Is the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L worth it?

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L travel backpack is a standout choice for travelers seeking a durable, organized, and comfortable option for their adventures. Here's a comprehensive review of its features, benefits, and potential drawbacks.

Design and Build Quality

The Allpa 35L is meticulously designed with a focus on durability and ease of use. It features a robust TPU-coated 1000D polyester construction with 840D ballistic nylon paneling, offering exceptional resistance to wear and tear. The material choices not only contribute to its longevity but also provide a level of water resistance, protecting your belongings in light rain showers.

Organization and Accessibility

One of the hallmark features of the Allpa 35L is its highly organized design. The main compartment opens fully like a suitcase, allowing for easy packing and access to your items. Inside, you'll find several mesh compartments and zippered pockets that help keep your belongings organized. Additionally, a dedicated laptop sleeve safely secures your device, making it an excellent choice for digital nomads.

Comfort and Portability

Cotopaxi has paid careful attention to the Allpa 35L's comfort and portability. The backpack features a low-profile harness system that is both comfortable and adjustable, catering to various body types. The back panel is padded and covered with a breathable mesh, promoting airflow and reducing sweat buildup during long carries. For added versatility, the backpack includes stowable shoulder straps and hip belt, allowing it to be carried as a duffel bag.

Capacity and Travel Readiness

With a 35-liter capacity, the Allpa 35L strikes a balance between spaciousness and carry-on compatibility. It's designed to fit in most airline overhead compartments, making it an ideal choice for weekend getaways or shorter trips. The external compression straps allow you to cinch down the pack when it's not fully loaded, maintaining a compact profile.

Additional Features

The Allpa 35L comes with several thoughtful additions that enhance its utility. It includes a rain cover for heavy downpours, a safety whistle on the sternum strap for emergencies, and several external loops and straps for attaching gear or a jacket. These features underscore Cotopaxi's commitment to creating a backpack that's ready for anything.

Pros

  • Exceptional durability and water resistance

  • Highly organized with easy access to belongings

  • Comfortable harness system for long carries

  • Compact and carry-on compliant

  • Thoughtful additional features like a rain cover and safety whistle

Cons

  • The price point may be higher than some competitors

  • Some users may find the 35L capacity limiting for longer trips

  • The unique color schemes might not appeal to everyone's taste

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L travel backpack is a premium option that excels in durability, organization, and comfort. Its thoughtful design and travel-ready features make it a versatile choice for a wide range of trips. While the price and capacity might not suit everyone, for those looking for a reliable and efficient travel backpack, the Allpa 35L is undoubtedly a top contender. Whether you're a weekend warrior or a digital nomad, this backpack is designed to accompany you on all your journeys, big or small.

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