#2 on this list
Allpa 35L
Cotopaxi
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L has developed a dedicated following among adventure travelers who favor the internal organization of a traditional rolling suitcase combined with the portability of a backpack. Sized to fit standard international carry-on requirements at 22 by 12 by 10 inches, it is tailored for travelers embarking on one- to two-week itineraries where fast packing and unpacking are essential. Its signature feature is the full-perimeter suitcase-style clamshell opening. Inside, zippered mesh compartments of varying sizes keep clothing and gear separated, virtually eliminating the need for aftermarket packing cubes. The exterior uses TPU-coated 1000D polyester paired with durable 840D nylon paneling, providing outstanding resistance against ground moisture, muddy bus beds, and sudden rain showers. The pack rides relatively close to the body, and the padded hip belt transfers light-to-moderate loads effectively. Despite its strengths, the Allpa 35L does have clear limitations. The slick, rubberized exterior can pick up scuffs and show wear over time, though structural integrity remains uncompromised. Additionally, when the bag is packed to maximum capacity, the exterior quick-access pockets become tightly compressed and harder to use. The suspension is comfortable for train stations and walking to accommodations, but it lacks the ventilation and back-panel adjustment needed for hot-weather backcountry hikes. **Highlights** - Clamshell split design with integrated mesh organizer compartments. - Rugged TPU-coated exterior shell sheds moisture and resists dirt. - Tuck-away shoulder straps and removable padded hip belt. - Dedicated, padded exterior-access compartment for a laptop and tablet. - Multiple reinforced grab handles on all four sides for easy lifting. **Watch-outs** - Exterior materials show superficial scuffs easily. - Lack of back panel airflow can cause heat buildup in warm climates. - Quick-grab pockets lose functional space when the main bag is fully stuffed.
- Price
- Check current price
- Reader rating
- No reader votes yet
- How we assessed it
- Specification researched
#3 on this list
Black Hole MLC 45L
Patagonia
The Patagonia Black Hole MLC 45L (Maximum Legal Carry-On) is designed for travelers who prefer maximum open volume over excessive internal dividers. It caters directly to overpackers, sports travelers, and extended-stay wanderers who need to haul bulky layers, running shoes, or climbing gear alongside their regular wardrobe. The bag is engineered to maximize carry-on allowances while maintaining Patagonia’s signature durability. Built around the brand's renowned Black Hole fabric ethos, the exterior features a tough, 100% recycled ripstop polyester with a weather-resistant laminate that shrugs off rough baggage handling, dust, and damp pavements. At roughly 3 pounds 10 ounces, it remains reasonably light for a high-capacity bag. Its versatile three-way carry system allows users to deploy it as a standard backpack, sling it over a shoulder as a duffel, or carry it briefcase-style via sturdy grab handles. The wide bucket-style main compartment makes packing fast and straightforward, though using independent packing cubes is recommended to keep things tidy. A dedicated rear zippered area houses tech gear securely. The primary compromise comes down to the harness: while the backpack straps and waist belt are well-made and stowable, carrying 45 liters of dense weight without an internal rigid frame will fatigue shoulders during long walking stretches. **Highlights** - Generous 45L capacity shaped to fit domestic carry-on sizers. - Three-way carry system: backpack, shoulder duffel, or briefcase. - Weather-resistant recycled ripstop polyester fabric with TPU film laminate. - Dedicated rear electronics pocket with organizer sleeves. - Built-in pass-through panel slides securely over rolling luggage handles. **Watch-outs** - Lacks a rigid internal frame, placing more load weight directly on shoulders. - Wide, blocky profile can feel unwieldy on smaller body frames. - Minimal internal division requires external packing cubes for neat organization.
- Price
- Check current price
- Reader rating
- No reader votes yet
- How we assessed it
- Specification researched
Specs side by side
| Spec | Allpa 35L | Black Hole MLC 45L |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 35 liters | 45 liters |
| Dimensions | 22 x 12 x 10 inches | — |
| Primary Materials | TPU-coated 1000D polyester, 840D ballistic nylon | — |
| Access Style | Full clamshell suitcase opening | — |
| Carry System | Stowable backpack harness with removable hip belt | — |
| Typical Price | Approximately $230 | — |
| Weight | — | 3 lbs 10.3 oz (1.65 kg) |
| Shell Fabric | — | 100% recycled polyester ripstop with TPU laminate |
| Carry Modes | — | Backpack, shoulder bag, briefcase |
| Laptop Fit | — | Up to 16 inches in dedicated compartment |
| MSRP | — | $249 |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Allpa 35L
- Built-in mesh organizers eliminate the need for packing cubes
- Rugged TPU-coated shell sheds moisture and resists dirt
- Harness and hip belt tuck away cleanly for transit
- Complies with standard international carry-on dimensions
- Exterior face fabric shows superficial scuffs and scrapes easily
- Back panel provides minimal ventilation in warm conditions
- Exterior quick-access pockets lose volume when the main cavity is full
Black Hole MLC 45L
- Maximizes legal domestic carry-on dimensions with 45 liters of open space.
- Tough, weather-resistant recycled ripstop fabric handles rough transit abuse.
- Three-way convertible carry tucks cleanly away when gate-checked.
- Dedicated rear tech compartment protects laptops up to 16 inches.
- Frameless back panel places heavy carry weight directly onto the shoulders.
- Open bucket design requires packing cubes to keep clothing organized.
- Boxy, wide profile feels bulky on travelers with shorter or narrower frames.
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.