Youre comparing backups that fill two different uses. 
Lets take a look at the bags organizational features. Before I continue, let me clear up some potential confusion over the different editions of the Cotopaxi Allpa. 
I am trying to figure out if my Dell XPS 17 might fit in 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. The company aims for sustainable product designs and materials and operates ethical and fair-wage factories. In fact, if you arent in a rush and can wait two weeks, you are able to score free shipping. The company Cotopaxi is named after a volcano in Ecuador, and you can see this reflected in their bright Andean-inspired style. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack ($190) is a thoughtfully-designed travel backpack built to withstand years of use. I had some concerns about the relatively small patch of velcro that it attaches with, but have had no problems with this in practice. No frills or thrills. Get off the beaten path. This compartment feels very spacious. The other (indicated with a different-colored zipper) gives access to an electronics compartment. The Nine Trails 36L is an exceedingly comfortable and well designed trail pack ideal for novice and experienced hikers. Mesh Laundry Bag: Again very self-explanatory, and again, seemingly unnecessary. With an overall average rating of 2.4 stars (based on the above sections), the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is a completely average pack. I completely understand the allure of segregating your dirty laundry, but there are many more economic ways to do it. Biolite was kind enough to send me their new Campstove for testing and review. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Thanks for this post! And, to be fair, they dont cost much extra. There is one additional mesh pocket accessible from the top of the bag. Your engagement on this site allows us to bring you this content for free. One of the nicest features of the Allpa pack is the side-accessible laptop compartment. From next-gen tech to ingenious innovation, our weekly peek at emerging products examines the sometimes cutting-edge, sometimes quirky world of gear design. The Sky Kaha ($220) has plenty of cushioning to keep you hiking longer and with less pain and discomfort. There is a small zipped pocket on the hip belt, and the shoulder straps have a fully adjustable sternum strap. 
The accessories available for the Allpa also integrate seamlessly for a comprehensive travel kit. At only 52 i fear it being to big for me in terms of adjustability and no one seems to have reviewed this pack that is not under 1.80m! See details. The Allpa 35L is a comfortable, thoughtfully-designed travel pack that makes it easy to organize your belongings on trips. What Im not 100% sold on is the TPU-coated polyester shell. Unless youre packing photography equipment, I really dont see the need for that MONSTER! All The rear panel of the pack is made of air mesh to allow your back and shoulders to breath and more airflow to circulate. It might just be the best configuration Ive used so far. Theyre also surprisingly lightweight, comfortable right out-of-the-box and stylish! One gives you quicky access to the main compartment, which is a neat little feature. But if youre still sold on the Allpa, you can use the button below to get more info from the official Cotopaxi website. The packs carry-on size allows for easy airport travel. The Allpa feels comfortable to wear. But a clever combination of design, organization, and features may actually save travelers money on baggage fees in the long run. Your source for comprehensive hunting reviews and buying guides. I would absolutely never buy a Peak Design 45L backpack, because its twice the weight and I simply dont need an extra 10L/30% more space! The dimensions of the closed bag are 20 x 12 x 13in (51 x 30 x 33cm). Essentially a carry-on duffel bag with five interior pockets, this 35L pack is nothing special and this reviewer (hi!) I guess the plus side here is that your bag will be easy to recognize in a crowd. But I know there are people who love this feature, so its nice the shoulder strap is included in the price and not sold as an add-on. Required fields are marked *, Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. What Im reviewing here is the 42-liter size in the Allpa range, which was newly launched in late 2019. Its a personal choice, in the end! Thank you! Ive tested probably 100 bags now and wasnt impressed with the Allpa, but plenty of other people love it. To me, this is ripe for getting snagged or torn while traveling, especially since its on the exterior of the pack. Finally, there is a water bottle pocket on the side. Climber and America Ninja Warrior Favia Dubyk reviews the High Cut Toura Basewear Top from Tra Kaia Basewear. The pack has a large interior capacityone of the largest for a carry-on-sized bag that you will find on the marketbut it still has a slim profile without a lot of extra bulkiness and excessive straps. Its harness has all the features you would expect, including a height-adjustable sternum strap, load lifter straps, a hip belt, and a nicely padded back. To be honest, Cotopaxis attempt to add security features to this bag is weak. 4 out of 5 stars with 264 reviews for Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack - Unisex, Removable waistbelt and tuck-away shoulder straps, Full-length perimeter zip opens like a suitcase, Interior mesh compartments and pockets for easy organization, Side-zip lets you access the interior without taking it off, Padded side compartment for laptop and tablet, Top zippered compartment for phone and passport, External lash loops to attach gear or lock the bag to a fixed point, YKK zippers have theft-resistant webbing sewn across the openings, Since each product is unique, the colours of the one you receive may differ from those in the image. 
On the other side is essentially an integrated travel organizer. 
you have reviewed every nook and corner features of backpack in a clear way..Thanks for your work! The deciding factor should probably be its visual design: if youre attracted to the fun and colorful look, then the Allpa could just be the right backpack for you. The MEC logo is a registered trademark of MEC Mountain Equipment Company Ltd. Really. International Buyers Beware! The majority of Cotopaxi travel packs, like the Allpa backpack, are manufactured in a fair-wage facility in the Philippines. I love this as Im not of average height (Im 1.94m or 64) so the hip belts, more often than not, end up nearer to my belly. The Del Da range is crafted with remnant fabrics and workers have complete creative control over the design. You can usually find him on the trail, on the road, jumping from bridges or hustling on his laptop working to produce the best travel and outdoors content today. 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. I did find some taller individuals who mentioned that the padded hip belt on the Allpa sits too high on their waist. Its ideal for keeping a toiletry bag and other travel items you want to be able to reach quickly. This means it can be difficult to open and close without the bag seemingly falling apart.. The only downside with all the space that this bag provides, some users have found that it can get a bit heavy. Awesome review..! (Once a month, no ads or spam. If its not working out, you can return it (consumables, electronics, undergarments and swimwear excluded). I was sold on it almost instantly. Thank you for supporting our mission! But the shoulder straps and hip belt stow behind the back panel. Useless review when it comes to fit. The interior sections of the main compartment are all zippered mesh. I used to be quite a disorganized traveler, throwing my belongings into a duffel or suitcase and later having to pull just about everything out to find a single thing. There is an externally accessible laptop sleeve with an internal divider on the back panel. This was awesome! 
Ive used other backpacks with security loops that you had to tie every time. ), Copyright 2012-2022 - Indie Traveller | Privacy - Disclosure, Where To Travel (All My Favourite Destinations 75+ Travel Ideas), Podcast: Japan, Budget Travel & How To Conquer Your Travel Fears, How To Work-From-Home While (Shhh) Also Traveling, 10 Underrated Destinations You Must Have On Your Travel List, Best internal organization I've seen (no packing cubes needed), Fully adjustable hip belt (great for any height), The rubbery 1000D polyester shell can be quite blobby. The Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag 60L ($129) is a durable, versatile duffel bag for the weekend adventurer. Theres only one thing its missing! Nothing extra. Previously nomadic, hes been to ~50 countries and loves spending time outdoors. The one element thats probably love-it-or-hate-it is the TPU-coated 1000D outer polyester shell. Join the movement and help us #diversifyoutdoors. I dont think this bag is worth the price tag. I really appreciate this feature for reigning in my messy packing without needing to think--the designers did all the thinking for us. Hey Jason, I dont have access to my Cotopaxi right now as Im on the road, so I cant check it but I remember it having quite a bit of room to spare! But what was surprising is that, with careful packing, the Allpa qualifies as the free personal item on many airlines. I personally never use backpacks in duffel mode and, to be totally honest, dont really see the point. Question, in your pic next to the set out, the two packs look about the same size. 
It should fit any laptop up to 15 it fit my Dell XPS 15 with room to spare. Leave a commentYour email address will not be published. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L has a verified weight of 3 pounds 11 ounces. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L has proven to be a wonderfully functional travel pack. It lasts longer than 30 days, but not forever. This is ideal for dealing with bus and airplane overhead bins; you never have to worry about a strap snagging or catching on something! Wide compression straps, a padded hip belt, and a sternum strap combine to give the Allpa pack a secure and comfortable fit. When I first saw this bag, I was immediately soldso I just had to get my hands on it to see if it would live up to my expectations. The Allpa is designed to work as a carry-on, but if you need to check the bag, you can tuck all the straps into the padding of the backpack and carry the bag like a duffel from one of its 4 reinforced handles. With an unclear product warranty (see below), I know I dont want to risk a couple of hundred dollars on mesh pockets and one zipper. I found myself pleasantly surprised by the Cotopaxi Allpa. Meanwhile, the original 35-liter size has just been refreshed with similar design features to the Allpa 42. But if you need your bag to be more understated such as for business travel then there is also an entirely black version. Ill get into this more shortly. Its lightweight design is great, but the lack of structure or internal frame makes the Allpa line seem uncomfortable for hiking, carrying odd-shaped equipment, or taking long trips. A portion of Cotopaxis yearly revenue is donated to the Cotopaxi Foundation. The interior of the Allpa 35L travel pack is all mesh, meaning you can easily see and find everything quickly. I've been curious about trying the Allpa since Cotopaxi's Indiegogo campaign in 2017. The internal structure of the pack makes organized packing unavoidable. The suspension system comfortably carried 25 pounds. This is worth noting if youre wanting to wring every last gram out of their carry-on baggage allowance, but if youre not a hardcore minimalist packer you might be less concerned. I doubt the cover is necessary except for in the heaviest of downpours. One of my favorite things when trying new gear out is discovering the thoughtful touches that the designers have included, and the Allpa definitely exceeds my expectations in this area. 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. 
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. Nice review, glad I found it. The main exterior zippers on the packs 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 Guarantee states that you can contact the company to help resolve any issues you have or replace products, but it doesnt say if there is a fee or what costs might be associated with that solution. The only accessory this pack comes with is a rain cover. 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. Sorry, we cant accommodate specific colour requests (embrace the uncertainty). The Allpa is a bag thats beloved by many, and I love the Cotopaxi brand, but theyre more well-known for their clothes, not backpacks. Our team of experts is bringing you best camping gear reviews and buying guides. Its a wonderful idea, as it not only reduces waste but also makes each Allpa Del Dia backpack a one-of-a-kind. 
Holy moly is this jacket incredibly lightweight. It organized all necessary items and carried them comfortably. However, it also features tons of pockets, weatherproofing, and some fun accessories, not to mention adjustable compartments and up to 10 more liters of volume! There is a bit of a waterbed effect where if you press it somewhere, it will blob up somewhere else. The mesh pockets are great, but if you put a heavy item in one of the top pockets, the lack of structure means the top half of the bag will completely collapse onto the bottom half. Support us! In a pinch? The laptop compartment is basically the size of the backpack itself. However, these mesh sleeves dont hold their shape very well which in turn allows your gear to shift or bounce around. There is a webbing handle on every side of the Allpa, which allowed briefcase-style carriage. Youve got to love Cotopaxis Do Good credo, but theyve also done much good with this backpack design, which surprised me with its funky looks and solid organizational features. This prevents deforming the computer sleeve, which makes sliding contents in and out difficult. As part of the Del Dia collection, its made from fabric remnants so it has extra personality. One thing that sets the Allpa apart from using packing cubes and duffels is that each of the zippered pockets can fit one or two layers of stuff. This bag is floppy at best, and unless its completely packed, it doesnt maintain its structure. 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. Its clean lines and bold, simple colors make it one of the most stylish bags out there! GearJunkie may earn a small commission from affiliate links in this article. For more info, check out my full Peak Design 45L review. Weighing in just under 3.5 pounds (1560 grams), the. But the Allpa is a soft-sided bag. Replies to my comments. This pack isnt the greatest at handling heavy loads. Just the rain cover, which is neon yellow. However, all of these items must be bought as a bundle. But at least its a start, which is more than most other companies can say. While hard for me to weigh in on (sorry, Im only 55), this is probably something people above average height should take into consideration. Now it is simply a stretchy sleeve thats part of the backpack itself and I like this design a lot more. But, I hate to say itthat didnt last very long. The loops on the quick access compartments are a lot wider letting you secure them more quickly, while the loop on the main compartment (shown above) is tighter and a bit more fiddly. The features of the bag, individually, are all fantastic. There are no water bottle holders or organizational clips (unless you want to purchase those separately). Hence why I needed to do a full Cotopaxi Allpa review. Sign up now and get the best gear, travel tips, deals and destinations, straight to your inbox. 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 think these anti-theft loops would do a good job of making it difficult for someone to go unnoticed doing the same. With only six total compartments, the Allpa 35L travel pack is not the ideal tool for prime organization. Cotopaxi has gotten a bit creative with the internal subdivision here. is feeling a little let down by it. I stumbled upon you on my search for a versatile backpack for a practical stylish girl that strives to pack light. Unless your bag is filled up completely, this shell can look a bit puffy. 
I found that I often opened the wrong pocket, even when I thought really hard about which zipper to use. The nylon is somewhat water-resistant but is definitely not waterproof. Because this website contains affiliate links, if you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. I saw another review complain about these, but count me as a fan. The BioLite HeadLamp 330 is a powerful and lightweight wearable flashlight; combined with the BioLite light diffusing stuff sack, youll be fully prepared for your first or 1,000th night outdoors. I have in the past caught a pickpocket trying to open my non-Allpa backpack by very gently and gradually opening the zipper over a minute's time or so. No hidden pockets to hide passports, money, or other valuables. Despite many subdivisions, the contents remain instantly accessible and/or visible through a mesh window. The computer compartment easily swallowed my 15-inch laptop as well as magazines (or a tablet) in the internal, Velcro-strapped sleeve. The Allpa 35L travel pack might be too simple for its own good. Your local currency is for display purposes only and is calculated based on exchange rates that are updated daily. 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. And although the Allpa includes a rain cover, the pack shed rain well on its own. We've tested the best hiking gear, packs, and footwear to outfit you for any adventure you choose. If youve ever chased Steelhead youre part of a select group of humans that find enjoyment in torture. Overall, Im impressed by the level of organization inside the Allpa, all without needing any extra accessories. Compression straps and padded hip belt make for a comfortable carry. Expect the orange zippers on the Indigo edition to be very bright. The interior mesh pockets are easily torn, and heavy or bulky items will wear on both the mesh and zipper of the interior pockets, specifically the large compartment which essentially could have half of your total backpacks weight pressed against it. Shipping to Canada was over $80 and most of Europe was higher than that. But for those focused on a lightweight bag and light packing, these straps are about as comfortable as it gets. The single large section that occupies roughly half of the bags volume makes it difficult to stay organized, and all of your stuff shifts around during travel. I would have needed at LEAST a picture of a woman wearing one. I was able to pack enough clothing for a 4-day long ski trip (my skis and boots went in a separate bag), including snow pants, a midlayer, and hardshell. Yep, ultimately it comes down to what you want and need. Similar in concept, the Peak Design 45L pack is carry-on sized, and also has tuckable straps and a separate laptop compartment. 
I'm so glad I finally got the opportunity, because it is hands down becoming my favorite bag to travel with for a number of reasons: its clever organization, the amount of space it has, how comfortable the harness is, and its thoughtfully-designed features. Would you be able to make a guess as to whether or not it might be able to squeeze? This takes just a second or two. But with all that said, they still made a pretty great entry-level backpack thats suited to all kinds of different adventures. Note: I dont do any sponsored reviews, but some links may earn me a commission. Traveling to and from two Outdoor Retailer shows, I have successfully dodged all baggage fees. The location of all access points into the main compartment of the pack. In other words, you cant buy the shoe bag separately, but you can buy it with the laundry bag and the water bottle sleeve. 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. 
Comments are manually moderated. Since Im extraordinarily lazy, this meant I never actually used them. I thought they were pretty much equal as far as how much stuff could actually fit inside them. Copyright 2017-2022 Melanin Base Camp, LLC, 1215 31st St NW Unit 25042 Washington DC 20027, Patagonia, Black Hole Duffel, Patagonia Black Hole Duffle, Travel Pack, MInimalist Travel, Afrolatinx, Latinas Who Travel, Duffel Bags, 7. Anti-theft webbing for zippers makes your bag more protected. 
It is available as a standalone backpack, as well as with accessories ($210) and with accessories and Cotopaxi's Batac Del Da daypack ($250). The last trip was no exception, but this time I had some new gear to try out on the bank. 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. There are different bundles, though. One more interesting aspect is the zippers, nearly all of which have a security closure. Don't subscribe Your email address will not be published. The main compartment of the 35L pack is also sealed by only one large zipper that completely unfolds the backpack like a suitcase; this makes it easier to pack and unpack, but it also means one zipper failure could render the whole pack useless. The easily accessible interior makes packing and locating items a breeze. Pro tip: Load the laptop compartment before tightening the internal compression straps. In-person, theyre pretty much neon orange, though I assume they fade a bit over time. Here I aim to inspire others to travel more by sharing honest travel guides from around the world. In terms of functionality, comfort, and colorful looks, there is much to like about the Allpa. I like Cotopaxis bold use of color. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. 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. 
The main compartment is separated into four zippered mesh pockets: two small, one medium and one large. 
This 55L pack weighs 4lb 17oz and offers a comfortable cushioned frame, stylish colors and thoughtful interior and exterior storage for multi-day backpacking trips. Yes, Id like to get email from MEC. Maybe an inch more than I needed? However, when looking at the bag holistically, it feels like the features dont integrate with each other very well. Trek, bike, and paddle with GearJunkie and USARA this season as we explore and compete in wilderness events around America. Shoulder straps and padded hip belt tuck away for easy storage or transporting. You can read more about my editorial policies. This does also come with additional weight. You can take it off with velcro and attach it at a different height. It seems like the majority of backpacks these days are either black or grey, so its refreshing to see a backpack daring to use some color. With the Allpa, all you have to do is tuck the zipper underneath the little loops. The frameless suspension systems back panel, contoured shoulder straps, and hip belt are all non-removable. Sharing in-depth conversations between the world's adventurers, athletes, and outdoorspeople, The GearJunkie Podcast is your inside look into the outdoors industry. We go "Off the Map" to find new roads and epic adventures. 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. It has a laptop, tablet, and smartphone sleeve. Upgrade your adventure today, and sign up to receive the best gear, tips and tricks weve got, straight to your inbox, totally free. All rights reserved. The straps are part of a weight-distributing harness system aimed to spread the weight of your load evenly. I like putting a light jacket and toiletries near this opening for easy access in the airport/plane.
Lets take a look at the bags organizational features. Before I continue, let me clear up some potential confusion over the different editions of the Cotopaxi Allpa. I am trying to figure out if my Dell XPS 17 might fit in 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. The company aims for sustainable product designs and materials and operates ethical and fair-wage factories. In fact, if you arent in a rush and can wait two weeks, you are able to score free shipping. The company Cotopaxi is named after a volcano in Ecuador, and you can see this reflected in their bright Andean-inspired style. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack ($190) is a thoughtfully-designed travel backpack built to withstand years of use. I had some concerns about the relatively small patch of velcro that it attaches with, but have had no problems with this in practice. No frills or thrills. Get off the beaten path. This compartment feels very spacious. The other (indicated with a different-colored zipper) gives access to an electronics compartment. The Nine Trails 36L is an exceedingly comfortable and well designed trail pack ideal for novice and experienced hikers. Mesh Laundry Bag: Again very self-explanatory, and again, seemingly unnecessary. With an overall average rating of 2.4 stars (based on the above sections), the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is a completely average pack. I completely understand the allure of segregating your dirty laundry, but there are many more economic ways to do it. Biolite was kind enough to send me their new Campstove for testing and review. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Thanks for this post! And, to be fair, they dont cost much extra. There is one additional mesh pocket accessible from the top of the bag. Your engagement on this site allows us to bring you this content for free. One of the nicest features of the Allpa pack is the side-accessible laptop compartment. From next-gen tech to ingenious innovation, our weekly peek at emerging products examines the sometimes cutting-edge, sometimes quirky world of gear design. The Sky Kaha ($220) has plenty of cushioning to keep you hiking longer and with less pain and discomfort. There is a small zipped pocket on the hip belt, and the shoulder straps have a fully adjustable sternum strap. The accessories available for the Allpa also integrate seamlessly for a comprehensive travel kit. At only 52 i fear it being to big for me in terms of adjustability and no one seems to have reviewed this pack that is not under 1.80m! See details. The Allpa 35L is a comfortable, thoughtfully-designed travel pack that makes it easy to organize your belongings on trips. What Im not 100% sold on is the TPU-coated polyester shell. Unless youre packing photography equipment, I really dont see the need for that MONSTER! All The rear panel of the pack is made of air mesh to allow your back and shoulders to breath and more airflow to circulate. It might just be the best configuration Ive used so far. Theyre also surprisingly lightweight, comfortable right out-of-the-box and stylish! One gives you quicky access to the main compartment, which is a neat little feature. But if youre still sold on the Allpa, you can use the button below to get more info from the official Cotopaxi website. The packs carry-on size allows for easy airport travel. The Allpa feels comfortable to wear. But a clever combination of design, organization, and features may actually save travelers money on baggage fees in the long run. Your source for comprehensive hunting reviews and buying guides. I would absolutely never buy a Peak Design 45L backpack, because its twice the weight and I simply dont need an extra 10L/30% more space! The dimensions of the closed bag are 20 x 12 x 13in (51 x 30 x 33cm). Essentially a carry-on duffel bag with five interior pockets, this 35L pack is nothing special and this reviewer (hi!) I guess the plus side here is that your bag will be easy to recognize in a crowd. But I know there are people who love this feature, so its nice the shoulder strap is included in the price and not sold as an add-on. Required fields are marked *, Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. What Im reviewing here is the 42-liter size in the Allpa range, which was newly launched in late 2019. Its a personal choice, in the end! Thank you! Ive tested probably 100 bags now and wasnt impressed with the Allpa, but plenty of other people love it. To me, this is ripe for getting snagged or torn while traveling, especially since its on the exterior of the pack. Finally, there is a water bottle pocket on the side. Climber and America Ninja Warrior Favia Dubyk reviews the High Cut Toura Basewear Top from Tra Kaia Basewear. The pack has a large interior capacityone of the largest for a carry-on-sized bag that you will find on the marketbut it still has a slim profile without a lot of extra bulkiness and excessive straps. Its harness has all the features you would expect, including a height-adjustable sternum strap, load lifter straps, a hip belt, and a nicely padded back. To be honest, Cotopaxis attempt to add security features to this bag is weak. 4 out of 5 stars with 264 reviews for Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack - Unisex, Removable waistbelt and tuck-away shoulder straps, Full-length perimeter zip opens like a suitcase, Interior mesh compartments and pockets for easy organization, Side-zip lets you access the interior without taking it off, Padded side compartment for laptop and tablet, Top zippered compartment for phone and passport, External lash loops to attach gear or lock the bag to a fixed point, YKK zippers have theft-resistant webbing sewn across the openings, Since each product is unique, the colours of the one you receive may differ from those in the image. On the other side is essentially an integrated travel organizer. you have reviewed every nook and corner features of backpack in a clear way..Thanks for your work! The deciding factor should probably be its visual design: if youre attracted to the fun and colorful look, then the Allpa could just be the right backpack for you. The MEC logo is a registered trademark of MEC Mountain Equipment Company Ltd. Really. International Buyers Beware! The majority of Cotopaxi travel packs, like the Allpa backpack, are manufactured in a fair-wage facility in the Philippines. I love this as Im not of average height (Im 1.94m or 64) so the hip belts, more often than not, end up nearer to my belly. The Del Da range is crafted with remnant fabrics and workers have complete creative control over the design. You can usually find him on the trail, on the road, jumping from bridges or hustling on his laptop working to produce the best travel and outdoors content today. 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. I did find some taller individuals who mentioned that the padded hip belt on the Allpa sits too high on their waist. Its ideal for keeping a toiletry bag and other travel items you want to be able to reach quickly. This means it can be difficult to open and close without the bag seemingly falling apart.. The only downside with all the space that this bag provides, some users have found that it can get a bit heavy. Awesome review..! (Once a month, no ads or spam. If its not working out, you can return it (consumables, electronics, undergarments and swimwear excluded). I was sold on it almost instantly. Thank you for supporting our mission! But the shoulder straps and hip belt stow behind the back panel. Useless review when it comes to fit. The interior sections of the main compartment are all zippered mesh. I used to be quite a disorganized traveler, throwing my belongings into a duffel or suitcase and later having to pull just about everything out to find a single thing. There is an externally accessible laptop sleeve with an internal divider on the back panel. This was awesome! Ive used other backpacks with security loops that you had to tie every time. ), Copyright 2012-2022 - Indie Traveller | Privacy - Disclosure, Where To Travel (All My Favourite Destinations 75+ Travel Ideas), Podcast: Japan, Budget Travel & How To Conquer Your Travel Fears, How To Work-From-Home While (Shhh) Also Traveling, 10 Underrated Destinations You Must Have On Your Travel List, Best internal organization I've seen (no packing cubes needed), Fully adjustable hip belt (great for any height), The rubbery 1000D polyester shell can be quite blobby. The Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag 60L ($129) is a durable, versatile duffel bag for the weekend adventurer. Theres only one thing its missing! Nothing extra. Previously nomadic, hes been to ~50 countries and loves spending time outdoors. The one element thats probably love-it-or-hate-it is the TPU-coated 1000D outer polyester shell. Join the movement and help us #diversifyoutdoors. I dont think this bag is worth the price tag. I really appreciate this feature for reigning in my messy packing without needing to think--the designers did all the thinking for us. Hey Jason, I dont have access to my Cotopaxi right now as Im on the road, so I cant check it but I remember it having quite a bit of room to spare! But what was surprising is that, with careful packing, the Allpa qualifies as the free personal item on many airlines. I personally never use backpacks in duffel mode and, to be totally honest, dont really see the point. Question, in your pic next to the set out, the two packs look about the same size. It should fit any laptop up to 15 it fit my Dell XPS 15 with room to spare. Leave a commentYour email address will not be published. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L has a verified weight of 3 pounds 11 ounces. The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L has proven to be a wonderfully functional travel pack. It lasts longer than 30 days, but not forever. This is ideal for dealing with bus and airplane overhead bins; you never have to worry about a strap snagging or catching on something! Wide compression straps, a padded hip belt, and a sternum strap combine to give the Allpa pack a secure and comfortable fit. When I first saw this bag, I was immediately soldso I just had to get my hands on it to see if it would live up to my expectations. The Allpa is designed to work as a carry-on, but if you need to check the bag, you can tuck all the straps into the padding of the backpack and carry the bag like a duffel from one of its 4 reinforced handles. With an unclear product warranty (see below), I know I dont want to risk a couple of hundred dollars on mesh pockets and one zipper. I found myself pleasantly surprised by the Cotopaxi Allpa. Meanwhile, the original 35-liter size has just been refreshed with similar design features to the Allpa 42. But if you need your bag to be more understated such as for business travel then there is also an entirely black version. Ill get into this more shortly. Its lightweight design is great, but the lack of structure or internal frame makes the Allpa line seem uncomfortable for hiking, carrying odd-shaped equipment, or taking long trips. A portion of Cotopaxis yearly revenue is donated to the Cotopaxi Foundation. The interior of the Allpa 35L travel pack is all mesh, meaning you can easily see and find everything quickly. I've been curious about trying the Allpa since Cotopaxi's Indiegogo campaign in 2017. The internal structure of the pack makes organized packing unavoidable. The suspension system comfortably carried 25 pounds. This is worth noting if youre wanting to wring every last gram out of their carry-on baggage allowance, but if youre not a hardcore minimalist packer you might be less concerned. I doubt the cover is necessary except for in the heaviest of downpours. One of my favorite things when trying new gear out is discovering the thoughtful touches that the designers have included, and the Allpa definitely exceeds my expectations in this area. 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. 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. Nice review, glad I found it. The main exterior zippers on the packs 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 Guarantee states that you can contact the company to help resolve any issues you have or replace products, but it doesnt say if there is a fee or what costs might be associated with that solution. The only accessory this pack comes with is a rain cover. 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. Sorry, we cant accommodate specific colour requests (embrace the uncertainty). The Allpa is a bag thats beloved by many, and I love the Cotopaxi brand, but theyre more well-known for their clothes, not backpacks. Our team of experts is bringing you best camping gear reviews and buying guides. Its a wonderful idea, as it not only reduces waste but also makes each Allpa Del Dia backpack a one-of-a-kind. Holy moly is this jacket incredibly lightweight. It organized all necessary items and carried them comfortably. However, it also features tons of pockets, weatherproofing, and some fun accessories, not to mention adjustable compartments and up to 10 more liters of volume! There is a bit of a waterbed effect where if you press it somewhere, it will blob up somewhere else. The mesh pockets are great, but if you put a heavy item in one of the top pockets, the lack of structure means the top half of the bag will completely collapse onto the bottom half. Support us! In a pinch? The laptop compartment is basically the size of the backpack itself. However, these mesh sleeves dont hold their shape very well which in turn allows your gear to shift or bounce around. There is a webbing handle on every side of the Allpa, which allowed briefcase-style carriage. Youve got to love Cotopaxis Do Good credo, but theyve also done much good with this backpack design, which surprised me with its funky looks and solid organizational features. This prevents deforming the computer sleeve, which makes sliding contents in and out difficult. As part of the Del Dia collection, its made from fabric remnants so it has extra personality. One thing that sets the Allpa apart from using packing cubes and duffels is that each of the zippered pockets can fit one or two layers of stuff. This bag is floppy at best, and unless its completely packed, it doesnt maintain its structure. 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. Its clean lines and bold, simple colors make it one of the most stylish bags out there! GearJunkie may earn a small commission from affiliate links in this article. For more info, check out my full Peak Design 45L review. Weighing in just under 3.5 pounds (1560 grams), the. But the Allpa is a soft-sided bag. Replies to my comments. This pack isnt the greatest at handling heavy loads. Just the rain cover, which is neon yellow. However, all of these items must be bought as a bundle. But at least its a start, which is more than most other companies can say. While hard for me to weigh in on (sorry, Im only 55), this is probably something people above average height should take into consideration. Now it is simply a stretchy sleeve thats part of the backpack itself and I like this design a lot more. But, I hate to say itthat didnt last very long. The loops on the quick access compartments are a lot wider letting you secure them more quickly, while the loop on the main compartment (shown above) is tighter and a bit more fiddly. The features of the bag, individually, are all fantastic. There are no water bottle holders or organizational clips (unless you want to purchase those separately). Hence why I needed to do a full Cotopaxi Allpa review. Sign up now and get the best gear, travel tips, deals and destinations, straight to your inbox. 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 think these anti-theft loops would do a good job of making it difficult for someone to go unnoticed doing the same. With only six total compartments, the Allpa 35L travel pack is not the ideal tool for prime organization. Cotopaxi has gotten a bit creative with the internal subdivision here. is feeling a little let down by it. I stumbled upon you on my search for a versatile backpack for a practical stylish girl that strives to pack light. Unless your bag is filled up completely, this shell can look a bit puffy. I found that I often opened the wrong pocket, even when I thought really hard about which zipper to use. The nylon is somewhat water-resistant but is definitely not waterproof. Because this website contains affiliate links, if you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. I saw another review complain about these, but count me as a fan. The BioLite HeadLamp 330 is a powerful and lightweight wearable flashlight; combined with the BioLite light diffusing stuff sack, youll be fully prepared for your first or 1,000th night outdoors. I have in the past caught a pickpocket trying to open my non-Allpa backpack by very gently and gradually opening the zipper over a minute's time or so. No hidden pockets to hide passports, money, or other valuables. Despite many subdivisions, the contents remain instantly accessible and/or visible through a mesh window. The computer compartment easily swallowed my 15-inch laptop as well as magazines (or a tablet) in the internal, Velcro-strapped sleeve. The Allpa 35L travel pack might be too simple for its own good. Your local currency is for display purposes only and is calculated based on exchange rates that are updated daily. 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. And although the Allpa includes a rain cover, the pack shed rain well on its own. We've tested the best hiking gear, packs, and footwear to outfit you for any adventure you choose. If youve ever chased Steelhead youre part of a select group of humans that find enjoyment in torture. Overall, Im impressed by the level of organization inside the Allpa, all without needing any extra accessories. Compression straps and padded hip belt make for a comfortable carry. Expect the orange zippers on the Indigo edition to be very bright. The interior mesh pockets are easily torn, and heavy or bulky items will wear on both the mesh and zipper of the interior pockets, specifically the large compartment which essentially could have half of your total backpacks weight pressed against it. Shipping to Canada was over $80 and most of Europe was higher than that. But for those focused on a lightweight bag and light packing, these straps are about as comfortable as it gets. The single large section that occupies roughly half of the bags volume makes it difficult to stay organized, and all of your stuff shifts around during travel. I would have needed at LEAST a picture of a woman wearing one. I was able to pack enough clothing for a 4-day long ski trip (my skis and boots went in a separate bag), including snow pants, a midlayer, and hardshell. Yep, ultimately it comes down to what you want and need. Similar in concept, the Peak Design 45L pack is carry-on sized, and also has tuckable straps and a separate laptop compartment. I'm so glad I finally got the opportunity, because it is hands down becoming my favorite bag to travel with for a number of reasons: its clever organization, the amount of space it has, how comfortable the harness is, and its thoughtfully-designed features. Would you be able to make a guess as to whether or not it might be able to squeeze? This takes just a second or two. But with all that said, they still made a pretty great entry-level backpack thats suited to all kinds of different adventures. Note: I dont do any sponsored reviews, but some links may earn me a commission. Traveling to and from two Outdoor Retailer shows, I have successfully dodged all baggage fees. The location of all access points into the main compartment of the pack. In other words, you cant buy the shoe bag separately, but you can buy it with the laundry bag and the water bottle sleeve. 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. Comments are manually moderated. Since Im extraordinarily lazy, this meant I never actually used them. I thought they were pretty much equal as far as how much stuff could actually fit inside them. Copyright 2017-2022 Melanin Base Camp, LLC, 1215 31st St NW Unit 25042 Washington DC 20027, Patagonia, Black Hole Duffel, Patagonia Black Hole Duffle, Travel Pack, MInimalist Travel, Afrolatinx, Latinas Who Travel, Duffel Bags, 7. Anti-theft webbing for zippers makes your bag more protected. It is available as a standalone backpack, as well as with accessories ($210) and with accessories and Cotopaxi's Batac Del Da daypack ($250). The last trip was no exception, but this time I had some new gear to try out on the bank. 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. There are different bundles, though. One more interesting aspect is the zippers, nearly all of which have a security closure. Don't subscribe Your email address will not be published. The main compartment of the 35L pack is also sealed by only one large zipper that completely unfolds the backpack like a suitcase; this makes it easier to pack and unpack, but it also means one zipper failure could render the whole pack useless. The easily accessible interior makes packing and locating items a breeze. Pro tip: Load the laptop compartment before tightening the internal compression straps. In-person, theyre pretty much neon orange, though I assume they fade a bit over time. Here I aim to inspire others to travel more by sharing honest travel guides from around the world. In terms of functionality, comfort, and colorful looks, there is much to like about the Allpa. I like Cotopaxis bold use of color. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. 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. The main compartment is separated into four zippered mesh pockets: two small, one medium and one large. This 55L pack weighs 4lb 17oz and offers a comfortable cushioned frame, stylish colors and thoughtful interior and exterior storage for multi-day backpacking trips. Yes, Id like to get email from MEC. Maybe an inch more than I needed? However, when looking at the bag holistically, it feels like the features dont integrate with each other very well. Trek, bike, and paddle with GearJunkie and USARA this season as we explore and compete in wilderness events around America. Shoulder straps and padded hip belt tuck away for easy storage or transporting. You can read more about my editorial policies. This does also come with additional weight. You can take it off with velcro and attach it at a different height. It seems like the majority of backpacks these days are either black or grey, so its refreshing to see a backpack daring to use some color. With the Allpa, all you have to do is tuck the zipper underneath the little loops. The frameless suspension systems back panel, contoured shoulder straps, and hip belt are all non-removable. Sharing in-depth conversations between the world's adventurers, athletes, and outdoorspeople, The GearJunkie Podcast is your inside look into the outdoors industry. We go "Off the Map" to find new roads and epic adventures. 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. It has a laptop, tablet, and smartphone sleeve. Upgrade your adventure today, and sign up to receive the best gear, tips and tricks weve got, straight to your inbox, totally free. All rights reserved. The straps are part of a weight-distributing harness system aimed to spread the weight of your load evenly. I like putting a light jacket and toiletries near this opening for easy access in the airport/plane.