a weekend travel backpack. It can be used as a day pack or gym bag.

• SAVE TIME and MONEY by never checking a bag again: Meets international airline rules for carry-on & cabin luggage size restrictions. Features a 35L – 45L capacity with EXPANDABLE ZIP.
• 3-IN-1 CONVERTIBLE DESIGN allows you to wear the backpack in several ways: BACKPACK, SUITCASE and SHOULDER BAG modes. Additional design features include ergonomic & comfortable shoulder straps, ventilated back panel, and adjustable hip belt.

Best for Extended Travel

The 44-liter Hynes Eagle Backpack has a large zip compartment, compresses to 38 liters and will hold lots of clothing plus packing cubes.

• 【Quicker Access Your Item】backpack carry on luggage designed with 2 front zip pockets store any last minutes items, middle compartment features with inner organizer pockets for travel must haves, from passport to power bank; 1 side holder keeps your bottle or umbrella; roomy main compartment features interior 4 pockets to organize you belongings, from shirts to pants
• 【Fits up to 17 inch】computer backpack features with back padded laptop compartment fits for a 13 inch, 14 inch, 15 inch, 16 inch or 17 inch, mens backpack for travel keeps your device from knocks and bumps, also easy access whenever in the waiting hall or on the flight; laptop travel backpack compartment dimension: 52 x 35 cm / 20.5 x 13.8 inch; we recommend to store slim laptop

Best for Hiking

The ArcEnciel Army Backpack with its MOLLE extension system is our choice for versatility as a hiking backpack.

• 60L Large Capacity ; 13.8" W x 25.6" H x 9.8" D ; High-intensity -style specifications 1000D Nylon , scratch-resistant , Not easy to fade
• outer Structure : 1 front zippered pocket , 2 side zippered interlayer , 1 back zippered pocket , 1 main bag ; Main compartment may be used in its entirety or be divided into 3 areas with 2 partitions ; Lots of seperate pocket in it for orderly storage

Best for Durability

Made of waterproof sailcloth with YKK water-resistant zippers, the Tortuga Outbreaker Backpack is our pick as best for durability.

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