8.9
/10
Best for Sustainable Style
8.9
/10
Best for Sustainable Style
Last Updated:
Jun 30, 2025
Best for Sustainable Style – Cotopaxi Allpa 35L
Colorful, Organized, Consciously Made
Want a travel backpack that stands out and aligns with ethical values? The Cotopaxi Allpa is known for its vibrant, often one-of-a-kind colors and B Corp status. We looked into whether its performance matches its eye-catching style.
📋
Organization
9
Excellent internal mesh compartments keep gear tidy and visible.
🎨
Style
10
Unique color-blocking (especially Del Día) makes a bold statement.
🌿
Sustainability
10
Made with repurposed materials (Del Día) by a certified B Corp.
🚶♂️
Comfort (Carry)
7.5
Harness comfort is subjective and varies greatly depending on user body type.
Perfect For
⛰️
Adventure Travel
🌿
Sustainable Travel
🎨
Stylish Travelers
📅
Weekend Trips
♻️
Ethical Consumers
Quality & Comfort
User experiences with the Allpa's comfort are sharply divided. Some, like a 5'8" female reviewer, find the strap placement perfect: "Personally, with my build the straps were placed at a very good height... I really liked the bag." However, others find it decidedly uncomfortable. "No matter how I adjusted or packed it, the Alpa 35L was never comfortable," reported another traveler, citing pain after just a few hours. The harness lacks the sophisticated adjustment of packs like the Osprey Farpoint, making fit more hit-or-miss. The materials feel durable, but the pack's structure can feel stiff and less forgiving than competitors.
Durability
Durability feedback is mixed. The main TPU-coated polyester fabric is tough and weather-resistant. However, multiple users report issues with specific components, particularly zippers and strap attachments. "The zipper pulls are terrible and the zipper caught on one corner every single time," mentioned one frustrated owner. Another described it as "the least durable bag I have ever owned" after experiencing failures. While many users have positive durability experiences, the recurring complaints about zippers and construction suggest potential quality control inconsistencies.
Packability
Packability and organization are strong points. The full clamshell opening provides excellent access, and the internal zippered mesh compartments are highly praised for keeping items separated and visible. Users report being able to pack efficiently for trips ranging from weekends to a couple of weeks. One traveler managed to pack: "4 t-shirts, 4 tanks, 3 shorts, 2 pants, 1 skirt, 1 dress, 2 jumpsuits, 2 light sweatshirts, 4 socks, 10 underwear, 2 swimsuits, 1 hat" plus electronics and toiletries. The relatively rectangular shape maximizes usable space, though some note it lacks structure and can bulge awkwardly when packed.
Functionality
Functionally, the Allpa shines with its suitcase-style opening and internal organization. The tuck-away straps offer versatility for different carrying modes. The padded laptop sleeve provides good protection. Security features like lockable YKK zippers are appreciated. However, the inconsistent carrying comfort is a major functional drawback for some. The lack of easily accessible external pockets (especially for water bottles) is another common functional critique. Its overall function depends heavily on whether the harness system works for the individual user's body.
Value
Priced around $200, the Allpa's value is closely tied to the user's experience with comfort and durability. If the pack fits well and holds up, the unique style, thoughtful organization, and ethical production make it feel like a good value. However, if comfort is poor or durability issues arise, the value proposition diminishes quickly. As one user advised, "go to a store that carries it and actually try it on" before buying. Its value is less about pure performance-per-dollar and more about the combination of style, organization, and brand ethics.
I am a 5'8 female... Personally, with my build the straps were placed at a very good height on my proportions. I really liked the bag and can't wait to take it on more trips!
Reddit user
Did You Know?
Each Cotopaxi Allpa 35L in the "Del Día" collection is made by employees in the Philippines who are given creative control to combine remnant fabric pieces, resulting in unique, one-of-a-kind colorways for every bag and reducing fabric waste.
Quick Verdict
✕
Performance Scores
Comfort (Carry)
7.5
Sustainability
10
Style
10
Organization
9
Organization
9
Style
10
Sustainability
10
Comfort (Carry)
7.5
The VOYAGER ULTRALIGHT transitions seamlessly from trail to terminal
The VOYAGER ULTRALIGHT transitions seamlessly from trail to terminal
Performance Analysis
Pros and Cons
Pros
✓
Unique color-blocked design (Del Día)
✓
Thoughtful internal mesh organization
✓
Ethical brand sustainable practices
✓
100% waterproof knit (no coating)
Cons
x
Harness comfort inconsistent across users
x
Stiff material can feel bulky
x
Weight (relatively heavy backpack)
x
Zipper durability concerns reported some
Final Verdict
8.9
Recommended
Eye-catching style meets smart organization (check fit!).
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L stands out with its vibrant, often unique color combinations (especially the Del Día versions made from repurposed fabrics) and excellent internal organization via mesh compartments. Its clamshell opening makes packing easy, and the durable materials offer good weather resistance.
However, carrying comfort is highly subjective and inconsistent across users – trying it on first is strongly recommended. Some users also report concerns about zipper durability. If the fit works for you and you value sustainable practices and distinctive style, the Allpa is a fun and functional travel companion.
SHOP NOW
Compare Alternatives
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack
61-Year ("Guaranteed for Good") Warranty
Made with Repurposed Materials (Del Día)
Included Rain Cover
SHOP NOW
We may earn a commission when you purchase through our links, at no additional cost to you.
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Sustainable & Stylish Pick
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack
Colorful, Organized, Consciously Made
8.9
SCORE
Eye-catching style meets smart organization (check fit!).
Last Updated:
Jun 30, 2025
Want a travel backpack that stands out and aligns with ethical values? The Cotopaxi Allpa is known for its vibrant, often one-of-a-kind colors and B Corp status. We looked into whether its performance matches its eye-catching style.
✓
Strengths
Unique color-blocked design (Del Día)
Thoughtful internal mesh organization
Ethical brand sustainable practices
Durable, water-resistant materials
X
Consider
Harness comfort inconsistent across users
Stiff material can feel bulky
Weight (relatively heavy backpack)
Zipper durability concerns reported some
View Current Price
Compare
📋
Organization
9
🎨
Style
10
🌿
Sustainability
10
🚶♂️
Comfort (Carry)
7.5
🌧️
Weather
9.2
Performance
⛰️
Adventure Travel
🌿
Sustainable Travel
🎨
Stylish Travelers
📅
Weekend Trips
♻️
Ethical Consumers
Perfect For
Quality & Comfort
User experiences with the Allpa's comfort are sharply divided. Some, like a 5'8" female reviewer, find the strap placement perfect: "Personally, with my build the straps were placed at a very good height... I really liked the bag." However, others find it decidedly uncomfortable. "No matter how I adjusted or packed it, the Alpa 35L was never comfortable," reported another traveler, citing pain after just a few hours. The harness lacks the sophisticated adjustment of packs like the Osprey Farpoint, making fit more hit-or-miss. The materials feel durable, but the pack's structure can feel stiff and less forgiving than competitors.
Durability
Durability feedback is mixed. The main TPU-coated polyester fabric is tough and weather-resistant. However, multiple users report issues with specific components, particularly zippers and strap attachments. "The zipper pulls are terrible and the zipper caught on one corner every single time," mentioned one frustrated owner. Another described it as "the least durable bag I have ever owned" after experiencing failures. While many users have positive durability experiences, the recurring complaints about zippers and construction suggest potential quality control inconsistencies.
Packability
Packability and organization are strong points. The full clamshell opening provides excellent access, and the internal zippered mesh compartments are highly praised for keeping items separated and visible. Users report being able to pack efficiently for trips ranging from weekends to a couple of weeks. One traveler managed to pack: "4 t-shirts, 4 tanks, 3 shorts, 2 pants, 1 skirt, 1 dress, 2 jumpsuits, 2 light sweatshirts, 4 socks, 10 underwear, 2 swimsuits, 1 hat" plus electronics and toiletries. The relatively rectangular shape maximizes usable space, though some note it lacks structure and can bulge awkwardly when packed.
Functionality
Functionally, the Allpa shines with its suitcase-style opening and internal organization. The tuck-away straps offer versatility for different carrying modes. The padded laptop sleeve provides good protection. Security features like lockable YKK zippers are appreciated. However, the inconsistent carrying comfort is a major functional drawback for some. The lack of easily accessible external pockets (especially for water bottles) is another common functional critique. Its overall function depends heavily on whether the harness system works for the individual user's body.
Value
Priced around $200, the Allpa's value is closely tied to the user's experience with comfort and durability. If the pack fits well and holds up, the unique style, thoughtful organization, and ethical production make it feel like a good value. However, if comfort is poor or durability issues arise, the value proposition diminishes quickly. As one user advised, "go to a store that carries it and actually try it on" before buying. Its value is less about pure performance-per-dollar and more about the combination of style, organization, and brand ethics.
I am a 5'8 female... Personally, with my build the straps were placed at a very good height on my proportions. I really liked the bag and can't wait to take it on more trips!
Reddit user
You Might Also Like
Recommended
Eye-catching style meets smart organization (check fit!).
8.8
The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L stands out with its vibrant, often unique color combinations (especially the Del Día versions made from repurposed fabrics) and excellent internal organization via mesh compartments. Its clamshell opening makes packing easy, and the durable materials offer good weather resistance.
However, carrying comfort is highly subjective and inconsistent across users – trying it on first is strongly recommended. Some users also report concerns about zipper durability. If the fit works for you and you value sustainable practices and distinctive style, the Allpa is a fun and functional travel companion.
SHOP NOW
Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack
$149
✓
61-Year ("Guaranteed for Good") Warranty
✓
Made with Repurposed Materials (Del Día)
✓
Included Rain Cover
SHOP NOW
We may earn a commission when you purchase through our links, at no additional cost to you.
About The Author
Shaun
Travel Gear Editor
Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.
"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."
📍
🇨🇦
Currently Based
🏠
🇬🇧
Hometown Country
🕒
7+
Years Travelling
🌎
25+
Countries Visited
Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.
"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."
📍
🇨🇦
Currently Based
🏠
🇬🇧
Hometown Country
🕒
7+
Years Travelling
🌎
25+
Countries Visited
About The Author
Shaun
Travel Gear Editor
About The Author
Shaun
Travel Gear Editor
Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.
"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."
📍
🇨🇦
Currently Based
🏠
🇬🇧
Hometown Country
🕒
7+
Years Travelling
🌎
25+
Countries Visited