Which Cotopaxi Allpa Backpack is Right for You?

Posted by U.N. Luggage on May 01, 2025

Comparing the 42L, 35L, 28L & 20L

Picture this; you're standing at the airport, backpack slung over one shoulder, exuding the cool confidence of a seasoned traveler who knows their bag is the perfect fit for their adventure. But then, a flicker of doubt—did you pick the right backpack? With Cotopaxi’s Allpa lineup, the struggle is real. These vibrant, suitcase-style wonders come in 42L, 35L, 28L, and 20L, each with its own personality and purpose. 

Whether you’re a maximalist packing for a month-long odyssey or a minimalist who thrives on a single pair of socks, there’s an Allpa for you. In this guide, we’ll dissect these bags, compare their stats, and help you find your travel soulmate. Buckle up—it’s time to overanalyze luggage!

Allpa 42L: The Big Kahuna

If you’re the type who believes “more is more,” the Allpa 42L is your spirit animal. This beast maximizes carry-on capacity, offering a whopping 7L more than the average wheeled carry-on (which hovers around 35L). It’s perfect for those week-long (or longer) escapades where you need eight outfits, a backup pair of shoes, and maybe a small souvenir llama. The suitcase-style, full-wrap zipper makes packing a breeze, and the water-resistant TPU coating laughs in the face of unexpected drizzle.

But here’s the catch: at 22" x 14" x 11", it’s technically a smidge too big for some airlines’ carry-on limits (looking at you, Air Canada). However, in my years of gallivanting with oversized backpacks, I’ve yet to meet a gate agent who whipped out a measuring tape. Backpacks, with their squishy, non-rigid nature, tend to get a free pass. That said, if you’re a rule-follower or just plain unlucky, there’s a chance you’ll be forced to check it, which could mean delays and fees. 

Allpa 35L: The Goldilocks Choice

For those who want to play it safe without sacrificing style, the Allpa 35L is the “just right” option. Its dimensions (22" x 12" x 10") slide comfortably within most airline carry-on limits, making it a stress-free choice for rule-abiding travelers. It has the same volume as your average four-wheel spinner suitcase but in a backpack that screams “I’m adventurous, but also practical.” Weighing in at 2lb 15oz, it’s noticeably lighter than the 42L, and the tuck-away straps and hip belt make it a dream to carry.

This bag is built for 3-5 day trips, accommodating 4-6 outfits. Like it's bigger sibling, it boasts a suitcase-style zipper, water-resistant TPU coating, and a stretchy water bottle pocket. The roller bag-compatible pass-through strap is a nice touch for when you’re juggling multiple bags. It also fits a 15" laptop, so you can work on that novel you’ve been procrastinating. If you want carry-on convenience without the risk of a gate-side showdown, the 35L is your trusty steed.

Allpa 28L: The Sneaky Overachiever

The Allpa 28L is the backpack equivalent of that friend who bends the rules but always gets away with it. At 19" x 12" x 9", it’s technically too big to be a personal item, but its soft-sided charm means you might sneak it under the seat without a hitch. It’s also a rock-solid carry-on option, even for smaller airlines with stricter limits. Minimalist travelers will adore this bag—it’s manageable to carry at 2 lb 10 oz and perfect for 1–2 day trips (or longer if you’re a packing wizard).

The specs say it fits a 13" laptop, but I’ve squeezed a 15.6" MacBook Air into the padded sleeve with no issues—though not every 15.6" laptop will fit, especially if it’s on the bulkier side. Other highlights include a suitcase-style zipper, four reinforced grab handles, and that ever-reliable water bottle pocket. If you’re pushing the limits of a personal item or want a compact carry-on that doesn’t feel like lugging a fridge, the 28L is your guy.

Allpa Mini 20L: The Tiny Titan

Don’t let the Allpa Mini 20L’s petite stature fool you—this 17" x 10" x 8" bag is a powerhouse. It’s the ultimate personal item, fitting under any airline seat with room to spare. It’s also a fantastic day bag for toting daily essentials or snagging souvenirs. Got kids? This is their ideal travel buddy, thanks to its lightweight 1lb 6oz frame and suitcase-style opening (a rarity for bags this size). Most small backpacks open from the top like a sack of potatoes, but the Mini’s full-wrap zipper makes packing as satisfying as solving a Rubik’s Cube.

Key features include two large internal pockets, a tablet sleeve, a water bottle pocket (up to 24oz), and a top accessory pocket with a key clip. The padded shoulder straps with a sternum slider keep things comfy, and four webbing attachment points let you clip on extra gear (because who doesn’t want to look like a human Swiss Army knife?). Whether you’re a day-tripper or a parent wrangling tiny travelers, the Mini 20L punches above its weight.

Comparison

Conclusion

Choosing the right Cotopaxi Allpa is like picking your favorite child—each has its quirks, charms, and moments of brilliance. The 42L is the go-to for epic, carry-on-only adventures, provided you’re cool with a bit of airline roulette. The 35L is the safe bet, balancing size and compliance for stress-free travels. The 28L is a sneaky minimalist’s dream, perfect for bending personal-item rules or keeping things light. And the Mini 20L? It’s the adorable overachiever, ideal for kids, day trips, or playing it extra safe under the seat.

No matter which Allpa you choose, you’re getting a vibrant, thoughtfully designed backpack that’s as ready for adventure as you are. So, pack your bags, channel your inner wanderlust, and let your Allpa carry your things to new horizons—just don’t forget to double-check those airline dimensions if you’re feeling paranoid. Happy travels!

Got questions? Don’t hesitate to contact us—we’re happy to help.