Looking for the ideal carry-on travel backpack that’s both compact and capable? The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Del Dia Travel Pack stands out as a top choice, perfectly blending smart design with rugged durability. This backpack isn’t just a bag; it’s a versatile travel companion designed for everything from quick weekend trips to week-long adventures. Its thoughtful features and robust construction make it an exceptional Small Travel Backpack for a wide range of travelers.
Why the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is Our Top Pick for Small Travel Backpacks
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L isn’t just good—it’s exceptional. It’s the kind of bag that becomes your go-to for nearly every trip. For those committed to packing light or travelers of a smaller stature seeking a manageable load, this small travel backpack is a game-changer. Its design incorporates grab handles on three sides, ensuring easy retrieval from any angle, and a convenient luggage pass-through for seamless integration with rolling carry-on luggage. Backed by a full lifetime warranty and built to last, the Allpa 35L has proven its reliability over six years of rigorous testing, becoming the primary travel bag, often paired only with a personal item, for many journeys.
The Perfect Size: The 35L Sweet Spot
Cotopaxi offers the Allpa in various sizes, including 28L and 42L versions, but the 35-liter model hits the sweet spot for most travelers. The 42L version can become cumbersome when fully packed, and testers found the hip belt less supportive on the larger model. Conversely, the 28L felt slightly too small for longer trips and its organizational compartments seemed excessive for quick overnight stays. The 35L provides the ideal balance of capacity and portability, making it the best small travel backpack in the Allpa range. For added versatility, Cotopaxi also offers a hip pack designed to integrate seamlessly into the Allpa’s front top compartment, a valuable addition for travelers who appreciate having essentials readily accessible.
Durable and Weather-Resistant Materials for the Long Haul
Durability is a hallmark of the Allpa 35L. Constructed from 100% recycled 840-denier ripstop nylon, this small travel backpack is built to withstand the rigors of travel. The material has a robust, canvas-like feel with a pronounced weave, making it equally suited to overhead bins and the back of a pickup truck. A unique feature in this category is the included rain fly, providing an extra layer of protection against inclement weather.
Image: The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L travel pack in a clamshell open position, showcasing its organizational compartments.
Cotopaxi has used both TPU-coated and classic nylon back panels on the Allpa. While TPU offers enhanced water resistance, earlier versions experienced fabric breakdown. Cotopaxi addressed this issue in updated models released in 2024, and ongoing testing is evaluating the long-term performance of these improvements.
Smart and Efficient Organization for Stress-Free Packing
Organization is where the Allpa 35L truly excels as a small travel backpack. Its clamshell design allows it to open wide like a suitcase, thanks to a robust YKK zipper that runs around three sides. The interior is divided into two main halves: the right side features a deep compartment capable of holding two large packing cubes, accessible via a zippered mesh flap. The left side offers space for an additional medium packing cube behind another zippered flap, complemented by two smaller, high-visibility pockets perfect for organizing smaller personal items. A stretch mesh pocket accommodates a water bottle up to 1 liter, adding to its thoughtful design.
Secure and Accessible Features for Peace of Mind
Security and accessibility are well-considered in the Allpa 35L. Two side-access zippers offer convenient access on the go. One reveals a padded computer pocket with a false bottom to protect devices from drops. The other side zipper leads to a “secret” pocket with hidden access to the main compartment. For enhanced security, the main compartment zippers are equipped with security loops, deterring opportunistic theft by requiring zippers to be threaded through loops, providing added peace of mind in busy travel environments.
Comfortable Carry for All Body Types
Comfort is paramount for a travel backpack, and the Allpa 35L delivers. Its stowable hip belt is surprisingly comfortable and effective when needed. Whether using the hip belt or not, the Allpa remains comfortable for extended periods. Notably, the shoulder straps are contoured to fit a variety of body shapes, accommodating both broad and narrow chests comfortably. This thoughtful, gender-neutral design has been particularly appreciated by testers, enhancing the overall carry experience of this small travel backpack.
Minor Drawbacks
- Capacity: 35 liters
- Weight: 2 pounds 7 ounces
- Main-compartment access: clamshell opening
- Colors: assorted
While the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is an outstanding small travel backpack, these points are worth noting but are not significant enough to detract from its overall excellence.
Conclusion: The Ideal Small Travel Backpack for Your Next Adventure
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Del Dia Travel Pack is more than just a bag; it’s a meticulously designed, durable, and comfortable small travel backpack that simplifies travel. Its exceptional organization, robust construction, and thoughtful features make it a top recommendation for anyone seeking a versatile and reliable carry-on backpack. Whether you are embarking on a weekend getaway or a longer journey, the Allpa 35L is ready to be your perfect travel companion.
Buying Options:
$215 from REI
$215 from Amazon
