The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Del Dia Travel Pack has consistently been praised as a top choice for travelers who prioritize packing light and efficiently. This durable and thoughtfully designed backpack offers an ideal balance of capacity, organization, and comfort, making it our pick for the Best Light Travel Backpack for most adventurers.
For those dedicated to minimalist packing or travelers of smaller stature seeking a manageable load, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L stands out as a versatile solution. Its ingenious handle placement on three sides ensures effortless grabbing from any angle, while a convenient pass-through feature allows seamless integration with rolling carry-on luggage. Backed by a full lifetime warranty and robust build quality, this backpack has proven its reliability through extensive testing. In fact, after over six years of personal use, this single backpack, complemented by a personal item, has effectively replaced a multitude of travel bags and luggage options for everyday trips.
While the Allpa series includes 28-liter and 42-liter variants, the 35-liter model hits the sweet spot. Testers found the 42-liter version cumbersome when fully loaded and noted the hip belt could be more substantial for heavier loads. Conversely, the 28-liter option felt slightly restrictive, with its internal organization perhaps over-engineered for shorter excursions. Cotopaxi also offers a compatible hip pack, designed to nestle neatly within the Allpa’s top front compartment, a practical addition for travelers who favor fanny packs for on-the-go essentials.
Durability is a cornerstone of the Allpa’s design. Constructed from 100% recycled 840-denier ripstop nylon, the material boasts a robust canvas-like texture with a pronounced weave. This resilient fabric ensures the backpack can withstand the rigors of travel, whether smoothly gliding into overhead bins or enduring the rough-and-tumble environment of a pickup truck bed. Adding to its resilience, the Allpa includes a rain fly, a distinctive feature rarely found in backpacks of this category, providing extra protection against the elements.
Cotopaxi produces the Allpa with two back panel options: TPU-coated nylon for enhanced water resistance and classic nylon. While TPU offers increased water protection, earlier iterations of Cotopaxi’s TPU coating exhibited a tendency to degrade over time. However, in the updated 2024 version, Cotopaxi addressed this concern by transitioning to a revised fabric. Ongoing testing is underway to assess the long-term durability of these updated bags.
Optimized Organization for Light Packers
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack excels in organization, a crucial aspect for light travel. Its clamshell design, akin to a hard-shell suitcase, facilitates effortless packing and access. A robust YKK zipper, renowned for its reliability, encircles three sides of the bag, allowing it to fully open into two distinct halves.
The right side features a deep main compartment capable of accommodating two large packing cubes or a substantial amount of clothing, secured by a zippered mesh flap. The left side provides space for an additional medium-sized packing cube behind another zippered flap. Above this, two smaller pockets with high-visibility backings are ideal for organizing smaller personal items. A stretch mesh pocket, capable of holding a 1-liter water bottle, is a practical addition for staying hydrated on the go. This thoughtful compartmentalization makes the Allpa 35L an excellent light travel backpack for those who value order and easy access to their belongings.
Secure and Accessible for Travel on the Move
Security and accessibility are seamlessly integrated into the Allpa 35L’s design, catering to the needs of travelers navigating busy environments. Two side-access zippers provide convenient access while the bag is slung over a shoulder. One side zipper reveals a padded laptop compartment with a false bottom, safeguarding devices from impact during accidental drops. The opposing side zipper unveils a discreet “secret” pocket with concealed access to the main compartment, adding an extra layer of security. Furthermore, all main compartment zippers are equipped with security loops, effectively deterring opportunistic theft by preventing quick, unnoticed access.
Comfortable Carry for Extended Journeys
Comfort is paramount for any travel backpack, and the Allpa 35L delivers admirably in this regard. Its stowable hip belt provides substantial support when needed, ensuring comfortable carrying even when fully loaded. Whether utilizing the hip belt or not, the Allpa remains comfortable for extended wear. However, individuals with longer torsos (exceeding 19 inches) might find the waist belt positioned slightly high unless shoulder straps are fully extended. Notably, the Allpa’s shoulder straps are thoughtfully contoured to accommodate various body types, including both broader and narrower chests. This gender-neutral design detail was particularly appreciated by female testers, highlighting the inclusive design approach.
Minor Drawbacks to Consider
Capacity: 35 liters
Weight: 2 pounds 7 ounces
Main-compartment access: clamshell opening
Colors: assorted
While the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L excels as a light travel backpack, its 35-liter capacity might be limiting for very long trips or travelers who are not committed to packing light. Additionally, at 2 pounds 7 ounces, it’s not the absolute lightest option on the market, but this weight is justified by its robust construction and durable materials. The clamshell opening, while excellent for organization, requires sufficient space to fully open the bag, which might be a minor inconvenience in confined spaces.
The Verdict:
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Del Dia Travel Pack is undeniably a top contender for the best light travel backpack. Its thoughtful design, durable construction, exceptional organization, and comfortable carry make it an ideal companion for a wide range of travel styles and durations. For travelers seeking a reliable, versatile, and carry-on friendly backpack that encourages efficient packing, the Allpa 35L is a highly recommended choice.
